Country code: +66 (2)
Currency: Thai Baht (THB1 = PHP1.36/ US$0.03)

TRIVIA Bangkok is home to the longest reigning monarch, King Bhumibol, who remains one of the most popular and well-loved kings in all of Thailand’s history. On his birthday, December 5, the city is decked out in his honor

TOUCHDOWN There is a free airport shuttle to the Public Transportation Center in town. A taxi costs THB200 (PHP271.21). In the city, use the BTS Skytrains. Tuk-tuks only go short distances

BY DAY Shop at MBK, Siam Paragon and Siam Square. You’ll find an abundance of pretty much everything you can think of. Check out trendy Thai designers for their latest creations

BY NIGHT Check out Patpong, the red light district for entertainment, pubs and more shopping. Spend hours on Sukhumvit Road which becomes a huge night market

SLEEP The Windsor Hotel is a comfortable, well-kept hotel that is conveniently located and offers good rates. 8-10 Sukhumvit Road, tel: +66 (2) 258 0160-5

LOCAL LIFE
Bavna Singh
consultant

Best breakfast
Crepes & Co for Sunday brunch and over 50 types of savory crepes

Best night out
Make your way to the hip and trendy Bed Supperclub

Best dinner
Sala Rim Naan serves Thai cuisine. Diners watch a traditional dance while they eat

Best buys
Clothes, shoes, accessories, Thai silks and handicrafts — in short, everything!

Best souvenirs
Take home inexpensive paintings of the Buddha as well as wall hangings

Must-do experience
Eat fried bugs — they’re a delicacy here! Ask for mang da na tod

Must-learn phrases
Say, “Mai pen rai” for “No problem!” The Thais are unfailingly polite

Insider’s tip
The traffic here is a nightmare. To save time, hop on and off motorcycle taxis or tuk-tuks