Posted it as comment earlier but I wanted to show my appreciation to the larger group.
The first time I visited Bangkok was right after completing my MBA, accompanied by a group of friends. Like many first-timers, our initial perception of the city was skewed towards its reputation for sex tourism, seeking avenues of “debauchery” that some foreigners glorify and exaggerate. As a group of guys, our focus leaned more towards alcohol, drugs, and partying rather than exploring other aspects of the country. However, Krabi and its neighboring islands left a lasting impression on me during this trip, and as I stood in the immigration line at Suvarnabhumi on my way back to the chaos of Mumbai, I knew I would return.
The second visit was a different story, guided by my wife, who possesses a knack for uncovering hidden gems. She insisted that we explore Bangkok, Krabi, Phuket, and beyond as we would explore our own country. It was during this trip that Thailand truly opened up to me in ways I had never experienced before.
Focusing solely on Bangkok, I have nothing but amazing things to say, although my admiration extends to the rest of Thailand as well.
- The BTS/MRT connectivity is a marvel. Coming from India, where public infrastructure is severely lacking, I deeply appreciate how easy it is to navigate Bangkok using the BTS/MRT network. With the addition of new lines like the yellow line, it continues to improve. Moreover, the attention to detail in some of the metro stations, such as direct entrances to malls, stations disguised as art houses, and the presence of supermarkets and boutique bakeries, showcases a level of variety that I have yet to encounter elsewhere in the world.
- The hospitality and affordability of Thailand are exceptional. For just INR 4500 ($55), we could book a suite at the Siam Heritage Hotel during the off-season, situated beautifully in the heart of the Silom district. Every visit to shopping destinations like Chatuchak and MBK fills us with the excitement of children in a candy store.
- Thai cuisine is simply delightful! Pad Krapao Moo holds the title of my favorite Thai dish, and I’ve attempted to replicate it multiple times at home. Thai street food alone could sustain me for a lifetime.
- The culture of night markets, especially those on the outskirts like Srinakarin Train Night Market and Owl Market, was a foreign concept to me initially. However, I now deeply appreciate how Thais embrace outdoor gatherings with family and friends for shopping, dining, and entertainment. There’s an inherent positivity in the way night markets serve as hubs for local communities to come together.
- 7/11s are gradually becoming our favorite hangout spots post-2am. My wife and I occasionally embark on “Toastie runs,” aiming to sample as many different toasties as we can from various 7/11s across the city.
- Areas like Phranakorn and Talad Noi, situated just outside downtown and Chinatown, serve as reminders to slow down, take a deep breath, and appreciate the art and architecture of a Bangkok that remains rooted in its heritage.
All in all, what I think I love the most is that the Thais have managed to figure out a way of life where they didn’t have to completely change to pander to farangs and their needs, instead it is the farangs that have had the privilege to come here and be allowed to seamlessly integrate themselves in the way that Thais live. I think that is beautiful and that’s exactly why Thailand is such an amazing country and will always remain my favorite place in the world.
