Trip to Bangkok in 2009
Back in 2009, as the world was on the brink of a new decade, I embarked on a whirlwind weekend adventure in the heart of Southeast Asia: Bangkok, Thailand. Even over a decade ago, this city effortlessly combined age-old traditions with a burgeoning modern flair, creating a captivating symphony of experiences for the curious traveler.
DAY 1: Down Historical Lanes
The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew - My Bangkok journey began with a visit to this architectural marvel. The shimmering golden stupas and intricately detailed murals, not to mention the revered Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew, provided a deeply spiritual start to the trip.
Floating Market - A short trip to the outskirts and I found myself amidst the hustle and bustle of one of Bangkok’s iconic floating markets. Vendors in traditional boats offered everything from colorful fruits to spicy pad thai. It was an authentic Thai experience, enhanced by the tantalizing aroma of street food in the air.
Khao San Road - As night approached, I made my way to this backpacker haven. In 2009, Khao San was a mix of lively bars, roadside vendors, and international travelers, all looking for a slice of Bangkok's vibrant nightlife.
DAY 2: Modern Charms & Elevated Views
Shopping at MBK - Bangkok in 2009 was already a shopper's paradise, and the MBK Center stood as a testament to that. This massive mall, with its myriad of shops, stalls, and food courts, offered a modern shopping experience in the heart of the city.
Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower - As evening dawned, I decided to view Bangkok from a different perspective: 820 feet in the sky. The Sky Bar, later made even more famous by The Hangover Part II, offered panoramic views of the city skyline. With a cocktail in hand and the city lights stretching out as far as the eye could see, it was a surreal experience.
Local Delicacies - Throughout the weekend, Bangkok tantalized my taste buds. From street stalls serving spicy som tam (green papaya salad) to upscale restaurants offering a modern twist on traditional Thai cuisine, every meal was a delightful journey of flavors.
Tuk-Tuk Rides - No 2009 Bangkok visit was complete without hopping onto one of these three-wheeled vehicles. Zipping through traffic, with the wind in my hair and the city sights flashing by, it was both an exhilarating and quintessentially Thai experience.
Though it’s been years since that trip, the memories of that 2009 weekend in Bangkok remain vivid. The city, with its blend of the old and the new, left an indelible mark on my heart. Whether you were in Bangkok back then or plan to visit now, its allure is timeless.
DAY 1: Down Historical Lanes
The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew - My Bangkok journey began with a visit to this architectural marvel. The shimmering golden stupas and intricately detailed murals, not to mention the revered Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew, provided a deeply spiritual start to the trip.
Floating Market - A short trip to the outskirts and I found myself amidst the hustle and bustle of one of Bangkok’s iconic floating markets. Vendors in traditional boats offered everything from colorful fruits to spicy pad thai. It was an authentic Thai experience, enhanced by the tantalizing aroma of street food in the air.
Khao San Road - As night approached, I made my way to this backpacker haven. In 2009, Khao San was a mix of lively bars, roadside vendors, and international travelers, all looking for a slice of Bangkok's vibrant nightlife.
DAY 2: Modern Charms & Elevated Views
Shopping at MBK - Bangkok in 2009 was already a shopper's paradise, and the MBK Center stood as a testament to that. This massive mall, with its myriad of shops, stalls, and food courts, offered a modern shopping experience in the heart of the city.
Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower - As evening dawned, I decided to view Bangkok from a different perspective: 820 feet in the sky. The Sky Bar, later made even more famous by The Hangover Part II, offered panoramic views of the city skyline. With a cocktail in hand and the city lights stretching out as far as the eye could see, it was a surreal experience.
Local Delicacies - Throughout the weekend, Bangkok tantalized my taste buds. From street stalls serving spicy som tam (green papaya salad) to upscale restaurants offering a modern twist on traditional Thai cuisine, every meal was a delightful journey of flavors.
Tuk-Tuk Rides - No 2009 Bangkok visit was complete without hopping onto one of these three-wheeled vehicles. Zipping through traffic, with the wind in my hair and the city sights flashing by, it was both an exhilarating and quintessentially Thai experience.
Though it’s been years since that trip, the memories of that 2009 weekend in Bangkok remain vivid. The city, with its blend of the old and the new, left an indelible mark on my heart. Whether you were in Bangkok back then or plan to visit now, its allure is timeless.
www.JosephHickman.com
|