Everything about Benjasiri Park

Bangkok’s Benjasiri Park can be found on the city’s Sukhumvit Road. Phrom Phong is the closest station on the BTS Skytrain. The BTS station makes it easy and affordable transport means from your hotels to the park. While it may not have the same level of popularity as Lumphini Park, it is nonetheless a lovely place to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the Thai capital. In 1992, on the occasion of Queen Sirikit’s 60th birthday, Benjasiri Park was officially opened. There are 12 works of contemporary art in the park, including a big commemorative coin of Queen Sirikit.

Benjasiri Park, which is located on the former site of the Thailand Meteorology Department, is on an area of 29 rais (about 11 acres). The tranquil green space is a popular hangout for Thai families, office professionals, and foreigners in Bangkok due to its proximity to the Emporium retail mall and the Phrom Phong BTS Skytrain station.

It’s a nice place for people of all ages to go for a stroll or just sit and rest in the shade, with amenities including a children’s playground, a lake, fountains, gardens, pavilions, and sculptures. There is a pool at southeast corner of Benjasiri Park that you can use if your hotel does not have one. There are fitness centres and sports fields where people may play takraw, football, and volleyball for those who want a more vigorous workout. In typical Thai fashion, there are hawker stalls outside, and snack stands scattered around the park, so you’ll never go hungry.

By Chainwit. – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=98992952

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Famous Bangkok Cocktails

 

All visitors to Thailand should make time to see the vibrant nightlife of Bangkok. 

Travelling the city at night will take you from posh nightclubs to rooftop bars with stunning views and then down twisting alleyways in quest of the famous bars in Bangkok, where the city’s greatest mixologists produce drinks that are unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

Asia Today

Located in Soi Nana, Yaowarat, the bar is known for its innovative cocktails that feature unusual ingredients like bai hor wor (a native herb from the Pga K’nyau community in northern Thailand), bai hoo seur (an aromatic plant used in larb), and thirteen different kinds of honey from all over Thailand.

Maggie Choo’s

Maggie Choo’s is a Shanghai-themed pub in a converted bank vault, replete with cheongsam-clad waitresses dangling lazily from the ceiling. Wander the maze of hidden chambers and try out some of the strong drinks. The pub, which was designed by the legendary Bangkok architect Ashly Sutton, has quickly become a popular hangout for the city’s natives, foreign residents, and visitors.

Teens of Thailand

One of the hippest bars in Bangkok, Teens of Thailand is renowned for being a veritable mecca for gin cocktails. This Chinatown staple offers over a hundred different types of gin, including Iron Balls, a brand made in Bangkok. Cocktails like Thai Tea GT, the traditional gin and tonic and many more are mixed by skilled bartenders behind a big oak door and an otherwise windowless front.

Q&A Bar

The Q&A Bar has the feel of an exclusive drinking club from the Roaring Twenties. It has a unique atmosphere evocating an old railway car and offers innovative cocktails. The bar is hidden in a narrow alley off Sukhumvit Soi 21, with just a little sign pointing the way atop a green marble wall.

A short guide to Kidzania London

Kidzania is an indoor city designed for kids aged 4-14. It is designed to give your kids freedom to explore the unique city through a combination of fun and immersive play.

Why KidZania London is the ideal place for your kids

KidZania, which translates to Land of Cool Kids, is a unique attraction that allows kids to be in charge of a city through a combination of fun and learning. It gives kids a chance to learn about the real world through skills such as future careers, financial literacy and teamwork. It has some fun real-life activities giving kids a chance of trying up to 60 real-life roles such as a person opening a bank account, a beautician styling hair, reporting for a newspaper, a real estate agent, or a cop fighting crime in the streets, among many others. 

How to get to KidZania 

The 75,000 square foot attraction is located on the first floor of Westfield London, which is between Mark and Spencers and Gap. It can be accessed by tube, bus, train or car. There are also plenty of restaurants near Westfield such as the Real Greek, Busaba Westfield, Barino, and Tortilla Westfield London among many more. 

Will my children be safe at KidZania?

KidZania gives a chance to your children to act like adults for a few hours in a safe and secure environment. To ensure they are safe, all kids visiting the unique city will be given a bracelet so that staff can know their whereabouts at all times. They can only participate in one activity at a time before the next session begins. Only children are allowed to participate in the activities, but parents are allowed to watch at special viewing windows. 

KidZania is a unique attraction where your kids can have the chance to act like adults for a few hours. It also features lounge chairs, free Wi-Fi, food and drinks options as you wait for your child.

By Banej – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70956204

By ProjectManhattan – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=39642982

A short history of Lancaster Gate, London

Lancaster Gate, one of the most iconic structures in central London is located in the Bayswater district. The monument standing alongside Hyde park gardens is one of two iconic housing schemes sitting at the north of Kensington Gardens, which is also home to the Albert Memorial. The structure has two long terraces of houses overlooking the park. They form a wide square opening in the middle where Christ Church is located. The terraces were initially known as Upper Hyde Park Gardens until 1865. The name Lancaster Gate was exclusively limited to the square, which Christ Church occupied. It derives its name from the gate entrance to Kingston gardens, which adopted the name Lancaster Gate as an honour to Queen Victoria as Duke of Lancaster. F. & H. Francis were responsible for the initial designs of Christ Church, but the discovery of dry rot at the roof meant a decision was taken to demolish it in 1977, with only the tower and spire surviving.

The Lancaster Gate – a cultural paradise

The Lancaster Gate was once home to the Football Association for 70 years before they relocated to Soho. When visiting Lancaster Gate, you will be spoilt for choice. The cultural paradise is easy to transverse and witness its beauty in its fullness, especially since there is a tube train running through its museums, parks, shops and restaurants, among others. A visit to Lancaster Gate provides visitors with plenty to see and do. It may even be impossible to experience all the beauty that is on offer. If you are looking for a place to stay, you may consider options near to Lancaster Gate such as Royal Lancster London, combining elegance with convenience.

The Lancaster – the grandest and most prestigious addresses

The Lancaster measures the entire length from the Lancaster Gate to the Leinster Terrace. It was completed initially in the 1860s as 15 6-storey warehouses. In 1920, it was divided into flats before being converted into a hotel in 1970. However, the hotel was closed down in 2006 and the entire structure demolished, leaving only the French-Renaissance style façade standing.

Should you decide to visit Lancaster Gate, London and its surrounding, you can be sure to be spoilt for choice, whether you are bringing your family, friends or colleagues with you.

By Unknown author – see above, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7998236

By Christine Matthews, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=42670943

Things to do in Bangkok in the evening

Bangkok is a very beautiful destination that literally lights up in the evening. Read on as we explore some of the best things to do in a Bangkok evening.

As the sun goes down in Bangkok, you not only get to enjoy the lovely sunset, but you will also be welcoming a new experience to enjoy nightlife. This is usually a time when you can view the city from a new perspective and get to enjoy all the unique attractions it has offer. Read on as we explore some of the fun things that will make it a truly memorable night.

a) Rooftop dining

Bangkok prides itself as one of the few destinations with a wide range of rooftop restaurants. One of the reasons for this is the magnificent view of the city when watched from a vantage point. One such spot is the multi-award winning rooftop Landmark Bangkok Restaurants Sukhumvit. Here you can enjoy the best steak and French cuisine in town under the stars.

b) Tuk Tuk Tour

If you are on a limited time and want to see most attraction in Bangkok, then a Tuk Tuk tour will come in handy. Given that most of the attractions look even more gorgeous while being illuminated, a Tuk Tuk tour will be an unforgettable experience.

c) Explore Bangkok’s Jazz Culture

Even with its numerous attractions, Bangkok is also renowned for its jazz culture. The city hosts some of the most spectacular jazz festivals. While touring the city, be on the lookout for restaurants that play live jazz music.

d) Enjoy Muay Thai Fight

Also referred to as Thai Boxing, the Muay Fight is 500 years old, making it one of the most popular national sports in Thailand. The stadiums are usually packed to capacity with an electric atmosphere. Before the fight begins, a ritual ceremony is performed where fighter perform a sort of dance, which is also quite impressive. You can also place bets on who will win. Some of the best places to enjoy a Muay fight is at the Lumpini Stadium or the Ratchadamnoen Stadium.

e) A dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya River is an important landmark of the city. You will find cruise companies offering a quiet and comfortable ride as you enjoy the beautifully illuminated attractions such as the Grand Palace or the Wat Arun Temple along the river.

5 Vegan Thai Dishes to Enjoy on Your Wedding Day

Thailand opens up the doors to a new world of interesting mouth-watering recipes perfect for any occasion. This article looks at the top vegetarian dishes that you can enjoy on your wedding day.

When it comes down to planning the perfect engagement or wedding reception party in Thailand, every little detail matters, that’s why Lancaster Bangkok offers sophisticated and luxurious spaces and accommodations for your guests and organizes your food service so that you can focus on the menu. There are over hundreds of delectable recipes to serve, but if you are looking for only vegan dishes, this list highlights 5 vegetarian dishes that will definitely leave a lasting impression on your guests.

5. Thai Green Mango Salad – With Traditional Thai Ingredients, It’s Bangkok on a Plate

Thinly chopped onions, peppers, peanuts, and fresh unripened mangos mixed with herbs, spices, and freshly squeezed lime juice is the perfect dish to serve as an appetizer at your wedding reception. It’s tasty, vibrant, traditional, and makes a light meal.

4. Thai Pumpkin and Coconut Soup – Opposites Attraction

This dish is filled with hearty vegan elements that would make a delicious entree. The main ingredients are pumpkin, thick coconut milk, and curry. You can add tofu as a protein, as well as, sweet potatoes, yams and hot spices. It’s ideal if you plan on having an evening reception.

3. Thai Stir-Fried Noodles with Vegetables – Simple and Satisfying

This is a must-have on your menu because stir fry dishes are unique to Asian cuisine. It’s something that your guests may already be familiar with, and for those who are afraid to try new things, this meal puts them in their comfort zone. It’s also easy to be creative with, and you may use whatever vegetables you choose.

2. Thai Steamed Dumplings with Shiitake Mushrooms – Elegance on a Plate

With tofu, grated ginger, spring onions, white pepper, and shiitake mushrooms cooked together to create a delicious filling that is carefully wrapped. This dish is elegance on a plate. It can be served as an appetizer with dipping sauce in small portions or as an entrée with heavier portions and a side dish.

1. Pineapple Fried Rice – A Tropical Entrée

Your guests will enjoy fried Jasmine rice topped with chunks of pineapples, cashews, peas, and curry-flavoured sauce served in a pineapple. It’s definitely something new and worth experiencing.

The difference between black tea, green tea and white tea and when best to drink them

This article looks at the different flavours of tea, their benefits, and when it best to enjoy them.

Tea is the second most popular drink after water. In addition to its delicious flavours, tea has a lot of health benefits such as helping in weight loss, strengthening bones, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attacks, and keeping you focused among many other benefits. Tea usually comes in distinctive flavours, with the popular ones being green tea, white tea and black tea. While all the distinctive tea flavours come from the same Camellia Sinensis plant, what makes them different is how they are processed. In addition, the different flavours also have their own differences. If you are looking to sample your favourite cup of tea, then a Brunch Hyde Park at the Royal Lancaster London will not disappoint. Read on as we look at the different types of tea and when best to drink them.

White tea

The main difference between the three types of teas is the level of oxidation they undergo. Oxidation is the processing of tea leaves to change their chemical composition, flavour and appearance. Oxidation can turn leaves black or brown, and it also affects their caffeine levels. White tea is the least processed of the tea flavours. Since it is the least oxidized, it retains most of its natural antioxidants. This also means that it contains the least amount of caffeine, making it the healthiest of the three tea flavours. Most people prefer drinking white tea in the afternoon.

Green Tea

Green tea goes under more processing and oxidization than white tea. After the leaves are harvested, they are heated either through frying or steaming. Since oxidation is minimal, the leaves retain their green colour. Green tea has an earthy or grassy taste. If you are looking to relax and enjoy a Brunch Hyde Park at the Royal Lancaster London, then you should try this type of tea.

Black tea

Black tea is the most popular flavour. The reason it is called black is that it undergoes the full oxidation procedure. This means that it contains high caffeine levels. Black tea is mostly enjoyed in the morning as an alternative to coffee.

Final Thoughts

Taking tea has a lot of health benefits and can help you relax any time of the day. While the healthy teas are the ones that are not highly oxidized such as white and green tea, black tea is also a healthy alternative. However, it is advisable to minimize on flavours that have a lot of artificial ingredients to change their taste.

What Is Hot Stone Treatment?

Hot stone treatment is a type of massage that uses smooth, heated basalt stones. The stones are positioned along the spine, along the legs, in the palms of the hand and between the toes.

Basics of Hot Stone Treatment

Hot stone treatment hallmark is the use of smooth, heated stones. Typically, basalt river rocks are used because of their smoothness (from the river’s current), plus they retain heat well.

How Hot Stone Treatment Work

A massage therapist will warm these stones in water until they’re within the correct temperature range (120-130 degrees Fahrenheit). To prepare the muscles, a hot stone treatment may start with a Swedish massage technique. The massage therapist will then take warm stones and place them on the body, specifically on key acupressure points. The stones will warm and relax the muscles and allow the therapist to apply deeper pressure during massage.

Using a combination of strokes plus techniques along with massage oil, the massage therapist will massage the legs, arms, back and neck, with and without the basalt stones. When receiving the treatment, allow plenty of time; arrive ten minutes early in order to have time to relax. Prior to the hot stone treatment, avoid drinking alcohol or eating a heavy meal.

The Origin of This Treatment

The origin of hot stone treatment can be traced back to more than 2,000 years ago. During this period, the Chinese were using heated stones as a means to improve internal organs function. Similarly, there are records showing stones being used in religious and folklore ceremonies, with the intention of healing ailments in areas as diverse as India, Egypt, Europe, Africa and the Americas. Here is a site with a brief history of hot stone treatment: https://burkewilliamsspa.com/2013/12/17/a-brief-history-of-hot-stone-massage/

Benefits of Hot Stone Treatment

People describe hot stone treatment as deeply relaxing and comforting. The warmth is also soothing for those who are feeling chilly. There are many benefits that hot stone treatment offers: it can boost immunity, help to reduce cancer symptoms, helps to relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases, promotes sleep, helps to relieve muscle tension and pain and reduces stress and anxiety.

Anyone who is experiencing stress, insomnia or muscle tension and pain may benefit from this treatment. If you are looking for a spa in London that offers hot stone treatment, K-West Hotel & Spa is the ideal place.