Offering the best of Thailand’s savory street food, lively markets and elaborate temples, Bangkok is a cultural Mecca that provides a rich travel experience.

How to Get There
One of the busiest airports in Asia, Suvarnabhumi Airport, also known as Bangkok International Airport, is serviced by many major international airlines. It is the main hub for Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Orient Thai Airlines and Thai AirAsia.

Suvarnabhumi also offers domestic flights to other popular leisure destinations within Thailand, including Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Samui and Krabi.

Where to Stay
Whether looking to crash at a hostel or relax at a world-class hotel, travelers will not be disappointed by Bangkok accommodations. Even the city’s most luxurious hotels are known for being inexpensive by Western standards and offer some of the world’s best service. For example, the spa at the 5-star Peninsula Bangkok, located on the Chao Phraya River, was named one of the “Top 10 Hotel Spas in Asia” by Travel and Leisure in February 2010.

Shopping
Bangkok markets are recognized as much for a vast range of goods as for being a lively gathering place for locals.  Ridiculously inexpensive items, including silk pillows, teak furniture and Buddha statues, make a stop at the cities’ markets top on the list.

Two of the most famous markets are the Chatuchak Market (the weekend market) and the Suan Lum Night Bazaar – both offer everything from jewelry and clothes to home goods and pets.

Located approximately two hours by bus outside of the city, The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is also a must. Vendors sell goods from boats while sailing canals. If haggling for fruit isn’t appealing, then jump on a guided boat tour of the bustling marketplace.

Must See
Built by King Rama VI, the Grand Palace is a spectacular stop without which no tour of Bangkok would be complete. Although it no longer houses the royals, the Grand Palace is currently used for ceremonial purposes. On the same grounds, is the popular Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaew.

Also, within very close proximity are two temples frequented by tourists, Wat Pho, famous for its large reclining Buddha and Wat Arun or the Temple of the Dawn.

Nightlife
Bangkok nightlife offers, among many things, karaoke bars, discos and clubs. The most recognized districts are Sukhumvit, Khao San Road, Silom and Siam Square where everyone from locals to expats can enjoy music, dancing and drinks.