Joanna James
Bangkok is a fascinating destination for travellers where a plethora of interesting activities and places beg further exploration. Here are the top 10 activities that a visitor to this city can enjoy.
First of all settle comfortably settled into your luxury suite hotel. Bangkok will invite you to explore its pride and joy the Grand Palace. This ancient royal residence is a resplendent example of the glory of a bygone era depicted by the sculptures and exquisite filigree and stonework. Make it a point to spend a few hours visiting each area of this vast palace. The temple of the Emerald Buddha and the battle scenes depicted on the walls symbolizing Buddha's inner battle are some of the must-see icons at the Grand Palace. You can follow the map that they provide with the ticket.
You can discover Bangkok cruising on a boat. Board a tourist boat for just 150 baht and float along the Chao Phraya River and visit the city's best attractions. You can get off from any spot that you want to explore and come back in time for the next boat ride of the same company. Don't forget to enjoy the lull of the river that hides stories from centuries ago. If you want to explore the city's canals, book a river cruise complete with dinner.
If you are staying at a hotel such as the Anantara Siam Bangkok hotel, the Chatuchak market is merely 25 minutes away. A market is a place where you can buy all kinds of goods at reasonable prices. The market puts on a grand display of 8000 odd shops during the weekend. Don't forget to pick out a map to avoid getting caught. You are likely to several good bargains of clothes, local artefacts, accessories and much more. If you feel a little puckish during your shopping spree, head over to sections 2, 3 or 26 where you can sample delicious Thai dishes and beverages.
As the second most sought after floating market in Bangkok, the Amphawa floating market has always been a massive hit with visitors. You can enjoy 'fruit de mer' that is prepared and grilled on the spot with a flavourful sauce. You can either sit on the steps going down to the river while your vendor brings heaping platefuls of prawns, shellfish and grilled fish or go sit at a restaurant where they will provide you with a table and a chair.
Shopping in Bangkok offers a glimpse into the modern-day Thai life that mingles with the lingering traditional vibes. Go into the luxurious modern malls to buy branded goods and enjoy high-end cuisine. The street markets offer local crafts.
Thai massages are invigorating affairs and you will emerge from your session feeling refreshed and awake. You can find good massage parlours all around the city.
You can let the shopaholic in you free at the Chinatown. Let the aroma from the food stalls that pop up as the sun goes down be your guide. If you visit Chinatown during the festival period, you can explore a lively atmosphere and escape into a unique world.
This is where the modern Bangkok thrives with its clubs, bars and restaurants that offer high-end experiences. Dine well and explore the sleek lifestyle that prevails in the area and doesn't forget to party at night in the electric atmosphere.
Once purple dusk descends on this ancient land, the night markets come into being. Maintain a slow pace while you shop at the Rot Fai market or the Patpong night market. Savour a whole salted and grilled fish and follow up with a sweet mango and sticky rice dish.
To see Bangkok from another perspective, board a teak barge that resembles an ancient vessel used in Thailand. Float along the river and visit the revered temples. Embrace the ancient spiritual vibes and let the light of the city embrace your whole being.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
