Loy Nava River Dinner Cruise Bangkok

Throwback to 2017

It's been over 7 years since our family shared an incredible dining adventure, in Bangkok. A floating-dining adventure!

I got inspired to look through old photos, after finishing Season 3 of the White Lotus series.  I crave a little trip back to that magical place.  

Chao Phraya River

The show's colorful river scenes, took me back to a balmy January night, when 2 families enjoyed an evening on the river.

We had come to Bangkok, to celebrate the wedding of our son Scott and (now) daughter-in-law, Chali. On one of our evenings, we cruised down the Chao Phraya River. 
​
Pre-Cruise

Before we headed off. we started the evening at Chali's parents' home. We gathered on the veranda, sitting on pillows. The moon was nearly full.

Before long, our group of 10 divided into 3 taxis, making sure we had a Thai speaker in each.  

Across the River

We headed into the city and waited near a dock for the ferry. 

The view across the water was entertaining. Cruise boats of all sizes! We shuttled across to the River City Mall, to kill some time, before our boarding time. 

Mall Time

Just like middle schoolers, we hung out at the mall!

I've never been in a mall quite like this one. We found some comfy seating in a lovely hotel lobby. 

​All Aboard

At 8:30 we wandered over to the dock and boarded a traditional teak wood rice barge. 

As we headed inside the bi-level dining room, I spotted a table set for 2, looking out towards the water. Nice!

Our party was seated at 2 tables. I was glad to see we also had a woven tablecloth with tiny gold elephants and fresh flowers. 

Long trays of appetizers were delivered. Mai Tais arrived. 

I remember the food kept coming.  I really can't recall what we ate. In fact I hardly knew what I was eating at the time.

But the mood was festive and the views were spectacular.

At one point I popped out of my seat and left the table to catch the passing view.

The illuminated buildings were stunning. The tourists in shorts were not. 

As the boat glided down the river, I wondered why I haven't ever pushed for more river dining cruises in my life! The only dinner cruise I can even recall was on the Mississippi, near St. Louis.

The St. Louis Arch is a pretty amazing thing to see from a boat. But it's hard to compete with illuminated temples!

The glowing Grand Palace, was shimmering in the water's reflection.

Traditional Classical Dance

I returned to my seat,  just in time for a performance.

The costumed dancers moved about the floor, moving their hands and fingers in ways that mine just won't.

Chali's father encouraged me to get up and join the dancers. I assumed this was a let's all participate kind of thing. I was game to be the first.

I gave it a try and did a pretty lousy job with my hands. But I had fun.

When I sat down I suddenly felt pretty embarrassed when I realized, No, not everyone is joining in. I was the first and last dining guest on the dance floor.

​Lessons

The fun spirit lingered after the performance. Chali and her cousin showed us their own demo with hands.

There were a few attempts with those less skilled... but perhaps more skilled than me.

Grateful
​

I wish I could recall more details of food and service and sights. But the main thing that stands out, is how fun it was to have Scott's and Chali's families together, celebrating on the river!

I hope to do it again someday... with a new addition. These 2 are expecting their first child in a month!
​