With its vibrant nightlife, R-rated entertainment districts and hip cafe culture, Bangkok is most definitely an urban playground for the young, wild and free.
Although there’s no shortage of places where singles can be seen bouncing to the tunes of David Guetta and doing body shots, Bangkok is not just for those looking to party till the sun comes up.
Even if your priorities are focused on changing diapers, feeding your family or caring for your spouse, there are still plenty of things to do in this city which are family- and marriage-friendly!
Check out these ideas on how the young and married can enjoy the delights of Bangkok – with or without the little ones in tow.
Prawning
Bangkok’s skyline may be developing at an exponential rate but there is still room for folks to kickback and relax hillbilly style.
Prawn fishing, or ‘prawning’, may not be for everyone but it’s certainly something out of the norm to try with your better half.
What better way to rekindle some romance than a prawn fishing contest with your spouse?
No, really.
Rods are available for rent and the catch of the day can be immediately cooked for a nice dinner at the restaurant. Don’t worry about handling the bait or the catch; the restaurant staff will be more than happy to help.
As well as a quirky date idea, prawning is also a great way to introduce young children to fishing – albeit fishing for prawns in a small pond.
Pro tip: Make sure the bait is touching the bottom of the pond as prawns usually hover at the bottom.
Location: Ebi Prawn Fishing and Seafood Restaurant, Rotchanamin Alley, Wang Thonglang, Bangkok 10230, Thailand
Bring out the hunter-gatherer in you | Source: Facebook/Ebi Japanese Prawn Fishing Club
Romance like a king
Indulge in a romantic date night in one of the many VIP cinemas lining Sukhumvit’s shopping malls.
With sofa seats, pillows and blankets, it’s easy to see why the Bangkok VIP movie experience is a firm favourite among locals and expats.
Although not cheap (most VIP packages start from around ฿600 per person), the experience is definitely worth it if you fancy cranking up the luxury.
From 180-degree adjustable reclining armchairs to a 15-minute massage in the cinema’s own spa room, the complete VIP experience while watching a movie does not disappoint.
Perfect for a celebration – or, perhaps more likely, to say sorry for being late to pick up the little one from nursery…
Pro tip: Sign up for a frequent movie-goer card to receive special discounts.
Location: In several different malls along Sukhumvit, including Emporium, EmQuartier, Central Embassy, Paragon and more.
Time to get cozy… | Via Major Cineplex
Board games night
Remember the simpler times when we would all get together at a friend’s place and play a game of Monopoly that would lead to best buddies not talking to each other for months?
Via StareCat
Good times indeed.
Recreate those good times – minus the drama – with your significant other at the aptly named Game Over Lounge.
Great for couples with kids, Game Over has something for everyone, regardless of age and gaming sensibility.
Their 400-square metre venue includes high-end PC gaming, consoles, popular board games and a pool table.
Enjoy Bangkok’s famous burger master Daniel Thaiger’s gourmet burgers with some milkshakes while shouting “Uno!”. Beer bottles are also on offer and, for those looking take it up a notch, several drinking games are also available.
Pro tip: Always let the missus win.
Location: Game Over Lounge Thailand, 1000/39 Liberty Plaza Soi Thonglor, Sukhumvit 55 Rd., Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110 Thailand
Go back to your childhood at Game Over
Sunday brunch
The English may have invented it but the Thais certainly know how to take brunch up a notch.
With Bangkok’s cafe culture continuously brewing, Sukhumvit has become a haven for Sunday brunchers. Almost every other week, a new restaurant or cafe pops up, catering to every which taste bud – whether you want pancakes and waffles, a full English or a stuffed bagel.
Hotels are also getting into the act with all-you-can-eat buffets – some even offer free-flow wines and cocktails.
Who doesn’t want to be a little tipsy on a Sunday afternoon with their spouse?
The best part of Sunday brunch? It’s totally acceptable to go brunching in your flip flops and yoga pants. No date night dressing-up necessary!
Brunch is a great way to get out of the house on a Sunday, even if you bring the kids. Remember: free-flow wine and a state of zen.
Pro tip: Wear loose pants
Location: Most of the large hotels along Sukhumvit, together with a host of cafes and restaurants.
The full English at Roast
What are your tips for the young and married in Bangkok?
Featured image is by Kelley Boone and used under a Creative Commons licence
