Thailand: Bangkok by bicycle tour
Publication: The Daily TelegraphDate: September 22, 2010
Author: Michelle Jana Chan
Michelle has always wanted to explore this bustling city by bicycle, and, as a guest of cazenove+loyd, she was given that very special opportunity.
By bicycle, she was provided a softer, more personalised means of discovering places that were 'less obvious' in the Thai capital. Indeed, by bicycle, you experience a true taste of parallel extremes in Bangkok where on one hand, you travel across the same busy roads as motorbikes, tuk-tuks and buses. On the other hand, however, bicycle tours take you past less crowded points such as slums and small villages. It is these less congested areas where Michelle was able to absorb the sights at a leisurely pace.
Michelle got to get up close to the traditional sights of the city such as the sight of grandmothers bouncing infants on their knees whilst greeting you or women queuing outside a public washroom. She particularly loved cycling past the kindergarden with children performing the 'Chicken Song' hip-wiggling and clapping.
Afterwards, Michelle and her guide managed to ride their bicycles to the banks of Chao Phraya where they sailed to 'Phra Pradaeng.' On arrival, new, eye-opening experiences were met where she was able to come close to traditional farmland, parks and mangroves; landscapes particularly appealing to the eye. Alongside these, Michelle made stops to a local atelier, Buddhist temple and cemetary.
What had certainly become a fine accompaniment to traditional sightseeing, Michelle often found herself wanting to wave at everybody with them being so gentle and warm back.
Each cazenove+loyd itinerary is individually designed to a client's individual needs. To discuss a holiday to Bangkok and experience a private bicycle tour, please call one of our destination experts on +44(0) 20 7384 2332 or enquire online by email.
