Sathorn has well and truly shaken off its ho-hum reputation as the snoozy Central Business District of the city. Nowadays it’s regarded as the Thai capital’s most hip and happening districts. Thanks in large part to a thriving cafe, restaurant, bar and nightlife scene. But, beyond the glitz and glamour, there are also more sedate reasons to love this multi-cultural area. Sathorn is a real melting pot of different culture and interests, on one side of the street, you’ll see street food stalls and gay bars, on the other, up-scale galleries, tailors and restaurants. Situated midway between riverside Bangrak, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoodscentred around Charoenkrung Road, and massive Lumphini Park. This welcoming area is known for both its high-rise office buildings and leaf residential housing. Whilst this area has long been known for its high-end hotels, it’s also home to a full range of alternate accommodation. Indeed, a two-bedroom apartment in Sathorn makes for a fabulous and convenient ‘home away from home’ in the heart of the city.
From Blue Elephant Cooking School to Lumphini Park, Bangkok Snake Farm and Night Patpong Night Market, this part of town boasts many iconic sights worth checking out. Sathorn is definitely aneighbourhood not to be missed. Not sure where to start? Here is a brief list of some of our favourite ways to enjoy this up-and-coming district.
Bangkok Snake Farm
Officially called the ‘Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute’, this place is the largest such facility in the city. It’s world-renowned as a venom research centre. For visitors, they put on a show with pythons, king cobras and other poisonous snakes.
Blue Elephant Cooking School
Housed in a gorgeous classic building (formally a post office), Blue Elephant is the city’s most well-respected Thai cooking school (and restaurant). Learn the basis of Thailand’s diverse cuisine in a relaxed and friendly setting.
Lumphini Park
Lumphini Park is Bangkok’s premier green oasis, akin to Central Park in NY. This small slice of nature is a world away from the hustle and bustle that surrounds it. Enjoy a large lake, 2.5-km-long walking/running track, library, playground, pool, gym and more.
Neilson Hays Library
For something very different, head on over to the serene Neilson Hays Library for a few moments of respite from the city. This beautiful lending library houses a fine collection of books (for members only, sorry) and a cute coffee shop.
Patpong Night Market
Patpong has a notorious nightlife reputation. On the side, it has a fun and lively night market. Be prepared to have a light heartened bargain to get the best possible price on a souvenir T-shirt, flip-flops, CDs, faux designer handbag, wall art and more.
Soi Convent
A short walk from Sala Daeng BTS station is Soi Convent, a short but mighty street packed with restaurants, bars and street food vendors. From inexpensive Thai food to Western fine dining, you can find food to meet every taste and budget here.
Sri Mariam Temple
For something truly exuberant, head to Sri Mariam Temple on the corner of Silom Road and Pan Road (great for cafes). This Dravidian-style temple is a feast of colour and movement, inside you’ll find Hindu deities and a plethora of incense and flowers.
State Tower
Remember The Hangover II? The State Tower — Bangkok’s third tallest building — makes a memorable cameo in that film. This iconic landmark is home to a selection of lofty bars (Sirocco, in particular) and restaurants with spectacular views.
We hope this article has inspired you to make a two-bedroom apartment in Sathorn your base for your adventures in Bangkok, Thailand.
