Top Bangkok Experiences

Total, tropical luxury

Experience the magic of old Siam in this most exotic of international cities. It's so easy to spoil yourself here: Bangkok houses some of the world's most lavish and luxurious hotels - many in their own parklike grounds by the Chao Phraya River or set in large and tranquil tropical gardens. And if you're visiting on business or for serious shopping, there's accommodation for the most discerning of travellers in the heart of the commercial districts. Of course, everyone has a different perception of luxury, and this city of contrasts offers everything from traditional Thai splendour to ultra-modern. Once you've made your choice, we suggest taking your holiday to even higher levels of luxury with a visit to a spa, tea in the Author's Wing at the Oriental; connoisseur's cuisine, exclusive sightseeing tours, a little tennis, buy silks and antiques at Silom Village, and take a private river cruise. Shop in Siam Paragon or the Emporium, and between them on Sukhumvit Road, but for something truly exclusive, call on the outstanding skills of the Bangkok tailors. Time on your hands? Why not catch the magnificent Eastern and Orient Express north to the splendour of Ayutthaya and the city of Chiang Mai?

Shopping is brilliant in Bangkok - but where do you begin?

This is an enormous city, and there are shops to be found in virtually every square kilometre. Wherever you're staying, there'll be shopping nearby - if not on the doorstep. Use Skytrain to get around, and make your choice between the massive malls (supersized MBK and/or CentralWorld), the markets (try Chatuchak Weekend Market for an eye-opening selection of stalls and traders) or the huge array of department stores. As far as these go, it depends what your budget allows: Siam Paragon and Emporium are classy and can be costly, while the Central Department Store offers a vast selection of virtually everything. If you're seriously counting pennies, aim for MBK and the Big C Superstore; both have bargains galore. Shop at OTOP outlets for a comprehensive range of Thai crafts, textiles and other products, and head to Pantip Plaza for everything that's new in technology. For the latest fashion fads and trends, try Zen at CentralWorld, or stylish Siam Discovery, and for wholesale clothing try Platinum Fashion Mall. And of course, wherever you go in this bustling city, you'll find street traders and markets.