ABOUT BANGKOK

• Bangkok is also called Krung Thep Maha Nakhon or Krung Thep in the official Thai language.
• There are 10 million people staying in this city of 606 square miles.
• The population ethnicity of the country are ethnic Siamese in the central region, Loas Thai in the northeastern, the Pak Thai in the south and northern Thai.
• There are 2 airports in Bangkok i.e. Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) and Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Budget Domestic and International flights arrive at Don Mueang International Airport (DMK).

BANGKOK ATTRACTIONS

• Grand Palace complex is the residence of the King of Thailand for the past 150 years.
• Emerald Buddha temple houses a statue of Buddha carved from a single piece of jade.
• Wat Pho Temple houses the largest reclining Buddha statue measuring 46 meters and is covered in gold leaf.
• Chatuchak weekend market is one of the largest on this side of Asia with over a thousands stalls.
• Jim Thompson House was once the home to the American entrepreneur who played a key role in reviving the Thai silk industry. The house is now a museum dedicated to Thompson’s life work.
• Khao San Road is lined with countless bars, night clubs, neon lights, street vendors and live music.
• Songkran festival or the water splashing festival. Anybody and everybody in sight gets splashed with water in the joyous celebration. This festival marks the start of the Thai new year and falls on 13th April every year.  

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT BANGKOK

November to February brings cool temperatures and low humidity to the city. The rainy season falls between May to October with the peak rain fall in August to September during the southwest monsoon season. 

BANGKOK TRAVEL TIPS

• Use public transport: The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are fast, cheap and air-conditioned.
• Avoid airport taxi traps: Use the Airport Rail Link or Grab (local version of Uber) for safer and cheaper rides.
• Get a local SIM card: Get one at the airport (True Move, AIS, or DTAC). You’ll need your passport for registration.
• Dress modestly at temples: Cover shoulders and knees.
• Don’t fall for “closed” scams: Always check hours online.
• Avoid tuk-tuks that approach you: They often overcharge.

BANGKOK DO’S AND DON’TS

• Use the Wai greeting Press your palms together in front of your chest and bow slightly to greet others especially elders and monks.
• Dress modestly at temples Cover shoulders and knees. Carry a scarf or shawl just in case.
• Remove shoes before entering homes or temples
• Speak calmly and politely Add “ka” (for women) or “krub” (for men) to the end of sentences to sound respectful.
• Use both hands when giving or receiving items Especially when interacting with elders or officials.
• Show respect to monks Avoid physical contact, especially if you’re a woman. Don’t hand items directly but place it in front of them.
• Support local businesses Choose traditional markets and handmade goods over mass produced souvenirs.
• Don’t touch anyone’s head The head is considered sacred.
• Don’t Point the soles of your feet at people or buddha statues The sole of the feet are seen as the lowest part of the body. Try not to seat cross legged but with both feet straight on the ground.
• Never disrespect the royal family Criticism is not only offensive but is illegal under Thailand laws.