Holiday Guide for Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and is located on the country's south coast.
Types of Holidays
As Bangkok is located in south east Asia, the city is a favourite stopping point on many tours of the area. However, it is also a popular holiday destination, with several airlines offering non stop flights.
Depending on whether you can book a direct flight or a flight with a stopover, travel times from the UK can vary between 11-14 hours. For this reason, many people choose fairly lengthy stays in Thailand of at least two to three weeks.
The accommodation ranges from budget backpacker hostels to luxury all inclusive resorts.
Best Time to Go
Bangkok remains extremely warm throughout the year, so it is possible to visit at any time.
However, the traditional summer months of May to October are very wet and humid in east Asia. Because the humidity makes it feel much warmer than it is, many travellers can be quite uncomfortable with this type of climate so this is a less popular time of year to travel.
The winter months of November to April tend to be much dryer and do not have the stifling humidity of the summer, making Bangkok the perfect getaway from the bleak British winter.
Sights to See
Bangkok is a city steeped in history, with a wide array of sites to see.#
Wat Phra Kaew
One of the most famous temples in Thailand is the Wat Phra Kaew the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This sacred site takes its name from the stone Buddha, carved from a single block of jade, which is housed inside.
Grand Palace
The adjoining Grand Palace is also famed for its impressive architecture and ornate decoration. This building was once the residence of the Thai royal family and is still used for ceremonial purposes on state occasions.
Temples
Other temples you can also visit in Bangkok include the Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), which houses the 82 metre (269 foot) 'prang' tower; the Wat Pho, which houses an extensive collection of Buddha images; the Wat Ben, which is constructed entirely from white Carrara marble; and the Wat Traimit, famous for its 3 metre tall Buddha statue that weighs over 5 tonnes.
Kids
If you're looking to keep the kids entertained then head to the Bangkae Amusement Park, where you will find arcade games, a bowling alley, cinema and funfair rides. Dusit Zoo is also a great day out, with the 47 acre park housing over 300 mammals and 1000 exotic birds.
Activities
Tram Tour
Bangkok is a city that has a great mix of ancient religious sights and modern, vibrant areas. One of the best ways to take it all in is to go on a sightseeing city tram tour. Here you will be taken to all the tourist hotspots with an English speaking guide to tell you all about the city.
River Cruise
Similarly, for a pleasant way to enjoy the city from a unique angle, you can take a river cruise. These leisurely cruises along the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River take place on traditional wooden barges and often include food and drinks.
National Museum
The National Museum is a great place to visit to learn more about the history of the area, and ancient Thailand really comes to life if you visit the Ancient City in Samut Prakan, with its array of replica historic buildings.
Beaches
The city of Bangkok itself doesn't have any beaches, but if you want to take a mini trip while visiting the city, you can head down the coast to one of several beaches.
Cha Am, Pattaya, and Hua Hin
Cha Am is around 100 miles (160km) away to the west and is a fairly quiet beach resort with several hotels along the beachfront; Pattaya is fairly busy and is great for younger travellers; and Hua Hin is another quiet beach resort famed for its array of excellent local seafood.
Nightlife
Bangkok nightlife is famous around the world.
Khao San
For the best cocktail bars and lounges, head to the Khao San and Sukhumvit areas and relax with a drink while looking out over the river. Thonglor also contains some of the coolest lounges in Bangkok.
Khao San Road contains most of the best nightclubs for partying the night away, and if you're looking for a musical or cabaret show then head to a 'Khon' or 'Likay' traditional dance show at one of the city's many theatres.
Accomodation
As Bangkok caters to such a broad range of holiday makers, there is a diverse mix of accommodation available.
YWCA Hostel
For budget accommodation, the best place to look would be the Banglamphu area. Although it is less developed than the rest of the city, this is one of the cheapest areas for eating and drinking out. Thanon Silom is also popular as it contains the large YWCA Youth Hostel.
Ariyasom Villa
The Ariyasom Villa, located just outside the city, is a perennial favourite with travellers. Here you can relax among the mango groves and enjoy the relaxing Som Sen Spa, while still being within easy reach of the bustling centre of Bangkok.
LiT Bangkok
For the best city centre accommodation that retains its unique Thai charm, check out the LIT Bangkok. With several restaurants, a stylish bar and Kiriya Spa, this resort provides the ultimate in relaxation and comfort.
City Point Hotel
The City Point Hotel provides excellent affordable accommodation right in the heart of Bangkok. This quiet hotel is still just a short distance from all the best bars, restaurants and nightlife that Bangkok has to offer, as well as Queen Sirikit Park.
Aurum
And for a stunning location while still being very close to all amenities, look at Aurum the river place. The Wat Po and Grand Palace are just a few minutes' walk away from this resort that is situated on Rattanakosin Island and overlooks the beautiful Chao Phraya river.