Lumpini Park in Bangkok

Saturday, in the park...
Bangkok has so few really open spaces, especially of the public park variety. The largest, and oldest, is Lumpini park. The park is located near the center of the business district where Silom road meets Rama IV. Since its near the Dusit Thani hotel, as well as not far from several other hotels and major office buildings, the park is popular among joggers and other sports enthusiasts early in the morning -- it opens at 6:00 am.

Later in the day, you'll find older people enjoying games of chess in the shade, or congregating in the seniors center, one of the newest buildings in the park. The clock tower at right is one of the oldest.

The park is one of those places that seems to constantly offer up something new while staying essentially the same all at the same time. The finishing touches are just being put on this chinese style gazebo, build in honor of his majesty the king's sixth cycle (72nd) birthday.

The park really has something for everyone. Two large lakes offer paddle boats. There are jogging trails and even a couple of "muscle beach" areas where you can lift weights -- the oldest and most popular is near the clock tower. For those interested in less strenuous activities, there's also a library and several places with chess tables where you can pick up a game to exercise your brain rather than your body.