THAILAND - island beach Logo Thailand (1)
Back to Listing

Bangkok

Founded in 1782, Bangkok has to be one of the most exciting metropolises in Asia. Known as Krungthep in Thai, meaning ‘The City of Angels’, this is actually an abbreviation of the world’s longest place name of 168 letters. Early European explorers romanticised the city as the ‘Venice of the East’ due to the network of canals (khlongs) dominating the city, and some of these are still in use today, one that serves as a busy commuter canal.

The first thing that is invariably noticeable on arrival in Bangkok is the wall of heat and humidity as one leaves the air-conditioned airport arrivals hall. Following on is the buzz of the traffic, the bustle of the street-markets as every person in the vicinity jostles for space, the noise, sounds and smells of the delicious street food being cooked on almost every pavement, all creating the wonderfully special atmosphere unique to this great city.

Bangkok is very much a city of contrasts. Modernisation is rapid, and there are glitzy new buildings going up all the time. These shiny office or condominium towers sit comfortably next to traditional, beautifully adorned Buddhist temples, and Thai shop houses that have remained unchanged for many decades. Gleaming Mercedes zoom past food-vendor carts and uniquely Thai tuk-tuks with their drivers hustling for passengers.

There are endless things to see and do in the city from some of the more obvious such as visiting the magnificent Royal Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, to some of the less obvious, such as exploring the steamy back streets of the old city with a guide, introducing you to all kinds of mouthwatering street-food. Those interested in shopping could spend weeks sifting through Bangkok's modern malls and traditional open-air markets, that sell everything from high-end designer goods, to intricately weaved textiles from northern Thailand.

Entertainment ranges from highbrow to the notorious with everything in between. You may relax at a rooftop bar with mesmerising city views, mingling with well-heeled Thai society over a crafted cocktail, or enjoy a street-side Thai beer, whilst watching the world go by. Those looking for something trendier should investigate the Thonglor area of the city, where you’ll find vintage outlets and local hipsters sipping on imported craft ales.

A food lover's paradise, this epicurean city caters for all tastes from fine dining in a plush restaurant with views over the Chao Praya river to enjoying the most mouthwatering street-side Thai dishes prepared at a mobile street-cart by one of the many hardworking street-food vendors that help keen Bangkokians well-fed. The possibilities in this city are endless.

As Bangkok is the gateway for most visitors on a tailor-made tour of Thailand, spending a few days enjoying the city is certainly recommended, and there are many options for onward's travel, from taking a short flight north or south, to travelling overland by road or rail to one of the many historical towns or lush national parks of central Thailand.

Prepare to have all your senses engaged: this is a city that will amaze and entertain, and it is always full of wonderful surprises.

Bangkok, Thailand (2).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (2).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (10).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (10).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (12).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (12).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (6).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (6).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (11).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (11).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (7).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (7).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (1).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (1).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (5).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (5).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (9).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (9).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (4).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (4).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (8).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (8).jpg
Bangkok, Thailand (3).jpg Bangkok, Thailand (3).jpg
Travelling is like flirting with life. It's like saying, 'I would stay and love you, but I have to go; this is my station.
Lisa St. Aubin de Teran

Client Testimonials

Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences