Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• International Women’s Day 2025 events to celebrate in Bangkok

• Unforgettable Thai dining experience at RONGROS

• Hidden Cafe in a haunted abandoned school

• Thailand's King Vajiralongkorn: The World's Richest Monarch

• And more…

Fun Fact

Siamese Cat Homeland

Siamese cats originated in Thailand (formerly Siam), where they were considered sacred and lived in temples. They were so valued that only royalty and monks were allowed to own them.

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = B) 4

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!

In traditional Thai culture, which part of the body is considered most sacred?

A) Hands

B) Feet

C) Heart

D) Head

News 📰

International Women’s Day 2025 events to celebrate in Bangkok (Link)

Your horoscope for Feb 28 - Mar 6 (Link)

Baht expected to dip to 35 by mid-year (Link)

Thousands in limbo on Thai-Myanmar border after scam centre crackdown (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

Salada Organic Kitchen - is a breath of fresh air for health-conscious foodies! With over 100 menu items crafted from farm-fresh organic veggies, they prove healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. The clean, welcoming atmosphere and quick service make it perfect for a guilt-free meal that actually tastes amazing. Their extensive plant-based options will make veggie lovers rejoice, and even skeptics might find themselves converted to the organic lifestyle after one visit! (Link)

Pordee Health Shop-Pharmacy - is your one-stop destination for all things organic and medicinal in Thailand. It's practically a treasure trove for visitors looking to stuff their suitcases with authentic Thai souvenirs before heading home. The English-speaking pharmacist offers stellar advice, making it easy to navigate their impressive selection of local goods. From honey and tiger balms to coconut products and curry pastes, you'll find yourself making multiple trips just to grab everything on your wishlist! (Link)

BPC fitness gym (Benhanced Performance Center) - isn't just a gym—it's fitness paradise spread across multiple floors! This place has seriously thought of everything: pristine equipment, a dedicated Muay Thai training area, CrossFit space, and even a perfectly lit posing room for those gym selfies (we all take them!). The energetic music keeps you pumped while friendly staff ensure you're having a great workout. Just remember to be a good gym citizen by re-racking your weights, and you'll fit right into this fitness community! (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

RONGROS - offers an unforgettable Thai dining experience with the spectacular Wat Arun Temple as your backdrop! The authentic flavors will dance on your taste buds while you enjoy the cozy, stylish atmosphere. Pro tip: make reservations at least a month in advance (yes, it's that popular!) and aim to arrive around 5pm when they open or you might miss out. For the ultimate experience, time your meal with sunset to enjoy amazing temple views while savoring their delicious food. The portions are generous enough to share, so bring friends and sample several dishes! (Link)

Poulet Thailand @CentralWorld - is a delightful spot for Western food cravings that consistently delivers deliciousness! Their French-style roast chicken with black pepper sauce is absolutely divine, and their pasta dishes—from tiger prawn spaghetti to miso fettuccine—will have you scraping your plate clean. Don't skip their creamy mushroom soup or refreshing signature drinks like the Lady Jasmine or cucumber kiwi fizz. The attentive staff and pleasant ambiance make this a perfect break from shopping at CentralWorld! (Link)

Punjab Grill - transports you straight to India without leaving Bangkok! The moment you step in, you're greeted by staff in traditional Indian attire, authentic decor, and even live singing that sets the perfect mood. Their mixed tandoori is a showstopper, and the curry selection paired with various types of naan bread is simply heavenly. For the full experience, go for their set menu to sample a variety of their stellar dishes. Save room for dessert—the malai is a sweet ending to an unforgettable meal! (Link)

☕ Cafes

Home Cafe Tha Tian - is much more than just a coffee spot—it's a hidden culinary gem! What looks like a simple cafe surprisingly serves some of the most authentic Thai food you'll find, with flavors that taste homemade in the best possible way. Their Pineapple Fried Rice balances sweet and savory perfectly, while the Tom Yum Goong delivers that signature Thai tang with just the right spice kick. Don't miss their mango sticky rice for dessert—it's heavenly! This accidental find might just become your intentional favorite. (Link)

Little Sunshine Cafe - lives up to its cheerful name with coffee and food made with obvious love and care! A decade-long favorite for locals and travelers alike, this cozy spot serves dishes made with locally sourced ingredients overseen by the owner, who happens to be a dietitian. Their creamy salmon pasta has a cult following, while the melt-in-your-mouth kakuni pork belly rice and truffle-infused dishes will have you planning your next visit before you've finished your meal. The Brussels sprouts side dish is an unexpected star, and their ochazuke salmon rice is the hangover cure you didn't know you needed! (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

Blue Sky Rooftop Restaurant & Bar at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok - offers a luxurious rooftop experience without the usual Bangkok crowds! Perched atop the Centara Grand at Central Ladprao, this beautiful modern space provides an intimate setting with delicious food at reasonable prices. The attentive staff goes above and beyond—they'll even help capture perfect photos of your night out! The privacy factor makes this an excellent choice for special occasions or romantic evenings when you want to enjoy Bangkok's heights without jostling for space with other tourists.  (Link)

Starlight Rooftop Bar - is the perfect perch for drinking in Bangkok's dazzling cityscape! Located on Surawong Road, this chic yet relaxed spot transforms from a stunning sunset-watching location to a magical nighttime haven as the city lights begin to twinkle below. The cozy atmosphere and great drink selection make it ideal for everything from casual friendly gatherings to romantic date nights. When you want that quintessential Bangkok rooftop experience without breaking the bank, Starlight delivers both on views and vibes! (Link)

👫 Activities

Easykart.net โกคาร์ท Go-Karting (Bangkok, RCA Plaza) - brings your speed demon dreams to life in a well-run indoor track perfect for escaping Bangkok's unpredictable weather! Safety comes first with freshly sanitized helmets and hair nets for each racer, while the helpful staff ensures everyone knows exactly what to do. The track might not be massive, but the fair prices and family-friendly approach (they even have slower karts for kids to join the fun!) make this an exhilarating activity for racers of all ages. Gather your friends for some friendly competition or bring the whole family for high-octane memories! (Link)

💎 Hidden Gems

Old School 88 Cafe - is the definition of unique—a coffee shop set in what looks like a haunted abandoned school! This Instagram-worthy spot serves great coffee with a side of spooky vibes that'll have you capturing cool photos at every turn. Beyond just caffeine, it's also an art space with contemporary exhibitions and even a cactus garden to explore! The unusual setting creates an atmosphere you won't find anywhere else in Bangkok, making it perfect for those looking to venture beyond typical tourist spots. Spend an afternoon here soaking in the creative energy with a delicious brew in hand! (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

March 4th I 13:00 - 16:00 I Launch Your Own Successful AI App | AI Startup | Workshop 2024 (Link)

March 4th I 19:15 - 21:15 I Exchange THAI - ENGLISH together! (Link)

March 5th I 20:00 - 23:00 I Digital nomad event ( private event ) every Wednesday (Link)

March 6th I 19:00 - 21:00 I Meet up for dinner 🥰 Latin American food (Link)

March 6th I 19:30 - 21:30 I Chit Chat and Chill @ Sarnies Carito's (Link)

March 7th I 19:00 - 23:00 I Meet People Social Bangkok | Cultural International Party (Link)

March 8th I 5:30 - 8:30 I MetroMeetups Bangkok 🇹🇭 - Solo Traveler Meetup (Saturday 5:30PM) (Link)

March 8th I 6:30 - 8:30 I International Women’s Day Run 2025 – Together, We Go Far! (Link)

March 8th I 14:00 - 16:00 I Nonviolent Communication (Link)

March 8th I 18:30 - 22:00 I Let's celebrate International Women's Day! (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

March 6th to March 8th I 6-7 March 2025 10:00 – 18:00, 8 March 2025 10:00 – 17:00 I Intelligent Asia Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH102 - 103 (Link)

March 6th to March 9th I 10:30 - 21:00 I IMI Show 2025 @BITEC - EH100 (Link)

March 6th to March 9th I 10:00 - 21:00 I COMMART UNLOCK @BITEC - EH98 - 99 (Link)

March 6th to March 9th I 10:00 - 21:00 I Thai Teaw Thai #73 @QSNCC- Exhibition Hall 5-6, Level LG (Link)

March 6th to March 9th I 10:00 - 21:00 I Thai Teaw Nok @QSNCC- Exhibition Hall 5-6, Level LG (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Luigi’s Story

Inspired by Muay Thai’s tradition and discipline, Luigi relocated to Bangkok to train at a legendary gym. Early mornings find him running along the Chao Phraya River, while evenings are filled with intense sparring. He cherishes post-training meals of grilled pork skewers and sticky rice. “Fighting is not just brute force - Thai culture taught me about respect, ritual, and patience,” he emphasizes. “Live like a local, and the city will embrace you back.”

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Thailand's King Vajiralongkorn: The World's Richest Monarch

King Maha Vajiralongkorn, officially known as King Rama X, holds the distinction of being the world's richest monarch, surpassing even the wealth of Britain's King Charles. After ascending to the throne in October 2016 following the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej (who ruled Thailand for an impressive 70 years), Vajiralongkorn was officially crowned in May 2019.

Extraordinary Wealth

The Thai king's net worth is estimated at a staggering $43 billion, derived from centuries of accumulated royal wealth. His fortune primarily comes from:

• Extensive real estate holdings: Over 6,560 hectares (65.6 square kilometers) of prime land throughout Thailand, with more than 40,000 rental agreements with developers

• Bangkok properties alone valued at over $30 billion

• Major business stakes: 23% ownership in Siam Commercial Bank and 33% in Siam Cement Group, together worth approximately $9 billion

• Impressive collection of 38 aircraft, 300 luxury vehicles, more than 50 boats, and numerous diamonds and gemstones

Royal Background

Born on July 28, 1952, in Bangkok, Vajiralongkorn—whose name means "adorned with jewels or thunderbolts"—was the only son among four siblings. He was declared crown prince in 1972 after his eldest sister gave up her claim to the throne.

His education took him from Thailand to prestigious institutions in Britain and Australia, including the Royal Military College Duntroon. In 1976, he graduated with a bachelor's degree in military studies from the University of New South Wales before returning to Thailand to serve as an officer in the Royal Thai Army.

Personal Interests

The king is known for his diverse interests:

• A qualified helicopter and fighter pilot

• Enthusiast of sports cars

• Owner of a Boeing 737 that he personally flies

• Avid cyclist who once closed Bangkok streets for a 39-kilometer cycling event

• Dog lover who famously appointed his pet poodle Foo Foo as an air chief marshal (the dog received a four-day funeral with full Buddhist rites when it died in 2016)

Complex Personal Life

King Vajiralongkorn's romantic relationships have often made headlines:

1. Soamsawali Kitiyakara: His first cousin and first wife (married 1977, divorced 1991)

2. Yuvadhida Polpraserth: Initially his mistress, then second wife (married 1994, divorced 1996) — she later moved to the UK with their five children, prompting the king to bring their daughter back to Thailand and strip his former wife and four sons of their royal titles

3. Srirasmi Suwadee: Third wife (married 2001, divorced 2014)

4. Suthida Tidjai: Current wife (married 2019)

In total, the king has seven children—three daughters and five sons.

Royal Lifestyle

Known for his somewhat eccentric lifestyle, King Vajiralongkorn maintains a second home in Germany where he reportedly spends much of his time. His coronation ceremonies in 2019 were elaborate affairs spanning three days and costing approximately $31 million.

Despite his controversial reputation, the king continues the royal tradition of addressing the Thai people on special occasions, as he did recently during his 72nd birthday celebrations and in a New Year's message where he encouraged unity and resilience among his subjects.

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❤️ Simeon & Nat

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