Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Thailand braces for heavy rainfall

• Bangkok's hip-hop themed vegan paradise at Mercy Republic

• 24 BLVD Bangkok: daytime brunch spot and nighttime drinking destination.

• Thailand's Ladyboy Culture: A Colorful Thread in Thai Society

• And more…

Fun Fact

Buddhist scriptures actually recognize four gender categories - not just male and female, but also intersex and transgender identities!

This ancient wisdom appears in traditional texts, helping shape Thailand's cultural acceptance of "kathoey" (often called the third gender). Pretty amazing that these inclusive concepts have such deep spiritual roots, right? Buddhism was centuries ahead on gender diversity before it became a modern conversation!

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = B) Sangkhawat

Here’s your trivia question of the week! Think you know the answer? Find out if you’re right in next week’s newsletter. No cheating!

What is Thailand's oldest form of tattooing called?

A) Yantra

B) Sak Yant

C) Bamboo tattooing

D) Hanuman art

News 📰

Thailand braces for heavy rainfall (Link)

Unboxing art toys (Link)

Recruiters put focus on GenAI skills (Link)

Trump plans 100% levy on foreign films, deepening trade war (Link)

Call for major rethink of economic policy (Link)

UN role can spur rights push (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

Mercy Republic - stands out as Bangkok's hip-hop themed vegan paradise where authentic Thai flavors meet compassionate dining. Visitors rave about the insanely tasty dishes that pack a serious heat kick while remaining completely plant-based. The stuffed mushrooms and BBQ skewers consistently earn top mentions from satisfied guests. What makes this spot truly special is owner G's passionate vision and the daily DJ spinning throwback hip-hop and R&B tunes. Located in a hip Bangkok enclave, this restaurant creates a 12/10 experience that blends incredible food with vibrant atmosphere. Even dedicated meat-eaters might find themselves pleasantly surprised by the expert cooking and locally-sourced organic produce. (Link)

Sprout.Juices and Smoothies - delivers Bangkok's ultimate fresh drink experience from a tiny shop with an impressively expansive menu. Their handcrafted veggie and fruit smoothies contain nothing but pure ingredients—not even ice—resulting in flavor-packed refreshments that health enthusiasts adore. The "Oasis" combines matcha with fruits for an invigorating taste sensation, while "Holy Green" proves that vegetable smoothies can be remarkably easy to drink. The newly introduced "Super Khing" has quickly become a customer favorite for its burst of flavor. Foreign visitors appreciate the picture menu that makes ordering a breeze, and everyone enjoys the friendly service that accompanies these delicious, nutrient-dense beverages.
(Link)

Encore Training Club - voted 'Best Boutique Gym in Bangkok,' offers an exceptional fitness experience that helps clients lose weight, build strength, and rediscover their love for fitness. The spacious, clean facility filled with natural light provides a wide range of classes and equipment. Their HIIT and strength programs are both intense and fun thanks to dedicated instructors, who maintains focus while offering helpful recommendations. Classes remain comfortably sized, never too crowded, making this five-star venue the perfect place to elevate your fitness routine in Bangkok. (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

NAAM 1608 - delivers a hip Thai dining experience in a beautifully renovated building right alongside the river. Though somewhat hidden away, this gem rewards those who find it with perfectly prepared dishes made from tasty ingredients and incredible attention to detail. The stir-fried crispy pork belly with chili and salt, minced pork soup with pickled plum, and the standout Marian plum spicy salad showcase the kitchen's talent. Beyond the exceptional food, the restaurant offers an extensive beverage menu and unforgettable desserts, including the Orange Peach Espresso Shot Drink and Burnt Cheese Cake. While prices run above average, the riverside views (especially stunning at night) and extraordinary culinary creations make it well worth the splurge. (Link)

Hanaya 1976 - stands as one of Thailand's first Japanese restaurants, serving authentic cuisine with a comforting, homey touch for generations. This long-standing establishment offers an extensive menu featuring sushi, sashimi, Japanese salads, udon, and curry at reasonable prices while maintaining excellent taste and quality. Standout recommendations include the sea bass slices (Suzuki Usuzukuri), hotate, and yakisoba. The restaurant's shabu-shabu deserves special mention for its impressively large portion with plentiful pork and fresh vegetables—enough for several friends to share as a complete meal. While not conveniently located near public transport, Hanaya 1976 offers parking and private rooms perfect for intimate family dinners, making it a gem for authentic Japanese cuisine at fair prices. (Link)

Guilty Bangkok - brings South American flavors to Thailand with dishes that leave lasting impressions. The guacamole, ceviche, and scallops consistently receive praise for their delicious execution, while the Giant Ferrero Rocher dessert is frequently described as "to die for." Beyond the outstanding food, visitors rave about the perfect pisco sours, steak tacos, and churros. The restaurant creates a unique atmosphere that manages to be simultaneously chill and exciting, enhanced by a forested outdoor area that adds to the distinctive ambiance. Professional yet friendly service completes the experience, making Guilty Bangkok a must-visit during any Bangkok trip for those seeking vibrant South American cuisine in a cheerful setting. (Link)

☕ Cafes

Experiment Cafe - offers the perfect escape with its bright, cheery atmosphere and thoughtfully designed interior. This spacious cafe with its slick design creates a soothing environment where visitors can either be productive or simply relax. It's ideal for those days when you need a conducive workspace outside the office with power points, good WiFi, and strong coffee, or when you want to escape the hustle of nearby malls for quieter conversations with friends. The friendly staff consistently enhance the experience, while the beverage selection impresses with unique options like the honey jelly latte featuring honey jelly cubes. Both locals and tourists appreciate this comfortable spot as a regular pit stop in Bangkok. (Link)

Blackwood Cafe & Studio - delights visitors with its quaint, cozy atmosphere and exceptional beverage program. Coffee lovers consistently rave about the quality, with many ordering second cups during a single visit. The passion fruit coffee (called Black Good Coffee) stands out as a particular favorite. Beyond drinks, the food receives high marks for freshness and flavor, with the avocado toast earning special mention for its quality ingredients and perfect seasoning. While prices run slightly higher than Bangkok averages, the overall experience—enhanced by nice music and relaxed vibes—justifies the cost. The attentive staff complete this lovely little cafe experience that coffee enthusiasts shouldn't miss. (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

Le Du Kaan - creates a pocket of magic in Bangkok's dining scene, blending Thai cuisine with rooftop bar elegance. The enchanting atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and warmth, making guests feel simultaneously dazzled and at ease. Each thoughtfully crafted dish presents as beautiful, delicate, and full of surprising flavors—like soft-spoken poetry on a plate. The graceful staff enhance the experience with attentive yet unobtrusive service, allowing everything to unfold with effortless charm. While the prices run high, the fantastic views, amazing photo opportunities, and exquisite restaurant aesthetics deliver an unforgettable experience where every detail whispers of care and intention. (Link)

24 BLVD Bangkok - offers versatile appeal as both a daytime brunch spot and nighttime drinking destination. The clean, vibrant area creates an inviting atmosphere regardless of when you visit. Evening guests particularly appreciate the good vibes, decent cocktails, and quality music that together create an "absolutely amazing" experience. The venue's appeal has visitors consistently noting they would return, cementing 24 BLVD's reputation as a reliably enjoyable Bangkok hangout for either daytime relaxation or nightlife excitement. (Link)

👫 Activities

Mahanakhon Bangkok I-Tilt - World's first 65-degree outdoor tilting experience at 296 meters high. Skydiving sensation with panoramic views from King Power Mahanakhon. 450 THB. (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

May 6th I 17:45 - 19:30 I Evening Run in Lumpini Park (Link)

May 7th I 12:00 - 14:00 I Golden Years Dining Club - Din Tai Fung (Link)

Mat 7th I 19:30 - 20:30 I Quiz Night @ The Royal Oak (Link)

May 7th I 20:00 - 23:00 I Weekly Digital nomad event ( private event ) @ The Treehouse Cafe & Bar (Link)

May 8th I 18:30 - 21:00 I Meetup & Mingle - A Night of Connection & Conversation @Earth House (Link)

May 8th I 19:00 - 21:00 I Thursday Board Games Meet up @BattleField Bangkok (Link)

May 9th I 20:00 - 23:00 I Make new friends in Bangkok & Sky bar @Flamenco (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

May 8th to May 10th I 10:30 - 18:00 I Labelexpo Southeast Asia 2025 @BITEC - EH101 - 102 (Link)

May 9th I 20:00 I M2M The better ending tour 2025 Concert @IMPACT Arena - Thunder Dome (Link)

May 9th to May 11th I 10:00 - 20:00 I อว. JOB FAIR 2025 @QSNCC - Exhibition Hall 1-2, Level G (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Guillaume’s Story (Belgium – Craft Beer Brewer) 

Guillaume started brewing Belgian-style ales with Thai herbs in a small microbrewery. He’s become a staple at Bangkok’s craft beer festivals, introducing Thai beer lovers to sour ales infused with lemongrass. His go-to relaxation spot is a jazz bar in Silom, where he brainstorms new flavor combos. He advises beer enthusiasts, “Don’t be afraid to go local - Thai herbs add unexpected depth. Beer is a global language, and Bangkok is the perfect place to speak it.”

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Thailand's Ladyboy Culture: A Colorful Thread in Thai Society

Thailand's "kathoey" community (often called ladyboys internationally) represents one of the country's most fascinating cultural elements. These transgender women are far more integrated into everyday Thai society than many visitors might expect!

The Meaning Behind "Kathoey"

In Thailand, "kathoey" is the preferred term rather than "transgender." Originally describing intersex individuals, the word now encompasses transgender women who are fully woven into the fabric of daily Thai life. You'll see kathoeys everywhere – shopping at markets, catching buses, dining with friends, and praying at temples.

A Significant Community

Thailand hosts an exceptionally large transgender population, with estimates ranging from 10,000 to unofficially 300,000 individuals. This impressive number far exceeds proportions in most other countries, reflecting the relatively accepting social environment that allows for greater self-expression.

Buddhist Foundations of Acceptance

Thai Buddhism provides philosophical support for gender diversity. Ancient texts acknowledge three genders, and many Thais believe in a karmic cycle where everyone experiences different gender identities across multiple lifetimes. This spiritual perspective encourages compassion rather than judgment toward kathoeys.

Urban-Rural Differences

While acceptance exists throughout Thailand, it varies by location. Metropolitan Bangkok and tourist centers offer greater normalization, while rural villages tend to practice tolerance rather than complete acceptance. Still, kathoeys can be found in communities across the entire country.

Celebrated Through Pageantry

The famous Miss Tiffany's Universe competition showcases Thailand's celebration of transgender beauty. This prestigious event broadcasts live to millions of viewers nationwide, with contestants competing for substantial prizes including vehicles, cash, and jewelry – regardless of whether they've undergone surgery.

Inspiring Entertainment Worldwide

Thailand's elaborate kathoey cabaret shows have influenced global pop culture, with performers like Lady Gaga reportedly drawing inspiration from Bangkok's Calypso cabaret. Unlike Western drag shows, these performances typically feature women expressing their authentic identities rather than temporary personas.

Diverse Professional Roles

Kathoeys pursue careers across all sectors of Thai society – working as stylists, artists, restaurant staff, retail employees, and even prominent business owners. They build relationships, create families, and participate fully in community life like any other Thai citizen.

Mainstream Media Presence

Perhaps most striking is how normalized kathoeys are in Thai media. Transgender celebrities appear regularly in movies, television, music, and advertising. Major newspapers feature kathoey beauty pageant winners alongside traditional women's competitions, reflecting their cultural integration extending from big cities to small village festivals.

For visitors, understanding this vibrant aspect of Thai culture offers deeper appreciation for Thailand's unique social landscape and its remarkable capacity for embracing diversity.

Connect With Us

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❤️ Simeon & Nat

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