Bangkok

Discover Bangkok: Temples, Street Food, and Hidden Gems

Bangkok is a dynamic city that blends modernity with tradition. Known as a bustling commercial hub, it is much more than just skyscrapers and shopping malls. The city’s charm lies in its mix of ornate Buddhist temples, vibrant street markets, and its easy-going atmosphere compared to other Asian megacities. With its accessible public transport and welcoming locals, Bangkok offers a gentler introduction to Southeast Asia.

Things to See and Do in Bangkok

Get an Introduction to Thai Food
Start your culinary adventure in Bangkok with a street food tour. Explore Bang Rak, one of the busiest districts, and dive into local food specialties like crispy prachak pet yang (roast duck), fresh fishball noodles, and mango sticky rice. A local guide will lead you through the city’s street-side stalls and unassuming eateries, offering an authentic taste of Thailand.

Explore the City’s Highlights with a Local Guide
Bangkok’s vastness makes it hard to explore on foot, but with a local guide, you can navigate the city’s public transport network and visit iconic sites. Hop on the Skytrain for panoramic views, board a public taxi boat to Wat Pho (home to the Reclining Buddha), and visit the Grand Palace. Explore the backstreets by tuk-tuk and discover hidden gems like Soi Ban Batra, where artisans handcraft alms bowls.

Cruise Through Bangkok’s Hidden Klongs
Escape the city’s fast pace by venturing to the klongs (canals) on a private longtail boat tour. These waterways, once the main transport routes, still bustle with activity. Cruise past stilted houses and bustling markets, and visit the royal temple Wat Arun, a stunning structure surrounded by thousands of Buddha statues.

Cycle Through Bangkok’s ‘Green Lung’
Bang Kra Jao, Bangkok’s “green lung,” offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. This area of mangroves, forests, and waterways is perfect for cycling. Take a local ferry and explore the area’s boardwalks, riverside paths, and small temples. It’s a refreshing contrast to the city’s urban sprawl.

Learn to Cook Thai Dishes
Join a local chef, Angsana Anderson, for a cooking class in her Bangkok kitchen. Learn to make traditional Thai dishes using family recipes passed down through generations. From selecting fresh ingredients at the market to preparing curry pastes and desserts, you’ll gain valuable cooking skills.

Explore Bangkok’s Rural Surroundings
Venture outside the city to experience Thailand’s provincial life. Visit the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors move their stalls to make way for passing trains. Then, head to the Tha Kha Floating Market, where locals sell fresh produce and cook meals in longboats.

Experience Bangkok at Night
As the sun sets, Bangkok transforms into a vibrant city of lights. Join a local resident to explore the city’s nightlife, starting with sunset views from a rooftop bar. Enjoy street food in Silom, take a tuk-tuk ride, and finish the evening at Asiatique, a popular night market along the Chao Phraya River.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok
Bangkok is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is cooler, with average temperatures of 80°F (27°C). April can be hot and humid, while May to November brings the rainy season. Don’t let the rains deter you, as they are usually brief, and hotel prices tend to be lower.

Festivals and Events

• Chinese New Year: Late January or February, with dragon parades and street parties.

• International Festival of Dance & Music: Held in mid-September, featuring opera, jazz, and global performances.

• Songkran: The Thai New Year festival, celebrated with water fights on the streets from April 13th-15th.