Bangkok

The city of smiles

Bangkok is Thailand’s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial and educational centre. Home to exotic tropical plants, delicious fruit and tempting cuisine, Bangkok is a delight for the senses.  Visit its bustling shops and floating markets, museums and blooming parks and gardens to experience just some of what this city has to offer. Famous for its Muay Thai matches, a growing golf following and arguably the best massage and spa treatments in the world, it is no wonder that Bangkok is on the top of the adventurous traveller’s list of must-see places.

Getting There

Located 30km (19 miles) to the east of Bangkok, space-age Suvarnabhumi Airport is Bangkok's main airport as well as the busiest airport in Southeast Asia. Check on dnatatravel.com for a list of international carriers that serve the airport as well as the lowest fares to Bangkok.

Transportation

Limousine taxis can be reserved for your stay in the city but metered taxis are also readily available. The more adventurous can try the local tuk-tuk, notorious for the sound them make and the dizzying drive around the city that it affords travellers. Certainly not for the faint of heart, but worth a try for the ‘authentic’ Bangkok experience. Fares on the tuk tuk should be negotiated with the driver before you begin your ride.

Pamper yourself with a Thai massage or play a round of golf

The high humidity and warm temperatures favour the growth of exotic orchids, bougainvillea and frangipani. Enjoy them at the city’s numerous parks.  Santi Chai Prakan Pavillion and Public Park comes highly recommended, offering scenic views of the Chao Phraya River and Rama VIII Bridge.

Bangkok is extremely popular for those in search of pampering, offering a range of massages and spa treatments. Check dnatatravel.com for spa and wellness packages that include reasonably priced hotel accommodations and superior pampering experiences.

A great way to take in the sights such as the Grand Palace is on one of the special boat trips along the Chao Phraya River. You can also take the public ferry and go up to Nonthaburi Town to enjoy a laid back afternoon in a traditional Thai town. Then take the boat back to your hotel, perhaps for a delicious meal of spicy Thai cuisine.

To get away from the pressures of the concrete jungle, a few rounds of golf could do the trick. Top-notch courses of only the highest international standards can be found in and around Bangkok. Book your golf holiday online with dnatatravel.com and choose from several options, including lowest fares and best hotel deals.

Complete your visit with a walk down the Sukhumvit area. Find great bargains on locally produced items and souvenirs. The Taling Chan Floating Market, with its colourful fruits and vegetables is also a must-see, as well as the famous martial art Muay Thai competitions.

Time your trip

Several special events and festivals occur throughout the year in Bangkok so you might want to check with dnatatravel.com for the best times to visit. Amongst the best are the Chinese New Year Festival, the traditional Thai New Year festival called the Bangkok Songkran and the King’s birthday celebrations in December