Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• The World’s Largest Solid Gold Buddha is in Thailand

• Is vaping safer than smoking cigarettes?

• Want to try free-roam VR? Zero Latency Thailand is the place to go!

• Bangkok holds the Guinness World Record for having the longest city name in the world

• And more…

Fun Fact

The world’s largest solid gold Buddha is in Thailand

Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon temple is one of Thailand's most jaw-dropping treasures: a massive golden Buddha that stands 15 feet tall and tips the scales at 5.5 tons! While the temple itself is beautiful, this spectacular golden giant is what makes this spot truly unforgettable. Trust me, it's one of those "must-see" Bangkok moments that'll leave you speechless!

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = C) City of Angels/ The Great City of Angels

Here’s your trivia question of the week! Think you know the answer? Find out if you’re right in next week’s newsletter. No cheating!

How many wives does King Vajiralongkorn have?

A) 3

B) 4

C) 5

D) 6

News 📰

Koh Mak: The tiny island that's redefining travel to Thailand (Link)

Deeper Dive Thailand: Is vaping safer than smoking cigarettes? (Link)

Ethics in Thailand's elephant tourism? (Link)

Israelis in Thailand encouraged to behave respectfully (Link)

Number of international tourist arrivals in Thailand from 2015 to 2024 (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

Golden State Vegan Restaurant - Mind-blowing vegan sushi that'll make you forget it's plant-based! Their Signature Nigiri Set and Twin Dragon rolls are works of art, and the Tokyo Fry Tofu is a must-try. Cool vibes, great music, and a cute view to boot. Fair warning: it's a bit pricey for Bangkok, but worth treating yourself! (Link)

Nutrition Depot Thailand Inside BTS Asok Branch - Finally, a supplement shop that has everything you need! Tucked inside the BTS station, this compact store is packed with all your fitness essentials, from shakers to supplements. The prices are on par with international rates, and the staff is super helpful. Worth the 40 baht BTS entry fee! (Link)

Pilates Plus Bangkok - Get ready to feel those muscles you didn't know existed! Their Barre Plus class is perfect for beginners, and the instructors really know their stuff. The studio is spotless, easy to find, and you'll definitely feel the burn in all the right ways. A great spot for both newbies and Pilates pros! (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

Nai Mong Hoi Thod - If you're into oyster omelettes, this place is heaven! They nail both crispy and soft versions, and they don't skimp on the oysters. The smoked duck breast with orange sauce is a surprise hit too. It's got that authentic street food vibe but with top-notch quality. (Link)

EAT ME RESTAURANT - This 27-year-old fusion spot knows how to impress! The pomelo salad with lobster is a crowd favorite, striking that perfect balance between Thai spice and Western flair. Their meat game is strong - try the lamb racks or wagyu beef. The service is on point, and the wine list won't disappoint! (Link)

Kalyana Restaurant - Craving authentic Burmese food? Start with their Ra Khing style papaya salad, move on to the coconut milk noodles, and finish with Shwe Yin Aye dessert. The curries are perfectly seasoned, and you get 5-star service at surprisingly reasonable prices. (Link)

☕ Cafes

Mother Roaster Talad Noi - Hidden up a dark stairway in an alley full of car parts, this coffee gem is worth seeking out! Whether you're a coffee nerd or just appreciate a good cup, they've got you covered. Plus, there are cats! Try their Latte on the Rock or Déjà Vu. Remember to bring cash or be ready with QR payment! (Link)

Factory Coffee - BKK - Get ready to queue for this popular spot, but their special drinks like "Moscow" and "Blood" make it worth the wait. Great atmosphere and they sell beans and equipment too. Pro tip: visit outside lunch hours to avoid the longest queues! (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

Leelabar - A rooftop bar that won't break the bank! Perfect for sunset watching with a cold beer in hand. Once night falls, the mood lighting kicks in and creates a super chill vibe. Don't skip the lemon chicken - it's surprisingly good for a bar! (Link)

Axis & Spin Rooftop Restaurant & Bar (38th floor) - Perched on the 38th floor, this place serves up more than just views. Their seafood game is strong - try the oysters with their special sauce. It's fancy enough for date night but won't make you feel stuffy. (Link)

👫 Activities

Zero Latency Thailand - Want to try free-roam VR? This is your spot! The play area is huge enough for 8 people, and the visuals are crystal clear. Glasses-wearers, no worries - the headsets fit right over them. Try the Far Cry experience for some chaotic fun with friends! (Link)

💎 Hidden Gems

Bueng Nong Bon Sports Center - This massive green space offers free equipment rental for members - we're talking kayaks, SUP boards, windsurfing gear, and bikes. There's also swimming, basketball, and a gym. Perfect for escaping the city chaos and getting active! (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

February 24th I 18:00 - 19:00 I Walk in Lumpini (Link)

February 26th I 20:00 I Meetup new friend ( Jazz music ) (Private event )🎉 (Link)

February 27th I 18:00 - 20:00 I GPW Cocktails & Conversations: Ladies’ Networking Mixer (Link)

February 27th I 20:00 - 22:00 I Meetup new friends (beer pong night )Private events✅ (Link)

February 28th I 19:00 - 23:00 I Young IT Professionals in Bangkok Social (Link)

February 28th I 19:00 - 23:00 I Data Science & Analytics meetup and chat Bangkok (Link)

February 28th I 20:00 - 23:00 I Meetup new friends in Bangkok (Link)

March 1st I 18:00 - 22:00 I Game Night - Simple Games (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

February 22nd to February 26th I 10:00 - 18:00 I The 71st Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair @QSNCC - Hall 1-8 (Link)

February 26th to February 27th I Solar & Storage Live Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH98 (Link)

February 26th to February 27th I 8:30 - 17:30 I The Roads & Traffic Expo Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH98 (Link)

February 26th to February 27th I 8:30 - 17:30 I EVCharge Live Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH98 (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Nora’s Story

Nora is a classically trained pianist who runs music therapy workshops in Bangkok’s hospitals and community centers. She incorporates Thai instruments like the khim into healing sessions. Her zen place is a quiet corner at the Museum of Floral Culture, where she composes pieces inspired by Thai flora. She recalls working with a stroke patient who found new joy through simple harmonies. “Music here transcends therapy - it’s a universal connector,” she says.

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Did you know that Bangkok holds the Guinness World Record for having the longest city name in the world?

Imagine introducing yourself with a name that takes a full minute to say! That's exactly what Bangkok could do, as it holds the Guinness World Record for the longest city name in the world. While we all know it as Bangkok, its ceremonial name is a whopping 168 letters long: Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit, this impressive title reveals the essence of the Thai capital’s cultural, spiritual, and historical significance.

In Thai script, the full name is: กรุงเทพมหานคร อมรรัตนโกสินทร์ มหินทราอยุธยา มหาดิลกภพ นพรัตน์ราชธานีบุรีรมย์ อุดมราชนิเวศน์มหาสถาน อมรพิมานอวตารสถิต สักกะทัตติยวิษณุกรรมประสิทธิ์.

This tongue-twister of a name isn't just random - it's actually a poetic description meaning "City of Angels, Great City” King Rama I created this epic name in 1782 when Bangkok became the capital, basing it on his aspirations for the city to be a divine metropolis that is secure, prosperous, and blessed.

Why is it Called “Bangkok”?

“Bangkok” is the globally recognized name. This shorter version came from the older town’s name, Bang Makok, referring to a place of olive trees. locals usually say "Krung Thep," the full name is saved for special occasions

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❤️ Simeon & Nat

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