Bangkok: More Than Meets the Eye
If you’ve ever visited Southeast Asia, then you’ve probably seen the throngs of backpackers and budget travellers virtually flooding the streets everywhere you go. One can’t really blame them since the region offers some of the most affordable holidays that can be had. And if there’s one country that stands above the others for being a tourist favourite, then it’s Thailand. Famous for the stunning beauty of its beaches, islands, and jungles, the country has plenty to offer visitors who wish to immerse themselves in an incredible culture while enjoying deliciously spicy food.
Most tourists, though, tend to overlook the capital of Bangkok during their Thailand adventures and merely stop over for a few days before flying off to one of the islands for a beach holiday or a yoga retreat. Well, it’s time to take a second, longer look at Bangkok and find out what makes this vibrant, kaleidoscopic city a premium destination in its own right. Whether you’re staying in a 5 star hotel in Bangkok or a condo rental, you’ll find that you’re usually just a few steps away from a delightful, uniquely Thai experience.
Visit the Temples in Old Town
Most of the city’s most impressive palaces and temples are conveniently found around Old Town. In a single morning, you can wander around and visit Wat Arun and its iconic prang or spire, Wat Phra Kaew and its Emerald Buddha, and Wat Pho’s gigantic reclining Buddha. If you wish to avoid most of the tourist crowds, you can go and check out Wat Prayoon, Loha Prasat, or Wat Benchamabophit.
Go Cycling in Bang Krachao
Bang Krachao is a man-made island covered in jungle with a bend of the famous Chao Phraya River, and it’s known as the “green lung” of the city of Bangkok. You can rent a bicycle and explore the coconut plantations, rice fields, and temples found along its length of 16 square kilometres. If you’re visiting on a weekend, you can stop by and check out the Bang Nam Phueng floating market, too.
Explore the City’s Colourful Districts
Head on over to Phra Nakhon to marvel over the glittering roofs of royal palaces and golden stupas in the early morning, then enjoy the Michelin-starred food of Jay Fai. If you’re looking for some retail therapy, then make your way to the Siam district where you can find luxury goods from globally famous brands as well as popular home-grown designers. Of course, you can’t miss Chinatown, and Bangkok has one of the largest in the world. It’s a dizzying mix of hidden shrines, tuk-tuks, night markets, cocktail bars, and dimsum restaurants.
When Should You Visit Bangkok?If you don’t mind a little heat, or a lot of it, then book a trip to visit Bangkok in April just in time for Songkran, which is the Thai Buddhist New Year. Be ready to get absolutely drenched during the water festival while you’re having the time of your life. If you prefer more comfortable temperatures, then a trip anytime between November and February is ideal. So, check your calendar now and start packing for a holiday that you’ll remember for years to come.
