It’s finally here. Temperatures are settling down and that patch of upper-lip sweat is conspicuously absent. While it’s not the quite the Land of Always Winter, Bangkok is entering its wonderful “mild” season when the sun isn’t deep roasting every soi dog.
With that five-degree difference comes an opportunity for Bangkokians to slip out of their air-conditioned comfort zone and step boldly into the out-of-doors for some of their favorite winter activities. Here are some ways you can take advantage of that rare cool breeze. Illustration: Praew Tansanga
1. Picnic and music in the park
Need an excuse to picnic in the park? The Bangkok Symphony has you covered with its weekly free concerts in Lumpini Park. The “Concert in the Park” series happens at 5:30pm every Sunday for four months to celebrate the limited moments of Bangkok without overwhelming heat. It’s already started and continues through Feb. 1 (No concert Dec. 7). Photo: MsNina
2. Humiliate your pets with unnecessary winter clothing
You’ve waited all year to strut your stuff in matching Versace coats with your animal companion. Do pets need coats? No! Is it cute? Yes! Pets in Bangkok can also enjoy turning heads with their fashion sense. Dress up with your pets in cute winter attire, such as sweaters, scarves, beanies and even little booties for all of their feet. Oh and share the pics online using #cocobkk. But remember, pets aren’t toys and if they’re not having fun too – don’t do it. Here are some popular outfits featuring local celebrity kitties. Note: They’ve got over a million followers more than you ever will. Photo: Guian Bolisay
“Sua Krong” as The Last Samurai
“Cheetah” in her sexy cat-in-a-cat costume
“Cheetah” will probably poop in her human companion’s shoes for this classic polka dots-plus-bunny ears outfit
3. Christmas in Thailand? Why not!
If there’s an opportunity to selfie, one must selfie, and holiday displays make the perfect background. Statues of Santa’s sleigh and Rudolph are displayed at every mall every year in perfect lighting. Don’t feel embarrassed, just follow that holiday spirit and get in there. It will feel good. Also, don’t miss a chance to strike a pose in front of a giant Christmas tree at fancy malls such as Siam Paragon and Central World, which seem locked in mortal competition for the largest and wildest displays featuring those giant boxes of presents. Tip: Don’t be fooled by the wrapping paper; they’re empty. Photo: Zanyasan Tanantpapat
4. Gardens of Beer
You’ll notice a lot more activity at the outdoor beer gardens, as people allow themselves to be exposed to unconditioned air. Take a friend or 20 to one of Bangkok’s many buzzing beer gardens and watch the hours melt away with real human contact that doesn’t involve Line stickers. What? Didn’t need much explaining on this one, because we had you at “beer.” Photo: Heinekin Thailand
5. Go north for the real thing
A lot of folks heed the call of the wild and head north to sample some truly chilly weaterh. Hike up Doi Inthanon or Phu Kradueng in the late afternoon and enjoy some cuddling time in a tent as you wait for the sun to rise. Bangkokians love to travel up north to enjoy the cool weather and show off their winter wardrobe. Trips to Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep are a must. It’s a perfect place to spend your holiday if you don’t mind the crowded flower gardens and loud tourists. You’ll probably meet one of your colleagues there, since all of Bangkok heads up north this time of year. But hey, what’s wrong with a little mountain reunion? Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg
6. Outdoor workouts in the park!
You’re feasting, partying and hopefully not working much. Want to get a head start on those New Year resolutions and avoid starting 2015 with extra gut? Well it’s cool out so now’s a great time to actually go out and enjoy some of that green space we like to talk about. Bangkok’s parks a great place to jog or use some of the public exercise equipment without melting into a puddle. Photo: Butterjammin Lumpini Park Boot Camp
7. Engage: Pedal Power!
Take advantage of the cool to hop on the cycling fad by hopping on a bicycle. Regular bicycling tours happen around the city, and it’s a great way to take in the sights, learn about new neighborhoods and meet other cycling geeks. Photo: Watsamon Tri-yasakda
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