Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DON'T MISS
UP ON THE ROOF
In previous years, Bangkok's rooftop bars were largely the realm of well-heeled tourists, but now they comprise
a diverse spread, with options ranging from scruffy to formal. Our faves:
»
Moon Bar
(
www.banyantree.com
; 61st fl, Banyan Tree Hotel, 21/100 Th Sathon (South) Tai; 5pm-1am;
Lumphini exit 2) Precariously perched on top of 61 floors of skyscraper, Moon Bar offers a heart-stopping
bird's-eye view of central Bangkok. Things can get a bit crowded here come sunset, so be sure to show up a bit
early to snag the best seats. Note that Moon Bar does not allow entry to those wearing shorts or sandals.
»
River Vibe
(8th fl, River View Guest House, 768 Soi Phanurangsi, Th Songwat; 7.30-11pm; Tha
Marine Department, Hua Lamphong exit 1 & taxi) Can't afford the drinks and/or have objections to the
dress code at Bangkok's other rooftop bars? Slap on some shorts and head to the top floor of this guesthouse; the
casual vibe and stunning river views will hardly feel like a compromise.
klorng boat to Tha Phan Fah) In addition to charming views of old Bangkok, the breezy rooftop of this artsy
bar also offers cheap and tasty Thai food.
»
Sky Bar
(
www.lebua.com/sky-bar
;
63rd fl, State Tower, 1055 Th Silom; 6pm-1am; Saphan Taksin
exit 3) Descend the sweeping stairs like a Hollywood diva to the precipice bar of this rooftop restaurant - al-
legedly the world's highest open-air bar. But leave your shorts and sandals at home.
Entertainment
Shame on you if you find yourself bored in Bangkok. And even more shame if you think
the only entertainment options involve the word 'go-go'. Nowadays Bangkok's nightlife
is as diverse as that of virtually any modern city.
Gà·teu·i Cabaret
Over the last few years,
gà·teu·i
(transgendered people; also spelt
kathoey
) cabaret has
emerged to become a staple of the Bangkok tourist circuit.
Calypso Bangkok
(
0 2688 1415;
www.calypsocabaret.com
; Asiatique, Soi 72-76, Th Charoen Krung; admission 1200B;
show times 8.15pm &
shuttle ferry from Tha Sathon (Central Pier))
,
Mambo Cabaret
(
9.45pm;
0 2294 7381;
www.mambocabaret.com
;
59/28 Yannawa Tat Mai; tickets 800-1000B;
show times 7.15pm & 8.30pm;
Chong
www.playhousethailand.com
; basement, Asia Hotel, 296 Th Phayathai; admission 1200B; show times 8.15pm &
9.45pm; Ratchathewi exit 1)
host choreographed stage shows featuring Broadway high kicks
and lip-synched pop tunes by the most well-endowed dudes you'll find anywhere.
