Bangkok.

Travel Tips

Stay: Siam@Siam Design Hotel - this hotel has a very chic appeal and the interior decorating is absolutely gorgeous. The hotel offers buffet breakfast which is of good quality and there are a number of bars and the pool overlooks the city. The location is perfect and is very close to MBK shopping centre. Compliments to Casey Reid (Flight Centre, Ashmore City) for the recommendation.

Activities:

• Tuk Tuks - outside the hotel was a driver who offered to take us on a tour at 50B/hour (about $1.60). Many travellers are warned to stear clear of Tuk Tuks offering tours however we felt very comfortable with the driver. Tuk tuk drivers will take you to: large gem shops, a trip down the river, tailors and other places where he earns a very small commission. We enjoyed our trip and spent the whole day and night with him.
• Ping Pong Shows - I recommend you speak to a local (we used our Tuk Tuk driver) and they will take you to a show where you will pay 300B entry and drinks are normal prices. If you go to the shows around the Pat Pong night bazaar, entry is free however drinks start at 900B which is completely ridiculous.
• Tailors - we paid about $300AU for a 3 piece suit (pants, skirt, jacket) for me and a 2 piece suit (pants and vest) for Jack at Sawasdee Tailor. The shop was immaculate and very professional. The suits were made in high quality cashmere wool.

Other:

• Time - we stayed 2 nights and had 1 full day in Bangkok and it was the perfect length of time.
• Airport Transfers - the taxi system outside the arrivals section of the Bangkok airport is comprehensive yet easy to use. A taxi ride to the Siam area costs 250B - 300B, whereas a booked transfer can be much more expensive and you will pay p/person.