Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is a fascinating destination that boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. From majestic palaces to ancient temples and well-preserved houses, the city offers a glimpse into its storied past. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through ten historical places in Bangkok that are …
As our bus entered the compound of the wat, rows of men in various fighting positions filled both sides of the road at the entryway of the temple. And when I thought it was an ordinary temple like the ones I have previously visited, it turned out that Wat Bang Kung or the Thai Boxing …
Snaking through the crowded narrow alley, we braved the early afternoon heat at the Maeklong Train Market where shops are found on both sides of the train tracks. Thanks to the tarpaulins over us, they were screening us against the sun. But when the train arrived, those tarpaulins vanished in a split second to give …
During my first trip to Thailand in 2001, Ayutthaya was one of the places we visited. It was an extremely hot day and I could remember seeing ruins, stupas and chedis. But digital cameras and smartphones were not yet common at that time and all I have are a few film photos in my album. …
Bang Pa-In Royal Palace was built during the 17th century during the reign of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Located at the Bang Pa-In District, 24 km south of Ayutthaya, which is about 20-30 minutes away. Roger, our guide, began his introduction of the place by letting us know that the Ayutthaya Kingdom had 33 kings. There …
Having been hooked to Korean variety shows, I saw on these travel programs where the cast visited the famous Thipsamai Restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand. I remembered scenes where there were lines outside, so it got me curious as well. My palate easily adjusts to local flavors and Thai cuisine is among the top in my …
Although I have been to Bangkok several times, it was only in 2019 that I have learned of Wat Saket through the Korean travel variety show, Thrifter’s Guide to Luxurious Travels or Salty Tour. The first trip they took for the new season in 2019 was to Thailand and they visited this less touristy temple, …
Elegant signature Thai architecture protruding from the long block of white walls greeted us as we approached the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok, Thailand. Memories of my first visit in 2001 flooded my mind, yet I can only vaguely recall the details of every corner of the palace compound. Constructed in 1782 during the reign …
On August 8, 1967, five countries banded together to form the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). These are Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines. Now, the ASEAN marks its 50th year and it has grown into 10 countries, which now includes Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam. I realized that I have visited all …
Getting from one city to another by plane may be the fastest way but traveling by train can be a whole lot of fun. I’m the type of traveler who loves to see the scenery, that is why I always prefer the window seat. And train travel gives me that opportunity, less the bumpy ride …
When one has a day job and has to take some time off to travel to some foreign destination, the journey is often scheduled near the weekends to make the most of it. That’s what I always do. Several times, I time my trips during the Holy Week when business in the Philippines are mostly …
Arriving in Bangkok on a dark night from Chiang Mai and an early morning flight to catch the next day can be a bit taxing. Good thing we were to stay the night at Novotel Suvarnabhumi, a stone’s throw away from the airport. But it’s not just the proximity to Bangkok’s gateway that makes Novotel Suvarnabhumi …
Chiang Mai is home to one of the old Thai cultures, as seen in the many heritage sites in the city. In fact, the old square alone has several ancient temples that reflect the Lanna culture. Visiting Chiang Mai is like stepping into a realm where spirituality intertwines with architectural splendor. Moreover, it’s a place …
Read more “Wats in Chiang Mai: Exploring these Mystical Marvels”
I have seen its façade four years ago for I have been to the building just across the street. This year, I finally had the chance to enter the Lanna Folklife Museum in Chiang Mai where it documents the way of living of ancient Northern Thai tribes. We began our walk down history lane at …
Porcupines. Wild boars. Hyenas. Tigers. Lions. One by one these animal species appeared in the glass-enclosed arena as part of an informative and entertaining show on the Night Predators. This is the Chiang Mai Night Safari. Located in the Hang Dong District in Chiang Mai, the safari is 12 kilometers from the city center. They …