Between the frenetic and occasionally mysterious energy of the City of Angels and the wistfulness of the City of Light, which would you choose? Bangkok, one of the world’s busiest tourist destinations, is all about brash in-your-face attractions that intrigue and occasionally shock. The French capital, Paris, on the other hand, headlines elegance, but it isn’t without its equally gritty edges and heart.
Both cities are worldly and sophisticated in their own ways. Bangkok is steeped in ancient Siamese wisdom and traditions, while Paris wears its beret of style confidently and not with a little pride. When put head-to-head, which will prevail? We’d wager that you, dear reader, as a person of the world, wouldn’t settle for anything less than both.
Traveller Profile
Bangkok:
All sorts, really. European and American families on holidays; Southeast Asian weekend vacationers; couples; singles; males, females, and everything else in-between.
Paris:
The City of Light magnetises visitors from all over the world including fashionistas, corporate types, culture vultures, and gourmands.
Most Iconic Image
Bangkok:
Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, located on the serene banks of the Chao Phraya River, is one of the world’s most renowned Buddhist temples. Best photo angles are from the water, so hop on a river boat just before sundown for your best shots.
Paris:
The Louvre Pyramid by architect I.M. Pei has inspired authors such as Dan ‘Da Vinci Code’ Brown as well as revulsion by Parisians who consider the edifice one of the city’s most shameful scars placed next to the Louvre’s French Renaissance architecture. Love it, or hate it, the outdoor terrace of Le Cafe Marly nearby remains one of the most magical settings in the city.
Number One Myth
Bangkok:
The city’s seedy reputation precedes it. However, there are parts of Bangkok that offer the purest of counterpoints to the bars of Nana and Silom. Cue: early morning at a neighbourhood temple, with monks taking their alms as the sun rises upon the clearest of skies.
Paris:
Everyone finds love in Paris. They do not. Even if there is a bridge—Ponts des Arts—heaving with locks that bind lovers who placed them.
Worst Tourist Trap
Bangkok:
Annoying taxi drivers who want to charge 200 baht for a two-kilometre ride. Take the next taxi, or the BTS Skytrain instead.
Paris:
The €50 ‘fixed’ menus worded in English at forgettable restaurants around the city’s main attractions are best left alone. You’re better off grabbing a baguette and fromage to-go, and eating at a quiet corner of Jardin du Luxembourg.
Best Place To Chill
Bangkok:
Lumpini Park—with its monitor lizards, clowders of cats, outdoor gym, and flat running trails—is one of the best places in the city to people-watch while working out.
Paris:
Places des Vognes, one of the city’s most ancient squares, located between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris, heaves with both a sense of place and relative calm compared to livelier parts of the Marais.
What To Snack On
Bangkok:
Mango sticky rice, of course. For an authentic version, head to Toi’s Mango Sticky Rice (620 Charoen Nakhon Road).
Paris:
An underrated (but no less delicious) choice is the middle-eastern desserts found at places such as Maison Aleph (https://www.maisonaleph.com/).
Where To Stay
Bangkok:
The Chao Phraya River-facing Capella Bangkok tops the list of this year’s 50 Best Hotels in the World. From experience, we’d say that the accolade is warranted—the staff even repairs shoes, on request.
Paris:
Cheval Blanc Paris captures travellers’ imaginations with its interpretations of old-world-made-new luxury by the River Seine.
Photos: Pixabay
Lead image: Midjourney
