Monday, October 26th, 2009
Sukhumvit Soi 11 Thai Zombie Walk
Sukhumvit Soi 11 is known to have an abundance of attractions and amenities: condo buildings, nightclubs, pubs, restaurants, a supermarket, spas, hotels, and serviced apartments.
Oh, and like thirteen 7-11s.
Many people even argue that Soi 11 has it all.
“Coming to Bangkok? No need to leave soi 11.”
“Everything you need except a temple”
“You have Indian restaurants, you have Italian restaurants, you even have scrappy street stalls.”
“Getting here? Easy. Soi 11 is accessible by skytrain, taxi, motorcycle, or on foot – but why not just stay in a hotel here?”
Yeah, but aren’t most streets in Bangkok like this? Pubs, restaurants, condos, hotels, etc?
Many people would argue that Soi 11 is just like the other streets in Bangkok.
Well, perhaps, until recently. On Saturday, October 17th the Sukhumvit Soi 11 Association added an item to it’s oily, “yes, this is a restaurant in the middle of the sidewalk,” and ugly black wire ridden soi that lives and breathes only here on Soi 11 – the First Annual Sukhumvit Soi 11 Thai Zombie Walk.
With over 150 Zombies descending upon Sukhumvit Soi 11, it became clear that this is no ordinary soi in the heart of Bangkok. For one afternoon, the suit tailors, the fried chicken vendors, the BTS security guards, and the DVD pirate salesman made way for the maddest madness of the year.
Organized by both the Sukhumvit Soi 11 Association and bangkokhaunt.com, the stage has now been set for even bigger Zombie Walks in the years to come.
In about 45 bloody and highly energized minutes, the Zombies all made their way from the Siam BTS station (via train) up the entire length of Soi 11. Along the entire route non-zombies hooted, hollered, and asked if they could join in. With a little fake blood, a strong bite mark, and some ripped clothing, the zombies multiplied along the walk.
Although the date for 2010’s walk is yet to be set, many people are left arguing that Soi 11’s taxi and motorcycle drivers are now mostly made from leftover Zombie parts.
Justin Dunne
