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Day 4 - Talat Noi and King Power Mahanakhon Tower!
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Having seen most of the historic sights of Bangkok previously, we have decided to visit the less well known destinations this time around, not usually on the tourist map — as well as some familiar favourites. We are lucky to have been here twice before and have seen The Grand Palace, Wat Arun and other equally amazing temples and monuments. This year was about reliving experiences and recalling memories that have become a part of who we are as a couple. On our 30th anniversary, it is only right we come back to this part of the World at such an important milestone.
Navigating the BTS and MRT public transport systems can be a bit daunting at times, which is why I leave Darrell to do that important job. I am not someone who knows how to read a map and have an appalling sense of direction. Having said that, Darrell also found the whole process of getting to our first destination, Talat Noi, rather arduous.
Both the MRT and BTS Sky train system work extremely well, but the two different modes of transport, Underground and mono rails above the city, do not work well together. They are not integrated, and it can be difficult going from one system to the other. Despite this, they are both relatively cheap and worlds ahead of anything Australia or even London have.
Both the MRT and BTS Sky train system work extremely well, but the two different modes of transport, Underground and mono rails above the city, do not work well together. They are not integrated, and it can be difficult going from one system to the other. Despite this, they are both relatively cheap and worlds ahead of anything Australia or even London have.
Apart from anything else, I absolutely love the brutalist architecture of the Sky Train. There is something quite dystopian in nature about its construction, and that appeals to be sense of adventure. A whole world has built up on the huge, expansive walkways, crisscrossing the city centre, linking stations, shops, and even homes. Sheltered from the intense heat in Bangkok, it is the perfect way to navigate this ginormous city in the sky and is a tourist destination in itself!
From Nana Station, where we are staying, we took the BTS Sky train to Sala Daeng, where we joined the underground, MRT, and took the train to Hua Lampong, near China Town. From here, after a rather confusing search for the right exit, we walked to the now famous Talat Noi Art Street. This is a little known venue for your usual tourist. However, for me, it was a must-see treasure. I had seen it on YouTube before, highlighted by various famous YouTube bloggers, and immediately fell in love with this colourful Street.
If you like urban street art, you will love this location. Graffiti has long been a favourite for me, and Talat Noi doesn't fail to impress. This is a street to walk through, relax and take in the amazing display from local artists. It is an Instagram and vloggers dream, full of photo opportunities, wherever you look.
There are also various boutique style shops hidden down dark alleyways, where art work from famous Thai artists is on display for you to buy. I have to admit, I bought a few cherished items, that certainly had meaning for Darrell and me on our 30th anniversary.
We spent a good hour or so, walking around this rather eclectic area, and it would be a place I would visit again. Graffiti is transient in nature, and this will always ensure there is something new and different to appreciate. The artwork on display is also deeply poignant at times, with personal Thai references, that make Talat Noi the perfect escape on a hot Bangkok morning!
If you like urban street art, you will love this location. Graffiti has long been a favourite for me, and Talat Noi doesn't fail to impress. This is a street to walk through, relax and take in the amazing display from local artists. It is an Instagram and vloggers dream, full of photo opportunities, wherever you look.
There are also various boutique style shops hidden down dark alleyways, where art work from famous Thai artists is on display for you to buy. I have to admit, I bought a few cherished items, that certainly had meaning for Darrell and me on our 30th anniversary.
We spent a good hour or so, walking around this rather eclectic area, and it would be a place I would visit again. Graffiti is transient in nature, and this will always ensure there is something new and different to appreciate. The artwork on display is also deeply poignant at times, with personal Thai references, that make Talat Noi the perfect escape on a hot Bangkok morning!
From Talat Noi, we made our way to King Power Mahanakhon Tower, or The Pixel Tower, as many people affectionately call it. From a distance, it actually looks like the building is collapsing in on itself and is a sight to behold. Today we were going to the very top of this iconic Bangkok landmark, to take in the breathtaking views of the city below.
Now, if you know me well enough, you'll understand just how much I hate heights, so for me, managing to get up to the 74th floor of the tower, was a real feat. The views were indeed breathtaking, despite the fog and mist that was hanging over the city. Bangkok is hot, very hot, but it is also extremely humid and cloudy, making perfect viewing days rare.
From the 74th floor, I made my way up to the 78th floor, via an open glass staircase. I was well aware that at the top, were panoramic views to die for, but this viewing deck was open to the elements and not for the faint-hearted. I suppose I lasted about fifteen minutes, standing well away from the edge, before cautiously making my way down to the bottom.
This must do experience cost Darrell and me, TBHT1000, each, about A$45 per person, which isn't cheap. Disappointingly, there is very little to do, when you are at the top, and it is a rather inferior experience over all. Having said that, it is something you have to see when you come to Bangkok. The architecture of this building is an extremely breathtaking and awe-inspiring sight — this is not a building you will forget in a hurry.
Now, if you know me well enough, you'll understand just how much I hate heights, so for me, managing to get up to the 74th floor of the tower, was a real feat. The views were indeed breathtaking, despite the fog and mist that was hanging over the city. Bangkok is hot, very hot, but it is also extremely humid and cloudy, making perfect viewing days rare.
From the 74th floor, I made my way up to the 78th floor, via an open glass staircase. I was well aware that at the top, were panoramic views to die for, but this viewing deck was open to the elements and not for the faint-hearted. I suppose I lasted about fifteen minutes, standing well away from the edge, before cautiously making my way down to the bottom.
This must do experience cost Darrell and me, TBHT1000, each, about A$45 per person, which isn't cheap. Disappointingly, there is very little to do, when you are at the top, and it is a rather inferior experience over all. Having said that, it is something you have to see when you come to Bangkok. The architecture of this building is an extremely breathtaking and awe-inspiring sight — this is not a building you will forget in a hurry.
In the evening, we popped over the road from our hotel to the German bar, for some good old-fashioned German food and a few pints of beer. This was welcome after the rather packed day we had just had and was the perfect end to the day.
Soi 11 is one of the liveliest parts of Bangkok and can make your eyes pop at times. We are here for its central location and positive vibe; it is absolutely packed every night, and it is perfect for me, just being able to sit there, taking in the atmosphere of the strip. Soi 11 isn't for the faint-hearted, so if you are considering staying in this area of Bangkok, make sure it is all that you expect — don't be shocked by the seedier side of life.
I was approached by whom I can only describe as the oldest hooker in town, while Darrell was photographing another street cat (It's his thing to do on holiday). She was polite, lovely, and adorable, despite having to explain I was gay. There was no malice, just a kindly squeeze of the hand and a wave goodbye. This is a perfectly normal side of life in Bangkok, and you shouldn't be shocked if you come across it. Soi 11 is an eye-opener, so enjoy everything it has to offer!
Soi 11 is one of the liveliest parts of Bangkok and can make your eyes pop at times. We are here for its central location and positive vibe; it is absolutely packed every night, and it is perfect for me, just being able to sit there, taking in the atmosphere of the strip. Soi 11 isn't for the faint-hearted, so if you are considering staying in this area of Bangkok, make sure it is all that you expect — don't be shocked by the seedier side of life.
I was approached by whom I can only describe as the oldest hooker in town, while Darrell was photographing another street cat (It's his thing to do on holiday). She was polite, lovely, and adorable, despite having to explain I was gay. There was no malice, just a kindly squeeze of the hand and a wave goodbye. This is a perfectly normal side of life in Bangkok, and you shouldn't be shocked if you come across it. Soi 11 is an eye-opener, so enjoy everything it has to offer!
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