An excellent way to explore Bangkok without having to worry about the traffic is by water. After breakfast, head to the Sathorn pier where you can easily rent a private long-tail boat, a traditional Thai vessel that glides down narrow canals and main throughways with equal ease. Along the way, as you head towards Rama VIII Bridge, riverfront communities will reveal their secrets, while numerous temples, from iconic to little known, will leave you spellbound.

A short tuk-tuk or Grab ride from where your boat will drop you off lies F.V. — a charming Thai dessert café. Located in Chinatown (Yaowarat), the heritage building got a new lease on life when the new tenants transformed it into a heaven for those with a sweet tooth and an eye for quirky vintage décor. The vibe is unique, the menu intriguing and the attention to detail, in both the interior and food presentation, is impressive.

If you are pressed for time and can only visit a handful of temples, be sure to make Loha Prasat one of your stops. The façade is certainly striking but it’s what awaits inside that makes the detour worth your while. Climb to the very top where you will find an open platform. Try mediating or simply slow your mind to better appreciate this beautiful, serene spot.

Pre-travel guide for Bangkok, Thailand

Currency

• THB or Thai Baht

Best time to visit Bangkok, Thailand

• Between November and February Bangkok enjoys the “cool” season when the heat and humidity are at their lowest. This is a good time to visit if you enjoy long walks and exploring on foot.

How to get to Bangkok, Thailand

• Flight - Suvarnabhumi Airport (IATA: BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (IATA: DMK) are the two international airports serving Bangkok. They are linked by free shuttle buses and can be reached from central Bangkok by various modes of transport.
• Train -The four main rail lines are all anchored at the historic Hualamphong Station near Chinatown in downtown Bangkok. For timetables, fares and online bookings, please visit http://www.railway.co.th.
• Bus - Tickets can be purchased directly at Bangkok's three public bus terminals. Each of these long-haul bus terminals serves a different direction.

How to get around Bangkok

• The best way to get around Bangkok is by Skytrain (BTS) or metro, which is fast, affordable and easily navigable for visitors. Taxis and raid-hailing options are fairly cheap but gridlock is a regular issue. Ferries crisscrossing the Chao Phraya river and the Khlong Saen Saep boat service — a water bus through the city's commercial districts — are also popular.

Helpful local words

• Hello - Sawadee khrup (for male) / Sawadee ka (for female)
• Thank you – Khop Khun Khrup (for male) /  Khop Khun Ka (for female)
• Yes – Chai
• No – Mai
• Delicious – Aroy Mak Mak