Experience in Bangkok, Thailand by Ernesto Icogo

What is it like to live in Bangkok? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Living in Bangkok is quite challenging. Aside from the mess, the hustle and bustle of the city is filled with stress.

I went to Bangkok on two separate occasions. Firstly, to attend a mathematics workshop in Pattaya and secondly, to represent my country in the 1st ESAA workshop on the role of higher education in cross-border trade and promotion of Erasmus+

Despite the dreaded and monstrous traffic jam and dangers attached to tourism, Bangkok is still one of the most visited places on earth simply because of its deep culture and mystic.

The city is a busy city with traffic jam, noisy passersby and transport vehicles. But, recent development made use of innovative ideas to lessen the burden and made living and visit more convenient. The railway system that connects the airport to the city center is very convenient and available almost the whole day.

The city is centered in its famous river, Chao Phraya. The Thai civilization started along the banks of the river and its tributaries known as "khlongs". Many of the cities beautiful and world-famous temples are located along these tributaries.

With modern developments, most entertainment places can be found at the top of tall buildings that dot the city. A visit to the temple is recommended and the use of Thai traditional transport, the "tuktuk" makes a happy visit.

What is the student lifestyle like in Bangkok?

To be practical, hostel accommodation is advisable unless you are visiting on a scheduled and attending an important event. For a student, it is advisable to book a hostel in the city center and near most places of interest.

The reason is that transport cost in Bangkok is not at all cheap and affordable. Going in and around the city could be very challenging and stressful.

How much does it cost to live in Bangkok?

I really don't have a clear and concise idea of the exact cost of living and visiting Bangkok. In general, the cost is not cheap and easily affordable. A future traveler should plan in advance.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Bangkok? Is there any advice you can give?

Depending on the season, there are a lot of choices of accommodation in Bangkok. It ranges from the cheap backpacking rate to 5-star hotels. It's better to book in advance if you are traveling alone or with your family.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Many local street food stalls can be found all over the city. There are also choices of varying rates of expenses to the hungry soul.

What places would you recommend visiting in Bangkok?

The best place to visit is the Chao Phraya river and the series of "khlongs" that connects to the main artery. Along these tributaries are some of the world's most beautiful and famous Buddhist temples. It is best to look at Thai civilization and culture from this perspective. Along the "khlongs"are traditional Thai houses and trading posts.

Is it good to eat out in Bangkok? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

It is always good to eat out in Bangkok. But, be aware of the health concerns in eating out in street stalls. Most Thai food are hot and spicy, typical to most Asian culinary.

My visit to the Thai capital and Pattaya, a city 2-hour south of Bangkok is a scheduled and invited visit so I had the real opportunity to taste Thai food which are prepared in fashion. The hotel chefs of Pullman Pattaya always see to it that their guests are pampered and given the utmost service of a 5-star hotel.

Is the nightlife good in Bangkok? Where is good to go?

Bangkok is known for its nightlife. In Pattaya, a curious visit to the Red District and do the "Pattaya Walk" is an experience in itself.In Bangkok, I wasn't able to stay longer in the evening to observe and experience its famous nightlife because my flight schedule required me to be at the airport just before dinner time.

What advice would you give future students heading to Bangkok?

My advise is to immerse themselves into the Thai culture, understand their history and create a better understanding between peoples of different nations.