Bangkok's new waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment hub

Word to the wise: Very much an evening affair, shops do not open here until after 5pm. Popular plate: Asiatique's restaurants tend to be on the pricey side, but there's a good selection of local and international dining options by the waterfront.

Like a maxi version of Singapore's Clarke Quay, Asiatique is an enormous waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex. Comprised of four interconnected 'districts', Asiatique boasts more than 1,000 boutiques, and a good handful of restaurants and wine bars to collapse in afterwards.

Designed around existing structures—the 'factory district' is located in a converted sawmill—the complex is modern, but tasteful. A little contrived, perhaps, but that hasn't stopped locals and visitors alike giving it a big thumbs up.

After dark, there's often fireworks and live outdoor entertainment. You can also catch a ladyboy cabaret show at Calypso, or a traditional puppet theatre performance at the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre.