Bangkok has gone through a rough patch recently. Political turmoil has put a bit of a dent in the tourist appeal of the city. Bangkok remains however one of the most fantastic places on earth to visit, and very few places can rival magnificent Bangkok when it comes the pure beauty of its exotic temples and palaces, and the variety of its nightlife.

Palaces and Temples

For a first time visitor it can be overwhelming to see so much gold. Because of many of the Buddhist temples, Buddha statues, and the Grand Palace and other palaces are all covered in gold leave. Several days can be filled, just enjoying these stunning sites.

Shopping

Regionally Bangkok has a reputation as a shopping haven. Options range from high end shopping malls like Emporium, down all the way to the hustle and haggling at Chatuchack market, where pretty much anything is on sale, at a bargain for those who now how to.

Dining and Entertainment

Bangkok nightlife is known for its more risque type of entertainment, and the back streets of the city have become a tourist destination by itself. But the nightlife of Bangkok has many faces, and chances are you're surprised at the quality of restaurants, bars and nightclubs you'll find. Restaurants range from fantastic thai cuisine, to trendy and top notch international style establishments. Bars and nightclubs also come in all kinds of variety, and you may find that some of the best places are those frequented by locals.

Hotels

Bangkok hotels are generally of a fantastic quality. Service is virtually unparalleled anywhere in the world, and prices are very low on a relative scale. Here you can lavish in an opulent five star hotel, at a price that might not even buy you a decent four star in many other cities. So our advice for you trip to bangkok is to hunt at least one category higher than what you're used to. Not that you need to, because quality is good in all ranges, but you might just as well enjoy the fantastic treatment of the best hotels in town, at a rate you may never find again.

Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder to find top accommodation and cheap hotels in Bangkok.

(Photo:Fotolia/Ingo Essler)