Bangkok, Old and New
The Thai capital is a city of contrasts, where ancient crafts and cutting-edge art are both celebrated. The five highlights that writer Sanjay Surana describes here cover the city’s varied aspects, from sprawling markets and traditional cuisine, to an award-winning contemporary restaurant and aeries atop the city’s tallest skyscrapers. Whichever Bangkok appeals to you, Korean Air makes visiting easier than ever with service from more than a dozen gateways in the Americas to 73 cities in Asia.
27 โรงแรม เมโทรโพลิแทน Sathon Tai Rd, Khwaeng Thung Maha Mek, Khet Sathon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10210, Thailand
Though he is originally from Australia and then studied French cuisine, chef David Thompson’s passion for Thai cuisine has helped make Nahm one of the world’s most critically acclaimed restaurants. Top dishes include fragrant coconut-and-turmeric curry with blue swimmer crab and banana blossoms; a refreshing kingfish salad with pomelo, lemongrass and lime; and crab wafers with coconut, coriander and galangal (similar to ginger).
Kamphaeng Phet 3 Rd, Khwaeng Lat Yao, Khet Chatuchak, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10900, Thailand
The mother of unique Bangkok retail experiences is undoubtedly Chatuchak Weekend Market, Thailand’s largest outdoor bazaar. Known as Jatujak or simply JJ, it has 15,000 stalls spread over 35 acres and sells almost everything under the sun. This is the place to buy a Beatles cushion or shop for a new pet cobra or a hand-carved Buddha icon. With 200,000 people descending on the market every weekend, it’s best to come early, and perseverance can uncover a veritable treasure trove of collectibles ranging from beautiful ceramics and handicrafts to exquisite jewelry.
