There are various different ways to travel around Bangkok, either by joining one of the more unique tour groups (such as our own of course!) or by using one of the many forms of public transport. Each brings with it fun and a guarantee of an experience.

This is our pick of the best ways to see Bangkok in a different way:

By Water

Bangkok is often described as the Venice of the East. In fact, the canal (called khlongs in Thai) system was the main form of transport during the 19^th century.

To this day and similar to the BTS and MRT trains, there are water taxis along Bangkok’s khlongs providing public transport for predominantly local residents.

However the easiest way for someone not so familiar with the system is to the Chao Phraya River as long tail boats can be hired from all of the piers. Head to the Sathorn Central Pier (accessible via Saphan Taskin BTS sky train, Silom line) The price is dependent on how big the boat is, how many people are in your group, and the distance/duration of your trip.

Insider tip: always agree a price upfront. And never accept the first price quoted to you – in Bangkok and indeed the whole of Thailand, you are expected to barter!

Alternatively take the hour long trip on the orange flagged express boat (15 baht one way) from Sathorn Central Pier to Nonthaburi which takes just over an hour – once the ferry has passed the main piers, you can get a glimpse into proper river life.

Walk

Walking between BTS stops along Sukhumvit or Silom Road is a great way to discover new and off the beaten track places such as a cute café or finding a popular street stall selling the best Thai food that isn’t visible from public transport.

Make sure that you are wearing comfy shoes, a hat, sunscreen and carry a bottle of water before you start exploring.

Who knows what you might see?

Take a segway around Rattanakosin Island

Rattanakosin Island is in the centre of Bangkok, close to the popular sights of the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. It’s considered an island because it was formerly a walled town surrounded by the Chao Phraya River and the Old Moat.

A segway is a two wheeled self balancing device, which reacts to the rider’s body movement. As they can be used on either the road or pavement, they are an amusing and easy way of avoiding the traffic and allow the opportunity of seeing some of old Bangkok.

Tours can be booked through www.segwaytourthailand.com.

Take The Bus

The bus is one of the cheapest forms of transport in Bangkok. If you have a spare afternoon, it can be fun to pick a random bus stop, and see where you end up which is no doubt an area you would otherwise not have seen and then navigate your way back to your hotel. This is ideal for those wishing to explore the less well known and therefore touristy areas of Bangkok.

Take a bike tour around Bangkok’s Green Lung

Only thirty minutes away from central Bangkok is the luscious green “island” of Bang Krachao. www.bkkcycling.com offers half day tours exploring the island and visiting a botanical park, temples and even a Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery. The scenery is fantastic – mango and banana trees, beautiful fauna and a real opportunity to engage with locals who are keen to practice their English.