Tita Petchnamnung

These international films will scratch your travel itch until your next flight east, capturing Thailand’s multifaceted energy from neon-lit Bangkok corners to hidden island paradises you swore you’d keep secret.  Consider this your emergency travel fix until you’re back dodging tuk-tuks and hunting down the perfect mango sticky rice.

Bangkok’s denim game is right up there with the world’s fashion hotspots. While you're in town, why not grab a pair of jeans that’s built to last? Check out our guide to find denim that’ll stay stylish for the long haul.

Attempting to put together a list of the 50 best restaurants in Bangkok is an unenviable task. No matter how hard you try, you’re going to be leaving out not just good restaurants, but mind-bendingly good restaurants. Indeed, the process of assembling the following list involved not only signal-boosting some of our favourite culinary craftspeople, but also a painful triage of a host of excellent venues. That’s just how dense with excellence this city is when it comes to quality dining.  What makes eating out here so brilliant is the sheer diversity – both cultural and economic – of the Big Mango’s food scene and our top 50 aims to reflect that. Were we to focus purely on the set-menu avant-garde and quiet-luxury omakase counters, it would be a disservice to a readership that doesn’t just want food to look at, photograph and read about, but wants to eat. Therefore, we include some of the city’s most dazzling palaces of haute cuisine alongside humble streetside vendors. We’re serious eaters more than withering critics, and Bangkok is a city full of serious eats. Hence, we want to share our favourites and leave it to you, the reader, to be the withering critic. Dive in and enjoy the ride!

Too many shots in Thonglor? One dry martini too many in Sukhumvit? To brace for that foggy brain and sunglasses-indoor hangover hell, keep on reading.  Here’s where to bounce back, bite down, and balance yourself out.

Ever wondered what the SHA letters mean on Thai hotel websites? It’s not just random alphabet soup or a bureaucratic stamp. SHA, SHA Plus and SHA Extra Plus stand for types of Safety and Health Administration certifications. These badges (first implemented during the COVID pandemic) ensure that your relaxation and wellness time is as safe as it is spectacular. They guarantee that your hotel of choice is committed to strictly following comprehensive health and wellness protocols. SHA vs SHA+ vs SHA++ : What’s the difference? Photograph: Tourism Authority of Thailand SHA This baseline certification assures you that the hotel is safe, up to standard and ready to welcome guests. Regular cleaning? Done. Clear safety signs? In place. Hand sanitisers within reach? Always.   SHA+ (SHA Plus)   Spot the SHA Plus logo and you’ll know that at least 70% of the staff in certified venues are fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated team members are carefully placed away from direct guest interactions and are thoroughly trained in COVID-19 emergency protocols. SHA Plus also holds the unique authority to issue the SHABA certificate, a key document that confirms strict health and safety standards and is essential for entry into various travel schemes. SHA++ (SHA Extra Plus)   This highest level of certification takes things up a notch by partnering with certified hospitals to offer RT-PCR testing – a powerful and fast method for detecting viral genetic material. It carefully amplifies specific genetic

On the banks of the Chao Phraya River stands Iconsiam, a mall whose architectural design draws inspiration from the graceful curves of the bai sri banana leaf vessel and the traditional Thai sabai shawl. Embodying both modernity and heritage, within its impressive 750,000 square metres this mega-retail landmark offers an exceptional collection of luxury shops, world-class entertainment venues and top-tier dining outlets. There is much to admire here but if you find yourself flagging from all the retail therapy at opulent boutiques, you’ll discover opportunities aplenty to refuel with a well-deserved bite. The range of cuisines available is wide, so here are a few tasty Time Out suggestions to get your teeth into:

Got some free time for a Netflix night or a daytime movie date?  Here’s a solid list of feel-good Thai films from recent years, with a classic local favourite thrown in for good measure!

From competing on The Rapper 2 to locking in with YUPP! – a Thai label driving Thai hip-hop forward – and then doubling down on her self-made story as the first Thai female solo act at Coachella in 2022, Danupha “MILLI” Kanateerakul has been on a hot winning streak and there's no sign of her cooling down anytime soon.   MILLI had us hooked from start to finish throughout this interview. She laid it all out, talking about the lowdown on her values as a young Thai artist now carrying global fame. She got real about ONE PUNCH, a punchy rolling-out track from her new album HEAVYWEIGHT, where she channels her inner Muay Thai fighter to chronicle her transformation from an atomweight starting out to the powerhouse MILLI, the Thai girl dominating stages we know today. MILLI also dished about her generation-spanning performance with FUTON and, of course, shared a splash of her Songkran memories – water fights and all. Unapologetically Thai, striding through the rap world Photograph: YUPP Entertainment As MILLI’s bars echo louder and ripple further across the world, we ask how she keeps her Thai roots at the forefront while the world watches. MILLI says “My Thai heritage isn’t something I put on. It’s natural. It’s my DNA, flowing through everything I create. All of my fans recognise that too and that borderless connection is electric.” Her bilingual flow isn’t calculated… it just happens. “The words I choose, the stories I tell. They're all naturally filtered through my experienc

There’s more to Bangkok than glittering mega clubs and commercial hotspots. We’ve put together a list of intimate venues where artistic expression takes precedence over commercial appeal. These are our suggestions for those seeking sounds that go beyond the ordinary.

Bangkok’s dining scene never ceases to impress with new restaurants constantly adding fresh energy to the city’s vibrant food landscape. While elegant fine dining establishments often steal the spotlight with their refined menus and impeccable presentation, casual eateries play an equally important role in shaping the city’s culinary identity. From bustling street-side stalls to trendy bistros, these spots capture the capital’s lively spirit through bold flavours, creative concepts and inviting atmospheres. If you’re planning a romantic evening for two, a laid-back family dinner or even a solo food adventure, there’s no shortage of exciting options. The city’s diverse culinary landscape continues to expand, offering everything from Cantonese and French delicacies to comforting Burmese dishes. Whether you’re drawn to modern fusion cuisine or timeless classics, there’s always something new to discover.

Thailand has largely shut its doors to gambling, yet state-run horse racing and the official lottery remain as the country’s only legal exceptions.. That said, the broader gambling scene thrives quietly in clandestine spaces, and its influence was certainly felt when this draft bill was approved. As of early 2025, a draft bill legalising casinos has been given the green light, and they’re betting on Bangkok, along with other key tourist cities up north and down south, to become the hub. As the policy rolls out, let’s place our bets on what it will look like.

While music transcends borders, these Thai artists are gradually breaking down barriers and overcoming language obstacles by creating hits in English and allowing their music to resonate with global audiences. From humble beginnings fuelled by strong ambitions, these musicians are sharing their stories and taking their tracks to the world stage. Here's a snapshot of the multilingual acts from Thailand singing a slightly different tune.

For your next denim haul in the Siam ‘hood, head over to the Siamkit Building. Hold’em Denim, a local brand, takes the classic appeal of the material and gives it a unique spin, drawing inspiration from the high-stakes poker game of Texas Hold 'Em. Their designs channel the excitement and aesthetic of a winning hand in casino culture.

Another great denim shopping experience awaits at Sukhumvit 33. Nama also has a retail presence at Terminal 21. Craftsmanship and materials are the focus here, using premium Japanese selvedge denim sourced directly from Okayama, Japan – the denim capital of the world. Their jeans, made using vintage sewing machines, are uniquely stylish and built to stand the test of time. Personalisation is available here too, through Nama’s ‘Craft Your Own’ service.

If you find yourself wandering in the Siam Square neighbourhood, take a detour down Soi 2 for a bespoke denim shopping experience. Founded by Vitchapong ‘Boom’ Hutasuwan, a passionate denim collector with deep roots in the industry, Selvedgework offers made-to-measure pieces as well as a curated selection of ready-to-wear. The art of denim here is in the fabric – over a dozen selvedge denims sourced from Japan, Italy, the USA and local mills. Whether you favour a classic straight leg or a razor-sharp skinny fit, you can customise every detail, from buttons and pocket linings to laser-etched initials.

This upcycled fashion brand stitches sustainability into every denim patch, creating handmade treasures that are as unique as they are eco-conscious. To snap up their latest pieces, swing by their stalls at Chatuchak Market (Section 3) or visit Comma And at Central World. For a more relaxed, artsy experience, pop into Neighborhood Drama in Udomsuk Soi 7. Their DIY collections include bold statement tops, reworked cropped sweatshirts and denim remixes. A quick scroll through their Instagram will show you one of their latest re-dos: vintage Levi jeans reworked with sequins and stitched-on team logos.

The revamped Speakerbox is back in its Thonglor stomping ground after a months-long facelift. Now with serious space gains and just a block and a few steps from its original location, Speakerbox 2.0 still retains its no-frills drinking spot with a dive bar soul. Speakerbox welcomes you with the bar area slinging music-inspired cocktails and pulling double duty as a chill café by day, and there’s no entry fee for its bar atmosphere. The main event though is hosting resident musicians and underground acts on the regular. This all happens in the live room, a purpose-built environment where sound quality takes priority, creating an optimal setting for live performances which can easily fit a crowd without anyone having to elbow their way through. Each night brings a different genre, so keep up with the lineup at Speakerboxbkk. And if you find your musical match in the city, tickets are available through Ticketmelon or at the entrance on event nights.

Bangkok’s premier electronic playground has moved! Mustache Bangkok has relocated from Sukhumvit Soi 23 to its new home at the Escape Glass House on EmQuartier’s 5th floor, now even bougier. This 300-capacity venue delivers house, techno, afro house, and minimal beats through a Funktion One sound system, renowned for its high-quality sound and deep bass. The spacious terrace offers a breather between dance sessions. Their monthly events never disappoint, turning warehouses, boats, and rooftops into one-off party spots. Want in? Keep an eye on their socials and mark your calendar.

Bangkok’s audiophiles gather here when generic club beats don’t cut it. Music aficionados might highly rate the custom tube sound system, engineered for acoustic live shows. Studio Lam dishes up international influences, from reggae to funk to jazz, while staying firmly rooted in Thai musical heritage – specifically the Isan region’s molam (a freestyle, rap-like genre) and luk thung (its more traditional rural counterpart). Founder Maft Sai (of Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band fame) created this space as an antidote to Bangkok’s commercial club scene. Check studiolambangkok on Instagram for their rotating roster of live performances. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 6pm-midnight. Closed on Mondays. Studio Lam proves Bangkok’s alternative music scene punches well above its weight. Come for sounds you’ve never heard before, stay for the community – local crowds are thriving out here in Sukhumvit Soi 51.

Revamped in 2023 with a new location in the Ratchaprasong district, and for easiest access, we recommend getting off at BTS Chit Lom. The volume cranks up from 8pm to 11.45pm nightly as live bands take over. They pair a straight-up American-Thai menu with a soundtrack of international hits, pop and rock classics. Work through their cocktail list or grab a cold one and sing along against a backdrop of walls showcasing music collectibles, platinum records, and signed memorabilia from world-famous artists. Additionally, special tributes pop up regularly – keep an eye on their socials to stay clued in. This March 2025 marks women’s history month and Hard Rock International is rolling out limited-edition Shakira tees as part of their year-long campaign celebrating female voices in music. Get a piece!

Blueprint was born out of Bangkok’s need for a venue that puts live music front and centre – not just as a backdrop for socialising. Designed with purpose, it’s a no-nonsense space, a distraction-free zone where a diverse genre of artists perform. Located on the second floor of Flow House, A Square, Sukhumvit 26, Blueprint houses professional-level sound systems, stage-grade lighting, and a thoughtfully designed stage for an immersive experience. And instead of relying on traditional revenue-sharing for performers, it operates on a ticket-based earnings model – a way to foster an open scene where different sounds, styles, and communities can thrive. Check out the artists taking the stage weekly on Instagram at @blueprintlivehouse, and grab tickets on Ticketmelon.

Wanting to ditch the 21st century for a few hours? Head to Velaa Sindhorn Village, in the Lang Suan district. Jazz enthusiasts will dig this place! You walk through the doors at Crimson Room and slam straight into the roaring 1920s. This compact jazz bar throws you a flask and teaches you the Charleston. The space is draped in rich red velvet, and the tiered seating gives you prime views of the performers from all angles. Once the live sets wrap, resident DJs slide in with selections that keep the night flowing. Open daily, 6pm-2am.

Lat Phrao's sonic rebels have found their headquarters at Noise House. By day, this split-level venue caters to gearheads and anyone looking to get their synths sorted with equipment sales and repairs. By night, it erupts into a melody-lit noise house, as the name suggests. Here, genre rules don’t apply – you can catch everything from experimental soul to garage punk on any given night. Beyond music gigs, Noise House also houses recording studios, rehearsal rooms, and tech workshops, creating an open-hearted, complete ecosystem for music lovers.

Built in a narrow shophouse, Adhere 13th has stood the test of time in Bangkok’s unpredictable nightlife scene, thriving for 17 years in the historic Phra Nakhon district. What started as a cafe has transformed into the city’s much-admired blues venue. This place has character, with vintage decor and a vinyl collection lining the walls – much of it from the owner’s father’s collection. The owner preserves the old charm, said to fix what breaks and only upgrade the sound system when needed. Affordable drinks and casual bites complement the live blues performances. Weeknights offer breathing room, but from Friday to Sunday, it’s standing room only. Outdoor seating is available, and on busy nights, you might find yourself spilling onto the pavement, toasting with strangers.

British-Filipino indie star Beabadoobee is landing in Bangkok this August with a guitar, a mood and all the fuzzed-out feels.  As part of her Asia tour, she’ll take over Samyan Mitrtown Hall on August 6 – outstretched hand, heartbreak in tow, ready to show the city what 'Real Man' sounds like when its viral magic hits live. Beabadoobee’s Asia Tour 2025 will also stop in Singapore on August 4, Taipei on August 9, and Manila on August 12. Grab your tickets  Prices: B2,800 / B2,200 Presale: May 14-16, 10am onwards General Sale: May 17, 10am onwards Where: Live Nation Tero (register on their website for free presale access)  What’s on the setlist? Undoubtedly, we’ll get to hear Bea’s latest critically acclaimed album This Is How Tomorrow Moves featuring fiery tracks like ‘Real Man,’ the infectious ‘Take A Bite’ and the anthemic ‘Coming Home.’ Plus, count on her bedroom indie staples that still stick with day-one fans like ‘Glue Song’ and ‘Coffee.’ Who else is joining Bea? Pretty Sick and Keni Titus will be there to get the crowd going at select dates and stages.   Seating map Photograph: livenationth  

Thailand’s last standing wooden cinema powers up its projector again on April 26, marking the end of 30 years in the dark. Starting from 3pm, the Nang Loeng district turns into a full-on neighbourhood celebration with local market stalls, live music and strong community vibes. No snoozing. Free movie tickets are up for grabs from 5.30pm. A special film chat starts sharp at 6pm. First come, first served. Get in early to claim yours. Photograph: Thai Film Archive This comeback, brought to life by the Crown Property Bureau, Thai Film Archive and Nang Loeng locals, kicks off with serious nostalgia. The screening of My Wonder Year (1993) takes you back to the theatre in its prime, with scenes filmed right there before it closed. Director King Somching Srisupap will also chat with the audience before the film, joined by Thai screen icons Saksit Tangthong and Patiparn Pataweekarn. Sala Chalerm Thani is an architectural time capsule – a rare wooden survivor in a concrete jungle. While Bangkok races forward and the city evolves around it, this wooden structure remains intact. Come see this architectural unicorn for yourself before another 30 years slip by. Since parking can be a nightmare, we recommend taking a motorbike taxi or hopping on buses 2, 8, 44, 59, 60, 79, 183, 511, A4 or S1 to Wat Khae Nang Loeng; bus 49 to Nang Loeng Post Office; or the MRT to Sam Yot station followed by a short walk.

From May 1-4, kick back in custom wooden deck chairs, and enjoy back-to-back sunsets against the glittering Bangkok riverscape. This time, Skyline Film brings the range once more, from modern musicals and early-2000s romcoms to mid-century dramas and soul-searching indies. It's cinema reimagined for those who want their entertainment with passing dinner cruise boats and fresh air. The technical setup goes beyond standard outdoor cinema fare, featuring a massive screen with crystal-clear projection and THOR wireless noise-cancelling headphones, creating a personal audio bubble while remaining considerate to neighbours. No more straining to hear dialogue or dealing with ambient noise. Photograph:500 Days of Summer (2009) Here’s the line up for your consideration. Wicked May 1, 8.00pm Freaky Friday May 2, 6.40pm Breakfast at Tiffany's May 2, 9.20pm 500 Days of Summer May 3, 6.40pm Into The Wild May 3, 9.20pm Casablanca May 4, 6.40pm The Fault in Our Stars May 4, 9.15pm To get to River City Bangkok, take the BTS to Saphan Taksin Station, exit 1 or 2, then hop on a Chao Phraya Express Boat (yellow, orange or green flag) to Si Phraya pier. If you're coming by MRT, get off at Hua Lamphong station, exit 1, and take a taxi, tuk-tuk or bus (lines 1, 75, or 35) to the venue. Parking is also available. Just stamp your ticket at the event for three free hours with any purchase. Catch the screen time and film schedule then grab your ticket for B500 on Ticketmelon.  The wooden chairs ar

A fresh lane is opening for Thai collectors and global petrolheads! Collins Auction is turbo-boosting Thailand’s classic car scene into the future as the first online auction platform of its kind. Going live this Saturday, April 26 and running through May 3, catch it all on the platform at Collins Auction. Car auctions are superficially about buying and selling but at their core, they’re where dream rides change hands and collectors meet the real market. They offer access to rare finds and passion projects that don’t usually show up on the radar, from garage-built creations to investment-grade machines. Each car comes with receipts, vetted, traced and backed by experts so you know exactly what you're getting into. With online platforms in the mix, it’s now a global game, allowing for faster deals, wider reach and more eyes on the prize. Collins is riding high after last year’s live event success, bringing rare finds directly to collectors’ screens. The future looks stacked, with a 1963 Bentley S3 Continental and a 1970 Mercedes-Benz W111 280 SE Coupe already lined up. Their new Classifieds section also offers handpicked rides, including a one-owner 1995 Mercedes-Benz 230 GE with military roots, an all-blue 2002 Porsche 996 Turbo and the country’s only 1958 Jaguar XK150 Roadster.