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p t u q t t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt Sawasdee! There is no shortage of hotels in Bangkok, with many decent rooms ranging from US $30 - $120 Welcome to Bangkok, the proud host of the 11th International Congress per night. Ultimately the location you would on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP)! This is our home as APCOM’s like to stay and the one you choose will depend Secretariat is based here, and we would like to treat you as our special on your budget. We have listed three hotels in guests to this special city which the Thais call City of Angels (Krung Thep). Bangkok that we recommend: As a community partner of ICAAP11, APCOM is proud to present this booklet. ICAAP 11 offers many opportunities to learn and network, and we 1 i-Residence Hotel, Silom recognise some of the best networking is done outside formal sessions and o so this guide is compiled from collaborations with local Bangkok-based organisations working in the field of HIV and AIDS and rights with enuesv of interest for LGBT people that you should not miss!
As the land of the free (which is what Thailand means), you’ll be happy to know that you can be yourself here, and take advantage of what Bangkok has to offer. Thai people have a good sense of fun - or ‘snuk’ - please have fun responsibly!
Our staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly to ensure many The i-Residence, in Silom, is an affordable yet comfortable sessions on men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender people, boutique hotel that is just steps from Bangkok’s main form we have a booth so please come can say hello and let us know about of public transport, the BTS – trust us, a God-send when situations in your country, as well there is an end of ICAAP party to let our you’re trying to get to your next session (or dinner plans) hair down after a hard week’s work. and want to avoid Bangkok’s infamous traffic.
APCOM’s main purpose is to advocate issues that affect the lives of Situated between the Silom and Sathorn districts, the area men who have sex with men and transgender people, including HIV, offers great dining options, with a number of high-end rights, health and well-being. We can only do this through connections restaurants close by, or a number of street food options to grassroot members - please do stay in touch with us via (website, FB, along Soi Convent. The hotel is also close to malls and twitter) shopping opportunities.
On behalf of APCOM, I would like to wish you ‘snuk’ and hope to see you at i-Residence, Silom, provides a full range of facilities 24 hours the next ICAAP! a day, and has a trustworthy security system. Address: 93 Narathivas Rachanakarin Road Soi 3, Silom, Bangrak Bangkok 10500 Thailand Midnight Poonkasetwattana; APCOM Executive Director Telephone: +66(0)2 2679700-3
Welcome q www.silom.iresidencehotel.com Hotels
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt 2 Glow Trinity Silom Hotel, 3 The Continent Hotel, o Silom o Asoke
Glow Trinity Silom Hotel, is located in the centre of downtown Bangkok, but still within 40 minutes from the international airport. The hotel is a short distance from both the BTS and MRT subway system (a great option if you’d like to take the opportunity to explore the outer parts of the city). From the hotel there is easy access to embassies, dining and shopping options. It is also close to Silom Road, one of Bangkok’s main gay areas, where you can find a number of bars, cafes and clubs. If you are looking to indulge in a high-end hotel experience, try The Continent Hotel. Located just a short distance from the ICAAP conference venue, The Continent Hotel is on a Glow Trinity Silom Hotel provides friendly staff and a central part of Sukhumvit Rd – quite literally the arterial full range of facilities, including a gym with sauna and a that keeps blood flowing through the heart of Bangkok – beautiful rooftop pool where you can cool down, relax and making it easy to access absolutely everything you could watch the city. want from every part of this city. Within walking distance is the BTS Asoke sky train, MRT Sukhumvit station, it is also close to a major mall that houses standard western brands Address: 150 Silom Soi Phiphat 2 (Naratiwas Soi 3 or Sathorn Soi 3) Silom, Bangrak Bangkok 10500 Thailand and high-end Thai brands, as well as cheaper shopping options – in case you don’t feel like venturing through the Telephone: +66 2 231 5050 heat to get to the markets. www.glowtrinitysilom.com The Continent Hotel provides friendly staff and a full range of facilities, including a deluxe gym, an infinity pool and hotel transfer.
Address: 413 Sukhumvit Road (Near Asoke BTS & Sukhumvit MRT Interchange Stations) Bangkok 10110, Thailand Telephone: +66 2 686 7000 www.thecontinenthotel.com
Hotels Hotels
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt Please note there are two international There are two ways to get from airports in Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi to the centre of the city: TAXI-METER
TAXI: The airport meter taxi stations are located on the ground level (turn right when you exit the customs area BKK / DMK and follow signs to the taxi stand outside).The fare from the airport to most centrally located hotels should not exceed q THB 500 (approximately USD $17), exclusive of toll way q fees. The fee is determined by meter, plus a THB 50 airport charge. The use of toll ways must be agreed upon by the passenger. They will cost extra, but can save a lot of time, Suvarnabhumi Airport Don Mueang Airport and must be paid at the toll way, not after the ride – so keep (BKK), is Bangkok’s main (DMK), is where most low some smaller notes handy. international airport. For cost airlines will arrive. It This could be the fastest way to get into the city, information on navigating is not situated near public TRAIN: if you don’t have large or heavy baggage. The airport link your way around the airport transport options. We has two lines: the Express Line - a non-stop service from the - from transit lounges to recommend you to take taxi airport to the city (THB 90, one way); or the City Line – an all your favourite Duty Free to your choice of hotel. stops service (THB 40, one way). outposts - visit: www. suvarnabhumiairport.com. Both services stop at Phaya Thai Station, a centrally located BTS stop, where you can easily change to access other stops on the Sukhumvit line; or just as easily get into a taxi to reach your hotel. Further BTS travel to reach your destination will cost THB 40 and upwards. For more information on the airport link visit: www.airportraillink.railway.co.th.
Getting to your hotels Getting to your hotels
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt Weather: Time Zone: Bangkok in November should be coming to the end Thailand Standard Time is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich of the rainy season though it may still be a little warm Mean Time (GMT+7). (approximately 26°C) and wet, but don’t worry, it won’t stop you from enjoying anything in this city, though it may slow you down at times. Rain storms usually occur late in the Electricity: afternoon, and can bring traffic to a standstill – enjoy the Thailand power outlets use 220v/50Hz, opportunity for some downtime from ICAAP11, or use it as an excuse to engage in a bit more networking at the bar, www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mains_electricity_by_country while you wait for the rains to pass.
Currency: The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). The exchange rate to the United States Dollar is usually around THB 29.00:US$ 1.00. You will find official money change options at the airport and most hotels. You are also able to change money at banks in Thailand, which operate from 08.30 hrs to 15.30 Mobile Phone: hrs, Mondays through Friday, excluding public and bank Purchasing a SIM Card in Thailand is a very simple process. holidays. 24 hour ATMs are widely available throughout With most mobile phone providers available at the airport Bangkok, including at convenience stores, shopping malls as you come through arrivals. If you are in town for a week and usually around most hotels. or more, we recommend the 299THB (10 USD) DTAC Happy Tourist SIM Card. If you do not see the DTAC stand at the airport, you are able to purchase a SIM card from any 7/11 store. www.dtac.co.th/en/prepaid/
About THAILAND About THAILAND
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt The monarchy Social customs Thai people have a deep, traditional reverence for the Royal Thai people don’t normally shake hands when they greet Family and has what are known as Lese Majeste Laws. one another, but instead press the palms together in a Strict penalties are imposed on those who speak, write or prayer-like gesture called a ‘wai’. Generally, younger people comment about anything seen as negative about the royal will wai an elder, who then returns it. family. Visitors should be careful to show respect for the King, Queen and other members of the Royal Family. Thai people regard the head as the highest part of the body, literally and figuratively. Therefore, you should avoid Religion touching people on the head. Conversely, the feet are considered the lowliest part of the body, so try not to point Visitors should dress neatly in all religious shrines. While your feet at people, it is considered very rude. Shoes should entrance to most shrines will be admitted regardless, it is be removed when entering a private Thai home. respectful, particularly for women, to avoid showing too much skin. Visitors should never go topless, wear shorts, hot pants or other unsuitable attire. It is acceptable to wear While most areas are open and friendly, public displays of shoes when walking around the compound of a Buddhist affection are uncommon. temple, but not inside the chapel where the principal Buddha image is kept. Each Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a sacred object. Never climb Although the weather is hot in Thailand, walking shirtless onto one to take a photograph or do anything that might on the street, especially in Bangkok, is generally regarded as indicate a lack of respect. impolite; tank tops are acceptable.
Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman, or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman has to give anything to a monk, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it. This also means that a woman should not sit next to a monk on the BTS or other forms of public transport.
DOs & DON’Ts DOs & DON’Ts
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt BTS (Skytrain) Taxis The BTS Skytrain is by far the easiest, fastest and most Taxis are widely available in Bangkok, at all hours of the day convenient way to travel around Bangkok. The Skytrain and night. Taxis are easily recognized by their signs, and are covers the central shopping and entertainment area around free if their red light is on. The taxi system in Bangkok is Siam Square, offers access to the Chao Phraya River via generally very safe. Taxis are metered, with a fixed starting Saphan Taksin station (where you can travel by boat to the fare, and charge by distance and waiting time. At times, and Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple, and the Temple particularly around popular tourist areas, taxi drivers may of Dawn). The BTS is also the best way to travel, to explore try to negotiate an off-meter price with you. It is up to you Bangkok’s famous Chatuchak markets (travel to Mot Chit whether you want to take this option, or walk to find another station). The price of BTS ranges from 15 - 40 baht a ride, driver, but once a price has been agreed, it usually won’t depending on the distance. change. For more information visit: www.bts.co.th Tuk-tuks MRT (Subway) Tuk-tuks (three-wheeled motorbikes, also known as auto rickshaws in other countries) are popular for shorter The MRT system is newer than BTS and extends to farther journeys. Price should be negotiated before the ride. parts of Bangkok. It can be used to explore different parts of the city, away from the usual tourist areas, and is the best way Motorcycle taxis to get to Hua Lamphong station (a major hub for interstate travel, if you decide to take a quick trip away). MRT tokens Motorcycle taxis (known as win motoesai) are found all cost 20 baht and up, depending on distance. There are three over the city. Motorcycle taxis usually accommodate one, or interchange stations where you can transfer from the MRT to sometimes two, passengers, and typically only cover short the BTS: Change at Chatuchak or Sukhumvit stations for the distances. Motorcycle taxi drivers can be identified by their On Nut line; or change at Sala Daeng to get on the Silom line. orange vests. You can hail a motorcycle from the street, or go to a motorcycle taxi stand. For more information visit: www.bangkokmetro.co.th The fare for tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis is usually Buses negotiable between passenger and driver, except for cases where an organised taxi rank is in operation, where prices to Bangkok’s bus system is extensive, and cheap (with fares certain locations may be printed on a sign at the rank. When starting from 7 baht on non-air conditioned busses) but two passengers use a motorcycle taxi the fare is usually prepare to spend time in traffic – on the upside, it does doubled, although no such increases apply to tuk-tuks. offer an excellent opportunity for people watching. Air- conditioned buses fares range from 11-24 baht. Some bus services operate 24 hours, though most do not offer a late night service. For more information visit: www.bangkokbrt.com. Bus route maps can also be found at most bookshops.
Getting around BKK Getting around BKK
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt Things to do in Bangkok
BKK Transit System
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt og The Grand Palace Bangkok’s most popular tourist attraction, The Grand Palace, was the official residence for the kings of Siam from 1782 to 1925. It was originally built by King Rama I, though future generations have continued to add to its presence. As such, the grounds of the palace encompass a wide range of architectural styles, moving from the pure Ayutthayan style Buddhism forms the nucleus of Thai cultural life, and of traditional temple building, to a blend of Thai and Western so a trip to Bangkok is not complete without a visit styles in later structures. The grounds of the palace are to a Buddhist temple. There are literally hundreds of extensive, with an array of beautiful gardens to explore, as Buddhist temples, known in Thai as ‘wats’, throughout well as Wat Phra Kaew, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha. the city. Some of the most iconic can be found in COST: Rattanakosin (old area); but it is equally worthwhile Combined entry is THB 400, which includes entry into the to visit lesser-known local shrines, to get an insight Dusit Palace (valid for seven days). The Grand Palace is most into how people here incorporate religion into their easily accessed by taxi. life. Temples here are built with an impressive sense TIME: of architecture and devotion to decoration – most are Opening hours are: 08:30 to 15:30. Please be aware that a covered with ornate patterned tiles and gold gilding, or strict dress code applies for visitors to the palace. reflective glass that shimmers just as beautifully at night
as it does during the day.
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Realup BKK: Temples Real BKK: Temples
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt g o Wat Arun Wat Arun, often called the Temple of Dawn, is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, in Thonburi. The temple is most noted for its distinctive, large ‘prang’ (spire or stupa) which is intricately inlaid with chinese porcelain. At 88 metres in height, it was Bangkok’s tallest structure until the advent of the modern skyscraper. It is one of Bangkok’s best known landmarks and a must-visit, particularly at early morning or sunset, to catch the irredescence of light shimmering off the tiles. Wat Arun is most easily accessed via a boat, which can be caught from Tha Tien Pier near Wat Pho. Entry costs 50 baht. og g Wat Pho o Wat Phra Kaew Popularly known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Wat Phra Kaew, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the Pho is one of the largest and oldest temples in Bangkok. It most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. Built in 1784, the houses over a thousand Buddha images, including Thailand’s temple houses a diminutive jade statue of a Buddha. Though largest Buddha image, The Reclining Buddha, which stretches this statue is small, its history is extensive, and can be traced an impressive 50 metres of shimmering gold. Built on the back to 15th Century India. The statue is deeply revered in former site of a traditional Thai medicine school, the temple Thai culture, and is considered to protect the country. maintains its connections to its past by housing a massage school, where you can go to receive a quick treatment to restore your strength for more site seeing. Wat Po is within walking distance of The Grand Palace, so it is easy to incorporate this into one day of site seeing.
Real BKK: Temples Real BKK: Temples
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt os s Siam Paragon o Terminal 21 One of Bangkok’s more extravagant shopping malls, you Terminal 21 is the newest shopping mall in Bangkok, and is an can find most high-end designer labels here. Paragon is experience in itself in terms of innovative and kooky designs. particularly good for homewares, and has a section on the top In an attempt to bring the experience of high street shopping floor where you can find slightly pricier, though beautifully into a mall environment, levels are labeled and designed to made Thai souvenirs, including pure silk scarves, wooden capture the essence of foreign countries – head up to the carvings and hillstribe embroidered goods. British level for the slightly surreal experience of perusing Thai clothing while surrounded by Union Jacks and red phone Get there by taxi or BTS (Siam Square) booths. The shopping experience is focused on small boutique style outlets, though a few western brand names can be found os here too. Central World Get there by taxi, BTS (Asoke) or MRT (Sukhumvit). Central World is Bangkok’s largest mall, so to make it somewhat less overwhelming, it has been separated into six different shopping zones, each with its own unique design and ambiance. High-end, mid-range, boutique and otherwise – it is all here. Central World also has one of the largest and nicest cinemas in Bangkok, if you are looking for somewhere cool and quiet to escape for a while. Get there by taxi or BTS (Chit Lom)
Real Fun: Shopping Real Fun: Shopping
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt s o Chatuchak Weekend Market Chatuchak is reputably the largest market in Southeast Asia, and is definitely an experience you should have at least once in your life. Everything can be found here, from handicrafts and homewares, to cheap clothing and more hipster designer clothing brands, to plants and pets – fancy taking a designer monkey home with you? You can get it here. Prices range from wholesale to retail. Generally, there are limited opportunities to barter at Chatuchak, unless you’re buying large quantities – but no one really minds if you want to give it a go anyway. Chatuchak is a weekend market, open on Saturday and Sunday until around sun down. Bangkok Get there by BTS (Mo Chit) or MRT (Chatuchak Park). os gay scene ASIATIQUE The Riverfront ASIATIQUE, The Riverfront will be Bangkok’s first large-scale riverside project combining shopping, dining, sightseeing, activities and events under one roof. The strong cultural aspect is what sets it apart from other shopping malls. Embracing history, but avoiding the cultural clichés and traditional symbols, it strikes a balance between tradition and
globalization. Open everyday, evening until midnight.
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Real Fun: Shopping up Real Fun: Shopping
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt ol Bars and clubs on Silom Soi 2 and 4 Soi 2 and 4 are the throbbing centre of gay nightlife in Bangkok, where you can find everything, and everyone, you’re looking for – whether it’s a (not so quiet) drink or a podium to dance on, you’ll find it in these sois. Or, if you fancy exploring Bangkok’s newest strip of gay go-go bars, head to Soi Twilight, just across Surawong Road.
ol Soi Twilight If you are looking for a change of scene or perhaps some male ‘entertainment’, you can’t go past Soi Twilight. This is one little Soi just off Surawong Road (Parallel to Silom Road) is brightly decorated with twinkle lights and dance music. To see the entertainment, one must first make way past all the street hustlers, trying to pull you into their bars, this can be quite confronting the first time. Soi Twilight has many go-go bars with live boy ‘entertainment’, as well as lots of other kinds of shows. The most entertaining go-go bar is Dreamboys (upstairs). This is the venue that innovates the most, if you would like a glimpse of Bangkok’s red-light night scene, this is the place to go. The soi also has “special massage” places, a couple of cafes and bars, and a couple of “host bars”. ol If you are interesting in male ‘entertainment’ there are many go-go bars around Surawong – the most famous one being APCOM One Tawan (2/2 Soi Tantawan). This venue is well known among AFTER @ Night most older gentlemen who are looking for Thai guys with big PARTY Only 22 NOV muscles.
BKK’s gay scene BKK’s gay scene
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt l More for dance: o DJ Station APCOMAPCOMAPCOM The most famous gay nightclub in Bangkok, this place is busy all night, every night. But on the weekend, it’s literally packed pecks-to-pecks in here - do not enter if you’re even slightly claustrophobic. Most drinks are 100 baht (be careful with AFTERAFTERAFTER spirits, the bartenders don’t measure anything and tend to over-pour – if that’s a concern for you), or buy a bottle of spirits from 1,000 baht up, and get free mixers. Spread over three levels, the ground floor has a big dance floor with a PARTYPARTY stage (technically for the ladyboy performers, but also useful PARTY for when you feel like stealing some attention); the second floor attracts ‘money boys’ (people who exchange their time for money or gifts) and their admirers (though by no means is what happens in Bangkok, this exclusively the clientele on this floor); and the third floor is the place to head to when you need an escape (if you can get there). stays in Bangkok! Info: Silom Soi 2 (BTS Sala Daeng), +66 (0) 2 266 4029, 22:00- 02:00 daily. Entry fee 150-300 baht including 1-2 drinks. @ ol G.O.D. Club ONE NIGHT ONLY The acronym G.O.D stands for Guys On Display, and at this club, that’s more than a name, its their reason for being. Silom soi 4 G.O.D is an alternative to DJ Station, though things here tend to kick-off late (around 01:00) and keep going until 05:00 or th later, offering a great option if you want to keep partying. It Friday 22 NOV 2013 attracts a crowd that wants to party till late into the night. 20:00 till late G.O.D. does routinely get shutdown, for unknown reasons, so if possible check with locals if it’s open before making plans. THB 500 Info: Silom Soi 2/1 (BTS Sala Daeng), +66 (0) 2 632 8033,
21:00-05:00 daily. Entry fee is 350 baht, including 2 drinks. Bringing you the best of Bangkok. A night of entertainment with
show boys and shows queens. All profits will go to supporting p p p p p p p p p p p p
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og Calypso Cabaret Enjoy a Thai lady boy show, minus the sleaze of most Patpong venues, at Calypso Cabaret – where the emphasis is on fun, exuberance and fabulous choreography. Akin to the most fabulous drag show you’ve ever seen, the ladies from Calypso put on one of the greatest shows you’ll ever see – the costumes, the song choices and the dancing are all world class. What really makes Calypso though, is the sense of humour incorporated into the show. Prepare for a night of Real wild laughter and smiles with your friends and family. Info: Asiatique The Riverfront (Warehouse no.3), +66 2 688 1415-7, www.calypsocabaret.com/home Culture og Jim Thompson house Jim Thompson, was an American entrepreneur and collector of Southeast Asian antiques and textiles, who lived in Thailand through the early part of the 20th Century. His former house, a stunning example of traditional Thai architecture, now operates as a museum dedicated to this man’s poetic life of entertaining the likes of Noel Coward over GnTs. More importantly though, the house operates as a museum for the preservation and appreciation of Thailand’s long and accomplished history of textiles making. Explore the
grounds, then pop into the Jim Thompson shop to peruse and
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Real Culture
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt og Bangkok Art and Culture Centre Real Delicious Spread out over a number of floors, the BACC usually plays host to roving art shows, from Thai and international artists. You can never be sure what you’ll get when you walk through the doors – painting, digital art, or a comic book display. You can be assured however, that it will be interesting, and that Food is so omnipresent in Bangkok, it’s hardly you will find a moment of respite from the heat and chaos of Bangkok’s streets (there is an excellent café in the BACC worth us telling you where to go…Just step out complex to aid you in this too). your front door, turn any direction, and you Info: Pathumwan Intersection, facing the MBK and Siam Discovery Centres (BTS National Stadium), will hit something delicious; but consider these www.en.bacc.or.th suggestions a starting point, that you can add og your own new-found favourites to. What makes Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Bangkok Bangkok’s food scene a true delight, is the range MOCA is the newest entrant to the realm of major galleries on offer – both in terms of style of cuisine and in Bangkok. Reputably built by a wealthy Thai art collector, to house and preserve his contemporary art pieces, MOCA price – so we have tried to provide you with a really is one of the most impressive collections of Thai art. Explore the intriguing realm of Thai surrealism, which merges range of options. Dali with Buddhist concepts of animism; see how modern artists in Southeast asia are responding to various political and cultural shifts.
Info: 499 Moo 3 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd., Ladyao,
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt og High end Mid-range og Soul Food Mahanakorn Bo.lan Soul Food led a veritable revolution in the Bangkok food Bo.lan is more than a restaurant, it is a philosophy. Dedicated scene, a few years back and since then everyone’s tried to to preserving traditional Thai food culture, Bo.lan is where copy them but few have managed to achieve the perfect you can go to experience rarer Thai dishes, not so commonly merge of interesting cuisine in laid-back cool environment. found in Bangkok. Equally important to the Bo.lan philosophy The food is contemporary Thai, all your favourites, but with is the environment, so sup safe in the knowledge that all a modern and clean twist. The other highlight to a Soul Food produce is organic and ethically sourced. Enjoy all of this in experience are the cocktails, which infuse classics with Asian the quiet and relaxed atmosphere of a wooden shophouse- flavours. The setting is laid-back downtown hip, pared back inspired space, dripping in candelight – couldn’t ask for much wooden design features in diffuse lighting – a great venue for more really. a quiet catch-up, or even a date. Address: 42 Soi Pichai Ronnarong Songkram Sukhumvit 26 Address: 56/10 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Soi Thong Lor) Telephone: +66 (0) 2260-2962 Telephone: +66 (0) 2714-7708 www.bolan.co.th www.soulfoodmahanakorn.com Paste Paste delivers classic Thai dishes, but in a modern way that isn’t afraid to play with flavour dimensions. The chefs here play with regional flavours, to merge northern and southern flavours in new and inventive ways. If you’re new to Thailand, the subtlty of this may be lost on you, but all you need to know is that the results are delicious. Tucked away off the Soi 49, the ambience is secluded and quiet. The venue is small, so reservations are advised. Address: 120/6 Sukhumvit Soi 49 (Opposite Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital) Telephone: +66 (0) 2 392 4313
Real Delicious www.pastebangkok.com
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt Vegetarian og Rasayana Raw Food – vegan restaurant Raw food – it sounds so L.A. and a little questionable, but trust us, the way Rasayana does it, you’ll seriously consider changing your name to Moonriver and going vegan for good. As the title implies, all the dishes are made from 100% raw vegetables, combined and merged in creative and delectable ways – try a ‘pesto pasta’ that is in fact made from finely sliced zucchini; a range of sumptuous salads (a truly rare find in og meat-crazy Thailand) or a flavour-packed gazpacho. Going with the overall health conscious approach to dining, no Street food alcohol is served at Rasayana, though they make up for it with a range of delicious, fresh juice concoctions. Best bit, you can Eating street side, beer in hand, rivulets of sweat running indulge all you like, completely guilt free. down your back, is an essential Bangkok experience. The Address: 57 Soi 39, Phrom Phong (BTS Phrom Phong) entire experience of wandering through carts till something catches your eye, bustling through hordes of people to place Telephone: +66 (0) 2662 4803 your order, is all a delight. Delicious and cheap food can be www.rasayanaretreat.com found on virtually any street in Bangkok, but in the event that you are wanting to venture out a bit and don’t know where to go, here are some of the spots we can recommend if you’re on a quest to find the best Pad Thai or fried rice with pork sausage in town: Soi Ari (directly as you step off at BTS Ari) is great for dinner fare; Soi Convent (short walk from BTS Sala Daeng) is one of the busiest lunchtime spots in town; Soi 38 Thong Lo (directly as you step off at BTS Thong Lo) offers a wide range of options, that stay open late, in the event that you fancy some duck on rice after a night of dancing.
Real Delicious Real Delicious
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Nefertiti For halal eaters, Bangkok offers plenty of options, particularly in the Arab quarter around Sukhumvit Soi 3 (BTS Nana). Nefertiti is a veritable institution, as one of the longest running and best known establishments in the middle-eastern area. Find all your Lebanese favourites – fatoush dalad, generously portioned dip platters with baba ganouj, lamb sheesh kebab. Enoy in an spacious outdoor dining section; and follow it up with a round of sheesha with your friends. Address: 4/8 Sukhumvit Soi 3/1 (BTS Nana) Telephone: +66 (0) 2655 3043 / Photo: Jeremy Villasis / Model: Vaness Silpakhon Villasis / Model: Vaness / Photo: Jeremy Thai food experience
CENSORED
Find more Restaurants, Food Stalls, Streetfood, Markets and Eateries that are famous amongst the Locals. www.crankylittlemonster.com
Real Delicious
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt og Beauty/Spa Urban retreat Urban spa has two locations, conveniently located straight off the BTS (they’re working to cut your stress levels before you even walk through the door). Beautifully designed, enjoy the sumptuousness of a New York standard beauty/ spa center, but at Bangkok prices. Body masks, facial treatments, massages and more. Address: Venues in Asoke and Phrom Phong (straight off the Real BTS; see website for maps) Telephone: BTS Phrom Phong Branch: +66 (0) 2204 1042-3; BTS Asoke Branch: +66 (0) 2229 4701-3 Relaxation www.urbanretreatspa.net Shewa Spa Shewa Spa is a true Bangkok insiders treat. Shewa offers a range of quality beauty services, using quality products, just at a fraction of the price of anywhere else. Admittedly, the ambience is not that of a high-end establishment, but who cares, when you can get a deep pore cleaning facial for 60 Baht? Offering facials, body scrubs, hair treatments and general massages, you can afford to give your entire body a
beauty makeover, without breaking the budget.
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Babylon This men’s complex and sauna really does offer more than the average – gym, restaurant, internet and even the odd jazz performance. The real fun starts after 5pm, when they open the connecting door between the two sides of the Garden of Earthly Delights (labyrinth and cabins) and circulation begins. For more ideas and information Facilities include: a swimming pool, sauna, steam, jacuzzi, dark maze, large gym, disco, fantasy spaces, private cabins on Bangkok’s gay scene visit: and hotel rooms (in their Barracks section). The pool is clean and well maintained, and the gym is well equipped. Ask for Bangkok gay map: condoms if you run out. Attracts an International crowd. www.travelgayasia.com/gay-map-of-bangkok Info: Soi Nantha (off Sathorn Soi 1). From the Malaysia Hotel parking lot make two right turns and a left (8 minute walk). +66 (0) 2213 2108. wikitravel: www.wikitravel.org/en/Bangkok/Silom#b
Chakran This multi-story facility features swimming pool and large jacuzzi, steam and dry saunas, well-equipped gym, restaurant, poolside lounge, private cabins, mazes and a video theater. Beautifully designed with exotic details, textures and colors –an oasis for leisure and pleasure. Info : Soi Ari 4, Phaholyothin Soi 7 (Ari BTS Station), +66 (0) 2279 1359, +66 (0) 2278 5310.
Real Relaxation
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt o+ Silom Clinic The testing center is called Silom Community Clinic. The facility is very clean and comfortable. They provide magazines and let their patients watch Thai programmes on their widescreen TV. Their opening hours are from Tuesday Sexual health to Saturday 16:00 – 21:00 hours Address: 12th floor, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, service in Ratchathewi Rd., Ratchawithi, Bangkok 10400. Telephone: +66 (0) 8 5123 8738 Bangkok www.silomclinic.in.th o+ Thai Red Cross Anonymous Clinic Anonymous AIDS, viral hepatitis B, syphilis, and blood group testing is available during the week, from 7:00 - 18:00; There are two main testing facilities we and on Saturdays from 7:30 - 15.00. The clinic is closed on Sundays and official holidays. recommend for HIV and STI testing for MSM in Bangkok. Testing is free and anonymous, however there are some small changes for more advanced services, you can ask for a list of the fees and charges when you make your appointment.
Address: 1871 Rama 4 Road, Bangkok 10330
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Sexual Health Service
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt Need access to ARV? o+ Bumrungrad Hospital If you have come to Bangkok, forgotten your medication Bumrungrad International is an internationally accredited, or need access to medication, the best way to get your multi-specialty hospital located in the heart of Bangkok, ARV is from the Thai Red Cross clinic, which requires a Thailand. Founded in 1980, today it is the largest private doctor prescription. If you need this you should access their hospital in Southeast Asia, with 554 beds and over 30 Anonymous Clinic. They also have an MSM clinic, which specialty centers. Bumrungrad offers state-or-the-art offers HIV and STI testing, viral load and CD4 test. diagnostic, therapeutic and intensive care facilities in a one- Need access to stop medical center. Address: 33 Sukhumvit Soi 3 Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)? Thailand A range of options are available in Bangkok for Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). You can access these options Telephone: +66 (0) 2667 1000 from either the Silom Community Clinic or Thai Red www.bumrungrad.com Cross Anonymous Clinic. There are costs associated with accessing treatment for PEP, which range from THB 2,000 + (70USD) – THB 10,000 (330USD). This will be outlined o BNH Hospital during your consultation. BNH Hospital provides the highest quality medical service with specialists and general practitioner doctors completely Where to buy condoms and lubes? involved with their patients, from consultation and diagnosis, through to planning and executing treatment, Condoms and lube are widely available for purchase in following-up of results, and in surgical cases, post operative Bangkok. All major supermarkets and 7/11s stock all your care. safe sex needs. Address: 9/1, Convent Road, Silom Bangkok 10500, Thailand Would you like more information? Telephone: +66 (0) 2686 2700 E-mail: [email protected] For more information on treatment and medical options www.bnhhospital.com/en available in Thailand, we recommend you visit the Adam’s Love Website: www.adamslove.org
Sexual Health Services Hospitals & Emergency
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt o+ Dental Clinic o+ Purchasing Hormones or Silom Dental Clinic Testosterone Silom Dental Clinic Bangkok, Thailand is a specialised dental You should have no legal difficulties for purchase hormones health provider which has an executive structure similar or Testosterone. One is able to do this easily over the to that of a “dental hospital” with a holistic approach to counter at most drug stores in Bangkok. However based on treatment standardisation in all areas of dental work. local information when doing this we recommend you go in a group to one of the many drug stores located in front of Address: 439/4 Naratiwatrajnakarin Rd., Silom, Bangrak, Siriraj Hospital. Bangkok. You can get to Siriraj Hospital via taxi, or if you would like Telephone: +66 2636 9092 an adventure you can take BTS to Saphan Taksin station Email: [email protected] then continue by boat to Siriraj. www.silomdental.com Address: Siriraj Hospital, Chang Wat Bangkok, Thailand. Telephone: +66 2 419 7000 Bangkok Smile www.si.mahidol.ac.th/en/ Bangkok Smile Dental Clinic Dentists have are very experience and specialize in the field of dentistry among Preecha Aesthetic Institute many people in countries such as Australia, New Zealand and Thailand is well known for medical tourism, while you USA. They are one of the main dental service providers in may not be here for long, if you wanted to follow up on Thailand. any medical procedures you may be thinking about we Address: 32/5-6 Sukhumvit 21 (Asoke Road) Wattana, recommend Dr.Preecha Tiewtranon and his team at Preecha Bangkok 10110 Thailand Aesthetic Institute. PAI is very well known and comes highly recommended. Telephone: +66 (0) 2664 2800 For more information visit their website: www.pai.co.th
Hospitals & Emergency Body Transformation Services
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Hello / Good morning, afternoon and evening sa-was-dee
Good bye lar-gorn
Thank you Thai For khorb-kun-khaa (for women), khorb-kun-khap (for men)
I’ m sorry/ Excuse me Survivors Khor-thot-khaa (for women), Khor-thot-khap (for men)
What is your name? Khun cheu a-rai?
My name is ... (your name). Pom (men)/ Chan (women) cheu ... (your name)
Pleased to meet you.
yin-dee tee dai roo-jag kun.
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Thai For Survivors
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt The Most useful I can’t speak Thai. Pom (men)/ Chan (women) pood pa-saa Thai mhai dai. You are so cute. Khun narak jang. I can speak a little Thai. Pom (men)/ Chan (women) pood pa-saa Thai nit nooy. Where do you live? I want to go to …. Yu ti nai krab? Pom (men)/ Chan (women) ja pai … .
Excuse me, please. Can you help me? What’s your phone number? Khor-thot, khun chuay pom/ chan dai-mhai? Ber toe ra sab a-rai krab? Where is the restaurant? rarn aa-harn yoo tee-nhai? Wanna go to my place, tonight? Where is the tourist police? Pai baan pom mai krab, kuen nii? tum-ruad torng-tiaw yu tee-nhai?
Where is the toilet? Are you top or bottom? hong naam yu tee-nhai? Khun bpen rook (top) rue raab (bottom) ?
Thai For Survivors Thai For Survivors
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt HEAD COUNT: MSM Community Forum
Be part in the creation of base knowledge to help World Health Organization (WHO) in developing the Guidelines on Health Services to be launched on the International AIDS Conference (IAC) 2014 in Melbourne, Australia.
Engage with us at the MSM Community Forum on HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT): Success and Challenges. Let us know of your own, your organization’s or your country’s success stories and challenges on HCT programs which cater to the MSM population.
This is a rare opportunity for you to interact and connect
with relevant Regional MSM Organizations in one room!
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SAY IT OUT LOUD! Let your voices be heard ----- or read!
Come and visit the APCOM Play Booth #A11 (Registra- tion area) and receive your #SayIt Shirt!
Simply write whats on your mind or what you would like to see in your community. We’ll snap a quick photo and share it with the world through our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! Join the discussion, take your own photo and share it with your friends!
While you’re getting your FREE #SayIt Shirt, you can also see what else APCOM is up to! Stop by and chat to one of
our awesome volunteers!
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Prempreeda Pramoj Na Ayutthaya
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t upqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqtttupqttt upqttt APCOM would like to thank:
Our Core Supporters:
Our ICAAP11 Engagement Supporters:
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