A perennial stop for backpackers and tourists from all over the world, Bangkok is the vibrant and bustling capital of Thailand and one of Southeast Asia’s must visit cities. From its glittering temples to its bustling street markets, Bangkok offers an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking an escape from the ordinary. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure junkie, Bangkok has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags, grab your sense of wonder, and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of this Southeast Asian gem!
A Treasure Trove of Temples
No Bangkok trip is complete without exploring its iconic temples. Start with the Grand Palace, a dazzling complex showcasing Thai architecture at its finest including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha which is home to the Emerald Buddha a 66cm sacred jade figurine which dates from 1434. Next stop on the temple trail is a visit to Wat Pho, the home of the awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha, a magnificent statue that is 46-meters long and 15-meters high. Wat Pho is also the place to learn all about traditional Thai medicine as well as one of the best spots in the city to enjoy an authentic Thai massage, make sure you book your spot when you enter the complex.
Those seeking a unique temple experience combined with some of the best views of the city should head across the river to Wat Arun temple which features an 82-meter-high Khmer-style tower at its centre. Climb the steep stairs of the tower to enjoy panoramic views of Bangkok’s rivers and canals. Another option for spectacular views of the city is Wat Saket temple which is located on the top of a small hill. This is undeniably one of the best places to catch the sunset in the city and escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Foodie Forays
Bangkok’s street food scene is legendary with an almost
endless variety of delicacies for travellers to enjoy. Foodies are in for a
culinary treat with dishes such as Pad krapao moo (stir fried pork with holy
basil), Som tam (papaya salad), Pad Thai (fried noodles), Jok (rice porridge
with pork, soft-boiled egg, ginger, and onions), and Khao niao mamuang
(fragrant sticky rice with mango). The street food in Thailand is incredibly
good value with plenty of options to keep your taste buds tingling.
In fact the quality is so good that one street food
restaurant has even got a Michelin Star rating serving up one of the best crab
omelettes in the city. Be prepared for a long queue if you choose to visit Jay
Fai but we promise it is worth the wait.
Market Mania
Anyone who loves shopping will enjoy a trip to Chatuchak
weekend market which is a sprawling labyrinth of over 15,000 stalls. Here
you’ll find everything from home décor and artwork to clothing, cooking
accessories, electronics, souvenirs and trinkets, and even live animals which
varies widely from the normal domestic cats, dogs, hamsters, etc, to the rather
more exotic along with a huge variety of fish. While Chatuchak market may be
enormous it is surprisingly well organised and easy to navigate, go early on to
avoid the worst of the crowds. Although often described as a weekend market, Chatuchak
market is actually open all week, though some shops do choose to close and it
is just as popular with Thai locals.
Looking for a different experience? Then how about a visit
to the Pak Khlong Talat, a world-famous flower market which is full of endless
rows of roses, orchids, carnations, marigolds, and many other colourful
flowers. Another alternative to Chatuchak is Srinakarin night market which is a
mecca for vintage clothing, antiques, and collectibles making it a hipster’s
dream.
Travel by Tuk-Tuk
No Bangkok experience is complete without a ride on a
tuk-tuk, the city’s iconic open-air taxis. Negotiate your fare with a smile and
enjoy the wind in your hair as you zip through the streets. Remember, traffic
can be hectic, so buckle up and hold on tight!
Top tips for first-time visitors
To the uninitiated, a trip to Bangkok can be an assault on the senses but by following some simple tips you can maximise your enjoyment.
· Respect the culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples and remember to remove your shoes.
· Embrace the spice: Start mild and work your way up – Thai food can be fiery!
· Haggle politely: It’s expected at markets but be fair and respectful as prices are generally much lower than the western world already.
· Learn some basic Thai: “Sawasdee khap/ka” (hello) and “khop khun khap/ka” (thank you) go a long way, where “khap is addressed to a man and “ka” a woman.
With these tips and an adventurous spirit, you’re ready to conquer Bangkok and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, grab your hat, and embrace the City of Angels!
For broader ideas on places to visit, take a look at other links within our blog.
