Parks hold an essential role in promoting physical activity in urban areas. Studies have found that park characteristics such as park size, facilities, accessibility, and aesthetics are reported to have a positive association with increasing physical activity of the urban populations. However, the evidence in the context of Southeast Asian cities is still lacking, as most studies are from North America and Europe. The study explores the associations between park characteristics and park-based physical activity in Bangkok, Thailand. Ten major public parks were examined using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). Descriptive analysis was used to understand the characteristics of park users and park-based physical activity. A bivariate logistic regression model was employed to determine the variables of park characteristics and of having moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). We found that parks with bigger sizes and better access to public transport were associated with a higher likelihood of users having MVPA in the park. We also found that adding more facilities in the park, even if they are specifically aimed for physical activity, would not increase the likelihood of having MVPA. The findings from the study suggested that investing in better accessibility and physical quality of existing parks as well as improving equal opportunities for park use will be a more sensible option for promoting park-based physical activity in Bangkok, Thailand.

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The study focuses on the characteristics of urban heat island (UHI) in Bangkok, Thailand. Hourly air temperature data from four weather stations -one in rural site and three in urban sites for the last five year are used to study the characteristics and intensities of UHI in Bangkok area. The results indicate the presence of urban heat island in Bangkok and it is increasing in terms of intensity. The study reveals the maximum intensity of around 6-7°C is detected during dry season. The mean annual air temperature in Bangkok city is higher by 0.8°C than outside the city. The weather conditions (wind, cloud, and precipitation), and different land cover types are the major factors governing the near surface urban heat island.