Backpacking in Thailand | Bangkok
Backpacking in Thailand is extremely popular and it has become the most visited country in South Asia in recent times amongst travelers. Thailand has gained favor among backpackers because of the affordable accommodation, great weather, delicious food, and ease of transportation. It has also received a lot of publicity due to a certain Danny Boyle movie about a beach…
Visiting Thailand’s capital city of Bangkok will most likely be a priority on any backpackers’ list. It is wise to set aside a few days to explore this city in order to fully appreciate the culture and lively atmosphere. The outdoor markets of Bangkok are an experience every backpacker should partake in. Anything from unusual foods such as crickets to clothing can be purchased in these markets. Chatuchak market only operates on Saturdays and Sundays, but it is one of the cheapest markets in Bangkok, great for backpackers on a budget. Other markets of interest include: Suan Luam Night Bazaar, the Pratunam Market Complex, Patpong Night Market, Khao San Road, Buanglamphu Market and the Memorial Bridge Night Market. When purchasing items from any market it is important for any traveler to approach a transaction with the knowledge that haggling is customary and is not considered rude. Haggling is the practice of negotiating to lower the price of an item. In Thailand the standard is to offer half of the original price. Another piece of helpful information is that when eating out it is not standard routine to tip. This is yet another reason backpackers love Bangkok, they can eat and shop ’til their hearts content without breaking the bank.
Travelers planning to visit Bangkok should consider the weather when choosing which time of year to travel. During the months of November to February the weather will remain relatively sunny and dry with the temperature averaging around 28C/82F. The months of June to October is considered the rainy season. Temperatures will average around 32C/89F with very high humidity.
A place of interest for any tourist is the Grand Palace. This building served as the former residence of the king. The palace sure lives up to its name with most of the building being gilded with gold.
Wat Pho is another must see attraction. Wat Pho is the home of the 2nd biggest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand. This enormous Buddha statue measures an amazing 46 meters long.
If Boxing is your thing, why not try Bangkok Boxing Stadium. It has exclusive Thai-Foreign matches with Muaythai and standard boxing championships featuring both male and female fights for families and tourists. This is something really worth going to see and very much a tradition of Thai culture.
Other areas of interest for backpackers may be: Dream World (an amusement park) and Safari World.
Backpacking in Bangkok is a must if you’re visiting Thailand! Backpacking Thailand is such a wonderful trip with so many things to see and do. The people are also famous for being so friendly I believe you’ll have a great time if you decide to backpack through Thailand.
