Bangkok is an exotic, pleasant, and beautiful metropolis in southern Thailand. It is the capital of Thailand, it has over eight million people and it is the cultural middle of the country. It’s a spot of outrageous nightlife and beautiful temples, of scrumptious food and sweltering warmth, of crowded streets and big markets. There isn’t a lack of things to see and do within the city, however there are additionally many travel ideas to keep in mind while travelling by way of Bangkok as well.
Some Basics
Thai is the main language spoken in Bangkok, however as a result of booming tourist trade, many individuals speak English (be taught a few Thai phrases, although- the hassle might be appreciated).
The unit of foreign money is the Baht (THB), usually misspelled “Bath” on the street. One US dollar is about 31 Baht. Prices are very inexpensive in Thailand making Thailand a major hotspot for Western tourists. You don’t have to tip for providers or at eating places like in many other countries, however it’s actually appreciated.
There are just a few cultural taboos and laws that it’s best to take severely while travelling anyplace in Thailand:
When visiting a Buddhist temple, dress conservatively and remove your sneakers upon entering. Do not take pictures if anybody is meditating or during ritual, with out prior permission.
Touching another particular person’s head (even a child’s head) is a religious affront and shouldn’t be done. Touching one other person’s foot is consider an impure act and shouldn’t be avoided. Pointing to something with your foot can also be not done.
Females should by no means contact a Theravada monk, however monks usually touch lay males, and even females if the lay female is very ill.
Never interact in public shows of affection.
The King of Thailand is held in reverence by the Thais. The King is legally “inviolable” and it’s a legal offense to say or do anything that could in any method be interpreted as “disrespectful.” This is a serious matter. A violation could get you arrested and positioned in prison. This is not any joke.
Meals and Water
Food and water security is another main subject here. Do not drink the tap water in your hotel or in restaurants, and never use ice cubes. Drink only bottled water. Do not eat road meals which may spoil within the heat. Though Thai cuisine is scrumptious and there are avenue vendors practically everywhere, you do not wish to spend your time in Bangkok sick from this food.
The Streets
The traffic in Bangkok is overwhelming- it’s extremely congested, and even crossing the street is harmful! As a result of massive population, there are a lot of options for transportation: the Metro, the SkyTrain, the boat network, the buses, taxis, and tuk-tuks.
Though the three-wheeled, motorized tuk-tuks aren’t essentially the most cost-efficient way of getting across the city (agree on a worth earlier than getting in-typically you can go for very cheap!), they’re such a huge a part of Bangkok that it is value just riding in one at the least once!
Intercourse for Sale
Bangkok has a flourishing and over-energetic sex trade trade, each straight and gay. Many feminine and male prostitutes are HIV positive. A sure share of holiday makers come to Thailand to fulfill their sexual needs and fantasies. So, be aware that especially male visitors to Thailand will likely be propositioned slightly aggressively as you land on the airport, and within the red districts in Bangkok. Just be firm in saying “no”, and guys, strive to not look interested or the sales pitches will turn into more aggressive and demanding.
Temples and Palaces
Bangkok is known for its abundance of temples and palaces. These embrace:
The Grand Palace is probably probably the most spectacular. This large residence of the King is made up of many buildings-each more stunning than the next. It might take hours to explore, and it’s undoubtedly well worth the four hundred Baht (about $thirteen US) admission fee.
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaew, is a nationwide monument and a must-see here-it was one of the vital memorable sights from my time in Bangkok. It’s essential to dress very conservatively to be able to enter, so plan ahead.
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho, situated near to the Grand Palace, is one other temple that is extraordinarily memorable. It is residence to stunning gardens, sculptures, and a golden statue of Buddha that is over a hundred and fifty feet long. Entrance is cheap (20 Baht, about 60 US cents), and situated here is a well-known Thai massage school that can get you an hour-long therapeutic massage for just 200 Baht (about $6.50)!
The Temple of Daybreak, Wat Arun, is another incredible temple to see. It is located on the Chao Phraya River and it’s identified for its high colorful spires and Ordinance Hall. For just 50 Baht ($1.60 US), this attraction offers lovely views of the river and gives nice perception into Buddhism.
Markets
Bangkok has an impressive number of markets, and they are the proper places to purchase Thai clothing, food, and crafts. Yow will discover some pretty wonderful prices, but be prepared to haggle- you can virtually all the time bargain for a cheaper price! However don’t be afraid to walk away in case you think you’re getting ripped off.
Watch out of personal belongings in the markets. There are lurking pickpockets.
For those who’re in the city on a weekend, go to the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which has hundreds of stalls that provide everything you could possibly possibly imagine. Though it is crowded (try going in the morning earlier than it gets too scorching), it is value a visit to just expertise something so giant in measurement and so rich in Thai culture.