In November 2022, we set off on a long-awaited journey to the Land of Smiles – Thailand. A country where tradition and modernity collide in the most fascinating ways, Thailand welcomed us with its vibrant street life, golden temples, flavorful cuisine, and warm hospitality.
From the towering heights of Baiyoke Sky Hotel in Bangkok to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, and from the buzzing markets to peaceful riverside temples, each moment felt like a scene from a postcard. Whether it was navigating through a sea of vendors on a boat at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market or watching the sun set behind Wat Arun, Thailand gifted us unforgettable experiences and beautiful memories.
This travel diary captures the highlights of our trip — the places we explored, the food we savored, and the stories we gathered along the way. It’s a reflection not just of where we went, but of how Thailand made us feel: amazed, inspired, and deeply connected to its rich culture and charm.
Let the journey begin.
🛬 Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok – Markets & City Sights
Arrival:
We landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the main international gateway to Bangkok. After immigration and baggage claim, we hopped on the Airport Rail Link for a smooth and efficient ride into the city then to our hotel.
🏨 Hotel:
We stayed at the iconic Baiyoke Sky Hotel, one of the tallest buildings in Thailand, standing at 88 stories. The hotel offers panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline, a revolving observation deck on the 84th floor, buffet restaurants, and a mini indoor market. Staying here feels like being inside a landmark itself!
🛍️ Afternoon Activity:
We spent the afternoon exploring Platinum Fashion Mall, a haven for fashion lovers. It’s packed with wholesale clothing shops where you can haggle for great deals on trendy clothes and accessories.
Evening:
After shopping, we called it a day and rested for our next adventure.
🏯 Day 2: Temples & Palaces of Bangkok
đź“ŤStop 1: The Grand Palace
This dazzling landmark was once the royal residence of the Kings of Siam. It’s a must-see for first-time visitors.
What to Expect:
- Ornate buildings with golden spires, detailed murals, and Buddhist statues.
- Home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) – Thailand’s most sacred temple.
Main Attractions:
đź“ŚOuter Court: Formerly administrative buildings and audience halls.
🎯Wat Phra Kaew: Houses the Emerald Buddha, carved from a single jade stone.
🎯The Chakri Maha Prasat Hall: A European-style building with Thai-style roofs.
🎯The Royal Pantheon: Built to house statues of past kings.
👉 Tour link: Grand Palace & Temple Tour via https://www.klook.com/invite/TWPQ8?c=EUR
Fun Facts:
- The Emerald Buddha has seasonal robes changed by the King himself.
- Entry requires modest attire: no sleeveless tops, shorts, or open shoes.
đź“ŤStop 2: Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Located a short walk from the Grand Palace.
Highlights:
- A 46-meter-long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf.
- Known as Thailand’s oldest and largest temple complex.
- Home of traditional Thai massage education.
Fun Fact: Wat Pho has over 1,000 Buddha images – more than any other temple in Thailand!
đź“ŤStop 3: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
We crossed the Chao Phraya River by ferry from Tha Tien Pier. The ride took about 5 minutes.
Highlights:
- Striking Khmer-style spires covered in colorful porcelain.
- Known for stunning sunset views and its unique riverside location.
👉 Wat Arun Tour Options via Klook http://klook.com
Fun Fact: Although it’s called the Temple of Dawn, it’s most beautiful at sunset!
We spent time soaking in the beauty before heading back across the river to view the golden hues of the sunset reflecting on Wat Arun – a breathtaking sight.
🚌 Day 3: Ayutthaya Day Trip
We woke up early to enjoy Baiyoke Sky’s grand buffet breakfast, featuring international and Thai dishes, fresh tropical fruits, and a bird’s eye view of the city.
Tour: We booked a guided tour to Ayutthaya via Klook.https://www.klook.com/
Meeting Point: Siam Paragon, 9:00 AM.
Unfortunately, Bang Pa-In Palace was skipped due to flooding.
đź“Ť Stop 1: Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Expect: Giant chedis (stupas), rows of Buddha statues draped in saffron robes, and a climbable pagoda.
Fun Fact: Built in 1357, this temple was a training center for monks returning from Sri Lanka.
🍽️ Lunch:
We dined at a restaurant inside Central Ayutthaya Mall, trying authentic Thai dishes like green curry, pad kra pao, and mango sticky rice.
đź“Ť Stop 2: Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Expect: Khmer-style architecture, riverside views, and serene photo spots.
Fun Fact: This UNESCO-listed temple was built to honor the king’s mother.
đź“Ť Stop 3: Wat Mahathat
Expect: Famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
Fun Fact: This is one of the oldest temples in Ayutthaya, built before 1374. The iconic Buddha head is a must-photograph!
đź“Ť Stop 4: Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Expect: Three grand stupas (chedis) that once held the ashes of Thai kings.
Fun Fact: This temple inspired the design of the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
Before heading back, we bought snacks at a local street food stall near the temple — the grilled skewers and coconut pancakes were perfect bus treats!
🚤 Day 4: Floating Market & Leisure
We booked a half-day trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
Booked: http://klook.com
Travel: 2-hour drive from Bangkok.
What to Expect:
- Colorful boats piled with fruits, souvenirs, and local snacks.
- Boat ride through narrow canals, interacting with local vendors.
Fun Fact: This market has been operating since 1866 and became globally famous after appearing in movies and travel shows.
Afternoon: Back at Baiyoke Sky Hotel for a nap and relaxation.
Exploring Baiyoke:
- Revolving view deck on the 84th floor
- Skywalk with glass floors
- Fruit buffet and observation bar
- In-house night market
Fun Fact: On a clear day, you can see up to 80 km from the rooftop!
🌆 Evening Mall Crawl:
Siam Paragon: Upscale shopping and gourmet food court.
ICONSIAM: Known as the “Mother of Malls,” with a floating indoor market and high-end brands.
MBK Center: Budget-friendly electronics, clothes, and souvenirs.
We ended our night with dinner at one of the restaurants inside MBK, then strolled through the local night market near Baiyoke Sky Hotel before heading back to hotel.
✨ Final Thoughts
Thailand was a colorful, cultural, and culinary adventure. From temples to tuk-tuks, floating markets to sky-high views – every day brought something new. This trip reminded us how rich in heritage and hospitality Thailand truly is.
see you on the next blog/diary….for now thebackpackdiaries is now signing off…
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