Most Singaporeans would be familiar with Bangkok as a quick and easy travel destinations where we could have a good time shopping and indulging in delicious Thai food. In recent years, Bangkok has also witnessed a growth spurt of large scale shopping malls and cafe enclaves that draw both locals and tourists alike.
Shopping, cafe hopping, dining are probably no-brainer additions to any Bangkok trip itinerary for you and I. If you would like to break out of this “routine”, here are 5 recommendations that you could consider.
#1: Visit a Floating Market
There are several floating markets near Bangkok where you could experience the traditional way of shopping in Thailand. Before the development of modern roads and transportation, rivers and canals were the main mode of travel in Thailand and naturally, merchants began to sell things on their boats at the canals.
Visitors will be on the boat and you will sail through various “stalls” selling food and merchandise. Shopping or bargaining on the boat could be a unique yet rustic experience. You could observe the old lady preparing your Som Tam (Thai papaya salad) on her boat after you have placed the order!
You could search for local tour operators who would pick you up from your hotel to drive you to the floating market and then back by the evening. Bring an empty and strong stomach if you are keen to taste authentic Thai street fare on the boat.
#2: Join a Bicycle Tour
Perhaps you have not heard of bicycle tours in Bangkok, but there are several tour operators that offer these now. Explore Bangkok off the beaten track and get up close and personal with the streets and the alleyways. Co Van Kessel is one of the oldest bicycle tour operators in Bangkok.
#3: Visit the Temples located near the Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is the official residence of the Kings of Thailand and is an important landmark of the City, as well as popular tourist site. Located near the Chao Praya river – a major river in Bangkok – there are also other temples near the Grand Palace that should not be missed.
Near the Grand Palace, there are three temples that you could consider to visit during the day – Wat Phra Kaew (located within the Grand Palace), Wat Pho and Wat Arun.
Whichever “Wat” (Thai for Temple) that you decide to visit, remember to dress appropriately to these sacred sites. Sleeveless tops and shorts are not allowed and you will be required to cover up before entering the Grand Palace or the Temples.
#4: Join a Thai cooking class
If you are curious about Thai cuisine, you could join a cooking class! Blue Elephant organises daily classes and they also sell pre-packed sauces, spices and pastes essential for Thai dishes. The morning class even includes a trip to the market, which offers you a glimpse of the local way of life.
#5: Watch Muay Thai match
If you are in town on a Monday, Thursday, Friday or Sunday evening, do plan to catch Muay Thai Fight Night at Rajadamnern Stadium! Ringside ticket (2000 THB) will give you an upclose of the fight and loads of adrenaline rush!
Are there any other interesting suggestion for this T List? Please leave me a comment!
