How to Explore the Diverse 5 Neighborhoods of Thailand

Although Bangkok is a vacation hub that's on everyone's bucket list, few tourists are aware of what the city has to offer apart from iconic temples and shopping malls. While it may be one of the less explored aspects of the city, the Thai capital's key neighborhoods are fascinating attractions in their own right due to their diversity and the engaging distractions on offer. Here's how to explore some of Bangkok's most dynamic districts during a stay in Thailand.

Stay in a Strategic Base

Tourists who wish to explore Bangkok's top neighbourhoods should ideally stay in a convenient location. This is due to the fact that every area of the Thai capital does not offer the ease of access that some do. So whether you choose the lyf Sukhumvit 8 Bangkok or any other hotspot for co living in Bangkok, make sure your base location is not far from the following neighbourhoods. If you are unable to find a hotel or apartment in a strategic locale, the next best option is to find a venue close to an MRT station or a BTS SkyTrain station.

Silom

As the official financial district of Bangkok, Silom is a neighbourhood synonymous with shopping malls and nightlife options. Located within a stone's throw of the high-end department stores of Siam Square, Silom is also where the bustling Patpong Night Market is situated. When it comes to cultural attractions in the area, we cannot forget the Sri MahaMariamman Temple. Those who are heading to Silom can also explore Bangkok's own Central Park in the form of Lumphini Park where boating activities and other recreational pursuits are available.

Sukhumvit

Considered Bangkok's headquarters for expats, Sukhumvit is another touristy area lined with trendy cafes, international restaurants and plush malls. The highly cosmopolitan surroundings of Sukhumvit are what endear it to those who have moved to Bangkok from other parts of the world. Some of the best shopping venues in the area include Emporium and Terminal 21 as both malls specialise in luxury brands and designer products. Culture buffs, on the other hand, should venture over to Bangkok Art & Culture Centre and Erawan Shrine, which is one of Bangkok's oldest temples. There are also plenty of bars and nightclubs to discover in Sukhumvit once the sun goes down.

Chinatown

Foodies bound for Bangkok will find that a tour of Chinatown is perhaps the best thing to do during a visit to the Thai capital. With so many street food hotspots and restaurants occupying the area, it is by far the most irresistible neighbourhood in the city. Countless Chinese temples and gold stores also occupy the area where one can find plenty of households and business places showcasing traditional Chinese architectural leanings. Budget shoppers will also find the deals and bargains available down Yaowarat Road hard to resist while the neighbourhood really comes alive during the Chinese New Year festivities each year.

Khao San Road

Dubbed a backpacker's paradise, Khao San Road is a legendary area of Bangkok that attracts travellers on a budget. Home to some of Bangkok's most affordable hostels, street food joints and cosy bars, Khao San Road allows those with financial restraints a slice of Bangkok they cannot afford in other parts of the city. The area is youthful in both appearance and attitude as a vast majority of the visitors are young college students who are visiting Thailand on their gap year. Khao San Road is also a hop and a skip away from the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew or Temple of the Emerald Buddha while popular shopping venues in the area include Soi Rambuttri and the Khao San Art Market. The bustling and vibrant atmosphere of Khao San Road makes it a perfect spot for immersing oneself in the diverse culture of Thailand and meeting fellow travelers from all over the world.