Neighborhood Focus: Victory Monument [Season 3, Episode 31]

The Victory Monument area of Bangkok is unique in that it
combines the old - the monument itself is of a Thai victory
against the French in WWII - and the new - the skytrain and
multiple modern condo developments.


Click here to see a great blog by Greg where you can
compare old and new photos of the same area - including the
Victory Monument, taken in 1946.


Greg uses the compass to circle around Victory Monument,
describing the various areas that surround the chaotic transport
hub. One nearly universal theme is great street food, as an
apparently unlimited number of Thais seem to live and work in the
area. Another gem is of course Saxophone Pub, probably the most
well known live music venue in all of Thailand (but
check who's playing before you go!). Just
around the corner is Soi Rangnam, packed with street food,
restaurants, condos, and a unique mix of both Thais and
foreigners heading to dine, drink, see movies, and shop at the
iconic King Power HQ - although you're not allowed to leave with
any of the merchandise you buy. It's a duty-free thing...listen
for details.


All in all, Victory Monument may not be first on your list
of places to check out in Bangkok, but if you want a great, local
experience (usually meaning shopping, eating, and also eating),
Victory Monument is a must-visit.


And don't forget to check out our friend
Ivan's Kickstarter page. Help him get his
Thai-language book on English-language pronunciation into schools
throughout Thailand!


As always, the podcast will continue to be
100% funded by listeners just like you who get
some special swag from us. And we'll keep our
Facebook, Twitter,
and LINE accounts active so you can
send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to
share.