A Visitor’s Guide To SEA LIFE Ocean World – Bangkok’s Favourite Aquarium 

Despite its landlocked location within a mall, SEA LIFE Ocean World Bangkok is nothing short of impressive. Plan your visit with a brief guide to Thailand’s beloved aquarium, from ticket prices to unique attractions.

Getting To The Aquarium 

Located in the Siam Paragon Shopping Centre, the aquarium is easily accessible by BTS Skytrain and MRT, via the Siam station. Otherwise, for those staying at a hotel in Pathumwan, it is only a 10-15 minute walk away.

Tickets 

SEA LIFE conveniently offers several packages and ticket pricing tiers for a range of visitors, with single children’s tickets starting at 801 Bhat. The aquarium also offers discounts for school trips, online bookings and more; convenient for families looking for things to do in Bangkok.

Feeding Shows 

Beyond the classic underwater aquarium tunnel and interactive touch tank, one of the aquarium’s biggest draws is its educational feeding shows. Free with admission, learn about the lives of sharks, seahorses, rays, penguins and more, as expert handlers offer insights into the marine inhabitants.

Diving With Sharks

Suspend your imagination, and experience the thrill of swimming with sharks, just down the road from city hotels like Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel. For an additional fee, guests can plunge into the aquarium waters and witness these majestic creatures up close, right in the heart of Bangkok.

Image via pexels

Glass Bottomed Boat Ride

For those who would like an interactive experience without getting wet, the aquarium also offers unique glass-bottomed boat rides.

Appreciating the Beauty of Thailand’s Snakes: A Visit to the Snake Farm in Bangkok

If you’re in Bangkok and are looking to unearth the most unusual experiences in the city, the Snake Farm is one place to visit. It is run by trained caretakers who deal with various snake species including rainbow snakes, green tree snakes, cobras and more. Here is all you need to know about this intriguing initiative before your visit.

Image via needpix

About the Farm

The farm was first opened for public viewing in 1932 and is currently part of the Thai Red Cross Institute in Bangkok. The farm is involved in extracting venom from snakes which is then used for medicinal research and purposes. Additionally, they are committed to creating a more positive attitude towards these creatures through public displays and interactions. Many tourists visit the farm to witness these fascinating creatures, as it is located a short drive away from the city’s hotels like Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort.

Royal Funding

Since its inception, the snake farm has received patronage from the Thai royal family. His Royal Highness Prince Paribatra Sukhumhand was the vice president of the country’s Red Cross Society in the 1920s, and thus created the Simaseng Fund or the ‘Four Snake Fund’. The funding was used to construct the first building in which the farm was held.

Enclosures and Exhibits

The building contains five floors but only the first two are open for public visits. These floors serve as exhibition areas where the 30+ species of snakes are displayed. They also feature large exhibition areas where the process of venom extraction is performed. The second floor contains an interactive museum that provides information on the life cycle of snakes.

The Visitor Experience

Visitors can touch and interact with the snakes under the supervision of the caretakers. They can also witness the process of venom extraction and learn about its importance. Those staying at a nearby Bangkok resort can use the opportunity to visit the farm earlier in the day, before 11 am, when the snakes are most active.

Unveiling Bangkok’s Past: A Journey Through Historical Gems

Beyond the neon lights and bustling crowds lie whispers of ancient kingdoms, powerful monarchs, and fascinating traditions. Take a journey through time and explore some of Bangkok’s most remarkable heritage sites and historical monuments.

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

No historical exploration of Bangkok is complete without visiting the Grand Palace, the former royal residence and a symbol of Thailand’s cultural heritage. Within its golden walls lies Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha, a revered jade statue representing the Buddha.

Wolfgang Holzem / https://ehalal.io/, Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok31, CC BY-SA 4.0

Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha

Step into Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest temples, and prepare to be awestruck by the majestic Reclining Buddha. Stretching an impressive 46 meters, this gold-plated statue depicts the Buddha entering Nirvana. The surrounding complex houses traditional medicine schools and massage treatments, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s unique healing practices.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Take a day trip from Gardina Asoke to Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Siamese Kingdom. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an open-air museum showcasing the ruins of temples, palaces, and monasteries, whispering tales of past grandeur and fierce battles.

The National Museum

Delve deeper into Thailand’s historic achievements at the National Museum, one of the biggest attractions in Bangkok. Its vast collection spans centuries, showcasing archaeological artefacts, royal treasures, and intricate artworks that shed light on the nation’s diverse history and artistic expressions.

Wondrous Sights By Bangkok Boat Tours – The Mysteries of the Canals

Your trip to Bangkok is not complete without embarking on their famed boat tours along their canals (also called Khlongs). Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting excursion.

History Behind the Canals

The origins of the canal can be traced back to when Bangkok initially became the capital of Thailand, and King Rama I decided he wanted to reside on an island. Eventually, more canals followed, and an entire network was built by the 19th century, stretching for hundreds of kilometres. Although the introduction of cars meant that some canals were covered up and converted to cars, canals remain a core part of Bangkok’s identity.

Best Places to Visit

Khlong Saen Saeb

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Bangkok’s urban landscape, the Khlong Saen Saeb Canal weaves a dynamic thread, connecting the city’s neighbourhoods, history, and commerce in a way that is uniquely its own. As you step onto the bustling shores of this waterway, you are transported into a realm where tradition and modernity coalesce, offering an intriguing glimpse into the daily life and pulse of the city.

David McKelvey, Khlong Saen Saep Express Boats, Pratu Nam Pier, Bangkok, Thailand, CC BY 2.0

Thonburi 

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Chao Phraya River, Thonburi stands as a testament to Bangkok’s rich historical tapestry. This charming district, often overshadowed by its bustling counterpart across the river, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, captivating temples, and a glimpse into the city’s past that whispers tales of grandeur and resilience.

At the heart of Thonburi’s allure lies the resplendent Temple of Dawn, known locally as Wat Arun. This iconic monument, with its towering spires and intricate porcelain adornments, rises majestically against the sky, casting a spellbinding reflection on the gentle ripples of the river below.

What To Look For On Your Tour

Travelling along the Thonburi area is a steep contrast to the bustle and modernity of the city. The Chao Phraya River cruise turns into the canals that are connected to the river and is a short walk from properties such as Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. You can also get a look into the lives of the locals and how they navigate their daily lives in the city.

Your complete guide to Bangkok – Navigating the Chao Phraya

The Chao Phraya area in Bangkok is one of those places where you can commute through the entire city through the river. These canals that run through the city of Bangkok are like the lifeline of the city, with long and interesting histories. Here are some user-friendly tips when you’re here for your holiday.

History

Also known as the River of Kings, it is formed by four major rivers combined. This is the main waterway for central Thailand. Many people live on the spacious and luscious banks of the Chao Phraya and for some this has been the main source of living for centuries. The hotels in riverside Bangkok too flaunt precious views of this graceful flow of water.

Sightseeing

Some of Bangkok’s most famous attractions are on the banks of the Chao Phraya. You can access the Wat Pho, Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun quite easily through the river. These are the hottest tourist hubs in all of Thailand so be warned; they’re extremely crowded and packed with all sorts of vendors, and scammers alike.

Chao Phraya Express Boat

These boats are the cheapest way to get around the city. You can easily get your tickets either from the pier or once you board the boat. The boats are easily reached from your hotels such as Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel. There are three types of boats, demarcated by the flags they carry.

User: (WT-shared) Flip666 at wts wikivoyage, Bangkok RiverExpressBoat Flip666, CC BY-SA 1.0

Dinner Cruises

These are another way to see the canals but they’re on the pricier side. However, you can enjoy a nice dinner and the view while you flow calmly along the scenic Chao Phraya. If you’re willing to spend around $40 per person for a dinner on the cruise, you can have a splendid evening with your loved ones with good food!

Luxury Travel Guide to Bangkok – For an Unforgettable Holiday

Bangkok is an incredible luxury destination for locals and tourists alike! Whether you’ve been here before or you’re visiting it again, peruse this travel guide to make the most of your holiday!

When to Visit?

While it is a wonderful city to visit at any time of the year, the months of September and October are known to be wetter on account of the monsoon rains. Due to the spells of sunshine and dry weather, the months from December to March are the best time to visit.

Where to Stay?

Whether you’re travelling on a budget or have more discerning taste, there’s a perfect Siam hotel in Bangkok for you! From hostels to more luxurious escapes such as Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel Bangkok has an excellent choice of accommodation.

Image via Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel

What to Expect?

In a nutshell, a flurry of activity! Bangkok is a busy exciting city that is filled to the brim with so much life. While the locals are friendly make a note to be mindful of their religious beliefs and dress conservatively if you are exploring any temples.

Luxurious Activities

If you wish, you can charter a helicopter to see Bangkok from the skies or else take a cruise on the river running through the city. You can also stay in the most incredible suites and treat yourself to a cookery class by a master chef!

Navigating the Chao Phraya River

Known all over the world as the Venice of the East, Bangkok’s stunning waterways disperse like capillaries into the city. When in Bangkok, one shouldn’t miss a breezy tour along the Chao Phraya River.

History

The Chao Phraya River is amongst the most iconic attractions in Bangkok. It has provided all that is required to drive away its original settlement to prosper into the Bangkok that we see today. From time immemorial, locals used to reside in the banks of the river and created livelihoods from its environment. There’s no surprise that this river is called the ‘bloodline of Thai people’.

File:Chao Phraya River1 Photo D Ramey Logan.jpg
Photograph by D Ramey Logan, Chao Phraya River1 Photo D Ramey LoganCC BY-SA 3.0

What to see

A sightseeing river cruise will take you along the Chao Phraya’s breathtaking scenery! You’ll be able to catch a glimpse of religious monasteries such as the glorious Wat Arun, historical structures, the Grand Palace and many other eye-catching attractions. Cruising along the countryside will enable you to observe the lifestyles of the rural people dwelling on either side of the river.

File:Wat Arun from Chao Phraya River.jpg
DiliffWat Arun from Chao Phraya RiverCC BY-SA 3.0

Dinner cruises

Sounds interesting? Yes, it is. Do not miss the chance to experience a wonderful intimate dining experience in a luxurious dinner boat. Entice your taste buds with a range of famous Thai dishes while enjoying the breathtaking scenery on either side of the river. If you want to experience the best river cruise in Bangkok, book one of the Bangkok cruises offered by cruise providers such as Manohra Cruises for an enthralling sightseeing experience.

Image result for Manohra Cruises
Image Credit: Manohra Cruises

The best time

The best time to embark on a river cruise in Bangkok is during the dry season from November to May. Try to avoid taking a boat cruise during the rainy season since adverse weather conditions can ruin your pleasure of sightseeing!

Image result for Manohra Cruises
Image Credit: Manohra Cruises

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Chao Phraya River in Bangkok

Almost every city in the world has a river flowing through it and the history of the city and the river are often intertwined. So does one of South East Asia’s favourite cities, Bangkok. The Chao Phraya river is considered to be the lifeblood of the city. It has been a busy river even in the early years and it still continues to be one. The scenes around the river have been changing over the year with the condos, the sky scrapers, the hotels and the hotel apartments in Bangkok all lining up the banks. With hotel-style apartments being the latest addition to the Bangkok accommodation options, properties such as Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok is located a stone’s throw away from Chao Phraya.

The river was chosen by early settlers due to the fertility soil as well as the abundance of fish. Today the river has evolved into a tourist central with activities. There are countless river cruises with dining options and there is entertainment on the river as well as on the banks of the river. The river is still used for transportation, with locals using it for their daily commute and for commodities to be transported. Some of the tours not only allow you to explore the river and it’s banks but also let you to explore some of the iconic monuments and landmarks of Bangkok such as the reclining Buddha and the Grand Palace.

The river is known as the river of the kings as after the fall of Ayutthaya, King Taskin made this his new capital and later king Rama I followed through finding the Eastern banks of Chao Phraya more favourable. Today it still is the lifeblood of Bangkok with around 50 000 people’s daily commute depending on it. The river and its canals have earned the city the name “The Venice of the East”.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Shazzana Hamid is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary. Disguised as Lavinia Woolf she writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.Google+

See a different side of Bangkok city by biking

Bangkok is a place that has made its mark in the hearts of many travel enthusiasts as a busy and well-commercialized city. However, the city actually holds a lot more than just the skyscrapers and the flourishing businesses. The greenery of this versatile place is just there, a reach away, if only you knew how to access it. For this purpose, a bike ride across the quaint roads of Bangkok that lead into greenery bordered lanes would be ideal. For those who wish to take up a bike rental during their holiday, many Bangkok resorts such as the Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort to name one, are likely to provide bicycle rental services.

Riding through the unseen side of Bangkok will take you through to the lush foliage filled rural areas that resemble ‘hutongs’, a type of narrow street or alley. Tiny roads with hairpin bends will keep you guessing what beautiful scenery awaits you around the next corner. You could either do the exploration of the countryside by yourself, or you could also employ the assistance of a guide who will be able to take you along some of the most hidden parts of Bangkok.

Santi Chai Prakan Park is home to one of the most peaceful and breathtaking riversides of the city. In order to get through to the park, you could cycle through Ratchadamneon Klang road and Khao San road. Once you reach the park you will get the distinctive feeling of having left the bustle of the city behind. When you exit the park and carry on into the suburbs of Bangkok, the change is dramatic and instant. Skyscrapers and traffic give way to little houses, shops and rivers with lanes bordered on both sides by huge trees, and beautiful temples whose architecture stands out among the colourful activity of the rural markets. Strike up a conversation with some of the locals and explore the countryside of this unexpectedly diverse city as you cycle your way through some of the most heartwarming sceneries you will ever come across.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Taling Chan Floating Market

Bangkok is one of the most prosperous cities in Asia, and since the recent boom in business began in the 1980s, what was once a small trading post has been transformed into a sprawling metropolis by the emergence of business activity. Although Bangkok is a popular tourist location for her unique culture carved out of a rich history laden with traditional arts and customs, the rise in tourism is causing this very culture and heritage to seemingly disappear. Fear not however, for there is one place where one can truly enjoy a descent into Thai history and culture, untouched by the hands of globalisation, a place called the Taling Chan Floating Market.

A visit to the Taling Chan Floating Market is very easy, since it is one of the fifty districts that make up Bangkok, and located only a short distance away from popular places of accommodation such as the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, a popular Luxury Hotel Bangkok has to offer.

The main reason the Taling Chan Floating Market is appreciated is for its sincerity to Thai culture that makes it stand apart from the bigger floating markets that adorn the cityscape. A foreign tourist can easily traverse the market without having to book a tour or becoming overwhelmed by legions of people.

The food in the Taling Chan Floating Market is iconic Thai seafood, ranging from massive Shrimp to Blue Crabs and large fish, typically prepared on small boats using smaller barbeques. If you’re uncomfortable eating on the floor, many restaurants have little plastic tables and chairs placed for the convenience of the guests, although these would tend to fill up fast when during the hours after 12pm.

So there you have it, the Taling Chan Floating Market, the go-to place should you choose to taste a sincere slice of Bangkok.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.

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