Leisure Activities in Bangkok

Leisure Activities in Bangkok

Western influence has been crucial in creating new tastes in Thai lifestyle, and this is reflected in sports and entertainment. Western-style clubs, bars, restaurants, and cinemas are numerous in Bangkok. To list the things to do and places to go would be endless. It is a good idea to check for interesting activities in the local newspapers.

Dining Out

Bangkok has a vast variety of restaurants serving just about every national cuisine from the East to the West. Waiters and waitresses in most Western restaurants are able to speak some English. The scope of restaurants in Bangkok is probably unequalled in any other capital city. Meals can cost from as little as Baht 50 at a roadside hawker's stall.

As there are many Bangkok restaurant guides available, we will not list the restaurants in this guide. Our suggestion is to collect one of the many free guides from one of the international hotels and start exploring!

General Shopping

Bangkok is reputed to be a "shopping Mecca" and almost every conceivable type and size of shop is situated in the city. There are various shopping malls ranging in sizes up to the massive Central World Plaza. Jatujak Market (JJ Market), believed to be the largest market in Asia, is open on weekends and Fridays. Main shopping areas are Siam Square, Mah Boon Krong Centre (MBK), Central World Plaza, Central Plaza, Central Chidlom, Silom Complex, and the Emporium Sukhumvit. Stores are generally open from 11 :00 to 21:00 Monday through Sunday. Most major credit cards are accepted at department stores.
Many department stores also have indoor playgrounds for kids offering indoor swimming pools with slides, kids' games, and other entertainment. Some of these are listed under 'Family Fun in Bangkok'

Cinemas

Bangkok offers a wide range of state of the art cinemas. Foreign films are often shown in their native language with Thai subtitles.  Most Hollywood releases are shown in Thailand. Main cinemas can be found at the following places:

EGV, Fashion Island
Fashion Island Shopping Centre,, 3rd Floor, Ram Intra Rd.

Grand EGV, Siam Discovery Centre
6th Floor,, Siam Square, Rama 1 Rd.

Major Cineplex, Central World Plaza
7th Floor,, 4 Ratchadamri Rd.

Major Cineplex, Rama III, Central Plaza
Ratchada, Rama III, 7th and 8th Floors, 79/323 Sathupradit Rd.

Major Cineplex, Sukhumvit Ekkamai
221/39 Sukhumvit Rd.

SFX, Emporium, The Emporium Shopping Centre
6th Floor,, 622 Sukhumvit Rd.

For movie show times, check at www.movieseer.com. Information onmovies and show times appear to be reliable, more so than newspapers.

The Royal Anthem is played prior to the start of the film. It is expected that all audience members will stand during the playing of the Anthem

Ethnic Centres

Several ethnic "mini-towns" have developed in the city of Bangkok. The ethnicity is evident by supermarkets, bookshops, hair salons, restaurants, and bars. These centres are now attractions in their own right and offer an interesting sampling of ethnic foods.

Chinatown
Location on Yaowarat Road, many Chinese immigrants still maintain their traditional Chinese lifestyle.

Indian Town
Pahurat Road is a street which looks like "Little India". Many Indian immigrants live here.

Japanese Town(s)
Located on Soi 33/1 Sukhumvit and Soi Thaniya on Silom Rd., these sois are effectively "Little Tokyo".

Korean Town
There is a Korean International School in Minburi. Furthermore, between Sois 8 and 10 Sukhumvit is Korea Town. Also many Koreans live on Soi 12 Sukhumvit.

Arabian and African area
Sois 3 and 5 Sukhumvit are renowned for their Arabian and African shops and restaurants.

Fun Activities for Families & Kids in Bangkok

Lively Bangkok with its sights, smells, colours and wide-smiling locals can be a true wonderland for kids, it can also be a terrifying concrete jungle, depending on where you take them. Bangkok has a reputation as a place enjoyed by young people and single adventurers; however the excellent and well-established tourism infrastructure in the city makes it an enjoyable place for families of whatever size.

Thai people in general love kids and if you decide to bring your children along with you on a trip to Bangkok you're likely to have more than one local happily fawn over your little ones and tell you how cute the little tyke is. The city is fairly safe for children, with remarkable low violent crime or kidnapping and the like considering its size, but there are other hazards to worry about, such as traffic pollution and fear of getting lost.

Showing the kids a great time in Bangkok is easy, with many larger hotels catering to families with playgrounds etc, and smaller budget-venues most of the time making up a lack of kid-oriented facilities with a caring and attentive staff keen to provide you and your family with personal recommendations on what to explore in the city.

Ice Skating

A brand new rink to grace The Big Mango, Sub Zero Ice Skate Club defies the city's relentless heat with a unique ice skating experience that combines a rink with a night club and karaoke in a sub zero environment. Glide and twirl around or take lessons from the pros. Sub Zero is literally a 'cool' place to just hang out with friends and family even if you lack the much-needed balancing skills. Two sessions are offered daily (11:00 - 17:00 and 17:30 - 01 :00). Admission is 200 and 250 baht for the first and second session respectively, and on weekends it costs 300 baht. Location: Esplanade, Ratchada Road (MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station) Open: 11 :00 - 01 :00 Contact: +66 (0)2 354 2134

Video Games

Take your video-game loving kids to the Bangkok Paritip Plaza, located a short distance from the World Trade Centre near the Pratunam shopping district, and they may never want to return. Thousands of games for all platforms as well as DVD movies are for sale here - both in their original form and the highly preferred pirated copies that sell for peanuts. There are also plenty of shops with Sony Playstation available for use.

Boat Rides

Most kids love a bit of an adventure, and a trip on a longtail boat touring the city's canals will certainly seem like one. A longtail boat, often with a guide able to explain some sights of passing interest, can be hired from the Tha Chang pier on the Chao Phraya river and taken into the klongs of Thonburi. Kids will enjoy feeding the large catfish that gather near canal- side temples as well as seeing local kids having fun cooling off on the water's banks.

Malls

Bangkok's malls are air-conditioned, ultra-modern and often feature whole areas of fun for kids, including playgrounds for toddlers. For older kids in Bangkok many malls have huge video game arcades, cinemas, and private karaoke booths. While the songs in these booths are mainly Thai, the words are spelt out phonetically and you can have a good time trying to sing along to popular Thai songs. Nearly all malls feature the big franchised outlets popular with kids such as McDonald's and KFC as well. The Mall Bangkapi has one of the largest and best child-playgrounds in the city.

Amusement Parks

Dreamworld

Dreamworld is a small theme park to the far north of town. An American-styled theme park with something for the whole family from roller coasters to boat rides. The park aims for a Disneyland atmosphere with costumed staff and cartoon architecture. Due to its location nearly an hour from the city centre, it doesn't get many tourists. There are various ticket options. Pay extra to use the go-carts or to enter the artificial snow world. Located at KM7, Rangsit Nakornnayok. Open daily from 10:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, 10:00 to 15:00 on weekends. Admission fee is Baht 250. For more information,    Tel: 0-2533-1447, 0-2533-1449, or 0-2533-1152.

Siam Ocean World Bangkok

Get nose to nose with the fascinating underwater creatures’ only separated from you by glass, or dare even to dive among sharks! Among the startling array of luminous fishes, behold Oriental Small Clawed Otters, fascinating Weedy Sea Dragons and freaky Moon Jellies. Fun and informative interactive features will keep anyone interested for hours. Open: 09:00 - 22:00 Location: Basement floor, Siam Paragon, Siam, Admission: 280 baht for children (80-120 cm), 450 baht for adults

Siam Park

Siam Park is a huge recreational park featuring various swimming pools, towering waterslides, whirlpools, fountains and a lake. The park's highlight is the 400-metre Super Spiral waterslide, while the giant man-made sea pool with artificial surf is just as spectacular. Admission: Adults 200 baht, Children (between 100-150cm) 100 baht, Small Children (less than 100cm) free of charge. Alternatively a member card costs 390 baht for adults and 200 baht for children, giving you admission for one year and a 50% discount for up to 5 people, Location: On the far eastern edge of town, 101 Sukhapibarn 2 Road, tell the taxi driver 'Suan Siam', Open: 10:00 - 18:00 (Monday - Friday); 09:00 - 19:00 (Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays). www.siamparkcity.com 0 2919 7200

Public Parks

Amporn Gardens

A large and spacious park with a huge pavilion used for many royal social functions and fairs. Located at the corner of Si Ayutthaya Road and Rajadamnoen Avenue opposite King Chulalongkorn's statue.

Benjasiri Park

Located between the Emporium Shopping Centre and Soi 24 Sukumvit Road, this park was opened to commemorate her Majesty the Queen’s 60th birthday. There is a sports arena for skateboarding, basketball, volleyball, and a playground for toddlers. This park is an excellent place to relax and get fit. It also has plenty of shady spots for reading and family picnics.

Jatujak Park

Just off Phaholyothin Road near Lard Prao intersection. (Not to be confused with the market)

King's Royal Park or Suan Luang Rama IX

200 acres of public park offering botanical gardens, flower gardens, a pond and public playground. Entrance is Soi 103, Sukhumvit Road (Soi Udomsuk) seven kilometres from Sukhumvit Road. Open daily from 06:00 to 18:00 Admission fee is Baht 10.

Lumpini Park

This is a popular park for those who work or live in the city. Many people spend their free time here. You can escape to take a breath of fresh air, to run, or attend aerobics classes early in the morning, or after work. Hire a paddle boat or a rowboat and take a trip on the lake. Bordered by Rama IV to the south, Soi Sarasin to the north, Witthayu (Wireless) Road to the east and Ratchadamri Road to the west. Entrance gates on all sides. Take a blanket and a picnic supper and enjoy Bangkok Symphony Orchestra’s free concerts in the park during December. Accessible by Skytrain (Sala Daeng station) or Subway (Silom station). It is open daily from early morning till late at night. However, beware of unfriendly company late at night.

Sanam Luang (The Royal Field)

This is the traditional site for royal cremations and other ceremonies. Good for kite flying. Season runs mid February to April. Located between Wat Phra Kaew and Rajadamnoen Avenue (in front of the Grand Palace).

Zoos and Gardens

Siam Ocean World

Huge aquarium complex built into the equally huge Siam Paragon shopping mall. The display of fresh and salt water animals is supposed to be one of the largest in Southeast Asia. The admission, at 450 Baht is a little steep for most locals.

Rose Gardens

The Rose Gardens include well maintained gardens, restaurants, golf course, swimming pool , tennis court, artificial lake with paddle boats, elephant rides and a children's playground. Thai Village Cultural Shows are held in the afternoon. Located at 117 Moo 6, Watt Roman, Petchkasem Samphran, Nakon Pathom. Tel: (034) 322588 -93 or 322544 -7. Open : Daily 0800 - 1800.

Samphran Elephant Grounds and Zoo

Located 1 km before the Rose Garden (on the left, opposite Joseph Upatham School). Tel: (034) 311971.

Dusit Zoo

Once a private botanical garden for King Rama V, today it is a zoo which houses a large number of animals and birds. Apart from the animal exhibits, the Dusit Zoo offers pleasant botanical gardens with small lake, hire boats, and a children's playground. The National Historic Museum is also in the grounds of the Zoo, Long a favourite with families in Bangkok, the zoo is centrally located in a sprawling park between the King's Bangkok residence, Chitlada Palace and the parliament house. The zoo has been drastically upgraded in recent years and is as popular as a picnic spot as it is for the animals, The park has many food stalls with a reputation for delicious food at very low prices, Its central location makes it easy to get to. Take the Skytrain to Victory Monument station, then grab a taxi for the short trip to the zoo, The Thai for zoo is "Suan Sut’’ Open from 8:00 to 18:00 every day, Admission fee is Baht 20, To obtain more information, Tel: 0-2281-1039,0-2281-2000.

Ancient City Muang Boran

A 200 acre outdoor museum in the shape of Thailand, Exhibits include both full and large-scale replicas of the most famous monuments and Temples in the country, and reproductions of buildings, which no longer exist. Each structure is located within the park according to its actual geographical position in Thailand and is reproduced in authentic detail. Located 33 km from Bangkok on the road to Samut Prakhan (Old Sukhumvit Highway), past the turn off to the Crocodile Farm on the right. www.ancientcity.com 02709 1644, Open: Daily 0900 - 1700.

Crocodile Farm and Dinosaur Museum

The world's largest crocodile farm, where the critters can be seen at various ages before they are processed into handbags and steaks. There are also elephants, tigers and other animals on show. The Crocodie Farm is in Samut Prakan province which borders Bangkok on the southeast. Most hotels will offer tours to the farm. Check out the 30,000 crocodiles, not to mention the tigers, lions, gibbons, snakes and elephants.
The Dinosaur Museum has models and skeletons of various types of dinosaurs. Located 29 km from Bangkok on the Old Sukhumvit Highway. Tel: 0 2703 5144 -8. Open: Daily 0700 - 1800.

Safari World and Marine Park

A huge drive-through safari park surrounds a central theme park with animal and stunt shows on offer. Safari World is located on the northern edge of town. They have guided tours in air conditioned coaches with English speaking guides for those without cars or wanting someone else to do the talking. A great wildlife park for the whole family. Take the seven km car safari and view the rhino, zebras, giraffe and other animals at close range. The Marine Park features dolphins and sea lions shows, landscaped gardens and eight different show areas. Located at 99 Ramintra Road, Minburi. Tel: 025181000 -19. Open: Daily 0900 -1700.

 Snake Farm

This institute has a large collection of living poisonous snakes milked daily. A booklet illustrating the poisonous snakes of Thailand is available. Located at the corner of Henri Durant and Rama IV Roads in the grounds of the Red Cross. Tel: 0 2252 0161-4. Open: Daily 0830 - 1600 except Saturday afternoons and public holidays.

Museums & Theatres

Jim Thompson House Museum

This is located 10 minutes away from Siam Square, down Soi Kasemsan 2 opposite the National Stadium on Rama 1 Road. If you walk to the end of the soi, there it is adjacent to Klong Maha Nag, the museum is a compound residence that originally belonged to James HW Thompson, the American businessman and founder of the world-renowned Jim Thompson Thai Silk. This museum is worth visiting to see some of the country's precious treasures. Situated in a traditional Thai teak house, it is one of the attractions most visited by foreign tourists. Admission is Baht 100 for the general public, Baht 50 for students under 25, and free for children under 10. English, French, and Thai-speaking guides are available. The museum opens from 9:00 to 1 7:00, for more information, you can call 0-2216-7368 or visit www.jimthompsonhouse.com

Bangkok Children's Discovery Museum

This museum gets kids excited and encourages them to ask questions about how the world works. Figure out how it all fits together, by looking at the parts and experimenting - that's the idea. Fun in the science gallery includes creating your own giant bubble from inside. Try to understand the nature of illusion by entering a tunnel of mirrors. In the 'life' section, examine the processes of the mind and body - experiment with the human kinetic processes yourself and check out your heart rate by scaling an indoor bicycle. Now put your coordination skills to the test by hitting the button corresponding to each different action ... This is education at its most fun! Open: 9:00-17:00 (Tuesday to Friday), 10:00-18:00 (Saturday to Sunday) Location: Chatuchak Park MRT: Chatuchak Admission: Adults 70 baht, children 50 baht Contact: 0 2272 4575

Thailand Science Park

An excellent 'hands-on' science museum for older children. If you have so far only been to the Museum of Science and Planetarium on Sukhumvit, you will be impressed by the modern look and extensive exhibits of this museum. The 4 floors will keep the interest of your children for hours. Soi Klong 5, Rangsit, Nakon Nayok Rd. Pathumthani. Tel 0 2577-4172. Open Tues-Sun 0930-1700. It is a bit of hike, a few kilometres from the Northern Expressway to Rangsit or off the outer Eastern Ring road. Not far from Dreamworld. www.sciencepark.or.th 0 2564 7222

Museum of Science and Planetarium

Interesting educational 'hands on' exhibits for children. The Planetarium has a permanent exhibit of the solar system and a section of dinosaurs (albeit a little old and dusty - but young children tend to be fascinated anyway). Also, on the top floor of the 'dinosaur' building is a large and well-equipped playroom. Located 928 Sukhumvit Road between Sois 40 and 42. Tel: 0 2392 5952. Open: Wednesday - Sunday 0900 - 1600. Closed public holidays.

The National Museum

Located  on Na Phra Tad Road, this museum houses one of the largest collections of Buddhist and Thai arts in Southeast Asia. Open from 9:00 to 16:00 from Wednesday to Sunday. Admission is Baht 20. Guided tours start at 9:30 and are available in English, French, German and Japanese. For detailed information, please Tel: 0-2224-1333, 0-2224-1396.

National History Museum in Nonthaburi

An imaginative excursion for children who will enjoy the stuffed animal displays. About 20 km from Bangkok, the Museum is located in the main street near the clock tower. Take the Expressway to Don Muang Airport and turn left onto Highway 302 (Ngam Wong Wan Road). Open: Daily except Mondays, Tuesdays and holidays 1000 - 1600.

National Theatre

Special shows of Thai classical dance and music are held on the second Friday, Saturday and Sunday; and the last Friday and Saturday of each month. Three performances a day. Tel: 02224 1342.

Thai Human Imagery Museum

Exhibits include life size, incredibly realistic replicas of ordinary and famous Thai people. Also enjoy the lovely gardens for walking and picnicking: Located on Highway 338, on the way to Nakhon Pathom. 43/2 Moo 1, Pinklao-Nakhon Chaisi Road.. Open: Monday - Friday 0900 – 1730, Saturday & Sunday and Public Holidays 0830 - 1800. 0 3433 2607 0 3433 2109 www.rosenini.com/thaihumanimagery/english.htm

Bangkok Doll Factory

Handmade and authentic in detail, the dolls are dressed in clothing and ornaments of the hill tribe people as well as Ramakien classical dancers and are available for purchase. Located at 85 Soi Ratchatapan, off Ratchaprarop Road, Makkassan. Tel: 022453008

Department Stores with Amusement Centres

In Bangkok, many of the department stores have large amusement centres (most require children to wear socks so it's a good idea to keep a pair or two in the car). Some malls also include water parks:

Central Bangkok

Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Road

On the 4th floor there's a play area in the toy department and a baby change-room near the stroller and cot display. San Rio Playarea on the 7th floor includes baby and toddler play areas with Little Tikes equipment as a w.ell as activities for older children, Stage show on weekends. Food and drinks available. Entrance fee is 40 baht for children. Babies are free.

Emporium Sukhumvit Road (Soi 24)

Jamboree Land on the 4th floor offers lots of rides, padded climbing frame (40 baht entrance and children must wear socks) painting activities and play area. There's a very small baby change room in the ladies toilets in the Emporium Department store near the luggage section.

MahBoonkrong Centre

corner of Phyathai and Rama I Roads

Siam Discovery Centre, Rama I Road (next to Siam Centre)
The fifth floor of this centre is specifically a children's' floor offering clothing, shoe and bedroom stores. There's also a small play area with climbing frame --- take your own socks otherwise you must buy them when you pay the entrance fee.

East

Central City, Bang-na Trat Road

Leo Land includes a water park, which is very clean , and well run. Also Laser Ouest. This excellent shopping complex also has a baby change room in the Central Department store.

Seacon Square, Srinakarin Road

Yo-Yo Land with many rides for all ages. A great place for kids with good shops , especially bookshops, Robinson and Lotus Department stores.

Kid's Sports at Seri Center, Srinakarin Road

 Kid's Sports is part of an international chain. There are 3 different areas to cater for children of different ages.

West & North

Robinson, Rajadapisek Road

Has indoor rides and an adventure playground.

Siam Jusco, Ngam Wong Wan Road

Has a good play area including a bouncing castle.

The Mall, Ngam Wong Wan Road

An enclosed play area amidst children's clothing. Entire top floor is a gigantic amusement park with rides, games and more enclosed play areas. Outside water park includes waterslides and swimming or paddling areas.

The Mall Bangkapi

Two enclosed play areas amidst children's clothing on the third floor. Entire top floor is a gigantic amusement park with rides, games and more enclosed play areas. Outside water park includes waterslides and swimming or paddling areas.

The Mall, Ramkhamhaeng Road

Play area adjacent to toys on the second floor.

Child Friendly Hotels and Restaurants

Sundays are good days to have a family meal together and many hotels in Bangkok make it so much easier to really enjoy a Sunday lunch with the kids. The following eating establishments cater for children and some also offer entertainment. Book ahead and check the prices as they may vary.

Le Meridian

Food and entertainment for children. Located at 971 Ploenchit Road. Tel: 0 2232 8888.

L’Opera

If you are eating in the evening go early. The children are served first. Food is good and atmosphere friendly. Located at Soi 39, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: 0 2258 5606.

Royal Orchid Sheraton

Sunday Brunch with full entertainment for family gatherings, including a magic show and acrobatics show from 1130 to 1500. Located at 2 Captain Bush, Off Siphya Road. Tel: 0 2266 0123.

The Bulls Head

Has good western food. Children are welcome before 1800. Located at Soi 33/1, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: 0 2259 4444.

The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Hotel

Great Sunday brunch with clowns and other entertainment. Next to Robinson's on 259 Sukhumvit Road. (cnr Soi 19). Tel 0 2207 8000.

The Hilton Hotel

Food and entertainment for children. Located at 2 Wireless Road. Tel: 0 2253 0123.

Thai-Pan Hotel at the Pan Kitchen

Food and entertainment for children. Located at 25 Sukhumvit Soi 23. Tel: 0 2260 9888 or 0 2260 9898.

Queen Sirikit Convention Centre Restaurant

Food and entertainment for children. Retro Live Cafe at OSNCC 0 2203 4021 Located on Ratchadaphisek Road.

Shopping for Toys and Baby Products

Most of the large department stores like the Mall, Robinson and Central Stores have better quality toys and baby needs. Nursing bras are available however you may need to ask. Marks and Spencer also have them at times. It is difficult to get the larger sizes!

ABC Babyland Stores

Located at Central Plaza and two stores (one offers toys only) at the World Trade Centre. These stores offer a range of baby needs including cots, clothes, toiletries, strollers and a comprehensive range of toys for all ages.

Central Chidlom

The 4th floor has a good range of baby products, toys, strollers, cots and car seats, and clothes for baby, children and maternity needs.

The Mall Bangkapi

Has an excellent selection of quality baby and children's products, strollers, car seats, furniture, clothing and toys, including a wide range of Little Tykes, Very good selection of maternity wear. Specialist shops in the extensive shopping complex outside of The Mall carry children's tables, chairs and beds.

Toy World at the Imperial Department Store

Offers a great range of toys as well as baby needs including cots, strollers, highchairs and clothes. Located on Bang-na Trat Road.

IQ Kidz Shop

The IQ Kidz Shop offers a nice selection of creative and colourful toys for newborn and upwards. Very good quality toys imported from North America and Canada - a bit expensive but some are discounted. The owner is Khun Too, who has excellent English. A great shop for creative toys. The new store on Sukhumvit Road will have two levels after mid January 2002 - and is scheduled to host fee-based playgroups, arts and crafts, storytelling and puppet shows for children during the day from February 2002. The new store is offering promotional discounts on various toys from 12 December until 29 December. The store has parking and is VERY visible on Sukhumvit Road: Khun Too says that the bright orange storefront makes them the most colourful toystore in Thailand.

Seacon Square

The Lotus store has a good range of toys, baby goods and also children's clothes. The Educational Toy Shop next to Yo-Yo Land is a great place to shop for something different - books are in Thai and English.

Magic World

This shop has a large range of local and imported toys. Located at the Royal Garden Plaza of the Marriott Royal Garden Riverside Hotel at Thonburi side of the river.

Baby Shops on Sukhumvit Road

There are several baby shops on Sukhumvit, opposite Soi 49 and near Soi 22, offering a range of nursery furniture, clothes, toiletries and other baby needs.

Some Points to Keep in Mind

Remember the heat: temperatures in Bangkok can rise to extremely high levels, especially during the hot season and it is important for caution to be exercised in exposing a child to this kind of heat. Hats are advisable throughout the year as is a strong sun-block.
Reconsider taking that stroller: the average stretch of sidewalk in Bangkok is improperly laid out, blocked by any number of obstacles from a large street vendor's stand to a utility pole, crooked and full of enough potholes and cracks to keep litigation going for centuries if it was located in a western country. You'd be far better off to keep your stroller or pram limited to short stretches within a tourist site and use taxis to get around the city rather than walk.

Adult-oriented areas: Bangkok has a rich culture and a long tourist history, however part of that is undeniably wrapped up with the city's sex industry and evidence of this is quite obvious in some areas, especially in the foreigner-heavy areas of Sukhumvit and Silom Roads. While Silom is a major ex-pat and tourist centre of Thailand and certainly an enjoyable place to visit, the popular Patpong tourist market located there is in the midst of one of Bangkok's legendary red-light districts with pole-dancing visible from many open windows and several sex-workers and their touts aggressively working in the area. For parents of teenagers, exercise caution when letting your children out to 'explore' the city at night time as identification checks at some bars, while the law, are laxly enforced.

Sports Activities

Some popular local sports listed below might be interesting to watch or even try.

Horse Racing

Weekend races, each averaging 10 races, can be seen at Bangkok's Royal Turf Club and Royal Bangkok Sports Club on Sunday's 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Bangkok's Royal Turf Club can be contacted at Tel.0 2280 0020-9. Royal Bangkok Sports Club can be contacted at Tel.0 2251 0181-6.

Thai Boxing

Differs from Western style boxing in that the boxers can use their knees and feet. They may also strike any part of the opponent's body. Real Thai boxing can be seen at the following venues:

  • Lumpini Boxing Stadium 0 2251 4303
  • Ormnoi Boxing Stadium 0 2420 4317
  • Ratchadamnern Boxing Stadium  0 2281 4205

Kites

The kite-flying season in Thailand is from February to April when the wind is strongest. During this time, you can visit the kite festival and competition at Sanam Luang near the Royal Grand Palace.

Sports

Most Western sports, such as golf, tennis, badminton, squash, soccer, etc. are played throughout Thailand. For sports that have to be played in team, you may need to participate in some of the clubs to be a team member. For a more nationality specific group, contact-each country's embassy for more information. Some groups have sub-groups, such as baseball, golf, or tennis, within the organisation.
Sports that do not need to be played in a team , such as golf, tennis, squash, etc., can be played at most private clubs. Some of the more popular sports clubs that are open to the general public are listed below:

Golf

Green Valley

Bangna-Trad Km. 15 (opposite the entrance of Suvarnabhumi Airport) Tel: 0 2312 5883

Kiat-Thanee

Bangna-Trad Km. 29 Tel: 0 27071700-9

Lakewood

Bangna-Trad Km. 18 (3 Km. after Hua Chiao University) Tel: 0 2312 6278-86

Lumlook-ka Country Club
Lumlook-ka Rd. Klnlong 11 Tel : 0 2995 2300-4

Muang-Alke Vista

52/999 Moo 7, Phaholythin Rd. Tambol Lak 6, Amphur  Muang, Pathumthani 12000 (Moo Ban Muang-Ake - Close to Rangsit University) Tel: 0 2997 8501

Navathanee

22 Navathanee Road (Moo Ban Navathanee)Tel: 0 2376 1031-2

Pinehurst Golf and Country Club

Rangsit Km. 73 (Before Thamasat University) Tel:O 2516 8679

Supapruk

Bangna-Trad Km. 26 Tel: 023162636, 023170801-4

Thai Country Club

Bangna-Trad Km 35.5 Tel: 02651 5300-6

Thana City

Bangna-Trad Km. 14 Tel 023360568-74

The Legacy Golf Club

(Natural Park Ram-intra Golf Club) Ram-intra Km 8-9 (Close to Safari World) Tel: 0 2914 1930

Windmill  

Bangna-Trad Km. 10.5 Tel: 0 2750 2112-20

Tennis

The British Club Bangkok
(Also includes squash, swimming, gym room snooker, internet) 189 Suriwongse Road Bangkok 10500 Entry via Silom Soi 18 Tel: 0 2234 0247 Fax: 0 2235 1560 info@britishclubbangkok.org

Sawasdee Tennis Court

Soi 31 , Sukhumvit Tel: 0 2258 5702

Smarnmitr Tennis Club

Ramkhamhaeng Road (Behind Phat Panya Hospital) Tel: 0 2314 7782

Ladprao Tennis

Soi 33, Ladprao Rd. Tel: 0 2511 3413

Soi Aree Golf and Tennis

Soi 26, Sukhumvit Tel: 0 2259 8425

Soi Klang Racquet Club

Soi 49, Sukhumvit Tel: 0 2712 8010 (Also includes badminton, squash, swimming, sauna, gym room, ping pong, snooker, Internet)

Fitness Centres

Fully equipped fitness centres can be found in most large hotels in Bangkok. Facilities usually include gym equipment, aerobic studios, tennis and squash courts, swimming pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and beauty parlours. Other popular individually located centres are:

California Wow

This fitness facility is located at ground floor, Liberty Square Building , 287 Silom Road (corner of Convent and Silom roads). Its floor to ceiling windows can be seen on both road. More facilities are opening. Open: Mon - Sat 6:00 to midnight; Sun
and public holidays 8:00 - 10:00 (Silom) Tel: 0-2631-1122, 0-2632-1255
www.californiafitness.co.th

Capitol Club Located at President Park, Soi 22-24 Sukhumvit, it is reputed to have very high-tech gym equipment. Tel:0-2661-1210 *Highly Recommended

Clark Hatch This is a chain fitness centres with many convenient locations including the Nichada Thani housing compound. Branches: Thaniya Plaza, Seri Centre, Amari Watergate Hotel, Amari Atrium Hotel, Century Hotel, Vibhavadi Rd., Charn Issra 2 Tower, Windsor Suites (Sukhumvit Rd), and Chaeng Wattana Rd. Tel: 0-2308-2779-80,· 0-2231-2250-1 www.clarkhatchthailand.com

Fitness First This fitness centre is well equipped with international standard exercise equipment. Personal trainers and group activities are also available, i.e. spinning, body pump, body combat, body balance, body jam, step classes, yoga and boxing. Other facilities also available: cardio theatre, audio visual entertainment systems, sauna and steam room. Branches: 6-7th FI, Central Plaza Ratchada-Rama 3, Landmark, The Mall Ngam wong wan, Central Plaza Pinklao, Central Plaza Bangna Tel: 0-2673-6085-8, 0-2653-1509-11

Philip Wain International This fitness centre is exclusively for women. It is well known for its fitness training program and slimming courses. Branches: 8th FI , Pacific Place (next to Landmark Hotel), Sukhumvit Rd. and 13th FI, Central Ladprao Department Store Tel: 0-2541-1555, 0-254-2544

Health & Fitness For Kids in Bangkok Kids' Yoga

By enrolling your kid in a yoga course at an early age, you're giving them a certain edge over the rest of the flock. Not only will they ooze serenity and poise, but perhaps they will have a resilience to all sorts of worldly temptations and help make the world a better place. Plus, it's fun. Yoga Elements Studio holds weekly kids classes on Saturdays and Sundays. Classes: 10:00 - 11 :00 Saturdays (kids 3 to 7), Sundays (kids 8 – 13) Location: Vanissa Building, Soi Chid 10m Contact: 0 2665 5671

Gymnastics for Kids

Here is what every kid dreams of - gymnastics without having to be shipped off to Russia, starved and beaten blue. The Little Gym fosters the development of motor skills in an essentially non-competitive environment from a very early age. The programme starts with fantasy exploration and play, working on improving balance, rhythm and flexibility in kids from four months, slowly becoming more focussed and evolves into a full-blown gymnastics class by grade school. Locations: The Emporium, Siam Paragon and others. Contact: 0 2664 8994

Dance and Performing Arts for Kids

Approved and licensed by the Royal Thai Government Ministry of Education, Bangkok's Dance Centre School of Performing Arts offers inspiring programmes for kids, teens and adults. In the Kids Faculty of Dance & Movement, there is Ballet for Children, which focuses on attuning the young one's body to the creative presence, and is based on the syllabus of the Royal Academy of Dance in London. The course sets out to cultivate discipline, concentration and heightened mind/body synchronisation. Location: Dance Centre School of Performing Arts Bangkok, 4th floor, Racquet Club, Sukhumvit Soi 49/9 (BTS Phrom Phong) Contact: 0 2714 7290

Clubs & Associations

Bangkok Women's Forum

Address: Bangkok, Thailand. Tel: (02) 258-5663 Info: A multi-national group of Expatriate women.

BAMBI

Address: c/o the British Club, 189 Surawong Road, Bangkok, 10500, Thailand . Info: Formed by a group of mothers who have attended prenatal classes together in Bangkok decided to continue meeting once a month after their babies were born. Their general aim was to give the mothers of babies and young children support and friendship, and to help them with any problems that might arise from the sense of loneliness and isolation that sometimes comes from living in a large city such as Bangkok.

American Women's Club

Address: 171-173 Soi Phromsri, Sukhumvit 49/11 Bangkok 10110, Thailand. Tel: (02) 381-9225,712-8054 Fax:(02) 712-8055 Info: Nonpolitical, nonprofit group organized to promote friendship in the American community and emphasize friendship and cooperation with Thai women through social , cultural and philanthropic activities. Membership is open to woman of all nationalities living in Thailand. Involved in the local community through welfare and the scholarship committees. Some club activities are bridge, tennis, golf or the book club. Excursions are planned each year, visiting nearby countries as well as interesting locations within Thailand and Bangkok. Email: awc_thailand@hotmail.com Website: http://members.tripod.com/~AWC_Th/index.htm

Australian-New Zealand Women's Group

Address: c/o Embassy of Australia, Bangkok, Australia c/o Embassy of New Zealand. Tel: (02) 287-2680, (02) 251-8165 Info: This club accepts as members Australian and New Zealand women as well as women of other nationalities who are married to Australians or New Zealanders. Other members are accepted at the discretion of the membership committee.

 

Bangkok Network of Women (BNOW)

Tel: (02) 662 5622, (089) 139 6800 Info: BNOW's aim is to link and inspire women living and working in Bangkok. BNOW have a variety of events from talks about managing your personal finances, to business referral circle networking luncheons, to speed-dating and single supper clubs. BNOW survey their group to get their opinions on the types of events they would like BNOW to organize.

British Women's Group

info@bwgbangkok.com www.bwgbangkok.com Info: The BWG's main aim is to organize social events for our members and, at the same time, raise money for worthy Thai charities, and also they offer many volunteer opportunities for their members.

International Women's Club (IWC)

Tel: (02) 676 1368, (086) 571 0902 (Khun Thanyamai) Info: Founded in 1964, the club represents a creative, highly dedicated, fun-loving group of women who enjoy their free time while supporting a worthy cause. It brings together women from a host of different cultures and backgrounds in a  variety of interesting, fun, and cultural events. 468 members from 79 countries. www.iwcthailand.org

Drehscheibe

Address: c/o Embassy of United Germany , Bangkok, Thailand. Info: German speaking women meet to play tennis and go on excursions as well as lending a hand in orphanages.

Indonesian Women's Association

Address: c/o Indonesian Embassy, 600-2 Petchburi Road, Bangkok, Thailand. Tel: (02) 252-3135 t040, Ext 66 Info: Association for female Expatriates in Bangkok.

Japanese Women's Group

Address: c/o Embassy of Japan, Bangkok, Thailand. Info: Japanese women only.

Korean Women's Association

Tel: (02) 251-0486 Ms Chung Info: Korean women only.

Soroptlmists International of Bangkok

Address: c/o Edith Stewart, Bangkok, Thailand. Tel: (02) 233-2610-19 Info: Similar to Rotary and Lions clubs but is exclusively for women. You must be invited to become a member.

Y.W.C.A.

Address: 13 Sathorn Tai Road, Bangkok, Thailand. Tel: (02) 286-1936, 286-2329 Info : Offers leisure activities, offers sports facilities , music lessons and various courses.

The British Club

Address: 189 Suriwong Road Bangkok 10500, Thailand. Tel: 0 2234 0247 Fax: 0 2235 1560 Email: Info: Ideally located between between Silom and Surawong Roads in the heart of the business, shopping and entertainment district, the extensive facilities of the British Club provide a relaxed and friendly environment for a wide range of sporting and social activities for the whole family. And whether it is fine dining or you want, a quiet drink with friends or a snack between tennis games, the Club offers great value. mail @britishclubbangkok.org www.britishclubbangkok.org

Mariners Club

Address: 27/2Tha Rua (opposite Klong Toey Port entrance), Bangkok, Thailand. Tel: (02) 249-3801 Info: Open to all with facilities that include swimming pool, tennis courts, football pitch, bar and catering facilities.

The Bangkok Club

Sathorn City Tower - 28th-31 st Floor, 175 South Sathorn Road, Sathorn Bangkok 10120 Tel: (66 2) 679 5550, 285 1661 Fax: (66 2) 285 1998 E-mail: bkkclub@loxinfo.co.th , info@thebangkokclub.com
Info: Established in August 1995, it is the largest executive city club in both in actual floor space and in its membership. Located in the heart of Bangkok central business district on the top 4 floors of the prestigious Sathorn City Tower, the Club has a spectacular panoramic view of the city skyline, with fine dining, modern fitness and pristine spa facilities. The Bangkok Club also provides privacy, convenience and quality service, which redefine the standards of luxury and comfort .

Y.M.C.A.

Address: 27 Sathorn Tai Road, Bangkok, Thailand. Tel: (02) 287-1900 Info: Offers leisure activities, offers sports facilities, music Lessons and various courses.

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