Whereas Thailand is definitely recognized for its stunning seashores within the south and mountain ranges within the north, don’t overlook spending time in Bangkok earlier than exploring the remainder of the nation. This vibrant capital metropolis has all of it — meals, nightlife, historical past, structure, spas, and leisure. It’s possible you’ll not get to every little thing however our information helps you profit from your time, even when it’s a whirlwind 24 hours.
Morning
You’ve in all probability travelled a good distance to get to Bangkok and will use a revitalizing therapeutic massage. Fortunately, you’ve landed in the precise place. Thai massages are completely different from the sports activities or scorching stone massages you get at house. You lie totally clothed on a mat whereas the practitioner manipulates your physique in several methods to stimulate your organs, enhance flexibility, and relieve stress. The apply goes again over 2,500 years and there’s no scarcity of spas in Bangkok to check out the time-honoured custom.
Now there are a number of methods to get across the metropolis. You’ll be able to go for the sensible method — taking the Skytrain which is quick and reasonably priced. OR, you may go along with our advice of hopping on a tuk-tuk. It’s not essentially essentially the most environment friendly method, nevertheless it’s in all probability essentially the most enjoyable and a must-try expertise. Ensure to barter the worth earlier than getting in or you possibly can overpay a bit. One other stable choice is a bike taxi. These are nice for getting by congested site visitors (which Bangkok is understood for) and might go as much as 100 km/h to get to your vacation spot sooner than an everyday taxi or bus.
When you’ve chosen your tuk-tuk, bike taxi, or skytrain choice, get your self to the Grand Palace. As one of many oldest and most historic sights in Bangkok, you’ll be taught concerning the historical past courting again to 1782 and marvel on the Thai fashion structure. Get your tickets for 500 baht (roughly $15 USD) and bear in mind to decorate appropriately (coated knees and shoulders) otherwise you received’t get into any temples or locations of worship. It’s additionally beneficial to decorate in black or white to point out condolences to the late King Rama IX.
Stomach rumbling? For those who’re on the lookout for a tasty and conventional snack, strive durian. It is perhaps tremendous smelly, likened to ripened cheese, and banned on public transportation, however don’t write this superfruit off simply but. It’s extremely nutritious — probably the most nutritious fruits on the earth — and offers a plethora of well being advantages. Eat it contemporary, pair it with sticky rice, mix it right into a juice, or decide up a bag of durian chips. Yum yum!
Afternoon
Even in case you’re full from (or delay by) your durian indulgence, experiencing Bangkok avenue meals is a should. It’s the way in which to eat and principally unattainable to withstand the rows of distributors promoting grilled and barbecued meats, soups, curries, fried rice, and seafood. Can we curiosity you in some tom yum noodle soup? Maybe paired with khao pad gai (thai hen fried rice) and a crab omelette. There are a great deal of locations everywhere in the metropolis however take into account testing the Outdated Metropolis and Chinatown. Pleasant well being reminder: ask for bottled water and don’t take any ice.
Top-of-the-line methods to expertise Bangkok is from the water. Yow will discover a hop-on-hop-off boat that travels alongside the Chao Phraya River to discover completely different spots, or simply chug alongside and benefit from the views. There are 11 stops with boats departing each half-hour so you may take your time, however undoubtedly cease to soak up the gorgeous Wat Arun. This Buddhist temple is without doubt one of the most stunning in Thailand and it’s open every day. Once more, gown appropriately or convey a sarong to cowl up. For the perfect images, go throughout the river at sundown.
Night
Because the night approaches, it’s time to find what Bangkok is understood for… night time markets. Whereas there are fairly a number of to select from, we suggest beginning with Asiatique proper on the banks of the Chao Phraya river. Your choices for meals are plentiful — uncover meals stalls carrying finger and avenue meals or take pleasure in a sit-down meal. Together with meals, you’ll discover a great deal of procuring alternatives starting from typical souvenirs to garments and classic gadgets. The excitement and vibrancy out there alone is well worth the go to.
Sizzling tip: For those who’re on the lookout for a daytime vibe, it’s also possible to go to Chatuchak Market which is open each weekend and boasts over 15,000 stalls. Bartering is a factor right here and one of the simplest ways to snag a deal is to smile and be well mannered.
For the right method to cap off your night time, a go to to the well-known Khao San Street is so as. Discover low cost drinks within the type of beers or buckets (principally plenty of whiskey and coke) and take a look at Brick Bar and Mulligan’s Irish Bar. The drinks can wash down the great crunchy style of cockroaches, grasshoppers, spiders, or scorpions, in case you’re feeling adventurous. And why wouldn’t you?!
Getting there
Able to spend one (morning, midday and) night time in Bangkok? Loads of our itineraries can get you there as a part of an even bigger journey. Listed here are a few of our faves:
Thailand Island Hopping – West Coast
Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express
Indochina Emcompassed
Northern Thailand Adventure
