Established in 1995 to commemorate Queen Sirikit's 60th birthday, National Science Museum aims to be a leader of technology and environmental issues in Asia. The building's unique angled-cube design reflects cost efficiency and the importance of conserving our earth's precious resources. Each of the six floors features a particular aspect of science, including natural history, energy, aerodynamics and traditional Thai technology. The best part is the hands-on interactive experience. Visitors are encouraged to test out exhibits for greater understanding, awareness and, of course, fun. Ample parking and a snack cafeteria are provided.
Serving as Thailand's capital from 1350, Ayutthaya was sacked by the Burmese in 1767. During its heyday, the city was a hub for international commerce. Now many come here to explore Thai history as it is a UNESCO World Heritage site with magnificent ruins spread throughout the city area. The best way to experience Ayutthaya is probably by bicycle, but take a guidebook so you know what you are seeing. The city is easily accessible by train or bus from Bangkok.
If the mood for open spaces and wonderful flowers grab you, make your way to King Rama IX Royal Park, which sprawls across more than 200 acres on the outskirts of town. Opened to commemorate His Majesty King Rama IX's 60th birthday in 1987, it contains a building dedicated to his work and the most extensive botanical gardens in town. Complementing the delightful park is a large recreational area, a flower garden featuring an eight-meter-high waterfall and a playground for kids.
Thailand is notorious for its counterfeit market and the Museum of Counterfeit Goods is a fine showcase of the country's knack of replicating brands. Housed inside the Tilleke and Gibbins' law firm, the museum displays all goods seized by the firm on behalf of its clients as evidence in the court. There are fake clothing items, electronic goods to household appliances and a whole lot of other products. Some of the pseudo items have the originals displayed alongside them as well, just to educate people on how to discern the fake from the real thing. The museum has received a lot of international media coverage and is frequented by students, lawyers, Interpol officers and businessmen.
Dedicated to preserving the history of Thailand, the Society has a extremely good reference library and regularly has varied and interesting speakers giving talks on a wide variety of issues. The members, their spouses, children and students with a valid ID are all admitted free. The Society, which is under Royal Patronage, also organizes trips to historic sites and cities around the region. It also publishes the prestigious Journal of the Siam Society.
Established in 1972, this center is run by the Japan Foundation and seeks to promote a cultural exchange between Japan and other countries. It houses an exhibition centre, library and theatre, offering Japanese language instruction and Japanese films.The library houses both Japanese and English books, with a small Thai section and concentrates on Japanese culture. Free films are shown in the Main Hall at 6:30p every Friday, aimed at teenagers and are in Japanese with Thai subtitles only.
Contact Information: 159 Sukhumvit Soi 21, The Japan Foundation, 10110 Bangkok, Thailand +66 2 260 8560
This Byzantine labyrinth of shops, stalls and alleys is where the movers and shakers of Thailand's economy got started. It has been the main trading center for the Chinese in Thailand since they moved from their old site near the Grand Palace some 200 years ago. Everything from household and electronic goods to Chinese medicine and antique vases are available. It is also a good place to go for deals on gold and obviously Chinese food. Some stores and restaurants are open 24 hours.
Not surprisingly, this figurehead cultural center is always busy, hosting an eclectic range of local and international cultural events. Many come here to appreciate performances in music, drama and dance from Thailand and around the globe. Events are continuously being staged. Depending on the time of your visit, you may get the chance to see anything from Bolshoi ballerinas to Isaan puppets. The facility also conducts lectures and seminars and provides a cultural information service. Call for details on show schedules and ticket prices.
Prasart Museum is a center for education and research for those interested in Thai antiquities. The museum houses a vast collection of antiques from the prehistoric to the Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin eras. Various styles of Thai architecture are on display, including a replica of the Red Palace, housed in the National Museum. The garden contains several Sukhothai period terracotta pieces, complimenting the setting of rare Thai and foreign plants. Visit by prior appointment.
The most famous Thai boxing stadium in the world hosts fights on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evenings. There are usually 10 bouts in an evening, each comprising five three-minute rounds. Ritualistic music and a slow dance precede the fights as the boxers honor their teachers and the spirit of the ring. The highly rated fights are on last, so you may want to time your evening to see the bouts that are most likely to set the place alight!
Established in 1884, making it Thailand's first public museum, the National is reputedly the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. It is definitely worth spending at least half a day here, particularly if you are heading to Ayutthaya or Sukhothai, the former Thai capitals. The vast array of items covering periods from Neolithic times can be a bit overwhelming, and the English labeling can be disappointing in some parts, so it is best to visit with a tour. These are operated in English, German, French and Japanese. Times vary so please call in advance.
This is an innovative park-cum-museum (Muang Boran in Thai) in which visitors can learn about Thai architecture and history. As you drive around, you will find famous buildings, monuments and temples representing all regions in Thailand. Visitors will need a private car to navigate around the 113-hectare (280-acr)e outdoor museum. Set aside a whole day for this visit, as the attraction is located a little outside Bangkok, in Samut Prakan.
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and by far its largest city with an estimated population of over 10 million. Just under 14 degrees North of the Equator, Bangkok is a tropical metropolis that is also one of the most traveler-friendly cities in Asia.
Bangkok, for many, represents the quintessential Asian capital. Saffron-robed monks, garish neon signs, graceful Thai architecture, spicy dishes, colorful markets, traffic jams and the tropical climate come together in a happy coincidence. It is difficult to leave with lukewarm impressions of the city.
Most of Bangkok’s sights are concentrated in the “Old City” on Rattanakosin Island. Of Bangkok's many temples, Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), The Grand Palace, featuring Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Pho are a must for any visitor.
Bangkok also is an extremely popular place for all sorts of pampering. The options available range from massages and spa treatments to haircuts and manicures and even cosmetic surgery, all at prices far lower than in the West.
A breath-taking view and aromas await guests at The Oriental's Barbecue Terrace. Overlooking the Chao Phraya River, both the decor and menu have undergone a face-lift. From Indian Tandoori to Japanese Teppanyaki and Lebanese mezze, the menu is a melting-pot of cultures. Preparations like Blue River Lobsters and Steamed Tiger Shrimp are some of the novelties of this unique restaurant. Desserts like Cherries Jubilee and Peach and Banana Flambé are a must-have for those with a weakness for sweets.
The gleaming Maeyanang gliding through the waters of the Chao Phrya River promises an evening full of luxury. The breath-taking images of brilliantly lit temples and monuments reflected in the water leaves one spell-bound. The elegant traditional style furnishings along with an à la carte dinner menu are additional features of this all-too-romantic setting. Enjoy your cocktails followed by a traditional four course set Thai dinner in candlelight. Available on a seasonal basis, these Dinner Cruises, organized by the The Oriental, provide your money's worth with an unforgettable evening in store. Check website for timing and other details.
Arguably one of the most elegant restaurants in Bangkok for fine Thai food, Lemongrass has been serving mouth-watering local cuisine for many years. It also maintains a good reputation among the city's amateur critics. Set in a converted house decorated with beautiful antiques, the theme is traditional and stylish, right down to the cutlery and place mats. Most dishes are moderately priced and the Minced Chicken and Ginger Served in Cabbage Leaves should not be missed. The signature Lemon Grass Iced Tea is always on the favorites list. Call for more details.
This longstanding and extremely popular open-air restaurant is featured in several Bangkok guidebooks. It stands out due to its large dining area and garish orange seating. Suda attracts a good crowd at night, drawn by the low prices, a huge range of dishes, and the very friendly owner. Alcohol is limited to Bangkok beer and Thai whiskey, but at such low prices nobody minds. Try their fish and meat dishes, especially the roasted and spiced variants that will tantalize your taste buds.
Imagine, live jazz wafting along with scrumptious Mediterranean fare, and the spectacular Bangkok skyline as the backdrop...Well enter restaurant Sirocco, located within the State Tower Bangkok! But if heights scare you, this is not where you should be as this is the world's highest alfresco restaurant. Built in a Greco-Italian style on the 63rd floor, it provides sweeping views of the city. But do hold your breath as you walk down the brightly lit stairway with glass railings. Sirocco is truly a lesson in fine dining. And that entails silverware, stiff and starchy service plus formal dressing. But don't get kids under five years of age—for safety measures of course.
Located in lower Silom, this group of Thai antique houses, offering fine handicrafts and finished products, is set among tropical greenery, and is a good place to shop and learn about Thai culture. Every night there is a classical dance show, and there is an air-conditioned as well as an outdoor restaurant where you can enjoy fresh daily seafood and all types of exotic Thai food. There is also an Inn on the premises, which offers very competitive prices.
