Market day

After our bike ride the other day, we decided to take a walk to check out the Bangkok Farmer's Market. Having lived in North London for some years, we were farmer's market veterans, and thus felt we knew what to expect. A dusty car park full of organic vegetables. Cloudy fruit juice in traditional bottles. Surprisingly expensive loaves of dense bread covered in seeds. A handful of middle-class, middle-aged locals looking pleased with themselves for consuming the above. An overall atmosphere of slightly dull worthiness. We knew the score.

So, arriving at the rather upscale K-Village mall hosting the market was quite a surprise. We were greeted by the sound of live music and happy chatter. A large crowd, with an average age some twenty years younger than expected, browsing a wide range of stalls covered with interesting stuff. A comfy, beanbag-strewn seating area to chill out and enjoy the produce. Kids riding tiny ponies around the mall. And most surprising of all, a general atmosphere of fun. As you can imagine, this came as quite a shock.

Browsing the stalls, we were amazed by the colourful variety of interesting products and delicious-looking foods on offer. This was about so much more than the 'eat your greens' vibe we were accustomed to. Some familiar names became apparent - it seemed like most of the interesting foodie haunts we'd clocked around Bangkok had gathered here, offering the opportunity to try their wares. Hungry from the cycling and walking, we tried a few free samples, then selected a delicious Banh Mi sandwich from the Vietnamese stall, sat on a beanbag and soaked up the jovial atmosphere.

This was both a fun thing to do, and a great example of how our quality of life has improved upon moving here. An event that used to be a rather worthy, dull affair transformed into a bright, friendly, delightful way to spend the afternoon. Thoroughly recommended.

For info on upcoming markets see here - http://www.bkkfm.com/