A trip to the Land of Smiles is sure to be one for the books. Bangkok is an exotic location for a vacation, and planning a fun-filled trip should be easy after reading this quick article. From exploring the many wats to walking around the royal palace to trying authentic Thai food, there is so much to do while visiting the city. Here is a list of the activities you can’t miss during your time in Bangkok.
Wat is That?
There are many wats around Bangkok, and it is hard to choose which ones to explore. While we feel all are important, Wat Phra Kaew is one of the most significant in the country, as it is viewed as the most sacred. The Emerald Buddha is housed in Wat Phra Kaew and is a sight to be seen. The origins of the statue are disputed but date back 1,500 or more years, depending on who you talk to. No matter the history, you can’t miss seeing this beautiful piece of Asian history.
Sign Up for Spicy Food
What better way to explore a culture than through its food? Thai food has exploded in popularity around the world for good reason; it’s fairly healthy and extremely scrumptious. Fresh basil, mint, rice noodles, peanut sauce, coconut milk, ginger, lemongrass, and many other fresh ingredients are essential parts of traditional Thai dishes. While consuming the food is always a good option, smart travelers will book a cooking class so they can enjoy Thai food anytime they want.
Pretend to Be Royal
Royal residences can be recognized all over the world, and The Grand Palace in Bangkok is no exception. The official residence of the royal family, this huge complex is open to visitors throughout the year. Walk in the footsteps of current and past monarchs of this friendly nation. The Thai people love their king, Bhumibol Adulyadej, and getting to know more about him and his past would be smart for any traveler.
Shop the Streets for Souvenirs
Thailand is known for many things, and one of those is the great deals you’ll get at the markets and in the street shops. Be ready to haggle hard if you want some good prices, especially if you are in a touristy area such as Khao San Road. You’ll be able to find t-shirts for $2, elephant pants for $3, kids toys for pennies, post cards for almost free, and much more. Make sure you are taking the exchange rate into account before you agree to an amount with a vendor. Overcharging tourists is a sport for some street shops.
You’ll find some of the cheapest hotels in Bangkok around the tourist shopping areas like Khao San Road. If you’re on a budget, this is a good place to start your hotel search.
Tuk-Tuk Take Me Here
If you’re in Southeast Asia, you can’t miss out on a tuk-tuk ride. These funny looking contraptions vary from region to region, and the Thai tuk-tuks are especially fun. They are operated by some of the best tour guides in the city, if you can find one who offers a fair price. Just make sure you hold on to your hat and your belongings, as they zip through traffic pretty fast.