I am feeling better now and luckily, I was able to make it to the last day of Bangkok Design Week (BKKDW). BKKDW is the largest design festival in Southeast Asia and presents more than 400 design programs from more than 2,000 participants. We started out the day by exploring Bangkok Old Town, including trying an amazing bakery/cake shop, A Pink Rabbit + Bob. From there, we took the ferry to our destination. Although Design Week events are spread out throughout the city, the location I went to had textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, pet accessories, ceramics, and all kinds of products available for purchase. There were also several music acts from Thailand, South Korea, and Taiwan performing – my new favorite is KIKI! We also went to a vintage swing fair, which had dancing with a DJ and live band, as well as a food market, vintage lifestyle market, and artists in the community (illustrations, painting, photography). I loved seeing vintage treasures, collectibles, and fashion, as well as having the opportunity to meet local artists.

perfect view of Wat Arun found in a little alleyway looking across the river

cute little bakery!

Also, it was recently Lunar New Year, and there were lots of celebrations throughout the city. I saw people wearing red clothes not just on one day, but spread out over two to three days. Although I didn’t go to Chinatown which I heard was packed, I did see a traditional dragon dance and acrobatic performance at Icon Siam.

traditional dragon dance

Lately, I’ve really been enjoying going to a local indie movie theater here, which plays both Thai and international movies. They are currently presenting a Japanese film festival, with over 19 films in a variety of genres, so I’m hoping to check out some of the movies playing there soon.

At work, I’ve continued with my usual tasks like screenings, providing interview prep, conducting reopening and appeal screenings, etc.

Around the end of this month, I will be going to immigration to extend my visa for the last time. I’m grateful for AAT staff who help make the process pretty streamlined.

Overall, I’ve been resting and taking it easy the past week or so, but I’ll be back with more updates in my next post!