Iconsiam, one of the world’s largest and most avant-garde retail complexes, celebrated its fifth anniversary in November 2023. Perched upon the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this eye-catching landmark is an essential pitstop for locals, explorers and travellers seeking to encapsulate the Thai way of life and wisdom into a modern luxury perspective.

Iconsiam, which has been recognised globally for its design and business concepts, has it all—from locally-made products and artisan handicrafts to high-end, globally renowned brands. It manages to both promote Thai heritage and culture, with regular exhibitions, workshops and performances that celebrate the country’s unique traditions, and remain on the cutting edge, with attractions such as the country’s first-ever Apple store and 400-metre-long multimedia water feature that incorporates 2D, 3D and 4D water nozzles and projections—by itself worth a trip to the mall.

Other unique experiences beyond the opportunity to burn a decent hole in your Bottega Continental include Sooksiam, which offers a landlocked version of Bangkok’s famous floating markets; an adventure-land of kid-friendly games and playground rides; a 13-screen cinema, artwork inspired by Thailand’s people and places, and a baby version of Changi Airport’s stunning Rain Vortex fountain.

Obviously, there’s more food available than you could ever hope to get through in one visit: from branches of Michelin-starred restaurants offering exquisite fine-dining experiences to opportunities galore to sample street food without the heat and crowds of an actual street.

Add to this the first full-scale branch of iconic Japanese department store Takashimaya and the stunning Iconsiam Park, that provides respite and beauty in the form of native flora and city views from the banks of the Chao Phraya, it’s no wonder the US$1.6 billion mega-development is constantly cited as a must-visit site for even the most discerning visitor.