Visiting Thailand

Demon & Monkey Caryatide – Grand Palace, Bangkok
Originally uploaded by MsAnthea “Anthéaïs”

5. Jim Thompson’s House, Bangkok

4. Wat Arun, Temple of the Dawn, Bangkok

3. Golden Buddha, Wat Traimit, Bangkok

2. Giant Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho, Bangkok

1. Grand Palace, Bangkok

Jim Thompson’s House, Bangkok
Originally uploaded by Lorna87

Jim Thompson’s House in Bangkok is a great destination for visitors to Bangkok. Jim Thompson’s House is a well-preserved traditional Thai house in Bangkok made of teak wood. Jim Thompson was an American living in Thailand who revived the silk industry in Bangkok.

People visiting Bangkok can tour Jim Thompson’s House to see antiques and art from Thailand. Jim Thompson’s House also has a good restaurant and a silk shop.

Jim Thompson’s House Opening Hours: 9am-4.30pm

Jim Thompson’s House Entrance Fee: 100 Baht.

Floating Market, Bangkok
Originally uploaded by caroline keyzor

The floating market in Bangkok is a cultural adventure that requires an early start. The floating market in Bangkok closes in mid-day, so people visiting Bangkok are advised to wake up early to get to the market. Take a small boat to the floating market and browse through the fruits, vegetables, noodles, souvenirs, handicrafts, and spices while honing your bargaining skills.

How to get to the floating market from Bangkok:
Go to the Southern Bus Terminal, which is 25 km from Bangkok (taxis from Bangkok to the Southern Bus Terminal cost around 110-$150 Bhat). From the Southern Bus Terminal, take bus #78 (bus costs around 64 Bhat). The trip takes 2 hours. Get off at Damnern Saduak.

When you get to the bus stop, do not go with the boat operators who will approach you. They will charge around 1,000 Bhat for a motor boat ride through the floating market. If you walk 10-15 minutes to get closer to the market, you will find other boat operators who will take you for 150 Bhat.