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

There are two kinds of people in the world: those who love to haggle and those who would rather be ripped off and saved the embarrassment of a little playful banter. For those who would rather not be taken for a ride on their trip to Bangkok, you’ll be pleased to know haggling is expected … read the full post

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

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

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

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

Opened at the tail end of 2012, Baan Dinso at Ratchadamnoen is situated at the heart of Bangkok’s historic district and has spotless, elegant rooms directly overlooking Democracy Monument. The new sister establishment of the original Baan Dinso, a short walk away down Dinso Road, Baan Dinso at Ratchadamnoen occupies a freshly renovated four-storey building … read the full post

Bangkok is vast and bursting with things to do, but it can still be a bit tricky finding something off the tourist radar if you’re not familiar with the city. But Talad Rot Fai (the Train Market) ticks all the boxes when it comes to a hip local hangout for those in the know. If … read the full post

Nuttaporn Ice Cream in Banglamphu is yet more proof that trendy promotion and shiny shopping malls are no match for an extraordinary product served from a weathered old shophouse. We’ve previously covered several spots in Bangkok to sample a more new-age mix of frozen goodies, but when it comes to old-fashioned, Thai-style ice cream, no … read the full post

Generally speaking, Bangkok’s brightly coloured taxis are abundant, cheap and reliable, but we’ve heard one too many stories from travellers who were “taken for a ride” from Suvarnabhumi airport in more way than one. Here’s how a common taxi scam plays out, and how to avoid it. After passing immigration and collecting bags, travellers emerge … read the full post