As much as I love the outdoors, the rainy season has convinced me that staying inside is slightly better than finding myself at a hospital, diagnosed with influenza.
Considering I've already watched all the big blockbuster films, and the fact that I can neither skate nor bowl to save my life, I began to wonder what else there is to keep me entertained for a few hours -- or at least until dinner time.
I learned about Art in Paradise after it made a splash on a some of my friend's Facebook timelines during their trips to Pattaya and Chiang Mai. The Bangkok location is its latest branch -- rather surprising, when you consider how the majority of the city's population is obsessed with taking photos and Instagramming.
My initial reaction upon entering the museum was, "Whoa, this place is huge!" Yes, I admit, I had my reservations about its size upon discovering that it was situated inside a shopping mall. Art in Paradise contains six themed zones -- aquarium, safari, classical painting, nature, modern and fantasy (which, I might add, was slightly trippy).
Ever fancy being in the jungle with an elephant, or posing next to an enormous kitten? You got it. Want to know what you'd look like in a post-Impressionist painting or on the cover of Time magazine? Get posing. And don't worry, if you're not sure where to stand for the most realistic angle, stickers on the floor let you know exactly where you can pose for the perfect snap.
Although selfie sticks are not permitted, feel free to bring along a tripod. I recommend bringing with you a few friends for a nice group shot -- and wearing plain-coloured clothes, so you don't blend in with the bustling background.
As pessimistic as I was about whether I'd enjoy taking photographs for two hours, I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with how much fun the experience was. I mucked about, recreated a Jumanji-style stampede scene -- and went home with the evidence to prove it. That, my friends, is the definition of fun, especially on a rainy Tuesday afternoon.
Top tip: If you're like me and simply can't stand waiting for people to set up their tripods just for one snap, I suggest you visit the museum on a weekday during off-peak hours -- you might just end up with the place to yourself.
Art in Paradise Bangkok is located on 4/F Esplanade, Ratchadapisek Road, Thailand Cultural Centre MRT station (Exit 3), daily, from 10am-10pm. Visit http://fb.com/artinparadisebangkok or call 02-660-9130.
