Bangkok highlights

We didn't spend long in Bangkok, but, despite failing to do almost no research on the city before arriving, we did stumble upon a few delights we thought fit to share.

To do on the cheap:

The flower market: For a free taste of the real Bangkok head over to Pak Khlong Talak in the old town just off Chak Phet road. It's Bangkok's oldest and biggest flower market that is supposedly open 24 hours a day, seven days a week - although it had a decidedly closed feel about it when we wandered through the first time at around 6pm. As well as all of the intricate flower garlands made for Buddhists ceremonies, the kind you see hanging in every tuck tuck and taxi, there are a huge variety of orchids, marigolds and even the odd English Rose. Oh, and fruit, lots and lots of fruit.

 
 

Saranrom Park: This is where families chill out, the fit go running, and the retired meet to play table tennis or have a picnic on the grass. We wandered through early in the morning and it was already a hive of activity. A great place to sit with your breakfast and see Bangkok wake up.

The sleeping Buddha: Also known as Wat Pho, this is located next to the Grand Palace and offers a wealth of great architecture. At 100 Baht to enter, which includes a bottle of water, it makes a great alternative if you don't want to fork out 500 Baht to see the Palace.

 

To eat:

Steve`s Cafe and Cuisine: A little further out from the main tourist area, this is located across the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem canal, tucked away behind the Wat Thewarat Kunchorn Wirawiham Pagoda. It comes with a great view of the river and bridge from a covered decking area, and is a perfect place to have a traditional Thai meal and watch the sunset. English menus available, with a huge selection of delicious dishes, although the waiters don't speak much English.

 

To sleep:

Bangkok Bed and Bike: While we can't comment on the dorms, our double room was great value at 1500 Baht with breakfast. It's incredibly clean, the showers were the best we've come across in a hostel, the staff friendly and helpful, and the breakfast vast. It's styled with a vintage modern feel, with old typewriters, bikes and coffee grinders dotted about the place. A bit like you're staying in the house of a famous writer.