Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• ONE Bangkok is Officially Open

• Extra collagen at the Bone Broth Cafe

• The Ultimate Mookata experience at Tap Yad

• Halloween Movie Marathon: Thai Horror Movies you must watch!

• Top 5 most famous ghosts in Thailand

• And more…

Fun Fact

Bangkok’s Famous "Ghost Tower"

Did you know Bangkok has its very own “Ghost Tower”? The Sathorn Unique Tower was once meant to be a luxury condominium, but the 1997/1998 financial crisis left it unfinished. Now, it’s a spooky, abandoned skyscraper that urban explorers and ghost hunters love to visit. With its eerie vibe and haunting stories, it's become a legendary spot in the city—perfect for those who like a good scare!

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = A) Koh Tao

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!

Which region in Thailand is known for its spicy cuisine?

A) Southern Thailand

B) Northeastern Thailand

C) Central Thailand

D) Northern Thailand

News 📰

ONE Bangkok is Officially Open - (Link)

Royal Barge Procession graces Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River (Link)

Bangkok listed among National Geographic’s Best of the World (Link)

Tourism tax to start with air travel (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

Genius Bar BKK - Bone Broth Cafe - This isn't your average wellness cafe - Genius Bar has mastered the art of proper bone broth in Bangkok. Their signature beef broth is rich and hearty, served in generous portions that could easily replace a meal. The intimate space offers only six tables, but the attentive English-speaking staff makes every visit worthwhile with their genuine knowledge about nutrition and wellness. Pro tip: Order via LINE or Grab during lunch rush (12-2pm), and opt for the collagen add-on for an extra boost. (Link)

Lemon Farm - Think of Lemon Farm as Bangkok's answer to Whole Foods, but with a local twist. The Thonglor branch stands out with its impressive selection of organic produce, delivered fresh twice weekly (Tuesday/Friday). Their house-brand coconut yogurt has become a cult favorite among health-conscious expats, and the English labels make shopping a breeze. Skip the pre-made salads and hit the store on Tuesday mornings for the best organic selection. Their app offers member benefits that make sense for regular shoppers. (Link)

CYL Scalp Salon Bangkok - For expats battling Bangkok's notorious water quality and humidity hair woes, CYL Scalp Salon has become a trusted sanctuary for serious hair care. Their specialized treatments include the thorough 7-step Hybrid Detox Scalp, intensive 11-step Signature Advance Detox Scalp, targeted hair loss solutions, and various repair treatments, including Bond and Protein therapy. Book via Instagram DM, and while weekend appointments are booked out weeks in advance, midweek slots are easier to secure. Pro tip: first-timers should start with the Hybrid Detox, and their take-home products are specifically formulated for Bangkok's environment. (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

Baan Dalaa by Angkana 🇹🇭 - This is where traditional Thai cuisine meets contemporary elegance in a stunning heritage setting. The restaurant charms with its thoughtfully restored interior featuring vintage Thai furniture and warm ambient lighting, creating an intimate dining atmosphere. Their menu elevates classic Thai dishes with refined presentation - the Massaman Curry has achieved legendary status among expats for good reason. At the same time, their dessert selection shines with modern interpretations of Thai sweets. While dinner demands reservations 2-3 days ahead, their lunch service offers the same elegant experience with more flexibility. Pro tip: request a table in the main room to enjoy the ambiance, and don't skip their dessert course - it's become as much of a draw as their main dishes. (Link)

Chunky Burger 🇺🇸 - Finally, a proper American burger in Bangkok that delivers on its promises. Their hefty patties are cooked to order and served on fresh-baked buns that make all the difference. The casual vibe makes it perfect for family outings or casual meetups. Pro tip: Order via LINE or Grab for pickup to skip the notorious queues, and don't be shy about asking for extra sauce - they're surprisingly generous. (Link)

Kuro House BKK 🇯🇵 - Kuro House delivers Japanese cuisine that would make Tokyo proud without the usual pretense. Located in a sleek modern space, they offer a large variety of high-quality Wagyu beef, Pork, seafood, noodle, and rice dishes for affordable prices. The lunch crowd from nearby offices can make 12-2pm hectic, but go after 2pm and you'll have the place to yourself. This place is perfect for a unique Japanese grill experience. (Link)

☕ Cafes

Ayatana Charoenkrung - brings a refined coffee culture to Old Bangkok, blending artful decor with a cozy, homey vibe perfect for remote work or quiet meetings. The café offers a wide selection of excellent coffee and desserts to suit all tastes. Beyond the delicious treats, Ayatana often hosts art exhibits that showcase local talent and tell heartfelt stories, creating a space where creativity and comfort meet. The warm, welcoming staff adds to the experience, making every visit feel special and inviting. (Link)

Dolcetto Italian Cafe Bangkok - Authenticity is the name of the game at Dolcetto, where the Italian owner brings real Roman cafe culture to Bangkok. Their pastries are made fresh daily, and the coffee menu features proper Italian preparations rarely found elsewhere in the city. The intimate space fills quickly during weekend brunch hours, but weekday afternoons offer a peaceful retreat. (Link)

Scene Bangkok Patisserie & Brasserie - has mastered the art of combining a serious patisserie with a comfortable all-day dining spot. Their French pastry chef creates visual masterpieces that taste as good as they look, while the bright, airy space makes it perfect for everything from business meetings to casual catchups. The morning croissant batch sells out quickly, so early birds get the best selection. (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

TEP BAR - Cultural Bar of Thailand - In a city full of themed bars, hidden in an old shophouse, the TEP Bar stands out by offering a genuine cultural drinking experience. Traditional Thai spirits get a modern twist in their creative cocktails, while live traditional music creates an atmosphere that's both authentic and accessible. Reservations are essential on weekends when they host special performances. (Link)

Birdhouse Cafe & Bar - This day-to-night venue perfectly captures Bangkok's fluid social scene. By day, it's a productive co-working space with excellent coffee and breakfast menus; by night, it transforms into a vibrant bar with craft beers, cocktails, and an international crowd. They have good music and a genuinely friendly staff. The outdoor area is charming during the evening. (Link)

Tap Yard - offers a fantastic experience, especially with their Thai-style Mookata (grilled pork). The juicy, flavorful pork and various side dishes make the meal even more enjoyable. As a bonus, Tap Yard is pet-friendly, so you can bring your pup along for the fun! The casual vibe and outdoor space make it a great spot for relaxing with friends. The selection of draft beers, wines, cocktails, and spirits adds to the laid-back atmosphere. We highly recommend it to anyone who loves good food, drinks, and a welcoming, dog-friendly vibe! (Link)

👫 Activities

Halloween Movie Marathon - Top 5 Thai Horror Movies:

• Shutter (2004) – A terrifying tale of a photographer haunted by a mysterious figure in his photos. (Link)

• Laddaland (2011) – A family moves into a new house, only to face unsettling and tragic events. (Link)

• 4bia (2008) – An anthology of four spine-chilling stories from different horror genres. (Link)

• The Medium (2021) – A shamanic possession film blending Thai and Korean horror elements. (Link)

• Pee Mak (2013) – A horror-comedy based on the famous Mae Nak ghost legend. (Link)

💎 Hidden Gems

Banthat Thong Road - Street food paradise - is a vibrant area in Bangkok that offers a blend of local culture and modern amenities. This road is known for its diverse food scene, featuring street vendors and restaurants that serve authentic Thai cuisine, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The area is also characterized by its proximity to various attractions, including temples and markets, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience. Additionally, Banthat Thong Road serves as a convenient hub for transportation, connecting to other parts of the city. Overall, it encapsulates the dynamic spirit of Bangkok, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the city. (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

October 29th I 19:00 - 23:00 I Board games: Halloween & Social (Link)

October 31st to November 2nd I Burning City: The Biggest Halloween Party (Link)

October 31st I 18:45 - 20:45 I Bangkok Ghost Story Walking Tour (Link)

November 1st I 18:00 - Late I Radio Gaga Presents Halloween Cruise by Bangkokisland (Link)

November 2nd I 19:00 - 21:00 I Halloween Fast Friending & After-Party! Meet new friends! (18-35/10 FREE Drink) (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

September 27th to November 3rd I Italthai Portrait Prize 2024 @ River City Bangkok (Link)

October 22nd to November 3rd I The 12th Asia Plus Art Exhibition @ BACC (Link)

October 24th to 25th February I Bangkok Art Biennale 2024 - Nurture Gaia @ BACC (Link)

October 30th to November 1st I 10:00 - 18:30 I Secutech Thailand 2024 @ BITEC - Hall 103 (Link)

October 30th to November 1st I 10:00 - 18:30 I Building and Architect Thailand 2024 @ BITEC - Hall 103 (Link)

October 30th to November 1st I 10:00 - 18:00 I Pet Fair South East Asia 2024 @ BITEC - EH 98 - 100 (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Sophia’s Story

Sophia, a freelance writer from Australia, had always dreamt of living in a bustling Asian metropolis. After spending a few months backpacking through Southeast Asia, she decided to make Bangkok her home. The city’s vibrant culture, affordable lifestyle, and endless supply of stories to tell drew her in.

Finding an apartment was the easy part for Sophia; she instantly fell in love with a studio in the heart of Sathorn. But adjusting to the constant noise and fast-paced lifestyle took time. To unwind, she started visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market to escape the busy weekdays and immerse herself in Bangkok’s creative side.

Sophia’s favorite moment in Bangkok was the Loy Krathong festival, where she floated a handmade flower lantern down the Chao Phraya River. Watching the city lights reflect on the water and feeling a sense of unity with the locals around her was a magical experience. Her advice for fellow expats is to be open to new experiences and not shy away from making connections with locals, as they often have the best stories and hidden gems to share.

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Top 5 most famous ghosts in Thailand

Thailand’s ghost folklore is fascinating, eerie, and even a little fun! Here are some of the most popular spirits you might encounter (hopefully just in stories!).

Phi Krasue

Picture this: a floating head with dangling organs! Yep, that’s Krasue. She glows at night, searching for food—blood or raw meat. Creepy, right?

Mae Nak

Ever heard of a ghost that stayed out of pure love? Mae Nak died during childbirth but stayed behind to haunt her husband. It's a tale of tragic romance gone spooky.

Phi Pret

These guys are super tall and gaunt with tiny mouths. They’re stuck in a never-ending hunger because of their misdeeds in life. Moral of the story? Don’t misbehave!

Phi Pop 

Pop is a malevolent spirit known for possessing individuals, particularly women. Unlike other spirits, Pop can cause its victim to fall seriously ill, often believed to be due to the spirit devouring the internal organs. Rituals are performed to exorcise the spirit and banish it from the body. The story of the Pop ghost is especially prominent in rural areas, where it is taken very seriously in traditional communities.

Phi Ta Khon

Okay, this one’s more friendly! Celebrated in festivals, these playful spirits protect the village from evil. Party with a purpose, anyone?

These ghosts add a unique supernatural twist to Thai culture. Whether you're looking for chills or just some cool folklore, Thailand’s ghost stories are always a good time.

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❤️ Simeon & Nat

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