Travelfish correspondent David Luekens

Usually found exploring Bangkok's side streets or south Thailand's islands, David Luekens is an American freelance writer & photographer who finds everyday life in Asia to be extraordinary.
Website: http://bodhidharmaseyes.com

Posts by David Luekens:

• Ayutthaya’s eclectic food scene

  First published: 14 Feb 2013
  

  As Thai cities go, Ayutthaya is an eclectic one. During its glory days as the capital of the Siamese Empire from the mid 14th to late 18th centuries, the city was home to a diverse range of people from throughout Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Although the royal palaces, and all that goes with … read the full post

• Bangkok’s Benjakiti Park

  First published: 11 Feb 2013
  

  With a small lake rimmed by abundant flowers and some of the most attractive fountains in Southeast Asia, Benjakiti Park is arguably Bangkok’s prettiest green space. Though Lumpini Park is far more popular, Benjakiti also offers a range of activities and, in particular, has become a cycling haven in the often gridlocked city. Above all, … read the full post

• Review: Mile Map Hostel, Bangkok

  First published: 05 Feb 2013
  

  Part of a recent surge of hostels to emerge in Bangkok, Mile Map opened at the tail end of 2012 and offers simple, spacious dorms and privates in one of Bangkok’s most sought-after areas. With lower rates than most nearby hostels, Mile Map also represents some of the best value in the city. Situated a … read the full post

• Khlong Thom and Baan Mo electronics markets, Bangkok

  First published: 03 Feb 2013
  

  Are you in the market for a state-of-the-art karaoke machine, a clock that looks like the fancy rim on a Ferrari, a fan that emits a black light glow as it spins or DVDs of movies that just started showing in theaters? If so, you need to check out the electronics vendors at Khlong Thom … read the full post

• Wat Kampaeng: An ancient, intimate temple in Thonburi

  First published: 01 Feb 2013
  

  Bangkok is home to hundreds of temples. Some, like Wat Pho, are major tourist attractions while others, such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Pak Nam, are huge monasteries that double as Buddhist universities or meditation centres. Most are small and don’t draw many tourists, but that doesn’t always mean they’re unexceptional. Located along a canal … read the full post

• Review: The Chilli Hostel, Bangkok

  First published: 29 Jan 2013
  

  One of many fresh and funky new hostels to hit the Bangkok scene over the last few years, Chilli Hostel is anything but ordinary. Tucked down a narrow alley away from the tourists but close to the Chao Phraya River off Charoen Krung Road, the Chilli boasts a stylish atmosphere, a smart set-up, a staff … read the full post

• Neilson Hays Library, Cafe & Gallery, Bangkok

  First published: 22 Jan 2013
  

  For 90 years, the Neilson Hays Library has encouraged English-language readers to expand their minds while enjoying a slice of peace and quiet in hectic Bangkok. A library may not sound like the city’s most exciting attraction, but those seeking culture and sophistication won’t be disappointed by the soothing atmosphere, elegant architecture and formidable collections … read the full post

• Thailand State Railway ends e-ticket sales

  First published: 18 Jan 2013
  

  No one has ever accused the Thailand State Railway of pushing the technological limits of train travel, and it has just taken a big step backwards by axing its online booking service. A message popped up a few days ago on the official website’s e-ticket (E-SRT) page that “The State Railway of Thailand has decided … read the full post

• Pla tuu (mackerel fish) in Thailand

  First published: 16 Jan 2013
  

  The only mackerel I had ever tried before coming to Thailand was an oily, chewy hunk of raw fish at an inland Japanese restaurant some 5,000 miles from Japan. There’s nothing like a questionable piece of sashimi to turn one off to a particular type of seafood, but this salty fish known as pla tuu … read the full post

• Bangkok’s Ancient Siam

  First published: 10 Jan 2013
  

  Known as Muang Boran in Thai, Ancient Siam is an open-air museum south of Bangkok that features replicas of Thailand’s most important historical sites along with sculpture gardens and mini-museums. Though the replicas are a far cry from originals both in scope and craftsmanship, Ancient Siam earns points for its relaxing atmosphere, impressive scale, creative … read the full post