Bangkok

Bangkok Reborn: My First Trip Back After COVID

(A full Bangkok travel story featuring Jodd Fairs, Jeh O Chula, Muay Thai, Auriga Wellness & more)

After years of staying grounded during Covid, Bangkok was the first city I chose to visit again – and it reminded me instantly why I love traveling.
 

Tuk Tuk Thrills & Old Bangkok Charm

To feel the heart of Old Bangkok, roam through ancient temples, weave between the lantern alleys of Chinatown, and follow the murals of Talat Noi. Explore museums around Phra Nakhon, then drift along the Chao Phraya River on a long-tail boat or sunset cruise.

As night settles, end the day with a classic Tuk Tuk ride – Bangkok style. The hustle and bustle hits you immediately , traffic humming in every direction. I even offered my driver extra money to go slow… but ended up speeding through Bangkok like we were in a movie scene.

Jodd Fairs Market – Bangkok’s Night Market Highlight

Jodd Fairs became my go-to spot. It’s cleaner and calmer than Chatuchak, but still full of life.
There were countless food stalls, bubble tea stands, craft shops, and even exotic snacks (yes, scorpions – and no, I didn’t try them).

The star dish?
Leng Zabb (Pork Spine Mountain) – huge, tender, lightly spicy, and absolutely addictive.
As I said in my video: “Holy moly, it’s a feast… Try dipping a piece into the broth first.”

It truly melts in your mouth.

Jeh O Chula – Bangkok Comfort Food

Another must-eat on any Bangkok food guide is Jeh O Chula, a Michelin Bib Gourmand bistro. You’ll wait an hour, but the Tom Yum Mama ramen, spicy and comforting, makes it worth it.
I also loved the morning glory stir-fry and Thai-style salmon sashimi

Talat Noi & Ong Ang Walking Street

Talat Noi is one of Bangkok’s oldest neighborhoods – now covered in murals, street art, and hip cafés.
A short walk away is Ong Ang Walking Street, a restored canal area filled with lanterns, live music, and endless street food. Perfect for exploring on foot and taking photos.

Muay Thai at Elite Fight Club – Train Like a Local

If you want a truly authentic experience, take a Muay Thai class.
My private session at Elite Fight Club was intense and unforgettable.

My coach kept shouting:
“Right kick! Punch! Knee! Elbow!”
– and somehow made it fun.

In one hour, I learned the basics of punching, kicking, elbows, knees, and footwork.
It’s challenging, but it connects you to Thai culture in a way nowhere else can.

Auriga Wellness – The Best Massage Experience

After Muay Thai, I rewarded myself with a massage at Auriga Wellness at Capella Hotel – voted World’s Best New Hotel Spa in 2022.

They offer:

• four aromatic oils

• a jacuzzi and relaxation lounge

• and unique treatments like the Tok Sen massage, where wooden tapping melts muscle tension
  
  

The spa even arranged a boat ride back toward Icon Siam.

ICONSIAM & Chinatown

ICONSIAM was a great cooldown spot with its indoor floating market and huge fountain show.
I ended my night in Chinatown, where neon signs glow over a sea of street food stalls.

✨ Why Bangkok Stays Special

Bangkok isn't a city you “see.”
It’s a city you feel – through its food, its kindness, and its chaos.

After Covid, returning here felt like waking up again.

It didn’t just welcome me back to travel.
It reminded me why I missed the world.