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Bangkok, located just 14 degrees north of the equator, is the capital and largest city of the traveler-magnet country of Thailand. A modernized and highly Westernized city, Bangkok is a very influential city in Southeast Asia in terms of arts, politics, fashion, education, and entertainment, and it is also known as a very safe and traveler-friendly city. It is better that you take advantage of student travel discounts for your trip to Bangkok so you can enjoy and experience the life of this tropical metropolis, which is also known as Krung Thep, or the “City of Angels.”

Bangkok Pictures

Things to do in Bangkok

A number of the most awe-inspiring temples and monuments in Southeast Asia are found in Bangkok, and it is a must for tourists to visit the Royal Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha, which together are considered one of the world’s greatest wonders. To embark on a canal trip (which lasts for about 90 minutes) is advised if you want to see a number of good sights in the city without having to go on full-blown city tours. You can also watch boxing matches, as Thailand is known for its traditional sport, Muay Thai.

Nightlife in Bangkok

Bangkok has a widely varied nightlife, most of the time described as wild and rowdy. It features a lot of things from excellent jazz clubs and highly Westernized bars and cafes and a number of trendy clubs and great restaurants. There are also lower-cost bars and pubs which are popular among the locals. Bangkok has five major vibrant nightlife districts, and these are as follows: Sukhumvit, Khao San Road, Ratchadapisek, Siam, and Chidlom-Ploenchit (keep in mind, nightlife here is more expensive than in the states).

Dining in Bangkok

In Bangkok, food is as much an essential part of Thai culture as Muay Thai or Thai massage; as a matter of fact, a common greeting in Bangkok, “Gin khao ru yang?” (Have you eaten?), is simply the equivalent of “How are you?” Bangkok cuisine is popularly known for its blend of spicy, sour, sweet, and salty. In Bangkok, you will find food houses or stands almost everywhere. Food carts can be found on every street corner, and most of them offer cheap and delicious food compared to normal tourist restaurants – a great option for the student budget.

Shopping in Bangkok

Bangkok truly has a variety of shopping experiences. With a lot of shopping places ranging from the buzzing street markets to the towering, modern malls, you will find so many options. It is common that most tourists prefer the markets and bazaars over the other shopping options. This trend has led to the flourishing of Bangkok’s largest shopping destination, the Chatuchak weekend market. There are bargaining places too, and with a little bit of bargaining prowess, you can get some great prices.

Bangkok travel tips

• It’s a good idea to sign-up for organized tours of the city so you don’t get lost in Bangkok’s maze-like streets.
• If you want to try the food sold in small stalls or food carts on the streets of Bangkok, it’s best to avoid eating anything raw, and also to avoid crushed ice because it’s source is always unknown.
• While in Bangkok, try to watch some Muay Thai–it’s incredibly popular, and the country is known for it.