“You can take the girl out the bar, but you can’t take the bar out the girl” is a commonly used proverb among ex-pats in Thailand, especially in Pattaya and Bangkok. For the sake of this particular post “bar girl” refers to a Thai girl who works or has worked in a bar with the intent of being paid by customers for sexual intimacy.
But exactly what does “You can take the girl out the bar, but you can’t take the bar out the girl” mean, and is there any truth in it ?.
More often than not the famous proverb is conveyed in hindsight, or in the form of worldly advice by old timers who have been there, done that and got the ‘T’ shirt. You could very easily compare the proverb to another globally famous proverb of “old habits die hard”, meaning people find it difficult to change their habits or lifestyle.
So far as Thai bar girls are concerned, it commonly refers to flirting, infidelity, and sometimes brash behavior. All traits of successful Thai bar girls, but certainly not habits and behavior most people would find desirable in a long term partner or wife.
Can You Take The Bar Out The Girl ?
Have you had a successful relationship with a Thai bar girl, who is now your wife or long term partner ?.
Have you experienced a failed relationship or marriage to a former bar girl ?.
Whatever your own experience of bar girls, do you believe the habits, traits and skills of a successful career working the bar can be forgotten. Can bar girls become devoted, loyal wife’s and companions ?.
Poll results: Can You Take The Bar Out The Girl?
No. once a bar girl always a bar girl. (38%, 62 Votes)
Depends how long they have worked the bar (33%, 53 Votes)
Yes. bar girls can make good wifes. (29%, 48 Votes)