13 Things Nobody Tells You About Visiting Bangkok
Let's be real—guidebooks only tell you half the story. After spending time in Thailand's capital, I've compiled the ULTIMATE list of things that were left out of the guidebooks!
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1. Crossing the street is an ADVENTURE sport
First day in Bangkok and you're already questioning everything you know about crossing the street. Pro tip: find a local and basically become their shadow. Works. Every. Time.
2. Lane lines? More like lane SUGGESTIONS
You think I'm exaggerating? Wait until you see five vehicles somehow fitting into two lanes. It's not magic—it's Bangkok traffic! 🚗🛵🚕🛵🚗
3. The honking situation is SURPRISINGLY chill ❄️
Coming from a big US city, I was fully prepared for honking chaos. Plot twist: Bangkok drivers barely use their horns! It's like they all collectively decided road rage is so last decade.
4. There's no "downtown" and it will mess with your mind
Looking for that perfect skyline photo for the 'gram? Good luck! Bangkok said "nah" to having a central downtown area. The city is basically vibes all the way across.
5. Forget Uber—Grab is the ONLY way to go
Delete your Uber app (for now). Grab is the rideshare queen here, and she runs a tight ship. Bonus: the app works in multiple languages!
6. Starbucks is LITERALLY everywhere
I counted three Starbucks on one street. THREE! For a country with amazing local coffee, the Starbucks domination is low-key confusing but high-key convenient when you need air conditioning and Wi-Fi. #NoShame
7. The tipping culture will leave you CONFUSED
Is it 10%? Is it nothing? Should you round up? Nobody seems to agree, except that you don’t have to tip if there is a service charge on the bill. I'm still not sure I got it right, TBH.
8. Those face masks? Not just for germs, people!
Pre-pandemic tourists were like "why is everyone wearing masks?" Now we know it's not just about health—it's about that pollution life. Your lungs will thank you.
9. The traffic is NEXT LEVEL bad
"I'll be there in 15 minutes" in Bangkok actually means "I might see you tomorrow if these cars ever move." Plan accordingly!
10. The city is trying to fix pollution in multiple ways
Free public transit for a week? Bangkok said "let's save the planet AND save you money!" We stan an environmentally conscious city! 💚
11. Tuk-tuk prices are not set in stone and OMG the bargaining
Channel your inner negotiator because that first price is definitely not the final price. Confidence is key (even if you're dying inside).
12. The public transit etiquette will make your home city look like a DISASTER
People actually line up properly for trains! They wait for others to exit before boarding! It's like they invented consideration! Take notes, America.
13. People riding in truck beds will make you question EVERYTHING you know about safety
The casual way people hop in the back of pickup trucks in heavy traffic is simultaneously terrifying and impressive. Not recommended for beginners!
