Can someone confirm whether there is still an active gay social scene around Patpong night market in Sala Deang? Also with army rule is it still okay to be gay and travel to Thailand? No problem Edward. There are probably more gays, per capita, in Thailand than in any other country in the world. I understand that the gay scene is not in Patpong 1 where the market is, nor in Patong 2. But nearby just up Silom towards Rama 4, also off Suriwong, you will find plenty of 'action'.
Exploring Soi Twilight, Bangkok’s gay red-light district (Part 1)
Patpong 2 - The Naughty Nomad
The walkway was so crammed with men that I had to push my way through. Right at the entrance, a waiter from one of the bars tried to usher me to a table that was at the side of the walkway. I learned in Bangkok not to be intimidated by the hustles on the street. This was just business as usual for him, but I was stern, avoiding eye contact even. There were two bears in their 50s sitting at a table to the right of the walkway. He was beefy with big arms and a gut — your classic bear.
One of the world's most famous red-light districts, Patpong is where Thailand's Go-Go culture all started. It has even been immortalised in a James Bond chase-sequence. Its two parallel side-streets, found between Silom and Surawongse Roads, house dozens of neon-lit strip bars offering naughty shows and the famous pole-dancing entertainment. Patpong has long since been usurped as the 'king of the scene' by Soi Cowboy , its counterpart around Sukhumvit.
Stayed here recently. Would not recommend it. It is a very dark hotel with little natural light. Rooms are a bit tired and in need of renovations.