Bangkok has been in, or around, number one spot as the world's top tourist destination for several years now, and for good reason. This thriving metropolis of more than six million people, which sprawls across more than 1,500 square kilometres, is a vibrant city which successfully displays a rich heritage alongside a thrusting new, modern veneer. Taking the pulse of such a unique place in a weekend is almost impossible, but these top tips will give you a chance – along with a weekend never to forget.
1. The Grand Palace
This dazzling complex of buildings on the banks of the Chao Phraya river was home to the Kings of Siam and, later, Thailand, for almost 150 years, until 1925. Now only used for ceremonial occasions and official events, the palace remains the city's most recognisable landmark, this deeply royalist country's spiritual heart and one of its most visited attractions. It's a must for any visit to Bangkok, and at over 218,000 square metres, there's plenty to see.
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The palace complex is comprised of numerous buildings, halls and pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. It includes several majestic and eclectic constructions, including the most important temple in the country, Wat Phra Kaew, so named in Thai after the greatly revered Emerald Buddha housed there, which dates back to the 14th century.
The Outer Court of the palace housed government departments, such as the treasury, army and civil administration. The Inner Court was where the King's royal consorts and daughters lived, and this area is still not open to the public. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European style reception room or Grand Palace Hall. There is also the opulent Dusit Hall, the antique throne room and a museum detailing the palace's history.
2. The Hangover Tour
This tour takes you around some of the locations made famous – as opposed to simply infamous! – by the movie The Hangover Part 2. It also provides a great and safe way to visit the seedier parts of Bangkok (and a cast-iron excuse, too!)
Guided by an experienced 'nightlife specialist', the tour visits featured bars from the movie in the nightlife hotspots of Soi Cowboy, Patpong and Nana. Also included are visits to other venues, such as for Thai boxing bouts and go-go shows. The overall experience can be tailored to suit the particular tastes of the group, and it's good to know that the 'seediness factor' can be turned up or down. The duration of the night can also be adjusted to fit the good sense / wildness of the group, returning you safely to your hotel by midnight, or else to a club to party through the night.
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3. Chatuchak Market
With more than 8000 stalls arranged in 27 sections, Chatuchak is certainly Thailand's biggest market and one of the largest in the world. It opens on Friday evening and runs through the whole weekend, and with plenty of great places to dine and snack along the way, as well as the occasional live act to enjoy, Chatuchak is a great day-out.
The market's 27 sections offer a range of goods that are grouped into nine categories: plants, antiques, pets, food and drink, fresh and dry food, ceramics, furniture and home decoration, clothes, and books. There's plenty to see even if you aren’t tempted to buy anything – and most likely, you will be.
Clothing dominates the market, from youth items to those from more sophisticated labels. The home decoration section is a great place for inexpensive Thai ceramics. And many of the plants stalls are also open on weekday afternoons. Thankfully, there's an information centre and maps to find your way around – and your way back out!
4. Tuk Tuk Tour
The tuk tuk is another great symbol of the country and zipping around Bangkok in one is a truly unmissable fun experience. While the vast majority of tuk tuk drivers are reputable, a few will try and take tourists for a ride in more ways than one. With an established tuk tuk tour and English speaking guide, you can't go wrong.
You can take a day tour that takes in such sites as Phra Sumeru Fortress, Thammasart University, where you will learn some of the history of the area, the temple of Wat Pho, birthplace of Thai massage, Phahurat Market in the heart of Little India, and the 'Thieves Market', so named for its now, thankfully, lapsed reputation for dealing in stolen goods. The tour concludes at Wat Saket with its 360 degree view of the surrounding Rattanakosin Island.
A night-time tour affords a different view of the city, its tourist sites quieter and, perhaps, more beautiful, lit up for the evening. This is certainly true of Wat Pho, which at night instead is far calmer and emanates a mystic atmosphere. The flower market wakes up at night and is a riot of colours, and activity, too. The tour also stops for some delicious sampling opportunities of the best in Thai street food.
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5. Sing Sing Bar and Theatre
For an especially memorable evening out in Bangkok, visit Sing Sing Bar and Theatre in Sukhumvit. New for late 2015, this retro-futuristic venue is described by its designer as "a classy cool sexed up hiso club" set amidst a warren of hidden rooms.
The highly creative design integrates feng shui elements into a concept loosely modelled on a Chinese brothel theme. Here, intricate wrought ironwork features dragon motifs, beautiful lanterns hang from the ceiling, and elegant hostesses complete the look in classic Qipao dresses.
You can see live performances on the stage here, including international recording artists, erotic dance, comedy and martial arts. From midnight onwards, DJs spin hip dance music, including electronica and house, for a cool crowd.
