Joanna James
As one of the region's most vibrant holiday hotspots, Bangkok truly packs in a punch in terms of touristic value. Here are some of the best ways to spend your time in the Thai capital.
Occupying pride of place along the Bangkok riverside, touring some of the city's best-loved cultural landmarks is one of the best ways to spend one's time in the city. Hop on the many commuter ferries found near the riverside and discover the Grand Palace which is also home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. In addition to touring the royal residence, visitors can also stop by the Temple of Dawn and the countless other Buddhist shrines that line the riverside or simply sign up for a tour of the klongs where the river-dwelling communities of the capital are found. The floating markets located in the area are a cultural institution in its own right.
As the only Asian instalment of the popular British pop culture museum, a trip to the Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum is the closest most travellers will get to their favourite stars. Housing the life-size wax figures of some of the world's most celebrated names in art, music, movies and politics, snapping selfies with the British royal family or the Beatles is a once in a lifetime opportunity no one should miss out on. Some of the most popular figures at the museum include icons such as Brad Pitt, Leonardo Dicaprio and Elvis.
Revered as one of Asia's true foodie paradises, Bangkok is the place to let loose and experience culinary feasts like nobody's business. The street food scene in the city is the envy of the world with everything from chocolate waffles to crispy frog legs on sale via street-side vendors. Whether one's hankering for a snack or wanting to dig into Bangkok's best Pad Thai, look no further than the food streets of Bangkok while the sheer variety of food stalls in Chinatown also makes it a favourite among seasoned visitors and avid diners. What's more, the delectable offerings up for grabs in Bangkok are decidedly cheaper and more affordable even when comparing with neighbouring Malaysia so don't skip dessert.
Regarded as the lungs of the city, Lumpini Park can accurately be described as the Central Park of Bangkok. Spread out across an extensive area, this public park which also features a manmade lake is the perfect venue to unwind and relax after a day of sightseeing. Paddleboat rides, aerobics classes and reading nooks are all part and parcel of an afternoon at Lumpini Park which also plays host to countless concerts, flower shows and other red-letter events throughout the year.
There's nothing quite like a dinner cruise on the Chao Praya River to marvel at the beauty of Bangkok by night. Most cruises also include onboard entertainment such as folk dances as well as a full course Thai buffet so don't forget to enjoy a memorable excursion on the city's River of Kings. Those staying at Citadines Sukhumvit 16 or any other serviced apartment in Sukhumvit Bangkok can book a river cruise via their hotel prior to arriving in Bangkok.
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.
