A WEEKEND IN BANGKOK

Why Bangkok?

Bangkok isn’t just a city—it’s an experience. A swirl of tuk-tuks, sizzling street food, ancient temples, neon nightlife, and friendly smiles. Whether you’re in it for culture, cuisine, or chaos (the good kind), Thailand’s capital delivers.

I spent 48 hours exploring the best of Bangkok—and left already planning my return. Here's how I made the most of it.

Day 1: Temples, Tuk-Tuks & Tantalizing Tastes 🌆

Morning: The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

My trip began with a visit to the heart of Thai history—the Grand Palace. Even in the heat, the gleaming gold spires and intricate mosaics were mesmerizing. Right next door is Wat Phra Kaew, home to the sacred Emerald Buddha.

Tip: Dress respectfully—shoulders and knees covered. They do offer rental sarongs at the entrance if needed.

Afternoon: Wat Pho & Thai Massage

A 10-minute walk took me to Wat Pho, famous for the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha and as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. After admiring the temple, I treated myself to a one-hour massage right at the temple’s own school. Pure bliss.

Evening: Street Food at Yaowarat (Chinatown)

Bangkok’s streets come alive at night. I headed to Yaowarat Road in Chinatown, where the street food scene is legendary. From grilled satay and mango sticky rice to sizzling pad Thai, everything was delicious and dirt cheap.

Don’t miss: Michelin-rated Jay Fai’s crab omelette—but be prepared to wait!

Day 2: Markets, Sky Bars & Rooftop Views 🌇

Morning: Chatuchak Weekend Market

If you're in town over the weekend, don’t miss the Chatuchak Market—a sprawling maze of 15,000 stalls selling everything from vintage denim to spicy papaya salad. It's hot, chaotic, and completely addictive.

Afternoon: Canal Tour & Jim Thompson House

To escape the traffic, I took a long-tail boat tour through Bangkok’s canals (klongs). It’s a peaceful ride past stilted houses and hidden temples—a glimpse into “Old Bangkok.”

Then it was off to the Jim Thompson House, a lush, teakwood home-turned-museum filled with Thai art and silk history.

Evening: Rooftop Drinks at Vertigo or Sky Bar

My final night called for a view. I chose Vertigo Rooftop Bar at Banyan Tree Hotel, but Sky Bar (from The Hangover Part II) is equally iconic. The city lights sparkled below as I sipped a signature cocktail and watched the Chao Phraya River shimmer in the distance.

Quick Bangkok Travel Tips ✈️

• Currency: Thai Baht (฿)

• Getting Around: Grab app (local Uber), BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and tuk-tuks

• Best Time to Visit: November–February (cooler and dry)

• What to Pack: Light clothing, sunblock, comfortable shoes, and an appetite

Final Thoughts

Bangkok is a city of contrasts: ancient temples sit beside modern malls, monks ride the subway, and you can spend $2 or $200 on dinner and still be wowed. It’s a city that pulses with life, flavor, and energy—one that you'll never forget.