Bangkok

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Bangkok is the bustling capital of the Southeast Asian country of Thailand. The city has been a popular tourist destination for years, and its popularity just seems to be growing. Bangkok is full of breathtaking sights and sounds, delicious cuisine, and unbeatable views. 

Bangkok is the bustling capital of the Southeast Asian country of Thailand. The city has been a popular tourist destination for years, and its popularity just seems to be growing. Bangkok is full of breathtaking sights and sounds, delicious cuisine, and unbeatable views.  From ancient temples and majestic palaces to vibrant floating markets, you’ll never run out of things to do and places to see. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Bangkok, the city truly has something for everyone!
<h2>1. Explore the Grand Palace</h2>
One of Bangkok’s most popular tourist destinations, the Grand Palace is not to be missed. Thailand’s kings have called the palace home for over 200 years. Gold covered and beautifully built, this marvel of architecture is impressive whether you know much about its history or not. Put a whole afternoon aside to explore the palace, as it can easily take a few hours to cover the entire 214,000 square meters. Be aware of scams while you're there, and make sure you only pay the entrance fee right before you go in!

[caption id="attachment_1029400" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029400" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/taylor-simpson-1626273-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="The Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Taylor Simpson on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>2. Visit the Temples</h2>
If you only have one day to spend visiting historic sites in Bangkok, head straight to the city's stunning temples. Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew are the main ones to see, and they will not disappoint! The impressive Wat Pho is home to the world-famous Reclining Buddha, but Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew are equally beautiful and culturally significant. The temples stand tall with golden roofs, and they’re just as mesmerizing to look at from the outside. Learn a little about the temples before you go to get the most out of the experience.

[caption id="attachment_1029401" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029401" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/taylor-simpson-1626274-unsplash-1-1024x820.jpg" alt="Wat Pho, Bangkok, Thailand" width="1024" height="820" /> Photo by Taylor Simpson on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>3. Indulge in a Thai Massage</h2>
There are plenty of beach-side resorts dotted around the country where you can enjoy a Thai massage, but how can you resist the urge to get one as soon as you arrive in the country? There are so many spas to choose from in Bangkok, so do your research and find the perfect place to experience a true Thai massage. Don’t expect to get a gentle rub, either; Thai massages are more medicine than luxury. They can hurt in a good way, so be prepared for the massage therapist to pull, crack, and stretch different parts of your body. Just remember, your aches and pains will melt away after indulging in one of these!

[caption id="attachment_1029402" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029402" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/simon-launay-1063331-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Following Monks in Bangkok, Thailand" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Simon Launay on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>4. Experience the Floating Markets</h2>
A visit to the floating markets is a quintessential Bangkok experience. Join tourists and locals alike to barter for goods, stock up on produce and spices or grab a bite to eat. The colorful affair is as photogenic as it gets, so be prepared with your camera in-hand. For a truly authentic market, check out the weekend market of Taling Chan. There are more locals than tourists at this lively market, and you’re sure to have a great experience while snagging a few deals.

[caption id="attachment_1029403" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029403" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/frida-aguilar-estrada-397198-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Floating Market, Bangkok, Thailand" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Frida Aguilar Estrada on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>5. Sample the Street Food</h2>
This should go without saying, but the street food in Thailand is second to none. Bangkok is a hub of tasty and affordable cuisine, with food stalls around every corner. Enjoy some mouthwatering staples such as Pad Thai and Pad See Ew or try the popular Gai Tod, a type of fried chicken served with sticky rice. Looking for something sweet? Stop at one of the metal carts to grab a bubble tea and enjoy a sweet and refreshing iced drink full of chewy tapioca pearls. To experience some local flavors, choose the semi-savory taro or the bright green cantaloupe tea.

[caption id="attachment_1029404" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029404" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/minseok-ian-kwak-1460351-unsplash-1-1024x576.jpg" alt="Rod Fai Night-market, Bangkok, Thailand" width="1024" height="576" /> Photo by Minseok Ian Kwak on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>6. Take a Ride in a Tuk Tuk</h2>
Tuk Tuks are the cheapest and most exciting way to travel in Thailand. Zooming around Bangkok’s chaotic traffic in the little rickshaws is exhilarating, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget! Tuk tuks are reliable and affordable, and the helpful drivers will take you anywhere you need to go. Take a day to explore the city and get a little lost along the way. A tuk tuk will be waiting for you when you’re ready to head back to your hotel or to a local market for some lunch.

[caption id="attachment_1029405" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1029405" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/hanny-naibaho-252947-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Riding the streets of Bangkok" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Hanny Naibaho on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>7. Mingle with Backpackers on Khao San Road</h2>
Khao San Road is not the largest road in Bangkok, but it is certainly one of the most famous. A backpacker’s paradise, the road is full of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Grab a drink and mingle with some fellow travelers or enjoy a pad Thai and do some people watching. Be prepared for loud music and loud parties. The celebrations don't stop on Khao San Road, so only plan on staying there if you can sleep through a lot of noise!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1029406" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1186196653.jpg" alt="iew from the middle of the famous Khao San Road as people pass by on the street in the night circa February 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand" width="1000" height="563" />


<h2>8. Shop at Chatuchak Market</h2>
One of the best things to do while in Thailand is to go shopping, and one of the best places to do it is at Chatuchak Market. The weekend-only Chatuchak Market is one of the largest markets in the world. The market covers 27 acres and includes well over 800 stalls. Pick up a map and head into the market for a couple of hours to grab some great deals on clothes, souvenirs, and food.

[caption id="attachment_1029407" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="wp-image-1029407 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/jordan-madrid-1176338-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Chatuchak Market" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Jordan Madrid on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>9. Recharge in Lumpini Park</h2>
Lumpini Park is Bangkok’s answer to New York’s Central Park. Lumpini is a green oasis in the busy and sometimes overwhelming capital city. If you plan on spending a few days in Bangkok, make sure you plan a visit to recharge in this beautiful park. Pack a picnic and spend a leisurely day walking along the paths and relaxing by the lake. Locals also practice Tai Chi and other group activities in the park, so plan a visit early in the morning or before sunset to enjoy the most peace and quiet.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029408" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_649270978-1-1024x768.jpg" alt="hailand Tourism Festival 2016 at Lumpini Park, Bangkok ,Thailand" width="1024" height="768" />


<h2>10. Enjoy a Boat Ride Along the Chao Phraya River</h2>
The Chao Phraya River flows right through Bangkok, and little canals feed off the river and snake through the entire city. Taking a boat along the river is a fascinating and relaxing experience. Not only is the river itself beautiful, but you’ll also get to experience a completely new view of the city. Float past neighborhoods, take in the diverse architecture and watch people going about their daily lives. There are plenty of ferries departing from different parts of the city every day, so feel free to hop on and off at different stops to get the full experience.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1029409" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1257769531-1024x768.jpg" alt="Traveler woman on boat joy view Wat Arun at sunset, Chao Phraya river" width="1024" height="768" />

Don't Miss These Unique Experiences in Bangkok

Thailand's capital city is a top destination in Asia with dozens of places to see and experience that will keep travelers of all ages entertained. As the biggest city in Thailand, Bangkok is a unique component of the Asian country with sites you won't see anywhere else in the world.

Thailand's capital city is a top destination in Asia with dozens of places to see and experience that will keep travelers of all ages entertained. As the biggest city in Thailand, Bangkok is a unique component of the Asian country with sites you won't see anywhere else in the world. The busy city hosts a former royal palace, magnificent temples, floating markets, several massive malls, including some with high-end, designer shops, and nightlife spots that are the talk of Southeast Asia.
<h2>1. Experience the Grand Palace</h2>
The Grand Palace is a busy, tourist attraction. But, the 2.35 million square foot destination is well worth the crowd. Inside you can see the palace which includes the Outer Court, the Central Court, and the Inner Court. One of the major destinations inside the compound is Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Although the palace isn't the home of Thai Royalty anymore, only a few sections of the Central Court are open to the public. The Temple of the Buddha is considered the most sacred Buddhist Temples in the entire country. Visitors should know that the Palace's temples have strict dress codes to follow and guests not adhering to the requirements will not be allowed to enter.

[caption id="attachment_1017338" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/185291528-1024x680.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/185291528-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/185291528-300x199.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/185291528-768x510.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/185291528.jpg 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="680" /> AleksandarGeorgiev / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Experience the Temple of Dawn</h2>
Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is one of the more unique Buddhist places of worship in Bangkok. Built on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in 1768, the temple's tower is covered with millions of small pieces of fine, colorful Chinese porcelain. On the site's grounds, you'll find several other buildings that contain various shrines, sculptures, and images of the Buddha. For the best views of Wat Arun, visit at sunrise or sunset to see the beautiful colors sparkling in the sun along the river.

[caption id="attachment_1017339" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/155287541-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/155287541-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/155287541-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/155287541-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/155287541.jpg 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> joakimbkk / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. See the Reclining Buddha</h2>
Wat Pho or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is a must-see destination in Thailand. The temple features a 46 meter, gold-plated Buddha statue that's laying down. The figure depicts the Buddha passing into the final Nirvana following death. One hundred eight bronze bowls that line the walls of the hall. Visitors can purchase a bowl of coins to drop in the bowls for good luck as they pass through the area. Built a short time after the Grand Palace in 1781, Wat Pho sits just south of the Royal compound and Emerald Buddha. This makes it easier for travelers to experience two of the most important temples in the country on the same trip.

[caption id="attachment_1017340" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/467571456-1024x684.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/467571456-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/467571456-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/467571456-768x513.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/467571456.jpg 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="684" /> OSTILL / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Go Shopping at the Floating Market</h2>
There are dozens of floating markets in Bangkok are a unique experience. These farmers markets on beautifully crafted boats are filled with tropical fruits, vegetables, and different seafood varieties. Plus you'll find boats offering fresh Thai dishes such as pla pao which is a salt-crusted fish or mungbean noodles that they will prepare right in front of you. Don't forget to grab a fresh, coconut drink to go with your meal. Other items you'll find for sale include pottery, t-shirts, candies, flowers, souvenirs such as building replicas for tourists to take home.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1017351" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_615210425-1-1024x769.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="769" />


<h2>5. Take a Boat Trip Down the Chao Phraya River</h2>
A trip to Bangkok isn't complete without a boat ride down the famous Chao Phraya River that runs through the city. While it's valuable for the country's commerce, it's also a popular recreation area for residents and tourists. Also known as the River of Kings, many of Bangkok's attractions sit along its banks such as the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Temple of Dawn. There are several top boat tours you can take to view these destinations from the river such as Express Boat River taxis that will shuttle you to and from different piers on weekends to daily river tours specific for tourists.

[caption id="attachment_1017342" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/872061804-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/872061804-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/872061804-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/872061804-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/872061804.jpg 1200w" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> banjongseal324 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Stroll Through One of the Malls</h2>
It may sound odd, but, malls or shopping centers are activity hubs in Bangkok with some 100,000 visitors or more daily. Many visitors are shocked at the sheer size of these mega shopping centers. One of the largest ones in the city is Siam Paragon which is five stories and includes an IMAX theater, a luxury car showroom, several luxury clothing stores, an entire floor of restaurants, the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia, and a connected hotel. Another popular choice is the nearby CentralWorld shopping complex that offers seven floors with more than 500 stores, 100 eateries, a kids' zone, and even a luxury foods supermarket.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1017354" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_356839244.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. See the Sights at the Royal Barge Museum</h2>
There's more to see than temples, statues, riverboat rides, shopping centers, and floating markets in Bangkok. Cultural lovers will enjoy the beauty of the Royal Barge Museum. Located along the canals that connect to the Chao Phraya River, the boat museum features eight of the ornate royal barges that once traveled the waterways as the main form of transportation in the ancient city carrying the king and royal family. There are more than 50 of these intricately designed ships, but, they keep most of them in storage except for special occasions where visitors can see them on the open water in all their glory.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1017357" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_1251643303.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="650" />


<h2>8. Hang Out with the Lizards in Lumpini Park</h2>
One of the more casual ways to spend a day in Bangkok is in the city's Lumpini Park that offers beautiful open spaces, playgrounds, walking paths, picnic areas, and an artificial lake where peddle swan boat rentals are available. Here you can relax and hang out with the many lizards that call the park home. If you don't want to bring your own food from one of the floating markets around the city, there's no need to worry. The park has food vendors near the Rama VI statue cooking up traditional Thai food.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1017358" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_492437947.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Catch a Muay Thai Match</h2>
For the sports lover, you can't leave Bangkok without catching a Muay Thai match. The best way to experience one of these traditional fights is at the Rajadamnern Stadium which has been hosting the best matches in the city since 1945. Most events feature seven to nine match ups that last up to five rounds. At the end of each match is a Wai Fru Ram Muay which is a ceremonial dance. Shows are held every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1017361" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_595589243.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>10. Watch a Traditional Thai Puppet Show</h2>
Thai puppet shows are an art form that dates back more than 300 years. These are a widely different experience in the Asian country than in Western countries. The puppets are just under 3.2 feet and take three puppeteers with a rope and pulley system to control each one. Each show includes music, dancing, and a story. You can find a puppet presentation at the Artist's House, a 200-year-old venue in Bangkok, as well as at some festivals around the city.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1017364" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/shutterstock_1137415463.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667" />

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