Exactly what sort of work the girl does in the bar varies. They may
be "hostesses" and chat with customers. They may dance on
stage in varying states of undress. They may perform shows.
Nearly all girls working in a bar (cashiers often being an exception) will go with a customer to their hotel room.
This entails paying a "bar fine" to the bar (anywhere from 500
baht up), as well as paying the bar girl after services have been rendered
(anywhere from 500 baht up as well).
Better quality hotels either won't
let bar girls go to your room or will charge extra.
Most people regard this as prostitution. Regardless of your feelings about it, there is probably no point in getting in a snit about it.
We at Thailand Travel FAQ do not encourage engaging prostitutes -
neither do we feel that sexual liasons should be stigmatized. We do,
however, recommend that travelers exercise caution.
We suggest that if you are sensative about prostitution, avoid the
tourist bar areas. Also see
the page on experiencing Bangkok's
nightlife.