The Vibrant Heart of Bangkok: Siam

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [laa kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่
  [mai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดี
  [proht/yindee]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kob khun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [kaw toht]
• How are you?สบายดีไหม
  [sabai dee mai]
• Fine. And you?สบายดีค่ะ ผมล่ะ
  [sabai dee ka, phom la]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [khun poot paa-sa ang-grit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai khao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseขอดูเมนูหน่อย
  [kaw doo menu noi]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai kin neuua]
• Cheers!ชนเหยาะ
  [chon yao]
• I would like to pay, pleaseขอจ่ายเงินหน่อย
  [kaw jai ngeen noi]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย
  [chuuai duay]
• Go away!ไปทางนั้น
  [bpai tang nan]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ
  [tor tam-ruad]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ
  [tor moh]
• I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long tang]
• I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันอยากซื้อ...
  [chan yaak suu...]
• I'm just lookingฉันเหมาะแค่ดู
  [chan ma kae duu]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไร
  [ra-ka thao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng gein bpai]
• Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม
  [lot ra-ka dai mai]

• What time is it?กี่โมงแล้ว
  [gee mong laeo]
• It's one o'clockเป็นโมงแล้ว
  [pen mong laeo]
• Half past (10)สามสิบครึ่ง
  [sam sip khreung]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua waan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [phrung 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?ที่อยู่อยู่ที่ไหน
  [tee yoo yoo tee nai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?คุณแสดงให้ฉันดูได้ไหม
  [khun sa-dang hai chan duu dai mai]
• When's the next (bus)?รถสายต่อไปเมื่อไร
  [roh sai dtor bpai meua rai]
• A ticket (to ....)ตั๋ว (ไป...)
  [dtua (bpai...)]

Siam, historically the name for Thailand, has its roots in the ancient kingdom of Sukhothai in the 13th century. The term 'Siam' became widely used by Westerners in the 19th century, although the Thai people referred to their land as 'Prathet Thai', meaning 'Land of the Free'. The area of Siam in Bangkok began to gain prominence in the late 19th century as the city modernized under King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

Siam Square emerged in the 1960s as a commercial hub, reflecting the rapid urbanization and economic growth of post-war Thailand. Designed as a shopping and entertainment center, it became a symbol of modern Bangkok, attracting both locals and tourists. The square's development represented a shift in Thai culture towards consumerism and globalization.

The 20th century saw Siam evolve into a cultural melting pot, with influences from both traditional Thai culture and Western modernization. The establishment of major shopping centers such as Siam Paragon and MBK Center further solidified its reputation as a retail paradise. The cultural scene flourished with venues like the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, showcasing contemporary Thai art and performances.

In 2010, Siam Square was a focal point during significant political protests in Bangkok. The protests were led by the 'Red Shirts', demanding democratic reforms and the resignation of the then-government. The area was marked by a heavy military presence, and the events highlighted the ongoing political tensions in Thailand, reflecting the deeper societal divides.

Today, Siam stands as a vibrant blend of tradition and contemporary culture. It hosts important cultural landmarks such as the Jim Thompson House, which reflects the rich history of Thai silk, alongside modern shopping complexes and entertainment venues. The area remains a testament to Bangkok's dynamic evolution, balancing its historical roots with the demands of a globalized world.

Siam is centrally located in Bangkok and can be easily accessed from various neighborhoods. The most convenient way to reach Siam is via the BTS Skytrain. The Siam Station is an interchange for both the Sukhumvit and Silom lines. From popular areas such as Khao San Road, take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to the nearest BTS station, or use public buses that connect to various parts of the city. For those coming from Suvarnabhumi Airport, the Airport Rail Link takes you to Phaya Thai station, where you can transfer to the BTS Skytrain to reach Siam.

Siam is well-connected and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. The BTS Skytrain is the most efficient way to navigate the area, with Siam Station as a central hub. Local buses also serve the area, but they can be less convenient for tourists unfamiliar with the routes. For a unique experience, consider renting a bicycle through local bike-sharing programs. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available for longer distances or late-night travel.

Siam is considered a safe neighborhood for tourists, but it is wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas like shopping malls and public transport stations. Although violent crime is rare, petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur. Avoid wandering alone at night in poorly lit areas and be cautious around Sukhumvit Soi 11, known for its nightlife, where incidents can occasionally happen.

In case of an emergency, dial 191 for police assistance and 1669 for medical emergencies. Hospitals such as Bangkok Hospital and Bumrungrad International Hospital are nearby and equipped to handle various medical situations. It is advisable to carry a copy of your travel insurance and passport. For less urgent health issues, pharmacies are readily available in Siam.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather; however, avoid overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don't engage in loud conversations or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a traditional 'wai' (a slight bow with hands together); don't be overly casual. Eating & Drinking: Do try street food and local delicacies. Don't waste food or show signs of dissatisfaction with meals.

To experience Siam like a local, visit the smaller markets such as the Siam Square One market for unique finds and local street food. Engage with shopkeepers and ask for recommendations; many are happy to share their favorite dishes. For a unique view of the area, head to the rooftop bars of nearby hotels. Don’t miss cultural events often held in the area, such as traditional dances or local art exhibitions, which can be found at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.