Siam Ocean World

Ocean World, on the basement level of Bangkok’s massive Siam Paragon department store, is billed as Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium, and indeed, the large tanks, containing more than 400 species of sea creature, are impressive. Too bad the rest of Ocean World has a Disneyland-meets–Coney Island feel. Around every other corner, visitors come across vendors hawking popcorn or such gimmicky activities as a “journey” in a glass-bottomed boat (the aquarium is large, but not large enough for a boat tour). Skip the extras, including the “Ocean Walk,” and let kids explore the large aquariums and smaller displays of rare species. Come early, and try to avoid the weekends, as Ocean World is extremely popular (there are yearly passes). Afterward, head to the food court of the department store for lunch.