article label
the martial art
Kickboxing may conjure up images of sweat pants and dance hits, but Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) is totally different and, quite simply, spectacular. This aggressive Thai sport, or ‘martial art’, is what we like to call the real thing. Ditch your sweatband and head for Bangkok to take in this super competitive and highly fuelled sport. Be warned though, this is not for the faint hearted; if you’ve got the guts then we’ve got the experience. On this Muay Thai experience look forward to:
- watching a kickboxing art that is more thoughtful than it may appear: known as The Art of the Eight Limbs, fighters use the hands, shins, elbows and knees to reach eight contact points on their opponent
- mingling with locals for an authentic Thai experience
- hunting for bargains in Bangkok’s bustling night markets
- being brave and sampling crispy friend scorpion from the street stalls
Read more about this trip…
thai kickboxing close-up
two stadiums
Bang in the heart of Bangkok is where this thrilling spectacle takes place. With two stadiums dedicated to the ancient form of ‘art’ you’re guaranteed a match every night – but week nights are when you catch the most exciting action. During your stay we’ll make sure you experience both of Bangkok’s main stadiums, Rajchadamnoen and Lumpinee. No need to wheel and deal with the street touts outside as we’ll have your tickets all organised before you’ve even boarded the plane.
fight night
On fight night, buzz and noise fill the air, drawing you in to the stand, and excited crowds start to gather as the entertainment looms. Then, neon lights flood the stage and focus on the two men performing their ‘Wai Khru’, a ceremonial dance giving thanks to their masters and preparing them mentally and physically for the fight. This spiritual element is believed to bring them luck, protection, respect and a fair fight…but let’s be honest, once the formalities are over the sport quickly turns into an aggressive fight for survival. Cheering, shouting, gasping and screaming all compete with the sound of Thai classical instruments playing in the background and add to the surrounding ecstasy. It’s a night of sport unlike any other, and one that can only be truly experienced on its home turf: where Mauy Thai has been the biggest spectator sport for hundreds of years. After such a high there’s only one thing left to do and that’s to head into the chaotic madness of Bangkok’s nightlife until the adrenalin runs out.
marble temple bangkok
the rest
It’s a crazy five days where the buzz of Bangkok and Muay Thai compliment each other perfectly. Stay in the luxury Thai refuge of The Sukothai, and head out from there to experience the sensory overload waiting for you. Trust us, it’s unreal and you’ll never think of sweat pants in the same way again.
Bangkok city
