Known worldwide for its reputation for fun, hospitality, adventure, and its exciting nightlife Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is located at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River where it enters the Gulf of Thailand. The most populous city in Thailand, with just over eight million inhabitants, Bangkok is a gateway to some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in the world for many of the tourists who arrive in Thailand. But rest assured, the cosmopolitan capital holds its attractions to rival them. One of the most coveted tourist destinations in the world, Bangkok has an array of cultural sights, thriving scenery, and eclectic markets to keep you entertained. With two international airports serving it, Bangkok is one of the main arrival points for many tourists and promises to give them a warm welcome.
Named “World’s Best City” by Travel + Leisure magazine for three consecutive years, there is something on offer for everyone. Recommended sites to visit include Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), the Grand Palace, made up of buildings, halls, and pavilions set in open lawns, gardens and courtyards and numerous Buddhist temples such as Wat Phra Kaew, regarded as the most sacred of all the temples in Thailand.
With a range of hotels varying from luxurious five-star city skyscrapers to standard hotels right down to hostel accommodation costing no more than $10 per night, Bangkok is the city to suit all budgets! If you want to stay in the best hotels, you can expect incredible service while staying in the most desired locations, with access to pools, spas, and fitness centers. Alternatively, even at the lower end of the scale, you can still expect free wi-fi, clean rooms, and city center locations from hostels. Check out hotels and hostels online and read some reviews to find out accurate information about the best places to stay on your budget.
Looking to get around? Buy a ticket directly from any one of Bangkok’s three public bus terminals for a cheaper, safer, and faster journey than that offered by the many privately operated minibusses. For something more exotic, why not hire a long-tail river taxi at any major pier or try the famous tuk-tuk? But be warned to always agree on a price before entering to avoid being scammed.
Bangkok is renowned for its buzzing market places offering everything from fake brands to fresh food, agricultural products, and local Thai products. Take a trip to the Floating Market in Damnoen Saduak and prepare to be amazed by the dozens of wooden boats floating past selling fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers, and food. Alternatively, Chatuchak Weekend Market with over 8000 stalls is a truly unforgettable experience where you can combine sightseeing and shopping into one.
You’ll find all sorts of tasty cheap street food on offer here including Thai, Japanese, Western products from curries to deep-fried snacks and tasty treats. If you want to impress, look to take your guests to Vertigo Rooftop Restaurant, a dizzying dining experience from 61 floors above the city with sweeping panoramic views awaiting. Or, if you’re in the mood for a more authentic Thai experience, surrounding Bangkok’s temples, lie numerous Buddhist vegetarian eateries with delicious food at low prices.
Once you’ve filled your belly, head off to see the local Thai boxing sport Muay Thai in action at two possible venues: Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Silom and Ratchadamnoen Stadium in Rattanakosin. Sessions can last for the whole evening with the most exciting fights often at the end!
For the adrenaline junkies, Bangkok grants the possibility to shoot firearms that are restricted to military and law enforcement forces in many other countries. A short ride from the centre to Bangkok Shooting Club will bring you to a gun range with experienced instructors and a broad arsenal of weapons to try. Whether you will be shooting with pistols, revolvers, rifles, or shotguns all programs are conducted with a professional standing next to you.
Looking to amuse the kids? Take them to Siam Park City a water and amusement park, and you risk spending the entire day on the exhilarating rides and water slides. Or why not try Kidzania, an innovative day out for the whole family offering kids a chance to have learned and had fun by getting to role play in different jobs varying from being a dentist to flying a plane!
Missing home? A short walk down Khao San Road will bring back memories. With fashionable nightclubs, bohemian market stalls, and travelers from all over, this is truly the place where East greets West. One thing’s for certain: If you visit Bangkok, you won’t be lacking excitement!