Local Host Recommendations
Monograms provides travelers access to a Local Host, so you will have someone on hand to answer those vacation questions pertaining to Bangkok. No waiting in line at the concierge desk or trying to ask your waitress at breakfast directions to the shopping district. Simply ask your Local Host about Bangkok and you'll be on your way in no time. Plus, your Local Host will share local Bangkok insights and share suggestions for getting off the beaten path, leaving you more time to create lasting vacation memories that are yours alone.
Grand Palace
Although the king no longer resides here, the lavish and intricate design helps maintain Grand Palace’s status as the symbol of the Thai kingdom. Take half a day to wander around this complex and its splendid gold décor, battlements, jeweled columns, and 14th-century emerald Buddha.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
The "Temple of Dawn" is probably the most popular sight in Thailand, but don’t let that deter you. Carefully placed over its bricks, colorful porcelain and ceramic tiles create a varied and striking design. Four smaller prang (towers) encircle the central prang of this Buddhist temple, and each is decorated with carved figures of demons, soldiers, and animals.
Wat Po
Also known as “Temple of the Reclining Buddha,” Wat Po’s 46-meter long, 15-meter high, gold-plated Buddha is certainly the biggest draw. But take some time to wander the courtyards, past the giant stone guards, to see the 95 chedis (temples) and the magnificent altar.
Ban Khun Mae
Ban Khun Mae serves traditional Thai cuisine in a comfortable setting—a little homey, with pictures of Thai royalty adorning the walls. The service is good, women play local music within view of most tables, and best of all, a filling meal is very affordable. Locals and tourists alike dine here.
Chote Chitr
It’s a good rule of thumb in Bangkok to ignore appearances, and Chote Chitr certainly supports that. The restaurant looks quite simple, but serves a wide variety of Thai cuisine. Patrons come away very impressed by the delicate balances of spicy, sweet, and sour. The chef might even ask what you’re in the mood for and concoct some daily specials based on your answer.
The Blue Elephant
You may decide you can’t get enough of the delicious local flavors, and if that’s the case, spend half a day at The Blue Elephant to learn how to prepare authentic Thai at home. This cooking school takes you through the entire process, from shopping at a market to enjoying your dishes. While it’s somewhat more expensive than a half day of museums and lunch, the long-term benefits are immense.
Kite-fighting at Sanam Luang
For a truly unique competition—without the violence of Thai boxing—head out to this park on a weekend to watch the kites soar and “battle.” The idea behind the match is a battle between the sexes; the male kites, “Chula,” try to capture the females, “Pakpao.” You’ll know which is which: males are shaped like stars, females like diamonds.
Pratunam-Phetchaburi
Grease the elbows and stretch the knees; it’s time for a hectic shopping experience. There’s something for everyone here, from the bargain-hunter to the clinically fashionable. Clothing, jewelry, crafts, and much more are on full display in this busy area. Make sure you venture behind the street-front vendors to Pratunam Market for international goods. Keep in mind, bargaining here is more about being friendly and respectful.
Saxophone Pub & Restaurant
Dim lights, dark wood and brick finishes, instruments on the walls—Saxophone has everything you’d want in a jazz club. Except, some nights, jazz; live blues plays more often, and sometimes rock rears its head, but this is a great place to hang out regardless of the band playing.
Three Sixty
Take a look at Bangkok in its night-lit glory from this 32nd floor wine bar. Live jazz plays, and the glass walls are perfect for viewing the city. This is intended for a more elegant (and expensive) night out.
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