Visiting Thailand during the monsoon period might sound crazy to some of you, but it’s without a doubt a must-live experience. There is a pretty common misconception in the travel community. We are all used to traveling during the high peak seasons, thus ending up paying half a fortune for our holidays while having to endure the large tourist crowds. Why don’t you make a change this time and visit a low-season destination?
Speaking of the devil, one of the best low-season destinations to visit in September is Thailand. Thailand in September is greener than ever and the lush rainforests literally “come to life”. You will get to enjoy plenty sunshine hours every day, however . Starting your gay trip in Thailand you should have with you; rain jacket and trench coat, waterproof covers, mosquito repellent, and waterproof shoes.
The country, during that period, has very few visitors and the sightseeing attractions are not over-flooded with tourists. The weather is also pretty comfortable, neither too cold or hot, with the average temperature being 25 - 26 °C, even though it’s pretty humid. But, what can a traveller do in Thailand during his gay holidays in September? Let’s find out the top things to do in every gay-popular destination!
Bangkok – The Gay Metropolis of Asia
The frequent rainfalls of the Monsoon Season are not enough to steal the spotlight from the Gay Metropolis of Asia. The city’s gay nightlife is vivid all-year-round, and the gay bars are always packed with people dancing and socializing with other.
Of course, Bangkok is widely reputed for its distinguished ladyboy scene, so you can’t leave the city without seeing a go-go dancing show! Bangkok’s gay life is centre in Silom district, so the nearby hotels are usually packed with gay men. Below you may find some great hotels, located in and nearby Silom Soi District!
✮ Handpicked Hotels:
U Sathorn Bangkok, Bangkok
U Sathorn is an oasis of relaxation in the center of Bangkok's busiest district. It implements greatly the peaceful environment of a countryside resort with the hustle and bustle of Bangkok's busiest district.
Amara Bangkok
Amara Bangkok is a perfectly located hotel in the heart of Bangkok – very close to BTS Skytrain and several popular sightseeing attractions in Bangkok. The hotel is also located very close to Silom District, where Bangkok's vivid gay nightlife is centered.
Chiang Mai – An urban City surrounded by nature!
There has been a misconception about Thailand and its gay life. People think that the gay life of Thailand is centered in Bangkok, and the rest of the country is about exploration in nature. That’s totally wrong! Chiang Mai is a city-example that there are more cities with a respectful gay scene, that should not be missed.
Chiang Mai’s laid-back but colourful gay scene is centered around the Night Market (Night Bazaar area), and more particularly on the Charoenprathet road. There you may find all kinds of gay bars ideal for socializing and watching go-go dancing shows. Alternatively, you can just discover the surrounding countryside, which is very beautiful as well!
✮ Handpicked Hotels:
North Hill City Resort
North Hill City Resort is an urban oasis located 20 minutes from Chiang Mai's center and within a walking distance from the biggest handicraft village in Thailand, Bann Ta Wai. The hotel is a great option for gay families who want to spend quality time together in nature.
Sireeampan Boutique Resort & Spa
Sireeampan Boutique Resort & Spa combines the rich Siamese heritage with modern luxury, creating the absolute sanctuary for relaxation and serenity. It's also relatively close to Chiang Mai's old town, where the most gay bars are located. Gym facilities are also available!
Pattaya – Vivid Gay Nightlife in the Jomtien Complex!
As one of the largest seaside resorts in Thailand, Pattaya is the 2nd most visited city in the country. Pattaya’s gay scene is located in the Jomtien Complex, and it is distinguished for its wide diversity of entertainment options, from laid-back gay bars ideal for socializing while listening to soft loung music to alternative gay bars with amazing go-go dancing and cabaret shows. Massage spas are quite common as well.
Of course, in addition to the city’s gay scene, there are actually many cultural activities and excursions to discover, including diverse floating markets, ancient temples and sightseeing attractions, as well as, lush gardens and themed parks. Here are two gay-friendly hotels in Pattaya that can host your gay trip in Pattaya.
AVANI Pattaya Resort & Spa
A tropical oasis in the middle of Pattaya Resort City – this is what AVANI Pattaya Resort & Spa is. Do you want to sunbath on a golden-sand beach? Or, cool off in a luxurious swimming pool? Well, you can do both when staying this resort!
Royal Wing Suites and Spa
Being one of the first luxury hotels in Pattaya, the Royal Wing Suites & Spa offers a premium staying quality that will make you feel like a king. In addition to being a few minutes from Pattaya's center, it offers direct access to the beach, as well as a luxurious swimming pool where you can cool yourself.
Phuket – A Paradise on Earth!
Phuket is the most popular island in Thailand, due to great beauty and tropical environment. Even though September finds Phuket with many rainfalls and quite a few thunderstorms, it’s actually not that bad. Firstly, the rainfalls might be intense, but they are very short. Most of them take place in the evening, while morning and midday are usually sunny/cloudy.
Furthermore, Phuket is also not over-crowded with tourists, thus the exploration of the temples/sights is much better. The gay bars and clubs might not be packed with people, but you will meet more gay locals than during the tourist period. The gay scene of Phuket is found in Paradise Complex in Patong Town.
✮ Handpicked Hotels:
Sri Panwa Phuket Luxury Pool Villa Hotel
Kata Rocks is one of the most iconic resorts in Phuket stands out for its breathtaking views over the Andaman Sea, as well as the luxurious Sky Villas, packed with advanced facilities and amenities that will further upgrade your holidays!
Kata Rocks Phuket
Sri Panwa Luxury Pool Villa Hotel is located at the very tip of Cape Panwa, and it takes pride on its 300-degrees ocean views that will make your heart race. It’s the perfect resort for relaxation and inspiration in nature, especially designed to make you feel like cozy and like-home.
The Nai Harn
Either you are looking for a romantic place to celebrate your anniversary or a secluded hideaway to enjoy your honeymoon, The Nai Harn is the perfect option for you. The hotel is ideally located on a pristine and secluded beach in Phuket, giving totally privacy and seclusion to its guests.
Phi Phi Islands – Beach Holidays during Monsoon?
September finds Phi Phi Islands in much better condition than most of the Thai Destinations. Phi Phi Islands is among the very few destinations where you could actually swim, since the weather is relatively calm. Even though extra caution is recommended since jellyfish and sudden rainfalls may prove to be quite dangerous. If you do not trust your swimming skills, do not try swimming in September!
The Islands are pretty quiet during that period and there are almost none tourists. They enjoy 20 days of sunshine per month, so you can explore the nature and the lush tropical forests. It’s a great option for adventurers and couples who want to relax in nature.
Koh Samui – A hidden Gem to be discovered!
Last but not least, the lovely island of Koh Samui is ready to host your most exciting gay experience in Thailand, even in September. The island’s compact but vivid gay scene is centred in Chaweng Beach Area, while there are also several gay-friendly bars around the island attracting mixed crowds.
Of course, Koh Samui’s natural beauty is not to be neglected. Make sure to visit all of the island’s natural landmarks and sightseeing attractions and discover the ancient Thai culture. The island is packed with ancient temples, lush rainforests, and astonishing sights that will crave Thailand deep into your heart!
✮ Handpicked Hotels:
Le Meridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa
Le Meridien Koh Samui is located between the mountains of Samui and the Gulf of Thailand. It is one of the best hotels for gay couples searching for a romantic nestle to cuddle. It's also a great option for gay families!
Impiana Resort Chaweng Noi
Impiana Resort Chaweng Noi is one of the best hotels in Thailand to relax and unwind surrounded by nature. It offers direct access to a pristine sandy beach, whose crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings will charm you.