Bangkok 2026
The school summer holidays had begun, and our original plan was to return to our beloved Italian island, Sardinia 🏝️ But then one of my miles programs rewarded me a flight, and in my mind, that’s basically the universe telling me it’s time to tick another destination off my bucket list: Langkawi and Penang Islands in Malaysia 🇲🇾
I know, I know… any excuse to travel to exotic places 🤭
So, I booked flights for me and my daughter with Thai Airways from Zurich to Bangkok. Having been many times, that city is simply a vibe. It’s loud, chaotic, slightly overwhelming at times… and somehow that’s exactly why I love it 😎
The 10-hour flight went by surprisingly fast (probably because I managed to squeeze in a few movies and a tiny bit of sleep). Before we knew it, we were touching down at 5 a.m. local time. By 7 a.m. we’d already checked into our hotel for a quick nap because as much as I’d like to think I have the energy of a 25-year old, I’ve learned the hard way that sightseeing on zero sleep is a terrible life choice 🫣🤭
I think Rambuttri Alley is a good option to stay just steps away from the famous Khao San Road, but with a much calmer and more charming vibe 🧘
Our first stop was breakfast at Madame Musur’s, followed by a foot massage for CHF 10 per hour. And just like that, within a few hours of arriving, I was reminded why I love travelling in Thailand so much.
tuk tuks part of the urban landscape of Bangkok
you see me ridin', they hatin'
fantastic food court at Icon Siam mall
One thing I could happily live without, though, is the endless haggling with taxi drivers. That’s why I always use the Grab app when travelling in Asia (basically like Uber). You get local prices, and they even offer food and grocery delivery too (in case you are ever sick in a hotel room).
What I really like are the safety features, there’s an option to record your ride, and if the driver makes an unexpected stop, you automatically get a message asking if everything is okay.
My eSIM I got again from Mobimatter.com, CHF 12 for 30GB covering both Thailand and Malaysia.
On our first day, we did what you’re supposed to do in Bangkok: jumped into a tuk tuk 🛺 in rush hour which takes some patience and headed straight for MBK. It’s the perfect place for souvenirs, random finds, and practising your bargaining skills.
The next day, we explored Icon Siam, Bangkok’s giant, ultra-modern shopping wonderland. Calling it a “mall” almost feels unfair, it’s more like a destination. The ground floor alone is worth a visit, with an incredible Thai food court built around an artificial floating market. But we knew that there was also a Japanese food court and supermarket, so we tasted different things, all of them being delicious, reminding us of our Japan trip.
There are even more food options on the 6th floor, with a futuristic vibe, and a rooftop restaurant offering beautiful views over the river and Bangkok’s skyline.
And because I’m known for my very spontaneous decisions, we randomly ended up watching the new Moana movie in 4DX. Imagine 3D glasses, seats that move, wind blowing in your face, and water spraying at you during certain scenes. Exceeding any movie experience 🤩
coconuts are my religion
roof top restaurant at Icon Siam mall
her breakfast vs. mine
one night in Bangkok is not just a song...
finishing the night strong
thanks, but no thanks
fresh water melon juice & coconut water
After two days, it was time to add another country to my daughter’s ever-growing list of visited countries, number 27 for this soon-to-be 8-year-old 🌏 For me, it was a return to Malaysia after 20 years, but with a twist: this time I was exploring two islands I’d never been to before.
At the end of our trip, we spent another two days in Bangkok before flying home. I booked the Baan Wanglang Hotel right by the river for only CHF 40 per night. It’s a basic but clean hotel with a fantastic location, right in the middle of a lively street market.
The hotel itself has two restaurants, including a rooftop bar with an incredible view over the river and Bangkok’s skyline, especially beautiful at night 🌃
We were lucky to be in Bangkok on the weekend because that meant we could visit Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of Bangkok’s biggest and most famous markets, with thousands of stalls selling everything from souvenirs and clothes to food and unique finds. It’s honestly one of my favourite places in Bangkok, and you can find some amazing things at unbeatable prices.
The one part I struggle with every single time, though, is the pet section. Seeing dogs and puppies kept in small cages and being sold to anyone who wants to buy them is incredibly difficult to witness. It breaks my heart, and every time I walk through there, I have to fight back the tears.
I think this was my 8th time in Thailand, and by now I’ve spent more than six months exploring this incredible country. Yet every time I return, I’m reminded why I love it so much.
Thailand just has a special vibe. The people are incredibly friendly, the food is amazing, it’s affordable, safe, and there is so much beauty everywhere you look, from the islands and beaches to the cities and temples. It has easily earned a spot in my top five favourite countries in the world.
I honestly wish we could have stayed another two weeks, but all good things come to an end. It was time to catch our 1 a.m. flight back to Switzerland. The good thing about these overnight flights? You can sleep through most of the journey and arrive back in Zurich in the evening, ready to slowly get back into reality ✈️
➤