Why You Should Stick Around Bangkok

Bangkok is endearingly loud and delightfully chaotic. It’s a name that resonates with travellers who love to explore Southeast Asia. It’s the capital of Thailand, so the city has all the charming Thai characteristics. The quirky side of Bangkok is revealed through its museums and floating markets, while temples showcase the culture that governs life here. If you’re planning a visit to Thailand, here are the reasons you should stick around Bangkok for as long as you can.

The Grand Palace

The pride of Bangkok, the Grand Palace is a royal palace with a long history. Its remarkable architectural details make other royal residences pale in comparison. The palace was built in 1782 and has been home to royal families for centuries. The palace still plays a major role by hosting important ceremonies. It’s also where heads of state come to stay when visiting Bangkok. Tourists are advised to dress modestly when visiting the palace, meaning you’re supposed to cover your arms and legs. To make the most of your time here, join a sightseeing tour.

Temple of the Golden Buddha

The discovery of the Golden Buddha is a tale of wonder and intrigue. In the 1950s, the land was purchased by a company. There was a plaster statue of Buddha, which needed to be removed. The statue proved too heavy to be moved. In fact, the cable used to move the statue broke. Disheartened, the workers left the statue at the site overnight. It rained heavily that night. Morning came, and a group of passerby monks noticed a glint coming through the plaster. It turned out that the plaster covered a Buddha statue made of solid gold. No one knows the origins of the statue, but it is believed that the statue comes from the Sukhothai period. Now the statue sits there at the temple to be admired by those who visit. The temple is located only 15 minutes from Citadines Sukhumvit 16 Bangkok, which is a serviced apartment in Bangkok. Its central location makes it one of the most visited attractions in the city.

National Museum & Wang Na Palace

If you have an interest in history, you should definitely consider spending at least half a day at the National Museum & Wang Na Palace. It is a great reason to stay in Bangkok because the National Museum & Wang Na Palace was the only museum in the country until the 1970s, which explains why it has such an extensive collection. Almost every item in the museum is labelled in both English and Thai, making it easy for visitors to understand the significance of each item. Additionally, there are guided tours available, which can further enhance your experience.

Chatuchak Market

The biggest weekend market in the world, Chatuchak Market adds character to Bangkok’s already delightful persona. There’s nothing you won’t find here. From pet supplies and lamps to clothing and household items, the market sells everything and more. There are over 15,000 stalls, so you need a whole day to walk around the market snagging bargains and sampling yummy street food. Plus, it’s a great spot to meet locals. The experience can be a bit overwhelming given the sheer size of the market, so it’s best to come here with a guide. Avoid the midday sun if you’re not used to Bangkok’s heat.

Floating Markets

These are a quintessential Southeast Asian trait. Bangkok’s floating markets are among the best in the region. Damnoen Saduak, located right outside Bangkok, is an absolute must-visit.

Some call Bangkok "Venice of the East" on account of its floating markets. Remember that floating markets are highly touristy these days, so expect a lot of tourists and fewer locals.

Khao San Road

The famous backpacker paradise, Khao San Road is the perfect spot for backpackers. It’s filled with street food stalls, restaurants, and guesthouses – everything a backpacker loves about a destination. It’s loud, chaotic, and busy, so it’s definitely not the spot for a tranquil experience. However, if you want to discover the wild side of Bangkok, Khao San Road is the place to be.