Exploring Bangkok: Stories of Culture, Culinary Delights, and Adventure
- Des Escober
- Sep 29, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Welcome to Bangkok! Oh, where do I even begin? This city - it's a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day excitement, and it really knows how to make you fall in love with it. We were constantly swept up by its vibrant streets, peaceful temples, and the endless array of flavors that seemed to tell the story of Thailand’s rich history. Walking through the city felt like stepping into a living museum, where every corner revealed something new and captivating. And the people? So welcoming - it’s like they can sense that you're there to truly experience their culture, and they’re eager to show it off!
DAY 1 - Jim Thompson House & Evening Bangkok Street Eats | DAY 2 - Silom Thai Cooking School & Wonderful Pearl Cruise | DAY 3 - Ayutthaya Ancient Capital |
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I've pinned our itinerary on Google Maps!
DAY 1 - Jim Thompson House & Evening Bangkok Street Eats
We landed early at Suvarnabhumi Airport, and from that moment on, it was nonstop excitement. We settled into the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai, a real gem with the friendliest staff. I’m talking top-notch service that made us feel like royalty. And trust me, we made full use of that amazing pool - nothing like a refreshing dip after soaking in the 90-degree heat. And every morning at 6:30, like clockwork, we were in the executive lounge - because nothing screams "vacation" like showing up early enough to not only beat the coffee machine but also to outsmart everyone else at the breakfast buffet!
After fueling up, we dove straight into the culture at the Jim Thompson House. It’s so much more than just a house - it's a piece of living history. Jim Thompson, an American architect turned silk pioneer, fell in love with Thailand's vibrant culture after WWII and saw a huge potential in Thai silk. He collected six traditional Thai homes and relocated them to create his dream house, blending intricate wooden structures with lush gardens. Sadly, he disappeared in 1967, leaving behind a legacy that changed the Thai silk industry forever. Now, his home is a museum, and wandering through the rooms filled with art and fabrics was like stepping into his dream.
Later, we jumped on a Tuk Tuk (so iconic) and headed to Chinatown, which comes alive at night with bustling street markets. It was sensory overload in the best way.
Our guide, Ms. Nuch from Travel Authentic Asia, took us to a cozy spot in Chinatown that’s earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand. It’s not a Michelin star, but it’s a local treasure that’s as friendly as it is delicious. We dug into Kway Chap Nai Lek Uan, a spicy noodle dish with crispy pork in a broth that could only be described as full of life.
To end the night, we visited a rooftop bar overlooking the Chao Phraya River. The view? Absolutely stunning. We may have missed the sunset, but the night was still magical as the river sparkled under the city lights.
As we made our way back to the hotel, we cruised around Rattanakosin Island, catching magical glimpses of the city lit up against the night sky. Wat Ratchanatdaram stood out, its golden Loha Prasat - the "Metal Castle" - glowing like something out of a dream. We also caught sight of the Grand Palace, its storied walls and spires whispering tales of kings and centuries past, a breathtaking reminder of Bangkok’s rich and regal history.
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DAY 2 - Silom Thai Cooking School & Wonderful Pearl Cruise
If you’ve never cooked Thai food right in the heart of Bangkok, you’re seriously missing out. We booked a class at Silom Thai Cooking School, and it was an absolute blast. Our guide kicked things off with a trip to the local market to grab the freshest ingredients, and then we spent the morning whipping up five classic Thai dishes - Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), Som Tam (fresh green papaya salad), Green Curry Paste, Green Curry with Chicken, and Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango. Honestly, it felt like a little slice of heaven. The best part? We got an apron, a recipe book, and a certificate to prove we’re now honorary chefs.
In the evening, we treated ourselves to the Wonderful Pearl Dinner Cruise. I mean, what better way to see Bangkok’s highlights than from a boat on the Chao Phraya River? We passed by the stunning Wat Arun, the majestic Grand Palace, and the modern beauty of Iconsiam, all while enjoying a buffet dinner and live music. I’m not usually one for touristy things, but this? Totally worth it. It felt like a celebration of everything old and new in the city, and I couldn’t have asked for a better crew of women to experience it with.
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DAY 3 - Ayutthaya Ancient Capital
Today we took a trip out of the city to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand. It’s a place rich with history and stories that go way back to 1350. We started at Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, one of the most important temples in Thailand, famous for its three massive stupas that hold the ashes of three Ayutthaya kings. These structures, even after centuries, are a testament to the power and beauty of the kingdom that once stood here.
Next, we visited Wat Mahathat, home to the famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree. It’s an eerie, beautiful sight - a perfect snapshot of how time, nature, and history all intertwine.
We also got a lesson in making “roti,” a sweet flatbread dessert that’s so popular in Thai markets. It’s crispy, chewy, and absolutely addictive.
We wrapped up the day at Wat Chaiwatthanaram, one of the most picturesque temples in Ayutthaya, sitting by the river with its towering prangs. You can almost feel the reverence that went into its construction. It was the perfect spot to reflect on the ancient glory of the place.
Later, we hit up Somboon Seafood at CentralWorld for an epic seafood feast. Their Fried Curry Crab Meat is a must-try - it’s been their signature dish since 1969 and totally lives up to the hype! We also ordered Freshwater Prawn with Glass Noodles, Tom Yam Goong with Shrimp, and Steamed Sea Bass with Soy Sauce. Everything was insanely good.
We also stumbled across the cutest Care Bears Café, bringing a fun dose of childhood nostalgia.
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DAY 4 - Grand Palace, Wat Pho & Wat Arun
Our last day in Bangkok started at the Grand Palace, a true jewel of the city. The intricate details in every building, from the Temple of the Emerald Buddha to the gold-covered spires, left me speechless. Every inch of the palace is stunning and showcases Thailand’s deep-rooted respect for beauty and craftsmanship.
After that, we headed to Wat Pho, home to the massive Reclining Buddha. This temple is not just about stunning statues but also about learning. It’s known as Thailand’s first university, and you can feel the wealth of knowledge in the murals and inscriptions all around.
I couldn’t leave without participating in the tradition of dropping coins into 108 bowls - it’s meant to bring good karma, and I’ll take all the good karma I can get!
Finally, we crossed the river to visit Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. Its central pagoda, covered in colorful porcelain, gleamed in the sunlight like a work of art. The view from across the river was breathtaking and a perfect way to wrap up our journey.
As I reflect on this trip, it’s the little moments that stand out the most. The laughter shared over bowls of noodles, the awe at the ancient temples, and the kindness of the Thai people. Bangkok isn’t just a place; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave. And having the best friends by my side made it all the more unforgettable.
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