Series | Enjoying Travel Time: A Journey to Bangkok Vol. 3

Making the journey itself part of the destination

Series | Enjoying Travel Time: A Journey to Bangkok Vol. 3

While it's pleasant to spend time leisurely within the grounds of a resort or hotel, if you want to experience a foreign culture, you'll want to wander the city. Especially in a vibrant Asian metropolis like Bangkok, you'll be drawn to places where locals gather to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the city. When that happens, the first thing that comes to mind is the market. Markets, where locals buy groceries and daily necessities, are places you definitely want to visit.

Series | Enjoying Travel Time: A Journey to Bangkok TOP

Composition & Text by MAKIGUCHI June

VOL.3 TO WALK AROUND: Exploring the City

While floating markets are famous in Thailand, if you want to actually buy, eat, and choose souvenirs, "OR TOR KOR MARKET" is highly recommended. This market, run by the agricultural cooperative, is strictly managed for quality and hygiene under the guidance of the Ministry of Public Health, making it clean and safe. It's not just shops selling everything necessary for daily life, such as vegetables, fruits, fish, meat, fresh and dried goods, and miscellaneous items, but also stalls and shops where you can get takeout meals, all packed closely together. It's a delightful market that satisfies travelers' appetites, offers souvenirs, and allows you to glimpse the daily lives of Bangkok's residents.

Speaking of Thailand, massage comes to mind. While hotel spas are nice, you'll want to experience traditional techniques at local prices at least once. "BODY tune," a chain frequented by Japanese residents in Bangkok, offers a trifecta of benefits: a clean environment, high skill, and affordable prices. Among its branches, the Silom branch is recommended for its proximity to hotels and its location in a bustling area, making it convenient to visit during a day of sightseeing or shopping.

The reception area, filled with the refreshing aroma of lemongrass, is spacious and relaxing. The semi-private spaces, partitioned by curtains, are dimly lit by lamps, creating a tranquil atmosphere. While there are various options like reflexology, oil aroma massage, and treatments using herbal pads for pain relief, the traditional Thai massage is the top recommendation. Starting with a foot bath and including a head massage, a 120-minute session costs 650 baht (approximately ¥1,900, including change of clothes). Sessions are available from 60 minutes. Men are also welcome.

For restaurants, "Baan Khanitha Thai Cuisine," recommended by Bangkok enthusiasts, is a great choice. Considering its luxurious ambiance, high-quality service, and presentation, the prices are surprisingly affordable. The menu offers a satisfying lineup, including the unique appetizer Miang Kham, where you wrap various ingredients like cha-ploo leaves, herbs, nuts, and dried shrimp in a betel leaf with a sweet and savory sauce, along with classics such as green papaya salad, Massaman curry, and Thai fish cakes. The dishes, made with a focus on fresh, preservative-free ingredients, convey authentic flavors.

Bangkok's public transportation system, including the Skytrain (BTS) and subway (MRT), makes getting around smooth. However, taxis are very affordable compared to Japan, so they are also a convenient option.

The initial fare is 35 baht (approx. ¥101), with subsequent charges of 2 baht (approx. ¥5.8) every 400-450 meters after the first 2 km. For unfamiliar areas, taxis are definitely recommended. Other options include tuk-tuks (three-wheeled taxis) and motorcycle taxis, where bargaining over the price is part of the fun, as well as river buses plying the Chao Phraya River. Why not experience Bangkok by utilizing your preferred mode of transportation?
*Calculated at 1 Thai Baht = 2.9 JPY.

■ Markets
OR TOR KOR MARKET
101 Khumphaengphet Rd., Ratyaw, Chatujak Chatujak Bangkok 10900
Immediately to the right after exiting Exit 3 of Kamphaeng Phet Station
Open Daily：6:00am-6:00pm
+662-279-2080

■ Massage
BODY Tune Silom
56 Yada Bldg., 2nd Flr., Silom Rd., Suriyawong, (BTS Saladaeng, Exit 3)
Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Thailand
+662-238-4377
Open Daily：10.00 am – midnight
http://www.bodytune.co.th/

(Reservations recommended due to popularity)

■ Restaurant
Baan Khanitha Thai Cuisine (Sukhumvit 23)
36/1 Soi Sukhumvit 23, Sukhumvit Rd., Bangkok 10110
+662 258 4181, +662 258 4128, +668 9489 2858
info@baan-khanitha.com
Open Hour : 11:00 am. - 11:00 pm
http://www.baan-khanitha.com/

(Reservations available on the website)