Brad Smith
Bangkok may be a shopping hub, but this city has an equally serious side born out of strong roots, rich history and amazing culture. To learn more about this side of the city, visit the places below.
Imagine a lettuce farm being converted to a palace; that's exactly what happened at the Suan Pakkad Palace Museum. Often overlooked, this treasure of sorts is made up of 8 wooden Thai houses, constructed in a traditional manner. It of course no longer serves as a palace but the building and all the many treasures it has in store is definitely something worth exploring. Artefacts found inside these stilt buildings include antiques, displays of artwork and some remarkable furniture. Watch how the simple has been converted to the exotic in the beautifully landscaped grounds which a number of ducks and swans call home.
The Bangkokian Museum is made up of 3 ancient structures that were constructed all the way back in the early 20th century. In fact this museum brings to life an often overlooked era in the history of Bangkok. The main building once served as the residence of the Suwardee family and items from this home are displayed in the building. Apparently the Suwardee family were unable to pay for the construction of their house and hence the second building was made as a boarding house to generate some income. The third building is the most recent building of the 3 which was constructed as a surgical theatre for a British Doctor who unfortunately passed away before using it for its intended purpose. To take your time exploring such an intriguing museum, choose from the luxury hotels in Bangkok nearby this place. Chatrium Hotels & Residences is a good choice since its city properties are within easy reach.
A tour of the museums in Bangkok is not quite complete without visiting the eerie yet fascinating Siriraj Medical Museum. As the name has it, this is a medical museum so expect to see plenty of human bodies and human parts displayed. This is not all; the Siriraj Medical Museum also in many areas looks like a crime scene with murder weapons and bloodied evidence exhibited in a manner that looks as if an investigation is imminent. There are several sections to this museum that is dedicated to entire areas of medical science such as pathology, anatomy and forensic science. Collectively this museum is often referred to as the "museum of death" which is an apt name considering all the eerie exhibits on display.
Yet another museum set up in a historical building, the National Museum of Bangkok has the largest collection of all Thai artsy things displayed on its walls. Located in close proximity to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Keaw which is the biggest tourist hotspot in the city, the National Museum simply cannot be missed while exploring the area.
