The Ultimate Insider's Guide to Bangkok - What to See, Where to Go, What to Eat

Known for its street food scene, ornate temples, and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok can seem chaotic and overwhelming if you don't know where to start. As a frequent visitor to Thailand's capital and largest city, I'm going to give you an insider's guide for what to see, where to go, and what to eat in Bangkok.

First up, you can't talk about Bangkok without mentioning temples. The Grand Palace and Wat Pho should be on any first-timer's itinerary. Prepare to be dazzled by the Grand Palace complex's glittering chedis, mosaics, and lavish royal residences. And don't miss seeing the enormous Reclining Buddha statue at Wat Pho. For a less touristy temple experience, head to Wat Arun across the river or the Golden Mount for unbeatable city views. 

Now let's get to the food! Bangkok is packed with mouthwatering street food stalls, vendors, and restaurants. Ease yourself in with a stop at a bustling hawker market like Chinatown's Yaowarat Road. Just point at what looks tasty! Must-try essential Thai dishes include pad thai, green curry, tom yum soup, som tam papaya salad, and mango sticky rice for dessert. Want a full-blown food tour? Take the skytrain over to the Thonburi side of town to explore the hidden gem of Bangkok's street food scene. 

Once you've eaten your fill, burn it all off with a longtail boat tour of Bangkok's network of canals (khlongs). Seeing the mega city from these bustling, green khlongs will make you feel a world away. Make sure to stop at the renowned flower market and other communities that line the waterways for an insightful local experience.

Bangkok stays up late, so prepare your stamina for live music venues, quirky theme bars, hip night markets, and the legendary party street Khaosan Road. Indulge in nightlife classics like bowling, karaoke, or catching a Muay Thai match. Or simply people watch while sipping on a Chang beer at a street side bar. 

With this insider's guide, you'll be set up to see, eat, and experience the most iconic, delicious, and hidden sides of Bangkok. The City of Angels always rewards those willing to dive right into its intoxicating, contrasting charms of traditions and modernity. Just embrace getting pleasantly lost in the organized chaos!