Since the late 17th century, Bangkok has been the capital of Thailand. Called “The City of Angels”, this city is known for its Grand Palace, over 400 temples, ornate shrines, network of canals, floating markets, street vendors and vibrant city life. The Thai people are very friendly and we enjoyed every minute of our 24 hour stay.
We explored Bangkok by boat, on foot and in a tuk-tuk and found Bangkok was easy to get around, if you avoid the traffic hours.
Sharing our list of best places to go, stay, dine. Check out more photos on our Instagram account, click here.
STAY
The Siam Hotel – Located in the Dusit District along the northeast side of the Chao Phraya River, The Siam Hotel is the only luxury hotel in this historical neighborhood.
This 5-star property offers superb dining, a world class spa, a state-of-the art gymnasium that includes a Thai boxing ring!
The hotel’s exquisite design is adorned with art and thousands of antiques, curiosities and objets des arts. The Siam is an urban oasis set amidst 3 acres of tropical gardens with a pool and chaise lounges lining the river bank.
Our Siam Suite was 80-square-meters, very spacious with an Art Deco living area, bedroom with oversized king bed, a large bath with an imported Italian bathtub.
Each guest receives the private butler service to help with special requests, directions, reservations. Guests also are loaned a 4G enabled mobile with complimentary data, local & International calling.
Don’t Miss! The Siam Hotel’s complimentary boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to the central Sathorn pier. Recommend going on this boat ride during the day, and at night when you see the city’s landmarks and traditional architecture illuminated, magical! And the temperature is cooler in the evening.
DINE
Chon Thai Restaurant Our dinner at The Siam restaurant, was one of the best Thai dinners we’ve ever had! Chef Damri and his team prepared each dish with the freshest and finest local produce.
Every dish was delicious and full of a medley of flavors. Chon Thai is set within century-old Thai teakwood houses and adds to the authentic ambience.
The daily breakfasts are just as delightful with freshly squeezed juices – watermelon, guava & more, freshly sliced tropical fruit, traditional Thai breakfasts as well as Western dishes to choose from.
WHAT TO DO
Bangkok – Temples, The Royal Palace, Floating Markets!
- Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: Located in the Rattanakosin royal neighborhood, we visited the Grand Palace and the Wat Phra Kaew Temple. Just about a 5-10 mins walk further south is the Wat Pho Temple with a massive reclining Buddha.
- Wat Arun: On the other side of the river, you can see the Wat Arun Temple in the Khmer architectural style with steep steps and a high spire.
- Visit the Royal Barges Museum where the Royal Boats/Barges are stored and maintained for major ceremonies of the Royal Family.
- Take a Long-Tail Boat Ride & Visit a Floating Market: one of the best ways to see Bangkok is on a Long-Tail Boat Ride down the Chao Praya River. We visited a local Bangkok Floating Market and were fascinated how the vendors navigated the canal and sold their produce.
- The Bangkok Flower Market (Pak Khlong Talat) is the biggest flower market in Thailand. Our longtail boat took us down the Chao Praya River, and we got off at the dock just a couple blocks from the market. Follow your nose to the most fragrant street in Bangkok where you’ll find a maze of alleyways lined with a kaleidoscope of gold marigolds, pink lotus blossoms, multi-color orchids, lilies, roses. The Garlands, called “phuang malai” dangle from street stalls that symbolize good luck, and adorn everything from spirit houses, temples, even Thai taxis, tuk-tuks.
- Chinatown: Locals call this area “Yaowarat”, and visitors enjoy the trading and bartering at this marketplace.
- National Museum: Find the finest art collection in Thailand including royal art and Thai mural art.
Day Trips…
The ancient capital of Ayutthaya is within easy reach from Bangkok, and well-worth a visit during your stay. There’s also Pattaya, a beach town that’s about 2.5 hours from Bangkok.
Further Out…
Find more places to visit in Thailand, click here.
Acknowledgements: Global Adventuress thanks The Siam Hotel for hosting us during our stay.