Bangkok hits all your senses at once: incense and chilli, tuk-tuk horns and temple bells, glittering spires above canal-side shacks. A "sawatdee" and a smile (the Thai superpower) open every door.
- The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew — the dazzling former royal seat and the revered Emerald Buddha. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and go at opening.
- Wat Arun at sunset — the "Temple of Dawn" on the river, its spire encrusted with porcelain. Cross by the little ferry and watch it glow gold as the light drops.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market — 15,000 stalls, one of the world's biggest markets. Weekend only; go early, stay hydrated, get happily lost.
- A longtail boat through the klongs — the canals of Thonburi, a slower Bangkok of stilt houses and orchid gardens away from the traffic.
- Street food on Yaowarat — Chinatown after dark, grills and woks spilling onto the pavement. Point, smile, say "aroi!" (delicious!) and eat everything.
Thais adore visitors who try even a word or two — "khop khun" (thank you) earns instant warmth. Meet a Thai speaker below and land knowing how to say hello and thank you.
