Discovering Bangkok

The temples alone are just spectacular. On my way to dinner, we drove past Wat Ratchanatdaram (top right), and its grandeur and the way it twinkled seemed like a magical castle from a Disney movie. I actually asked the driver if it was the Royal Palace 😂 Later that night, I walked back to my hotel and managed to take a photo, but I just couldn’t capture the magic of seeing it in person.

From my hotel, Wat Arun (bottom left) was almost directly across the river. It was most beautiful at sunset, and it quickly became one of my favorites.

The city is more expansive and filled with green spaces than I anticipated. It would take me a while to navigate confidently without a map. Next time, I’d like to spend more unhurried days wandering through its different neighborhoods and districts, so I can get a chance to see the whole city.

When night falls, many streets transform into tightly packed party zones. The crush of people, the noise, and the constant motion can be overwhelming. I’m realizing more and more that nightlife no longer holds the same pull for me. Still, even in the busiest, most chaotic corners, I never once felt unsafe—which says a lot.

I know someday I’ll look back on this weekend, from the high-energy night market to riding a Vespa from temple to temple, stopping along the way for Thai Milk Tea (Cha Yen), and taking in the wonders of Bangkok.