Bangkok: A First-timer's Perspective

Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, The Grand Palace, Temples, Wat Phra Kew, Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha

Bangkok, just like any other city I've visited in Asia, is a busy yet diversely rich district in terms of people, culture, cuisine and so much more! It's far from the usual city where tourists visit for modern architectural wonders, luxurious shopping and sky-high leisure.

When you're in Bangkok, you'll be fascinated at how mellow and friendly people are. If you've experienced the MRT train of Singapore, you can quickly tell the difference when you're in a BTS train in Bangkok- it's less stressful, light and uncomplicated.

People in general are approachable and are always willing to offer help especially to tourists (though the language barrier is a little challenging because unlike in the Philippines where almost everyone can speak English, in Bangkok, you'll have to use your 'sign language' skills to survive hehe). We rode the tuktuk from BTS Chongnonsi Station to FuramaXclusive Hotel in Sathorn. I politely asked our tuktuk driver if I can have a photo taken with him..

..and he cheerfully posed like this... :D
Tuktuk ride, Bangkok, Thailand, BKK

The BTS Skytrain system in Bangkok- hassle-free, spacious, clean and on-time
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, BTS Train, Skytrain

When you're inside the train, you will notice that Thais don't talk that much or if ever they speak with someone, they do it in a very soft tone. 

Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, BTS Train, Skytrain

Very colorful taxis taken at China Town
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, China Town, colorful taxi cab

Just like in Vietnam, motor bikes are also the public's favorite here
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK

Traffic is not that bad, in my opinion (comparing it to Manila)
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK

One of the things you should't miss to encounter when in Bangkok are the temples! The intricate, detailed architecture of these places of worship is impressive.

Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, The Grand Palace, Temples, Wat Phra Kew, Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, The Grand Palace, Temples, Wat Phra Kew, Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho

The Temple of the "gigantic" Reclining Buddha
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, The Grand Palace, Temples, Wat Phra Kew, Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho

Wat Arun Temple as seen from The Deck Arun Residences restaurant
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, Wat Arun, The Deck, Arun Residences

Going to the Grand Palace. Tourists from all over flock here all year round to see the majestic temples.
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, The Grand Palace, Temples, Wat Phra Kew, Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha

Thai nightlife is also one of a kind and it can get wild too! :D If you are up for a booze night or clubbing, you should stay round Sukhumvit or Silom Soi 2 because this is where the Bangkok night life is centered. Mobile bars are also everywhere so you don't have to worry about finding a nice play to have a beer or two.

Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, mobile bar, bar on wheels

Another great thing about Bangkok is STREET FOOD! These Thai sausages are a taste of heaven! I guess I'll have to write a separate blog post for my Thai food experience. Watch out for it.

Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, The Grand Palace, Temples, Wat Phra Kew, Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha, Thai Sausage, Street Food

Inside Peninsula Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, Peninsula Hotel

Waiting for Peninsula Bangkok's shuttle boat service
Bangkok, Thailand, BKK, Peninsula Hotel, boat shuttle