SPA | R3 Ratchada Review: Bangkok’s Laid-Back Sauna with a Local Soul

Bangkok has no shortage of saunas and nightlife spaces, but every now and then you stumble upon one that feels less like a scene and more like a community. R3 Ratchada is exactly that kind of place. It doesn’t try to compete with flashier venues in Silom or Sukhumvit—and that’s precisely its charm.

Location & First Impressions

R3 is located in the Ratchada area, a neighborhood better known for offices, residential buildings, and local eateries than nightlife glamour. That already sets the tone: this is a local hangout, not a tourist-driven venue.

From the outside, the building is discreet and low-key. Inside, the atmosphere is functional but welcoming—clean, organized, and refreshingly unpretentious. It’s not a luxury spa, but it feels comfortable and well cared for.

Facilities & Layout

R3 keeps things simple but effective. Facilities typically include:

• Dry sauna
• Steam room
• Cold plunge pool
• Lockers and resting areas
• Small café / common space

The layout is easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors. Everything feels practical, clean, and well maintained—qualities that matter more than flashy design.

Crowd & Atmosphere

The crowd at R3 is predominantly local Thai men, with a wide age range but a noticeable number of regulars. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, not rushed or overly performative.

While foreign visitors do come by, the venue clearly caters first to locals, which gives it a grounded and authentic feel. If you’re looking to experience a more everyday side of Bangkok’s sauna culture, R3 fits the bill.

Social Vibe

One of R3’s strongest points is its community atmosphere. People linger, chat, and unwind without pressure. The common areas encourage casual conversations, and the overall pace is slower and more relaxed compared to busier areas of the city.

There’s no booming music or party-style energy—just a comfortable space to relax, socialize, and recharge.

Pricing & Value

Entry prices are reasonable and affordable, especially by Bangkok standards. While R3 doesn’t offer luxury spa features, it provides excellent value through cleanliness, consistency, and atmosphere.

It’s an ideal option for long-stay travelers or anyone who prefers a dependable, no-frills sauna experience.

Final Verdict

R3 Ratchada may not be the most famous sauna in Bangkok, but it’s one of the most genuine. It’s calm, welcoming, and quietly confident—perfect for those who prefer authenticity over hype.

Best for:

• Travelers seeking a local experience
• Visitors who prefer relaxed, low-pressure environments
• Anyone wanting a break from the busier Silom scene

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Authentic, relaxed, and community-driven.

THE QUIET CORNER | Why I'm Choosing the Now Over the "Someday"

I was driving home late the other night, just me and some empty road, when that "what if" finally caught up to me. You know the feeling. You’re cruising along, maybe checking your reflection in the rearview or thinking about that direct deposit that just hit, and you start doing the math. I’ve been so locked in lately, focusing on the "long game." Every spare bit of cash goes into a digital bucket I’m not allowed to touch. I’m out here skipping the late-night eats and passing on the weekend trips because I’m obsessed with this version of me that exists ten years from now. I’ve been treating my life like a project I’m trying to finish instead of something I’m actually supposed to be living.

But staring at the road, it just felt so… fragile.

Like, I’m out here grinding 24/7, gatekeeping my own happiness to fund a "someday" that isn’t even promised. If a car swerved into my lane right now and it was game over, what was all that saving even for? To be the most financially stable person in the afterlife? It’s such a scam. We’re taught to sacrifice our peak years—the years when we actually have the look, the energy, and the community—just to make sure our 70-year-old selves can sit in a slightly nicer chair.

I looked at the passenger seat and realized how much I’ve been missing because I was too busy being "responsible." I’ve been saying "next time" to so many things. Next time there’s a festival. Next time the group chat actually coordinates a trip. Next time I see those shoes that make me feel like the main character.

But what if the "next time" is literally right now?

I’m tired of the guilt that comes with spending money on things that don't have a "return on investment" other than pure joy. I want the memories that keep me awake at night because they were that good, not the anxiety of a budget spreadsheet. I want to invest in my chosen family and the experiences that make me feel like I’m actually part of the world, not just a spectator saving up for the finale.

I’m not going to be reckless—I still want to be that gorgeous, well-funded elder one day—but the balance has to shift. I’m done living for a ghost. If I’m going to put in the work, I deserve to see some of the rewards while I’m still young enough to enjoy them.

The road is long, sure, but I’m done staring so far ahead that I forget to enjoy the view from the driver's seat.

SPA | KRUBB Bangkok Review: Inside Sukhumvit’s Popular Gay Sauna & Social Club

KRUBB Bangkok Social Club & Sauna isn’t a restaurant — it’s a multi-level gay sauna, social club, relaxation space, and nightlife hangout located in Sukhumvit-Phrakanong, Bangkok. The venue operates daily from about 2 PM to midnight and is designed as a place to relax, socialize, enjoy facilities like steam and dry saunas, and meet people in a fun environment. (thain8.com)

• Sauna & wellness spaces – dry and steam rooms, whirlpool, plunge pools.

• Social & lounge areas – a bar, cafe, co-working lounge, rooftop bar.

• Activity spaces – gym, themed rooms, group events.

• Community vibe – regular events like game nights or workshops. (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)

It’s a hub for locals and visitors (lots of Europeans, Americans, Japanese, Koreans) and draws mainly adults around their 30s, 40s, and 50s. (Pride Voyage)

Location & Access

• Address: Soi Sukhumvit Plus 2, Phrakanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok. (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)

• Transport: Walkable (~5–7 min) from BTS Phrakanong Station (Exit 4). (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)

• Hours: ~14:00–24:00 daily. (thain8.com)

• Age Restriction: Only guests 20+ (teenagers not allowed). (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)

Facilities & Vibe

Six floors of spaces: sauna rooms, steam, dry heat, lockers, gym, dark/cruising rooms, themed play areas, and a roof-top whirlpool + bar — said to be one of the largest heated whirlpools among gay saunas in Thailand. (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)

• Sauna & steam rooms: Chill out, sweat it out, unwind.

• Gym: Casual workout space included.

• Social lounge & bar: Good place to chat, sip, and meet people.

• Pool and rooftop areas: Relax with colorful lights and chill vibes in the evenings. (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)

Crowd & Energy

• Diverse mix: Locals and international visitors. (Pride Voyage)

• Peak times: Evenings (especially Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun). (Travel Gay)

• Atmosphere: Social and open, sometimes busy, often friendly. (whereis.gay)

What People Say (Pros & Cons)

Clean & welcoming: Many visitors praise the friendly staff, cleanliness, and the overall vibe — especially compared to other saunas in Bangkok. (Travel Gay)
Great social spot: Good for meeting people and relaxing with drinks, sauna, or pool. (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)
Activities & events: Regular weekly offerings keep the place lively. (Krubb Bangkok Sauna)

Some Cons

Space can feel tight: A few reviews mention crowded areas during peak hours and small room sizes. (whereis.gay)
Not “premium” for everyone: Some visitors say it doesn’t feel “high-end” compared to others — facility quality is good but not luxury. (Travel Gay)

Tips for Visiting

Best times: Head there in the early evening or during special event nights for a livelier crowd. (Travel Gay)
Dress & entry: Pay attention to any dress guidelines (smart/casual for social areas) if staying for drinks or events. (thain8.com)
Bring extras: Towels are given, but some people like to bring their own. (whereis.gay)
Be open to socializing: The vibe thrives on interaction — great if you’re outgoing! (Travel Gay)

Overall Verdict

KRUBB Bangkok is more than just a sauna — it’s a social hub where wellness, nightlife, and community come together. Most visitors find it fun and friendly, a good mix of chill relaxation and social energy. If you’re curious about Bangkok’s LGBTQ+ sauna social scene and want a place with good facilities and a lively vibe, KRUBB is worth checking out. (thain8.com)

TRAVEL | Top Men Sauna, Spa & Onsen in Bangkok

Top Men Sauna, Spa & Onsen in Bangkok

A clean, swipe-style guide — no scrolling, no clutter.

Table of Contents

KRUBB Bangkok R3 Ratchada Chakran Sauna Sauna Mania 39 Underground Sauna 1/0 Maxwell Sauna Kaikan Onsen Kino Sento

KRUBB Bangkok Social Club & Sauna

Sukhumvit · Afternoon – Midnight · THB 390–490

ModernSocial

Modern six-floor social club with rooftop pools, gym and whirlpool. Popular with a younger international crowd.

R3 Ratchada Sauna

Ratchada · Afternoon – Late · THB 300–460

Energetic

High-energy party sauna famous for foam nights and packed weekends.

Chakran Sauna

Ari · Afternoon – Midnight · THB 350–450

RooftopRelaxed

Relaxed local favorite with rooftop onsen and open-air garden.

Sauna Mania

Silom · Afternoon – Late · THB 320–440

Central

Tourist-friendly Silom staple with diverse international crowd.

39 Underground Sauna

Saphan Kwai · Daytime – Midnight · THB 200–240

Budget

Raw, local-focused sauna with gritty underground energy.

Sauna 1/0

Silom · Afternoon – Midnight · THB ~300

Compact

Sleek, minimalist sauna popular with sporty locals.

Maxwell Sauna

Silom · Afternoon – Late · THB 250–350

Classic

Japanese-style wellness bathhouse with calm, mature vibe.

Kaikan Onsen

Daytime – Evening · THB 500+

Japanese

Luxury Japanese onsen with iconic milk bath.

Kino Sento

Daytime – Evening · THB 400–600

Wellness

Massive Japanese-style onsen designed for long stays.

FASHION | Key Elements of Bracelet Designs That Sell Out Quickly in Boutiques

In fashion, there are items that are timeless and, as far as boutiques are concerned, that means they will sell year after year, season after season. These are not trendy items but mainstays that resonate on a cultural level with clients. Because of this, people instinctively know the difference between a good suit and a bad suit, even if they don’t own one, or a well-made leather bag and something that is shoddy. When it comes to jewelry, this sensation is heightened to extreme degrees. In this article, we are going to talk about how you can spot what works when sourcing high-quality bracelets that will sell. From offering customers a unique design to materials and wearability that match the aspirations of the customer, we will guide you through the often intuitive but not at all mysterious world of bracelet design and how you can spot a must-have product for your boutique.

Offering customers something that will make them feel unique and special is perhaps the biggest challenge when selling wholesale bracelets. After all, most people want to feel like one in a million, not one of a million, but even with mass production, you can use your unique insights into your customers to get quality products that resonate with them.

One exercise that will help you in this endeavor is to describe your current customer in terms of fashion-related adjectives. Pick seven to start and think of things like elegant, sophisticated, practical, trendy, conservative, eclectic, and so on. You want to paint an image of who shops at your store and then hone in on the bracelet designs that resonate with this persona. After all, it would make little sense to sell diamond tennis bracelets to clients who prefer hemp bracelets.

Speaking of materials, you will want to align this with the persona that you craft. You will notice that wholesale bracelets sold at boutiques like Dear Lover match the aesthetic and persona of the potential buyer. This is a marketing signal that transmits affinity between product and customer. That is why materials must be aligned with this persona. Metal, hemp, leather, or any other combination must align with the aesthetic your clients generally pursue. You will also want to consider the purpose. Heavy versus lightweight materials, for example, tend to factor into what the bracelet will be used for, whether during active sessions at the gym or at the desk at work.

There is also the aspect of visual versatility that ties in with both your client’s persona and the material of the wholesale bracelets. Do you typically sell statement pieces or everyday wear? What do people expect when they shop at your store? This will also lean heavily into the trends or mainstays of the persona you explore. Trendy items are somewhat hard to classify and rarely speak purely to function or utility, making them harder to attach to a certain customer type. Again, you need to consider expectations: What do my clients expect when they arrive in my store? The answer to this question will help you appropriately source items, whether it is an occasional statement piece, trendy one-time wear, or wardrobe mainstay. 

Related article:
Why Mixing Wholesale and Private Label Clothing Increases Boutique Profits

THE QUIET CORNER | Burnout Isn’t Laziness: It’s Survival Fatigue

As a 40-year-old Pinoy guy, living with aging parents can quietly wear you down in ways people don’t often talk about. On the outside, it looks like responsibility. On the inside, it can feel like slow, constant burnout.

I live with parents who are both ill. My father is a stroke survivor. My mother has diabetes. Their conditions don’t pause, don’t take weekends off, and don’t wait until it’s convenient. Every day comes with monitoring, reminders, appointments, worries, and that ever-present fear of “what if something happens today?”

ARTICLE | Why Are Filipinos Considered the Friendliest People — Even When We Don’t Feel Like It?

Quite recently, I found myself doing what I do best when I’m avoiding my own thoughts: scrolling. Somewhere between outfit videos and unsolicited life advice, a viral street interview popped up. Filmed in Europe. Casual. Harmless. The question was simple: Which country has the friendliest people? I barely registered it—until the Philippines came out on top. Thailand followed closely behind. I paused. I rewound. I watched it again. And as a Filipino, my first reaction wasn’t pride. It was confusion. Are we… really that friendly?

JOURNAL | The Guy Who Never Came Back

Some men come into your life for a night. Some men come in for a week. And some men… think they can just sprint in, get what they want, and vanish like Houdini. That was him - the Grindr guy. We’d been chatting on Grindr for almost a month — half-Pakistani, half-Turkish, tall, hairy, the kind of man who makes you think, Yes, yes, yes. I didn’t expect him to actually show up that night. It was almost midnight. In this city, men at midnight are usually either drunk, desperate, or delusional. Spoiler alert: he wasn't any of the three.

He arrived. Cute, confident, hair in all the right places… and smelling like he had personally wrestled a basket of onions. Yes, it was gross. Yes, it was intoxicating. I’ll admit it: sometimes stinky can be sexy. And honey, I know sexy when I smell it. He made his intentions clear, and let’s just say… I obliged. We were two consenting adults in a city that doesn’t exactly encourage this kind of freedom, and for a few minutes, it was fun, raw, hot — everything you'll want about a man.

Then came the classic move: “I just need to grab condoms from my car.”

PAGEANT | Miss Universe 2025: A Crown, A Crisis & A Turning Point for Global Pageantry

Bangkok, Thailand — Long before the new Miss Universe took her victory walk under the glittering lights of Impact Challenger Hall, it was clear that this year’s pageant would not be remembered solely for the beauty, gowns, or final question. Miss Universe 2025 became a collision point—between tradition and modernity, between spectacle and accountability, and between a well-rehearsed global production and the messy realities of human behavior under pressure. At the center of it all stood Fátima Bosch of Mexico, now wearing one of the world’s most recognizable crowns. Graceful, composed, and visibly emotional, she accepted her win in a hall buzzing with cheers, whispered rumors, and the fresh scent of controversy still lingering from backstage.

ARTICLE | A Critique of Mandatory HIV Testing for Residency Renewal

For many expatriates, myself included, renewing a resident visa comes with a familiar routine: undergoing a mandatory medical test. On the surface, this requirement appears to be just another bureaucratic step in maintaining legal status. Yet, when revealed, the test is often focused almost exclusively on HIV. This focus raises serious ethical, human rights, and public health questions.

THE QUIET CORNER | Existing But Not Living

The past few days, I’ve noticed something unsettling about myself. It feels like I’ve degenerated. Not in the dramatic, world-ending kind of way, but in the quiet, almost invisible sense where you suddenly realize that the spark you once carried has dimmed into something you can barely feel anymore. I used to look forward to people. Conversations. Even the things I once loved doing. Now, when I come home after a long day, all I want to do is collapse into bed. No music, no books, no hobbies, no laughter — just the dead weight of exhaustion pressing me into my mattress. Is this depression? Or is it some kind of soul crush — that strange emptiness where you’re not exactly broken, but you’re not alive either. Days roll into each other, and the future doesn’t even glimmer. It just looks… blank.

ARTICLE | What We Talk About When We Talk About La Union

There’s a particular kind of exhaustion that doesn’t come from long bus rides or late-night drinks—it comes from showing up for people who don’t show up for you. I didn’t know that would be the takeaway when I said yes to a spontaneous Labor Day trip to La Union. All I knew then was that my last few weeks had been a blur of overpriced cocktails, chaotic group chats, and the kind of emotional whiplash that only comes from partying too hard and trusting too easily. Bangkok. Puerto Galera. And now, apparently, the beach town of La Union. I said yes because I always do. Because the idea of another weekend spent “recovering” felt more suffocating than spending it in a car full of vague plans and flaky friends. Because there’s always the hope that this time, the chaos will be worth it. Spoiler: it wasn’t. But also—maybe it was. In a different way.

NEWS | Tensions Escalate into Open Conflict: Unpacking the Ongoing Cambodia–Thailand War

Southeast Asia at a Boiling Point: Cambodia–Thailand War Intensifies

What began as simmering border tensions has now exploded into a full-scale military conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, marking one of the most serious escalations in Southeast Asia in over a decade. As of July 2025, both nations have mobilized thousands of troops along their shared border, triggering fears of a broader regional instability. Here’s a comprehensive look into how this war started, what’s currently happening, and what it could mean for the region and the world.

TRAVEL | Puerto Galera 2025: Where Gays, Chaos, and Check-In Times Collide

Where do I even begin? This year’s Puerto Galera edition was, dare I say, a masterpiece in organized chaos. Unlike last year’s minimalist collection of 10 lost souls and a failed group coordinator (read: flop era), this time we leveled up with 20 fabulous attendees squeezed into 6 rooms. A glamorous logistical puzzle, but at least I was there to steer the glittery ship myself. It’s still a relatively “small” group—especially compared to those mega gay exoduses where 100 half-naked men descend upon an island like a RuPaul army. But as I always say: under 50 gays = manageable. Over 50 = start praying to Santa Santino. Puerto Galera Holy Week is our annual excuse to leave behind the sins of the city and commit brand new ones by the beach, complete with glitter, rum, and terrible decisions. My role? Fairy godmother of accommodations, land travel, and trying not to scream.

TRAVEL | The Great La Union Labor Day Fiasco

So, picture this: I’m sprawled on my couch, recovering from the financial bloodbath of back-to-back shindigs in Bangkok and Puerto Galera, when ping—a random message about a La Union trip for Labor Day pops up. My brain’s like, “Bruh, you’re broke, and this is soon.” But my heart’s screaming, “YOLO, it’s La Union, let’s surf this wave!” So, naturally, I yeet caution to the wind and say, “Screw it, we’re doing this.”

To read more about La Union, click here:
Discovering La Union: The New Summer Hotspot for LaborUnion Festivities

TRAVEL | Discovering La Union: The New Summer Hotspot for LaborUnion Festivities

Fresh from the vibrant shores of Puerto Galera, our group was buzzing with excitement for our next adventure: La Union, the rising star of summer destinations in the Philippines. Known for its LaborUnion festivities, La Union has emerged as a top getaway spot, especially around May 1st, a national holiday that gives Filipinos the perfect excuse to escape the hustle of Manila for a few days of sun, sand, and celebration. But what makes La Union the go-to destination for summer revelry, especially after Boracay’s iconic Laboracay lost its sparkle? Let’s dive into why “Elyu,” as locals affectionately call it, is stealing the spotlight.

AWARDS | 2025 Emmy Nominations: Full Breakdown & Highlights

The Emmys are back, and this year’s show is shaping up to be a full-on streaming showdown. HBO, Netflix, Apple TV+—everyone’s bringing their A-game, with Succession, The Bear, and Beef leading the buzz. Expect high fashion, hot takes, and at least one viral acceptance speech. With categories more stacked than ever and fan-favorite casts making a return to the red carpet, the night isn’t just about awards—it’s a live-feed frenzy of culture, drama, and those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it meme moments. Whether you're in it for the trophies or the tweets, this year’s Emmys are not to be scrolled past.

TRAVEL | My Wild & Eye-Opening Songkran 2025 Experience in Bangkok (No Dodgy Stuff, I Promise)

It’s been a couple of months since Songkran 2025 in Bangkok, but the memories are still fresh—and honestly, unforgettable. Songkran isn’t just a water festival; it’s a full-blown, city-wide, soul-resetting experience that leaves you drenched in excitement, culture, and a bit of chaos (in the best way). If you’re curious what it’s like to experience Songkran solo while keeping things clean and classy, here’s a glimpse into my unforgettable trip to Thailand. I just have to say, when it comes to events like Songkran, choosing the right group of people to hang out with makes all the difference. I can’t even imagine how the experience would’ve felt if my crew hadn’t been all-in—wading through muddy streets during water gun fights, or chasing late-night street food like it was part of the adventure. Those moments weren’t just fun—they were unforgettable. They gave my time in Bangkok a sense of realness, of authenticity. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of luxury—fancy restaurants, posh hotels—but to me, a real vacation means diving into the chaos, getting messy, and living like a local. That’s where the magic is. That’s legit immersion.

TRAVEL | Puerto Galera 2025: Mga Realizations Sa Isla

So ayun na nga, mga papi - Puerto Galera 2025 happened. Akala ko pupunta lang tayo para mag-beach, mag-party, at mag-feeling cute. Pero as always, andun din yung mga life lessons na binigay nung isla. Let me break it down for y’all — baka makatulong sa future trip mo.

MUSIC | Lady Gaga's Iconic Return: A Look at Her Top 10 Most Recognized Songs

Lady Gaga’s latest single, Abracadabra, from her newly released album, has taken the world by storm. This electrifying track has been praised for bringing back Gaga’s signature sound—edgy, danceable, and undeniably catchy. Fans and critics alike have compared it to her earlier club anthems, solidifying its place as a true dance hit. To celebrate Lady Gaga’s triumphant return to her dance-pop roots, we’re taking a look at the top 10 most notably recognized songs from her legendary career. Spanning multiple albums and showcasing her versatility as an artist, these tracks have left a lasting impact on pop music and culture.