Watthana or Vadhana (, ) is one of the 50 districts (khet) of Bangkok, Thailand. Neighbouring districts are (from the north clockwise): Ratchathewi, Huai Khwang, Suan Luang, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, and Pathum Wan. History Watthana became a separate district by splitting from Khlong Toei in 1998 to provide better service to its population. The district obtained its name from Princess Galyani Vadhana, the elder sister of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Watthana or Vadhana means 'development'. The area is among the most developed parts of Bangkok. On 1 January 2009, Watthana was the location of the Santika Club fire, which killed 66 and injured 222. Administration The district is divided into three sub-districts (khwaeng), from west to east: They are all named by adding Nuea, meaning North, to the corresponding subdistricts in Khlong Toei district. Places Encompassing the area between Sukhumvit Road and Khlong Saen Saep, Watthana is one of the commercial districts in Bangkok, with many condominiums and hotels. Expatriates of many nationalities reside there. Shopping Sukhumvit Road - Vendors selling counterfeit DVDs, T-shirts and tourist trinkets clog the sidewalks from Soi 3 to Soi 15. Foodland - One of the branches of the Thai grocery chain is located on Soi 5. It also has a 24-hour coffee shop. Terminal 21 is a mixed-use complex near Sukhumvit Road 21, near the Asok intersection. It opened in October 2011 and is now one of the major shopping centers. EmQuartier - a shopping center opened in 2015. It is opposite of Emporium (which is in Khlong Toei district) and is operated by the same owner, The Mall Group. Villa Plaza - Between the Sukhumvit 33 nightlife area and Soi 31, the plaza is a shopping and entertainment area anchored by the Villa (open 24 hours) and Fuji supermarkets. It also has some Japanese-only clubs, as well as British-style pubs. Thong Lo - This street has become trendy in recent years, with a number of upscale restaurants and "boutique" shopping centres. Major Sukhumvit - A large branch of the Major Cineplex cinema chain near Ekkamai BTS Station, with a bowling alley, restaurants and shops. Dining and entertainment "Little Africa" - Near the Grace Hotel, there's a network of alleys between Nana Nuea or Sukhumvit Soi 3 and Soi 5 that is home to many Middle Eastern restaurants. Soi Cowboy - Nightlife strip with go-go bars is off Asok, near the intersection with Sukhumvit.