Explore Thailand from Home
Being in social isolation doesn’t stop us dreaming of all the places we’d like to visit; in fact, now we’ve got even more time to daydream. Escape on a virtual vacation to bring a little piece of Thailand to your living room.
The fragrance of galangal and limes, the glitter of golden temples, and the emerald sheen of lush foliage create an unforgettable tapestry that captures the essence of Thailand. A visit to this enchanting country is truly a feast for the senses that words can’t quite encapsulate. Beloved by backpackers, expats, wildlife watchers, foodies, and globetrotters alike, it’s easy to see why this Land of Smiles tops many bucket lists.
Although waiting to visit iconic cities like Bangkok, Phuket, Ko Samui, and Chiang Mai can be challenging, you can still immerse yourself in Thai culture from afar. With a long and rich cultural history, there’s an abundance of films, music, recipes, and stories available to give you a taste of what makes this destination endlessly captivating.
Romantic Films to Enjoy
Romance:
Bangkok Traffic Love Story (2009): This award-winning film follows two 30-somethings as they navigate the gap between expectation and reality, ultimately discovering unexpected hope (and romance) on the BTS Skytrain network.
Sunset at Chaopraya (1988): Based on the novel Khu Kam, this film depicts a historic romance between a Japanese soldier and a Thai woman during World War II.
Her Name is Pang (2014): A nostalgic journey through 1970s Loei and modern Bangkok, this movie follows Tookae, a cinephile, and Pang, a promising actress, exploring themes of childhood crushes into adulthood.
Dramatic Highlights
Drama:
The Overture (2005): This visually stunning film traces the life of classical musician Luang Pradit while providing insight into Thai history from the reign of King Rama V to the cultural changes of the 1930s.
Martial Arts Action
Martial Arts:
Ong Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003): This high-octane film follows the adventure of Ong Bak on a quest in Bangkok to reclaim a sacred treasure, showcasing breathtaking stunts filmed without special effects.
Chocolate (2008): This story features a young girl who learns Muay Thai through martial arts films, displaying impressive choreography and storytelling that stands out on its own.
Thrilling Horror & Fantasy
Horror & Fantasy:
Shutter (2004): This supernatural horror film became notorious for its haunting story about a couple haunted by a ghost after a hit-and-run accident.
Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives (2010): A meditation on rural life and reincarnation that intertwines the filmmaker’s memories and traditions, resulting in a celebrated film loaded with depth.
Enjoying Thai Music and Literature
Popular and Classical Thai Music:
The Blind Earthworm in the Labyrinth – Veeraporn Nitiprapha: This novel weaves a narrative of two sisters in Bangkok, rich with cultural references.
Four Reigns – Kukrit Pramoj: This celebrated work chronicles one family’s journey through four dynastic changes in Thailand.
Bangkok Wakes to Rain: A Novel – Pitchaya Sudbanthad: A compelling collection of interconnected narratives that beautifully captures life in Bangkok.
Short Reads to Dive Into
In Thailand It Is Night – Ira Sukrungruang: A poetry collection that lyrically connects the Midwest and Thailand.
Arid Dreams: Stories – Duanwad Pimwana: A collection of tales offering insights into life beyond the tourist path in Thailand.
The Sad Part Was – Prabda Yoon: Contemporary stories filled with humor, wordplay, and genre exploration.
Tuning into Podcasts
The Bangkok Podcast: Features entertaining stories and conversations about everything from Thai cinema to local culture.
< a href=”https://poetinbangkok.com/”>Poet in Bangkok: This unique podcast merges storytelling with interviews about cultural topics.
Brewed in Bangkok: Focuses on letting Thai citizens share their stories, delivering an authentic perspective on life in Bangkok.
Savor Thai Cuisine
Thai food offers an incredible array of flavors, representing the northern, central, and southern regions. The iconic phat thai captivates with its combination of noodles, palm sugar, tamarind, peanuts, and spices, making it an easy dish to recreate at home.
Each Thai dish harmonizes sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, a balance that translates seamlessly to cocktails. Explore mixologist Surasakdi Pantaisong’s Siam Sunray, combining lemongrass and coconut for a refreshing beverage option.
Exploring Thailand’s Wonders
Wat Arun in Bangkok
Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai Province
Bangkok Street Markets
Epic Landscapes
The King’s Pagoda Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai
For those interested in Thai products, numerous online options exist, although delays may occur due to current health protocols.
