When I think of a culturally rich place with great food markets and where I can work remotely for a few months, Bangkok, Thailand, is the first city that comes to mind.
Although I have considered other cities with low living costs for digital nomads, there is an inexplicable allure to Bangkok that keeps me coming back.
It’s a city that you’ll either love or hate, but it’s no surprise that it recently surpassed London as the most visited city in the world. With over 20.2 million tourists in 2023, it must be unique.
Bangkok boasts a unique blend of modern development and ancient traditions, making it a favorite destination for travelers worldwide.
From the bustling city, towering skyscrapers, majestic palaces, and temples to the famous floating market, Bangkok offers excitement, chaos, freedom, beauty, and adventure all in one place.
Here are reasons why is Bangkok the most visited city in the world.
1. Cuisine is considered some of the best in the world
I believe Thai cuisine is exceptional and should be recognized as one of the top 10 cuisines globally. Thai massaman curry is renowned and often hailed as the best dish globally.
When one travels to Bangkok, they are immersed in the city’s famous street food scene, with an overwhelming variety of dishes to try. It would be impossible to sample them all in one lifetime.
2. You will be amazed by the Beauty of Gilded Temples
There are approximately 40,000 temples in Bangkok, but some of the most noteworthy ones are Wat Phra Kaew, where you can admire the emerald Buddha. Wat Pho, which houses a massive reclining Buddha, among many others.
Each temple is more ornate and splendid than the last, making them a fascinating addition to any day of sightseeing in Bangkok.
It is undeniable that Bangkok has numerous incredible attractions to offer.
3. Shopping in Bangkok is World-Renowned
It is undeniable that the city’s sizeable multi-level shopping centers attract tourists in huge numbers.
One of these malls has even earned the distinction of being the most Instagrammed place globally.
However, if malls are not your preference, there is always the enormous and densely-packed Chatuchak Weekend Market, which must be seen to be believed, as well as Bangkok’s popular floating markets.
4. Bangkok is an Unlimited Potential for Nightlife Activities
Bangkok is a city that offers a wide range of nightlife activities.
Although New York City is known as “The City that Never Sleeps,” it’s clear that the person who coined the phrase had never been to Bangkok.
Different areas of the city offer various types of entertainment. Many backpackers spend their nights in the bars around Khao San Road until the early morning, while places like Sky Bar deliver a more sophisticated nightlife experience with breathtaking views.
Soi Cowboy, the reddest part of Bangkok’s Red Light District, attracts a lot of travelers. However, it’s not a necessary destination, but it does appeal to various types of travelers.
5. Thai Massages are TOP-NOTCH and AFFORDABLE!
Thai massage has been an art for thousands of years, and you can easily find massage parlors at various price points.
You can choose to have a quick 30-minute massage at a night market for a few dollars or indulge in a luxurious experience that typically costs no more than $25 per hour.
Most mid-range options are available for under $10.
6. Bangkok Is Free wifi
Access to free wifi in Bangkok is abundant and easy to find, even while walking down the street.
For an affordable price of 1000 THB per month, you can purchase an unlimited wifi plan that covers most city areas.
Bangkok is the most popular destination due to its unique attractions and charm. Without a doubt, I knew I had to spend a month living in this fantastic city.
7. Bangkok Is Developed
Regarding development, Bangkok may not be the most advanced city in the world or Southeast Asia, as cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore score higher in those areas.
However, Bangkok has reached a certain level of development that is notable. For instance, malls such as Siam Paragon are comparable to Dubai’s.
Additionally, the movie theaters in Bangkok are among the finest I’ve seen anywhere.
Although Bangkok’s transportation system is imperfect, living near the BTS (Skytrain) makes it easy to get around.
Furthermore, taxis are inexpensive, and you can reach most places in town for under 100 TBH (US $3).
Finally, you can find big-box retailers and nearly every other convenience imaginable in Bangkok.
8. Bangkok is An Affordable City
Thailand might not have the lowest cost of living globally, but compared to North America, Europe, Australia, or Japan, Thailand is downright cheap.
I’ve talked to people who stay in rooms for as little as $5/night. You can rent a fully furnished studio apartment (in a lovely building) with utilities, including internet, for US$450/month.
You can eat street food every day for $1 per meal. If you want to take part in a higher level of food and lodging, there are plenty of places.
If you were starting an online business that could work from anywhere in the world, keeping your costs low is your priority. Bangkok is perfect for that. You could not approach your living costs in any OECD country.
9. Bangkok Is Clean and Safe
Although it may not match the pristine cleanliness of cities like Dubai or Singapore, Bangkok is relatively litter-free.
The streets are swept daily by locals, who often wash the sidewalks in front of their businesses with buckets of water. Street vendors, in particular, are strongly incentivized to maintain a clean environment.
While pickpockets and scams can be found in any significant city, Bangkok has a low crime rate. Additionally, graffiti is almost non-existent in the city.
While Thailand does have corruption issues, it is not the worst in the region. You can largely avoid these issues as a remote worker doing business online.
For travelers, Bangkok is considered a safe destination. People of all ages and backgrounds feel comfortable starting their Southeast Asia travels in this bustling hub.
10. Songkran Festival
The Songkran Festival is a traditional holiday celebrated yearly in Bangkok, Thailand. It is a time of joyous celebration and thanksgiving for the end of one year and the beginning of the new one.
Families participate in many activities during this three-day festival, such as traditional Thai dancing, merit-making, and water-throwing.
People fill buckets, buckets full of water balloons, or super soakers with cold water to splash on passersby as part of the fun.
This joyful event brings people together, both locals as well as tourists. It allows them to share stories and take part in fun activities.
11. Bangkok floating markets
Imagine boats anchored on both sides of the river, filled to the brim with fresh tropical fruits and veggies, coconut juice, and locally cooked food on open grills.
The best way to explore Bangkok’s floating markets is to hop on one of the many guided boat tours available.
Bangkok’s top three most popular floating markets are Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, and Klong Lat Mayom. Of the three, Damnoen Saduak is the most visited floating market in the country.
12. Khao San Road – Vibrant nightlife
If you’re a young traveler looking for a vibrant nightlife scene in Bangkok, Khao San Road is the place to be.
It’s a bustling intersection that perfectly blends the west and east cultures. Khao San Road is famous for its carefree atmosphere and wild partying.
Unsurprisingly, almost all young backpackers find themselves here at least once. Moreover, Khao San Road is an accommodation hotspot due to the availability of many affordable lodging options.
The street quickly becomes a haven for party-goers as the sun goes down. You’ll find mobile street bars selling deadly cocktails while bars and clubs line the street from top to bottom.
Even liberal Thais come to Khao San Road at night, looking for a foreign partner and a taste of the Western world.
13. Soi Cowboy – The city’s Red Light District
Soi Cowboy In Thai, Soi means “street.” This street got its name in the 1970s when a real American, Stetson-wearing cowboy opened the first bar.
Bangkok is a sex-oriented city, a characteristic that won’t go unnoticed unless you stay indoors at night, and Soi Cowboy is recognized as the epicenter of the city’s Red Light District.
It’s very different from Amsterdam’s Red Light District. Bars line the street, and the “Hello, welcome!” as you walk by, the sound of girls yelling becomes familiar.
Here you can have a good time with your friends over a couple of drinks, although you will get some attention from the bar girls, who will most likely try to have a few drinks with you.
Many bars have dancers. You can sit around the stage and enjoy the show.
14. The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace of Bangkok, established in 1782, was once the residence of the Thai King and served as the government’s administrative center. It is considered the most famous and celebrated landmark in the capital.
Visitors who appreciate architecture and culture will delight in exploring the ancient designs of the numerous temples and Buddhist sculptures in the palace’s vicinity.
The “Temple of the Emerald Buddha,” or Wat Phra Kaew, is among the most popular tourist attractions. This temple houses the revered 14th-century Emerald Buddha, which is highly esteemed by all Thais.
15. Chatuchak Weekend Market
In Thailand, the market culture is well-known, and the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is the most prominent one.
It covers a vast area of 35 acres, with over 8000 market stalls, and attracts around 200,000 visitors each weekend.
The market’s diversity of products available for purchase is remarkable. From food and beverages to antiques, pets, garden supplies, clothing, handcrafts, books, furniture, and art galleries, you name it. They have it.
However, this may not be your place if you dislike crowds and a heated atmosphere.
But if you’re looking for unique finds and great bargains, check out the Chatuchak Weekend Market.
16. Bang Krachao Gardens
Escape the city’s concrete jungle and breathe fresh air at the Bang Krachao Gardens. Known as Bangkok’s “lungs,” the gardens boast stunning natural beauty, with walking trails, tropical trees, lakes, and raised embankments.
Along the Chao Phraya River, you’ll find unique houses on stilts that add to the charm of the gardens.
17. Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn
If you’re in Bangkok, visit Wat Arun on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, opposite the Grand Palace.
This unique architectural design sets it apart from other temples in the city. The spire on the river bank is covered in colorful pieces of glass and Chinese porcelain, making it a sight to behold.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb the steep 70-meter-high spire for stunning views of Bangkok’s skyline.
While it’s called the Temple of Dawn, it’s best seen at night when lit up, casting a golden beam of light over the Chao Phraya River.
FAQs
Is Bangkok nice to visit?
Yes, Bangkok is a great place to visit! It’s a city full of culture, vibrant nightlife, exciting activities, delicious food, and friendly people.
Take some time to explore its bustling markets while sampling the local street food or participate in one of its many cultural attractions like temples and museums.
The city also has an incredible range of accommodation options for all budgets – from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.
With so much to see and do combined with a pleasant atmosphere and friendly locals, there’s no wonder why Bangkok is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.
Why visit Bangkok?
Bangkok is an exciting and lively place that is worth visiting. It has a buzzing nightlife, magnificent temples, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Unsurprisingly, Bangkok has become a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure or relaxation.
The city has a lot to offer, including great shopping experiences at traditional markets and modern malls and cultural landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the Chao Phraya River.
Additionally, Bangkok is renowned for its excellent food scene, ranging from street vendors to upscale restaurants. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation spot that caters to all tastes, don’t hesitate to explore Bangkok’s beauty!
Why is Bangkok so visited?
Bangkok is a highly sought-after destination, attracting visitors from all over the globe.
It boasts an array of cultural and historical landmarks, delectable local cuisine, vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture, and hospitable locals.
The city’s captivating Buddhist temples and palaces, traditional performing arts displays, bustling street markets, tasty curries and noodles, and trendy rooftop bars with skyline views.
All make Bangkok a thrilling place that caters to all tastes.
Why is Bangkok so popular?
Bangkok is a highly sought-after destination for travelers worldwide, thanks to its diverse culture, lively nightlife, mouth-watering street food, and numerous historical landmarks.
With a mix of ancient temples, palaces, modern shopping centers, and rooftop bars, Bangkok has something to offer everyone.
It’s renowned for being a city that never sleeps, and it’s easy to see why there’s always something happening, whether you’re searching for a thrilling night out or a serene afternoon exploring the city.
The locals are warm and hospitable, which makes it even more appealing for visitors.
Additionally, Bangkok offers affordable prices on accommodation, transportation, and has a highly efficient public transportation system, making it one of the most well-rounded cities for any traveler.
Why does Bangkok have so many tourists?
Bangkok, Thailand, is a bustling and vibrant city that attracts millions of visitors from around the globe each year.
Its unique blend of cultures, lively nightlife, tempting street food, fascinating architecture, and breathtaking temples means there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in luxury shopping or more modest attractions such as riverside or floating markets, Bangkok offers a range of activities to suit different types of travelers.
Tourists are also drawn to the city’s affordability and excellent transport systems, making getting around easy and cost-effective.
All of these factors combined make Bangkok an ideal destination for tourists from all over the world.
Why do people prefer Bangkok?
People prefer Bangkok due to its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, incredible architecture, delectable culinary scene, fantastic nightlife, and friendly locals.
The bustling metropolis provides an array of exciting things to do and explore, from floating markets to famous temples like the Grand Palace.
With plentiful shopping malls offering affordable luxury goods and budget-friendly street markets selling unique local products, this city is a perfect destination for an exciting and diverse getaway.
What is so interesting about Bangkok?
Bangkok is a fascinating city, offering a unique blend of historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, stunning temples, lush parks, and hospitable locals.
There are numerous attractions, such as the world-renowned Grand Palace and the futuristic skyscrapers of Sathon Road.
Additionally, the city boasts an array of street vendors and bustling markets where you can sample delicious food.
Bangkok has plenty of modern malls scattered throughout the skyline for those who enjoy shopping.
Bangkok offers everything, whether seeking a bustling urban atmosphere or a peaceful retreat.
Conclusion
Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most developed cities, surpassing many other towns in the Kingdom of Thailand. I encourage you to see for yourself what makes Bangkok stand out.