Sitting amongst the throngs of Arabic pedestrians, Soi Nana is one of the most culturally diverse, and sensually enticing neighborhoods of Bangkok. Deriving its popularity from the confluence of numerous Arabic and Northern African hotels and restaurants, the area caters directly to the Arabic expatriate community of Bangkok as well as the tourist community of the same geographic make up. Established in the late 1970s around the Nana Hotel, it quickly became a hot spot for the Thailand sex trade, flourishing into what is known today as the Nana Entertainment Plaza (NEP). Located across from Sukhumvit Soi 4, this area eventually developed into one of the top three red-light districts of Bangkok, preceded by Patpong and Soi Cowboy.

Located down the street from this now Japanese dominated sex district, Soi Nana has become a popular expatriate hang out, providing ample opportunity for Western and Arabic guests alike to indulge in vast quantities of authentic Arabic foods – typically centered around the main staple of the Arabic diet, nan bread. Just walking down the street from The Grace Hotel, through the main road, the sights and smells are more than enough to draw a passerby into a sidewalk café to sample the cuisines and shishas which have made this street famous.

As expats ourselves, we have come to love this soi as one of our favorite places to end a week of work. It is not uncommon to see us down at Al Ferdoss or …….. on a Thursday or Friday evening, enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and unrivaled hospitality. Being able to unwind after a long day of sight seeing and touring the city’s wat is not a bad idea either. Whatever your reason may be - if you are interested in experiencing some authentic Middle Eastern and Arabic culture, but are not ready to head to the Middle East, Soi Nana can act as a surrogate for such an experience.

Rex Freiberger
http://www.siamsensibilities.com/