Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, has a rich and fascinating history that spans back to the late 1700s. Originally a small village located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, it was chosen as the capital by King Rama I in 1782, who sought to establish a new capital further inland after the fall of Ayutthaya. Over the centuries, Bangkok has grown into a bustling metropolis and an important center of commerce, politics, and culture. Despite numerous challenges, including frequent floods and foreign invasions, the city has continued to thrive and adapt to change, developing a unique character that combines its historical heritage with modern-day developments. Today, Bangkok is a vibrant and dynamic city that attracts millions of visitors from around the world, drawn to its rich culture, beautiful temples, delicious street food, and bustling markets.
First things first - Where to buy a SIM card in Thailand
How to get from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city centre
There are several options to get from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city center:
Other options include:
Taxi - Taxis are readily available outside the airport and the trip to the city center typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. You can either take a metered taxi or a fixed-price airport taxi.
Airport Rail Link - This is the fastest and most affordable option for getting from the airport to the city center. The Airport Rail Link operates from 6 AM to midnight and the journey from the airport to the city center takes approximately 15 minutes.
Bus - Public buses are also an option for getting to the city center. The airport operates two types of public buses: the city bus and the express bus. The city bus is a cheap option but can be slow due to traffic, while the express bus is a faster option but more expensive.
Private Transfer - If you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free option, you can pre-book a private transfer service. The driver will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your destination.
Get some cash at the ATM or change currency.
The best areas to book a hotel in Bangkok?
Bangkok is a sprawling city with many distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe and attractions. Here are some of the best areas to book a hotel in Bangkok:
Sukhumvit - This area is popular with both tourists and locals and is known for its nightlife, shopping, and dining options. It's also convenient for exploring other parts of the city as it has good transport links.
Siam - This area is the heart of Bangkok's shopping district, with many large malls and high-end shops. It's also home to several popular tourist attractions, such as the Jim Thompson House and the Erawan Shrine.
Silom - This area is a popular business district during the day and a lively entertainment area at night. It's known for its nightlife, street food, and proximity to the Chao Phraya River.
Khao San Road - This area is popular with backpackers and budget travelers, with many cheap guesthouses and hostels. It's known for its lively nightlife and street food stalls.
Riverside - This area offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River and is home to many luxury hotels and resorts. It's a great area to stay if you want to explore the city's temples and cultural attractions.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in Bangkok depends on your interests and preferences. Each area has its own unique atmosphere, so it's worth doing some research to find the one that's right for you.
Streetfood in Bangkok
Bangkok is famous for its street food, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to try! Here are some of the most popular street foods in Bangkok:
Pad Thai: This stir-fried noodle dish is made with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, and a sweet and savory sauce.
Som Tam: This spicy papaya salad is made with shredded green papaya, chili peppers, tomatoes, and peanuts.
Mango Sticky Rice: This dessert is made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and sweet coconut milk.
Tom Yum Goong: This hot and sour soup is made with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, and chili peppers.
Grilled Pork Skewers: These grilled pork skewers are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and served with sticky rice.
Fried Chicken: This crispy fried chicken is served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo.
Roti: This Indian-inspired flatbread is fried and served with sweetened condensed milk or a savory curry sauce.
Thai Iced Tea: This sweet and creamy iced tea is made with black tea, sweetened condensed milk, and spices.
These are just a few of the many delicious street foods that you can find in Bangkok. Make sure to explore the city's markets and street food stalls to discover even more tasty treats!
A great resource for tips is Mark Wiens on Youtube. You can literally divulge in hours of content!
And as always, you can always trust in Anthony Bourdain.
Nightlife in Bankok
Bangkok is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of options to suit all tastes. Here are some of the best places to party in Bangkok:
Khao San Road - This street is known as the backpacker hub of Bangkok and offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of cheap bars and clubs.
Sukhumvit - This area is home to some of the city's most popular nightclubs, such as Levels and Insanity, as well as many rooftop bars with stunning views.
RCA - Located in the Rama 9 area, RCA (Royal City Avenue) is a popular nightlife spot with many large clubs and bars playing a variety of music genres.
Thonglor - This trendy neighborhood offers many upscale bars and clubs, attracting a more sophisticated crowd.
Silom - Silom offers a range of nightlife options, from small bars to large nightclubs, and is particularly known for its LGBT-friendly venues.
Asiatique The Riverfront - This open-air night market offers a variety of dining and drinking options as well as nightly entertainment.
Sightseeing in Bangkok
Bangkok is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to see and do. Here are some sightseeing tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Grand Palace: The Grand Palace is a must-visit attraction in Bangkok. This stunning complex of buildings and temples was once the residence of the King of Thailand and is now used for ceremonial purposes. The Grand Palace is a symbol of Thai art and architecture and is one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
Wat Phra Kaew: Located within the Grand Palace complex, Wat Phra Kaew is home to the Emerald Buddha, which is considered the most important Buddhist relic in Thailand. The temple is also known for its beautiful murals and intricate carvings.
Wat Pho: Another famous temple in Bangkok is Wat Pho, which is known for its giant reclining Buddha statue. The temple is also home to a traditional Thai massage school, which offers a range of treatments.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: This massive outdoor market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts. With over 15,000 stalls, it's one of the largest markets in the world.
Chinatown: Bangkok's Chinatown is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood that's home to numerous shops, restaurants, and street food vendors. It's a great place to sample some of the city's famous street food.
Wat Arun: Also known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful views of the city.
Jim Thompson House: The Jim Thompson House is a museum that's dedicated to the life of the American businessman who helped revitalize the Thai silk industry. The museum is located in a traditional Thai-style house and is surrounded by lush gardens.
Khao San Road: Khao San Road is a popular backpacker area that's known for its nightlife and street food. It's a great place to meet other travelers and experience the vibrant energy of Bangkok at night.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Bangkok has to offer. Make sure to take the time to explore the city and discover all that it has to offer!