The Tranquil Charm of Ari

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [la kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่
  [mai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดีต้อนรับ
  [prode/yin dee ton rap]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kop kun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [kor toht]
• How are you?สุขสันต์ไหม
  [suk san mai]
• Fine. And you?สบายดี คุณลงไหม
  [sabai dee kun long mai]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [kun poot paa saa ang grit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai khao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseขอดูเมนูหน่อยครับ
  [kor doo menu noi krub]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai kin neu]
• Cheers!ชนเครื่องดื่ม
  [chon kreung deum]
• I would like to pay, pleaseขอจ่ายเงินหน่อยครับ
  [kor jai ngern noi krub]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย!
  [chuai dooey!]
• Go away!ไปหาย!
  [pai hai!]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ!
  [tor tam ruaat!]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ!
  [tor mor!]
• I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long tang]
• I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันต้องการซื้อ...
  [chan tong kaan seu...]
• I'm just lookingฉันเพียงแค่ดู
  [chan piang kae doo]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่
  [ra kha tao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng geun pai]
• Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม
  [lot ra kha dai mai]

• What time is it?เวลาเท่าไหร่
  [welaa tao rai]
• It's one o'clockเวลาหนึ่งโมง
  [welaa neung mong]
• Half past (10)ครึ่งตีห้า
  [kreung tee ha]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua waan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [proong nee]
• 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
• 2สอง
  [song]
• 3สาม
  [sam]
• 4สี่
  [see]
• 5ห้า
  [ha]
• 6หก
  [hok]
• 7เจ็ด
  [jet]
• 8แปด
  [paed]
• 9เก้า
  [gao]
• 10สิบ
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน
  [...yoo tee nai]
• What's the address?ที่อยู่คืออะไร
  [tee yoo keu a rai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?คุณแสดงให้ฉันดูได้ไหม
  [kun sa daeng hai chan doo dai mai]
• When's the next (bus)?เมื่อไหร่รถเมลล์หน้า
  [meua rai rodt mel na]
• A ticket (to ....)ตั๋ว(ไป...)
  [dtua (bpai...)]

Ari, originally a quiet residential area, began to develop in the mid-20th century. The neighbourhood's name is derived from the word 'Ariya' in Pali, meaning 'noble.' Its proximity to Bangkok's central districts made it an attractive location for middle-class families and expatriates, who sought a peaceful environment away from the bustling city center.

In the 1990s, Ari emerged as a cultural hub, attracting a diverse range of cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. The area became known for its vibrant atmosphere, blending traditional Thai culture with modern influences. This transformation was facilitated by the influx of young professionals and creatives who contributed to Ari's unique identity.

The establishment of the BTS Skytrain in 1999 significantly impacted Ari's development. The Ari station, part of the Sukhumvit Line, improved accessibility to the area and spurred further growth. This development led to an increase in both residential and commercial properties, reshaping the neighbourhood into a sought-after location for businesses and families alike.

Today, Ari is known for its community-driven initiatives, with local residents actively participating in preserving the neighbourhood's charm. Events celebrating local culture, art, and cuisine are regularly organized, fostering a sense of community among residents and attracting visitors. The blend of contemporary and traditional elements continues to define Ari's character within the broader context of Bangkok.

Ari is home to several historical landmarks, including the Wat Phra Si Ariyamet, a temple that highlights the area's spiritual heritage. The presence of these temples not only reflects the cultural significance of Buddhism in Thailand but also serves as a reminder of the neighbourhood's deep-rooted history amidst modern urbanization.

Ari is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Bangkok. The nearest BTS Skytrain station is Ari itself, on the Sukhumvit Line, allowing travelers to conveniently reach Ari from key areas like Sukhumvit, Silom, and Siam. For those coming from the Suvarnabhumi Airport, taking the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai station and then transferring to the BTS Skytrain is a popular option. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available and can be a comfortable choice, especially during peak hours.

Ari is well connected by the BTS Skytrain, making it easy to travel to nearby neighborhoods. The area is also bike-friendly, with several rental shops available for visitors looking to explore on two wheels. Local buses operate throughout the area, but routes may be less familiar to tourists. Walking is a pleasant option as many cafes, restaurants, and shops are within close proximity. Taxis and Grab (a popular ride-hailing service) are also readily available for more convenience.

Ari is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, as in any urban area, it's advisable to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone late at night in quieter streets, particularly around the edges of the neighborhood. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so keep your belongings secure. It is best to avoid deserted alleys and poorly lit areas after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 191 for police assistance or 1669 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is Phyathai 2 Hospital, which is well-equipped to handle various medical issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites near Ari. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; it is customary to remove your shoes before entering homes and temples. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't engage in loud conversations or eat on the BTS. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Sawasdee' and a slight bow. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local street food and dine at local restaurants. Don't waste food or refuse a meal when offered, as it may be considered disrespectful.

To experience Ari like a local, visit the weekend markets such as the Ari Weekend Market, which offers a variety of local foods and crafts. Engaging with local vendors can lead to unique culinary experiences and insight into the community. Don’t miss the chance to explore the area’s coffee shops, which are popular among locals for their artisanal brews. Additionally, try to learn a few basic Thai phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it enriches your interactions.