Bangkok, the city that never sleeps, where
hedonism reigns supreme. A city so alive you can almost feel its beating pulse
as you walk the heady city streets. Welcoming more visitors than any other city
in the world, Bangkok is synonymous with extremes and contradictions. Though
noisy, hectic and hot, the intensity and excitement of Bangkok gets into your
veins, there is little wonder many are enticed back to Bangkok, time and time
again.
As Thailand's main port of entry, many find
themselves passing through on their way to smaller more exotic Thai provinces.
It is also a port of call for those heading to neighbouring countries and a
stopover between the South Pacific and Europe.
For those who find themselves with a stopover
in Bangkok, deciding what to do in such a short time can be somewhat
overwhelming. Here is an intuitive itinerary that encompasses the very best of
what the city has to offer for those finding themselves with 24 hours in
Bangkok.
Getting There
Getting yourself into the city from Bangkok
Suvarnabhumi Airport is simple, The Airport Rail Link, is fast efficient and
cheap. The high speed train runs every 15 minutes and runs from 6am through to
midnight. For 150 Baht you will be in the centre of Bangkok (Makkasan Station),
in just 30 minutes.
Taxi's are available from the ground floor of
the airport, Taxi's are a convenient and cheap way to get around Bangkok. Be
wary however that if it is raining or rush hour the drive into the city can
take up to, and sometimes over, an hour. Always insist your driver turn the
meter on and make sure you have everything with you before you exit the cab.
A Morning Shopping up
a Storm
For many, shopping in Bangkok is some of the
best in the world. A shoppers paradise you can literally find anything you
want, be it the real deal or the very best designer knock off, Bangkok has it
all. Experience the thrill of bargaining at a market or the sheer opulence of
one of the designer shopping malls.
For those in the know, Siam is Bangkok's
ultimate shopping district. Here, mega malls sit side by side housing some of
fashions biggest names. You could spend days wandering through the malls in
Siam without seeing it all, so for those with limited time Siam Paragon,
Central World and Siam Center offer the perfect mix of high street, designer
and boutique brands. MBK has an infamous reputation among travellers, however
unless you're after cheap junk, we advise you give it a miss.
Platinum Fashion Mall in Pratunam is an
absolute must for anyone who considers themselves ahead of the pack in the
fashion game. A one stop shop, Platinum is a wholesale shopping mall
specialising in fashion clothing. The hive of activity can be daunting for
some, but the treasure trove that awaits makes it worth while. The more you buy
here, the more you save and remember haggling is all part of the process.
Culture Shock
Take the afternoon to soak up some of the Thai
culture. The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw is a dazzling example of Thai culture
and possibly Bangkok's most iconic landmark. The complex itself homes a 14th
century Emerald Buddha. The architectural details and Buddhist monuments make
the Grand Palace a tourist attraction no visitor to Bangkok should miss. The
cultural heart of Bangkok this fascinating attraction offers a unique glimpse
into Thailand's past.
Up all Night
Experience Bangkok's legendary nightlife, an
epicureans dream there are an abundance of self-indulgent activities.
Head up Lebua State Tower to watch the sunset,
sipping some of Bangkok's most innovative cocktails. Sky bar is set 63 floors
above the city and offers the most spectacular sparkling views of the city and
beyond. The world renowned bar has been made all the more popular after its
starring role in The Hangover Part 2. To avoid getting caught out, men should
wear long pants and covered shoes, dress code is smart casual and you will be
turned away if not adhering to the rule.
If you're not shopped out from earlier in the
day, Patpong Night Market is a must visit destination and an experience you
won't find anywhere else. The market is lined with go-go bars and filled with
designer fakes, knock-offs and cheap souvenirs. Spend a few hours wandering around
the market taking it all in.
For those still on the go, Bangkok's nightclub
scene is elaborate and buzzing. Slim & Flix Club is a regular among
Bangkok's hip and trendy party goers. Offering live music and an impressive
drinks list, it is a must for those who love to party!
Beyond Bangkok
As Thailand's main hub, Bangkok offers
travellers the a number options for travelling onwards. The two main airports
have daily flights to destinations around Thailand including Phuket, Koh Samui
and Chiang Mai.
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