How we got lost in Bangkok's Chinatown and why you should go. Including my 4 top picks of things to do there.

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How we got lost.

I had been to Chinatown before with friends but this time it was different.  
From the moment we got off the bus we were lost. 
 I thought I could navigate from memory how to get to Sam paeng Lane and Yeowarat Area, but of course, I was totally wrong. 
We ended up walking up and down in alleyways and side streets. Although, the locals tried to direct us in the right way it was not much help. I think the heat  just got to us.  It took us a rather long time to finally get to the Yeowarat Area.  
Fresh Durian for sale
So we have learned the hard way that in busy parts of the city planning is key.
But not everything was lost.
We did eventually get there.
 Needles to say we suffered a little  from“ heat stroke", fatigue and hunger.
Lucky for us there were plenty of delicious street food to pick and choose from.

 Why you should go.
For everyone with a sense of Adventure, a day  in Chinatown with its many markets and street food is a must.
The sight and sounds of Chinatown are an assault on your senses and an experience you will never forget.
The everyday street scenes and a mix of Thai and Chinese Cultures are fascinating.

Just be prepared for the heat and wear your most comfortable shoes. 


TUK TUK
China Gate

Here is my list of things you should do in Chinatown. 

1. Sam paeng lane
It is a long narrow street with many stalls selling a jumble of goods.   
It is definitely a must for any serious shopper and anyone who like to spend hours looking for stuff and bargains. You can get a special discount if you buy a lot of the same thing. 
There are also plenty of other shops in the surrounding alleys and you should set aside at least more than an hour.  
 In the middle of all the madness, you can sit down in a cramped nook eating noodle soup.
 One could say that at Sam paeng Lane you have “permission” to get lost.
Loved the old Vespa scooters around Chinatown


2. Yaowarat Night Market
Yoawarat is Bangkok’s greatest street food location.
Here you can sample your way through all there is to offer. It’s best to arrive there very  hungry so you can enjoy all the delicious food on offer

3. China Gate
A Ceremonial gate is part of Chinese Culture throughout the world. 
The China gate is very impressive. 
It was built in 1999 and it signifies the loyalty of the Chinese community to the King of Thailand.
 China Gate makes a great backdrop for a photo.

4. Wat Chakawat Ratchawat 
An interesting and unusual place to visit. Inside the temple, there is a pond where three crocodiles live.
Legend has it that the crocodiles kept eating young monks so they were trapped and housed here. 
Not for the faint-hearten I'd say, but still worth a visit.

         
The last word. 
We enjoyed getting lost in Chinatown and  will definitely be back with a plan next time.


M

Crazy Traffic







Seafood at Yeowarat


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