Prelude.
In a few days I leave for my first ever trip to Thailand. I am beyond hyped for this trip, for I have had a strong infatuation with Thai culture since I was a young Saiyan. From throwing knees and elbows like Tony Jaa in Ong Bak, to all the Pad Thai's and Thai Milktea's I have consumed to this day - my birthday trip to Bangkok has been a long time coming.
And needless to say, I am hella stoked for this trip!
DayOne
ท่าอากาศยานสุวรรณภูมิ
Suvarnabhumi Airport.
I first heard the word 'Suvarnabhumi' from my Indian homie Devaiah, who told me the word means 'Land of Gold' in Sanskrit. So upon entering Thailand via the Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, that random fact came to mind as I thought to myself, there is no better name for an airport than this.
Aside from its 'golden' name, the Suvarnabhumi Airport itself is insanely aesthetic. With its symmetrical structure, this airport may be one of the most visually appeasing airports i've ever seen to date! And to be in awe so quick into a trip, definitely left an amazing first impression as I kick off my trip in Thailand.
ตลาดนัดจตุจักร
Chatuchak Weekend Market.
Flying into BKK on a Sunday means you only have a day to check out one or some of Bangkok's famous Weekend Markets. As time was not on our side, we could only choose one of those markets to go to. So we decided to check out the world's largest outdoor market - the Chatuchak Weekend Market.
With over 15 thousand stalls, a stroll around Chatuchak is a mission in itself. From souvenirs, to vintage clothes and antiques, and a wide variety of Thai eats - the Chatuchak may have everything you need in Thailand in one place. And if you're bargaining skills ( and basic Thai ) is on point, you may come up with amazing finds for a good price. Come prepared, come ready and get your mind right, because the Chatuchak Market is definitely worth the way out.
Below are some of the cops Flo and I came up on at the Chatuchak :
Pad Thai & Local Street Foods.
Coming straight from the hotel after our flight, the first thing we wanted to do at the Chatuchak was get some grub! Luckily there was a ton of food stalls at the Chatuchak. Being it was our first meal in Bangkok, we wanted something 'traditional'.
So we stopped at the first resto we saw ( turning right from Chatuchak Gate 1 ), and had a filling meal of Pad Thai, Papaya Salad, Spring Rolls and Rice. All within a tight budget!!
Jewelry.
Flo loves to collect accessories when we travel. So within the cuts of the inner Chatuchak stalls were a handful of vintage antique stores all within an alley. As we came across a place that was selling antique jewelry by the pound, Flo was deep into her element as she took half an hour picking out rings from a wide selection of gold, silver and bronze plated accessories. She ended up with 5 rings for 1200B.
Mo Hom Shirt & Pants
The 'Mo Hom' fabric is a product from the North of Thailand. The word 'Mo Hom' translates to a local indigo plant, which the fabric and its dye is sourced from. As I always look to cop traditional clothing from the places I visit, I was lucky to run into this stall manned by this cool elder. [ PS : He hooked it up!!! ]
[ Flo & I in our Mo Hom Fits ]
Muay Thai @ Rajadamnern Stadium.
To experience a live Muay Thai fight in Thailand has always been at the top of my bucket list. And this night, the eve of my 28th birthday, a lifelong dream comes true.
Muay Thai has a reputation for being such a savage sport. But the honor and tradition behind the National Sport and Martial Art of Thailand is beyond admirable. And to feel the absolute essence of Muay Thai is to definitely experience the atmosphere at one of Bangkok's biggest fighting arena's.
Completed in 1945, the Rajadamnern Stadium is Bangkok's oldest boxing arena. Some of the greatest fights in Muay Thai history were fought here, as well as a number of world championship boxing matches ( ie : Luisito Espinosa vs Khaokar Galaxy ). The rich history of the Rajadamnern can definitely be felt within these walls, and even more its energy when two warriors clash in the middle of its legendary ring.
notes
Events are every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. Fights start at 630PM.
Tickets prices are at 2000B ( Ringside ), 1500B ( 2nd Class ), 1000B ( 3rd Class )
ถนนข้าวสาร
Khao San Road.
Was feeling like Leonardo DiCaprio in 'The Beach' walking around Khao San Road. If there's a place that defines 'Backpacker Culture' in Bangkok, Khao San Road would first come to mind. It is definitely a melting pot of cultures at the Khao San, but the massive crowds of travelers and locals alike is what makes a stroll down Khao San Road an interesting experience.
Because of these waves of travelers, Khao San Road has attracted an unique scene of local and international influence, hence Khao San Road being dubbed as the 'Backpackers Hub' of Thailand. Here you can find a number of hostels to check in to and a wide variety of restaurants, bar and clubs to dine ( or party ) at. You can also find local vendors around Khao San selling souvenirs, street foods, exotic foods, and bootleged apparel. One guy even tried to sell me a joint! Lol.
Bottom line is, Khao San Road is a pretty rad place. And if it's a night of fun and partying you are after, this might be the place for you. But all i'm saying is, be careful out here fam. Cuz things can get pretty wild at the Khao San.
DayTwo
My main goal on this trip to Thailand was to visit temples and to seek inspiration (spiritual and creative). Because of my interests in Buddhist Philosophy and South Asian Design & Architecture, I really wanted use my time in Bangkok to take in as much as I can and observe every detail I can wherever the path may lead. So for those who plan to follow this itinerary of mine, know that I was in pursuit of inspiration and I hope if you do follow this journey, you too can take in the same inspiration as I did.
วัดพระแก้ว
Wat Phra Kaew.
Wat Phra Kaew is home to the Emerald Buddha - which is revered as Thailand's most sacred symbol, and is said to bring prosperity to whichever kingdom is resides in. With its origins from India, the Emerald Buddha is made of a single block of jade and is estimated to date back to the 15th century.
The Wat Phra Kaew Complex features a collection of beautiful structures, stupas and murals. Aside from the Ubosot ( Ordination Hall which houses the Emerald Buddha) , surrounding it is the Phra Mondop (Library), Three Pagodas, Eight Prangs (Towers) and statues of various hermits and elephants.
[ Phra Mondop [ Entrance ]
[ Phra Mondop [ Details ]
Towering in the distance is the Phra Si Ratana Chedi, which is a golden stupa ( pagoda ) built in a Sri Lankan style of pagodas. The Phra Si Ratana Chedi enshrines the ashes of the Buddha himself.
วัดโพธิ์
Wat Pho.
Built in the late 16th century, Wat Phra Chetun ( widely known as Wat Pho) is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. Wat Pho holds the most Buddha images in all of Thailand and is home to the world famous 46m long Reclining Buddha. With an area of 80,000 square meters, the Wat Pho Complex also holds the 'Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakar - which are a group of four stupas that tower at 42 meters high. Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of the Thai Massage.
The 46 meter-long Reclining Buddha of Wat Pho represents the final moments of the Buddha ( on Earth ) as he enters parinirvana. Parinirvana is the state one enters when supreme enlightenment is attained in his/her lifetime. To enter parinirvana means the end of the life and death cycle ( samsara ), and the entry to 'a realm of the true and eternal self'.
The 'Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakar' is a group of four pagodas that tower at 42 meters high at the Wat Pho Complex. Each pagoda was made to honor the Lord Buddha and the first 4 kings of the Chakri Dynasty.
วัดอรุณราชวรารามราชวรมหาวิหาร
Wat Arun.
The name 'Wat Arun' is derived from the Hindu god Aruna - who is the charioteer of Sun god Surya. Wat Arun is one of the major Temples in Bangkok, and is one of the oldest ones as well.
Known for it's towering pagoda, the central prang of Wat Arun is said to symbolize Mount Meru - which is revered as the center of the physical, spiritual and metaphysical universe.
[ วัดอรุณราชวรารามราชวรมหาวิหาร ] Central Prang : Up Close ]
[ วัดอรุณราชวรารามราชวรมหาวิหาร ] Details ]
The prangs of Wat Arun is decorated with seashells and pieces of Chinese porcelain tiles that were looted from past shipwrecks. A very interesting but fascinating detail that gives the pagodas much life and color.
They say the 'Golden Hour' shines beautifully at Wat Arun. So it was only perfect that this was the last of our 'Temple Runs' in Bangkok. And indeed, the 'Golden Hour' is golden at Wat Arun.
As the sun sets and the skies liven up to its golden tone, the towering Wat Arun glows as it seems to absorb the aura of the moment. And to experience this vibrant time of day at one of Bangkok's most beautiful monuments was indeed a highlight on this trip.
Chinatown - Bangkok.
After the long day out and about around Bangkok, we decided to check out Chinatown to see what all the fun is about. Of course, the main goal here was to look for some bomb food ( as the usual ) but we were prepared and ready for what Chinatown has in store for us.
Like most Chinatowns in the world, Chinatown - Bangkok was a super busy place. But its atmosphere is definitely one to experience! Especially down the Yaowarat Road, where it's street foods galore all over the place. From the usual Thai staples like Pad Thai and Spring Rolls, to Chinese dishes like noodle soup and more; there is a variety of food to grub on at Chinatown. So better come hungry, because this is the place to pig out in Bangkok.
DayThree
This next part of the trip is one i've been super hyped about the moment this trip was booked. And that is a day-trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya.
Those who know me best knows that i'm a total history nerd. So in knowing that Ayutthaya ( a UNESCO Heritage Site ) was just a 2 hour train ride from Bangkok, it was an instant must on my itinerary. I was beyond stoked to get my Tomb Raider on, and explore the famous 'City of Ruins'.
PS : Sagat was here.
Hua Lamphong Station. ( Bangkok to Ayutthaya )
Firsts things first, to get to Ayutthaya ( from Bangkok ) one must catch a train at the Hua Lamphong Station.
The fastest train leaves at 830AM, with a travel time of about 1 hour and 20 minutes. But aside from the special express train, other trains ( with a travel time of around 2 hours ) leaves every hour from the same station.
Tickets range from :
1st ~ 2nd Class : 100B - 250B
3rd Class : 15B - 45B
All trains to Ayutthaya will lead you to the Ayutthaya Train Station.
Note : Be aware for when the train conductor will announce your arrival in Ayutthaya.
Getting Around Ayutthaya.
Our mode of transportation in Ayutthaya was via Tuk-Tuk. You can find available Tuk-Tuk drivers waiting outside the Ayutthaya Train Station. We were able to rent a Tuk-Tuk for a day and our driver took us to all the temples we wanted to see in Ayutthaya. We paid 1000B for the service.
วัดไชยวัฒนาราม
Wat Chai Watthanaram.
Wat Chai Watthanaram translates to : Temple of Long Reign and Glorious Era. The temple was built by King Prasat Thong in 1630, and was used for royal and religious ceremonies.
Inspired by Buddhist and Hindu cosmology, the central prang of Wat Chai Watthanaram represents Mount Meru - which is revered as the center of the physical, spiritual and metaphysical universe.
Wat Chai Watthanaram is also known for the rows of Buddha images that grace the corridors of the temple grounds. There was 120 sitting Buddhas along the temple walls - and were once painted in black and gold.
With the destruction of Ayutthaya during the Burmese Invasion in 1767, the temple was destroyed and all of its treasures were either burned or looted. The heads and hands of the Seated Buddha images were among those treasures stolen.
The first stop of this Ayutthaya 'Temple Run' was at the majestic Wat Chai Watthanaram. This was my first ever visit to a temple ruin, so the excitement to even be here was extra hype. It felt like being a kid again, as there was so much to explore and observe at the Wat Chai Watthanaram.
From a distance, you can already spot the towering group of prangs of Wat Chai Watthanaram. It was like seeing stuff you see in the history books come alive. From the rows of ancient Buddha statues, to the details carved into the prangs - I couldn't ask for any better start to a day of 'Temple Running' than this. The perfect place to start for a day of history in Ayutthaya.
Note : Our Tuk-Tuk driver suggested us to start our day here at Wat Chai Watthanaram because it was the most farthest out of the temples we wanted to check out on our itinerary. I highly back this suggestion up.
วัดโลกยสุธ
Wat Lokayasutharam.
Not far from the Wat Chai Watthanaram is a giant Reclining Buddha image that is not one to miss. Built at a gigantic size of 37 meters long and 8 meters high, this majestic Buddha monument was built in the late 16th century. It is the only restored structure left at the Wat Lokayasutham, which was completely destroyed to ruins during the Burmese Invasion.
Although in full ruins - I very much appreciated the vibe and ambience at Wat Lokayasutham. Tucked away in a vast area of green vegetation, I can feel the beauty of what Wat Lokayasuthum once was on this bare stretch of temple ground. And in line with one of my life philosophies that less is more, what is left at Wat Lokayasutham is very much to appreciate.
Fun Fact : The Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutham is the inspiration
behind the Thailand Stage in the Street Fighter series.
วัดพระศรีสรรเพชญ์
Wat Phra Si Sanphet.
Revered as the grandest temple in Ayutthaya, the Wat Phra Si Sanphet was built and completed in 1351. Located within the Royal Palace Grounds, Wat Phra Si Sanphet was exclusively used for royal ceremonies and had no residing monks. In its glory days, the temple housed golden images of Buddha and many other treasures.
What is left of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet after the Burmese Invasion in 1767 are the three main Chedis of the temple proper - which house the remains of three past Kings of Ayutthaya ( King Boromtrailokanat, King Boromracha III and King Ramathibodi II ).
[ Exploring Ayutthaya in my Parkland Westport Backpack. CLICK HERE for more on my travel pack. ]
The first thought that came to mind when Wat Phra Si Sanphet came into sight was : "dude, this is hella epic".
It's that feeling of 'epicness' that define my reason to explore and adventure out to places that captivate the soul. All for that inner Indiana Jones to come alive. In other words, being able to explore Wat Phra Si Sanphet was an amazing experience,
What I really enjoyed and love about Wat Phra Si Sanphet ( and most temples in Ayutthaya ) is that you get to really explore the temple grounds. And as Wat Phra Si Sanphet being a very important temple in Ayutthaya, there was lots of ground to cover and explore. But no matter where you were on temple grounds, every angle of the temple proper was an amazing site. The grandeur of Wat Phra Si Sanphet is what it is built and expected to be - as grand as grand can be.
วัดมหาธาตุ
Wat Ratchaburana.
Wat Ratchaburana is known for its signature central prang, which is built of a Khmer style and composition. The central prang was made to symbolize Mount Meru, and has images of Garuda and Nagas around its tower.
[ Buddha Images at วัดมหาธาตุ in 35mm ]
Wat Ratchaburana has got to be one of the most beautiful temple ruins i've ever seen thus far in my Temple Running career. I was heavily drawn to it's towering prang, and the details that are part of its features. One can only see in the flesh how intricate and brilliantly crafted the prang is.
Aside from its aesthetic features, I also enjoyed the courtyard and just being at the temple itself. There was stairs that led up to different levels of the temple and to its chambers ( which was pretty trippy btw ). But its pretty cool that this is a feature at Wat Ratchaburana, and the views from the upper levels presented beautiful peripherals of Ayutthaya.
อุทยานประวัติศาสตร์พระนครศรีอยุธยา
Wat Phra Ram.
One of the oldest temples in Ayutthaya, records of Wat Phra Ram date back to the year 1369 and was built on the cremation site of the first king of Ayutthaya - King Ramathibodi I. Like many temples in Ayutthaya, the prang of Wat Phra Ram has a Khmer-style ring to it.
Compared to other temples in Ayutthaya, Wat Phra Ram may be one of the least visited. But it may be for this reason why I found Wat Phra Ram the most peaceful place in Ayutthaya than any other.
When we arrived at Wat Phra Ram, it was early afternoon and we had the area to ourselves! And with this temple being one of the last stops in our itinerary, we decided to take it easy and chill for a bit. It was the perfect spot to truly take in the essence of Ayutthaya, for the tranquility of the moment brought bliss to our busy yet fulfilling day. This was one of my favorite moments of our trip.
วัดมหาธาตุ
Wat Mahathat.
Wat Mahathat translates to 'Temple of the Holy Relic' and is home of the famous 'Buddha Head In Tree Roots' phenomenon. The temple was the established Center of Buddhism in Ayutthaya Kingdom and residence to the Supreme Patriarch leader of Buddhist monks.
Built in the early 14th century, Wat Mahathat enshrined many Buddha relics and once had a towering prang that was similar to that of Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Phra Ram. It is also said that the temple was at the center of a group of water systems and was surrounded by canals.
[ วัดมหาธาตุ in 35mm ]
Although Wat Mahathat may be the busiest attraction in Ayutthaya, I found great tranquility amongst the ruins of this sacred temple. As well as being cradled within a grove of trees is what made me feel at bliss here at Wat Mahathat. There is definitely no better mix for the soul than nature, history and spirituality for me. Wat Mahathat is a sacred space you can feel when tuned in to its beauty.
BANGKOK 101
Getting Around.
a. Taxi
A very accessible ( but not so reliable ) way to get around Bangkok is definitely via taxi. And like most taxi experiences anywhere, taking a cab can be a serious challenge ( as well as heavy on the wallet ).
So my advice in taking a cab in Bangkok is :
#1 Try to properly communicate where you are going by showing the driver your exact destination via a map on your phone or a photo of the place pinned on a map. Or have your destination written on paper in Thai.
#2 Learn some Thai!!! Learning to speak the local language and knowing how to pronounce places properly can save you some Baht! And knowing a new language is always a plus in the future.
#3 For the sake of saving some serious cash, try to convince your cab driver to stick to the taxi meter! Cant stress how key this tip can be, especially since spending loads of cash on transportation can be a bummer.
b. Grab
The Grab App ( imo ) is the safest and most convenient way to get around Bangkok. Aka the 'Uber of Asia', since rides from Point A to Point B are at a fixed rate upon booking, getting to where you need to be is a definite assurance. And from my experience, we were saving more using the Grab than cab rides in total.
Book your rides via Grab if you can! The convenience is worth its price.
c. Tuk-Tuk
For the ultimate Bangkok experience, you have to try and ride a Tuk-Tuk! ( pictured above )
Tuk-Tuk is best for short distance trips, and you can get around for a decent rate. Just hold on tight, cuz Tuk-Tuk drivers drive fast and definitely furious.
d. Public Transportation
Taking the train or bus is an easy and efficient way to get around Bangkok. This is the best way to ditch the Bangkok traffic and save some Baht at the same time. Tho I havent tested the public transportation methods myself, I was super impressed with the Bangkok Skytrain ( BTS ). Will definitely have to try it out next time around.
e. Walk Around
For me, the absolute best way of getting around anywhere is via foot. Walk around! And walk til you cant no more. Especially in a place like Bangkok where you can discover something interesting in almost every nook & cranny in the city.
Dress Right At Temples.
Temples in Thailand have a very strict dress policy in respect to their customs and beliefs. At most temples, you may be denied entry if not in proper temple attire. So if 'Temple Running' is on your agenda in Thailand, it's best you come covered up
🚫 Tanktops
🚫 Shorts
🚫 Anything too revealing
To be safe - dress conservative!
Where We Stayed.
Vali Villa.
Booked via booking.com, we were lucky to find a nice and cozy spot in Vali Villa. Located in the Thonglor District of Bangkok, Bali Villa is just a 10-15 minute walk from Khao San Road. We were more than satisfied with our stay in Bali Villa, and it was the perfect place to check back to in our long days out and about in Bangkok. Would definitely stay here again for our next trip.
Key Points - Vali Villa
* A/C * Hot & Cold Shower
* Wi-fi * TV
* Accessible Location
* Aesthetic * Comfortable
* Cool & Friendly Staff
For more on Vali Villa, check out their official website below :
Conclusion.
"Bangkok has him now."
Like Teddy in 'Hangover 3', Bangok got me. Not stuck in a hotel elevator type way tho, but more in a deep appreciative sense. Everyday here my love for Thai Culture became stronger by the second. The soul felt right just here in Thailand.
Fast forward to a month later [ 11.25.2019 ] and i'm still deep into my Thailand feels. I started training in Muay Thai ( still a noob ) and I find myself ordering Pad Thai atleast once a week. I still feel the need to explore more of Thailand and to get deeper into the culture. I cannot wait to come back... soon!
...
Vence G.
Content Creator, Quest x Culture
Instagram : @gurujwip
PS : Video blog of my Thailand trip to also come out soon. Subscribe to my YouTube and stay updated! Link below :
https://www.youtube.com/venceg
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