Welcome to Krung Thep Maha Nakhon!
(otherwise known as Bangkok)
That’s right, Bangkok’s real name is 168 letters long.
Technically, it’s less of a name and more of a descriptive phrase that means City of Angels.
This wonderfully busy city is and endless mashup of new and old. Perhaps most known for its street life, all you have to do is wander on foot for entertainment.
view from The Surawongse Hotel pool
The Robot Building, ตึกหุ่นยนต์, completed in 1986 is one of Bangkok’s last modern constructions. Believe it or not, it’s a bank designed by Sumet Jumsai to reflect the industry’s technology. As the structure goes upward, it begins to recede–like an art deco building but with the cutest of twists. Near the top, you’ll spot antennas (lightning rods) and eyes (windows), the real robot giveaways.
The architect as inspired by one of his son’s toys. He saw it as a rebellion against boring design.
The streets (and sidewalks) are jam packed with motorcycles.
I was fascinated by all the entangled telephone poles. Wires abound.
And you can’t forget about the tuktuks. Their amount is staggering. So much so that Bangkok’s Land Transport Department director-general said they need birth control for that particular mode of transportation.
Art, both old and new, is absolutely everywhere.
It’s also common to spot little shrines along streets and tucked into alleys.
People leave behind offerings like soda and food.
To our surprise, we found a craft brewery, Let The Boy Die, with a great name and good beer.
The Chao Phraya River
Then we hopped on a water taxi. It was cheap and fun to see the river views.
Chinatown on Yaowarat Road
The street markets aren’t to be missed. Particularly this one–one of the biggest Chinatowns in the entire world.The bright neons, colorful juices and extreme foods.
Whether you’re an adventurous eater or not, you have to try something.
I’ve never seen anything quite like it before.
But after COVID-19, you bet I’ll be sure to stay away from anything too adventurous.
for the love of nike 
Beautiful photos.
Thank you, Chantel!
Bangkok is great fun. When I lived in Hong Kong, we’d go to Bangkok to play. Eventually, it became a jumping off point for travels to much prettier places in Thailand. I never thought the food in Yarowat was all that extreme. It is mostly a mix of Chinese and Thai cooking. We mostly ate a lot of street food because it is fresh and cooked on the spot. Oh, and it’s inexpensive. The trick, of us, was to book a hotel that is near the BTS system. That is your best way to explore the entire city…
Oh wow! Sounds like you had some pretty great adventures! What a great experience! How did you like living in Hong Kong?
I lived in Hong Kong for six years. I worked for The Image Bank/Eastman Kodak and produced trade (coffee table books). I rode the subway like everyone else. After a couple of projects, usually one that was printed in Singapore, I’d go to Thailand on holiday. I liked Hong Kong a lot, but I was well supported by my company. I lived fairly well with a small two bedroom flat in the mid-levels near the world’s longest escalator. I think I know the city better than any westerner because I used to explore and photograph in my off time.
incredible! What an awesome opportunity you had to live there and see so much! I’d love to do something like that someday.
You seem to travel a lot. After a while staying in a place like HK turns you a little blind to the uniqueness of the place. I wouldn’t do it today since it is now part of China.
I can understand that. The novelty and excitement probably wares off over time. And yes, I completely agree with you on that point. I’m sure it’s much different nowadays.
It’s different for two reasons. The PRC is very heavy handed about enforcement of their laws which were never laws when HK was a Commonwealth country. They just sort of implemented them. The city has become dirty and uncared for which is odd because mainland cities are clean and are efficient. OTH, the last time I traveled to HK I used my old permanent visa. When I arrived at immigration I was allowed in, but they sent me to an office where I was immediately issued a new one with PRC marks on it. I guess my records still show that I brought money into the country rather than take it out. Who knows.
oh wow, that sounds so complicated!
it is. The Mainland Chinese make it doubly so. One day I’ll go back for a visit.
1969. R&R. The Emerald Buddha. Lots of bars, and beautiful Thai women. Or so I’m told. 🤔
Bangkok is a great city to visit. I’m keen to see it again.
I feel the same way!