Onyx

Onyx is on Royal City Avenue, usually called RCA, off Rama 9 Road in Bangkok. RCA is a strip of big nightclubs popular with young Thais and tourists. Hobb, Route66 Club, Led, Amnesia, Castro and Woody are all close by. It is a Grab or taxi ride from Sukhumvit, so plan your ride home.

Onyx is a big EDM club on Royal City Avenue, with a mostly Thai crowd. It is loud and late, like the rest of the strip, and aimed at young Thais who come to party with their friends. Treat it as a night out with the locals, not a punter's venue.

Yes, but it is a different game from gogo bars. Most women in mainstream clubs are there with friends to party, not to work, so normal dating rules apply. Buy a drink, be polite, read the room and don't assume anything. A group or a Thai friend makes it easier.

RCA clubs are loud, late and ID-checked at the door, so bring your passport or a clear copy, because everyone must be 20 or over. Some clubs insist on the original passport, and a home driving license may not be accepted. Keep a photo of your passport on your phone too.

It depends who you are with. RCA has bigger clubs, more Thai pop and a young, mostly Thai crowd, which suits a group or a confident visitor. Sukhumvit around Soi 11 is easier for a first night, with tourist-friendly clubs within walking distance of Nana and Asok hotels. Onyx is the EDM choice on RCA.

Smart casual works at most Bangkok clubs: avoid flip-flops, shorts, sleeveless tops and sportswear, and wear clean trainers or shoes. RCA tends to be more relaxed than the hotel clubs, but dress up a little and you will not be turned away. A bag search at the door is routine.

Hobb, Route66 Club, Led, Amnesia, Castro and Woody are all on the strip, so it is easy to move between rooms if one is too full or not your taste. Route 66 is the long-standing institution with several rooms. Check the night's lineup and the entry policy at each door.

Go with friends or a Thai companion, arrive when the room is filling and book a table if you want space. Keep your drink in sight, note the fire exits when you arrive and book a Grab home rather than accepting a lift. Cover charges and table costs vary, so ask at the door.