Bangkok holidays

Iconic landmarks and cultural sites:
 

• Grand Palace: A magnificent complex of buildings that once served as the official residence of the Thai kings. Admire the intricate architecture, golden spires, and stunning murals.
• Wat Pho: Home to the Reclining Buddha, one of the largest Buddha images in the world. Explore the serene temple grounds and learn about traditional Thai massage.
• Wat Arun: Known for its towering prang, this temple is particularly beautiful at sunset.
• Chinatown: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown, with its bustling markets, colourful temples, and delicious street food.
   

Riverine adventures:

• Chao Phraya River cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River, passing iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.
• Canal tour: Explore the intricate network of canals, known as khlongs, to experience a quieter side of Bangkok.
   

Shopping and markets:
 

• Chatuchak Weekend Market: A huge market offering a wide range of products, from clothing and souvenirs to antiques and plants.
• Siam Paragon: A luxurious shopping mall with high-end brands, a cinema, and an aquarium.
• Khao San Road: A backpacker haven with a lively atmosphere, street food, and affordable shopping.
   

Day trips:
 

• Ayutthaya Historical Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient city offers a glimpse into Thailand's ancient past.
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Experience the unique culture of Thai markets, where vendors sell their goods from boats.
   

Nightlife:

• Rooftop bars: Enjoy stunning city views and craft cocktails at Sky Bar, Sirocco, or Red Sky.
• Night markets: Explore the vibrant night markets, such as Asiatique The Riverfront, for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Hipster bars and clubs: Discover the trendy bars and clubs in Thonglor and Ekkamai, where you can enjoy live music, DJs, and creative cocktails.
   

Food, culture, & wildlife 
 

Food:
 

• Street food paradise: Indulge in the vibrant street food scene, sampling a variety of dishes, from Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong to grilled meats and exotic fruits. Explore the bustling streets of Yaowarat Road (Chinatown), Khao San Road, or Ratchada Train Night Market for the ultimate street food experience.
• Fine dining: For a more upscale dining experience, consider restaurants like Gaggan Anand, a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative Thai cuisine, or Nahm, which offers traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist.
   

Culture:
 

• Traditional arts and crafts: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market or the Asiatique The Riverfront. And don’t miss the opportunity to witness captivating performances of traditional Thai dance, music, and puppetry at venues like the Siam Niramit Theater or the Kalaya Orchid House.
• Cultural experiences: Participate in traditional Thai cooking classes, learn the art of Thai massage, or join a meditation session at a local temple.
   

Wildlife: While Bangkok itself is a bustling urban metropolis, its proximity to diverse ecosystems offers opportunities for wildlife encounters.
 

• Zoos and aquariums: Visit the Dusit Zoo or the Siam Ocean World Aquarium to see a variety of animals and marine life, including elephants, tigers, and exotic fish.
   

Riverine wildlife:
 

• Chao Phraya River: A scenic boat trip along the Chao Phraya River can offer sightings of various bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets. You might also spot water monitors, a large lizard species, basking on the riverbanks.
   

Marine life:

• Coastal areas: For marine life enthusiasts, a day trip to coastal areas like Pattaya or Hua Hin can provide opportunities for snorkelling, scuba diving, or simply enjoying the beach. These areas are home to a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles.
   

Terrestrial wildlife:
 

• Khao Khitchakut National Park: Located in Chanthaburi province, this national park offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. The park is home to monkeys, deer, and various bird species.
• Khao Yai National Park: A popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, Khao Yai National Park is home to elephants, gibbons, and a number of bird species.
   

Travel tips
 

Travel visa information:

• Most nationalities require a visa to enter Thailand; however, citizens of eligible countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Phuket International Airport. You can check the latest need-to-know destination-specific travel information here.

Currency:

• The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).

Language:

• Thai is the official language of Thailand. However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Climate:

• Thailand has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round. The best time to visit is during the cool season, from November to February.

Transportation:

• Tuk-tuks: A fun and iconic way to get around the city.
• Taxis: Widely available but be sure to agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Skytrain and MRT: Efficient and affordable public transportation options.
• Boats: A scenic way to explore the Chao Phraya River.

Safety:

• Thailand is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any major city, it's important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas.

Dress code & alcohol:

• Dress code: Casual attire is suitable for most occasions in Bangkok. However, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting temples.
• Alcohol: The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20, and alcohol is widely available in bars, restaurants, and convenience stores.