Thailand is a common trip for military families stationed in Korea. We took our trip in December during their high season and thoroughly enjoyed the weather, sites and relaxation Thailand had to offer.
Bangkok:
Many people skip over Bangkok and head straight for the beaches of Phuket. This would definitely be the most relaxing option as Bangkok with small children can be exhausting and terrifying when you’re flying down the wrong side of the road in a taxi that may or may not be legit.
Regardless of the intensity of a big city, we were so glad we didn’t miss out on all it had to offer. We stayed at the Holiday Inn and took advantage of its close proximity to eateries and shopping.
Scary longboat rides, beautiful palaces and Wats (temples) made our 3 days in Bangkok memorable. Just make sure you bring pants or a long skirt and something to cover your arms when entering temples (some places will rent shawls so you can go in, but don’t rely on that).
Sites we visited:
Grand Palace
- 2 Hours
- Whenever I go to Bangkok I always go to the Grand Palace. OK you have to wear long trousers in the tropical heat but the sights make it worthwhile. By the way, you can't wear jeans, three quarter lengths, track suits plus a couple of other things (don't worry, you can hire clothes if you turn up in jeans etc). If you're prepared to abide by the rules (you have to remove shoes/hats before entering temples etc) you're in for a great time, as my photos testify. After you've been to the Grand Palace you can visit nearby Wat Pho with the Reclining Buddha
- Bring an umbrella for shade, and water of course.
Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
- Reclining Buddha is near Grand palace (behind it)
- 50 Bhat admission (Kind of a walk from the Grand Palace, because I couldn’t figure out a way to get there more easily, but not bad)
Standing Buddha
- Cool if you have time, but not necessary
Golden Mount
- Great view of city, but lots and lots (and lots) of stairs so if you’re tired, don’t bother!
Lumphini Park
- Nice for a break from tourist-y stuff. Very pretty, but warm so bring water and sunblock. Just a pretty park with playground
City Tips:
- If you spend time in Bangkok and have little ones I recommend you use a backpack type carrier as it is not a stroller friendly city
- Find a nearby store to stock up on water as the tap water is not potable (even for brushing teeth) “Big C” is like a Walmart and has pretty much anything you’d need
- Never trust someone who tries to tell you that a site is closed. There are a lot of people who will try to lure you away from popular points of interest by telling you that something is closed or being renovated
- Make sure the taxi drivers turn on the money meter or at least determine the cost upfront.
- Take advantage of the concierge in the hotel. They have fabulous information and are friendly and can give you great tips
- Always carry a card with your hotel name on it so you can show it to the taxi driver
- Tuk-tuks – 3-wheeled open air taxis. Fares must be bargained in advance. Beware some try to take you to extra stops along the way and scam you
- Most hotels don’t have microwaves
Phuket:
Phuket was fabulous and after the stress of Bangkok we wanted nothing more than to lay on the beach and dig sand forts (well, my husband dug, I sat). Laguna Beach Resort was isolated and beautiful and had supreme service while our last 3 nights were spent at the Katathani where we once again were impressed by the accommodations and stellar care of the staff. We didn’t do much other than the beach and pools while we were in Phuket, but you can sign up for Elephant rides and scuba diving and other adventures if you’re up for it.
If you want to see pictures of our trip, visit http://www.whereiskermit.com/ and go to the December 14, 2007 blog posts of Phuket and Bangkok. Sawatdee Ka/Krub
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