Siam is my favorite spot in Bangkok, thank god I live right in the heart of the city center.
Like our Orchard Road in Singapore, Siam can be easily reached by the BTS or by taxi.
This French photographer friend of mine, JC, once told me how he can go to Siam Paragon three or four times a week and still find something new to shop each time. This shopping centre puts Ion to shame honestly. Hit there for brands (Chanel anyone?) - they are cheaper than Singapore after claiming your VAT refunds, the sales girls are much friendlier and the stores are much bigger (more 2.55s!)
This gourmet market at Paragon is like supermarket heaven. Trust me, you would not have seen any supermarket if you haven’t seen this. Siew and I head there almost daily to get our dose of fresh soups, snacks and Japanese imports that you most probably can’t find in Singapore. Read this entry for more info!
There are also many great restaurants at Paragon. Tried many of them, and they are all great. Italian, Chinese, Thai, take your pick. I personally like the 9th cafe at the first floor, near the supermarket. You can read this blog for reviews or just do a quick google.
There are also so many places at Siam Paragon in open areas that is perfect for an afternoon tea. Get yourself some good tea, scones and just watch the world go by. If you are into people watching like me, Siam Paragon is the best place in the world for this.
One thing I love about Bangkok is how they have so many more foreign brands that are unable available in Singapore. Juicy was in Bangkok wayyyy before they came to Singapore.
Siam Discovery Center, 2 buildings away from Paragon, carry my much-loved Pleats Please label by Issey Miyake. Go check it out!
Right in between Siam Paragon and Siam Discovery Center, we have Siam Center, and across the road, Siam Square. Both places are fashion heaven for affordable, chic pieces.
Besides the usual Mango and all, Siam Center has many shops opened by up and coming young Thai designers. Their stuff are really chic, and have been so well received by the global market. Check out brands like 27 November (Zach’s birthday coincidentally) and Greyhound especially.
Speaking of Greyhound, the Greyhound cafe at the first floor of Siam Center is a must-go.
Great ambiance, great food - best to be enjoyed with great company. I love the baked spinach there.
Across the road from Siam Paragon and Siam Center, we have Siam Square which can be summed as the Harajuku of Bangkok.
Expect lovely clothes by local designers - many of them are still in fashion school so they choose to set up shop here instead where rent is cheaper, which is great cause the lower rent means that cost savings get passed on to us consumers. Get your fashion statement pieces here.
If you are into eyelash and hair extensions, then this is the place for you also. Much more affordable than in Singapore too.
Siam Square is also another great place for food! There is still shop that sells sponge cupcakes in boxes of 4 each and they are to die-for. They are so soft and fluffy and they melt in your mouth! Best to go in the afternoon to avoid the queues.
I’m a huge fan of frozen yogurt, have it everyday in fact! I love Happy Yogurt at Siam Square - try the lychee flavored yoghurt!
And Red Mango for yogurt too! They are found everywhere in Bangkok, every single shopping center.
If you guys missed this, you will be glad to know that Bangkok has A&W still. I get my usual fix of it at Siam Square.
Will try to do up a proper post on eating in Thailand soon. X
Check out my Thailand Tourism category for more of such entries!
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