Matt Owens Rees

10 October

It’s an old survey but the latest one conducted in 2012 by Durex. They claim that Thailand has the largest number of unfaithful lovers in the world. The Land of Smiles certainly leads the field in “love hotels,” ranging from seedy motel-like drive-ins to up-market suites which can be rented for 1500 baht per hour. These VIP suites have a Jacuzzi, soft drinks cabinet, and a full entertainment system: TV, videos, music centres. Everything you need to get in the mood.

Discretion is the key word. Popular with Thais, these rooms are called maan root, “drawn curtains.” You drive in, pull curtains around your car, and enter your chosen themed room. You don’t wait around in reception areas. You agree and pay the room rate. Well away from prying eyes.