Bangkok

Good to know

1. 1Bangkok's full ceremonial name is one of the longest place names in the world, but Thais usually call the city Krung Thep, meaning City of Angels.
2. 2The city became the capital in 1782, when the royal court moved across the Chao Phraya River from Thonburi. The Grand Palace and Wat Pho date from that early period.
3. 3Street food is a way of life here. Many locals eat out most days, and you will find noodle soups, grilled meats, curries and fruit sold from carts and small shopfronts across the city.
4. 4The Chao Phraya River and its canals shaped the city, and boats are still used as everyday transport as well as for sightseeing.
5. 5The language is Thai, which is tonal and has its own script. English is common in hotels and tourist areas, but less so in local markets and small eateries.
6. 6The currency is the Thai baht. Cash is still widely used at markets, street stalls and small restaurants.

Tips for a first visit

• Dress modestly when visiting temples and the Grand Palace, with shoulders and knees covered, and take off your shoes where asked.
• Use the Skytrain and the metro to avoid the traffic, which can be very slow at rush hour. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are handy for short trips and late evenings.
• Carry some small cash for street food, markets and local buses, even though cards work in malls and larger restaurants.
• Try the street food, but pick busy stalls with a steady stream of customers, and ask for less chilli if you are not used to the heat.
• Show respect for the monarchy and for Buddhist images, and never touch a person's head or point your feet at a statue or a person.
• Agree on the fare or make sure the meter is on before a taxi sets off, and drink bottled or filtered water.

When to go

The cool season, from about November to February, is the most comfortable time, with lower humidity and cooler evenings. March to May is very hot, and the rains from roughly June to October bring heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear and the city is quieter.

From the airport

Bangkok has two airports, Suvarnabhumi, the main international one, and Don Mueang, which is used mostly by low-cost airlines. From Suvarnabhumi, an airport rail link runs into the city and takes around half an hour to reach central stations, where you can change to the Skytrain or metro. Taxis and buses also serve both airports, and the journey by road usually takes from forty minutes to over an hour depending on traffic.