Joanna James
Thailand’s enchanting capital of Bangkok holds a special place in the hearts of all travellers. From iconic temples, great-tasting cuisine to exciting nightlife scenes, the city has it all. Listed out are 10 reasons as to why Bangkok is the world’s greatest city.
Known as the Grand Palace, this former residence of the Thai King extends for an enormous 54 acres. Showcasing magnificent temples, detailed paintings, gold-plated walls and eye-catching sculptures, the attraction houses the world’s longest wall painting, which is a mural of the classic tale—Ramayana.
Served at Somboon Seafood along Surawong Road, fans of crab curry would do well to check out this place. The recipe involves cooking chunks of juicy crab in a thick, sweet sauce that is both flavoursome and lip-smacking good.
Cinemagoers in Bangkok will find plenty of reasons to smile about, owing largely to the fact that you are well taken care of no sooner you enter. Aside from the welcome drink, you will also have the luxury of a pillow, blanket and a super comfy recliner.
If you need a delivery made, a friend picked up or simply require the fastest way to beat rush hour traffic en route to your favourite destination, then hailing a motorbike taxi is the way forward. Easily identified due to their orange-vest-clad riders, these taxis are trustworthy but you will need to haggle in order to get a fair price.
Selling everything from hipster clothes, restored vespa bikes to age-old typewriters, Rachadaphisek Market, found near Lad Phrao MRT Sttaion is an adventure that must be had. Even getting your hands on charming décor for your home is a possibility while you will be excellently placed to enjoy the ‘ins and outs’ of a Thai night market.
Hear the classics of Rock ‘N’ Roll legends in the calibre of Ozzy Osbourne, Iron Maiden and Guns N’ Roses when at Rock Pub, which is a hop, step and a jump from Rachathewi BTS Station. Famous for its in-house band, here is your chance to wear your best leather, gather your mates and enjoy a head-banger of a night.
Be it along streetside corners or within plush, air-conditioned parlours, enjoying a Thai massage will easily put your mind at ease and ensure that you not only sleep soundly but also have all the energy you need for the following day.
Though the locals refer to Bangkok as ‘Krung Thep,’ former King Rama I was credited with having named the city. Amazingly, the full name of Bangkok reads as Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. If you weren’t out of breath before, you certainly will be now.
What Taglish is to the Philippines, Thaiglish is to Thailand and with reference to the business names that you will find splashed across the city’s streets, some of these will be incredibly hilarious to pronounce. Take for example, “Englash Programs” or “Hair Saloons,” which are names that you will not encounter elsewhere in the world.
Arguably, the most visited backpacker joint in the entire world, Khao San Road is a magnet for those looking for affordable stays, aromatic street food, a few cold ones and some hours of people watching. Finding a live music bar is easy, as is exchanging pleasantries with a friendly local or two. In fact, if searching for a place to stay at that is in close proximity to Khao San Road, then consider Tinidee Trendy Bangkok Khaosan, which is one of the finest hotels near Khaosan Road Bangkok.
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.
