Hidden Gem In Thailand

This is a 12-day itinerary for Bangkok and Pattaya, focusing on visiting some local attractions that are less frequented by foreign tourists.

The main purpose of this trip to Thailand is to visit some attractions that are known mainly to locals rather than the commonly frequented tourist spots. Upon arrival at the international airport in Thailand, there are numerous counters selling SIM cards with data plans. However, I usually refrain from purchasing a SIM card at the airport and prefer buying one at convenience stores. In these stores, you can get an unlimited data card for just 199 Thai Baht, valid for one month.

Ratthaprasasanabhakti Building (Building B)

Ratthaprasasanabhakti Building (Building B) is a comprehensive government complex in Bangkok. It houses various government departments, including the Immigration Office, as well as convenience stores, coffee shops, and other facilities.

Wandeedee Cafe x Restaurant


Wandeedee Cafe x Restaurant is a restaurant that seamlessly combines indoor and outdoor dining. The outdoor setup is particularly beautiful in the evening, featuring live singers. While the prices may be a bit high, the ambiance is excellent, making it a great spot for photography and checking in.

Na-Me-Beer

Na-Me-Beer is a restaurant situated by the lake. In the evenings, there are live singers, and the food is also delicious.

Ko Kret

Nobody would have expected to find an island in the middle of Bangkok. I have visited Bangkok many times, and it was only this time that I found out about it, thanks to the locals. So today, I came to this island to explore it.

The only way to reach this island is by taking a local boat, which costs just 3 Thai Baht. Once you arrive on the island, head to the right, and you’ll find bicycle rentals. I also rented a bicycle for easy transportation, and it only cost 150 Thai Baht for the entire day. Bicycles are considered safe here, as the locals assured that people don’t steal them, and there are no cars on the island.

Wat Paramaiyikawat Warawihan

Wat Paramaiyikawat Warawihan, simply known as Wat Paramaiyikawat, is an ancient Buddhist temple situated on Ko Kret, Nonthaburi Province, along the Chao Phraya River in central Thailand.

The temple holds the classification of the second rank of royal temples. It is believed to have been constructed during the late Ayutthaya period, following the establishment of Ko Kret. Initially known as “Wat Pak Ao, translating to “estuary temple,” the name was derived from its geographical location.

 Leaning Pagoda

The leaning pagoda stands as the iconic symbol and landmark of Ko Kret. Its beauty is most striking when observed from the middle of the water or from a passing boat, as it is strategically positioned at the confluence of the Chao Phraya and Lat-Kret waterways, merging with Om-Kret.

Next to the leaning pagoda, there is a coffee kiosk where enjoying a cup of coffee with a view of the Chao Phraya is such a luxurious experience.

Wat Phai Lom

Wat Phai Lom, with its Ayutthaya-style Ordination Hall, is situated on Koh Kret, a charming small island in the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi. Among the five temples on the island, it can be accessed by boat from Pak Kret, located north of Bangkok.


On this island, there are no cars, only bicycles and motorbikes. It provides a temporary escape from the bustling Bangkok, allowing one to calm their mind and enjoy nature.

Ozone One

Ozone One Don Mueang Market, located in Don Mueang District, is a well-frequented market in the area. Residents of Don Mueang are likely to be familiar with and have frequented this market numerous times. Ozone One Market is expansive, offering a diverse selection of both utensils and food, available for purchase at any time.

Renowned for its numerous popular street food stalls, the market is a delight for visitors who can indulge in a wide variety of street food options while enjoying a satisfying shopping experience.

Here, you must try the boat noodle. Boat noodle is a highly renowned dish in Bangkok.

TK Palace Hotel & Convention

Offering modern, air-conditioned accommodations, TK Palace Hotel & Convention is a 10-minute drive from Impact Muang Thong Thani and The Government Complex Center Chengwattana. Free WiFi is accessible in all rooms.

The property is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk to Tesco Lotus Shopping Centre. Additionally, it is just a 7-minute drive to the Department of Consular Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the New National Government Complex.

The classically furnished and comfortable rooms at TK Palace Hotel feature a cable TV and a minibar. Each room comes with a private bathroom.

The 24-hour front desk staff is available to assist guests with laundry services and chargeable shuttle arrangements. The hotel is also equipped with meeting facilities and provides complimentary private parking.

WYNN CAFÉ & BISTRO offers a variety of Thai-style fusion food and an extensive selection of international dishes, available as both buffet and à la carte. Room service is available upon request.

Bang Saen Fish Market

Japanese-themed establishments are gaining immense popularity in Thailand, whether it’s a café, resort, or onsen. There is a widespread fascination with captivating Japanese styles and vibes. Considering this trend, why not explore the Bang Saen Fish Market in Chonburi?

Located approximately one hour from Bangkok, this market is truly worth a visit. It provides a diverse array of street food options and picturesque spots, all within a captivating Japanese ambiance.

Bang Saen Walking Street

Bang Saen Walking Street is a relatively new tourist attraction, established around mid-2009 to diversify the places to visit in Bang Saen. This initiative not only adds to the local attractions but also boosts the local economy through increased tourism. Bang Saen Walking Street is an excellent destination for shopping, offering a variety of styles including food and beverages, clothing, jewelry, handmade items, and photography. Additionally, students participate by selling various goods to earn extra income. The street also features live music performances by both professional and amateur musicians.

Here, you must try the local signature dish, “Yellow Chicken.” It is incredibly delicious.

Highfive Hotel Pattaya

Located just steps away from the Central Festival Pattaya shopping centre and the stunning Pattaya Beach, High Five Hotel offers spacious and cozy rooms. The hotel features an outdoor pool and provides complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas.

With wooden flooring and furnishings, all rooms are air-conditioned and come equipped with cable TV and a minibar. The en suite bathrooms include a bathtub, and some rooms boast a private balcony and a generous living area.

The hotel is a one-hour drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport, and on-site parking is available.

The Bayview Hotel Pattaya

Experience a delightful tropical retreat at The Bayview Pattaya, just a short stroll from Central Festival Pattaya Beach. The hotel features six dining options, two outdoor pools, and a tennis court. Free WiFi is accessible in the lobby and the lobby bar. The key feature here is the swimming pool, which is 2.5 meters deep, allowing for a truly enjoyable and refreshing swimming experience.

Situated a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi Airport, The Bayview offers free parking for guests who choose to drive.

Adorned with dark wood furnishings, rooms at Bayview Pattaya include flat-screen cable/satellite TVs and complimentary bottled water. A minibar and tea/coffee making facilities are also provided. The marble bathrooms come with both bathtub and shower facilities.

Guests can indulge in a massage at the Massage Pavilion or maintain their fitness routine at the on-site fitness center. Water sports enthusiasts can partake in activities such as scuba diving and jet skiing at the nearby beach. The hotel also offers Thai cooking and fruit carving classes.

The 24-hour Garden Terrace Café serves international dishes and hosts a daily breakfast buffet. Drinks can be enjoyed at Exotica Bar and the pool bar.

Pa Boon Cafe Pattaya

This café is truly amazing and one of my top choices to visit during my trip to Pattaya.

Despite its proximity to a highway, once you enter the café, the entire ambiance transforms. It’s like stepping into a fairytale forest, completely disconnecting from the highway surroundings. The café exudes a peaceful and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, adorned with abundant greenery and ponds featuring Koi fishes.

The restaurant offers authentic Thai cuisine and also includes Western dishes such as pasta and steaks.

What adds to the charm is the presence of chickens and rabbits on the property. Moreover, this café/restaurant is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring along your furry friends to enjoy their time too.

It was truly a delightful place to visit.

The Oxygen Pattaya

The Oxygen Pattaya is a beachfront café with a Bali-themed ambiance, offering the opportunity to dine with al fresco sunset views, all within a 2-hour drive from Bangkok.

Knowing Pattaya’s popularity for its beaches and cafes, such as Bang Saen, it’s no wonder that your primary agenda when visiting is to find a coffee shop to relax with friends. Introducing The Oxygen Pattaya – a café adorned in a Balinese theme, offering both spacious indoor and outdoor dining areas for patrons to savor their meals while enjoying breathtaking 180° sunset views.

Upon entering, you’ll discover a spacious indoor dining area capable of accommodating a large number of customers. The ceiling design is particularly noteworthy, featuring the familiar thatched hut design made of hay and wood panels, reminiscent of Bali.

The unmistakable circular bar in the center draws attention, with a cylindrical shelf showcasing a variety of beverage options. For those looking to steer clear of typical chairs, the small white hammocks are a must-try—perfect for a leisurely swing while enjoying your drinks.

For those chasing sunsets, we’ve got you covered. It’s highly recommended to choose outdoor seating at this café – you’ll discover a variety of options, including beanbags under tepees, family dining tables, and small benches for two, all facing the sea. If you’re with a partner, grabbing a spot on a bench provides an excellent idea to gaze at the sunset in the privacy of your own space.

Pattaya Viewpoint

Featured on every Pattaya postcard across Thailand, the Pattaya Viewpoint is one of the two popular photo spots, the other being the illuminated Pattaya sign behind Bali Hai Pier.

While the viewpoint can get a bit crowded during sunset, the best times to visit are early morning and late afternoon. If you’re interested in capturing night shots, the viewpoint stays open late (7:30 am – 9:00 pm).

Entrance to the viewpoint is free, and it’s not necessary to visit as part of a tour (unless you’re already on a tour). Car parking is limited, but for motorcycle riders, finding parking space is usually not a problem.

Getting to the viewpoint takes no more than 10 minutes from either the main beach or Jomtien. A short 2-minute walk past some refreshment and souvenir stalls leads you to the viewpoint.

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