G
Easily the most beguiling Bangkok G is the majestic Grand Palace, an awe-inspiring blend of Khmer and European influenced architecture and the seat of the Royal Family for over 150 years. The 61-acre complex is also home to Wat Phra Keow, one of the country's most revered temples and unrivalled for its visual splendour.
G is also for the city's loud and proud Gay scene. From sweaty pumping dance clubs to gay-crowd pubs and naughty men-only saunas, you'll be hard pushed to find anywhere more gay-friendly in Asia. Galleries are plentiful and spread around town, showcasing some of the best art that can be found in Thailand. However, works are hung in pretty much any space where they're likely to be looked at, from hotel bars and restaurants to nightclubs and shopping malls.
Golf is big in Bangkok. There are over 50 world-class courses around the city and its outskirts, so you're never far from somewhere to perfect your putt. Bangkok is where the whole scandalous business started, so we'd better mention Go-Go Bars - shady bars where Western men ogle girls shimmying round steel poles. While perhaps more famous for gemstone scams than the actual Gemstones themselves, Bangkok does have many legit outlets dealing in jewels rather than daylight robbery.
H
H begins with History, something Bangkok is steeped in. The capital since 1782, its tumultuous history is one strewn with bloody wars, shifting dynasty's and majestic gilded temples. There's something for everyone hidden in Bangkok's past; the blood-thirsty, the romantic, and the political scientist.
The train may no longer be the quickest way to travel the country (look to the budget airline carriers for that), but it remains unquestionably the most charming way to get to Ayutthuaya, Sukothai or Chang Mai. So, H is also for Hualamphong, Bangkok's bustling main railway station. Built in 1916, it's notable for its European design, namely its Italian Renaissance architecture and stained glass.
Love horses? Enjoy a flutter? Well, one out of two ain't bad. Betting is illegal in Thailand but Horse Racing, thankfully, isn't. There are two places in the city where you can cheer on your equine friends; the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and the Royal Turf Club.
Get your arthouse fix at RCA's House Cinema. Whether it be the latest American indie flick, the new effort by one of Thailand's hip young directors or a Italian neo-realist retrospective, this is your best bet for film with brains.
I
I is for International Trade Fairs, great places for bargains and keeping abreast of new developments in your particular hobby, passion or trade. Bangkok's include everything from home-living fairs and golf equipment sales to car shows packed with the latest gorgeous models (and a few cars too!). Many take place at Impact Muang Thong Thani, a huge arena and exhibition complex geared towards trade shows, conferences and big stadium gigs. Have a look at our What's On calendar for the lowdown on who's playing.
J
A joy-bringing J is the tourist favourite Joe Louis Puppet Theatre. Ancient Thai legends are reenacted by life-like marionettes; living, breathing puppets that seem imbued with the soul and spirit of their puppeteers. Located at Suan Lum Night Bazaar, it's a mesmerizing and edifying evening that appeals to adult and child alike.
Sticking with tradition, J is also for Jim Thompson, the self-made American entrepreneur who revived the ailing Thai silk industry before disappearing mysteriously in the jungles of Malaysia in 1967. If you're interested in his legendary story and enduring legacy, then visit his complex of six traditional teak houses surrounded by a lush piece of jungle. For gorgeous silk products, look out for Jim Thompson outlets in upmarket hotels and malls and hotels.
Take a look at K, L and M in our exhaustive Bangkok A-Z. |
