Bangkok has always been famous for its markets. Chatuchak Weekend Market has to be one of the biggest flea markets in the world — I've been there about a hundred times and still manage to find parts I've never seen before each time I visit. And within easy walking distance of that iconic giant of markets is the famous Or Tor Kor food market, packed with an incredible selection of fresh and cooked food, and a must-visit location for locals and tourists alike. Then there's JJ Green, another night market in the same area that has become immensely popular on weekends.
In recent times, the City of Angels has seen an explosion of “pop-up” markets, or temporary markets that may change stalls and location each time, or that may just be around in one particular spot for a couple of months.
A few weekends back I visited one of the newer pop-up markets, called Art Box, situated in the small park area next to the Makkasan Airport Link station. I went on a Saturday evening and it was completely packed with local students, families, tourists and anybody else you could think of. Despite being in the middle of Bangkok, the market managed to have a fun village carnival feel to it. The stalls were mostly run by young designers selling their unique clothes, T-shirts, shoes and accessories, and there was a small stage set up for live bands to perform. But I think one of the things that makes Art Box so popular is the food — something that is always guaranteed to draw a crowd in the Land of Smiles.
There's a great selection of food on offer at Art Box, from hot dogs, burgers and tacos to perennial favourites like BBQ beef, fried pork with sticky rice and khao mun gai. The many tables and chairs set up for eating were packed with families and groups of friends enjoying the delicious food and drinks, adding to the overall friendly feel of the market.
I think the popularity of all these markets shows that many people like to have an alternative to the giant and generally soulless shopping malls that seem to be slowly taking over the city. No matter how nice or unusual these malls are designed to be, they always have the feel to me of elaborate airports, although I can understand people hanging out at malls to make use of the air-con on the scorching hot days that this city specialises in.
Hopefully these markets will continue to thrive in Bangkok. As well as being a great alternative way to shop, eat and spend a day or night out, they help to make the city a living, breathing place where people have an opportunity to start their own businesses or express their artistic ideas. I imagine that big street markets are becoming scarce in many cities around the world, so it's great to see them thriving here in Bangkok.
Ben Edwards
Editor
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