Bangkok is Thailand's capital, as well as one of Southeast Asia's most prominent cities. It is the country's largest city, with a population of about eight million people (up to 15 million if you include the metropolitan region). It is the world's most visited city, with 20 million overnight visitors in 2017... In this travel guide, you'll learn why.
Language
Thailand's primary language is Thai. It's easy to become overwhelmed by the complicated curving letters and unusual sounds, but don't panic! Many people in Bangkok speak English as a result of the enormous tourism business, and even if they don't, big smiles and genuine warmth make it very easy to navigate around and connect with people.
We always suggest learning a few simple words in the language of your destination. It demonstrates respect for the local people and their culture, which frequently leads to increased regard for you as a traveller.
Currency
Thailand's national currency is the Baht (THB), which is generally written as the letter "B." 20B (green), 50B (blue), 100B (red), 500B (purple), and 1000B notes are available (beige). The baht is divided into 100 satang, however you're hard to get anything at these pricing outside of the well-known 7-Eleven convenience stores.
The majority of establishments only accept cash, and while ATMs accept international cards, they frequently impose a 200B transaction fee. The greatest rates are normally found at banks and private money changers, and US Dollars are the easiest currency to convert once you're out there.
Weather
The weather in Bangkok is hot and humid. There are three seasons: hot, rainy, and chilly, yet it is hot all year, with lows of 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit) in December and highs of 35 degrees Celsius (96 degrees Fahrenheit) in April. From mid-May until October, the monsoon season provides precipitation, with September being the wettest month.
Bangkok - and much of Thailand as a whole - is used to outsiders as a major tourist destination, and visitors are generally welcomed by the pleasant Thais. It's vital to know the top advice for being safe and respecting the residents and their culture, just as it is everywhere else:
Pedestrians and traffic
Bangkok is a city built around automobiles, and pedestrians are frequently relegated to second place. Crossing roads (even at marked crossings) should be done with caution, and be aware that mopeds will occasionally use the sidewalks as well. If you become caught on one side of the road, do what we do and find a local to walk with you across the road.
Prices and bartering
Traveling in Bangkok is still pretty inexpensive (see the Currency section of our General Information guide). Accommodation, food, and monument entrance fees will be fixed prices, and tipping is not anticipated. However, a good haggler will be respected at markets and independent retailers. If you're serious about buying, find out how much the vendor wants and then ask if they can drop the price - this generally results in a reduction that you can then counter-offer. Maintain a friendly tone, and keep in mind that a few baht won't make a huge difference in your budget!
Ethics
If you've read our history of Bangkok, you'll know that recent years have seen substantial restrictions on freedom of expression. As a result, refrain from making disrespectful statements about Thailand's royal family out of respect for the Thai people. This involves treating artifacts that depict the king with respect, such as money.
In Thailand, temples, like many other places of religious devotion, have a dress code that must be followed. Both men and women should cover their elbows, knees, and shoulders; remove shoes while entering temple buildings; and avoid pointing your foot at Buddha pictures. Women should also avoid touching monks or their belongings.
Just before you go...
Make sure to do the following before going to Bangkok:
Read the most recent travel advice from your government.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
Purchase all-inclusive travel insurance.
Notify your bank that you will be traveling abroad.
Check to see whether your cell phone will work in another country.
Image Sources:
Image by Sasin Tipchai from Pixabay
Image by Mathieu Vivier from Pixabay
Image by Sasin Tipchai from Pixabay
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