You haven’t really experienced a city until you’ve set foot in the hectic craziness that is Bangkok. The City of Life as it dubs itself, is filled with culture, arts, food, markets and some of the friendliest people you’ll find. One thing’s for certain – you won’t be bored in Bangkok. In fact, you might just need to book another trip to the Thai city to be able to soak it all in.
Photo courtesy of Justin Harrington
Visit the Markets
There are plenty of street markets in Bangkok, where the walkways are crammed with makeshift stalls. You’ll find about anything you can imagine, from traditional Thai crafts to designer knock-offs (the Thai are famous for their near perfect duplicates of designer bags, watches, shirts, shoes and jewels). Be prepared to bargain. You’ll be offered a tourist price that can easily be talked down. One of the most famous markets is Khao San Road. From the scenes in The Hangover II, to the opening scenes in The Beach, Khao San Road’s vibrancy is something you just can’t miss.
Visit the Palaces
Thailand is filled with palaces, but the one that virtually every tourist sees in Bangkok is the Grand Palace, home to the Thai royal family. It’s a huge part of Thai history and the architecture is a sight that can’t be missed. Be sure to book an afternoon to roam the grounds and explore, but be sure to wear long pants and a long sleeved shirt out of respect.
Explore the Temples
Religion is rich throughout Bangkok, and the temples are dotted throughout, making it easy to get in touch with your spiritual side. Some of the most famous include, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and the Temple of Emerald Buddha which is viewed as the most important temple in Thailand no one is allowed near the Buddha except for the HM and King). Follow the same rule as a palace visit – a long sleeved shirt and long pants are a must.
Take a Water Tour
Instead of just exploring Bangkok by foot or tut-tut (open-air cabs), book yourself a river tour. You’ll get a unique view of the city, and if you book a tour of the nearby floating markets, you’ll get a new appreciation for Thai markets going from boat to boat to buy goods.
Photo courtesy of Justin Harrington
Eat the Street Food
Hands down some of the best food we’ve ever eaten while travelling was on the streets of Bangkok. Don’t be afraid of testing it out. Curries, rice, coconut ice cream, even fired crickets for the adventurous, the food is fresh, delicious and cheap.
Get a Thai Massage
You might think it’s a gimmick, but a true Thai massage is a fantastic experience to enjoy in Bangkok. Even if you have had a Thai massage in North America, nothing beats one in Thailand, where the masseuses will crack, twist and kneed out knots and kinks from the stress of travel.
