Bangkok for a day
 

We're arriving in Bangkok around noon at the end of our vacation in Thailand. We're wondering where we should go in the city for some good shopping and some meals. We have an early flight on Tuesday morning (06:40), so I assume it's best to stay near the airport. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

the options near the airport are not so great...i usually stay at the jw marriott...it is the easiest access to the highway to the airprt and it is in the middle of lots of shopping and right on the skytrain route...there are lots of good restaurants around there and in the hotel itself...our favorite is biscotti in the 4 seasons hotel...we usually have a 6:05AM flight out so it works out well...get up at 3 and leave hotel at 3:30...about 30 minutes or less to the check in counter...

What kind of shopping? Central Chidlom is a good one stop shop for a variety of stuff and has a Jim T shop in shop as well. In case u want to look at antiques type stuff u might choose to be near River City perhaps at the Oriental. With a 6:40 Am flt - unless your luck is very out - would not worry too much re airport. Will be 30-40 minutes from most places. So, try to be close to your shopping!

We're looking for mostly clothing and thai souvenirs. I want to stay in a decent hotel, but not too expensive (in the city) as we'll be leaving in the middle of the night. Appreciate your tips.

Suggest u think about being close to the center of the city. For clothing as already mentioned Central Chidlom is a good otpion. Also have a Thai handicrafts section. Near Central Chidlom is Narai Phand which has some knick knacky stuff. Go at night (opens around 7) to the Suan Lum night bazaar - is very near Central Chidlom. U will have to take a cab. Like a mini Chatuchak. Lots of handicrafts and souvenir type items, good prices. Bargain hard!