My Journey to Bangkok

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Advisor - Holly Huff
Curated By

Holly Huff

  • Bangkok

  • Active Travel

  • Arts & Culture

  • City Travel

  • Sightseeing

  • Bucket List-Worthy

  • Outdoors

Advisor - My Journey to Bangkok
Curator’s statement

Bangkok had been on my bucket list for years, but I just hadn’t made it there until now. Traveling from the States to Asia is much more challenging than to Europe, due to the longer flight times, crossing the international date line and higher flight costs. However, this trip was absolutely worth it, and I don’t understand why I waited so long to go. Thailand has so much to offer, and Bangkok is an incredible, vibrant city that is both affordable and safe, with plenty of activities and sights to explore. I can’t wait to go back!

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Where to stay in Bangkok

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Things to do in Bangkok

Chatuchak Weekend Market is a vast outdoor market that takes place every weekend in Bangkok. It's a great place to find amazing deals and enjoy a fun exploration experience. We spent hours wandering around the market and could find everything we were looking for.

Bangkok is famous for its food, particularly its street food, and one of the best ways to discover the finest offerings is through a food tour. We experienced one by Tuk Tuk, which was incredible. There are several Michelin-rated food stalls, each with its own specialty.

Experience Bangkok from a different perspective by taking a riverboat tour. It's fascinating to see the city from the water. You might spot an Asian water monitor, the second-largest lizard in the world after Komodo dragons. Don't worry — they're harmless and won't bother you. During the tour, you'll see many Buddhist temples and statues. This boat tour will take you through the canals of Bangkok, which is often referred to as the "Venice of the East."

To visit the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, start by riding to the Mae Klong Railway Market. From there, take a long-tail boat to your destination. At each market, you will encounter exotic fruits and unique items to take home. Additionally, you will gain insight into the lives of the people who live and work in these markets, giving you a glimpse of life outside the city.

Tuk-Tuks, vibrant three-wheeled vehicles, are an excellent and convenient mode of transportation throughout the bustling streets of Bangkok. Riding in a Tuk-Tuk offers a thrilling experience, allowing you to soak in the sights, sounds and scents of the city from an open-air vantage point.

For a truly memorable adventure, consider joining a Tuk-Tuk tour that takes you to some of the city's most stunning temples. Each temple, with its intricate architecture and captivating details, tells a unique story and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Bangkok. From the ornate decorations of Wat Phra Kaew to the serene beauty of Wat Pho, each stop on your journey will reveal the city's profound historical significance and spiritual essence. Exploring Bangkok by Tuk-Tuk is not just about getting from one place to another — it’s about immersing yourself in the vibrant life of the city.

For an unforgettable experience, consider embarking on a street art walking tour in the vibrant city of Bangkok. You can choose from a variety of tours, including some that are free and can be easily downloaded to your phone. This can lead to an adventurous self-guided exploration. As you wander through the bustling streets, these tours will lead you into charming hidden alleys and backstreets. You’ll uncover stunning murals and intricate graffiti that reflect the city's rich culture and creativity. You might stumble upon local artists at work or discover unique artwork that you wouldn't see in typical tourist spots. This offers a truly immersive glimpse into Bangkok's artistic side.

Day trips

Embark on an unforgettable journey to witness one of the Wonders of the World: Angkor Wat. This immersive two-day tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in bustling Bangkok. From there, you'll be transported to the enchanting city of Siem Reap, where the breathtaking temple complex of Angkor Wat awaits you. Marvel at the intricate carvings and majestic towers that tell the stories of a rich history, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the lush landscapes surrounding this architectural masterpiece. Prepare for an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cambodia's cultural heritage.

Places to eat & drink in Bangkok

  • Hex - Imagine a fusion of a speakeasy and the magical world of Harry Potter, and you have Hex. Located in Chinatown, the entrance looks like a small library with seemingly no exit. However, if you look closely at the bookshelf, you'll discover it's a hidden door.

  • Opium Bar - Another speakeasy in Chinatown, just across the alley from Hex, Opium Bar gets its name from its former life as an opium den. Now, it's a high-end bar located within Potong Restaurant. To enter, simply tell the host that you're looking for the Opium Bar, and she will escort you to an elevator by the kitchen that takes you up to the bar. Expect great cocktails and enjoy soup served at closing time.

  • Chinatown Street Food Market - This bustling market features multiple vendors, many of whom are Michelin-rated. The food is delicious, affordable, and offers a fantastic selection. During my stay in Bangkok, I ate here multiple times and enjoyed everything I tried. I particularly loved the soup from a Michelin-rated vendor, which cost just over $2.

  • Red Rose Restaurant and Jazz Lounge - Located in front of the Shanghai Mansion Bangkok, this venue offers great food, cocktails and live entertainment.

Tingly Thai Cooking School offers an excellent opportunity to learn how to prepare delicious meals at home while enjoying a wonderful dining experience. Most classes begin with a trip to the market to select fresh ingredients, followed by a cooking session in the kitchen. As a bonus, not only will you learn how to make authentic Thai dishes, but you'll also enjoy a delicious meal afterward. Additionally, they provide you with a cookbook featuring the recipes you've made to take home.

Bangkok is a culinary paradise, renowned for its vibrant and diverse food scene. The city boasts an impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants, where you can indulge in a delightful array of flavors. From the rich, aromatic dishes of traditional Thai cuisine to innovative fusion creations that blend local ingredients with international influences, there is something to tantalize every palate. Whether you're savoring street food from bustling markets or dining in upscale establishments, Bangkok promises a memorable gastronomic adventure.

Advisor - Holly Huff

Travel Advisor

Holly Huff

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Bangkok page.