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Taking over a row of 1960s shophouses in the atmospheric Old Town, Bangkok Publishing Residence is the brainchild of Panida Tosnaitada, a young-gun hotelier whose family used to run a publishing business from the same building.
She swapped the printing presses for supremely comfortable guest rooms with mod-cons such as micro-gel mattress toppers and Bluetooth speakers, but whispers of the building’s former past can still be found in the lobby, which doubles as a museum showcasing printing paraphernalia and vintage editions of popular Thai magazines.
What makes this hotel truly shine, though, is the immaculate attention to detail. Guests have access to a rooftop Jacuzzi tub in lieu of a pool, and while the hotel’s kitchen closes for lunch and dinner, the amiable staff happily helps you order from nearby restaurants.
There isn’t a lot to see or do along noisy Lan Luang Road, but some of Bangkok’s best temples – including Wat Saket en Loha Prasat – are just around the corner. This is very much a local area, peopled with Thai families dwelling in crumbling shophouses and shanties along the canals. Like elsewhere in the Old Town, it feels like the Bangkok of yesteryear, and is a great place to escape the tourist crowds.
The Grand Palace is a 15-minute taxi hop away, and the San Saeb Express Boat, a thrilling ride through the city’s khlongs, will whisk you to Bangkok proper in about 30 minutes.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[0.5 miles]
Blood, sweat, and muscled men in tiny shorts – there are few better ways to see Thailand’s national sport than a Muay Thai match at Bangkok’s Rjadamnern Boxing Stadium.
Best for ages: 16+ | £11 | 3.5 hrs
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.9 miles]
Thailand’s most famous cultural site is a glittering complex of jaw-dropping magnificence dating back to 1782. This former seat of power of Siamese kings houses the Emerald Buddha – Thailand’s palladium.
Best for ages: Any | £11
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.2 miles]
Bicycle tours through the back-alleys of Chinatown and Bangkok’s rural suburbs offer a fascinating peek into the daily lives of the city’s residents.
Best for ages: 13+ | £20 | 3-5 hours
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.4 miles]
The former home of silk magnate Jim Thompson – who mysteriously disappeared in the jungles of Malaysia – is a must-see for its well-preserved teak buildings and art.
Best for ages: 13+ | £4
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.1 miles]
Flaming woks balancing on tiny canoes, mountains of fresh fruits – Bangkok’s floating markets are a kaleidoscope of Thai-tinged wonder. That said, their old-timey charm has long faded as souvenirs shops have replaced most noodle joints. It’s a fun day out, but no longer an authentic experience.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[1.9 miles]
Heaving with jasmine, orchids and marigolds, Bangkok’s flower market is a mesmerising riot of colours, floral scents and boisterous vendors. Visit after midnight, when wholesalers drop off their wares and the market is at its liveliest.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[3.4 miles]
One of Bangkok’s most popular little museums. The charming, 70-year-old restored teak house offers a compelling glimpse of family life in Bangkok from the 1930s to the 1960s.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Bangkok, Thailand[4 miles]
With galleries, concept stores and art markets amalgamating into a kaleidoscope of creativity, Bangkok’s de-facto design district offers an excellent primer on the city’s burgeoning creative scene.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Central Thailand, Thailand
From dazzling temples to dizzying nightlife, Thailand’s capital is a dish of delicious contradictions, and one of the world’s most dizzying, fast-paced cities.
