Hello, we will be in Bangkok Nov 6-8 for one whole day.
We're staying at the Aranta hotel but can change for a better location. Any suggestions on how to spend our day? The Grand palace or a floating market? It our first time so anything would be great. We're on our way to Chaing Mai
Thanks, Jo
Definitely check out a floating market.
I'd also highly recommend traversing the city by river boats. They are cheaper and faster than buses and are a much more memorable experience.
Thanks I didn't even know about river boats
If you really only have one day, you might want to consider hiring a private guide. I used this company when I had two days in Bangkok (only used the guide for one day):
They will work with you to fit in everything that is on your "must see" list. You will be able to do a lot more than if you are figuring out all the logistics yourself. I found Bangkok fairly easy to navigate, but some places were very crowded (the palace, for instance) and it was helpful to have someone lead the way and arrange the tickets, etc. The guide picked me up at the hotel, we used public transportation and walking, covering a lot in my one day, and he took me to a delicious place for lunch.
The only Aranta Hotel I found is at the airport. With a full day, you could easily visit the Grand Palace, the flower market, and one or two other city sights. I've been to Bangkok for 3-5 day stays 3 times and still haven't been to a floating market. I suggest you read this.
Hi Jo. I have lived in and been all over Thailand. In Bangkok I would recommend visiting the original King's Palace if you want a taste of "old" Thailand. You could see it in about 2 hours.
Jo, one more thing. Men must wear long pants. My husband and son showed up in shorts and had to buy paper pants to wear so they could go in. The pictures are pretty funny. If I remember right, women need to have shoulders covered? Google this because I can't remember for sure.
I also hired a guide through YourThaiGuide referenced earlier. I had one very, very long day hitting the highlights - it was worth the money to have someone get you around. I traveled by metro, boat, tuk tuk, train, and cab. I did not go to a floating market, but did hit all the major temples and palaces. You can't see it all in one day, so pick a couple things you really want to see and take it easy (the heat and humidity do make it quite a slog if you rush it).
