Have you been to Bangkok, or are you planning to head there sometime soon? Passing through the capital of Thailand is a right of passage into South East Asia, so it’s likely to appear on most travellers itinerary at some point. Last time we were there was January 2020 but despite being BC (Before COVID) not much has changed, it’s largely the same same and I just love it! My Bangkok recommendations also haven’t changed, but I’ve updated the below with current info from a recent few days there.
What to expect
Many visitors may experience a little culture shock when first arriving in Bangkok. Especially if it’s their first time in Asia. It’s hot, polluted and chaotic!
In all honesty I didn’t like Bangkok the first couple of times I visited. But on my third visit (2013) I took a bit of time to explore away from the tourist trail. Took time to take things in and time to just wander. I got under the surface of the city.
Like many destinations, I found returning is the best way to experience a destination. I don’t really know how many times I’ve been to Bangkok, but it’s always a stop when we head East. My advice to anyone who doesn’t love it initially: give it more time.
Getting around
Things are well spread out across the various districts and transport is cheap. I suggest heading for a specific area and then explore on foot once you are there. When it gets too much, stop for a foot massage; they offer these everywhere.
Taking taxis generally is fine in Bangkok, as long as you ensure they put the meter on. However prepare for the possibility of a detour and getting ripped off, if you get into a tuk tuk; especially if you don’t negotiate the fare first. It’s still fun to travel this way though!
Where to stay
As I travel much like a backpacker there is probably only one area I would recommend to stat. Near to Khao San Road.
Most people either love or hate Khao San Road. Just go there without any preconceptions and see for yourself. I would suggest however that you don’t stay in the road itself but instead pick a hotel or guesthouse in Soi Rambuttri or Thalon Rambuttri which are close by.
IMO the location is a great base, as is fairly easy to get to/from and the food is cheap and delicious (my priority when travelling).
Bangkok recommendations
There are many sources of info to help when planning a trip here but these are a few of my Bangkok recommendations:
1. Temples
There are hundreds so it’s difficult to know where to start, don’t miss these:
- Grand Palace – the site has some intricate architecture and contains the temple of the Emerald Buddha.
- Wat Pho – temple with the biggest reclining Buddha.
- Wat Arun – temple of the dawn, one of my favourites.
Wat Arun at sunset
- Wat Ratchanatda – Burmese style temple, also make sure you check out the Loha Prasat building, which has a cool maze.
All these temples tend to be touristy and each has an entrance fee but are well worth it.
2. Markets/shopping
Make sure to bargain on prices when shopping. I love the clothing stalls along Soi Rambuttri and even Soi Khao San.
My other favourite is Chatuchak market – only open at the weekend. Wear sensible shoes as this market occupies 35 acres and has over 8,000 stalls. It’s not for the faint hearted or those with just a couple of hours.
Other options worth considering are:
- PatPhong night market – visit during the week although this has changed a great deal since the pandemic.
- Asiatique – another more upmarket and almost clinical market, selling a lot of what you will find in Pat Pong and sections of Chatuchak but often at a higher price.
For designer clothing head to the malls in Sukhumvit – I like Terminal 21 as each level is themed with different cities from around the World and there’s a good few stationery shops selling bits for my scrapbook and general crafting supplies (maybe not for all, but there is plenty else too) as well as a great food hall.
3. Street food
These are everywhere so don’t be afraid to try them. My favourite is now more of a street restaurant. Check out ‘I love Thai food‘ in Soi Rambuttri. The service is a little slow but it’s totally worth the wait.
Try all the typical Thai dishes at different stalls and you will soon find your own favourites too.
If you are only passing through Bangkok or unlikely to head to one of the other Thai cities make sure you try the mango sticky rice (dessert or sweet snack) and papaya salad (ask for it “mai pet” if you don’t like exceptionally spicy food!). If you are like me and not keen on the ‘orange’ papaya fruit don’t be put off as the latter is made with green papaya which is totally different.
4. Other
A few other must do’s in my opinion should include:
Chinatown
Make sure you head for the walking street, Soi Wanit 1. There are lots of random tacky items here but it’s an Aladdin’s cave of crafty bits and other accessories at wholesale prices. Crafters, like me will be in their element.
Craft supplier are endless in Chinatown…
Soi Cowboy and Pat Phong
Head here at night, just to see the variety of go go bars. Maybe even stay for a drink but beware of the touts.
Jim Thompson house
Reconstructed from 6 traditional Thai wooden houses, inside is a collection of items from around SE Asia which this American businessman collected prior to his disappearance from Cameron Highlands, where he was holidaying in 1967. His contribution to the development to the Thai silk industry is evident here in the shop where you can browse some lovely handwoven garments and be assured of their quality.
Golden mount
For 360° views across the city, climbing up here in 30+° heat isn’t easy, but I still recommend it.
Bang Krachao
Escape the city and venture to what seems like another world – Bangkok’s hidden beauty – the “green lung”, Bang Krachao.
Walking the canal
The least smelliest part I found, runs parallel with Thanon Krung Kasem, north of the train station.
There is so much more to see and do in Bangkok. Check out my Transportation in Bangkok post which gives a few pointers to help with getting around. If you need more Bangkok recommendations, feel free to get in touch.
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Updated content, previous post from February 2020.
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