My Top 10 Things to do in Bangkok

Welcome to Bangkok… a bustling city of over 8 million. As the capital city of Thailand its a city that never sleeps and welcomes millions of tourists every year. With that many people coming there has to be a million and one things to do … but today were just going to focus on ( in my opinion) the top 10.

A boat ride on Chao Phraya River

This river runs through the heart of the city and there is no shortage of companies willing to show its beauty to you. The rides are easy to find and very inexpensive. Day trips will show you quite a few of the wonderful things you can see in Bangkok but the the Dinner cruises are a calming way to end the day and watch twinkling lights glide by on the shore. Both are equally a must do when in Bangkok.

2. Ride in a colorful Tuk Tuk

These 3 wheeled vehicles are everywhere in Bangkok and can be an extremely cheap and fun way to see the city . Cheap… but not exactly safe.. I mean your riding around in heavy traffic on what is pretty much an ATV with a top.. No helmets or seatbelts. While zooming along the city streets , watching the people and taking in all the amazing sites. Personally I love it but you have to be careful. Always have the name of your hotel in both Thai and English actually that goes for anywhere you want to be taken. Not all Tuk Tuk drivers speak English. Also you want to make sure that you arrange a price prior to starting the trip. While most people are honest you don’t want to run into any problems when you arrive and your driver asks for wayyy to much. But all in all , while not the fastest or safest way to see the city its most definitely a lot of fun.

3. Try a Durian

This pungent fruit is a local favorite. You can purchase it at almost any market. Its a flavor you either love are hate. While I like the fruit my favorite is when its made into slush or Ice pops. Its sweet and cool and wonderful on those hot Thai days. One thing to remember is you can’t take it into most hotels. The smell can be very overpowering and you don’t want to upset your neighbors…. So eat the fruit on the streets like everyone else in Thailand.

4. Visit the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho

Ok.. well there is big and then there is absolutely HUGE and this is absolutely one of the biggest indoor statues Ive ever seen. Not only is it huge it’s also GOLD and who doesn’t like gold. This 150 foot long statue is a representation Buddha in the lying position. This position is meant to show the passing of the Buddha into the final Nirvana after death. While the enormous statue is breathtaking it’s the details that really makes this statues amazing…. After walking the length of the body you come to the masterpiece that is the feet. The feet are made of Mother of Pearl and so different images in block.. The toes even have circular toe prints.. It really is an amazing statue.

5. Eat Street Food

The amount of food sold on the streets is unbelievable. The smells and calls from the hundreds of carts are bound to get your attention. The Thai people eat the majority of meals outside the home so these carts are a necessity in the city. The prices are low and often the food is cooked right in front of you. But word to the wise be cautious when eating food that looks like it may have been out a little to long.More than one tourist has had a bad night after Thai Street Food. That being said the noodles are always a favorite and any fresh meat being cooked is sure to taste wonderful. You should definitely try a few different types while your there. Who knows you might just find your new favorite food.

6. Watch Some Kickboxing ( Muay Thai)

While Im sure its not for everyone , these high energy fights are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. The city is full of kickboxing stadiums so it should be easy to find a fight . Just ask at the desk at your hotel. Im sure they will be able to guide you to the fun. If you can’t get to a stadium , most bars will play the fights every night.. Its the national sport. Also watch for a guy walking around taking bets… if thats something that interests you.

7. Make A Visit to the Grand Palace

For 150 years this was the home of all Thai Kings so you can only imagine what beauty and opulence there is to behold within those walls. It intricate details and magnificent architecture will leave you in awe. Learn about the royals and how Thailand became the wonderful country it is today.

8. Get a Thai Massage

Well it really doesn’t matter what country you’re in a massage is always a good idea. While other countries offer massages in Thailand its a true art. The teaching of Thai massage goes back hundreds of years and is considered one of the best in the world. Like anything else you should shop around or ask at your hotel to find the best one in your area. A good Thai massage will make the whole vacation better … I promise

9. See a Cultural Show

Thai Culture is very different that many Asian countries. Their stories are told through intricate dance and a narrator. The costumes are beautiful and the music delightful. There are many dinner shows that offer a traditional Thai meal … so much food… and a Thai show. It’s definitely a fabulous night out.

10. Take a trip to the floating markets

While there are two to choose from I recommend the one at Amphawa. This incredible market not only runs along the river it’s also in the river… smiling Thai people sell everything you can imagine out of boats. But if you’re not in the market to buy just take a relaxing ride down the canals. I recommend that you go at night … the bright colors and lights make it a festival of fun.

I hope this article gives you some ideas for your trip to Thailand.. While these are my favorite they are but a small sampling of what this wonderful city has to offer.