Bangkok – Thailand

Unlike the bright lights and fast pace of other Asian megacities, Bangkok offers a more relaxed atmosphere with easy-to-navigate public transport and friendly locals. Once a key trading post of the 15th-century Ayutthaya Kingdom, it remains a vibrant commercial hub. Explore world-class boutiques, local markets, and street stalls. Amid the malls and skyscrapers, you’ll find the serene beauty of gilded chedi and Buddhist temples providing peaceful retreats throughout the city.

Get an Introduction to Thai Food

Start your Thai adventure in Bangkok, a perfect place to dive into Thai cuisine. Join a street food tour led by a local guide through Bang Rak, a lively district. Explore bustling markets, smell aromatic spices, and see exotic fruits.

Your guide will lead you to popular spots, from street stalls to local eateries, to taste specialties like crispy roast duck (prachak pet yang), fresh fishball noodles (jao long luk), and dessert options such as mango sticky rice, found at nearly every corner.

Take a City Safari

Bangkok, with its 50 districts and the Chao Phraya River running through it, is too big to explore on foot alone. With a local guide, navigate the city using public transport. Start on the Skytrain for a citywide view.

Board a public taxi boat to visit Wat Pho, home to the Reclining Buddha and the ashes of King Rama I. Nearby, explore the Grand Palace’s temples, courtyards, and gardens. Travel by tuk-tuk to Soi Ban Batra, where artisans craft alms bowls for monks.

Cruise Bangkok’s Hidden Klongs

Escape the bustling city center by taking a private longtail boat through Bangkok’s klongs, or canals. These waterways, once known as the ‘Venice of the East,’ remain vital for transporting goods. As you cruise, see old stilt houses and pass by the 16th-century Wat Arun, a temple adorned with thousands of Buddha statues.

Cycle Through Bangkok’s Jungle

Look down from your flight into Bangkok and spot Bang Kra Jao, the city’s ‘green lung,’ a lush patch of mangroves and waterways. Take a local ferry to explore this tranquil area by bicycle with a guide. Originally settled by Mon refugees in the 19th century, Bang Kra Jao features stilted houses and protected green spaces. As you cycle past banana and coconut trees, stop by charming, miniature temples with intricate, gilded details.

Taste Thai Home Cooking

Join Angsana Anderson in her Bangkok kitchen for a hands-on Thai cooking experience. Using her family recipes passed down through generations, you’ll visit a market to pick ingredients, then cook traditional dishes with her guidance. Learn to make curry paste and discover unique ingredients like banana flowers and pomelos. End with Angsana’s signature coconut jelly served in a coconut shell.

Explore Bangkok’s Pastoral Surroundings

Venture beyond Bangkok’s bustling cityscape into rural Thailand with a local driver. Visit the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors quickly move their stalls for passing trains. Then, board a rowboat at Tha Kha Floating Market, where locals sell fresh produce and cook meals on their boats. Enjoy the serene river views and explore the quieter trading spots.

Experience Bangkok at Night

Discover Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife with a local guide. Start at the Park Society Bar for sunset views over the city. Then, head to Silom for street food, including pad Thai and ba mee moo daeng (noodles with barbecued pork). End your night with a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River to visit the lively Asiatique night market.

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

Bangkok is a year-round destination with three main seasons:

• December to March: Cool and clear, with average temperatures around 80°F (27°C). This is the peak travel season, ideal for exploring the city.
• April: Hot and humid, with higher temperatures and more intense heat.
  May to November: Rainy season, with brief showers and lower hotel prices. Despite the rain, it’s still a great time to visit.