10/08/2019
- Getting to Nana Plaza from Sukhumvit 4: A Practical Guide
- Walking to Nana Plaza
- Utilising Hotel Services
- Public Transportation Options
- Understanding Nana Plaza
- The Nana Plaza Experience: Bars and Beyond
- The Prostitution Scene Around Nana Plaza
- Accommodation Near Nana Plaza
- Historical and Literary Connections
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Nana Plaza from Sukhumvit 4: A Practical Guide
For travellers staying in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok, particularly on Sukhumvit Soi 4, reaching the renowned Nana Plaza is a straightforward affair. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a convenient ride, there are several efficient methods to navigate the short distance to this bustling adult entertainment district. This guide will walk you through your options, offering insights into the area and what to expect.
Walking to Nana Plaza
If your accommodation is situated on Sukhumvit Soi 4, you're in luck. Nana Plaza is a mere 300-meter walk from the far end of the soi. This is a perfectly manageable distance for most, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of the neighbourhood as you head towards your destination. The walk is generally safe and well-lit, especially as you get closer to Sukhumvit Road.
Utilising Hotel Services
Many hotels located on Sukhumvit Soi 4 offer excellent amenities for their guests, and a common perk is a complimentary tuk-tuk service. This convenient option can transport you directly to the vicinity of Nana Plaza, often dropping you off near NEP and the Nana BTS SkyTrain station. This is an ideal choice if you're looking for a quick and effortless transfer, especially after a long day of exploring Bangkok.
Public Transportation Options
Nana Plaza is exceptionally well-connected by Bangkok's public transport system. The most direct route is via the BTS Skytrain. Simply alight at the Nana BTS station. From there, Nana Plaza is just a stone's throw away, easily accessible with a very short walk. If you happen to be closer to the Asok BTS station, it's still a viable option, requiring approximately a 10-minute walk to reach Nana Plaza. For those who prefer buses, numerous routes service the Sukhumvit Road area, making it easy to find a bus that stops near Nana Plaza.
Understanding Nana Plaza
Nana Plaza, located at 3, 1 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, is famously known as Bangkok's red-light district. It's a vibrant hub of activity, particularly popular with tourists seeking adult entertainment. The area comes alive at night, with most establishments opening their doors from around 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM. While a few bars might be open during the day, the true energy of Nana Plaza is experienced after sunset.
The Nana Plaza Experience: Bars and Beyond
Nana Plaza is a compact square housing over 30 bars, primarily gogo bars. These venues are geared towards adults, offering a unique nightlife experience. The atmosphere is lively, with music, flashing lights, and an abundance of hostesses eager to engage with patrons. The primary business model revolves around drinks and companionship.
Bar Operations and Costs
When you enter a bar in Nana Plaza, you'll find that the hostesses, often referred to as "girls" or "ladies," are there to encourage you to purchase drinks for them. Each consumption adds to your bill, and it's important to be mindful of how quickly expenses can accumulate. The hostesses are professionals, skilled in conversation and adept at ensuring a steady flow of drink orders.
Typical Pricing at Nana Plaza Bars
| Item | Estimated Price (THB) |
|---|---|
| Beer | 150 - 200 |
| Soft Drinks | 120 - 165 |
| Lady Drink | 150 - 200 |
| Bar Fine | 600 - 800 |
The 'Bar Fine' is a fee paid to the bar to allow a hostess to leave with you. This cost, along with the drinks consumed by both yourself and the hostess, the cost of a hotel room, and any agreed-upon services, forms the total expense for an evening with a hostess.
Popular Gogo Bars in Nana Plaza
While subjective, some gogo bars consistently receive recommendations from visitors. These establishments are all in close proximity within Nana Plaza:
- Billboard: Frequently cited as a top choice, open daily from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM. A beer typically costs around 160 THB, with a lady drink at 195 THB.
- Angelwitch: One of the longer-standing gogo bars, known for its popularity and suitability for larger groups. It operates daily from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
- Spanky’s: A well-liked venue, its appeal is often attributed to its atmosphere and the experiences of its patrons. It opens from 7:30 PM to 3:00 AM.
- Lollipop: Known for its colourful presentation and attractive dancers, Lollipop remains a classic and popular gogo bar, open from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM daily.
Understanding Hostess Roles
It's crucial to understand that not all women working in these bars are automatically prostitutes. Many are hostesses whose role is to accompany patrons within the bar, encouraging drink purchases and engaging in conversation. Hostesses retain the right to refuse to leave the bar with a client; their decision is final. Communication and clear expectations are key.
The Prostitution Scene Around Nana Plaza
Beyond the gogo bars within Nana Plaza itself, the surrounding streets and adjacent sois are also frequented by individuals, both women and lady-boys, offering sexual services. These individuals may be quite persistent, but a polite but firm 'no' accompanied by a smile is usually sufficient to deter them. They are working professionals seeking clients.
Accommodation Near Nana Plaza
For those planning an extended stay or who wish to be in the heart of the action, numerous hotels are available in the vicinity of Nana Plaza, particularly along Sukhumvit Road. These range from budget-friendly options to more luxurious establishments, catering to all preferences and financial plans. Some hotels even offer rooms on an hourly basis, a legacy from the area's evolving history.
Historical and Literary Connections
Interestingly, Nana Plaza derives its name from the neighbourhood, which in turn is linked to a character in Émile Zola's 1879 novel, 'Nana'. Zola's Nana was a captivating actress whose allure famously captivated Parisian society. While the novel depicted a woman in control of her destiny, the contemporary reality of Nana Plaza presents a different narrative, where the young women working there are often subject to market forces driven by tourism. The district has inspired contemporary novelists like John Burdett and Christopher G. Moore, though their works are distinct from Zola's original social commentary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far is Nana Plaza from Sukhumvit Soi 4?
Nana Plaza is approximately a 300-meter walk from the far end of Sukhumvit Soi 4.
Q2: What is the nearest BTS station to Nana Plaza?
The nearest BTS station is Nana BTS station.
Q3: What time do the bars in Nana Plaza typically open and close?
Most establishments are open from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
Q4: What is a 'Bar Fine'?
A 'Bar Fine' is a payment made to the bar to allow a hostess to leave with you. It typically ranges from 600 to 800 THB.
Q5: Can I bring a lady out of Nana Plaza?
Yes, you can, provided you pay the 'Bar Fine' and any other agreed-upon costs. Remember, the decision ultimately rests with the lady.
Navigating from Sukhumvit Soi 4 to Nana Plaza is simple, offering travellers multiple convenient options. Whether you choose to walk, use hotel transport, or opt for the efficient BTS Skytrain, reaching this iconic Bangkok nightlife destination is easily achieved.
If you want to read more articles similar to Navigating Sukhumvit: From Soi 4 to Nana Plaza, you can visit the Travel category.