First-Time Urban Exploration Tips for Bangkok

Visiting Bangkok can be an overwhelming experience for those coming from the Western world. The sights and sounds of this bustling city leave many visitors awestruck. There are several locations for car rentals in Sathon and elsewhere that can make the trip easier, but first, travelers need to understand the city.

From navigating side streets to uncovering the best food Bangkok has to offer, understanding the ebb and flow of the city and its vibe is the key to an enjoyable experience. 

Bangkok Safety

Bangkok and Thailand, as a whole, are extremely safe. Many first-time visitors remark that they feel safer in SE Asia’s largest city than in their home countries. With tourism making up nearly 20% of the Thai economy, the government and police have a vested interest in making sure tourists feel safe in the Land of Smiles. 

While common sense still applies, walking around late at night is considered a perfectly safe activity. Theft is also rare in Thailand. It isn’t uncommon to see locals reserving their spot at a food court by dropping an iPhone on the table and walking away to order dinner at one of the food stalls. 

Should any issues arise, the Bangkok Tourist Police are extremely friendly and helpful. Most speak fluent English and are prepared to answer any questions travelers may have. 

Finding Great Food

Everyone knows that Google Maps can be handy for finding well-reviewed restaurants. However, there are many fantastic street eats and night market food stalls that can’t be found anywhere online. They must be found through exploration. 

The key to finding the best delicacies that Bangkok has to offer is to look for where the locals are eating. Find a lively-looking street and have a wander. If you see a place packed with chatty Thais chowing down on noodles, dumplings, and other specialties, have a seat or order at the counter. 

The majority of eateries will have an English menu available. Those that don’t are most likely street or night market stalls. The trick in these places is to look at adjacent tables and see what everyone is enjoying. Simply point at a dish on a nearby table and hold up one or more fingers to indicate how many you’d like. Don’t worry, the food will transcend the language barrier!

Nightlife

Without a doubt, the best nightlife is in the Sukhumvit district. This is the central tourist and expat district of Bangkok. It is home to an eclectic array of international restaurants, rooftop bars, and world-class live music. 

The main area of Sukhumvit spans from Soi 3 to Soi 39. Here, visitors will find no fewer than three luxury shopping malls, countless eateries, and a lively selection of street vendors hawking everything from sunglasses to kitschy souvenirs. 

For a Middle Eastern vibe, try the Soi 3/1 area, which is a maze of late-night Arabic food, hookah lounges, and other chill-out zones. Those who want something more upscale can head down to Soi 39 for a fancy night out on the town.

Green Spaces

Bangkok may be a sprawling metropolis, but this doesn’t mean the locals don’t enjoy spending a quiet afternoon in the park. The city has plenty to offer for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle. 

Lumphini Park is the most famous of Bangkok’s green spaces. It’s an integral part of the history of Sukhumvit and Bangkok. It is often compared to Central Park in New York City due to its expansive layout, offering lakes, shady trees, and grassy picnic spots. 

Benchakitti Park is the other large park in central Bangkok, and it’s the newest to the city. It’s classified as an urban forest and is built upon the grounds of a former tobacco factory that was leveled to make way for this island of serenity in a chaotic city. 

Explore Bangkok in Comfort

The easiest and most comfortable way to get around Bangkok is with a rental car from Drive Car Rental. We have locations across Bangkok and at both major airports. Simply fly in and drive away!

Drive Car Rental has several vehicles to choose from, including electric and hybrid vehicles at reasonable rates. To save even more money, long-stay tourists, expats, and business travelers can take advantage of monthly and annual car rentals.