— Cityscapes

Cityscape: Bangkok

Photos Louis Vielle

5 min

Photos Louis Vielle

5 min

Referred to by locals as Krungthep – which means City Of Angels – Bangkok is a place like no other. Its bustling street life, myriad of canals, dazzling temples, iconic landmarks, colorful cabs and busy markets all make for a city that oozes energy and inspiration. But next to all of that, it’s also full of art, culture and amazing food. When our very skilled photographer friend Louis Vielle recently took a trip there, we asked him to capture how he saw the city. This is what he came back with.

Bangkok’s a city you’ll miss as soon as you leave it. Its intensity is unparalleled. A constant buzz. If New York is the city that never sleeps, Bangkok doesn’t even know what sleep is. Scooters, cars, horns, trucks, bikes, taxis – they’re everywhere. The sound of the streets and the smell of petrol fumes mixed with fresh pad thai being prepared in one of the local cheap-and-cheerful eateries is something you won’t find

Taking your time to step out of the crowd is not only rewarding, it’s necessary. Slow things down with an iced coffee, a visit to one of the gorgeous temples or an art show at the Jim Thompson Art Center. After that, let the different facets of the city sink in: its archaic infrastructure that clashes with its futuristic inclinations is a true sight to behold.