In December I will fly into Bangkok to meet with some very good friends of mine. I am taking them to Karnchanupburi, Ubon and then southern Laos. All that part of the trip I am fine with but I always struggle to show people what Bangkok is all about when I have such a small time frame.
Friends consist of Mum and Dad in their 50's and three kids aged 18 - 23. All are fit apart from Mum who while happy to tackle anything and is relatively fit would tire after a few laps around Lumpini for example.
They don't drink, do drugs or have any interest in the flesh pits. They also don't particularly like shopping either. They do like to explore though.
So, my plan so far was:
Touch down Monday at 1pm. Arrive hotel (close to Chong Nonsi) at 3pm. Out to exchange money and pick up a few supplies they need (take passport pics etc) then walk the length of Silom road to Lumpini park to watch the action. Dinner around the park somewhere - would love some suggestions on this. Would love to do some good old street food but perhaps don't want to scare them too much on the first day so perhaps an old shop house that is half way decent???
Day 2: Tuesday. Walk to Chong nonsi BTS and ride to Saphan Taksin. Take a normal commuter boat up to Tha Tian - or should it be Tha Chang? It has been years since I have been here and what would you suggest is the best place to take them? The grand palace? Emerald Buddha? Both? Something else?
If they aren't templed out would consider a trip across to War Arun, is it worth it?
From there though I am stuck for the rest of the afternoon / evening. We could boat it back or take 2 taxis back to the hotel and freshen up - or do we push on for something else that you can suggest? Leaving bright and early the next morning so not chasing a too late a night.
Appreciate any suggestions - cheers.