The capital of Thailand, Bangkok is also known as the ‘Venice of the East’. The city is known for its extensive network of canals, vibrant markets, street food and rich culture. Founded in 1782 by King Rama I, BKK is officially known as Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit.
Bangkok’s peak tourist months are from December to January, when the weather is most pleasant and prices fit your budget. Try to visit in November or late February for relatively cool weather sans the crowds. A year-round destination, there are still plenty of things to do in Bangkok outside the peak tourist season, we promise.
For those looking to keep spending to a minimum on their Bangkok day tours, the BTS sky train operates frequently around the ‘New Bangkok’ districts of Silom, Sukhumvit and Siam Sq with very reasonable ticket prices. Bangkok’s taxis are well-priced and a great way from getting A to B if you’re in a hurry. Drivers are courteous, although be sure to only enter taxis with a meter to avoid being overcharged.
Bangkok has something for everyone. The top historical attractions of Bangkok include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Traimit, Wat Suthat, National Museum & Wang Na Palace, and more. Make sure to check out the Chatuchak Market for souvenir shopping and the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market by boat. Khao San Road is another gem lined with guest houses, street shops, food vendors and stalls.
Navigating this city requires a healthy dose of street smarts and Tuk Tuk is one of the best ways to find your way through Bangkok. Tuk Tuk is a semi-enclosed motorised rickshaw. You can hop into this iconic vehicle for shorter rides not worth the extra taxi fare.
Bangkok is a relatively safe city, although you should always exercise caution when visiting somewhere new. On your Bangkok tours, be wary of rip-off merchants in the form of cheap-fare Tuk Tuk drivers and ‘helpful’ locals who often try to lure locals on detours to commission-paying gem and silk shops. Remember, if price fares seem too good to be true, they probably are. Book with a registered tour provider before travel to ensure you’re not taken advantage of. In an emergency, dial the Tourist Police on 1155 or general emergency services on 191. Bangkok’s drivers rarely give way to pedestrians, so be sure to look both ways before crossing any street.