Frugal Travel Tips for Bangkok, Thailand
With the currency exchange, it’s hard not to find frugal attractions in Bangkok, Thailand. However, there are some tips to make your travel dollars stretch even further and to improve the travel experience.
The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Yes, there is an entrance fee (200 baht, about $ 6 US) but this view is a must see for any visitor to Bangkok. It houses a variety of Thai architecture.
Temples and other national monuments have a strict dress code. No shorts, sleeveless tops, risky gold dress. This is true in most religious places around the world, but in Thailand, travelers shouldn’t wear open-heeled sandals either (there should be a strap behind the heel).
Thai customs
Which leads to some Thai customs that savvy travelers observe.
Shorts are considered appropriate only for boys and the lower class.
The head is considered sacred (closest to the heavens), so don’t touch it. Actually, try not to touch the locals at all.
The feet must also be treated with care. Pointing your feet at a person is considered a serious insult and sitting with your soles exposed in an extremely rude manner (especially in religious places). Sit with your feet tucked under your body.
Public displays of affection are not allowed. Keep it for the privacy of your room.
As with most countries, but especially Thailand, do not criticize the local government or the monarchy.
This may seem like a lot of rules, but most apply to almost every country where a traveler is a guest.
Also, Thais are extremely polite so they are unlikely to express disapproval.
Chatuchak Park Weekend Market
This is where frugal travelers shop for their souvenirs. With over 15,000 booths (get a free map at information kiosks), there is plenty to choose from. This is a place to haggle. Never accept the first offer. Also be very careful around counterfeits (fake antiques, fake jewelry, etc.) and pickpockets (keep some small bills in an easily accessible pocket and hide your wallet).
What to buy? Almost anything, especially crafts. My mother is a lover of elephants and Thailand, with reverence for the animal, was the ideal place to collect teak carvings (be careful of wood that dries and cracks when you return home).
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
With another very, very cheap entrance fee (20 baht), Wat Pho is the largest and oldest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. The highlight is of course the 46 meter long gold covered reclining Buddha. However, the buildings and I found the orchids to be noteworthy as well.
Bangkok is a bargain hunter’s paradise. Attractions, restaurants, and shopping are inexpensive.