Joanna James
As one of the globe's most visited cities, Bangkok is on the bucket list of many a traveller and backpacker. Here are 6 fun and engaging things to do when one is visiting the metropolis.
As the residence of the royal family of Thailand, the Grand Palace is not only a cultural icon in the country but a functioning palace compound. Home to the Wat Prakaew temple, the venue is a must-tour highlight for all first time visitors exploring Bangkok as this sprawling complex is an ancient landmark built as far back as 1782. The Royal Court and a series of architecturally stunning structures are not all that is contained within the palace as the Emerald Buddha, which has been created from a single block of emerald are also housed within the Grand Palace's Wat Prakaew temple.
Often considered the best way to explore Bangkok's stunning riverside and the many landmarks occupying the shores of the city's main waterway, a cruise on the Chao Praya River is not only a once in a lifetime experience but a memory all visitors must have of Bangkok. The dinner cruises are perhaps the most popular cruise option for tourists although daytime tours on converted rice barges are also available. Covering areas such as the site of Temple of Dawn, visitors based in AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel or any other similar riverside resort in Bangkok will have easy access to many things to do around Bangkok.
As a novelty shopping experience available in Bangkok's intricate network of waterways or klongs, the floating markets in the city offer visitors some of the most interesting retail encounters available in Thailand. Head to the Damnoen Saduak floating market and purchase everything from fruits and vegetable to pad Thai and fresh flowers from boat vendors who paddle up and down the river selling their wares. As a truly authentic Thai shopping experience, those who wish to enjoy some "boat noodles" and a riverside retail hotspot should not miss the chance to visit the many floating markets located in the capital.
Whether one is food lover or a Chinese cuisine enthusiast, dining your way through this colourful part of town is a must. With food stalls and snack vendors scattered around the area, Chinatown is the best place to grab a delicious bite to eat any time of the day. Special feasts and sweetmeats are prepared during the Vegetarian Festival and the annual Chinese New Year celebrations held in the area each year. Not only is Yaowarat Bangkok a fantastic dining hub in the capital but also a shopper's Mecca as many imported and inexpensive Chinese wares are freely available.
Weekend markets in Bangkok are both a wonderful way to stock up on souvenirs and other consumer goods but also to experience local retail culture at its best. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is home to an impressive 8000 stalls and a whopping 200,000 shoppers frequent the thoroughfare in search of everything from household good to gifts and clothing.
No trip to Bangkok would be complete without a tour of the Jim Thompson House. Synonymous with the production of exquisite Thai silk since its first inception into the industry nearly thirty years ago, the magnificent teak house as well as the museum contained within this cultural attraction is a must-experience highlight for fashion enthusiasts. Don't forget to peruse through the venue's stunning collection of clothing and home ware made from the finest Thai silk and pick up a keepsake or a gift from a loved one back home.
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.
