Bangkok travel guide! Thai Baht Exchange/Visa/Internet/Price/Transportation/Itinerary/Hotel/Food

When it comes to the most suitable countries for independent Travel, Bangkok will definitely be on the list. Not only are prices cheap for independent travel in Bangkok, but the accommodation, food, massage and numerous shopping malls make it a paradise for travelers! But if you are Traveling to Thailand for the first time, what should you pay attention to before your Trip? What are the must-try foods, attractions, itineraries, and must-buy shopping experiences you recommend? If the above is what you have in mind, you may want to refer to this "Bangkok Free Travel Guide"!



Things to know before traveling to Bangkok

How to apply for a Thai visa?

Starting from July 15, 2024, Taiwan passport holders can enter Thailand visa-free! And you can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days! Although you can now travel to Thailand without a visa, you must make sure you understand Thailand’s entry regulations before departure!

✅Passport validity: The passport must be valid for more than six months.

✅Quick entry: If your luggage does not exceed the duty-free limit and you do not carry any controlled, prohibited or restricted import items, you can go through the green line station (no declaration station); if you need to declare taxes or carry restricted items, you can go through the red line station (declaration station). ) Clear customs.

✅ Epidemic policy: Generally, those who test positive on the rapid test are advised to self-manage for 5 days, which can be extended to 10 days if symptoms persist.

✅Proof of financial resources: It is recommended to bring hotel reservation records or local contact information, and prepare at least 10,000 Thai baht per person and at least 20,000 Thai baht per family or equivalent currency.

How to buy air tickets to Bangkok?

There are several ways to fly from Taiwan to Bangkok, including direct flights and connecting flights. Let’s talk about transfers first. If you think the time for a direct flight from Taipei to Bangkok is not good, then you can consider transferring in Hong Kong. Sometimes the time for transferring to Hong Kong and then to Bangkok will be better than a direct flight from Taipei to Bangkok. If you don't want to spend time transferring, there are currently two options for flights from Taiwan to Bangkok:

• Traditional national airlines: Currently, China Airlines, EVA Air, Thai Airways, and Starlux Airlines all have direct flights, and round-trip economy class tickets cost approximately between NT$8,000 and NT$12,000.
• Budget airlines: If you want to save a little on air tickets, you can consider budget airlines. Tiger Airways and VietJet both offer services, and the ticket prices are about half of those of traditional airlines. However, please note that if you want to go shopping in Bangkok, low-cost airlines usually only allow 7kg of carry-on luggage on board, and checked luggage will cost extra, which may be more expensive than taking traditional airlines. , it is recommended that you compare prices before making a decision.
  

Where to live in Bangkok?

The advantage of Bangkok's low prices is reflected in accommodation. For Taiwanese people, the accommodation prices in Bangkok are really affordable. How cheap are they? You can stay in a cheap four-star or five-star hotel double room for 2,000 to 3,000 yuan per night. If you budget 2,000 to 3,000 yuan more, you can stay in a luxurious five-star hotel. As for business hotels and youth hostels, the average price is around 1,000 yuan. Below NT$10,000, isn’t that “very good”?

Bangkok Internet Recommendations

Basically, as long as you are in downtown Bangkok, department stores or restaurants almost all provide wifi, and the connection quality is pretty good. If you want to buy an internet card in Bangkok, the price is quite cheap, 299 baht for seven days, including unlimited internet and 100 baht call charges, which can meet the internet needs of most people.

Bangkok Budget and Local Prices

The cost of traveling to Bangkok varies according to the number of days, air tickets and accommodation level, and each person's budget will vary. If you estimate your budget based on flying economy class and staying in 4-5 star hotels, the budget for different travel days is as follows:

• Three days and two nights: about NT$8,000-12,000 per person
• Four days and three nights: about NT$13,000-17,000 per person
• Five days and four nights: about NT$18,000-22,000 per person
  

The local prices in Bangkok are as follows:

• Transportation budget: The MRT subway is about 16-59 baht, the starting price of a taxi is 35 baht, and the tuk-tuk is 20-50 baht.
• Food and Beverage Budget: Roadside food is about 30-70 baht, and restaurants and food courts are about 200-1000 baht.
• Budget for massage in Bangkok: From 150 baht for a low-end massage to 3,000 to 4,000 baht for a high-end massage. The average price is around 500 baht (for a one-hour massage).
  

Bangkok itinerary recommendations

Due to work restrictions, Taiwanese people can only use their long vacations during the winter and summer holidays to travel abroad. Therefore, the number of days for a trip to Bangkok is no more than three days and two nights, four days and three nights, or five days and four nights. , only a few people will arrange to stay for more than six days and five nights.

In these few short days, you can first think about what your needs are for traveling to Bangkok. Do you want to shop and eat delicious food? Want an unlimited massage? Want to visit all the must-see attractions in Bangkok in one trip? Or do you want to have the opportunity to explore Thailand more deeply and visit cities other than Bangkok?

Bangkok time difference

Thailand is one hour behind Taiwan, which means if it is 10 am in Taiwan, it is 9 am in Bangkok.

Bangkok local language

The official language of Thailand is Thai, but there are many signs on the road with English, and almost all shops speak English, so communication is not difficult. Sometimes in popular Tourist attractions, you may even meet people who speak Chinese. People!

What is the voltage in Bangkok?

The voltage in Thailand is 220V, and there are two types of plugs: two-hole round head and two-hole flat head, which are compatible with the plugs of most electronic products in Taiwan. If you are staying in a star-rated hotel or an international chain hotel, the hotel will usually provide multi-function sockets, so you can use them safely without bringing an adapter; if you are really worried, you can also prepare a few adapters in case of emergency.

Bangkok Climate and Clothing

Bangkok is a tropical country with summer all year round. March to May is the hottest, which is basically the same as Taiwan's summer. June to October is the rainy season, with more chances of afternoon thunderstorms and occasional heavy rain. ; November to February is the cool season. It doesn’t rain and the temperature is not too high. It is the most suitable season for travel.

Considering the climate and temperature, wearing short sleeves throughout your trip to Bangkok would be the best choice. If you are afraid of sunburn, or if your itinerary includes visits to some temples, it is recommended that you bring a thin long-sleeved shirt and loose trousers to block the sun without offending local customs.

Bangkok Airport Transportation



Bangkok Airport Transportation

When traveling from Taiwan to Bangkok, you will usually stop at two major airports. One is Suvarnabhumi International Airport (airport code: BKK), which is similar to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Most flights will arrive here. The other is Don Mueang Airport (DMK), which is a bit like Taipei Songshan Airport, mainly serving low-cost airlines or domestic flights.

Here are the transportation options from these two airports to downtown Bangkok:

Suvarnabhumi International Airport

• Airport MRT: Take the dark red Airport MRT Line directly. The last stop Phayathai connects to the light green BTS Sukhumvit Line, which takes you directly to the city. The whole Journey takes about 30 minutes and the ticket price is about 45 baht.
• Taxi: There is a taxi stand on the first floor after entering the country. If there is no traffic jam, it will take about 30 minutes to get to the city center. If there is a traffic jam, it may take more than an hour. The fare is about 250-300 baht.
• Airport transfer: If you find the above two methods inconvenient, the best way is to make an appointment for airport transfer service. The price of a one-way transfer ranges from about 500 to 1500 yuan, depending on the number of passengers and the type of vehicle.
  

Don Muang Airport

• Airport bus + BTS/MRT: You can take the A1 airport bus at Exit 5 of the arrival hall. It will take about 30 minutes to reach BTS Mo Chit Station or MRT Chatuchak Station, and then transfer to the sky train or subway from here. The airport bus fare is 30 baht, and the skytrain and subway fare starts at 16 baht.
• Taxi: There is a taxi stand in the arrival hall. If there is no traffic jam, it takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the city center. The price is about 200-300 baht.
• Train: You can transfer to the train on the second floor of Don Muang Airport. The closest train to the city should be Hua Lamphong Railway Station. The journey takes about 45-60 minutes and the ticket price is about 16 baht.
• Airport transfer: Depending on the number of passengers and the type of vehicle, the one-way transfer price is approximately 500-1500 yuan.
  

Traffic in Bangkok

There are many options for free travel in Bangkok. The most convenient ones are BTS Skytrain and MRT subway. However, there are still some inconveniences, such as no air conditioning on the platform and almost no air conditioning except for popular stations. For escalators or elevators, and to buy tickets you can only bring your own change to the coin-operated machines, etc.

If you want your journey to be more convenient and comfortable, or if you are traveling with elderly people or children, then a taxi may be a better second choice. Taxis in Bangkok are very cheap, with the starting price being only 35 Thai baht, which is half the price in Taiwan. If you want to experience some new and interesting local transportation methods, tuk-tuks and water transportation are also other urban transportation methods you can consider!

Bangkok free travel exchange rate



The exchange rate of Thai Baht to New Taiwan Dollar is about 1:1, which means that 3,000 New Taiwan Dollars can be exchanged for 3,000 Thai Baht. However, because prices in Bangkok are very cheap, the value of 3,000 is basically greater than that of New Taiwan Dollars.

As for the money exchange strategy, if you don’t have Thai baht on hand, it is recommended that you exchange some for emergency use at the airport after arriving in Bangkok (about 500-1000 is enough), and then find a money exchange after arriving in the city.

So what are the recommended money exchange offices in Bangkok city? Many bloggers and travel websites recommend Super Rich, which can be found around many BTS stations and has a very good exchange rate. In addition, the editor also recommends the money exchange office near BTS Asok Station towards Terminal 21, which is quite convenient in terms of transportation and exchange rate. good.

Bangkok Travel Must-See Attractions

Even if you have never been to Bangkok, you must have heard from TV or your friends and family that Bangkok’s attractions are really “fun in Thailand”, but what is its charm that has allowed it to be ranked first among the “World’s Best Tourist Cities” for several consecutive years?

The following are classified by different themes and recommended must-see attractions to help you understand the charm of Bangkok:

• Ancient temples: the Erawan Shrine, the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Wat Pho, the Wat Arun, and Ayutthaya, where you can experience the charm of Buddhism that has lasted for thousands of years.
• Shopping centers, malls, department stores: Terminal 21, Icon Siam, Big C Supercenter, Siam Discovery. There are dozens of department stores and malls in the city alone, so you can be sure to shop until you get home from work every day.
• Sky bars: RedSky Bar, Mahanakhon SkyWalk, have a drink while enjoying Bangkok's million-dollar night view, what a pleasant nightlife.
• Markets and night markets: Chatuchak Weekend Market and Asiatique Riverside Pier Night Market, where you can buy exquisite Made in Thailand designer products at low prices.
• Performance shows: ladyboy show, Muay Thai show. If you are interested in these Thai cultures, you can learn more about them through the shows.
• Special experience: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Amphawa Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market are the unique local cultures of Thailand.
• In-depth travel: In addition to Bangkok city and the above-mentioned must-see attractions, you can also take a train or domestic flight to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi and other cities to experience different Thai customs.
  

Recommended attractions in Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market



When it comes to the most famous floating market in Bangkok, it must be Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. It is known as the Venice of the East, with a constant stream of ships and tourists coming and going. In fact, there are many shops and stalls not only on the boat, but also on the roadside where you can stroll around. This place is quite far from Bangkok, so it’s more of a suburban experience. We recommend taking a day trip here with other nearby attractions so you don’t have to make a special trip!

Address: 51 Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
Opening hours: 08:00–16:00

Bangkok attractions recommended Erawan Shrine


The status of the Four-Faced Buddha to Thai people is probably like that of Mazu and Guanyin to Taiwanese people, so you can see traces of the Four-Faced Buddha everywhere. However, the most famous one should be the one in the city center. Whenever you pass by it, it is always crowded with people, both locals and foreign tourists, who come here to visit. It has become an alternative must-see attraction in Bangkok.

Address: 494 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Opening hours: 06:00–22:00

Bangkok Attractions Recommended RedSky Bar



RedSky Bar is located on the 56th floor of Centara Grand Hotel next to Central World, so I suggest you combine Erawan Shrine, Central World, Big C and RedSky Bar into a one-day trip to Bangkok. Perhaps because it is easily accessible in the city center, this is the most popular high school bar. The 360-degree surround night view, the hazy night sky, and the comfortable music make it a great place for couples, friends, or families to have a drink together.

Address: 999, 99 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Opening hours: 17:00–01:00

Recommended attractions in Bangkok: Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha



If this is your first time traveling to Bangkok, then the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are definitely among the recommended must-see attractions in Bangkok, which are also voted No. 1 must-visit attractions by tourists!

The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are actually two different places. The Grand Palace is where the Thai royal family holds important ceremonies or receives guests from various countries. For example, the death of King Rama IX and the succession of King Rama X were both held at the Grand Palace. The relevant ceremony was held here. As for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it has a history of nearly 350 years. It was built during the reign of King Rama I, the first emperor of Thailand. But what impresses travelers most here is perhaps its magnificent appearance and exquisite carvings!

Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Opening hours: 08:30–15:30

Bangkok Attractions Recommended Calypso Cabaret Show



Bangkok is one of the few Asian countries that recognizes gender diversity, and the most famous here is "ladyboys". Although it may not be a good idea to consume ladyboys, it has to be said that some ladyboy shows are really wonderful, provided that you do not look at them with any strange eyes, then these 75 minutes are definitely worth the ticket price. Due to the epidemic, the ladyboy show has been suspended at present, but I believe it will be back on stage after the epidemic improves!

Address: 2194 Charoen Krung Rd, Bang Kho Laem, Khet Bang Kho Laem, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand
Sessions: 19:30, 21:00

Bangkok's must-eat food



There are many restaurants and snacks in Bangkok, but the number of days for a free trip to Bangkok is limited. How can you decide which foods are the must-eats? The following editor will help you make a recommended food guide for your Bangkok travel. If you want to eat something delicious, just schedule the restaurants on your itinerary!

• Tom Yum Kung: Khao San Road Tom Yum Kung
• Thai rice noodle soup: Guay Tiew Mu Rung Rueang
• Green Papaya Salad: Somtum Der
• Hainanese Chicken Rice: Go-Ang Kaomunkai Pratunam
• Thai curry: Savoey Thai Restaurant
• Mango Sticky Rice: Mae Varee
• Thai Milk Tea: Hand Sign (ChaTraMue)
• Banana pancakes: buy any you see on the street, you won’t get a bad deal
  

Must-buy souvenirs for a free trip to Bangkok



Bangkok is cheap, and there are so many shopping malls, department stores and markets. What are the must-buys in Bangkok? What is the cheapest thing to buy? The following are the must-buy items in Bangkok recommended by most websites and bloggers. You can also add them to your shopping list according to your needs!

• Snacks and local products: Pocky Thailand Limited Edition (banana chocolate, mango flavor), PRETZ biscuits (recommended must-buy Tom Yum Goong and Da Pao Pork flavor), Little Boss Seaweed, Bento Squid Slices, Big Brother Peanuts, Royal Milk Slices, Thai cuisine Seasoning package, dried mango, dried durian, mother noodles
• Cosmetics and medicines: Mistine cosmetics (eyeliner, eyebrow pencil), ele night mask, Royal Foot Patches, Tiger Balm, Green Ointment, Counterpain Pain Ointment, Double-Headed Nasal Aspirator
• Daily necessities: Snake brand talcum powder, Mrs. Xing handmade soap, modeling soap, Soffell mosquito repellent
• Bags and clothing: NaRaYa bags, BKK bags, batik pants, Muay Thai pants
  

Bangkok Travel Massage



Bangkok is known as a SPA paradise, so if you come to Bangkok for a free trip, you must experience a Thai massage. If you don’t have any special requirements for services or a beautiful environment, you can generally enjoy it by spending 300-600 baht. However, I would like to recommend one massage parlor to you based on the price range of massage parlors in Bangkok:

• Affordable Bangkok massage recommendation: Sayamon Massage is located opposite Pratunam Market and uses traditional Thai massage techniques. Prices start from 200 baht.
• Recommended mid-range massage in Bangkok: Let’s Relax is a chain massage brand in Bangkok with many branches in the city. The special feature is that after the massage, the store will give you a plate of mango sticky rice. The price starts from 600 baht.
• Recommended high-end Bangkok massage: Oasis Spa is a high-end Bangkok massage brand in the hearts of wealthy ladies. The atmosphere, service level and massage techniques are all very good, with prices starting from 1,700 baht.
  

FAQs about Bangkok Travel

Q1. Is Bangkok safe? Is it dangerous to travel independently in Bangkok?

Generally speaking, Bangkok has a pretty good security situation; after all, it is an international tourist city. Of course, you may still encounter some situations during your travels. For example, my family had their wallets stolen while visiting a night market, or the taxi driver deliberately took them to strange places. You will encounter this problem no matter which country you travel to, so as long as you protect yourself and don’t expose your money, you can still travel in Bangkok with peace of mind!

Q2. Are there any recommended Bangkok travel guides or online information?

Of course there is, isn’t there one right here? (Laughs) In addition to reading more complete Bangkok travel guides like this one, bookstores also sell a lot of travel guides. If you have time, you can go to the bookstore to read more. If you think the content is rich in information, you can buy it. After all, everyone has their own Everyone has different needs, and it is impossible to feed all kinds of people with the same rice.