Hello Bangkok,
We love this city as much as you do. We’ve always been—and will always be—obsessed with helping you discover the very best aspects of this melting pot, finding cool ways to enjoy the Bangkok that we call home.
And in these trying times, our love for this city has not changed.
As you all know, from today (March 18), the government has ordered a shutdown on all entertainment, education and sports venues—bars, clubs, concert halls, movie theaters, schools, universities, gyms, sports stadiums—for at least 14 days for strict sanitation procedures. By all means, it’s the most advanced measure ever announced since the onset of the coronavirus or COVID-19 outbreak. So in the next few weeks or months, or for however long it takes to contain this virus, we won’t always be your Time Out; sometimes, we will be your Time In—just like our Time Out friends at other cities around the world.
We will still tell you about the coolest exhibitions (those that remain open), the local restaurants you should visit, and things to do around the city. But we will also suggest ideas on what you can do when you’re stuck inside, on self-quarantine or working from home. These include awesome tools that help make working remotely a lot easier, plus lists of the best food outlets that do deliveries, irresistible shopping sites, Netflix movies and series to binge on, and workout routines to keep yourself fit and healthy.
We won’t force you to stay in because that would kill the city’s entire economy and affect local businesses. But, when you do go out, use common sense and listen to your gut feeling. Avoid mass gatherings and crowded places. Wear masks in public. Practice social distancing. Adopt recommended precautionary measures. Just make sure you do everything to ensure you’re safe and healthy.
And please, do your part in supporting local ventures.
In the end, life will go on. Bangkok has been through many challenges, and we will get through this, too. Together.
Take care,
Top Koaysomboon
Editor-in-Chief of Time Out Bangkok