Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) is a collaboration with Le Méridien Bangkok that promotes Thai designers on the international market. An extension of the idea that your room key also unlocks experiencing Bangkok, TCDC gives you the opportunity to engage with modern and contemporary art through permanent collections, temporary exhibitions, and educational programs.

Charoen Krung is considered a creative district for good reason. Many arts access points can be found here. Soi Charoen Krung 32 is decorated with murals by Thai and international taggers. Among them are masterpieces such as the three-eyed kid by Alex Face, a funky bear character by Bonus TMC, mysterious-looking portraits by Kult, and spray-painted art by Lolay. More tantalising Thai and international art discoveries await at galleries on Soi Charoen Krung 28 and 30.

Presenting a wide range of contemporary art, design, music, theatre + film, Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre is the hub of the city's burgeoning art scene. A few minutes' walk from National Stadium BTS Skytrain station, BACC hosts a steady succession of exhibitions featuring some of the leading Thai and international artists of the day. The eclectic array of arts activities is arranged with a view to stimulating art appreciation. All are welcome to explore.

When the sun goes down, Bangkok transforms into the liveliest city imaginable in an explosion of lights, food + drink, music and dance. It’s time to enjoy an eye-opening dinner cruise along the river, admire the skyline from rooftop bars, savour street food in Chinatown + explore vibrant night markets such as the most famous one of all, Patpong Night Market, just across the road. Bangkok is also renowned as LGBTQ-friendly destination especially celebrated for its nightlife and festivals.

The heart of Bangkok’s Japanese shopping, dining + nightlife scene, Soi Thaniya is located right next to one of the busiest BTS Skytrain stations, Saladaeng. Thaniya complex houses multiple golf shops and much more. After sunset, the street is ablaze with neon signs. Izakaya, Ramen, Yakiniku, Sushi, Karaoke + more. It’s also a great spot for traditional Thai massage.

Neilson Hays Library is a throwback to the earliest days of international travel, beginning in 1869 when the library was established by Bangkok Ladies' Library Association. The main building of the present library, beautifully designed by an Italian architect, Mario Tamagno. Nowadays the atmospheric wood-clad interior accommodates an astonishing 20,000 books. A newer, glass-walled Garden Cafe and Gallery offers local and western food and drink run by the neighbouring British Club along with regular art exhibitions.

Locally named Wat Maha Uma Devi or simply Wat Khaek, this is Bangkok’s most popular Hindu temple. The word “khaek" refers to people of Indian and Middle Eastern origins, or simply means “guest”. The temple was built in 1879 as a reminder of his South Indian culture and beliefs. The annual highlight is the 10-day Navratri Festival in September/October, concluding with the temple being bedecked with yellow flowers, garlands and candles, and the area blocked off for the procession.

With its warren of shophouse eateries, posh restaurants and street-side stalls, Bangkok’s Chinatown is a haven for food lovers, and not just Chinese food. From spicy, sweet ‘n’ sour Pad Kee Mow, to stir-fried noodles with basil leaves, to rich Massaman Curry, and the definitive Thai Chicken Rice, there’s something to transport every taste bud. Moreover, the colourful bustle makes for a perfect place to people watch. Don’t leave without dessert such as the famous Mango Sticky Rice.

Another foodie temptress is Charoen Krung, the historic road running along the river. Again, there’s a rich mix of boutique restaurants, local eateries and casual street stalls to tempt you. Some freshly-made Som Tam, Thailand’s iconic green papaya salad, is a perfect entrée to the experience, with or without chillies. Vegetarians are also well catered-to with meat-free fried rice, noodle soup, and flavourful curries. Meander a stretch of the strip, grazing a diversity of courses and immersing in local colour.

As Bangkok’s original central business district, Silom, the next road over from the hotel, boasts an extraordinary selection of restaurants and eateries. Stroll over to the Silom street food scene is particularly appetizing, both at lunch time when the office crowd must be fed and in the evening when socializing is uppermost in mind. Soi Convent, beside the BTS Sala Daeng station, is particularly renowned for its Thai specialties.