Joanna James
Considered Asia's most dynamic capital city, a tour of Bangkok is a rite of passage for all those who wish to explore the East. From using public transport to checking out some of the main highlights in the city, here are 5 things all tourists should know before vacationing in the Thai capital.
In spite of the fact that Bangkok is advertised or marketed as a year-round holiday destination, there are certain times of the year when holidaying in the city is a bad idea. The rainy months of the year, including May, June, July, August, September, and October, are quite frankly the worst time to head to Bangkok as the wet and humid conditions do not make for a pleasant experience. The best time to vacation in the city is from November to December although the December to March period is also nearly perfect in terms of the weather and the availability of excursions and activities. While reservations at a property by Avani Hotels & Resorts or any similar chain hotel in Bangkok Sukhumvit may not be as low as it is during the off-season, the good weather is more than worth the extra bahts.
It is also prudent to notice the pricing principles when shopping in local markets such as the Chatuchak Weekend Market, the Ladies Market, or any similar thoroughfares. There will be a "local price", which is quoted for citizens of Bangkok or Thais in general and a more expensive "tourist price" that is often quoted to travellers. This is why your haggling skills must be put to the test when shopping around in Bangkok as there is no such thing as a fixed price outside the malls and department stores in the city.
There is no need to rely on any other mode of transportation except the BTS SkyTrain and MRT network of Bangkok when exploring the attractions and activity bases in the city. As a highly efficient and affordable means of transport, the BTS SkyTrain and MRT routes cover nearly every inch of the city and all of its major highlights. You can purchase a travel card that's valid for a day, two days, or longer depending on the duration of your stay and top up the value of the card as you go along.
Although Bangkok is a relatively safe metropolis, pickpockets and petty thefts are quite common. Tourists should wear a fanny pack instead of carrying a handbag or wallet when exploring the city as they are harder to nab.
Don't forget to explore the many highlights along the Bangkok Riverside during your stay in the Thai capital. Not only is the area home to the Grand Palace but also iconic temples such as Wat Arun and Wat Pho. Wat Kanlayanamit, Wat Rakhang, and Wat Prayun Wongsawat are other temples that occupy the shores of the Chao Phraya River.
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