“Bangkok, though, is a rejuvenating tonic; the people seem to have found the magic elixir. Life, a visitor feels, has not been wasted on the Thais.” Bernard Kalb
Bangkok, also known as the City of Angels, is the bustling, vibrant capital of Thailand. It is known for its golden spires, colorful tuk-tuks, and delicious street food. Here you will see modern skyscrapers standing alongside traditional temples. Bangkok is very different from European, American, and African cities. There are many unique things to do here, from exploring the historic and cultural attractions to indulging in affordable retail therapy. With so much to do and so many great places to stay in Bangkok, there is no excuse not to go there. These are family-friendly Bangkok attractions however they should be visited even if you do not have children with you.
The Grand Palace is Bangkok's most famous landmark and a must-see attraction. This opulent palace complex features many beautiful gold and jewel-studded shimmering structures and historic buildings. One of them is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The craftsmanship throughout the complex is intricate, and one can easily spend half a day exploring this attraction alone.
Bangkok's temples boast unique architecture and interiors, which provide insight into the local beliefs and culture. Some of the most famous temples are Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple), Wat Traimit, and Wat Arun. Wat Pho is home to a reclining gilded figure of Buddha — one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. Wat Traimit contains the world's largest gold seated Buddha. Wat Benchamabophit and Wat Arun are other popular picturesque temples.
This is the city's main river. There are many traditional boats sailing along the river, which provides excellent photo opportunities. You can go for a boat ride on the Chao Phraya Express and see Bangkok's attractive skyline from the water. You can hop on and off the boat at the various landmarks too.
There are several floating markets in and around Bangkok. However, the total decreases every year, and there may not be any around in a couple of decades. Here you can experience how shopping was done in days gone by. Thai men and women in bamboo hats sell fresh produce, Thai dishes and delicacies, clothing, and other items from canoes as they paddle along the water. If you are traveling to Bangkok with teenagers, they will love this unique experience.
The Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the world's largest weekend markets. It has over 15,000 stalls selling almost everything you can imagine. The amount of options can be mind-boggling, but the good news is that the prices are affordable. You will need a few hours to explore this market properly.
Lumpini Park is a green oasis in the heart of the city where people come to socialize, jog, exercise, and play. The park contains open public spaces, playgrounds, trees and an artificial lake where visitors can rent boats and see ducks and water monitors. The Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, where I spent two days with my family, is a great hotel near this spot.
These are just some of the Bangkok attractions you should see on your first visit there. Visit Bangkok and experience them for yourself.
"If you want culture and class, I would say Tuscany ,
If you want exotic, I would say Bangkok, Thailand "
-Robin Leach
Disclosure: 13
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.