Joanna James
Bangkok is a vibrant hub for enjoying a variety of attractions and entertainment on offer, from shopping and dining to exploring mystic temples. If you are planning your experience in Bangkok, here are five things you must do when travelling around Thailand's capital.
Bangkok's endless collection of temples is inseparable from its identity. Get in touch with your spiritual side, and tour the popular golden-gilded temples dotting the city. Head to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha for a glimpse at one of Bangkok's most popular monuments, or visit the gorgeous Wat Arun for a unique temple experience, with its towering prongs covered in a million porcelain tiles.
The Thai capital is a shopper's paradise—you certainly won't want to miss an opportunity to shop to your heart's content. The glitzy malls are just right for a wardrobe revamp, boasting the best names in international couture. Some of the malls host an incredibly diverse selection, even selling the latest sports cars in addition to a variety of designer labels. There are also budget shopping venues for loading up on goodies without breaking the bank.
Among the most popular is Mega Bang Na. Located close to hotels like Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok, this is one of the top shopping venues in the area, boasting plenty of shops, eateries, and entertainment venues. Nearby, there are plenty of things to do in Sukhumvit for tourists, and this is one area you will find fascinating. Although it is right by the very edge of the city, staying within the precinct places you within easy reach of top attractions in Bangkok.
Thai food is famous the world over, and when it comes to the variety of street food on offer, you will be stuck for choice. There are plenty of options, from the classics, like sticky rice and mango, to the quirky, such as fried insects. All in all, it's a flavourful journey, and the perfect opportunity for you to be a full-time foodie.
Experience something different during your holiday in Bangkok, by visiting the famous floating markets of Thailand, found on the city's outskirts or located along its network of canals. There are several near Bangkok that are worth exploring, such as Damnoen Saduak, which is a very touristy area. The canal is a wonderful mess of longtail boats carrying vendors and their wares, as well as tourists eager to be a part of the experience and 'shop' for goodies and food from passing boats. In Bangkok, the Taling Chan Floating Market offers a chiller alternative and unbeatable prices.
The night markets in Bangkok take shopping to a whole new level. Some boast a staggering 15,000 stalls, with vendors selling a variety of products from garments to live poultry. The night markets are the best places to shop for souvenirs and gifts, as well as knock-off branded goods like t-shirts, shoes, watches, handbags, and others.
Exploring the night markets is a thrill; apart from the variety of goods on offer, you will find that most have dedicated areas for savouring traditional Thai street food, alongside live entertainment to boost the party mood.
Most markets go on until late in the night and will get started by evening. You will find that hotels in Sukhumvit are ideal for indulging in some market hopping. Some of the best, like the Rod Fai Night Market Srinakarin, are located close to excellent city hotels. They offer a unique mix of products, like vintage artefacts and antiques, so make sure to take your time and explore the range of products on display.
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.
