A Local’s View

You will be picked up at 08:00 by an English-speaking guide, to explore some of Bangkok’s hidden sites while learning about the history of Bangkok old town from a locals’ perspective.

First you’ll learn how locals travel in Bangkok taking the public transport system to the classic Hua Lamphong station. As you alight from the train, you’ll be guided to a small local pier next to the railway station. Take to the waterways in a carbon friendly manner by boarding an electric powered boat. Cruise along the water eventually disembarking to board an electric Tuk Tuk. The next stop will be a peaceful temple known as Wat Benchamabophit. Also known as the Marble Temple, it is a Buddhist temple made of Italian marble. It was built in 1899 by King Chulalongkorn and features a combination of Thai and European architectural styles. The guide will explain some of the fascinating hidden stories surrounding the temple. Spend some leisure time connecting with the temple with a private monk blessing, a truly enlightening experience.

After feeling refreshed by the spirituality of the temple, take a short E-Tuk Tuk ride to the nearby Nang Leong market. This is a traditional market located in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district of Bangkok. It is one of the oldest markets in Bangkok, having been established in the early 1900s. The market is known for its fresh seafood, Thai desserts, and savory dishes. It is also a popular spot for locals to buy fresh produce and ingredients. Take some time to soak up this incredibly local environment, and sample some of the delights on offer with the help of your guide. Note this is a live market at times it might be very busy and at times it could be considerably quieter. Opposite the market is a local photo locket shop, the one and only in Thailand using very special art techniques to make photo lockets. Each locket is delicately and intricately made with love and care by the shop owner. Your guide will lead you inside and explain the history of the shop, and if interested, you can have your own one made (at your own expense). Take a short stroll to a local cafe near the market to cool down. (L)

Inclusions:

🥘 Lunch

Notes:

- Appropriate dress is required for a visit to palaces and temples. Shorts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers, sleeveless shirts or vests, and sandals are NOT allowed. 
- If booking on a Wednesday Alex and Beth is closed, the alternative cafe is Eden’s next door. 
- Nang Leong market is better visited on a weekday. The weekends can be quite quiet. 
- Tour does not operate in the afternoon. 
- Photo locket shop is closed on Sundays, and this stop will be skipped if the tour is booked on a Sunday.
- If you are interested in having your own photo locket made, bring your own photo. However, the process of making it is up to 3 months or so. The shop can also do the shipping overseas. All costs are at your own expense. 
- Children are charged as adults.