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  • 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:  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
  • 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
  • 20 DECEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A "Kathoey," Thai for transgendered man (to woman) at an anti-government protest in Bangkok.  Thousands of anti-government protestors, supporters of the so called Peoples Democratic Reform Committee (PRDC), jammed the Silom area, the "Wall Street" of Bangkok, Friday as a part of the ongoing protests against the caretaker government of Yingluck Shinawatra. Yingluck dissolved the Thai Parliament earlier this month and called for national elections on Feb. 2, 2014. The protestors want the elections postponed and the caretaker government to step down. The Thai election commission ruled Friday that the election would go on dispite the protests.         PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SuthepProtestSilomPS027.jpg
  • 20 DECEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: "Kathoeys," Thai for transgendered men (to women) pose for photos with an anti-government protestor in Bangkok.  Thousands of anti-government protestors, supporters of the so called Peoples Democratic Reform Committee (PRDC), jammed the Silom area, the "Wall Street" of Bangkok, Friday as a part of the ongoing protests against the caretaker government of Yingluck Shinawatra. Yingluck dissolved the Thai Parliament earlier this month and called for national elections on Feb. 2, 2014. The protestors want the elections postponed and the caretaker government to step down. The Thai election commission ruled Friday that the election would go on dispite the protests.          PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    SuthepProtestSilomPS026.jpg
  • 20 SEPTEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The entrance to Cockatoo, a transgendered go-go bar on Soi Cowboy in Bangkok. Soi Cowboy is one of the notorious Entertainment Districts in Bangkok. Entertainment District has emerged as euphemism for red light district. Prostitution is officially illegal in Thailand but it is widely condoned. For western men, Soi Cowboy, along with Soi Nana and Patpong are among the most well known entertainment districts in Bangkok.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ScenesofBKK0920009.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 (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
  • 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 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
    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:  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
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound059.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:  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: 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 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 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: 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
  • 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: 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
  • 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 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: 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
    MissTiffanysPageant1stRound040.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 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 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: 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: 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 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 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 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: 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: 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:  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: 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 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 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: 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 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 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: 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: 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 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: 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: 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: 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 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
  • 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 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 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: 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 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 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 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
  • 15 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: An anti-government protester blows a whistle during a protest rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of Thais packed the area around Democracy Monument in the old part of Bangkok Friday night to protest against efforts by the ruling Pheu Thai party to pass an amnesty bill that could lead to the return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Protest leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban announced an all-out drive to eradicate the "Thaksin regime." The protest Friday was the biggest since the amnesty bill issue percolated back into the public consciousness. The anti-government protesters have vowed to continue their protests even though the Thai Senate voted down the bill, thus killing it for at least six months.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AntiGovtProtest017.jpg
  • 15 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: An anti-government protester blows a whistle during a protest rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of Thais packed the area around Democracy Monument in the old part of Bangkok Friday night to protest against efforts by the ruling Pheu Thai party to pass an amnesty bill that could lead to the return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Protest leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban announced an all-out drive to eradicate the "Thaksin regime." The protest Friday was the biggest since the amnesty bill issue percolated back into the public consciousness. The anti-government protesters have vowed to continue their protests even though the Thai Senate voted down the bill, thus killing it for at least six months.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AntiGovtProtest018.jpg
  • 15 JANUARY 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A transvestite supporter of anti-government protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban waits to giver money to Suthep during a protest march in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of Thai anti-government protestors continued to block the streets of Bangkok Wednesday to shut down the Thai capitol. The protest, "Shutdown Bangkok," is expected to last at least a week. Shutdown Bangkok is organized by People's Democratic Reform Committee (PRDC). It's a continuation of protests that started in early November. There have been shootings almost every night at different protests sites around Bangkok. The malls in Bangkok are still open but many other businesses are closed and mass transit is swamped with both protestors and people who had to use mass transit because the roads were blocked.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ShutdownBangkokDay03046.jpg
  • 15 JANUARY 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A transvestite supporter of anti-government protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban waits to giver money to Suthep during a protest march in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of Thai anti-government protestors continued to block the streets of Bangkok Wednesday to shut down the Thai capitol. The protest, "Shutdown Bangkok," is expected to last at least a week. Shutdown Bangkok is organized by People's Democratic Reform Committee (PRDC). It's a continuation of protests that started in early November. There have been shootings almost every night at different protests sites around Bangkok. The malls in Bangkok are still open but many other businesses are closed and mass transit is swamped with both protestors and people who had to use mass transit because the roads were blocked.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ShutdownBangkokDay03047.jpg
  • 15 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: An anti-government protester blows a whistle during a protest rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of Thais packed the area around Democracy Monument in the old part of Bangkok Friday night to protest against efforts by the ruling Pheu Thai party to pass an amnesty bill that could lead to the return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Protest leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban announced an all-out drive to eradicate the "Thaksin regime." The protest Friday was the biggest since the amnesty bill issue percolated back into the public consciousness. The anti-government protesters have vowed to continue their protests even though the Thai Senate voted down the bill, thus killing it for at least six months.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AntiGovtProtest015.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 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:  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
  • 15 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: An anti-government protester blows a whistle during a protest rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of Thais packed the area around Democracy Monument in the old part of Bangkok Friday night to protest against efforts by the ruling Pheu Thai party to pass an amnesty bill that could lead to the return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Protest leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban announced an all-out drive to eradicate the "Thaksin regime." The protest Friday was the biggest since the amnesty bill issue percolated back into the public consciousness. The anti-government protesters have vowed to continue their protests even though the Thai Senate voted down the bill, thus killing it for at least six months.      PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    AntiGovtProtest016.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
  • 15 JANUARY 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A transvestite supporter of anti-government protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban waits to giver money to Suthep during a protest march in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of Thai anti-government protestors continued to block the streets of Bangkok Wednesday to shut down the Thai capitol. The protest, "Shutdown Bangkok," is expected to last at least a week. Shutdown Bangkok is organized by People's Democratic Reform Committee (PRDC). It's a continuation of protests that started in early November. There have been shootings almost every night at different protests sites around Bangkok. The malls in Bangkok are still open but many other businesses are closed and mass transit is swamped with both protestors and people who had to use mass transit because the roads were blocked.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ShutdownBangkokDay03045.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
  • 28 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:  A game official indicates a goal as the New Zealand All Blacks score their last goal against the Tiffany’s Show Pattaya Ladyboys team during the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand. The All Blacks beat the transgendered ladyboy team 3-0. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS046.jpg
  • 19 OCTOBER 2018 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A blessing ceremony for women and transgendered people during Navratri observances in Bangkok. Navratri is a nine night (10 day) long Hindu celebration that marks the end of the monsoon and honors of the divine feminine Devi (Durga). The festival is celebrated differently in different parts of India, but the common theme is the battle and victory of Good over Evil based on a regionally famous epic or legend such as the Ramayana or the Devi Mahatmya. Navratri is celebrated throughout Southeast Asia in communities that have a large Hindu population. Because Navratri honors the feminine Devi, Navratri is especially popular with Thai women and transgendered people.  PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    BKKNavratri048.jpg
  • 28 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:  Elephants and their mahouts line up at the opening of the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS027.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
  • 29 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND: An elephant steps on a polo ball during the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS080.jpg
  • 29 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND: Elephants take the field before the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS056.jpg
  • 28 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:  A mahout (elephant trainer) relaxes atop his elephant at the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS043.jpg
  • 28 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:   Polo players socialize at the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS023.jpg
  • 29 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND: Elephants eat fruit at a fruit buffet during the King’s Cup Elephant Polo tournament in Hua Hin. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS087.jpg
  • 29 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND: A “Khru Ba Yai” or Elephant Spirit Man, walks off the field after participating in a blessing for the elephants before the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS065.jpg
  • 29 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND: A mahout (elephant handler) paints his elephant before the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS055.jpg
  • 29 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND: A mahout (elephant handler) paints his elephant before the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS054.jpg
  • 29 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:A Brahmin priest leads a blessing for the elephants before the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS051.jpg
  • 28 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:  Traditional Thai dancers perform at the opening of the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS034.jpg
  • 28 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:  Traditional Thai dancers perform at the opening of the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS026.jpg
  • 28 AUGUST 2013 - HUA HIN, PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, THAILAND:  Elephants and their mahouts line up at the opening of the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament in Hua Hin, Thailand. The tournament’s primary sponsor in Anantara Resorts and the tournament is hosted by Anantara Hua Hin. This is the 12th year for the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament. The sport of elephant polo started in Nepal in 1982. Proceeds from the King’s Cup tournament goes to help rehabilitate elephants rescued from abuse. Each team has three players and three elephants. Matches take place on a pitch (field) 80 meters by 48 meters using standard polo balls. The game is divided into two 7 minute “chukkas” or halves. There are 16 teams in this year’s tournament, including one team of transgendered “ladyboys.”    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ElephantPoloPS037.jpg
  • 18 JANUARY 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A transgendered sex worker waits for customers in the Nana Entertainment District in Bangkok. Prostitution in Thailand is technically 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
    Nana0118002.jpg
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Jack Kurtz, Photojournalist & Travel Photographer

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