When planning a trip to the vibrant city of Bangkok, it’s crucial to consider the must-see tourist spots and the areas where it might be best to avoid staying.
Many factors come into play, such as safety, proximity to amenities, noise levels, and the overall atmosphere of the neighborhood.
In this guide, we will navigate through the labyrinth of Bangkok’s districts, helping you make informed decisions about where to set up your temporary home base while exploring this captivating city.
While Bangkok is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer, there are a few areas that some travelers might want to avoid or exercise caution in.
Remember that safety concerns and preferences can vary from person to person, so it’s always a good idea to research and make informed decisions based on your comfort level.
Here are a few areas that some travelers might choose to avoid or be cautious about:
Patpong:
This area is known for its adult entertainment and nightlife scene. While it can be a curiosity for some tourists, it may not suit everyone, especially families or those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Khaosan Road:
Khaosan Road is famous for its backpacker scene, street food, and cheap shopping, but it can also be crowded and noisy.
You might want to look elsewhere for accommodations for a more tranquil and upscale experience.
Certain Red-Light Districts:
Bangkok has several red-light districts, such as Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy.
These areas are known for their nightlife and adult entertainment establishments.
Travelers uncomfortable with this environment should avoid staying too close to these districts.
Lower Sukhumvit Area:
While parts of Sukhumvit Road are perfectly safe and enjoyable, the lower Sukhumvit area (closer to Nana and Asoke) can be crowded and seedy.
Choosing accommodations in the higher Sukhumvit area or other parts of the city is advisable if you prefer a more upscale and peaceful environment.
Some Parts of Rattanakosin Island:
Rattanakosin Island is home to many of Bangkok’s historical and cultural attractions, such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
However, some tourists might find specific areas of Rattanakosin overly crowded and touristy.
Where not to stay in Bangkok with family?
When traveling to Bangkok with your family, there are certain areas that you might want to avoid or exercise caution in, as they might not provide the most family-friendly atmosphere or could be overwhelming for children. Here are a few areas you might consider avoiding when traveling with your family:
Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy:
These red-light districts are known for their adult-oriented entertainment and nightlife.
They might not be suitable for families, especially if you’re traveling with children.
Patpong:
Like Nana Plaza and Soi Cowboy, Patpong is another red-light district focusing on nightlife and adult entertainment.
While it might be intriguing for some adult travelers, it’s not an ideal location for families with children.
Lower Sukhumvit:
The lower Sukhumvit area, particularly around Nana and Asoke, can be crowded and busy, with a significant nightlife scene.
Families might prefer quieter and more family-friendly neighborhoods.
Khao San Road:
While Khao San Road is popular among backpackers and budget travelers, its vibrant nightlife and party atmosphere might not suit families, especially those with young children.
Areas Around Adult Entertainment Establishments:
Even if you’re not staying directly in the red-light districts mentioned above, you might want to avoid staying near adult entertainment establishments to ensure a more family-friendly environment.
Certain Budget Accommodation Areas:
Some budget accommodation areas might not offer the best family-friendly experience due to noise, lack of amenities, or proximity to certain types of entertainment.
Researching the specific accommodations and their surroundings is a good idea before booking.
When traveling with your family, consider staying in more relaxed and family-oriented areas.
Look for neighborhoods with parks, family-friendly attractions, and various dining options suitable for children.
The Riverside area, Sukhumvit (in the higher numbers, away from the nightlife), and Rattanakosin are some neighborhoods that might provide a more comfortable and family-friendly stay.
Always read reviews, check the proximity to attractions, and consider your family’s preferences when choosing accommodations in Bangkok.
What are the red areas in Bangkok?
The term “red-light areas” refers to districts or neighborhoods in a city that are known for their concentration of adult-oriented entertainment establishments, such as go-go bars, nightclubs, and other adult venues.
In Bangkok, there are a few well-known red-light districts:
- Nana Plaza: Located on Sukhumvit Soi 4, it is a three-story building complex known for its numerous go-go bars and adult-oriented entertainment venues.
- Soi Cowboy: Situated on Sukhumvit Soi 21, Soi Cowboy is another famous red-light district with a street lined with brightly lit bars and clubs featuring dancing performances.
- Patpong: Found in the Silom district, Patpong is known for its night market and adult entertainment establishments, making it one of the oldest red-light districts in Bangkok.
These areas are primarily focused on adult entertainment and nightlife.
While they can be intriguing for some tourists, they might not suit all travelers, especially families or those seeking a more conservative and family-friendly atmosphere.
It’s essential to exercise caution and make informed decisions based on your preferences and comfort level when visiting or staying near these red-light districts.
So which area is best to stay in Bangkok for tourists?
I honestly believe two of the best areas to stay in Bangkok for tourists are Siam Square and Sukhumvit.
Siam Square is a vibrant and modern hub that offers a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
With its proximity to some of Bangkok’s most iconic malls like Siam Paragon, MBK Center, and CentralWorld, as well as cultural attractions like Jim Thompson House, Siam Square provides an exciting urban experience that caters to a wide range of interests.
Similarly, Sukhumvit is a dynamic district known for its bustling atmosphere and diverse offerings. The area is well-connected through the Skytrain (BTS), making it easy to explore the city.
Sukhumvit boasts many international restaurants, lively nightlife, and shopping options, including the trendy Terminal 21 mall.
With a variety of accommodations to choose from, Sukhumvit provides a convenient and enjoyable base for exploring Bangkok’s attractions.
For more detailed insights and tips on staying in these areas, I recommend checking out this guide, which can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of each district’s unique advantages to make an informed decision that suits your preferences and travel style.
In conclusion
Bangkok is a vibrant and bustling city that offers something for everyone, from cultural attractions to dynamic nightlife.
However, when traveling with your family or seeking a more conservative atmosphere, certain areas, such as the red-light districts or lower Sukhumvit, can be avoided in favor of more family-friendly neighborhoods like Rattanakosin or Riverside.
For a convenient and enjoyable stay, I recommend considering Siam Square or Sukhumvit, both of which offer a variety of attractions to suit any traveler’s interests.
To make the best decision for your family, research and read reviews about each accommodation before booking. Planning can help ensure that your trip meets your expectations and makes Bangkok an unforgettable experience.
Happy travels!
