Joanna James
Bangkok has transformed into a global metropolis of varying cultures, beliefs and distinct experiences that will have you longing for more. If you are a first-timer, do include these on your bucket list.
To literally, get the ball rolling on your Bangkok holiday, access the city’s excellent public transportation system that will get you to your desired location on time. The speedy and easy-to-use BTS Skytrain is perfect to stay well clear of rush hour traffic while the MRT can be made use of where you happen to be more budget conscious.
Regardless of whether you’re a fitness freak or simply yearn for some fresh air before you begin ticking off items on your daily itinerary, enjoying the cool and serene environs of Lumphini Park will surely hold you in good stead. One may walk, jog and even join in some Tai Chi with beaming locals as part of a detour, well away from Bangkok’s bustle.
For a fee not amounting to more than USD 10, you can have your entire body stretched in angles and directions you never knew it could. Cutting a long story short, a Thai massage will be one of the fonder moments of your holiday which includes various stretching techniques and deep tissue massages.
Reputed as the largest weekend market in the world that extends across a whopping 27 acres, Chatuchak Market is the place to be should you want a shopping spree with a different twist. From fashionable clothing, top-notch handcrafted products and eye-catching jewellery, this marketplace is well worth the time and effort. However, be mindful that you will need your best haggling skills.
More than shopping, the city’s malls are lifestyle destinations replete with modern designs where you can find and purchase brands and labels from across the globe. For example, you can get your shopping done at Siam Paragon Mall before catching the latest Hollywood blockbusters at Paragon Cineplax which is in close proximity to Jono Bangkok Asok which is known for its coworking spaces in Bangkok.
Set foot inside the residence of the person credited with having revolutionised Thailand’s silk industry in the 20th century for one insightful outing. Named after the owner himself, Jim Thompson House is a Thai-style home that contains a gamut of priceless antiques that were gathered by Jim Thompson before his mysterious disappearance in Malaysia.
Housing an impressive collection of royal residences and temples of varying stature is the magnificent setting of the Grand Palace. Having functioned as the official residence of the country’s royal family, this appealing attraction features an array of highlights to behold. One such example is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha which is dedicated to Thailand’s deep-rooted ties to Buddhism.
The Wat Arun is an unmistakable sight in all of Bangkok and is well known for its central spire that continues to capture the attention of onlookers. A good way to experience its brilliance is to head out just before sunset and join like-minded observers as they peer out across the waters of the Chao Phraya River towards the spectacular scenes surrounding Wat Arun.
An excellent way to get your head around the intricacies of a thriving city such as Bangkok is to venture towards any of its floating markets. For example, Khlong Lat Mayom is a popular stopover for a host of local delicacies and handmade goods while Taling Chan is where you might indulge your tastebuds in some tasty shrimp, BBQ fish and healthy salads from vendors in wooden boats.
From skewered sausages, fried meats to coconut ice cream, Bangkok’s street food culture is very much at the heart of how the city functions. With individual dishes costing nothing more than USD 1 or 2, you are in for a treat no sooner than you leave the comfort of your room or hotel.
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.
