Located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya river (opposite the Grand Palace), close to Wat Rakhang, this outdoor theater has show times on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. A variety of performances are staged here. It is especially well-known for its adaptations of classical Asian literature. Costumes and performances are often very extravagant. Call for the latest programs and be sure to make a booking.
Once the residence of James H.W. Thompson, the “Legendary American of Thailand”, the Jim Thompson House is now one of the top tourist destinations in Bangkok. Comprising of six traditional teak houses, the traditional Thai-style complex was completed in 1959 and has been converted to a museum to honor its original owner and his legacy. In the middle part of the 20th Century, Thompson reinvigorated development of the Thai silk industry and collected art and artifacts from all over Thailand and the region, but mysteriously disappeared while on a trip to Malaysia in 1967. Many of his possessions are on display at the Jim Thompson House, and guided tours take guests around the stunning property.
Over 200 years old, Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s largest and oldest temple complexes. For an entry fee of 50 baht, visitors can roam the grounds with or without a guide, stopping along the way at numerous notable temples and sites. The most famous of Wat Pho’s relics is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, wherein lies an impressive 46 meter-long gold-plated image of a reclining Buddha. A first grade royal monastery, Wat Pho is also Thailand’s oldest learning center and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Consistently voted one of the best hotels in the world, The Oriental has a uniquely exotic setting on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, situated just 30 minutes from the airport and is in close proximity to the business and shopping district. This superb hotel boasts 393 rooms and suites, all rooms with river views. More than a luxury city resort, The Oriental is also a highly efficient address for guests on business. The Royal Ballroom and meeting rooms have hosted thousands of successful conferences.
Although greenery may be hard to come by in Bangkok, Chatuchak Park surely has a lot of it. A sanctuary for joggers, bicyclists and picnickers alike since 1980, Chatuchak Park is home to a variety of trees, a winding artificial lake and public exercising equipment for all to enjoy. It borders Chatuchak Weekend Market, thus also making it a haven for exhausted shoppers who need a break from the crowds. And although it is a bit hidden, the rolling extension of the park to the northwest cannot be missed.
Reflexions
Cuisine: French, Caribbean, Italian, Asian, Mediterranean
If Jazz Music and French food is the soup for your soul, then hop into Reflexions, the fine restaurant and bar at Hotel Plaza Athenee. This is a perfect place to hang around after a hard day's work. Just sit back and enjoy scrumptious French food in a laidback ambience. There is also Mediterranian, Caribbean, Italian, Asian and Hawaiin cuisine on offer.
The Vertigo Grill and Moon Bar is located 61 floors above the streets of Bangkok on the terrace of the Banyan Tree Hotel. From here you can gaze upon the city, through the provided telescopes if you like, and enjoy some jazz music with a glass of bubbly in hand. Perfect for a romantic rendezvous. The food is a mix of BBQ specials that include oysters and scallops. This is truly a venue that will take your breath away.
This intimate restaurant/gallery offers a weekly menu of international food reasonably priced and served with a smile. The modern decor is classy and inviting, with changing photo exhibits on the walls. Butcher paper covers tables and is accompanied by sharp colored pencils, convenient if you are struck by an artistic thought while dining. For vegetarians, the pumpkin ravioli with tomato sauce and the Grilled Eggplant Bocconcini Stack are satisfying. Seafood lovers could go for the fried fish with chips or the Grilled Trevally Fillet with Spinach and Seafood Sauce.