Patpong comings and goings

[daydreamer]

Last night was the first time I had been in Moonlight for three years.  For the last few years, one cute motor bike taxi boy has occupied my time in Thailand, so for the past three years of visits to the kingdom, I didn't go to go-go bars.

[reader]

13 minutes ago, jason1975 said:

I feel that Moonlight has a different business model from the other bars. It's not a traditional "offing" bar like Freshboys and Dreamboys. It probably makes most of its revenue from bottles by big spending customers similar to Jupiter.

On the other hand, bars like Good Boys and Banana gain large revenue from straight curious tourist crowds with their shows.

Agree that the bar "makes most of its revenue from bottles by big spending customers" but floor boys can only make serious money by being offed.

Jupiter is decidedly more popular because it provides a specific type of guy that attracts a wider audience, especially Asian women in addition to big spenders. Jupiter is also located on an alley popular with locals and tourists alike.

[Raposa]

9 minutes ago, jason1975 said:

I feel that Moonlight has a different business model from the other bars. It's not a traditional "offing" bar like Freshboys and Dreamboys. It probably makes most of its revenue from bottles by big spending customers similar to Jupiter.

On the other hand, bars like Good Boys and Banana gain large revenue from straight curious tourist crowds with their shows.

Even the traditional offing bars are feeling the competition from the massage parlors as price sensitive customers patronise those places instead. 

[srvhakko]

By the way, lf you stop by Moonlight bar, I wholeheartedly recommend you to find long-haired captain Jessica ❤️. She is very friendly and helpful, tell her your willings and she will help you make the right choice for you. 

[Raposa]

I completely agree. Jessica is great!

[vinapu]

52 minutes ago, srvhakko said:

By the way, lf you stop by Moonlight bar, I wholeheartedly recommend you to find long-haired captain Jessica ❤️. She is very friendly and helpful, tell her your willings and she will help you make the right choice for you. 

+1

[vinapu]

Indeed I with another member visited Moonlight night before daydreamer. While his observations about guys being overdressed  aligns with mine I did not say anything here in this respect for few reasons.

First I don't really care as for me is more important WHO is dressed or undressed than HOW guys dressed. I understand members reservation about whole dressing  thing, I just didn't share their concerns to extend they do. It' s always, smile I'm looking for first. 

Second, few boys including ones I really cared to do that like numbers 10 and 38 were barechested to all to admire. Again I agree that's minimalistic but it did not diminish my fun. 

Third, both me and another member who was with me there had enough fun to stay in bar long enough to be last customers that night.

While all comments  and concerns relating to bars future are well thought and interesting to read, on personal level my stronger concern is my own survival, not bar's. But it remains factor  that something must be missing in Moonlight since bar was far from  packed on neither of my both visits there this trip. Still if I was in transit and had time to visit just one bar it would be there. 

[vinapu]

Last night another member on his last  night in Thailand and me on my last night in Bangkok we're bit unsure what bar to hit between Goodboys and  Atlas and settled on second one. It turned out to be very good idea as friendly vibe there hit us, right when we entered being enthusiastically greeted by their stuff. 

Even His Excellency The Boss, Arthur, came to our table extending handshake. Of course we were pestered for tips but it was good natured and I think I found the way of how to subtly deal with that when it will become bit tiring. Few persistent ones got 20 and two even more persistent got 1 baht coin each landed in their lowered undies. 

There at e disappointments but all was met with hearty laugh. Yes Arthur got his 20 baht too  placed by standard issue of vinapu tuck ! And I got a feel in exchange. Show was short of most drastic, so to speak, part but one lady boy number was hilarious when she got quite undressed and summarized her performance with pointing her back cheeks at audience. 

Certainly no need to complain about buys being overdressed there and for you poor things twink lovers it was no less than 5 of bonafide twinks there. We both left happy and judging by the smiles left good impression on the boys. 

[srvhakko]

1 hour ago, vinapu said:

While all comments  and concerns relating to bars future are well thought and interesting to read, on personal level my stronger concern is my own survival, not bar's.

oh my god, an example of post-modern era individualism 🥰

 

1 hour ago, vinapu said:

Second, few boys including ones I really cared to do that like numbers 10 and 38 were barechested to all to admire. 

One of them is so proud of his upper body and always shows off at the bar. Once while we were sitting at dreamboy bar , he saw the small red briefs worn by  the men on stage.He admitted that he would be embarrassed if he went on stage wearing these and would not feel comfortable.😊

However my favorite Cambodian likes those small things. When he arrives at work, he takes a photo from the large mirror at the entrance of the toilets and sends it to me.😙

[jason1975]

5 hours ago, vinapu said:

Certainly no need to complain about buys being overdressed there and for you poor things twink lovers it was no less than 5 of bonafide twinks there. We both left happy and judging by the smiles left good impression on the boys. 

5 twinks in Atlas? I am going there!

[macaroni21]

I almost completely forgot about this, but some time ago, I was told that the owner of Moonlight and Hotmale is a woman who is related to the family that owns Suriwongse Hotel. I don't have a way to confirm this, though.

[jason1975]

I typed this prompt in OpenAI ChatGPT and got following response

"Explain business model of gay gogoboy bar in bangkok."

A gay gogoboy bar in Bangkok operates with a unique business model tailored to the local and international LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. Here's how it generally works:

1. Revenue Streams

Drink Sales: Both customers and dancers are encouraged to purchase drinks, often at a premium price. Customers may also buy "lady drinks" (or in this case, "boy drinks") for the gogoboys as a gesture of appreciation or to spend more time chatting with them.

Entrance Fees: Some bars charge a cover fee, which includes a complimentary drink.

Performance Tips: Gogoboys typically perform on stage, and customers can tip them directly during or after the performance.

Bar Fines: If a customer wants to spend time with a gogoboy outside the bar, they pay a bar fine. This compensates the establishment for the dancer's time away from work.

Special Events: Bars often host themed nights, shows, or parties that attract larger crowds and boost sales.

Private Rooms: Some venues offer private areas where customers can pay for more exclusive interactions with the dancers.

2. Target Audience

The primary clientele consists of local and international gay men, with a significant portion being tourists. These customers are often middle-to-upper class and have disposable income to spend on nightlife.

3. Experience Design

Atmosphere: The bars are designed to be flashy and alluring, with dim lighting, energetic music, and choreographed shows to create an engaging environment.

Performances: Regular dance shows, themed costumes, and interactive acts keep customers entertained and encourage repeat visits.

Personal Interaction: Gogoboys mingle with customers, creating a personalized experience and fostering emotional connections that often lead to higher spending.

4. Management and Logistics

Staff: Bars employ dancers, bartenders, DJs, and floor managers. Dancers are often independent contractors who receive tips and a share of drink sales but rely heavily on customer interaction for income.

Licensing and Regulation: Bars must comply with local laws regarding alcohol, entertainment, and worker rights, though enforcement can vary.

5. Cultural and Ethical Considerations

Cultural Nuances: In Thai culture, there's a level of acceptance and normalization of these venues within certain urban settings like Bangkok's Silom area.

Ethical Issues: Critics sometimes raise concerns about worker exploitation or the potential for human trafficking, leading to increased scrutiny and the need for ethical business practices.

Overall, the business model relies on creating an enjoyable, immersive experience while maximizing customer spending through a mix of entertainment, personal interaction, and premium-priced services.

[jason1975]

I asked the same question to Deepseek, the new AI programme.

The business model of a **gogo boy bar** in Bangkok, particularly those catering to the LGBTQ+ community, is a unique blend of entertainment, hospitality, and nightlife. These establishments are popular in areas like **Silom** and **Surawong**, particularly in the **Soi 4** and **Soi Twilight** districts. Below is an explanation of the typical business model:

---

### **1. Core Concept**  
Gogo boy bars are adult entertainment venues where performers (often referred to as "gogo boys") dance on stage in minimal clothing. The primary appeal is the visual entertainment and the opportunity for patrons to interact with the performers. These bars cater primarily to gay men, but they may also attract curious tourists and other audiences.

---

### **2. Revenue Streams**  
The business generates income through multiple channels:

#### **a. Drink Sales**  
- **Entry Fees**: Some bars charge an entry fee, which often includes one or two drinks.  
- **Drink Prices**: Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are priced higher than in regular bars, with a portion of the sale going to the bar and the rest to the performers.  
- **Lady Drinks**: Patrons can buy drinks for the performers (called "lady drinks"), which are non-alcoholic and cost more than regular drinks. The performer receives a commission for each drink bought for them.

#### **b. Off Fees**  
- Patrons can pay an "off fee" to take a performer out of the bar for a set period (e.g., for dinner, drinks, or private time). The fee goes to the bar, and the performer may negotiate additional compensation directly with the patron.

#### **c. Tips**  
- Patrons tip performers directly, either by placing money in their waistbands during dances or giving cash after private interactions.

#### **d. Special Events**  
- Some bars host themed nights, drag shows, or special performances to attract larger crowds and increase revenue.

---

### **3. Cost Structure**  
#### **a. Staff Costs**  
- **Performers**: Gogo boys are typically paid a small base salary or work solely for tips and commissions from drinks and off fees.  
- **Support Staff**: Includes bartenders, security, cleaners, and managers.  

#### **b. Venue Costs**  
- Rent, utilities, and maintenance for the bar space.  
- Lighting, sound systems, and stage equipment.  

#### **c. Marketing**  
- Advertising in LGBTQ+ travel guides, websites, and social media.  
- Promotions to attract tourists and locals.  

---

### **4. Key Success Factors**  
#### **a. Talent Recruitment**  
- Attracting attractive and charismatic performers is critical. Many bars recruit from rural areas or neighboring countries, offering housing and other incentives.  

#### **b. Atmosphere**  
- Creating a welcoming, fun, and safe environment for patrons is essential. This includes good music, lighting, and customer service.  

#### **c. Location**  
- Being situated in a well-known LGBTQ+ nightlife district (e.g., Silom) ensures visibility and foot traffic.  

#### **d. Reputation**  
- Positive reviews from tourists and locals can significantly boost business. Word-of-mouth and online reviews play a big role.  

---

### **5. Challenges**  
#### **a. Competition**  
- Bangkok has numerous gogo bars, so standing out requires unique performers, themes, or promotions.  

#### **b. Legal and Social Issues**  
- Navigating Thailand’s complex laws around adult entertainment and ensuring compliance with regulations.  
- Addressing stigma and ensuring the safety and well-being of performers.  

#### **c. Tourism Dependency**  
- Many bars rely heavily on tourist traffic, making them vulnerable to fluctuations in tourism (e.g., during pandemics or political unrest).  

---

### **6. Ethical Considerations**  
- **Exploitation Concerns**: Some critics argue that performers may be underpaid or exploited. Ethical bars ensure fair compensation and safe working conditions.  
- **Health and Safety**: Providing access to healthcare, condoms, and education about sexual health is important.  

---

### **Conclusion**  
The business model of a gogo boy bar in Bangkok revolves around creating an entertaining and inclusive space for patrons while generating revenue through drinks, off fees, and tips. Success depends on talent, atmosphere, location, and reputation, but ethical practices and a focus on performer well-being are increasingly important in this industry. These bars are a significant part of Bangkok’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife and tourism scene.

[10tazione]

All good things are three, here is the answer of Google Gemini (2.0 Expermimental Advanced):

Gay gogoboy bars in Bangkok, like other gogoboy bars, operate on a business model that primarily revolves around entertainment and nightlife. Here's a breakdown:

Revenue Streams:

 * Drinks: This is a major source of income. Drinks are often priced higher than in regular bars. Customers are encouraged to buy "lady drinks" for the dancers, which are even more expensive. The bar keeps a significant portion of the lady drink price, while the dancer receives a commission.

 * Bar Fine: If a customer wants to take a dancer out of the bar, they need to pay a "bar fine." This fee compensates the bar for the dancer's absence. The dancer also receives a cut of this fine.

 * Private Shows/Dances: Some bars offer private shows or dances, which are an additional source of revenue.

 * Tips: Customers may tip dancers for performances or good service.

Expenses:

 * Rent/Utilities: Like any business, gogoboy bars have to pay for rent, electricity, water, and other utilities.

 * Staff Salaries: This includes salaries for bartenders, waiters, security, cleaning staff, and potentially management. Dancers are often paid through commissions or a base salary plus commissions.

 * Entertainment/Music: Costs may be associated with DJs, sound systems, lighting, and other forms of entertainment.

 * Licenses and Permits: Bars need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally.

 * Marketing and Promotion: Some bars may invest in advertising or promotional activities to attract customers.

Profitability:

The profitability of a gay gogoboy bar depends on factors such as:

 * Location: Bars in popular tourist or nightlife areas are likely to have higher foot traffic.

 * Reputation: A bar with a good reputation for quality entertainment and service will attract more customers.

 * Management: Efficient management of costs and operations is crucial for profitability.

 * Competition: The level of competition in the area can affect pricing and customer numbers.

It's important to note that the gogoboy industry can involve complex social and ethical issues, particularly regarding the working conditions and treatment of the dancers. Some dancers may be there willingly while others may be there out of desperation.

 

 

 

[vinapu]

17 hours ago, jason1975 said:

5 twinks in Atlas? I am going there!

Don't forget to pack spare underwear, lol

[jason1975]

Just now, vinapu said:

Don't forget to pack spare underwear, lol

Can always buy from stalls at Patpong Market!

[khaolakguy]

Glad to find that the AI analyses are so anodyne as to induce torpor. 

[srvhakko]

14 hours ago, macaroni21 said:

I almost completely forgot about this, but some time ago, I was told that the owner of Moonlight and Hotmale is a woman who is related to the family that owns Suriwongse Hotel. I don't have a way to confirm this, though.

Suriwongse hotel and moonlight bar are said that they are running by the same family. For this reason, it can be thought that since the ownership belongs to the hotel, there is no need to pay extra rental fee for the bar.