Bangkok’s new Silom Road walking street a great success
PHOTO: INN News
“Walk, Eat, Taste, and Explore”. And thousands descended on Silom Road to welcome the new walking street destination yesterday.
Street performers, crowds and live music transformed Silom Road into Bangkok’s newest walking street yesterday with the first of the new walking street-style markets opening up in Bangkok. There was also another one in Yowarat Road in Chinatown. The “Walking Street @Silom” welcomed visitors to the brand new destination which will now be a regular event on every 3rd Sunday of the month from midday to 10pm.
Right from lunchtime yesterday, big crowds of locals and tourists turned up for the grand opening shopping amongst the 100s of vendors and enjoying local dishes along Silom Road. Stalls lined both sides of the road, some under the local BTS providing some shade from the Bangkok sunshine.
300 businesses participated in stall for the first event, 70% being food stalls including classic Thai food and more modern ‘fusion’ options. Vendors provided home products, handmade goods, OTOP (One Tambon, One Product) products, clothes, and assorted arts and crafts. There were also street performers who will be a regular fixture at the monthly event.
A casually dressed Thai PM Prayut Chan-o-cha attended the inaugural event and officially opened Walking Street @Silom for business on its first day. The new walking street aims to promote tourism in the area along whilst boosting the local economy. The Bangkok Governor Aswin Kwanmuang attended the grand opening celebration as well.
The PM said the aim of the market was to provide a local experience for visitors and tourists along with the famous Thai smile.
“The Thai people need to keep these good qualities by continuing to smile and to have peace along with efficiency and safety. The government wants to increase tourism, but safety and stability must come first.”
The Silom Road Walking Street will return on the 3rd Sunday of January.
SOURCE: Thai Residents
