OTHER MUST DO'S
Khao San Road
(ถนนข้าวสาร)
Attracted by the young backpackers’ spirit, not only adventurous travellers, but also tourists visit this international backpacker-scene. The one-km-long road is characterised by cheap guesthouses, bars and clubs, book stores, internet cafes, little market booths and again, by its delicious food.
Erawan Museum
(พิพิธภัณฑ์ช้างเอราวัณ: open 8am-5pm)
Did you ever want to see the inside of an elephant? The Erawan Museum is located in a gigantic 250 ton and 44m high three-headed elephant sculpture. Inside the elephant, the museum displays several religious artworks and objects. Many ornate Thai sculptures combined with mythic dragons surround the beautiful and unique staircases. Outside the museum, extensive tropical flower gardens and ponds shared by colourful fish and turtles offer the opportunity to take a relaxed walk, away from active, crowded Bangkok.
Lumpini Park
(ลุมพินีพาร์ค)
In the middle of the busy city centre and the modern skyscrapers, a little piece of nature can be discovered. Why go to Lumpini Park? Jogging, cycling, outdoor gyms and fitness’s and dance groups are just a few of the activities the park has to offer. It’s also a great way to beat the heat with a Thai ice cream sandwich (it literally is an ice cream in a bun). There might even be a chance you will spot monitor lizards or if you’re lucky you can enjoy a free concert by the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra.
Boat-trip on the Khlongs
(คลอง/ แม่น้ำเจ้าพระยา)
Thonburi, the area across the Chao Phraya River, has a lot of tiny canals, which you can only explore by boat. These can be chartered from different piers throughout the city but since these drivers can ask a lot of money, negotiating is necessary. During the trip you will see traditional, little Thai houses and there’s also a chance of seeing iguanas.
Mr. Kukrit Heritage Home
(Directions for taxi: บ้านม.ร.ว.คึกฤทธิ์ ปราโมช นราธิวาสซอย 7: open daily 10am-4pm)
You would almost not believe you’re still in the middle of the city centre, when you see this little piece of beautiful nature. At this place, five traditional Thai teak buildings, surrounded by a stunning botanical garden, display a large collection of artefacts. These belonged to a former Thai prime minister, artist, poet and writer: Mr. Kukrit.
Ayutthaya
(พระนครศรีอยุธยา)
Around one hour and a half away from Bangkok, is Ayutthaya, Thailand’s former capital. This place is known for its magnificent ruins and is even a UNESCO World Heritage site. The best way to visit all these former temples is by bicycle. Something else you should definitely go and see in Ayutthaya is Elephant Stay (http://www.elephantstay.com/): a large elephant camp where you can stay for a couple days and take care of your own elephant. Personally, I consider this to be one of the best experiences in my life.
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