Klong Toey (Bangkok), Thailand

The Venice of the East

Bangkok is a city steeped in contrast. Gold-spired temples share space with the neon glow of numerous red light districts; climate controlled mega-malls sit across the street from ramshackle street markets; and everywhere you look carts serving incredible dishes sit in the shadows of white-linen restaurants. But it’s this very juxtaposition that gives Bangkok such a lively pulse and element of sà-ù—fun.

And the food. We haven’t even touched on Bangkok’s full-flavored, insatiable, and borderline fanatical approach to eating. From humble noodle bowls from street vendors to international cuisine and everything in between, bring an appetite and a sense of adventure when you explore the streets in this foodie paradise.

Grand Palace and Wat Pho are two of the city’s largest tourist sites, and for good reason. The tranquil opulence in these two grand structures will leave you astonished, not to mention Wat Pho’s incredible golden reclining Buddha statue. Shoppers will want to venture to Sian Square to find dozens of smaller designer boutiques.

Wherever your travels take you, be sure to experience a Tuk Tuk ride. There’s no better way to explore the streets of Bangkok than from the back of one of these iconic three-wheeled vehicles.