Why Bangkok Often Comes to Mind

The first words that come to mind when you hear about Bangkok are often 'nightlife,' 'massages,' and 'famous temples,' but there's so much more to this bustling capital of Thailand. This article aims to correct those notions and guide you through the other side of the city, highlighting its vibrant local culture and hidden gems worth exploring.

Krung Thep Maha Nakhon: The Official Name

Bangkok is officially known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. It's the capital city of Thailand and a major hub for tourism, especially popular among British tourists. It is home to a dedicated team of UK police stationed there to assist with cultural and language issues. While infamous for certain aspects like sex tourism and Ladyboys, Bangkok is much more than meets the eye.

The Tourism Industry

Bangkok thrives on tourism, making it a bustling and vibrant city. However, the popular perception often overshadows the local culture and experience. Here, we explore beyond the surface to uncover the authentic side of Bangkok.

Shopping and Sightseeing

Bangkok is a shopper's paradise, and it far exceeds the usual tourist traps. In 2011, I experienced this firsthand when I won a four-day trip to Bangkok and Pattaya. The trip opened my eyes to the variety of experiences available in the city, from electronics shopping to sightseeing and dining in local restaurants.

Exploring Sukhumvit

We sought a different experience during our trip and ended up in Sukhumvit, a notorious nightlife area. However, it offered us a unique opportunity to explore a side of Bangkok that is not often highlighted in travel blogs. Our stay was structured around both shopping and sightseeing, and we visited several notable locations:

Pantip Plaza: A renowned market for computer hardware and electronics. Indra Square Mall: An upscale shopping mall that offers various retail and entertainment options. Siam Paragon: One of the largest shopping malls in the city, known for its luxury brands and entertainment facilities. Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World: An indoor aquarium that provides a unique experience of marine life. Emporium: Another top shopping destination with high-end brands and fashion boutiques. Grand Place: A modern shopping center offering a variety of products and services.

Shopping for Souvenirs

When we were there, we had an enthusiastic co-traveler who was shopping for souvenirs. He asked me to encash my allowance to minimize customs fees and tax refunds. We stayed at Sukhumvit, which offered us a studio suite with a pool view after the card key issue was resolved.

Vegetarian Cuisine

Food was an important part of our trip. We enjoyed vegetarian meals at Grand Mercure Saras, Bhagat Tarachand, and Subway. These dining experiences provided a taste of local flavors and ensured we stayed healthy even as we explored the city.

Exploring the Other Side

Our last two days were planned by me. We managed to visit all the places that we had research about and avoided the typical tourist spots. The trip allowed us to experience a different side of Bangkok that is rarely discussed. It was a trip filled not only with sightseeing but also with the excitement of exploring a new and vibrant city.

So whenever you hear about Bangkok, think beyond parties, temples, and massage parlors. There's so much more to this bustling capital. It's a city that offers a unique blend of traditional charm, vibrant modern culture, and a friendly local community.