Landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport around 8 a.m., we were greeted by a stark contrast: trading single-digit winter temperatures for Bangkok’s humid 30-degree heat. It was the perfect moment to dust off our Grab app for the first time in months.
Driving to The Athenee Hotel, the scenery felt like a gentle transition back toward Japan. The towering office buildings lining the streets were a striking departure from Pakistan, where we’d recently been traveling. Pakistan had its own charm, but the faintly blue Bangkok sky brought a surprising sense of relief. However, even with its clearer skies, Bangkok’s air quality was still in the “unhealthy” range, making me appreciate Tokyo’s fresh air all the more.
The Athenee welcomed us with its signature blend of sophistication and comfort. After a quick lounge break, we set off for Bangkok’s iconic Grand Palace.
The Grand Palace Scam: A Lesson in Travel Caution
The moment we arrived at the Grand Palace, a man lounging in a chair by the gate stopped us. With a friendly smile, he informed us that the palace wouldn’t open until 12:30 p.m. due to New Year’s prayers. Instead, he suggested a Chao Phraya River cruise to see floating markets and riverside temples. A tuk-tuk could take us to the pier for just 20 baht, he assured us.
It sounded reasonable enough, so we took his advice, only to later discover the pier was just a 15-minute walk away. At the dock, the tour operator offered us a one-hour boat ride for a steep 2,000 baht, slashing it to 1,500 baht if we booked immediately. Suspicious of the ever-dropping price, we hesitated, and a quick online search revealed the truth: the Grand Palace wasn’t closed at all.
We had fallen for a classic Bangkok scam, well-documented by other travelers. After spending time in Pakistan, where strangers had offered us genuinely kind and helpful advice, we had let our guard down in Bangkok. Fortunately, we avoided the overpriced cruise and decided to enjoy a calm breakfast instead.
A Feast of Culture at the Grand Palace
Later that morning, we arrived at the Grand Palace to find it teeming with tourists, especially Chinese tour groups. The palace itself, however, was an absolute masterpiece—a stunning blend of traditional Thai architecture and European influences, built in 1782.
At its heart is Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald Buddha. The intricate mosaics, towering spires, and gold-adorned structures left us awestruck. Despite the crowds, the serene and sacred atmosphere made it a place we’ll never forget. We even snapped a picture with one of the palace guards, whose solemn demeanor reminded us of the dedication of Pakistan’s border guards, albeit in a different context.
A Relaxing Afternoon Back at the Hotel
While we had planned to visit Wat Arun after the Grand Palace, the heat and the sheer number of tourists took their toll. Instead, we headed back to The Athenee Hotel. On the way, we stopped by 7-Eleven for some nostalgic snacks—instant ramen chips, anyone? Back in our beautifully fragrant and tranquil hotel room, we napped until 9 p.m.
Bangkok by Night: A Taste of Street Life
Eager for dinner, we ventured out to Sukhumvit Road. The vibrant nightlife was unmistakable—bars, massage parlors, and energetic partygoers filled the streets. Despite searching for authentic street food, we ended up at Bus Stop Beer Garden & Restaurant, where we ordered green curry, rice noodles, and beer.
The beer was especially satisfying in the tropical heat, and the lively atmosphere around us added to the charm. Groups of elegantly dressed women occupied nearby tables, chatting with passersby. Bangkok’s nightlife, with its blend of cultures and energy, offered a fascinating contrast to our quieter days in Pakistan.
Looking Ahead
Tomorrow, we plan to embrace a slower pace with a day of hotel relaxation and a much-anticipated Thai massage. For now, though, Bangkok’s unique blend of modernity, tradition, and vibrant energy has left us intrigued and eager to explore further. Goodnight from the city that never seems to sleep.
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