I asked Gemini "Where do the Chinese get information about gay gogo bars and massage shops in Bangkok" and the answer was:
When Chinese travelers head to Bangkok, they don't usually rely on Google Maps or TripAdvisor. Instead, they navigate a specialized ecosystem of Chinese-language apps and niche social media platforms that offer hyper-specific reviews on everything from the "vibe" of a gogo bar to the "service quality" at a massage shop.
Here is where they get their information:
1. Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book)
This is the "Holy Grail" for modern Chinese travelers. It functions like a mix of Instagram and Pinterest.
How they use it: Users post detailed "travel logs" (vlogs or photo carousels) with titles like "Bangkok Gay Travel Essential Guide" or "Silom Soi 6 Massage Review." * The draw: It’s highly visual and relies on peer-to-peer trust. Travelers look for specific keywords like 曼谷同志 (Bangkok Gay), GoGo Bar, or 按摩 (Massage) to find curated lists of the "hottest" spots.
2. Heesay (formerly Blued)
As the most popular gay dating app in China, Heesay is a major info hub.
The "Travel" feature: The app often has location-based features or community groups where users share real-time tips.
Live Streaming: Many Chinese influencers or expats living in Bangkok live-stream from areas like Silom Soi 2 or Soi 4, giving viewers a real-time look at the crowd before they even book a flight.
3. WeChat Groups & Official Accounts
Private Groups: Frequent travelers often belong to private WeChat groups (sometimes with hundreds of members) where they share "insider" info, warning each other about scams or recommending specific "numbered" masseurs.
Official Accounts: Specialized travel accounts (like "Pink Economy" bloggers) publish long-form guides that provide addresses, entry fees, and "strategies" for navigating gogo bars like Jupiter or Moonlight.
4. Niche Community Forums
Finka: Another popular Chinese gay dating app (similar to Tinder/Instagram) used by a younger, more "aesthetic-focused" demographic to see where the "cool" guys are hanging out in Bangkok.
Douban Groups: While older, Douban still hosts specific groups dedicated to LGBTQ+ travel where users post long, text-heavy reviews and "etiquette" guides for Thai saunas and massage shops.