Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2010

2. Patravadi Theatre

Just getting to this arts oasis, tel: (66-2) 412 7287, is well worth the trip on river boats to Wang Lang Pier, then past Nonthaburi's earthy markets. Founded by one of Thailand's most revered actresses, the Patravadi is a hip riverside complex, where a theater, rehearsal spaces, gift shop and restaurants sit amid arbors and sculpture. Catch avant-garde dancers or enthusiastic young students giving a dinner show of Thai drumming and acrobatics, all fronting the city's best views of barge traffic and the Grand Palace.