Bangkok is a city that’s full of life and known for its rich culture and lifestyle. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern conveniences. If you’re considering relocating or spending more time in Bangkok, this guide will help you understand the city’s culture and what makes Bangkok special. Plus, we’ll cover how to find an apartment to rent in Bangkok so that you can truly enjoy everything the city offers.
Understanding Bangkok’s Culture
Bangkok has a special mix of old traditions and modern ways of life. Buddhism is very important here and shapes the daily lives of many people. When you move or visit the city, you will notice many temples across the city, where locals visit to pray, offer gifts, and seek blessings.
Respect for monks and elders is a big part of daily life, so when you’re in public, it’s good to be mindful of local customs, like giving monks priority seating on public transportation or showing respect when passing by a temple. When visiting temples, be respectful. Cover your shoulders and knees, and take off your shoes before going inside.
Cultural Places to Visit
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
One of the most popular tourist attractions is the Grand Palace, where you can explore Thai royal history and admire beautiful architecture. The Wat Phra Kaew houses the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most sacred relics.
Jim Thompson House
This museum offers a glimpse into traditional Thai architecture and showcases the life of Jim Thompson, an American who helped revive the Thai silk industry.
Chatuchak Market and Talad Rot Fai Night Market
Chatuchak is one of the largest markets in the world, and Talad Rot Fai is known for its vintage finds and street food. Both markets are great places to pick up souvenirs, try local dishes, and get a feel for Bangkok’s lively atmosphere.
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)
Those who are into art will love this place. The center hosts a variety of contemporary exhibitions showcasing the work of local and international artists.
Exploring Bangkok’s Food Scene
One of the best ways to understand a culture is through its food, and Bangkok is no exception. The street food here is legendary, and you will find dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, and Mango Sticky Rice being sold on almost every corner. There are also local dining spots to enjoy Thai food and luxurious restaurants offering international cuisine. You can also download food apps, like Grab and 7-11 to order food online.
Festivals and Traditions
Bangkok hosts many traditional festivals throughout the year, giving you a chance to experience Thai culture firsthand. Songkran (Thai New Year) is celebrated in April with water fights and parades. It’s a fun and lively event where locals and tourists throw water to symbolize washing away the old and welcoming the new year.
Loy Krathong is another special festival held in November. It is a more peaceful festival in which people release small floating baskets (called Krathongs) into rivers or lakes to pay respect to the water spirits.
Tip: If you’re visiting during Songkran, wear light, waterproof clothing and keep your valuables in a plastic bag, as you’re likely to get wet!
Everyday Life in Bangkok
Moving to Bangkok, or even visiting for an extended stay, means getting used to a few cultural practices. Here are some tips to help you adjust to daily life:
Greetings with a Wai
Instead of shaking hands, locals greet each other with a Wai, which involves pressing your palms together in front of your chest and bowing slightly. It’s used to show respect, especially when greeting elders or monks.
Getting Around
Bangkok has a great public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway. These options are fast and affordable, making it easy to navigate the city. For easy navigation, you can download the Via bus app on Google Play.
Speaking Thai
While many people in Bangkok speak English, learning a few basic Thai phrases can be helpful and appreciated. Simple words like “Sawasdee” (Hello) and “Khop Khun” (Thank you) can go a long way. If you’re new to the language, it is best to download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with communication.
Finding the Right Place to Live
Bangkok is home to over 11 million people, and over 20 million people visited Bangkok in 2023 alone. This means Bangkok is a very busy city, and finding the right apartment can be challenging. In Bangkok, you will want to find an apartment that makes it easy to get to the nearest train station and offers a serene environment.
Bangkok Garden Apartment fulfills these criteria by providing newcomers with a comfortable, community-oriented living environment.
Our apartments are designed for families and single dwellers. We prioritize the safety of our tenants and provide CCTV and 24-hour security services, so you have peace of mind while living in Bangkok.
In addition, we have various facilities such as swimming pools, a fitness center, jacuzzi, kids’ playground, jogging track, and basketball and table tennis courts.
Bangkok offers a rich cultural experience. From its ancient temples and popular festivals to its modern art scene and diverse food culture, there is always something new to discover. So, as you pack and prepare to visit or move to Bangkok, remember that finding a good apartment to rent will help you make the most of your experience in this city.