Bangkok isn't really quite like "The Hangover II". That's if you play by the rules of course. But what's a holiday if you go by the books right? It's all about exploring unknown territories (safely) and escaping the reality of what's back at home.
So this week on the Travel Diary, we bring you to a city most of you are oh-so-familiar with. And if you haven't been to the places below, you haven't been to the real Bangkok.
Where to shop
This was a tough decision to make -- Bangkok is a shopping mecca.
If you don't have enough time to hit all the stores and markets, and you have to choose, go for MBK Shopping Centre. Eight storeys high and packed with over 2,000 shops, you can find just about everything there.
If you're game for some adventure, head on down to ChatuChak weekend market. The sheer size alone will wow you. Think of this as the ultimate shopping experience, plus a little perspiration.
But remember, not everything can make it through customs, so think before you buy.
MBK Shopping Centre
444 Phayathai Road, Pathumwan
+66 2620 9000
website
MBK
ศูนย์การค้า เอ็ม บี เค เซ็นเตอร์
อาคาร เอ็ม บี เค เซ็นเตอร์ 444 ถ.พญาไท แขวงวังใหม่ เขตปทุมวัน กรุงเทพฯ 10330
โทร.0-2620-9000 เว็บไซต์ www.mbk-center.co.th
Where to visit
A trip overseas is never complete without taking some time to understand the culture and religion. If there's one place you shouldn't miss when you visit Bangkok, it's the spectacular Grand Palace, one of the city's most famous landmark.
Built in 1782, the Grand Palace has been the home of the Thai King, the Royal Court and the administrative seat of government for 150 years. Although they have stopped living in the palace around the turn of the 20th century, the palace complex is still used to mark all kinds of other ceremonial and auspicious happenings.
Be intriqued by the fine craftsmanship of the Thais and immense in their culture.
The Grand Palace
Na Phra Lan Road, Maharaj Pier
The Grand Palace
พระบรมมหาราชวัง
ถนนหน้าพระลาน พระนคร กรุงเทพฯ
โทร. 0 - 2623 - 5500 ต่อ 1124 เว็บไซต์ www.palaces.thai.net
Where to eat
The evening view can't get any more beautiful that this. There's no better way to end the night (or a trip for that matter) than at one of the best fine dining restaurants in Bangkok - Sirocco.
Located on the 63rd floor of The Dome at lebua, Sirocco is the world's highest al fresco restaurant and one of Bangkok's most coveted dining choices.
Overlooking the breathtaking view of Bangkok and Chao Phraya river, Sirocco has an amazing Skybar and quality Mediterranean fare. There is also a live jazz band to set the mood right for a perfect evening out.
Booking in advance is a must.
Sirocco
The Dome at lebua, Silom Road, Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand 10500
+66 2624-9555
www.lebua.com
Sirocco
ซีร็อคโค
ชั้น 63 โรงแรม เลอ บัว แอท สเตท ทาวเวอร์ กรุงเทพมหานคร
1055 ถนนสีลม เขตบางรัก กรุงเทพฯ
โทร. 0-2624-9555 เว็บไซต์ www.lebua.com/
Where to party
If you're going to head out for a party, always go for the best music and the best booze in the house. There's just no such thing as compromise -- afterall, you're only here for a few days.
The sound of mainstream R&B and hip-hop is inescapable at any corners of this superclub - Route 66. Located at the epicentre of Bangkok's clubbing scene, RCA, this place is practically happening all night every night of the week. A downside though, it closes early at 2am. But there's not much to worry when there're so many mega clubs located in the same strip. Try 808 for one.
Route 66
RCA Block C, Rama 9 Road
+66 (0)1 440-9666
Route 66
RCA 29/33 - 48 ซอยศูนย์วิจัย ถนนพระราม9 บางกะปิ ห้วยขวาง กรุงเทพฯ
โทร 0-2203 -0936 เว็บไซต์ www.route66club.com
