Couple of days in Bangkok
 

I will be going to Bhutan in April 2006. I will likely have a couple of days to lay over in Bangkok. Any suggestions for such a limited amount of time?

Stay close to downtown/skytrain- maybe Four Seasons or Intercontinental.
Do the Grand Palace, Jim Thompson House, Night market and MBK. Maybe the Teak Mansion.

Stay on the river (Oriental, Peninsula, Royal Orchid Sheraton, Shangri-la or Marriott) and do the following to capture some of the magic of Bangkok:

1 Have breakfast on the river at your hotel and watch the life of the river

2. Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Grand Palace

3. Rent a long tail boat and driver and take a klong tour/ride that includes Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn)

4. Jim Thompson House

If you have additional time go to Vimanamek Mansion

Since this is in 2006- to make the best use of your 2 days- do the following- yes stay on the river as Gloria suggests- search this forum for the endless debate on the Oriental vs. Peninsula. Then get in touch with Ratt (search the forum for posts about Ratt) and have her drive you around to all of the sights listed. You will be able to do so much more with Ratt taking you around. Forget taxis, forget river taxis, forget skytrain- you don't have time to waste on these modes- get Ratt.
You will thank me as the weather in BKK in April is the worst- we know as we were there in April of last year! Ratt was great and really saved us a ton of time and energy!

Buy a guide book and read the various activities available in BKK. Choose a few. The above-mentioned sights are at the top of the collective list, but may not be at the top of yours. You can't possibly do everything in a "must see list" so relax and enjoy whatever you choose. The hotels on the river are wonderful and watching the river traffic provides an insight into the magic of BKK. Don't worry about missing something, you'll probably be back.

Bill's idea of getting Ratt to drive you is an excellent one. It will be very hot in Bangkok and this will make your visit a lot pleasanter.

Stay at the Oriental and tell them that Gloria is your sister- you will no doubt get a great rate, probably upgraded at no cost- and treated like royalty!

hold up kids. lets find out if he/she already has a hotel and if so what his/her budget..

Pama what are you interests.

and what is "a couple" 2-3 days.?