Exploring Bangkok’s Historical Sites
The Grand Palace is a must-see. This is where the king lived and where the royal government was located until about 100 years ago. The architecture is awe-inspiring and there are lots of very interesting buildings, statues and ornaments inside, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Be aware that the Grand Palace is one of Thailand’s holiest sites so visitors are asked to dress modestly, i.e. no shorts, singlets or thongs and shoes must be removed when visiting any of the buildings. Opening hours are 08:30 to 15:30 every day. Next to the Grand Palace is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha which is Thailand’s most important Buddhist temple. The statue of the Emerald Buddha was carved from a solid piece of green jade and is a tiny 75 centimetres tall – the little guy changes his golden outfit three times a year, at the beginning of the hot season, the rainy season and the cool, dry season. Wat Phra Kaew is the starting point for the most important festival in Thailand, the Songkran festival which is the celebration of the Thai New Year. The festival starts on April 13th with the Songkran parade, Buddha images from around the country are paraded through Bangkok on this day, and the following day they’re washed in scented water. The water throwing aspect of Songkran then continues for another two days!
Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew was a very important experience for the following reasons. Firstly, at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha within the grounds of the Grand Palace, we saw the statue of the Emerald Buddha in person. The Emerald Buddha is carved from a solid piece of green jade and the statue dates back to the 15th century. It’s a very religious and significant artifact and is highly revered. The King personally changes the Buddha’s gold outer garment three times a year, corresponding to the summer, winter, and rainy season, and the ritual is an important blessing for Thai people. Inside the temple, I was asked to remove any footwear and dress appropriately. I wore trousers and covered shoulders as per the Thai temple laws. It’s also important to be quiet and respectful while walking in and around the temple. Secondly, we visited the Upper Terrace which was surrounded by beautiful structures such as the Pantheon and the Golden Chedis. The Pantheon is a Thai style building which houses a Buddha image. The building’s outer wall has 172 panels of mural paintings which are one of the main attractions for tourists. The beautifully decorated Golden Chedis are where there are a few remains of Royal family members such as hair or bones. The Upper Terrace also provides a good view of the preparation for the Royal Funeral of His Majesty the late King. Finally, we observed the surrounding buildings and structures on the Upper Terrace and the architecture was strikingly beautiful. The Upper Terrace was also a lot less crowded and we saw many traditional Thai mural paintings on the building walls which usually depict religious scenes like the life of Buddha. On our way out of the Grand Palace, we saw traditional mural paintings on the outer wall of the compound and it was another good opportunity to see and appreciate the unique craftsmanship of Thai artists throughout the generations. Interestingly, almost all of the paintings tell the story from the famous Indian epic ‘Ramakien’ which is the Thai interpretation of the Indian classic ‘Ramayana’. The Grand Palace was an extraordinary and unforgettable experience and I would highly recommend anyone visiting Bangkok to include this as a must see attraction.
Wat Arun
The recent emphasis of reducing only specific sections to tourist favourites and bringing the general standards up to those of Unesco quality means that the temple might be well on its way to achieving higher recognition in the very near future. While Wat Arun will continue to be part of the historical heart of Bangkok, more and more tourists turn up every single day. The entrance fee for foreigners is 100 baht, and the temple is open from 8:30 to 17:30. A good way to get to Wat Arun is by hiring a traditional Thai long-tail boat and enjoy a cruise along the river.
The temple is partly made up of colourfully decorated spires and stands majestically over the water. The central balcony is 17 storeys high and provides a fantastic view of the surrounding area, which is a real bonus if you are brave enough to tackle the narrow and steep steps to reach it. For good fortune, the Thais believe that you should start at the first light of day and complete the trip around the terrace in a clockwise direction. The gallery along the base of the spire is known for its intricate decorations and high-quality craftsmanship, including impressive golden features.
Nowadays, Wat Arun still remains quite influential and historically symbolic. Unfortunately, the actual cause and time of the demise of Wat Arun Temple is still a controversy among antiquarians. Many believe that the Burmese invasion led to the fall of this temple, but no clear archaeological evidence has ever surfaced to prove that a complete destruction or damage of the main structures occurred during that time. It was only during the reign of King Rama II that a more detailed mapping and documentation of the temple and its structures was carried out.
The Royal Palace was also originally situated in the area, and was used until the capital and the Emerald Buddha Temple were moved to the other side of the river by Rama I. King Rama II then moved two important artefacts to Wat Arun: the Emerald Buddha and the Outer Buddha Image. When he built a new palace and temple in the area, he decided to reduce the influence and power of Wat Arun by moving these two items there.
The history of Wat Arun can be traced back to the beginning of the Chakri dynasty – it is believed that King Taksin, after fighting his way out of Ayutthaya (which was invaded by the Burmese), arrived at this temple on the day he was crowned, which was the dawn of the new Ayutthaya Kingdom. That is how this temple got its name – Wat Chaeng, or the Temple of the Dawn.
On the west bank of the Chao Phraya River is the Temple of Dawn, known as Wat Arun in Thai. Its stunning and unique design is different from the other temples in Bangkok. Its distinctive prang, or spire, is decorated with tiny pieces of coloured glass and Chinese porcelain placed delicately into intricate patterns.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is the largest and oldest monastery in Bangkok, and is home to more than a thousand Buddha images and one of the largest single Buddha images of 46 meters in length, the Reclining Buddha. This is one of the most beautiful and unique temples in Bangkok and also the most frequented place for foreign visitors. Wat Pho was built as a restoration of an earlier temple on the same site, Wat Phodharam, with the work beginning in 1788. The temple was restored and extended in King Rama III’s reign (1824-1851), and was restored again in 1982. The famous 250-year-old traditional Thai massage school was also established here, and statues here represent the practice. Wat Pho functions as a center for knowledge and traditional medicines. Today, Wat Pho is recognized by UNESCO in its Memory of the World Programme for the stone inscriptions in the temple which includes knowledge of traditional Thai medicine and also a center for traditional medicine from 1226 to 1832. Also, Wat Pho is listed as the highest grade of the first-class royal temples. The temple has sixteen gates around the complex guarded by Chinese giants carved out of rocks in various positions and each is named according to the position of hand and leg. The 91 chedi-shaped like small Stupa from the 19th century are also a fascinating visit in Wat Pho and these are spread out in 4 directions from the bot that houses the Reclining Buddha. At the end of the hall where the Reclining Buddha is situated, visitors can drop coins at 108 bronze bowls which are aligned at the wall that is believed to create good fortune and to help the monks provide themselves with the upkeep of the temple. Wat Pho is considered the earliest center for public education in Thailand, and the marble illustrations and inscriptions placed in the temple for public instructions on various subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geography, and other subjects of social sciences. The inscriptions were also illustrated in a way that shows the reader where things are in the category. And those old inscriptions are inscribed in the palm leaf’s form in which brown ink was used for writing. The original and innovative aspect of these inscriptions is that pictures, diagrams, and illustrations were applied for better explanations. All first-time visitors are amazed by the long, gold-coated Reclining Buddha, which represents the entry of Buddha into Nirvana and the end of all reincarnations. The image of the Reclining Buddha is in a complete state of relaxation and rest, stretching its enormous length along one side of the building. Every single part of this image is beautifully decorated with various kinds of mother of pearl ornaments, and the feet are embedded with precious stones displaying the auspicious symbols inlaid with intricate details. Visitors can also purchase a bowl of coins at the entrance of the hall and drop the coins into offering bowls which symbolize the wish and goodwill. Every donation helps maintain Wat Pho to serve as a research center, specializing in the fields of science, literature, history, and high learning. Whether one is a Buddhist or not, the Reclining Buddha has the power to impress the visitors not only by its sheer size and beauty but also by the peaceful atmosphere the great image generates. Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering the temple and properly dress with trousers. Skirts or scarves are provided on site if wearing shorts or sleeveless is offending. Also, avoid physical contact with any monk if you see as the public is reminded to show respect and due consideration for monks when they are seen rather than to treat them as a tourist attraction. Remember, we are there to share the space of the monks.
Immerse Yourself in Thai Culture and Cuisine
Visit the Floating Markets
So there are three most well known floating markets in Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, and Taling Chan. Damnoen Saduak is the most famous one and a bit touristy. It is located in Ratchaburi province, about 95 kilometers from Bangkok. In the floating market, you can take a boat ride to see the lively market along the canal. You can also purchase fruits or food from the vendors. I suggest you to go to the floating market in early morning. The weather is cooler and you can see more activities. Usually by about 11 am, the market already becomes too quiet and hot. Also, there are many ways to arrange a private or group tour to visit the floating markets. You can easily find it online or check with your hotel or hostel when you arrive. However, if you do not want to travel 95 kilometers to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Amphawa Floating Market is a good option. Amphawa is the second most popular floating market near Bangkok. It is located in Samut Songkhram province which is about 50 kilometers from Bangkok. Every weekend on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the market is open from around 12 pm to 8 pm. I personally prefer Amphawa Floating Market. Because there are more local people and it is less touristy. Also, I can guarantee that you will love to see the sunset and the beautiful night view by the river. On the other hand, Taling Chan Floating Market is much smaller and less well known to tourists. It is located by the Chao Phraya River on the west side of Bangkok, only about 12 kilometers from the city center. Taling Chan is open on both Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm and I would recommend you to go there in the late morning so that you can shop for lunch. Another thing I would like to remind you is that you have to be careful when you are on the boat. There are lots of boats and the water could be quite choppy. Also, some boats do not have covers on top, so you might get sunburn. Hence, remember to put on sunblock, wear a hat and stay hydrated. Enjoy your experience in the floating markets!
Experience a Traditional Thai Massage
Bangkok is one of the world’s best places to get an authentic Thai massage. It’s soothing yet intense, therapeutic and also relaxing. The city is a hub for both ancient and modern wellness techniques. The informal yet famous Wat Pho Medical and Massage School was one of the first of its kind here, opening in 1955. The Traditional Medical Practitioners Association and Training Academy was open and is considered the first formally approved school of traditional massage. The course there is taught in Thai and costs 30,000 baht for 26 lessons, three times a week. However, many experience the native practice by visiting massage parlours and spas in the city. The ambiance in such places could not be more different than the often clinical and busy experience of a masseuse back home. With dim lights, soft music, the sound of the ocean and the unique mix of smells from essential oils, incense, and the herbal compresses used in many treatments, Thai massage becomes more than just a physical therapy. It also evokes a peaceful spiritual place in the mind. The popularity of this treatment amongst visitors to the country is growing steadily. It is a surefire winner for those who want to kickstart a healthy regime or are looking hard to find an excuse to shake off that persistent hangover from a few too many Bangkok nights. Plus, the often cheap price from quality parlours make for a tempting treat. When it comes to finding the best spa options, daily packages and dedicated tourist-focused parlours are likely your best bet. Many are clustered around the popular areas like Siam and Sukhumvit and most will offer inclusive treatment packages and special offers that could include anything from foot rubs to a full day of pampering.
Try Authentic Thai Street Food
Another must-try when you are visiting Bangkok is to taste authentic Thai street food. The variety of street food in Bangkok is abundant, and the best part of it is that you can find them everywhere in the city. Some of the popular street food that you should try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Som Tum, Khao Pad, and many more. If it is your first time to Bangkok, you may consider going to Ratchawat Market, Yaowarat (Chinatown), or Khao San Road. These are well-known street food spots to both tourists and locals. At these places, you will not only find the most famous dishes but also a wide range of selections. The vendors are very friendly and they are more than welcome to assist you. Don’t worry if you don’t speak Thai, some of them can speak English! The atmosphere at these street food places is lively and vibrant. Some vendors sell dishes that are already cooked while some may cook the dishes after they receive the orders. If you are not familiar with the procedures, just observe what the locals do and order from the popular stalls! It’s certain that the food is fresh and delicious. Besides, the experience of watching how the food is made is interesting as well. Also, you can notice the different types of utensils and equipment used by the locals, and it’s a good way to learn the local culture. Always remember to ask the vendors for spicy level when you are placing the orders. Thai food is famous for its spiciness, but not all Thai people can accept very spicy food. So, if you can’t take very spicy food, make sure you let the vendor know! Most of the vendors are happy to adjust the spiciness for you. Last but not least, do not miss the chance to try Thai dessert and fresh tropical fruits. Some well-known Thai desserts are Mango Sticky Rice, Tub Tim Grob, and Coconut Ice Cream. The Thai’s way of blending the taste of sweetness and the use of coconut milk never fails to impress dessert lovers. And of course, there are countless types of tropical fruits that you can try in Bangkok. They are appetizing, hydrating, and healthy!
Attend a Muay Thai Boxing Match
The experience of attending a Muay Thai boxing match is very different from watching a fight at home. It can be likened to the difference between watching a movie and taking part in the action. The live atmosphere at the stadium is an unforgettable experience for tourists. The loud noises, bright lights, and rowdy crowd all contribute to a night of fantastic entertainment. Most of the matches are scheduled for the night as Muay Thai is considered as the after-work or after-school sport for Thai people. There are several stadiums across Bangkok where Muay Thai matches take place on different nights of the week. Lumpinee Boxing Stadium and Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium are the two major stadiums for the fights. They have fights every night, but Saturday and Sunday usually have special fight nights. Many travel agencies or hotels offer ticket and transport packages, with prices ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 baht. A word of advice: do not get your tickets from touts as the prices will be severely marked up. It is best for tourists to get the tickets through trusted agencies to avoid any possibility of scams. There is also the option of purchasing tickets directly at the stadium, but most of the staff may not speak good English. Therefore, it is advised to buy the tickets online in advance or from the hotel concierge. If the chance arises, a visit to the Muay Thai boxing training camp can prove to be a motivating experience. Many of these camps allow tourists to see parts of the training sessions and speak to the boxers. As Muay Thai is the Thai national sport, the skills and talents of the boxers are highly respected. Hence, these young fighters are very dedicated and have dreams of becoming a successful boxer. By visiting the camps, tourists can gain insight into the effort and determination of these young boxers. Such an experience can be a motivational lesson for people of all ages.
Discover Bangkok’s Modern Attractions
Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest market in Bangkok. It is home to over 15,000 stalls of food, drinks, clothes, accessories, plants, pets, and more. The market covers an area of 27 acres, so it can take a whole day to explore all the sections of the market. The market is open from 9 am to 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, each day it attracts around 200,000 visitors. You can buy anything at the market. For example, the market was so big that I saw this amazing backpack that I loved and bought it to take back to the UK. In contrast to this, my friend bought new plant pots to take back to her accommodation. There is also a variety of food options. I had coconut ice cream and it was so delicious! The market was also nice and shaded, so it was a great place to cool down on a busy day. It was so cheap too, only 60 Baht, which is the equivalent of around £1.50. The best part of my day is when I visited a section of the market dedicated to home ware and art. It was filled with amazing original artworks and beautifully crafted clothing and decorations for your house. I really enjoyed looking at all the different paintings and drawings, it was so inspiring. So I would really advise anyone visiting to look for this part of the Chatuchak Weekend Market.
Shop at the Iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market
Located next to the Kamphaeng Phet MRT station, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest street market in the world and is especially popular among tourists. The market has over 15,000 stalls lining up in 27 sections and offers a wide variety of products such as clothing and accessories, handicrafts, ceramics, home decoration, crafts, handbags and souvenirs, music and books, antiques, and even pets. You could spend an entire day just exploring the market’s many stands and shops, and you may not even be able to cover the entire market. As a good starting point, you can go to Section 1 and Section 2, which sell home decorations and handicrafts, and Section 3 and Section 4, which sell paintings, ceramics, and housewares. If you need to take a break and recharge during your shopping, there are many food and drink stalls where you can try out local food. Do not forget to try coconut ice-cream, it’s a must-have item for the locals and it’s incredibly delicious. But keep in mind that the market is only open on Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 6pm, and on Friday from 6pm until midnight. Also due to a high amount of tourists, some vendors might try to over-price their products, so it’s always a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase. Much of the merchandise is produced in the area such as the outer northeastern region of Thailand, and many of the items are handcrafted by skilled craftspeople from the region. So by shopping at Chatuchak Market, not only will you get a chance to experience the colourful local life, you can also purchase many unique local products that you cannot find anywhere else. Even if you might not particularly enjoy shopping in general, the sheer size and diversity of the market will definitely make the visit a unique and unforgettable experience. The bustling sounds, the overwhelming variety of colours, the rich combination of local and modern products, and the sense of crowd and the smell of local foods will no doubt excite every one of your senses and immerse you in the local lifestyle from the moment you step into the market. So do give it a try, and you will understand why the market has become a must-see item for visitors to Bangkok. It is definitely an experience that you will remember for a long time.
Explore the Siam Square Shopping District
Exploring a dynamic part of the city. The Siam Square Shopping District is in the heart of the city and surrounded by various other shopping and entertainment attractions. This area is the Thai answer to London’s Oxford Street and Tokyo’s Shibuya. It is not just the shopping and the giant HD screens that loom above inviting you to stay a while, but also the various dining opportunities, the smooth transport links and its prime location – making journeys to the various nearby attractions much easier. It is also achingly modern and cool- something that you can’t escape from in a city that so seamlessly merges the contemporary with the traditional. The shopping opportunities really are worth taking note of. The Siam Paragon is a shopper’s paradise. The metrosexual among you will no doubt revel in the various big designer brands that the centre offers. And of course, when you’re done with the shopping, there are many fine restaurants and shops for you to explore. Also nestled by the Siam Paragon is the Siam Centre and the Siam Discovery- both packed to the brim with big names and endless possibilities for your next purchase. Co-existing with the various shopping centres are specialist shops and market places. In one of the many sois (small side streets that you can find here) on your travels, you may stumble across ‘The Rotoring’. This market is world-famous for its vinyl, toys, memorabilia and quirky gadgets. While it’s quite small, this maze-like market is perfect for those seeking a taste of Thai culture in a less frenzied environment. And for those who love to shop until they drop- the longest shopping street is right on your doorstep! Each day the stalls that line the street sell a plethora of items, from veg and fruit, to the latest in fashion and jewellery. It’s worth keeping some loose change in your wallet, as the chances are high that you will find something you want to take home with you. Don’t forget that this area is in easy access to other parts of the city. Just a 5-minute walk from the Siam Square Shopping District is The National Stadium- a more authentic Thai community of people awaits you. And if you fancy another shopping trip, the Saphan Taksin BTS station provides a route to the riverside district and the Asiatique Shopping Village for a different shopping experience.
Visit the Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower
As the name of the section suggests, “Visit the Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower,” the content in this particular section describes one of Bangkok’s modern attractions. However, as the information in the text moves from each individual attraction in search of something to do in Bangkok to the next, from “shopping” to “exploration” in this case, the focus might shift as well. Visitors are often encouraged to experience how tradition and modernity uniquely coexist in Bangkok and Thailand as a whole as they make their way around the city. Bangkok’s modern attractions like the Chatuchak Weekend Market and the Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower are very much associated with this theme. When we talk about the Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower, the focus is more on the style and the glamour of modern Bangkok that the attraction offers. It is often introduced as one of the city’s most stylish and world’s highest open air bars. Then, as a way of increasing the allure of the place, the information about what to do around the Sky Bar is provided along with the recommendation of how to get there. Such information might be more focused on concrete tips and facts, for example, the dress code, the operation hours, the price range of the drinks, and the signature drinks and snacks. The text covers this through the use of factual, descriptive language and by organizing information in the order of importance. The images used in the brochure also demonstrate that the state-of-the-art design and magnificent views at the bar are the main attractions of the destination. A connected, appropriate and effective vocabulary is carefully chosen and skills such as defining and comparing are considered as well as focusing on the superficial as opposed to the profound experience at the bar. By studying which specific information is included when we provide the description and analysis of a particular essay, it can help us to better understand the rhetorical consideration and how to compose an effective persuasive message for the target audience.
Enjoy a River Cruise along the Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya is a major river in Thailand, with its low alluvial plain forming the center of the country. It flows through the nation’s capital city of Bangkok. Enthralling sunset views, a cooling breeze, and the lush landscapes on both its banks make a river cruise along the Chao Phraya River an unmissable experience in Bangkok. Many operators in the city offer daily guided tours usually departing around 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, so travelers can enjoy the magnificent sight of the sun setting over the water in the flickering twilight. Whilst touring the river, travelers will be able to have a close look at some of the city’s most notable buildings which carry a variety of architectural themes. Some of these sights include the iconic Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (commonly known as Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn), the remarkable Grand Palace, the building that houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (officially known as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram). Additionally, all tours are accompanied by the historical and cultural commentary from experienced English-speaking Thai guides who can provide travelers with all sorts of intriguing facts and insights about the various sights they will have the chance to visit along the river. These presentations are coupled with opportunities for visitors to engage in the customary act of feeding the swifts who call the Chao Phraya River home. These communal fish feeding “sessions” are a particular favorite among families and younger travelers, and offer a truly local experience. The honorable mention of the Chao Phraya River is the fact that water is used not just as a vehicle for travel but as a way of life for many Thai people who live and work alongside its shores. A river cruise is a valuable opportunity to see how age-old traditions are brought forward into the present day and survive in the metropolis of Bangkok. Last but not least, wellness is defined by the concept of moving water throughout the body in traditional Thai architecture and art. Just as its temples and homes are often built on stilted foundations to protect from floods, Thai massage aims to open chemical electron flows in the body’s energy grid and natural water cycle. Infusing truth into local legend, a wellness and massage therapy centre on the Majestic Princess cruise liner combines the serenity of traditional Eastern methods with stunning panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River. By choosing to indulge in one of the voyager-exclusive signature massages ranging from Hot Stone to Swedish-style therapies, travellers will be able to pamper themselves in an environment where medicinal well-being has a history just as rich as the landscapes passing by the windows. The 24-hour massage and health centre is positioned within the heart of the largest guest cabin ship among Southeast Asia river cruises, and offer travellers an equally extensive range of traditional settings from the metropolis and professional services in the field. Lofty overtures about far-reaching experiences and the ability to understand local customs are not just empty promises, but a way of life that can be experienced and shared among tourists from all walks of life on an unforgettable Bangkok river cruise along the storied Chao Phraya River.
Escape to Nature in Bangkok
One of the great aspects of the city is the ample green space that can be found throughout. From the botanical gardens at Suan Rot Fai to the wide open spaces at Chatuchak Park, there’s no shortage of beautiful outdoor spaces. However, the main park that you should consider visiting is Lumpini Park. Located near to the districts of Silom and Lumphini, Lumpini Park is one of the biggest and most popular parks in Bangkok. Here you can find plenty of wide open spaces, a large boating lake and even some wildlife such as huge water monitor lizards that make their home in the park. Not only does Lumpini Park offer a great place to relax in the day, but it also often plays host to concerts and events throughout the year, particularly in the evenings and at the weekends. The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is the hub of Bangkok’s burgeoning art scene and offers a great way to while away a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Located conveniently at the National Stadium BTS station, it’s easy to get to from most downtown districts. The museum is home to a wide array of exhibitions including modern art, music, theatre and design, all from both Thai and international artists. There’s almost always something new to see or explore thanks to the centre’s regularly changing program of different exhibitions and events, so if you’re in Bangkok for an extended period or you’re looking for something interesting to do on a return trip, it is well worth checking out what’s on at the Art and Culture Centre beforehand. On the other hand, if you’re interested in design and contemporary artisan craft the Bangkok Arts and Crafts Centre offers a more hands-on exhibit and retail space, located close to the river on Sanam Chai Road. Finally, the Jim Thompson House is a must-visit for culture vultures looking to discover more about traditional Thai aesthetics and design. This exquisite home-come-museum showcases the personal art and antiquities collection of the home’s former owner; the American businessman and architect Jim Thompson, who famously helped to revitalise Thailand’s silk industry in the 1950s and 60s. Wander the leafy garden, home main house and collection of six traditional teak wood buildings to discover a treasure trove of sculptures, ceramics and traditional Buddhist depictions and explore Thompson’s fascinating life and disappearance.
Relax in Lumpini Park
As both a peaceful and relaxing contrast to the bustling city outside, the “Unforgettable Things to Do in Bangkok – 2022 Edition” includes Lumpini Park as a go-to destination for nature and park life. The guide describes how visitors can escape the concrete city and embrace open, fresh air and nature right in the heart of Bangkok. The guide explains how the park provides avenues of escape from the patron life with health-related activities: whether it’s joining a mass Tai Chi exercise at the crack of dawn to enjoying a meal in the company of monitor lizards and squirrels in the daytime, the guide details how visitors can spend a day there and feel fresh and rejuvenated. Lumpini Park is described not only as a green attraction but also as an area that is culturally valuable to the city. Being near the Silom District and the vicinity of old and new Bangkok, the guide suggests that visitors can go from experiencing traditional cultural activities such as feeding the fish or reading against a tree to enjoy modern experiences such as swimming, hiring a paddle boat, or playing frisbee with the locals. Finally, the guide acknowledges to readers that Lumpini Park also features several event activities, making it a versatile point of interest for all visitors. Whether the interests lie in culture, nature, or health, the guide details a range of seasonal and occasional events that visitors can participate in, including fairs, music festivals, and sports competitions. This makes Lumpini Park a regularly refreshing experience. This guide truly provides an excellent understanding for potential visitors on what to do in the park to suit different preferences. Through the use of detailed activities and attractions catering to different time frames and interests, visitors can ensure they make successful use of their time in the park and not miss life-enriching experiences. This section presents a valuable blueprint to maximize visitors’ relaxation and health and to appreciate the cultural and leisurely values of Lumpini Park.
Explore the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is the hub for all things contemporary in Bangkok, including art, music, theatre, film, design, and cultural events. It was opened in 2008. The huge (25,000 sq.m.) BACC is where many global and local artists have an opportunity to showcase their works. It’s very often meant that there’s an opportunity to see what Bangkok’s younger upwardly mobile artists are doing. There’s generally no topic which is off limits with displays featured from various causes, using various media on various platforms. The BACC also offers educational resources for anyone interested in learning, including over a dozen established libraries, reading rooms, and an art project studio. Over six levels and ten main galleries can be explored, each presenting a mind-bogglingly diverse array of creative treasures. An impressive program of temporary exhibitions in other galleries was also hosted from across the globe. Centrally situated and easily joys city now many. Entry is free, and the food court in the basement and the cafes are also very good. For those who want to see and experience Bangkok differently, the BACC should be placed on top of your top list. This contemporary arts center and state-of-the-art exhibitions are a better way to express your appreciation for diversity and the creative community in Bangkok. Art lovers, alternative tourists, young enthusiasts can have a field day with the BACC, and whatever angle they are coming from is sure to be met with visual stimulation and a kaleidoscope of expression that doesn’t disappoint. With over two million visitors in the year of 2019, BACC has certainly proven to be a valuable asset for Bangkok, providing opportunities for innovation in art and culture. This vibrant arts scene at the BACC – “the only one art center in Thailand to collate and present contemporary art, culture, and creativity from Bangkok and all over the world” – reflects who Bangkokers really are, thinking to the world and the appreciation of local and global creativity.
Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya Historical Park
Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand from 1350 to 1767, is located just to the north of Bangkok. Today, Ayutthaya Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and includes many temple ruins, statues, and ancient architecture. The park is easily accessible as a day trip from Bangkok and is a popular option for visitors who want to experience Thailand’s history and culture beyond the capital city. English-speaking tour guides and group tours are available for visitors who want to learn about the park’s history and significance, although a self-guided day trip is also a convenient and flexible option. The most popular way to travel to Ayutthaya is by train; from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station, it takes just under two hours to reach Ayutthaya Railway Station. The trains to Ayutthaya are comfortable, air-conditioned, and designed for tourists with luggage, such as large backpacks and suitcases. Additionally, a one-way train ticket to Ayutthaya costs just 15 Baht for third class, 245 Baht for second class, and 345 Baht for first class; prices are accurate as of 2021. Once you arrive in Ayutthaya, there are many different options for exploring the park, such as renting bicycles or hiring a tuk-tuk or taxi to take you between the different temple ruins. Most visitors start their temple tour from the immediate surroundings of Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. The museum itself, which is located opposite Ayutthaya’s main historical park, is also worth visiting and provides an excellent introduction to the historical and cultural significance of Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya Historical Park is a large area with many temples and monuments to explore, so it’s worth making a plan or a rough itinerary in advance: consider which specific temples or ruins you want to see and in which order. Some of the most popular and impressive ruins include Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Phra Ram, and Wat Lokayasutharam with its enormous Reclining Buddha statue. As this is an active historical and religious site, all visitors to the Ayutthaya Historical Park should ensure that they dress and behave respectfully. For example, this means wearing a shirt or blouse that covers the shoulders, as well as knee-length shorts or trousers, and removing your shoes before entering any of the temple buildings. By adhering to these basic cultural norms, everyone can help to preserve Ayutthaya as an important cultural site and treasure for the future.