THE TEMPLES, THE TUKTUKS AND THE COOL ROOFTOP BARS

5x why you want to go to Bangkok

As soon as I set foot on Bangkok Airport, I felt instantly happy. A crazy little flutter in my stomach. The smell, the people, the warmth, the hustle and bustle. I now understand why so many backpackers start their journey here every year; it really buzzes on all sides. Never been to Thailand? Believe me, you want to. And here's why:

The insanely beautiful temples

Just for your information: there are 400 temples in Bangkok. And all of them are incredibly impressive in their own way. With precious gemstones, mosaics, a whole lot of splendor, gold leaf, and Buddhas. Be sure to visit Wat Pho, one of the largest temple complexes in Bangkok with a gigantic reclining Buddha that is 46 meters long.

The nightlife

Never a dull moment in Bangkok. Take a tuk-tuk, cross through Chinatown, go to the night market of Pat Pong, walk through the busy ‘backpacker street’ Khao San Road, do something crazy and visit a ping pong show (not for the faint-hearted, by the way) and make sure to stay out late. Really late.

The hospitality

I think I've never been to a place in the world where the people are so incredibly kind . So humble and hospitable. The grumpy kale heads behind the cash register at an average supermarket in Amsterdam could learn a thing or two from them, you know. But really.

The food

Almost everywhere in Bangkok, you'll find small food trucks, stalls, and other little places that might not look very inviting at first, but where you can buy the tastiest products. Pad thai, all sorts of things you can think of on a stick, noodles, vegetables, soups, fried banana pancakes; you name it. And the best part? It doesn't cost a dime.

Above Eleven

Undoubtedly the coolest rooftop bar I've ever been to. Through a sort of mini jungle, you step into the party lift, shoot up to the 32nd floor of a gigantic building, and then you can feast your eyes on the city. Oh, and while you're there: order the Rohito cocktail. With Grey Goose, watermelon, and passion fruit puree. And they have divine sushi. HEAVEN. And if you're already in the rooftop bar vibe, also sip cocktails at the Moon Bar (at the Tree Hotel) and Sirocco (featured in the movie The Hangover..

So, will I see you in Bangkok?