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.
Pre-Flight Drama: The Airport Chronicles (3 April 2025)
The trip started right after work. I hopped on a bus straight to the airport, trying to get there early for my 1AM flight to Bangkok. Thankfully, the bus ride was smooth, but the departure queue was packed like a sardine can.
Now here comes the drama: an Arab couple in line near me got overly dramatic about personal space—even though we were obviously being jostled around in a packed line. The husband tells me, “Distance, my friend,” and I’m thinking, “Are you serious right now?” I kept my cool and distanced myself, but guess who was still stuck in line when I was already checking in? Yep, karma works fast.
Even the check-in counter gave me a mini heart attack. The staff insisted I hadn’t paid for check-in, even though I’d done it online. One calm smirk later—and a bit of digital double-checking—she found my name. Boarding pass in hand, I marched off, leaving all the nonsense behind.
Day 1: Touchdown Bangkok: Lost in Silom & Wifi Woes (4 April 2025)
Arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport, I immediately spotted the same annoying couple. No thanks—I slowed down and slipped away unnoticed. Immigration was smooth, and soon I was on the Airport Rail Link to Silom, one of Bangkok’s busiest and most vibrant districts.
Travel Tip: If you plan on using public transport often, grab a Bangkok Metro Day Pass—super cost-effective and convenient.
Finding my hostel was a mini adventure of its own. Google Maps kept spinning me in circles, and I was lugging heavy bags under the heat. Eventually, I found the hostel tucked in a hidden corner. The receptionist was kind enough to let me leave my bags, but check-in wasn’t until 2PM.
Since it was a working day for me, I needed WiFi—except the hostel’s Internet was down. Great. I dragged myself to a nearby café, ordered a berry shake for the WiFi password, only to realize I needed a socket adaptor for my laptop. Cue a dash to 7-Eleven.
Note to self: never leave your valuables in a café unattended, even if it’s for 10 minutes. I got lucky.
With the WiFi barely holding up and my coworkers checking in on me, I decided to stop stressing and just wait for check-in. I crashed hard in the dorm, which thankfully had a comfy bed and some privacy. That night, I stocked up on toiletries and bought a Thai SIM card (you’ll need to present your passport).
Exhausted but finally settled, I wandered out for street food dinner—questionable hygiene, amazing taste—and skipped out on an invite to GOD Bangkok, one of the city's most famous gay clubs. I had zero energy left. Tomorrow, though, was another story.
Day 2: First Taste of Bangkok Nightlife – Welcome to GOD (5 April 2025)
The next day started slow. Most shops in Bangkok open late, so breakfast was a reluctant McDonald's meal. I saw a few familiar faces from my hostel but wasn’t in a social mood.
Most of my day was spent organizing travel plans in an Excel sheet—several friends were arriving in the next few days and I wanted to sync our Songkran itinerary. But come nightfall, it was finally time to check out GOD (Guys on Display).
Initial thoughts? Meh. I got there around 9PM, and the place was empty. Entry was 500 baht and came with two drinks. I stayed on the ground floor with a vodka pineapple, until my friend R showed up with a group. They took me upstairs—and that’s when the party exploded.
By midnight, GOD was packed wall-to-wall. Naked torsos everywhere, strobe lights, sweaty dancing, and a full-on gay club fever dream. It was nostalgic—like Che’Lu and Bed in Malate from the old Manila scene, but on steroids.
And then, the fanboy moment: I bumped into a former Mister Gay World Philippines contestant. Naturally, I asked for a selfie. By the time Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” blasted through the speakers, I knew the night had peaked. I called it a night at 2AM.
Day 3: Onsen Vibes: A Chill Way to End the Weekend (6 April 2025)
After all the excitement, Sunday was about winding down. Around 7PM, I visited Kaikan Onsen, one of Bangkok’s newest gay men’s onsens. A 15-minute tuktuk ride took me to this clean, relaxing, and modern spot. It was the perfect way to detox—mentally and physically—from the chaos of the previous night.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by a nice man from the window. Shoes had to be taken off, and I had no clue what had to be done. Apparently you need to place the shoes inside the bags (they provide) and leave them at the counter. They also provide small towels - barely covering anything so you are really meant to be naked inside the onsen. From the entry, the lockers are the first thing you'll see. On the side is the lounge with the alcohol. And moving inside, the shower area and the powder area. There's a sliding door that goes to the pool - there are hot and not so hot pools. And by the corner are the sauna and steam. The pool was big and cozy for swimming laps. The sauna and steam are rather small - seems like it wasn't really meant to hold many people at a time.
There's a second floor where private rooms are located - and at 8pm they have some kind of show where lights are put out and everyone is free to grope around. The maze was lined up with mirrors and if you not careful, then it's so easy to bump into walls. There's a big hall surrounded by mirrors where people converge and have fun. It was fun to witness it all. But it was perhaps that open balcony that really caught my attention. Overlooking the open sky, and adorned with an artificial cherry blossom tree - I laid there naked in one of the lounge chairs. Slept for a few minutes and thought that it was all too quiet and restful. Something that I needed from the week's stress.
It was about 10pm, and people have started to leave the place. I decided to go back and dip into the pool - naked swimming like nothing to worry about. And when I got tired of swimming, I went back to the steam room. There were only the three of us - and obviously the other two guys were playing. They signaled for me to join but I told myself that I got to behave unless I get myself into unexpected STDs - I was not in my territory and I really don't know what I'm gonna get. So I was OK with just watching. They left eventually and I was alone in the sauna.
There are nights I think about what if I joined them - but when I imagine STDs and how inconvenient it is to get treated - I am just thankful that I behaved myself. After all, I have had fun enough already and just watching people do it is I can live with that. Not long after the two guys left, I left also and took shower. Overall, my experience in Kaikan had been wonderful and would definitely come back visit again.
Using the app BOLT, I hailed a tuktuk and got back to my hostel feeling happy and refreshed. I always enjoyed the feeling of riding tuktuk in Bangkok - although to be honest it is so dangerous. But that's what makes it pretty exciiting.
Day 4: 7 April 2025, Monday
Today has been about working remotely. I stayed in my room working on my laptop. I am supposed to be working until April 10th - so from today I still got three more days to labor. But frankly I am no longer in the mood to do anything. And all I can think of from this point is going out for parties - but you can't blame me. The whole mood in Silom has been so festive this week. So aside from the boring work I just kept myself filled with street food - Bangkok does not run out of street food and some of my favorites really are the noodles (with pork meat and blood), the fried rice and the mango with sweet salt.
Oh and to keep myself from getting stomach upset, I made sure to drink everyday the probiotic drink that 7-11 was selling. I forgot the name but that one is pretty effective because despite the dirty food I was having, I think it sure did it's job. One time I was eating at the open space kiosque and big rats started walking in front of my table. Funny thing was that nobody seemed bothered by it; and another time I saw the roof water drip into the stall food. Oh my lord, when I saw that I almost puked and had chills on my spine. That is the kind of dirty that'll give one Hepatitis if not gastroentoritis. But, it is what it is - welcome to Bangkok I guess. So cheers. Did I stop from eating, hell no. I think the parasites in my tummy are also having a fiesta inside.
I also started walking nights in Silom just to have a feel of the place. The celebrations are actually gonna happen in 3 days so life is still pretty normal. I get to see groups of good looking Chinese men every now and then but since it wasn't the peak yet - I wasn't surprised there are only a few.
Day 5: 8 April 2025, Tuesday
I still haven't purchased my GCircuit passes and to be honest I wasn't very keen on going because my budget is really low. What I have is only enough for the whole week and I was not so sure where on earth I'll be getting the funds to buy me the expensive passes. So I crunched the numbers, called a few friends - and in the end I managed to get just enough to attend two events - the Opening and Pool Party. More than that and I'm cooked. I didn't really want to push my luck knowing that two events would be enough. After all, I just wanted to know first hand what happens in GCircuit parties.
All the while musing about the GCircuit, I had to fix the calendar and make sure that all the people joining us will be on board (or at least on some events). So I kept an excel sheet to track where they will be and which events we can all be together.
You know in retrospect, I don't know how I managed to keep this people all together in an event knowing that everyone will have their own interests. Actually there are days when I just wanted to be by myself and some days I wanted company. I guess that's how the others also felt. And so there I was intently keeping the schedules so we don't miss important events. Songkran was a totally new jungle for me and I had to navigate slowly - with the help of more experienced people. But it was really a miracle how I managed to pull this all through. Imagine having limited budget juggling several events in different nights - I wonder how I paid for all that? I guess the Universe does provide. Trust is the key.
Okay, back to reality - aside from planning what has to be done in the coming days, nothing much has happened really. I just spent most of the time in my room - sleeping and playing scatter which was really a big mistake ( note to self - never gamble online, you never gonna win anyway ).
Day 6: 9 April 2025, Wednesday
Today I went out in the afternoon to change some money. I knew from walking some days ago that there was a nearby money changer in the area so I went there. I was already at the counter giving my cash and passport when the cashier told me if I had a valid passport. I was puzzled because I gave her my passport. So she gave it back to me - and to my shock it was indeed my old passport ( I even thought she punched two holes on it but I realized it was indeed the old one ). My mind and heart were racing - where was my valid passport. I rushed back to my hostel and searched my bag - I was so sure that I had just misplaced it because I used it when I checked in. I could not find it anywhere ( I was already in panic because if I lost my passport that will mean I need to go to the embassy and get a new one - but will be too late because I have a flight to catch on the 16th ). I rushed down to the reception and ask if she perhaps kept my passport. Negative, there was no passport the drawers or anywhere. She said if it was there, it would have been given back immediately to me. Made sense. I had to think quickly, where else will my passport be. And after a while, it hit me - 7-11 - that's it. I bought the SIM card and I probably left my passport there. So I quickly dashed to 7-11 and talked to the counter. My heart was able to breathe - it was there! My pass. You have no idea how relieved I was - no more going to the embassy, no more missing flight. My day was saved. I learned my lesson to be a little more careful with my things. All the while, I was thinking what if I did not discover it early? What if I only knew that my passport was missing on the day of my flight? That will be an absolute disaster - so I am very thankful that this happened on a good timing.
Day 7: 10 April 2025, Thursday
Today two of the Filipino joiners are arriving and we scheduled to visit Chakran - the famous bath house in Bangkok. I decided to pick up one of them from his hotel ( I actually wanted to see how the hotel looked liked because during the booking period - we had trouble modifying the room arrangement of the hotel simply because the travel agent of the other joiner declined to assist us ). Turned out the hotel was pretty old - but it was spacious.
Anyway, it was late afternoon and arrived on time at Chakran. One of the joiners V was staying in Chakran. Apparently Chakran has an accommodation - and if you stay there, you already get free pass in the bath house. It's actually enticing, the only thing is - you sure won't get a good night sleep because people do crazy stuff at night. So it was me, K and we were supposed to meet V and R inside.
It was my first time in Chakran. Once you reach the reception, you just pay the fee and you get the locker key and towels. The entry comes with two beers or one cocktail. The place was big and looked clean. The shower area is common but small. There is a stair that leads to the several floors.
First floor is where the gym is located. The second floor are private rooms with kinky themed rooms. Finally the rooftop where you'll find the pool and shower area and sauna and steam. The open area is kind of busy. There was bar that serves alcohol in the rooftop. On the other side are the straw huts where people can kind of get cozy and do their thing.
Funny because I was using the toilet and guess who I see at the gym - it was a friend from the Philippines whom I often bump into clubs and bars quite often. I guess birds of the same feather huh, and I was introduced to his partners. Yes, he was in a throuple and I was kind of taken aback. I mean this wasn't new to me but I thought he was single - well it has been years anyway. I was happy to see him, happy with his partners.
By 8pm, there was a show where local Thais were performing in a glass walled room ( by the pool ). To be honest, it wasn't so new to me being in the group fun circle that I am - this kind of show wasn't really shocking. If anything, it was kind of timid. It didn't take long before they ushered everyone to the straw huts on the other side. So people flocked and crowded - I had fun watching ( as usual ). Gay people are really easy to please - it only takes so little to make our night. I was in the business of watching and touching - nothing more than that because again I had to restrain my urges. So I kept on and on - until I felt sleepy. I think it was because of the juice which I am sure was mixed with a bit of alcohol. Or am I just too tired? Not really sure - or maybe I had too much sauna and steam. Or maybe I was still recovering from the passport scare from the previous night. Or maybe a mix of all.
I decided to go down and find a room to sleep. Yes, I slept in Chakran. The bed is still sticky with all the gays' ooze but I didn't mind. My eyes were closing and after a while I dozed off. It was until I heard somebody trying to open the door that I woke up. Funny how I always sleep in bath houses in Bangkok - I really think about paying too much to sleep in bath houses, funny but that's how I roll.
By midnight, we all decided to move to BEEF. It was so out of the plan considering that everyone is probably already tired but who would want to miss out the Friday vibes at Beef. It's the go to place for bears in Silom. From Chakran, we all walked towards the Ari Metro station. Funny because even when we got there, we still didn't make up our minds about going to Beef. I mean sure it was a welcome idea but people seemed to be really exhausted - but what can we do? This only happens once and we cannot let go of the chance. Besides, I really want to explore how it looked and feel. I am clueless about this bar so I just followed wherever they were going.
After we reached the Silom station, we walked the ramp towards the mall and indeed nobody would have guessed that the club was at the rooftop of the mall. At least I didn't/ And from the outside, the queue has started to stretch. Judging from the guests, the tribe indeed is for the chunky and bears. But no issues, everyone was welcome. I was just concerned about how much it'll all cost because I am running low on funds at this point. The few remaining in my bank account won't really make it to the end of this very compulsive trip. But did it get me running back out - of course not. There I was swiping my card and hoping the future will be kind on me ( really stupid of me to do this ).
Inside was absolute chaos. It was packed to the brim and the bar seemed like a wrestling match just to get your drinks. The entry ticket gets you two drinks by the way, and I wanted to take things slowly - you know, chill and have fun. But because of the stressful scenario in the bar - I decided to get all the drinks all at once and be seated on the side. And finally when I did, I got to breathe. My spot on the corner near the exit door was not so full and I could watch the entire club unfold before my very eyes. All sorts of gays from everywhere - in different forms and sizes. But you know what's nice - nobody actually cared about how you looked. People are legit just there to chill and not be in competition with each other. At least that's how I felt. I didn't have to tiptoe and be careful of my bearing. I was just sitting and drinking. My friends, well they must be on the other side but I didn't feel the need to find them. I was just glad on my spot. But when my drinks were finished, I walked around and tried to look for them. Finally found them sitting outside and talking to some other people.
Guess the alcohol was already in my system, I felt more comfortable to socialize and talk without really thinking about anything else. Just the kind of talk that don't mean anything. I met the guys from Malaysia, asked for IG accounts and just danced KPOP dances on the floor. Everyone was just busy with dancing and nobody gave a damn about anything, and that was probably one of the best nights I had in Silom ( second to the drinks Beef served which was delightfully strong ). At 2am, we decided to go down and eat some noodles by the street stalls. While eating, guess who we see - it was one of those bikini people in the Philippines with the eagle tattoo on his chest. We approached him and talked to him - he was speaking in English ( I was surprised ). Said he was with some friends inside DJ Station. And we left him - one of my friends still wanted to party and insisted to pass by GOD of which I refused because my feet are killing me and all I wanted to do at that point is to go back to the hostel and sleep.
11 April 2025, Friday
Today I checked again the GCircuit website and was shocked to see that the tickets are no longer being sold. I thought that was it - I am no longer watching GCircuit.
You know in restrospect, I really thought that GCircuit was some kind of show where you can watch performances - similar to Obar, and I really lived by that fantasy. Just to be kind of disappointed when I actually attended the event. Oh well, charge to experience I suppose.
But then I read from somewhere that tickets can be availed at the door albeit more pricey. So I said I will try to buy the tickets tomorrow and if I could not, then that's totally fine. I'll just save my money.
Anyway today is scheduled for Krubb. Me and some of the gang decided to try it ( it will be my second time actually ). To my mind, I still get confused between Krubb and Chakran - but if I'm being honest I think Krubb is better than Chakran. In fact, I am to rank the bath houses in Bangkok, it will be:
1. Krubb
2. Chakran
3. Sauna Mania
4. Ratsada
5. Underground
There is a new bath house called 1/0 but I was not able to visit it, so maybe I'll come go there when I visit again in December ( during White Party Bangkok ).
Anyway back to Krubb. I got there and found that there was already a queue. The lockers apparently are full. But it didn't take much time when I got my locker key which is number 1. I went up the stairs and saw many naked guys - some leaving and some just arrived. It didn't take long before I found some of my friends inside. I felt at home in Krubb - people are chill and don't really care about anything else. There's a pool at the rooftop and they serve alcohol - I swear, my stay in Bangkok I have been intoxicated the whole time. I was really worried about about my liver. So I decided to just dowse myself with cold water. Also at the rooftop are the steam and sauna, but I avoided the steam room because the floor was flooded and god knows what bacteria or even warts I can get there - so I decided to stay in the sauna.
Inside the sauna, was a mix of races. Mostly asians and some middle eastern men. People don't talk until a group of Filipinos started chatting like they are the only people inside (just annoying, really). It turns out one of them was a content creator in the Philippines and was invited to Bangkok to perform. I don't really stick my nose where it's not supposed to be, but because they were really loud, I felt like I already knew about them since the beginning time. This guy talking was sitting in front of me, and I could not really get out without brushing him aside and so I did. Yes I did. I held on to his shoulders and jumped forward. He released a small "ouch" and I never looked back.
I went down to where the food was. There wasn't much really, just some pretzels and some occasional nuts. Around 8pm, the show started. I recognized the dancer was the same buff guy who danced last time I was here - but this time he was joined by another big built cute looking guy. The second guy had a killer smile and more charming in my opinion. But both had amazing physique and throughout their pool dance performance, they kept showing their bums. And went around distributing bottle shots of vodka to everyone who wanted it. That show was entertaining I must admit, but after the show it kind of went down. People dispersed and went on to their business.
The problem with Krubb is that they have fewer rooms, and more play areas. People tended to stand and wait in corners, and in some common instances the group fun happen in common areas. Crowds groping crowds one body after another. I sometimes think about how people don't really mind the possibility of STDs in situations like this. I wasn't really judging, I was just concerend. It went on for a few more hours. I was just observing, and just waiting for my friends to go. But some of them already left - and the last friend I saw had someone with him so they probably will just hang out together. My problem was my phone battery died, so I had to ask my friend to book me a tuktuk so I can go back to hostel.
While on my ride, I could not help but feel some sort of emptiness. It was fun, but I just felt that I cannot be doing this over and over again. I'm not in for the sex, and I am also not looking for someone in a place like that. I just wanted some peace of mind.
12 April 2025, Saturday
The opening show of GCircuit happens later this evening. So the plan was to go and buy the tickets for the opening show, and if I feel like it - the pool boy party ( but honestly my funds is running really low, I have no idea how I will be able to survive this ).
Left the hostel early today making sure I catch the queue on time. To my mind, I was expecting a crowd turnout, and I still need to look where exactly is the location of the booths. I just knew that it was in Emsphere Mall, but I didn't know where - and as expected, I was lost. My only clue was to look for groups of gay men and when I did find some people holding waterproof cases with tickets inside I knew I was close. Approached some guys and asked where it was and in 5 minutes I was already there. Luckily, there weren't many people (suprising) but what the heck - I lined up and got the tickets for the opening night. But when I was about to pay via card, my card kept declining. So I had to walk to the nearest ATM and get cash - luckily my card worked. Otherwise I won't be able to pay for the ticket. It was a relief and at the same time, woeful knowing that I only have so little money left after paying for the ticket. But I just told myself that this only happens once, so I have to dive right in. As I pay for the ticket, I also had to top up the bracelet and since I didn't think I am going to drink much, I just loaded 600 baht each ( for the opening and for the boy pool party - yes I am going to attend both ). Everything else went smooth as I hailed a tuktuk and went back hostel to prepare. Later in the afternoon, I picked up K from his accommodation and we went to the venue together but since we didn't want to get caught up in the traffic jam, we split the ride and got separate tuktuks.
The Opening Event
Venue is in Emsphere, a huge mall with an event hall at the top floor. It didn't look like a party venue at all - but once we reach the event area, it was magnificent. Anyway it was still too early so K and I had dinner first before going up again. At 7pm, we were too early as the party didn't start until 9pm. So we were just at the entrance lobby waiting. I kindda enjoyed people watching and seeing the different sorts of gay people from all over the world. It's like a parade of nations - but more flamboyant and colorful.
From the entrance, there were huge LCD panels with AI of gorgeous men being shown from it. As you walk inside, different booths with half naked men adorn the spaces offering all sorts of freebies and they are happy to have a photo taken with everybody. And then comes the entry - dark lit and all you can see is the center stage while everything else is empty - designed to make people dance. On the sides are the drinks booths which takes the order of the visitors, albeit I must say that drinks in GCircuit is awfully diluted you can never taste the alcohol anymore - perhaps intentional to keep people from getting too pickled. Although the drinks don't come cheap at 400 baht each. We stayed on the right corner of the stage where it isn't too packed - the crowd tend to squeeze on the front but the side was almost empty. Around midnight, the DJ started to play the main set list and people got rowdy and euphoric. Almost everyone is half naked now and bodies touching other bodies. It was absolutely freedom for everyone. After a while, the go-go boys dancers came to the center stage wearing the colorful provocative underwears while gyrating to the beats of the music. Some people from the audience were kind enough to slip money to the go-go dancers by mouth ( they keep the money from their month and the go-go boys take it by mouth too ). That was such a sight and something new for me. It was entertaining and lively - but after 1am, I already felt exhausted. I went around to check if there's anything else to see and I bumped into some familiar faces like the two guys I met at Beef. It was too hot they were sweating like crazy and since you cannot move much, you kindda get drenched with their sweat ( part of the crazy night experience ). After the jostling and squeezing, I decided it was time to go home. My feet could no longer take it anymore, so I bid the friends goodbye and went out to take the tuktuk. I was thinking maybe if I had some friends with me that night, we probably went somewhere else, anyway the tuktuk dropped me at the front of Silom because he could not enter anymore due to the water fights - the roads were already blocked. I walked towards my hostel and on the way, I passed by GOD and saw that there were a lot of people - like what do you mean there are still so many people in GOD when GCircuit is so packed, I guess gays are overtaking the world.
13 April 2025, Sunday
Today I was scheduled to meet the other guys so we can join the water gun parade. I met K at a mall near Pratunam to look for slippers while he needed to buy a luggage. While there, I saw a pharmacy and decided to buy some medicine for by then a sore throat and fever brewing inside me which I adamantly tried to suppress as long as I can as I cannot afford to be sick on this big holiday otherwise it ruins everything. So there we were and I just realized that pharmacies in Thailand needed licensed doctors to actually dispense medicine. It was quite convenient as I got a free prescription - a tablet that needed to be taken 3 times a day to kill whatever virus/bacteria I had. I suppose it was all due to the ever chaging weather of Bangkok - hot in the morning and rainy in the afternoon.
When K and I could not find what we needed, we went instead to the public market in Pratunam. Though it was a around noon, the crowd was still full and the sun was shining bright. I finally did manage to buy slippers and after walking for about an hour K did find his bag. And so we headed back to their hotel and fetched the other two guys. D decided not to join the water fight and stayed in the hotel while the three of us proceeded to Silom.
The road was already blocked in Silom so our taxi dropped us to the closest entrance. People have started to walk around and shoot water guns. The entire road now soaked in water as people continuously pour water to everyone. It was an amazing experience. Plus you get to shoot the good looking guys on the road and some of the guys are just so ripped it was impossible not to drool.
The walk around the whole Silom street takes about 30-45 minutes to complete the whole turn. And every corner will have water stations where people collect water - some free, while most are charged at 1 baht. There are also special booths that feature certain shows like the one with the DJs or that with a stage of dancing local Thai guys or that stage with hosts playing KPOP songs. It was truly a festival with various offerings. I'd say the only challenge was to find a restroom - but to be honest, like most of the people just piss on the spot because nobody will notice anyway.
About 6pm, we decided to stop and eat at a local kiosque. We decided that for tonight, we will be heading to GOD again to cap the day's frolicking.
At GOD, having been there already before I already knew that the place only gets packed by midnight so we didn't really rush. We took our sweet time and it has become one of the highlights in our Songkran adventure. This time, we had a bigger group - around six of us came to GOD and while there we explored further the vicinity. We went up the 3rd floor and checked what was going on there. We saw people sitting in groups in one of the corner near the stairs and others were standing by the rails near the toilets (I heard that's where some of the action happens). From the top 3rd floor, you can see what's beneath and from where we stood - we saw the many half naked guys already at this time around midnight. It has become so densely packed that if ever there was a fire, a lot of gay people will literally burn to oblivion. But nobody cares about safety as long as they get themselves into the action. After inspecting, we came down to the second floor where we are seated facing the dance floor to gawk at what's happening. There was a DJ playing his mix of EDM and at the center of the dance floor was a floor where six people can stand and feel that they are worshipped.
Speaking of worship, has it ever occurred to you that places like GOD club is nothing but a modern worship place. Like how Greeks venerate the gods in their temples, gays are exactly doing the same and worshipping not a god - but the thrill of the moment; both inducing pleasure done in different ways. So yeah, this is the new temple of worship for most gay people where they send their prayers to the heaven by getting high on substances or intoxicated in alcohol.
From where we stand, we easily spot the faces of the people and from time to time we get to meet new guys. Like this Indonesian guy who danced with us on the dance floor or the Malaysian guy who kept on kissing (more like devouring) the people from our spot. It was so intense, but we really didn't pay too much attention to it. But what hits me is that despite the grossness of the whole situation - sweat, grime, saliva, piss and what not - people just couldn't be bothered. But it was the smell that really turned me off - whenever I smell something awful, my libido just escapes me. Anyhow, for the rest of the night - we just kept on dancing on the dance floor.
To be honest, it wasn't dancing. It was standing and getting caught up with the waves of bodies and since I am small, I was literally sinking from where I was. From around I can also spot people getting high from all kinds of substances which was shocking to me. It was the first to see actual substances being used by people real actual people that is. No judging, all we wanted is to party and have fun so I decided to just ignore everything and just focus on myself. Dwarfed further by the tall Chinese men and since I couldn't see what's in front of me or what's behind - I just focused on myself. Until I felt someone banging their dick behind me and I kindda enjoyed it. It felt kinky, not knowing who the guy was. All I knew was that he was tall because I can feel his dick on my back. And I tried to reach it and hold on to his dick while I could. But there were other hands also groping him and so I let go and just went on with my business. Not long after, I recognized a familiar face - someone I had met in one of the group fun I organized in Manila. He introduced me to his husband and right then and there I realized why he wasn't responding to my invitations no more - and that's because he was already married. I was truly happy for him. Gay people deserve happy endings after all.
As the night got deeper, the club got more crowded and by 2am - it was already impossible to move. So when I wanted to step out of the dance floor, I had to literally jostle my way out of the crowd. And what I observed was that some of these good looking men are truly insecure about themselves and felt that they are competing with each other. You know how when you have a prey and they feel threatened so they get worked up and protect their boundaries - that's how it felt. Eventually I managed to climb up to the second floor and sit with my friends. I was sweating like crazy and had no intention of coming back to the dance floor again. I just continued people watching from our spot - get mauled unintentionally by all the people coming and going from our back. Left and right surrounded by people busy torrid kissing each other while us on the table be chill and relaxed by all the chaos around us.
14 April 2025, Monday
Today was the last day of the Songkran Festival. We didn't have any plans and neither did my friends - so I thought I'd tag along with R to see the river cruise and walk along art street near Khao San. The weather was rainy today - it was pouring a little bit but we still manage to get around the area. I actually came late so when I reached the dock, the ferry already left. In Bangkok, they have this free ferry ride that goes around the city for 15 minutes. Anyhow, I decided to walk around the art street and appreciate the local vibes. It's really inspiring to see the efforts of the local to preserve their culture through art which was evident from the paintings, photos and other crafts.
When I got tired, and the rain started to pour again - I went to this restaurant and ate some local noodles. I am a big fan of Thai food so nothing can really go wrong (I just needed to watch the water though because I tend to get upset tummy when I drink water from other places). A few minutes later, R and his brother showed up but they were craving for something else and so they left. Before I finished my food, another friend came and we walked together towards R. It was already noon.
We decided to hang out at an art cafe, where they have these books as decors. The ambiance was bright and clean; the coffee table books added some touch of geek nostalgia. And some of the customers are even allowed to do some at craft with their cakes - to pass time while they are there. The rain has started to pour even more. While we were inside the cafe, another friend came and all of us were just sitting on that table. Nothing has been planned really for today (but I know that I will be leaving tomorrow). By 2pm, we all decided to part ways. Since there was plan for today, I decided to visit the bathhouse called "Underground" - the name sounded intriguing so I took a motorcycle ride and headed there.
The Underground Bathhouse
The place is a bit old. There was a queue when I got there which was understandable because it's Songkran. Based on the people waiting I can say that the demographics is somewhat mid to late 30s. After paying, you are given a padlock and key, along with towel. There's no slippers which really turned me off because the floor can be quite dirty to say the least. Just after the entrance, the sauna and steam are located. There's a faint smell of old wood decay in the sauna, while it was too dark in the steam. Can't really say much about the steam except that the inside had a maze so people can go cruising in the dark (not my cup of tea to be honest). I left the ground floor and headed towards the upper floor where the bar was located as well as the lockers. A few Chinese men were sitting around talking loudly. They serve alcohol and food at the bar.
There's a stair that leads to the dark room for more cruising and every room and alley leads to another passage. Can be easily get lost inside if it's your first time and while there are many people inside, it's kind challenging to hook up because people kept moving. At one point, I just sat in one of the rooms because I got tired walking around inspecting what I can find inside. The rooms and beds do not look hygienic and did not smell hygienic so I opted not to use any. And so I was only sitting mostly in one of the rooms observing the people come and go. When I got bored, I climbed this steps to reach a open room from the outside. I thought it would be empty but there was this local guy resting. He started a conversation and at the dark, we were exchanging thoughts. I wasn't in the mood really to do anything but after a while I said OK I'm leaving the next day anyway so might as well have some fun. He told me how I had good face (not good body) and I thought that was really funny - because it was true. Compared to most of the guys there, I have gone fat with belly, chest sagging and made me look old and bloated. I hated that for myself but that was the truth. However, those kind words did help me realize that people can appreciate my looks and not my body. This guy I was talking with, I just told him to lie down and let me do the rest. After a while, I bid him goodbye as I wanted to go back to the hostel before it rained again.
It's my last night in Bangkok and I felt a bit sad. I could not go to some other places because unfortunately I had no money anymore. There were still a lot of places to explore and it would have been amazing if I could just go out and do that - but I'm not really complaining. Just being able to experience Songkran in Bangkok has been simply marvelous.
By this time, I have been transferred to the 4th floor of the hostel. And I was at the top bunk bed beside the door - the worst possible bed you can get. But it's a good thing that I was anyway about to leave, so no stress at all. It was only difficult as I had to climb up and down to go to the toilet and shower and the cabinet was also far so I had to make an effort to get to my things. You know speaking of things, I'd like to write a few tips when it comes to selecting hostels:
Selecting Hostels in Bangkok
1. Choose a hostel that is close to the area you intend to spend most time. So let's say you plan to attend the Songkran parade in Silom, choose a hostel within that area. Not only will it be convenient, you also save time and money since commute is difficult during this period.
2. Check the rating of the hostel online. Although every hostel will offer different experience, your priority is still to find something that works for you and your budget.
3. Look closely at the amenities. In the hostel I stayed at which is Kinnon, they had no facility for laundry and not even clothes line to hang your clothes. I had to find ways to dry my clothes and it wasn't so easy. Considering that Songkran is a season to get wet, you will need to wash your clothes more often.
4. Hostel that is nearby to food area. There's always option for hostel food or delivery but what you will want is to explore the neighborhood and feel the authentic vibes so having food stalls and local diners will help you get nourished while exploring.
5. When choosing a bed, always stay away from the bed close to the door. Why, because shared rooms tend to make people constantly open the door and if you are a light sleeper, it will be hard to get rested every time you hear people open that door, open the lights and rummage through their things.
Final Thoughts: Is Songkran in Bangkok Worth It?
100% YES—even without the wild water fights (yet to come). Just a few days in and I’d already had the full Bangkok experience: airport drama, street food adventures, WiFi struggles, crazy nightlife, celebrity sightings, and even a caling onsen visit.
Would I go again? In a heartbeat.
If you’re planning to attend Songkran in Bangkok, prepare for unpredictable moments—but know that every second will be worth it. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and most of all—have the time of your life.
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