Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Event to raise awareness of mental health to be held in October

• Looking for a fun twist on golf in Bangkok?

• A blast from the past at Raze Arcade

• Exploring Thailand’s Diverse Geography

• And more…

Fun Fact

Thais have a playful belief: Do Not Sing In The Kitchen Or You Will Get An Old Husband.

The real reason behind this superstition? It’s a clever tactic used by elder Thais to keep young cooks focused in the kitchen. With sharp knives and hot stoves around, singing can be a dangerous distraction, so this playful warning encourages concentration where it’s needed most.

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = B) Andaman Sea

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!

What is the traditional Thai greeting called?

A) Wai

B) Namaste

C) Kob Khun

D) Hi Kub/Kha

News 📰

Govt ponders tax reform plan to counter rising budget deficit (Link)

Event to raise awareness of mental health to be held in October (Link)

Regional groups to help tackle floods (Link)

Govt upgrades regs on super yacht visits (Link)

Casino plan gains momentum (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

Vistro-Vegan Cafe & Restaurant - For all the plant-based food lovers out there, Vistro is a must-visit gem in Bangkok’s vibrant vegan scene. This cozy café and restaurant is a haven for those looking to indulge in creative, delicious vegan cuisine without compromising on flavor or presentation. From hearty comfort food to beautifully plated dishes, everything here is crafted with care and a whole lot of love. Whether you're a dedicated vegan or just curious to try something new, Vistro’s menu is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds! (Link)

DJ Poom Menu - If you’re looking for healthy, delicious, and fuss-free meals in Bangkok, DJ Poom Menu is what you are looking for. This innovative meal delivery service offers a variety of nutritious options that cater to every taste and dietary preference. Everything is designed to make healthy eating easy and enjoyable, from wholesome salads to protein-packed dishes and even guilt-free desserts. Perfect for busy professionals or anyone who wants to eat well without the hassle. Clean eating has never been so convenient—or tasty! (Link)

Topgolf Megacity - Looking for a fun twist on golf in Bangkok? Head to Topgolf Megacity, where golf meets entertainment in the most epic way! It’s not just about the swings here—whether you’re a pro or a complete beginner, everyone’s welcome to enjoy a good time. With high-tech driving ranges, delicious food and drinks, and a lively atmosphere, it’s perfect for a day out with friends or a unique date night. Swing, sip, and snack your way through a top-notch experience that’s anything but par for the course! (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

Charmgang 🇹🇭 - If you’re craving bold and flavorful Thai cuisine with a twist, this is the place to be. This modern Thai eatery reimagines traditional dishes with creativity and flair. From their vibrant curries to innovative small plates, each dish is a delightful mix of familiar and new. The intimate setting and artful presentation make it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special night out. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Charmgang promises a dining experience that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious! (Link)

ISAO 🇯🇵 - For a sushi experience that’s truly a cut above, head to Isao. This cozy spot is a favorite among locals and expats alike, known for its creative, fresh, and downright delicious sushi rolls. From their famous caterpillar to innovative sashimi dishes, each bite here is an adventure for your taste buds. The warm, intimate atmosphere makes it perfect for a casual lunch or a special dinner date. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or just love great food, Isao is a must-visit on Bangkok’s dining scene! (Link)

Via Emilia Italian Restaurant 🇮🇹 - For an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Bangkok, look no further than Via Emilia. This charming restaurant brings the flavors of Emilia-Romagna to the city, serving homemade pasta, rich sauces, pizza, and traditional dishes that transport you straight to the Italian countryside. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed dinner with friends or a romantic evening with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and a menu full of classic favorites. Buon appetito! (Link)

☕ Cafes

Wild Duck Cafe BKK - If you’re looking for a cozy escape in Bangkok, Wild Duck Café is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. This cafe is in a lush, green setting and serves up a mix of comfort food and delicious drinks in a laid-back atmosphere. Its rustic decor and serene vibes make it the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon or a catch-up with friends. Whether you're there for a hearty meal or just a cup of coffee, Wild Duck Café makes you feel right at home. (Link)

DAY by Kay's - Nestled in Sukhumvit 49, DAY by Kay’s is a sunlit sanctuary that effortlessly blends minimalist vibes with cozy charm. Perfect for a leisurely brunch or a midday coffee break, this spot serves up a delightful array of dishes—from vibrant smoothie bowls to decadent pastries—all beautifully presented. The airy, plant-filled space invites you to linger, whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying some solo time with a good book. It’s the place that makes every day feel a little bit brighter. (Link)

After the Rain Coffee and Gallery - This is the perfect place for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. It is set in a serene garden surrounded by lush greenery and along a small canal where visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride through the tranquil waters. This café offers a unique blend of experience and nature. Sip on their signature coffee or indulge in a slice of homemade cake while soaking in the environment. It’s a refreshing retreat that feels worlds away from the city. (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

Above Eleven - For a night out with a view, head to Above Eleven, Bangkok’s sky-high spot for Peruvian-Japanese fusion. On top of the Fraser Suites, this rooftop bar offers sweeping city views that set the scene for a memorable evening. Sip on inventive cocktails while enjoying dishes like ceviche and sushi, all in a chic, garden-inspired setting that feels like a secret urban oasis. Whether you’re there for a romantic date or a fun night with friends, Above Eleven is the place to elevate your Bangkok experience! (Link)

The Iron Fairies Music Bar Bangkok - Step into a whimsical world at The Iron Fairies, a music bar like no other in Bangkok. With its magical-inspired decor, this enchanting spot is filled with dimly lit nooks, spiral staircases, and shelves lined with little iron fairies. Live jazz and soulful tunes fill the air as you sip on creative cocktails, making it the perfect place to unwind and get lost in the atmosphere. Whether you're here for the music, the drinks, or just the unique vibe, The Iron Fairies is a spellbinding experience that’s not to be missed. (Link)

Abandoned Mansion (Bar/ Restaurant) Bangkok live music Sukhumvit - Step into the mysterious allure of the Abandoned Mansion. They bring a unique blend of history, atmosphere, and live music to Bangkok’s bar scene. This spot is in a beautifully restored vintage mansion that combines old-world charm with modern flair. Enjoy craft cocktails and a diverse menu while soaking in the eclectic decor and vibrant live performances. (Link)

👫 Activities

Raze Arcade - Get ready for a blast from the past at Raze Arcade, Bangkok’s ultimate retro gaming hotspot! This nostalgic gem is packed with vintage arcade games, neon lights, and a laid-back vibe that’ll transport you straight back to the ‘80s and ‘90s. Challenge your friends to classics like Street Fighter or relive the glory days with pinball machines and more. With craft beers, creative cocktails, and a fun crowd, Raze Arcade is the perfect spot for gamers and nostalgia lovers to hang out, play, and let loose! (Link)

Curve Studio - Looking to bring a little green into your urban life? Head to Curve Studio for their hands-on Terrarium Workshop! This cozy, creative space offers a fun escape where you can design your very own miniature garden in a glass jar. Perfect for plant lovers and those looking to try something new, the workshop guides you through each step—from choosing the right plants to arranging them into a stunning little ecosystem. It’s a relaxing and rewarding way to spend an afternoon, leaving you with a unique piece of nature to brighten up your home. (Link)

Stella Art Cafe - Nestled in the heart of Bangkok, Stella Art Café is where creativity meets coffee culture. This charming spot is more than just a place to sip on a handcrafted latte or enjoy a delicious pastry. Here, you can dive into the world of Thai craftsmanship by creating your very own Bencharong ceramic bowl, a traditional Thai pottery style known for its intricate designs and vibrant colors. They offer a unique blend of art and relaxation in a cozy, inspiring setting. (Link)

💎 Hidden Gems

32 Bar - is not only a haven for cocktail lovers but also a hidden treasure for chocolate enthusiasts. A vintage car parked outside sets the scene for this quirky spot, where the door opens into an intimate, industrial café-bar. Inside, the friendly crew lets you sample a range of exquisite chocolates before you choose your personalized drink, mixed with the precision of a cocktail. Seating is limited, and it’s cash only, but the unique experience—and the delicious chocolate drinks—are well worth the wait! (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

September 24th I 19:00 - 21:00 I Dinner and Doggie Social at CALM (Link)

September 26th I 18:30 - 21:30 I Pizza & Pints | BREW (Link)

September 28th I 15:00 - 22:00 I CANDY – Rooftop Poolparty “Beats and Bikinis” *Free Ticket for Group Members (Link)

September 28th I 9:30 - 11:30 I Discover Talat Phlu neighbourhood (Link)

September 29th I 7:30 - 9:00 I [Lumphini park] Let's increase strength in the park (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

September 26th to September 27th I 9:00 - 17:00 I Smart Industrial Safety & Technology for Advanced Maintenance @ BITEC Grand Hall 201 - 203 (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Isalie’s Story

Isalie’s journey to Thailand began with a desire for change and adventure. Back in the south of France, she balanced a busy job at a cosmetics company, volunteered in a health association and weekends spent with her boyfriend and friends. Life was good, but she felt the need for something more. So, she took the leap and moved to Bangkok, where she quickly discovered her favorite spots like Siva Yoga Studio, Lumphini Park, and Jodd Fairs Night Market.

One of her most memorable experiences was celebrating Songkran for the first time. The sheer joy and energy of the water festival, with people of all ages joining in the fun, left a lasting impression.

Isalie learned a few things after moving:

• Never leave home without an umbrella during the rainy season.

• Prepare to seriously miss French cheese and baguettes.

• Get ready to fall in love with mango sticky rice—it’s a game-changer!

Life in Thailand, she discovered, is full of sweetness, color, and unexpected delights at every corner.

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Exploring Thailand’s Diverse Geography

Thailand is a country that truly has it all, offering a stunning mix of landscapes, from lush mountains to tropical beaches, each region bringing its own unique charm. The country is divided into five main regions, each with its own distinctive geography, culture, and climate.

The North: A Mountainous Wonderland

The northern region of Thailand is a haven for nature enthusiasts. It features towering mountain ranges, such as the Doi Inthanon, the country’s highest peak, and the fertile valleys of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son. The terrain is crisscrossed with rivers, and the cooler climate, compared to the rest of the country, makes it ideal for trekking, visiting hill tribes, and exploring ancient temples and ruins that reflect the region’s rich Lanna history. The region is known for its lush forests, which are perfect for those looking to escape the city and connect with nature.

The Northeast: The Isaan Plateau

Isaan, or the northeastern region, is Thailand’s cultural heartland. Characterized by its vast plateau, it’s a place of endless rice paddies, traditional villages, and ancient Khmer ruins. The region is less mountainous, with gently rolling hills and flatlands, and it’s home to some of the country's most unique cultural festivals and cuisines, such as sticky rice and spicy papaya salad. The Mekong River, which forms a natural border with Laos, is a major geographical feature, providing stunning views and rich agricultural lands. It’s a region where ancient traditions thrive, and visitors can experience a more authentic side of Thailand.

Central Thailand: The Fertile Heartland

Central Thailand is the country’s economic and cultural hub, with Bangkok at its core. This region is dominated by the Chao Phraya River, which irrigates the fertile plains that produce much of Thailand’s rice. It’s a land of contrasts, where the bustling cityscape of Bangkok gives way to the serene temples of Ayutthaya and the rural charm of provinces like Nakhon Pathom and Lopburi. The flat terrain and extensive network of canals have made this area the historical heartland of the Thai Kingdoms. The region’s landscape also features low-lying plains, making it the agricultural powerhouse of Thailand.

The East: Coastal Beauty

The eastern region, stretching from the bustling industrial hub of Chonburi to the tranquil beaches of Rayong and Trat, offers a mix of coastal plains and mountainous terrain. Known for its stunning coastline along the Gulf of Thailand, the region is famous for its beautiful islands, such as Koh Samet and Koh Chang, which draw visitors looking for a more laid-back beach experience. The region also produces some of Thailand’s best fruits, like durians and mangosteens, making it a great destination for food lovers. Its geographical diversity includes the lush, forested hills of Chanthaburi and the vibrant marine life around its numerous islands.

The South: Tropical Paradise

The southern region is a tropical paradise, flanked by the Andaman Sea on the west and the Gulf of Thailand on the east. This narrow strip of land is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. The west coast, with destinations like Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands, is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The east coast, including Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, offers palm-fringed beaches. The region is also home to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, making it perfect for both beach lovers and adventure seekers. The southern tip borders Malaysia, adding a unique cultural blend to the region’s predominantly Thai-Muslim communities.

Whether you’re exploring the misty mountains of the north, the historic plains of the central region, the vibrant culture of Isaan, the tropical paradise of the south, or the stunning coastline of the east, Thailand’s diverse geography offers something for everyone. From bustling cities and ancient temples to secluded beaches and lush forests, there’s always something new to discover in this captivating country.

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