One Day in Bangkok

Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is a time of celebration and tradition that is deeply ingrained in the culture of China and other countries with significant Chinese populations, including Thailand. In Bangkok, the Chinese New Year is celebrated with a flurry of activities and events that showcase the rich culture and heritage of the Chinese community.

For those who love to shop, Chinese New Year in Bangkok is a treasure trove of traditional Chinese goods such as red lanterns, decorations, and New Year's delicacies such as dumplings and sweet glutinous rice cakes. These items can be found in abundance in the many markets and shops in Chinatown and other parts of the city.

Chinese New Year in Bangkok is a celebration of culture, tradition, and community, where the past and present seamlessly intersect to create an experience that is both vibrant and meaningful. It’s also really loud.

Pattaya, Thailand | Day 3 | January 2023

Pattaya, a seaside resort city located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, is a place where tropical paradise meets urban excitement. Often referred to as the "Sin City of Thailand," Pattaya is known for its nightlife, beaches, and adult entertainment. But is that all there is to this city? Let's dive deeper and discover the hidden gems that Pattaya has to offer.

Imagine yourself walking down the streets of Pattaya; the sun is shining, the palm trees are swaying, and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore is in the background. The city is bustling with energy, and you can't help but feel alive. The streets are filled with vendors selling delicious street food, and the aroma of Thai cuisine fills the air. As you walk down the main road, you'll notice the vibrant nightlife scene, complete with bars, clubs, and shows that will keep you entertained all night long.

Let's not forget about the beaches. Pattaya is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, with crystal clear water and soft, white sands. Whether you want to relax on the beach with a book or take part in water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing, Pattaya's beaches have something for everyone.

Tom Yum, also known as "Tom Yam" is a popular Thai dish known for its sour, spicy, and savory flavors. It's made with a spicy broth made from lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and fish sauce, with the option of adding seafood, chicken, beef, or tofu. One of the most popular variations of Tom Yum is the Seafood Tom Yum, which is made with a variety of seafood such as shrimp, squid, and fish. The dish is usually served hot in a clay pot and garnished with cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges. The combination of spicy broth and fresh seafood makes it a must-try for anyone visiting Thailand.

Chinese New Year in Pattaya is an exciting time of the year, where the city comes alive with vibrant colors, delicious food, and lively celebrations. During this time, the streets are decorated with traditional Chinese lanterns, and the sound of drums and lion dances fill the air. The main event takes place in the Pattaya Chinese New Year Fair, which is held in the heart of the city and features a variety of traditional Chinese performances, including dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and musical performances. Visitors can also indulge in a wide array of delicious Chinese food, such as dumplings, noodles, and sweet glutinous rice cakes. The fair also features traditional Chinese games, including the ever-popular "ang pau" game, where participants can win red envelopes filled with money.

Happy Chinese New Year from Bangkok!

It’s not that odd being in Bangkok for Chinese New Year, as I usually traveled to SE Asia during the holiday when I was living in Beijing.

Of course, I had to go to Chinatown yesterday to check out the festivities. As expected, lots of people, lots of red, and lots of girls in Qipaos.

Tried to find boiled dumplings, but somehow failed. Chinatown needs to step up its dumpling game. Instead, I found a Canton restaurant and had dim sum, pork ribs, cabbage sauteed in a vinegar / soy sauce mix, and an oyster omelet over bean sprouts. Delicious.