Bangkok

Bangkok has tons of cheap, fun, and social hostels. Here are some of my favorite places to stay:

1. Mad Monkey Hostel
2. @Hua Lamphong Hostel
3. Lub d Bangkok Siam
4. D&D Inn
5. Bangkok Tree House

Public transportation – Bangkok’s public buses are the cheapest way to get around the city. They’re run by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, whose website has detailed information on various routes. Air-conditioned buses typically start at 10-18 THB and go up based on distance. A weekly pass costs 255 THB.

Taxi – Taxis are my favorite way to get around the city, as they’re clean, comfortable, and there’s no need to haggle over the price. However, only get in a cab that uses the meter. The rate for the first kilometer is 35 THB, with an additional baht for every 50 meters after that; a 5 kilometers (3 miles) journey runs about 60 THB.

Motorcycle taxis are another popular way to get around the city, usually costing between 20-100 THB per trip. You tell your driver where you want to go, negotiate a price (haggle hard!), strap on the helmet, and speed off into traffic. They’re the quickest (but the scariest way) to get across Bangkok

Tuk-Tuk – Tuk-tuks are noisy, polluting, and uncomfortable. They require hard bargaining skills and are only worth taking once, for the experience. I sometimes like them for short distances but generally prefer a cab to a tuk-tuk. Fares vary greatly based on your haggling skills but expect to be first quoted around 100 THB.

Grab (Ride-Sharing) – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber. It works the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the Grab app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers can be unreliable.

Car rental – Car rentals aren’t super cheap here, usually costing around 800 THB per day for a multi-day rental. I’d skip the car rental as public transportation is faster and cheaper and the city can be a nightmare to drive in.

November to the end of February is the best time to visit Bangkok if you want pleasant weather. Bangkok is “coolest” during this time but still averages a hot daily high around 29°C (85°F). This is also the driest time of year. However, because this coincides with Christmas and New Year, expect big crowds and inflated prices.

The shoulder season (April to June) is the hottest time of year to visit Bangkok, with temperatures soaring as high as 40°C (100°F). If you have to come during this time, try to make it for the Thai New Year (Songkran) in April. Songkran is the largest water festival in the world, and you’re guaranteed to have a blast.

Avoid July to October if you can. This is monsoon season and rains can be heavy and unpredictable. I’m not saying it’s going to rain 24/7, but it rains more often and more heavily than other times of the year. Prices are usually cheaper during this time though.

Bangkok is a safe place to backpack and travel, even for solo travelers and even solo female travelers. That being said, it’s also an incredibly chaotic and busy city. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime you’ll face in Bangkok. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach — especially in crowded tourist areas and when on public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe exploring the city, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Some people will try to rip you off, including taxi drivers who refuse to turn on their meters. If the driver won’t turn on their meter, just get out and find one who will.

In addition, you have to follow health regulations during Covid-19. You should wear a mask and wash your hands when visiting crowded places.

To help you fully enjoy your vacation to Thailand we’ve put together some basic packing list guidelines. Hope this will be useful for your travels.

Clothing & Footwear-Packing comfortable clothing for your journey through Thailand is important.

Electronics-Who can live without their phone? Make sure to pack all your electrical items to document your travels!

Medical, Toiletries, and Skin Protection-Going overseas can be difficult. Take care of your body by packing recommended toiletries and medical items.

Luggage-Finally, don’t forget sufficient luggage where you can put all this stuff.

What a wonderful escape plan for you to do during your holiday! Just pack your luggage and we will take care of the rest of the journey!

Lux Travel DMC has just turned 15 years old in the travel industry sector within Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries. With the prior experience from the young staff, we believe that this will be helpful for you when planning your holiday to Southeast Asia. Let us be a part of your memorable trip to Southeast Asia!

If you are interested in Bangkok tours, you may send us an email at [email protected]