Recently, Mastercard’s annual ranking noted that Bangkok has overtaken London as the world’s top travel destination. While we’ve got mad love for London, we feel that Bangkok rightly deserves its place at the top spot. If you want all the hustle and bustle of a leading Southeast Asian city that effortlessly brings together the culture and development, and chaos and tranquility, the old and the new, then look no further: It’s Bangkok or bust!

Here’s a few reasons why we think Bangkok is boss when it comes to a one-of-a-kind getaway.

The old and the new collide … harmoniously

We love Bangkok because you can score a free English tour at the majestic and iconic Grand Palace, see the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and then just hop across the Chao Phraya River to climb up the awe-inspiring Wat Arun (it’s a steep one—not for everyone!) all in just a few hours. And the beauty of it is, all this rich history is in the same city as Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium, Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, and a host of mega malls like Siam Parragon and CentralWorld.

The food is bangin’!

From street food that’s full of spice and flavor, to high-end fusion that surprises the taste buds, Bangkok’s culinary variety is second to none. Forget what you know from your neighborhood Thai joint. The pork leg stew, oyster omelets, duck noodle soup, mango sticky rice, and a variety of other savory and sweet goodies—all at super affordable prices—will keep your appetite craving for more.

Getting around is fun … and colorful

Whether it’s weaving in and out of traffic in a multi-colored tuk-tuk, or enjoying the view of day-to-day life on the shoreline in a choppy water taxi, there’s more than one way to access the best of Bangkok. To get around even faster during heavy traffic times, you can also hop on the very comfortable and quick Skytrain, part of the city’s ever-expanding rapid transit system.

It’s full of unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else

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Fancy tasting some deep-fried bugs? Ever had a massive public water fight to celebrate a New Year? What about walking through an entire market that floats on water? Bangkok offers up some great experiences that definitely challenge the status quo…and maybe even your open-mindedness.

It knows how to party

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Ever had that dream where a trans bar tender with too much make-up offers you a glass of rum, while all you see is pink neon, and all you hear are the voices of sirens calling your name? Well that’s just your average Friday night in Bangkok. Whether it’s the X-rated temptations of Pat Pong and Soi Cowboy, or the adventurous backpacker-filled bars on Khaosan Road, Bangkok knows how to keep you out and about till very, very late.

It’s got places where you can take a breather

After all that site-seeing, shopping, and partying, you’ll need to relax and spend some time in quiet reflection. Take a famous Thai massage to ease out any stress in your body, and contemplate art at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre. Amble through the iconic Jim Thompson House, where you can see some classic Thai architecture and enjoy serenity right in the middle of the city.

Whatever floats your boat, Bangkok can be the destination that has something for everyone—no wonder it’s #1!

[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Got a great Bangkok experience you want to share with us? Tell us in the comments below.[/perfectpullquote]

 

 

 

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About The Author

Socialite, philanthropist, costumed crime fighter by night...no wait...that's Batman...my bad ... Musician, writer, travel junkie, dog lover, and database of useless information. I love to learn about new cultures, experience new cuisines, meet new people, and have a few laughs along the way!