This episode uncovers Patpong's evolution, from its roots in a banana plantation to one of Southeast Asia's most modern business & nightlife districts, which was center stage to covert CIA operations during the Secret War in Laos. Discover the impact of Air America, expat bars post-Vietnam War, and the notorious figures who called Patpong home. Join me as I interview the owner of the legendary Bar Madrid and a former Air America pilot, revealing untold stories of covert operations, nightlife, and infamous characters like Jack Shirley, Tony Poe & Charles Sobhraj, "The Serpent." Explore the intriguing intersections of history, war, and nightlife that shaped Patpong into the vibrant area it is today. ⚠️Important Correction: Coppola denies that Poe was a primary influence for Colonel Kurtz and says the character was loosely based on Special Forces Colonel Robert B. Rheault. Although the similarities to Tony Poe are striking, and it’s widely stated online & in museums, it was never confirmed by the director himself. --------- 📕 Bangkok Babylon | Giveaway I give away one copy of this Bangkok classic by Jerry Hopkins, who encountered, talked to & wrote stories about many of the character from this episode. Here is how you can win! 1. Subscribe to my Youtube channel! (@JohnRunaway.Official) 2. Comment with "Bangkok Babylon" & tell me in the comment section below why you are interested in receiving the book! I will pick a winner by 30. August 2024 and announce it on my Youtube (Community Post), Instagram & reply to your comment to notify you for further details to make sure your book arrives at your desired location. --------- 📞 Book a 1-on-1 Consultation! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnruna... Chat with me about everything from visiting Thailand, must-see places, creating your personal itinerary, living & working in Thailand, dos and don'ts, and all things in between! ☕️ Buy me a Coffee! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnrunaway I'm just starting out and would love to spend more time growing this channel! If you enjoy this content, I'm super grateful for your support! ☕️🙏🏻 🦜 Become a Patreon patreon.com/johnrunaway Get early access to my latest episodes & get credited for just $1 a month! 📍Information & Locations: https://www.johnrunaway.com/post/ufot... 📰 SCMP Article: Area 51 of Asia by Todd Ruiz https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/lifest... 🗄️ CIA - Stargate Project Documents https://www.theblackvault.com/documen... 📑 VICE Article on the Gateway Process (Good Read) https://www.vice.com/en/article/7k9qa... 📑 The Akashic Records (Wiki) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akashic... Special Thanks to: Adam, Jenny, Izzy, Neil, Jessica, The Patpong Museum, Michael Rogge, Harald Reportagen, Plang Mun Mun 00:00 Intro 01:04 History of Patpong 02:15 First Jim Thompson Shophouse 02:54 Air America & The Secret War in Laos 04:06 Interview with Izzy (Air America Pilot) 08:20 Patpong - Historical Daytime Locations 09:30 Interview with Jenny (Bar Madrid) 13:11 CIA Officers - Jack Shirley & Tony Poe 17:39 The first Go-Go Bars - Rick Menard 18:13 Patpong famous Film Locations 18:54 Patpong Nightlife - The Pink Panther 20:20 Old Office Bar 20:54 Crown Royal 22:41 Kanit House & Charles Sobhraj (The Serpent) #Patpong #Bangkok #Nightlife #CIA #VietnamWar #AirAmerica #CharlesSobhraj #TheSerpent #History #Espionage #TrueCrime #Documentary

Ready to shake up your hairstyle without shaking out your wallet? I've explored the best barbers for you to get a great hairdo for cheap! 💈🤑 #travel #thailand #bangkok #cheap #barbershop

I’ve took it upon myself to explore everything about UFOs & Extraterrestrials here in Thailand. After visiting the No.1 UFO Hot Spot in Khao Kala (Nakhon Sawan) with my friends, we got abducted by a local alien community, spoke to first hand UFO witnesses and ended up spending the night at Thailands very first Belief Fest! I hope you enjoy this extraterrestrial journey 🖖

Who would've thought you can get custom-made leather sneakers here in Bangkok? If you're searching for a dope pair of kicks or want to hunt for cheap second hand shoes, this episode is for you! 🔥👟🔥 I cover all locations from Siam Center, Paragon, Thonglor, Vintage Markets & exclusive Sneaker Boutiques around town. You have to watch the full episode, I went deep on that topic :D

Searching for some nice Thai gifts or souvenirs to bring back home from Thailand? I'll show you my most favorite, unique Thai souvenirs you can buy in Bangkok! Everything from Thai Silk Products, to Amulets, to all sorts of authentic Thai gifts for your friends & family.

👊 Let me take you inside the thrilling world of ONE Championship in Bangkok! 🇹🇭 Join me as I explore Asia's biggest martial arts promotion, right in the heart of Thailand's vibrant capital! Whether you're a hardcore martial arts fan, into Muay Thai, MMA or completely new to the world of ONE Championship, you should not miss out visiting one of their events when in town!

Check out Batcat Museum & Toys when in Bangkok! It's the perfect place if you enjoy strolling through around and take in one of the most amazing toy collection in town. They've got everything from Start Wars, Avengers, Dragon Ball, Batman, Mars Attack and so much more :D Best check it out yourself - The Museum is closed during the week, so weekends the best time to go!

Embark on a vibrant journey through the heart of Bangkok's street art scene, where we dive into the city's pulsating graffiti culture. Our exploration begins at the iconic Chaloemla Graffiti Park & Gardens, a kaleidoscope of urban creativity that showcases some of the most dynamic mural work in Thailand!

Check out the Best Parks in and around Bangkok! This city offers amazing recreational spaces with free outdoor gyms, yoga spots & running tracks. There is not enough time to cramp them all in this short, so make sure to watch my full episode to get a glimpse at all of my favorite parks.