1. What are some popular nightclubs and bars in Surat Thani?
1. Manta Ray Bar
2. The Cave Lounge & Grill
3. Pink Rak Thoi Bar
4. OZO Chaweng Samui Pool Bar
5. Slumber Party Hostel Bar
6. The Funky Monkey Pub
7. Rasta Bungalow Reggae Bar
8. Surat Thani Night Market (with live music)
9. Chatuchak Night Club
10.JJ Green Club
2. Are there any live music venues or open mic nights in the city?
Yes, there are several live music venues and open mic nights in the city. Some popular options include the Brighton Music Hall, House of Blues, The Middle East, Paradise Rock Club, and Great Scott. Many bars and cafes also host open mic nights throughout the week.
3. What types of cuisine can be found at restaurants in Surat Thani?
Some of the types of cuisine that can be found at restaurants in Surat Thani include:
1. Thai cuisine: As Surat Thani is located in Thailand, most restaurants here will serve traditional Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and green curry.
2. Seafood: Being a coastal town, Surat Thani has an abundance of fresh seafood available, which can be found in many of its restaurants. Some popular dishes include grilled fish, seafood stir-fries, and seafood curries.
3. Southern Thai cuisine: Surat Thani is part of southern Thailand and has its own unique cuisine known for its spicy and bold flavors. Dishes such as Gaeng Tai Pla (spicy fish curry), Khao Yum (herb rice salad), and Massaman curry are popular in this region.
4. Street food: There are also many street food vendors and markets throughout Surat Thani where visitors can try a variety of local snacks and dishes such as grilled meats on skewers, noodle soups, and fruit shakes.
5. International cuisine: Along with traditional Thai food, there are also many restaurants that serve international cuisines such as Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and Western dishes.
6. Vegetarian/vegan options: Many restaurants in Surat Thani cater to vegetarians and vegans with specific menu items or entire vegetarian/vegan menus available.
7. Fusion cuisine: Some restaurants in Surat Thani may offer fusion dishes that combine elements from different cuisines to create unique flavors.
4. Are there any cultural shows or performances offered in the evenings?
Yes, many cities have cultural shows or performances offered in the evenings. These shows can include traditional music, dance, and theater performances that showcase the cultural heritage of the area. Some popular examples include hula shows in Hawaii, flamenco performances in Spain, and acrobatic shows in China. Additionally, many tourist attractions and theme parks offer nightly parades or fireworks displays that incorporate elements of the local culture. It is always a good idea to research the area you are visiting beforehand to see if there are any cultural performances available during your stay.
5. Is there a vibrant street food scene in Surat Thani for late-night eats?
Yes, there is a vibrant street food scene in Surat Thani for late-night eats. Some popular spots to get late-night street food include Night Food Bazaar on Taladmai Road and Night Market on Taladkaset 1 Road. These markets offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable street food options, such as grilled meats, noodles, seafood, and desserts, until late hours at night. There are also many smaller stalls and vendors scattered around the city that serve up tasty snacks for those who are craving for a late-night bite.
6. What is the nightlife like on Koh Samui, a nearby island popular with tourists?
The nightlife on Koh Samui is lively and varied, catering to both partygoers and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. There are many bars, lounges, and nightclubs offering live music, DJ sets, and fire shows. Popular areas for nightlife include Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Fisherman’s Village. These areas also feature restaurants, street food stalls, and markets where visitors can grab a late-night meal or browse for souvenirs. Many beach clubs also host popular full moon parties with dancing and entertainment throughout the night. Overall, Koh Samui offers a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene for visitors looking to let loose and have some fun.
7. Are there any boat cruises or night markets to check out in Surat Thani?
Yes, there are several boat cruises and night markets in Surat Thani that are popular among tourists. Here are a few options:1. Chaiya Cruise: This cruise takes you along the Tapi River, passing through scenic landscapes and traditional fishing villages. It also includes a visit to Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, one of the oldest temples in southern Thailand.
2. Khao Sok National Park Floating Bungalows: Take a boat cruise along Cheow Lan Lake and spend the night in one of the floating bungalows surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning limestone cliffs.
3. Talad Yai Night Market: This bustling night market is located in the heart of Surat Thani city. Here, you can find a variety of local dishes, souvenirs, clothing, and other goods at affordable prices.
4. Ban Don Night Market: This market is known for its seafood offerings, with stalls selling fresh catches from the Gulf of Thailand. You can also find other local snacks and handicrafts here.
5.Vathanaporn Market: Located near Surat Thani Railway Station, Vathanaporn Market offers a unique shopping experience with its vibrant atmosphere and variety of merchandise such as clothes, accessories, home decor items, and more.
6.Nang Yuan Island Night Market: If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, take a boat ride to Nang Yuan Island from Surat Thani and explore their lively night market where you can find handmade souvenirs and street food vendors.
Note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, some of these attractions may be temporarily closed or have limited operating hours. It’s best to check before planning your visit.
8. Do any local festivals or events take place in the city after dark?
Yes, there are several local festivals and events that take place in the city after dark. These include:
1. Night Market: This is a popular event where streets are transformed into a bustling marketplace selling food, drinks, and crafts from local vendors.
2. White Night: This annual event features light installations, art exhibitions, live music, and performances throughout the city.
3. Film Festivals: There are several film festivals that take place after dark including outdoor screenings in parks and screenings at local theaters.
4. Wine Tasting Events: Local wineries often hold wine tasting events at night where visitors can sample different wines while enjoying live music and food.
5. Concerts and Live Music Performances: The city has numerous venues that host concerts and live music performances after dark featuring both local and international artists.
6. Ghost Tours: For those looking for a spooky experience, ghost tours of historic sites in the city are available after dark.
7. Fireworks Shows: During special occasions such as New Year’s Eve or major holidays, the city often puts on extravagant fireworks displays after dark.
8. Food Festivals: Several food festivals take place in the city at night where visitors can try different dishes from various cuisines while enjoying music and entertainment.
9. How do locals typically spend their evenings and weekends in Surat Thani?
There are a variety of activities that locals in Surat Thani engage in during their evenings and weekends. Some common ones include:
1. Visiting night markets: Surat Thani is known for its vibrant night markets, which offer a variety of local street food, shopping for clothes and souvenirs, and live music performances. Locals often gather here with friends and family to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
2. Outdoor activities: With its close proximity to natural attractions such as Khao Sok National Park and the Gulf of Thailand, locals often spend their weekends hiking, camping, or relaxing on the beach.
3. Buddhist temples: As a predominantly Buddhist country, there are many temples scattered throughout Surat Thani. Locals often visit these temples to pray, make offerings, and participate in religious ceremonies.
4. Family gatherings: Family plays a big role in Thai culture, and locals often spend their evenings and weekends having meals or participating in activities with their extended families.
5. Shopping: Surat Thani has several malls and traditional markets where locals can go shopping for various items such as clothing, electronics, and fresh produce.
6. Sports: Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Thailand, so many locals can be seen playing or watching games on weekends. Other sports such as badminton and muay thai are also popular.
7. Eating out: Thai cuisine is loved by people all over the world, but there’s nothing quite like trying it in its home country. Locals often enjoy eating out at local restaurants or street food stalls on weekends.
8. Local festivals: Throughout the year, Surat Thani hosts various cultural festivals such as Loy Krathong (floating lanterns), Songkran (Thai New Year), and Vegetarian Festival. These events attract both locals and tourists alike.
9. Relaxing at home: Like people everywhere else in the world, some locals in Surat Thani simply enjoy spending their evenings and weekends at home, watching TV, spending time with family or pursuing hobbies.
10. Can visitors easily access transportation to and from the entertainment areas of the city?
It depends on the specific city and its public transportation system. Some cities may have efficient and easily accessible transportation options such as buses, trains, or taxis that can take visitors to and from entertainment areas. Others may have limited or less reliable options, making it more difficult for visitors to access these areas. It’s best to research the specific city in question to determine the availability and accessibility of transportation to and from entertainment areas.
11. Are there any outdoor activities, such as beach bonfires or hiking, commonly enjoyed at night in Surat Thani?
While suratthani is predominantly known for its beautiful beaches, there are a few outdoor activities that can be enjoyed at night in the city. These include:
1. Beach bonfires: Many beach resorts and restaurants organize beach bonfires at night where you can relax, unwind and enjoy the stars over freshly grilled seafood.
2. Night hiking: Some of the popular trails in Surat Thani like the Khao Sok National Park allow visitors to go for night hikes guided by experienced rangers. This gives you an opportunity to see some nocturnal animals and insects.
3. Night markets: Suratthani has several night markets that open up during sunset offering delicious food, local handicrafts, and live music performances.
4. Boat rides: Take a boat ride along the Tapi river at night to witness a mesmerizing light show caused by thousands of floating lanterns lit by locals as an offering to the river goddess.
5. Star gazing: The clear dark skies on Koh Samui or Koh Phangan islands make it ideal for star gazing at night.
6. Firefly watching: Take a trip on long-tail boats along mangrove forests in Krabi or Trang provinces to spot millions of twinkling fireflies lighting up their surroundings.
12. What is the dress code for clubs and bars in Thailand?
The dress code for clubs and bars in Thailand is usually smart casual. This means wearing clean, well-fitted clothing that is not too revealing or too casual. Men can wear collared shirts, trousers or nice jeans, and closed-toe shoes. Women can wear dresses, skirts, or nice pants paired with a nice top. While some nightclubs may have more strict dress codes, most bars and clubs will allow you to enter as long as you are dressed respectably. It is always a good idea to check the specific dress code of the establishment before going out.13. Is it common for people to go out alone or with a group in Surat Thani’s nightlife scene?
It is common for people to go out both alone and with a group in Surat Thani’s nightlife scene. Many people who are visiting or traveling alone may choose to explore the city’s bars and nightclubs on their own, while others may prefer to go out with friends or fellow travelers. Surat Thani also has a large expat community, so it is not uncommon for people to socialize and go out together.
14. Are there specific areas within the city that are known for their nightlife?
Yes, some popular areas for nightlife in the city include:
– The Gaslamp Quarter: Known for its numerous bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.
– North Park: A vibrant neighborhood with many trendy bars, craft breweries, and live music venues.
– Pacific Beach: A beachside neighborhood with a lively bar scene and popular nightclubs.
– Little Italy: An upscale district known for its cocktail bars, wine bars, and trendy restaurants.
15. What are some popular drink specials or signature cocktails at bars and clubs?
Some popular drink specials and signature cocktails at bars and clubs include:
1. Happy hour specials: These often include discounted prices on select beers, wines, and cocktails during a specific time period (e.g. 4-7pm).
2. Ladies’ Night: Many bars offer special deals for women, such as free or discounted drinks.
3. Bottomless mimosas or brunch cocktails: Popular at brunch spots and day parties, these typically offer unlimited refills of classic brunch drinks like mimosas or Bloody Marys.
4. Beer bucket specials: This deal usually includes a bucket of beers (usually five or six) for a discounted price.
5. Margarita Monday/Taco Tuesday: In addition to discounted margaritas, many bars also offer deals on tacos or other Mexican food on these days.
6. Signature cocktails: Many bars and clubs have their own unique cocktail creations that are popular among patrons. These can vary greatly depending on the establishment but may include fruity blends, whiskey-based drinks, or creative twists on classic cocktails.
7. Shot specials: Some bars offer rotating shot specials throughout the night to entice patrons to try new shots or bring in certain crowds (e.g. “cheap happy hour shots” or “10 different tequila options”).
8. Frozen drinks: Popular in beach towns and during summer months, frozen drinks like daiquiris and piña coladas are often available at a discount during happy hour.
9. Industry Night specials: Some bars/clubs have special nights dedicated to those who work in the restaurant/entertainment industry with perks like discounted drinks or free entry.
10. Specialty martinis: Many upscale bars feature a selection of unique martinis with flavors like chocolate, espresso, or fruit infusions as their signature option.
11. Local craft beers/spirits: Some establishments may promote local breweries/distilleries by featuring their products in specialty cocktails at a discounted price.
12. Wine specials: Some bars/clubs may offer discounts on select bottles of wine or have deals like “buy one, get one free” on glasses of wine.
13. Long Island Iced Teas: A popular drink choice for budget-savvy patrons, many bars offer discounted Long Island Iced Teas on designated nights.
14. Birthday/celebration packages: Some clubs offer deals for groups celebrating a special occasion, such as bottle service or VIP packages with discounted drinks.
15. Non-alcoholic mocktails: Many bars and clubs now include non-alcoholic options in their cocktail menus, such as creative mocktails or specialty iced teas.
16. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with views of the city?
There are several rooftop bars and restaurants in various cities around the world that offer views of the city. Here are a few examples:
1. The Rooftop at E11even – Miami, Florida
2. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar – New York City, New York
3. OZONE Bar – Hong Kong, China
4. SkyBar – Bangkok, Thailand
5. Altitude Restaurant and Bar – Sydney, Australia
6. La Terraza del Califa – Cádiz, Spain
7. Hakkasan Terrace at MGM Grand – Las Vegas, Nevada
8. Top of the Mark – San Francisco, California
9. Lebua SkyBar – Bangkok, Thailand
10. Aer Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai – Mumbai, India
17. How late do most establishments stay open during the week and on weekends?
It depends on the establishment and its location. Generally, cafes and shops may close around 6 or 7 PM during the week, while restaurants and bars may stay open later, often until 10 or 11 PM. On weekends, many establishments will stay open later, with bars and clubs often staying open until early morning hours. Some stores, especially in big cities or tourist areas, may also have extended weekend hours. It’s best to check with individual establishments for their specific opening and closing times.
18.Are there any LGBTQ+ friendly venues or events in Surat Thani’s entertainment scene?
Yes, there are a few LGBTQ+ friendly venues and events in Surat Thani’s entertainment scene. Some of these include:
1. Meemuang Club: This is a popular queer-friendly nightclub in Surat Thani that hosts drag shows and other LGBTQ+ events.
2. Rainbow Cafe: This cafe serves as a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in Surat Thani and often organizes gatherings and events for them.
3. Pride Bar & Restaurant: Located near the city center, this bar and restaurant is known for its inclusive atmosphere and welcomes people from all sexual orientations.
4. Surat Unity Festival: This annual festival celebrates diversity and inclusivity, including the LGBTQ+ community, through various performances, talks, workshops, and more.
5. International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia Celebration: This event is organized by local organizations to raise awareness about discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community and promote acceptance within the society.
6. Pink Dot Thailand: Held annually in Phuket and other cities across Thailand, this event promotes inclusivity, equality, and diversity through various activities such as music performances, speeches, games, etc.
Overall, while Surat Thani may not have a large number of specifically LGBTQ+ focused venues or events compared to larger cities like Bangkok or Phuket, there are still options available for those seeking an inclusive environment in the city’s entertainment scene.
19.Are there opportunities for tourists to learn traditional Thai dances or participate in cultural activities during nighttime hours?
Yes, there are many opportunities for tourists to learn traditional Thai dances and participate in cultural activities during nighttime hours. Many hotels and resorts offer nightly cultural performances, such as traditional Thai dance shows or cooking classes. There are also numerous performing arts centers and cultural centers that offer evening classes or workshops for visitors to learn about Thai culture and participate in dance, music, and other traditional activities. Additionally, some night markets and street fairs may feature performances or demonstrations of traditional dances and crafts.
20.Do most establishments accept credit cards, or is it recommended to have cash on hand when going out?
It is becoming increasingly common for establishments to accept credit and debit cards, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. However, it is always recommended to have some cash on hand in case of emergencies or if the establishment does not accept cards. Additionally, some smaller businesses or local markets may only accept cash payments. It is best to check ahead of time or have a mix of both cash and card options when going out.