Kickboxing may conjure up images of velour sweat pants, a strapping instructor and pulse thumping top 20 hits in the gym studio. But this is not to be confused with Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) which is, quite simply, spectacular. This aggressive Thai sport (or rather ‘martial art’ as it’s locally described) 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 first hand. Be warned though, this is not for the faint hearted; if you’ve got the guts then we’ve got the experience.
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 (we recommend week nights as this is when you catch the most exciting action). During your stay we will make sure you experience both of Bangkok’s main stadiums, Rajchadamnoen and Lumpinee. You’ll have 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.
On fight night, you’ll be drawn into the atmosphere by a pull even stronger than your local on a Friday night: buzz and noise fill the air 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, a place 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.
It’s a crazy five days where the madness of Bangkok and Muay Thai compliment each other perfectly. You’ll stay in the swanky refuge, 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 velour tracksuits in the same way again.
