Thailand Bangkok Travel Guide－Things you need to know

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Hey everyone, just got back from Thailand and I’m all pumped up to share the deets with y’all! I’m gonna spill the beans on how to snag that tourist visa, snag those Bangkok flight deals, the lowdown on renting a scooter, what’s up with different areas, voltage, weather, and all that jazz. Thailand was a blast, and I’m still living in that Thai state of mind!

If you’re a first-timer like me in Bangkok, this article can give you the most comprehensive information. d(`･∀･)b

Flight tickets

In Thailand, it’s hot all year round, but they break it down into the hot season, the rainy season, and the cool season. From November to February, it’s a cool season – comfy temps, less rain, perfect for some snorkeling action. It’s a hot spot for travelers, especially with the Songkran water festival in April. Just a heads up, though, flights and digs during that time can get pretty pricey and booked up, so please plan accordingly! 🌞✈️

👉Check out the best deals on Bangkok flights

Tourist Visa

Every country’s got its deal when it comes to getting into Thailand, you know? Check out the link below for the lowdown on the visa policies. And if you’re looking to score a visa, it’s wise to roll with these docs just in case you need to whip ’em out.

• Documents Required
  • Passport or travel document with an expiry date of no less than 6 months
  • Visa application form (filled out)
  • One(1) recent 4 x 6cm. photograph of the applicant
  • Round-trip air ticket or e-ticket (paid in full)
  • Proof of financial means (10,000 baht per person/20,000 baht per family) such as bank statement
  • Proof of Hotel or private accommodation booking

👉Click here for detailed information about Thailand visa

Transportation

Bangkok is a seasoned travel hotspot. Most of the downtown attractions are easily accessible by hopping on the BTS Skytrain. There are also plenty of transportation options to choose from. I’ve put together a list of a few, so you can decide based on what suits your needs.

■BTS

The BTS (Skytrain) in Bangkok is a convenient and efficient public transportation system that helps tourists and residents navigate the city, allowing them to explore various attractions and areas. The BTS metro system is divided into two main lines: the Silom Line（▬）and the Sukhumvit Line （▬）. Here are the features of each route and some key landmarks.

▬： Also known as the Airport Rail Link (ACL), the Skytrain connects from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to the city center, with the first station being Phaya Thai, which is also the terminal station. It provides convenient transfers to other lines.

▬： Connecting Bangkok’s business districts and major tourist attractions, our hotel Lyf, is located at Nana Station (E3), making shopping and entertainment in the surrounding area very convenient.

▬： This blue line traverses through Bangkok’s main residential and commercial areas, connecting important transfer points along the way.

▬Main Attractions:

• Siam Station: Located in Bangkok’s shopping and entertainment district, it features several large shopping centers, including Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and MBK Center.
• Sala Daeng Station: Situated near the Silom district, it is close to the famous Patpong Night Market and Silom Road.
• Chong Nonsi Station: Adjacent to Bangkok’s financial district, it is also part of the Sathorn area.
• National Stadium Station: A convenient stop for destinations such as the Jim Thompson House, Art Centre, and Siam Discovery Shopping Center.

Check the route map on the official website of Thailand BTS

■Tuk Tuk

The “tuk-tuk” sounds quite playful; it’s a three-wheeled motorcycle with a canopy, a distinctive feature of Bangkok. Passengers can sit at the back, and I’ve seen up to five or six people squeezed onto the tuk-tuk’s rear seat! They are a traditional mode of transportation in Bangkok, so I recommend giving them a try to experience the local flavor.

• Pros:
  1. Cost-effective: Tuk-tuks are a relatively inexpensive mode of transportation, especially suitable for short-distance travel. However, it’s not recommended for long distances.
  2. Traffic evasion: In congested traffic, tuk-tuks can maneuver through the traffic, reducing travel time.

• Cons:
  • Safety concerns: Tuk-tuks are not as safe as other modes of transportation, especially when driven at high speeds; some drivers tend to drive recklessly.
  • Lower comfort level: Tuk-tuks have simple seating and lack the comfort and air conditioning found in taxis.

■Taxi

Taxis in Bangkok typically have a yellow-green color scheme, and they use meters to ensure fair fares. Starting from January 2023, due to inflation, the initial fare for Bangkok taxis has increased from 35 Thai Baht to 40 Thai Baht. If you’re concerned about being overcharged, it’s advisable to confirm the fare before getting in the taxi.

• Pros:
  • Convenience: Taxis are readily available throughout the city, offering direct transportation from your starting point to your destination.
  • Comfort: Taxis provide a comfortable interior with air conditioning and a relatively quiet environment.
• Cons:
  • Traffic congestion: Bangkok experiences frequent traffic congestion, which can result in extended travel times.
  • Metered fare during traffic jams: Even in heavy traffic, taxi meters continue to run, potentially leading to increased costs.

As someone who is a bit socially anxious and hesitant to negotiate prices, you can also opt for ride-hailing apps like Grab. Similar to Uber, you can input your pick-up location and destination to receive a fixed fare. However, it’s worth noting that at times, the cost may be slightly higher than taking a regular taxi.

■Motorcycle

Renting a scooter is a more flexible mode of transportation, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace based on your itinerary. It’s also our preferred method.

• Pros:
  • Flexibility: You can plan your itinerary according to your preferences and visit different attractions.
  • Adventurous: Renting a scooter allows you to immerse yourself more deeply in local culture and life, uncovering hidden treasures along the way.
• Cons:
  • Traffic Risks: Bangkok’s traffic is complex, and the driving is on the right side, which may differ from what you’re accustomed to and pose potential threats to your safety.
  • Driving Requirements: According to Thai law, it is legally required to possess an international driving license or a Thai driving license to operate a vehicle.

Although the law specifies the need for an international driving license, this time, the rental company NK Motor only requires our passports. This is something you may consider at your discretion because they do not request a driver’s license. If you do not possess a license, you’ll need to assess the risk on your own.

The last option is to drive a car yourself, which can be rented and returned at the airport, starting at around $24 per day—the lowest price for car rentals in Bangkok.

When choosing a mode of transportation, it’s important to assess based on your itinerary needs, time constraints, budget, and safety considerations. Each mode of transportation has its characteristics, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your circumstances.

Bangkok One Day Tour

■Floating Markets Day Tour: Damnoen Saduak, Maeklong, and Amphawa

This can be considered a must-visit itinerary in Bangkok! The Bangkok floating markets are a unique and enchanting part of Thai culture, representing the rich lifestyle and social interactions of the Thai people. Typically situated in intricate canal systems, small boats and narrow waterways connect stalls, shops, and people within the market.

The following markets have a more commercialized focus and have more tourists.

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Amphawa Floating Market
  • Both are vibrant and lively floating markets where you can purchase a variety of local foods, crafts, and souvenirs. You can take a boat tour through the market, experiencing the unique journey of boats slowly navigating through the waterways. It’s quite a special experience.
• Maeklong Railway Market
  • This is a market situated alongside a railway track. When the train is approaching, vendors swiftly clear their goods to make way for the train to pass through. It creates a fascinating scene, drawing a lot of tourists who come to witness the spectacle.

tip： When it comes to the food at the floating market, use your discretion. If you’ve got a sensitive stomach, I’d recommend not taking unnecessary risks. Otherwise, you might be in for a pretty uncomfortable ride back to Bangkok, and that’s over an hour of potential misery along the way.

More details👉Floating Markets Day Tour: Damnoen Saduak, Maeklong and Amphawa

BANGKOK MAEKLONG RAILWAY MARKET －SO CLOSE TO THE TRAIN

■Bangkok Classic Temples Day Tour

Temples hold a significant place in Thai culture; they’re the epicenter of the Buddhist faith. The Thai people have a profound devotion to Buddhism, and temples serve as places for worship, contemplation, and reverence of Buddha images.

Visitors can witness worshippers offering flowers, incense, and other offerings as a sign of respect to Buddha. The resplendent towers, intricate murals, carvings, and adorned porcelain tiles showcase Thailand’s architectural and artistic prowess.

Temples also play a crucial role in religious festivals in Thailand. For instance, Songkran, which runs from April 13th to April 15th every year, is one of Thailand’s major traditional festivals.

During Songkran, people engage in prayers, purification rituals, and social activities within the temples.

• The Grand Palace
  • Visiting one of Thailand’s iconic architectural wonders. However, please note that appropriate attire covering the shoulders and knees is required.
• Wat Phra Kaew
  • Near the Grand Palace, you can also spot the temple centered around the Emerald Buddha. The Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of Thailand’s most significant Buddhist temples.
• Wat Pho
  • Also known as the Bodhi Tree Temple, it’s a massive reclining Buddha statue. As soon as you enter, you’ll come across the enormous head of the reclining Buddha, and there are photo spots around the feet. However, capturing the entire body of the Buddha in one frame is quite a challenge – gives you an idea of just how gigantic it is!～
• Wat Arun
  • Take a boat ride across the Chao Phraya River to visit this beautiful temple. Appreciate its exquisite design. When you get to the Wat Arun site, you’ll see a crowd jostling for the best spots to snap photos.

More details👉Bangkok Day Tour: Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha

■Ayutthaya Must-Visit Tour: Summer Palace, Temples, Cafes and Market

Can’t miss the night markets when you’re in Bangkok! There are plenty of renowned night markets, and after the pandemic in 2022, the newly opened Jodd Night Market has become the hottest spot. After a day of temple hopping, unwind at the night market, stroll around, munch on some snacks, and maybe indulge in a massage – it’s a super enjoyable experience, and you can get an hour-long massage for around 250-300 Thai Baht.

• Bang Pa-In Palace
  • This is an ancient palace in Thailand, often referred to as the “Versailles of Thailand.” Here, you can marvel at exquisite architecture and gardens, with the most famous feature being the Buddha within the tree.
• Night Market Shopping
  • In the evening, head to the local night market to discover a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and food items.

More details👉Ayutthaya Must-Visit Tour: Summer Palace, Temples, Cafes and Market

■Safari World

The wildlife park is about a three-hour drive from downtown Bangkok. You can choose between the wildlife park and the ocean park, and there are combo tickets available if you want to do both! Usually, these one-day tours also include a buffet lunch. The highlight is the close-up interaction with animals while riding in a vehicle, and you can even feed giraffes!

The on-site ticket is 1500 Thai Baht. It is recommended to purchase in advance, as it can be discounted by almost half the price.👉Safari World Bangkok Ticket

One Day Tour 👉Bangkok Safari World Private One-Day Tour by SST

Pick your accommodation from popular areas in Bangkok

Bangkok has several tourist-favorite areas that offer convenient transportation, diverse attractions, shopping, and dining options. Here are some popular districts and nearby attractions. Plan your itinerary according to your preferences:

❶Siam

The Siam area is Bangkok’s commercial and shopping hub, featuring numerous large shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues. If you’re a shopaholic, you definitely shouldn’t miss this place.

• Siam Paragon: A luxury shopping center tailored for the sophisticated, featuring numerous international brands and upscale restaurants.
• Siam Center: A fashion-centric shopping center with a theme of style and trends, boasting many brands popular among the younger crowd.
• Siam Discovery: Themed around design and creativity, offering uniquely crafted products with a touch of cultural innovation.
• MBK Center: A large shopping mall renowned for goods and handicrafts spanning various price ranges, popular among locals as well.
• Jim Thompson House: Home to the collection of American entrepreneur Jim Thompson, showcasing treasures gathered from around the world. It serves as a museum highlighting Thai traditional craftsmanship and Buddhist art. Nearby, you’ll find the Jim Thompson flagship store selling clothing, silk, and more.

❷Sukhumvit

Sukhumvit is a nightlife hotspot! It’s packed with a variety of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and shopping centers. It’s also a hub for many cannabis shops.

• Terminal 21: themed shopping center where each floor’s design represents a different country, offering a diverse, multicultural shopping experience.
• EmQuartier 和 Emporium: Two long-standing upscale shopping centers providing international brands and a variety of dining options.
• Benjasiri Park: Located in the Sukhumvit area, also known as Queen’s Park, it’s a city park created to celebrate the Queen’s 60th birthday. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, this place offers tranquility and relaxation.
• Nana Plaza: Situated in the nightlife district of Sukhumvit Soi 4, known for its bars and nightclubs. This time, we stayed nearby, and at night, the area came alive with a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll encounter many scantily clad women and foreigners here, and on the first day, we were a bit taken aback.

Accommodation close to Siam attractions👉12 BUDGET HOTELS IN THE BANGKOK SUKHUMVIT AREA

❸Khao San Road

Khao San Road is the classic gathering place for backpackers and travelers, located in the old city area of Bangkok. Here, you can explore numerous historical sites and temples! There are also many budget accommodation options. The nearby Khao San Road Night Market is more suitable for the younger crowd, essentially a street full of bars where you can grab a drink and chill.

• Khao San Road: A gathering place for backpackers and travelers, featuring numerous small shops, restaurants, bars, and night markets.
• Grand Palace: An iconic structure in Bangkok, comprising the royal palace and temples, it’s a significant site in Thai history and culture.
• Wat Phra Kaew: One of Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temples, housing a highly revered Buddha image meticulously carved from a single jade stone.
• Wat Pho: it’s renowned for its giant reclining Buddha statue. One of Thailand’s oldest temples, the temple grounds are extensive, and there’s a dress code for women – no revealing attire allowed. Long skirts are available for borrowing near the ticket booth.

Certainly, these areas are just some of the more popular ones in Bangkok. Each neighborhood has its own distinct features and style. You can first choose the attractions you want to visit and then plan your accommodation accordingly.

Other Bangkok Accommodations👉Find accommodation in Bangkok with the best reviews

Thailand voltage and plug

The standard socket types used in Thailand are as above. The voltage is 220 volts, and the frequency is 50 hertz.

This means that your devices, such as phone chargers, laptops, and cameras, can operate normally if their plug specifications include a voltage range that covers 220V. However, it’s advisable to bring a voltage converter and adapter, just to be on the safe side.

Story Time: At first, I thought it wouldn’t matter, so I brought my hairdryer from Taiwan and plugged it directly into the Thai socket without using a voltage converter. The moment I turned it on, the hairdryer overheated instantly! It scared me, and I quickly turned it off. (Lesson learned: never underestimate the importance of a voltage converter!)

Weather Advice

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, located in the central part of the country. It has a tropical monsoon climate, divided into three main seasons: hot season, rainy season, and cool season.

• Hot Season (March to May)
  • This is a relatively dry season. If you want to experience the Songkran Festival (water festival), this is the time to visit. Daytime temperatures may exceed 35 degrees Celsius.
• Rainy Season (June to October)
  • The time when school is out for summer vacation. While temperatures are not as high as during the hot season, there is a lot of rain. We visited around the end of July, and sudden afternoon thunderstorms were common. Remember to bring an umbrella and sandals.
• Cool Season (November to February)
  • The best time for travel—neither too cold nor too hot, and not continuous rain! Temperatures usually range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Bangkok travel recommendations

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