Bangkok's Hippest Neighborhood

Summary

In this engaging video transcript, the hosts explore the vibrant neighborhood of Thonglor in Bangkok, showcasing its rich cultural diversity and trendy lifestyle. They discuss the area's history, dynamic development, and local attractions, including the popular community mall, The Commons. The conversation highlights Thonglor's diverse food scene, ranging from Japanese cuisine to local Thai eateries, and delves into the nightlife, featuring unique cocktail bars and live music venues. The hosts encourage viewers to experience the neighborhood's unique blend of modernity and tradition, emphasizing Thonglor's status as a cosmopolitan epicenter of cool in Bangkok.

Takeaways

• 📍 Thonglor is considered one of the hippest and trendiest neighborhoods in Bangkok, known for its dynamic and international vibe.
• 🏙️ The area has a rich history, named after a Thai naval officer who owned a lot of land in the region.
• 🌳 Thonglor offers a mix of residential options, from boutique stores to high-end condos and townhouses, with prices that can be quite reasonable if one looks around.
• 🛍️ The neighborhood is home to The Commons, a community mall that offers a unique shopping and dining experience different from typical malls.
• 🏀 Thonglor also has recreational facilities like a beautiful park, basketball courts, and a skate park, making it pet-friendly and suitable for outdoor activities.
• 🍜 The food scene in Thonglor is diverse, with high-quality Japanese cuisine being a standout due to the presence of Japanese-owned restaurants.
• 🎶 Nightlife in Thonglor is vibrant, with a variety of bars, live music venues, and clubs that cater to different tastes and preferences.
• 🍹 Thonglor is known for its unique cocktail bars with creative themes and designs, such as the Locker Bar and ATM-themed entrances.
• 🎤 Live music lovers can find venues like Speaker Box and Shear, offering a range of music from cover bands to local live bands.
• 💃 For those seeking a more futuristic and upscale club experience, Echelon in Thonglor offers a space-age vibe and top-notch DJs.

Q & A

What is the meaning of the name 'Tonglor'?

The name 'Tonglor' literally translates to 'molten gold' and is based on the name of a Thai naval officer who owned a lot of land and houses in the area.

How has Tonglor evolved over the years according to Keith?

Keith mentions that since he arrived in 2009, Tonglor has transformed from being known as a place for the younger generation to have fun and eat, into a more dynamic neighborhood with a variety of attractions including the Commons and different types of merchants.

What type of establishment is the Commons?

The Commons is described as a community mall that offers a mix of international and local people, boutique stores, restaurants, and a unique atmosphere that doesn't feel like typical Thailand.

What are some of the daytime activities one can enjoy in Tonglor?

Tonglor has a beautiful park with basketball courts and a skate park, making it a great spot for daytime activities. It's also pet-friendly, allowing people to bring their pets to places like the Commons.

What is the nature of the business that Taka and Keith started together?

Taka and Keith started a production studio called Modal Creative Studio, which is located in Tonglor. They focus on podcast production, including shooting, editing, show notes, and distribution.

What is the significance of Tonglor being a hub for Japanese cuisine?

Tonglor is known for its high-quality Japanese food because many of the restaurants are owned by Japanese people, ensuring a higher standard of quality and authenticity.

What are some popular food spots in Tonglor?

Some popular food spots in Tonglor include Nagia for Japanese morsels, Yamato Yakiniku for Japanese barbecue, and Beast and Butter for burgers. There's also a mix of other cuisines like Indian, steakhouses, and Korean food.

What types of nightlife can one expect in Tonglor?

Tonglor offers a diverse nightlife scene with cocktail bars, live music venues, and clubs. There are unique themed bars, some with secret entrances, and places that offer a wide range of experiences from dive bars to high-end establishments.

How does the price range of nightlife in Tonglor compare to other neighborhoods?

Tonglor has a reputation for being a bit more expensive than other neighborhoods, but one can still find more affordable options. The average price for a cocktail is around 350 Baht, with the cost often reflecting the ambiance and modern experience of the area.

What message do Taka and Keith have for people who have never been to Tonglor?

Taka and Keith encourage people to step out of their comfort zones and explore different neighborhoods, including Tonglor, to experience the variety and vibrancy it offers.