Out in Thailand October 2012 by Out in Thailand Publishing Co.,Ltd.

OCTOBER 2012

WORLD EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BOY GEORGE CHIANG MAI- ALL CHANGE IN THE JUNGLE CITY THE HIV FOUNDATION

GUIDES & MAPS TO: BANGKOK, PATTAYA, PHUKET, CHIANG MAI & KOH SAMUI

inside

Features 8 Cover Story : Boy George 16 Special Feature: Chiang Mai 26 Gay Taipei 34 The HIV foundation 42 Bash Helmet 44 OUT iT Profile: Weerapol Konnwai 46 The Straits Games in Phuket

James Barnes

Out Every Month 4 Inside Out 5 Shout Out ! 6 Out Post 48 Venture Out 50 Out on TV 52 Out at the Movies

54 Ask Darika 56 Out at the Doc’s

Out in Thailand guides, listings & maps 58 Out in Bangkok 68 Out in Koh Samui 72 Out in Chiang Mai 83 Out in Pattaya 90 Out in Phuket 4

FROM: James Barnes <editor@out-in-thailand.com> SUBJECT: SHOUT OUT ! DATE: October 2012 TO: You This has to be our biggest and best issue ever! We have a WORLD EXCLUSIVE interview with gay icon Boy George and his musical cohort, Marc Vedo, who are playing two clubs in Thailand this month- we’ve even got free tickets for you to win at out-in-thailand.com You can read about a major new HIV/AIDS initiative, The HIV Foundation and a special report on Chiang Mai- All change in the jungle city. Kenneth Dobson discusses the Gay Need to be Unique, Brian Baxter continues his ‘Acting Straight’ series with a look at two American stalwarts and we have a profile of the hugely successful Khun Weerapol Konnwai- the man to see if you want to buy a Pattaya property. Best wishes,

OUT Post

Your letters in print and online editor@out-in-thailand.com D

HAILAN

OUT IN T

Hallo James, I am South African and own several gay bars/clubs in for the first time Pretoria, South Af in 2005 I became rica. Since I visite addicted to this wo ing the Thai langu d Thailand nderful country an age for the last tw d people. I have be o years and visit Currently we orga en studyThailand as often nize tours to Th as possible. ailand and our ne Pattaya. Your ma xt one will be in gazine played a No big ve mber to Bangko role with my las during April by pr k and t visit to Bangko oviding valuable k, Chiang Mai an information on ac improved a lot sin d Pattaya commodation, ba ce the first issue rs, clubs etc. Your and I copy adverts and give the card magazine from venues in yo s to my friends for ur magazine, lam use. I subscribed to th inate them e online version of OUT. However, is to me in South Af it possible to have rica every month? the actual magazin e posted DH (South Afric a) Dear DH, many th anks for your kin d words and it is mail is an excelle great to hear that nt example of ho you come here so w the doomsayers wrong. OUT iT is often. Your who assert that th the perfect size to e print media is de be a portable guide is great to have a ad, are so (techies can have hard copy in your it on their i-Pads) hands! You can su thailand.com/sho bscribe to the pr and it p Best wishes, JB int ed version at ww . w.out-inDear James, Galen & OUT IT! BRAVO! BRAVO! BRAVO! More! M ore! More articles August issue, ple such as the Vinc ase! What a delig ent Van Gogh pie ht to read this in One will never kn ce in your your magazine! Th ow the truth abou ank you. t Vincent but for the subject matte the article itself r, the cause for th – the quality of ought, the pertine feature from the the writing, nce – are all welco talented Galen Ga med. How about rwood? a monthly Gratefully, LK (Chiang Mai)

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Dear LK, So pleas ed you liked it- we did too! You will talented Mr Garw be happy to learn ood coming soon that there is more . JB. from the Dear James, The magazine is going from stren gth to strength. variably find out I am an ex-pat liv something new in ing here for ten each issue. The making a side tri years and inarticle on Pai is ex p the next time I cellent and I will am in Chiang Mai. Kind regards, GR certainly be (Bangkok) Many thanks GR

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When the stars come to Thailand, they talk to OUT iT! Gay icon, Boy George, is playing two gigs in Thailand this month and in this exclusive interview, spoke to James Barnes about his Asian tour, Thai men, gay marriage, Lady Gaga and a new Culture Club album. Musical cohort, Marc Vedo, joined him in conversation... 8

It seems hard to believe that it is thirty years since Boy George rocketed to international fame as the ‘androgenius’ front man of Culture Club. With his soulful voice and ‘dragamuffin’ appearance, he won a generation of fans with singles “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?” “Time (Clock Of The Heart),” and “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya.” “Karma Chameleon” off their next LP, spent three weeks at number one and became their signature track. The group sold over 100 million singles and 50 million albums. Boy George then went solo and had a Top 20 hit with 1992’s “The Crying Game,” a Grammy nomination for 1999’s “When Will You Learn,” and a Tony nod for his Taboo musical but he had become

more famous in negative news stories. His tempestuous relationship with Culture Club drummer Jon Moss, drug problems, criticisms of other celebrities and a 2007 arrest and incarceration for assault and false imprisonment of a male prostitute, overshadowed his musical output in most people’s minds. Now, he has forged a new career as one of the world’s most popular DJ’s, playing to huge dance crazy crowds around the globe. Marc Vedo has starred everywhere from Ministry of Sound, Zouk and Godskitchen in a sparkling career. His music is supported by heavyweight names like Pete Tong and Tiësto. Recent projects have seen Marc working with Abigail Bailey and rising Dutch star Jesse Voorn, as 9

well as remixing for George Michael and Joss Stone. Now, Boy George and Marc collaborate on the international dance music scene. “I can’t remember when I first met Marc but it’s been quite a few years and we have worked together now professionally for about 6 years,” says George, “but we have toured together and DJ’d together all over the world for many more years! We have similar ideas about music and we are both very ambitious!” How did Boy George adapt to working with a partner after being a solo artist? “Well, I’m still very much a solo performer, Marc manages my DJ career and we now DJ and write dance music together,” he says, “but when we DJ it’s not at the same time! We both have our own DJ careers as well as working on stuff together!” The symbiotic relationship between the stars is working well and George says, “Collaborating allows you to bounce ideas off other people but it’s important to have a similar vision. Creativity is not something you can plan or be rigid about, it’s a free flowing concept.” Marc Vedo is younger than his illustrious partner and his Anglo Portuguese parentage prov i d e s smouldering good 10

looks. “I have never had any issue with George being a pop star/ singer. To be perfectly honest, Culture Club were before my time, so I didn’t have any connection with the band, the era or the music. It was only after I met George as a DJ, that I learnt about Culture Club, their music and history,” he says, adding, “My musical roots really started with dance music in the mid 90’s and George was one of the biggest DJ’s at the time, so I used to book him all the time to play at my parties.”

Last year I was near Phuket on a beautiful quiet beach, simply amazing! Together, they will play The Bliss Beach Club in Phuket on Thursday, 4th October and then Levels Club in Bangkok on Friday, 5th. George has lost count of the number of times he has visited Thailand, saying, “Oh gosh, many times! It’s a country I always try to squeeze into the tour diary wherever possible but when I’m not dj-ing it’s the perfect destination to break away and just soak up mother nature at her most beautiful.” Boy George has an army of Thai fans who will love him even more in the knowledge that he is a big fan of Thailand: “I adore the people, culture and absolutely delicious cuisine. There is a real calming spirit about the people in Thailand, which attracts me to their country.” Never the dull Boy George, it’s not all work and no play, “I usually come here once a year on Tour, and always have a week’s holiday. Last year I was near Phuket on a beautiful quiet beach, simply amazing!” 11

This year’s shows in Bangkok and Phuket will be full of surprises, “I never plan my sets so they are always different. The beauty of playing on SD cards now, is you can carry so much music around with you, it’s fantastic. There are no limitations on how much you can bring, so it allows us to change our style in any direction, if we decide to. I don’t believe in set planning but it leaves you on dangerous ground if the crowd aren’t feeling a particular sound on that night.” Marc has a different approach: “I spend hours before hand getting all my music ready, working all the best tracks I have available, going over older material, putting everything into different folders. If I arrive in a club and the crowd are into something different, I have prepared for these eventualities so it’s never a massive stress. I prefer to have everything planned, unlike George!” he laughs. Boy George loves his audiences in Thailand, “From experience, they’re a really lively bunch! Most of the parties I have played in the country have been part filled with Thai’s and part filled with holidaymakers or expats. So it makes for a good mix on the dance floor!” Boy George seems to have mellowed from his outspoken past when he could be highly critical of the music scene. When asked about the music in Thailand he says, “I only ever come in once a year so I can’t really comment but Thailand has been on the electronic music map for so long now, there is definitely a deep embedded culture here and you can see that from past gigs. There are also the world famous Full Moon parties and different Festivals.” 12

Are the DJ duo single? “We are from each other,” laughs George. What does he think of Asian men? “The ones I know are very cool. I’m not sure I fully understand the question or the intent of the question! If it’s from a sexual angle I must say that I do not have a type and I’m always open minded!” Certain that the intent of the intention was clear, we have to ask about Lady Gaga, her music and support for gay rights and gay marriage. “I think that anyone who supports a good cause like that should be congratulated! It’s amazing that in today’s world, you still have developed countries like Russia that seem to live in the 18th century! Her music is interesting and I wish her the best in her career.” Boy George is aware that OUT iT launches a campaign for gay marriage in Thailand next month: “I think it’s a great campaign and one that’ll empower many people with a step forward for freedom in their lives.” Would George ever tie the knot? “Would I ever marry? Definitely not, but then loads of straight people wouldn’t get married either. I think it’s a personal choice, regardless of being gay or straight.” Boy George will keep up his hectic creative output with a new Culture Club project that is filled with expectation: “Right now, we are looking to be on tour sometime next year, and planning a new album and lot’s of exciting things! I’m very excited!” So when will he be back in Thailand? “Let us do this show first,” he says with a wink. Marc adds, “No idea at the moment with our manic schedule. We are also going to spend a huge amount of time in the US next year, so everything else is still to be confirmed.”

& boy george s to see ur et yo ck n ti wi t We’ve go phuket. To dance ngkok and marc in ba e fabulous es th to hais -t et in ck tfree ti to www.ou orge & st log on ge ju of , ts me gh na ni e t d tell us th will contac land.com an label. We rd ! co !! re ck w lu marc’s ne ail! Good nners by em all the wi

are both mixing the prestigious CD for DJ MAG’s biggest selling issue of the year, “Top 100 djs in the world”! It’s a massive honour to be given the cover mount CD for the most credible electronic music magazine in the world and its coming out in October!” “George and I are really keen to develop our label, VG records and keep collaborating with various artists. We currently have joint projects with Afrojack, David Penn, and individually I am working with George Michael, Tara Macdonald, Steve Edwards and George has a brand new track coming our with DJ Yoda called ‘Happy’- brilliant electronic music, infused with African and reggae vibes. Check it out!” George adds, “We

George is a big fan of Twitter, so you can keep up to date by following him there but he does have a personal message for you here: “I look forward to seeing you on the dance floor very soon x.” Marc says, “Make sure you get your best dancing shoes on, you are going to need them!” You can see Boy George and Marc Vedo at The Bliss Brach Club in Phuket on Thursday, 4th October and Levels Club in Bangkok on Friday, 5th October.

IAL SPEC ture fea

Voted best gogo bar in Chiang Mai by Out in Thailand readers

By Guy Burroughs

An hour’s drive North of Chiang Mai, after passing through some of Northern Thailand’s more impressive scenery, the Chang Dao Caves are an awesome place to visit. Surrounded by spectacular mountains and concealed under a lush green jungle canopy, the caves offer a wealth of beauty with natural limestone formations and striking manmade Buddha images competing for attention. Inside, a glance upward will reveal hundreds of the caves dark loving inhabitants, a horror for some, another natural beauty for others. But, for gay visitors, Chiang Mai’s night time urban grottos are the place to find the perfect feral cave dweller. As the pitch-black room reverberates to the beat of a celebrated movie soundtrack, the strobe light ignites and one’s gaze is unavoidably drawn upwards. A black 16

cape slides to the floor revealing a splendid specimen of manhood hanging from the ceiling with harsh light reflecting dazzlingly off the glistening skin and tensed muscles. Smooth dark skin stretches tightly over honed abs whilst long silky black hair freezes in a variety of poses with the flashing light. Most mesmerising is the blood engorged stalactite inviting the audience to partake in its fantasies. Welcome to Adam’s Apple Club, the oldest and best known of Chiang Mai’s five go-go and host bars. Having completed a major renovation three years ago Adam’s Apple is also the smartest and most modern male entertainment venue in town. With many tens of gorgeous go-go boys and a fun and varied show every night, Adam’s Apple is Chiang Mai’s must see attraction. 17

However, Adam’s Apple’s chiropteran boy hides a secret which, for many gay foreigners, is Chiang Mai’s greatest lure. He is not Thai, and perhaps has more in common with another big screen hero adorned with a loin cloth. A real jungle boy, he’s no stranger to the tropical forests of South East Burma’s Shan state where he hid for many appalling months. The story is typical for many Tai Yai (Shan) refugees who form the majority of those working in Chiang Mai’s commercial sex trade. The rural bliss of their Shan village shattered when the Burmese army arrived, inflicting rape, pillage and destruction. The lucky escaped to the jungle foraging for food to survive and trekking by night to reach the hill top villages and refugee camps of Northern Chiang Mai prov18

ince. The unlucky, fell victim to disease, injury, land mines, or a soldier’s bullet. Jungle boy was lucky. By the time he reached fifteen he’d grown into a fit muscular young man, ideal fodder for his refugee camps trafficker’s to sell on to Chiang Mai’s virulent construction industry. Here he worked manual labour for several months, living on site in communal wooden shacks and working all hours for 150Bt a day ($5 US) which he often lost to Thailand’s merchants of law and order. Tai Yai, meaning “Big Tai” is an ethnic group with origins in China’s Yunnan province. They have a distinctive physical appearance. Whilst northern Thai boys are classically beautiful, with soft almost effeminate features, by contrast

Tai Yai, are more muscular and stocky with angular facial features. Our jungle boy is lucky again; a magnificent model of well-endowed Tai Yai masculinity. Although tainted by amateur tattoos, the dark skin and bulging muscles, are his only benefit from his months of toil. Unlike the enormity of what he shows off nightly on stage, the choice to enter the sex business was not hard. Chiang Mai means New City, which it was when founded by King Mengrai seven hundred years ago! The last few years have bought such major changes to Chiang Mai, it is re-justifying its name. The cities tourist attractions, the old walls, the temples, the night markets and a few of the quaint old streets remain, as does the natural beauty of mountains, jungle, elephants and rice paddies outside the

city limits. But, much is being overshadowed by the rapid development of a modern cosmopolitan city. In the Chang Puek, Santitham and Nimmanheminda Road areas the pace of development is phenomenal. Almost weekly, old wood buildings and shacks are replaced with glass and concrete structures housing new condos, boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, clubs and bars. The gay scene has gravitated to this area too. Not only are nearly all the go-go, host and gay Karaoke bars located here, but many new and varied venues are setting up too. Chiang Mai’s commercial scene includes around twenty massage shops spread across town offering massages by young Thai guys for gay customers. Located in 19

Santitham, Gemini is a long established massage house with a reputation for stunningly cute masseurs. For the full luxury spa treatment, Sanctuary Spa is located in the old city. They offer a great range of spa packages in beautiful premises furnished in a traditional style.

and wooden carved gable extensions called Galae. This style of building, usually raised on stilts, is typical in the old Lanna Kingdom of which Chiang Mai was the capital.

New places providing massage for men are Spatacus, located in the main tourist area and Heaven Spa which is off Chang Klan road a couple of kilometres south of the city. Chang Klan area is home to a cluster of other massage shops including the well-established Blue’s Club spa.

The Club One Seven Guesthouse offers a choice of room types. Despite being a wooden building all have en-suite bathrooms, Lanna style furnishing and air-con. A riverside terrace provides a perfect place to enjoy a drink or you can visit the sauna facilities and garden area with pool which are also open to nonresidents.

Also off Chang Klan Road, on the river is Club One Seven sauna and guest house. Club One Seven is a classical Lanna or Northern Thai style teakwood complex, complete with traditional style steep roofs

Chiang Mai’s other renowned sauna, House of Male, is also located inside an antique teakwood edifice. House of Male is sited behind the Kad Suan Kaew shopping mall, a convenient loca-

tion close to both Chang Puek and Nimmanahaeminda areas. Facilities include a swimming pool with poolside terrace and steam room. Upstairs is a cruisy area of teakwood corridors where fun is lurking. Buddy nights where two get in for one are especially popular with young students. Continuing the Lanna architecture theme, Radchada Garden Café is a splendid teakwood mansion in Santitham. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens Radchada is set in a peaceful backstreet location. The owner, Khun Note, originally from Phayao is a well-known veteran of the Chiang Mai gay scene and is assisted by some beautiful northern Thai boys from his home village. Open from 10.00a.m until 10p.m.

(closed Tuesdays) Radchada Garden Café is a great place to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner, or simply relax over coffee or an ice cold beer. Their no music policy lets you enjoy the sound of the waterfall whilst sipping cocktails. The menu includes café favourites: breakfasts, sandwiches, burgers and a selection of Italian food. Their speciality is thin crust Italian style Pizza freshly baked in a sizzling hot oven. Radchada has only been open since December and already has built up quite a following. With Chiang Mai changing so rapidly, new businesses like Radchada are leading the gay scene in fresh directions away from the traditional gay bar concept and commercial scene. Another innovative business is the Wine Shoppe, near the Mercure Hotel in Chang Puek. 21

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PRIVATE & CENT RAL Mansfield ing distance is located within to much of the walknightlife. Discr Old City and eetly Chiangmai prying eyes. Close off the main thoroughfares, away to the heart of den setting. the city, in a quiet from garLUXURIOUS EXECUTIVE SUITES Execu at MansField are elegantly tive Suites appointed with contemporary comfortable furnis with in-room perso hings and large en-suite bathrooms nal Jacuzzi’s.

MODERN BAR comfortable Indoo& RESTAURANT Mansfield with a selection r or Outdoor Bar and Dinin provides of Thai and West g options ern comfort food. OUTDOOR GAR DEN & BARB Garden by the EQUE GRILL Relax in the waterfall on stylish drink or enjoy relaxing furnit a selection of BBQ food from ure with a style menu. the western

This smart, gay owned place, offers an interesting selection of wines. View online at http://thewineshoppe.org/ and order by phone for free delivery in Chiang Mai, or visit to take out or enjoy in the wine bar. Another brand new business that is making waves is HOLLYWOOD Unisex Hair Salon @Nimman Soi 5. This is on the ultra trendy, cafe society hub that is the Nimmanhemin Road and is presided over by 26 year-old, Korat born, Khun Root, who trained at Khun Mannat’s famous school in Chiang Mai. These sophisticated salons are sometimes intimidating but customers young and old enjoy Root’s warm and welcoming style. Aircon and L’Oreal products make for a cool, classy combination but the prices are ridiculously low. OUT in Thailand readers get a further 22

10% discount off all treatments, including straightening, colouring and permsjust show up with a copy of OUT iT. Near the river, North East of the city is RAM bar, recently opened by handsome gay entrepreneur Khun Wat, RAM bar has become a regular place for older gay ex-pats to meet. RAM has both a small air-conditioned coffee bar lounge, and a larger outdoor bar. The adjacent building houses a gay massage so RAM is a nice location to relax before or after indulging. Downtown is Yokka Dok bar, voted best bar in Chiang Mai by OUT iT readers and is situated in the old city close to Thapae gate. The bar has an interesting selection of gay customers mingling with a mixed, fun seeking tourist crowd. Thai

food is available and they have a pool table. A key question potential visitors ask is: “where is the best place to stay?” Most major tourist hotel accommodation is downtown around Thapae gate and the night bazaar. Some magnificent five star hotels can be found near the river, as well as many guest houses. Compared with a few years ago, there is little gay life to be found around the night bazaar (but Secrets and the CU Bar are still doing well), since Chang Puek, Santitham and Nimannheminda areas became so popular. Chiang Mai’s gay centric accommodation is now mostly found in this part of town area. This year, Mansfield Residence, a fabulous new boutique city resort opened in Santitham.

PRIVATE INTIM ATE LOFT RETR a unique top floor space overlo EAT The Loft Retreat is where some oking Mount low key enter Doi Suthep tainm vides a private and intimate atmo ent in the evening prosphere. ROOFTOP TERR MansField’s rooftoACE WITH RARE MOUNTAI N Doi Suthep and p terrace has rare mountain VIEWS captures coolin views of g breezes all year round.

10 ถนน เวียงบั ว ซ. 4 ต.ช้างเผื อก อ.เมือง จ.เชียงใหม่ reservations@ mansfieldchia ngmai.com 10 Wiangbua Soi 4, Changpu ek, Chiangmai, 053 410 458

Set at the end of a quiet soi, Mansfield Residence is a beautifully modernised palatial house and garden offering a perfect blend of luxury, service, serenity and discretion. Aimed at customers who want the indulgence of a top hotel yet the intimate seclusion of a small place, Mansfield Residence provides a range of quality suites with all amenities. The attic lounge offers great views of Doi Suteph Mountain, whilst downstairs, a large open plan bar, lounge and dining space opens onto the garden that includes a barbecue. The bar and restaurant are open to non-residents. Perhaps the best-known gay accommodation in Chiang Mai is the Lotus Hotel situated across from Adam’s Apple Club; their long intertwined history is legendary. Lotus is a full service hotel with all 23

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amenities. Its sumptuous wooden interior design with eclectic furnishings expounds the owner’s flair as an architect. The Garden Bar, adjacent to the hotel is a popular meeting place for tourists, barboys and ex-pats. The restaurant offers both Thai and western food. PJs Place luxury guesthouse is set in a quiet garden haven in the Chang Puek district just off Huay Kaew Road, one of the city’s main arteries. Owners Peter and Jiab have created an opulent residence of the highest quality with a personal touch that has created a loyal following. It’s so popular early booking is advised as PJs is often full. Along Huay Kaew from PJ’s is Soho Bar and Guesthouse, run since last year by ultra-friendly Western-Thai couple Shau24

na and Rabbit. Soho has long been a stalwart of the Chiang Mai gay scene and a sophisticated meeting place for both ex-pats and tourists. Upstairs the guesthouse has several well-appointed rooms. The tasteful furnishings draw on Thai Lanna influences whilst maintaining a balance between modern and rustic styling. Its location is excellent, close to the Kad Suan Kaew shopping mall. Also on Huay Kaew Road, is Pern’s Restaurant. Owner, Brian Pern, has thirty five years’ experience in catering and has worked in some of the world’s top hotels. Assisted by partner Pong, he’s run other successful catering businesses in Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Pattaya. Pern’s offers a gourmet selection of Mediterranean food with influences from Morocco, Turkey and Greece as well as French and

Italian favourites. Backed with a varied wine list, friendly service and moderate prices, Pern’s is establishing itself as one of Chiang Mai’s top western food eateries. Chiang Mai has so many restaurants, it’s impossible to list them all, but three other places offering international cuisine around the old city are recommended. Prego is a gay owned, friendly Italian restaurant with a great casual atmosphere. Miguel’s is Chiang Mai’s premier diner for Mexican food and La Forchette, winner of last year’s Out-in-Thailand award for best restaurant, is a great choice for French food. Another award winner for best local website was www.radchada.com the internet’s undisputed premier guide to eve-

La Fourchette rything gay in Chiang Mai. Along with sister site Chiang Mai Gay News: www. gayinchiangmai.com these sites are constantly maintained with fully up to date information about all of Chiang Mai’s gay venues and events. Check them out when planning your trip to Chiang Mai. 25

Gay Taipei Pied Piper follows up last month’s Taipei Pride Special with your definitive guide…

I’d better start with an admission. Of the many countries I have lived in and visited in Asia, I find Taiwanese guys generally the most handsome. Little wonder I always enjoy my trips to Taipei, no matter how short. 26

Walking through Taiwan’s bustling streets, packed with teeming youngsters wearing the latest fashions, it’s hard to realise that Taiwan was for decades a pawn in the cat-and-mouse diplomacy of the Cold War, emerging from martial law only in 1987. When Mao’s Red Army sent Chiang Kai Shek packing from the mainland in 1949, he and his two million followers settled temporarily in Taiwan. The USA would never permit the communists to maintain power in China – or so they thought. And for a while it seemed they might be correct. However, any dwindling hopes they harboured of a triumphant return to the mainland were dashed in 1972 when Richard Nixon made his historic visit to Beijing.

Chiang died in 1975. His son and heir, Chiang Ching-Kuo relaxed the grip of the military and the government. Soon the island began a surge of economic and social development. One feature was the emergence of a small gay scene. An early bar, Funky, not far from the Sheraton Taipei, is still going strong. Now, though, it caters almost exclusively for young Taiwanese, and the style is local local Taiwan dance music and local way of drinking beer with ice and dried plum. Although Taiwan is now one of the more progressive countries in the region in terms of LGBT acceptance, the first-time gay visitor to the city has to overcome several problems. Even with the internet, finding gay venues is one thing; mixing

with local Taiwanese guys is another. Many Taiwanese have a herd mentality. They go out in groups, sit, chat, drink and dance together. When in public, there always seem to be less Taiwanese interested in meeting foreigners than in many other Asian cities. On the internet, though, it’s the opposite! So check out fridae.asia, gayromeo, gaydar and other sites. You will soon find someone wanting both to meet up and show you the city. Where to start exploring? First check out the popular gay meeting place, the Red Theater complex – near Ximen MRT (subway) station and very easy to find. Take Exit 1, cross the road, and there it is on your left. The Red Theater itself is an arts centre, but behind it on two levels there are more than ten outdoor gay bars (including a Bear Bar), boutiques, coffee 28

shops and eateries attracting all ages and types. At weekends it’s heaving with guys and a perfect place to relax before clubbing starts around midnight. My friends and I like Café Dalida and the restaurant Alley Cat – both fun and friendly. Note, though, it’s not nearly so busy during weekdays or when it rains. For those flying over for the Taiwan Pride Parade, mixing will be a breeze for there is a whole weekend of activities. The most spectacular are two nights of heavy partying. On Friday 26 there is Taiwan Pump at Jump, arguably the best gay club in the city, with DJs from Japan and Singapore and gogo boys from Tokyo. Saturday sees Taiwan Pride at the ATT4FUN complex with what is billed as a “spectacular light show and stage design”. Both run from 11:30pm till 5:30am.

On Sunday, the mixed but gay friendly club Luxy is the venue for Taiwan Power with DJs from Thailand Taiwan, Shanghai and Malaysia. But this is really a continuation of the previous evening’s fun as it starts at 5:30 am and continues till 11:30 am. Combined tickets have been on sale since late August, so you’d better be quick to snap up any that still remain. Not only will you save a bundle, you get express entry. Last year, the queue for tickets outside Jump stretched way back. The official party site is http://www.taiwan-pride.com/v01/index2.html. This has all ticket details in English, as well as google maps of venues and information about the official hotels. But I find the quoted hotel rates pretty high. Check

some of the regular booking search engines to find cheaper ones. If partying is not your scene, there are other bars and clubs you can check out – hopefully with the new internet friend. G Star is the most popular gay bar in town. Cover charge around NT$400 (US$13). Both local and western dance music. Age range mostly 18-40. Casual, friendly and easy to enjoy yourself. Location is not far from Funky, but no MRT nearby. Best go by taxi. RE.Fresh was once a meeting place for locals and foreigners (then named Fresh), but is now more for locals. Trendy and stylish, it attracts mostly 30-40ish whitecollar bears and muscle guys. La Boca is popular, partly because of its handsome owner! Age range 25-45, white-collar, good looking and trendy, and very busy 29

at weekends. Nearest MRT is Zhongxiao Tunhua, but you still need a 15-minute walk. Taipei also has several gay saunas; all listed on most gay search sites. One of the first I visited, Hans Mens Sauna (located in a small alley near the Red Theater just next to a hotel with a red neon sign outside), desperately needs some major refurbishment. Yet, it still caters to a wide variety of ages, and foreigners remain popular Others include the much bigger Rainbow sauna, a little further up Kunming Street at Chengdu Road (just look for the many rainbow signs at the entrance) and Aniki

Club, one of the loveliest saunas in Asia. On a par with Babylon, it attracts a wide variety of clientele and offers different theme evenings. It’s more expensive with weekend admission at NT$800. Full details at http://www.aniki.com.tw/ All saunas are busiest over weekends. At other times, it’s very much hit and miss. I usually time a weekday visit around 5:00 pm when students may be coming in after class or business guys after work. Away from the gay scene, a must-see is the National Museum just outside Taipei, one of the world’s most stunning and extraordinary art collections (which Chiang Kai Shek brought with him in 1949 and

never returned)! Set aside at least half a day for a visit. On your return to town, stop near the outskirts and spend an hour or so at a complex of temples that includes the Confucius Temple. Here you are close to Yuanshan MRT. A few stops away is Shipai, the station for the many hot springs to the west of the city. Two are for men only. If you like the idea of luxuriating in a warm spring in the company of dozens of the most gorgeous young guys in Asia, this trip is really worthwhile, as I described in last month’s article about last year’s Taiwan Gay Parade.

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The HIV Foundation. A new organisation has begun the epic task of tackling the challenges of HIV awareness and support in Thailand. Khun Noikorn Chimkong (Nicky) is the President of the HIV Foundation and spoke with James Barnes about his hopes for this fresh initiative and how you can help.

Nicky was born 44 years ago in Pichit Province and completed his studies with an associate degree there- he now lives in Bangkok. “I worked at a bank and studied at the same time until I completed my bachelor’s degree at Suan Dusit Rajabhat University and got a MBA degree in marketing from Ramkamhaeng University,” he says. He appears youthful and had a variety of jobs in his early career, working as a waiter in a cocktail lounge, bartender, a law firm and a construction firm in a military camp. In those days, there were 34

many newly formed nightclubs and his friends liked to hang out there so he had a big crowd of friends working in different fields. “After passing the military enlistment, I worked in a bank ever since. But because I had so many friends and don’t like to waste time, I had many side jobs as well, which included writing a book, being master of ceremony (MC), tutoring, journalism, event organizer etc, which I still continue today.” When asked if he is gay, Nicky says, “I don’t like to answer this question because it is a subtle discrimination against

us as human beings. I will say that I’m just a human being that wants to make this society a better place to live and for people to be compassionate and understanding with one another.” His work with The HIV Foundation is an extension of this philosophy. He met Australian, Scott Berry in Bangkok and discovered that they shared a passion for helping others. “Scott and I talked about the problems and challenges we face in doing community work in Thailand and how we might be able to make a small contribution to filling the gaps that the Thai government has neglected or failed to fill for communities affected by HIV. We got a lot of encouragement from our friends in the academic and medical communities as well as others who continue to encourage us. Therefore we agreed to establish a foundation in order to assist communities affected by HIV in Thailand.” That was in November of last year. The Foundation was registered and officially launched in February of 2012. “HIV is now at critical levels among gay men

and transgender people in Thailand. The latest unpublished research tells us that, among a sample of gay men in Bangkok, the rate of HIV was 42 percent. This is really shocking! The problem is that most gay men and transgender people who have HIV still don’t know it and when they get sick they disappear from view often returning to their home villages.” “In spite of getting funding from the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the government has failed to reach men who have sex with men (MSM) and male sex workers at adequate levels to interrupt HIV transmission and support those already living with HIV. Thai gay men and transgender people still lack the opportunity to receive appropriate HIV education and HIV treatment. We also have many friends who are living with HIV and just awaiting death because they lack money and medicine. They are also ashamed to seek treatment therefore we want to assist these groups to have the same opportunities as others,” he confides with a sense of urgency that explains the speed in which the Foundation got underway. 35

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“When I met Scott Berry, the Executive Director of our foundation, we shared the same passion, concerns and frustrations and realized that we could work together to try something new to support HIV prevention, treatment and care.” The core of the team comprises a dedicated group of Thais and foreigners. Noom Sea-lim is Executive Secretary, from the south of Thailand. Son Asajit is Finance Manager and has been working for organizations in HIV for many years. The Executive Director is Scott Berry, an Australian, who has worked in a range of countries doing HIV related work. Technical staff include Kaewta Sangsuk, who lives and works from Chiang Mai and Sai Pye who comes from Myanmar but is based in the Bangkok office. The impressive Board is made up of Dr Sukhontha Kongsin from Mahidol University, Dr Narupon Duangwises from Sirindhorn Anthropology Center and Mr Lou McCallum who is an experienced HIV development practitioner and Director of an international development company called AIDS Projects Management Group.” Everyone is willing to sacrifice for a greater good to help society and has various skill sets, suitable 36

for different aspects of our work. I think that we are really fortunate to work with a team that is easy to get along with and who share a common understanding of the work we do,” enthuses Nicky. The Foundation works in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai at the moment on a range of different projects but, right now, there is just one office in Bangkok. “This month we are launching our major, annual fundraising campaign to make a modest but significant impact on HIV for Thai gay men and transgenders.” says Nicky, adding, “The fundraising campaign aims to raise money for the many small groups and organizations of Thai gay men and transgender people that have formed to care for their friends with HIV, and spread the word about safer sex to others.” Most of these groups get no funding at all and, those that do, often only receive enough money to deliver services. They get no or little support for administration, rent, electricity and volunteer support and find themselves in financial crisis when the money from one funding

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source stops. “We believe that this is one of the key reasons that the country has been unable to interrupt HIV transmission among gay men and transgender people – because there simply isn’t an adequate distribution of funds to the groups and organizations that need it,” he reveals. The HIV Foundation Thailand has developed what they call the “Foundational Stability Program” that aims to provide a modest level of base-funding to these struggling groups to they can continue to do their work, even with fluctuating funding coming from other sources. “With the money we raise we will assist these groups to keep their doors open - to annually maintain an office space, to employ a Coordinator or provide stipends for their volunteers. We aim to support groups that are engaged in HIV prevention, HIV care and support for Thai gay men and transgender people. We hope to raise around $40,000 during this 2012 tourist season (between October and March) with which we can directly support up to six groups and organizations.” 38

The campaign, targeted at foreign, English speaking gay tourists visiting Thailand, aims to emphasize the love between gay foreigners and Thai’s and its visual imagery will capture moments of fun and intimacy between tourists and Thais. It also uses quotes from famous songs such as “I could’ve danced all night” and “I had the time of my life” to speak directly to the enjoyable aspects of a visitor’s time in The Land of Smiles. The campaign asks gay, tourists to “leave something behind that will make a difference”. You can read more about the campaign and also donate at www. thfthailand.org. We very much hope that people will open their hearts and help us with this important cause. It terms of our fundraising goals the global economic downturn poses a significant challenge. Many countries in the global north are struggling, there are fewer jobs and the people in those countries are feeling it. Nicky is well aware of this but also knows that gay people are champions at raising money for these vital projects.

He does not underestimate the challenges in making people aware of how to avoid the risk of infection and has a plan to ensure the Foundation will succeed. “The biggest challenge is the sheer numbers of Thai gay men, other men who have sex with men and transgender people in Thailand and the diversity among these individuals as well as in the places they meet and how they meet each other. Population size estimates at the higher end suggest there may be more than one million men who have sex with men in Thailand and reaching this number, accounting for the diversity among them is a major challenge – particularly without the financial resources to do so.” He does not think that anti viral treatments lead to risk taking in Thailand. “This is a particularly Western view based on the sudden lack of visibility of people who were sick with AIDS-defining illnesses in the gay community once effective treatment was available. But this has never been the case in Thailand among Thai gay men who tend to disap-

pear from public view once sick, often out of shame. A big problem here is that gay men with HIV are not visible and there are few public role models of gay men or transgender people living with HIV that others can follow and believe in. In reality, most HIV transmission occurs before a person gets diagnosed with HIV and often in the ‘sero-conversion’ stage of initial HIV infection when the person is highly infectious. In most cases, once a person knows they have HIV - if they are provided with accurate information about HIV - they are deeply committed to preventing onward transmission to others.” “What remains clear is that gay men, other men who have sex with men and transgender people are going to make up almost half of those newly infected with HIV by 2020. In Bangkok this is already the case,” he says. A key, and very concerning, question is ‘Can we turn this around?’ And if so, exactly how can we do it? Another important question relates to the levels of discrimination pre39

sent among those who make decisions and have the power to release resources to support gay men and transgenders in relation to HIV. In Thailand, it is generally recognized that both government bureaucrats and medical staff of hospitals and clinics tend to view gay men and transgenders poorly – this is both affecting how they prioritize HIV services and resources and is preventing gay men and transgender people coming forward for services. Nicky has a clear message for OUT in Thailand readers: “I don’t want people to view HIV/AIDS as an issue that is too farfetched. We can’t stop having sex so this means that AIDS is always an issue. I want to encourage everyone to have safe sex and not be afraid of a blood exam for HIV because nowadays technology in terms of medicine and treatments has come a long way. If it is found that someone has HIV, it can be treated appropriately. Don’t wait for it to get to a point where it is really bad before seek40

ing treatment. For those that are fortunate enough to not get HIV, please be compassionate towards those that are living with HIV. No one wants to have HIV but if they have made a mistake, what they need is understanding and encouragement. Don’t condemn them or discriminate against them.” “I want everyone to develop an understanding of HIV/AIDS so they are not afraid to take action, to know their HIV status and to engage regularly in health checks for their sexual health. For those that are living comfortably, please think about those that don’t have the opportunity to seek appropriate treatment. I want to encourage everyone to make donations, assist or give encouragement to those that are infected by HIV so that they can live a long, normal life.” If you have questions or concerns, please call The HIV Foundation on 02 634 0541 or visit www.thfthailand.org.

iT OUT LE I PROF

WeerapolKonnwai

Joke is serious about business... You’ve seen his face and read his invitation to call him in the ‘Compass Real Estate’ ads in OUT iT but what about the man himself? His nickname is Joke but he is a serious businessman who knows his market better than most. Joke spoke to James Barnes about his life and work.

He strides efficiently through the prestigious lobby of the Atlantis development in Jomtien. It is an other worldly building- looking like a UFO that has landed! His smile is wide and he is impeccably dressed. The hand that is proffered for a firm handshake is immaculately manicured and, immediately at ease, he orders coffee for two. Youthful looks belie his 42 years and his confidence is palpable. Joke was born in Uttaradit, north central Thailand, and went to school in Tak. He has been with his American partner for 44

21 years. “The secret to staying together is to fight everyday!” jokes, Joke. At last, a Thai whose nickname is appropriate! Humour peppers his conversation but he can be serious... “It took a year to get my visa and as soon as I had it, I headed off to Columbia College in Chicago,” he says, sipping his coffee. After three and a half years study, he gained his Bachelor Degree in business and marketing. Between semesters, he explored the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico and the eastern US seaboard.

When he returned to Thailand in 2006, he spent a year practical training in real estate marketing. “I always wanted to be a salesman,” he confides, “and I absolutely love dealing with my customers.” He has also proved to be adept at developing relationships with the media and is a human dynamo who has helped Bluesky Developments sell over 80% of the beautiful Atlantis units in just four months. Bluesky’s latest development project is the resort style Grande Caribbean project in Pattaya, which consists of 1,052 units, with colourful, modern design themes, high quality furniture, fixtures and fittings combined to create an attractive and relaxing environment in an amazing rain forest style, tropical landscape that is dominated by huge multi-level salt-water swimming pools. Joke is part of the marketing team that have helped to sell 65% of this new project in a fast four months. Joke’s philosophy will successfully see him through all his challenges: “Think big, do small... think small, do big!” He laughs. “I am a positive thinker; I am honest and

I like to be myself,” he says. He also has some more ambitions to travel: “Egypt, China, Nepal and a south-east Asia tour are all on my list and I would love to see the Seven Wonders of the World!” The Sales office for Grande Caribbean is located at the site on Thappraya Road between South Pattaya and Jomtien and you know what to do... call Joke on 0808 374 414. 45

The Straits Games in Phuket After a couple of month’s Olympic excitement, TSG Games 2012 will be hosted once again by Phuket – October 12 to 14, 2012.

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The Straits Games, known as TSG, is an annual sports event, which was first initiated by Malaysia’s Leadership Program for Gays (LPG) and Singapore’s Men-After-Work (MAW) to “foster friendship and promote a healthy lifestyle in our communities”. TSG has generated interest from many countries in Asia, including Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Japan, Philippines and China, that will all participate and this year will see the first USA team to be included. This year is the 11th Anniversary of the Games and there will be a variety of activities to mark this significant celebration, including a Gala Dinner at the 46

Andaman Embrace Resort- you can book you ticket by emailing Daniel@cluboneseven.net. Most events will be held at the Sapanhin Sports Complex with the bowling taking place at SF Bowling in the Jung Ceylon shopping centre. The Thai team has high hopes of winning gold in the volleyball competition and will be most appreciative of the local support. This year’s games will be hosted by the PLU Club and will be organized by volunteers, Vickky Sitthiwetch, Daniel See and Voravut Jangjai.

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URE VENT OUT

Mountain Biking in Southern Thailand

By AdamPreston

A few issues ago we looked at cycling in Northern Thailand so now it’s the turn of Thailand’s beautiful south. With equally good modern infrastructure and well preserved national parks there is certainly plenty to see but far less choice of tour companies to take you there. In fact, there are only two companies in southern Thailand making cycle tours one Amazing Bike Tours is based in Phuket (www.amazingbiketoursthailand.asia) while the other RainbowScuba & Tours is on the opposite coast on Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand (www.rainbow-scuba.com). to include a stop at the famous Emerald Lake or nearby hot springs as a part of your tour.

The bustling international resort island of Phuket may not seem like a natural choice for cyclists and yet with an experienced cycle guide and vehicle support from Amazing Bike Tours you can soon be cycling on quiet county roads and off road through farms and villages. There are plenty of interesting places to stop at along the way like the Sea Turtle Sanctuary at the small town of Thai Muang or Phuket›s Gibbon Rehabilitation Center or just stop for a refreshing dip in a waterfall or at a remote beach. 48

Only one hour’s boat ride from Phuket Island, across the famous Phang Nga Bay you can reach a little but rather long island known as Koh Yao Noi (Little Long Island). This sleepy place, where mainly Muslim communities make a living from fishing and rice farming is ideal for cycling. One more hour further on from here by ferry and you can reach Krabi province. Once again you will need an experienced guide to explore the quiet back roads and small villages of this fairly flat province. Your guide is sure

Over on the opposite side of the Isthmus of Kra, in the Gulf of Thailand, Rainbow-Scuba & Tours includes cycle tours among a range of adventure activities on Koh Samui. As the company name implies this LGBT company gives you the added comfort of being in like-minded company but any sore asses at the end of the day will strictly be from the cycling. Samui is a small island approximately 75 square km but most of the tourist development is along the east and north east coast. That leaves a lot of space to get away from the crowds and back to nature. Your cycle guide can show you off road nature trails even the locals have forgotten exist. You can ride through cool shaded coconut groves, along river beds at the point of low water levels and see peaceful local villages, grazing buffaloes

and monkey’s climbing trees to collect coconuts. Another tour uses vehicle support to take cyclists to a remote starting point at a waterfall close to the southern coast of Samui. When the day’s cycling is over there is nothing better than a jump into the cool water. Cycling in this area brings you in close contact with Muslim villages, old Buddhist Temples, rubber plantations and large stretches of pristine beaches. There is even the option to take the bike by long tail boat to a neighboring island where raised walkways take you through a costal mangrove forest where the names of the fauna is labeled on the trees. For many people cycling is the perfect balance of being at one with nature while experiencing a variety of different sites and scenery along the way. And that is all before we talk about the health benefits of gentle cardiovascular exercise that does not put undue stress on the joints or limbs. 49

OUT V ON T

Defining HD Back in the summer of 1987, your square-eyed scribe was invited to Sony’s UK headquarters, along with some luminous TV executives, for a demonstration of their top-secret new project: High Definition Television. We were all crammed into a top security trailer. It was impressive. In those days, the analogue TV pictures were measured in horizontal lines and the UK standard was 625. An ITN news brass remarked that the extra clarity would reshape editorial policy. The BBC had already developed their own HD system that had 1250 lines. Sony’s was 1080. The wrangling to establish a unified norm was why we have had to wait so long before it graced our screens. And, even then, a high definition TV studio camera was a hefty 3 million GBP as opposed to the normal which was only 10% of that figure. Was it worth the wait?

True Vision in Thailand, now has 17 HD channels to dazzle your oglets. You will find a couple of Thai channels and History (ch.122), which really does not seem to enhance its dodgy schedule with extra clarity. If you have wandered around any electrical retailer in the last few years, you will have seen HD demonstrations on their top model TV’s, using specially shot footage of travelogues and nature, so the output of National Geographic and Discovery World (chs. 123 50

& 124) seem like perfect vehicles for the new format. Channels 125 to 129 are all movies but there are problems here. As with all HD output, there is no guarantee that the sound and pictures will be in sync and the disturbing distraction is too much to take. Certain sequences also have too much detail for HD delivery, making the screen too busy and that fault undermines the efforts of even the best directors. Many

a star who craves the close-up will also be alarmed by the hideous detail of their less than perfect complexions rendered into amplified horror masks, which seem emphasised by the medium. These drawbacks also apply to the various sports channels that run from Ch. 134-136 although they do benefit from some athletic content that is very easy on the eye. The iConcert Channel (ch.133) shows musical gigs from the famed and obscure, and the utterly wonderful, ‘Later

with Jools Holland’, a studio based, live music series. However, if you already have a Home Theatre sound system, the clarity of the picture does not add much. KMTV (ch.132) is a 24/7 feast of Korean pop. The music is tasteless bubble gum for the ears but if you have a yen for a beautiful bevy of boy bands, this is the channel for you. But don’t let your other half catch you watching; these Korean stunners give Thai guys a very good run for their money in the drooling stakes or however you care to define it. 51

E AT TH

OUT IES MOV

Acting Straight: Raymond Burr and Richard Chamberlain By Brian Baxter

Two enormously famous actors who made their names principally on the small screen (despite prolific cinema and theatre credits) found that the cost of such fame was to hide their sexuality. Richard Chamberlain as Dr. Kildare, among other characters, and Raymond Burr as both Ironside and Perry Mason acted straight and the former guarded his private life especially rigorously, since for many years he was a matinee idol style personality, much admired by women viewers. He and his advisers considered – in those intolerant days – that such a revelation would ruin his career. It seems that some actors even today have the same fear. Burr became less circumspect as his fame – and wealth - grew. Early on his publicists created an official biography inventing a wife and a child, allegedly both dead. He did in fact marry briefly but that soon ended in divorce: a not uncommon occurrence among gay stars, including Rock Hudson and Van Johnson. Happily, Burr met a younger actor, Robert Benevides, whilst filming Ironside and they became life partners for 35 years until Burr’s death aged 76. He left his entire estate –then valued at $32 million - to his partner. Throughout his life Burr had been enormously generous to friends and also in supporting many charities. Raymond Burr amassed scores of theatre, film and TV credits, although few movies were of great note: he was the murderer 52

in Alfred Hitchcock’s masterly Rear Window, a menacing heavy –called Jumbo – in the elegant western Great Day in the Morning. Other good movies included the 1951 remake of M and a neat thriller Chase a Crooked Mile. But TV claimed him and he said that later in life Perry Mason totally overtook any sense of normality. Even so, he created a vineyard, grew orchids, bred cattle and horses and helped good causes and travelled widely throughout his life. Chamberlain moved to Hawaii in later years and still lives there when not working in Los Angeles. He came out, aged 69, with the publication of his autobiography, Shattered Lives, remarking: “When I grew up, being gay, being a cissy or anything like that was ‘forbidden’. I disliked and feared this part of

myself intensely and set about becoming, perfect Richard – an all-American boy as a place to hide”. No doubt nudging 70, in a more liberal era with his career behind him, he was happy to acknowledge his gayness and hopefully no longer felt hate or fear. His film and stage career was more substantial than Burr’s and his main television work was as Kildare, plus The Thorne Birds, Desperate Housewives and Centennial and many TVMs. Intriguingly he was the first actor to play Jason Bourne - on TV in 1988. In features he notched up many historical figures, including Edward V11, Lord Byron, Casanova and Raoul Wallenburg, plus Tchaikovsky (at least one gay

character!) in The Music Lovers, F.Scott Fitzgerald and Chekhov, plus Aramis, Allan Quatermain and in stark contrast the murderous Harry Powell in a TV remake of Night of the Hunter. He was exceptionally good in Patulia and this film prompted him to stay for some years working in Britain. He was successful as Hamlet and other Shakesperian roles (one opposite Charlton Heston in Julius Caesar). In pleasant contrast to a whole barrage of classical works he toured extensively as Professor Higgins in My Fair lady. It seems that for decades he worked rather feverishly, following his 1959 debut in an Alfred Hitchcock television half hour: his professional life successfully obliterating his private one. 53

ASK KA DARI

Dear P, When you first wrote, you said your friend was short on conversation but that you liked him a lot and did not want to lose him. My advice to you was to help broaden his social skills by example. Since I doubt you are responsible for is abuse of alcohol, or his poor control of his bodily functions, he is obviously being schooled elsewhere.

Auntie Darika answers your questions about love and life. Please contact her at: darika@out-in-thailand.com. You can also find more helpful advice on her website: www.askdarika.com Darika, You printed my letter in August. I’m the 63 year old who is a sex toy for the 22 year old. Your reply said “I suspect I will hear from you again.” Well, here I am. Recently, you printed a letter from a guy who saw shocking text messages on his boyfriend’s ‘phone. I admit that I have peaked at my boyfriend’s phone, only to learn that he has several other “friends”. I have mentioned it but he just grins and says, “they’re friends.” This makes me feel uncomfortable. One of them lives only two blocks away. For a while, the boy called himself the “boy next door” on his Grindr profile. I could not help feeling this might be aimed either at me, the other chap or both. 54

He loves to party as I never did when I was his age. Sometimes he stays out until dawn, staggers to my place drunk. A few weeks ago he sent me text messages at around five in the morning. He was quite intoxicated and he complained about a taxi driver who had dumped him somewhere. He ended up two blocks away. (He has an iPhone with GPS, so it is not so difficult to see how far away he is.) Twice he has come to my place at dawn with injuries to his face.Last week he appeared at my door at 1:30 am after missing a dinner date with me. He was drunk and lavishly affectionate. He stuffed me into bed and announced that he was going out again. He reappeared at 5:30 so drunk that he was falling down. After he undressed, he worshiped me on his hands and knees for a while. I did not realize until the following night that he had urinated in my bed. As good as it feels to share this burden with someone else, the question remains “What do I do with this guy?” Thanks, Pained in Pratuam

Although some of this behavior can be attributed to his youth, I find it pretty inexcusable. Sooner or later his alcohol consumption will present itself as a very troublesome issue in his life. He is hurting himself and must deal with it on his own. On the other hand, his flying from flower to flower hurts more people than just him. My Nonna used to tell me Folk tales when I was young. One comes to mind at the moment. Here is the condensed version, which you should read with an Italian accent: Once upon a time there was a very hungry boy. Money and food were not plentiful and he was never satisfied with the supper his mother made. He learned that he could visit a few neighbours each night and was not noticed at their dinner table. (Nonna had 13 brothers and sisters, so I suppose such things were possible). This went on for months until one neighbour discovered she had one child too many. She sent the boy home with a scolding after paddling him with her big wooden spoon. By this time the boy had grown so fat that he could not pass through his own front door and he froze to death in the snow. (Sometimes he died of starvation, depending on Nonna’s whim.) I suppose the moral of the story is that eating too often at too many tables

may result in you never being welcome at anyone’s table again. Over the years Darika has become very friendly with the locksmith who has a kiosk a block away. I suggest that you find and employ such a tradesman, buy a big wooden spoon and the next time your lad shows up, paddle him briskly and tell him you have one too many at your table of life. Send him home without any dinner and perhaps one day he will grow up. But I doubt it. Such people often choke to death when they try to stuff too much into their mouths too quickly. Lastly, get an HIV test. By sleeping with him, you have also slept with all of the other flowers in the meadow.

OUT OCʼS D E AT TH

Best Foot Forward

By Doc John

Your feet have 25% of the body’s bones, 33 joints, 100 tendons and ligaments, uncountable nerves and blood vessels that connect to the brain or heart. An examination of your feet can tell a lot about your general health, anything from diabetes to anaemia, to arterial problems and more show in the feet and toes.

Slightly sunken, spoon-shaped nails and pale nail beds are a sign of moderate to severe iron deficiency anaemia due to poor diet or bleeding. Whatever the cause it should be investigated and treated, firstly with iron or vitamin C tablets and if unresolved, further investigations and treatments may be required. Most Caucasian men have some hair on their feet and toes the disappearance of which may be a sign of poor circulationpoor blood supply to the feet through hardened arteries reducing their oxygen levels causing the hair follicles to die. It is important that you see a doctor if you lose foot hair as it is a sign of more generalised circulation problems. A foot sore that won’t heal is a major sign of diabetes. Increased blood sugar levels lead to nerve and artery destruction, causing even minor scrapes and grazes to heal poorly. Do not wear tight fitting socks or shoes; be careful when walking in slippers or sandals and never walk bare footed. It is vital to your health that a doctor, who will test to diagnose diabetes and treat it with tablets or insulin injections, sees slowly healing wounds. 56

These are just three of the many foot problems that indicate general poor health. Consult The Podology Centre in Chiang Mai and Bangkok – see OUT iT’s guide section for contact numbers. Many thanks to “Doc Martin” for the following update to last month’s column: Truvada is approved for use in many countries, including Thailand. The cost of Truvada in Thailand is approximately 2,000THB for 30 tablets ($840 a year). A cheaper generic drug called Ricovir EM is now prescribed in Thailand for 1,200THB for 30 tablets (about $ 480 a year). For those who are HIV+, Truvada, or its generic equivalent, must be taken in conjunction with an inhibitor, such as Stocrin.

CITYGUIDES LISTINGS +MAPS

GUIDES & MAPS TO: BANGKOK, PATTAYA, PHUKET, CHIANG MAI & KOH SAMUI

OUT in Bangkok If you like buzzing big cities, Bangkok is for you! Public transport, taxis, tuk-tuks, buses and motorcycle taxis are plentiful. There are many markets, glitzy malls, beautiful temples and museums, as well as the bars and shows for which the city is famous. The Sathorn/Silom area forms the core of Bangkok’s central business district and is home to a number of embassies. Silom Road offers shopping opportunities, including the Patpong Night Market. Silom is most popular with English speaking visitors and has the most popular venues catering to gay tourists.

Bangkok is the gay capital of Asia. Most visitors go to Suriwongse, Silom and Sathorn Road. Santuary Spa by A is an elegant place to be. A feature among many massage spas, which include Lomchoey Massage and The Prince’s Men’s Spa, is the relaxed atmosphere. If meaty muscle guys get you hot, head for The Tawan Bar. Up2 Salon and Cutey & Beauty will make you beautiful! Night owls party at DJ Station. The Malaysia Hotel is also a favourite. For a magnificent and sparkling cabaret show, watch out for The Playhouse, coming to Bangkok soon. College-aged Thai men and business professionals go to Ramkhamhaeng (Lamsalee) and Kamphaeng Pet Road. These popular gay Thai areas are mainly 58

Thai-for-Thai culture with different rules to those in Silom. They are not money boys nor looking for foreigners to date. It is worth a trip here if you just like to watch or have a date already. Soi 89/2 draws thousands of university students, working professionals, and those that just like a good time. The most popular places are Club 9 Café, ICK Pub, See Men, Crazy Dance Club, and Lamsalee Dance Pub. Although it is probably 98% Thai, the foreigners are welcome as long as they remain polite. It is an insult to proposition a patron with money! Visit The Podology Centre for a full range of medical foot care. For all the venues, check out our maps and listings and www.out-in-thailand.com

Bangkok Silom

u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

Accommodation

16 Baan Saladaeng 28 Baan Silom Soi 3 u24 Malaysia Hotel 1 BBB Inn Rama IV 12 Om Yim Lodge 27 Pinnnacle Hotel 2 Tarntawan Place Hotel 23 The Babylon Bangkok 25 Vincents Restaurant & 7 Rooms

Bars 1 Balls the Sports Bar 6 BAS Living Room Bar 9 Club Café 14 Coyote Restaurant / Bar 7 Diamonds 9 Expresso 6 For Fun Live Music Bar 9 JJ Park 1 Maxis Bar & Restaurant 6 Nomads Music Bar 5 Solid Bar 6 Spanish on 4 6 Sphinx Restaurant & Bar 6 Sportz Bar 6 Telephone Pub u6 The Balcony 9 The Patio

5 9 u9 7

Bangkok Night Disco Disco DJ Station G.O.D Dance Club

Go-Go Clubs

1 Banana Bar 1 Classic Boys Club 1 Dream Boy 1 Fresh Beach Boy 5 Golden Cock 1 Hotmale 5 Hotmale Station 30 Jupiter 2002 5 Nature Boy 5 Night Boys 1 Ocean Boy 31 Screw Boy 5 Solid Bar 5 Super A Cocktail Lounge u 4 The Tawan Bar 1 The New Boys of Bangkok 1 X Size Bar 1 Xboys

Karaoke

6 Bearbie Karaoke 022.354.305 6 Sphinx Restaurant & Bar 026.797.128 6 Telephone Pub u6 The Balcony 026.350.169 022.870.111 022.382.620 026.797.984 6 Body Talk Clothing 022.863.348 u3 Cutey & Beauty u29 Up 2 Salon & Pubs 11 Vincent Chye 026.370.078

022.347.249 022.343.279 022.355.891

Other 022.312.315 022.335.956 www.vincentchye.com

Restaurant & Cafés

8 Bug and Bee 022.338.118 022.351.227 8 Coffee Society 022.359.784 026.623.838 14 Coyote Restaurant / Bar 026.623.838 1 Dicks Café 026.370.078 022.351.227 18 Eat Me Restaurant 022.380.931 1 Maxis Bar & Restaurant 022.664.255 022.351.227 12 Om Yim Lodge 026.350.169 022.664.255 6 Souvlaki Greek Restaurant 6 Spanish on 4 026.329.955 6 Sphinx Restaurant & Bar 022.347.249 026.329.955 6 Telephone Pub 022.343.279 022.347.249 u6 The Balcony 022.355.891 24 Vincents Restaurant & 7 Rooms 022.863.348 022.343.279 Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness 022.355.891 www.silom2.com 19 Adonis Massage 022.367.789 Discos 20 Aqua Spa Club 022.864.535 17 Arena Massage 026.353.645 026.326.885 026.342.537 8 Aspara Day Spa 026.790.816 022.351.227 21 Baantewa Spa info@bangkok10.com 022.351.227 33 Bangkok 10 1 Bangkok Massage 086.305.6878 026.328.033 1 Bonny Massage 026.370.704 & Host Bars 32 Candle Paradise Spa 13 Fan Club Massage 026.311.442 10 Heaven Sauna 022.669.092 4 Indra Massage 026.340.099 1 K-Why Massage www.thaiboy.net 22 Lomchoey Massage 089.695.0614 26 Magic Hands Massage 087.093.2637 1 Marios Massage 7 Men’s Factory Sauna www.mfsauna.com 4 The Sun 026.329.730 www.jupiter2002.com 9 Paradise Spa & Massage 5 Prime Massage 21 Sanctuary By A www.sanctuarybya.com 18 Sauna Mania 081.817.4073 32 Sawadee Krub Massage 15 Senso 081.107.3888 8 Silom Massage 8 Sukothai Massage 026.345.833 5 Thai Boys Massage 2011 www.thaiboy.net 6 The Adam Spa u23 The Babylon Bangkok 026.797.984 086.305.6878 34 The Prince Men’s Spa www.theprincebkk.com

MONTIEN HOTEL

MONTIEN HOTEL SOI NA WAT HUA LAMPHONG

SOI NATAWANAN HOTEL WAT HUA LAMPH ONG SUKSAN

TAWANAN HOTEL SUKSAN NARAT ROAD

NARAT ROAD

MRTA

BTS

LUMPINI

PARK

DUSIT ARK INI PTHANI LUMPHOTEL

DUSIT THANI HOTEL

SOI SALADANG

BNH HOSPITAL

SOI CONVENT

BNH HOSPITAL

BTS

SOI CONVENT

CP TOWER

SOI PIPAT

SILOM SOI 5

SOI PIPAT

BTS

Wireless rd BTS

NIGHT BAZAR LUMPINI

SATHON SOI 1

MALAYSIA HOTEL

SOI PIPAT 2 SOI 1 SATHON

MALAYSIA HOTEL

SOI SUAN PLU

SOI PIPAT SUAN2PLU SOI

SOI SATHON 7

SOI SATHORN 9

SOI SATHORN 9 BTS

BTS

21 21

MRTA

ORN LONGK CHULA PITAL HOS MRTA

N 4 RO RALOMNAGKOR CHULA PITAL HOS

4 ROAD

SILOM SOI 2

RAMA

SILOM SOI 2/1

SILOM SOI 2

SOI THANIYA

SILOM SOI 2/1

SILOM SOI 4

SOI THANIYA

SURIWONGSE HOTEL

SILOM SOI 4

PATPONG 2

PATPONG 1

BANGKOK CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL PATPONG 2

TARNTAWAN PLACE SILOM SOI 6 PATPONG 1 SOI 8

BANGKOK CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL TARNTAWAN PLACE SILOM SOI 6

SOI 8 NARATHIWAT RATCHANAKARIN ROAD SILOM SOI 5

NARATHIWAT RATCHANAKARIN ROAD MAHESAK RD.

CHAREONKRUNG ROAD MAHESAK RD.

CHAOPHRAYA RIVER

CHAREONKRUNG ROAD

27 IBIS HOTEL

22 27 26 22 IBIS HOTEL

25 25 34

SOI NGAMDUPLEE CHAROEN N.18

RINDRA 7 RINDRA 7 NARADHIWAS RAJANAGA SOI NARADHIWAS RAJAN SOIAGA

SOI PHRA PHINIT

SOI SATHON 7

SOI PHRA PHINIT

SOI NGAMDUPLEE

SOI PLUK CHIT

32 SOI PLUK CHIT

32 24 23 24 34

63 62

SOI NANTHA

20 20 KR

CHAOPHRAYA CHAROEN NAKHON ROAD RIVER

CHAROEN NAKHON ROAD

N NAKHON 15A CHAROEN NAKHON 15A

Ratchadmri rd MRT

MRT

Wireless rd MRT

SATHORN ROAD SATHORN ROAD HONBURI KRUNG RD.THONBURI RD.

SOI SALADAENG 1 SOI SALADAENG 1

11 12 12

19 17 17

SOI YOMMARAT

18 19

SOI SALADANG 2

13 13 28

SOI SALADANG 3

15 SOI SALADANG 2 SOI YOMMARAT

SILOM COMPLEX 15

SILOM 14 COMPLEX

14 11 11

16 18 CHAROEN N.15 CHAROEN N.15

Henry Dunant rdHenry Dunant rd

SURIWONG ROAD SURIWONG ROAD

Ratchadmri rd MRT

SILOM RD

9 9 7 3 7 3

23 THONBURI G

PHO SUWAN

SILOM RD

8 6 6

29 29 31 31 2 4 2 4

n du i so n du i so

w ee

ha gt w ha gt

1 1 ON 8CHAROEN NAKHON 8

SOI SANTIPHAP SOI SANTIPHAP PUTTHA OSOT SOI SOI PUTTHA OSOT

Bangkok Silom 33 33

Bangkok Silom

LAD PHRA0 115

LAD PHRA0 113

LAD

LAD PHRA0 107

PHR

hamheng

130

128|3 128|2

TO AIRPORT

RA M

LAD PHRA0 RD

LAD PHRA0 101

LAD

RAM 41

KASET NAWAMIN RD

Bangkok Ramk

19 25 20

LAD PHRA0 83

PHRA RAM 9 RD

SRIVARA RD

LAD PHRA0 71

MENG JAI JUNCTION

CHOKE CHAI 4 RD

12 10

SOI 4

RATCHADAPISEK RD

PHRA RAM 9 MRT

MRT

SUTHISARN

THAILAND CULT. CENTER

ASOK DINDAENG RD

HUAI KHWANG MRT

MRT

SUTTISAN

MRT

SOI 6

RATCHADAPISEK

SOI 3

The Beach Residence

M NG

SOI 8

9 KASET NAWAMIN RD

LAD PHRAO

MO CHIT

PHAHONYOTIN RD

MRT

CHATUCHAK

5 4

A W PA

BTS

ARI BTS

PHAHONYOTIN RD

R SIT

R E-

SAPAN KHWAI

BTS

MRT

KAMPHAENG PHET

21 BTS

PHRA RAM 6 RD

PHAHONYOTIN 5

MRT

SOI ARI

PHAHONYOT IN

24 PHANON YOTHIN

PRADIPAT RD

INDRAMARA RD

VIPAWADEE - RANGSIT RD

RATCHADAPISEK RD

026.915.769 to 779 1 Bantai Spa www.bantaispa.com 19 Baan Kluay Massage 023.776.000 Bars & Pubs 8 Big Beach Sauna 084.908.8484 6 Chakran Sauna www.chakransauna.net 026.682.392 26 Blue Club 027.322.360 2 Cruising Sauna www.gthai.net/dejavu 27 Door Dance Pub 026.915.980 15 De Ja Vu Sauna 026.184.505 11 G Star Pub www.g-starpub.com 3 Farose 1 Sauna 026.184.505 18 ICK Lamsalee www.ickbkk.com 13 Farose 2 www.freedom-massage.com 8 Ka Daejung 026.915.76 to 79 14 Freedom Massage 022.863.348 11 Ratchada www.ratchadasoi8.com 7 GM Massage www.handsomemassage.com 18 See K Dance Club www.seekdancepub.com 9 Handsome Massage 25 Hercules Sauna www.herculesbkk.com Cabaret & Show Bars 4 IMA Spa Liberty Garden Hotel 022.785.018 21 Private 22 Spa www.private22spa.com 10 Golden Dome 026.928.202 12 RuanRubRong Spa 029.381.226 24 SK Studio Spa www.skstudio19.com Karaoke 22 Torpedo Sauna & Spa www.aboutg.net/torpedo 23 Troy Sauna www.troysauna.com 20 Meeting Karaoke www.ickbkk.com 5 39 Underground Sauna www.siamout.com/39 6 V Club Massage 022.793.322 Restaurant & Cafés 17 Whitehouse Spa 027.343.183 16 X Men Massage Delivery 081.376.9344 8 The Beach Residence 026.915.769 to 779 u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

PAWANA RD

NAMWONGWAN RD

Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness

LAD PHRA0 RD

Accommodation

SANAM PAO

RATCHAWITHI RD

L.PHRA0 94 LAD PHRA0 81

BTS

VICTORY MONUMENT

SUK

89 SUK

HUM

vit aB ngkok Sukhum

VIT 8

SUKH

IT 81

SUKH

UMVIT

BTS

VIT

IT 6

vit

8 to th Ce e Pod ntre olo gy

SUKHUMVIT RD

SOI ON NUT 44

SOI ON NUT 46

UMV

VIT

aB ngkok Sukhum 8 The Podology Centre

089.633.8586

Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness

ON NUT

1 Albury Men’s Club 3 Body Club 4 Guy Spa

BTS

SUKHUMVIT 71

Other

www.alburymassage.com www.bodyclubbangkok.com 026.513.568

2 Hero Club

SUKHUMVIT 42

SUKHUMVIT 63

SOI EKAMAI

SUKHUMVIT

6 Urban Male Massage

IT 3

SUKHUMVIT

SUKHUMVIT 38

SUK

UMVIT

SUKHUMVIT 47 SUKHUMVIT 45

RAMA 4 RD

SUKHUMVIT 43

NEW PHETBURI RD

SUKHUMVIT 41 BTS

SUKHUMVIT 26

SUKHUMVIT 39 SUK

HUM

VIT 2

SUKHUMVIT 37

SUKHUMVIT 33

SUKHUMVIT 31

SUKHUMVIT 22

SUKHUMVIT 29

SUKHUMVIT 20

SUKHUMVIT 27 SUKHUMVIT 25

SUKHUMVIT 23

DIN DAENG RD

ASOK RD

SUKHUMVIT 21

SUKHUMVIT 19

2 SUKHUMVIT 11

SUKHUMVIT 18

BTS

ASOKE

SUK

027.130.007

BTS

SUKHUMVIT 36

SUKH

022.601.481 www.refresh24spa.com

17 Uni Man

53 MVIT

13 The Beach Resort Sauna

SUKHUMVIT 40

SUKHUMVIT 57

SUK

089.881.2772

5 Refresh @24 Massage

SUKHUMVIT 59

022.588.889

12 Mar Spa 7 M31 Body & Spa

EKAMAI

SUKHUMVIT 61

A EKAM

SOI TONG LOR

BTS

I 21

LADPRAO RD

9 Jey Spa

IT 1

17VIT 12 UM

SUKH

3 SUKHUMVIT 8

022.582.430

OUT in Koh Samui J

Jungle covered hills, secluded beaches the perfect tropical island get away for gay boys. Kick back; recharge in spas, lounge around villa pools, beach walks, sip cocktails in a beach bar and sparkle on the balmy evening party circuit. Gay life on Samui is smaller, less exuberant than most other Thai destinations, still there is plenty happening.

The center of gay day/nightlife is along Chaweng Beach Road. At the north end, opposite Nora Beach Resort, is Emerald Green Mens Club focused on high quality massage and body treatments. Opposite Akyra Resort is Tropical Fah Samui & Cafe/Bar massage, drinks, snacks, event evenings & Rainbow Scuba & Tour agents. Top Ten restaurant opposite lyara Resort serves Pacific rim cuisine while Otaru Sushi has reasonably priced sushi. Near Solo Bar is K Club & Together Massage drinks, take away staff and massage. For ladyboy/gay Cabaret shows, check out Starz Cabaret and Moulin Rouge. While Green Mango and Sweet Soul mixed disco/bars are still popular with gays, ARK Bar on the beach - pool, food, DJ’s - is a trendy haunt for gays in a young, international, mixed crowd. South Chaweng, opposite Trade Winds Resort, is Mekkala Men Spa & The Site Bar rejuvenating massage and evening drinks and Hard To Forget massage, opposite Centara Beach Resort. Above Chaweng Lake is 68

- dress for it - Q Bar dance club & food. Chaweng Food Market is famed for low cost, Asian & Western no frills restaurants. The original Mekkala Men Spa is near Big C in Bo Phut is restful, Tropical Garden Lounge Resort and charming Fisherman’s Village for beach side restaurants and their Friday evening Walking Market. Saboey Resort and Villas is set in a Bangrak beach side tropical garden. Further around in Choeng Mon is Saiwon Mens Spa massage then back towards Chaweng, opposite Karma Resort, Banyan House Coffee Garden & Restaurant. On the other side of Samui, Nathon has many restaurants. Close by, the swanky, Euro glam Nikki Beach Samui poolside Sunday brunch party is a must for gays and young cool straights – take Speedos’. For all venues, check out our maps and listings, www.gaykohsamui.net www. gay-samui.com and www.out-in-thailand. com

077 414 419 082 289 4831 (THA/ENG) 089 798 5832 (ENG/GER) 14/65 Moo 2, Bo Phut, Koh Samui

To Saiwon Men’s Spa

Koh Samui

Accommodation To Fisherman’s Village Bophut

17 Banyan House. B&B www.banyanhousesamui.com 19 Mana’s Home. B&B 081.899.1767 27 Saboey Resort and Villas 077.430.450 31 The Dinky Rock 077.310.710 u22 Tropical Garden Lounge Resort 077.332.200 21 Wonderworld Samui. B&B 086.553.3802

To Maenam and Nathon

NORA BEACH RESORT

AIRPORT

www.ark-bar.com 077.414.419 www.nikkibeach.com/kohsamui www.qbarsamui.com www.mekkalamenspa.com

20 13

SAMUI INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL

AKYRA RESORT

Cabaret & Show Bars 9 Moulin Rouge 7 Starz Cabaret

Discos 11 Sweet Soul Cafe

082.816.4843 084.744.9074

u10 Green Mango

8 7

Chaweng Lake

Wat Chawent

10 11

info@thegreenmangoclub.com info@thegreenmangoclub.com

3 5 6

RIN

Other 1 Gay & Lesbian Information u4 Rainbow Scuba & Tour

BAAN HAAD 3

087.814.2260 www.rainbow-scuba.com

SOI COLIBRI

Bangkok Samui Hospital

17 Banyan House Cafe & Restaurant 077.247.982 3 Chaweng Food Market www.gaykohsamui.net u23 Fisherman’s Village. Many Restaurants 5 Otaru Sushi 077.601.222 2 Top Ten. Pacific rim/Asia food 077.230.235 4 Fah Samui cafe/bar 077.414.419

Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness To Lamai

u1 Emerald Green Mens Club. Spa

u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

12 12 28

Restaurant & Cafés

087.814.2260 28 Hard to Forget. Massage 084.528.2391 8 Together Massage 086.948.3111 20 Mekkala Men Spa 1 www.mekkalamenspa.com 12 Mekkala Men Spa Chaweng Beach www.mekkalamenspa.com 30 Saiwon Mens Spa 086.845.7917 4 Tropical Fah Samui Spa 077.414.419

POLICE STATION

086.948.3111

CHA WEN

Wat Jeekong

EAC

H RD

Go-Go Clubs & Host Bars 8 K Club

To Cheangmon

To Bangrak

14 22

Bars & Pubs 6 ARK Bar 4 Fah Samui cafe/bar 14 NIKKI BEACH Samui 13 Q BAR Samui 12 Site Bar

To Saboey Resort & Villas

Nathon 14 Ban Taling Ngam

077 414 419 082 289 4831 (THA/ENG) 089 798 5832 (ENG/GER)

To The Dinky Rock

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT

Tops Supermarket

AMARI PALM REEF

CHAWENG REGENT BEACH RESORT

Chiang Mai is known as ‘The Rose of The North, renowned as the cultural capital of Thailand, nestles in bucolic beauty and is blessed with a milder climate than most Thai holiday destinations. Try the superb La Fourchette (French) and Prego (Italian & Thai) restaurants inside the moated, old city walls and the inviting Yokka Dok bar/restaurant/. Just outside the wall is the excellent Miguels Mexican Restaurant. The two main gay centres are outside the moat. The Chang Pueak area, north of the moat is where you will find Adam’s Apple Club- sensational show and a collection of beautiful guys. Across the road is Lotus Hotel & Garden Bar, an established Chiang Mai institution. The Wine Shoppe is the city’s newest watering hole with take out, drink in and delivery service. On the Changpueak Road, The Circle Pub has hunky guys on stage. Gemini Massage has regular promotions and is recommended. Ram Coffee & Bar is set on the river, close to the Nawarat Bridge. Nimmanhaeminda and Santitham have a hip and happening scene of bars.

12 20 0/ /1

ti l

Pa S y tay O 3 nl N Pa S y ig y tay 2 ht O 5 N s nl N ig y ig ht 3 ht s N s i g Va h lid ts un

OUT in Chiang Mai Check out Holly wood Unisex Hair Salon @ Nimman Soi 5 and on Huay Kaew Road, you will find the excellent Soho Bar and Guesthouse who serve incomparable New Orleans food. For a work out or chill out, go to The House of Male, from midday to midnight with pool, steam room, gym, private rooms, bar and food. Tuesday and Thursday are ‘Buddy Nights’- very popular with students from the local university. Nearby is the long established PJ’s Place guesthouse, renowned for sweet and personal service, as well as the new Mansfield Residence. On the east side of the city, on the bank of the River Ping, Club One Seven has superb accommodation, bar, sauna, pool and gym in a complex comprising two traditional Thai teak houses. For a great massage and more go to The Blues Club and just across the road is the chic Heaven Massage & Spa . In San Sai you will find The Podology Centre, specialists in medical foot care. For all the venues, check out our maps and listings, www.radchada.com and www.out-in-thailand.com

PRIVATE & CENTRAL Mansfield is located within walking distance to much of the Old City and Chiangmai nightlife. Discreetly off the main thoroughfares, away from prying eyes. Close to the heart of the city, in a quiet garden setting. LUXURIOUS EXECUTIVE SUITES Executive Suites at MansField are elegantly appointed with comfortable contemporary furnishings and large en-suite bathrooms with in-room personal Jacuzzi’s. MODERN BAR & RESTAURANT Mansfield provides comfortable Indoor or Outdoor Bar and Dining options with a selection of Thai and Western comfort food. OUTDOOR GARDEN & BARBEQUE GRILL Relax in the Garden by the waterfall on stylish relaxing furniture with a drink or enjoy a selection of BBQ food from the western style menu.

PRIVATE INTIMATE LOFT RETREAT The Loft Retreat is a unique top floor space overlooking Mount Doi Suthep where some low key entertainment in the evening provides a private and intimate atmosphere. ROOFTOP TERRACE WITH RARE MOUNTAIN VIEWS MansField’s rooftop terrace has rare mountain views of Doi Suthep and captures cooling breezes all year round.

10 ถนน เวียงบัว ซ. 4 ต.ช้างเผือก อ.เมือง จ.เชียงใหม่ reservations@mansfieldchiangmai.com 10 Wiangbua Soi 4, Changpuek, Chiangmai, 053 410 458

CHIANG MAI GAY MASSAGE gentle and caring

Open: 2pm.-midnight Tel: IN-OUT 053-204 968 086-677 6592

www.blueclub-spa.com

เดอะบลูคลับ ใน เชียงใหม่แลนด์ ระว่างซอย 5 กับ 7

15/3 Sripoom Road, Soi 1, Muang Chiang Mai 15/3 ถนนศรีภูมิ ซอย 1 ตำ�บลศรีภูมิ อำ�เภอเมือง จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ 50200 Tel: 081-8827466

Chiang Mai

ogo bar Voted best g ai by Out in Chiang M readers in Thailand

Accommodation

59 Suprakrit Printing 053.404.427 u18 The Playhouse 053.410.671 43 Club One Seven 053.274.317 35 The Wine Shoppe 089.953.2999 60 Come On Place 44 XS and JK Solutions 053.271.474 u2 Lotus Hotel 053.215.376 72 ZII Condom www.ziicondom.com 75 Mansfield Residence 053.410.458 12 PJ’s Place Hotel & PJ’s Tours 053.404.894 Restaurant & Cafés 76 Qi 68 qi68.webs.com 5 Santitham Guesthouse 053.406.449 21 Beccofino Trattoria 053.226.590 16 Soho Bar & Guesthouse 053.404.175 053.207.032 41 Souvenir Bed & Breakfast 053.206.165 56 Chez Marco 053.215.376 33 The Rachamankha 053.904.111 2 Garden Bar 38 Kampangmuang Gallery 084.803.4265 Bars & Pubs u52 La Fourchette 053.277.482 64 Lemontree Restaurant 053.222.009 30 CU Bar Night Bazaar 2 Lotus Hotel 053.215.376 2 Garden Bar 053.215.376 70 Miguel’s Cafe www.miguels-cafe.com 25 Glass Onion Bar 053.218.479 65 Nae Nae Restaurant 31 Kampangmuang Gallery 084.803.4265 13 Nimman Kitchen 053.895.199 2 Lotus Hotel 053.215.376 16 Perns Restaurant 053.215.010 62 Marina 081.882.7466 3 Metro Bar 053.220.380 71 Prego Restaurant 50 Radchada Garden Café 053.219.524 30 Milky Way 57 Ram Coffee & Bar 084.501.2224 6 Sabaidee Santitham Restaurant and Bar 088.591.4554 6 Sabaidee Santitham Restaurant 089.951.4554 16 Soho Bar & Guesthouse 053.404.175 30 Secrets Bar Night Bazaar 1 Spirit House 084.803.4366 15 Pern’s and Darling Wine Bar 053.215.010 4 The Crystal Restaurant 053.872.809 16 Soho Bar & Guesthouse 053.404.175 28 The Gallery Charernras Road 053.248.601 39 The Whitehouse Bar & Restaurant 053.419.011 u54 Yokka Dok 053.449.529 26 The House & Ginger Restaurants Discos 39 The Whitehouse Bar & Restaurant 13 West Restaurant 080.497.9398 54 Yokka Dok 053.449.529 67 Monkey Club 74 See Man Pub 053.218.241 Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness 69 Infinity 24 Warm Up Disco

Go-Go Clubs & Host Bars

u3 Adam’s Apple Club

34 Chiang Mai 19 10 Circle Pub 9 Free Guy Club 8 New My Way

053.220.380 053.214.996 www.freeguy-club.com 053.404.361

Karaoke 11 Barocco Karaoke u14 Club M Karaoke 66 Relax Karaoke 49 Sofa Boy Karaoke

73 Ao Framing 30 Hollywood Unisex Hair Salon 29 Independent Travel 58 The Podology Centre 40 Sangdee Gallery & Café

084.172.5676

Other 053.279.373 053.233.370 053.904.705 089.633.8586 053.894.955

36 2 Brothers Massage 053.206.403 32 Classic House Massage 053.904.852 43 Club One Seven 053.274.317 7 Gemini 053.404.146 53 Heaven Massage & Spa 085.177.4295 48 His Club Massage 053.204.148 u23 House of Male 053.894.133 17 Marn Mai Massage 053.230.623 22 Marspa Massage 053.221.121 37 My Artist Spa 052.000.440 27 Mystic Orient Massage 053.874.334 46 One 2 Come 053.204.385 47 Relaxation Massage 053.276.732 19 River House Massage 053.876.085 37 Sanctuary Spa & Massage 053.280.349 63 SpaTacus – Spa for men www.spatacus.net 45 The Blues Club Massage 086.677.6592 42 Victory Massage 053.275.813 u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

Super Super Highway 11 Highway 11 Bridge Bridge

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65 50

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AY HW G HI

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Tesco Lotus

R PE SU

Te Wan Rd.

65 50

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74 Chiang Mai Hill 74 Chiang Mai Hill

BUA

CHANG PUAK RD.

Holiday Garden

Tesco Lotus

WIA

JA BAAN RD.

Holiday Garden

a Krang Rd.

4 WIA

Chiang Mai

n Rd

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n Rd

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St. Peter’s Eye Hospital St. Peter’s Eye Hospital

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Y 11 Y 11 HWA 66HIGHWA Hospital 66 R SUPE

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R SUPE

Soi Tonkam

Soi To

Big

Tel.053-277482 | 089-8518292 162/2 Prapoklao rd, prasing, chiangmai, thailand 50200

LA FOURCHETTE FRENCH RESTAURANT WWW.RESTAURANT-LA-FOURCHETTE.COM

OUT in Pattaya

Pattaya has a bustling, vibrant scene 24 hours a day. Shopping starts at sumptuous malls- Central Festival, Royal Garden, Mike’s Plaza and The Avenue. For the Movies, cinemas abound. For dining, there’s a range of restaurants suiting all tastes and budgets. In the daytime, you can play at the gay beach at Jomtien. Dong Tan Beach. The Jomtien Complex has a variety of gay bars, restaurants, and hotels. Pattaya Hotmale is your one-stop info and cafe centre. The Venue is the flagship hotel, and cabaret show bar, with regular new spectacular shows. Spilia Karaoke at Ganymede Hotel & Sauna and P2 Lounge are worth a visit. Mata Hari is an excellent eatery and, not too far down the road is the luxurious Baan Suoy Resort. The Rome Hotel also guarantees a warm Thai welcome. The longest established gay area is Boyztown. Here, and in the adjacent Pattayaland, you can find a selection of 25 establishments. The illuminated sign of Boyztown is the adopted logo for Gay Pattaya. Boyz Boyz Boyz is the oldest

and original male gogo bar in Pattaya and their show is a “must see”. In Soi 2, check out the excellent Happy Place Bar where you’ll find gorgeous guys and plenty of special promotions. NAB Disco is a hotspot. The Sunee Plaza area, with around 50 assorted establishments, is the largest of Pattaya’s gay nightlife zones. It’s a vibrant and energetic area with lots of fun and enjoyment on offer, whatever your tastes. The Corner Bar is popular and very friendly. Get away to Koh Samed for a paradise island break. Ferries, private hire and speed boat taxis from Ban Phe will take you direct to Ao Phai Beach. For all the venues, check out our maps and listings and www.out-in-thailand.com 83

n a l a y a t t a P & n Boyztow

PATTAYALAND SOI 1 5

4 9

BEACH ROAD

8 10

15 17 18

16 22

Accommodation 18 25 28 22

Ambiance Hotel Copa Hotel Le Café Royale Serene Hotel & Bar

23 Oscars 16 Panorama Pub 22 Serene Hotel & Bar

038.424.099 038.488.694 038.423.515 038.422.952

Bars & Pubs www.oscarspattaya.com 038.710.597 038.422.952

Cabaret & Show Bars

17 Boyz, Boyz Boyz 24 Copa Showbar u12 Happy Place Bar 1 Super Star Show Bar 11 Wild West Club

Go-Go Clubs 13 A-bomb 2 Cupidol

038.424.099 038.488.694 www.happyplacebar.com

19 20 21 BOYZTOW N 23 24 26 27 29 25 28

3 David Cabaret 9 Dreamboys 20 Funny Boys 12 Happy Place Bar 5 Kawaii 6 Lucky 777 29 Toy Boys 10 Vassa Bar 8 X boys

SECOND ROAD

PATTAYALAN D SOI 2 12 14

038.429.569 038.710.597 www.happyplacebar.com

081.903.7578

Restaurant & Cafés 27 Café Music 14 Café New Orleans

www.caferoyale-pattaya.com 038.710.805

Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness

26 Body Club 038.488.694 081.865.3502 19 Boyz Sauna & Massage 038.424.099 & Host Bars 4 Narcissus 21 Scandic Massage 30 Smart Relaxation 089.151.1412 u = Out in Thailand Award Winner www.cupidolboys.com

Greater Pattay

TO COMPASS TO COMPASS ESTATE 2 ESTATE

BANGKOK Bus To Bangkok PATTAYA HOSPITAL

BANGKOK PATTAYA HOSPITAL

IC SO

EE VIT RN O P IYA HA

IC SO

EE VIT RN O P IYA HA

AW AN SO IS

AW AN

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SOI NAKLUA 13

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GF AH

N SO IS

RD . PRA TUM NA K

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A KL U

PA TTA YA NA KL UA RD .

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SOI NAKL UA 12

A IN SO

SOI NAKL UA 12

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SOI NAKLUA 16

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SOI CHAVALIT TAMO NG

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19 Blue House Massage by Men 087.058.6473 20 Relax@Me 1 038.424.087 080.095.8854 20 Relax@Me 2 081.155.0591 13 Rome Boutique Hotel & Spa 038.250.996 & Cafés 10 Royal House 038.723.086 u7 SanSuk Sauna & Guesthouse 038.364.355 038.267.191 u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

I1 SO

I4 SO

I3 SO

I6 SO

I5 SO

8 Alois

Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness

PATTAYA BAZAAR

Restaurant

11 Bob’s Barbeque 038.424.302 4 Brunos 038.364.600 1 Cabbages and Condoms 038.250.556 12 Casa Pascal 038.723.660 9 Gossip Café 5 Manhattans 038.259.790 18 Mantra 038.429.591 u6 Mata Hari 038.259.799 Fax 038.259.798 3 Pan Pan 038.251.274 15 Tequila Reef 038.414.035

CLU COUNTRY SOI SIAM

2 Compass Real Estate

I2 SO

BUS NCA Tour

CLU COUNTRY SOI SIAM

L TA

Other

2R PATTAYA D. R UL AK DR

PATTAYA 3 RD.

SOI NERNPLUPWAN

BUS NCA Tour

SOI WAT THAMSAMAKKEE

SOI WAT BOON SAMPHAN SOI NERNPLUPWAN

www.nabmenclub.com

16 The Dave Man Club

6/1

SUKHUMVIT

SOI WAT BOON SAMPHAN

HA IK SO

u17 Nab

SOI

T NG KO SOI BO

SOI WAT THAMSAMAKKEE

Discos

SOI PANIAD SOI PANIAD CH ANG (YU CH ANG (YU ME) ME) Food Food Land Land SUKHUMVIT

21 Baan Souy Resort www.baansouyresortpattaya.com 13 Rome Boutique Hotel & Spa 038.250.996 7 SanSuk Sauna & Guesthouse 038.364.356

ET PH

I4 SO I TROPICANA SO

PATTAYA 3 RD.

CENTRAL PATTAYA RD.

SOI BUAKHAO

TOPS

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H PHAI SOI KO

Accommodation

6/1

2R PATTAYA

RD. BEAC H

IN PAL MS SOI ITW 5 SO OCK SOI HARDR I6 SO

17 SOI

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D2 HOTEL

TOPS

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SOI 11

1312 SOISOI

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SOI PING PAH

SOI PATTAYA PARK

Jomtien

13 19

11 39 37

27 24 28 29 30

SOI V.C.

SOI YENSABAI

10 25

12 13

33 1

34 41

35 42

49 43

36 44

28 29

46 50 47

33 JO

34 53

TIE

Accommodation

1 Image Limousine Pattaya 038.251.755 7 P2 Clothing Store & Cafe www.p2lounge.com 3 Pattaya Storage www.pattayastorage.com u38 Pattaya Hotmale Info Centre 038.267.054 13 Vinegar Swimwear 086.157.7640

22 Wan’s Café 13 Wan’s Place www.wansplace.com 089.137.6243 24 Don Plaza Hotel 038.713.840 46 Yaya Bar 19 Eldorado Guesthouse & Restaurant 038.713.259 Go-Go Clubs & Host Bars 23 Galapagos Guest House galapagos@suneeplaza.info 53 Howard’s Guesthouse & Bar 038.713.664 16 Eros www.erosboybar.com 54 Marina Inn Plaza Hotel 038.429.232 42 Good Boys good@suneeplaza.info 41 RS Room for rent rs@suneeplaza.info 51 Happy Boys Bar www.happyboysbar.com 55 Two Guys Guesthouse & Restaurant 038.713.652 34 Krazy Dragon Night Club www.krazy-dragon.com micmy@suneeplaza.info Bars & Pubs 31 Mic My Bar 1 New Sawadee Boys 081.782.0599 32 Nice Boys nice@suneeplaza.info 8 All Of Me tomyum@suneeplaza.info 47 Come In Bar comein@suneeplaza.info 52 Tom Yum Nightclub

Restaurant & Cafés

Karaoke

SOI 1

I5 SO6

Accommodation 086.169.7721 038.232.995 087.148.0382 089.005.0012 038.304.037 084.015.8872 088.215.6866 038.251.568 038.303.698 038.251.461 038.251.432 038.303.787

Bars & Pubs

Chokdee Guest House and Restaurant DD Inn Dolce Vita Guesthouse Mewie East Suites Ganymede Bar and Guest House Good Buddies Inn Iluka Serviced Residence & Cafe Orchid Guest House Poseidon Hotel Room Club Guest House Tui’s Place Guest House & Restaurant The Venue

THAPPRAYA RD.

SOI 2 SOI 3 SOI 4 SOI 5

3 52

20 21 40

ACH RD. JOMTIEN BE

SOI YENSABAI

JOMTIEN COMPLEX CONDOS

VIEW TALAY 7

ROAD CESS H AC

EAC TAN B DONG

5 17

VIEW TALAY 2

22 23

35 22 29 18 28 26 36 40 9 10 14

VIEW TALAY 5

AVALON RESORT

17 23 18 20 26 23 39 34 12 5 4 u6

THEPPRASIT RD.

GRAND CONDOTEL

Sunee Plaza

VIEW TALAY 1

SOI V.C.

1 2

JOMTIEN CONDOTEL

BIT RAB RT RESO

The Venue

038.303.787

Other

19 15 12 21 24 8 11 31 16 37 2 33 38 9

Antz Food and Drink Aquarius Restaurant Bistro Oscar at the Poseidon Hotel East Tapas Lounge Café Ritz L’Arc Restaurant L’Olivier Restaurant Mignon Restaurant Natan’s Restaurant Oley’s Resturant Pan Pan Restaurant Papa David’s Pattaya Hotmale Info Centre Question Mark Bar & Cafe

038.303.375 038.251.895 085.435.5355 084.564.4626 038.251.669 038.233.763

Bamboo Bar 038.232.315 Bondi Beach Bar bondibeachpattaya@yahoo.co.uk Dick s Café Jomtien 038.252.417 084.728.3521 Dolce Vita Bar and Guest House Mewie 087.148.0382 038.251.874 Festival Pub 087.972.7937 038.303.909 Ganymede Bar and Guest House 038.304.037 038.267.054 L & N Bar 086.816.3913 038.303.949 The Pour House Bar Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness Question Mark Bar & Cafe 038.303.949 Two Faces Boy bar www.twofacesthailand.com X-Men Bar 30 Derby Men’s Club 038.303.439 27 Duo House 081.692.3309 038.304.037 Cabaret & Show Bars 26 Ganymede Bar and Guest House u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

u38 Corner Bar

www.thecornerbar-suneeplaza.com 48 Country Club country@suneeplaza.info 33 Crazy Pub crazy@suneeplaza.info 36 C.U. Bar cu@suneeplaza.info 25 Don Plaza Teraza donplazaterrace@suneeplaza.info 45 Duc’s Bar duc@suneeplaza.info 10 Eden Bar eden@suneeplaza.info 17 Forest House forest@@suneeplaza.info 40 La Copa - Lek’s Bar lacopa@suneeplaza.info 6 Marina Swimming Pool 038.429.232 2 Monty’s Café Bar 15 New Queens Bar newqueen@suneeplaza.info 18 Oud’s Cafe & Bar www.oudscafe.com 3 P Bar 28 Rainbow Bar rainbow@suneeplaza.info 27 Redgy’s Place redgy@suneeplaza.info 4 Samorn Beer Bar samorn@suneeplaza.info 49 Sky Restaurants & Drinks 087.607.2372 5 Stardust Beer Bar stardust@suneeplaza.info 26 Sunee Plaza Bar suneeplazabar@suneeplaza.info 44 Three Zone Bar three@suneeplaza.info 35 Uniform Bar uniform@suneeplaza.info 20 Up 2 U Boy Bar and Restaurant 089.542.7703

5 Stardust Beer Bar

stardust@suneeplaza.info

Other 56 Little Mango Internet 6 Marina Swimming Pool 29 NS Travel

littlemango@suneeplaza.info 038.429.232 038.713.556

Restaurant & Cafés

19 Eldorado Guesthouse & Restaurant 038.713.259 7 Le Bouchon Thai 038.411.458 56 Little Mango Restaurant littlemango@suneeplaza.info 18 Oud’s Cafe & Bar www.oudscafe.com 50 Po Pot Restaurant popot@suneeplaza.info 49 Sky Restaurants & Drinks 087.607.2372 12 Song Kwae Restaurant songkwae@suneeplaza.info 43 Thai Food thaifood@suneeplaza.info 20 Up 2 U Boy Bar and Restaurant 089.542.7703 u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

OUT in Phuket P

Phuket is one of the world’s most exciting gay playgrounds with a fabulous variety of things to do. Phuket has many beaches- some hidden away and is a popular international tourist destination and we recommend you to use a gay (friendly) tour company and our guide to find your accommodation.

Situated in the centre of the Paradise Complex Gay Scene

Sundowners Bar & Guest House

We have a selection of cocktails, beer, wine and champagne Ground Floor: Bar, Terrace Bar, Pool Table, Complimentary Wi-Fi Second Floor: Air Con Sports Bar, covered Terrace Bar

Sundowners Lounge & Guest House The epicentre of gay life on Phuket is Patong Beach, largely concentrated in the aptly named Paradise Complex. The main gay venues are on the exit road out of Paradise Complex. Sundowners Lounge Bar & Guesthouse with Le Bistro has a 10% discount for ‘frequent fliers’. Fongkaew Mansion & Baan Nang Fa Guesthouse is ideally located, near to all the fun, along with Aquarius Guesthouse & Sauna and Adonis Guesthouse. The Backstage now has two venues; this one serves good Thai fast food and coffee and has a good cabaret show. Jochen’s Residence has beautiful budget friendly rooms and the Dolphin Hotel is a landmark.. The disco at Boat Bar is a favourite with many visitors and locals alike. Outside Paradise Complex, there are 90

some gay and gay friendly venues worth the visit. Among them, Loveli Boutique Guesthouse and Siam Hotel are just 75 metres from Jungceylon Mall. The recently refurbished Club One Seven guesthouse with their friendly helpful staff and restaurant, excellent coffee corner and bar is a Phuket icon. The Backstage has retained their old location for private parties and karaoke nights, reservation only. The Minotel is just 3 minutes walk from Patong Beach. CC Bloom’s Hotel and Centara Grand Beach Resort are close to Kata & Karon Beaches and Phuket Fantasea is a major attraction. For all the venues, check out our maps and listings and www.out-in-thailand.com

Thai John and Staff invite you to the Sundowners Lounge. Comfortable furniture with soft background music. Our Menu offers a selection of over 50 cocktails, fresh fruit shakes, Beer, Wine by the bottle or glass and champagne. Full Bar, Terrace Bar, Pool Table and complimentary Wi-Fi

Bistro Restaurant Complimentary Wi-Fi

Email: Telephone: Fax: Mobile:

0 Frequent Flyer (THB 60 Become a Sundowners d receive a 10% disfor Life Membership) an d drinks at the Sundcount on all your food an d Bistro Restaurant. owners Bar, Lounge an

info@sundownersinparadise.com +66 (0)76 344 215 +66 (0)76 293 241 John – +66 (0)833014036 Aek - Sundowners Bar - +66 (0)872773846 Thai John - Sundowners Lounge - +66 (0)878934741 Beer - Bistro Restaurant - +66 (0)898553207

Phuket RAT-U-THIT 200 PEE ROAD

www.apsararesidence.com 18 Heaven Bar

27 Aquarius Guesthouse

076.341.668 43 James Dean

38 Baan Nang Fa Guesthouse

076.292.440 10 James Dean & Friends

www.jamesdeanbar.com

www.baan-phil.com 21 Kai Bar

46 CC Bloom’s

076.333.222 6 Passport

021.011.234 ext 1 24 Sundowners

083.301.4036

083.173.0083 30 Sundowners Lounge

16 Club Love u5 Club One Seven

076.366.360 3 Superboys

19 Connect

076.294.195 25 Tangmo

37 Fong Kaew Mansion

076.292.440 28 Time

43 James Dean 33 Jochens Residence

086.673.2789

www.jamesdeanbar.com 12 Yes

Karaoke

085.781.3814

44 Loveli Boutique Guesthouse 48 Phuket Gay Homestay 13 Rendezvous Hotel 45 Siam Hotel

089.652.1544 13 Club Love, karaoke! 076.342.433 9 OK Karaoke

083.173.0083

30 Sundowners Lounge

086.673.2789 083.301.4036

4 The Minotel

076.296.654 11 Wiwat Wis - Clothing

28 30 32

076.341.111

Discos

29 31 34

ROYAL PARADISE HOTEL

22 37

7 Newspaper 084.507.2238

076.342.206

076.294.195

1 Seahag Restaurant

40 Simon Cabaret

Sauna ⁄ Massage ⁄ Fitness 16 2 Hands Massage Spa Man’s by Man

076.346.276

u27 Aquarius Guesthouse

076.346.142

22 Blue Dolphin

080.141.8180

080.141.8180 34 Sundowners Bistro

29 Kiss Bar

39 Senoek

076.366.359 or 076.366.360

19 Connect

Cabaret & Show Bars

29 Kiss Bar

www.wiwatwis.com

076.341.668 u23 Backstage 080.141.8180 5 Club One Seven

15 Boys Room

u35 Boat Bar

087.282.5086

Restaurant & Cafés

Bars & Pubs

35 Boat Bar

Other

076.366.122 44 Phuket Travel Company – Tour & Travel

u23 Backstage

42 The Amethyst

23 Backstage

076.297.080

24 Sundowners

27 Aquarius Guesthouse

MAIN WALKWAY

076.341.611 32 My Way

ENTRY ROAD

8 Baan Phil Guesthouse 22 Blue Dolphin Men’s Massage 47 Centara Grand Beach Resort

lex

076.345.800 31 Chic

14 Adonis Guest House 41 Apsara Residence

Paradise Comp

Go-Go Clubs & Host Bars

EXIT ROAD

Accommodation

Phuket

081.979.6220

076.342.206 26 Mein Schatz 20 Spartacus u = Out in Thailand Award Winner

AMARI AMARI CORAL CORALBUS TOBUS TO BEACH BEACH TOWNTOWN

Phuket

PATONG PATONG HOSPITAL HOSPITAL

SOI BAAN ZAAN

To Centara To Centara Grand Beach GrandResort Beach Resort

SOI NANAI 1

SOI NANA SOI INANA I2 2

SOI BAAN ZAAN

PATONG PATONG SAI 3 RD. SAI(ROYAL 3 RD. (ROYAL AVENUE) AVENUE)

44 45

NANAI NANAI ROADROAD

SOI NAM YEN ROAD

PARADISE PARADISE COMPLEX COMPLEX

SOI NAM YEN ROAD

SOI C&N

SOI SUNSET SOI C&N

SOI SUNSET

SOI SANSABAI

RAT-U-THIT RAT-U-THIT 200 PEE 200ROAD PEE ROAD

RA TC

RA TC HA PRA PRA TA TA To Phuket Gay To Phuket Gay NN NN US US Homestay Homestay OM OM RD RD 48 48 . .

PISITKORANEE PISITKORANEE RD. RD. Wat

FREE

Getting OUT in Thailand... - There are just so many ways to get OUT in Thailand... - Free at Gay venues across the Kingdom - Free Online @ www.out-in-thailand.com - Delivered to your door- log onto the OUT iT website to subscribe and while you’re there, register to be sent regular FREE e-newsletters direct to your inbox

PHRABARAM ROAD

SOI CHALERMPRAKIAT

Club Club Andaman Andaman

SOI CHALERMPRAKIAT

HAT PATONG ROAD

SAWATDIRAK ROAD

ROYAL ROYAL PHAWADEE PHAWADEE VILLAGE VILLAGE Sarathai Sarathai Resort Resort

SAWATDIRAK ROAD

SOI RAT-U-THIT 200 PEE 1 JINTANA HOTEL

SWISS-BEL THARA PATONG

KSR

SWISS-BEL THARA PATONG

BANG-LA ROAD (1 WAY)

SOI NANAI 1

FOUR SEASON

Add Mansion

Lamai Inn Add Mansion Vech Guesthouse

Lamai Inn

Vech Guesthouse

SOI RAT-U-THIT 200 PEE2

RAT-U-THIT 200ROAD PEE ROAD RAT-U-THIT 200 PEE

40 47

WALK SIDE

SOI POST OFFICE

SOI SOI PINE TREE

SOI SOI DR. WATTANA SOI PINE TREE

SOI KEPSAS

THAWEEWONG THAWEEWONG ROADROAD

Holiday InnHoliday Inn

SOI RAT-U-THIT 200 PEE2

SOI KEPSAS (SOI HOLIDAY INN) RUAMJAI ROAD

39 40

(SOI HOLIDAY INN) RUAMJAI ROAD

PRACHANUKHRO ROAD

SOI DR. WATTANA

THAWEEWONG THAWEEWONG ROADROAD

Wat

Suwankhiri Ope Suwankhiri n at l e a pm till 2 st from 1 (?) a m

WIFI

Purple Meeting Point The CafeBar that dares to be different Every Saturday:

Men’s Only BBQ Pool Party, with Phuket Gay Home-stay, Kathu (4 - 10 pm)

Every Wednesday:

Crazy Open Bar Nights (6 - 11 pm)

More information about all activities & events: www.backstage.asia and/or

: BackstageVIP

The Minotel offers 20 comfortable and air conditioned ensuite rooms in the centre of Patong. Its just 3 minutes walk to the beach or to the Paradise complex. All rooms have a fridge, cable TV and free wi-fi.

19 Sawasdirak Road, Patong Beach, Phuket 83150 Tel & Fax (076) 296654 Email info@minotelpatong.com Website www.minotelpatong.com

OUT Publishing Co. Ltd. www.out-in-thailand.com Publisher/Editor Rewat Kadmai Editor in Chief James Barnes m editor@out-in-thailand.com p 085 707 9923 f 053 105 012 Advertising

สนใจลงโฆษณาติดต่อ เรวัตร คาดหมาย

p 085 107 8081 m marketing@out-in-thailand.com p 088 412 1822 f 053 105 012 Print Suprakrit Print 73/81 Chang Puak Road a T. Sripoom, A. Muang, Chiang Mai 50200 p 053 404 427 Copyright © OUT Publishing Co Ltd all rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The mention, appearance or likeness of any person or organisation herein is not to be taken as an indication of social, sexual or political orientation of such persons or organisation and the views expressed herein are not necessarily the views of OUT Publishing Co Ltd.