This simple time-lapse showing the transition from night into day in a city that never sleeps was taken from my luxury room on the 25th floor of the 137 Pillars Hotel.
This compelling skyline, as beautiful as it is, hides the depth and richness found on the ground in the streets, waterways, temples, and homes of Bangkok.
This city is industrious and busy, yet somehow gentle and gracious at the same time.
A predominantly Buddhist country, spiritual pursuits infiltrate every community, and their religious beliefs translate beautifully into their psyche and their lifestyle.
Opulent palaces, exotic temples, and mouthwatering restaurants beckon to all, and in the same city block, down a narrow alley, the curious explorer will find a humble community project, a street food vendor, a small shop with no window display, yet bursting with interesting things.
On the streets of Bangkok you will be charmed by the ordinary people of the Land of Smiles.
Some of my most memorable experiences are from unexpected delights found between tourist attractions. A detour after dinner to Thailand’s largest Flower Market, Pak Khlong Talad , was a people watching, sensory extravaganza. This market is open 24 hours a day, and when we were there after 10pm it was a hive of activity. Young boys pushed trolleys with blocks of ice as big as a fully grown man, women chattered in the big hall as they cut, sorted and tied colourful blooms, cats prowled for scraps dodging the spray as the floors were hosed down, and the vendors of fruit and veg patiently answered our questions about the exotic fare.
The famous Chao Phraya River cuts through the city and is regarded as the lifeblood of Bangkok. It is also referred to as The River of Kings, named by the original King Rama I. A walk along the banks of this busy river revealed a tiny Catholic church filled with exquisite art and intriguing stories of a Thai Portuguese community.
Sky trains, Tuk Tuks, motor bikes, bicycles and cars criss cross the city night and day, but walking really puts you into the very heart of it.
I was amazed at how safe it was to walk the streets, day or night, and feel completely comfortable doing it – a rare experience for a South African woman.
I could have walked for days and only scratched the surface of this lively, fascinating city.
But wherever you go in Bangkok, it is the people who truly make this city one you will never forget.
