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THAILAND’S food scene is colourful and full of variety, just like its busy streets. For many tourists, it’s a treat not only for the taste buds but also for the eyes. 

Thais are known for eating insects for centuries. What began as a way to survive during times of poverty has now become part of daily life. 

Crunchy crickets, spicy silkworms and even snake and crocodile meat, once considered bizarre, are now sold openly in the busy streets of Bangkok, especially along Khao San Road.

Tourists stroll through the area, some stopping to check out grilled or fried insects on display, ready for adventurous eaters to try. But for those who aren’t into unusual or scary foods, it’s best to avoid the stall as the sight of insects and other wild items like snakes can be overwhelming. 

At stalls selling bizarre foods, vendors have become more savvy. Many now display signs warning that anyone taking photos of the food will be charged 10 to 20 baht (about RM1.30 to RM2.60) per shot. 

They know tourists are often curious about the exotic insect snacks, even if they don’t plan to eat them and snapping pictures has become part of the experience. For the sellers, it’s a clever way to turn curiosity into cash.

Even a whole crocodile can be seen on display, ready for sale. Customers can choose how they’d like it served; grilled as satay, sliced into portions, or simply as a chunky cut topped with their preferred sauce.

The seller, a Nepalese man, claimed he single-handedly fought and captured the crocodile in the outskirts, preparing it for sale the very next day. 

He said the business can be quite lucrative, but only among a niche group of customers. “Not everyone dares to eat it,” he admitted with a grin.

At the recent Fi Asia exhibition at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok, experts shared how insects are packed with protein and could be the next big thing in food. 

Dr Visit Limlurcha, President of the Thai Future Food Trade Association, explained that Thailand has invested in research and development to ensure insects are safe to eat and nutritionally valuable.

“Insects have been part of our diet for generations, but only now are we beginning to understand their full nutritional potential. They are rich in protein, require fewer resources to farm, and offer a sustainable solution to global food challenges,” he said.

Crickets and black soldier fly larvae have already passed safety tests and are being prepared for export to countries that accept them as alternative sources of protein.

He also encouraged foreign visitors to explore the city in the evening, when street stalls come alive, offering a chance to sample those bizarre insect snacks and experience a unique part of Thailand’s food culture.

Besides food and drinks, some dispensaries in Bangkok openly promote cannabis, adding another layer of intrigue for visitors. Curious Malaysian tourists were seen stepping into one of the shops to ask for more information. 

While cannabis remains illegal in Malaysia and is classified as a dangerous drug, Thailand treats it more like medicine under regulated use.

A shop supervisor named Kong shared that his dispensary began selling cannabis three years ago after legalization for health purposes. 

However, he admitted that many customers buy it for recreational use, for the “high” or feel-good experience. 

At around 350 baht per gram (about RM46), the price alone was enough to turn cautious Malaysians away.

Kong emphasised that dispensary owners must hold a valid license and follow strict rules, such as not selling to anyone under 18. 

“Anyone can smoke it, but they must understand the risks,” he said. He tried to persuade the visitors, but they remained cautious and had no intention of trying it, as they were simply curious.

Amid the curious sights of Bangkok, one thing that continues to charm tourists is the Tuk Tuk. The three-wheeled vehicle remains one of the city’s cheapest and most practical forms of transport. 

Visitors are often eager to hop on and experience the fun ride through Thailand’s lively streets, a symbol of Thai street culture that never goes out of style.

While roaming the street, they suddenly noticed a few elderly women dressed in what looked like traditional attire. They weren’t standing at stalls or shouting to attract attention, instead, they walked quietly and individually, each carrying a small bundle of items. 

Using hand signals and gentle gestures, the elderly women walked around trying to sell small items that looked like handmade toys or decorations. 

Their quiet presence made the busy street feel calmer. Some of them wore old-style traditional clothes, which caught people’s attention. 

Maybe wearing those clothes was also their way to attract curious travellers and help sell their items.

Some vendors also sell food that’s quite similar to Malaysia’s roti canai, but the sauces are even more adventurous. 

Some come with spicy dips, tangy blends, or unusual ingredients that give the familiar dish a bold twist. For curious eaters, it’s a fun way to taste something familiar with a surprising kick.

Thailand may be known for its bizarre food, but it also shines with its popular dishes. Som Tam, a spicy, sweet, and salty papaya salad, is a favourite among foreign visitors. Tom Yum seafood soup, with its bold and spicy flavour, is another must-try for those who love heat in their meals.

Thailand had longed been known for its rich and diverse local cuisine makes it a top destination for food lovers.

Whether one is drawn to traditional dishes or intrigued by the more unusual offerings, Thailand has a culinary journey that’s both exciting and satisfying from start to finish.

No trip to Thailand is complete without tasting Khao Niew Mamuang, glutinous rice with sweet mango. It is a dessert combines soft, sticky rice with ripe mango slices and a drizzle of creamy coconut milk. 

It is undeniably one of the favourites among locals and tourists alike, and a perfect way to end a flavourful adventure.