Photo of the Day: Jim Thompson’s House in Bangkok
In the heart of Bangkok, there’s a little oasis down a quiet side street. You’d miss it if you were simply strolling by and you may even miss it if you were looking for it.
It’s Jim Thompson’s house. Don’t know who he is? Most people don’t. But you could argue that he single handedly created the modern silk industry in Thailand.
Tucked behind a gate, lies the garden and home where Jim lived. The lush area is filled with ferns and orchids – a maze of tropical plants in a quiet area sheltered from a main arterial just a quarter mile away.
His home is built of teak in the traditional Thai style. Though it’s possible to tour the house, photos are not allowed inside. Perhaps because of all the antiques, paintings and artwork that adorn the home.
Orchids wrap themselves around the trees in the gardens outside Jim Thompson’s home.
Jim was a self-made (American) entrepreneur who saw tremendous value in Thai silk. He basically saved this dying craft when he established his company in the late 1940′s.
He spent more than 20 years in the country before disappearing while visiting Malaysia with friends. He went out for a walk in the jungle and never returned. His legend and influence continues with the production of beautiful silk garments and accessories that can purchased in shops throughout the city.
If you’re interested in visiting Bangkok, my photography tour to Bhutan starts in Bangkok in late September (it’s not too late!). I’ve also got tours to India and Bhutan in October and November with a few spots still available…
This is part of DeliciousBaby’s Photo Friday. Pop on over to see more photos!
Travel Well!
Beth
Related links:
Photo of the Day: Monks with Camera
Mystical Bhutan Tour in November
India Tour in October
Photo of the Day: Varanasi
Photo of the Day: Prayer Wheels – Bhutan
Photo of the Day: Layered Mountain Range
Photo of the Day: Himalayan High
Photo of the Day: Bangkok Flowers
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7 comments
Beautiful photos, and an interesting story. Thanks for sharing!
What a cool story and photos. I love the orchids hanging off the tree.
Great little place! Love the sloping angles of the roof and those beautiful flowers.
Looking at your photos and reading the story makes me feel like I’m right in his garden. Thanks for mentioning your tours. Maybe one of these times when I’m ready for a trip without the little people, I can embark on the journey of my dreams! Now I know where to sign up.
That’s so cool. Well, shame on me that I have never been to Jim Thompson’s house but countless times to his store during the annual sale.
I might have to do just that our next trip.
Hi Beth,
I’ve enjoyed all the resources on your site as an aspiring traveler, writer, and photographer! I love your first orchid shot; I have several pictures of flowers on my own website, http://www.joyschmoll.com . Are you looking for more WanderBloggers? My blog, http://joyschmoll.blogspot.com , has several stories from my trip to Ecuador earlier this summer, and I love sharing them.
I had heard of Jim Thompson and his work with silk in Thailand, so interesting to see where he lived. Looks like he had excellent taste in decor too.