Historic sites are often the main draw for travellers, but exploring ancient neighbourhoods built around important historic landmarks can sometimes be even more fascinating than the sites themselves. While recently wandering the narrow side streets around Bangkok‘s Wat Saket, I stumbled on the gritty but intriguing temple supply neighbourhood of Baan Bat, which has been … read the full post

Missing one of the holy trinity of Bangkok sites would be like missing the Statue of Liberty in New York or the Eiffel Tower in Paris or… well you understand where I’m going. So if you have only 24 hours in Bangkok, it will be a whirlwind of a day, but here are the three … read the full post

As a traveller I find myself on a neverending quest for something “real”, something that doesn’t involve being hoarded around by a leader holding an umbrella or scrambled in a sea of other lost tourists.  If that seems to be your M.O. as well, then a visit to Baan Bat will surely not disappoint. Tucked … read the full post

After pretty much just a few hours in Thailand, you will notice that Buddhist amulets are everywhere. People wear them around their necks, hang them from their rearview mirrors, keep them on desks, on tables, at home, at work, and everywhere in between. Carrying an amulet on you is meant to invite good fortune, protect … read the full post