Bangkok's Hidden Gems: Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park

Before we get started, we've a quick warning for visitors
headed to Bangkok in October 2017. We don't normally recommend
listening to the tuk tuk drivers hanging out around the Grand
Palace when they tell you that the attraction you want to visit is
closed. But this month, they are correct. It's the culmination of
the year of mourning for Thailand, and lots of things are closed.
But don't turn to us for the latest info. You want Richard Barrow
for that, as he has all the details of what's closed
and what's open for your Bangkok visit this
month. Today we are on location in an
area of Bangkok known as Samyan. This
area was first settled by Thai-Chinese people, which isn't all that
surprising, seeing that Bangkok's Chinatown is just a kilometer or
two up the road. In more recent times, Samyan had become synonymous
with street food, supplying locals and attracting visitors from all
over Bangkok. Then - and  stop us if you've heard this one
before - the vendors were all given notice to pack up and move, and
the bulldozers followed quickly behind, leaving many wondering what
project was under way. The answer?
Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, which
is more than just Bangkok's newest green space. Listen in to hear
us share our experience with this new but still hidden gem in
Bangkok:


It sits on 28 rai of land, to form an "urban forest"
concept


It features a specially designed wetland that includes a
rain garden, retention pond, and underground water drainage
system


Evo sharing some botanical knowledge (Fabacea family, not
Cannabaceae, stoner)


Why the grass at CUCP is way more friendly on your feet
than that in Lumpini park


But it's more than just a park. CU sees the park as a an
important component of their master plan to convert the Samyan
area into… Thailand's Silicon Valley?


Other development in Samyan, either planned or underway,
including Zy Walk, Samyan Mitr Town, and Suan Luang
Square.

Love, Loathe, or Leave Perhaps inspired by
the beauty of the park, today we're taking on an iconic food in
Bangkok and all of Thailand: dragon fruit. It's arguably the most
beautiful fruit to look at. But the taste? Well, without giving the
answer away, we're at another split decision. Listen in and tell us
where your taste buds fall on this issue. And which one of us needs
to drink better beer. We Love Our Supporters!
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