Joanna James
As one of the world's most popular destinations for backpackers, culture buffs and foodies, Bangkok offers the travelling masses an array of exciting experiences. Whether you are visiting the city for a brief holiday or an extended stay, there are certain activities and highlights that should be a part of every Bangkok travel itinerary. Here are the main points of interest that will allow you to explore the best of the Thai capital during a single visit.
While there are a great many cultural landmarks in the city, a trip to Bangkok would not be complete without touring the iconic Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha contained within it. Constructed in 1782, this palatial residence of the Thai royal family has been wowing visitors for just as many years. As the location of the Thai Royal Court for nearly 150 years, The Grand Palace is a stunning architectural marvel that's also home to one of Thailand's finest temples. The holy Buddha image contained within this breathtaking temple is another reason why the Grand Palace is considered one of the best attractions in Bangkok.
Signing up for a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River is another rite of passage for first-time visitors to Bangkok. Often ranked highest in lists of the Best Things to Do in Bangkok, this enchanting river safari on board a converted rice barge allows visitors a different vantage point from which to consider the city. In addition to onboard entertainment in the form of live music and traditional Apsara dance performances, the full-course Thai meal is another reason why every holidaymaker should enjoy a river cruise at least once. Day-time river tours are also accessible not only on conventional rice barges but also on luxury yachts and other sailing vessels.
Bangkok is deemed a dream destination for foodies the world over, and embarking on a tour of Bangkok's key food districts is another great way to explore the best that the city has to offer. Whether one is based at Maitria Mode Sukhumvit 15 or any similar 4-star hotel in Sukhumvit, Bangkok, one is never too far from a local food hotspot or street food vendors. Charoen Krung Road and Chinatown are two such locations while the street grub up for grabs down Bang Khun Non and Petchaburi Soi 5 are equally impressive.
Although it may not be as popular as some of the biggest leisure parks in Bangkok, Lumpini Park is the leafiest confines one can find inside the city. Home to a manmade lake where one can enjoy paddleboat rides, Lumpini Park is also the perfect place to catch up on reading, go for a morning jog or catch a live musical performance. Lumpini Park is a favourite haunt among locals of all ages and the lush, open plains and grasslands of this public park can help one unwind and relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
Bangkok's top tourist attractions also include its mega malls and department stores. Stop by Siam Square to marvel at the luxurious products and plush interiors of shopping compounds the likes of Siam Paragon and Siam Square One Mall before heading over to more affordable shopping venues such as MBK. A shopping spree at the Chatuchak Weekend Market is also essential to understand the wide variety of consumer goods on sale at this labyrinthine thoroughfare. Bangkok's floating markets also make interesting retail venues for the uninitiated as vendors on boats sell everything from bowls of Pad Thai to fresh fruits and veggies at these thriving marketplaces on the River of Kings.
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.
