If you haven’t explored Asiatique yet, the time to do it is now. Since the weather has cooled off, this popular Bangkok themed attraction is even more inviting. Open from 4pm (to midnight), the early evening is the best time to visit to experience the lights and enjoy the cool evening breezes off the Chao Phraya River as you stroll among the many family-friendly attractions.
Sights, Sounds and Tastes
The land on Charoen Krung Road where Asiatique is situated boasts its own unique history — it marks the site of Siam’s first international trading port established back in 1884. Under the name “Asiatique The Riverfront”, the complex pays tribute to those trading days with props and buildings set up like warehouses, a waterfront promenade with a pier, and a town square. Also, a 60 metre tall Ferris wheel serves as one of its most striking features, offering visitors a cool bird’s eye view of Bangkok’s riverside area.
Asiatique encompasses both open-air and indoor restaurants, shops selling art and handicrafts as well as men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, food and drink vendors, and entertainment venues. There’s also a fun fair with a carousel that kids would enjoy.
Experience Different Aspects of Thai Culture
There are three entertainment venues that celebrate a different aspect of Thai culture. The Joe Louis Thai Restaurant features the ancient art of Thai puppetry, staging shows in the evening as diners enjoy fine dining. The intricate and beautifully handcrafted puppets are brought to life by the extraordinary skills of the puppet masters. They perform timeless stories that have been handed down through the ages.
Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) is given a rather theatrical treatment at Asiatique via ‘Muay Thai Live’, a five-act stage show that tells the story of the development of this world-renowned fighting style and explains the revered place it holds in Thai culture. The show includes live Muay Thai bouts as well.
Calypso Bangkok is a transgender caberet show that is suitable for the family. You’ll experience all the colour and glamour of these talented performers as they sing and dance their way through artfully choreographed routines. The show even features both an Elvis and a Beyonce impressionist. There is some definite talent and singing skills on display by this gifted troupe.
Sample the Different Cuisines
If you’re getting hungry, Asiatique houses numerous restaurants, bistros and cafés encompassing both Asian and Western cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh fish. Choose a restaurant where you can sit outside right along the river and watch the boats go by while you dig into your meal.
Getting There
There are two ways to get to Asiatique: by car or by boat. The latter is much more pleasant as traffic on Charoen Krung is horrendous in the evenings. Simply take the BTS to Saphan Taksin station. From there, walk down the stairs to Sathorn Pier. There will be a free shuttle boat going to Asiatique from 4pm and 11pm, leaving every 15 minutes. The ride is around 15-20 minutes, providing additional fun for the kids with all the sights on and along the river.
Asiatique offers something for everyone in the family whether it’s food, entertainment or shopping. Now that the weather has cooled, it’s the perfect time to put Asiatique on your list of places that make for an enjoyable evening of family fun.
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