Bangkok, Thailand is often depicted in the light of its crazy nightlife scene and partying. However, this beautiful city also offers culture, history, and amazing food. So steer away from the partying and see five other things to explore in Bangkok.
Street Food
It goes without saying that Thai food is delicious. However, getting it on the street is the authentic and better way to tantalize your taste buds. One of our favorite spots we tried was Jai Fai. It is one lady, a wok, an outdoor stove, and the best Drunken Noodles you will ever try. Be prepared to sweat, not from the outdoor flames but from the spiciness.
Temples
Bangkok has an endless supply of gorgeous and well-preserved temples. Some of the more famous ones are the riverside temple Wat Arun, the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and Wat Phra Kaew located in the Grand Palace. All three are usually crowded with tourists but are worth seeing. My favorite temple was Wat Saket or the Golden Mount. It has a winding walkway to get to the top with lovely views and more locals than tourists. Keep in mind most temples have strict dress codes for men and women. If you wear pants and shirts that cover the shoulders and mid-riff you should be fine. On hot days when I wore a sleeveless shirt, I carried a wide scarf that I could use to cover my shoulders when entering.
Canal Tours
Bangkok is located on the Chao Phraya River which creates many intricate canals amongst the homes and businesses close by. A fun way to explore these little neighborhoods is through a canal tour. You can rent a little boat and have someone take you through the tiny canals. If you are lucky you may see a Monitor Lizard swimming or climbing onto the shore. Don’t get to close as they can bite and their venom can make you sick.
Floating Markets
To continue your food and water tour, take a visit to one of the many floating markets. Buy fruit from boat vendors, marvel at the brilliant colors, and watch locals conducting business. For a floating market with fewer tourists and more locals try Khlong Lat Mayom or Talin Chan.
Cocktails in a Rooftop Bar
To finish a long day of site-seeing and eating why not finish with a cocktail in some of the tallest open bars in the world? The Dome is located on the 63rd floor of the Lebua State Tower, the Vertigo Bar is on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree, and the Octave is on the 45th floor of the Marriott. All are completely open and offer 360-degree views of the city.
So as you can see, Bangkok has so much more to offer than just partying. So go with the locals and explore temples and canals, eat street food, watch locals barter at the floating market, and sip sky-high cocktails.