Transvestism and transsexuality are a common feature of Thai society. Practically every town in Thailand has at least two or three open transvestites - men who dress as women and assume - or are born with - feminine characteristics. Indeed; so common is the phenomenon that it has assumed a semi-institutionalised status; with transvestites working not just where one might expect - in bars; reviews and theatres - but also in restaurants and post offices; department stores and travel agencies.

Transvestites appear regularly in Thai television serials; and not just as objects of derision. In Thai soap operas the phenomenon is usually treated as a normal part of every day life. For example; a family may have two daughters and two sons; one of whom is a transvestite. Such a scenario - which would be treated either as a farce or a tragedy in the West - tends to be downplayed in Thailand; quite often the transvestism portrayed may have no bearing on the central theme at all.