Artbox Market in Bangkok Closes, Ending Singapore Travelers’ Night‑Owls
What Happened?
The Artbox night market, a staple of Bangkok’s nightlife, shut its doors last Monday, August 31. The spot that sat between the BTS stations Nana and Asoke has been a daily magnet for locals and tourists alike for roughly a year.
How It All Began
- First popped up in 2015 as a brief pop‑up event—multiple times a year, each lasting just a few days.
- It offered quirky local designer goods, trendy street food, and live music—the perfect blend for hipsters, foodies, and night‑lovers.
- Its popularity spurred a Singapore edition (last held in November last year) and a food‑centric Eatbox event in March.
Owner’s Blame Game
Phanarat Muennoi, the mastermind behind Artbox, shared with Khaosod English that “It’s such a huge loss since I invested a lot in this. Covid hit us really hard.” She also pointed to the hotel shutdowns and the sudden thunder‑storm of tourists vanishing as the twin culprits that left the market flat‑cracked.
There’s Still Light in the Dark
All isn’t lost—Phanarat hinted that Artbox might re‑appear in a different form. “I’ll try to bring it back as an event instead of a permanent market,” she said, sounding hopeful enough to brighten the gloom.
Quick Recap
Closed date: August 31
Location: Between BTS Nana and Asoke
Owner: Phanarat Muennoi
Future plans: Event‑only format, no permanent market
Isetan Thailand closes doors
https://www.facebook.com/IsetanThailand/posts/3478057888893180
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After 28 years, the Isetan department store has vacated its six-storey premises in CentralWorld Bangkok, officially pulling out of the country.
The Japanese retailer, which began operations at the location when CentralWorld was still known as World Trade Center, decided not to renew its rental contract when it ended in August.
Staff members bid an emotional farewell to shoppers when it closed its doors for good at 9.30pm on Monday.
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