คู่มือนำเที่ยวของ Cin

Cin
คู่มือนำเที่ยวของ Cin

SIAM PARAGON

The new Rot Fai Market in the Ratchada area of Bangkok is bringing the same convivial night bazaar feel, antiques curios, and street food snacks and treats from its original location, into an area of the city that is much easier to access thanks to the nearby Cultural Centre MRT Underground Station. Although the Srinakarin branch is much larger, it is also way out in the suburbs of Bangkok, making it challenging for people who find themselves on the other side of the city. This new Train Market is more central and compact, meaning it’s easier to pop in for a spot of browsing anytime from 18:00 to 24:00, Thursday to Sunday. Read more at: http://www.bangkok.com/magazine/rot-fai-market-ratchada.htm?cid=ch:OTH:001
Fitness studio As well as the gym creating strength Good health Various forms This area also has a large park that is an additional option for us to exercise and relax in the midst of refreshing nature. By Benjakitti Park, this green area with a large swamp that covers an area of ​​more than 130 rai. As well as being a popular recreation center in the city Open : Every day 04.30-21.00 hrs.
264 locals recommend
Benjakitti Park
Thanon Ratchadaphisek
264 locals recommend
Fitness studio As well as the gym creating strength Good health Various forms This area also has a large park that is an additional option for us to exercise and relax in the midst of refreshing nature. By Benjakitti Park, this green area with a large swamp that covers an area of ​​more than 130 rai. As well as being a popular recreation center in the city Open : Every day 04.30-21.00 hrs.
Terminal 21 brings the dream of traveling the world to downtown Bangkok, with its cutting-edge concept that places several world-famous cities under one roof. Find yourself wandering around a maze of shops in Tokyo City, sauntering down London’s Carnaby Street, bagging a bargain in an Istanbul zouk, or shopping for something to fill your growling stomach at the Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. Part of the same building as Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit, Terminal 21’s curvilinear glass-and-steel façade resembles a 21st-century airport, and the theme continues once you step inside. The floor signs that signal the arrivals in particular cities, a crisscrossing network of escalators, electronic display boards that bring to mind flight information displays at an airport terminal and the information desk receptionists donning air hostesses’ uniforms – these are all part of the shopping experience at Terminal 21. Lifestyle mall with a personality The nine floors at Terminal 21 house some 600 shops, a Cineplex, Gourmet Market (supermarket) and a food court with all kinds of mouthwatering Thai and international fare. The basement level (LG) has a Caribbean theme and is where you will find the Gourmet Market, take-away food outlets, market-style food vendors as well as banks and bookstores. Take an escalator up one level and the ground floor (G) brings you to Rome, with all kinds of international and local fashion labels such as Kipling, Fox, CC:OO, Nike, Jaspal, Adidas, Levi’s, and more. Paris on M floor takes you to the Champs-Élysées, where more fashion brands await your discovery. The 1st to 3rd floors are home to smaller shops by local independent labels. Women’s fashion is found on the 1st floor (Tokyo) and men’s on the 2nd floor (London). The 3rd floor (Istanbul) is for gifts, jewellery, fashion accessories, toys, beauty products and home décor. With an eclectic collection of shops, this floor has a look and feel of a Middle Eastern zouk but with a modern twist. Haven for food lovers Now to the main highlight, San Francisco on the 4th and 5th floors, where you will find more than 50 restaurants and cafés vying for your attention. Both restaurant chains and independent outlets are represented here, among them Pepper Lunch, MK, Chabuton, Dory Seafood Bistro, Secret Recipe, Tohkai Yakiniku, Tony Roma’s, Fuji, Ootoya, The Canton House, Baanying Café and Swensen’s. If you like a food court experience, head up to Pier 21 on the 5th floor. This is perhaps the best food court in town in terms of price, taste and variety. Find everything from dim sum to grilled seafood (fast food style), Hainanese chicken rice to delicious phad thai, roast duck noodles to vegetarian ready-to-eats. Don’t forget to leave some room for desserts, as there’s mango sticky rice, shaved ice dessert, ice creams, and more. Opentime : 10:00 – 22:00 PM.
906 locals recommend
Terminal 21
88 Soi Sukhumvit 19
906 locals recommend
Terminal 21 brings the dream of traveling the world to downtown Bangkok, with its cutting-edge concept that places several world-famous cities under one roof. Find yourself wandering around a maze of shops in Tokyo City, sauntering down London’s Carnaby Street, bagging a bargain in an Istanbul zouk, or shopping for something to fill your growling stomach at the Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. Part of the same building as Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit, Terminal 21’s curvilinear glass-and-steel façade resembles a 21st-century airport, and the theme continues once you step inside. The floor signs that signal the arrivals in particular cities, a crisscrossing network of escalators, electronic display boards that bring to mind flight information displays at an airport terminal and the information desk receptionists donning air hostesses’ uniforms – these are all part of the shopping experience at Terminal 21. Lifestyle mall with a personality The nine floors at Terminal 21 house some 600 shops, a Cineplex, Gourmet Market (supermarket) and a food court with all kinds of mouthwatering Thai and international fare. The basement level (LG) has a Caribbean theme and is where you will find the Gourmet Market, take-away food outlets, market-style food vendors as well as banks and bookstores. Take an escalator up one level and the ground floor (G) brings you to Rome, with all kinds of international and local fashion labels such as Kipling, Fox, CC:OO, Nike, Jaspal, Adidas, Levi’s, and more. Paris on M floor takes you to the Champs-Élysées, where more fashion brands await your discovery. The 1st to 3rd floors are home to smaller shops by local independent labels. Women’s fashion is found on the 1st floor (Tokyo) and men’s on the 2nd floor (London). The 3rd floor (Istanbul) is for gifts, jewellery, fashion accessories, toys, beauty products and home décor. With an eclectic collection of shops, this floor has a look and feel of a Middle Eastern zouk but with a modern twist. Haven for food lovers Now to the main highlight, San Francisco on the 4th and 5th floors, where you will find more than 50 restaurants and cafés vying for your attention. Both restaurant chains and independent outlets are represented here, among them Pepper Lunch, MK, Chabuton, Dory Seafood Bistro, Secret Recipe, Tohkai Yakiniku, Tony Roma’s, Fuji, Ootoya, The Canton House, Baanying Café and Swensen’s. If you like a food court experience, head up to Pier 21 on the 5th floor. This is perhaps the best food court in town in terms of price, taste and variety. Find everything from dim sum to grilled seafood (fast food style), Hainanese chicken rice to delicious phad thai, roast duck noodles to vegetarian ready-to-eats. Don’t forget to leave some room for desserts, as there’s mango sticky rice, shaved ice dessert, ice creams, and more. Opentime : 10:00 – 22:00 PM.
CentralWorld mega-shopping complex offers one of the most exciting shopping experiences in Bangkok. It has everything from brand name clothing boutiques, funky fashion, high-tech gadgets, bookshops and designer furniture to imported groceries, a lineup of banks, beauty salons, gourmet eateries and even an ice-skating rink. With so many tantalising options to explore, you could easily spend half a day here without realising it. It will come as no surprise to anyone who has experienced the incredible size of CentralWorld that this is, in fact, the largest mall in Thailand and among the largest in the world. We think it’s safe to say that if you are looking for a shopping fix in Bangkok this place will deliver. Occupying some 550,000 square metres of retail space and a total area size of 830,000 square metres – that is 30% larger than any other shopping centre in central Bangkok – CentralWorld has a range of offerings that encompass more than 500 stores, 100 restaurants and cafes, 15 cinemas, Kids' Zone and Learning Centre(Genius Planet Zone), two anchor department stores, as well as a trendy food court, an expansive supermarket and an outdoor square for large-scale events like Bangkok's official New Year countdown party. The location is slap-bang in the heart of the Chidlom 'battleground of the malls' with direct Skytrain (BTS) access and home to the two famous shrines, Erawan Shrine and Trimurti Shrine. The shopping street concept – in a mall CentralWorld's retail layout is influenced by the shopping street concept, allowing shoppers to spec several storefronts at a glance, whilst its overall design has placed a lot of emphasis on natural light / daylight that filters through the many skylights and open wells. Spectacular sculptures by famous artists are used as decoration features, and a glass mobile consisting of 3,500 glass balls hanging in an open well has had the crowds in awe. Specialised anchor 'mega-stores' – measuring between 2,000 and 8,200 square metres – include SuperSports, PowerBuy, B2S, Central Food Hall, SB Furniture and Toys 'R' Us. The department store Zen spans seven floors, while Zen World on 13 floors offer a fitness centre, spa, yoga, beauty centre, as well as an educational and tourist promotion centre. Among the 500 world-class stores count 35 flagship brands like Zara, Miss Sixty and Timberland, and 36 'first stores' – the likes of the Japanese brand Uniqlo and the English brand Next. FLOOR BY FLOOR DIRECTORY Brands found on Level 1 of CentralWorld – Big Brand Fashion Marks & Spencer Nautica Miss Selfridge Furla 5cm H.E. by Mango Theoddyssee CK Jeans Watch Station B+AB Massimo Dutti Kenneth Cole New York Fred Perry Charles & Keith Accessorize Kate Spade Samsonite Coach Calvin Klein Topshop Brands found on Level 2 of CentralWorld – Male and Female Fashion and Accessories Topman Lee Urban studio Mango Guess Evita 4x4 men Mango touch Segafredo Lacoste The Body Shop Thann Zara XXI Forever 4x4 Man Kipling Brands found on Level 3 of CentralWorld – Young Fashion and Lifestyle G 2000 Auntie Anne The Terrace Harnn Karma Kamet NY LA Guitar Avenue CC Double O Hybrid Outfitters GAP Clarks The North Face Adidas Fox Crocs Xaact Brands found on Level 4 of CentralWorld – Communications and Banking Power Buy B2S Nai In Jay Mart Nokia TG Fone Yumeya Big Camera Galleria World Camera TRUE Brands found on Level 5 of CentralWorld – Beauty Clinics and Home Furnishings Meko Clinic Slim Up Centre Perfect Slim Sparsha Slimming Center Vieng Joom On Teahouse Practika Gallery T.M.D S.B. Furniture Logica Lotus Sleep Studio Brands found on Level 6 of CentralWorld – Restaurants and Children’s Shops Cold Stone KFC Ootoya Yoshinoya Mister Donut Pepper Lunch Chabuton Asia Books Mother Care Toy R Us Brands found on Level 7 of CentralWorld – Cinema, Groceries and Restaurants Central Food Hall SF World Cinema Din Tai Fung Kalaprapreuk Nobu Shabu Nara CentralWorld Much more than a shopping mall, CentralWorld also caters to the lifestyles of young urbanites, families and teens. Entertainment options include The Rink, an open ice skating rink, Toys 'R' Us and 15-screen SF World Cinema. Good news for parents is the Genius Planet Zone (kids' zone and learning centre) and Thailand Knowledge Park (TK Park), where specialised supervision is provided in an 'edutainment' environment. Go right ahead, here you can drop the kids off with a clear conscience that they will have fun and their minds stimulated while you're getting a good old-fashioned dose of retail therapy. CentralWorld has arrived. Bigger. Better. And, unmistakably, a shopping experience not to be missed. All that's missing is mini golf karts for rent. Open: 10:00-22:00, Nearest BTS: Siam, Chidlom
795 locals recommend
CentralWorld
999/9 Thanon Rama 1
795 locals recommend
CentralWorld mega-shopping complex offers one of the most exciting shopping experiences in Bangkok. It has everything from brand name clothing boutiques, funky fashion, high-tech gadgets, bookshops and designer furniture to imported groceries, a lineup of banks, beauty salons, gourmet eateries and even an ice-skating rink. With so many tantalising options to explore, you could easily spend half a day here without realising it. It will come as no surprise to anyone who has experienced the incredible size of CentralWorld that this is, in fact, the largest mall in Thailand and among the largest in the world. We think it’s safe to say that if you are looking for a shopping fix in Bangkok this place will deliver. Occupying some 550,000 square metres of retail space and a total area size of 830,000 square metres – that is 30% larger than any other shopping centre in central Bangkok – CentralWorld has a range of offerings that encompass more than 500 stores, 100 restaurants and cafes, 15 cinemas, Kids' Zone and Learning Centre(Genius Planet Zone), two anchor department stores, as well as a trendy food court, an expansive supermarket and an outdoor square for large-scale events like Bangkok's official New Year countdown party. The location is slap-bang in the heart of the Chidlom 'battleground of the malls' with direct Skytrain (BTS) access and home to the two famous shrines, Erawan Shrine and Trimurti Shrine. The shopping street concept – in a mall CentralWorld's retail layout is influenced by the shopping street concept, allowing shoppers to spec several storefronts at a glance, whilst its overall design has placed a lot of emphasis on natural light / daylight that filters through the many skylights and open wells. Spectacular sculptures by famous artists are used as decoration features, and a glass mobile consisting of 3,500 glass balls hanging in an open well has had the crowds in awe. Specialised anchor 'mega-stores' – measuring between 2,000 and 8,200 square metres – include SuperSports, PowerBuy, B2S, Central Food Hall, SB Furniture and Toys 'R' Us. The department store Zen spans seven floors, while Zen World on 13 floors offer a fitness centre, spa, yoga, beauty centre, as well as an educational and tourist promotion centre. Among the 500 world-class stores count 35 flagship brands like Zara, Miss Sixty and Timberland, and 36 'first stores' – the likes of the Japanese brand Uniqlo and the English brand Next. FLOOR BY FLOOR DIRECTORY Brands found on Level 1 of CentralWorld – Big Brand Fashion Marks & Spencer Nautica Miss Selfridge Furla 5cm H.E. by Mango Theoddyssee CK Jeans Watch Station B+AB Massimo Dutti Kenneth Cole New York Fred Perry Charles & Keith Accessorize Kate Spade Samsonite Coach Calvin Klein Topshop Brands found on Level 2 of CentralWorld – Male and Female Fashion and Accessories Topman Lee Urban studio Mango Guess Evita 4x4 men Mango touch Segafredo Lacoste The Body Shop Thann Zara XXI Forever 4x4 Man Kipling Brands found on Level 3 of CentralWorld – Young Fashion and Lifestyle G 2000 Auntie Anne The Terrace Harnn Karma Kamet NY LA Guitar Avenue CC Double O Hybrid Outfitters GAP Clarks The North Face Adidas Fox Crocs Xaact Brands found on Level 4 of CentralWorld – Communications and Banking Power Buy B2S Nai In Jay Mart Nokia TG Fone Yumeya Big Camera Galleria World Camera TRUE Brands found on Level 5 of CentralWorld – Beauty Clinics and Home Furnishings Meko Clinic Slim Up Centre Perfect Slim Sparsha Slimming Center Vieng Joom On Teahouse Practika Gallery T.M.D S.B. Furniture Logica Lotus Sleep Studio Brands found on Level 6 of CentralWorld – Restaurants and Children’s Shops Cold Stone KFC Ootoya Yoshinoya Mister Donut Pepper Lunch Chabuton Asia Books Mother Care Toy R Us Brands found on Level 7 of CentralWorld – Cinema, Groceries and Restaurants Central Food Hall SF World Cinema Din Tai Fung Kalaprapreuk Nobu Shabu Nara CentralWorld Much more than a shopping mall, CentralWorld also caters to the lifestyles of young urbanites, families and teens. Entertainment options include The Rink, an open ice skating rink, Toys 'R' Us and 15-screen SF World Cinema. Good news for parents is the Genius Planet Zone (kids' zone and learning centre) and Thailand Knowledge Park (TK Park), where specialised supervision is provided in an 'edutainment' environment. Go right ahead, here you can drop the kids off with a clear conscience that they will have fun and their minds stimulated while you're getting a good old-fashioned dose of retail therapy. CentralWorld has arrived. Bigger. Better. And, unmistakably, a shopping experience not to be missed. All that's missing is mini golf karts for rent. Open: 10:00-22:00, Nearest BTS: Siam, Chidlom
EmQuartier Bangkok opened in March 2015, and is part of The Mall Group’s multi-billion-baht ‘EM District’ project to transform Phrom Phong into one of the biggest retail hubs of the city. You may have already heard of or visited the popular Emporium Shopping Mall – the new EmQuartier mall stands tall on the opposite side of Sukhumvit Road. Expect to find a long list of designer brands at the new EmQuartier Bangkok, as well as a distinctly futuristic design with dozens of restaurants, offices, event halls and a cool atrium garden – complete with a waterfall. There’s also direct access from Phrom Phong BTS Skytrain and a link to the original Emporium mall across the road. Shopping options at EmQuartier definitely lean towards the more luxury side of Bangkok’s booming mall scene, with designers like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Dior, Jimmy Choo, Valentino and Fendi all opening up on the ground or second floor spaces. However, as you head up to the higher levels, expect a mix or more affordable high street brands such as Zara, Uniqlo, H&M, Gap and Super Dry, as well as a good selection of homegrown brands, including Fly Now, Greyhound, Kloset and Soda. There’re a whopping 400 labels in total over 4,000 square metres of floor space. The design of EmQuartier Bangkok is nothing short of impressive, with giant glass panels fronting the mall and its sweeping futuristic floors enclosing a cool outside concourse space. There’s also plenty of grass, plants and trees added to each level; a much needed dose of greenery in the dense concrete jungle that is Sukhumvit Road, and also fitting-in nicely with the nearby Benjasiri Park. Open: 10:00-22:00, Nearest BTS: Phrom Phong
687 locals recommend
Em Quartier
695 Sukhumvit Rd
687 locals recommend
EmQuartier Bangkok opened in March 2015, and is part of The Mall Group’s multi-billion-baht ‘EM District’ project to transform Phrom Phong into one of the biggest retail hubs of the city. You may have already heard of or visited the popular Emporium Shopping Mall – the new EmQuartier mall stands tall on the opposite side of Sukhumvit Road. Expect to find a long list of designer brands at the new EmQuartier Bangkok, as well as a distinctly futuristic design with dozens of restaurants, offices, event halls and a cool atrium garden – complete with a waterfall. There’s also direct access from Phrom Phong BTS Skytrain and a link to the original Emporium mall across the road. Shopping options at EmQuartier definitely lean towards the more luxury side of Bangkok’s booming mall scene, with designers like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Dior, Jimmy Choo, Valentino and Fendi all opening up on the ground or second floor spaces. However, as you head up to the higher levels, expect a mix or more affordable high street brands such as Zara, Uniqlo, H&M, Gap and Super Dry, as well as a good selection of homegrown brands, including Fly Now, Greyhound, Kloset and Soda. There’re a whopping 400 labels in total over 4,000 square metres of floor space. The design of EmQuartier Bangkok is nothing short of impressive, with giant glass panels fronting the mall and its sweeping futuristic floors enclosing a cool outside concourse space. There’s also plenty of grass, plants and trees added to each level; a much needed dose of greenery in the dense concrete jungle that is Sukhumvit Road, and also fitting-in nicely with the nearby Benjasiri Park. Open: 10:00-22:00, Nearest BTS: Phrom Phong
MBK Center is the closest thing Bangkok has to an indoor street market. It is almost as if the owners of all the stalls from every market in the city migrated to this indoor mall. The stalls and stores are lined up almost like what you would see at the Chatuchak Weekend Market, but without the crowd and, of course, the heat. You might feel a little let-down if you venture from the high-end Siam trilogy over to MBK Center, but give it a chance. It is certainly less expensive than its pricy neighbors, and it definitely has a wide range of goods and clothes to choose from.However, it has its own perks as well. For one, everything is cheaper. There are no name brands here. Secondly, MBK sells more than just clothing. You can find some great souvenirs in the basement of MBK, or the Mini Plaza. Open 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
713 locals recommend
MBK Center
444 Phayathai Rd
713 locals recommend
MBK Center is the closest thing Bangkok has to an indoor street market. It is almost as if the owners of all the stalls from every market in the city migrated to this indoor mall. The stalls and stores are lined up almost like what you would see at the Chatuchak Weekend Market, but without the crowd and, of course, the heat. You might feel a little let-down if you venture from the high-end Siam trilogy over to MBK Center, but give it a chance. It is certainly less expensive than its pricy neighbors, and it definitely has a wide range of goods and clothes to choose from.However, it has its own perks as well. For one, everything is cheaper. There are no name brands here. Secondly, MBK sells more than just clothing. You can find some great souvenirs in the basement of MBK, or the Mini Plaza. Open 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Nightlife At first sight, Soi Cowboy looks like a fantasy land of bright pink neon, but here fantasies become real for all those searching for the dark side of Bangkok’s nightlife culture; namely, go-go bars. This red-light district has a more laid-back, carnival-like feel to it than other famous go-go districts such as Patpong or Nana Plaza. The colourful streetscape is comprised mainly of middle-aged expats, Japanese and western tourists, and of course a lot of sexily dressed girls. There are more than 20 bars lined one next to the other each following the same formula of a central stage, loud music and scantily clad dancers. Typically, bars here are open from 20:00 to 02:00 AM. Soi Cowboy was named after the cowboy hat-wearing African-American who opened the first bar here in the early 1970s, this red-light district has a more laid-back, carnival-like feel to it than Patpong or Nana Plaza. Flashing neon lights up a colourful streetscape of 20 or so A go-go bars that line its sides. Don't be shy, it's pretty easygoing and open-minded, entry is always free and drink's prices are fixed. Soi Cowboy is just next to Terminal 21, a very popular new shopping mall, so just cross the street and see it for yourself... or use Terminal 21 as an excuse to have a quick peek. Remember, you might not see this again anywhere else in the world! Inside Soi Cowboy Go Go Bars Each is brightly lit and colourful, playing loud music, offering lines of seats typically arranged in tiers around a UV-lit central stage. Another row of stools is available directly around the stage, but first timers tend to sit in the back. Bars usually close around 2.30 am, but it's not unusual to see them open until 3am. Weekends can be really busy, especially in the most popular ones such as Tilac or Baccara. Soi Cowboy is fairly straight-forward, no traps or scams... so just sit and order a drink: expect to pay 100 to 150 baht, which is rather fair (some bars like Sahara and Kiss now charging up to 180 baht... ouch). Staffmembers might sit next to you and ask for a drink, but rarely in a pushy way. If you want to enjoy your new friend's company, it's a nice gesture to buy her one and it is not too crazily expensive. Located: just opposite of Terminal 21 and less than 100 metres from Sukhumvit Road, between Asoke Road and Sukhumvit Soi 23 (the nearest Skytrain station is Asoke, or MRT station Sukhumvit). MRT: Sukhumvit Station BTS: Asoke
254 locals recommend
Soi Cowboy
4/51 Soi Cowboy
254 locals recommend
Nightlife At first sight, Soi Cowboy looks like a fantasy land of bright pink neon, but here fantasies become real for all those searching for the dark side of Bangkok’s nightlife culture; namely, go-go bars. This red-light district has a more laid-back, carnival-like feel to it than other famous go-go districts such as Patpong or Nana Plaza. The colourful streetscape is comprised mainly of middle-aged expats, Japanese and western tourists, and of course a lot of sexily dressed girls. There are more than 20 bars lined one next to the other each following the same formula of a central stage, loud music and scantily clad dancers. Typically, bars here are open from 20:00 to 02:00 AM. Soi Cowboy was named after the cowboy hat-wearing African-American who opened the first bar here in the early 1970s, this red-light district has a more laid-back, carnival-like feel to it than Patpong or Nana Plaza. Flashing neon lights up a colourful streetscape of 20 or so A go-go bars that line its sides. Don't be shy, it's pretty easygoing and open-minded, entry is always free and drink's prices are fixed. Soi Cowboy is just next to Terminal 21, a very popular new shopping mall, so just cross the street and see it for yourself... or use Terminal 21 as an excuse to have a quick peek. Remember, you might not see this again anywhere else in the world! Inside Soi Cowboy Go Go Bars Each is brightly lit and colourful, playing loud music, offering lines of seats typically arranged in tiers around a UV-lit central stage. Another row of stools is available directly around the stage, but first timers tend to sit in the back. Bars usually close around 2.30 am, but it's not unusual to see them open until 3am. Weekends can be really busy, especially in the most popular ones such as Tilac or Baccara. Soi Cowboy is fairly straight-forward, no traps or scams... so just sit and order a drink: expect to pay 100 to 150 baht, which is rather fair (some bars like Sahara and Kiss now charging up to 180 baht... ouch). Staffmembers might sit next to you and ask for a drink, but rarely in a pushy way. If you want to enjoy your new friend's company, it's a nice gesture to buy her one and it is not too crazily expensive. Located: just opposite of Terminal 21 and less than 100 metres from Sukhumvit Road, between Asoke Road and Sukhumvit Soi 23 (the nearest Skytrain station is Asoke, or MRT station Sukhumvit). MRT: Sukhumvit Station BTS: Asoke
Octave Rooftop Bar Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok waited a long time for its very own rooftop bar, and then finally one came along and showed the rest of them how it should really be done. Octave Rooftop and Lounge is more than a place for watching the sunset or having a romantic meal. No rooftop bar in the city has a 360 degree view of Bangkok that matches this, and the top floor of this three level venue is the highest spot in the city for a party. Starting on the 45th floor of the Marriot Hotel Sukhumvit, a three minute walk from Thong Lor Skytrain Station, Octave Rooftop Bar and Lounge opens at 17:00. Although the location is handy, it is slightly off the main tourist trail meaning that it is usually easy to grab a seat at one of Octave’s tables with a view. Unlike many rooftop bars in Bangkok, which often have standing room only, Octave has made sure that there is an impressive selection of seating with uninterrupted views of the city. In fact, on every floor there is nothing but a reinforced sheet of glass between you and the vista. The overall effect is pretty impressive. The first level has a definite lounge feel to it, laidback and ideal for dinner and groups. There is a mix of nature and industry in the decor, with some antique Thai pottery on the shelf behind the bar, but somehow it all works well together: plant covered walls, chunky wooden tables, modern bucket chairs and neon blue lighting. If you never get beyond this floor, you could still have a great night out; a DJ plays chillout tunes and the staff are attentive and friendly. Located BTS: Thong Lor Address: 45/F, Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, Sukhumvit Soi 57
97 locals recommend
Octave
2 Soi Sukhumvit 57
97 locals recommend
Octave Rooftop Bar Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok waited a long time for its very own rooftop bar, and then finally one came along and showed the rest of them how it should really be done. Octave Rooftop and Lounge is more than a place for watching the sunset or having a romantic meal. No rooftop bar in the city has a 360 degree view of Bangkok that matches this, and the top floor of this three level venue is the highest spot in the city for a party. Starting on the 45th floor of the Marriot Hotel Sukhumvit, a three minute walk from Thong Lor Skytrain Station, Octave Rooftop Bar and Lounge opens at 17:00. Although the location is handy, it is slightly off the main tourist trail meaning that it is usually easy to grab a seat at one of Octave’s tables with a view. Unlike many rooftop bars in Bangkok, which often have standing room only, Octave has made sure that there is an impressive selection of seating with uninterrupted views of the city. In fact, on every floor there is nothing but a reinforced sheet of glass between you and the vista. The overall effect is pretty impressive. The first level has a definite lounge feel to it, laidback and ideal for dinner and groups. There is a mix of nature and industry in the decor, with some antique Thai pottery on the shelf behind the bar, but somehow it all works well together: plant covered walls, chunky wooden tables, modern bucket chairs and neon blue lighting. If you never get beyond this floor, you could still have a great night out; a DJ plays chillout tunes and the staff are attentive and friendly. Located BTS: Thong Lor Address: 45/F, Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, Sukhumvit Soi 57
Nightlife Levels Club & Lounge is a venue with three distinct party zones housed in one connected space, and offers a great alternative to the already rocking nightlife scene on Sukhumvit Soi 11. Combining elements of a terraced bar, classy lounge, and a box-like clubbing room that has one of the best sound-systems in the city, Levels covers a lot of musical ground and tries to provide a little something for everyone. Occasionally they charge an entry fee for special events or on nights with international DJs, but it’s usually free entry. Located on the sixth floor of the Aloft Hotel building, the elevator to Levels Club opens up directly into the outdoor bar area looking out across an open cityscape. The light scheme of sparsely-used neon yellows and pinks creates a sophisticated mood that compliments the lounge house music perfectly. There are plenty of standing tables in front of the bar, and a row of seats up against a glass-fronted balcony. The oversized cushions make this area a great place to sit back with a cocktail at the start of the night, or if you need a place to chill out for a while. Inside Levels Club, there are two distinct dance areas: The first room is high-ceilinged and opulent, catering to commercial anthems, party pop and vocal hip-hop. The circular bar in the centre of the room glows purple but everyone’s attention is drawn to a huge chandelier designed in graceful lines like a stream of falling rain. Dancers and live MCs rock the crowd in between DJ sets. There are booths lining the walls in the lounge for those who want to claim a space for the night, buy a top-shelf bottle and party with their group (this typically Thai style of partying, while still popular, is not so common in Levels). The set-up here is a bit more international than at other venues throughout Bangkok. They have shunned central seating areas or an emphasis on buying a group bottle. Instead, they have provided plenty of space for dancing and floating around, similar to the way clubs in Europe operate. This policy has obviously found favour with visitors to Bangkok as the clientele is happy mix of Thais and foreigners. The downside to this is, the bar can often get busy and getting a drink can become chore. Opening Hours: 21:00-03:00 Address: 6th Floor, No.35, Sukhumvit Soi 11, Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok
109 locals recommend
LEVELS CLUB
เลขที่ 35 Soi Sukhumvit 11
109 locals recommend
Nightlife Levels Club & Lounge is a venue with three distinct party zones housed in one connected space, and offers a great alternative to the already rocking nightlife scene on Sukhumvit Soi 11. Combining elements of a terraced bar, classy lounge, and a box-like clubbing room that has one of the best sound-systems in the city, Levels covers a lot of musical ground and tries to provide a little something for everyone. Occasionally they charge an entry fee for special events or on nights with international DJs, but it’s usually free entry. Located on the sixth floor of the Aloft Hotel building, the elevator to Levels Club opens up directly into the outdoor bar area looking out across an open cityscape. The light scheme of sparsely-used neon yellows and pinks creates a sophisticated mood that compliments the lounge house music perfectly. There are plenty of standing tables in front of the bar, and a row of seats up against a glass-fronted balcony. The oversized cushions make this area a great place to sit back with a cocktail at the start of the night, or if you need a place to chill out for a while. Inside Levels Club, there are two distinct dance areas: The first room is high-ceilinged and opulent, catering to commercial anthems, party pop and vocal hip-hop. The circular bar in the centre of the room glows purple but everyone’s attention is drawn to a huge chandelier designed in graceful lines like a stream of falling rain. Dancers and live MCs rock the crowd in between DJ sets. There are booths lining the walls in the lounge for those who want to claim a space for the night, buy a top-shelf bottle and party with their group (this typically Thai style of partying, while still popular, is not so common in Levels). The set-up here is a bit more international than at other venues throughout Bangkok. They have shunned central seating areas or an emphasis on buying a group bottle. Instead, they have provided plenty of space for dancing and floating around, similar to the way clubs in Europe operate. This policy has obviously found favour with visitors to Bangkok as the clientele is happy mix of Thais and foreigners. The downside to this is, the bar can often get busy and getting a drink can become chore. Opening Hours: 21:00-03:00 Address: 6th Floor, No.35, Sukhumvit Soi 11, Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok
Restaurants Long Table is not quite sky scraping, but what it lacks in stature it makes up for in every other area by serving Thai food that tastes delicious and looks amazing, cocktails that err on the right side of sweet and a view that makes you forget that this isn’t a rooftop. In fact, after an evening spent watching the sunset with a Bangkok Cosmopolitan in hand followed by a three-course meal enjoyed lounging in one of Long Table’s cosy booths, I can honestly say there is no cooler sky bar in the city. With two for one offers on drinks from 17:00 till 19:00 every evening and decently-priced food, a visit here won’t break the bank either. Long Table Bar and Restaurant is located a few minutes from the start of Sukhumvit Soi 16. If you are walking from the BTS at Asoke or MRT at Sukhumvit it will take less than ten minutes to walk here. You won’t miss it, there is a huge sign plastered to the outside of the building and one that points the direction at street level. Head through the lobby of Colum Serviced Apartments and take the lift up to the 25th floor. There is a dress code, so no flip-flops or shorts and vests for guys or the only view you will get is the lift. It may look like you’ve stepped off onto a spaceship, but just round the corner you will find the longest table in Thailand, and catch your first glimpse of the city below through the double height floor to ceiling windows. The dining section of Long Table is decorated in warm honey, cream and scarlet tones, whilst the bar area has a more edgy vibe, with neon reds and sleek marble. It’s such a refreshing change to the other rooftops in town. Even on a weeknight the outdoor terrace is buzzing with people who have come to make the most of the famous Bangkok sunsets and the drinks offers. With a selection of wines, beers and cocktails on the buy one get one free menu, Long Table is a great place to start any evening. If you want one of the coveted tables near the glass balcony you should book ahead, as it can be popular with the after-work crowd and those in the know. Their signature cocktail is the Bangkok Cosmpolitan the twist being the citrus-infused vodka and Cointreau blend, you can really taste the orange undertones coming through. Unlike the sickly sweet versions that seem to be flooding bars around Bangkok this is a serious drink, with just the right balance of booze and fruit Opening Hours: Daily from 17:00 until 02:00 (dinner served until 23:00) Located: MRT: Sukhumvit BTS: Asoke
62 locals recommend
Long Table
16 Sukhumvit Rd
62 locals recommend
Restaurants Long Table is not quite sky scraping, but what it lacks in stature it makes up for in every other area by serving Thai food that tastes delicious and looks amazing, cocktails that err on the right side of sweet and a view that makes you forget that this isn’t a rooftop. In fact, after an evening spent watching the sunset with a Bangkok Cosmopolitan in hand followed by a three-course meal enjoyed lounging in one of Long Table’s cosy booths, I can honestly say there is no cooler sky bar in the city. With two for one offers on drinks from 17:00 till 19:00 every evening and decently-priced food, a visit here won’t break the bank either. Long Table Bar and Restaurant is located a few minutes from the start of Sukhumvit Soi 16. If you are walking from the BTS at Asoke or MRT at Sukhumvit it will take less than ten minutes to walk here. You won’t miss it, there is a huge sign plastered to the outside of the building and one that points the direction at street level. Head through the lobby of Colum Serviced Apartments and take the lift up to the 25th floor. There is a dress code, so no flip-flops or shorts and vests for guys or the only view you will get is the lift. It may look like you’ve stepped off onto a spaceship, but just round the corner you will find the longest table in Thailand, and catch your first glimpse of the city below through the double height floor to ceiling windows. The dining section of Long Table is decorated in warm honey, cream and scarlet tones, whilst the bar area has a more edgy vibe, with neon reds and sleek marble. It’s such a refreshing change to the other rooftops in town. Even on a weeknight the outdoor terrace is buzzing with people who have come to make the most of the famous Bangkok sunsets and the drinks offers. With a selection of wines, beers and cocktails on the buy one get one free menu, Long Table is a great place to start any evening. If you want one of the coveted tables near the glass balcony you should book ahead, as it can be popular with the after-work crowd and those in the know. Their signature cocktail is the Bangkok Cosmpolitan the twist being the citrus-infused vodka and Cointreau blend, you can really taste the orange undertones coming through. Unlike the sickly sweet versions that seem to be flooding bars around Bangkok this is a serious drink, with just the right balance of booze and fruit Opening Hours: Daily from 17:00 until 02:00 (dinner served until 23:00) Located: MRT: Sukhumvit BTS: Asoke
Bo.Lan Restaurant Bo.Lan has been recognised for many years as one of the best Thai restaurants in Bangkok. Famed for initiating the concept of fine dining Thai cuisine in the city, here you can sample age old recipes made from the absolute best ingredients but presented with the flair of European haute cuisine. The famous pairing of head chefs 'Bo' (Duangporn Songvisava) and 'Dylan Jones' decided to move the restaurant to bigger premises in mid-2014, with the bigger and bolder Bo.Lan now located on Sukhumvit Soi 53, a few hundred metres from Thong Lor BTS Station. Thankfully, their unwavering dedication to pure Thai cuisine still remains; if anything, it is even more pronounced, with dinner served from a choice of set menus only, and a la carte offerings available for lunch along with a prix fixed menu and a full set. The renovated house is noticeably larger than their old premises, yet there has been a clear ambition to keep the rustic and inherently Thai ambiance that has become a trademark of Bo.Lan. Return customers will recognise the liberal use of Thai baskets and woodwork as decoration, as well as a well manicured garden that is at once welcoming and tasteful. But with more space to play with, there are now three main sections to the dining room and more space between tables (although it is still highly recommended to book in advance). As you enter the restaurant you will find a small farm shop selling seasonings, pastes and oils – testament to the philosophy at Bo.Lan of using organic, locally produced ingredients that not only taste great, but also promote local farmers. There are three set menus available to choose from, with most guests opting for the Bo.Lan Balance set at 1980 baht (not including tax or service), although there is a reduced option (1680 baht ++) and a vegetarian set (1980 baht ++). It must be said that to sample your way through the entire six course set takes around two hours or more so this is not the place for a quick bite, but food aficionados will rejoice in the range and depth of food served. A powerful Thai cocktail is served first and sets the mood, balancing strong flavours together. This is followed by a platter of appetisers (amuse bouche), elegantly presented and distinctly flavoured. Personal favourites include the steamed salmon with dill and a northern Thai interpretation of laab salad. Opening Hours: Lunch: Sat - Sun 12:00 - 14:30, Dinner: Tue - Sun 18:00 - 22:30 (Closed on Mondays) BTS: Thonglor Exit 1 Address: 24 Sukhumvit 53 (Soi Pai dee ma dee), Klong Toey Nua, Wattana, Bangkok Tel: +66 (0)2 260 2961-2 (advanced reservation necessary) Website: https://www.facebook.com/BolanBangkok/ Price Range: Bo Lan Balance Set Menu - 1,980 baht ++
37 locals recommend
Bo.lan
24 Soi Sukhumvit 53
37 locals recommend
Bo.Lan Restaurant Bo.Lan has been recognised for many years as one of the best Thai restaurants in Bangkok. Famed for initiating the concept of fine dining Thai cuisine in the city, here you can sample age old recipes made from the absolute best ingredients but presented with the flair of European haute cuisine. The famous pairing of head chefs 'Bo' (Duangporn Songvisava) and 'Dylan Jones' decided to move the restaurant to bigger premises in mid-2014, with the bigger and bolder Bo.Lan now located on Sukhumvit Soi 53, a few hundred metres from Thong Lor BTS Station. Thankfully, their unwavering dedication to pure Thai cuisine still remains; if anything, it is even more pronounced, with dinner served from a choice of set menus only, and a la carte offerings available for lunch along with a prix fixed menu and a full set. The renovated house is noticeably larger than their old premises, yet there has been a clear ambition to keep the rustic and inherently Thai ambiance that has become a trademark of Bo.Lan. Return customers will recognise the liberal use of Thai baskets and woodwork as decoration, as well as a well manicured garden that is at once welcoming and tasteful. But with more space to play with, there are now three main sections to the dining room and more space between tables (although it is still highly recommended to book in advance). As you enter the restaurant you will find a small farm shop selling seasonings, pastes and oils – testament to the philosophy at Bo.Lan of using organic, locally produced ingredients that not only taste great, but also promote local farmers. There are three set menus available to choose from, with most guests opting for the Bo.Lan Balance set at 1980 baht (not including tax or service), although there is a reduced option (1680 baht ++) and a vegetarian set (1980 baht ++). It must be said that to sample your way through the entire six course set takes around two hours or more so this is not the place for a quick bite, but food aficionados will rejoice in the range and depth of food served. A powerful Thai cocktail is served first and sets the mood, balancing strong flavours together. This is followed by a platter of appetisers (amuse bouche), elegantly presented and distinctly flavoured. Personal favourites include the steamed salmon with dill and a northern Thai interpretation of laab salad. Opening Hours: Lunch: Sat - Sun 12:00 - 14:30, Dinner: Tue - Sun 18:00 - 22:30 (Closed on Mondays) BTS: Thonglor Exit 1 Address: 24 Sukhumvit 53 (Soi Pai dee ma dee), Klong Toey Nua, Wattana, Bangkok Tel: +66 (0)2 260 2961-2 (advanced reservation necessary) Website: https://www.facebook.com/BolanBangkok/ Price Range: Bo Lan Balance Set Menu - 1,980 baht ++
Nightlife Onyx Main Stage is the first club in Bangkok to do the big-room mega club style of partying that is popular in places like Ibiza, Berlin and Seoul. The huge 2,000 capacity main room was formerly known as Slim & Flix, but they have forgone the series of rooms which used to be the norm on RCA (Bangkok’s premier party street), and have built a multi-level main room which has the cream of the world’s EDM and commercial house DJs gracing the decks on an almost weekly basis. DJs to have played here include Freddie Le Grand, Dutch duo Showtek and The Chainsmokers, producers of 2014s biggest dancefloor hit, #Selfie. The experience of witnessing the best DJs rocking the crowd at Onyx is intense, with dry ice cannons, confetti bombs and the best laser show in the city further adding to the experience Entrance depends on the night, but it starts from 300 baht. If there is a top international DJ playing expect to pay more. It works out best if you buy a package with entrance and drinks included – this can be sorted out at the entrance. There are several bars dotted throughout the venue so you can buy single drinks, but most people choose to party the Thai way at Onyx Bangkok which means ordering a top-shelf spirit and finding a standing table for the night. If you opt for a group bottle, inform them on the door so they will waive the 300 baht entry fee. A bottle of premium vodka starts from 1,700 baht without mixers. Onyx has multi-lingual staff providing table service too. If you want something extra special there are a range of VIP Options, ranging from 17,000 baht for a VIP couch to 80,000 baht for Super VIP area, with a perfect view of the huge DJ booth, your own balcony for you and your crew, dedicated staff to cater for you and even your own private toilet (which means no hanging around the ladies room waiting for your girlfriend!) As well as a central dance floor, the hangar-like main room has plenty of social space if you need to take a breather, plus an expansive outdoor section and a balcony for experiencing the party scenes below. Onyx Bangkok has also turned the space at the very back of the club into a second room for more underground dance music styles. Called The Odyssey, they plan to play deep house, trance and progressive music in here. Loud, intense and a lot of fun, Onyx Bangkok is proving very popular with international visitors to Bangkok who want all-action big room clubbing. Opening Hours: 21:00 to late Address: Royal City Avenue (RCA), Block A, close to the Rama 9 Road entrance. Price Range: Starts from 300 baht for foreigners (International DJ events will cost more)
69 locals recommend
Onyx Bangkok
Soi RCA
69 locals recommend
Nightlife Onyx Main Stage is the first club in Bangkok to do the big-room mega club style of partying that is popular in places like Ibiza, Berlin and Seoul. The huge 2,000 capacity main room was formerly known as Slim & Flix, but they have forgone the series of rooms which used to be the norm on RCA (Bangkok’s premier party street), and have built a multi-level main room which has the cream of the world’s EDM and commercial house DJs gracing the decks on an almost weekly basis. DJs to have played here include Freddie Le Grand, Dutch duo Showtek and The Chainsmokers, producers of 2014s biggest dancefloor hit, #Selfie. The experience of witnessing the best DJs rocking the crowd at Onyx is intense, with dry ice cannons, confetti bombs and the best laser show in the city further adding to the experience Entrance depends on the night, but it starts from 300 baht. If there is a top international DJ playing expect to pay more. It works out best if you buy a package with entrance and drinks included – this can be sorted out at the entrance. There are several bars dotted throughout the venue so you can buy single drinks, but most people choose to party the Thai way at Onyx Bangkok which means ordering a top-shelf spirit and finding a standing table for the night. If you opt for a group bottle, inform them on the door so they will waive the 300 baht entry fee. A bottle of premium vodka starts from 1,700 baht without mixers. Onyx has multi-lingual staff providing table service too. If you want something extra special there are a range of VIP Options, ranging from 17,000 baht for a VIP couch to 80,000 baht for Super VIP area, with a perfect view of the huge DJ booth, your own balcony for you and your crew, dedicated staff to cater for you and even your own private toilet (which means no hanging around the ladies room waiting for your girlfriend!) As well as a central dance floor, the hangar-like main room has plenty of social space if you need to take a breather, plus an expansive outdoor section and a balcony for experiencing the party scenes below. Onyx Bangkok has also turned the space at the very back of the club into a second room for more underground dance music styles. Called The Odyssey, they plan to play deep house, trance and progressive music in here. Loud, intense and a lot of fun, Onyx Bangkok is proving very popular with international visitors to Bangkok who want all-action big room clubbing. Opening Hours: 21:00 to late Address: Royal City Avenue (RCA), Block A, close to the Rama 9 Road entrance. Price Range: Starts from 300 baht for foreigners (International DJ events will cost more)
Chinatown (Yaowarat) Bangkok’s Chinatown is a popular tourist attraction and a food haven for new generation gourmands who flock here after sunset to explore the vibrant street-side cuisine. At day time, it’s no less busy, as hordes of shoppers descend upon this 1-km strip and adjacent Charoenkrung Road to get a day’s worth of staple, trade gold, or pay a visit to one of the Chinese temples. Packed with market stalls, street-side restaurants and a dense concentration of gold shops, Chinatown is an experience not to miss. The energy that oozes from its endless rows of wooden shop-houses is plain contagious – it will keep you wanting to come back for more. Plan your visit during major festivals, like Chinese New Year, and you will see Bangkok Chinatown at its best. Open 12.00-24.00 PM.
36 locals recommend
Yaowarat Street Food
458 ถ. เยาวราช
36 locals recommend
Chinatown (Yaowarat) Bangkok’s Chinatown is a popular tourist attraction and a food haven for new generation gourmands who flock here after sunset to explore the vibrant street-side cuisine. At day time, it’s no less busy, as hordes of shoppers descend upon this 1-km strip and adjacent Charoenkrung Road to get a day’s worth of staple, trade gold, or pay a visit to one of the Chinese temples. Packed with market stalls, street-side restaurants and a dense concentration of gold shops, Chinatown is an experience not to miss. The energy that oozes from its endless rows of wooden shop-houses is plain contagious – it will keep you wanting to come back for more. Plan your visit during major festivals, like Chinese New Year, and you will see Bangkok Chinatown at its best. Open 12.00-24.00 PM.
Chatuchak Weekend Market Once only popular among wholesalers and traders, Chatuchak Weekend Market has reached a landmark status as a must-visit place for tourists. Its sheer size and diverse collections of merchandise will bring any seasoned shoppers to their knees – this is where you can literally shop ‘till you drop’. The 35-acre (68-rai) area of Chatuchak is home to more than 8,000 market stalls. On a typical weekend, more than 200,000 visitors come here to sift through the goods on offer. Veteran shoppers would agree that just about everything is on sale here, although not all at the best bargain rates. But if you have one weekend in Bangkok, squeeze in a day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market and you will not be disappointed. Navigating Chatuchak Weekend Market For first-timers, ‘conquering’ Chatuchak may seem like an impossible task, but worry not. There is a system to help you navigate your way through Chatuchak. Inside, one main walkway encircles the entire market, and it branches off into a series of numbered alleyways called Soi 1, Soi 2, Soi 3, and so on. These alleyways are grouped into sections, with 27 sections in all. You will find more than one category of goods contained in one section, and the same category of goods will appear again in the other sections. In terms of locating your category of goods, this system is rather useless; but it will come in handy when you try to locate your particular stall or where your exact location is on the Chatuchak map. Another way to find your way around Chatuchak is to find points of reference as you go along. The BTS and MRT stations as well as banks and numbered entrance gates are good points of references, as you will come across them as you turn corners. Then again, use the map to locate these references to find your correct orientation. What’s For Sale? If you can dream it up, Chatuchak probably has it. Here, you will be amazed at the sheer variety of merchandise, whether a Moroccan lamp, an antique wooden chest, a pair of vintage Levi’s jeans, or, on the exotic side, a python. Although it’s impossible to name all, the selection of goods being offered at Chatuchak can be roughly divided into 11 categories: Clothing & Accessories (sections 2-6, 10-26) Handicrafts (sections 8-11) Ceramics (sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25) Furniture and Home Decoration (sections 1,3,4,7,8) Food and Beverage (sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27) Plants and Gardening tools (sections 3, 4) Art and Gallery (section 7) Pets and Pet Accessories (sections 8, 9, 11, 13) Books (sections 1, 27) Antiques and Collectibles (sections 1, 26) Miscellaneous and Used Clothing (sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26) When buying goods at Chatuchak, particularly ‘antiques’, it is wise to exercise a few precautions. Check your goods thoroughly to see whether there is any damage, as many vendors sell factory rejects. For ‘antiques’, don’t trust the vendor when he tells you it is genuine. It’s better to bring along an expert, unless you are happy with what you are paying for. Bargaining Tips Chatuchak Weekend Market is the perfect place for bargain hunting, although whatever you buy here is probably no longer the best deal you can find. So brush up your negotiation skills and be prepared to walk away when the deal fails to go your way. Then, you’ll either be offered a lower price or simply find the same merchandise at another stall. It also helps to do a few practice runs before you actually start buying. Note that a friendly attitude and big smile are your biggest allies in securing the best possible deal. How to Enjoy Your Shopping Experience Few people go to Chatuchak knowing exactly what they want or which stall to go to. Many expect to be surprised and let the sights of all the goods take them through a journey down the maze of stalls. Most often, shoppers arrive with a rough idea of what they want, then are hypnotised by what they see and end up going home with more than a few extra shopping items. So, the best advice is, if you are going for the first time, to pick a starting point then just follow your instincts, enjoy the experience and bring home your exciting new finds. Before You Go to Chatuchak Chances are you will end up spending at least half a day here so it is a good idea to prepare a few things to ensure that your shopping experience at Chatuchak is an enjoyable one. Wear light and comfortable clothing, e.g. shorts and a t-shirt/tank-top Wear comfortable shoes, e.g. a pair of sneakers or sandals Protect yourself against the sun, by wearing sunglasses, a hat and use sunscreen Bring a backpack for storing your new-found treasures. It is recommended that you wear your backpack on the front rather than on your back Always have bottled drinking water handy Bring enough cash. Most vendors do not accept credit cards, and it can be a long walk to the next ATM Beware of pickpockets and watch your belongings Plan to go in the morning, as it can get very hot and crowded in the afternoon Free maps are available from one of the information kiosks What’s For Sale? If you can dream it up, Chatuchak probably has it. Here, you will be amazed at the sheer variety of merchandise, whether a Moroccan lamp, an antique wooden chest, a pair of vintage Levi’s jeans, or, on the exotic side, a python. Although it’s impossible to name all, the selection of goods being offered at Chatuchak can be roughly divided into 11 categories: Clothing & Accessories (sections 2-6, 10-26) Handicrafts (sections 8-11) Ceramics (sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25) Furniture and Home Decoration (sections 1,3,4,7,8) Food and Beverage (sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27) Plants and Gardening tools (sections 3, 4) Art and Gallery (section 7) Pets and Pet Accessories (sections 8, 9, 11, 13) Books (sections 1, 27) Antiques and Collectibles (sections 1, 26) Miscellaneous and Used Clothing (sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26) When buying goods at Chatuchak, particularly ‘antiques’, it is wise to exercise a few precautions. Check your goods thoroughly to see whether there is any damage, as many vendors sell factory rejects. For ‘antiques’, don’t trust the vendor when he tells you it is genuine. It’s better to bring along an expert, unless you are happy with what you are paying for. Bargaining Tips Chatuchak Weekend Market is the perfect place for bargain hunting, although whatever you buy here is probably no longer the best deal you can find. So brush up your negotiation skills and be prepared to walk away when the deal fails to go your way. Then, you’ll either be offered a lower price or simply find the same merchandise at another stall. It also helps to do a few practice runs before you actually start buying. Note that a friendly attitude and big smile are your biggest allies in securing the best possible How to Get to Chatuchak Hop on the skytrain (BTS) to Mo Chit station, take exit no. 1 and follow the crowd until you see rows of canvas stalls selling clothes. Turn right while continuing to follow the crowd and you will see a small entrance that leads into the market (clothing section). Another option is to take the subway (MRT) to Chatuchak Park station (exit no.1), then follow the crowd until you arrive at the small entrance that leads into the market (clothing section). For the plant and flower section, get off at Kampheng Phet MRT station (exit no. 1). The weekend market is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 09:00 - 18:00, and Fridays 18:00 - 24:00. Plant sections are also open on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 07:00 - 18:00.
946 locals recommend
Chatuchak Weekend Market
946 locals recommend
Chatuchak Weekend Market Once only popular among wholesalers and traders, Chatuchak Weekend Market has reached a landmark status as a must-visit place for tourists. Its sheer size and diverse collections of merchandise will bring any seasoned shoppers to their knees – this is where you can literally shop ‘till you drop’. The 35-acre (68-rai) area of Chatuchak is home to more than 8,000 market stalls. On a typical weekend, more than 200,000 visitors come here to sift through the goods on offer. Veteran shoppers would agree that just about everything is on sale here, although not all at the best bargain rates. But if you have one weekend in Bangkok, squeeze in a day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market and you will not be disappointed. Navigating Chatuchak Weekend Market For first-timers, ‘conquering’ Chatuchak may seem like an impossible task, but worry not. There is a system to help you navigate your way through Chatuchak. Inside, one main walkway encircles the entire market, and it branches off into a series of numbered alleyways called Soi 1, Soi 2, Soi 3, and so on. These alleyways are grouped into sections, with 27 sections in all. You will find more than one category of goods contained in one section, and the same category of goods will appear again in the other sections. In terms of locating your category of goods, this system is rather useless; but it will come in handy when you try to locate your particular stall or where your exact location is on the Chatuchak map. Another way to find your way around Chatuchak is to find points of reference as you go along. The BTS and MRT stations as well as banks and numbered entrance gates are good points of references, as you will come across them as you turn corners. Then again, use the map to locate these references to find your correct orientation. What’s For Sale? If you can dream it up, Chatuchak probably has it. Here, you will be amazed at the sheer variety of merchandise, whether a Moroccan lamp, an antique wooden chest, a pair of vintage Levi’s jeans, or, on the exotic side, a python. Although it’s impossible to name all, the selection of goods being offered at Chatuchak can be roughly divided into 11 categories: Clothing & Accessories (sections 2-6, 10-26) Handicrafts (sections 8-11) Ceramics (sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25) Furniture and Home Decoration (sections 1,3,4,7,8) Food and Beverage (sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27) Plants and Gardening tools (sections 3, 4) Art and Gallery (section 7) Pets and Pet Accessories (sections 8, 9, 11, 13) Books (sections 1, 27) Antiques and Collectibles (sections 1, 26) Miscellaneous and Used Clothing (sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26) When buying goods at Chatuchak, particularly ‘antiques’, it is wise to exercise a few precautions. Check your goods thoroughly to see whether there is any damage, as many vendors sell factory rejects. For ‘antiques’, don’t trust the vendor when he tells you it is genuine. It’s better to bring along an expert, unless you are happy with what you are paying for. Bargaining Tips Chatuchak Weekend Market is the perfect place for bargain hunting, although whatever you buy here is probably no longer the best deal you can find. So brush up your negotiation skills and be prepared to walk away when the deal fails to go your way. Then, you’ll either be offered a lower price or simply find the same merchandise at another stall. It also helps to do a few practice runs before you actually start buying. Note that a friendly attitude and big smile are your biggest allies in securing the best possible deal. How to Enjoy Your Shopping Experience Few people go to Chatuchak knowing exactly what they want or which stall to go to. Many expect to be surprised and let the sights of all the goods take them through a journey down the maze of stalls. Most often, shoppers arrive with a rough idea of what they want, then are hypnotised by what they see and end up going home with more than a few extra shopping items. So, the best advice is, if you are going for the first time, to pick a starting point then just follow your instincts, enjoy the experience and bring home your exciting new finds. Before You Go to Chatuchak Chances are you will end up spending at least half a day here so it is a good idea to prepare a few things to ensure that your shopping experience at Chatuchak is an enjoyable one. Wear light and comfortable clothing, e.g. shorts and a t-shirt/tank-top Wear comfortable shoes, e.g. a pair of sneakers or sandals Protect yourself against the sun, by wearing sunglasses, a hat and use sunscreen Bring a backpack for storing your new-found treasures. It is recommended that you wear your backpack on the front rather than on your back Always have bottled drinking water handy Bring enough cash. Most vendors do not accept credit cards, and it can be a long walk to the next ATM Beware of pickpockets and watch your belongings Plan to go in the morning, as it can get very hot and crowded in the afternoon Free maps are available from one of the information kiosks What’s For Sale? If you can dream it up, Chatuchak probably has it. Here, you will be amazed at the sheer variety of merchandise, whether a Moroccan lamp, an antique wooden chest, a pair of vintage Levi’s jeans, or, on the exotic side, a python. Although it’s impossible to name all, the selection of goods being offered at Chatuchak can be roughly divided into 11 categories: Clothing & Accessories (sections 2-6, 10-26) Handicrafts (sections 8-11) Ceramics (sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25) Furniture and Home Decoration (sections 1,3,4,7,8) Food and Beverage (sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27) Plants and Gardening tools (sections 3, 4) Art and Gallery (section 7) Pets and Pet Accessories (sections 8, 9, 11, 13) Books (sections 1, 27) Antiques and Collectibles (sections 1, 26) Miscellaneous and Used Clothing (sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26) When buying goods at Chatuchak, particularly ‘antiques’, it is wise to exercise a few precautions. Check your goods thoroughly to see whether there is any damage, as many vendors sell factory rejects. For ‘antiques’, don’t trust the vendor when he tells you it is genuine. It’s better to bring along an expert, unless you are happy with what you are paying for. Bargaining Tips Chatuchak Weekend Market is the perfect place for bargain hunting, although whatever you buy here is probably no longer the best deal you can find. So brush up your negotiation skills and be prepared to walk away when the deal fails to go your way. Then, you’ll either be offered a lower price or simply find the same merchandise at another stall. It also helps to do a few practice runs before you actually start buying. Note that a friendly attitude and big smile are your biggest allies in securing the best possible How to Get to Chatuchak Hop on the skytrain (BTS) to Mo Chit station, take exit no. 1 and follow the crowd until you see rows of canvas stalls selling clothes. Turn right while continuing to follow the crowd and you will see a small entrance that leads into the market (clothing section). Another option is to take the subway (MRT) to Chatuchak Park station (exit no.1), then follow the crowd until you arrive at the small entrance that leads into the market (clothing section). For the plant and flower section, get off at Kampheng Phet MRT station (exit no. 1). The weekend market is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 09:00 - 18:00, and Fridays 18:00 - 24:00. Plant sections are also open on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 07:00 - 18:00.
Demo Nightclub With bare brick walls covered in graffiti, exposed piping and metal shutters instead of doors, you could be forgiven for thinking Demo is an abandoned warehouse, but it is actually one of the coolest and most fashionable nightclubs in Bangkok. Demo is very popular with a young and wealthy set of Bangkokians who pull up out front in their Audi’s and Benz’ and then go crazy, partying harder than at most other clubs in the city. There are two rooms: the neon-orange bar area close to the entrance plays hip hop and is a nice place to warm up, while the main room is the domain of cutting-edge house and electro. There is also a large outdoor area which is a popular place to hang out and chat to fellow party people without the need to shout. Most Booked HOTELSRating Shangri-la Bangkok 4.6/ 5 Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal 21 4.3/ 5 Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok 4.6/ 5 Banyan Tree Bangkok 4.5/ 5 Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn 4.7/ 5 Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort 4.6/ 5 Amari Watergate Bangkok 4.3/ 5 Riva Surya Bangkok 4.7/ 5 Mercure Bangkok Siam 4.2/ 5 The Peninsula Bangkok 4.8/ 5 Most Booked TOURS Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Tour Banyan Tree's Apsara Dinner Cruise Vertigo & Moon Bar Rooftop Dining Ayutthaya Ancient Capital Tour with River Cruise Shangri-La Hotel's Buffet Dinner Cruise Bridge on the River Kwai & Historic Railway Tour Siam Niramit Dinner Show Calypso Bangkok Cabaret Show Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha Half-Day Tour Demo is actually one of two clubs connected together, and guests are free to move between the two to check out the different vibes. Funky Villa next door attracts a more mainstream crowd and has a more eclectic music policy; live acts play up-tempo party tunes for everyone to sing along with (if you can speak Thai), and DJs are encouraged to play a range of chart and R&B tunes. Demo is darker, more demure and rocks out to more base heavy beats. Expect to hear house and tech-house music with elements of more niche electronic genres like dubstep and hardbeat. There is no cover charge at Demo but drinks are on the pricey side of the scale: the impressive cocktail menu has options starting from 250 baht, beers start from 220 baht and a top-shelf bottle costs around 2000 baht. If you don’t finish your bottle on the night, you can return it to the bar for safekeeping and they will issue you with a ticket to redeem within one month. Your bottle is also marked and signed so no one will be drinking from your stash. Or if you prefer you can take it with you. Demo is located on Thong Lor Soi 10, close to the vibrant nightlife scene that seems to grow by the week. It is set back from the road, behind Club Muse. Look for the sign for Funky Villa that faces the road. Demo is housed in the same building. The nearest BTS station is Thong Lor, but you will need a taxi or motorbike from the station, or a 20 minute walk. Make sure you bring I.D because the security staff will ask you, even if you look like Mick Jagger. BTS: Thong Lor Address: Thong Lor Soi 10 (look for the bright lights of Funky Villa, set 30 metres back from the road on the far side of a car park)
77 locals recommend
DEMO
Sukhumvit Road
77 locals recommend
Demo Nightclub With bare brick walls covered in graffiti, exposed piping and metal shutters instead of doors, you could be forgiven for thinking Demo is an abandoned warehouse, but it is actually one of the coolest and most fashionable nightclubs in Bangkok. Demo is very popular with a young and wealthy set of Bangkokians who pull up out front in their Audi’s and Benz’ and then go crazy, partying harder than at most other clubs in the city. There are two rooms: the neon-orange bar area close to the entrance plays hip hop and is a nice place to warm up, while the main room is the domain of cutting-edge house and electro. There is also a large outdoor area which is a popular place to hang out and chat to fellow party people without the need to shout. Most Booked HOTELSRating Shangri-la Bangkok 4.6/ 5 Grande Centre Point Hotel Terminal 21 4.3/ 5 Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok 4.6/ 5 Banyan Tree Bangkok 4.5/ 5 Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn 4.7/ 5 Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort 4.6/ 5 Amari Watergate Bangkok 4.3/ 5 Riva Surya Bangkok 4.7/ 5 Mercure Bangkok Siam 4.2/ 5 The Peninsula Bangkok 4.8/ 5 Most Booked TOURS Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Tour Banyan Tree's Apsara Dinner Cruise Vertigo & Moon Bar Rooftop Dining Ayutthaya Ancient Capital Tour with River Cruise Shangri-La Hotel's Buffet Dinner Cruise Bridge on the River Kwai & Historic Railway Tour Siam Niramit Dinner Show Calypso Bangkok Cabaret Show Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha Half-Day Tour Demo is actually one of two clubs connected together, and guests are free to move between the two to check out the different vibes. Funky Villa next door attracts a more mainstream crowd and has a more eclectic music policy; live acts play up-tempo party tunes for everyone to sing along with (if you can speak Thai), and DJs are encouraged to play a range of chart and R&B tunes. Demo is darker, more demure and rocks out to more base heavy beats. Expect to hear house and tech-house music with elements of more niche electronic genres like dubstep and hardbeat. There is no cover charge at Demo but drinks are on the pricey side of the scale: the impressive cocktail menu has options starting from 250 baht, beers start from 220 baht and a top-shelf bottle costs around 2000 baht. If you don’t finish your bottle on the night, you can return it to the bar for safekeeping and they will issue you with a ticket to redeem within one month. Your bottle is also marked and signed so no one will be drinking from your stash. Or if you prefer you can take it with you. Demo is located on Thong Lor Soi 10, close to the vibrant nightlife scene that seems to grow by the week. It is set back from the road, behind Club Muse. Look for the sign for Funky Villa that faces the road. Demo is housed in the same building. The nearest BTS station is Thong Lor, but you will need a taxi or motorbike from the station, or a 20 minute walk. Make sure you bring I.D because the security staff will ask you, even if you look like Mick Jagger. BTS: Thong Lor Address: Thong Lor Soi 10 (look for the bright lights of Funky Villa, set 30 metres back from the road on the far side of a car park)
Above Eleven Rooftop Bar Cocktails and Fusion Cuisine on Sukhumvit Soi 11 Above Eleven is a very popular 32-storey rooftop bar on Sukhumvit Soi 11 that offers a more vibrant experience than most other rooftops in Bangkok. A few things set this bar apart; Peruvian cuisine, modern party music and value for money signature cocktails being the most apparent. Set over three floors, the view of downtown Bangkok is impressive and far-reaching (despite the lack of riverside views). From here you get a 180-degree panorama of Bangkok, looking towards Siam and the famous row of Bangkok’s shopping malls. There is nothing better than looking down at the slow-moving traffic whilst you enjoy the breeze, drink in hand. The interior design at Above Eleven is modern and without the formal atmosphere typical of rooftops. Here, steel tree-like structures, gentle neon lighting and touches of fake grass make a great place to actually hang out for the night, rather than just a ‘catch a sunset and go’ type of place. Proving many tastes and styles are catered for, the music spans genres depending on the day of the week. Salsa nights on Wednesdays sees the dance floor packed with couples swinging and twirling, while Thursdays takes it down tempo with a three-piece jazz band. Weekends are typically lounge house music to attract the party people from Soi 11 wanting to warm up for a night on the town. The interior design at Above Eleven is modern and without the formal atmosphere typical of rooftops. Here, steel tree-like structures, gentle neon lighting and touches of fake grass make a great place to actually hang out for the night, rather than just a ‘catch a sunset and go’ type of place. Proving many tastes and styles are catered for, the music spans genres depending on the day of the week. Salsa nights on Wednesdays sees the dance floor packed with couples swinging and twirling, while Thursdays takes it down tempo with a three-piece jazz band. Weekends are typically lounge house music to attract the party people from Soi 11 wanting to warm up for a night on the town. Like most rooftop bars, the creative cocktails are an essential part of the blend. Above Eleven have incorporated hints of a Japanese/Peruvian/New York mash-up into the menu. If you fancy a taste of New York, try the Big Smokey Apple or Park View – a blend of Feijoa, rose apple, elderflower, mint and lime. If it’s a South American flavour you are after we recommend the Chilcano – a muddle of Pisco, lime, fresh ginger and ginger ale. Cocktails cost around 300 baht. There are also plenty of sake based concoctions. A light and refreshing option is the Michelada beer, served over ice with lime, pepper and a salted rim. You might be dubious (we were), but it’s something everyone should try once. The excellent food menu is certainly no afterthought. With a focus on Nikkei cuisine – the Japanese/Peruvian fusion that is served at Above Eleven Rooftop – you are sure to sample something fresh and new. Sashimi is popular here and makes the perfect sharing platter, with many spicy and sour dippings and coatings for that South American flavour. The Peruvian chef personally recommends the seafood ceviche: prawns and sea bass cured in a lime and chilli broth, with deep-fried calamari and sweet potatoes. The fish is amazingly succulent due to the gentle cooking method and the sour broth is addictive – we were fighting with our spoon for the last drop. Also highly recommended is the Peruvian Anticuchos, or beef heart skewers. The meat is cut thick with a gently spiced marinade akin to Indian tikka marinade. There is a decent selection of vegetarian options too, such as the Causa Vegetarian, a plate of bread-crumbed mashed potato with yellow chilli and lime juice. Above Eleven Rooftop Bar and Restaurant is on the top of Fraser Suites, around ten minutes’ walk from Nana BTS (or a 10 baht motorcycle taxi from the entrance of Soi 11). The elevator is around the back of the hotel complex. Open from 18:00 until 02:00 every night, it’s always busy so if you fancy dinner it is worth booking ahead. Open from 18:00 until 02:00 every night, it’s always busy so if you fancy dinner it is worth booking ahead. BTS: Nana Address: Fraser Suites Sukhumvit 33rd Floor, Sukhumvit Road Soi 11, Bangkok, 10110 Tel: +66 (0)83 542 1111
108 locals recommend
Above Eleven
38/8 Soi Sukhumvit 11
108 locals recommend
Above Eleven Rooftop Bar Cocktails and Fusion Cuisine on Sukhumvit Soi 11 Above Eleven is a very popular 32-storey rooftop bar on Sukhumvit Soi 11 that offers a more vibrant experience than most other rooftops in Bangkok. A few things set this bar apart; Peruvian cuisine, modern party music and value for money signature cocktails being the most apparent. Set over three floors, the view of downtown Bangkok is impressive and far-reaching (despite the lack of riverside views). From here you get a 180-degree panorama of Bangkok, looking towards Siam and the famous row of Bangkok’s shopping malls. There is nothing better than looking down at the slow-moving traffic whilst you enjoy the breeze, drink in hand. The interior design at Above Eleven is modern and without the formal atmosphere typical of rooftops. Here, steel tree-like structures, gentle neon lighting and touches of fake grass make a great place to actually hang out for the night, rather than just a ‘catch a sunset and go’ type of place. Proving many tastes and styles are catered for, the music spans genres depending on the day of the week. Salsa nights on Wednesdays sees the dance floor packed with couples swinging and twirling, while Thursdays takes it down tempo with a three-piece jazz band. Weekends are typically lounge house music to attract the party people from Soi 11 wanting to warm up for a night on the town. The interior design at Above Eleven is modern and without the formal atmosphere typical of rooftops. Here, steel tree-like structures, gentle neon lighting and touches of fake grass make a great place to actually hang out for the night, rather than just a ‘catch a sunset and go’ type of place. Proving many tastes and styles are catered for, the music spans genres depending on the day of the week. Salsa nights on Wednesdays sees the dance floor packed with couples swinging and twirling, while Thursdays takes it down tempo with a three-piece jazz band. Weekends are typically lounge house music to attract the party people from Soi 11 wanting to warm up for a night on the town. Like most rooftop bars, the creative cocktails are an essential part of the blend. Above Eleven have incorporated hints of a Japanese/Peruvian/New York mash-up into the menu. If you fancy a taste of New York, try the Big Smokey Apple or Park View – a blend of Feijoa, rose apple, elderflower, mint and lime. If it’s a South American flavour you are after we recommend the Chilcano – a muddle of Pisco, lime, fresh ginger and ginger ale. Cocktails cost around 300 baht. There are also plenty of sake based concoctions. A light and refreshing option is the Michelada beer, served over ice with lime, pepper and a salted rim. You might be dubious (we were), but it’s something everyone should try once. The excellent food menu is certainly no afterthought. With a focus on Nikkei cuisine – the Japanese/Peruvian fusion that is served at Above Eleven Rooftop – you are sure to sample something fresh and new. Sashimi is popular here and makes the perfect sharing platter, with many spicy and sour dippings and coatings for that South American flavour. The Peruvian chef personally recommends the seafood ceviche: prawns and sea bass cured in a lime and chilli broth, with deep-fried calamari and sweet potatoes. The fish is amazingly succulent due to the gentle cooking method and the sour broth is addictive – we were fighting with our spoon for the last drop. Also highly recommended is the Peruvian Anticuchos, or beef heart skewers. The meat is cut thick with a gently spiced marinade akin to Indian tikka marinade. There is a decent selection of vegetarian options too, such as the Causa Vegetarian, a plate of bread-crumbed mashed potato with yellow chilli and lime juice. Above Eleven Rooftop Bar and Restaurant is on the top of Fraser Suites, around ten minutes’ walk from Nana BTS (or a 10 baht motorcycle taxi from the entrance of Soi 11). The elevator is around the back of the hotel complex. Open from 18:00 until 02:00 every night, it’s always busy so if you fancy dinner it is worth booking ahead. Open from 18:00 until 02:00 every night, it’s always busy so if you fancy dinner it is worth booking ahead. BTS: Nana Address: Fraser Suites Sukhumvit 33rd Floor, Sukhumvit Road Soi 11, Bangkok, 10110 Tel: +66 (0)83 542 1111
Acquarium Sea Life SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World (formerly Siam Ocean World) is located two storeys underneath the glitzy Siam Paragon shopping mall. It is an aquatic wonderland the size of three Olympic swimming pools full of interesting animals from the ocean deep. This underground aquarium, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, will dazzle you with innovative world-class exhibits and over 30,000 curious looking creatures from various depths and aquatic regions across the globe. Meet some of the world’s record holders, transported all the way from the Amazon River or the Jurassic period when dinosaurs still roamed the earth. Greet the ocean’s deadliest predators in the 270-degree underwater tunnel, sneak a peek into the open ocean from a glass-bottom boat, or, if you really can’t resist, dive in and have a swim amongst the sharks and rays. For kids, a few hours spent at SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World will be as educational as it is exhilarating and memorable. The World’s Ocean in Seven Zones Your journey into the Big Blue begins with a prelude at the ‘Weird and Wonderful’ zone, which houses an impressive collection of rare and bizarre-looking marine creatures, such as striped frogfish, garden eel, nautiluses and gigantic spider crabs. The 'Deep Reef' features some of the most fascinating reef dwellers in the world; among them, bat fish, humped head Maori Wrasse and Blue Tang. Learn how sea animals survive in the 'Living Ocean', and take a hike in the 'Rain Forest' where ancient African lungfish, blind cave fish, giant water rats and otters are on display. Observe life on the edge in the 'Rocky Shore' zone, where penguins and other marine mammals learn to survive under constant change in the unpredictable environment. Stop to feel the skin of friendly starfish in a petting pond, before continuing on to the 270-degree underwater tunnel and the 'Open Ocean', Asia's largest panoramic oceanarium showcasing sharks of various types – ragged-tooth, black-tipped, leopard – stingrays and giant groupers. Just before you leave, drop by the ‘Sea Jellies’ zone and take in the theatrical display of light and musical symphony as the translucent invertebrates float about in the LED-lit tanks. Fun for the Entire Family If you expect more from your visit to an aquarium, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World won’t disappoint you. Your choice ranges from observing the marine creatures from a glass-bottom boat and touring the ‘back of the house’ to combing the ocean floor in a diving suit and 180-degree helmet as well as diving with the predators and their prey in the ‘Open Ocean’. Children will love the exciting around-the-clock shows, including Shark Feeding, Rocky Shore Talk, Penguin Feeding, Diver Underwater Talk, Rainforest Zone Feeding, Animal Contact and Otter Feeding. You can even feed freshwater fish, among them the Chao Phraya River Stingray and Mekong Giant Catfish – from the Feeding Pier in the Rainforest or have the little fish ‘massage’ your feet at the Happy Fish, Happy Feet Pool. Please note that extra charges apply for each additional activity. Thailand’s First 4D Theatre The fun doesn't stop only in the deep blue sea. Come up for a breath of fresh air and a 25-minute virtual reality adventure with the Sanyo 4D-Xventure (charges apply). Using state-of-the-art technology, the virtual environment created by the theatre and its ‘4D Invader’ seats promises to squeeze a scream or a giggle out of every viewer during the movie – that extra thrill that makes 3D theatres so yesterday's news. So, hold on to your seats and enjoy the dive into the virtual underwater world! Opening Hours: 10:00 - 21:00 daily Location: Basement floor, Siam Paragon, Siam BTS: Siam How to get there: Take Exit 5 from the BTS Siam Station, which provides direct access to Siam Paragon.
7 locals recommend
Acquarium Sea Life
991 อาคารสยามพารากอน
7 locals recommend
Acquarium Sea Life SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World (formerly Siam Ocean World) is located two storeys underneath the glitzy Siam Paragon shopping mall. It is an aquatic wonderland the size of three Olympic swimming pools full of interesting animals from the ocean deep. This underground aquarium, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, will dazzle you with innovative world-class exhibits and over 30,000 curious looking creatures from various depths and aquatic regions across the globe. Meet some of the world’s record holders, transported all the way from the Amazon River or the Jurassic period when dinosaurs still roamed the earth. Greet the ocean’s deadliest predators in the 270-degree underwater tunnel, sneak a peek into the open ocean from a glass-bottom boat, or, if you really can’t resist, dive in and have a swim amongst the sharks and rays. For kids, a few hours spent at SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World will be as educational as it is exhilarating and memorable. The World’s Ocean in Seven Zones Your journey into the Big Blue begins with a prelude at the ‘Weird and Wonderful’ zone, which houses an impressive collection of rare and bizarre-looking marine creatures, such as striped frogfish, garden eel, nautiluses and gigantic spider crabs. The 'Deep Reef' features some of the most fascinating reef dwellers in the world; among them, bat fish, humped head Maori Wrasse and Blue Tang. Learn how sea animals survive in the 'Living Ocean', and take a hike in the 'Rain Forest' where ancient African lungfish, blind cave fish, giant water rats and otters are on display. Observe life on the edge in the 'Rocky Shore' zone, where penguins and other marine mammals learn to survive under constant change in the unpredictable environment. Stop to feel the skin of friendly starfish in a petting pond, before continuing on to the 270-degree underwater tunnel and the 'Open Ocean', Asia's largest panoramic oceanarium showcasing sharks of various types – ragged-tooth, black-tipped, leopard – stingrays and giant groupers. Just before you leave, drop by the ‘Sea Jellies’ zone and take in the theatrical display of light and musical symphony as the translucent invertebrates float about in the LED-lit tanks. Fun for the Entire Family If you expect more from your visit to an aquarium, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World won’t disappoint you. Your choice ranges from observing the marine creatures from a glass-bottom boat and touring the ‘back of the house’ to combing the ocean floor in a diving suit and 180-degree helmet as well as diving with the predators and their prey in the ‘Open Ocean’. Children will love the exciting around-the-clock shows, including Shark Feeding, Rocky Shore Talk, Penguin Feeding, Diver Underwater Talk, Rainforest Zone Feeding, Animal Contact and Otter Feeding. You can even feed freshwater fish, among them the Chao Phraya River Stingray and Mekong Giant Catfish – from the Feeding Pier in the Rainforest or have the little fish ‘massage’ your feet at the Happy Fish, Happy Feet Pool. Please note that extra charges apply for each additional activity. Thailand’s First 4D Theatre The fun doesn't stop only in the deep blue sea. Come up for a breath of fresh air and a 25-minute virtual reality adventure with the Sanyo 4D-Xventure (charges apply). Using state-of-the-art technology, the virtual environment created by the theatre and its ‘4D Invader’ seats promises to squeeze a scream or a giggle out of every viewer during the movie – that extra thrill that makes 3D theatres so yesterday's news. So, hold on to your seats and enjoy the dive into the virtual underwater world! Opening Hours: 10:00 - 21:00 daily Location: Basement floor, Siam Paragon, Siam BTS: Siam How to get there: Take Exit 5 from the BTS Siam Station, which provides direct access to Siam Paragon.
Bangkok Wax Museum If you are a skeptic, you’d probably think a wax museum is a wax museum is a wax museum, right? What’s the hype all about? Well, for starter, Madame Tussauds has stepped down from the pedestal and embraced her visitors with a revolutionary concept – the wax museum with exhibits you can touch, hug, play with and even kiss. Imagine shooting hoops with the Houston Rockets centre Yao Ming, appearing on The Oprah Show, practicing Kung Fu with Bruce Lee, drinking espresso with George Clooney, or… ahem… putting your arm over your old pal Mao Zedong’s shoulders. Located in the Siam Discovery Center, in Siam area, Madame Tussauds Bangkok is no old-fashioned wax museum. For the entertainment value and a chance to rub shoulders with world celebrities, heads of state, activists, sports heroes and heroines, legendary artists, and even royalty, the museum is worth checking out. Madame Tussauds Highlights With 10 exhibit rooms decked out in real-life themes, the museum feels more like a journey from one time-warp to the next – Lady Di next to Mao Zedong, Pablo Picasso and his Cubist painting next to Thailand’s leading and somewhat eccentric forensic pathologist Dr. Porntip Rojanasunan in her full rock star regalia, Barak and Michelle Obama in their Oval Office next to Aung San Suu Kyi and the Dalai Lama. Out of the 10 rooms, The Royal Room is the most elegant and culturally significant, as it showcases the wax figures of HRH Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej and HRH Princess Srinagarindra, the late parents of His Majesty the King. All the decorative elements in this room are meticulously planned down to the tiniest details, whether the royal costumes, colour scheme, floral graphic patterns and music, all of which received the Royal endorsement from the Thai Royal family. This is the only room in which you are not allowed to touch the figures. A controversial political personality, Chairman Mao seems to get more attention from visitors than Princess Diana or Queen Elizabeth II. But the most photographed is probably a section of the Oval Office, with the U.S. President and First Lady posing by the festoon curtains. Madame Tussauds Highlights With 10 exhibit rooms decked out in real-life themes, the museum feels more like a journey from one time-warp to the next – Lady Di next to Mao Zedong, Pablo Picasso and his Cubist painting next to Thailand’s leading and somewhat eccentric forensic pathologist Dr. Porntip Rojanasunan in her full rock star regalia, Barak and Michelle Obama in their Oval Office next to Aung San Suu Kyi and the Dalai Lama. Out of the 10 rooms, The Royal Room is the most elegant and culturally significant, as it showcases the wax figures of HRH Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej and HRH Princess Srinagarindra, the late parents of His Majesty the King. All the decorative elements in this room are meticulously planned down to the tiniest details, whether the royal costumes, colour scheme, floral graphic patterns and music, all of which received the Royal endorsement from the Thai Royal family. This is the only room in which you are not allowed to touch the figures. A controversial political personality, Chairman Mao seems to get more attention from visitors than Princess Diana or Queen Elizabeth II. But the most photographed is probably a section of the Oval Office, with the U.S. President and First Lady posing by the festoon curtains. Watch World Geniuses at Work Enough with all formalities, let’s get to the fun part. While Picasso is taking a cigarette break, steal his canvas and create your own masterpiece. Need a piano lesson? Learn it from the Maestro, Ludwig van Beethoven. Meet Albert Einstein in person, or hug him if you are a fan – his moustache looks so real that it invites your touch. Did he really have his hair like that all his adult life? Following Einstein’s glance, you see what looks like Thailand’s Democracy Monument and a foreign sculptor working on his soon-to-be masterpiece. This is the man behind so many important monuments you see in Bangkok. So, meet Silpha Bhirasri (born Corrado Feroci), an Italian sculptor who helped shape Thailand’s modern art scene. Sports fans, be prepared for some action with your heroes and heroines, whether it’s a game of tennis with former world’s number one Serena Williams – whose biceps are, by the way, bigger than my thighs – kicking bendy goals while David Beckham is watching, putting with Tiger Woods, or lifting weights with Thailand’s Olympic gold medalist Pawina Thongsuk. Yao Ming, by the way, is as tall as the basketball hoop –try and steal the ball away from him! Madame Tussauds Highlights With 10 exhibit rooms decked out in real-life themes, the museum feels more like a journey from one time-warp to the next – Lady Di next to Mao Zedong, Pablo Picasso and his Cubist painting next to Thailand’s leading and somewhat eccentric forensic pathologist Dr. Porntip Rojanasunan in her full rock star regalia, Barak and Michelle Obama in their Oval Office next to Aung San Suu Kyi and the Dalai Lama. Out of the 10 rooms, The Royal Room is the most elegant and culturally significant, as it showcases the wax figures of HRH Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej and HRH Princess Srinagarindra, the late parents of His Majesty the King. All the decorative elements in this room are meticulously planned down to the tiniest details, whether the royal costumes, colour scheme, floral graphic patterns and music, all of which received the Royal endorsement from the Thai Royal family. This is the only room in which you are not allowed to touch the figures. A controversial political personality, Chairman Mao seems to get more attention from visitors than Princess Diana or Queen Elizabeth II. But the most photographed is probably a section of the Oval Office, with the U.S. President and First Lady posing by the festoon curtains. Watch World Geniuses at Work Enough with all formalities, let’s get to the fun part. While Picasso is taking a cigarette break, steal his canvas and create your own masterpiece. Need a piano lesson? Learn it from the Maestro, Ludwig van Beethoven. Meet Albert Einstein in person, or hug him if you are a fan – his moustache looks so real that it invites your touch. Did he really have his hair like that all his adult life? Following Einstein’s glance, you see what looks like Thailand’s Democracy Monument and a foreign sculptor working on his soon-to-be masterpiece. This is the man behind so many important monuments you see in Bangkok. So, meet Silpha Bhirasri (born Corrado Feroci), an Italian sculptor who helped shape Thailand’s modern art scene. Sports fans, be prepared for some action with your heroes and heroines, whether it’s a game of tennis with former world’s number one Serena Williams – whose biceps are, by the way, bigger than my thighs – kicking bendy goals while David Beckham is watching, putting with Tiger Woods, or lifting weights with Thailand’s Olympic gold medalist Pawina Thongsuk. Yao Ming, by the way, is as tall as the basketball hoop –try and steal the ball away from him! Join the A-List Party After saying goodbye to Yao, it’s time to hit the limelight with your favourite pop idol. Take charge of the microphone, while Madonna and Britney can only look on, or challenge the King of Pop with your best moonwalk. After you’ve had enough fun, proceed down the red carpet and join the glamourous party with the most beautiful faces of Hollywood, whether Johnny Depp, Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Leonardo DiCaprio, Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and so on. Quality Craftsmanship Behind the glory and glamour, what makes Madame Tussauds Bangkok different from other wax museums in Thailand is the quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail, from set designs all the way to daily maintenance. It takes British craftsmen between three and six months to finish one wax figure, and the process is highly elaborate. Implanting hair is perhaps the most labourious task, as is the case of some female stars. Each strand of hair is implanted one by one, using real human hair. And the effect, when combined with the sparkle in the figure’s eyes – try looking into Julia Roberts’ or Princess Diana’s – is totally stunning. You can learn all about the craft of wax work from the second-floor exhibit on the history of Madame Tussauds. The museums’ souvenir boutique carries an interesting collection of memorabilia and quirky accessories you might want to bring home with you. Madame Tussauds launched its 10th attraction in Bangkok in December 2010, with 70 wax figures, and still counting. About 30 percent of the wax figures are Thai. Expect to spend from one to one and a half hours at the museum. Madame Tussauds Bangkok Opening Hours: 10:00 – 21:00 daily (might change slightly during long weekend or national holidays) Location: 6th Fl. Siam Discovery Center Tel: +66 (0)2 658 0060
64 locals recommend
Madame Tussauds Bangkok
989 Thanon Rama 1
64 locals recommend
Bangkok Wax Museum If you are a skeptic, you’d probably think a wax museum is a wax museum is a wax museum, right? What’s the hype all about? Well, for starter, Madame Tussauds has stepped down from the pedestal and embraced her visitors with a revolutionary concept – the wax museum with exhibits you can touch, hug, play with and even kiss. Imagine shooting hoops with the Houston Rockets centre Yao Ming, appearing on The Oprah Show, practicing Kung Fu with Bruce Lee, drinking espresso with George Clooney, or… ahem… putting your arm over your old pal Mao Zedong’s shoulders. Located in the Siam Discovery Center, in Siam area, Madame Tussauds Bangkok is no old-fashioned wax museum. For the entertainment value and a chance to rub shoulders with world celebrities, heads of state, activists, sports heroes and heroines, legendary artists, and even royalty, the museum is worth checking out. Madame Tussauds Highlights With 10 exhibit rooms decked out in real-life themes, the museum feels more like a journey from one time-warp to the next – Lady Di next to Mao Zedong, Pablo Picasso and his Cubist painting next to Thailand’s leading and somewhat eccentric forensic pathologist Dr. Porntip Rojanasunan in her full rock star regalia, Barak and Michelle Obama in their Oval Office next to Aung San Suu Kyi and the Dalai Lama. Out of the 10 rooms, The Royal Room is the most elegant and culturally significant, as it showcases the wax figures of HRH Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej and HRH Princess Srinagarindra, the late parents of His Majesty the King. All the decorative elements in this room are meticulously planned down to the tiniest details, whether the royal costumes, colour scheme, floral graphic patterns and music, all of which received the Royal endorsement from the Thai Royal family. This is the only room in which you are not allowed to touch the figures. A controversial political personality, Chairman Mao seems to get more attention from visitors than Princess Diana or Queen Elizabeth II. But the most photographed is probably a section of the Oval Office, with the U.S. President and First Lady posing by the festoon curtains. Madame Tussauds Highlights With 10 exhibit rooms decked out in real-life themes, the museum feels more like a journey from one time-warp to the next – Lady Di next to Mao Zedong, Pablo Picasso and his Cubist painting next to Thailand’s leading and somewhat eccentric forensic pathologist Dr. Porntip Rojanasunan in her full rock star regalia, Barak and Michelle Obama in their Oval Office next to Aung San Suu Kyi and the Dalai Lama. Out of the 10 rooms, The Royal Room is the most elegant and culturally significant, as it showcases the wax figures of HRH Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej and HRH Princess Srinagarindra, the late parents of His Majesty the King. All the decorative elements in this room are meticulously planned down to the tiniest details, whether the royal costumes, colour scheme, floral graphic patterns and music, all of which received the Royal endorsement from the Thai Royal family. This is the only room in which you are not allowed to touch the figures. A controversial political personality, Chairman Mao seems to get more attention from visitors than Princess Diana or Queen Elizabeth II. But the most photographed is probably a section of the Oval Office, with the U.S. President and First Lady posing by the festoon curtains. Watch World Geniuses at Work Enough with all formalities, let’s get to the fun part. While Picasso is taking a cigarette break, steal his canvas and create your own masterpiece. Need a piano lesson? Learn it from the Maestro, Ludwig van Beethoven. Meet Albert Einstein in person, or hug him if you are a fan – his moustache looks so real that it invites your touch. Did he really have his hair like that all his adult life? Following Einstein’s glance, you see what looks like Thailand’s Democracy Monument and a foreign sculptor working on his soon-to-be masterpiece. This is the man behind so many important monuments you see in Bangkok. So, meet Silpha Bhirasri (born Corrado Feroci), an Italian sculptor who helped shape Thailand’s modern art scene. Sports fans, be prepared for some action with your heroes and heroines, whether it’s a game of tennis with former world’s number one Serena Williams – whose biceps are, by the way, bigger than my thighs – kicking bendy goals while David Beckham is watching, putting with Tiger Woods, or lifting weights with Thailand’s Olympic gold medalist Pawina Thongsuk. Yao Ming, by the way, is as tall as the basketball hoop –try and steal the ball away from him! Madame Tussauds Highlights With 10 exhibit rooms decked out in real-life themes, the museum feels more like a journey from one time-warp to the next – Lady Di next to Mao Zedong, Pablo Picasso and his Cubist painting next to Thailand’s leading and somewhat eccentric forensic pathologist Dr. Porntip Rojanasunan in her full rock star regalia, Barak and Michelle Obama in their Oval Office next to Aung San Suu Kyi and the Dalai Lama. Out of the 10 rooms, The Royal Room is the most elegant and culturally significant, as it showcases the wax figures of HRH Prince Mahitala Thibed Adulyadej and HRH Princess Srinagarindra, the late parents of His Majesty the King. All the decorative elements in this room are meticulously planned down to the tiniest details, whether the royal costumes, colour scheme, floral graphic patterns and music, all of which received the Royal endorsement from the Thai Royal family. This is the only room in which you are not allowed to touch the figures. A controversial political personality, Chairman Mao seems to get more attention from visitors than Princess Diana or Queen Elizabeth II. But the most photographed is probably a section of the Oval Office, with the U.S. President and First Lady posing by the festoon curtains. Watch World Geniuses at Work Enough with all formalities, let’s get to the fun part. While Picasso is taking a cigarette break, steal his canvas and create your own masterpiece. Need a piano lesson? Learn it from the Maestro, Ludwig van Beethoven. Meet Albert Einstein in person, or hug him if you are a fan – his moustache looks so real that it invites your touch. Did he really have his hair like that all his adult life? Following Einstein’s glance, you see what looks like Thailand’s Democracy Monument and a foreign sculptor working on his soon-to-be masterpiece. This is the man behind so many important monuments you see in Bangkok. So, meet Silpha Bhirasri (born Corrado Feroci), an Italian sculptor who helped shape Thailand’s modern art scene. Sports fans, be prepared for some action with your heroes and heroines, whether it’s a game of tennis with former world’s number one Serena Williams – whose biceps are, by the way, bigger than my thighs – kicking bendy goals while David Beckham is watching, putting with Tiger Woods, or lifting weights with Thailand’s Olympic gold medalist Pawina Thongsuk. Yao Ming, by the way, is as tall as the basketball hoop –try and steal the ball away from him! Join the A-List Party After saying goodbye to Yao, it’s time to hit the limelight with your favourite pop idol. Take charge of the microphone, while Madonna and Britney can only look on, or challenge the King of Pop with your best moonwalk. After you’ve had enough fun, proceed down the red carpet and join the glamourous party with the most beautiful faces of Hollywood, whether Johnny Depp, Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Leonardo DiCaprio, Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and so on. Quality Craftsmanship Behind the glory and glamour, what makes Madame Tussauds Bangkok different from other wax museums in Thailand is the quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail, from set designs all the way to daily maintenance. It takes British craftsmen between three and six months to finish one wax figure, and the process is highly elaborate. Implanting hair is perhaps the most labourious task, as is the case of some female stars. Each strand of hair is implanted one by one, using real human hair. And the effect, when combined with the sparkle in the figure’s eyes – try looking into Julia Roberts’ or Princess Diana’s – is totally stunning. You can learn all about the craft of wax work from the second-floor exhibit on the history of Madame Tussauds. The museums’ souvenir boutique carries an interesting collection of memorabilia and quirky accessories you might want to bring home with you. Madame Tussauds launched its 10th attraction in Bangkok in December 2010, with 70 wax figures, and still counting. About 30 percent of the wax figures are Thai. Expect to spend from one to one and a half hours at the museum. Madame Tussauds Bangkok Opening Hours: 10:00 – 21:00 daily (might change slightly during long weekend or national holidays) Location: 6th Fl. Siam Discovery Center Tel: +66 (0)2 658 0060
Kidzania Bangkok Kidzania is the very latest and, without a doubt, most innovative addition to the 'edutainment' scene in Bangkok. This is unlike anything we have seen before and the level of fun has been raised to a brand new level. Kidzania, originally a Mexican company, has been opening family entertainment centers since 1999 in Santa Fe, then in 18 additional locations around the world. At first this appears to be another cute mini-town with pretty European style houses below painted skies - which it is. But beyond the extremely well executed craftsmanship, a much deeper level of education is brought to the kids. Each and every one of the shops and buildings in Kidzania town is a learning experience for children from four to 15 years old. Not just some boring 'show-how': here kids get to be part of the shops. It's extremely well executed and kids love it! The range of experiences is also unique as there are up to 80 different jobs to choose from, everything from being a real dentist to flying a Boeing 737! Fight a hotel fire with real water and ride a tiny fire truck to reach the scene. Rescue people with a small ambulance and bring them to a mini hospital where you get to use almost real equipment. Everything is very realistic, just smaller. Then move to the newspaper office and report to a real newsroom or a TV studio... if only real life jobs would look as fun! Each activity can accommodate small groups of 6 to 8 kids and no parents can interfere or participate. It's a real kid's world so mom and dad are just allowed to witness the operation and take photos... barely. The whole thing is really well thought out, with a large lobby offering cakes, coffees and computers, all dedicated to parents so kids can finally play free without having to take care of the nagging oldies. The most appealing aspect of Kidzania is the concept of 'how-do-they-do-it'. It's certainly all fun and games but kids really do learn something... Everyone has to wear the relevant outfit or uniform - whether it's a nurse, a firefighter or a lab coat to learn how to make coke in a mini factory, how to prepare sushi at an Oishi restaurant or some burgers at McDonald's and how to change your mom's car tires at B-Quik car centre. It's all heavily sponsored of course, but who cares? Life out there is just like this! The kids earn 'KidZos' money by doing these mini jobs and can even open a bank account at the CIMB bank. This money is kept there for the kids to buy gifts at the souvenir shop on the way out. How smart from the organizers! Each and every one of the shops and buildings in Kidzania town is a learning experience for children from four to 15 years old. Not just some boring 'show-how': here kids get to be part of the shops. It's extremely well executed and kids love it! The range of experiences is also unique as there are up to 80 different jobs to choose from, everything from being a real dentist to flying a Boeing 737! Fight a hotel fire with real water and ride a tiny fire truck to reach the scene. Rescue people with a small ambulance and bring them to a mini hospital where you get to use almost real equipment. Everything is very realistic, just smaller. Then move to the newspaper office and report to a real newsroom or a TV studio... if only real life jobs would look as fun! Each activity can accommodate small groups of 6 to 8 kids and no parents can interfere or participate. It's a real kid's world so mom and dad are just allowed to witness the operation and take photos... barely. The whole thing is really well thought out, with a large lobby offering cakes, coffees and computers, all dedicated to parents so kids can finally play free without having to take care of the nagging oldies. The most appealing aspect of Kidzania is the concept of 'how-do-they-do-it'. It's certainly all fun and games but kids really do learn something... Everyone has to wear the relevant outfit or uniform - whether it's a nurse, a firefighter or a lab coat to learn how to make coke in a mini factory, how to prepare sushi at an Oishi restaurant or some burgers at McDonald's and how to change your mom's car tires at B-Quik car centre. It's all heavily sponsored of course, but who cares? Life out there is just like this! The kids earn 'KidZos' money by doing these mini jobs and can even open a bank account at the CIMB bank. This money is kept there for the kids to buy gifts at the souvenir shop on the way out. How smart from the organizers! With such a great concept and perfect location at the top floor of Siam Paragon, there is no doubt Kidzania will be a huge success. In addition, being part of such an upmarket shopping mall will hopefully ensure that two years from now the attraction will not get the usual fate of other edutainment centres, when half the features usually stop working and everything looks old and faded. Siam Paragon now has a new gem to its crown. Opening Hours: Weekdays 10.00 - 17.00 • Weekend and Holidays 10.30 - 20.30 Location: 5th floor of Siam Paragon BTS: Siam Price Range: Weekdays: Adult (from 15 years old) : 425 Baht - Kids (4-14 years old) : 850 Baht - Toddlers (2-3 years old) : 425 Baht Weekends and Holidays: Adult (from 15 years old) : 500 Baht - Kids (4-14 years old) : 1,000 Baht - Toddlers (2-3 years old) : 500 Baht
15 locals recommend
KidZania Bangkok
991 Thanon Rama 1
15 locals recommend
Kidzania Bangkok Kidzania is the very latest and, without a doubt, most innovative addition to the 'edutainment' scene in Bangkok. This is unlike anything we have seen before and the level of fun has been raised to a brand new level. Kidzania, originally a Mexican company, has been opening family entertainment centers since 1999 in Santa Fe, then in 18 additional locations around the world. At first this appears to be another cute mini-town with pretty European style houses below painted skies - which it is. But beyond the extremely well executed craftsmanship, a much deeper level of education is brought to the kids. Each and every one of the shops and buildings in Kidzania town is a learning experience for children from four to 15 years old. Not just some boring 'show-how': here kids get to be part of the shops. It's extremely well executed and kids love it! The range of experiences is also unique as there are up to 80 different jobs to choose from, everything from being a real dentist to flying a Boeing 737! Fight a hotel fire with real water and ride a tiny fire truck to reach the scene. Rescue people with a small ambulance and bring them to a mini hospital where you get to use almost real equipment. Everything is very realistic, just smaller. Then move to the newspaper office and report to a real newsroom or a TV studio... if only real life jobs would look as fun! Each activity can accommodate small groups of 6 to 8 kids and no parents can interfere or participate. It's a real kid's world so mom and dad are just allowed to witness the operation and take photos... barely. The whole thing is really well thought out, with a large lobby offering cakes, coffees and computers, all dedicated to parents so kids can finally play free without having to take care of the nagging oldies. The most appealing aspect of Kidzania is the concept of 'how-do-they-do-it'. It's certainly all fun and games but kids really do learn something... Everyone has to wear the relevant outfit or uniform - whether it's a nurse, a firefighter or a lab coat to learn how to make coke in a mini factory, how to prepare sushi at an Oishi restaurant or some burgers at McDonald's and how to change your mom's car tires at B-Quik car centre. It's all heavily sponsored of course, but who cares? Life out there is just like this! The kids earn 'KidZos' money by doing these mini jobs and can even open a bank account at the CIMB bank. This money is kept there for the kids to buy gifts at the souvenir shop on the way out. How smart from the organizers! Each and every one of the shops and buildings in Kidzania town is a learning experience for children from four to 15 years old. Not just some boring 'show-how': here kids get to be part of the shops. It's extremely well executed and kids love it! The range of experiences is also unique as there are up to 80 different jobs to choose from, everything from being a real dentist to flying a Boeing 737! Fight a hotel fire with real water and ride a tiny fire truck to reach the scene. Rescue people with a small ambulance and bring them to a mini hospital where you get to use almost real equipment. Everything is very realistic, just smaller. Then move to the newspaper office and report to a real newsroom or a TV studio... if only real life jobs would look as fun! Each activity can accommodate small groups of 6 to 8 kids and no parents can interfere or participate. It's a real kid's world so mom and dad are just allowed to witness the operation and take photos... barely. The whole thing is really well thought out, with a large lobby offering cakes, coffees and computers, all dedicated to parents so kids can finally play free without having to take care of the nagging oldies. The most appealing aspect of Kidzania is the concept of 'how-do-they-do-it'. It's certainly all fun and games but kids really do learn something... Everyone has to wear the relevant outfit or uniform - whether it's a nurse, a firefighter or a lab coat to learn how to make coke in a mini factory, how to prepare sushi at an Oishi restaurant or some burgers at McDonald's and how to change your mom's car tires at B-Quik car centre. It's all heavily sponsored of course, but who cares? Life out there is just like this! The kids earn 'KidZos' money by doing these mini jobs and can even open a bank account at the CIMB bank. This money is kept there for the kids to buy gifts at the souvenir shop on the way out. How smart from the organizers! With such a great concept and perfect location at the top floor of Siam Paragon, there is no doubt Kidzania will be a huge success. In addition, being part of such an upmarket shopping mall will hopefully ensure that two years from now the attraction will not get the usual fate of other edutainment centres, when half the features usually stop working and everything looks old and faded. Siam Paragon now has a new gem to its crown. Opening Hours: Weekdays 10.00 - 17.00 • Weekend and Holidays 10.30 - 20.30 Location: 5th floor of Siam Paragon BTS: Siam Price Range: Weekdays: Adult (from 15 years old) : 425 Baht - Kids (4-14 years old) : 850 Baht - Toddlers (2-3 years old) : 425 Baht Weekends and Holidays: Adult (from 15 years old) : 500 Baht - Kids (4-14 years old) : 1,000 Baht - Toddlers (2-3 years old) : 500 Baht
Pathum Wanaram Temple At the time of founding, the Siam district of Bangkok was accessible only by khlong (canal) and was still surrounded by rice fields. Built by King Mongkut in 1857 Pathum Wanaram Temple was the nearest place of worship to his Sa Pathum Palace. Take a look at the carvings on the crematorium that demonstrate rare examples of ancient craftsmanship featuring ornate stencils and lacquered sculptures. Pathum Wanaram is the perfect escape for some cultural refreshment, and is even more striking due to the incongruous sight of two huge shopping malls bearing down on this temple from both sides – strangely symbolic of modern Bangkok. Opening Hours: 09:00-16:00 Location: Rama 1 Road, PathumWan BTS: Siam
30 locals recommend
Wat Pathum Wanaram
969 Thanon Rama 1
30 locals recommend
Pathum Wanaram Temple At the time of founding, the Siam district of Bangkok was accessible only by khlong (canal) and was still surrounded by rice fields. Built by King Mongkut in 1857 Pathum Wanaram Temple was the nearest place of worship to his Sa Pathum Palace. Take a look at the carvings on the crematorium that demonstrate rare examples of ancient craftsmanship featuring ornate stencils and lacquered sculptures. Pathum Wanaram is the perfect escape for some cultural refreshment, and is even more striking due to the incongruous sight of two huge shopping malls bearing down on this temple from both sides – strangely symbolic of modern Bangkok. Opening Hours: 09:00-16:00 Location: Rama 1 Road, PathumWan BTS: Siam
Erawan Shrine Erawan Shrine in Bangkok is Brahman, not strictly Buddhist. And yet, this famous shrine attracts more visitors than many of the city's temples. It was erected during the mid 1950s, after the Thai government had decided to build the luxury Erawan Hotel on this location. However, the first stages of the construction were beset with so many problems that superstitious labourers refused to continue unless the land spirits were appeased. After consultations with astrologers, the erection of a shrine to honour the four-faced Brahma God, Than Tao Mahaprom, was considered to be an auspicious solution. A magnificent image of the Brahma God was especially cast and gilded, and The Erawan Hotel opened to acclaims and worldwide fame for three decades. Towards the end, the property could not compete with more modern facilities, and was replaced by the privately owned Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok in 1991. As the shrine was originally constructed to grace the old Erawan Hotel, the location became known as the Erawan Shrine. Than Tao Mahaprom is a Brahma god, full of kindness, mercy, sympathy and impartiality. These four virtues are represented by his four faces, each radiating serene grace. Since Buddhism in Thailand has always been influenced by the Brahma beliefs, he made an immediate impact. Nowadays, as has been the case for years, unending streams of people pay respects from early morning till late at night. Thais, and even foreign visitors, make ceremonial offerings from floral garlands, fruits to teakwood elephants in the hope that their wishes will be fulfilled. Judging from the flowing multitude of believers, for many those wishes were indeed granted. Cash contributions are managed by a foundation who distributes funds regularly to various charitable organisations and equipment for needy hospitals in the provinces. To feel the aura of reverence while watching the joyful celebration of a graceful Thai Classical Dance troupe or a lively Chinese Lion Dance is an experience to be added to your many memories of exotic Bangkok. Erawan Shrine Opening Hours: 06:00-24:00 Location: In front of Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, corner of Ploenchit and Ratchadamri Road BTS: Chidlom
292 locals recommend
ศาลท้าวมหาพรหม Erawan Shrine
494 Thanon Ratchadamri
292 locals recommend
Erawan Shrine Erawan Shrine in Bangkok is Brahman, not strictly Buddhist. And yet, this famous shrine attracts more visitors than many of the city's temples. It was erected during the mid 1950s, after the Thai government had decided to build the luxury Erawan Hotel on this location. However, the first stages of the construction were beset with so many problems that superstitious labourers refused to continue unless the land spirits were appeased. After consultations with astrologers, the erection of a shrine to honour the four-faced Brahma God, Than Tao Mahaprom, was considered to be an auspicious solution. A magnificent image of the Brahma God was especially cast and gilded, and The Erawan Hotel opened to acclaims and worldwide fame for three decades. Towards the end, the property could not compete with more modern facilities, and was replaced by the privately owned Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok in 1991. As the shrine was originally constructed to grace the old Erawan Hotel, the location became known as the Erawan Shrine. Than Tao Mahaprom is a Brahma god, full of kindness, mercy, sympathy and impartiality. These four virtues are represented by his four faces, each radiating serene grace. Since Buddhism in Thailand has always been influenced by the Brahma beliefs, he made an immediate impact. Nowadays, as has been the case for years, unending streams of people pay respects from early morning till late at night. Thais, and even foreign visitors, make ceremonial offerings from floral garlands, fruits to teakwood elephants in the hope that their wishes will be fulfilled. Judging from the flowing multitude of believers, for many those wishes were indeed granted. Cash contributions are managed by a foundation who distributes funds regularly to various charitable organisations and equipment for needy hospitals in the provinces. To feel the aura of reverence while watching the joyful celebration of a graceful Thai Classical Dance troupe or a lively Chinese Lion Dance is an experience to be added to your many memories of exotic Bangkok. Erawan Shrine Opening Hours: 06:00-24:00 Location: In front of Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, corner of Ploenchit and Ratchadamri Road BTS: Chidlom
The Bangkok Art and Centre (BACC) is the hub of Bangkok’s burgeoning art scene and offers the widest range of contemporary art, design, music, theatre and film in the city. Located only a few minutes walk National Stadium BTS it hosts a number of changing exhibitions from both Thai and International artists. Entry is free and the centre is open from 10.00 till 21.00 every day except Mondays. Whilst it has not quite reached the calibre of the great art centres in London and New York its potential is evident and it is worth dedicating an hour or so for a visit. Both inside and outside the building is reminiscent of the Guggenheim in New York, with its huge white curving facade and spiral walkways. It stands out on the corner of the Pathumwan intersection amongst the shopping centres and often displays some interesting sculptures in the front square. It finally opened in 2008, 13 years after the idea was first suggested. Political stumbling blocks, changes in government and granting funding prolonged the process. The advocacy paid off and it continues to dedicate itself to the aim of providing somewhere for locals and visitors to define and explore art and culture. As well as over 4000 square metre of exhibition space it also houses shops, an art library and a couple of cafes serving coffee and snacks. Both inside and outside the building is reminiscent of the Guggenheim in New York, with its huge white curving facade and spiral walkways. It stands out on the corner of the Pathumwan intersection amongst the shopping centres and often displays some interesting sculptures in the front square. It finally opened in 2008, 13 years after the idea was first suggested. Political stumbling blocks, changes in government and granting funding prolonged the process. The advocacy paid off and it continues to dedicate itself to the aim of providing somewhere for locals and visitors to define and explore art and culture. As well as over 4000 square metre of exhibition space it also houses shops, an art library and a couple of cafes serving coffee and snacks. The exhibitions on display vary. It has an international feel with explanations in English and bilingual staff on hand to enhance the experience. At times the large space can feel empty but once you step inside the galleries the innovation is obvious. Rotating curators such as Luckana Kunavichayanont and Apinan Poshyananda ensure that there is always something exciting and challenging to see. Over the past few years this has included new Asian photography, the Young Thai Artist Award, contemporary Japanese crafts and The Mekong River Art Project. The art centre has quickly become a popular hangout for students, although the enthusiasm has not always been picked up by the general public and visitors to the area. Whilst there are some limitations and not every display is of world-class standard it does give a great insight into modern culture in Thailand. Tip: It is worth picking up the Bangkok Art Map during your visit if you are interested in exploring some of the smaller galleries in town. Partly sponsored by the BACC it provides a monthly update on the current exhibitions and their locations throughout the city. Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 10:00 - 21:00(closed on Monday) BTS: National Stadium Address: 939 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0)2 214 6630
390 locals recommend
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
939 Thanon Rama 1
390 locals recommend
The Bangkok Art and Centre (BACC) is the hub of Bangkok’s burgeoning art scene and offers the widest range of contemporary art, design, music, theatre and film in the city. Located only a few minutes walk National Stadium BTS it hosts a number of changing exhibitions from both Thai and International artists. Entry is free and the centre is open from 10.00 till 21.00 every day except Mondays. Whilst it has not quite reached the calibre of the great art centres in London and New York its potential is evident and it is worth dedicating an hour or so for a visit. Both inside and outside the building is reminiscent of the Guggenheim in New York, with its huge white curving facade and spiral walkways. It stands out on the corner of the Pathumwan intersection amongst the shopping centres and often displays some interesting sculptures in the front square. It finally opened in 2008, 13 years after the idea was first suggested. Political stumbling blocks, changes in government and granting funding prolonged the process. The advocacy paid off and it continues to dedicate itself to the aim of providing somewhere for locals and visitors to define and explore art and culture. As well as over 4000 square metre of exhibition space it also houses shops, an art library and a couple of cafes serving coffee and snacks. Both inside and outside the building is reminiscent of the Guggenheim in New York, with its huge white curving facade and spiral walkways. It stands out on the corner of the Pathumwan intersection amongst the shopping centres and often displays some interesting sculptures in the front square. It finally opened in 2008, 13 years after the idea was first suggested. Political stumbling blocks, changes in government and granting funding prolonged the process. The advocacy paid off and it continues to dedicate itself to the aim of providing somewhere for locals and visitors to define and explore art and culture. As well as over 4000 square metre of exhibition space it also houses shops, an art library and a couple of cafes serving coffee and snacks. The exhibitions on display vary. It has an international feel with explanations in English and bilingual staff on hand to enhance the experience. At times the large space can feel empty but once you step inside the galleries the innovation is obvious. Rotating curators such as Luckana Kunavichayanont and Apinan Poshyananda ensure that there is always something exciting and challenging to see. Over the past few years this has included new Asian photography, the Young Thai Artist Award, contemporary Japanese crafts and The Mekong River Art Project. The art centre has quickly become a popular hangout for students, although the enthusiasm has not always been picked up by the general public and visitors to the area. Whilst there are some limitations and not every display is of world-class standard it does give a great insight into modern culture in Thailand. Tip: It is worth picking up the Bangkok Art Map during your visit if you are interested in exploring some of the smaller galleries in town. Partly sponsored by the BACC it provides a monthly update on the current exhibitions and their locations throughout the city. Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 10:00 - 21:00(closed on Monday) BTS: National Stadium Address: 939 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: +66 (0)2 214 6630
Jim Thompson House in Bangkok Jim Thompson House - The lovely garden-enclosed compound sitting on the bank of the Saen Saeb Canal would have gone completely unnoticed, had it not been for a legacy left behind by a middle-aged American man named Jim Thompson. His elegant residential enclave, comprising six traditional Thai teakwood houses transported from Ayutthaya and Bangkok’s Ban Krua community, echoes Jim Thompson’s 30-year love affair with Southeast Asian art and cultural heritage. An architect by training and an avid collector of Asian objets d’art, Jim Thompson’s keen eyes and flair for design breathed life into everything he touched. After his discharge from military service in 1946, Jim Thompson decided to settle down in Thailand, where he dedicated over 30 years to reviving Thai silk – then a dying cottage industry – and introduced it to the world’s most respectable fashion houses and catwalks in Paris, New York, London and Milan. The same goes for his Thai house, which was no ordinary teakwood villa complex filled with incongruous collections of antiques, but a breathing museum – even then – that embodies Jim Thompson’s life-long passion and whimsical design choices. One day in 1967, while at the height of his success, he mysteriously disappeared into the Malaysian jungle, and thus began the legacy of Jim Thompson… Jim Thompson House - Where East Meets West In the shadow of surrounding trees, the house’s inconspicuous façade belies a tastefully decked entry foyer, itself an unconventional architectural feature in traditional Thai houses and a preamble to Jim Thompson’s signature East-meets-West style permeating throughout the house. A clever lighting arrangement draws your eyes to two wall niches displaying a 17th Century standing Buddha and a wooden hand-carved figurine. High above your head, a Belgian chandelier glistens from the ceiling, while the floor is laid out with Italian marble tiles, punctuating the heavy wood accents on the walls and indoors staircase. Jim Thompson House - A Tasteful Collection of Art and Antiques Upstairs, you are greeted by a series of decorative wall hangings that Jim Thompson acquired from various Buddhist temples. Like ancient murals, they tell stories of the Buddha’s previous and present lives as well as his spiritual journey towards attaining enlightenment. From here, proceed to the right and encounter the solemn sandstone Buddha image guarding the entry to the Thai kitchen, which now houses Jim Thompson’s exquisite collection of Benjarong porcelain ware. The dining room is housed inside the 19th Century teakwood villa Thompson bought from its owner in Ayutthaya. On the dining table, fashioned from two Chinese mahjong tables, the blue-and-white porcelain set is laid out in its full glory, as if dinner is about to be served, with Thompson seated at the head of the table, his back to the windows. Jim Thompson House - Where East Meets West In the shadow of surrounding trees, the house’s inconspicuous façade belies a tastefully decked entry foyer, itself an unconventional architectural feature in traditional Thai houses and a preamble to Jim Thompson’s signature East-meets-West style permeating throughout the house. A clever lighting arrangement draws your eyes to two wall niches displaying a 17th Century standing Buddha and a wooden hand-carved figurine. High above your head, a Belgian chandelier glistens from the ceiling, while the floor is laid out with Italian marble tiles, punctuating the heavy wood accents on the walls and indoors staircase. Jim Thompson House - A Tasteful Collection of Art and Antiques Upstairs, you are greeted by a series of decorative wall hangings that Jim Thompson acquired from various Buddhist temples. Like ancient murals, they tell stories of the Buddha’s previous and present lives as well as his spiritual journey towards attaining enlightenment. From here, proceed to the right and encounter the solemn sandstone Buddha image guarding the entry to the Thai kitchen, which now houses Jim Thompson’s exquisite collection of Benjarong porcelain ware. The dining room is housed inside the 19th Century teakwood villa Thompson bought from its owner in Ayutthaya. On the dining table, fashioned from two Chinese mahjong tables, the blue-and-white porcelain set is laid out in its full glory, as if dinner is about to be served, with Thompson seated at the head of the table, his back to the windows. Jim Thompson House - Living at the Water’s Edge Set between the private quarter and the dining area is the living room, constructed from the 100-year-old wooden house Jim Thompson bought from the Ban Krua Muslim community just across the canal. The villagers at Ban Krua were the first weavers of the Jim Thompson silk brand. Jim Thompson used to row across the canal and back every day, until he decided to build a permanent home here. With a four-metre-high ceiling and one open-sided wall, the living room is a lofty area overlooking the Saen Saeb Canal. Thompson masterfully converted the four windows into four display niches, upon which he placed four Burmese guardian spirits (or ‘Nats’) carved from wood, a gift from the Burmese government. Master of His Own Trade As you wander from one room to the next, you can’t help but admire Jim Thompson’s thoughtful eclecticism and meticulous attention to details. His sophisticated taste and in-depth knowledge of Southeast Asian art shine through the rare antique and art collections placed tastefully in each room that enrich the overall ambience, rather than just show off his wealth. While respecting local traditions and customs, he was no slave to them either. The staircase and bathrooms are found indoors, rather than outdoors as you would normally find in traditional Thai homes. Satellite houses, which normally would be linked through an open courtyard area, are all grouped under one roof with a covered walkway. And the decorative window panels, which traditionally face outwards, face in. Jim Thompson’s skillful adaptation of the local style to suit his western upbringing was years ahead of its time, rendering a timeless twist to what would otherwise be labeled as ‘classic’ or simply ‘colonial’. After Jim Thompson’s mysterious disappearance, a court-appointed administrator, which 10 years later became The James H.W. Thompson Foundation, took over the management of his house and assets. Today, the brand Jim Thompson also extends to an art centre, souvenir boutique, restaurant and café, as well as banqueting facilities located in the same vicinity. With an outdoor terrace by the canal, the elegantly appointed Araya Hall caters for gatherings of between 40 and 80 people, whether a corporate function, meeting, fashion show, wedding banquet, press conference, private luncheons or dinners. Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 (last guided tour at 17:00) Location: Soi Kasemsan 2, opposite the National Stadium on Rama I Road. BTS: National Stadium Address: 6/1 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road Tel: +66 (0)2 216 7368 How to get there: Take exit 1 from the BTS National Stadium Station, turn right into Soi Kasemsan 2 and continue walking all the way to the very end. The museum will be on your left-hand side.
331 locals recommend
Jim Thompson House
6 Soi Kasem San 2
331 locals recommend
Jim Thompson House in Bangkok Jim Thompson House - The lovely garden-enclosed compound sitting on the bank of the Saen Saeb Canal would have gone completely unnoticed, had it not been for a legacy left behind by a middle-aged American man named Jim Thompson. His elegant residential enclave, comprising six traditional Thai teakwood houses transported from Ayutthaya and Bangkok’s Ban Krua community, echoes Jim Thompson’s 30-year love affair with Southeast Asian art and cultural heritage. An architect by training and an avid collector of Asian objets d’art, Jim Thompson’s keen eyes and flair for design breathed life into everything he touched. After his discharge from military service in 1946, Jim Thompson decided to settle down in Thailand, where he dedicated over 30 years to reviving Thai silk – then a dying cottage industry – and introduced it to the world’s most respectable fashion houses and catwalks in Paris, New York, London and Milan. The same goes for his Thai house, which was no ordinary teakwood villa complex filled with incongruous collections of antiques, but a breathing museum – even then – that embodies Jim Thompson’s life-long passion and whimsical design choices. One day in 1967, while at the height of his success, he mysteriously disappeared into the Malaysian jungle, and thus began the legacy of Jim Thompson… Jim Thompson House - Where East Meets West In the shadow of surrounding trees, the house’s inconspicuous façade belies a tastefully decked entry foyer, itself an unconventional architectural feature in traditional Thai houses and a preamble to Jim Thompson’s signature East-meets-West style permeating throughout the house. A clever lighting arrangement draws your eyes to two wall niches displaying a 17th Century standing Buddha and a wooden hand-carved figurine. High above your head, a Belgian chandelier glistens from the ceiling, while the floor is laid out with Italian marble tiles, punctuating the heavy wood accents on the walls and indoors staircase. Jim Thompson House - A Tasteful Collection of Art and Antiques Upstairs, you are greeted by a series of decorative wall hangings that Jim Thompson acquired from various Buddhist temples. Like ancient murals, they tell stories of the Buddha’s previous and present lives as well as his spiritual journey towards attaining enlightenment. From here, proceed to the right and encounter the solemn sandstone Buddha image guarding the entry to the Thai kitchen, which now houses Jim Thompson’s exquisite collection of Benjarong porcelain ware. The dining room is housed inside the 19th Century teakwood villa Thompson bought from its owner in Ayutthaya. On the dining table, fashioned from two Chinese mahjong tables, the blue-and-white porcelain set is laid out in its full glory, as if dinner is about to be served, with Thompson seated at the head of the table, his back to the windows. Jim Thompson House - Where East Meets West In the shadow of surrounding trees, the house’s inconspicuous façade belies a tastefully decked entry foyer, itself an unconventional architectural feature in traditional Thai houses and a preamble to Jim Thompson’s signature East-meets-West style permeating throughout the house. A clever lighting arrangement draws your eyes to two wall niches displaying a 17th Century standing Buddha and a wooden hand-carved figurine. High above your head, a Belgian chandelier glistens from the ceiling, while the floor is laid out with Italian marble tiles, punctuating the heavy wood accents on the walls and indoors staircase. Jim Thompson House - A Tasteful Collection of Art and Antiques Upstairs, you are greeted by a series of decorative wall hangings that Jim Thompson acquired from various Buddhist temples. Like ancient murals, they tell stories of the Buddha’s previous and present lives as well as his spiritual journey towards attaining enlightenment. From here, proceed to the right and encounter the solemn sandstone Buddha image guarding the entry to the Thai kitchen, which now houses Jim Thompson’s exquisite collection of Benjarong porcelain ware. The dining room is housed inside the 19th Century teakwood villa Thompson bought from its owner in Ayutthaya. On the dining table, fashioned from two Chinese mahjong tables, the blue-and-white porcelain set is laid out in its full glory, as if dinner is about to be served, with Thompson seated at the head of the table, his back to the windows. Jim Thompson House - Living at the Water’s Edge Set between the private quarter and the dining area is the living room, constructed from the 100-year-old wooden house Jim Thompson bought from the Ban Krua Muslim community just across the canal. The villagers at Ban Krua were the first weavers of the Jim Thompson silk brand. Jim Thompson used to row across the canal and back every day, until he decided to build a permanent home here. With a four-metre-high ceiling and one open-sided wall, the living room is a lofty area overlooking the Saen Saeb Canal. Thompson masterfully converted the four windows into four display niches, upon which he placed four Burmese guardian spirits (or ‘Nats’) carved from wood, a gift from the Burmese government. Master of His Own Trade As you wander from one room to the next, you can’t help but admire Jim Thompson’s thoughtful eclecticism and meticulous attention to details. His sophisticated taste and in-depth knowledge of Southeast Asian art shine through the rare antique and art collections placed tastefully in each room that enrich the overall ambience, rather than just show off his wealth. While respecting local traditions and customs, he was no slave to them either. The staircase and bathrooms are found indoors, rather than outdoors as you would normally find in traditional Thai homes. Satellite houses, which normally would be linked through an open courtyard area, are all grouped under one roof with a covered walkway. And the decorative window panels, which traditionally face outwards, face in. Jim Thompson’s skillful adaptation of the local style to suit his western upbringing was years ahead of its time, rendering a timeless twist to what would otherwise be labeled as ‘classic’ or simply ‘colonial’. After Jim Thompson’s mysterious disappearance, a court-appointed administrator, which 10 years later became The James H.W. Thompson Foundation, took over the management of his house and assets. Today, the brand Jim Thompson also extends to an art centre, souvenir boutique, restaurant and café, as well as banqueting facilities located in the same vicinity. With an outdoor terrace by the canal, the elegantly appointed Araya Hall caters for gatherings of between 40 and 80 people, whether a corporate function, meeting, fashion show, wedding banquet, press conference, private luncheons or dinners. Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 (last guided tour at 17:00) Location: Soi Kasemsan 2, opposite the National Stadium on Rama I Road. BTS: National Stadium Address: 6/1 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road Tel: +66 (0)2 216 7368 How to get there: Take exit 1 from the BTS National Stadium Station, turn right into Soi Kasemsan 2 and continue walking all the way to the very end. The museum will be on your left-hand side.
Asiatique The Riverfront Asiatique has successfully combined two of the most popular shopping experiences in the city: a night bazaar and a mall. Ten minutes downriver from Saphan Taksin BTS station this once-bustling international trade port has been transformed, with over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants housed under a huge replica warehouse complex. Open from 17:00, spending an evening here is no problem: you’ll have good fun browsing the boutiques, picking up gifts or something for yourself; you are guaranteed to find something you would like to eat and if this isn’t enough entertainment, shows are performed nightly: Calypso ladyboy cabaret and soon, a classic Thai puppets performance. The easiest and fastest way to get there is via boat. Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin and jump on the free shuttle at the end of the pier. It only takes ten minutes, and the boat runs until 23:00. Taxis are not recommended as the traffic can be terrible in this area. From the boat you step off onto a long boardwalk which runs for 300 metres that looks romantic once the sun has set. Wide streets run between each warehouse and Asiatique provides retro props for photo opportunities: a reproduction tram car, anchors and a push cart. The decor does feel a little overdone on occasion and not quite in keeping with the designers’ plans to evoke nostalgia for the 1900s but it’s so well planned, clean and spacious that the lack of history doesn’t really matter. Once you enter the hangars, you appreciate the design even more; this is probably the only market in Bangkok where you can find a stall by looking at a map. Asiatique is split into four categories to help you find what you are looking for without too much hassle. The Chareonkrung District is where you will find the majority of the small boutiques (over 1,000 in four warehouses) selling souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery, and clothing. The little storefronts are attractive, the displays are interesting and there is a wide range on offer too, from fashionable Thai brands to affordable stores selling merchandise similar to those on offer in places like Chatuchak and MBK. The focus at Asiatique is more on cutting-edge fashion and gadgets in the Factory District, including an Apple store. Upscale dining selection can be found in the Waterfront District, with smart Italian, Thai and seafood restaurants. The Town Square district has bars and outdoor space for events. Some independent cafes are dotted around selling strong drinks and decently priced Thai food. Asiatique also has branches of KFC, Pizza Company, Au Bon Pain and MK. As well as all this food and shopping, the two biggest entertainment draws are the Thai puppets by Joe Louis Theatre and Calypso Cabaret, one of Bangkok’s celebrated ladyboy shows. Both these shows have been attracting large audiences for years, and Asiatique is the perfect new surrounding for them, offering so much more than just a performance. The selection of shops is interesting, with a good range of unusual brands rather than row upon row of tourist trinkets. This bazaar is busy but isn’t overrun by tourists; crowds of locals enjoy coming here too. Asiatique is definitely worth dedicating an evening to. Opening Hours: 17:00 - midnight Location: Chareonkrung Soi 74-76 How to get there: The easiest and fastest way to get there is via boat. Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin and jump on the free shuttle at the end of the pier. It only takes ten minutes, and the boat runs until 23:00. Taxis are not recommended as the traffic can be terrible in this area.
757 locals recommend
Asiatique The Riverfront
2194 Charoen Krung Rd
757 locals recommend
Asiatique The Riverfront Asiatique has successfully combined two of the most popular shopping experiences in the city: a night bazaar and a mall. Ten minutes downriver from Saphan Taksin BTS station this once-bustling international trade port has been transformed, with over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants housed under a huge replica warehouse complex. Open from 17:00, spending an evening here is no problem: you’ll have good fun browsing the boutiques, picking up gifts or something for yourself; you are guaranteed to find something you would like to eat and if this isn’t enough entertainment, shows are performed nightly: Calypso ladyboy cabaret and soon, a classic Thai puppets performance. The easiest and fastest way to get there is via boat. Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin and jump on the free shuttle at the end of the pier. It only takes ten minutes, and the boat runs until 23:00. Taxis are not recommended as the traffic can be terrible in this area. From the boat you step off onto a long boardwalk which runs for 300 metres that looks romantic once the sun has set. Wide streets run between each warehouse and Asiatique provides retro props for photo opportunities: a reproduction tram car, anchors and a push cart. The decor does feel a little overdone on occasion and not quite in keeping with the designers’ plans to evoke nostalgia for the 1900s but it’s so well planned, clean and spacious that the lack of history doesn’t really matter. Once you enter the hangars, you appreciate the design even more; this is probably the only market in Bangkok where you can find a stall by looking at a map. Asiatique is split into four categories to help you find what you are looking for without too much hassle. The Chareonkrung District is where you will find the majority of the small boutiques (over 1,000 in four warehouses) selling souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery, and clothing. The little storefronts are attractive, the displays are interesting and there is a wide range on offer too, from fashionable Thai brands to affordable stores selling merchandise similar to those on offer in places like Chatuchak and MBK. The focus at Asiatique is more on cutting-edge fashion and gadgets in the Factory District, including an Apple store. Upscale dining selection can be found in the Waterfront District, with smart Italian, Thai and seafood restaurants. The Town Square district has bars and outdoor space for events. Some independent cafes are dotted around selling strong drinks and decently priced Thai food. Asiatique also has branches of KFC, Pizza Company, Au Bon Pain and MK. As well as all this food and shopping, the two biggest entertainment draws are the Thai puppets by Joe Louis Theatre and Calypso Cabaret, one of Bangkok’s celebrated ladyboy shows. Both these shows have been attracting large audiences for years, and Asiatique is the perfect new surrounding for them, offering so much more than just a performance. The selection of shops is interesting, with a good range of unusual brands rather than row upon row of tourist trinkets. This bazaar is busy but isn’t overrun by tourists; crowds of locals enjoy coming here too. Asiatique is definitely worth dedicating an evening to. Opening Hours: 17:00 - midnight Location: Chareonkrung Soi 74-76 How to get there: The easiest and fastest way to get there is via boat. Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin and jump on the free shuttle at the end of the pier. It only takes ten minutes, and the boat runs until 23:00. Taxis are not recommended as the traffic can be terrible in this area.
Rot Fai Market Ratchada The new Rot Fai Market in the Ratchada area of Bangkok is bringing the same convivial night bazaar feel, antiques curios, and street food snacks and treats from its original location, into an area of the city that is much easier to access thanks to the nearby Cultural Centre MRT Underground Station. Although the Srinakarin branch is much larger, it is also way out in the suburbs of Bangkok, making it challenging for people who find themselves on the other side of the city. This new Train Market is more central and compact, meaning it’s easier to pop in for a spot of browsing anytime from 18:00 to 24:00, Thursday to Sunday. The market is split into long avenues with antiques, secondhand toys, and kitsch curios found in the central few avenues. On the periphery, there is a combination of more general market type clothes, shoes, handbags, and plenty of snack stalls. Up towards the back end of the market are a row of bars, with VW Vans pumping out a mixture of Thai and western pop tunes, and adorned with fairy lights. Everyone is very friendly and conversation flows easily between tables. As in all markets in Bangkok, at the new Rot Fai Market Ratchada bargaining is expected as there is no set price for anything. That being said, as this market is so popular with Thai people prices are lower here than you might find in Chatuchak Market in the north of Bangkok (although genuine antiques and one-off vintage items are rarely cheap). Ultimately, the original Rot Fai is still our favourite due mainly to its huge plot of land and different sections, but we find ourselves going more to the new Train Market because it is so convenient and still retains the same arty vibe. It is easy to find Rot Fai Ratchada as it is located directly behind Cultural Centre MRT Underground Station. If you are taking a taxi, be sure to stress you want to go to Ratchada (not the Srinakarin version). Opening Hours: 17:00-24:00 (Thursday-Sunday) Location: Ratcadaphisek Road (close to Esplanade Shopping Mall) MRT: National Cultural Centre Tel: +66 (0)92 713 5599
85 locals recommend
Ratchada Rot Fai Night Market
10 Thanon Ratchadaphisek
85 locals recommend
Rot Fai Market Ratchada The new Rot Fai Market in the Ratchada area of Bangkok is bringing the same convivial night bazaar feel, antiques curios, and street food snacks and treats from its original location, into an area of the city that is much easier to access thanks to the nearby Cultural Centre MRT Underground Station. Although the Srinakarin branch is much larger, it is also way out in the suburbs of Bangkok, making it challenging for people who find themselves on the other side of the city. This new Train Market is more central and compact, meaning it’s easier to pop in for a spot of browsing anytime from 18:00 to 24:00, Thursday to Sunday. The market is split into long avenues with antiques, secondhand toys, and kitsch curios found in the central few avenues. On the periphery, there is a combination of more general market type clothes, shoes, handbags, and plenty of snack stalls. Up towards the back end of the market are a row of bars, with VW Vans pumping out a mixture of Thai and western pop tunes, and adorned with fairy lights. Everyone is very friendly and conversation flows easily between tables. As in all markets in Bangkok, at the new Rot Fai Market Ratchada bargaining is expected as there is no set price for anything. That being said, as this market is so popular with Thai people prices are lower here than you might find in Chatuchak Market in the north of Bangkok (although genuine antiques and one-off vintage items are rarely cheap). Ultimately, the original Rot Fai is still our favourite due mainly to its huge plot of land and different sections, but we find ourselves going more to the new Train Market because it is so convenient and still retains the same arty vibe. It is easy to find Rot Fai Ratchada as it is located directly behind Cultural Centre MRT Underground Station. If you are taking a taxi, be sure to stress you want to go to Ratchada (not the Srinakarin version). Opening Hours: 17:00-24:00 (Thursday-Sunday) Location: Ratcadaphisek Road (close to Esplanade Shopping Mall) MRT: National Cultural Centre Tel: +66 (0)92 713 5599