Travel
ROMANTIC ESCAPES FROM THE CITY
Looking for a luxury spa experience ? Crave a break from the city or a breath of fresh air ? Luckily for you , stunning beaches , hidden jungles , and border towns bursting with culture all exist within short distances from Bangkok . Get inspired and then get ready for exploration , relaxation and adventure on your next romantic weekend getaway .
by KYLA GARDNER
Phra Phradaeng
A HIDDEN WORLD OF GREEN IN BANGKOK ’ S CONCRETE JUNGLE
Grab some fresh air in Bangkok ’ s Green Lung , a natural oasis hidden inside the teeming metropolis . You ’ ll feel worlds away in Phra Phradaeng , a patch of emerald beauty just across the Chao Phraya River , where you ’ ll not only take in cleaner air but also the sweet romance of a secret escape with your partner . And a short ferry ride is all it takes to arrive at this rejuvenating haven .
Once in Phra Phradaeng , hop on a quaint bicycle tour from a litany of local companies to explore trekking paths on two wheels . Admire the fauna , spot some wildlife , and sub the urban racket of Bangkok with the soothing sounds of the jungle .
Take Me Tours offers quirky outings led by locals throughout Bangkok , but the adventurous can just rent their own bicycles and glide into the jungle . Don ’ t forget to stop at the Bangkok Tree House Restaurant for a hearty meal after a day of discovery : You ’ ll pay tourist prices for Thai fare , but it ’ s worth it for the fine river view and a tour of the grounds lit by fireflies .
For dining with more of a village vibe , check out the riverside Bang Nam Peung Market , where you can browse handcrafted goods and munch on fresh fruit . The market , open from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm Saturdays and Sundays , makes the perfect lunchtime picnic stop mid bike-ride .
Another romantic spot in this verdant sanctuary is the Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden , located on the riverfront . Slow life down , and stop and smell the flowers with your partner on a stroll through this gorgeous park .
GETTING THERE
The Bang Na Pier is reachable by taxi from the Bang Na BTS station . The regular boat across the river costs four baht and a private tourist speedboat is slightly more .
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