Joanna James
There is plenty to do in Bangkok when it rains. The vibrant city offers travellers plenty of options with spa treatments, Muay Thai boxing matches and options of hitting the fabulous shopping malls.
Muay Thai is Thai style kick boxing; one of the best sports to check out for some adrenaline pumping action. Muay Thai in Bangkok is quite a rage and treat to observe. The rink is lit up with scorching white lights as the two fighters first engage in Wai Khru; a spiritual ceremony that thanks instructors, teachers, the boxing ring, spirits and the sport. All this is done to the rhythm of traditional instruments that match the eager cheering of the crowds. After Wai Khru the fighters individually perform Ram Muay a dance that demonstrates the skills and agility of each fighter. The pre-match ceremonies while being a treat to watch offer blessings, good luck and protection for an honourable fight; the actual fight though can get quite bloody so it's not recommended for the faint hearted.
Bangkok is a shopper's paradise enticing serious shopaholic's intent on nothing more than retail therapy. Rainy days are excellent for browsing these shopping meccas. Guests at Emporium Suites by Chatrium can head over to Emporium shopping Complex on the ground floor for some high-end luxury shopping. The place is owned by the same firm responsible for Siam Paragon another mega mall that offers everything from shopping to entertainment and dining. Most of the best malls are easily accessible from your Sukhumvit hotel and being home to ice rinks, Asia's largest aquarium, bowling alleys, multi cinemas and book stores are great places of entertainment for enjoying a rainy day.
This is an iconic experience in Bangkok; no discerning traveller should leave the city without a session of utter indulgence at one of the fine spas of Bangkok. There are massage shops at just about every street corner but it is best to ask for a recommended outlet before visiting. Most 5 star hotels in Sukhumvit will offer spas or fitness centres equipped with steam rooms for whiling away the time and thoroughly enjoying your rainy day in Bangkok
Southeast Asia's largest aquarium is located within the Siam Paragon shopping mall. The place is home to a myriad of marine life from ferocious sharks to wiggly jelly fish. There is plenty to do there such as exploring the indoor rainforest and riding the glass bottomed boat. Kids will be fascinated with the spiders and snakes while Madam Tussauds Wax Museum located next door is another looked forward to stop.
The perfect partner for gloomy rainy weather is a steaming cup of tea and delicious cake. Bangkok has plenty of cosy cafés that one can visit to spend a quiet evening or morning at; Bangkok is well known for its food and desserts by far are some of the best. Sweet delights at Crepe Garden and huge chunks of honey toast coupled with sweet mango ice cream promise to plaster a happy smile on your face.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
