Tags: Night Bazaar

Gay Chiang Mai Update

Author: BonTong 7 Feb 2013

Chiang Mai – Gay is go for high season

Chiang Mai is now reaping the benefits of last week’s un-seasonal heavy rain storms, which have cleared the air and washed out the start of the burning season. Beautiful clear air, blue skies, warm days and refreshing evenings have made this a perfect week.

This year, Chiang Mai has been packed for high season. There seem to be people everywhere and many businesses are doing brisk trade. This will peak at the weekend with many tourists in town for the Chinese New Year celebrations. Moreover, the major Chinese film “Lost in Thailand”, which opened in December, has sparked massive interest in the region. Filmed around Chiang Mai, the TAT Chiang Mai office say the film is credited with trebling the number of Chinese visitors to Chiang Mai at the end of last year.

For more of what to do in Chiang Mai for the Chinese New year see this article on Chiang Mai City News. Soho bar is also arranging some Chinese New Year festivities – see the details on our event calendar here

In the last week the Night Bazaar area has seen two major parties. Last night CU bar held its one year anniversary party for their new location. Meanwhile Secrets Bar had their celebration last Friday. Both were packed and we hear reports that a great time was had by all. This Sunday is RAM Bar’s turn with their first anniversary party, you can check out the details here.

In Chang Puek the Garden Bar has been particularly crowded the last few weeks with a great mix of Ex-pats and visitors staying at the adjacent Lotus Hotel or other guest houses in the gay Santitham district. Sometimes it’s been standing room only around the bar and a great atmosphere. As well as those who eat at the Garden Bar’s restaurant with its popular Lebanese food, many more pop in for a drink before or after dinner at the Spirit House which has also been busy.

Most popular of all has been Chiang Mai’s legendary Go-Go bar Adam’s Apple Club, across the road from the Garden Bar. This year has almost been like old times with the bar packed every night, a great show and a splendid selection of really handsome performers. Adam’s Apple has certainly established itself as the premier Go-Go and host bar in Chiang Mai with not only Farang customers but also many Thais and visitors from other Asian countries too. With Staff names including Mr Nice and Mr Bad there’s something for everone.

Pern’s Restaurant has been doing great business with their specials night on a Wednesday now so popular they are often completely full. Pern’s speciality is Mediterranean food but they also have some more classic western dishes and some of the best value steaks in Chiang Mai. Nearby, Sabbai Dee Santitham with great Thai Food and Radchada Garden Cafe with it’s popular Pizza are also good places to eat.

There’s still a few weeks of high season left before the temperatures rise in March so right now is an excellent time to come and enjoy Gay Chiang Mai.

Categories: Gay Bars and Venues,Gay Restaurants,General News,Host and Go-go Bars,Newsletter
Tags: Adam's Apple, CU Bar, Garden Bar, Night Bazaar, Pern's Restaurant, Radchada Garden Cafe, Sabaidee Santitham, Secrets Bar, Soho Bar
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The Day the Music Died

Author: BonTong 2 Feb 2013

Buddy Holly, one of the fore fathers of modern music, died in a plane crash on 3rd February 1959. His short but explosive career left a permanent musical legacy, immortalised in 1971 by the cryptic lyrics of Don Mclean’s classic song American Pie.

Something touched me deep inside the day the music died.

Four years ago today, on the eve of the fiftieth anniversary of Buddy Holly’s death, we were at Wat Pa Paeng for the funeral of talented musician and well liked Chiang Mai ex-pat David Crisp. A beautiful February day, we were hardly singing dirges in the dark, despite the sombre mood. The coffin, bedecked with more than one pink carnation looked like an early entrant for the up-coming Chiang Mai Flower Festival as we followed it past the parked pick-up trucks to the crematorium.

I can still remember how that music used to make me smile
And, I knew if I had my chance that I could make those people dance, and…
Maybe they’d be happy for a while

In memory of David Crisp 1953-2009. “The world was never meant for one as beautiful as you.”

I knew I was out of luck the day the music died

We had the helter skelter in the summer swelter on the way there when an aged traffic cop had the audacity to pull us over in the blazing sun for a helmet infraction. We were already running late as Khun Note, famed for the hours he spends in the bathroom, had delayed our departure sharpening his tongue. Resplendent in a coat that looked like it had been borrowed from James Dean, Note was on fine form that morning and burst forth in the way only a Thai katoey can. How we didn’t get arrested I’ll never know. Note, hands on hips got right in the guy’s face and in an extremely un-thai way explained why you don’t ticket people on their way to a funeral. And while the cop was looking down the jester stole his thorny crown: Note dramatically stuffed the half written ticket into the cop’s top pocket and drove off.

Not a word was spoken – the church bells all were broken
And, the three men I admire most: the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost, they…
Caught the last train for the coast the day the music died

It was a Buddhist funeral; Before the cremation many stood up to speak with several elegant testimonials to David’s warm caring personality and musical aptitude. You can read more about what was said in some previous articles written about David here and for Chiang Mai City News. After a final viewing of the body we departed as the pyre was ignited.

Fire is the Devil’s only friend
And, as I watched him on the stage my hands were clenched in fists of rage
No angel born in Hell could break that satan’s spell
And, as the flames climbed high into the night to light the sacrificial rite, I saw…
Satan laughing with delight the day the music died

David’s legacy was his music, whilst clearly not in the style of Buddy Holly, or even Don Mclean, David’s classical work won widespread acclaim with perhaps his Scottish Fantasia for the opening of the Scottish Parliament being one of his biggest achievements. In Chiang Mai he is best remembered for his madrigals with the Spirit House Singers, based at the Spirit House Restaurant in Chiang Mai. This was a group he organised and conducted with skill and enthusiasm. At the sacred store where I’d heard the music years before, the man there said the music wouldn’t play: so they held a special musical memorial event to remember David.

Now, do you believe in Rock and Roll? Can music save your mortal soul? And…
Can you teach me how to dance real slow?
Well, I know that you’re in love with him, ’cause I saw you dancing in the gym

David’s life in Thailand was in every sense a tragedy and one which touched many more people than just David himself. He came here with expectations of love in paradise; the causes and effects of what happened should be lessons to us all.

And, in the streets the children screamed, the lover’s cried, and the poets dreamed, but…

So what did happen to David? For those reading this who don’t know the story, David was murdered in his home right here in Chiang Mai on 20 January 2009. It was a brutal and senseless murder perpetrated by three hill tribe bar boys that he’d met in Chiang Mai’s Sleaze Alley, befriended and let stay in his home.

Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
Them good ol’ boys were drinking whiskey and rye, singing…
This’ll be the day that I die

Well, it wasn’t a Chevy but David’s classic Citroën they were driving, and his safe that they stole wasn’t quite dry; it contained a mere 5000 Bt. Life is cheap in Thailand; so the drinking that went on afterwards at the Lillawadee Restaurant was more likely Lao Khao than whiskey and rye.

Eight Miles High and falling fast….
Do you recall what was revealed the day the music died?

Chiang Mai has a major problem which so many fail to recognise or choose to ignore. And it seems the issue has too many hidden interests for it to go away anytime soon. A likely serious contributor to what happened in David’s house that night was drug abuse by the perpetrators.

When the Jester sang………

Despite the harsh penalties for being caught, Yaa Baa (Crazy medicine in Thai or Methamphetamine) is still easily and cheaply available in the Rose of the North and is ruining the lives of so many of the cities youth, particularly among the Burmese immigrant and stateless hill tribe communities.

And, there we were, all in one place – a generation Lost in Space
With no time left to start again
So, come on, Jack be nimble, Jack be quick – Jack Flash sat on a Candlestick, ’cause…

Whatever did happen to Jack?

The courtroom was adjourned – no verdict was returned

Categories: Gay Bars and Venues,General News
Tags: David Crisp, in Memorium, Night Bazaar, Sleaze Alley, Yaa Baa
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Comments So Far

Bob says:

February 8, 2013 at 2:33 pm

Nice article, Thank you. So sad to see the abuse you got from that idiot on SGT, what an ignorant asshole “Khor Tose” is to post that kinda shit in a thread remembering David. Don’t worry about it, everyone in Chiang Mai knows who and what he is.
Blackbeard says:

February 7, 2013 at 5:59 pm

I can’t believe it’s been four years already. RIP David. Its sad the damage a few bad kids can do to the reputation of stateless and immigrant people in Chiang Mai. Most of the Shan I know are good guys but they’re all victims here.
David says:

February 5, 2013 at 3:54 pm

An interesting musical take. Thanks for your efforts keeping David’s memory alive and the poignant comments about the funeral.
Craig says:

February 5, 2013 at 7:52 am

Bad news on the doorstep… I couldn’t take one more step.

WARNING – GHB The date rape Drug in Chiang mai

Author: BonTong 1 Feb 2013

The Chiang Mai murder of David Crisp four years ago by three bar boys he’d taken home should serve as a reminder and warning to every one of the risks in taking casual sex partners or prostitutes to your home or room. This week another danger has been highlighted on the streets of Chiang Mai, that of the so called date rape drug “GHB” which is used to render victims semi-conscious before engaging in sex or robbing them.

GHB or gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid, to give it its proper name, is a naturally occurring substance. Its effects vary; at low dosages it is used recreationally and induces feelings of euphoria and dis-inhibition similar to alcohol or ecstasy use. At progressively higher doses it can cause drowsiness, amnesia, unconsciousness, and death. The effects of GHB can last from 1.5 to 3 hours, or more. It’s availability as a powder, which easily dissolves in water with a salty but otherwise colourless and odourless taste, makes GHB an easy substance to lace someone’s drink with. Its amnesic properties and the difficulty in detecting it in tests after a few hours means someone who is drugged is really unsure what has happened, and Doctors can offer little explanation once the symptoms have cleared.

Last Monday Chiang Mai Police arrested three young Thais’ from the North in possession of quantities of various drugs including Ice, Ecstasy and GBH. Apart from dealing, the drugs were apparently being used to rob people, including foreigners lured for gay sex dates using the website www.gayromeo.com a dating site popular with many farangs living in Chiang Mai.

Press Conference after Chiang Mai police arrest three youths for possession of GHB and other drugs (in Thai) You can read an English verison of the story on Chiang Mai City News.

These arrests and David Crisp’s murder should serve as a dire warning to Chiang Mai’s large gay foreigner population of the dangers of meeting up with strangers and taking them to your home or hotel room. The risks are amplified several fold when meeting freelance hustlers, either online, in some gay bars where hustlers hang out or at cruising areas, e.g.around Thapae gate.

A problem with these crimes is they often go unreported, as do the frequent underage stings that go on here. No one wants to own up to being stupid and risk having their name and photos in the paper. Part of the problem is Chiang Mai has become a magnet for cheap charlie foreigners who would rather pick up a street boy, with the associated risks, including STIs and HIV, than go to a go-go bar. Go-go bars may charge higher prices, but at least they know who their staff are and provide some level of quality control, both on behaviour and health issues. Of course, there are no guarantees.

A further problem in Chiang Mai is the endemic use of Yaa Baa (Crazy Medicine in Thai) or Methamphetamine. With close proximity to the sources of supply up the road in Burma use has become rampant in Chiang Mai among the younger population and particularly among those from the neglected classes such as hill tribe kids and Burmese migrants. Not only does their drug use seriously affect their behaviour, as appears to have been the case with David Crisp’s assailants, but these people often have no ID and can be hard for the forces of law and order to locate when they commit crimes.

Take care and follow common sense when meeting people and taking them home with you. Think of the risks and your personal safety; don’t let those deceptive Thai smiles and your libido overrule your brain.

Categories: Gay Bars and Venues,General News
Tags: Night Bazaar, Sleaze Alley, Warnings, Yaa Baa
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WARNING – GHB The date rape Drug in Chiang Mai | Nicky's Gay Blog says:

February 5, 2013 at 8:27 am

[...] look at http://www.gayinchiangmai.com/News/2013/warning-ghb-the-date-rape-drug-in-chiang-mai/ for the full story, including a YouTube [...]

Child sex abuse and Trafficking in Chiang Mai

Author: BonTong 13 Jan 2013

Child sex abuse seems to have become the hot topic of the moment with several events occurring that have bought this subject to the forefront globally. In the US, in operation Sunflower one hundred twenty-three victims of child sexual exploitation were identified by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE). Law enforcement agencies arrested 245 individuals during the operation.

Here in the U.K. a joint report between the NSPCC and the Metropolitan Police was released on Friday announcing the results of an investigation into allegations of child sex abuse made against Jimmy Savile. The report outlines abuses over a fifty year period including incidents at 13 hospitals and a hospice. According to the report 214 crimes were recorded across 28 police force areas, including 34 of rape or penetration.

Savile, who was a former BBC presenter and household name celebrity, received a knighthood in 1990 for his charity work. He died in October 2011 aged 84 before the allegations surfaced. The Police operation Yewtree is now focusing on a number of other UK celebrities who may have been involved in child sex abuse and several arrests have been made. However, in celebrity obsessed Britain, the operation has also produced something of a backlash with the victims being forgotten at the expense of a media feeding frenzy.

Following the recent arrest of another Savile associate a possible connection with Chiang Mai has also been revealed. This week also saw a meeting at Chiang Mai City Hall organized by Chiang Mai Office of Social Development and Human Security to plan the Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy. Represented groups included: Chiang Mai Shelter for Children and Families, Royal Thai Police Chiang Mai, Department of Labor Protection and Welfare, Office of the Attorney General, FOCUS Foundation, the Coordination Center in Protection of Women and Children’s rights and TRAFCORD Hopefully this will give the issue much needed new focus.

Another event in Chiang Mai this week was the arrest of a tuk-tuk driver who it is alleged has been procuring young homeless boys for a suspected foreign pedophile living in Chiang Mai. Meanwhile, the subject of child sex abuse in Northern Thailand also attracted local media attention with this well balanced article in Chiang Mai City News.

For those who don’t believe child sex abuse goes on in the paradise city of Chiang Mai, or who like to bury their heads in the sand, this report gives some details. Please take the time to view these videos which give two interesting perspectives. Journey into the child sex trade is an animation produced by HOTS. The artwork and story was produced by street children in Chiang Mai. The animation tells the harrowing story of a boy’s journey into the commercial sex trade.

Around the gay bars behind Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar, known locally as sleaze alley, young immigrants in Chiang Mai, Thailand find work in the underground sex industry which has become a magnet here for foreign pedophiles. One of the boys interviewed tells how he was coerced into the sex industry at only twelve years old (Hint:enable subtitles using CC button).

As gay people who love Chiang Mai we are always saddened to see stories like these about the city. Most of our gay friends in Chiang Mai, tourists, ex-pats and Thais are good people who largely respect the laws and find it abhorrent that a very small minority come to Thailand to exploit it’s vulnerabilities and sexually abuse young children.

Without exploiters and child sex abusers there would be no child traffickers

Part of the problem is the ambiguity of Thai laws, which foreigners exploit to justify their own actions. Their argument is that really the age of consent in Thailand is fifteen so there’s nothing wrong with having sex with a fifteen year old! WRONG! Where an older foreigner has sex with a much younger Thai it is deemed to be prostitution de facto and the penalties for paying someone under eighteen for sexual services are high. Indeed, an oft forgotten or ignored fact is that prostitution is illegal in Thailand period!

Moreover, in Thailand, many hook ups between foreign males and younger Thais occur in bars where the age for admittance and to drink alcohol is 20 years old. Surely encouraging people under twenty to come to bars is in direct violation of that law?

In western countries, even if the age of consent allows it, many regard it as morally reprehensible for a man in his sixties or seventies to have sex with a sixteen year old. Also, the reality is, it’s difficult to find a boy of such age who’s willing to participate in consensual sex. Why then do so many think it is acceptable in Thailand because they have the power and money to get what they want by exploiting teenagers?

Then there’s those who want to bend the rules to justify their actions, “boys of seventeen know what they’re doing so it’s OK, it’s the law that’s wrong”. Nice theory, but a dividing line has to be drawn somewhere. It’s obvious a teenager who is capable of making his own decisions the day after his eighteenth birthday, was equally capable the day before. But, in any civilized country the rule of law must prevail; it’s not for visitors to decide how the laws in a country where they are guests should be applied. Of course, Thai law enforcement is notoriously corrupt which further opens the door for visitors to ignore the law believing they can always buy their way out of trouble.

Chiang Mai has a further dynamic; many of the young men that foreigners meet are refugees from Burma or from a hill tribe without proper ID. Some of the worst excuses are those that foreigners come up with to justify their sexual encounters with such guys who may be under eighteen. “They are only Tai Yai so it doesn’t matter”, “they don’t have ID so who care’s how old they are”, “the Police don’t care about Tai Yai so there’s no risk of getting into trouble”, “they’re drug addicts so who cares”, “I wouldn’t risk it with a Thai, but hill tribe boys are O.K”, “they can’t complain because they’ll get deported”. The list of excuses goes on, and then there’s sometimes an unscrupulous bar owner who gets an ID/work permit for an underage boy that states he’s over eighteen.

With so much delicious mature fruit on the tree there is absolutely no need to pick that which is unripe

Sorry, but all the excuses are just unacceptable bullshit – there is NO excuse for going to another country and having sex with children. There just isn’t, it is that simple…. Let’s all be totally honest with ourselves, which is difficult because most gay ex-pats in Thailand are living in glass houses. Most went to Thailand because of the availability of willing younger Thai guys. A few find true love and have long term relationships, some have relationships based on sponsorship, whilst others enjoy readily available casual sex. Whichever way, there are plenty of available younger Thai gays above legal age who are happy to go with foreigners. With so much delicious mature fruit on the tree there is absolutely no need to pick that which is unripe.

If an older foreigner wishes to have consensual sex with a Thai guy over twenty years old it’s up to them. There is no issue, except to realise that Prostitution is illegal in Thailand and to act within the law. But for the apologists who trot out their excuses for going with younger guys, under eighteen, you are just plain wrong, wrong, wrong! No excuses whatsoever can justify such selfishness. And without exploiters and child abusers there would be no child traffickers.

The recent media coverage of child sex abuse and trafficking has sparked a debate about this issue among Chiang Mai’s gay ex-pats. Some are angered by the damage it does to the reputation of gay people when coverage of pedophilia attracts so much media attention. Others are not at all surprised when certain individuals are apprehended. This leads to the question if someone has suspicions that another ex-pat might be involved in child sex abuse why do they do nothing about it?

Turning a blind eye - childe sex abuse in Chiang Mai

Many ex-pats are unwilling to upset the apple cart in another country. The answers as to why so many child sex abusers in Thailand seem to carry on with impunity and no one does anything are un-palatable and reporting their activities is not easy. Sadly, without major changes in culture and the way laws are enforced, the collective blind eye will continue to be turned.

Categories: General News
Tags: Night Bazaar, Pedophiles, Sleaze Alley
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Gay Chiang Mai 2012 – A review

Author: BonTong 1 Jan 2013

Lots of Sunshine to start the New Year

1st January 2012 already seems a distant memory so, as we enter 2013, we thought we’d look back at some of the things that happened in gay Chiang Mai during 2012. The last year has seen significant changes in the demographics of the Chiang Mai gay scene, with the typical old fashioned foreign style gay bar seeing a decline, whilst trendy new places are definitely in the ascendancy.

We started 2012 with lots of Sunshine, and since this is a subject we have a definite soft spot for, couldn’t resist doing the same this year Wishing all of our readers a very Happy New Year in which we hope you find lots of sunshine of your own.

In January 2012 on gay in Chiang Mai we remembered the death of our friend David Crisp, brutally murdered by three boys he’d befriended. We also reported on the forthcoming opening of Mansfield Residence, a new boutique city resort in Santitham along with the closure of Twin Peaks and Jungle Juice bars in Sleaze Alley.

January went out with a bang, rather too literally as Khun Note, the owner of Radchada proved both conclusively and concussively that motorbikes are imperfect flying machines. Scary stuff in the Emergency Room at Chiang Mai RAM when the doctor pronounced Note’s injuries were life threatening. Fortunately, after some time in ICU and an intervention by a very skilful surgeon, Note is back to normal and boasting that he now has more titanium than silicon is his face.

CU Bar at Night Bazaar

February saw several changes in the Chiang Mai scene. The start of the month saw Secrets Bar and CU bar relocate into the adjacent covered area overlooking the night bazaar car park, whilst the only remaining sleaze alley Bar, Milky Way moved to the front of the alley.

Whilst the changes were a definite improvement, some of the benefits didn’t last. The bathrooms, which we have to say were beyond disgusting in the old location, were markedly better. Sadly, it seems janitorial skills and basic maintenance are not considered as important here. The current facilities are already un-pleasant, the decline over just a few months having been noticeably rapid.

The nature of the bars has changed too. Secrets Bar seems to have lost the young kids who used to play pool there, and become a good quiet place just to go for a drink, without being pestered by the rougher hill tribe hustlers. CU Bar on the other hand, seems to want to be all things to everyone and many say it has lost some of its previous attraction.

February witnessed one of the biggest events the Chiang Mai gay scene has seen in ages. See Man Pub opened on Canal Road (close to Nimmanheminda area). In less than a year this large modern gay club has transformed the Chiang Mai scene shifting it away from the fading downtown and night bazaar areas to the happening parts of Nimmanheminda and Santitham. A process that has accelerated throughout the year with both the closure of Mandalay Bar and a campaign of drink driving checks around the Night Bazaar orchestrated to drive seedy nightlife out of the tourist and cultural areas.

Following their formal launch party in March, See Man Pub has continued to grow in popularity throughout the year and is now the must visit gay venue in Chiang Mai.

The good news is that, unlike Mandalay, foreigners are welcome at See Man too. It’s open late but Friday and Saturday’s are packed so it’s better to go a little early to get a table. They have been arranging a number of special events throughout the year with various contests and foam parties proving popular.

February also saw the opening of RAM coffee and bar A nice modern coffee shop located right next to River House massage, though the location is a bit distant from any other gay venues. During the course of the year they gave up on coffee, but the bar is still open in the evening and attracts a small regular following of old generation ex-pats.

March saw the launch of the Rainbowcard, Asia-Pacific’s first international GLBT Lifestyle Card.

Visit the Rainbow Card Website to discover details of GLBT business offering discounts or promotions to cardholders and to apply for a free card. To see the businesses accepting RainbowCard in Chiang Mai visit www.rainbow-card.gayinchiangmai.com

A downside for March and April this year was the bad smog and smoke which returned to blight Chiang Mai, this year seemed worse than several previous years disproving government assertions that things were improving. However, this was also the year when they unveiled a novel solution

On a sad note, April was the month in which we said good bye to another friend who succumbed to something almost forgotten these days.

April started with a big party for the grand opening of Mansfield Residence Boutique City resort in the heart of gay Santitham. This lavish project aims at providing five star hotel class accommodation yet retaining the intimate, private and discreet nature of a gay guest house.

Some of the show boys at Mansfield’s opening party

April is the height of hot season and a time when the boys head of to Chiang Mai Riviera better known as Huai Tung Thao lake located off the Canal Road a few Km North of the 700 year stadium. This large lake is a popular destination to escape the city for a few hours relaxation and swimming.

End of a great afternoon's fun with the boys at Huai Tung Thao

Of course, the most aggressiveness cooling off is done at the Songkran traditional New Year water festival and this year was no exception with the party seeming to go on for ever.

May was a busy month and with twenty two articles marked our biggest month on Chiang Mai Gay News. The first of May was a landmark for Radchada Garden Cafe which transitioned from being a daytime cafe to extending it’s opening hours to provide an evening bar service. It also added a larger range of Italian food dishes to it’s existing selection of Pizzas and Pasta.

Radchada Garden Café

May was also the month when arithmetical difficulties almost left the staff at the Garden Bar witless. With Idaho day on 17th May it was also a month to remember that, despite tremendous advances in gay rights, there is still a long way to go.

June was definitely old Queen’s month with the U.K. celebration of sixty years on the throne which it seemed the rest of the world joined in too, or at least in Chiang Mai the party seemed that way at The Pub. The Pub has remained a gay favorite in 2012 with the early evening gay gathering for Sunday lunch getting ever more popular.

As the low season started to bite we saw the start of the phoney party wars as bar owners became evermore desperate to try and pull in a few more punters. The competition was tough but the Bon Tong award for silliest party theme was the knobbly Knees at Ram Bar, well maybe they called it sexy legs but whatever

July heralded the birth of another gay business as we formally launched Bon Tong Productions providing a web design service specifically aimed at gay businesses.

One of Bon Tong’s first projects was a new website for Adam’s Apple club:

Check out the site live at: www.adamsappleclub.com

July also saw the end of a Chiang Mai gay institution as Mandalay, affectionately known as Mandagay closed down.

In August much excitement was caused by the announced re-opening of Chiang Mai’s legendary gay bar Coffee Boy. This was quickly followed by disillusionment as it turned about to be the Coffee Shack, actually called Chiang Mai 19 (boy).

September was a quiet month, as it always is in Chiang Mai. The guys at Bon Tong Productions took the opportunity to make some changes to this website, including the introduction of a complete new gay guide to complement our existing guide on www.radchada.com. In October we further extended the changes by adding a fully interactive events calendar to the site. We also updated our quick reference guide to Chiangmai gay venues: all the addresses in Thai on a single page – ideal to carry with you and show a Tuk-Tuk driver. Download it here.

In October Soulmates Retreat, a small luxury gay owned resort out side Chiang Mai, appeared on the scene. Located in beautiful countryside with views of paddy-fields and mountains near Doi Saket, Soulmates Retreat sets new standards for luxury gay accommodation.

Soulmates Retreat – Luxury gay resort with beautiful views

Soulmates is the second new addition to the luxury gay accommodation market following Mansfield Residence in the Santitham area. 2012 was a good year for gay accommodation in Santitham with new gay owned guest house QI 68 also opening here, and the much awaited new villas at Santitham Guest House finally opening to the public. Soho Bar and Guest House has also been making improvements to its rooms, or for the more budget concious, the B2 (Boutique and Budget) hotel chain has now opened it’s third property in Santitham and a B2 Premier in the Nimmanheminda area.

Khun Note with a freshly baked twelve inch pizza at Radchada Garden Cafe

October was also when Radchada Garden Cafe launched its very popular Free Pizza Buffet on Monday nights. Radchada’s Pizza’s are twelve inch Italian style thin crust, baked to order in a sizzling hot oven with fresh ingredients and quality Mozarella cheese. Undoubtedly the best Pizza in Santitham and the gayest Pizza in Chiang Mai.

As you can see from his picture, it’s wonderful to see Khun Note made a full recovery from his accident back in January

Since extending opening hours into the evening, 2012 has been a good year for Radchada Garden Cafe which, in November, celebrated it’s first anniversary with a well attended party. See the pictures here

The culmination of the year was the recognition of Radchada’s popularity by the readers of Out in Thailand magazine, who voted Radchada Garden Café as the readers choice for best Restaurant and Café in Chiang Mai. We were doubly honoured when our sister website from Bon Tong productions, www.radchada.com won the award for best local website for the second year running.

The gay massage business offering massage for men by men also saw some development in Chiang Mai during 2012. The first new venue was Spatacus off Loi Kroh Road. Around Chiang Mai Land two more massage shops were added close to the Blues Club, His Club and One 2 come.

New massage and spa Heaven Massage is situated right across the road from Blues Club whilst another new venue Sixty Nine club is in a back soi just around the corner in a smart Thai style villa house

On the down side, M Massage and Spa closed down, along with the short lived five on Chiang Moi. The Wall Massage had a small wobble and closed briefly but has now re-opened under new management.

It would appear the massage business is tough in Chiang Mai. With at least sixteen gay massage parlours it seems there is hardly enough business to go around and it’s a hard market for new entrants to penetrate with the happy endings perhaps destined only for the clients rather than the businesses themselves.

November was a strange month with the 2555 Loy Khratong festival falling late this year on 28 November. Normally the weather cools and is very pleasant in November. Following last years floods 2012′s weather in Chiang Mai has been far from normal. Rainy season was more of a cloudy season, that extended until early December before the temperatures finally fell. Loy Khratong was nearly washed out as the main parade narrowly escaped heavy rain.

Also noteworthy in 2012 was rising star Pern’s Restaurant located on Huay Kaew Road. Though not specifically gay and with a mixed clientelle, Pern’s is gay owned and has many affecionados in the Chiang Mai gay ex-pat community. Chef Brian has over 35 years international cooking experience and is amply assisted by his partner Pong. Their normal offerings are excellent Mediterranean style food at realistic prices, but their specials nights have offered a variety of cuisines and are proving very popular.

Pern’s is situated on Huay Kaew Road in the same block as the well Known Lemon Tree Restaurant (opposite the Shell Gas Station) and 200M west from Soho Bar

Another rising star however turned super nova and died in a few short months. The well-known Glass Onion had expanded significantly with the addition of an outdoor café bar Cosmos café and a speciality wine shop. Clearly over reached, the next step was to recruit some very cute Isaan money boys to woo the customers. Sadly it had the opposite effect and all the venues had closed up by September.

Meanwhile, Chris, the Glass Onion’s former owner had opened another small bar on Nimmanhaeminda Soi 1. More like someone’s living room than a bar this venue started off well, but after some difficulties with the landlady, it all imploded in a few short weeks.

In the media Chiang Mai received some interesting coverage with several articles reflecting the changes in Chiang Mai and it’s gay scene along with the rise of Santitham as the center of gay life. The November issue of Thai Puan contains an article by David Edwards called “Santitham – The New Chiang Mai” and Out in Thailand’s special feature on Chiang Mai by Guy Burroughs in the October Issue was called Chiang Mai – All change in the Jungle city. Bon tong’s opinions can be found here on Chiang Mai City News blog article The Santitham Renaissance.

In December we produced our high season update on the state of the Chiang Mai gay scene. Looking back on the year its been interesting to note the decline in the traditional style bars. More and more we see younger visitors and gay couples coming to Chiang Mai looking for a vibrant tourist destination and who have zero interest in going to places where prostitutes hang out.

Happy New Year to all our readers for 2013

Happy New Year from the boys at Radchada Garden Café

We have put a lot of effort into developing this website which has always been a non profit venture. If you enjoyed the articles and information we provide, or are a gay business that benefits from the free publicity you can always send us a Happy New Year gift using the donate button at the top right of the page.

Comments So Far

Gay Chiang Mai 2012 – A review | Nicky's Gay Blog says:

January 4, 2013 at 8:17 am

[...] You can read the whole of the year here – http://www.gayinchiangmai.com/News/2013/gay-chiang-mai-review-2012/ [...]

Chiang Mai – Drink Driving Campaign

Author: Gay Chiangmai 1 Oct 2012

With effect from 1st October 2055 the authorities in Chiang Mai are launching a major road safety campaign to reduce the incidence of drunk drivers on the city’s roads late at night. The first phase of this campaign has been running for a few weeks already and we understand has already netted some foreigners among the many offenders.

In this latest escalation of the campaign checkpoints will be operating at many major intersections around town, particularly between midnight and 3 a.m. Signs informing people of the new checks have been in place for a couple of weeks now. However, we note from what’s been seen around town the last few days that the stops are quite extensive and extend beyond the times stated above.

In line with the authorities policy of clamping down on seedy and late night entertainment in the city center access routes to the old town will be especially well policed. Especially around the moat, Thapae Gate, Thapae Road/Narrawat, Changklan and Loi Kroh roads. If you are planning to visit the Night Bazaar area or old city you would be well advised to leave the car/motorbike at home and take a tuk-tuk. Of course, this is sound advice at any time, not just when the Police are being more active. Much better to pay a few hundred Baht for transport than add to Chaing mai’s horrific road kill statistics.

Comments So Far

News from Chiang Mai | Nicky's Gay Blog says:

October 6, 2012 at 8:14 am

[...] Chiang Mai – Drink Driving Campaign [...]

Mandagay – End of an era?

Author: BonTong 22 Jul 2012

The rumours have been going around for a few weeks now, after a mini social order crackdown on large late night venues in Chiang Mai. However, this week we had it confirmed from sources close to the management, sadly July 25th will be the last night for Chiang Mai’s Gay Scene legend Mandalay Bar, known affectionately by many as Mandagay.

We’ve heard conflicting rumours about what the future holds, some say the closure is permanent, others say it will be open again in a few weeks. As with all such things, time will determine the outcome. However, one thing is certain, the winds of change are blowing in Chiang Mai and there is a movement to bolster and preserve the city’s ancient heritage and move modern entertainment and night life outside the historical center. Stories about what may happen to other bars eg. at the Night Bazaar have also been doing the rounds for years but now they are much closer to reality as the whole of the downtown sex industry is facing a purge.

Mandalay, is an enormous Thai style disco and live music venue located just off the moat. Although not marketed as a gay venue, and having dancing girls as part of the show, it has become the de-facto venue of choice for young gay Thais on a night out. Particularly Thursday through Saturday nights the place is packed with trendy metrosexuals dancing the night away. But, it’s never been so popular with foreigners due to a racist door policy and excessively loud music which have deterred the older generation. Also, the Thai style of drinking whiskey whilst standing and dancing around tables is alien to many farangs.

Of course, this is not the first time Mandalay has closed as the political tides shift in Chiang Mai. A few years ago it was closed for many months which was actually a big benefit to the gay scene as several smaller venues with more of a gay focus thrived. Sadly, most disappeared shortly after Mandalay re-opened.

The biggest benefactor this time around looks to be relative newcomer Seeman Pub See Man is a purpose built smart and modern gay bar with a show and coyote dancers. Situated on the edge of the Nimmanheminda Rd area it is much more convenient for the many Thai gays living in areas like Santitham and has already become very popular. It’s also near other popular gay friendly venues like Warm Up, Infinity and Tawan Deang and open late.

Update 25 July: It seems they will now delay closing for another week until the end of this month

Categories: Gay Restaurants,Gossip,Live Music
Tags: Mandagay, Mandalay Bar, Night Bazaar, See Man Pub
1 Comment - Click To Add Yours

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End of an Era … | Nicky's Gay Blog says:

July 23, 2012 at 8:02 am

[...] Information taken with thanks from http://www.gayinchiangmai.com/News/2012/mandagay-end-of-an-era/ [...]

CU Bar and Secrets move to new location

Author: Gay Chiangmai 2 Feb 2012

Last night saw the packed opening of CU Bar and Secrets Bar which have moved to new locations outside the old Sleaze Alley. Judging by the number of people there they got off to a good start with partying going on well into the early hours.

The new location is very close by the old one in the strip of bar/restaurant units adjacent to the old alley. If coming from Loi Kroh road along Thapae soi 1 the bars are on the left at the end of the Night Bazaar parking lot. Secrets is at the end of the row with CU Bar in the middle. Checkout our map below for the precise location:

View Night Bazaar in a larger map

Categories: Events,Gay Bars and Venues,Gay Guide Updates
Tags: Night Bazaar
3 Comments - Click To Add Yours

Comments So Far

admin says:

February 7, 2012 at 8:07 pm

A further update is Milky Way bar has moved to the front of the old alley opposite where Secrets was. This gives it exposure to the street and is still not a bad location compared with being the only bar half way down a deserted soi.

Secrets and CU bar seem to be doing great business in the new location.
Matt says:

February 4, 2012 at 4:52 pm

I stopped going to these bars sometime ago. It’s not the bars that were the “Sleaze”, but the underage boys and the elderly men they attracted. Especially those creeps who sit there all night groping young boys in public.

A new location and paint job wont’ change anything unless the owners keep out both the kids and the pedos.
San Ook says:

February 3, 2012 at 10:08 am

I missed the opening but the second night was continued to hold with customers gravitating to each of the new sites without difficulty. Pleasant to see how much has happened in such a short time. Both places are quite habitable. O at Secrets reports wifi is to be installed along with continuing touches for privacy; the space is already expanding. CU’s grand opening isn’t even until next week, but the customers are there and plans to keep the old one running are apparently scuttled as the new is clearly the draw.

Still no word on Milky Way, except that it remains open in the original space. There remain stalls in the new site. It’s hard to imagine they won’t attract establishments with similar interests. The new sites for Secrets and CU can’t be called “Sleaze Alley” by any stretch, so the days of that unfortunate name would seem to be numbered. (Again, no financial interest in these establishments… just a patron happy with the new sites.)

Chiang Mai and Gay Sex – Part 3

Author: BonTong 14 Nov 2011

Commercial Gay Scene – Freelancers

This is the third and final part of our series on Gay Sex in Chiang Mai; where to find it and what to be aware of. Part 1 discussed the non-commercial gay sex scene and Part 2 covered the obvious bars and massage parlours side of the commercial scene. This part gives an overview of the more covert part of the commercial sex business – freelance hustlers.

Gay Guys in Chiang Mai

You can find gay guys all over Chiang Mai as we described in Part 1. Whilst many of these guys just want sex, often they appreciate some reward, especially when they encounter older foreigners. A few are out and out money boys, straight or gay but either way, only in it for pay. It takes a little skill and experience to spot whether your new friend is more interested in you or your wallet. As well as the bars, venues and the internet we described previously, there are places in Chiang Mai where it is easy to find freelancers.

The advantage of taking hosts “off” from bars is the bar knows who they are and you have some limited comeback if there are problems e.g. if they steal from you. In particular, many of the Shan guys working go-go have work permits linked to their bars and the bar owners are responsible for them. If they get fired they also risk deportation back to Burma. This doesn’t provide any absolute guarantees about your safety; when taking someone off from a bar, always exercise caution and practice safe sex. But, taking bar hosts is much safer than going with Chiang Mai’s many freelancers. Some of these can be dangerous and it is entirely at your own risk.

Some of the cute Shan Hustlers that hang round the Garden bar

So where can you find Freelancers? Although not as many guys here now as in years past, the safest place is still around Adam’s Apple and the Garden Bar. The guys here are almost all from the same Shan gang and friends of the guys working in the host bars. They are monitored closely by the local coterie who run the bars, the Shan mafia and the bar owners themselves, both of whom are foreigners (bad boys get a one way ticket to Loi Tai Leng) .

The Garden Bar is run professionally and monitored by CCTV. The bar staff can give you advice about the different guys who hang around. Of course, there are still a few bad Apples (no pun intended) so always exercise caution. Be aware that most of these guys are from Burma and many have no ID. There is still one reliable regular at the garden bar, the world famous “Mr Chippendale”, Chiang Mai’s hardest working boy, who tries to earn a place in the heart and wallet of every visiting Farang! [N.B. sorry to disappoint but the nickname is not because of his body ]

At greater risk are the Freelancer’s from Chiang Mai’s notorious Sleaze Alley. Whilst these bars are O.K. to visit for a drink, especially C.U. Bar which is the gayest, great caution is required with the guys here. The hustlers come from a variety of different hill tribe and other ethnic groups, including Akha, Lisu, Mussur (Lahu) and Shan. This causes frequent problems and gang fights along tribal lines are not uncommon, moreover, the gangs are protective of their own and it’s hard to know who is who, or trace people afterwards if problems do occur. Many of the guys have no ID and underage has been a recurring problem here, as has drug abuse.

Business has been very poor for months and the bar owners appear to be a somewhat disparate group of competitors fighting each other for survival, with evidently little interest in cleaning the place up for the common good. This is also reflected in the abysmal state of shared facilities such as the toilets!

One scam we’ve heard of is newbies being charged an “off fee” by some bars, even though the freelancer is nothing to do with the bar and they certainly won’t want to know afterwards if any problems occur (N.B. Bar staff employed by the bar are different and you can expect to be charged if they leave before they’ve finished work). Another risk is the underage “honey trap” scam, this is not un-heard of and will cost you dearly.

If you do decide to leave with any of the guys from Sleaze Alley, ask for a character reference from one of the few old sex-pat barflies who are always there (easy to spot – look for the bottle of Sangsom on the bar ). Their advice is more valuable than that of the other guys or bar staff who may only tell you what they think you want to hear. We have more information in our other articles too: Travel Warning and The dangers of living in Chiang Mai

Freelance Hustler's at Chiang Mai's Sleaze Alley

Most dangerous of all are the freelancers who hang around on the street at Thapae Gate (inside the moat opposite Moonmunag Soi 4) or down on the riverside near the flower market. Kateoys or Lady Boys may be found around Thapae Gate and Loy Kroh road too. These are absolutely at your own risk and you are potentially setting yourself up for all sorts of trouble.

Plenty of freelancers can be found on gayromeo.com too, even though many appear to be looking for sex only, once you start chatting it will soon become apparent there is another agenda.

If you do meet strangers a few basic rules of common sense apply:

Don’t carry large amounts of cash, or flash cash around.
Don’t take expensive watches, jewellery, cameras, phones, laptops or other gadgets out with you. Make sure they are locked in your hotel safe.
Try to find out about your new friends reputation before going anywhere alone with them. E.g. by asking bar staff or other customers.
Let someone know where you are going if you go off with a stranger.
Chiang Mai has many “short time” hotels which are great for entertaining new friends. Prices for an hour or two will be around 100-200Bt.
Check the guys I.D. if he has one and BE CERTAIN he is over eighteen
If you stay at a hotel, have reception hold your friends ID and check with you before returning it.

Most importantly, please be aware that drug abuse is rife among male sex workers in Chiang Mai and the use of YaaBaa is endemic. YaaBaa (In Thai means Crazy Medicine) is a Class A drug also known as methamphetamine is produced in vast quantities across the border in Burma and available cheaply. The local version also includes some opiates making it addictive. It causes significant abnormal behavioural changes and removes inhibitions. Whilst this can have some sexual benefits, these are often counteracted by erectile dysfunction, another side effect. The major downside is an increased propensity for aggressive and anti-social behaviour such as theft or assault, especially if mixed with alcohol.

The Police do conduct raids on places such as Sleaze Alley and carry out on the spot urine tests which give an instant indication of drug use. They also setup roadblocks around town and test people they are suspicious of. The usual minimum penalty for first time offence is forty five days in a Thai Jail, or several years for someone actually caught in possession of the drug.

Apart from stating the obvious – DON’T DO DRUGS – if you do intend to meet with freelancers learn to spot the signs of Yaabaa use. Typical symptoms include hyperactivity, talking incessantly or aggressively, an inability to sit still and persistent finger or foot tapping, teeth grinding and repetitive behaviour. Dilated eyes with a glazed over look are another sign. Yaabaa is an appetite suppressant so an obvious symptom of long term abuse is significant weight loss and gaunt facial features along with acne. Long term abuse can lead to psychotic effects similar to schizophrenia.

The other major taboo in Chiang Mai is foreigners having sex with boys under the age of eighteen. If you get caught you will have serious problems and may be prosecuted both in Thailand, where penalties are severe, and your home country.

It is a crime for foreigners to have sex with someone under 18 in Thailand

Severe penalties await foreigners who have sex with guys under eighteen

Many of the freelancers in town are under age and often have been trafficked into prostitution. You can read more about this in our article – Survival Sex which includes a video on child sex abuse and trafficking in Chiang Mai.

For those who still think it’s OK to abuse children please watch the following Video: Journey into the child sex trade is an animation produced by HOTS. The artwork and story was produced by street children in Chiang Mai. The animation tells the harrowing story of a boy’s journey into the commercial sex trade.

Finally, remember the rate of HIV infection is especially high among freelance sex workers, particularly those without Thai ID who have little access to medical services , counselling and advice. To avoid unwanted holiday souvenirs be sure to use a condom!

We hope the articles in this series have provided useful information. If you want to express any opinion on them, or the issues raised, please leave a comment.

Please be aware that prostitution is illegal in Thailand in accordance with the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act, B.E. 2539 (1996) This article is for information purposes only, it is not an incitement to commit illegal acts and readers are responsible for their own actions. Please refer to the terms and conditions of use for this website. Please also note that, in Thailand, the penalties for foreigners having sex with someone under the age of eighteen are severe.

Categories: Gay Bars and Venues,General News,HIV
Tags: Adam's Apple, Featured, Garden Bar, Gay, Night Bazaar, Pedophiles, Shan State, Sleaze Alley
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Comments So Far

hakan says:

November 15, 2011 at 4:32 am

1. mr ice still works at nmw ?
2. who is that fomous mr chipendale at the garden bar? i plan to stay at lotus.

Sun-rising for High Season?

Author: BonTong 17 Oct 2011

There is chatter in the air, wherever you go: tourists have been spotted in Chiang Mai! Yes, apart from the new floor at the Garden bar and Lisu boys working at Adam’s Apple, the main topic of conversation the last few days has been the noticeable increase in the number of visitors and people out and about in bars and restaurants. After the total tourist drought that has led to rainy season this year being renamed the dead season, rather than just low season, Chiang Mai could be seeing the next dawn.

Khyn Bo, Bar tender at a packed Garden bar

It’s early days yet, but it’s been great to see some fresh faces about, both old friends returning for the cool season and tourists coming to stay in the hotels. Lotus Hotel and the Garden bar have had a buzz to them that hasn’t been seen in a long while, and nearby bars such as Adam’s Apple and Free Guy have been reporting great business. Yokka Dok has also seen brisk trade; only the Night Bazaar bars at Sleaze Alley are bucking the trend and remain deserted, seemingly doomed to follow the Dodo.

Some of the guys waiting for you at Garden bar

Recent flooding in Chiang Mai, although already dissipated and the clean-up completed, had caused concerns the tourists would stay away. But so far it’s not looking so bad. Of course, some of the extra traffic could be people coming to Chiang Mai, rather than risking problems in Bangkok. Thailand’s biggest city has managed to escape the flooding so far, though there is still frequent torrential rain and flash floods even in the centre. Meanwhile the surrounding suburbs and provinces have not been so lucky with numerous areas under several feet of water, with severe damage to industry, agriculture and infrastructure.

Beautiful cool season weather in Chiang Mai at Mae Fang

Not so Chiang Mai; for ten days or so, the high pressure area from central China, which defines cool season, has been dominating the climate here and an initial ridge has been pushing the monsoon trough further south. Clouds are dispersing too, leaving blues skies and sunshine with pleasant temperatures. Rainy season usually ceases around mid-October followed by a warmer period with the occasional shower, until cool season fully kicks in by mid-November and typically lasts until mid-February. Temperatures in the last week have averaged 24 °C Min and 32 °C Max with minimal rainfall.

Fire Lanterns at Chiang Mai Yeepeng festival

With Loy Krathong, or Yeepeng festival as it’s called in Chiang Mai, coming early this year in just three weeks (9-11 November), now is a great time to plan a trip to Chiang Mai. For gay accommodation check out our gay scene guide to Chiangmai; or see our particular suggestions below.

The favourite for many visitors is the Lotus Hotel, Chiang Mai’s first gay hotel is located close to gay areas in Chang Puek/Santitham with its own popular “Garden Bar” and Adam’s Apple Club right across the road.

The Lotus Chiang Mai's Premium gay Hotel

Founded by well known Lebanese gay entrepreneur Khun Mo more than twenty years ago, it has grown steadily into a luxury hotel. Khun Mo has used his skills as an architect and interior designer to develop a stylish, comfortable and homely hotel. All rooms are en-suite with A/C and full features. The hotel’s white exterior hides a surprise; inside the feel is that of a teak wood house, marvellously decorated in a contemporary colonial style with many antiques complementing more modern aspects. The Lotus is a full service hotel with all the expected amenities including, laundry and concierge who can arrange travel and tours.

PJ’s Place is a Boutique guest house, which combines luxury hotel standards with the friendliness of a small establishment. It’s beautiful, tranquil garden location, set in a quiet lane off Huay Kaew Road, gives an impression of not being in the city.

PJ's Place Boutique Guesthouse

The owners, long-time boyfriends Jiab and Peter, are the perfect hosts, renowned for their hospitality and service. Accommodation comprises four deluxe rooms and two suite houses all in a modern chic style that retains classic Thai influences. All rooms are en-suite, air conditioned and have facilities such as minibar, tea/coffee and in room safe, normally only expected in large hotels.

Your hosts are a perfect source of information about Chiang Mai and can arrange tours and provide every other assistance to make your stay enjoyable. Over several years PJ’s Place has built up a dedicated following of repeat visitors, which leads to only one complaint: “they’re fully booked”! Especially during high season and festivals; early booking is strongly advised.

Alternatively, located close to PJ’s is the popular Soho bar and guest house; now under new ownership since August. Santitham Guest House is another popular options near the Gay area.

Though not gay, Chiang Mai also has some truly excellent five star hotels in the night Bazzar Area where you can often get some excellent deals. Check out The Chedi, Le Meriden, Shangri-la and D2, by Thailand’s world renowned Dusit Thani hotel group. There are also several resort style hotels around the city centre too, which are great places to stay if you feel like a little pampering.

Shangri-la luxury Hotel in Chiang Mai

Wherever you choose to stay, now is an excellent time to visit Chiang Mai. Don’t forget to print out our Quick Guide with addresses in Thai before you go, so you can easily find your way around.