Wat Pho , one of Bangkok’s magnificent Buddhist temples. — Picture by CK Lim
Supplicants come from as far as Taiwan to visit temples to pray for wishes and vow to return with offerings upon fulfilment . Thanks can come in the form of prayers, donations to the temple and other acts of charity. Indeed, the market is so huge there are 27 clearly defined sections for wares such as handicraft and pottery, clothes and perfumes, wooden furniture, souvenirs and more.
More of a night bazaar, expect crowds hunting antiques and curios after sundown, many of whom jostle for a seat at one of the many food stalls.And what would a getaway to Bangkok be without enjoying an authentic Thai massage? There’s at least one massage parlour on everyWhile most places would offer an array of massages including oil and aromatherapy massages, there’s nothing like an honest-to-goodness traditional Thai massage to rid you of all your knots and aches.
To cool off after all that muscle-building perspiration, a chilled beverage or two seems to be in order. Beyond a quick pick-me-up at a local coffee chain however, Bangkok is also home to a whole spectrum of caffeine havens.