Joanna James
As one of Asia's top tourist hotspots, Bangkok offers visitors a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy. Here's a rundown of the top things to do in the Thai capital during a holiday.
Tipped to be the most famous landmarks in all of the capital, the Grand Palace was not only the royal residence of the ruling monarchy but a cultural icon of mammoth proportions. Spread out across a vast expanse with more than a hundred structures to its name, the Grand Palace is one of the most ornate palaces in Asia. Home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew, the regal abode is no less impressive by day than it is by night. Remember to dress modestly when visiting the palace as it is offensive to dress scantily when entering the sacred space which also contains a temple.
Often regarded as the best way to uncover the beauty of the Bangkok riverside and its many cultural highlights, a river cruise on the Chao Phraya River is a true treat for the senses. As a must experience cruise for all first-time visitors, gliding across the River of Kings on a converted rice barge on day time or night time is both a relaxing and invigorating experience. Dinner cruises are increasingly popular among short-stay visitors although it is by no means the only option available for travellers. Many private and resort based tour operators offer different cruises on the Chao Phraya river.
Lined with small alleyways and bustling marketplaces, Chinatown is a part of Bangkok that's perhaps best known for its culinary delights. With ancient temples and the shophouses of Thailand's first Chinese residents occupying its confines, Chinatown is the perfect venue to get lost in streets full of thriving markets, food stalls and shops. Not only can tourists purchase affordable souvenirs and consumers goods at this part of the city but also explore the many centuries-old shrines dotting the landscapes of this Chinese community heartland.
As one of Asia's premier shopping hotspots, no trip to Bangkok would be complete without a shopping spree in some of its top retail highlights. Home to sky-piercing malls and department stores the likes of Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, Siam Discovery and Siam Center the sheer number of mega malls retailing high-end luxury products will blow one's mind. The MBK Shopping Mall is one of the more budget-friendly malls in the city while spending time haggling in Bangkok's colourful local markets including the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Visitors based at Citadines Sukhumvit 16 or any similar Bangkok apartment hotels in the area will find that most of these markets are within close reach.
Bangkok is a foodie's paradise and nowhere is this more apparent than on the streets of this dynamic metropolis. Food carts and kiosks selling everything from freshly squeezed juices to bowls of pad Thai and fried cockroaches are a common sight in Bangkok where a scrumptious meal is not only affordable but easily accessible. Signing up for a food tour is perhaps the best way to sample local cuisine at its best while simply walking down some of the food streets in the city will also suffice for those who are short on time and cash.
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.
