Bangkok is a destination that welcomes travellers of all sorts to the city’s inbred maze. Architecture and culinary delights form the stand-out highlights of this capital. ‘Soi’, which means lanes, is a part of the local lingo and happens to be casually thrown around by every passing tuk-tuk or bike taxi. Yes, bike taxi is a well-versed concept around this nation and a perfect getaway for every solo traveller in the midst of traffic. Since globalisation took over in the 20th Century, we have all formed our likes and dislikes. This captivating city, however, has always managed to outshine and cater to every diverse human. If you desire a self-indulgent day, Bangkok has plenty to offer.
Carpe diem
Step out of your plush hotel, hostel or Airbnb before noon, because it’s crucial to make the most of your day. The temperature hovers around 25 degrees Celsius or higher, so grab yourself an iced coffee from a local street vendor. If you are not Thai, his hands are going to go straight for that Néscafe glass bottle. Stop him and ask for that rich Thai coffee. Whether you want it served black, sweetened with condensed milk, or just good old sugar, the choice is yours. But try this local cup of joe.
For breakfast, go light with the intention of keeping some room for lunch. The chain store 7-Eleven is everyone’s best friend for quick munchies. Grab a yoghurt and make way for the glorious fruit cart. It is filled with the sweetest pineapples, juiciest guavas and toothsome mangoes.
Order a Grab bike and weave your way rapidly through traffic to Wat Arun, the scenic Buddhist temple on the banks of the Chao Phraya river. Head to the east bank and pay four baht to sail to the other side. It is a good place to introduce oneself to old shrines and the captivating Thai culture. Stroll around, and if you are into photography, your lens will not shy away.
Next, find your way to Saranrom Park for a serene afternoon. Sit back and unwind for an hour or two by writing, reading or whatever charges your imaginative side. Don’t be surprised if a squad of college students runs up and records a video of you conversing with them in English.
Eat to shop
Find yet another Grab bike and get to bustling Yaowarat street, located in one of the largest Chinatowns. Large billboards in yellow and red push against golden noodle baskets and Chinese cutlery for sale. Get lost in the numerous sois and discover Chinese antiques. The aroma here is a blend of spicy bird’s eye chillies, fragrant teas, and flavour-centric seafood. Dive in and eat, then bargain with a tuk-tuk driver for a ride to Pratunam market, where you can splurge on clothes and accessories. They always have sales in the little lanes, so shop to your heart’s content.
Head over to Jack’s Bar close to the Shangri-La Hotel and breathe in the Bangkok air from the deck overlooking a sunset-skyscraper landscape. Local beers here, such as Leo and Singha, are available cheap, and combined with the view, there is a chance you will choose to end your night here.
If not, head to Gaa for their distinctive 14-course tasting menu and it is okay to make a reservation for one. Helmed by head chef and owner Garima Arora from Mumbai, simple and local Thai ingredients combine with her Indian roots to make for a memorable meal. Chances are high that you may make a friend while you are tasting adventure around the City of Angels.
