Joanna James
Bangkok is one of the most popular backpacker destinations in the world filled with affordable accommodation. The city is known for buzzing nightlife, fantastic street food, and attractive shopping malls, which satisfy the discerning tourists coming from every corner of the world.
The city struggles with urban planning, featuring shifting street names and numerous expressways that can confuse backpackers, leading them into indistinguishable neighbourhoods. The best way to navigate this disarray is by using a map that lists street and city names in both English and Thai. This reliable guide will help you manually translate street names and addresses, preventing any confusion that may arise.
Take a friendly approach when you do shopping in the local malls. Remember! This is the first rule you should follow if you are to purchase everything on your list. As long as the items are without a barcode or a set price, you may bargain enough with a precious smile that assures your purchase. Continue chipping to have an opportunity to receive a discount between 10% and 40% from the quoted price of the item you are looking for.
Overcome the stifling heat in Bangkok by packing a bottle of water. Drink enough water to ensure your well-being amidst crowded streets lying beneath the scorching sun. You will not be dehydrated if you can drink more than you sweat.
Avoid casual chats offered by strangers on your way. Do not let the polite strangers rip you off. Make sure that your passport, money, and other necessities are tightly packed and tied around your hip or placed inside your backpack that is locked. Be aware of one of the best-known scams "The Grand Palace is Closed Today". Don't get caught! Visit this magnificent complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok while staying at a Bangkok City View hotel the likes of Avani Ratchada Bangkok Hotel.
Choose an elevated rapid transit system like BTS Skytrain or MRT to get around the city instead of travelling by smoke-belching three-wheelers and hair-raising motorbikes. Both these options offer cool air conditioning during hot days in Bangkok. You can have a BTS city map free of charge from any station. Travelling by BTS is time-saving as well as convenient for travellers as a new train arrives every 3 to 6 minutes.
Make sure that the driver you choose has a metered taxi. Once you get on, ask the driver to switch on the meter. If he refuses, get out and find another as plenty of taxis are available in Bangkok. You can identify available taxis with a glowing red vacant sign. Do not hire taxis parked in front of hotels as they might have some other agendas.
One of the best ways to experience Bangkok like a local is by exploring the Chao Phraya River. Taking a boat ride along the river offers a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks and bustling life. You can hop on a public ferry or hire a private boat for a more relaxed experience. It’s an affordable and scenic way to navigate through the city, offering stunning views of temples, markets, and modern skyscrapers. Make sure to get off at some of the popular piers to visit attractions like Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and Asiatique.
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.
