I was born in Bangkok, lived here for 3 years, moved to Dubai, back to Bangkok where I attended BPS International School until year 4 (it was a British system), then headed to the USA for the rest of my childhood. Here I am yet again for the dutiful, but also self-prescribing visit to see my relatives in Sukhumvit Soi 103. I’m now 34, and couldn’t begin to tell you what happened between now and then so don’t ask.
For those who aren’t familiar, Sukhumvit is one of the major roads that run through the city of Bangkok, Thailand. My visit has been eye-opening mainly because I had the opportunity to finally visit the tourist destinations that make Bangkok what it is today. One night in Bangkok, and the world’s your oyster right? (Murray Head made a few good points in that song). I had 21 nights. Whew! Visiting Thailand is no different than any other location in the world. More planning turns into more fun. I’m an individual who values historical sites, food, music (check out a local concert and train your ear to hear a completely different style of music), symbolic buildings (modern and old), and the areas that represent some facet of my life either through educational interest or hobby.
The first sight I highly recommend is Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya is a historical site that served as the capital of Siam after the fall of Sukhothai. Built in c 1350, trade deals, dinners and political negotiations were held in this highly detailed city. It flourished from the 14th through the 18th centuries, steadily growing into a center for diplomacy and commerce. The kingdom met it’s end when the Burmese launched their final attack and destroyed much of the city and the numerous Buddha statues around 1767.
Ironically, due to the pressure from Chinese forces, the Burmese later withdrew their army, giving the Thai forces time to reconvene and strengthen. In the end, Thailand reclaimed its territory and rebuilt its reserves to continue their economic relations with European nations and surrounding Asian nations alike. There’s quite a bit more to it, but that’s what the internet is for if you’re so inclined. 🙂 Most of the art and construction in Ayutthaya is reflective of Theravada Buddhism. Despite being the predominant religion during the existence of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, it wasn’t the only one. Here are some photos of my magical walk through time, and for some additional information on the rise and fall of Ayutthaya, including the leaders that cycled through the Kingdom, check out the following link: Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is so expansive with hundreds of temples, but the main four I recommend visiting are Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and Wat Pra Ram. Wat means temple, but they’re all part of an even larger city. It’s quite amazing to witness firsthand the punctilious construction within a kingdom that negotiated trade deals with the likes of France’s Luis the XIV himself. Amazing.
Next on the list is a trip down the Chao Praya River, which comes with its own array of options. There are many tour boats available, and the best way to access them is through the final BTS Skytrain stop Sapan Thaksin (translated into Thaksin Bridge). Sidenote: Thaksin is the king that led Thailand out of the Burmese invasion and into independence. Once there, walk towards the water, and choose the path you wish to take. There are several spots along the Chao Praya that I would consider “don’t miss” spots. They include:
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Flower Market (Pak Klong Thalad)
Icon Siam (a modern shopping center with food from every corner of Thailand, and upscale brands for those who enjoy a Beverly Hills type of shopping experience).
The river is a breath of fresh air amongst a crowded city that is planning several additional sky train routes which is sure to make the congestion triple. However, building a city takes time, and despite the buzz of motorcycles and intercoms blaring from fruit and vegetable vendor-trucks, taking a boat up and down the river will help anybody reflect, take in the warmth of Thailand, and observe the architectural beauty, all while enjoying some scrumptious food.
Next stop on the list of recommendations is the Mahanikorn Tower. This project was entirely funded by the monarchy and gives tourists and locals a chance to view the entirety of Bangkok from a 300-meter rooftop. It’s quite breathtaking. It’s 250 baht for seniors and 750 baht for adults. Well worth it. Going during the day gives you a chance to see Bangkok in action, but the skyline is electrifying at night, so I recommend going after dusk. On the way up to the top floors, you get a multimedia experience inside the elevator that is reminiscent of the Mori digital art museum in Tokyo, Japan. The added bonus of going at night is a party atmosphere with a great DJ throwing down fun beats once you arrive at the very top. Very fun all around, and easily accessible thanks to the BTS Skytrain that stops right in front of the tower.
Outside of Bangkok, there are a thousand different options, but if you have a week in the city, these are the stops that I recommend to any visitor. The heat can sap you of your energy during the summer months so if that’s a concern, go between October and February. Thailand recently elected a new Prime Minister and is no longer under martial law. It’s a country that knows how to survive and thrive. It’s just like any other country; historic and astoundingly beautiful in its own right. Thai citizens are governed through democracy with a somewhat obligatory reverence to the monarchy.
It’s a country deeply rooted in its Monarchic traditions and is quickly modernizing and developing into a fierce competitor within Asia. If time permits, take a kickboxing class, check out surrounding Yoga studios, and take advantage of the artistic community in Thailand as well. Known for intricate paintings, weaves, silks, and food art, options are many. I personally wanted to experience pottery so I went to a Potteri Clay workshop in Thong Law and made a couple vases and a turtle.
Be sure to take advantage of the food courts on the ground floor of any Mall. It’s food heaven. Another restaurant I’d highly suggest due to the high qualifications of the cooks that rotate through the restaurant is Bua Restaurant Order anything from the menu and it’s the Thai-est Thai food you’ll ever get. Also, worry not about healthcare. Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital (where I was born many moons ago) is world-class and has translators available for over 10 different languages. Royal families and the rich from around the world fly into Bangkok to get various check-ups and procedures done here so you’re going to be in good hands should you get sick. Another hospital that will have everything you need is Thainakarin Hospital. As with most other Asian countries, doctors are educated both in Thailand, and abroad (England, Australia, USA) and speak excellent English. Drink plenty of water (bottled water if your immune system is susceptible), and stay active!
Have fun, never stop exploring and always ask questions if there’s something that doesn’t make sense to you about another culture. In a world where people are steadily increasing the value of experiences over everything else, Thailand won’t disappoint. Bangkok is just skimming the surface. Other scenic and cultural hot spots include Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Rayong, Krabi, Phuket and Ko Samui (one of the islands in the gulf). Be safe and happy exploring. Sawatdee krup!
Cheers,
Nattapon Jontom Abbett
Nattaproblem 
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