-
Step 1
Visit the local markets. Outdoor markets abound in Bangkok and can be found in just about every neighborhood. At these markets, you can find fresh food, souvenirs, clothing and local oddities. One of the more popular outdoor tourist markets, Chatuchak is also popular with locals. Chatuchak is one of the largest open air markets in the world. To get there, simply hail a taxi and say "Jat-u-jack" or "JJ market" and they will know where to take you.
-
Step 2
Indulge in Thai food. While slightly on the adventurous side, you can enjoy local street food, just make sure that the cooking oil is clear and not blackened or dark and that the food handler appears to be using relative food safety caution and appears clean.
-
Step 3
Enjoy a Thai tea. Thai tea is a local favorite you can purchase from many street vendors. Thai tea is a mix of strong red tea, sugar and chilled milk (frequently soy or condensed milk is used). Thai iced tea is usually served in a plastic bag with a straw.
-
Step 4
Eat like the locals do. Thais don't traditionally use chopsticks. Instead, they use a fork to scoop their food onto a larger spoon, with which they then place the food in the mouth. Thais find it vile to put a fork in the mouth, much as Americans feel it is bad manners to put a knife in the mouth. Also, use a straw when drinking a beverage. It is considered bad manners to put your mouth directly on the container.
-
Step 5
Wai people. The Thai people "wai" each other. Wai-ing is a type of bow while holding your hands together, as if in prayer. It is considered a sign of respect, friendliness, cultural tradition and greeting. While the nuances of the Thai wai can be confusing, the general rule is the higher the hands are held and the lower you tip your head, the higher the status of the person you are wai-ing. See Resources below on how to properly wai.
-
Step 6
Spend a day in China Town. Bangkok has a vibrant China Town community that should not be missed. There, you can purchase beautiful fabrics, jewelry at bargain prices and unique clothing and souvenirs.
