Bangkok, my gateway into Southeast Asia

“I had chosen to leave, and live alone in a foreign country. And in fleeing thousands of miles across the Pacific, I chose myself, and a chance at a different future." ― Alison Singh Gee, Where the Peacocks Sing: A Palace, a Prince, and the Search for Home

While sitting in the DXB Heineken Lounge during my eight hour layover I couldn't have had any idea of what was still to come. The start of one of the most difficult decision I've made but at the same time probably what could just be the most exciting adventure of my life. By then my nerves had settled and the heartbreak of leaving so many things and loved ones behind had become more bearable. I did regret not spending more time with some and not saying goodbye to those I missed during the frantic prepping before my departure. After a week in BKK I was still amazed at all the sights and sounds of this city. I underestimated Bangkok and for that I was glad, every day I get surprised by even the littlest of things.

"Empty your cup so that it may be filled; become devoid to gain totality." - Bruce Lee

My first two nights was spent thoroughly enjoying the night life. I was fortunate enough to meet up with friends and they took me to their local spots that were less touristy. After two days of the worst hangovers I've had in a while I needed to get my laptop and iPhone fixed - luckily I brought a backup mobile phone. Long story short after walking 30km over 2 days and countless SkyTrain & Tuk Tuk rides I have both in working condition again.

Shout out the random Power Rangers I saw crossing a busy intersection it really put a smile on my face at a time that I needed it. Picking up on the nuances of this urban jungle has made a world of difference. In the past I never consciously took the time to always appreciate my surroundings. Not just as a tourist but also in my own city, always found myself rushing somewhere. Not driving and preferring to walk, even if it is the long or wrong way has opened my eyes to so much more this city has to offer and for that I'm grateful. The second week was the first time that I found myself settling into the routine that I planned from the start and it felt good. I started off everyday either going to the gym or yoga, then venturing into the city exploring all that she had to offer and ending my day off getting some work done. the Hive Thonglor was my co-working space of choice during this time and definitely a space I'd recommend you visit.

I stayed in Sukhumvit Soi 11 which was close to Nana BTS and Asok MRT which made getting around very easy. The tuk tuk are great for when you are more than one person and not in a rush - traffic in BKK is a bitch 24/7. I came to prefer just hopping on a scooter taxi(not for the faint-hearted) as they were a lot quicker but most days I took a stroll or hoped on the BTS. The amount and size of their malls was astonishing, namely Terminal 21, Siam Square, MBK Center and EmQuartier to name a few. I could see the appeal of finding shelter in an air-conditioned mall on days where it is so humid that you struggle to survive the down pour of sweat and stickiness. Another more scenic option would be visiting any of the 100s of rooftop bars in BKK, I really enjoyed Above Eleven Bar & Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar

Another firm favourite was to grap dinner and drinks at W Market. Or whether you go for a run or just to enjoy the outdoors, Lumpini Park was just as lovely. Not to forget visiting the plethora of ancient sites on offer, The Grand Palace, Wat Arun & all the other temples.

If the cities hustle and bustle gets too much I would suggest you try go visit Ko Kret Island. We visited a bar on the river bank that sold the widest variety of some of the most amazing craft beer I have tried to date and all brewed locally. All and all I had a great time in Bangkok, this after many questioned why I would go to such a poor and dirty city. Well let me tell you BKK definitely holds its own when compared to other Southeast Asian cities. The variety of hip and happening restaurants, bars and clubs on offer is astounding. There is so much to do and see in a city steeped in history, you just need to get out there and explore.

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