Planning your first trip to Bangkok?
Bangkok can be both exciting and overwhelming for first-time travelers. Read our travel tips for first-time travelers to Bangkok and get ready to explore one of the most vibrant cities in the world!
In this guide, we’ll answer all your questions plus we’ll also share insider tips on getting around the city and where to stay. Whether you’re here for a quick stopover or a longer stay, these 10 tips will give you the confidence to navigate Bangkok like a seasoned traveler.
And of course by the end, you’ll know how to travel to Bangkok smarter, not harder!
Topics
1. Do You Need a Visa to Enter Thailand?
2. Which Apps Make Life in Bangkok Easier?
3. How to Stay Connected: Sim Cards in Bangkok
4. How Much Cash Should You Carry in Thailand?
5. Getting from the Airport to the City
6. What’s the Best Area to Stay in Bangkok?
7. Top Tips for Navigating Bangkok Public Transport
8. Is Bangkok Safe for First-Time Travelers?
1. Do You Need a Visa to Enter Thailand?
Yes, entering Thailand requires you to have a visa. The good news is, currently Thailand offers a 60 day Tourist visa exemption. No need to do anything but just to arrive and have a mode of transport out of Thailand.
“Effective Date 15 July 2024 Thailand offers a New Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme for 60 Days. This is valid for 93 countries and territories”: Check if your country is eligible here.
Pro Tip: Want to stay longer? Start with the visa exemption. You can always extend it later at an immigration office for a one time extra 30 days.
2. Which Apps Make Life in Bangkok Easier?
Navigating Bangkok is way simpler when you have this basic selection of apps installed:
Grab: This app is your lifesaver for taxis, food, and groceries. It’s cashless, reliable, and available in English.
Bolt & Indrive : Even cheaper taxi app but with less options available and in Major cities only
Google Maps: A must for finding your way around Bangkok’s chaotic streets and public transport systems.
Google Translate & Google Lens: Translate Thai menus, signs, and even conversations with your Smartphone.
Line: The WhatsApp of Thailand! Use it to communicate with locals and follow businesses for deals and updates.
Pro Tip: Pre-install these apps before you arrive, so you’re ready to go . Grab also works at the airport, so you can order a ride as soon as you land.
3. How to Stay Connected: Sim Cards in Bangkok
Having internet access is essential in Bangkok. Here are your options:
- Airport Sim Cards: Buy one at the arrivals hall. Providers like AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove offer pre-paid packages. A fast option if you want to be connected after landing but also the most expensive option!
- Telecom store: Another option is to wait and go into the city to a telecom store. Most can help you install one on your phone and you can also choose a package. You can either go for a regular Sim or an e-sim. Most modern phones can have E-sims and this means you can keep your old sim next to your new one. This is our preferred option.
- 7-Eleven Sim Cards: Budget-friendly and available in most stores but not all providers offer great coverage outside major cities.
- E-sim company: For most countries you can use an e-sim company, that lets you install an E-sim for any country and activates after you arrive. So you are immediately connected and ready to go when you land. Keep in mind this is more expensive than a local sim but instant access when you land.
Pro Tip: Get your sim card from an AIS store in Bangkok. Their staff speaks English, and their network is one of the most reliable and largest across Thailand. This will make sure that you’re well connected on your first-visit and the undoubtedly many more to come!
4. How Much Cash Should You Carry in Thailand?
Thailand is still very much a cash country, especially for local food stalls and markets. But cards are becoming more widely accepted in malls and bigger restaurants.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Exchanging Money: Avoid airport exchange counters (except in the basement, where rates are better). Exchange your money in the city for the best deals at places like SuperRich.
- ATMs: Withdraw money is easy and safe but comes with a 220 Baht fee per transaction. Always withdraw in Thai Baht and NEVER accept the ATM conversion rates!!
- Bring Clean Notes: Exchange offices reject ripped, worn-out foreign bills or dirty ones.
Pro Tip: Wise or Revolut, is a free bank card that lets you withdraw up to +/- 7000 baht per month without any additional bank fees.
5. Getting from the Airport to the City
You arrived and you want to get into the city, well you’ve got options:
Grab Taxi (Recommended)
- Reliable and cashless. Costs 400-600 Baht, plus an optional toll fee of 25-70 Baht.
- Use airport Wi-Fi to book your ride.
- NEW go to Gate 4 for the new Grab service center for pick up!
Airport Rail Link (Budget-Friendly)
- Connects to the BTS and MRT. Costs 35-45 Baht.
- Best if you’re staying near public transport and traveling light.
- Fastest way especially during rush hour
Check-out our full guide to navigating Bangkok’s Airport Rail Link here
Regular Taxis (Convenient)
- Metered taxis are available but can be hit-or-miss.
- Ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged and agree to the full price beforehand.
Pro Tip: Grab taxis is for us the most easy and comfortable way into the city, order in the app (no cash needed) and you know exactly the price plus address.
6. What’s the Best Area to Stay in Bangkok?
Picking the right neighborhood can make or break your first Bangkok trip. Here are our favorite areas plus recommend hotels for each area.
- Asok: Great for nightlife, shopping, and restaurants. Some might even say the most popular area of Bangkok.
We recommend the Novotel Sukhumvit 20 in Asoke!
- Old Town (Koh Rattanakosin): Close to landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. This is perfect if you want to be right in the cultural heart of Bangkok.
In old town we recommend to stay at the Chillax Heritage Hotel.
- Silom: A mix of business and leisure, with a vibrant food scene and easy connections with BTS and MRT.
In Silom we had a good time staying at the Ibis Styles Silom Phrom Phong/Thong Lor: Known for some of the best malls, lots of bars and Japanese restaurants.
We recommend to stay at the Staybridge Suites Thonglor
Pro Tip: Stay near a BTS or MRT station for easy access to the city’s highlights. Bangkok traffic can be brutal, so avoid hotels in remote locations unless you’re planning to relax at the hotel.
7. Top Tips for Navigating Bangkok Public Transport
Bangkok’s public transport system is efficient but can be confusing for first-timers. Here’s what you need to know:
- BTS Skytrain: The fastest way above ground to get around the city. Ideal for avoiding traffic jams.
- MRT Subway: Underground lines that are perfect for reaching markets and cultural sites.
- Buses: Cheap but hard to navigate without knowing Thai.
- Tuk-Tuks: Fun but overpriced for tourists. Always negotiate the fare before hopping in!
Pro Tip: Use Google Maps to plan your routes on BTS and MRT. It’s accurate and helps you navigate step by step and even times of departure.
8. Safety in Bangkok
Bangkok is generally very safe for tourists, but like any big city, it’s good to stay cautious. Here are a few tips:
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Use Grab instead of hailing random taxis at night.
- Avoid overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or asking questions… it’s often a scam.
- Eating food in the street is generally safe but always check the chef and its food before eating.
Pro Tip: Stick to busy, well-lit areas and don’t hesitate to ask hotel staff for advice. They are usually great resource for trustworthy recommendations.
9. How to Handle the Weather in Bangkok
Bangkok is hot and humid year round, with occasional rain showers. Here’s how to prepare:
- Wear light, breathable clothing.
- Always carry a small umbrella or raincoat during rainy season.
- Sunscreen every day because the sun is HOT.
- Stay hydrated, bottled water is cheap and available everywhere.
Pro Tip: Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Bangkok temples and markets are more enjoyable without the blazing sun.
10. Must-Try Foods for First-Timers in Bangkok
Bangkok is truly a flavor town with so many must try foods, you can eat safely on the street or in any of the food courts around the city and inside the malls. BUT be prepared for some spicy food!
So don’t leave Bangkok without trying these famous dishes:
- Pad Thai: A classic stir-fried noodle dish usually with shrimps.
- Tom Yum Goong: A spicy and sour shrimp soup.
- Mango Sticky Rice: The perfect sweet treat with Mango, rice and coconut milk.
- Boat Noodles: A bowl of flavor packed noodle soup filled with a mix of meats.
- Khao Soi: A Northern style savoury thai egg noodle soup usually with chicken.
- Pad Krapow: Stir fried meat with holy basil and rice.
Pro Tip: Look for Street food stalls with a crowd, those are your best bet for authentic flavors and high turn around means safer to eat.
Ready to Explore Bangkok?
With this guide, you’re all set make the most out of your first trip to Bangkok. From visas to transportation, apps, and food, you’re now equipped to navigate this vibrant city like a pro. Time to: Travel Smarter, not Harder!
If you’re looking for more travel tips and recommendations, check out our Youtube Channel @YesandExplore
Thank you for reading and hope to see you back for our next post!
