Restaurants are also allowed to remain open until 9pm, which means I have more time for supper if I'm away from home. That was the first time I realised how inconvenient it is to not have a convenience store open 24 hours. Last week, I persuaded my friends to arrange a walking trip to the Charoen Krung neighbourhood and go cafe hopping. She worked for one of Thailand's leading men's magazines before teaming up with her close friend to open this cafe three months ago. For me, it's the charm of travelling to be able to observe local life and interact with folk.