Bangkok, Thailand

The city of life and plenty to do

By Charlene

Bangkok was a great city, lots to do and it has many places to visit but as per any city it had its madness and you should be prepared for a true Asian city. The traffic was always busy, large amount of people and pollution. I would recommend staying no longer than a couple of nights but it is the perfect start to anyone’s travels in Thailand.

To get me started on my travels, I had booked two nights at the Lub d Siam Square hostel via STA Travel, which is located next to the Bangkok Arts and Culture Club, approximately 35 mins from the airport on the City Link and is the perfect location for any shopping enthusiasts, as it is next to numerous shopping centres. It also has excellent access to the National Gallery/Siam BTS stations (only a few minutes’ walk), should you wish to travel to other areas outside of this centre. The cost wasn’t too bad at £12 a night and it has excellent facilities for anyone wishing to leave their bags locked away and have a warm shower.

In case you get hungry, there are so many options for food. There are 7/11 stores at least every 50m across the city, which sell reasonably priced food and water. In addition, there are many food markets (both day and night), which are worth a visit, selling freshly cooked food including pad Thai, vegetarian and vegan meals, as well as a range of bugs and critters (if you fancy trying them). Markets including Patpong, China Town and Silom Road are just a few that I went to but make sure you double check the timings of the markets as some of them close early and many are shut on Mondays. I would even advise you to check with the locals just in case, as the internet isn’t always accurate.

Silom Square was my favourite, the hustle and bustle of it all made it a great night out. It was open late too, which was perfect as I arrived about 10.30pm. So much amazing food in one road and there were many stalls selling scorpions and tarantulas. As I was travelling, I had to try the scorpion and it wasn’t too bad to be fair, although I don’t think I would try it again and the spider, well that was never going to happen!!

I write this blog aimed at people on their travels, however for anyone looking to visit on holiday, there are so many hotel and restaurant options to cater for everyone, so you too should visit if you haven’t already.

Now, for any solo traveller, being lost is a given. I somehow got lost from the food market and ended up in Khaosan Road. If you have ever been you will know what it is like. If you haven’t been, be prepared. It is an experience to say the least. It can only be classed as the Magaluf strip of Bangkok, with its row of bars, clash of music, laughing gas balloons and drunk holiday makers. Quite the entertainment if you enjoy people watching and even more fun if you want to grab a bucket for 350 BAHT and join in. All I will say, speaking from experience is if you decide to do the latter, be prepared for one hell of a hangover the next day!

Finally, one thing is a must when in Bangkok is the floating markets. There are many available, at all different times, so be sure to check timings again. The biggest one is Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, which opens early morning and takes about two hours via public transport, so you must get up extra early. Another good one is Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, which is located about 30 minutes West of Bangkok on the BTS and is just a short Uber ride away from Bang Wa BTS Station.

Bangkok is home to many sacred temples as well, so if you get the chance to visit them it's a must. I was heading up to Chiangmai, which has more than enough to keep me busy, so I didn't have time to fit any in. However, if I visit Bangkok again I will for sure.

Overall, Bangkok is a must. There is plenty to do, places for you to lose yourself in (shopping, food, cultures, art etc.), the locals are friendly and willing to help, although be prepared that they do not have the best sense of direction, so I would encourage anyone travelling to Thailand to pick up a cheap local sim card at the airport. For 599 BHAT (approx. £14) you get 15 days of unlimited internet, which includes use of Google maps and believe me, it is worth every penny.