On this walk, I explore the Khaosan Road and the areas immediately around it. This street is world-famous - a mecca for backpackers in South East Asia and the setting of 'The Beach' novel and film. But is it still buzzing or did Thailand's Army rulers kill its vibe?
Over the last couple of years, the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority, aided by the military junta that rules Thailand, have been on a mission to 'clean up' the streets of the Thai capital. The Khaosan Road has seen many changes in this time. The market stalls that crowded the street and pavements are now banned during the daytime. Hostels, bars and restaurants are being renovated and repurposed. Nightlife hours are curtailed.
This lunch time walk shows what Khaosan Road is like during the day. It had been many months since my last visit and it seemed much quieter than usual. Without the market stalls, the street has been given over to parked up taxis and tuk tuks looking to scam a fare and the whole place felt very subdued, even for the time of day.
This video was shot on a DJI Osmo Pocket.
31 мар 2019
