Bangkok is a sophisticated megacity that is well worth a visit, with something for every type of traveler, from historic sites and sanctuaries to vibrant markets and waterway rides. However, as with any large city, there are common scams to avoid and tips to help you decide where to go.
It Is Worthwhile to Spend More Than One Day in Bangkok
Many people will tell you that Bangkok is a terrible place to visit and that you should avoid it at all costs. Such persons are largely misguided and have undoubtedly missed out on the best that the city has to offer. Bangkok has enough activities to keep you busy for at least a week.
Of course, Bangkok is a vast and intimidating city that takes time to explore. You can cut through the nonsense and appreciate this metropolitan area for what it truly is with a little assistance.
Avoid Train Services During Peak Hours
Although trains can save you a lot of time, they can also be extremely crowded during peak hours, which are when people are going to work or school and returning home in the evening. Train lines are continuously being expanded to accommodate more users, but there has been no recent surge in train size or regularity.
During peak times, it is not unusual to have to queue for three to six trains to pass before securing seats. Apart from these rush hours, however, trains are virtually vacant.
Motorcycles Could Save You Hours of Time
Have you ever heard of a motorcycle taxi? A motorcycle taxi is easily identified by the guys wearing neon orange or yellow clothes with huge numbers inscribed on their backs.
Motorcycle taxis are perfect for small trips when you don’t really want to trek in the high temperatures of Bangkok, but still don’t want to be caught in traffic. A standard one-kilometer journey will cost between 15 and 20 THB, depending on the specific location.
Plan Ahead
Bangkok is not a very walkable city. There are a lot of people, groups, and buildings, thus, navigating through the city may be overwhelming. Determine where you want to go, book accommodation, and when deciding on luxury apartment’s in Bangkok, check where they are on an excellent physical or online map, and then plan a reasonable route. Cabs are unavoidable, as is some walking, but use personal favorites whenever possible: the waters, subway tunnels, and Sky train. Don’t bite off more than you can chew – the flavors of Bangkok are best enjoyed slowly.
Dress Properly to the Holy Sites
We enjoy visiting holy sites in Bangkok, but it’s best to be polite and courteous at all times. A temple, also known as a Wat in Thai, is a religious location that is regularly visited by local residents to pay their respects. Conceal your knees, cover your shoulders, and don’t wear your shoes inside. Bangkok itself has over 400 Buddhist shrines.
Recognize the Strange Drinking Laws
Thailand has a number of peculiar laws that govern when and where alcohol can be purchased. Corner stores and shopping malls are not permitted to sell liquor until 11 am. You can only get alcohol between 11am-2pm, then from 5 pm till midnight. You’ll be out of luck if you arrive at the store after 12 am.
Places to Visit in Bangkok
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is by far Bangkok’s most popular attraction. It is surrounded by a 1.9-kilometer-long wall and is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The structure, which was built in 1782, the same year Bangkok formally became the nation’s capital following the collapse of the Ayutthaya and Thonburi kingdoms, contains over 100 buildings, royal residences, and pavilions. Thailand’s rulers used to live there for extended periods of time, but the King now only visits for official functions.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho, Bangkok’s second most popular tourist attraction, is close to the Grand Palace and thus easily accessible on foot. This is one of the best-preserved Buddhist temples in the area. Within, you can see the city’s largest Buddha, which is 45 meters long and 15 meters tall! Buddha’s demise is depicted in the statue. Don’t forget to take a look at the soles of the feet, which are adorned with jewels and symbols.
Chatuchak Market
If you’re in Bangkok for the holidays, you must visit Chatuchak Market, Thailand’s largest market. It’s so large that when you visit, they give you a map to help you find your way around. Clothing, footwear, accessories, jewelry, and so on are all categories in the market! And, as one might expect, a significant portion is devoted to food.
If you didn’t know where to go on a Sunday in Bangkok, your problem is now solved! Meanwhile, be warned that you will not be alone with your thoughts; the place is extremely crowded.
You should also unwind at the large park nearby. Many Thais visit here with their families.
The Khao San Road
This Bangkok road map would be incomplete if Khao San Road was not mentioned. This road, which includes the Palace and Wat Pho, is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. It was once a popular destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Nowadays, the area is extremely touristic, and Khao San Road has undoubtedly become one of the city’s most cosmopolitan destinations. There are pubs and restaurants that people frequent for a drink in the evening. There are still inexpensive hotels in the area, but it is not the most peaceful place in Bangkok to unwind.
Rooftops in Bangkok
Nothing beats a view of Bangkok from one of the city’s tallest buildings’ roofs. The Baiyoke Building is currently Bangkok’s tallest structure. If you want to see it, you must buy your tickets in advance because it is a popular tourist attraction! The ticket price also includes a food buffet. Among Bangkok’s best rooftops are
- Park Society
- The Roof
- Red Sky
- Sky Bar Lebua
So, while you should definitely spend your vacation in Bangkok, don’t forget to explore the rest of the country as well. These tips should make it easier for you to navigate Bangkok, provide some local insights, and operate as a polite tourist. Remember to always plan ahead of time for your travels.
