Joanna James
A vivacious city full of cutting-edge adventure and oriental serenity, Bangkok proffers the most sensational and authentic experiences for every traveller's preference and budget range. Here are some unforgettable escapades you can't miss in this tourist-savvy metropolis.
Thailand's flamboyant Capital has all the trappings of an exotic theme park, from jaunty tuk-tuk rides through retro-chic and uber-modern scenes and lush gardens with exquisitely constructed pavilions and domes out of a Star Trek set to dreamy fortresses of bygone kingdoms and mini-islands marketing colourful delicacies. If you want an exhilarating combination of Bangkok's sensory allurements, the comforting crowds, jewel-toned canopies, and diverse wares at the city's largest market cannot be surpassed. With over 15,000 Instagram-worthy stalls selling everything from trendsetting hand-painted sneakers, chic accessories, and fashionable outfits to vintage books, picturesque plants, and antique home décor, get ready for a delightfully wild spree of impulse purchases!
While the cityscape's hip, rustic, and stimulating night markets and the kaleidoscopic creativity of its contemporary museums are irresistible to every brand of wanderer, there's something about being graciously transported into the rich whirl of storied dynasties that is breathtakingly addictive. A portal into a nature-kissed legend echoing the magic of imperial summers, this 17th Century Ayutthaya Era heritage masterpiece, admiring its dazzling reflection beside the Chao Phraya River, is filled with diverse fascinations with its winding waterways and panoramic scenery intricately melding with ingeniously artistic tributes from the past.
Out of this dreamscape of storybook glamour, you can liven up your senses at Bangkok's most decadently out-of-the-box recreational realm – the dashing and ultra-bougie Siam Paragon. You can't imagine this avant-garde world until you've set foot in this gilt-and-glass behemoth, with enticements ranging from upmarket culture-inspired fashion and décor to endless selections of restaurants, bowling alleys, art galleries, and Southeast Asia's largest aquarium.
While the gracefully sculptured sunset-gilded grand palaces of Bangkok feel like walking through a living work of art, the city's off-the-beaten-path historic quarters also possess an undeniable charm. For instance, the deliciously antique golden-teak facets of the 81-room Vimanmek villa, with its red roof, pale blue shutters, and tasteful exhibition halls, is a beautiful blend of Victorian and traditional Thai design that's worth a royalty-tinged ramble.
If you're looking for some good, old-fashioned fun to thrill your inner child as well as your mini tribe, Fantasia Lagoon is a lesser-known rooftop water park commanding spectacular city views and irresistibly splashable diversions. If you're on the lookout for serviced accommodation & hotels in Bangkok proffering state-of-the-art amenities for a holistically indulgent stay, venture no further than properties offered by brands such as Discover ASR.
A gourmet candlelit dinner while gliding through moonlit river vistas where you can gaze at the neon shimmer of the bejewelled city across the water is the perfect recipe for a romantic escape. The Grand Pearl dinner cruise is the perfect way to unwind after a tiring day of sightseeing and luxuriously savour meaningful moments while discovering the 'Venice of the East.'
If you enjoy bizarrely amazing snacks that you won't be able to fill your suitcase up with enough of, head over to one of the city's 7/11s, which are a treasure trove of scrumptiously eccentric surprises. From strawberry milkshake-flavoured potato chips and carbonara, cranberry, or chocolate toasties to the iconic basil chicken rice, crab dumplings, and mini bean-based puddings.
For some good-natured and light-hearted bustle and banter, you can't find a better spot than the Pinterest-perfect islands of heaped goodies that are Thailand's waterborne markets. From action-packed commerce-rich meccas like Damnoen Saduak Floating Market to quaintly poetic trade posts like Amphawa Floating Market with its longtail boat rides amid magical firefly colonies, they each have their own personality worth discovering.
For a breath of stunning novelty close to the metropolis, Kanchanaburi, with its theatrical limestone towers and crystalline cascades, and the simple enchantment of its old-world riverside habitations and wildlife sanctuaries, is the most idyllic choice.
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.
