Bangkok's gay retail scene isn't huge, especially compared to Berlin or Amsterdam. But the Silom area has what most visitors want, and the city's general shopping means you can find most things cheaply if you look around.

What you'll find in Silom

Around Soi 2 and Soi 4, you'll see a few shops selling pride stuff, branded gay gear, and some lifestyle items. These are usually small, often right next to or inside bars and guesthouses. Stock changes. T-shirts, accessories, and some imported gear are the most reliable buys. Some shops also carry basic sex-shop items, though it's more discreet than you might expect for the area.

For clothing and costumes, check Bangkok's general markets and malls. Need something specific for a themed night—an outfit, accessories, anything performance-related? Chatuchak Weekend Market (it's huge, north of the city) and the Pratunam market area have tons of cheap clothing. Thai markets are great for that kind of thing. MBK Center in Siam has affordable electronics and clothing if you need basics.

What's more discreet than you'd expect

Bangkok has a reputation for being permissive, but dedicated adult retail isn't on every corner. Serious sex shops exist, but they don't have big signs. A few operate near the Silom gay area. The Chatuchak vendors selling leather and festival gear are easier to spot. If you're looking for specific adult items, sauna reception desks are often the easiest place to ask.

The shops

    • Body Talk  — Body Talk is a gay-popular shop in Silom, listed in city guides.
    • CiCi Men  — CiCi Men is a gay-popular menswear or accessories shop in Silom.
    • Domon  — Domon is a gay-popular shop in Silom, listed in gay travel guides.
    • Gai Pied  — Gai Pied is a gay bookshop or lifestyle store in Silom, named after the historic French gay magazine.
    • Up2 Beauty and Hair Salon — Up2 Beauty and Hair Salon is on Rama 4 between Silom and Suriwong. It's a well-regarded gay-popular hair and beauty salon with a loyal following of locals, expats, and frequent visitors.

For the full Bangkok picture, see the Gay Bangkok Guide.