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The massage guys or offs with a some English will frequently make conversation.  I always respond by asking about where they're from and about their families. Some from outside of Thailand describe fears of getting caught working there without a permit. Now, in light of the current crackdown on illegal workers, I'm wondering how much this may have played into MonBoy's decision to return home. 
 
I'm inclined to believe that although it factors into the boys' thinking, the resourceful will continue to take their chances and seek their fortunes in BKK and Pattaya. It may not be their ideal life choice, but it's a life that may make it possible to eventually return home for good with the resources to build a new home and get a head start that would otherwise elude them.
 
This, to me, is part of the attraction of getting to know these guys on more than a one-off basis.  Sure, I risk getting pulled into their day-to-day existence and likely to be more generous to those who make that special connection. But since I travel half-way around the world to be be among them, I'd be a fool not to take the very risks I seek--with all the due caution I can muster while lying with the naked incarnation of my dreams a short reach away..

The massage guys or offs with a some English will frequently make conversation.  I always respond by asking about where they're from and about their families. Some from outside of Thailand describe fears of getting caught working there without a permit. Now, in light of the current crackdown on illegal workers, I'm wondering how much this may have played into MonBoy's decision to return home. 
 
I'm inclined to believe that although it factors into the boys' thinking, the resourceful will continue to take their chances and seek their fortunes in BKK and Pattaya. It may not be their ideal life choice, but it's a life that may make it possible to eventually return home for good with the resources to build a new home and get a head start that would otherwise elude them.
 
This, to me, is part of the attraction of getting to know these guys on more than a one-off basis.  Sure, I risk getting pulled into their day-to-day existence and likely to be more generous to those who make that special connection. But since I travel half-way around the world to be be among them, I'd be a fool not to take the very risks I seek--with all the due caution I can muster while lying with the naked incarnation of my dreams a short reach away..

I particularly welcome the OP's observation that:
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
    After far too much time on Soi Twilight, these places came to be my favorites spots to relax, to meet some guys, to have some good conversation, and they will be the first places I hit upon my return next month (August).   We gotta show these places some love, for real!

This was an epic trip report. Sexy and at the same time thoughtful. Best of both worlds. Thanks so much!

Thank you for an excellent update on a variety of places.

It's not possible, namazu, for me to come away from your writings without recollections of my own experiences I now feel compelled to relive--and examine--under the lens that your adventures impose.  You easily rekindle memories I was content to leave compartmented in the past. You force me to confront unresolved emotions. 
 
I find myself recalling faces of those I met over 15 years of visits.  How many have returned to the farms, the villages, the families they described to me? How many did not? How did they survive? I don't think it possible to sleep with someone, awake to their smile and then totally erase them from my life.  We really don't possess a delete button.
 
My second trip was the first and only time I agreed to be seen off at the airport.  It was a week into my last trip when one of my new guys said "I go to airport with you" after asking what day I was leaving.  I gently but firmly discouraged him. 
 
How much are they pursuing their game plan? How much are we pursuing our's? In the end it probably doesn't matter because we're both destined to repeat the scenario with other players.  Some of these guys we may well see again while others simply disappear from our lives. 
 
What I'm becoming more aware of is the need to let them know I appreciate the time they shared with me.  I hope I treated each with with respect and left them their innate dignity. 
 
These, namazu, are the reflections of a much older man who is indebted to you not simply for the entertainment you provide but for the issues you bring forward.
 
And after I finish reading the forum today I'll begin planning my next trip--as I hope you, too, are doing!

It's not possible, namazu, for me to come away from your writings without recollections of my own experiences I now feel compelled to relive--and examine--under the lens that your adventures impose.  You easily rekindle memories I was content to leave compartmented in the past. You force me to confront unresolved emotions. 
 
I find myself recalling faces of those I met over 15 years of visits.  How many have returned to the farms, the villages, the families they described to me? How many did not? How did they survive? I don't think it possible to sleep with someone, awake to their smile and then totally erase them from my life.  We really don't possess a delete button.
 
My second trip was the first and only time I agreed to be seen off at the airport.  It was a week into my last trip when one of my new guys said "I go to airport with you" after asking what day I was leaving.  I gently but firmly discouraged him. 
 
How much are they pursuing their game plan? How much are we pursuing our's? In the end it probably doesn't matter because we're both destined to repeat the scenario with other players.  Some of these guys we may well see again while others simply disappear from our lives. 
 
What I'm becoming more aware of is the need to let them know I appreciate the time they shared with me.  I hope I treated each with with respect and left them their innate dignity. 
 
These, namazu, are the reflections of a much older man who is indebted to you not simply for the entertainment you provide but for the issues you bring forward.
 
And after I finish reading the forum today I'll begin planning my next trip--as I hope you, too, are doing!

this can be said about  many of us , working folks.
We like the paycheque, we may even like going to work but certainly we like going home from work better.
 
And probably it helps  boy's self esteem if they can separate mentally  work part from pleasure component. Sure , we clients can use some passion but asking for that in exchange for 1000 or even 3000 baht is perhaps too much.   

Boys are People, a fact that I tended to bury deep in my subconscious.   I’m retired from The Game now because of health issues.  I look back over the years, trying to recall the hundreds of boys I met.  I think I did not give them the respect they deserved just because their bodies were available for money.   If I had been in my 30’s instead of my 60’s and had met a young man non-commercially, a young man who was self-supporting and did not need or accept any money from me, I suspect I would have been quickly drawn to monogamy and to a greater respect for the young man as a person.
 
But I was a very late entry into the Game and I shared a popular misconception that (a) money boys enjoyed sex with all their customers and (b) they were good at it.   The truth was that many of them would have preferred to be back on the farm once the attraction of money and the glitter of the nightlife in Bangkok/Pattaya had worn off.
 
Unlike today’s bar boys, most of the guys I met were actually gay, but gay or straight, there was no way in hell that they could have really enjoyed the encounters with customers 40 or 50 years older than they were.   They may have enjoyed the attention they got, may have enjoyed being the star of their bar, and sure they were grateful, but grateful for the money, not for the “privilege” of getting into bed with grandfather.
 
IMHO.

Day 4.4: The Airport Goodbye Part 14: MonBoy Edition
 
It is no secret that I hate airports. I have written about it a number of times in my trip reports.  And I particularly hate airport goodbyes. In my earlier Thailand trips, even if I had a boy stay the night before I left to go back home, I usually go to the airport, alone, and geared up and focussed to return home. It is partly because of BurBoy that I now have the Airport Goodbye™ as a integral part of my LOS trips.
 
With BurBoy, the airport goodbye was a necessity, a way to spend every last remaining minute with me before I disappeared from his life for a few months. But with any other boy I just met or offed, the airport goodbye is less needed. I’m pretty sure that after a night of getting molested by me, they just wanted to go back to their room and sleep, to regain energy for the next customer that night. This trip's airport goodbye was supposed to be BurBoy’s, but instead MonBoy has claimed it for himself.
 
This trip, BurBoy did not insist on the goodbye, probably because of his work prep, and probably because it takes up to 2 hours (with traffic) from Suvarnabhumi to his room near Don Meaung. MonBoy, although having  just met him, volunteered wholeheartedly to accompany me to the airport. If he got his way, he would’ve spent all three nights with me this trip, even waiting me on the second night, the night I was with BurBoy, by not taking on any customers, and not going to Jupiter (after I give him his off fee for the second night), in the off chance I will change my mind and call on him.
 
We spend out last few moments naked together on the tub in my room at the Crowne Plaza. He has put all the bath soaps and effervescent salts in the tub to make it nice for us. We don’t have sex. Instead we talk, enjoy and relax for the next half hour. He gives me a soft neck and upper back massage while I lay against him in the tub. I was the little spoon, and he was giving me a relaxing rub. He washed off the makeup off of my hickeys and promised to conceal the hickey better than he did at Boots.
 
We get off the tub and showered off the bath salts and got dressed for the taxi ride to Suvarnabhumi. He puts on the makeup back on my neck and cheek, and when I look at the hickeys in the mirror, it was really barely noticeable unless you knew what you were looking at. I hope it stays on through my flight and dinner tonight. I check out at the lobby (0 baht with points), and get a taxi (500 baht flat rate) and we are off. And he immediately does this:
 

 
Still holding my hand to the very end. He was very quiet, closing his eyes sometimes to rest, looking at me once in a while and smiling. He was being contemplative, probably thinking about what he will do for the rest of the day, for the rest of his life, now that he is about to say goodbye to yet another customer. He was using two hands to hold my hand for some reason. Holding me too close it seems.
 
We get to the airport and I do my usual check-in. MonBoy hangs back while I do this. While I get my tags and tickets printed by the kind lady in Thai Aiways counter, I look back at MonBoy sitting on the bench. He sees me look at him and he smiles, quite tentatively. He looks away and has a look of worry. I wonder what he was thinking? I get my bags checked and tickets and head over his way. He stands up to greet me and kisses me in the lips.
 
“Are you OK?” I ask him. He looks at me and says “I OK, yes,” quite tepidly. I ask him if he wanted to get something to eat. It was only 12:30 PM and we had plenty of time. He takes my backpack from my shoulders and puts it on his back. “You no have to do for me,” pointing to my bag. He pretends to not hear as we make our way to the 3rd floor where all the shops and restaurants were. We peruse our options and choose a nice Thai restaurant with a nice selection of traditional Thai food for both of us to enjoy.
 
We look at the menu and I find a few rice dishes that I liked. I tell MonBoy my selection and he orders three of the ones I have chosen. He also orders a big tall glass of beer and I do the same. It’s a short flight to Manila and I am heading straight to a dinner so I guess beer is not out of the question for now. While we wait for our food he holds my hand and caresses my forearm. He is still quiet, not his usual jovial self from yesterday. And then he spots a tall Chinese-looking guy and laughs. He points to the guy discreetly and points to where my hickeys were. “Same na!” he says. I look at the guy and see a giant hickey in his neck, unconcealed, for all the world to see. I guess I was not the only one with souvenir love marks to take home. I wonder how many tourists leaving Suvarnabhumi today had hickeys. This airport probably has a larger than normal ratio of hickeyed to non-hickeyed passengers, compared to other airports in the world.
 
We get our food and we dig in. We have been up for 3 hours and this is our first taste of food, so we dig in wholeheartedly. MonBoy takes photos and sends them to his FaceBook and to Victory, his cousin from last night. “Good food?” he asks, breaking the silence. “Yes I like, very delicious.” He feeds me a big helping of some of the chicken. “I want you eat many because I cannot buy you food after this.” He smiles and nods. “What do you do in Philippine?” he asks about my trip. “I have some work there and I will tour too,” I answer. “When you go back USA?” “5 days. What will you do after today?” “I go back Myanmar.” “Oh, will you go to Myanmar to visit your family?” “No, I go Myanmar to live.” “You no want go back Jupiter?” “I no want to be Money Boy. I want go my farm”
 
I was slightly taken aback by this. He has only been working for 2 weeks as a gogo boy in Jupiter, and now he is quitting? Did he think he had enough money saved up to finish his house in Myanmar now, with me his last off? Was I his last ever customer? Was I that horrible that I turned him off from his profession? He sees me puzzled and confused, but I couldn’t find the words to try to figure this out. “Why no gogo?” I finally say. “I no want work Bangkok. Difficult. I want go back Myanmar. I want see my family. I work farm. I want go my house.” “Do you have money for house?” “Maybe. I can go back.”
 
Being a Money Boy is obviously a difficult job for anyone, no matter how hardened inside you are. But for a hot 21-year-old boy with considerable assets like his, being a Money Boy for a year or two could be very lucrative for MonBoy. He could save all his earnings and really start out his life back in his home country. And he would still be young enough to start over and do whatever he wanted. But instead here he was, quitting only after a short time.  Maybe what he was saying was true. Or maybe he was still playing The Game. Maybe if he told me I was going to be his last customer, that I would feel obligated to give him a lot of money to send him on his way as his last off. Who knows.
 
“Next time if you come Bangkok, Line me. I come back Bangkok and see you,” he says, smiling, holding my hand. “I want see you again.” “Okay, I Line you if I come,” I tell him. That’s probably not going to happen. But I guess it is a nice option to have. He is a beautiful boy, super attentive, and knows how to make me believe he was into me. But Bangkok is full of boys like him. He was special, sure, and the chemistry between us is very hard to find, but I am certain that there are many other boys like him out there. This was just a cold hard fact. Bangkok's charms are delightful and numerous, and his seemingly unique brand of sexual sorcery can probably be replicated elsewhere by another hot boy.
 
He tells me more about his farm and his house. He shows photos of both as well as his family members. It is obvious that he misses them a lot. I guess he really wasn’t meant to live a life in the fast lane. Being a Bangkok Gogo Boy was only a way for him to make some quick cash. It was not a legitimate long-term career choice for him, nor is it anyone else's, I'm sure. I ask him if there was a way for him to go back to school. He says that school is not for him, and will probably will just farm for the rest of his life.
 
We finish our meal and it was time for me to go to my gate. I ask him if he was going to use the train or a taxi. He said the train would be cheaper for him. As we make our down the labyrinthine escalator system that Suvarnabhumi had to get to the basement level for the train, he doesn’t stop with the PDA. He had his arm around me the while time, and he gave me discreet kisses once in a while. He didn’t care who saw. He was again testing his theory that Thailand is a more tolerant country than his own.
 
When we get to the train level, I pull him aside and gave him long time tip. I gave him the standard long time plus 50%. I wanted to give him more, but not too big of an amount that it would seem like I got manipulated by his story of quitting the gogo boy scene. I was not sure if it was true. He takes the money without counting and puts it in his pocket. He gives me my backpack and buys his fare in the fare machine. He gives me one last giant wet kiss and goes through the turnstile. And just like that, he was gone.
 
No tears for me this time. Only confusion and wonderment on what MonBoy has just told me about his future. I didn’t want to think that I had something to do with his decision, but what if I did? I can’t let it get to me. Only time will tell if he really has quit. I go through security and ruminate about all this in the Thai Airways lounge. I get a coffee and sit down and begin to write this trip report, knowing full well that it was going to be mostly about this wonderful, strange, and beautiful boy. I was actually glad that his two weeks of employment at Jupiter intersected with my trip. If I met him at the start of his two weeks, the circumstances might have been different and the off might not have been as good. But I meet him at the end of his tenure, and it was clear that he was eager to go out with a bang. 
 
The Thai Airways plane ride was smooth and uneventful. The rest of my time in Manila was great and entertaining as well. Everyday, in my 5 days in Manila, MonBoy has dutifully talked to me. Video called me several times a day, each day. He made sure I saw where he was every time, usually in his room, as if to show me he wasn’t in Jupiter or with a customer anymore, especially at show time, at night, to prove that he has quit the business for good.
 
After all this, I get on my plane back to the USA. My first day back he tells me he is leaving for Myanmar in 2 days. I ask him if I was really his last customer. He says yes. He then says that he considers me a friend, and would like to continue to correspond with me. Sure enough, in two days he leaves for Myanmar. The video calls, now happening in rural Mon State, Myanmar, become more sparse and less regular. He says it is because of the spotty mobile internet connection in his hometown. After a week, the calls stop. He still messages me on Facebook once in a while, occasionally sending me photos of his farm, his house, his face covered in Thanaka, etc. The haircut becomes less fashionable, the clothes become more traditional. He has made his transformation back into farmer.
 
No transformations for me. I am still the same numazu, sex-crazed monster. 

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

Super A, GC and NB's--like just about all other venues of this type--remind me of that boiler plate language oft cited in the investment industry: past performance is no guarantee of future results.  My recent visits to all three places met were with immediate attention as I was the only customer.  But I acknowledge that much depends on what boys are available on a given night, the position of the moon in its orbit and the hairs on the back of my neck.
 
Looking back on my trip, I'm reminded what a rare experience Thailand presents.  The people who read this forum fly in from points all over the globe or have chosen to work or retire there because of its rarity. The boys accept us as we are. That's usually quite different how we're treated at home.  If I find myself losing cite of this fact, I hope someone gives me a swift kick in the ass.  

Ok , we will send somebody if need arises ,. LOL

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

Super A, GC and NB's--like just about all other venues of this type--remind me of that boiler plate language oft cited in the investment industry: past performance is no guarantee of future results.  My recent visits to all three places met were with immediate attention as I was the only customer.  But I acknowledge that much depends on what boys are available on a given night, the position of the moon in its orbit and the hairs on the back of my neck.
 
Looking back on my trip, I'm reminded what a rare experience Thailand presents.  The people who read this forum fly in from points all over the globe or have chosen to work or retire there because of its rarity. The boys accept us as we are. That's usually quite different how we're treated at home.  If I find myself losing cite of this fact, I hope someone gives me a swift kick in the ass.  

Super A, GC and NB's--like just about all other venues of this type--remind me of that boiler plate language oft cited in the investment industry: past performance is no guarantee of future results.  My recent visits to all three places met were with immediate attention as I was the only customer.  But I acknowledge that much depends on what boys are available on a given night, the position of the moon in its orbit and the hairs on the back of my neck.
 
Looking back on my trip, I'm reminded what a rare experience Thailand presents.  The people who read this forum fly in from points all over the globe or have chosen to work or retire there because of its rarity. The boys accept us as we are. That's usually quite different how we're treated at home.  If I find myself losing cite of this fact, I hope someone gives me a swift kick in the ass.  

Super A, GC and NB's--like just about all other venues of this type--remind me of that boiler plate language oft cited in the investment industry: past performance is no guarantee of future results.  My recent visits to all three places met were with immediate attention as I was the only customer.  But I acknowledge that much depends on what boys are available on a given night, the position of the moon in its orbit and the hairs on the back of my neck.
 
Looking back on my trip, I'm reminded what a rare experience Thailand presents.  The people who read this forum fly in from points all over the globe or have chosen to work or retire there because of its rarity. The boys accept us as we are. That's usually quite different how we're treated at home.  If I find myself losing cite of this fact, I hope someone gives me a swift kick in the ass.  

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

I learned that lesson on my first trip and ever since I settle my tab as soon as drink is delivered.
 
Thank you for  a great report, mixed massage places on Suriwong sound very promising.
 
Too bad you did not visit  new Jupiter but I guess we can't have it all

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

MASSAGE
 
There was so shortage of guys in the shops.  Although I'd guess that at least half are straight, that certainly doesn't mean they don't know how to satisfy.  Only had one dud in that department. Granted it's low season but I was the only westerner I saw upstairs in any of the shops I visited.
 
ARENA AND BANANA CLUB -- They never disappointed in the past and this was no exception.  Banana provided me with my first guy who appeared to be Thai-Japanese mix. He was new but had learned quickly.
 
SURIWONG STRIP -- There's a half dozen shops in the area between Soi Tarntawan (soi where Tawan is located) and the Family Mart, all on same side of Suriwong. I managed to sample three this time. These places don't get a lot of mention so here's what I found.
 
My favorite turned out to be Tarntawan Massage (closest to Family Mart) where they wear white polo shirts with green trim. I was walking by my first night and a guy stood up, touched my arm and asked: "body massage, sir?" This qualifies as the Vinapu approach is spades. He was hunky with a killer smile. Think I said "yes" but who the hell knows.  Ten seconds later I was removing my shoes and a minute later I was on the second floor. Facilities: all rooms are second floor and have in-suite showers. Standard massage table without hole.  My guy was from Issan, 22, and had a body hardened by labor and not the weight room.  Sure, he liked girls and asked if I minded if he used his phone to complete the mission, and I know I said "no problem." Must have enjoyed myself because I repeated this episode four times with my Roi-et accomplice during my stay. He showered with me after and was really attentive.
 
Also had a pretty good experience at Urban Thai Massage nearest the 7-11 at the other end of strip. Again, it was the guy who smiled at me and said, "Massage?" The guys here wear lime green tops with high collar. Room he took me to was on third floor with a large shower.  Massage table with whole. He was 21, not a muscle guy but could perform without aid of a device. Good massage skills and and responsive to requests.  Only downside:  I showered alone.
 
Also tried Green Massage (oddly they wear orange polo shirts). Mistake I made here was responding to the female mamasan outside who inquired whether I wanted a male or female? "I have profiles on ipad" she assured me. I went inside and was invited to sit while she went off to get her ipad. Meanwhile, about 16 Chinese were getting leg massages. Shortly after an entire family (including three girls) entered and took seats to await their foot and leg pleasures. Finally, mamasan returned and showed me pics of six guys who'd be available. None stood out so I just chose the last one. Massage started OK but he remained fully clothed.  When I asked if he could do body-to-body, he responded "no can." Oh, well, I figured I see how it went. Unfortunately, he must have thought that the application of more oil would compensate.  It didn't.  When I began to feel like a basted turkey, I told him enough oil but he didn't seem get the message. I brought it to an end when he asked me to flip over on my back.  Cut my losses and showered alone. Tipped accordingly. Having said that, I'd still give this another try but only if I make the right connection outside.
 
On my last night, I was walking along Suriwong in direction of Patpong (same side) and there's an area where there's a tailor's dummy on sidewalk.  There's usually a few ladies outside, offering massage but this night there was a really eager guy who physically stopped me, promised the world but I was on my way to meet a friend at Telephone and had to take a pass.  Maybe he'll be there next trip.
 
SOI TWILIGHT -- Unless you're a show guy (I'm not) you can enjoy a beer in the vicinity of bht 120 at most of the outside bars. Maxi's has good food and a great for crowd watching.  Dick's is also good and beers are 110. If the Chinese suddenly abandon Dream Boy, it will rapidly cease to exist. There were also some cute guys in a new outside bar located just after Dick's who are eager to keep you entertained if you're buying the drinks.
 
SOI FOUR -- Spent most of my time there at Telephone.  Like the waiters and the burgers. They have a low-season Happy Hour between 6 and 9:30 with cheap drinks. A shot of bourbon is bht 59. Although I didn't visit Jupiter, most of those I saw going in were Chinese. Four was definitely busier than Twilight.
 
SUPER A, GOLDEN COCK AND NATURE BOYS -- These holes in the wall deserve our support because they represent an alternative to the standard fare. I hope they can hold out.
 
Super A had 8 guys the night I stopped in, including a cute Lao guy. Drinks bht 130 and off fee 500.
GC had five guys, two of whom were uninhibited, very well-equipped Issan guys. Drinks 140 and 400 off. Good idea to keep close count of number of drinks you agree to so you and bartender have same count when it's time to settle up. 
 
Nature Boys -- There were two attentive guys who made passing the time enjoyable.  Beers were 150 if I recall correctly.
 
MISC.
 
Arrived about 7p.m. and took train to Petchaburi and transferred to MRT for quick ride to Silom. Cost about 60 bht. Reversed process for an 8 p.m. departure.
 
USING AN ATM -- Made a stupid mistake while using Thanachart Bank. I failed to notice (or it wasn't displayed on screen) the following message: "I have chosen not to use the Mastercard currency coversion process." It was, however, printed on the receipt. The result was an exchange rate a full baht below what I should have received.  The devil is in the details!
 
Currency exchange -- Super Rich location in Silom complex continues to offer most competitive rates but you can do a little better at its other location further down Silom located next to the building where Arena is located.
 
KFC has opened a new store a short distance away from its old location on Silom.
 

All the Suriwong shops were 500 for an hour.  And with the exception of the massage I prematurely ended, always got a full hour of service. Since there are so many in a compact area, it keeps them competitive.
 
Although I didn't patronize it, Indra massage (opposite Tawan) had a load of guys.  Went there four years ago was not impressed by the experience.  But there's a whole group of new faces there now.
 
Jupiter will be visited next time.