4 Important Things About Bangkok, Thailand, No One Tells You

Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand. Photo by Martin Péchy

When people talk about Bangkok, Thailand, they often mention its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, stunning architecture, and some of the best food in the world. However, there are some important things about Bangkok that no one tells you, and you only discover them once you arrive there.

It’s Really Hot There

Bangkok has a tropical climate, which guarantees hot and humid weather throughout most of the year. Expect to sweat a lot and be on the look for ways to cool down. That is, of course, if you don’t visit during the rainy season when frequent rain showers will take care of the latter.

The Traffic is Horrible

Bangkok consistently ranks as one of the worst cities in the world in terms of traffic. The roads are full of cars at all times, so it will always take a while before you reach your destination.

 It’s Always Crowded

There are more than 11 million people living in Bangkok, and dozens of millions of tourists visit the city each year. This means it will be crowded wherever you go, so be prepared to try and navigate rivers of people going up and down its streets.

Most Tuk-Tuks Are a Scam

Tuk-Tuks might seem like a cool way to get from point A to point B in Bangkok, but beware that you will probably be walking into a scam. Tuk-Tuk drivers are known for overcharging tourists and taking them to jewelry stores, tailor shops, and illegal travel agencies where they earn a commission.