Bangkok is known as the Venice of the East, a vibrant and varied hive of culture, history and fun that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Whether you are looking to stop in for a few days, are a returning visitor, or are looking for somewhere more permanent to relocate to, Bangkok is a must visit for everyone.
Within Bangkok are many districts, each with something unique to offer and with different specialties and highlights. Two of the biggest and most important of these districts are Siam and Silom, and here we will take a look at Bangkok’s central business districts and see what exactly makes them so exciting to visit.
Siam
Considered by many to be the true centre of Bangkok despite the exact geography, Siam certainly is the heart of this fantastic city. Along with Silom and Sukhumvit, Siam is the most popular and most visited district in Bangkok both for those who live and work in the city, and for those who are visiting.
Things to see and do in Siam
One of the best-known areas that Siam specialises in is shopping. The area is home to some of the biggest and best malls and large centres where you can find pretty much anything you desire, with all of the big names in attendance here. If you like to shop, Siam is most certainly the place to be.
There are also endless back and side streets brimming with more local businesses where you can find better bargains as you wander through this exciting area. Siam is more pedestrian-friendly than many other parts of the city, so you can really take your time and take in the action as you walk about.
Though other parts of the city are more famous for a lively and even somewhat wild nightlife, Siam is a little more laid back while still having plenty of incredible options to choose from. You can check out some of the fine dining options or indulge in some delicious and cheap street food, frequent the cafes and bars, and generally do just about anything that you want.
Why buy property here?
Property in Siam is a dream investment as there is no shortage of people who want to stay in this main hub. If you are looking to buy somewhere to live yourself, it is also ideal as you will then have access to all of the amenities you could wish for, and won’t have to spend extra money travelling in and out of this central zone.
If you do need to head anywhere else, the BTS Sky train is one of the most convenient and easy ways to get around. For those taking a family holiday or planning a relatively short stay, however, there is so much to see and do in Siam that you probably won’t feel the need to go elsewhere.
Getting property in Siam means that you are close to the Sea Life centre, Madame Tussauds Waxwork Museum, the Pathum Wanaram Temple, movie theatres, ice skating, Siam square and so much more. Each shopping mall from CentralWorld to Siam Paragon has different amenities on top of the sheer number of shops to recommend them, and something to please everyone can be found here.
There is no doubt that Siam is one of the best places you can choose to buy property in Thailand, and that means the world. For all the incredible surroundings you will find yourself among, with all the modern conveniences and fascinating history, house prices remain great value.
Silom
Silom is known as ‘the Wall Street of Thailand’, very much Bangkok’s Central Business District. Home to impressive skyscrapers and endless offices, there is so much more to the area than just work. You can work hard and play hard here, and property in Silom is some of the most sought-after and one of the best investments that you can make.
Things to see and do in Silom
One of the true benefits of all of the high-rise buildings in the district is the views that you can find from the rooftop bars and restaurants dotted around Silom. While there are still plenty of places where you can grab inexpensive street food that is to die for, Silom also gives you the opportunity to treat yourself and indulge in fine dining with all of Bangkok laid out at your feet.
If you think there is nothing but big buildings in this district, think again. Silom is also home to one of the most beautiful and expansive green areas in the capital, Lumpini Park. You can stretch your legs, enjoy the peace and quiet, and look over at the goings on in the more energetic centre.
You can find some of the top hotels in Bangkok here, as well as the best bars and restaurants around, and after dark Silom becomes something of a hot spot for an evening’s entertainment. If you enjoy hitting up bars and clubs you will definitely have a great time in Silom. For those who don’t, or who fancy a night off, Patpong Night Market is a must-visit while you are in the area.
There is also no shortage of history and culture, with many temples including Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, the nation’s well-known Hindu temple. Wat Yannawa is also a key site to visit, and there is no end of museums, institutes, and markets for you to enjoy in this lively and fascinating district.
Why buy property here?
Property in Silom is currently booming, with lots of incredible new developments underway, particularly for condos and apartments in high-rise buildings. Considering the area that they are located in, they are not the cheapest that you can find in Thailand but are remarkably good value for the location and amenities available.
Once again if you wish to head out and visit more of the city, Silom is well connected through the Sky train, the Metro and many other forms of transportation, but there is so much here to keep you occupied.
From places of work, to residences, to all the fun that you could wish for, Bangkok’s Central Business District has way more to offer than its professional appearance and reputation may lead you to believe. If you are considering buying property in Bangkok, Silom is certainly a safe bet.
Final thoughts
Out of all of Bangkok’s many and varied districts, Siam and Silom are very much the best places to visit, spend time and purchase property in. They both contain nearly endless attractions and amenities to keep even the most hard-to-please visitors happy all day and night, and each offers something slightly different to help you decide which the better fit is for you.
