Bangkok – Thailand

Posted on Aug 7, 2016 in Places

Bangkok can be daunting for a first timer but it’s incredibly friendly and easy to get to know. It’s one of my top 3 cities in the world and I couldn’t even begin to do it justice in a ‘review’ so instead I’ll do a summary of some of my favourite things to do in this amazing city.

First, getting around. The Skytrain is my number one tip. As long as your hotel is close to a station, you can purchase a day pass from the tellers at the station for about thb130 and zip along above the congestion in air conditioned comfort. Single trips are cheap (thb25 from Silom to National Stadium) so if you’re only doing one or two in a day, the tellers will also supply change for the automated machines. The MRT is an underground train system and it’s also useful but for tourists, most of the required stops will be closer to Skytrain stations. Metered taxis are also plentiful and cheap but in peak times, it can take an hour to travel 6km so even if it only costs a few dollars, it’s not worth wasting time. Most taxis generally use their meters now but do make sure they turn it on and if they use toll roads, you will be expected to pay as you go. Tuktuks and motorcycle taxis can be crazy but sometimes the traffic is so gridlocked that a motorcycle is the only way to make a deadline.

The sights:
– In my opinion, anyone visiting Bangkok for the first time must do some of the touristy sights. Even though they are a mass of sweaty bodies, it’s the only way to start understanding the passion of Thailand. The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Reclining Buddha, Wat Arun (also known as the Temple of Dawn) are all close to the Chao Phraya and can be accessed by ferry. If you would feel more comfortable with a guide, there are many half day tours that can be arranged by all hotels. Be warned, there is a dress code (covered knees and shoulders) and mornings are definitely the best time to go (before it gets too hot).
– Other tours include floating markets, shopping trips, etc.
– Full day tours to Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Khao Yai National Park are also available but whether they suit, depends on personal interests.

Shopping:
– So many places to choose from!
– If you’re on limited time, MBK (some small shops, some market stalls in a shopping centre), Siam Discovery, Siam Centre, Paragon and Central World cover all of the big names plus department stores. They can be accessed easily from the Skytrain as they sit between National Stadium and Siam (interchange station).
– Siam Centre has smaller, more local stores (on the other side of Siam Skytrain station).
– The Platinum Fashion Mall is around the other side of the block from Paragon etc, on Phetchaburi Road. Depending on the weather, it’s worth a walk if you have time and you’re not already shopped out.
– Travelling up Ploen Chit Road, there are shopping centres all the way so if you’re looking for a specific store, it’s just a matter of googling for location.
– Terminal 21 is one of the newer centres in Bangkok. Further along the Skytrain route at Asok station on Sukhumvit Road, it has a ‘world cities’ theme with a younger Thai designer flavour. It also has a Din Tai Fung outlet so lunch is covered!
– Chatuchak Weekend Market (or JJ as it’s also known) is very touristy but a bit of fun. Clothing, souvenirs, homewares, food… it’s all here. Go early on Saturday or Sunday to avoid the heat but not too early when everything is still opening. I believe there is also a Friday night market but I haven’t made it yet.

Food:
– There are so many dining options in Bangkok but for something on the run, don’t go past the carts in the little soi and on the side of busy roads. Each cart generally specialises in one particular thing but it’s always fresh and they usually have a huge following from locals and workers.
– If you’re after something quick but prefer to sit down, food courts are big in Bangkok. My favourite is at The Paragon (basement level, pay for a credit card before you approach the stalls and get a refund on the balance at the end). If you prefer not to fight for a seat, there are a number of cafes and small restaurants here. Still at The Paragon, on the same level, there is a food hall (no seating) selling all the standard offerings normally found on the street carts so this is a great option for takeaway.
– Supermarkets are everywhere but the Gourmet Market at Paragon is a foodies dream in Bangkok – there’s not a lot you won’t find there.
– Dinner is a whole other story! From buffets and markets to Michelin-trained chefs and cutting edge techniques, Bangkok has it all. If you’re a first timer, consider booking a restaurant with a view. Our favourite is Sirocco at Lebua – it’s stunning! Others we enjoy include L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Vespa, Opus, Eat Me, Zanotti, Little Bao… but there are so many to choose from.
– For after-dark entertainment, it really depends on your interests. We recently enjoyed a visit to 72 Courtyard complex on Sukhumvit 55. It has bars, restaurants and cafes all centred around an open air courtyard. Beer Belly is a good place to sit and enjoy some people watching!
– If you prefer something casual and don’t feel like dressing for dinner, Khao San Road is always good for a walk. Drinks, food, shopping, etc all in backpacker style at bargain prices.
– There are so many bars, clubs and lounges around Bangkok. Most large hotels have one but for the newest openings and current hot spots, BK Magazine provides a good roundup (website and Facebook).

Accommodation is probably one of the most important decisions in Bangkok but really dependent on budget, time of year, deals on offer, couples or children, etc…. so I won’t go into great detail except to say that my favourite place to stay is The Peninsula because they know how to give good service and it’s well located but it can be pricey so if you would prefer to keep your dollars for other pursuits, check out the serviced apartments. We recently had a quick stopover and chose to stay at Baan K Residences – it was a real gem at an unbelievable price. Check the usual booking websites for something that suits your needs.

Additional note: If arriving in Bangkok by air, you will be delivered to either Suvarnabhumi or Don Muang. If you haven’t arranged a transfer into the city with your hotel, both have buses, taxis, etc and the trip can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the time of day. The most important thing to remember is that they are at least 1 hour apart so if you are transferring to another flight, check which airport you arrive and depart from and plan accordingly. There is a shuttle bus between the two but you’ll need to allocate the appropriate time.

Travelled August 2016