The fifth phase of the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions came into effect on July 1, throwing open the doors of massage parlours as well as go-go bars in red light districts. 
On Wednesday (July 1), the neon lights in the New Phetchaburi Road area – home to numerous soapy massage parlours – were glittering again. 
Parking areas were filled with cars as people enjoyed the revival of their access to entertainment venues after a long pause. 
Almost every business in Thailand has reopened in the fifth phase of the lifting of lockdown measures, but the emergency decree will remain in effect until the end of July as the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration still has concerns about a second wave of Covid-19 infections.

‘Soapy massage’ parlours slide back into business

So-called “soapy massage” parlours in Bangkok are throbbing again with activity as customers return in hordes to enjoy the care of masseuses that they were denied during the months-long lockdown.