Hi Fodorites,

I will be visiting Bangkok for about 10 days around Oct. 13-22. I was interested in taking a day trip (morning), then returning to Bangkok in the afternoon/ evening.

Any thoughts on day trips from Bangkok?

Thank you for any insight or suggestions.

Ciao,
Robyn

River Kwai, Ayutthya (sp), Ancient City. Lots of travel agents about who would be glad to book day trips for you.

i do not like either of the suggestions above, except ayutt. if you are really interested in ruins...

the floating market is a good mornings trip.....

i would hire cherry, ratt, tong or one of the guides often mentioned here to take you around....it is really cost effective...

tong can take you to the secret place which is really unique:

[email protected]

cherry is: [email protected]

I would suggest either the River Kwai or floating market. Ancient city is not worth it in my book. Ayyuthya only if you're interested in ruins. I agree with Bob that you should use a driver or guide.

A great half day trip is to Prasart Museum which is about 30-45 minutes from the Bangkok center.
f ina fakeeFor

If you want an adventuresome trip take the local train to Ayutthya for the day. There will be drivers there to take you where you might like to go after you have seen the city. My driver took me out to the elephant preserve which I loved. We wound up going to his Mother's house where I met his young daughter and they gave me a lunch to return on the train. I was back before dark. My driver's name was Cat. Another friend told me about him. He was there to meet me and get me back on the train. A favorite day in all my travels.

For the Floating Market, use one of the drivers recommended above. It is best to get there early which means leaving Bangkok at about 6:30 AM. Near the FM are a huge woodworking shop and a small factory that makes Benjarong porcelain - both are worthwhile stops. Your driver can customize the day for you.

The standard tour to Ayuthaya goes out by bus and returns by boat on the Chao Phraya River. We did this on our first visit and really enjoyed it. The tour includes a visit to the Bang Pa In Summer Palace - also worthwhile.

The Prasart Museum takes about 3-1/2 to 4 hours including drive time - very worthwhile but not an all day trip. The 2-hour museum tours are at set times - morning or afternoon. You must have a reservation which your driver can arrange for you.