Bangkok

=Bangkok = //A wild-paced city with something for everyone //

Where to Stay
Sukhumvit Road. The BTS runs along here so travel is easy.

[|Manhattan Hotel]
Soi 15, Sukhumvit Rd Near the Nana Skytrain Station

We used [|Agoda] to book this hotel.


 * Clean, comfy rooms. Includes air con, a big in-closet safe, mini-fridge, television (not that you'll have time to watch), clean bathroom.
 * Breakfast included.
 * pool (didn't even look for it...no time)
 * Couple minute walk to the BTS (Skytrain).
 * We paid US $50 (incl taxes) per night for 2 people (Oct 2009, booking with Agoda.com)
 * about 35-minute ride to the airport (this is good)
 * Good hotel and would stay again. However, be aware that the staff isn't much help for tourist info or getting taxis. Better off to use the maps and info brochures at the front desk. Also, there are many official Tourist Information locations throughout Bangkok. These are //very// helpful.


 * NOTE**: do NOT take taxis from the hotel. Walk one minute to Sukhumvit Rd and in seconds you can wave down a taxi who will use a meter, take you where you want, and NOT try to cheat you.

[|Asia Bangkok Hotel]
296 Phayathai Road in front of Ratchathewi Skytrain Station. There is a walkway from the train station into the hotel.

I stayed here a few days following the 2004 tsunami. It was a good place with reasonable rates and a very good location. Pool. Breakfast included. Prices have gone up since. It's now listed at about US $65 (incl taxes) per night.

**What to Do**

 * Grand Palace--the city's most famous landmark. Built in 1782. For 150 years the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government
 * Boat Ride along the Chao Praya River (including canals)
 * Visit the Jim Thompson House -- founder of current Thai silk industry (National Stadium Skytrain Station)
 * Chatuchak Weekend Market (Mo Chit Skytrain Station)