While Thailand is actually identified 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. You could not get to all the pieces however our information helps you benefit from your time, even when it’s a whirlwind 24 hours.
Morning
You’ve most likely travelled a good distance to get to Bangkok and will use a revitalizing therapeutic massage. Luckily, you’ve landed in the best place. Thai massages are completely different from the sports activities or scorching stone massages you get at house. You lie absolutely clothed on a mat whereas the practitioner manipulates your physique in numerous methods to stimulate your organs, enhance flexibility, and relieve pressure. 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 can go for the sensible method — taking the Skytrain which is quick and inexpensive. OR, you possibly can go together with our advice of hopping on a tuk-tuk. It’s not essentially probably the most environment friendly method, but it surely’s most likely probably the most enjoyable and a must-try expertise. Make positive to barter the worth earlier than getting in or you might overpay a bit. Another stable possibility is a bike taxi. These are nice for getting by means of congested visitors (which Bangkok is thought for) and might go as much as 100 km/h to get to your vacation spot sooner than an everyday taxi or bus.
Once you’ve chosen your tuk-tuk, bike taxi, or skytrain possibility, get your self to the Grand Palace. As one of many oldest and most historic sights in Bangkok, you’ll be taught in regards to the historical past relationship again to 1782 and marvel on the Thai type structure. Get your tickets for 500 baht (roughly $15 USD) and keep in mind to decorate appropriately (lined knees and shoulders) otherwise you received’t get into any temples or locations of worship. It’s additionally really useful to decorate in black or white to point out condolences to the late King Rama IX.
Belly rumbling? If you’re searching for a tasty and conventional snack, strive durian. It is likely to be tremendous pungent, likened to ripened cheese, and banned on public transportation, however don’t write this superfruit off simply but. It’s extremely nutritious — one of the nutritious fruits on the earth — and gives 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 for those who’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 not possible 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? Perhaps paired with khao pad gai (thai hen fried rice) and a crab omelette. There are a great deal of locations all around the metropolis however contemplate trying out the Old City and Chinatown. Friendly well being reminder: ask for bottled water and don’t take any ice.
One of the perfect methods to expertise Bangkok is from the water. You can 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 possibly can take your time, however undoubtedly cease to absorb the gorgeous Wat Arun. This Buddhist temple is without doubt one of the most stunning in Thailand and it’s open each day. Again, gown appropriately or carry a sarong to cowl up. For the perfect images, go throughout the river at sundown.
Evening
As the night approaches, it’s time to find what Bangkok is thought for… evening markets. While there are fairly a couple of to select from, we advocate 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. Along with meals, you’ll discover a great deal of buying alternatives starting from typical souvenirs to garments and classic objects. The buzz and vibrancy out there alone is well worth the go to.
Hot tip: If you’re searching for a daytime vibe, you can too go to Chatuchak Market which is open each weekend and boasts over 15,000 stalls. Bartering is a factor right here and the easiest way to snag a deal is to smile and be well mannered.
For the proper option to cap off your evening, a go to to the well-known Khao San Road is so as. Find low cost drinks within the type of beers or buckets (principally a number 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, for those who’re feeling adventurous. And why wouldn’t you?!
Getting there
Ready to spend one (morning, midday and) evening in Bangkok? Plenty of our itineraries can get you there as a part of an even bigger journey. Here are a few of our faves:
Thailand Island Hopping – West Coast
Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express
Indochina Emcompassed
Northern Thailand Adventure