With Bangkok on its 3rd and most dangerous "lockdown", life (let alone travel) is on kind of a standstill.
Since bars, restaurants, attractions, and even parks are closed, we are all stuck inside with nothing to do but work, build our skills, watch TV or work some more.
However, I believe a bit of exploring and travel can be done...safely.
Here are 5 things you can do still in Bangkok during COVID lockdown.
Make sure you wear a mask, keep your distance and sanitize.
1. Drive around
If you have a personal car or a motorbike, you can drive around Bangkok freely. Take this time to explore hidden paths and really discover the nooks and crannies of this awesome city.
Just pick a direction and drive. It's ok if you get lost. That is a much better way of exploring than if you have a destination in mind.
There is hardly any traffic too, so this is the perfect time to do this. I often take drives in the morning/afternoon on weekends and almost daily in the evening.
Some of my favorite spots to drive are the China town area, Charoen Krung Road, Phasi Charoen, and Thonburi district.
2. Take photos of nature, buildings, and art
If you love photography, right now is a great opportunity to find isolated areas and start taking photos of the surrounding landscape.
Lately, I've been taking photos of temples, buildings, iconic landmarks, and even street art (Talat Noi and Ong Ang Walking Street).
Most temples are closed for prayers, I believe, but you can still walk around the temple grounds and take photos of the beautiful architecture. Best time too since you won't have anyone in your shots.
Unlike the rural provinces, parking on the road in Bangkok isn't allowed or is a bit difficult. And obviously, don't be taking pictures while driving. So drive around until you can find areas where you can park. Maybe a mall or car park and then walk around to take photos of what you find interesting.
You could take the BTS or MRT to get around but make sure you avoid the "peak hours" (8-9 am and 4-6 pm).
Another cool place you can go to is the Airplane Graveyard. It's an awesome spot for some great photos especially if you love urban exploring.
Hardly anyone goes there anymore, and other than the people who live here, you are pretty much by yourself. So you don't have to worry about catching or spreading COVID. If you wear your mask and sanitize (like anywhere else), you're probably fine.
3. Visit all the districts of Bangkok
While you are driving around, why not make a goal of hitting all districts in Bangkok? Did you know there are a total of 50?
I'm not sure how many I've been to but perhaps I will start fresh. I may even do a post about it with photos.
50 iconic Bangkok landmarks from 50 districts!
How does that sound?
I think it is going to be an exciting challenge to keep me busy for the next month or so.
4. Volunteer to help out
I've noticed a massive increase in the number of homeless people in the city. Obviously, COVID has made a huge impact on the socio-economic lives of the people and it has forced many on the streets.
It is super sad to see. My friends and I decided to help out by buying food and distributing it to the local people in hard-hit areas. You could do the same by either starting your own or joining other communities that are already doing it.
For example - BKK Community Help
5. Bicycle or Scoot about
Bicycles and E-scooters are a great way to explore Bangkok. I've tried both and they are so fun. It's a lot faster than walking but you also get to access tiny streets where cars can't get to.
Go Scoot has a bunch of tours that offer experiences and amazing sights hidden from general street view.
Shayan Adventures
Wednesday, May 19, 2021 12:06 PM