Located in Pratunam is Baiyoke Tower II. More than 300 metres high and with 88 stories, it is Thailand's tallest building and is a distinctive feature of Bangkok's skyline and represents the rising economy of both Pratunam and Thailand as a whole. Just taking the lift up the tower is an experience not to be missed. Surrounding it are plenty of other residential towers and hotels trying to make money out of the central location.
But the street markets have never disappeared. Fresh produce has made way for fashion wear, textiles and accessories, but they are still sold at strictly local prices. Endless small alleyways are packed with literally thousands of fashion stores, and they are so cheap because most of them actually sell at wholesale rates. In the north of the district lies Victory Monument, a large military monument that now functions as a major traffic hub. The area became a popular residential neighbourhood for locals and expats working in the ciy centre. It is particularly lively after dusk, when there is a busy night market and an active jazz scene.