Welcome to Bangkok

This is my Bangkok Wiki page and will be updated on a regular basis. If you have something to add please comment at the bottom of the page so everyone can benefit.

Bangkok is one of the most exciting cities in the world. It is a fascinating melting pot of the ancient and the modern. This is a city full of contrasts; golden Buddhist temples next to Skyscrapers and in front of them the streets teeming with traditional vendors. This is a cosmopolitan city and people from every corner of the planet come to visit or even live here. Bangkok gets in your blood and even those who claim it is too busy and chaotic can’t wait to get back to it. It is also a relatively safe place for tourists and you can walk almost anywhere at day or night.

The people of Thailand refer to this city as Krung Thep Mahanakon/กรุงเทพมหานคร (or Krung Thep for short). In fact the full name of Bangkok is much longer than this and most Thai people can’t even remember it. The name ‘Krung Thep’ means ‘City of Angels’ when translated. The name ‘Bangkok’ actually refers to an area of the city that is now called Thonburi.

Bangkok is a huge city but it is a fun place to explore; at the turn of every corner you will find something new to discover. Traffic can be a nightmare and sometimes it is best to just brave the heat and walk. Despite the fact that this is such a busy place the people still have time to smile and you will usually find a friendly welcome wherever you go.

Bangkok Arrivals and Departures
Bangkok is a travel hub and so there are plenty of ways to arrive in the city. Take note of the following Bangkok travel information to make your arrival less hectic. You may also want to note before you leave that Bangkok local time is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Airplane
There are two main airports in Bangkok and if you are traveling within the country it is important to make sure you know which one you need to go to. It was hoped that all domestic and international flights would be served from the new airport but this has not yet happened.

Don Muang
Up until 2006 Don Muang was the busiest airport in Asia; it handled most of the international flights for the country. This all changed with the arrival of the new international airport though and now Don Muang is a ghost of its former glory. It was planned for all domestic and international flights to be moved to Suvarnabhumi Airport as soon as it opened, but this turned out not to be practical. There are still some domestic flights leaving from here but eventually the move to Suvarnabhumi will be complete. Anyone who intends to travel inside Thailand by air should ensure that they know which airport they are leaving from or arriving at to avoid confusion.

Suvarnabhumi Airport
Suvarnabhumi (สุวรรณภูมิ) is now the national airport for Thailand. It is also a hard name to pronounce for visitors; this is not helped by the fact that it is not pronounced the way it is written but instead “Sa-wanna-phum”. Since 2006 this has been Thailand’s national airport and most foreign visitors to the country will arrive here. There were a few hiccups when the airport first opened but things have since settled down. The addition of the Bangkok airport train link, in 2010, means that it is now easier to get from the airport directly to almost anywhere in the center of the city. As well as the airport train there are also plenty of taxis and buses to take people into central Bangkok.

Train
The main train station in Bangkok is Hua Lamphong; this is right on the edge of Chinatown. Hua Lamphong is a central hub for the different rail networks and you can travel to many parts of Thailand from here. The main lines are the northern line going towards Chiang Mai, the north-eastern line going toward Nong Khai, and the Southern route that goes towards Hat Yai; there are also other sub-routes. The station is now connected to Hua Lamphong MRT (underground station) and this makes things a lot easier for those getting here from elsewhere in Bangkok. The station itself gets really busy but there are plenty of refreshment stalls and small shops to pass the time.

If you plan on traveling overnight and want to stay in the sleeping compartment then it is important that you book in advance. You can either come to the station a day or two before your trip or book through an agency. In Thailand there are four classes of train; ordinary train, rapid train, express train, and special express train. There are also three classes of carriage.

Bus
The bus service in Thailand is extensive and reasonably priced. Every town has its own bus station and buses tend to be regular. The government buses can be basically divided into two types; rot air (air-conditioned buses) and rot thammada (ordinary buses). If you are traveling long distance then it is advisable to travel by rot air; unless it is the cool season. As well as the government buses there are also many private bus companies that you will see advertised everywhere in the tourist areas.

There are a number of bus stations in Bangkok and the one you choose will depend on where it is you want to go. If you are traveling to the north or northeast then you should use Mo Chit bus station near Ladprao. If you are traveling east to places like Pattaya and Trat then you should use Ekkamai bus station. The Southern Bus Station can be found in Pin Klao; as well as serving the south this station also has buses going to western towns such as Kanchanaburi.

The private bus companies provide VIP buses to all the major tourist areas in Thailand. If you are staying somewhere like Khao San Road you will see these buses advertised everywhere. There are advantages and disadvantages to traveling privately. On the negative side some tourists complain that they sometimes feel as if they are being treated like cattle; jammed into buses. On the plus side though these buses will usually arrange a pick-up at your hotel and they are good value for money. If you want more comfort though you might want to get a government bus or go by train.

Getting Around Bangkok
The traffic in Bangkok can be a nightmare but public transport has gotten a lot better in recent years. The new Bangkok airport train link has improved things even further.

Bangkok BTS (Skytrain)
The Skytrain runs above some of Bangkok’s busiest streets; it allows passengers to get from place to place quickly and comfortably. This Skytrain is modern and effective and allows you to travel from Mo Chit to On Nut (covering places like the Sukhumvit Road and Siam Square) and National Stadium to Wongwian Yai (covering areas such as Silom, Patpong, and Thonburi).

Bangkok MRT (Underground)
The Bangkok MRT covers many of the areas that are missed by Bangkok BTS network. It joins up with the BTS at two points; Asok and Mo Chit. The MRT passes through important areas such as Lumpini Park, Hua Lamphong, and Ratchada. The MRT is the Bangkok subway, which is a pretty amazing achievement when you consider that much of Bangkok is basically at sea level.

Buses
Bangkok buses cover every part of the city and these are the cheapest way to get around. Traveling this way is always an experience but it isn’t the most comfortable way to get from A to B during the day. The buses can spend a lot of time stuck in traffic and they can get very overcrowded and hot; some routes are better than others. It is an experience to travel this way and a good choice if you want to save some money. Unfortunately the destinations are written in Thai and this makes things difficult for most tourists. You can pick up a guide though at the tourist information that will tell you about the different routes and the number on each bus.

Boats
Traveling by boat is probably the most fun way to do your Bangkok sightseeing. There is a ferry service that runs along the Chao Phraya River and other boats pass along the Klongs (the canals). The main ferry service joins up with the Skytrain at Saphan Taksin station. The ferry is useful for getting to places like Khao San Road, Thonburi, and parts of the old city.

Taxis
You will see taxis everywhere in Bangkok. These can be an easy way to get around the city but sometimes you may get stuck in traffic. It is always a good idea to insist that the taxi driver switch on the meter; you don’t want any surprises at the end of your trip. Taxi drivers in Bangkok sometimes get a bad rap, but some would say that this reputation is a bit unfair.

Tuk Tuk
The Tuk Tuk is a common sight in Bangkok and these can be a good option if you are in a hurry to get somewhere or if you just want a unique way to do your Bangkok sightseeing. Most tourists will take a trip on one of these just for the novelty value. The advantage of traveling by Tuk Tuk is that they are small enough to negotiate traffic where cars would struggle. Always agree on the price before you get in the Tuk Tuk and don’t allow the driver to take you somewhere that you didn’t ask to go. In the past there have been instances of these drivers trying to pressurize tourists into visiting gem shops.

Motorbike Taxis
Motorbike taxis are everywhere in Bangkok. This can be a convenient way to get around so long as you are not easily frightened – always insist that they give you a helmet. These motorbike taxis rider will congregate at the top of sois (Thai for street); a group of riders is referred to as a ‘win’ and each group will have its own color tops. It is not recommended that visitors ride a motorbike in the city as the traffic is chaotic and the fatality rate for motorbike crashes is ridiculously high.

Rent a Car
If you want to rent a car for traveling around Bangkok then you might want to think twice about his. Driving in the city can be very stressful and finding parking can be a nightmare. If you are a timid driver then this is definitely not the place to rent a car. Those who have never driven in Bangkok should realize that most motorists don’t follow the rules of the road and there are motorcyclists everywhere.

Old City (Rattankosin)
Rattankosin (รัตนโกสินทร์) was founded in 1782 by King Rama the first. The old city has water on all sides and so it is often described as an island. This became the capital of Thailand when it was decided to move here from nearby Thonburi. This area of Bangkok is home to the most important historical building for tourists and it is a place of utmost importance for the people of Thailand; most visitors will spend at least a day exploring this part of the city. With the large number of palaces and temples, The Old City is a great place to kick off some Bangkok sightseeing.

Where to Go in the Old City
Grand Palace
The Grand Palace was created by King Rama І and for a long time was the main home of the Royal Family. The buildings here are truly spellbinding and it is easy to fantasize about how splendid it must have been when it was a functioning palace. The buildings have been influenced by many styles and cultures, but many are similar in style to that of the former capital Ayutthaya. It is important for visitors to wear respectable clothing or they won’t be allowed admittance to the palace; men need to wear long trousers and shirt (or respectable looking t-shirt) while women need to wear a modest dress and cover their upper arms. There are certain areas of the Grand Palace that are off limits; other areas may become off limits if there is a special occasion.

Wat Phra Gaew
The Emerald Buddha is considered the most important statue in Thailand and grave consequences are predicted if it were ever lost. For a long time the statue was kept in another Wat Phra Gaew in northern Thailand but it was eventually brought here. It is commonly believed that the statue originated in India almost two thousand years ago. The statue is made from jade and wears different clothing depending on the season; the king of Thailand is responsible for changing these clothes. Considering how important this statue is to the people of Thailand it is important that visitors are respectful when viewing it; the most important thing is to never point your feet at the statue.

Wat Saket
Wat Saket (วัดสระเกศ) was once the highest point in Bangkok, but those days are long gone. Wat Saket is also called the Temple of the Golden Mount and it was once used as a crematorium; the dead bodies of poor people were once left in the open for the vultures to dispose of. There are over three hundred steps up to the temple but you get rewarded with a lovely photographic view of the local area. This is also one of the oldest temples in the city so well worth a look.

Wat Pho
Wat Pho (วัดโพธิ์) is the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok. You will also hear Wat Pho referred to as the ‘Temple of the Reclining Buddha’ although most Thai people will not be familiar with this English name for the temple. This is considered the most beautiful temple in Thailand and few who visit will fail to be impressed. The Reclining Buddha is 46 meters long and is one of the main attractions; although there is a lot more to see than just this. Wat Pho is also famous for Thai traditional massage and it is recommended that you try this out while you are here.

National Museum
Rattankosin is also home to the National Museum; the biggest and most important museum in Thailand. Here you will find some of the best examples of Thai art and other great artifacts. If you are interested in Thai history then you will know a lot more by the end of your visit to this museum. The building where the museum is housed was once a Royal palace and this alone makes it interesting.

Things to do in Rattankosin
A Night on the Town
There are a few trendy bars in the old city. It is a lot more laid back here than places such as Khao San Road or Sukhumvit. It is a nice place in the evenings if you want to enjoy a few relaxed drinks in lush surroundings. There are also some nice Bangkok restaurants in this area as well.

A Walk Around the Old City
This isn’t really recommended during the heat of the day but in the late afternoons and evenings it can be very pleasant to walk around the old city. You should also find fewer crowds at this time and so you get to appreciate the area more. An evening stroll is also a great way to start a night on the town.

Visit the Local Markets
There are a few markets in the local area where you can pick up some cheap souvenirs. Even if you are not in a buying mood it can be still nice to just check out what the stalls have to offer. If you are interested in lucky Thai amulets then you will find plenty of stalls selling these in the local area.

Traditional Thai Massage
The best Thai massage in the land can be found at Wat Pho. Massage is an important part of Thai medicine and it is believed to help with many different ailments and conditions. If you have always wanted to try Thai massage but never got a chance then the perfect place to get your first one would be Wat Pho.

Learn Meditation
If you are interested in learning meditation then you will find free classes at Wat Mahathat (วัดมหาธาตุ). This is one of the most important meditation temples in Thailand and they provide meditation classes here three times a day (7am, 1pm, and 6pm) at section 5 in the temple. These classes last for about three hours; although only a small part of this time will actually be spent teaching.

Visit a Fortune Teller
If you are interested in finding out what the future has in store then you might want to visit some of the local fortune tellers. You will find these people sitting outside the Royal Palace and some other parts of the old city. Be warned though; you won’t get a refund if their prophecy turns out to be false.

Khao San Road
Khao San Road is actually part of the old city but for practical purposes it is best to treat it as separate. This is one of the most famous tourist areas in Bangkok and there is nowhere else like it in the whole of Thailand. Newcomers like to make it their base during their trip to the city while ex-pats tend to avoid it like the plague. This is backpacker’s heaven and almost everything here is directed at the tourist. This is where you will find many of the cheap hotels in Bangkok and plenty of entertainment. It is definitely NOT the place to look for the many Bangkok luxury hotels. It is also the place to go if you are looking for a convenient way to visit other parts of the country; the area is overrun with travel shops.

In recent years the extent of Khao San Road has spread and many side streets and nearby roads are now considered part of it. This area is actually called Banglamphu and the Khao San Road is only one small part of it; although it has now become the main focal point. Up until the 1980s this was a peaceful little area with only a modest number of tourists staying in a couple of Chinese hotels; in the last few decades though the area has changed beyond recognition.

Where to Go in the Khao San Road Area
Thanon Khao San
Thanon is the Thai word for ‘road’ and Thanon Khao San (ถนนข้าวสาร) is the main focal point for tourists visiting the area. The road itself is jam packed with hotels, bars, restaurants, tour shops, internet shops, and everything else that a tourist could want. The street is also packed with vendors selling all types of merchandise. Those staying in the area will likely spend a lot of time walking up and down Khao San Road; there is always something interesting to see. If you like people watching then be prepared to meet some of the most interesting characters in the world here. If you’re looking for Bangkok hostels then this is where your search will start and most likely end too.

Democracy Monument
It only takes a few minutes to walk to Democracy Monument from Khao San Road. This monument celebrates a coup d’état in 1932 which is viewed as the time when democracy was introduced in Thailand. It is a good idea to avoid this monument if there are any political protests occurring during your visit to Bangkok; it has traditionally been a gathering point for demonstrations.

Chao Phraya River
Banglamphu is right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and this is a nice place to spend some time. You can also catch boats here that will take you to other parts of the city; some of the most important tourist attractions can be reached this way. The boat service is very regular and cheap. There is also a park right beside the river called Santichaiprakarn Park where there is frequently something going on that tourists might find interesting; everything from traditional music to aerobics.

Wat Bowonniwet
Wat Bowonniwet is an interesting temple that is revered by the people of Thailand; it is almost two hundred years old. It is right beside Khao San Road and definitely worth a visit. The current king of Thailand ordained as a monk and lived here during that time. The temple has some very interesting statues and paintings.

Things to Do on Khao San Road
Party the Night Away
Khao San Road is an exciting place to go partying and is one of the heavily visited Bangkok nightspots. This is often people’s first stop on a trip to Thailand and they tend to be in a real party mood. The bars are packed at all hours of the day and well into the night. Many of these places have movies showing during the day and there are plenty of places where loud music can be found at night.

Buy Books
Khao San Road is a great place to stock up on books and there are a few second-hand book shops. If you plan on traveling around the rest of Asia you can never be sure of finding good bookshops; this is why it makes sense to stock up here. You will find a truly eclectic mix here of books covering almost every conceivable subject.

Catch Up With Your Friends at Home
If you have been traveling around for awhile you might want to catch up with your friends back home. Khao San Road has many internet shops as well as businesses offering cheap long distance phone calls.

Eat Food from Around the World
Almost every type of food can be found for sale on Khao San Road; everything from Thai vendor food to McDonalds. If you want to save money and experience the local culture then it is advisable to stick to Thai food as much as possible.

Spend the Thai New Year Here
Khao San Road is a great place to enjoy the Songkran Festival (Thai New Year). This event occurs during April and the whole country goes a bit wild for a few days. Khao San turns into a battle ground as tourists and local Thai people engage in a constant water fight. The street gets packed solid and water is flying everywhere; not a good place to bring your expensive digital equipment. It is incredibly good fun though and if you haven’t experienced Songkran before you are sure to get caught up in the action – it is like a return to childhood. If you are staying in the Khao San Road area during this time you would be wise to just stay put; travel can be incredibly difficult during these three days.

Learn Something New
There are many different classes held on Khao San Road where you can learn things like Thai cooking. There are also Thai language classes and if you are feeling energetic you might want to learn a bit of Muay Thai.

Silom Area and Siam Square
The Silom area of Bangkok is not only home to the Business district but also tourist hotspots such as Patpong and Siam Square. Within this area you will find the Old Farang Quarter; the commercial area for foreigners in the nineteenth century. This is where you will also find many of the Bangkok luxury hotels such as the Bangkok Oriental Hotel, the Sukhothai Hotel and the Banyan Tree.

Where to Go in Silom
Lumphini Park
Lumphini Park is the main park in Bangkok and there are always plenty of interesting things going on here. The park gets its name from the birthplace of the Buddha in Nepal. This is a good option if you are looking for somewhere to jog. You will also find groups doing things like Tai Chi in the mornings and aerobics in the evening. Lumphini Park is the ideal spot if you want to get away from the business of the rest of the city.

Patpong
Patpong is probably the most well known sex district in the world. This Bangkok red light district is made up predominately of just two streets but this small area is brimming with go-go bars, sex shows, and plenty of other adult entertainment. This is the home of the famous ‘ping-pong’ show; although compared to some of the current performances that particular sex act seems a bit tame. Most tourists to Bangkok will pay a visit to this area if only out of curiosity. As well as the sex shows there are also a few western style bars and vendors selling all types of items.

Siam Square
Siam Square is probably the best shopping area in Bangkok. Here you will find the huge Bangkok shopping malls and almost every item you can imagine is on sale here. Some of the department stores like Siam Paragon have top-end and international stores; if you are looking for cheaper deals then cross over to MBK. Be warned though that these department stores are colossal and you could spend most of the day just walking around one of them. As well as shopping Siam Square is also the place to go for movie theaters; all the latest movies are on show here. There are also a few good bars in the local area including the Hard Rock Cafe Bangkok.

Old Farang Quarter
The Old Farang Quarter is home to some interesting western style buildings; it is impossible to ignore the European influence here. This area was most important during the nineteenth century when it was home to many foreigners; the first to arrive here was the Portuguese. Some of the interesting buildings here include the Bangkok Oriental Hotel, the Old Custom House, and Assumption Cathedral. Including the Old Farang Quarter in your Bangkok sightseeing plans is a must if you are a fan of architecture.

Jim Thomson’s House
Jim Thomson was an interesting character who lived in Bangkok from 1945 until 1967 when he mysteriously disappeared. He originally came to Thailand as a spy but later created a successful silk company. His disappearance is subject to many conspiracy theories and it is impossible not to speculate while visiting his previous home. The Jim Thomson house is well worth a visit because it contains so many beautiful Thai artifacts. You will also find some beautiful teak houses that date back over two hundred years.

Pratunam Market
If you are looking for cheap clothing then the best place for this is Pratunam Market Bangkok. This is a huge market that sells clothing in bulk and as individual items. It takes hours to walk around the whole market but if you want to add to your wardrobe this is the place to go. You will find that most of the shops will give you substantial discounts for buying 10 or more items.

Suan Lum Night Bazaar
The Suan Lum Night Bazaar can be found near Lumpini Park and is one of the larger Bangkok night markets. This is a nice place to go shopping for last minute souvenirs and you will also find plenty of nice things to eat as well. As an added attraction the night bazaar has a beer garden and nice bars nearby. This market is not as big as Chatuchak but there is enough here to keep visitors busy browsing for a few hours.

Baiyoke Sky Hotel & Tower
If you want to get a great view of Bangkok then you might want to visit Baiyoke Sky Hotel Bangkok. There is a restaurant up here, as well as the famed Bangkok Sky Bar, but most people just come for the view. This is the tallest of all the Bangkok hotels, but you don’t have to be a guest to go to the top of the tower; although you will have to pay a fee. You can find Baiyoke Sky Tower near Pratunam Market.

Things to Do in Silom Area
Party the Night Away in Patpong
No visit to Bangkok is complete without a night at Patpong. Some people may find the whole thing a bit seedy, but a night here is unlikely to be something you will ever forget. Despite its reputation as the top Bangkok red light district, Patpong is considered a relatively safe area. In some of the clubs though you might want to establish the price of drinks before you order; you need to be particularly careful when ordering ‘lady drinks’ for the women who work in these clubs.

Go Watch Muay Thai
Lumpinee Boxing Stadium is the most important arena for Muay Thai in Thailand. This is where most of the live action on TV is broadcast from. Muay Thai is the national sport and considered one of the toughest fighting arts in the world. A visit to Lumpinee Boxing Stadium will be something that you will remember for a long time to come. Matches are usually held on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. You will find Lumpinee Stadium on Rama IV.

The Bangkok Opera
If you are looking to add even more culture to your trip to Thailand why not spend an evening at the Bangkok Opera. They are currently in their 10th season and this year plan to release the first ever Thai language opera called “A Boy and A Tiger”.

Go Watch a Movie
If you want to catch up on the latest movies then Siam Square is the place to go. Here you will find plenty of cinemas; some of these are very luxurious and one even has waiting service. Visiting the cinema can be a great option if the heat of the day is getting too much for you.

A Walk in the Park
If you have had enough of the chaos of the city you should spend a few hours in Lumphini Park. This is like a little oasis right in the heart of Bangkok; there is always something interesting going on here and you get to see another side of the city.

Go Shopping
The main shopping district in Bangkok can be found in Siam Square. If you have a bit of surplus money in your pocket then you are sure to find plenty to spend it on in the department stores here. Even if you don’t have any spare cash you might still enjoy a bit of window shopping.

Chinatown and Hua Lamphong
Like most other great cities around the world Bangkok has its own Chinatown. This area is thriving with plenty of local businesses and Chinese restaurants. This is a pleasant part of the city to walk around at any time of the day; although it can get really busy at times. This area is also home to the main train station in Bangkok and many tourists will pass though here because of this.

Where to Go in Chinatown
Hua Lamphong
If you intend to travel to elsewhere in Thailand by train then you will need to go to Hua Lamphong. All the main railway lines terminate in this station and it is possible to travel from here to every area of Thailand. The station is impressively large and there are plenty of vendors and refreshment stalls. The MRT underground railway stops here; this station is also called Hua Lamphong.

Chinatown
Chinatown covers a fairly large area with main streets and many side streets. The main street is Yaowarat Road and it is easy to imagine that you have arrived in China; the whole street is covered in Chinese neon lights and signs. The side streets are packed with markets and Chinese restaurants; the sights and smells make this area unlike anywhere else in Bangkok. There are also a few interesting Chinese temples here.

Things to Do in Chinatown
Visit the Markets
There are many markets in Chinatown and you could spend the whole day walking around and only see a fraction of what is on offer. Everything is on sale here from flowers to clothing. Some of the markets like Pak Khlong market are open twenty four hours a day and some are only weekend markets or evening markets. There is also an Indian market called Phahurat. If you are looking for gold or jewelery then you will find plenty of shops selling this; just make sure that you know what you are buying.

Eat Chinese Food
If you love Chinese food then you will find a lot of great restaurants here. Some of these offer very cheap meals but if you have the money you can splurge in one of the more expensive Chinese restaurants. One of the most popular dishes here is Dim Sum; a great snack at any time of the day or night.

Visit a Chinese Temple
There are a number of Chinese temples in the local area but probably the most impressive is Leng Noi Yee. This is not only a Chinese Buddhist temple but also incorporates elements of Taoism and Confucianism; the other important religions in China. Li Thi Miew is another nice temple in the area that is well worth a visit.

Sukhumvit Road
Sukhumvit is another of the tourist hotspots in Bangkok. Sukhumvit Road is actually one of the longest roads in Thailand; it goes on for 400km and all the way to Trat (the honor of longest road goes to Phetkasem Road which is 1,274km long). For tourists in Bangkok the important parts of this road are between Soi 3 (Nana) and Soi 63 (Ekkami). Most of the hotels can be found between Soi 3 and Soi 23. Different nationalities have their own favorite streets here; for example Soi 12 caters mostly for Indian tourists and some of the Streets near Nana deal a lot with Arab tourists.

Where to Go on Sukhumvit
Nana Plaza
Nana Plaza is not quite as popular as Patpong for adult entertainment but it isn’t far behind. Here you will find many beer-bars and go-go bars all packed in the same area; it is sort of like a shopping mall only dedicated to alcohol and sex. These bars are busy during the day but it isn’t really until after dark that they come to life. There are also a couple of English pubs nearby for those who want something a bit more sedate in this Bangkok red light district. The nearest BTS station is Nana.

Soi Cowboy
Soi Cowboy (Sukhumvit Soi 21 and Soi 23) is another area that focuses on adult entertainment. It is not as well known as Nana and Patpong but it is an ex-pat favorite Bangkok red light district. The area is made up of Soi Cowboy as well as an additional entertainment complex nearby. Soi Cowboy doesn’t really come to life until after dark. The nearest BTS station to Soi Cowboy is Asoke or the MRT station Sukhumvit.

Sukhumvit Road
Thanon Sukumvit has plenty of hotels to suit every budget, from some of the top Bangkok luxury hotels down to many of the cheap hotels in Bangkok. These Sukhumvit Road hotels are mostly concentrated between Soi 3 and Soi 19. As well as hotels you will find everything else needed to keep tourists well fed and entertained; great restaurants and plenty of bars. There are also vendors selling every type of item imaginable. This area is also home to some of the top department stores including Emporium and Central World.

Ekamai
The main attraction for tourists in Ekamai is probably the bus station; this is also referred to as the Eastern Bus Station. This is the bus station to go to if you plan on traveling to eastern parts of Thailand like Pattaya, Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Rayong, or Trat. The nearest Skytrain station (BTS) is Ekamai. As well as the bus station there is also a lot more to be seen in the local area. This is where the trendy people in Bangkok tend to hang out and you will find plenty of top end restaurants, fancy shops, and bars nearby down Soi Ekamai towards Thong Lo.

What to Do in Sukhumvit
A Night on the Town
The Sukhumvit area has changed a lot in recent years and many of the beer bars have disappeared from the main street. There are still plenty of entertainment venues available though and there is something to cater for every taste. The two most famous drinking areas locally are Nana and Soi Cowboy. In both of these places you will find beer bars where bar girls hook up with tourists. Those who visit these bars alone don’t tend to stay that way for long.

There is a lot of debate about which of the drinking areas is the best. First time visitors tend to congregate at Nana, but the more experienced ex-pats will choose Soi Cowboy. Both of these areas are popular and both get busy during the evenings. As well as Soi Nana and Soi Cowboy there are also plenty of other bars in the side streets along this part of Sukhumvit. If you are looking to partake in the famed Bangkok nightlife you won’t be disappointed here.

Go Shopping
There are plenty of shopping opportunities on Sukhumvit Road. Emporium is probably the most talked about department store in the local area; it is also the most expensive. If you want to rub shoulders with Thailand’s high society then you will definitely want to treat yourself to a visit to Emporium. The other big department store in the area is Central World; in fact it is the biggest in Thailand. This store was damaged during the recent political unrest and is now only partially open; renovation is continuing so hopefully the store will be fully open again soon. As well as department stores you will also find plenty of vendors and smaller shops in the areas selling every type of product imaginable.

Go for a Coffee
There are many nice coffee bars in the Sukhumvit area. This is a good place to go if you want to unwind with a book or newspaper or catch up on your emails.

Dusit
Dusit (ดุสิต) is historically the part of Bangkok that is focused on administration of the country. Here you will find some of the most important government buildings and it is also home to the Royal Family. As well as a place for officialdom there is also a lot here to attract anyone doing some Bangkok sightseeing.

Where to Go in Dusit
Dusit Zoo
Dusit Zoo is right on the edge of Dusit Park and is considered one of the top zoos in the whole of Asia. This is a beautiful area to walk around and the collection of species on show is impressive. There are always plenty of things going on and this makes an ideal family day out. There are also refreshment stalls spread around the park if it gets a bit exhausting.

Dusit Park
Dusit Park is truly spectacular and definitely worth a visit if you are in the local area. This is also home to the largest teak building in the world. As well as lots of greenery you will also find a few museums and other points of interest. It is possible to visit Dusit Park and Dusit Zoo in the one day but you may find it a bit tiring.

Thewet Flower Market
Thewet Flower Market is the largest of its kind in Thailand. As well as flowers there are also other decorative items on sale. This is a pleasant market to walk around because of the smells and beautiful colours.

Phahonyothin and Don Muang
The Phahonyothin (พหลโยธิน) part of Bangkok refers to the area from Victory monument out to Rangsit in the north of Bangkok. In the past most of international visitors to Thailand would have passed through the area when arriving in the city; this has changed though now that international flights have been moved away from Don Muang Airport. This is an important part of the city and there is a lot here to attract the tourist and sightseer.

Where to Go in Phahonyothin
Victory Monument
Victory Monument (อนุสาวรีย์ชัยสมรภูมิ) was created in 1943 to celebrate Thailand’s defeat of the French during a skirmish in the Indochina war. These days the statue is meant to commemorate all those people who have died while serving Thailand. The monument stands in the middle of a roundabout and it can be hard to get close to it because of the traffic. The best view of the Victory Monument can be seen from the Skytrain that passes nearby; although you will have to be quick if you want to snap a photo.

Chatuchak Weekend Market
No visit to Bangkok is complete without a visit to Chatuchak (จตุจักร) Weekend Market. This is the largest weekend market in Thailand and you could spend the whole day walking around and not see half the items on offer. Some people go looking for a Chatuchak Market map, but this isn’t really necessary as the market occupants change frequently and really it occupies a big circle, making it impossible to truly get lost. Almost half a million people visit this market each weekend; because they know this is the best Bangkok shopping experience it can get really busy. Many tourists leave Chatuchak until the last weekend of their trip because they know they will end up with a suitcase full of items. This market only opens fully on Saturdays and Sundays; there are a few stalls open at other times. The nearest BTS (Skytrain) station to Chatuchak is Mo Chit. You might also find this referred to as the Jatujak Market. Translating Thai to English is sometimes spotty at best, but either way you will have a great shopping experience at the Jatujak Market Bangkok.

Don Muang
Don Muang is home to the old international airport. This is still used for some domestic flights and so tourists will still have to make their way here at times. There are plenty of hotels in the local area; these offer significantly cheaper room rates now that so much business has been taken away. There are a few good department stores in the local Rangsit area including Future Park and a huge computer mall called Zeer; right next to the Asia hotel. The nearby Rangsit markets are also worth a visit if you are in the area and looking for bargains.

Things to Do in Phahonyothin
Visit the Children’s Discovery Museum
If you have kids with you then the Children’s Discovery Museum is the place to go. This is an interactive museum and will keep children entertained for hours. You will find the Children’s Discovery Museum near to Chatuchak market; on the other side of Chatuchak Park.

Visit the Calypso Cabaret
The Calypso Cabaret is probably the most famous Kathoey (lady boy) show in the world. This show has been entertaining people since 1988 and shows no signs of slowing down. New acts are being added all the time and this is a cabaret you are never likely to forget. You will find the Calypso Cabaret at the Asia Hotel.

Go Shopping
There are many shopping opportunities in the Phahonyothin area. The big department stores include Future Park in Rangsit and Central in Lad Prao. Chatuchak is without a doubt the most popular market in the area but there are also many more, such as Tawanna Square. If you have money to spend then you will have no problem finding things to buy locally.

Thonburi (ancient Bangkok)
Thonburi (ธนบุรี) was the original site of the city; in fact this is where it gets its name from as Thonburi was once called Bangkok. It was only the capital of Siam for fifteen years though and for a long time after that it wasn’t even considered part of the city. Thonburi is now not only once again part of Bangkok but it is also a popular destination for tourists as many famous Bangkok attractions are located here. A visit to Thonburi is like stepping back in time. It is right next to the Chao Phraya River and the area is criss-crossed by canals. It is possible to reach Thonburi by land but the nicest way to arrive here is by the river. Thonburi tends to be a place that people visit during the day as there isn’t too much night life here.

Where to Go in Thonburi
Wat Arun
Wat Arun is the most well known tourist attraction in Thonburi. The name Wat Arun is translated into English as the ‘Temple of the Dawn’. This is considered as the most important temple in Thailand and you will see it prominently in most tourist brochures and on postcards. The temple is designed mainly in a Khmer style and it is surrounded by a pleasant walking area. It is possible to see the temple from the river but to really appreciate it you have to get right up close.

Royal Barge Museum
The Royal Barge Museum is right on the banks of the river. On the display are eight beautiful examples of Thai Royal barges; the craftsmanship that has gone into these is impressive. These barges are like something out of a movie but they are still used for special occasions.

Wat Kalayanamit
Wat Kalayanamit is an important Chinese temple that is also right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. There is a huge Chinese influence on the temple’s design and there are many statues imported directly from China. This temple was built with the help of a rich Chinese aristocrat under the guidance of King Rama III.

Things to Do in Thonburi
Explore the Canals by Foot
Thonburi is crisscrossed with canals and alongside them are some of the most interesting buildings in the city. Exploring the canals in Thonburi is a pleasant way to spend a few hours and you are sure to see many surprising sights and great photography opportunities. These canals are referred to as Klongs in Thai.

Go on a Canal Tour by Boat
A nice way to get a different view of Thonburi is to take a boat tour. These tours visit all the important buildings along the canals and you usually get an opportunity to leave the boat and explore. It is possible to book this tour in a shop or directly from one of the nearby piers.

Ratchada
Ratchada is short for Ratchadaphisek (รัชดาภิเษก) and this is another huge entertainment area; although for years it was mostly Thais who partied here. Here you will find some of the best bars and clubs in Bangkok. At the weekend Rachada can get really busy because all the young Thais like to come out in force. As well as adult entertainment there is also a few department stores and nice restaurants as well. If you have had enough of spending all your time with tourists and want to party with the locals then Ratchada is the place to go. The Bangkok underground (MRT) stops at a number of places in this area including the stops; Ratchadaphisek ,Thailand Cultural Centre, Phetchaburi, Phra Ram 9, Huai Khwang, and Sutthisan.

The Outskirts of Bangkok
As well as things to do in the center of Bangkok you will also find plenty to do in the outskirts. Some of these places are easier to get to if you have your own transport, but public transport is extensive in the city and taxis are everywhere.

Where to Go in the Outskirts of Bangkok
Siam Park/Bangkok Beach
Siam Park is in Minburi and it is a large amusement park combined with a water park. The water park is the most impressive as it contains the biggest wave machine in the world. As well as huge water slides and many different swimming areas the lagoon area actually does look convincingly like you are at the beach. Most people who visit agree that the highlight of Siam Park is the water park; although there are some good rides elsewhere in the park. If you only want to go swimming then your best option is to just purchase a ticket for the lagoon area.

Dream World
Dream World is Bangkok’s version of Disneyland. This is a great day out for all the family and best of all it is reasonably priced. You can pay for rides as you go or else purchase a prepaid ticket on admission. If you have had enough of the Bangkok heat then you will enjoy a visit to the indoor snow zone; there you get to play in the snow and slide along the ice on a sledge. Dream World has amusement rides to suit all ages and you could easily spend the whole day here and not see everything. Dream World is near to Future Park and Rangsit.

Safari World
Safari World can be found in Minburi and this is one of the most impressive wildlife areas in Thailand. Safari World is made up of two parts; you can drive around the safari in your car and get to see all the animals close up. Sitting in a car with a lion or tiger staring in at you is likely to be an experience you will never forget if you have never been this close to them before. As well as the drive-around area there is also a large traditional type zoo that you can walk around and enjoy; there are a few nice places to sit down and eat if it all becomes too tiring.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is quite a distance outside of central Bangkok but it is worth the effort. There are now many other floating markets in Thailand but most of these are just for the benefit of the tourists. Damnoen Saduak is a fully functional floating market that is an important part of the local economy. There are actually three floating markets here for visitors to explore. Keep in mind the Damnoen Saduak is also a weekend market. You will find Damnoen Saduak in Ratchaburi province to the southwest of Bangkok.

Amphawa Floating Market
Amphawa Floating Market can be found in Samut Songkhram and is alternative to Damnoen Saduak. This is floating market is not quite as good as the one at Damnoen Saduak but it is worth a visit; it starts later in the day so there is no need to rush out of bed. Amphawa is a lot less touristy than some of the other floating markets.

Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm
This crocodile farm in Samut Prakan is home to the largest collection of this type of animal in the world; both saltwater and fresh water crocodiles. There are about 30,000 of these reptiles to view here as well as many other animals such as elephants, snakes, and lions. You will also get to see the crocodile show if you are there at the right time of the day.

Muang Boran
Muang Boran (ancient city) is a theme park devoted to old Thailand. This is a pleasant place to walk around with recreations of some of the most important building in Thailand; if you haven’t got the time to tour the country then this might be the second best choice. As well as buildings you will also find many examples of Thai art. You will find Muang Boran in Bangpu which is in Samut Prakan province.

Things to Do on the Outskirts of Bangkok
Go Shopping
There are some great department stores on the outskirts of Bangkok. One of the most impressive is Fashion Island which is located near Siam Park and Safari World. Upstairs in Fashion Island is an impressively large children’s area that includes many rides and activities. The restaurant also on the top floor serves some of the best Vegetarian food in Bangkok. If you intend to visit one of the nearby amusement parks then Fashion Island is a nice extra stop.

Play Golf
There are many golf courses on the outskirts of Bangkok. If this is something that you enjoy then you will have a good deal of choice about where to get a few rounds in. Some of these golf courses are great value for money and the prices are reasonable. It is possible to come to Bangkok on a golf tour if you really take the game seriously.

Go Fishing at Bung Sam Lan
If you fancy a bit of fishing then Bung Sam Lan (Bung means ‘lake’ in Thai) is a good destination. Here you will be taken out in a boat and you can fish to your heart’s content. Most visitors are impressed by the size of the fish that you will catch here. You will find Bung Sam Lan in Bangkabi.

Off the Beaten Track in Bangkok
Koh Kret Island
Koh Kret is a small island in the middle of the Chao Phraya River to the north of Bangkok. This island is now home to a minority tribe known as the Mon who originally came from Myanmar/Burma. You can take a boat to Koh Kret from Pak Kret. It is possible to explore much of Koh Kret by foot and it is an interesting diversion and something off the beaten track in Bangkok.

Suan Luang Rama IX Park
Suan Luang Park was built in 1987 to celebrate the anniversary of the king’s 60th birthday. This is one of the largest public parks in Bangkok and is a popular destination for the local Thai population. You don’t get to see many foreign visitors here and this is a real shame because this is definitely a nice park with lots to see. Suan Luang Park can be found in Prawet.

Klong Toei
Klong Toei is a huge shanty town and where many of the poor in Bangkok make their home. Many of the homes here are barely held together and are right on the banks of the river. If you want to see another side of the city then you will certainly get that at Klong Toei. This is a safe area to walk around but you might be a bit disturbed by some of the living conditions. This is definitely not on a typical Bangkok sightseeing tour.

Bang Klang Prison
Bang Klang Prison is more famously known as the Bangkok Hilton. Some visitors to Thailand decide to pay a visit to some of the foreign inmates; this is certainly something a bit different but probably not for everyone.

Emergencies in Bangkok
Crime
Bangkok is a relatively safe city to visit but crime against tourists does occur now and again. The most frequently reported crime that you hear reported is where visitors have been the victim of a scam. In many instances these incidents might have been avoided if the tourist had been a bit more street smart. Many of these scams involved taking visitors to buy cheap gems or bringing them to a card game. Thai people generally don’t walk up to strangers in the street and start talking to them; if somebody approaches you like this then you should be suspicious. Only a tiny minority of Thai people are involved in these types of scams so it is important not to be too paranoid about the whole thing.

Another common type of scam is perpetrated by freelance sex workers. These women will approach foreigners in tourist bars and restaurants offering sex for sale. Unlike bar girls these women do not work for the venue in question so there is no way to trace them back to this location. They usually work by spiking the visitor’s drink and then stealing all their belongings back at the hotel. In most instances the tourist will not report the crime because they are embarrassed and prostitution is illegal in Thailand.

If you are a victim of crime then it is always best to deal with the tourist police. This branch of the Royal Thai police force has been especially trained to deal with foreigners and there will be translators on hand to help. You can contact the tourist police for free from any phone in Thailand by calling 1155.

Political Unrest
In recent years there has been quite a bit of political unrest in Thailand. The fact that Bangkok is the capital city means that a lot of the political unrest finds expression here. If you see crowds of people demonstrating or anything else that is suspicious then you should walk in the opposite direction. It is also a good idea to keep an eye on the news to make sure that nothing is happening that you should know about. It is also important that you don’t attempt to get into any political debates with Thai people during your stay.

Medical Emergencies
There are some world class hospitals in Bangkok and people travel from all over the world to get treatment in many of the Bangkok International hospitals. The most respected hospital in the city is Bumrungrad Hospital which is situated on the Sukhumvit Road. If you need emergency assistance then you should call 1554 or 191.

Highlights of Bangkok
- A night on the town in Patpong. This is probably the most famous red light district in the world and a night here will be one you will never forget.
- A weekend visit to Chatuchak Market; one of the biggest of its kind in the world. If you enjoy shopping then you will fall in love with this market.
- A day at Siam Square where you get to see where the middle-class Thais like to spend their time and money. In Siam Square are some of the top department stores in the land and some great restaurants and up-market bars.
- Songkran on Khao San Road. This festival only occurs once a year during April but the Thai New Year is party time and shouldn’t be missed.
- A peaceful walk around Lumpini Park. This is like an oasis away from the chaos of the rest of the city; there is always something interesting going on.

Where to Next?
- If you have had enough of busy cities then the ideal remedy will be the Thai islands. You have a lot to choose from but the nearest tourist island to Bangkok is Koh Samet. If you want to travel further then you could visit the beautiful Koh Phi Phi, or Koh Samui. One of the most popular destinations to go after Bangkok is Phuket; the largest island in Thailand.
- If you haven’t had enough of cities then why not travel up to Chiang Mai; the capital of the north. This city is a lot easier to manage than Bangkok and provides a completely different atmosphere.
- If you want to get off the main tourist trail then you should travel to north-eastern Thailand (Issan). Here you will enjoy the laid back atmosphere of a part of Thailand where change occurs very slowly.

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