Dinner and Karaoke in Udomsuk - Bangkok

Last night, after our usual Wednesday company meeting, it was decided to go out for a pre-holiday season treat, hit a nice dinner place and then go looking for some trouble to get into. Our company founder took us all the way out near where he lives, Udomsuk (which is like Sukhumvit 103 or nearabouts). Actually, it really isn't that far, not even really considered the suburbs, but for someone who lives right in the middle of the city, it's a hike!

Unfortunately, I completely forgot to take any pictures, but we had a huge seafood feast at a Thai style outdoor restaurant. Crabs, shrimp, mussels, grilled fresh fish, plus a liter of beer and a bottle of whiskey. Total price came to around 3500 baht for 6 people.

Well after the beer and whiskey was imbibed in copious amounts, we discussed the next agenda point for the nights activities. There we basically two options within walking distance of the restaurant; a karaoke place and a pub. We checked out the pub but it was pretty dead (Wednesday night), so settled on the Karaoke place.

Now, to explain this certain style of Thai karaoke establishment. If you spend some time in Thailand, and wander a bit off the beaten track, you'll surely come across these karaoke style establishments. Usually they are on the side of the street, have some lights to draw attention, and a bevy of pretty girls sitting out in front.

This picture isn't so great, but it's the only one I could find. Note, this is not a picture of the place I'm writing about here. The draw is to go in, select a girl and then have a bit of fun drinking, eating, and "flirting". There are all different types of Thai karaoke businesses, from high end to very small dingy hole in the walls, to fronts for prostitution. Understand also there are similar types of establishments for females, with all male staff. I had a friend who lived right across the street from a female oriented karaoke place. There would be groups or really hot young girls hitting that place for a night of fun, so understand this style of entertainment is widely accepted and appeals to everyone. Now as the alcohol starts to flow, inevitably the guy acquires some roaming hands and attempts to get away with as much as the girl will allow. The karaoke girl, as a tradeoff, tries to get that guy to buy her as many drinks as possible, of which she will receive a cut. Keep it all in perspective and it can be fun, especially when with a group of people looking to cut loose a bit and enjoy the experience. I know Americans usually cringe at the thought of karaoke, and I certainly was a "cringer" before coming here to Thailand, but after experiencing it for myself and really having fun, I'm a convert.

I digress, anyway the place we visited would probably be considered mid-range. I didn't make any attempt at finding out if any "extra" services were offered, and I doubt it for this place unless a private arrangement with a girl was agreed upon. Anyway, I believe we ended up being at this place for about 3 hours. Keeping in mind the huge dinner we had with whiskey and beer, the cost for the karaoke adventure for the 6 guys came out to be about 20,000 baht. Wow, definitely have to pay attention and keep track of those drinks ordered next time. Nonetheless, it was a good time, and good opportunity to unwind.