Are you looking for an easy #BKKdaytrip? For only 33 Baht, I visited two railway markets and then a riverside market where I did a boat tour for only 50 Baht. Intrigued? In this THREAD 🧵 I will give you the details and also how to download the free guide. #RailTourism

The journey starts at Wongwian Yai Railway Station. This is only a 12 minute walk from the Skytrain station of the same name. Or you can come by taxi. Make sure you arrive hungry as there’s lots of food options here. #Thailand

The best train to catch to Mahachai Station in Samut Sakhon is No. 4341 that departs at 7:40am. I arrived at Wongwian Yai at 7:00am which gave me plenty of time to find something to eat. The ticket is 10 Baht for 3rd Class.  You can only buy 20 minutes in advance.

The first part of the journey takes an hour. Get your camera ready as you enter Samut Sakhon as it passes through a market in front of the station. If you’re lucky, your train might come out briefly to change tracks and platforms, so you can get some good trackside photos.

You now have a choice to explore the nearby fish market before crossing the river or wait for the 9:28am train to arrive and the 9:35am to leave. If you do wait, you will need to quick walk to the pier. The train on the other side of the river leaves promptly at 10:10am.

From the train market, go back into the train station and walk to the far end where you will see the exit on your left. On the main road turn right and walk to the end. Turn left and you will see the pier. With luck you haven’t just missed a boat! Ticket is 3 baht.

As you cross the river to the other side, you will see a giant seated Buddha. That is next to Ban Laem Station where you will catch your next train. From the pier, turn right and walk for about 5 minutes. You will then see the Buddha on your right. The station is next door.

I recommend catching No. 4383 train that leaves at 10:10am. Don’t miss it as the next one isn’t until 1:30pm! The ticket to Maeklong Station in Samut Songkhram is only 10 baht. Wait on the platform where you see the door in the last photo. Make sure you get a window seat!

It doesn’t really matter which side you sit for this one hour journey. Both sides are scenic during this stretch. But left side might be slightly better. Many tourists get on this train at stops along the way. Ten minutes before you reach the market get your camera ready.

It’s a very different experience on the train and trackside. I like to do both. On the train, just don’t lean out of the window as you enter the market! As soon as you arrive you should head back down the tracks as the train will pass back through in only 20 minutes.

When you get off the train, if it’s like the first photo, turn left outside the station, turn right and then keep walking to a 7-11. You should see a side entrance to the train market opposite it on your right. Then just find a safe place to wait for the train.

Be very careful when the train passes. Stand well back from the rail. There should be a line on the ground that you should stand behind. Next, you can either walk ten minutes to the bus station and catch a bus back to Bangkok, or do like I did and go to Amphawa for lunch.

If you are going to Amphawa, go back out the side entrance to the 7-11. You should see a blue songtaew waiting there. This costs 10 baht and the riverside market is only 15 minutes away. Or you can use the Bolt app to get a local taxi.

Amphawa Floating Market is a weekend market open Friday to Sunday. It’s more popular late afternoons and evenings. It’s also a great place to stay overnight and I will tell you about that another time. This is where we had lunch.

If you are not in a rush, you can take a boat tour for only 50 Baht per person or rent out the boat for only 500 Baht. That way you can choose where you want to go. Wat Bang Kung is the highlight. But the boat ride itself is enjoyable.

Once you are ready to go back, walk out to the main road. Near the road bridge over the canal there’s a coffee shop in front of Bangkok Bank. Wait there for the songtaew. Or you can take a Tuk Tuk. If you’re returning by train, you must be back before 3:30pm.

The songtaew will drop you back off at the 7-11. Here you can either catch the 3:30pm back to Mahachai or just take photos of it leaving. Then walk 10 minutes to the bus station and take a bus back to Bangkok for 100 Baht. This is much quicker.

Follow @ThaiTrainGuide if you’re interested in #RailTourism in #Thailand. I often post tips for interesting rail trips. I also have some free guidebooks that you can download for free.

✅ Free Guidebooks for Travelling by Train in Thailand: https://www.thaitrainguide.com/guidebook/

📍This is a google map list of all the places that I mentioned in this thread: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BazoHefrMgUEzPku9?g_st=i

If you feel you are not brave enough to do this trip on your own, your can join day tours from Bangkok for around 1,500 Baht per person. #Thailand

Discovering Bangkok's Railway Markets and Riverside Market

Ancient City is my favorite destination in #SamutPrakan. If you don't have time to see all of #Thailand, then come here as they have a bit of everything. THREAD ⤵️

📌 Book online, as you can get cheaper tickets compared to those available for Thais: https://www.klook.com/en-GB/activity/368-ancient-city-erawan-museum-ticket-bangkok/?aid=38652

The Wihan at Wat Phumin in Nan, Northern Thailand. The original temple was constructed in 1776 and has a unique floor plan as it features four Buddhas and four doors facing each direction. The murals on the walls are of particular interest.

Khun Phaen House in Ayutthaya. This is a typical wooden house from the central region of #Thailand. It is, in fact, four houses fronting on one rectangular platform open to the sky.

The Pavilion of the Enlightened. This structure is beautiful in itself, but within it, you will find hundreds of wood carvings of monks, each with their own unique facial features and expressions.

If you're short on time to visit Sukhothai Historical Park, don't worry. You can still experience the beauty of the Grand Hall of Wat Mahathat in Ancient City, #SamutPrakan. Here, you'll find this iconic image along with the Standing and Walking Buddhas from Sukhothai.

The Footprint of the Lord Buddha at Wat Phra Phutthabat in Saraburi. This replica at Ancient City in #SamutPrakan is slightly smaller, but just as impressive.

Sanphet Prasat Throne Hall in Ayutthaya. This was the principal building in the Grand Palace when Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam. It was burnt to the ground by the Burmese in 1767. Only the foundations remain. This replica was built at Ancient City in #SamutPrakan.

The Dusit Maha Prasat Palace in Bangkok is a replica of the audience hall in the present-day Grand Palace. The original building was built in 1806 and has been subsequently updated over the years. This is a replica of the original design.

Bang Pa-In Gardens. This is a replica of a rock garden that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. Features include miniature trees and rocks placed to resemble mountains.

The Phimai Sanctuary in Nakhon Ratchasima is a replica of the Khmer-style sanctuary, made of white limestone and sandstone. It is considered the largest religious monument in Thailand.

Sala of 80 Yogi. If you walk along this outdoor shelter, you will discover the 80 unique postures of yogis, which are a form of ancient Thai medical treatment that has been studied and practiced for generations.

I hope my photos have inspired you to visit the Ancient City. Really, this is less than 10% of what there is to see.

The full ticket price is 700 Baht, but you can get it for only 380 Baht here: https://www.klook.com/en-GB/activity/368-ancient-city-erawan-museum-ticket-bangkok/?aid=38652

The cheapest way to get to the Ancient City is to take the skytrain to the end of the Green Line at BTS Keha Station (the train is free in Samut Prakan). Then, take a five-minute ride on Songtaew 30 or 36, or take a taxi.

📍Ancient City: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GPwUEqKV8fg8ky4V9?g_st=ic

Exploring Ancient City in Samut Prakan, Thailand

In November 2020, the Bangkok Governor at the time launched the Chong Nonsi Canal Park project. This project will eventually span 4.5 km along Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road in #Bangkok. This is a THREAD🧵 about the progress so far.

📍MAP: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dzYdQ8KWCGMueBBD9?g_st=ic

Following the success of rejuvenating the award-winning Khlong Ong Ang canal, the BMA next set their eyes on transforming Khlong Chong Nonsi into #Bangkok’s longest park. It will not only be a green space for local people, but it will also have improved drainage.

Khlong Chong Nonsi canal stretches from Surawong road all the way down to the Chao Phraya River. It covers a distance of 4.1km through Bang Rak, Sathon and Yannawa districts. The skytrain line is at the northern end and the BRT bus runs up and down most of the canal

The 4.5km Chong Nonsi Canal Park Project is divided into 5 phases:

1. Surawong Road to Sathorn Road
2. Sathorn Road to Soi Narathiwat Ratchanakarin 7
3. Soi Narathiwat Ratchanakarin 7 to Chan Road
4. Chan Road to Ratchadaphisek Road
5. Ratchadaphisek Road to Rama 3 Road

The Bangkok Governor opened the first section of the Chong Nonsi Canal Park on Christmas Day 2021. This section, between Sathon Road and Narathiwat Ratchanakarin 7, is only 200 metre long, but he promised that by the time it is finished, it will run for 4.5km.

A year and a half later, I went back to check on the progress. Sadly, they must have spent all their money on the first 200 meters. If they had kept it simple, maybe we could have had a full-length canal pathway by now. But I guess any green space is better than none.

Chong Nonsi Canal Park: Transforming Bangkok

The Bangkok Tourist Division has selected 150 restaurants and #ThaiFood shops in famous areas in #Bangkok.

This is a THREAD 🧵 of these shops with pictures and maps. Retweet to be automatically entered to win one of five books. Everyone who retweets will also get a PDF.

📌 The Yaowarat area in Chinatown, is a vibrant district in Samphanthawong. Established in 1782, it's one of the largest Chinese communities outside China. It offers a diverse range of businesses like gold shops, eateries, restaurants, general stores, and hotels.

Yaowarat is renowned for its delicious food, earning it the title Heaven of Roadside Food by CNN News. It boasts famous restaurants popular with Thai and foreign tourists. Some are even featured in the "Michelin Guide". The vibrant and unique seafood market is a must-visit.

📌 The Bang Lamphu area is an old neighborhood on Rattanakosin Island in Phra Nakhon District. It has historical significance and features many temples and residences. The area is known for its exceptional craftsmanship in gold and nielloware, making it an important market.

Bang Lamphu is now a bustling marketplace for clothes, hotels, accommodations, and tourist businesses. It's also renowned for its numerous stores and restaurants. Despite changes, the area still retains a sense of community and offers delicious food options for food lovers.

📌 The Chok Chai 4 - Lat Phrao (Wanghin) area is located in the Lat Phrao district. This area is well-known to food lovers, offering savory food, famous delectable desserts, and chic cafés that are ideal for taking photos. It's a must-visit place for food enthusiasts.

In addition, there is an abundance of traditional and ancient stores, as well as new ones, attracting many people in search of deliciousness. These establishments enhance the lively atmosphere of the area, making it exceptional in terms of food.

📌 The Bang Rak area is on Charoen Krung Road in Bang Rak District has a rich history. It was settled by Chinese and European communities during the reign of King Rama IV and played a significant role in trade and government.

Today, it boasts stunning historical buildings and is known for its diverse food scene, including Michelin Guide Award-winning restaurants. A must-visit for food lovers, both local and international.

📌 The Wang Lang area on Wang Lang Road in Bangkok Noi District was once a bustling commercial hub. It is home to Pran Nok Market, Siriraj Hospital, Thonburi Train Station, Wat Amarintharam, and Wat Rakhang Khositaram. These landmarks are situated along the Chao Phraya.

Wang Lang Area is bustling with activity near the pier. To reach it, take a ferry from Tha Prachan Pier, Maharaj Pier, or Chang Pier to Wang Lang Pier. Wanglang market has signature street food, famous old-time restaurants, dessert shops, and cafés.

📌 The Banthat Thong area is a renowned business district on Banthat Thong Road, Pathumwan District. It's known for its multitude of famous restaurants and street food shops that cater to food enthusiasts throughout the day.

Especially at night, Banthat Thong Road will be lively, full of people lining up to eat at various famous restaurants. In addition, many restaurants open until very late. So when you are hungry, you will definitely be satisfied when you go to this area.

📌 The Ari-Saphan Khwai Area in Phaya Thai district is a hub for government buildings and new businesses. It offers a variety of delicious food options in streets and commercial buildings. A must-visit for food enthusiasts.

The Saphan Khwai, area near Ari, has a longstanding community. It was once a hub for cattle trading, with wooden bridges allowing convenient crossing of water ditches. As the trading community grew, legendary restaurants were established to serve the area.

📌 The Sam Phraeng area is an old community with historical stories and contemporary architecture in the heart of the city. Includes "Sappasat Crossroads" and Worawan Palace, previously known as "Phrang Nara".

"Phrang Phuthorn," formerly known as "Wang Saphan Chang Rong Si," was the Royal Family's residence. Now, "Sam Phraeng" has modernized while still retaining its traditional architecture. The community offers a vibrant food scene with delicious treats for all food lovers.

The Talat Phlu Market area is located on Theot Thai Road, Thonburi District, which is an old district in Bangkok. In the past, the Chinese and Muslim people who lived in this area started betel gardening, which eventually became a widespread occupation in the area.

Soon, this area became a thriving betel market. It is now called Talat Phlu, with "Phlu" meaning betel. People in the community enjoy cooking the foods and desserts of the Teochew Chinese people, leading to this area being known for its food since ancient times.

📌 The Klong San area is an old town in Thonburi, located within Klong San district. It has a rich history and is home to a traditional Thai community near the Chao Phraya River. It is filled with temples and historical attractions, offering a diverse cultural experience.

Nowadays, Klong San Area has a great reputation. It features hotels, department stores, hospitals, and an accessible MRT station. This charming area of Klong San blends modernized town elements with old-time traditions. You will love exploring its famous street food shops.

Bangkok's Top 150 Restaurants and Thai Food Shops

I recently embarked on a train journey from Bangkok to Vientiane, and then continued on the Laos-China Railway to the Chinese border and back.

Here is a THREAD 🧵 with all the details. Feel free to repost and share it with your friends.

#RailTourism #Thailand #Laos

My journey started at Krung Thep Aphiwat Station in #Bangkok. There are three trains you can catch to Nong Khai. The day train starts at only 251 Baht, but I recommend Special Express No. 25. It leaves at 8:25pm and arrives at 6:25am. A sleeping berth start from 894 Baht.

At Nong Khai Station, you need to switch to the shuttle train to cross the Friendship Bridge into Laos. This goes at 7:30am. Don’t worry, they wait for the Bangkok train if it’s late. Thai immigration is at the station. Quick and easy. The 15 minute journey costs 20 Baht.

The shuttle train across the border from Nong Khai Station to Thanaleng Station in Laos goes twice daily.

🚂 Nong Khai Station: No. 481 (departs at 7:30am) and No. 483 (departs at 2:45pm)
🚂 Thanaleng Station: No. 482 (departs at 10:00am) and No. 484 (departs at 5:30pm)

At Thanaleng Station, we had to go through Immigration. There’s a separate window for Visa on Arrival. This cost me $40. It was quick as there weren’t many passengers on the train. While I was queuing, someone asked if I wanted a shared taxi to Vientiane. 200 Baht each.

The 16km journey to the city took 30 minutes. They have actually built a new terminal station 7.5km closer to the city called Vientiane Railway Station (Khamsavath). Once it opens, you will be able to catch a train all the way to Bangkok from here without changing trains.

For this trip on the Laos-China Railway, I used 12Go. It's not easy for foreigners to buy tickets, particularly if they are outside of the country, so I decided to use 12Go for my first trip. There are other agencies available.

✅ Route options: https://thaitrainguide.12go.asia/en/travel/laos

12Go has package options for taxi + train ticket. I decided to go to the station by myself as I wanted to test out the alternatives. The are two ride hailing apps in Laos, Loca and inDrive. The latter is cheaper. There’s also a bus and shared minivan which is a lot cheaper.

12Go told me that I would either get a ticket that would be delivered to my hotel or an e-ticket which they would e-mail me. Luckily I got the latter. At the station I went to the ticket office first. They scanned the QR Code in my e-mail and then printed out the ticket.

Reviews that I had read about Vientiane LCR Station is that you have to wait outside. That’s no longer true. There’s even a shopping area upstairs now. However, there’s only one restaurant open so far. But it does give a nice view looking down on the concourse.

To enter the terminal, they will check your ticket and passport, and then you go through security. Water is allowed, but no aerosol deodorant. Inside, there are two shops selling snacks, including beer, and a coffee shop. They also have free hot and cold water.

About 30 minutes before departure, they will call you to prepare for boarding. They will then scan your tickets and you can head straight to the train. Boarding will close 5 minutes before departure, so don't be late.

I caught the C82 train which leaves at 11:00am. The most popular destination was Luang Prabang but for the purpose of this review I went to the end of the line in Boten. I went 1st Class and came back in 2nd Class just so I could make a comparison.

This is the 1st Class carriage. The configuration is 2 + 2.  The seats are wide and comfortable and as you can expect, there was plenty of leg room. The carriage wasn’t full and so we were allowed to move to better seats. I chose the table seat.

The toilets were clean and spacious. I loved the sliding door as it made it easier to get in and out. Thai trains are very challenging as they open inwards. There are also plug sockets in the armrests and under the seat.

One of the best things about the trains on the Laos-China Railway is that there’s free hot water. So bring a flask and coffee/tea with you. It also won’t hurt to bring some pot noodles.

There is a small dining car, though there are no tables and chairs on the train. It's not very well-equipped, mainly offering sandwiches and drinks, but no beer. I think it's best to bring your own food if you think you might get hungry.

There's no doubt that the views were spectacular, but you should be warned that there are also many tunnels. And I do mean many. Quite often we came out of one, I leaned forward to take a photo, and then we shot back into another.

The end of the line for my train was Boten on the Laos-Chinese border. There are trains that go all the way through to Kunming in China. Passengers have to disembark here to go through Immigration and then re-board the train. I will do this next year.

For my return journey to Vientiane I got back on the same train. This time in 2nd Class. The configuration this time was 2 + 3. The seats were narrower and slightly harder but comfortable enough. There were also plug sockets under each seat.

We arrived back at Vientiane Station two hours late due to heavy rain and flooding. The scene on arrival was chaotic. There is a bus to town but only one and not very big. The ride hailing apps had all raised their prices. In the end I got a shared van for 100,000 Kip.

The next day I used the inDrive app to take a taxi to Thanaleng Station for my train back across the border. Here I went through Immigration and paid 10,000 Kip departure tax. The train ticket was 20 Baht.  I also bought a beer to drink on the train.

The train left Laos at 5:30pm and arrived at Nong Khai Station 15 minutes later. Immigration here was again very quick. I had about an hour before we could board our train and so I took a shower at the station. We boarded and I then had dinner in the dining car.

As usual, I slept well and woke up about half an hour before we arrived back in Bangkok. It arrived exactly on time. It was a great trip and I learned a lot. I will be adding more photos and details to my new website www.asiantrainguide.com soon.

Train Journey from Bangkok to Vientiane: A Thread

This morning, I took the train across the Friendship Bridge between Thailand and Laos. In this THREAD 🧵, I will tell you how I went by train from Bangkok to Vientiane and the cost.

Like and retweet to share with friends, and bookmark it to help you find this tweet later.

My journey started in #Bangkok onboard Special Express No. 25 sleeper train. This left Bangkok at 8:25 pm and arrived in Nong Khai at 6:45 am. The ticket cost me 994 Baht for the lower berth. If you want to save money, the day train is a lot cheaper. https://www.thaitrainguide.com/timetables/no-25

There are two shuttle trains across the Friendship Bridge from Nong Khai Station. The ticket costs 20 baht for the 15-minute journey to Thanaleng Station. The train leaves at 7:30 am and 2:45 pm. I was told that it will wait for the sleeper train if it is delayed.

The Thai immigration officer arrived at the station at 7:00am. He quickly stamped out every passenger within a short time as there were only twenty of us on the train. We then left promptly at 7:30 am.

As our train crossed the Friendship Bridge, traffic had to be halted to make way for us. The views of the Mekong River on both sides of the train were stunning.


On arrival at Thanaleng Station in Laos, everyone queued up for Immigration. I filled out the form for Visa on Arrival and then handed it in with a passport photo and $40 in cash. The friendly Immigration officer then gave me a visa and stamped it. Very quick and painless.

While I was filling out my immigration form, someone came up and asked if I wanted to go to Vientiane. He had a minivan. The cost for the 16km journey was 200 baht per person. My backup up plan was the Loca taxi app.

The total cost from Nong Khai Station to Vientiane city was 220 Baht. The total time for passing through Thai Immigration, the train journey, Laos Immigration, and transfer to Vientiane city by minivan, was just over one hour. Not bad at all. I would do that again.

Train Journey from Bangkok to Vientiane

Recently, I was invited by @CoVanKessel to join their 5-hour multi-boat tour in Bangkok. The highlight of the tour is riding on the famous 'James Bond Rocket Boat' featured in ‘The Man with a Golden Gun’.

Here's a THREAD 🧵 showcasing the highlights of this incredible tour.

“Embark on a journey by longtail boat to Nonthaburi, experiencing peaceful rural canal life. Then, brace yourself for an adrenaline rush with rocket boats through narrow canals. Finally, return to Chinatown via the Chao Phraya River express boat”: https://www.covankessel.com/bangkok/co-rocket-boating-5-hour-multi-boat-tour

The tour began at the Co Van Kessel offices located at River City. We started our journey by boarding the first of three boats, which was the iconic long-tailed boat. Our route took us up the Chao Phraya River before entering the Bangkok Noi canal system.

After 50 minutes on the long-tailed boat, we changed to the flat-bottomed boats that were made famous by the James Bond chase scene. It was certainly an exhilarating thrill as we rocketed down the canal. The local people took photos or waved at us as we whizzed by.

Our next stop was at Wat Takien Floating Market. This market is not very well known by foreign tourists as there's no public transportation. But I really enjoyed the atmosphere of this one. Here, our guide bought food for us to eat.

📍MAP: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TsamFbZvH9KA9KjWA?g_st=ic

After exploring the riverside market, we got back onto the rocket boats. This time, the canal was wider, allowing them to reach what I thought was their top speed. Then, we suddenly emerged onto the Chao Phraya River, and they truly unleashed the full power of the throttle!

After finishing up at Nonthaburi Pier, located just outside of Bangkok, we found ourselves with some spare time before our final boat trip. Taking advantage of the opportunity, we decided to explore the charming local town.

Our last boat trip was on the Chao Phraya Express boat, which took us slowly back to our starting point.

I hope you enjoyed the photos in this thread. Contact @CoVanKessel if you are interested in joining this trip or one of their popular bicycle trips.

Taking the Rocket Boat in Bangkok

Get ready for a #ThaiStreetFood extravaganza! 🌶️🍜

Introducing Part One of an epic THREAD featuring 50 mouthwatering #ThaiFood dishes for your next trip to #Thailand.

Save the flashcards, retweet to spread the love, and bookmark this tweet for easy access later. Let's dive in!

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[01] Khao Man Gai (ข้าวมันไก่). Boiled Chicken on Rice.
[02] Roti Mataba Nuea (โรตีมะตะบะเนื้อ). Mataba stuffed with Beef.
[03] Kao Yum Gai Saeb (ข้าวยำไก่แซ่บ). Spicy Fried Chicken Salad on Rice.
[04] Karipap (กะหรี่ปั๊บ). Curry Puff.

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[05] Jok Moo (โจ๊กหมู). Rice Porridge with Pork.
[06] Patongo (ปาท่องโก๋). Thai Donuts.
[07] Massaman Gai (มัสมั่นไก่). Massaman Curry with Chicken
[08] Tod Man Pla (ทอดมันปลา). Fried Fish Cakes.

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[09] Yum Kai Dao (ยำไข่ดาว). Spicy Salad with Fried Egg.
[10] Khao Mok Gai (ข้าวหมกไก่). Chicken Biryani.
[11] Kuay Teow Gaeng (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวแกง). Noodles in a Beef Curry.
[12] Moo Satay (หมูสะเต๊ะ). Pork Satay on sticks.

#ThaiFood

[013] Guay Jub Nam Kon (ก๋วยจั๊บน้ำข้น). Rolled Noodles in 5 Spices Soup
[014] Moo Ping (หมูปิ้ง). Grilled Pork on Skewers.
[015] Pad Kana Moo Krob (ผัดคะน้าหมูกรอบ). Stir-fried Kale with Crispy Pork.
[016] Khao Pat Gai (ข้าวผัดไก่) Fried Rice with Chicken

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood

[17] Ba Mee Nam (บะหมี่น้ำ). Egg Noodles in Soup.
[18] Por Bia Sot (ปอเปี๊ยะสด). Fresh Spring Rolls.
[19] Pad See Iew (ผัดซีอิ๊ว). Noodles Stir-fried in Soy Sauce.
[20] Pad Kaprao Moo Sap (ผัดกะเพราหมูสับ). Stir-fried Minced Pork with Basil.

 #ThaiFood #Thailand

[21] Khao Man Gai Tod (ข้าวมันไก่ทอด). Fried Chicken on Rice.
[22] Khao Pad Tom Yum (ข้าวผัดต้มยำ). Fried Rice with Chilli Paste
[23] Khao Soi Gai (ข้าวซอยไก่). Northern Style Noodle Soup with Chicken.
[24] Khao Moo Daeng Moo Krob (ข้าวหมูแดงหมูกรอบ)

#ThaiStreetFood

[25] Mama Pad Kee Mao (มาม่า ผัดขี้เมา). Stir-fried Drunken Noodles.
[26] Khao Kai Jeow (ข้าวไข่เจียว). Omelette.
[27] Kuay Teow Gai Toon (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวไก่ตุ๋น). Braised Chicken in Noodle Soup.
[28] Som Tam Thai (ส้มตำไทย). Green Papaya Spicy Salad.

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[29] Pad Thai (ผัดไทย). Thai Fried Noodles.
[30] Hoi Tod (หอยทอด). Fried Mussels Pancake.
[31] Pad Preow Wan (ผัดเปรี้ยวหวาน). Sweet and Sour Pork on Rice.
[32] Kra Por Pla (กระเพาะปลา). Fish Maw Soup.

 #ThaiFood #Thailand

[33] Pad Prik Gaeng Moo (ผัดพริกแกงหมู). Pork with Red Curry Paste.
[34] Pat Pak Ruam Mit (ผัดผักรวมมิตร). Stir-fried mixed vegetables.
[35] Khao Kluk Kapi (ข้าวคลุกกะปิ). Rice with Shrimp Paste.
[36] Kanom Jeeb (ขนมจีบ). Steamed dumplings.

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[37] Khao Na Bet (ข้าวหน้าเป็ด). Duck on Rice.
[38] Rat Na (ราดหน้า). Noodles in a thick gravy.
[39] Hor Mok (ห่อหมก). Steamed Fish Curry.
[40] Som Tam Khao Pod (ส้มตำข้าวโพด). Spicy Sweetcorn Salad.

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[41] Yam Pla Dook Foo (ยำปลาดุกฟู). Deep Fried Catfish Salad.
[42] Pad Prik Yuak (ผัดผริกหยวก). Stir-fried Green Pepper.
[43] Moo Pat Kratiam (หมูผัดกระเทียม). Stir-fried Pork with Garlic.
[44] Jaeng Lon (แจงลอน). Fish Cake on a Stick

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[45] Pad Pet Nor Mai (ผัดเผ็ดหน่อไม้). Stir Fried Spicy Bamboo Shoot.
[46] Tao Hoo Peuak Tod (เต้าหู้ทอด-เผือกทอด). Deep Fried Tofu and Taro with Peanut Dip.
[47] Po Pia Tod (ปอเปี๊ยะทอด). Thai Spring Rolls

#ThaiStreetFood #ThaiFood #Thailand

[48] Goong Ob Wun Sen (กุ้งอบวุ้นเส้น). Shrimp with Glass Noodles.
[49] Sakoo Sai Moo (สาคูใส้หมู). Steamed Tapioca Dumplings.
[50] Kai Pla Meuk (ไข่ปลาหมึก). Fried Squid Egg.

Thai Street Food Extravaganza

Last weekend I spent 11 hours riding every train on all the lines in #Bangkok. Yesterday, I embarked on a new adventure to explore the various boat options available for visitors.

🧵 Here is a THREAD ⤵️ of my trip. Please bookmark and retweet to share with your friends.

📌 TRIP ONE: I started my day at BTS Paknam Station which is on the Green Line. This is only a ten minute walk from my home. I took the skytrain from here to BTS Samrong. This was free. I then walked a few minutes to the nearby Yellow Line station.

📌 TRIP TWO: My second journey was onboard the monorail train along the Yellow Line from MRT Samrong Station to MRT Bang Kapi Station. This cost 45 Baht. At Bang Kapi I walked about ten minutes to The Mall Bang Kapi Pier on Saen Saeb Canal.

To reach Khlong Saen Saeb from the Yellow Line, take Exit 3 from MRT Bang Kapi Station. Turn right just before Tawanna. At the far end you will see a gate just below a bridge across the canal. Turn left here to reach The Mall Bangkapi Pier (https://maps.app.goo.gl/4HLT2GvPtGtL9HEP9?g_st=ic).

📌 TRIP THREE: My first boat trip was the Saen Saeb Canal commuter boat eastwards from The Mall Bang Kapi Pier to Wat Sriboonreung Pier which is the end of that line. This cost me 12 Baht. From here I transferred to the electric boat service at the same pier.

📌 TRIP FOUR: My second boat trip was on the BMA run electric boat service that goes from Wat Sriboonreung Pier to Minburi on the eastern outskirts of Bangkok. Unfortunately due to water levels, we only went as far as Chomchon Lo Lae Pier before turning back.

There are some interesting communities along Saen Saeb canal. Of note are the many mosques that we passed. This trip was free. Back at the temple I took a break for an early lunch and then continued westwards on the commuter boat.

📌 TRIP FIVE: My third boat trip was onboard the Saen Saeb Canal commuter boat. This time I went the entire length of the route from Wat Sriboonreung Pier to Panfa Leelard Pier. This took one hour though we had to change boats at Pratunam Pier. This trip cost me 22 Baht.

At the far end of Saen Saeb line, I had a 30 minute walk along Ratchadamnoen Avenue to Sanam Luang where I caught Bus No. 53.

📌 TRIP SIX: My first and only bus trip was onboard the local No. 53 bus. There is a hop on hop off bus for tourists that costs 800 Baht to ride around the old quarter. Well, this No. 53 local bus does a similar circuit passing many popular attractions and only costs 8 Baht

My bus route was from Sanam Luang to Hua Lamphong Railway Station. Here I had a quick break and I also visited their new steam locomotive museum. From here I walked to Phadung Krung Kasem Canal next to the station for my next boat trip.

📌 TRIP SEVEN: My fourth boat trip was again onboard an electric boat owned by the BMA. This time it was on Phadung Krung Kasem Canal. I did the entire line from Hua Lamphong Pier to Thewarat Market Pier which took about 30 minutes. This was free.

My original plan was to next to walk the short distance to Thewes Pier on the Chao Phraya River, but as they said it would be a long wait for the next boat, I decided to go part of the way back on the electric boat. As you can see from the photo, it’s a very scenic route.

📌 TRIP EIGHT: My fifth boat trip was again back onboard the electric boat. This time from Thewarat Market Pier to Yaek Lan Luang Pier. From here it was a short ten minute walk to Bobae Market Pier on the Saen Saeb Canal.

📌 TRIP NINE: My sixth boat trip was again the long commuter boat on Saen Saeb Canal. This time I went eastwards from Bobae Market Pier to Pratunam Pier. From here I had a short walk to the newly opened Pathumwananurak Park.

Pathumwananurak Park is located next to CentralWorld. The grand opening of the park is at the end of this month. From here I had about a ten minute walk through the shopping mall and across the road to BTS Chit Lom Station on the Green Line.

📌 TRIP TEN: For my final trip it was back on the skytrain. And it was a very crowded one too! It is about time they added more carriages. Anyway, I went from BTS Chit Lom Station along the Green Line to BTS Paknam Station where I had started my day about 11 hours earlier.

Exploring Bangkok's Transportation Options

🚂 The ancient city of Ayutthaya, located just a short train ride from Bangkok, makes for an easy day trip. In this thread, I will provide you with all the details of my recent visit.

Bookmark for future reference and retweet to share with friends.

#RailTourism #Thailand

Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from 1351 to 1767. It was a major center of trade and commerce, and it was home to a large population of people. The city was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767, but it has since been rebuilt and is now a popular tourist destination.

To get to Bang Pa-In, take Rapid No. 111 from Krung Thep Aphiwat Station at 7:30am. The ticket prices are 20 Baht for 3rd Class and 44 Baht for 2nd Class. Both classes provide open windows and fans. The journey typically takes around 54 minutes.

You should arrive at Bang Pa-In Station at 8:24am. In front of the station there are motorcycle taxis that will take you to the nearby Summer Palace for 20 Baht. It’s only about four minutes away.

Bang Pa-In Summer Palace was built in the 17th century as a summer retreat but was largely abandoned for many years following the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767. It was restored by King Rama IV in the mid-19th century. It features a mix of Thai, Chinese, and European influences.

Adjacent to the palace, you'll find an extraordinary Buddhist temple known as Wat Niwet Thammaprawat. To access it, you must take a cable car, as the temple is on an island. What sets this temple apart is its Gothic-style architecture, stained-glass windows and gargoyles.

To return to the station, turn right out of the car park and walk a few minutes to the nearby 7-11. From there, you can take a motorcycle to the station for 20 Baht or a Tuk Tuk for 30 Baht. It’s best to buy refreshments at the 7-11 before heading to the station.

You have around two hours in Bang Pa-In. The next train is Ordinary No. 201 that leaves at 11:14am. The ticket price for the short 13-minute journey to Ayutthaya is only 3 Baht. This train goes from Hua Lamphong Station and seems to be more popular with foreign tourists.

You will arrive at Ayutthaya Station at 11:27am. There’s an air-conditioned restaurant on the platform if you want to have an early lunch or just a coffee.

Before you leave the station, take a photo of the trains back to Bangkok. You will probably be here around 5 hours. So aim for the 4:37pm or the 6:38pm trains which will cost you 15-20 Baht. If you want air-conditioned comfort, then catch No. 8 at 6:06pm. But it’s 341 Baht.

In front of the station, ignore the Tuk Tuk touts as they will cheat you. Opposite the station there’s a lane that leads down to the river. Here you will find Tuk Tuk’s that will show you around for 200 Baht an hour. Or rent a bicycle for 60 Baht for the day.

This is the map of Ayutthaya they will give you. Three to four hours on a bicycle is probably enough if it’s a hot day. Highlights include Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. If you want more, then go to Wat Yai Chai Mongkon and Wat Phanan Chaeng.

Here are the highlights of Ayutthaya Historical Park, as recommended by the Tuk Tuk drivers: I would suggest skipping the elephant riding and the floating market, but the rest are definitely worth visiting.

At the bottom of the lane from the station, there is a boat that can take you across the river for 15 Baht, which is a better option than using the road bridge. However, you might want to consider renting a bicycle on the other side instead of taking it on the boat.

Most places in Ayutthaya Historical Park will cost you 50 Baht each. It’s best not to try and do too much as some are very similar. I would say around four stops would be enough.

There are many places to eat in Ayutthaya, but this restaurant is famous for river prawns. Click for map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/R8zTUehchBgXSPDB7?g_st=ic

I’ve put together a google map of the places that I mentioned in this thread about my day trip to Ayutthaya. Visit it here:

📍Day Trip to Bang Pa-In and Ayutthaya: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ScwLcNzNrWhFMkB4A?g_st=i

This trip will be available as a free PDF soon on www.ThaiTrainGuide.com