After almost a decade away, I finally set foot on Bangkok soil again—this time with my bestie by my side and 3/4 empty luggage in hand (and they didn’t stay empty for long).
We came ready for street food, shopping sprees, and a whirlwind 4-day adventure filled with all things Thai. All thanks to Bestie for her tirelessly search. The moment we cleared customs, excitement kicked in but so did reality. Our first mini challenge? Navigating the Airport Rail Link.
Good to note: We collected our Rabbit Card (booked via KKDay) at the Airport Rail Link of Suvarnabhumi Airport. And it cannot be used for Airport Rail, only on BTS stations. And you have to top up your card at the BTS Control Station office which usually has a queue.
It sounded simple enough… until we realized that Ratchaprarop station layout wasn't the most user-friendly. We spotted an elevator going up, but not one going down. So, there we were, two ladies hauling the suitcases (luckily it was light) down a long flight of stairs, already sweating before the city heat had a chance to greet us properly.
And just like that, our Bangkok adventure had officially begun.
If you're wondering where we stayed, it was at Centara Watergate Pavilion Hotel Bangkok, tucked gracefully among a row of timeworn shophouses. This hotel is a striking blend of heritage and modern charm. Its façade hints at quiet sophistication through seamlessly integrated with the aged character of its neighbors (don't judge the book by its cover). On the inside, it opens into a serene and beautifully designed space, an unexpected oasis amid the lively hum of visitors, street vendors, and the ever-moving energy of the street. The contrast between the bustle outside and the calm elegance within creates a unique charm, making the hotel not just a place to stay, but an experience to savor. And it is directly connected to the Watergate Pavilion Shopping Mall. I noticed that many of the shops on the basement and first floor are run by Indian shop owners, so I imagine homesick expats might find some familiar tastes and comforts there. We only passed through the mall briefly on our way to the hotel, so I can't say for sure as it was just a quick observation!
Our home for the next 4 days.
Simple and chic Twin Room
Welcome drinks upon check-in
Isn't that beautiful view enough to bring you back again?
Like a beach resort setting.
Day 1 : A Hidden Gem Night Market Before the Hype Hits
After checking in and dropping off our luggages, we headed straight out for our first foodie mission: Liabduan Dan Neramit Night Market, a spot my bestie randomly discovered online just few days before we flew out.
It wasn’t on the usual list of “Top 10 Night Markets in Bangkok,” and that made it even more exciting. Before it gets too touristy and starts popping up on every travel guide, we wanted to be among the few to check it out.
Local, lively, and refreshingly low-key vibes. Rows of street food stalls, quirky little shops and colorful lights giving that classic Bangkok night market feel but without the overwhelming crowd. Hopping from one food stall to another to check out and decide on our dinner, we were totally in our element on the first day.
Grilled Delights & A Surprisingly Clean Toilet Experience
Our Dinner on the 1st Day - Simple Seafood night
Having our dinner together on our 1st trip out
After soaking in the market’s vibe, time for savoring time! Grilled prawns and squids? Check. Cheese scallops that were ooey-gooey and delicious? Double check. And then, meat satay, which I (in a total rookie move) mistook for Mooping, those delicious grilled pork skewers I was craving! Sighz... but hey, the satay was fine anyway. If you are into whole/real food, the Longan drink is a must-try. At 25 baht, the freshly peeled Longans were soaked in a mixed of longan & coconuty flavor water.
Spoilt for choices at the night market
Crusty Iced Coca Cola for 30 baht
Stuffed from our mini feast, we made a quick pit stop at the toilet before heading into the shopping section. And hold up, can I just say this place had the cleanest public restroom? Seriously. It was housed in a container that was air-conditioned, spotless, and get this: not even a hint of that usual “public toilet” smell.
Refreshed, we continued our shopping adventure, ready to dive into the market’s quirky knick-knacks and cute trinkets! Oh and that's where we bought our Elephants pants. 100 baht each. And I wore through the trip till we returned back to Singapore.
Shopping time starts!
Fun time for the kids too!
How to get there: Alight at Phahon Yothin 24 station, take the exit 2. You will be expected to walk a long bridge ahead till you finally get to walk down the stairs and continue walking till the castle appears on your left.
I can only drop this much on this blog post but you can watch my videos on my Youtube Channel as I bring you on a virtual tour into the night market. Enjoy!
Day 2 – Bargain Finds, Local Eats & Plus-Sized Fashion Paradise
Our second day in Bangkok started with a mission: explore the famous 100 Baht Shop and let me tell you, this place did not disappoint. It literally sells everything you can think of, from everyday essentials to quirky souvenirs, beauty products, and even snacks. After spending a good amount of time (and money!) there, we decided that Big C could be skipped this trip. True enough, when we passed by later, there wasn’t much left to excite us. The 100 Baht Shop had already satisfied our shopping cravings.
One item I have to highlight is the Hong Thai brand inhaler. It’s an absolute must-buy for me. The scent was so refreshing and uplifting, just what I needed to stay energized for a long day of walking and shopping.
Of course, no shopping trip is complete without snacks! We grabbed some local favourites like pork floss sticks, crispy seaweed, dried mango slices, and more. Perfect to munch on during breaks or bring home as souvenirs. And probably some Thai cooking paste, just in case you miss Thailand.
My snacks heaven at 100 Baht Shop
Next up: a noodle shop that serves roasted pork and duck with rice or noodles. We ordered the roasted meat noodles, and I have to say, the noodles themselves were on point, springy and nicely seasoned. Unfortunately, the meat didn’t live up to expectations. The skin, which should’ve been crispy and savory, was a bit tough and underwhelming. Still, a decent stop to fuel up before more shopping.
Walk further down after 100 baht shop to get here.
Watch them work on our food orders.
Roasted Meat Noodles with Iced Black Tea
Always a photo of us with food but we ain't glutton ya.
Last stop for the morning was Krung Thong Plaza, known for its wide selection of plus-sized clothing for both men and women. It was a total fashion paradise for my bestie, and we spent a good amount of time browsing the many stores. The variety was impressive, and the prices were quite reasonable too if you buy more. Like wholesale prices. And I managed to get 2 sets of clothes there so just search around for non plus-sized clothing. Definitely available.
Entrance to Krung Thong Plaza
We walked past more ladies clothing shops.
By the end of the morning, we were loaded with bags and had to literally drag ourselves (and all our shopping) back to the hotel. A successful half-day of retail therapy, local eats, and great finds! But Bestie's poor pair of legs. Oops...
My shopping hauls for the morning
My bestie's shopping hauls for the morning
Popmart Excitement & Chill Vibes at IconSiam + MBK Stopover
Entrance to Sook Siam
After a fulfilling morning of bargain shopping and local eats, we hopped into a Grab taxi and made our way to Icon Siam, one of Bangkok’s most iconic and luxurious malls. Our main mission? Popmart! We were super excited because the brand new Popmart store had just opened on 8 August 2025, and we happened to be there just five days after its launch. What a perfect timing!
Inside Icon Siam Level 1
Like the front of a ship
The mall itself is massive, designed with a sleek, ship-like structure that really stands out. As we entered, we headed straight down to the basement level called Sook Siam, which is an amazing showcase of Thai culture, food, and local products. It’s almost like walking through a mini floating market indoors.
For lunch, we decided to sample some local treats. I finally got my hands on some Moo Ping – juicy Thai-style grilled pork skewers with a springy, tender texture that hit the spot. We also tried Thai Milk Tea and Black Tea brewed from traditional claypot teapots – aromatic and smooth, a fun and authentic way to enjoy a classic drink. Of course, how can I miss out on Phad Thai, a classic Thai street food cooked with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp/chicken, and a distinctive tamarind-based sauce, topped with crushed roasted peanuts, chilli flakes and a slice of lime.
From left to right, Fried Rice & Phad Thai
Have you ever tried Claypot Coffee?
We tried their Thai Milk Tea and Black Tea instead.
Thai Crispy Pancake stall
Thai version of Economical Rice stall
Once recharged, we made our way up to Level 7 where Popmart is. I had mentally prepared myself for a long queue and also unable to get my hands on the Thai edition Labubu or Zimomo. And I was right! But my bestie was lucky enough to snag a Hirono set for his son, so not all was lost. The excitement in the air especially for collectors was real! Bucket list, checked!
At the entrance of new Pop Mart store at Icon Siam, Level 7
I supposed this is the Popmart Cafe but it wasn't opened.
We stumbled upon Bangkok’s Starbucks store that's also located on the same level. It’s a stunning space that's perfect for a mid-shopping caffeine break (though we passed this time). From that level, we also caught a glimpse of the Chao Phraya River, which my bestie cheekily said looked like Thai milk tea – and honestly, she wasn’t wrong!
Inside Starbucks Reserve
The alfresco seating of Starbucks overlook Chao Phraya River
Chao Phraya River
My 100 baht Elephant Pants
Since there wasn’t much else on our checklist at Icon Siam, we set off for MBK Center to help shop for my bestie’s cousin. If you're into lemongrass-scented products, definitely keep an eye out for Smell Lemongrass stores — they have some lovely items that make perfect gifts or self-care treats.
Space for another video drop. Stay tune!
Day 3 – A Soulful Break from Shopping
For our second last day in Bangkok, we intentionally planned a no-shopping day, just a slower pace to soak in something different. Anyway, we have almost emptied our pocket and enough for the rest of our planned itinerary.
Thai-Japanese Bridge - a symbol of their friendship
We started the morning with brunch at Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice, just a short 5–10 minute walk from our hotel. This humble eatery, recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand from 2018 to 2020, is famous for its chicken rice (of course!). We had the mixed plate, which came with both fried and boiled chicken, and even a slice of chicken blood which was surprisingly fresh and clean-tasting. Simple and decent.
I think I have a habit of trying at the origin country
Per plate cost around SGD4
Emphasized again we aren't glutton, just shopaholic maybe.
After that, we made our way to Wat Hua Lumphong for the coffin donation ritual. This is actually my second visit here. I’ve been so focused on traveling around Europe in recent years that I hadn’t thought much about exploring Asia. But lately, I’ve been feeling weighed down mentally and emotionally and something told me that this small act of charity might help me find some clarity and release.
Arriving at Wat Hua Lumphong via Sam Yan station exit 2
I would rather do such charity than others
And indeed. After doing so, it left me feeling unexpectedly lighter, as if something had been lifted off my shoulders. I’m really glad I made the effort to come, despite the multiple train changes and long walks in Bangkok’s sweltering heat. It was worth it for the peace of mind alone.
Well, as if the universe was rewarding me after the coffin donation, a little stroke of luck came my way for my last-minute online booking for Dior Café suddenly went through while we were on our way back to Siam station. I was honestly so excited because visiting the café was already part of my plan, and I had nearly given up on it. Thank you, Dior for making our day!And thank you Wat Hua Lumphong!
A short visit to the exhibtion at Gaysorn Amarin
A futuristic tunnel built with LV trunks
With a bit of spare time before our booking, we decided to check out the Louis Vuitton "Visionary Journeys" exhibition at Gaysorn Amarin Shopping Center. It looked interesting and was conveniently nearby. The exhibition celebrates Louis Vuitton's history, craftsmanship, and spirit of travel. Featuring immersive experiences, archival pieces, and collaborations (like Yayoi Kusama, Pharrell Williams) showcasing Louis Vuitton's evolution and its relationship with Japan.
LV Trunk-Truck
LV Bed Trunk
But here’s a moment that I hate mentioning: the staff at the entrance didn’t seem too welcoming. Just point us to the QR code beside to book the tickets. Yes, we were modestly under-dressed and did looked out of place in the luxury scene. It felt like we were getting scanned with those classic judgy LV eyes, definitely feeling it first in Bangkok. Still, we didn’t let it stop us. We scanned, booked a same-day entry ticket right on the spot, and made our way in without batting an eye with them.
Sometimes the best memories come from the unexpected moments and this day definitely had its fair share of surprises, reflections, and little wins.
The iconic pieces of LV's collection
LV Speedy Automne Hiver 2009
LV Limited Edition Gold Monogram Miroir Alma
Another immersive experience with Speedy bags built around this space
The Louis Vuitton "Visionary Journeys" exhibition turned out to be well worth the little detour. It doesn’t take long to go through, but the visuals were stunning, and we even received free souvenirs like the exhibition poster and postcard to take home. Free entry and free gifts? Okay, LV, you're forgiven.
(And hey LV, I do have a profile with you so don’t judge based on outfits! Not everyone walks in full designer gear everyday.)
From there, we began our walk to what I'm most looking forward to: Dior Café at Dior Gold House. This stop meant a lot to me—Dior has always been my most loved brand, and I’ve built a pretty solid purchase history through my trusted sales associate in Singapore. It was honestly a bit disheartening to feel judged AGAIN before entering the café, but you know what? It’s Dior, and I love it too much to hold a grudge.
Besides, they don’t know what my purchase power is in Singapore.
Dior Gold House
Art Installation in the garden
Inside the Dior Cafe
The angle from our table
This has become my phone wallpaper
This visit was extra special because it was the first afternoon tea experience with my bestie, and sharing that moment with her made it even more memorable. Sitting in Dior Gold House, sipping tea, and soaking in the elegant surroundings felt like a dream come true. For a fan like me, just being there was magical. And I sent a photo to my sales associate back in Singapore and he was like wow, he wanted to be here too.
Top to bottom: Bestie's Iced Cappuccino & my Chocolate
Le Soleil - A trio of chocolate with caramelised banana and almonds
Le Pétale de Passion - Flower croissant with passion fruit gelée
Oh by the way, please make your reservation online before coming if possible (u might be lucky like me on the last minute). For reservation link, click here. I didn't manage to get a slot at the last minute for LV Cafe, and that's why I visited only the exhibition. Dining time for Dior Cafe is 90 minutes which is more than enough for us.
Space for another video drop. Stay tune!
After three solid days of exploring, walking, shopping, and eating, our legs were practically screaming for mercy (especially my bestie). So we did what one will always do when in Bangkok: headed straight for a foot massage. It’s practically a tradition and honestly, who could resist an hour of total relaxation for less than SGD20? That’s one of the things I love most about this city: affordable indulgence. We simply sat back, relaxed, and let the skilled hands of our masseuses work their magic.
An hour for foot bliss
Post-massage, we made our way back to the hotel for a short rest before heading out again for dinner. The night’s pick: Thong Smith at Central World, famous for its rich, flavorful and springy boat noodles. Must order their Cracklings. It was so good. Bestie liked that they put the beansprouts on one side so that those who dislikes can ignore it. By the way, you can choose your spicy level for the noodles so no worries if you can't take spicy. And so the perfect comfort food to round off a relaxing day.
Thong Smith at Level 3 Central World
Get your queue number & wait for your table
Finally here to try the local boat noodles
Pork Ball, Sliced Pork & Liver Noodles (Soup)
Beef Ball and Sliced Beef Noodles (Dry)
Final Morning in Bangkok: Last Bites
On our last day, we made an early start at Platinum Mall. It's not for shopping but for breakfast at the food court on Level 6. This place has a wide range of food stalls, though since we were a bit too early, not all were open yet.
Mango Sticky Rice
8 for 65 Baht - Coconut Pandan Cake
Coconut Pandan Cake
I finally tried mango sticky rice. Verdict? It was fine. Personally think I’d prefer just having the mango on its own. The sticky rice with warm coconut milk didn’t quite hit the spot for me. I also sampled the much-talked-about coconut pandan cake. It was okay with crispy bottom, fluffy top but I still don't get the hype.
Pork Knuckle Rice
My bestie went for the pork knuckle rice, which had great flavor, but was a bit too salty for her taste.
One thing to note: this food court is fully cashless. You’ll need to buy a card, top it up with credit, and use that at any of the stalls. The card is valid for 30 days, so perfect for anyone planning a return trip soon. And Halal option available at the food court.
Airport Finds & One Last Surprise
After custom clearance, a photo with the ornate display at the airport.
After checking out, we made our way to the airport, cleared customs smoothly, and still had plenty of time before boarding. As we made our way to the gate which, by the way, took a good 10 to 13 minutes on foot, a sudden thought hit: Does Burger King here sell pork burgers?
Turns out, they do! And not just any pork burgers but Double Mushroom Swiss Pork Burger and couldn’t resist ordering a set with fries and a drink. It came up to around SGD17, which is on the pricier side for fast food, but still felt worth it for one last indulgence. Bestie even thought about bringing one or two back to Singapore.
The best part? The fries were packed to the brim, unlike what we usually get back in Singapore and that actually impressed us (even if they were a tad salty). Fully satisfied, ready to wrap up this trip on a high note.
Double Mushroom Swiss Pork Meal
Until Next Time, Bangkok!
This trip was a perfect mix of adventure, indulgence, and downtime. From endless walks and foot massages to comfort food and airport surprises. Bangkok gave us almost everything we needed. Cheers.
I love this old school looking bus
We have passed by this coffee stall for countless times
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. All expenses were covered by the writer and her friend. All opinions and reviews are based on their personal preferences and taste, and do not reflect anyone else's views.
