A Beginner’s Guide To Thailand

04.01.2024 - 13:13 / forbes.com

With an estimated 24.6 million foreign tourists arriving in 2023 (as reported by Skift), the Kingdom of Thailand is one of the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. For first-time visitors interested in immersive culture, eye-widening landscapes and epic gastronomy, here are some highlights from Thailand's cities, seas, mountains and jungles:

“Bangkok is a feast of colors, culture and cuisine,” says Jihane Sejai-Smith, Travel Expert for tour operator Black Tomato, which counts Thailand among their top ten selling destinations. “It’s impossible to see all of Thailand’s vibrant capital, so I always recommend seeking out some highlights.”

Start with food, because this is a serious city for gastronomes: Markets are a fascinating way to gather insight into the culture, and there are no shortage of ones to choose from. “Don't be afraid to try street food in the locals-only Nang Loeng Market,” says Sejai-Smith, “but stick to well-cooked items; delicious noodle stir frys such as phad Thai, red and green Thai curries, Thai-style omelets, fish cakes and soups.”

Floating markets are also a sight to see. One of the best is Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, which can be reached via Bangkok’s metro, BTS Skytrain (to Bang Wa Station, on the Silom Line).

Located on Maha Chai Road, Jay Fai is a street-food legend, winning a Star in Michelin’s inaugural Bangkok guide of 2017. The crab omelet is worth the wait. For a more typical Michelin experience, try the elegant, two-star R-Haan for classic Thai fare.

Visiting one of Bangkok’s flashy rooftop bars is another popular foodie experience. While the most famous bar is arguably Sky Bar, at the top of Lebua State Tower (as seen in the Hangover movie franchise), one of the city’s newest additions is the 34-floor Giant Swing Pool Bar, fully equipped with punchy tropical tipples; a Insta-friendly infinity pool with glass bottom; and dazzling city views in every direction.

There are more than 400 temples (called wats) in Bangkok including favorites like the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), which is located just across the river from another of the city’s best-known sights, The Grand Palace, still used for official regal events. Wat Pho with the reclining Buddha is another top pick, and Sejai-Smith recommends the marble Wat Benchamabophit temple “ideally at sunrise.”

Bangkok isn’t big on museums, but the gorgeous and quirky house of Jim Thomson, an American businessman who transformed the Thai silk industry, is worth checking out for its interesting architecture and Asian art.

“For travelers who might not have the budget for five-star luxury hotels throughout, it’s a good idea to splurge while staying in Bangkok,” says Sejai-Smith. “Having somewhere spoiling to retreat to after