What is a “fine bar” in Thailand?
In Thailand, the term “fine bar” refers to a payment made by a customer to a bar or night club to be able to date a girl (often a bar girl or freelance sex worker) from the establishment. This is a common practice in popular tourist areas such as Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. If you’re wondering what exactly this entails, here’s a complete guide to the concept.
1. Understanding the “sea bass”
A “bar fine” is a sum of money that the customer must pay to the establishment to allow a girl to leave the bar with him. The objective is to compensate for the girl’s loss of income while she is outside the school. This sum is separate from any additional payments that may be agreed between the client and the girl, whether for sexual services or other services.
Why does it exist?
The purpose of this tax is to ensure that the bar or club can continue to generate revenue while the girl leaves the establishment. In addition, payment helps ensure that a person does not leave the place without the bar being compensated.
2. How does a fine bar work?
A. Amount of the fine bar
The amount of the fine bar varies depending on the place and the bar. In general, it can cost between 500 baht and 2,000 baht (about $15 to $60 USD), although prices can be higher at high-end clubs. Paying this amount allows you to go out with the girl for a while, usually for the evening.
B. What does it include?
The thin bar only allows you to go out with the girl. Additional agreements for other services, such as sexual services, must be negotiated separately and are often discussed directly between the client and the girl. It is important to understand that the fine bar does not cover these services, but only serves to ensure that the establishment does not lose money.
C. Regulations and practices
Although it is part of Thai nightlife culture, bars and nightclubs must adhere to certain local regulations. Girls are often free to decide whether or not to leave with a client, and some may ask for extra on top of the bar fine.
3. What to do before paying the bar fine?
A. Asking for the exact price
Before paying, it is crucial to make sure of the exact price of the fine bar. Sometimes bars may try to inflate the amount, especially in popular tourist areas. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, ask the girl and the bar staff what the precise amount of the bar fine is before engaging in discussions about other services.
B. Clarifying Expectations
It’s also essential to clarify expectations before leaving the bar. Open and honest communication is crucial. If you’re just looking to go out for drinks or hang out with her, make sure it’s understood. Similarly, if you want to discuss additional services, do so in a respectful and clear manner.
4. Limits and precautions
A. Compliance with local rules
It is important to always respect the local rules and Thai culture. Although bar fine is a common practice, it is essential not to exceed legal or moral boundaries. Prostitution is technically illegal in Thailand, although it is widely tolerated in some areas.
B. Consider Ethics and Respect
When you strike up a conversation with a girl in a bar, it’s important to remain respectful and not force a situation. Girls who work in bars often have limited choices and deserve the same respect as any other person. Avoid falling into stereotypes or treating it as just a transactional service.
Conclusion: Fine sea bass, a common practice but to be used with respect
The bar fine in Thailand is a system used to allow a customer to date a girl from an establishment. Although this system is prevalent in many tourist regions, it is essential to approach it with respect and to understand what it entails. Knowing how and when to pay, clarifying your expectations, and respecting other people’s boundaries will make for a more enjoyable and respectful experience.
