Bangkok grabbed me from the moment we landed. It is one of those cities that somehow balances total chaos and complete serenity at the same time. One minute you are surrounded by street vendors and tuk tuks, and the next you are standing in front of a peaceful temple wondering how this place holds so much contrast. And the people are so warm and welcoming that you instantly feel at home.
DAY 1: Jim Thompson, Tuk Tuks and Street Eats
We checked into the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai, which instantly felt like the right choice. The staff treated us like old friends, and yes, we proudly showed up to the executive lounge at 6:30 AM every morning like overachievers trying to win breakfast.
Our first stop was the Jim Thompson House. It is part museum, part mystery, and completely charming. Thompson, the American who revived Thailand’s silk industry, built a gorgeous home from six traditional houses before mysteriously disappearing in 1967. Walking through it felt like exploring a beautifully preserved secret.
That evening, we hopped into a tuk tuk and zoomed into Chinatown, which truly comes alive at night. Our guide, Ms. Nuch, led us to a Michelin Bib Gourmand spot where we tried Kway Chap, a comforting bowl of noodles, crispy pork, and broth that tasted like a warm hug. We wrapped up the night with a rooftop drink overlooking the Chao Phraya River, the city glowing like it knew we were watching.
DAY 2: Cooking Class and River Cruise
Cooking Thai food in Bangkok should honestly be a requirement for all visitors. At Silom Thai Cooking School, we visited the market, cooked five classic dishes, and somehow made everything taste amazing. They even sent us home with aprons and certificates, so I now consider myself an honorary chef.
That evening, we joined the Wonderful Pearl Dinner Cruise. Floating along the river while passing Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and the bright lights of Iconsiam felt like watching Bangkok show off its best angles. Tourist activity or not, it was so worth it.
DAY 3: Ayutthaya, Also Known as Time Travel
We ventured out to Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital. The temples there feel frozen in time, with towering stupas, crumbling ruins, and the famous Buddha head wrapped in banyan roots. We also learned how to make roti, which was crispy, delicious, and dangerously addictive. Dinner at Somboon Seafood that night was incredible, especially their Fried Curry Crab Meat which absolutely lived up to the hype.
DAY 4: Bangkok’s Iconic Trio
On our last day, we visited the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. Each one felt like a piece of Thailand’s soul, full of color, craftsmanship, and history. I made sure to drop coins into the 108 bowls at Wat Pho for good karma, because who does not need a little extra luck.
As I look back, it was not just the beautiful places. It was the laughter, the shared meals, the quiet moments of awe, and the kindness that met us everywhere we went. Bangkok stays with you. And experiencing it with the best friends made it even more unforgettable.