Let’s dive into the intriguing and unique part of Thailand’s nightlife – the Ladyboys.
When in Thailand, encountering a Ladyboy, or Kathoey as they are traditionally known in Thai culture, is nearly as common as sipping shots of Sangsom. They are eye-catching, often more over the top than their female counterparts and add a unique element to the Thai nightlife experience.
Ladyboys can be found throughout Thailand, but they’re most prevalent in tourist hotspots like Pattaya, Bangkok and Phuket. These locations contain well-known performance venues like Tiffany’s Show, Alcazar, and Simon Cabaret where the Ladyboys provide a Cabaret show that would blow your socks off. Beautiful costumes, sultry dance routines and a flamboyant performance you won’t forget easily.
Now, if you’re thinking of getting involved romantically, tread cautiously. Although many Ladyboys are up for a good time, they can be a complex mix of emotions. One minute they can be as sweet as pie, then they morph into a fiery, jealous partner.
Prices can vary greatly. If you’re just out for a drink or two, expect to pay more when in the company of Ladyboys. They tend to order more expensive drinks – and expect you to foot the bill. If you venture towards a bar fine – that’s when you pay the bar so the Ladyboy can leave with you – that’s generally between 500-1000 Baht. This doesn’t even include the price of ‘the act’ which typically ranges between 1000-2500 Baht. Of course, all prices are negotiable, but don’t undervalue – things can turn ugly fast.
Just like in any adult entertainment scene, scams are not uncommon. Some Ladyboy bars can hit you with overpriced bills, while pick-pocketing is a common occurrence, especially in Soi 6 Pattaya and Nana Plaza Bangkok. Always watch your valuables.
And then there’s the issue of legality. Prostitution in Thailand is technically illegal, but this law is very rarely enforced. Just remember though, if you do choose to partake in some extracurricular activities, make sure everything is consensual and treat your Ladyboy with respect. They value their dignity as much as you do.
Where To Find Thai Ladyboys
Starting with Bangkok, it has some of the highest concentrations of Ladyboys. Two iconic areas come to mind: Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy. Nana Plaza brands itself as ‘The World’s Largest Adult Playground’, and it’s overflowing with go-go bars – many catering specifically to Ladyboys.
Take ‘True Obsessions’ for instance – a popular joint that stages eye-catching Ladyboy performances. On the other hand, Soi Cowboy, although a smaller red-light district, is home to ‘Cockatoo’, a renowned Ladyboy go-go bar. Another location to consider in Bangkok is Patpong, Bangkok’s oldest red light district.
Swooping southwards to Pattaya, you’ve got Soi 6, Soi 7 and Walking Street, which are drowning in Ladyboy bars. In particular, Soi 6 is notorious for its raunchy reputation, with a significant number of short-time bars where Ladyboys work.
Walking Street, the city’s main nightlife strip, also flaunts countless Ladyboy bars. Then, there are the beauty pageants held at Tiffany’s Show and Alcazar, showcasing some of the most stunning Ladyboys in Thailand, if not the world.
Hitting the beaches of Phuket, the hub of Ladyboy activity is Bangla Road in Patong Beach. It’s a sensory overload of neon lights, blaring music, and the distinctive blend of cologne and cigarettes. Many of the gogo bars, like ‘Cocktails & Dreams’, are as packed with Ladyboys as the street is with tourists.
In all three places, go-go bars, beer bars, cabarets, street walking – you’ll find Ladyboys in all elements of the nightlife here. Oh, and a friendly tip – streetwalking Ladyboys can be a bit more aggressive when it comes to finding clients, so be prepared for that.
Why so many ladyboys in Thailand?
Thailand is famously known as the Land of Smiles, but it could just as well be called the Land of Ladyboys.
The prevalence of Ladyboys, or ‘Kathoey’ as they’re known in Thai, is a unique aspect of Thai culture, especially within the red light districts. But the question is – why are there so many Ladyboys in these areas? Let’s pull this apart.
Firstly, the Thai society, buddhism and its approach towards the third gender plays a significant role. Thailand is majorly Buddhist which is a religion far more accepting of people who are transgender or transvestite. This deeply rooted acceptance means that Kathoeys have been part of the cultural fabric of Thailand for generations. This acceptance does not necessarily translate into equality, but it does contribute to visibility.
Next – economics. The country has a large sex industry, and the demand is high. As the saying goes, supply rises to meet demand. Many Ladyboys, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, turn to the red light districts as an opportunity to make decent money – significantly more than they are likely to earn in traditional roles.
The adult entertainment industry in Thailand caters to a wide variety of tastes, and Ladyboys bring something different to the spicy mix – an exotic allure that some men find compelling or curious. This novelty factor can attract more customers, thereby increasing the supply of Ladyboys in these areas.
Further, transgender procedures in Thailand are relatively affordable compared to Western countries. ‘Sex reassignment surgery’ capital of the world, Thailand draws international clients for both surgical and non-surgical procedures. The accessible nature of these procedures has contributed in some part to the high numbers of Ladyboys.
Finally, the prevalence of Ladyboys in the red light districts gets a boost from the tourist industry. Many tourists come to Thailand curious about the Kathoey culture. Ladyboy cabarets have become a must-see for any tourist’s Thailand bucket list.
Thailand’s red light districts offer an intoxicating, tantalising mix of indulgence, fantasy fulfilment and escape. The presence of Ladyboys in these areas is a testament to Thailand’s cultural acceptance, economic opportunity, and the demand for diversity within the adult entertainment industry.
In conclusion, though the presence of Ladyboys is more concentrated in red light districts, it’s important to remember that Ladyboys are not exclusive to these areas. They are visible across various strata of Thai society – you’ll find them in shopping malls, salons, restaurants, and in corporate roles. The red light districts only offer a concentrated slice of the broader Kathoey phenomenon in Thailand.
HOW TO SPOT A LADYBOY – 25 SIGNS
Just note, while these signs can often indicate a Ladyboy, they’re not always definitive. And just remember – they’re people too, so remain respectful. Let’s get down to it:
[1] Height: Most Thai women are petite. A tall person among them could well be a Ladyboy.
[2] Shoe Size: Ladyboys tend to have larger feet than average Thai women.
[3] Broad Shoulders: Thai men have wider shoulders, whereas Thai women are more likely to have narrow, sloping shoulders.
[4] Adam’s Apple: Prominent Adam’s Apple is usually a giveaway.
[5] Voice: Despite efforts to soften their voice, many Ladyboys will still possess a masculine undertone.
[6] Effeminate Behavior: Ladyboys often exaggerate feminine behavior to appear more womanly.
[7] Leg Hair: Thai women are generally hair-free so visible leg hair could be a point to note.
[8] Body Shape: Thai women are generally petite and curvy. A narrow waist with little hourglass shape may indicate a Ladyboy.
[9] Fingers: Ladyboys often have longer, thicker fingers.
[10] Excessive Makeup: Ladyboys use makeup heavily to highlight their femininity.
[11] Overly Animated: Ladyboys can sometimes act overly flamboyant.
[12] Face Shape: Males usually have a longer face, broader jawline, and larger brow ridge.
[13] Elbow Angle: When arms are hanging beside the body, most women’s elbows make a slight bend outwards. If the arms hang straight down, it may be a Ladyboy.
[14] Aggressive Flirting: Ladyboys are typically more forward than Thai girls.
[15] Cross Necklace: Some Ladyboys wear a cross necklace to symbolize their transition.
[16] No Bra: Thai girls are usually modest and unlikely to go out bra-less. A ‘woman’ without a bra could be a Ladyboy.
[17] Overdressed: Flashy clothes, over-the-top jewelry, and dramatic styles may signify a Ladyboy.
[18] Stubble: Any hint of stubble, even on what looks like immaculately smooth skin, can be a sign.
[19] Hip Size: Males have narrower hips compared to females.
[20] Overuse of Perfume: Ladyboys often use heavy perfume.
[21] Fashion Style: More provocative dress sense can indicate a Ladyboy.
[22] Multiple Piercings: If a girl has many piercings, she could be a Ladyboy.
[23] Hair Extensions: Most Thai girls have shoulder length hair, but long hair on Ladyboys is common.
[24] Extravagance: Many Ladyboys aim for the glamorous, diva look.
[25] They’ll Tell You: If you’re suspicious but polite, and you ask – they’ll probably tell you.
In conclusion, engaging with Ladyboys can be an eye-opening experience that broadens your understanding of Thai culture, but like any part of nightlife, it carries some risks. Always be respectful, have fun, but stay safe. Remember, it’s all part of the adventure.