Areas of Interest in Bangkok

Shopping is everywhere in Bangkok.  Street vendors can be found on all main thoroughfares and all prices should be negotiated.  Emporium is one of the many shopping malls that can be found filled with designer stores.  Neighbouring the Emporium mall is the Benjasiri Park for a quick escape.  The park also features some dramatic sculptures.

The Chao Phraya River Express is a relief from the crowded streets and transfers up and down the river from the Tah Tien Pier to the Oriental Hotel and the fare can be paid in loose change it’s so cheap.

Amongst the hundreds of Buddhist Temples there is Wat Pho which is definitely worth a visit.  It is the oldest and vastest in the city being somewhat of a labyrinth of structures.  Tourists must visit in ‘polite dress’ which means no shorts.  It is also a traditional centre for Thai massage, where by you can enjoy one for yourself or take a lesson to learn the massage.  The Grand Palace close to the river was the official residence of Thai Kings for nearly two centuries until 1946.  Wandering through the temples and chambers is amazing.  

As well as the numerous Temples and Palaces the museums throughout Bangkok give an insight into the culture and heritage.  The Ancient City, Erawan Museum, Suan Pakkad Palace and the National Museum are all highly recommended.

Eating Out in Bangkok

Noodles, soups and tropical fruits can be picked up from makeshift street stalls all over Bangkok.  For somewhere more structured to eat Chinese run Yong Lee is on the corner of Sukhumvit Road and is a popular spot with locals and tourists.  The Verandah restaurant is part of the classic Oriental Hotel, and is an ideal spot for a Thai brunch.

The Mango Tree serves up traditional local dishes such as Gai Hor Bai chicken in a Pandanus leaf, in an 80 year old Thai house.  Situated on Surawong Road classical Thai music drifts out of the restaurant.  Tongue Thai is another intimate spot with a menu of the best Thai cuisine.  Excellent dishes include soft shell crab curry and mussels in a clay pot.

The State Tower offers open air dining on the 63rd floor.  Situated on the corner of Silom Road and Charoen Krung the Sirocco restaurant serves excellent international cuisine, which can be pricey, especially if enjoyed with wine.

Bangkok Night Life

Bangkok’s nightlife is huge and caters for everyone from Go Go Bars to the vast Gay nightlife.  Admission to night clubs is usually free and generally relaxed with no dress code.  There are a few exceptions to be expected with some up market venues.  There is always a pub, bar or lounge within steps away.

Vertigo rests on the top of the Banyan Tree Hotel, 200 metres above the city streets. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a Shinga beer or Vertigo cocktail whilst the sun sets.  There is a dress code of smart casual, which must be followed.

Hu’u on South Sathorn Road caters to an elegant crowd.  With a Bali décor, silk upholstered sofas and striking liquor shelf the atmosphere is suave and upscale.  The music is nu-jazz and chill out making it a popular spot for pre clubbing.  The bar menu offers over 150 cocktails and a mezzanine restaurant serves international cuisine.

At the Ratchadda Grand Theatre, the Siam Niramit is an amazing experience.  The production packages history, culture and spiritual Siam into an 80-minute production on an enormous stage.  There are state of the art side effects and elaborately designed costumes, which together depict seven centuries of Siamese cultural heritage.  There is also an excellent restaurant serving Thai cuisine making it a great night out for families, friends or couples.

Local Information

Taxis, buses and the three-wheeled open air Tuk Tuks are transport options for exploring Bangkok but roads can become very congested.  The SkyTrain and MRT underground railway are often the best options and have the cheapest fares

From the Airport to Bangkok

During the week buses run from outside the terminal to On Nut Station where the SkyTrain begins.  Taxis are available any day and the fare is cheap for the half-hour journey.