Bangkok Day 1: Culture, Cuisine and the Sun

Nur Irdina Lee Chun Ling GS67529
Jul 12, 2024
5 min read

We finally touched down!

The adventure began the moment we landed, and the contrast between Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Don Mueang Airport was immediately apparent. Despite the extensive walking, the arrival process was smooth, and the potted plants by the immigration hall added a nice touch of greenery and calmness. Once through the passport check, we quickly made our way to the gate to wait for our Grab, which, to my surprise, is also widely used in Thailand.

Splitting into two groups, we headed to our first destination, the Ibis hotel. Observing the scenery on the way, I noticed how straight the highways were, a stark contrast to the more complex roadways of Kuala Lumpur, where even as a Malaysian, I sometimes get lost. t wasn’t long before we reached the hotel, but our initial excitement was dampened by the wait for our rooms.

Unfortunately, when we intended to check in, we still needed to wait for the key card as the rooms were not ready. When we finally received our keycard, they gave us a room with a queen-size bed instead of the two single beds we had booked online. After a long, long discussion with the receptionist, he told us to wait while he checked, and it might take some time.

Leaving our luggage in a friend's room (who got her room earlier without issue), we decided to have some lunch nearby while we waited. Walking with the rest of our classmates, we headed to a viral store that was said to serve very delicious kra pao chicken rice. On the way to the MRT, which we needed to take to get to the viral store, I observed that the pedestrian walkways are very narrow and the stores are very small. However, the MRT has a pedestrian walkway right under the railway until a certain point, which allows easier walking compared to the crowded street path.

Observation to MRT

The journey to the MRT took only two stations, and from there, another seven-minute walk. We needed to cross a main road to reach the restaurant. However, even when the traffic light was green for pedestrian crossing, cars and motorbikes would still turn in despite it. When we reached the store, it was crowded with people and a long queue of at least ten people. Unfortunately, a friend and I weren't keen on waiting and went to a nearby store instead, intending to call our classmates to join but ending up being just the two of us eating vegetarian food. Luckily, I ordered one meal to take away for my friend, who had to wait for a long three hours just for the food.

My vegetarian phad thai lunch was delicious, but my friends, who returned to the hotel with the kra pao chicken takeaway, had a different experience. Despite the long wait, they said it was good, but I felt it was just a normal kra pao chicken—it must have been the three-hour wait that made it taste better.

My vegetarian phad thai lunch

with The Viral kra pra chicken

Returning to the hotel first with my friend as we lost sight of the others. I took a more in depth observation of the way back, where the roads are packed and the buildings are closely packed, I had even passed which was the amount of weed stores, the green entrances and the convenient under bridge pass from the MRT.

With the others returning with the takeaway, a different receptionist gave us the same room with the same issue. After explaining the situation again, he arranged for housekeeping to change the mattress to two singles. Satisfied with the outcome, we ate the takeaway in the hotel lobby. After finishing, we decided to rest for a while until dinner time when we once again ventured out from our hotel.

It was around 5 PM, and it was time to hunt for dinner. We took a Grab to Platinum Mall, known for its shopping. Looking out the window, the view showcased different types of architectural marvels. The nightlife in Bangkok was vibrant, with people everywhere. Inside Platinum Mall, I felt as though I was in Berjaya Times Square. The layout and the feel were exactly the same for me, yet it was still a unique experience away from Kuala Lumpur, though still being reminded of it.

Soon after the shopping spree, we headed to a nearby alley a few stations away where we ate at a local Thai restaurant found through an alleyway full of massage parlors. On the way, we passed by an auntie selling something like lobak at a roadside stall next to the alleyway. The road's drainage system even looked different than the one in Malaysia.

Reflecting on this day, it was a blend of minor inconveniences and enjoyable experiences. From the initial airport experience to exploring the city and dealing with hotel issues, it was a memorable start to our Bangkok adventure. The day highlighted the contrasts and similarities between Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur and provided a glimpse into the bustling life of the city.

Observations on Architecture

One of the striking aspects of Bangkok is its blend of traditional and modern architecture. The city's skyline is dotted with high-rise buildings, modern shopping malls, and traditional temples. This juxtaposition of old and new is a testament to Bangkok's rapid development and its efforts to preserve its cultural heritage.

The highways in Bangkok are impressively straight and well-maintained, contrasting sharply with the often-convoluted roads of Kuala Lumpur. This makes navigation easier, although the sheer volume of traffic can be overwhelming. The buildings in Bangkok are densely packed, reflecting the city's high population density. Despite this, there are numerous green spaces and parks that provide a respite from the urban environment.

The pedestrian walkways in Bangkok, though narrow, are well-utilized. The MRT's pedestrian walkway under the railway is particularly convenient, offering a shaded and safe route for commuters. This is a stark contrast to Kuala Lumpur, where pedestrian walkways are often an afterthought.

In terms of traditional architecture, Bangkok is home to numerous temples and shrines, each with its unique design and history. These structures are often ornately decorated, with intricate carvings and vibrant colours. The contrast between these traditional buildings and the modern skyscrapers is a visual representation of Bangkok's cultural diversity.

Overall, my first day in Bangkok was a mix of exploration, minor inconveniences, and delightful surprises. The city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and unique architecture made for a memorable start to our trip. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.