The parks remain favorite hangouts for locals. Some just take naps at the benches, others jog around the Sanam Luang park in downtown. I didn't have to jog to transpire. I used the time to stroll around the markets. I got the impressions that the vast majority of foreigners gather in a few spots only.
Some markets seem to be completely free of tourists.
I particularly liked the food market north west of the Memorial Bridge south of Chakkraphet Road. From veggies, fruits, to spices, everything in all colors of the kaleidoscope was available. Other markets focus on religious items or little historic relics. For some hours I was just randomly strolling around to get a feel for the city. I must have ended up in far off places because on two occasions people approached me because they were concerned I was lost.