#bangkok travel package

[goltravel]

What are all Inclusive Maldives Packages?

The Maldives, a picturesque tropical haven nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, has long been synonymous with luxury and tranquility. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, overwater bungalows, and vibrant coral reefs, it's no wonder that the Maldives is a dream destination for many. If you're contemplating a visit to this paradise on Earth, exploring the allure of an all-inclusive Maldives package might be the key to unlocking an unforgettable experience.

The Allure of All-Inclusive

A trip to the Maldives is not just a vacation; it's an escape into serenity. Opting for an all-inclusive package ensures that your focus remains on relaxation and exploration rather than the nitty-gritty details of expenses. From accommodation to meals, activities to amenities, an all-inclusive package provides a seamless and stress-free experience.

Overwater Bliss

One of the standout features of Maldivian resorts is the array of overwater bungalows. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of waves beneath your private villa, surrounded by endless shades of blue. All-inclusive packages often grant access to these exclusive accommodations, letting you indulge in the luxury of unparalleled ocean views and direct water access.

Culinary Delights

Maldivian cuisine is a tantalizing blend of flavors influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic traditions. All-inclusive packages frequently include a diverse range of dining options, allowing you to savor local delicacies and international cuisine. Picture yourself dining under the stars, enjoying fresh seafood, and relishing the essence of Maldivian culture through its gastronomy.

Underwater Wonders

Beyond the sandy shores, the Maldives boasts an underwater kingdom teeming with marine life. Snorkeling and diving experiences are often part of all-inclusive packages, providing you with the opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter majestic manta rays, and witness the kaleidoscope of colors in the underwater world.

Sunset Cruises and Spa Retreats

As the day transitions to evening, a quintessential Maldivian experience is a sunset cruise. Many all-inclusive packages include these mesmerizing excursions, allowing you to bask in the beauty of the Maldivian sunset from the deck of a traditional dhoni boat. Additionally, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, often part of the comprehensive packages, ensuring your escape is as therapeutic as it is idyllic.

In Conclusion

Choosing an all-inclusive Maldives package is not just a practical decision; it's a commitment to a seamless and indulgent journey. From overwater luxury to culinary delights, underwater adventures to sunset serenades, the Maldives, with its all-inclusive charm, promises a vacation that transcends the ordinary. We are Gol Travels dealing with Maldives, Lakshadweep, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia

[imitytravels2019]

Vietnam Adventure Escape

Exploring Vietnam: A Journey Through Adventure and Culture

Vietnam, a land of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers an adventure like no other. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, and the ancient ruins of My Son to the energetic pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is a treasure trove for the intrepid traveler. Here’s a guide to some of the best adventurous experiences this captivating country has to offer.

1. Trekking in Sapa

Nestled in the northern highlands, Sapa is a haven for trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts. The region's rugged terrain is adorned with lush terraced rice fields, verdant valleys, and imposing mountain peaks. Trails vary from easy walks to challenging treks, often leading through remote villages where traditional Hmong, Dao, and Tay cultures thrive. The trek to Fansipan, known as the "Roof of Indochina," is a highlight, offering breathtaking views from the highest peak in Southeast Asia.

2. Exploring Halong Bay by Kayak

Halong Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone karsts, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that must be experienced up close. While cruising on a traditional junk boat is a popular choice, exploring the bay by kayak offers a more intimate connection with its natural beauty. Paddle through serene waters, navigate around towering limestone formations, and discover hidden caves and grottoes. The tranquil experience allows for a unique perspective on the bay’s stunning landscape.

3. Venturing into Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park

Home to some of the world’s most spectacular caves, Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is a must-visit for adventure seekers. The park boasts a network of over 300 caves, including the famous Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world. For those seeking a thrilling experience, exploring the underground rivers of the Paradise Cave or embarking on a guided expedition through the Dark Cave (Hang Toi) with zip-lining and mud baths provides an exhilarating adventure.

4. Riding the Ho Chi Minh Trail

The historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, a network of supply routes used during the Vietnam War, has transformed into a thrilling route for motorbike enthusiasts. The journey offers a blend of rugged adventure and historical intrigue, taking travelers through remote mountainous regions, picturesque landscapes, and charming villages. Renting a motorbike and traversing this trail allows for a deep dive into Vietnam’s history while enjoying the freedom of the open road.

5. Discovering the Mekong Delta by Boat

The Mekong Delta, a maze of waterways, floating markets, and lush landscapes, is best explored by boat. Embark on a river cruise to navigate through the delta’s intricate network of canals, where you’ll witness daily life on the water, visit traditional workshops, and sample local delicacies. For a more immersive experience, consider a homestay with a local family to learn about their way of life and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s culture.

6. Hiking in Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island, part of the Halong Bay archipelago, offers a different kind of adventure. The island is home to Cat Ba National Park, a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Trails through the park lead to stunning viewpoints, such as the top of Ngu Lam Mountain, and reveal diverse flora and fauna. The island’s rugged coastline and beautiful beaches also provide opportunities for rock climbing, swimming, and relaxing after a day of hiking.

7. Diving in Nha Trang

For underwater enthusiasts, Nha Trang is Vietnam’s premier diving destination. The city is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and a rich marine ecosystem. Diving sites such as Hon Mun Island offer vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and underwater caves. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, Nha Trang’s warm waters and diverse marine life provide an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage offer a myriad of adventurous opportunities. Whether you’re trekking through the highlands, kayaking in Halong Bay, exploring ancient caves, or diving in crystal-clear waters, Vietnam promises an adventure that will captivate and inspire. Embrace the journey, and let the beauty and excitement of this incredible country create memories that will last a lifetime.

[tripees]

Thailand Holiday Packages | Pattaya, Bangkok

Experience the best of Thailand holiday packages, featuring the vibrant cities of Pattaya and Bangkok. This 4-night, 5-day adventure starts at just ₹9,999 per person. Enjoy the bustling nightlife, pristine beaches, and cultural landmarks of Pattaya, coupled with the rich history, shopping extravaganza, and culinary delights of Bangkok. This package includes comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and exciting activities, ensuring a memorable Thai getaway. Book now to immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Thailand!

[sunleisureworld1]

https://www.sunleisureworld.com/destination/thailand/pattaya/tour/top-attractions/432/central-marina-shopping-centre

It is a very popular mall situated in the Bang Lamung district of Pattaya. The mall is spread over three floors and houses several retail stores and eateries with a six-screen SFC Cinema for entertaining the visitors. The children are kept engaged at the play area within the shopping arcade while their parents indulge in shopping. Here, you can shop for international and national brands, enjoy eating at the numerous restaurants and cafes.

[nitsaholidays]

Unlock Phuket's Paradise: Our Nitsaholidays package weaves flights, accommodations, city exploration, and the enchanting Phi Phi Islands into your unforgettable escape.

[bookmyplanet]

Bangkok and Pattaya Package: A Dual Thai Delight

Experience the best of Thailand with our Bangkok and Pattaya package, a thrilling 7-day adventure that explores the stark contrast between the bustling metropolis of Bangkok and the laid-back coastal haven of Pattaya.

In Bangkok, you'll dive into a rich tapestry of history and modernity. Visit the opulent Grand Palace, marvel at the intricate beauty of Wat Pho's Reclining Buddha, and take a serene boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to witness the city's unique blend of tradition and innovation. Explore vibrant street markets, sampling delectable street food, and browse for treasures at Chatuchak Weekend Market.

When the night falls, Pattaya's lively nightlife scene comes to life, offering cabaret shows, entertainment, and a diverse culinary landscape.

Our Bangkok and Pattaya package takes care of all the essentials, from comfortable accommodations to expertly guided tours and seamless transfers, so you can fully embrace the Thai experience. This dual-city journey is an extraordinary opportunity to discover the essence of Thailand, packed with diverse experiences and unforgettable memories. Book your Bangkok and Pattaya package, adventure now, and get ready to be enchanted by the Land of Smiles.

https://www.bookmyplanet.com/package/Bangkok%20pattaya%205Night%20%20Holidays

thailand holiday packages

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[indtravels01]

Must-Visit Destinations for a Memorable Indian Holiday

Must-visit destinations in India

India, with its rich history and diverse culture, offers a plethora of destinations that are perfect for a memorable holiday. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveler looking for a unique experience, India has something to offer everyone. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of some of the must-visit destinations in India that will leave you awestruck and craving for more.

Best holiday packages from India

Planning a holiday can be overwhelming, especially when you are exploring a country as vast and diverse as India. To make your travel experience hassle-free and enjoyable, it is recommended to opt for holiday packages that cater to your specific interests and preferences. India offers a wide range of holiday packages, ensuring that every traveler finds something suitable. From luxurious vacations in the hills to adventurous escapes in the wilderness, there are countless options to choose from. Let's explore some of the best holiday packages from India that promise to make your vacation unforgettable.

Indian culture and heritage

India is a land of vibrant culture and rich heritage, steeped in thousands of years of history. The country's cultural diversity is reflected in its art, music, dance, cuisine, and festivals. Exploring the Indian culture and heritage is like embarking on a journey through time, where traditions are preserved and celebrated with great zeal. To truly understand and appreciate the essence of India, it is essential to immerse yourself in its cultural treasures. In this section, we will delve into the various facets of Indian culture and heritage, showcasing the incredible wealth that awaits you in this captivating country.

India is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, ancient temples, majestic palaces, and intricate artwork. The Taj Mahal in Agra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is undoubtedly the most iconic symbol of India's architectural prowess. This magnificent mausoleum, built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, is a testament to eternal love and a must-visit destination for all those visiting India. The intricate marble inlay work, the serene gardens, and the romantic ambiance make it a truly mesmerizing experience.

Another architectural wonder that should not be missed is the ancient city of Hampi in Karnataka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire and showcases the grandeur of a bygone era. The elaborate carvings on the stone temples and palaces transport you back in time and give you a glimpse into the architectural genius of the past.

India's culture is incomplete without exploring its spiritual side. Varanasi, situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism. The ghats (steps leading down to the river) along the Ganges are a sight to behold, as pilgrims perform their daily rituals and offer prayers to the divine. Taking a boat ride on the Ganges during sunrise or sunset is a surreal experience that will stay with you forever.

As we move towards the southern part of India, the state of Kerala beckons with its tranquil backwaters and lush green landscapes. The backwaters, a network of canals, lakes, and lagoons, offer a unique experience of serene beauty. Cruising through the backwaters on a traditional houseboat, locally known as a 'kettuvallam,' allows you to soak in the tranquility and experience the rustic charm of rural Kerala.

For wildlife enthusiasts, India has an abundance of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. One such gem is Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, known for its population of royal Bengal tigers. Embarking on a safari in Ranthambore gives you the opportunity to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat and experience the thrill of being up close with one of the world's most iconic big cats.

No journey through the cultural and heritage delights of India can be complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Each region in India boasts a unique culinary tradition, with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. From the spicy street food of Delhi to the aromatic biryanis of Hyderabad and the delectable seafood of the coastal states, Indian cuisine offers a gastronomic adventure like no other.

In conclusion,

India is a country that mesmerizes and enchants with its rich culture and heritage. From awe-inspiring architectural wonders to spiritual experiences, and picturesque landscapes to tantalizing culinary delights, India has it all. So, if you are looking for a truly memorable holiday, look no further than the diverse and enchanting destinations that India has to offer.

[iprholidays]

Experience the best of Thailand with our exclusive tour package from IPR Holidays! Embark on a mesmerizing journey with 2 Nights in Pattaya and 1 Night in Bangkok, where you'll encounter a perfect blend of vibrant city life and breathtaking coastal beauty🤩💼✨

1) 2 Nights in Pattaya🤩

2) 01 Night in Bangkok✨

3) Breakfast @Hotels

4) Tiger Topia Sriracha entrance ticket and photo sessions with tiger (En-route to PTY HTL) (PVT)

5) Pattaya Alcazar Show (PVT)

6) Coral Island Tour in speed boat with lunch (SIC)

7)Bangkok Temple tour (Golden Buddha & Marble Temple) (En route PVT)

8)Safari world and marine park with lunch (En route PVT)

9) DMK APR - PTY HTL - BKK HTL - DMK APT(PVT

📍@iprholidays

☎️ +91 9539711113

operations@iprholidays.com

[imitytravels2019]

Places to visit in Bali

Bali, known as the "Island of the Gods," is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia. It offers a blend of stunning beaches, rich cultural experiences, lush landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a guide to help you plan your Bali tour:

Places to visit in Bali - Imity Travels

      Ubud

Ubud Monkey Forest: A sanctuary home to hundreds of monkeys and ancient temples.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Famous for their beautiful rice paddies and scenic views.

Ubud Palace: A historical building complex with traditional Balinese architecture.

     Seminyak

Seminyak Beach: A more upscale beach area with trendy beach clubs, restaurants, and shopping.

Petitenget Temple: An ancient sea temple offering cultural insights and beautiful sea views.

      Kuta

Kuta Beach: Known for its surfing, beach bars, and vibrant nightlife.

Waterbom Bali: A fun-filled water park perfect for families and thrill-seekers.

 

     Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua Beach: Pristine white sandy beaches ideal for relaxation and water sports.

Devdan Show: A cultural performance showcasing Indonesian dance and acrobatics.

    Uluwatu

Uluwatu Temple: A stunning sea temple perched on a cliff with mesmerizing sunset views.

Padang Padang Beach: A popular spot for surfers and beachgoers.

      Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot Temple: An iconic sea temple known for its offshore setting and sunset backdrops.

[ghumindiaghum]

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is a large city known for ornate shrines and vibrant street life. The boat-filled Chao Phraya River feeds its network of canals, flowing past the Rattanakosin royal district, home to opulent Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple.

[soulfulvacationz]

Explore fun loving, tropical, cultured and historic destinations like Bangkok and Pattaya in Thailand, known for scenic beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples displaying figures of Buddha. Book Bangkok Pattaya travel package at a very competitive price from Soulful Vacationz.

[bizarrequazar]

Collected Information about the Bangkok Concerts

This is a post collecting information and sources about the concerts held by the Zhang Sanjian scam gang on May 10th and 11th. I will keep this updated as more information comes out. Please let me know if you have any questions, corrections, or additions.

[Masterpost of my informational posts about the situation]

Lead-Up

The earliest account to promote the concert was a planted fan trying to collect information from other fans in group chats, not an “official account”. This was on April 10th, only a month prior to the day the concert would be held. Accounts officially associated with the scam would not start promotions until April 20th.

Someone who contacted the venue on April 20th was told that the hall had been booked for 05-11 but that the venue could not disclose who it was for.

On April 22nd, the Instagram made a post announcing the ticket sales using a promotional photo from 2021 that had been made for the concert the real Zhang Zhehan had been planning prior to 813. This post did not include a link for purchasing; including links to purchases increases the chance of Instagram checking an account for fraud activity.

The production company for the concert is partnered with CAPA.

Seat prices went up to 16,000 baht ($465 USD / 3200 RMB) and went on sale on April 22nd. As a comparative, the BTS member Suga held a concert with VIP tickets pricing at 6200 baht.

Within hours, scam believers were saying that tickets had sold out, but on the actual purchasing site they were instead listed as not available (ie. reserved for sale by scalpers). On May 3rd, these reserved tickets that had not been sold were made available again with less than half sold.

On April 23rd, it was announced via the Instagram that an additional concert would be held on 05-10 due to “popularity”. (As I write this, I realize that it’s odd for them to book 05-10 rather than 05-12 since it means those first comers who bought tickets for 05-11 would not get to be the first ones to see “him”.) Tickets for this became available the following day and “sold out” within ten minutes only to become available again; it’s likely this was just a glitch. 

On April 24th, a promotional video was posted for the concert using only footage from 2021 (same context as mentioned above).

Some tickets had been available as a “tour package” through a company that had a history of scamming customers. On April 26th, the tour package’s name was changed then deleted from the company’s website. On April 30th, the Taobao shop selling these packages was closed without refunds and over 400 people who had made purchases had their information leaked. Some people who purchased these packages were later left stranded at the airport for hours when they arrived.

On May 5th, the Weibo Supertopic used by scam believers, which had been filled with people reselling tickets and encouraging others to fake information for travel visas, was deleted. The following day, “official” accounts directed users to a new Supertopic that was created less than 15 minutes after the previous one disappeared despite it taking 1-3 days for Supertopics to be approved. This new Supertopic was made private on May 9th then deleted as well on May 10th.

On May 6th, photos were posted to the Instagram of “Zhang Zhehan” in what appeared to be Thailand. The following day several photos and a video were spread of “chance encounters”, originating from accounts that did not belong to fans.

The scam gang requested that people who had bought VIP tickets provide their home addresses so they could be sent tshirts and light sticks, four days prior to the first concert date. Have fun getting doxxed, I guess.

On May 8th, a new song was released to streaming sites by the scam gang despite it being only two days before the first concert. As a comparative, for his mini-concert to promote his Another Me EP in October 2020, Zhang Zhehan released only two of the three songs for streaming prior to the concert, leaving the third song 不说 to be debuted at the concert before releasing for streaming.

On May 9th, several photos and a video were posted by paparazzi of the venue being set up. It was noted that workers present in these photos were fully dressed despite there being a heatwave with outside temperatures climbing to over 40°C; it’s uncommon for AC to be on during set up, though not impossible.

On the same day, a figure fully covered in sweats and a hoodie was filmed entering the venue for rehearsals. Again: heatwave. 

May 10th

The venue looked less than half full less than ten minutes before the set start time.

A collection of some photos that look obviously off: [1] [2] [3] [4] 

Chinese CPFs keeping track of things concluded that three different impersonators were likely used, with one possibly being a woman. There were visible differences in the nose, jawline, eyebrows, Adam’s apple, butt, and stature. Furthering this, people watching reported that the costume changes were remarkably fast and there were no breaks over the course of 20 song performances (3 hours).

It’s quite likely that the cameras used for the screens inside the venue were using deepfake tech to correct for these mistakes. Yes this can be done live. It was noticed that the screens seemed to noticably lag more than is standard (example, comparison to another concert) and occassionally jumped.

Some of the audience members visible in photos look quite unexcited to be there. It’s possible that people were hired to fill empty seats, especially given that so many were left unsold that they decreased the number of seats physically present in the venue. A number of people looked to be in quite a hurry to leave afterwards. There is hearsay that some of them may have been students who were paid to attend. [translated chatlog between Chinese fans]

About an hour and a half after the concert started, the bought hashtag #Primordial Theater# suddenly appeared on the general Weibo hotsearch, reaching #14 before completely disappearing ten minutes later. Coincidentally, the Weibo administration account made a post shortly afterwards warning about celebrity impersonation fraud.

Around this time, all photos of the concert posted by Ranyi, one of the “official” accounts, were removed by Weibo and the account was later banned for violating community rules. Similar photos and a video were also removed from Xie Yihua’s Weibo accounts.

A whaler who made a post that she shook hands with him at the concert forgot to change her VPN to Thailand, with it instead saying she was in Japan. 🤡

There are rumors that some whalers who attended said it was fake and closed their accounts, I haven’t seen direct evidence of this yet. Also a rumor that one went to the police. Some whalers were reportedly afraid to speak out about what they had seen at the concert because they had given the scam their personal information.

May 11th

There was significantly less posted footage and discussion of this day. Many people who had attended gave excuses such as phones being too low on battery to film, only having blurry photos, wanted to capture the moment with their own eyes, etc.

Additional photos that look distinctly off: [1] [2] [a whole collection] (Here’s an example of full-face prosthetic makeup btw) 

Videos show that barely anyone in the audience appeared to be singing along to some songs, including Surround.

Comment about the vocals from a trained musician: “The voice doesn't feel open, it feels like it's covered with a layer of veil. Generally speaking, the voice is not clean, and secondly, the breath is not stable, and the voice is obvious. Trembling, as well as out-of-tune and treble, the treble sounds very laborious, and the out-of-tune is also sandwiched between the two notes, and the way of vocalization is not right, it is all in the throat, singing like this is easy to hurt the throat and make it hoarse.” (mtl) 

[Video comparing the singing to Zhang Zhehan’s]

A video and group photo showing Xiao Yu were passed around, with him being visibly too short in relation to “Zhang Zhehan” in the photo.

Again, many of the photos posted by Xie Yihua were removed by Weibo.

VVIP ticket holders (on both days) were able to take photos with Zhang Sanjian afterwards:  -  Reports from them say that Zhang Sanjian was quite touchy-feely and eager with hugs (😰). If you look at old photos and video of the real Zhang Zhehan, he was always very polite and often kept his hands clasped when taking photos with unfamiliar people.  -  The attendees were assigned a number so the photos could be sent to them afterwards. Standard practice for celebrity photo ops is that the photos are printed there; being sent later allows time for editing to be done.  -  It took two weeks for people to be sent their photos. Despite this, some of the editing is... not very good.

Followups

Yahoo! Taiwan published an article talking about the concert, referring to Zhang Zhehan as an “artist who insulted China”.

[Written notes] from a Twitter space discussion about the concert. Main points not previously covered here:

It was learned by Chinese CPFs that any Chinese person who wants to hold a concert outside of China needs to get written permission to do so. There is no evidence that the scam gang did this, and it’s doubtful that someone in Zhang Zhehan’s situation would do so.

If you watch the videos of Zhang Sanjian talking at the concert, it looks very performative, not a real emotional response like what you can see in videos of the real Zhang Zhehan at his past concerts. Especially at a concert after 813 and not seeing his fans for two years, wouldn’t you expect him to get quite emotional?

Likewise, there are enunciation differences and dialectic differences in how Zhang Sanjian spoke.

If the point of the concerts was to make money, they would have started promotions much earlier, it doesn’t make commercial sense to announce it at such short notice. The intent of the concert was to get attention.

Another intent seems to be to try to divide CP fans, similar to how last year they succeeded in dividing haizhe and whalers.

Following the concerts, there was a significant uptick in fans of other celebs harrassing those saying the concerts were fake—especially in c-ent fan culture, fans of other celebs can and will happily take advantage of the scam to eliminate their bias’s competition even if they are aware that it’s a scam.

This post was last edited 2023-05-24.

[amazing-thailand]

✨ For families interested in Thai history and heritage, there’s no better way to enjoy it all than by visiting the beautiful palaces and royal residences.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Here are the 10 notable places in and around Bangkok that are rich with stories and architectural details to make your family outing more memorable.

✧ Phyathai Palace, Bangkok

✧ Bang Khun Phrom Palace, Bangkok

 ✧ Parutsakawan Palace, Bangkok

✧ The Grand Palace, Bangkok

✧ Bang Pa-In Palace, Ayutthaya

✧ Sanam Chandra Palace, Nakhon Pathom

✧ Phra Ram Ratchaniwet Palace, Phetchaburi

✧ Mrigadayavan Palace, Phetchaburi

✧ Khao Wang, Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, Phetchaburi

✧ Phra Chudathut Ratchathan, Ko Sichang, Chon Buri

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[mariacallous]

PATTAYA, Thailand—The neon-lit red light district screams of sex.

In an apartment near Pattaya’s infamous Walking Street, Auchanaporn Pilasata studies her reflection in the mirror, applies another layer of plum-shade lipstick, and touches up her black eyeliner. In the corner of her mirror are two photographs: one from when she looked like a scrawny 15-year-old boy, and another, post-transition, as the stunning woman she is today.

The 37-year-old, who goes by Anna, has been a transgender sex worker for 17 years. While transitioning, she left a low-paying job in a cosmetics packaging factory on the outskirts of Bangkok to become a cabaret dancer in nearby Pattaya, a beach town with a reputation for wild nightlife. She took a temporary job at a “special” massage parlor to earn some cash. Her very first client propositioned her for sex.

“He said, ‘I give you 3,000 baht [$85]. One hour,’” Anna recalled. “[When] I worked in factory, [I made] 6,000 baht in one month. This is the beginning [of] my story [as a] sex worker.”

Thailand has long been one of the world’s major sex tourism destinations. Estimates of sex work’s contribution to GDP vary widely because the industry operates almost entirely underground. But in 2015, the black market research company Havocscope valued it at $6.4 billion per year—about 1.5 percent of the country’s GDP that year.

Despite earning billions annually, the industry is effectively illegal, controversial among Thais, and highly stigmatized. Now, the debate over sex work is spilling into public forums, with a progressive lawmaker introducing a bill in parliament to legalize it. Its proponents argue that criminalization has deprived sex workers of basic labor rights and protections enjoyed by other workers, making them more vulnerable to health risks, harassment, exploitation, and violence—while making sex work itself no less visible.

Visiting Thailand and not noticing any sex workers? It’s like going to “KFC and you never see fried chicken,” Anna said.

The majority of sex workers in the world are women, and a 2017 projection by the Thai Department of Disease Control conservatively estimated that 129,000 of 144,000 sex workers in the country were female. But it’s men who make the decisions about what they can do with their bodies.

Women held 16 percent of Thailand’s parliamentary seats in 2021, the same figure as 10 years ago. By comparison, women made up 20 percent of Saudi Arabia’s governing assembly and 28 percent of the U.S. Congress that year.

The fight for legalization is an uphill battle. Conservative factions within the country and global anti-trafficking organizations remain strongly opposed to sex work. The U.S. Agency for International Development calls Thailand a “source, transit, and destination country” for trafficking, and opponents of the bill say the sex industry enables widespread abuse of women and children across the country and in neighboring Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

Historical reports of sex work existing in Thailand date back to the 1300s. The modern sex industry in Thailand boomed while serving a wave of Chinese immigrants in the early 1900s, Japanese soldiers during World War II, and U.S. soldiers during the Vietnam War. But many Thais grew resentful of its visibility and notoriety. The country adopted the Suppression of Prostitution Act in 1960, followed by the 1996 Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act, which outlawed almost all of the activities associated with sex work and income earned from it.

The push against prostitution was further bolstered in the 2000s, when the U.S. government, the religious right, and abolitionist feminists came together in an unlikely alliance. Their goal was to eliminate prostitution. The U.S. movement gained traction globally as those forces traveled to campaign against sex work in countries abroad, including Thailand.

Within Thailand, officials often downplay the prevalence of prostitution in order to present a more positive view of the country to the outside world and appease constituents opposed to sex work. After a Jan. 14 inspection, police said they were “satisfied” after finding no “illegal prostitutes” working in Pattaya, much to the amusement of social media commentators.

“Why don’t they ask all the girl [sic] standing all around if they have seen some sexworkers,” one Facebook user posted.

In practice, the revenues from sex work sustain a robust illicit economy and can be an important lifeline for women whose backgrounds range from educated college graduates to poor rural farmers. Many believe that some form of legal recognition, either decriminalization or legalization, would help to reduce violence against sex workers and give them rights and benefits that would help them, particularly during difficult financial times.

In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill and global tourism dried up, around 91 percent of Thai sex workers lost their jobs due to lockdowns, border closures, and social-distancing measures, according to the World Health Organization. As illegal workers, they did not qualify for government relief benefits during the pandemic.

“A lot of [sex workers] could not pay the rent and they had to sleep on the street,” said Supachai Sukthongsa, the Pattaya manager of Service Workers in Group (SWING), a services and support group. “They worked and cleaned up at the bar in exchange for small money and food, just enough to survive day by day.”

The pandemic also reduced access to health care services. Whether they get their business through dating apps, pimps, or on the street, sex workers face numerous risks to their health and safety. The Sex Workers Project, an advocacy organization based in New York, found that sex workers globally face a 45 percent to 75 percent chance of experiencing violence on the job. Transgender women such as Anna face an added layer of danger from clients who turn violent after discovering their identities.

“When I go to the police station,” Anna said, they don’t “help me because [of] my job, because I work illegal work here in Thailand.”

Sex workers frequently accuse Thai police of extorting or ignoring them. Researchers such as Ronald Weitzer, a sociologist and professor with expertise in sex work in Thailand, also accuse police of being heavily involved in sex tourism and profiting off of the industry.

“The authorities, especially the police, have a vested interest in keeping prostitution illegal,” Weitzer said. “They get payoffs.”

Gen. Surachate Hakparn, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police, said he believes legalizing sex work could cut down on such activities.

“I admit that there is corruption going on, but it’s only a fraction of police officers doing that,” he said. “From a law enforcement perspective, if it is legalized, it’s good for the police. We don’t need to keep disciplining our subordinates about corruption. And we can put the resources and time into something else.”

Globally, the legal status of sex work is divided into three broad categories: criminalization, legalization, and decriminalization.

The legalization model regulates the registration, health care, and welfare of sex workers. In contrast, the decriminalization model simply removes penalties for pursuing the activity.

There are also hybrid models, such as the Nordic model in countries such as Sweden and Norway, which blend elements of legalization and decriminalization.

It’s the criminalization model that’s employed by about half the world, including most of the United States. It involves the criminalization of every party: the seller, the buyer, and third parties such as pimps or traffickers.

According to the 2018 Global Slavery Index, published by an Australian human rights organization, Thailand is home to about 610,000 human trafficking victims. Although the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime says most of these victims are trafficked for manual labor, some women and girls are forced into sex work.

While the U.S. government says the Thai government is doing an increasingly good job fighting against trafficking, hard-line anti-traffickers remain vehemently against legalization.

“It’s consumption with nothing in return,” said Sanphasit Koompraphant, the chairperson of Thailand’s Anti-Trafficking Alliance. “It’s sexual exploitation.”

But the criminalization model most anti-traffickers support has come increasingly under attack from sex work activists.

A growing body of research shows that criminalization forces sex workers to operate under more dangerous conditions, increasing risks of sexually transmitted infections, physical abuse, and exploitation—including by police. Aside from stigmatizing the work, bans also mean that many sex workers will end up with a criminal record if caught soliciting, making it harder for them to get other jobs and pushing them deeper into the sex industry.

Weitzer argues that criminalizing sex work has not succeeded in stopping its proliferation and has strong parallels to the U.S. war on drugs.

“The evidence is clear that it’s a complete failure,” he said.

In June 2022, Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, a progressive parliamentarian with the upstart Move Forward Party, drafted a bill that would establish designated zones for legal sex work. To ensure compliance with its proposed regulations, he said the bill calls for random checks to be carried out to verify licenses, the age of the sex workers, and whether illegal drugs are present.

He said the bill also outlines how the industry will be taxed and specifies locations where it can’t be practiced or advertised, such as near temples and schools.

“It has to [be] away from the children,” Tunyawaj said.

But some sex workers also oppose legalization. Juno Mac, a prominent sex worker and activist, said legalization can create a “two-tiered system” in which wealthier establishments can afford to comply with regulations, while marginalized sex workers operating independently cannot.

Rather than the special regulation and taxation that comes with legalization, Mac prefers decriminalization, which treats sex work like any other work.

Weitzer noted that decriminalization also has limitations, with the lack of regulations allowing existing bad actors—rampant throughout the industry—to continue exploiting workers.

But its supporters say the decriminalization model is more likely to help sex workers better integrate into mainstream society.

“If [we have] legalization, that means that we have the specific law to say this kind of job [is] legal. But we don’t want to have a specific law,” said Surang Janyam, the founder and director of SWING. “If we have specific laws for sex workers, we should have specific laws with every occupation. Decriminalize will [make us] equal as other people.”

Whether through legalization or decriminalization, Weitzer said the odds are stacked against changing the legal status of sex work.

“The majority of legislators are opposed to it, and every time it’s been proposed in the past, I don’t think it’s even gotten out of committee,” Weitzer said.

The last major push was in 2003, when proposed legislation was debated but failed to pass.

Tunyawaj’s June 2022 bill was not reviewed by the board of the parliamentary committee for youth, women, and other vulnerable groups until November 2022. At that point, the committee recommended transferring it to Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The draft bill will be reviewed again in the next term of the government, and Tunyawaj hopes that having the backing of the Ministry will improve its chances. The fate of the bill now rests in the hands the new government, which will be elected in May.

If reelected, Tunyawaj promises to “keep pushing this bill.”

His coalition is growing. Surachate said the main thing missing is political will.

“The government can solve this matter, if they take it seriously,” he said.

Navaon Siradapuvadol contributed reporting to this article.

This story was supported by the United Nations Foundation.