Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Thousands protest in Bangkok calling for Thai PM to resign

• Bangkok may see isolated downpours

• Creative French cuisine at Bisou Bangkok

• Marvel fans and coffee enthusiasts' paradise at Collector Cafe

• And more…

Fun Fact

Napkin is Toilet Paper

Welcome to Thailand, where toilet paper is the ultimate multi-tasker! Don't be surprised when you sit down at a local restaurant and find a familiar roll of tissue paper on your table instead of napkins. That's your "napkin" for the meal, and honestly, it's kind of genius.

You'll spot these versatile tissue rolls doing everything from face-wiping to sauce-dabbing at pretty much every casual eatery. Only the decent/fancier restaurants bother with proper cloth or paper napkins.

Here's the fun part: locals call napkins "tissue" no matter what. So when your Thai friend offers you "tissue" at dinner, they're not worried about your runny nose – they're just being polite! It's one of those charming quirks that perfectly captures Thailand's practical, no-nonsense approach to life.

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = D) 8

Here’s your trivia question of the week! Think you know the answer? Find out if you’re right in next week’s newsletter. No cheating!

Which nation has the longest border with Thailand?

A) Myanmar

B) Cambodia

C) Malaysia

D) Laos

News 📰

Heavy rain warning for North and Northeast; Bangkok may see isolated downpours (Link)

Thousands protest in Bangkok calling for Thai PM to resign (Link)

Protesters demand Thai PM’s ouster over leaked call (Link)

Hun Manet: Thailand asked to reopen border, insists Cambodia didn’t start closure (Link)

Thai army says Cambodia rejected request for border transport leniency (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

The Island Restaurant Thai food & Vegetarian And Bar -  This place is pure magic with stunning minimalist design across three floors featuring swing seats and cozy sofas. The dim lighting and soft sounds create the perfect unwinding atmosphere after exploring Bangkok. Their commitment to vegan-friendly dining shines through dishes like the artfully presented mango sticky rice with rich, sweet sauce, and a masterful tofu burger with crispy exterior and flavorful interior. The red Thai vegan curry packs perfect heat with fresh vegetables in creamy, spicy base. Staff members treat every guest like family. Located near Khao San Road, it's perfect for recharging between adventures. (Link)

1st Signal Regiment Shooting Club - For an adrenaline rush with unique cultural flavor, this military base shooting range offers something off the typical tourist trail. At around 600 baht for foreigners plus 2,000 - 2,500 baht rental costs, patient instructors make it perfect for first-timers learning proper techniques safely. The authentic, no-frills atmosphere inside a working military base adds genuine character. Staff and soldiers welcome expats warmly - just bring your passport (phone photo works). While not the most modern facility, that's part of its charm, focusing on genuine experience over flashy amenities. (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

Oranuch Thai Dining - Step into a joyful garden party atmosphere with whimsical, colorful décor and floral charm. The Instagram-worthy presentation matches authentic, bold flavors, though some dishes pack serious heat (attentive staff quickly offer water). Their signature cocktails feature theatrical presentation, while the crab curry showcases plump, juicy crab meat in rich, creamy curry. The Tom Yam soup features upgraded ingredients including large river prawns in aromatic golden broth. With ample parking and options for seafood lovers and vegetarians, it's a place that makes you want to bring family. (Link)

Bisou Bangkok - This French restaurant elevates Bangkok dining with perfect sophistication and approachability. Chic, warm atmosphere with elegant lighting sets the stage for romance or memorable nights out. The menu balances simplicity and complexity with show-stopping dishes like French Toast Uni and Truffle Pasta. Theatrical touches include butter scooped tableside, surprise macarons, and performance art-level presentation. Even solo diners feel completely welcomed by exceptional staff who anticipate needs. Carefully curated wine selection and stunning yet comfortable space create both special and inviting atmosphere. (Link)

L'OLIVA Ristorante Italiano & Wine Bar - Authentic Italian cuisine with warm, beautiful décor that actually transports you to Italy. The impressive Seabass showcases perfect cooking and seasoning, while Carpaccio Di Manzo, Rucola E Burrata highlights quality ingredients with simple preparation. Their Capellini Al Granchio delivers delicate pasta with rich crab flavors, and the truffle pizza balances luxury with comfort. The pannacotta provides lovely, light finish, complemented by excellent wine selection and attentive yet unobtrusive Italian-style service. (Link)

☕ Cafes

mmd.cafe - Charming coffee shop with perfect chill, beautiful music creating ideal atmosphere for casual meetings or creative work. Coffee is expertly crafted using local Thai artisan-roasted beans with wide variety of methods and flavors. Small but well-chosen food selection includes surprisingly tasty bagels. The highlight is a small cat corner for playing with adorable kittens (shoes off required). Genuinely cheerful staff provide excellent service without pretentiousness, welcoming everyone regardless of coffee knowledge. (Link)

Flâneur Tea - Hidden Sathorn oasis with breathtaking, carefully managed garden and serene interior with thoughtful music. Their unique coffee menu features combinations unavailable elsewhere - sophisticated lavender latte and adventurous Raspberry Mojito Coffee. Variety of vegan options uses fresh, high-quality ingredients proving plant-based can be delicious and visually stunning. Every corner seems Instagram-designed, but focus remains on genuine experience. Exceptional tea selection and beautiful food presentation make everything photo-worthy. (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

UNIQUE BAR ratchada - Perfect blend of local atmosphere and tourist-friendly vibes with great rooftop views and reasonable prices. Live band adds authentic energy without overwhelming conversation, plus you can catch soccer matches. Dual personality allows partying inside with loud music or chilling outside on the rooftop. Staff strike perfect balance of friendly and attentive without being pushy, while popularity with locals provides authentic feel. Surprisingly good bar food makes it easy to settle in for entire evenings. (Link)

Yellow Bar & Café (House of Yellow) - Ultimate live music experience with authentic Thai vibes delivered nightly. Incredibly talented musicians offer performances from intimate acoustic to electric, energetic shows. Perfect neighborhood bar atmosphere where locals and visitors feel equally welcome. Consistently impressive music quality regardless of when you visit, reasonable drink prices, and easy conversations with fellow music lovers create the ideal Thai nightlife experience. (Link)

💎 Hidden Gems

Collector Cafe, Silom - Marvel fans and coffee enthusiasts' paradise with incredible themed details throughout. Every corner packed with Iron Man memorabilia and intricate superhero displays creating immersive Stark Industries experience. Surprisingly sophisticated coffee program offers classics to adventurous creations like signature Collector Coffee - espresso with caramel milk and strawberry delivering amazing flavor complexity. Staff passionate about both coffee and comics enhance the experience through engaging conversations. Whether die-hard Marvel fan or coffee appreciation seeker, this goes far beyond quick caffeine fixes. (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

July 1st I 19:00 - 23:00 I Board Games & Social (Link)

July 2nd I 20:00 - 22:00 I Hey Stranger! A speed friending, drink drinking event (Link)

July 4th I 20:00 - 23:00 I 🥂 Ladies FREE Entry 🥂 : 🍷 Sip & Socialize in Style @ Vessel @ One Bangkok 🍷 (Link)

July 5th I 10:30 - 12:00 I Doodle Club Social: Draw & Make Friends! (Link)

July 5th I 10:30 - 12:30 I Bangkok Book Club Meetup (Link)

July 5th I 20:00 - 23:00 I 🥂 Ladies FREE Entry 🥂 : 🌆 Liquid Pool Bar & Views @ 5 Star Skyview Hotel 🌆 (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

July 2nd to July 6th I 10:00 - 21:00 I FAST AUTO SHOW THAILAND 2025 @BITEC - EH102-103 (Link)

July 3rd to July 6th I 10:00 - 21:00 I COMMART UNLIMIT @BITEC - EH98-99 (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Eduardo’s Story (Brazil – Tattoo Artist)

Eduardo opened a tattoo studio in Ari after falling in love with Thai linework and bamboo tattoo traditions. He fuses his Latin roots with Southeast Asian symbolism. “In Bangkok, every day feels like a canvas. People are open to bold, meaningful art - and I’m here for it.”

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Thailand vs Cambodia | The 1,000-Year-Old Temple Fueling a New Border Dispute

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