As of August 1st 2016, the streets of Bangkok became a tad less colourful and may lose some of their charm. In an effort to smarten up the central shopping precinct, the city hall ordered all street vendors to pack up their woks and wares and move out.
Worry not, all of you foodies out there, most of these street food vendors migrated to a designated area many miles away so chances are travelers still get to experience the sights, sounds and smells of sizzling skewers and other local delicacies.
Luckily, Bangkok is not just about its great food (more to cover on these on future posts); it also features iconic colourful landmarks, life-bursting open-air markets and many more sights.
Fresh fruit vendor selling whole pomegranates or juice in a bottle
Thailand’s signature Pad Thai dish, prepared in an extra large pan right in front of you
Tuk tuk vehicles flood the streets of Bangkok, used by merchants and locals alike
Damnoen Saduak floating market is the most popular one, located 100km outside Bangkok
Sky bar at the top of the State Tower
Pak Khlong Talat flower market, open 24 hours, but especially busty after midnight
See
- Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) – one of the busiest landmarks in central Bangkok, this complex should be at the top of your list. Lots of colour, tradition and heritage in this monument dating back to 14th century
- Damnoen Saduak floating market – located some 100km outside Bangkok, it’s definitely worth an early wake-up call as it gets flocked by tourists after 9-10am
- Pak Khlong Talat flower market – best to visit late at night for a grand tour around the colourful carts; also featuring some fruit and vegetable
Stay
- Hansar – great hotel in a central location, with large rooms elegantly decorated and a nice outdoor swimming pool
- Tower Club at Lebua – luxury getaway with an amazing rooftop, a touristy yet very elegant attraction
- AriyasomVilla – a more traditional Thai vibe and a great atmosphere in this comfy style small villas hotel. Not to mix with the hotel offering the group has
- Le Meridien Bangkok – sophisticated luxury rooms with great views to the city; also features a very nice outdoors pool and fitness area
- 137 Pillars Suites and Residences – more of an upscale feel in this lush hotel that puts the view first and foremost
Do
- Siam Paragon mall – if you’re into shopping then this is the best mall around. It consists of a series of buildings and serviced well by the metro network
- State Tower rooftop – Bangkok’s largest building, home to Lebua serviced residences and hotel, also featuring Sirocco, world’s highest open-air restaurant with a panoramic view of Bangkok
Eat
- Zuma – albeit being an international chain, Zuma offers a great taste of the Asian fusion cuisine. Featuring a sushi bar, a robata grill, a terrace and a cocktail bar
- Nahm – Austrian-born chef David Thompson is serving up some of the best Thai food in Bangkok, including an array of relishes and curries; quite pricey though
- Sra Bua at Kempinski – a spin off from the Michelin-starred Kiin Kiin in Copenhagen, Sra Bua offers traditional Thai dishes with a funky twist, from frozen red curry with lobster salad to curry soup served in ice cream cones. Don’t try if you’re not willing to get creative
- Thip Samai – landmark for Phad Thai lovers, especially if you’re on a budget. This very plain local joint serves only Phad Thai and orange juice but it’s one not to miss
