ANCA'S GUIDE TO
Fly into Bangkok and spend a few days immersing yourself in one of the most exhilarating cities in the world. The culture, food and architecture create a constant sense of movement and surprise, where everything feels vividly alive.
Base yourself in Chinatown, Siam or Silom for easy access to the main sights, as traffic can be intense and getting across the city often takes longer than expected. Mornings are the best time for temple visits, before the heat builds. Wat Pho, with its reclining Buddha, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and Wat Arun, particularly just before sunset, are all essential.
A long-tail boat ride through the canals reveals a quieter, more local side of the city, with a stop at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, where a towering Buddha rises unexpectedly above the skyline. Back in Chinatown, spend time wandering and sampling some of the best street food in the world, much of it Michelin-recognised.
For a more contemporary feel, head to Song Wat Road or Siam Square for independent boutiques and interesting food spots. In the evening, Bang Rak is ideal for rooftop bars and sunset views, with Aether standing out for its cocktails and music. The flower market at Pak Khlong Talat is another highlight, with entire streets overflowing with vibrant, intricately arranged blooms.
Don’t miss the Jim Thompson House, a collection of traditional teakwood homes filled with Southeast Asian art and antiques. And at least once, take a tuk-tuk: it’s chaotic, fun and one of the best ways to experience the rhythm of the city.
Heading south, Ko Tao is perfect if you’re curious about scuba diving. It’s one of the easiest places to learn, with clear waters, abundant marine life and a relaxed, close-knit feel that makes it easy to settle in. Stay near Sairee Beach for a livelier atmosphere, or head to the east coast for something more secluded.
Food is a big part of the experience here. Family Kitchen serves comforting, flavourful curries, while Whitening Restaurant is ideal for fresh seafood right on the sand. Evenings tend to centre around sunset on Sairee Beach, a simple but memorable daily ritual.
A short ferry ride takes you to Ko Pha Ngan, where Sri Thanu offers a laid-back base with great restaurants, yoga studios and meditation spaces. Hiring a scooter is the best way to explore, revealing everything from quiet beaches and temples to unexpected wildlife, including monkeys and monitor lizards.
If conditions allow, try kitesurfing at Chaloklum Beach or Baan Tai. For snorkelling, Lolok Lagoon offers clear water and vibrant coral.
A few practical tips: use the Muvmi app in Bangkok for safer tuk-tuk rides, eat as much Tom Yum as you can, and bring an international driving licence if you plan to rent a scooter. Keep your plans loose and allow time to get lost, especially in Bangkok. The best moments often happen when you’re not looking for them.
