Why do so many foreign tourists love Bangkok?

The Bangkok Post spoke to foreigners to find out why Thailand's capital is the favourite city of so many travellers around the world.

The metropolis offers tourists essentials including 24-hour street food everywhere, diverse lifestyles and unique experiences that make it one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia, according to foreign travellers.

In July, the Travel + Leisure has named the "10 best cities in South East Asia" in its first Asia's Best Awards 2022, in which Bangkok came out on top.

See : Thailand receives numerous awards at the 1st Best of Asia Awards

And according to an article published in June by Money.co.ukBangkok offers the most affordable luxury travel experience in the world.

See : Bangkok named best city in the world for luxury budget holidays

What travellers think of Bangkok

Icon Siam shopping centre in Bangkok. Photo: Icon Siam Mandarin Oriental

Nico, a 30-year-old Austrian tourist, said this was her fourth visit.

"It is an exciting and surprising city where travel experiences are unpredictable," she said.

She can take a motorbike taxi from Bangkok, which is very cheap, and then get on a bus that takes her to another destination.

"Taking a tuk-tuk to explore some spectacular roads, communities and landscapes is exciting.

 "There's nothing like Bangkok," said Nico as he took photos of the architecture of Siam Square.

"Bangkok also has many wonderful attractions," she added, including temples.

 "Around Bangkok, I went to an ancient city, and I also visited some of the temples here.

It's very quiet and relaxing.

The city is also known for its attractive variety of street food, where unusual food experiences can be found.

"Even in the evening, after a few drinks, I can walk down an alley and eat some of the best food in the world; the papaya salad (Som Tam) is one of my favourites.

Marc Jay, a 22-year-old American tourist who is here for a summer trip, said he likes Bangkok because it is "a city of diversity".

"There are so many tourist attractions in Bangkok that attract tons of people from all over the world while there are many destinations in the area.

 "Coming here from America is a huge culture shock because everything is different, from the food to the people to the way they live, so I think it's an amazing place.

 "Bangkok is one of the most exciting cities I have visited.

There are so many activities you can do, whether it's visiting the malls, the pedestrian streets, the temples or the night bars," said Mr Jay.

Wat Arun: the Temple of Dawn in Bangkok. Photo: Travel Online

He is also a fan of street food.

"There are many dishes I like, but the moo ping (grilled pork) experience is unforgettable, because the vendor grills the ingredients in front of you," he said.

Bangkok also offers high-end nightlife options that cover everything from rooftops to cocktail bars to dance clubs and more.

"In Bangkok, I like to go to Phrom Phong and Thong Lor areas because there is a lot to do, a lot of nightclubs and also Khao San Road.

"Khao San Road is famous for its cheap accommodation, restaurants and massage shops.

For me, at the end of the day, Bangkok is a city of variety and diversity," he said.

Elsewhere, in Thailand, still in the ranking of the Travel + Leisure website, for the "Best of Asia" competition, Phuket was recognised as the 'Best Island in South East Asia 2022', while Koh Samui was also ranked second.

Julie Jenifer, a 27-year-old Australian backpacker who was walking near Khao San RoadShe said that she had been to Koh Samui, Phuket and Koh Chang in Trat, but that this was her first time visiting Bangkok.

"Koh Samui is the most charming island, with picturesque attractions, beaches and comfortable facilities," said Ms Jenifer.

Visitors can also stay in five-star hotels overlooking the coast and beach, or visit restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Those who like adventure can also go diving, climbing and attend beach parties.

"The weekly pedestrian street markets (on Koh Samui) offer street food, souvenirs and handicrafts, and the prices are cheap compared to other countries.

"The streets by the sea are surrounded by shops, nightclubs and bars," she added.

Regarding the capital, she said that Bangkok is more sophisticated and hurried than the islands.

However, she added that it offers incredible experiences with a wide variety of destinations, from temples and floating markets to pedestrian streets and exciting nightlife.

She also likes to hang out in Yaowarat Road, Bangkok's Chinatown.

The variety of wonderful destinations combined with the cultural diversity make Thailand an attractive tourist attraction to explore," added Ms Jenifer.

Source: Bangkok Post