Bangkok

Traditional Thai house museum surrounded by tropical gardens

Bangkok most spectacular complex and former royal residence - absolute must-see. Built in 1782, covering over 200,000 square meters with countless majestic buildings, courtyards, and temples. Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) inside is Thailand most sacred religious icon - a Buddha carved from solid green jade clothed in gold and diamonds. Entry 500 THB ($14) includes palace, temple, and Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. Strict dress code enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered, no see-through clothing (rentals available at gate 200 THB). Opens 8:30am, last entry 3:30pm. Arrive at opening to avoid extreme heat and tour bus crowds. Allow 3-4 hours. Watch for common scam: people outside claiming palace is closed trying to redirect you to shops.

World-renowned temple housing spectacular 46-meter long gold-plated Reclining Buddha with intricate mother-of-pearl inlaid soles. Buddha pose represents entry into complete spiritual enlightenment. Located just 700 meters south of Grand Palace - easy to combine visits. Entry 200 THB ($6). Generally calmer than Grand Palace, especially 8:00-9:30am. Also home to famous traditional Thai massage school - expect around 420 THB for one-hour massage at official pavilions. Surrounding corridor features 108 bronze bowls representing auspicious Buddha characteristics. Temple closes around 6:30pm. One of oldest and largest temple complexes in Bangkok. UNESCO Memory of the World recognition. Less crowded alternative to Grand Palace if time is limited.

Stunning riverside temple with distinctive porcelain-encrusted spires rising majestically from Chao Phraya River western bank. One of Bangkok most photographed landmarks. Entry 200 THB ($6). Best viewed at sunset when temple is illuminated golden - though name references dawn when first light strikes the spires. You can climb partway up the central prang (tower) for river views - steep stairs. Reached by 5 THB ferry from Tha Tien pier near Wat Pho - scenic river crossing takes just minutes. Combines perfectly with Grand Palace and Wat Pho for full day of temple exploration. Dress code applies (shoulders and knees covered). Less crowded than Grand Palace. Evening illumination spectacular from opposite river bank.

One of world largest weekend markets with over 15,000 stalls spread across 35 acres. Open Saturday and Sunday only (some sections Friday evening). Everything imaginable: clothing, handicrafts, antiques, art, plants, pets, food, and more. Prices are negotiable - expect to bargain. Can easily spend entire day exploring but it is HOT and crowded - wear comfortable shoes, bring water. Food section offers incredible variety of Thai street food at rock-bottom prices. Located at BTS Mo Chit or MRT Chatuchak Park stations. Free entry. Arrive early morning (opens 9am) to beat worst heat and crowds. Friday evening plant market is local secret. Nearby JJ Green night market continues the shopping after Chatuchak closes.

Bangkok oldest and most authentic neighborhood - sensory overload of neon signs, gold shops, and legendary street food. Yaowarat Road is the heart, coming alive at night when food vendors set up creating one of world best street food experiences. Must-try: roasted duck, dim sum, shark fin soup (controversial), fresh seafood, mango sticky rice. Gold shops line the streets - serious buyers come here. Wat Traimit houses world largest solid gold Buddha statue (5.5 tons, entry 100 THB). Free to wander streets. Best experienced evening when cooler and food stalls are in full swing. MRT Wat Mangkon station provides easy access. Walking food tours highly recommended to navigate overwhelming choices. Authentic local atmosphere rarely found in tourist areas.

Bangkok is world capital of rooftop bars with stunning skyline views. Most famous: Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower (featured in Hangover II movie) - 63 floors up with jaw-dropping views, cocktails from $15-25. Dress code enforced (no shorts, sandals, sleeveless). Octave at Marriott Sukhumvit offers 360-degree views across three levels with more relaxed vibe. Vertigo at Banyan Tree is open-air with no glass barriers. Red Sky at Centara Grand has infinity bar edge. Most require smart casual dress. Arrive at sunset (around 6pm) for best light and photos. Drinks expensive by Bangkok standards ($10-25) but experience is unforgettable. Reservations recommended for popular spots especially weekends. Perfect way to end day of temple hopping.