The idea of creating an art centre began in 1995, but as the governor changed, plans stalled and more retail elements were proposed. It wasn't until 2004 when the original design concept was adopted. It opened in 2009 for the modern and contemporary arts with many exhibitions on its floors all the way up the circular ramp to the top.
Or Tor Kor is an indoor market selling both fresh ingredients and cooked products in a more rustic setting. Operated by the Marketing Organization for Farmers, a state firm, it showcases how a model market should look like with fresh food sold in a hygenic environment, but with an impression that it's high-end and expensive.
I came looking for lunch, and got a very satisfying stir-fried dish and drink at a bargain price. Here is the cooked food selection.
The Temple of Dawn across the river from the Grand Palace gets busy very early in the morning already. This is a favourite spot for tourists to dress up in traditional Thai colours for their next Instagram hit photos. Wat Arun got its name in 1768 when King Taksin reached here at dawn after leaving the sacked former royal capital of Ayutthaya. It was a small shrine at the time, but he thought it was a sign that this place would be his new capital.
Bangkok has no shortage of skyscrapers and rooftop bars, but King Power Mahanakhon is a bit unique. With a pixel-like facade rising 79 stories, this is Thailand's tallest building at 314m.
The previous record was held by Baiyoke Tower II, a hotel rising 304m that was completed in 1997.
After a 50 second elevator ride, you will arrive at the observation deck, which comprises an indoor and outdoor section at the roof. There is a glass floor to test your nerves but if you're not up for it, you can still savour the spectacular views.
The Gold Line is a rubber tyre automated people mover system running on a 2-car set. Opened in 2021, it only has 3 stations and runs a short 1.8km. The only reason I can think of for a tourist to use this line is to reach ICONSIAM, the huge shopping mall on the west side of the river. Ferries also make the crossing to the other side though but it's a less comfortable ride.
For locals, these smaller pick-up trucks and tuk-tuks also ferry commuters around the city. While they seem more commonplace in smaller cities, I didn't encounter them often in Bangkok.
Bangkok's side streets have a lot of interesting surprises. As the tourist crowds thin out and locals take over, the scenes get more and more interesting and authentic. Here are some views from around the Democracy Monument neighbourhood, which is actually not far from the Grand Palace.
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