Bangkok | Discovering the Thai Capital
Updated: Jan 29
Thailand borders Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Malaysia . During the winter, the coast overlooking the Andaman Sea is a dream for visiting the Similan Islands, Khao Lak, Phi Phi Island and the Surin Nature Reserve .

The ideal place to start a trip to Thailand is from Bangkok, a unique city that knows how to welcome visitors in its own way, with an energy that never stops, not even at night. The contrast between modern skyscrapers and traditional markets creates a vibrant and unmistakable atmosphere , while the scents of spices and street food fill the air. Bangkok is not only a frenetic metropolis, but also a place rich in history and spirituality, thanks to its extraordinary temples, true masterpieces of art and culture.
After experiencing the intensity of the capital, Thailand invites you to discover another part of its soul, sailing towards the islands. Here the crystalline waters and enchanting beaches offer moments of peace and wonder. Each island has its own personality: from the festive atmospheres of Phi Phi Island to the quiet bays of Surin, every corner is a little paradise.
To truly immerse yourself in the essence of Thailand, the ideal is to dedicate at least 13 days or two weeks to this trip , so as to fully experience everything that this extraordinary country has to offer.
In my column "A misura di Manu" I propose ideas, experiences and itineraries. Advice and suggestions to ensure a truly unique tour as well as some tips that could be useful to you as soon as you land in this land
TRAVEL DIARY
Day 1 - 2:
We arrive in Bangkok on December 30th in the late afternoon

Let's say right away that you can't leave Bangkok without having at least one street massage on Khaosan Road: 30 minutes of pure relaxation for only €6!
We spend the first two days visiting the city. It is the city of contradictions where its thousand souls and types of people from all over the world coexist. Bangkok is an incredibly cosmopolitan city , and the cultural, political and commercial center of Thailand. We landed at Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi International Airport. We stayed at the 3-star Korbua House Hotel an area a few km from the center of Bangkok and immediately after checking in we immerse ourselves in the streets of the city. The local guide, Max Tiger, gives us an appointment in the nearby Khaosan Road (a symbolic road of the area) . Here we find with him a Money Exchange with a good currency exchange and we change the euros. We go to discover the city for the whole afternoon getting lost in its streets. We have dinner in one of the outdoor restaurants with tables on the street in Khaosan Road.

KHAO SAN ROAD NOT TO BE MISSED

Khaosan Road once a quiet rice market in the 80s, today the beating heart of Bangkok's international tourism Located in the Banglamphu district, this street became famous thanks to the book " The Beach" by Alex Garland and the film with Leonardo DiCaprio. As soon as you set foot on Khaosan , the lively atmosphere and cosmopolitan energy immediately involve you! Here we tried our first Pad Thai of the holiday. But there are many restaurants that also offer international dishes and endless bars where you can chat with other travellers. In short, here it is easy to always find an opportunity to have fun. Khaosan Road let's dispel the myth, It is not a dangerous area, on the contrary, it is the perfect choice for those looking for a dynamic adventure, full of opportunities to meet new people.
After dinner we have our first experience in a three-wheeled Tuk Tuk that whizzes by like crazy to make you doubt that you will arrive at your destination safe and sound. Direction Patpong
PATPONG MARKET

Let's stop at the Patpong night market, where I guarantee you will find the most absurd and unthinkable things, for this reason you cannot miss it as it is surreal, The Patpong night market is one of the most iconic and popular places in Bangkok, located in the lively Silom district , the beating heart of the "chic" nightlife, that of the skyscrapers to be clear. A visit to Patpong is an unmissable stop for those exploring Bangkok, Although prices have increased and the quality of the products is no longer what it once was, the charm of the market remains intact.
As I was telling you, Bangkok also comes alive at night.
We take the TUK TUK and in 10 minutes we are catapulted to the Rooftop of one of the most beautiful skyscrapers in Bangkok. We go for a drink on the Rooftop of theLebua Dome . Here they filmed a scene from the movie Hangover 2 , we go up to the Scirocco Skybar (the highest open-air sky bar in the world, located on the 64th floor of the State Tower : the view of Bangkok is spectacular and it is worth going there.
BANGKOK IN 2 DAYS: WHAT TO SEE AND
My time in Bangkok on this trip was very limited and so I promised myself to return as soon as possible,

Our day trip to Bangkok begins with a significant stop: the Democracy Monument , an imposing structure in the heart of the city that celebrates Thailand's modernization. Here, traffic flows around this historic landmark, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the city.
A few steps away, Wat Thepthidaram welcomes us with its tranquility and unique architectural details. This temple, less known by tourists, preserves a rare peace and allows us to admire ancient frescoes and refined statues.
The Magic of Golden Mountain

We continue towards the famous Golden Mountain (Wat Saket) , a hill topped by a golden temple that seems to touch the sky. After a climb marked by the melodic sound of bells, we reach the top. The view from here is incredible: Bangkok opens up before us, a mix of modernity and tradition. The temple, with its imposing golden bell, is a perfect place to take memorable photos and breathe the spiritual atmosphere of the city. Useful links to plan your visit: Golden Mountain (Wat Saket)
The splendor of the Royal Palace
On board four colorful tuk-tuks, we move towards the magnificent Royal Palace . This architectural jewel is a feast for the eyes, with glittering details, gold decorations and a regal atmosphere. Before entering, we make sure to respect the dress code: closed shoes and clothes that cover shoulders and legs. Some of us equip ourselves with sarongs and long trousers bought in the shops at the entrance. Once inside, we lose ourselves in the beauty of the complex, exploring the legendary Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) . The mystical aura of this statue, entirely carved in jade, is unique. Before leaving, we witness the changing of the guard and immortalize the moment with a group photo. Useful links to plan your visit Royal Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Lunch Break and the Reclining Buddha
We stop at the nearby Chang Pier for an informal lunch. Street food, fresh fruit and smoothies satisfy every palate, offering a taste of the local cuisine. We set off on foot towards Wat Pho , famous for its Reclining Buddha : a majestic 46-meter-long golden statue. It is impossible not to be enchanted by the decorative details and the spiritual atmosphere of this temple.
Sunset at Wat Arun
From the nearby Tha Thien Pier , we board a boat that, for a few baht, takes us to the other side of the river. Here the magnificent Wat Arun , the Temple of Dawn, awaits us, which at sunset lights up with a warm and magical light. We stroll among its stupas covered with colored porcelain, enjoying an hour of tranquility before returning.
Evening of food and lights
After a short break at the hotel, we find ourselves ready for the evening, which is also New Year's Eve. Here, New Year's Eve is very much felt. People flock to the port and there were thousands of us from all over the world. We reach Saphan Taksin station and take the free ferry to Asiatique The Riverfront . This open-air shopping center, located in the old docks of Bangkok, is a charming place where shops, bars and restaurants overlook the river. Here we dine in a seafood restaurant and toast to the new year.
New Year's Eve ends with a spectacular countdown and fireworks that light up the sky above the Chao Phraya River. We dance until the early hours, immersed in the contagious energy of Bangkok. Useful links to plan your visit Asiatique The Riverfront

The attractions and monuments you have discovered in this blog are only a small part of what Thailand has to offer. Each of these itineraries are unique, driven by your curiosity and desire to learn about a place through its history and people.
Travelling means opening yourself up to new experiences, being surprised by what you did not expect to find, and learning to see the world through different eyes. Sometimes, all it takes is an unexpected meet, a little-traveled road or an unexpected detail or simply a perfume to make the journey even more special.
And with this in mind, I want to leave you with a quote that I keep in my heart:
 Traveling is to be unfaithful. Be ruthless about it. Abandon your friends for strangers
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