Crew Tip: Two nights in Bangkok

"One night in Bangkok and the world's your oyster," goes the famous song. But for us as crew, it's often a bit more: two nights in the city that never sleeps, where every moment promises adventure. After a ten-hour flight, we step into the tropical heat with two days ahead of us—filled with street food, temples, and markets waiting to be explored. Join cabin crew member Tanja on her stay.

Sawatdee Thailand!
One of the crew's favourite destinations is on my itinerary: Bangkok. The excitement is palpable among the 17 crew members (14 cabin and 3 flight crews) aboard the SWISS Boeing 777. I've been flying around the world with SWISS as a cabin crew member since 2019, and I'm still fascinated by the excitement just before landing - the magic of distant lands calling. Shortly after breakfast, we hear the call: "Cabin crew, prepare for landing". With a six-hour time difference, the flight crew navigates the runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Bangkok greets us with its unique blend of tropical warmth and sweet-spicy aromas that immediately evoke thoughts of adventure, aromatic Thai curries and exotic fruits.

The hours until the return flight feel like a race against time. But this time, I have a plan—thanks to the "Local Tips" from our four Bangkok-based SWISS crew members who travel on our flights to and from the city and enthusiastically support the Zurich-based crew.

Cabin Crew Member Tanja
What's not to like about Bangkok? Great food, friendly people and endless activities. Tanja, SWISS cabin crew member since 2019, loves the unique spirit the city exudes.

 

Khao San Road – Bangkok's bustling hub

After a cozy dinner of  panang curry and papaya salad, we hop into a tuk-tuk, zooming through Bangkok’s vibrant streets toward Khao San Road. Known as the “Backpacker Road,” it pulses with life—music blaring, food stalls offering adventurous snacks like scorpions, and bars alive with chatter. Prefer something quieter? A nearby side street offers relaxed bars perfect for unwinding.

The vibrant Khao San Road at night – a hub for backpackers with street stalls, bars, and colorful lights.
The vibrant Khao San Road at night – a hub for backpackers with street stalls, bars, and colorful lights.
A classic Tuk-Tuk navigating Bangkok’s streets
Tuk-Tuk: the three-wheeled icon of Thai urban transport.

 

Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun temples

Temples are to Thailand what mountains are to Switzerland. After lunch, we take the Skytrain to Saphan Taksin and continue by boat down the Chao Phraya River straight to the Grand Palace. Once the residence of the Siam kings, it boasts magnificent gardens, temples, and palace buildings. However, the palace closes at 3:30 p.m.—so latecomers like me must opt for the next tip.

Wat Pho, a 15-minute walk away, is home to the 47-meter-long Reclining Buddha statue. The tranquility exuded by the golden Buddha offers a brief respite from the city’s chaos. For those with energy to spare, take a boat across the river to Wat Arun, where you can enjoy a breathtaking sunset view and the golden temple spires. Alternatively, Chinatown or the Flower Market make excellent detours.

Tip: When visiting the Grand Palace and temples, wearing appropriate clothing is essential: shoulders and knees must be covered. Light, breathable clothing is ideal.

The iconic Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho – an awe-inspiring 46-meter-long statue covered in gold leaf
The iconic Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho – an awe-inspiring 46-meter-long statue covered in gold leaf.
The magnificent temple grounds of Wat Pho, known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere.
The magnificent temple grounds of Wat Pho, known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere.
A breathtaking view of Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, bathed in the golden hues of sunset from the Chao Phraya River.
A breathtaking view of Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, bathed in the golden hues of sunset from the Chao Phraya River.

 

Floral Delights – Pak Klong Talat and Chinatown

Thailand's largest flower market is a feast for the senses. Bright colors, lively chatter among vendors, and the hustle and bustle make this a fragrant experience.

When hunger strikes, Chinatown, just a 20-minute walk away, beckons with the best street food. My choice: spicy shrimp dumplings, classic Pad Thai in an omelet, and for dessert, the sweet Mango Sticky Rice. The market stays lively late into the evening, accompanied by rhythmic traditional drumming.

A kaleidoscope of colors at Pak Klong Talad, Bangkok’s largest flower market – from fragrant jasmine to vivid orchids.
A kaleidoscope of colors at Pak Klong Talad, Bangkok’s largest flower market – from fragrant jasmine to vivid orchids.
Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown – narrow alleys alive with golden temples, red lanterns, and authentic street food.
Bangkok’s bustling Chinatown – narrow alleys alive with golden temples, red lanterns, and authentic street food.
Traditional Pad Thai wrapped in a delicate egg omelette
Traditional Pad Thai wrapped in a delicate egg omelette.

 

Massages – a must-do

No trip to Bangkok is complete without a massage. In Thailand, massage salons are everywhere. Whether you opt for a traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy, or a soothing foot massage after a day of walking, it’s practically a requirement. The Thais have perfected the art of relaxation, leaving you wondering how they achieve such serenity and joy in life.

My day ends with a rejuvenating oil massage before the morning flight home.

 

Bangkok, home to over 10 million people, showcases a striking skyline where towering skyscrapers meet traditional temples, reflecting the city’s dynamic blend of modernity and heritage.
Bangkok, home to over 10 million people, showcases a striking skyline where towering skyscrapers meet traditional temples, reflecting the city’s dynamic blend of modernity and heritage..

For more time: Bonus highlights around Bangkok

Ayutthaya Day Trip
Just an hour from Bangkok, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, showcases breathtaking temple ruins and tales of a bygone era—perfect for a day trip.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
A bit farther out but more authentic than the Bangkok-based floating markets, Damnoen Saduak offers fresh fruits, vegetables, and handcrafted goods traded boat-to-boat.

Chatuchak Market
Starting Friday evenings and through the weekend, Chatuchak Market is a treasure trove of clothing, jewelry, furniture, pets, and street food. Spend hours browsing and uncovering new gems—a paradise for bargain hunters!

 

Getting around made easy

Skytrain and Metro are the fastest ways to navigate Bangkok. Tickets are available at machines, or you can pay by credit card at metro gates. While taxis and Grab rides can be slower due to traffic, tuk-tuks offer a cultural and fun experience but may be pricey for tourists. For sights along the river Chao Phraya, a boat ride provides scenic views of the city and temple complexes.

 

Best travel time

The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to February, during the dry season with pleasant temperatures of 25–30°C, ideal for exploring. March through May can exceed 35°C, so lightweight clothing and sun protection are essential. The rainy season (June to October) is manageable if you don’t mind short showers.

 

SWISS flies daily to Bangkok. Flight time: approx. 10 hours outbound, 11 hours return