City Name: Bangkok
Where is it located?: Bangkok is in southern Thailand on the Chao Phraya River.
Why do people go there: Travelers either usually hate Bangkok – it’s big, dirty, polluted, or they love Bangkok – it’s a visual feast of Western & Asian influences.Bangkok is a primarily a hub for cheap flights into Asia. Most people leave only after a few days.
How do travelers get there?: There are many flights from Europe, Asia and the United States.
Currency: Baht
City Code: 2
Population: 8 million
Languages: Thai 75%, Chinese 14%, other 11%
Neighborhoods: Yaowarat (Chinatown), Phahurat (Little India), Ratanakosin (Old Royal City), Banglampoo(backpackers area, Don Muang (by the airport), Thonburi, Talling Chan, Bangkok Noi (all on the West side of Chao Phraya River), Dusit (New Royal City), Silom, Sukhumvit, Old Farang Quater, Yommarat
Attractions: Chinatown, Phahurat
Accommodations: Bangkok Hostels
Tourist Office: Thailand Tourism Office
Off-the-beaten-path: Ancient City
Health Issues: With the exception of Dengue fever, there are few health risks with visiting Bangkok.
When to go: Early November to early March are the best times to visit the capital of Thailand.
Common Phrases: Welcome =Rap raawng, How are you? = Sabai dee reu?, Hello/ Hi (Male Speaker) = Sawatdee krup, Hello/ Hi (Female Speaker) = Sawatdee kaa, What is Your Name? =Khun chue arai?, My name is… = Phom chue…
City Specific Events: Coronation Day: May 5, The Thailand International Swan-Boat Races: October, King’s Birthday: December 5
How to get around?: As everyone will always tell you, the biggest problem with Bangkok is the traffic. This can obviously be difficult for someone to navigate having never been to the Thai capital. The best way to really see the city and not get clogged in traffic is to take a taxi – not a tuk tuk.
Good to know: Bangkok is usually the cheapest destination in Asia.
Cheapest airport to fly into: Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport the major airport, where cheap flights to Bangkok land.
Need more information?: Check out the Bangkok travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
