Klongmaster

Chrispb: the BTS has now been extended over the river so Saphan Taksin station is not now the end of the line.

Montelco: Certainly things have settled down here in Bangkok. There are still political rumblings but nothing that affects us.

We have good contacts in Phuket and I can send you details if you email me klongmaster[at]gmail.com

Thanks, Klongmaster, for that information. I did want to travel on the Chao Phraya River but the ferry boats we watched near the Jim Thompson house seemed to be having races so was a bit dubious.

JT House actually backs on the one of main canals and not onto the Chao Phraya River itself so you can relax...on the main river they are much better behaved...

 

 

We will be staying near the Nana Skytrain station. Which floating market would you recommend?

Neither the BTS or the MRT goes anywhere near the Floating Market or the Grand Palace. If you want DIY you'll have to go by taxi.

 

There is also a tour to Ayuthya ancient capital or the Damnoen Markets which seem about the same distance away. We are only in Bangkok for three days.

Yes Ayutthaya and Damnoen Saduak are in opposite drections. Here's a link to probably the most imformative site for cruisers. Has tours from both Klong Toey and Laem Chabang with prices for each tour.

 

We are only in Bangkok for three days. We have been to Wat Po and loved it. Do you think it would still be worth going to the Grand Palace? I have heard that people tell you it is closed if you try to do it on your own. Look forward to your advice. :)

Without doubt, if you only see one thing in Bangkok The Grand Palace is THE place to visit...strange you went to Wat Po and not to the GP as they are next to each other. It is closed to foreigners sometimes but all you have to do is post your dates here and someone will be able to tell you if they are open. Otherwsie it's just a scam to take you to gem shops!

 

Cheers

KM

Montelco

The BTS Skytrain does not go anywhere near the Grand Palace so taxis are the best bet if you're going it alone.

Seeing you've planned to be here on the weekend you can take the boat after the Grand Palace and stop at the Taling Chan Floating Market which is only open Sat & Sun.

 

The other Floating Market is at Damnoen Saduak which is 90 minutes out of Bangkok.

Not sure about the travel agency but September/October are towards the end of the rainy season which runs from Khao Phansa in July until Ok Phansa in October.

It's cooler obviously but can be wet at least some time during each day...