Joanna James
Red light areas and the nightlife don't define Sukhumvit. There's more to this vibrant part of Bangkok. Shopping malls, museums, parks, and Thai spas are some of the other things you can enjoy here.
Located just five minutes from Gardina Asoke Hotel & Residence, Terminal 21 Bangkok is one of the most popular shopping malls in Bangkok and is visited by both locals and tourists. The shopping mall looks like an airport, and every level of the mall speaks of a famous tourist destination. There are nine levels, all bursting with things you can buy, and there are also food places that serve delicious Thai and international dishes.
This place has a scandalous reputation, but this is one of the must-visit attractions in Bangkok. The first bar in this area was opened by an African American cowboy in the 1970s, hence the name Soi Cowboy. The red lights that illuminate the region are the main highlight. This is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Bangkok and should be visited by every tourist.
Shopping at Emporium Bangkok is a must if you want to experience the trendy side of Bangkok. This is considered one of the luxury shopping centres in the city because of the international brand it features. Inside the mall is a cinema as well as a space for exhibitions. The food court serves delicious foods and drinks, adding to the sophisticated atmosphere of the mall. There are six floors with a huge number of retail outlets. You can also listen to some relaxing jazz music while shopping here.
Located right beside Emporium Bangkok is Benjasiri Park. Although it's called a park, it has the look of an exhibition. The park is also called Queen's Park. This is an excellent place for you to relax and read a book under the trees. However, in the evening, the park gets crowded with joggers.
An excellent family attraction, Dinosaur Planet Theme Park appeals to both adults and children. There are huge structures that resemble dinosaurs, and some of them are lifelike and seem to be ready to pounce at you. The park offers a number of activities, including digging for fossils.
An old teak house, Kamthieng House Museum is dedicated to preserving Thailand's culture and history. This is also where you find the headquarters of Siam Society, an organisation that works to uphold Thailand's heritage. Compared to other museums in the country, this museum is quite small, but its size is no reflection of the value of its collection; some of the artefacts date back to the 19th century.
Another shopping mall that guarantees you an excellent shopping experience, Gateway Ekamai Shopping Mall has a unique theme resembling a small Japanese town. The mall has eight floors featuring the Japanese theme, and there are Japanese figurines scattered throughout the mall. In addition to fashion stores, the mall also houses a supermarket and a number of Japanese restaurants.
One other place where in Bangkok where you can buy anything you want, Nana Market is a must-visit for tourists. This has a vibrant atmosphere with vendors marketing their merchandise and buyers haggling over them. You'll also find DVD stores as well as several food stalls that sell delicious Thai food.
An array of spas offering various spa treatments can be found dotting the streets of Sukhumvit. You can choose from a variety of treatments, and the staff is well-trained and polite and will make you feel at home.
In addition to Nana Market, there are several other street markets you should visit. These markets offer a dizzying range of items at low prices, but haggling is required and can be an exciting experience. Also, while exploring these markets, don't forget to sample as many Thai dishes as possible.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
