Why stay in Bangkok?
photo: Greg Knapp
Bangkok is the chaotic and overcrowded capital of Thailand, and it's where most visitors enter the country. Many leave with a sour impression of Bangkok, especially in comparison to some of the peaceful parts of Thailand. Bangkok, however, isn't all about frenetic energy and Khao San Road.
There are a few outstanding temples in Bangkok, including Wat Arun and Wat Pho, and if you make your way to Rattanakosin Island you'll find Bangkok's older more interesting parts. Bangkok has long played host to countless travelers who are in search of something (usually themselves), so it's well equipped to handle visitors. The famous Khao San Road is full of cheap accommodations, cheap meals and cheap transportation. It's also full of backpackers - if you want to meet other travelers to swap travel tips and stories, this is the place to go. If you're trying to surround yourself with more locals than backpackers, Khao San Road might not be your cup of tea. In this huge city, however, there are plenty of places to hang out and sleep, so your choices are nearly endless.
Bangkok might seem full of young backpackers, but don't forget that "hostels" aren't just for young people anymore - they're just for budget-conscious travelers who want to meet other travelers from all over the world. A few Bangkok hostels worth noting are highlighted here.
The HI-Sukhumvit is in mid-town Bangkok and is within easy reach of bus and train stations. It might be further away from the center of everything, but that might be a nice thing after a day of touring the city. The Asha Guest House is not far from the new Bangkok airport. The BTS Skytrain is a ten minute walk away.
The Urban Age hostel offers free linens and towels with your stay but there's no hot water. Sukhumvit Soi 1Backpackers Hostel has 36 beds and its proprietors love travelers.
If none of these sounds like what you had in mind, remember there are plenty more Bangkok hostels where those came from. Keep looking until you find the one that makes you smile.
For more information to help you plan your trip to Bangkok, here is our Bangkok Travel Guide. You can also look for international airfare to Bangkok as well.
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