Bangkok Travel Diary

Bangkok Travel Diary

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If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you’d have noticed that I recently visited Bangkok. Although my family was initially hoping for a laid-back vacation where they could shop and eat, I was having none of it. I was determined to make the most of my trip and visit all the significant tourist sites while stuffing myself until I was a happy 5 pounds heavier. Before going, I was constantly asking friends and bloggers alike for recommendations, so I thought I’d put together a guide to help all of you who plan on visiting this incredible city.

Where to stay: Anyone who’s ever been to Thailand will know that you have your pick at hotels with service you just don’t get anywhere else in the world. My family and I stayed at the Intercontinental and couldn’t be happier with our decision. The staff were warm and welcoming, the rooms were beautiful, the hotel itself was as central as you could get, and the breakfast spread was to die for.

Where to go: In terms of tourism, my brothers and I visited the Grand Palace which was phenomenally beautiful. Unfortunately, we got there around noon when it was absolutely brimming with crowds, so make sure you get there earlier if you want to see the place without rubbing shoulders with the person next to you. We also went to Wat Pho which was right next to the Palace. The temple houses the largest reclining Buddha in the world and offers beautiful photo opportunities. We also visited Wat Arun at dawn which was an otherworldly experience. Normally, you have to take a boat to get to the temple, but our Tuk Tuk driver took us there directly. Again, I recommend you arrive early to make the most of your experience. Of course Bangkok is famous for its floating markets, but unfortunately I didn’t have enough time to make it there. In terms of shopping, your options are endless: Central World, Siam Paragon, Central Embassy, the list goes on. However, I personally loved Siam Centre which housed a ton of local designers and had the coolest layout I’ve seen.

Where to eat: Bangkok’s food scene is one of the best things about the city, so hold tight for this list. Eat Me was recommended to me by several friends and I was blown away by the food. Order the Tom Yum Shrimp, salmon, and do not leave without eating the Sticky Toffee Pudding which is not something I recommend you share. Erawan Tea Room for unforgettable Thai Food – virtually everything on their menu is a hit, but my favourite was the Red Curry Shrimp. Rossano’s for great Italian food and a warm atmosphere. Their profiteroles are amazing. I also went to Bonchon Chicken for the first time, and couldn’t get enough. If you’ve not had Korean Fried Chicken, you haven’t lived. For dessert, After You has a killer Nutella Toast. Audrey Cafe & Bistro for their crepe cake. Bangkok is also home to a Hello Kitty Cafe, so Hello Kitty enthusiasts, this is the place for you.

How to get around: Before I went, I was warned by many to be wary of Tuk Tuk drivers who try to con you at any given opportunity. I found the best way to combat this was by settling the price beforehand. I paid roughly 200-250 baht to get from my hotel to the Grand Palace which was on the other side of town. Also, you should never agree to making any additional stops suggested by your Tuk Tuk driver as this is always a ploy to con tourists. Cab drivers will often insist on having you pay an arbitrary amount, so you should always agree to go by the meter. The Sky Train is also great for dodging traffic (and there is a ton of traffic), although I preferred to travel on Tuk Tuks as it was my first time in the city.

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100 Comments

  1. January 17, 2016 / 12:50 pm

    Bangkok looks amazing, beautiful, and foods looks so yummy! I saw you’ve been to Hello Kitty café haha!! Hope you had a great time there! Happy Sunday x

    V.
    http://violettedaily.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:12 am

      Haha I actually thought of you at the Hello Kitty Cafe because you were the one who told me about it!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:11 am

      Thanks Kathrine, I hope you find it useful when you visit 🙂

  2. January 17, 2016 / 1:57 pm

    I would really like to visit Bangkok someday! Your photos are great and you captured the beauty of this place! Also the food looks delicious.

    http://www.elabellaworld.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:10 am

      Thanks Ela, so happy to hear you liked the post!

  3. January 17, 2016 / 2:43 pm

    Everything about this seems so amazing! The food, the places, the beautiful buildings! It’s definitely a place that I want to go visit!

    Shannon Sage

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:08 am

      I had such an amazing time, you should definitely try to go sometime soon 🙂

  4. Alanda
    January 17, 2016 / 3:41 pm

    I’m seriously thinking of going back to Thailand. Love your photos! How did you find Bangkok I wasn’t the biggest fan when I went there a few years ago but maybe I should give it another go.

    http://www.whiteandcapsule.com

    Xxxx

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:08 am

      You know what, before going my dad was like oh it’s not nice at all, but I think Bangkok is what you make of it. Obviously it’s not the cleanest of places, but it has a lot to offer, so I personally loved it. That being said, I’ve heard other parts of Thailand are way more beautiful, so if you’re going back, maybe try Phuket or Krabi?

  5. January 17, 2016 / 4:31 pm

    Thank you for sharing these beautiful photos! The Grand Palace looks so impressive.
    I’ve never been to Thailand, but I am considering it as our next destination:) I’ve heard so many good things about their food, people and beaches, of course.

    http://www.yuliannova.com/

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:07 am

      Definitely go for your next adventure! Plus, there is more to Thailand than just Bangkok – I’ve heard the islands are incredible!

  6. January 17, 2016 / 4:45 pm

    I really like this post. I like that you told where to stay and gave some useful information. These pictures are so colourful and amazing-especially the ones with food. Great post.

    LEJA

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:06 am

      So happy you found it helpful :)!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 5:05 am

      My thoughts exactly, I don’t even remember what life was before I tried it lol!

  7. January 17, 2016 / 10:02 pm

    Such a pretty post! Love the photos!!

    mystylishcorner.blogspot.ba

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:35 am

      So happy you liked it!

  8. January 17, 2016 / 11:01 pm

    Just found you on Instagram and started following – you have beautiful photos! I’m now following you on Bloglovin as well 🙂 I’d love a follow back if you like my blog! I can’t wait to keep in touch!
    <3
    katsfashionfix.blogspot.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:34 am

      Thanks Kathleen, so kind of you to say that! I’ll definitely check out your blog 🙂

  9. January 17, 2016 / 11:36 pm

    What a wonderful place to visit! Amazing pictures, food everything. Love this post very much!
    Much love gorgeous.
    Raysa

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:33 am

      Thanks Raysa, so happy you enjoyed the post!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:33 am

      I had a wonderful time. Hope you can go sometime soon 🙂

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:33 am

      So happy you liked it, lovely! Hope you get out there sometime soon 🙂

  10. January 18, 2016 / 2:44 am

    I have always wanted to go to Bangkok I have to make that dream a reality thanks for the tips… also lols to being blog page twins again.

    Filipa xxx
    PlayingWithApparel.com | Instagram

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:32 am

      Haha what can I say? Great minds think alike 😉

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:32 am

      Agreed!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:31 am

      Me too!

  11. January 18, 2016 / 9:52 am

    Thank you for sharing these beautiful pictures and your tips! I loved everything about this post and I have to show this to my boyfriend… Want to go there with him! 🙂
    xx Sindi | http://www.karvain.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:31 am

      Definitely show him, I’m sure you can convince him 😉

  12. Prudence
    January 18, 2016 / 9:54 am

    I have been to bangkok many times and always enjoy myself! These pictures captured the beauty of bangkok really well, thanks for sharing!

    Prudence
    http://www.prudencepetitestyle.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:31 am

      There are still places I wish I’d had more time to visit, but there’s always next time 🙂

  13. January 18, 2016 / 10:05 am

    Amazing photos, you must have a nice trip!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:30 am

      Thank you so much 🙂

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:30 am

      So glad you found it helpful, lovely! Since you’re based in Australia, Thailand is so accessible for you too! Hope you make it there sometime soon!

  14. January 18, 2016 / 1:27 pm

    Missing Thailand just looking at these pictures. Glad you’re having fun there babe. Hope you have a wonderful Monday!
    Much love, Len
    http://www.lenparent.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:29 am

      Thanks Len, so happy you liked it!

  15. January 18, 2016 / 2:09 pm

    Wow these photos are simply amazing! Looks like a truly unique and stunning city with a wonderful culture. Thank you for the guidance on where to stay and things to do! I hope to make it there someday! Thank you for sharing and have a wonderful week ahead!

    http://www.laurenfarrellny.com/blog

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:29 am

      Thanks Lauren, so happy to hear you enjoyed it!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:28 am

      Thank you!!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:28 am

      It was an amazing trip, you should definitely go!

  16. January 18, 2016 / 3:22 pm

    Thanks for the great travel tips. I hope one day I can travel to Bangkok. Your photos are truly amazing. Have a wonderful day!

    Kathy
    http://www.glamsimplified.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:28 am

      I’m sure you’ll get there someday soon 🙂

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:27 am

      It was pretty incredible 🙂

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:27 am

      Thanks girl, I loved it!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:27 am

      I had such a wonderful time 🙂

  17. January 18, 2016 / 5:04 pm

    What a beautiful photos for a stunning location.
    I love your blog. I hope you will like mine
    Many kisses
    http://www.welovefur.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:26 am

      Aww thanks, so happy you like it!

  18. January 18, 2016 / 5:12 pm

    these photos are gorgeous! I’m contemplating going to Thailand this summer, this post is really making me want to take the plunge!

    http://www.prettyinleather.net

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:26 am

      You definitely should! I’m actually thinking about doing the same thing – the islands look incredible!

  19. January 18, 2016 / 6:11 pm

    Bangkok seriously looks so amazing and colorful. These photos are stunning and thanks so much for the recommendations! Really hope to make it to Bangkok one day myself as well!

    Rae | Love from Berlin

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:25 am

      I’m sure you’ll make it there soon! Your photos from Florence had me tempted to quit work to travel to Italy!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:25 am

      It’s such a lively city with so much to do!

  20. January 18, 2016 / 8:33 pm

    Your photos are brining back lots of memories from my trip to Bangkok a couple of years ago!

    luxessed

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:25 am

      It’s such a wonderful city, I hope to go back soon!

  21. January 18, 2016 / 8:40 pm

    I’ve been to Phuket, but not to Bangkok. It looks lovely through all your pictures.

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:24 am

      I’m dying to go to Phuket! Next on the list for sure!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:24 am

      So lucky to have been able to visit such a wonderful city 🙂

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:24 am

      Haha come next time!

  22. January 18, 2016 / 9:57 pm

    Wow, look at these photos! They are incredible! And I really hope I could visit someday, it’s so beautiful, so rich of beauty and culture!

    -Lily from With Love Lily Rose

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:23 am

      So happy you enjoyed the post, Lily! I’m sure you’ll make it there yourself someday soon!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:23 am

      Haha as soon as I landed back home I got on a low carb, sugar-tox and have been circuit training to undo the damage caused in Bangkok!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:22 am

      Thanks Meghan, it’s hard not to when you’re so well fed lol!

  23. January 19, 2016 / 12:12 am

    Siffat, this is such a wonderful and insightful post, thanks so much for sharing! I know you will never regret choosing to go to all those tourist sites and soaking up all that this beautiful country and city has to offer! The food, temples, everything looks absolutely beautiful and I do want to go someday! I hope you have an amazing week ahead and thanks again for sharing, beauty!

    XO,

    Jalisa
    http://www.thestylecontour.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:22 am

      Aww thanks, Jalisa! You are always too kind. So happy you enjoyed the post, and hope you can make it to Thailand yourself one day so you can see why I fell in love with it 🙂

  24. January 19, 2016 / 12:38 am

    That’s a great informative one! I’ve been to Bangkok 4 times now (maybe 5?!) but haven’t explored much food wise because I was always traveling with my family and food decisions can be tough at times! Sight seeing as well, haven’t done any of those because what we did was shopping all day errr day x

    Real Life Nerd // http://www.vivienekok.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:21 am

      Haha I think my family was hoping to shop more but I’m a bit of a Type A when it comes to exploring a city, so I made sure we made the most of our time there. You should definitely check out the food scene more next time you go!

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:20 am

      Thanks babe!

  25. January 19, 2016 / 3:56 am

    I love your travel diary! It’s soooo beautiful, I would love to do this travel diary with Japan but the photos aren’t as gorgeous as these <3

    xx Bash | H E Y   B A S H | bloglovin’

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 19, 2016 / 4:20 am

      So happy you enjoyed reading 🙂 I’m sure Japan is also wonderful in its own way!

  26. January 19, 2016 / 5:04 am

    The food looks so good! Bangkok is on my bucket list so I hope to be able to see some of the sites and restaurants you mentioned here.

    -M
    http://www.violetroots.com

  27. January 19, 2016 / 5:10 am

    ADOREEEEEE these images girl! I can’t believe I’ve been to Thailand three times now and never to Bangkok!!!

    Looks like you had an amazing time and I could just stare at these pics foreverrrrrr

    Sending you love from Sydney!

    I just recently uploaded my Yacht Week Thailand video diary from my press trip and would love if you could check it out and let me know your thoughts on the video xxx

    Helen
    http://CH1K.com

  28. January 19, 2016 / 11:54 am

    I like bangkok though i fell sick for four days when I visited it last year. But the shopping experience there is just awesome <3

  29. January 19, 2016 / 1:30 pm

    What a great review and pictures! I am just planning to go to Thailand this year, so this is soo useful 🙂 Those ice creams look too cute!!

    Christina ♥ https://caliope-couture.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 22, 2016 / 9:10 am

      So happy to hear you found it helpful! And when you do go, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions 🙂

  30. January 19, 2016 / 2:04 pm

    Your pictures are amazing! I have loved seeing them on Instagram – so colorful and pretty. Looks like you had an AMAZING time. I so have Thailand on my travel list – I’ll be bookmarking these tips for the day I do. 🙂

    Erica
    http://www.pumpsandpushups.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 22, 2016 / 9:09 am

      Thanks Erica, your comment made my day! I hope it helps you when you make it out there yourself 🙂

  31. January 20, 2016 / 3:31 am

    I can only imagine how amazing the food in Thailand would be. I just had thai food today, but I’m sure it’s nothing compared to the food you had. Sounds like you lived it up and took advantage of every stop on your trip. The photos are so vivid – love all the colors and the ornate buildings. Thailand is definitely on my list of places to travel!

    xx Yasmin
    http://banglesandbungalows.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 22, 2016 / 9:01 am

      Thanks Yasmin, so happy you like my photos! Honestly, Thai food from Bangkok was so much better than anything else I’ve had – and I didn’t even try the street food! Next time, I’ll have to make an effort to find really great food stalls for authentic food!

  32. January 27, 2016 / 4:52 am

    I loved this post Siffat! I have never been to Bangkok but it’s just a 3h30 flight away from Chennai. With your beautiful pictures and recommendations I just want to jump on the next flight.

    xoxo,

    Aurelie | http://www.surface85.com

    • siffat.h91@gmail.com
      Author
      January 29, 2016 / 7:52 pm

      You should definitely go, Aurelie! It’s such a wonderful city, and with it only being 3h30 away, it’s totally worth it!

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