Bangkok had a record-breaking heat recently so before we went, we prepared ourselves to be sweating all the time. Luckily, we also discovered that there's a current installation of a winter place in the middle of the city. It's called Ice Magic and upon looking at the pics, they look so fun and pretty. But what's more exciting is that it claims to be -15c inside.
It's installed in The Market Bangkok which I would assume is in their parking lot area. We bought the tickets through Trip.com because they have a discount if you buy from there lol. You can buy the tickets at the physical booth though.
You can borrow the winter jackets and boots (without an extra fee). I didn't know what I was expecting, I guess I kinda underestimated it to think that this jacket might not be needed. :P Seeing a lot of companies with false advertisement, I didn't think the -15c would be possible haha.
The lounge or whatever is separated from the actual winter place itself. Think like a fridge vs freezer. XD
When we got in, the first thing I saw was the ice sculptures. They are real ice. :o
These fcking tuktuks. Tryna scam us even in the north. Can't run from them. 🤣
I felt like a little kid touching these sculptures. I didn't know you can't touch them and there's a fine of 100,000 baht ($2860) LOL.
Kids can play here probably make some snowballs or something. You will need to have gloves tho cos touching ice with your bare hands hurt. Gloves weren't included in the things you an borrow so you'll have to buy outside which was stupid cos most people here won't need it after this... unless they're a Finn tourist lol.
I was expecting this place to be crowded af considering it's summer. But no, I guess we got lucky. :D
After about 10 minutes, I felt the cold kicking in lol. My excitement is only keeping me warm that's why I was still okay pretty much. :P
Guests can ride the snow sled and the staffs will push you from here. The ride is long and fast and a bit scary at one point. ;P
On the other side, there's a longer slide as well. It's a bit tight and I kept on thinking what if I go too fast and I injure my legs just cos my legs were sticking out from the sled. All went well tho and it was pretty chill.
I'm not a big fan of merry go round of death that's why I didn't ride this.
They look like a penguin lol
The kids enjoyed well I think. XD Although I wish there was more to do. Like more toys or rides or even just shovels. There wasn't even benches where guests can just sit down and just chill if they want to. I understand they wouldn't want any coffee inside but just imagine if they have that would be insane haha.
Although I think they just don't want the guests to stay long inside, but if they don't have any other guests then that would be nice if they'd do. I don't know if there was any time limit but that would be useful if they are packed.
I didn't even think about my phone or camera if they're gonna be able to be ok in this temperature. All I know is my camera and lens is weather-sealed, which protects them from moisture and tough weather. I don't know about the iPhone tho but both worked great afterwards. :D
If you're planning to visit here or anywhere similar, I learned quite a few things to keep in mind:
Wear a moisturizer or something to protect your face from the temperature. It was pretty cold and I knew my nose turned red but I was really thankful I was wearing great skincare and makeup to keep it moisturized. If I hadn't, it would be uncomfortable af for sure.
Wear pants and if you have gloves, wear those as well. Outside is really hot so you might be wearing shorts before you go in but once you're inside, it's like a freezer there. When I was on the long slide, my pants were brushing against the ice walls. I know it would hurt if you're not wearing pants and you slid there. :p
Keep in mind the gadgets you bring there. Althoughhhh I think most phones nowadays would be fine without any other protection but just keep it in mind. :D
Was it worth it? I mean, I guess haha. It's a bit expensive. I think it was 900 Baht ($26) per person since we booked it thru Trip.com but in regular prices I think it's 1,100 Baht ($31) or something. I liked the experience, although like I said I wish it had something more to do.
Regardless, it's still pretty impressive that it was able to deliver the -15c promise despite the record-breaking heat in Bangkok.