Hi folks.

 

I'm coming to BKk in June. I was a resident 30 years ago, and while what I have been seeing about how the city has developed is amazing, I sort of want the visit the older and more funky side of things. Another topic was wonderful for recommending some offbeat things to do. I am definitely going to take some boat rides, on the East-West canal and also along Mae Nam Chaopriya. I have a couple of questions I would like to get some input on. I'm staying in Sukhumvit, but from the YouTube videos I've been watching, it seems sort of insufferable there.

 

1. I would like to go to a Vietnam-style barber/stylist. I know there are a couple of them off of Sukhumvit that seem to be mainly for Koreans. Any others? I prefer female stylists, Screwing around is not a requirement. There used to be on on Soi 11, and one called Baron Barber a bit farther up, but I'm sure it is long gone.

2. I love markets that are like flea markets - selling weird old things and eclectics. I got a couple of cool things at the amulet market last time I visited. How about other places? Antiques/junk, rocks/minerals/fossils, and general funk with potential of nice things.

3.  I'm a big original rock fan and live in an area of Massachusetts that is loaded with wonderful bands. I'm speaking of music that could be described as "on the college playlist." Anyone aware of any bands or venues? I'm talking more punk than pop.

 

Thank you all very much. I am exciting about revisiting Thailand, and I only have short time. I want to make the best of it.

 

1 hour ago, mbenson said:

1. I would like to go to a Vietnam-style barber/stylist. I know there are a couple of them off of Sukhumvit that seem to be mainly for Koreans. Any others? I prefer female stylists, Screwing around is not a requirement. There used to be on on Soi 11, and one called Baron Barber a bit farther up, but I'm sure it is long gone.

There are some around, mostly in local hoods.

Went to one and they massage my head, shaved my face and I only came for a haircut.

It was all-in.

Phuket has one (at least in Rawai) too, when I went there for holiday.

 

1 hour ago, mbenson said:

2. I love markets that are like flea markets - selling weird old things and eclectics. I got a couple of cool things at the amulet market last time I visited. How about other places? Antiques/junk, rocks/minerals/fossils, and general funk with potential of nice things.

Sure sure I am into the same ????

I know a few, indoors and outdoors.

Indoor: Pantip plaza Ngamwongwan in weekend

Mix: Jatujack weekend market, but I find this more 'new'  and for tourists.

Outdoor: on the sirinakarin road and up north rangsit.

 

1 hour ago, mbenson said:

3.  I'm a big original rock fan and live in an area of Massachusetts that is loaded with wonderful bands. I'm speaking of music that could be described as "on the college playlist." Anyone aware of any bands or venues? I'm talking more punk than pop.

Not know much about music but these scenes are found there and here. Best is look on the web and specially for 'agendas'.

They are on rooftops, 'new age' food markets (near palladium pratunam) and in campus neighbourhoods (rangsit/mueang ek for example).

 

For number 2 you can go to the antique and second hand market, which is across the road from Jatujak weekend market. There are well established "permanent" antique shops as well as the weekend temporary sellers that set up outside of the new antique centre. I live nearby and there are some pretty interesting old gear there.

Three questions and three answers.

 

1. Soi Cowboy.   2. Soi Cowboy.   3. Soi Cowboy.  You will find peace and harmony my son.

Do we have a sex tourist in disguise here lads? Immigration are not going to believe your reasons for coming here! You'll get a choice of GPS ankle bracelet or implanted chip on arrival.

13 hours ago, Aussieroaming said:

For number 2 you can go to the antique and second hand market, which is across the road from Jatujak weekend market. There are well established "permanent" antique shops as well as the weekend temporary sellers that set up outside of the new antique centre. I live nearby and there are some pretty interesting old gear there.

Thanks for the constructive response. Sounds great.

Across which Road? Pahonyothin or Kamphaeng Phet-Kamphaeng Phet 2? I'm heading that way anyway so this will be good to include.

The MRT to Kamphaeng Phet station is the  best transport as the antique sellers are very close to the exit. If you use the BTS to Mochit then you have a 10 minute walk through Jatujak market or around the block to get there.

 

If you get off at Saphan Kwai BTS on Paholyothin Rd and head north towards the market then you can also have a look at all the amulet and second hand sellers set up on the way to Jatujak. They have some interesting wares as well. 

 

Dont forget that a lot of these stall sellers only show up on Saturday and Sunday, though most permanent shop owners are there week days.

42 minutes ago, Aussieroaming said:

The MRT to Kamphaeng Phet station is the  best transport as the antique sellers are very close to the exit. If you use the BTS to Mochit then you have a 10 minute walk through Jatujak market or around the block to get there.

Thank you very much. Wonderful info. I used to live on Suttisahn so I intend to go to Saphan Kwai for old time's sake. It has been nearly 30 years! This will fill out the day nicely.