How to travel alone in Bangkok

Bangkok’s vibrant spirit draws visitors from all over the globe, and its understated cosmopolitan spirit makes solo discovery appealing. While Bangkok’s attractions seem to invite group exploration, this is not necessarily true. Solo travel can open your eyes to the wonderful subtleties of the world and empower you to treasure solitude and grow. There is no better place than Bangkok for your solo journey.

en:User:Mjanich, Grand Palace in Bangkok - Chakri Mahaprasad Hall, CC BY-SA 3.0 

Why do you need to stay close to public transport when solo travelling in Bangkok?

 As you brave the city of Bangkok alone, cabs might prove to be a tad bit expensive without anyone to share the cost. The good news is that Bangkok’s public transport system is pretty efficient and convenient. That is why you should find hotels to stay in Bangkok with easy access to the MRT. For example, hotels like Avani Atrium Bangkok offer MRT drop-off services. If you have convenient access to the MRT, you can get to a lot of places and activities in the city 

Why do you need to join activities and excursions?

 Solo travellers can find safety in numbers if they join organized excursions. This way you can explore the places you wish to see independently but with the assured safety of a group of travellers with the same objective in mind. These excursions are great opportunities to meet other solo travellers and make memories. Some hotels organize excursions to popular attractions.

How to avoid danger when travelling solo in Bangkok?

Be aware that in some islands, gangs tend to rip tourists off, and this is not a battle you need to fight. Simply accept it as a fact of life and ask your hotel concierge about ways to avoid getting entangled. When you attend beach parties on your own, always keep an eye on your drink. Unfortunately, drink spiking is a thing at beach parties in Thailand. Remember to never accept a drink from a stranger. Scooters can be a fun way to get around in Southeast Asia, but Thailand’s roads are notorious for being chaotic. Unless you are a pro scooter rider, renting these two-wheel drives is best avoided. If you plan on travelling around in scooters, get yourself an excellent travel insurance.

Why do you need to watch out for pickpockets in Bangkok?

Pickpocketing is prevalent in Bangkok, but if you can stay cautious, you won’t give a chance to any purse snatchers. How do you do this? Avoid pulling your money out at easy to reach spots. Always, put your valuables in a safe bag and keep it close to you. When you walk along a busy road, put your sling bag on the other side of your body (away from the road). Sometimes motor cyclists tend to snatch bags as they whizz past pedestrians.

Where to go as a solo traveller in Bangkok?

You can explore the top attraction in the city all by yourself with little concern for safety. Take your time to explore the Grand Palace in all its glory where the Temple of the Emerald Buddha continues to inspire awe. Frequent Bangkok's outdoor markets to drink in the exquisite culture and strike some bargains. You can savour some great delicacies at night markets and get yourself some souvenirs for friends and family back home.

Why do you need to understand the culture when travelling solo in Bangkok?

This is true for any destination that you wish to explore on your own. People around you can sense your respect and treat you accordingly. While Bangkok is fairly liberal, it is still better to avoid showing too much skin at religious sites and less touristy areas. You can include a sizeable scarf in your sling bag and take it out when you visit religious sites. In Thailand, e-cigarettes and by extension vaping are prohibited. You should also remember to stay away from political rallies and discussions. Speak respectfully of the royal family, especially the king.