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  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboy entertainers check themselves in the mirror in front of the Cockatoo bar in the Soi Cowboy red light district in Bangkok. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112022.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboy (transgendered) entertainers try to draw customers into the Cockatoo bar in the Soi Cowboy red light district in Bangkok. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112028.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman who sells garters to workers in the red light district of Soi Cowboy walks down the street between "Ladyboy" entertainers and tourists. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy.  Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112024.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboy (transgendered) entertainers flirt with customers they try to draw into the Cockatoo bar in the Soi Cowboy red light district in Bangkok. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112030.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboy (transgendered) entertainers try to draw customers into the Cockatoo bar in the Soi Cowboy red light district in Bangkok. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112027.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboy entertainers check themselves in the mirror in front of the Cockatoo bar in the Soi Cowboy red light district in Bangkok. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112023.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman who sells garters to workers in the red light district of Soi Cowboy walks down the street between "Ladyboy" entertainers and tourists. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy.  Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112025.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboy (transgendered) entertainers try to draw customers into the Cockatoo bar in the Soi Cowboy red light district in Bangkok. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112020.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman who sells garters to workers in the red light district of Soi Cowboy walks down the street between "Ladyboy" entertainers and tourists. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy.  Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112026.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboy entertainers check themselves in the mirror in front of the Cockatoo bar in the Soi Cowboy red light district in Bangkok. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112021.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants on stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound039.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant puts on her makeup before the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound002.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Contestants pray before going on stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound053.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A tourist uses a smart phone to photograph contestants in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound047.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant puts on her makeup before the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound003.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound059.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spactators watch the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound058.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound031.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound011.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant uses her smart phone to take a "selfie" before she goes on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound051.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant get her makeup touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound044.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her eyelashes put on during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound040.jpg
  • 20 MAY 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Saran Chuichai, aka Aum Neko, a well known Thai transgendered rights' protestor sits on a car after the coup and holds up a sign against martial during a pro-democracy vigil in Bangkok. About 200 Thais gathered at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre in central Bangkok to protest the army's decision to impose martial law.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MartialLawProtest2016.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound037.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Contestants on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound061.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound050.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant get her makeup touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound045.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her eyelashes put on during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound041.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound038.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants walk across the stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound033.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant walks across the stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound032.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her makeup touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound026.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants relax in the mall during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound023.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound010.jpg
  • 20 MAY 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Saran Chuichai, aka Aum Neko, a well known Thai transgendered rights' protestor sits on a car after the coup and holds up a sign against martial during a pro-democracy vigil in Bangkok. About 200 Thais gathered at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre in central Bangkok to protest the army's decision to impose martial law.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MartialLawProtest015.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound036.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound027.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Contestants on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound060.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Contestants watch the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound034.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants relax in the mall during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound021.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound016.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant puts on her makeup before the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound001.jpg
  • 11 DECEMBER 2012 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A worker takes out window blinds from a building being torn down at "Washington Square" a notorious entertainment district off Sukhumvit Soi 22 in Bangkok. Demolition workers on many projects in Thailand live on their job site tearing down the building and recycling what can recycled as they do so until the site is no longer inhabitable. They sleep on the floors in the buildings or sometimes in tents, cooking on gas or charcoal stoves working from morning till dark. Sometimes families live and work together, other times just men. Washington Square was one of Bangkok's oldest red light districts. It was closed early 2012 and is being torn down to make way for redevelopment.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BangkokDemolitionWorkers038.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Contestants pray before going on stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound054.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Contestants pray before going on stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound052.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants get their stage direction before the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound012.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant uses her smart phone to take a "selfie" before she goes on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound008.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant get her makeup touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound046.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestants shoes during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound018.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound057.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant get her makeup touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound056.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant uses the video function on her smart phone to video chat with friends before going on stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound049.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her eyelashes put on during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound043.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her eyelashes put on during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound042.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants relax in the mall during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound028.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her hair touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound024.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her Miss Tiffany's badge before the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound006.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant waits to walk across the stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound004.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant uses the video function on her smart phone to video chat with friends before going on stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound048.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants on stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound035.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her hair and make up touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound030.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her hair touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound025.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants relax in the mall during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound022.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants walk across the stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound019.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound013.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants wait to go on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound009.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant get her makeup touched up during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound055.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Contestants on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound029.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants walk across the stage in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound020.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants get their stage direction before the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound017.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound015.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Contestants in the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound014.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant uses her smart phone to take a "selfie" before she goes on stage during the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound007.jpg
  • 25 MARCH 2015 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A contestant gets her Miss Tiffany's badge before the first round of the Miss Tiffany's contest at CentralWorld, a large shopping mall in Bangkok. Miss Tiffany's Universe is a beauty contest for transgender contestants; all of the contestants were born biologically male. The final round will be held on May 8 in the beach resort of Pattaya. The final round is televised of the  Miss Tiffany’s Universe contest is broadcast live on Thai television with an average of 15 million viewers.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound005.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  "Ladyboys" at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand, run up the stairs to the stage at the opening of the show. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys017.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "ladyboy" selects her outfit performing at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys013.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "Ladyboy" puts on her makeup before performing the Mambo Cabaret. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys006.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A traditional style Thai headdress worn in the revue by "ladyboys" backstage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys010.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "ladyboy" adjusts her headpiece before going on stage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys019.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: A "ladyboy" adjusts her dress before going on stage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys018.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "Ladyboy" puts on her makeup before performing the Mambo Cabaret. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys009.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "Ladyboy" puts on her makeup before performing the Mambo Cabaret. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys014.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  One "ladyboy" finishes her dinner while another finishes her makeup backstage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys011.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  "Ladyboys" wave at spectators and try to entice them into providing tips after a performance at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers also sometimes date the male customers of the cabaret. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys025.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: A "ladyboy" adjusts her dress before going on stage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys022.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "Ladyboy" puts on her dress before the show at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys007.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Tattoos on "Ladyboys" at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys004.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  "Ladyboys" get ready to perform at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys015.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  "Ladyboys" at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand, run up the stairs to the stage at the opening of the show. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys016.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: "Ladyboys" help each other put their makeup on backstage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys008.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  "Ladyboys" wave at spectators and try to entice them into providing tips after a performance at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers also sometimes date the male customers of the cabaret. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys024.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: "Ladyboys" help each other put their makeup on backstage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys012.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND: Tattoos on "Ladyboys" at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys005.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  "Ladyboys" perform on stage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys023.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  "Ladyboys" wait to go on stage while the performers from the first act leave the stage during the performance at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys021.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "ladyboy" says a Buddhist prayer before going on stage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys020.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "Ladyboy" puts on her makeup before performing the Mambo Cabaret. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys001.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Ladyboys put their makeup on backstage at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female, they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. Many kathoey realize they are third gender in their early teens, some only as old 12 or 13. Kathoeys frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys003.jpg
  • Oct. 7, 2009 -- BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "Ladyboy" puts on her makeup in front of a mirror with a picture of her European boyfriend at the Mambo Cabaret. The performers at the Mambo Cabaret in Bangkok, Thailand are all "Ladyboys," or kathoeys in Thai. Recognized as a third gender, between male and female they are born biologically male but live their lives as women. They frequently undergo gender reassignment surgery to become women. Being a kathoey in Thailand does not carry the same negative connotation that being a transgendered person in the West does. A number of prominent Thai entertainers are kathoeys. Kathoeys frequently work in Thailand's sex trade and many times have long term relationships with European men who come to Thailand as tourists.     Photo by Jack Kurtz / ZUMA Press
    MamboCabaretLadyboys002.jpg
  • 12 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A woman who sells garters to entertainers in Soi Cowboy red light district show her products to "ladyboy" (transgendered) entertainers on the Soi. In Thai, the ladyboys are called kathoey. Many work in the entertainment and night life sectors of the Thai economy. Prostitution in Thailand is illegal, although in practice it is tolerated and partly regulated. Prostitution is practiced openly throughout the country. The number of prostitutes is difficult to determine, estimates vary widely. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has gained international notoriety among travelers from many countries as a sex tourism destination. One estimate published in 2003 placed the trade at US$ 4.3 billion per year or about three percent of the Thai economy. It has been suggested that at least 10% of tourist dollars may be spent on the sex trade. According to a 2001 report by the World Health Organisation: "There are between 150,000 and 200,000 sex workers (in Thailand)."    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    NanaSoiCowboy0112019.jpg
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Jack Kurtz, Photojournalist & Travel Photographer

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