Khaosan Road : Thailand

Come Down to the Crossroads

The crossroads for any young traveler coming to or leaving Southeast Asia are at Khaosan Road.

This lively strip is a multi-nationality experience, with dozens of street vendors, artisans, fancy bars and restaurants galore.

Ever since Alex Garland's novel The Beach, and the movie version starring Leonardo Dicaprio, appeared, the road's reputation has been on the up and up. Nowadays, there may be a Boots pharmacy, a Burger King, a McDonald's and more upscale accommodation, but Khaosan still attracts many young travelers- and even their one - time hippie parents.

Near to Khaosan, Phra A-thit Road is Bangkok's Little Bohemia, with arty restaurants, chic bars and a riverfront park that hosts festivals of theatre, dance and music from time to time.

The beautifully preserved old wooden buildings around here are a portal into Bangkok's past. And the nearby pier for river-taxis makes arriving and departing a breeze.

                                  Break Your Budget at this Mammoth Bazaar

The festivities prove how important water is in a society with such agrarian roots.

During Songkran, the Thai New Year held in mid- April splashes down with water wars on the street in Kaosan Raod; the ritual bathing of Buddha images; and endearing displays of the young pouring water over the hands of their respected elders.