Have just 48 hours in Thailand’s City of Angels? Our Stray team superstar Chris Deane weighs in with his tips for a great two days!
Having been living out in Asia for a few months, a common misconception I hear when speaking to travellers who have just arrived in Bangkok is they must leave the capital as quickly as possible!
I always advise people to hang around just a few days. Bangkok has an awful lot to offer the traveler and I cannot help but think people are missing out when they leave straight away.
So here goes here is my top tips for things to do and see in Bangkok and how to stay safe and have lots of fun.
Getting there and around
Landing in Suvarnabhumi Airport can be a bit daunting to even the most ardent traveler so why not take all the hassle out of it by arranging one of our Arrival Packs? These are a great way to start your trip in Thailand, with a private air conditioned car that collects you from the airport and transports you to our carefully selected accommodation right in the thick of the action. As well, our friendly Stray Staff are available Monday to Saturday in our shop just a short walk away from the chosen accommodation to help you with anything once you have arrived.
If you are traveling into the City alone I would strongly advise you make your way to the Metered Taxi Rank, as you will be approached by many spoof taxi operators in and around the Airport. Ignore these and request a metered taxi. Expect to pay no more than 500THB for a taxi to the Khao San Road Area.
Accommodation varies hugely in Bangkok both in terms of quality and price and even personal safety. I would strongly advise you to do your research and book something at least for your first few nights before you come.
What can I do in Bangkok in 48 hours?
Bangkok is home to some of the most beautiful temples and palaces in the world and these can serve as a great cultural introduction to Bangkok. Why not take in a river boat cruise and see the magnificent Wat Arun waterside temple, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho? The latter is home to the awe inspiring Reclining Golden Buddha, an impressive symbol of Buddhism measuring 15 metres high and 46 metres long and housed in the oldest temple in Bangkok. All three of these attractions are in close proximity, so they make an ideal first day introduction to Bangkok.
As the sun goes down, what else is there to do but party?! Khao San Road is a hive of activity in the evenings, from street food, to great shopping, to many bars and nightclubs that stay open ’til the early hours of the morning. Many great friendships and travel companions have been forged on the most famous road in Bangkok.
The next day (possibly somewhat jaded from the night before), recover with some retail therapy. Bangkok is home to some of the biggest shopping malls in the country. Look out for the famous Central that has famous brands from around the world, and often for much cheaper than you will find back home. If markets are more your style (or budget!) then check out MBK. This multileveled shopping mall/market is world famous and has plenty for all tastes and budgets. If you are lucky enough to be in the City on a weekend then Chatuchak Weekend Market is the place to be. It’s rumoured that you can buy absolutely anything here. I’m not so sure about that, but there is no hiding the fact it is the biggest in Asia and you could easily spend all day here.
During the evening, how about some sophistication and some amazing views of the city? Cloud 47 in Silom offers some of the best views of the city and at reasonable prices. Taking a tuktuk there is a truly great experience, which has you buzzing through the evening traffic in this transport that is unique to Bangkok.
This concludes my 48 hours in Bangkok. As usual Stray are always on hand in our Bangkok travel shop conveniently located around the corner from Khao San road for when it is time to leave and see what else Stray has to offer. But during your Thai travels, don’t forget Bangkok. It may just have a little more to offer than you think.
