Day 3: Bangkok

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Since landing in Bangkok, we’ve been checking off one tourist activity after another — but this morning took the crown for the most gloriously touristy adventure yet: the Maeklong Railway Market and the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

Our private tour guide and driver picked us up early for the hour-and-a-half journey out of the city. On the way to the railway market, we strolled through a sprawling seafood market full of alien-looking fish and mysterious sea creatures. Shockingly, it didn’t smell like a rotting aquarium.

The moment we reached the Railway Market proper, it felt like every tourist in Bangkok had the same idea. Total chaos — cameras everywhere, people jostling for the perfect selfie angle. Thankfully, our guide had pre-reserved us the VIP spot at a restaurant with front-row seats to the main event.

Eventually, the train appeared — not with a dramatic roar, but more of a leisurely crawl, like it was on its coffee break. The train squeezed through the narrow lane, everyone got their photo, and then it was over. Was it fascinating? Sure, in a “well, that happened” kind of way.

Then it was off to the Floating Market, where the canals were buzzing with longtail boats and colorful stalls. It was a chaotic ballet of paddles and propellers, and we were right in the thick of it.

But the real magic happened when we drifted away from the busy market and glided into a peaceful residential neighborhood tucked along the canal. Suddenly, the noise faded, and a different side of life unfolded. Wooden bungalows perched on stilts above the water, doors wide open to catch the breeze. Laundry flapped lazily on lines, potted plants spilled greenery onto porches, and curious dogs perked up as we passed. Elderly folks lounged on their porches or crouched by the edge of the canal, and one graceful woman rowed by, her boat gliding silently beside ours.

It was serene, simple, and deeply beautiful — a glimpse into the slower, quieter rhythm of canal life. No crowds, no noise — just calm waters and a sense that time was taking the day off.

For dinner today, we had yet another street food tour, this time, all restaurants are Michelin Star rated. We had the best Mongo Sticky Rice, Pad Thai and a banquet fit for a king (the chef used to work in the palace). It has only been two days, but i have eaten so much I believe I’ve gain 100 pounds!Read more