A visit to Thailand’s glittering capital promises a captivating experience whether you are a frequent visitor or a first timer. Bangkok sees more tourists each year than any other city in the world. The modern side of the city offers urban travellers mega malls, fine cuisine and 5 star hotels in Bangkok. The city is also appealing to those who want to experience culture and tradition: gilded shrines, local street food and boat markets are a few of the attractions. The Chao Phraya River that flows through the capital has played a role in shaping the lives of local residents right throughout history. Today, its banks are taken up by swanky eateries and luxury hotels like Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok.
Asiatique is an upscale bazar that opens at 5pm and runs until midnight. The complex consists of more than one thousand five hundred shops and forty restaurants. There are also nightly performances: Calypso Cabaret, one of Bangkok’s best known ladyboy shows and classical Thai puppets by Joe Louis Theatre. The market has been designed and laid out with a clearly marked store directory. It has been divided into four categories to make navigating easy. The Chareonkrung District is where you will find decorative storefronts of shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery, and clothing. The Factory District boasts high fashion and gadgets. The Waterfront District features several upscale dining options including Italian, Thai and seafood; while the Town Square District has bars and open air spaces where events are held.
To get to Asiatique, it is easiest to take a boat from Saphan Taksin. A ride on board the free shuttle takes no more than ten minutes and it is available until 11pm. Taxis are best avoided because traffic in the area tends to be on the heavy side.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
