Is Bangkok a Good Destination for Scuba Diving?

When it comes to planning a diving holiday, Bangkok may not be the first city that comes to mind. After all, Bangkok is known for its bustling city life – not its underwater attractions! However, while the Thai capital is far from a classic diving destination, there is plenty of potential for fantastic dives in the waters nearby. Read on to find out more about scuba diving in Bangkok and the surrounding areas.The Gulf of Thailand is a warm dream for divers, with crystal-clear waters and an incredible diversity of sea life. Prominent species include sea turtles, moray eels, skates and stingrays. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale shark! The Thai government has also invested in creating artificial reefs, which bring more marine species to the coastline.

How to Get to Bangkok for a Diving Holiday

Bangkok is an incredibly accessible destination, served by direct flights from Europe and the United States. It also has an excellent road network that links the city to other parts of Thailand. Of course, it’s also possible to travel to Bangkok overland – many people arrive by train or bus. Once in Bangkok, visitors will find it easy to reach some of Thailand’s most impressive diving spots. For instance, the Similan Islands – a premier diving location in Southeast Asia – can be reached via a tour from the nearby city of Phuket. Other popular day trips include the Khao Lak region, home to pinnacle dives and intact reefs.

Where to Dive near Bangkok

Within easy reach of Bangkok itself is Pattaya, an exciting beach resort city where there is a wonderful variety of dive sites. Liveaboards leave regularly from Pattaya on trips to some of the most tropical and colorful reefs in Southeast Asia. Pattaya’s lively nightlife and delicious seafood restaurants make it an excellent addition to any dive-based vacation.Divers can also access the famous Samae San Islands, located in Rayong Province, just to the east of Bangkok. However, these require a longer journey than Pattaya – typically around two hours by road followed by a one-hour boat ride. For those who make the effort, the Samae San Islands are a spectacular reward for their patience – with ancient shipwrecks and undiscovered coves making for some truly memorable dives! The waters here also offer excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Types of Dive Sites around Bangkok

There’s something for every type of diver off the coast of Bangkok. Beginner divers can take advantage of sheltered bays and shallow waters, while more experienced divers can take on current drift dives and interesting wrecks! There’s also plenty of raw natural beauty on display – including turtles, clownfish and vibrant coral gardens. When visiting somewhere like Pattaya or Samae San Islands, it’s worth checking which dive schools are available and what types of courses they provide. Many have specialist instructors who can organize Open Water courses and Advanced Open Water courses – all just a short distance from Bangkok.

The Best Time of Year to Dive in Bangkok

Bangkok has a warm climate year-round with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C (68F). There are two primary diving seasons for people who want to explore Thailand’s tropical gems: a dry season (November – April) and a wet season (May – October). The dry season boasts the clearest waters and offers sunny days with excellent visibility. More experienced divers may prefer this time of year as many liveaboards will only run from November – April due to the calmer seas and predictable weather conditions. The wet season is generally cheaper for trips and still offers plenty of diving opportunities when you factor in the occasional storms.

Underwater Safety in Bangkok

As with any dive spot around the world, safety should be your top

The Insider’s Guide to Bangkok: Exploring the Hidden Gems and Experiencing Local Culture

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, chances are you may have heard of the bustling markets, crowded tourist attractions, and bustling nightlife. But, beyond these, there are a lot of hidden gems in the city that only locals know of. So, put on your adventurer’s hat and let’s explore the city’s off-the-beaten-path attractions, food, culture, history and more.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While the Grand Palace and Wat Arun are iconic Bangkok landmarks, venture out to the lesser-known gems such as Bang Krachao or “The Green Lung”. The area is a dense jungle, crisscrossed with canals, and accessible only by boat.

Another hidden gem is the Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, where locals sell organic produce, regional delicacies, and handmade crafts. It’s the perfect place to taste local Thai food and shop for unique souvenirs.

Dining Spots: Savouring the City’s Food Culture

The best way to try local food in Bangkok is to go where the locals go. Head to Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, for some mouth-watering street food. Try the famous roast duck, dim sum, and crepe cakes at the old-school cafes – these dishes have been passed down through generations and are truly a unique culinary experience.

For something more upscale, check out the restaurant Bo.lan for traditional Thai cuisine made using locally sourced and organic ingredients.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse in the City’s Traditions and Customs

The city’s cultural experiences are rich and varied as its history. Visit the Jim Thompson House, whose architectural beauty and lush gardens reflect the cultural heritage of Thailand. A guided tour will provide you with insights into the cultural significance of Thailand’s silk-weaving industry.

Another cultural experience not to be missed is a traditional Thai massage. You can experience a Thai massage at one of the city’s many spas, where you’ll receive the royal treatment and be transported back in time to the days of the king and queen.

Local History: Reliving the City’s Fascinating Past

Bangkok’s history is long and intriguing, and it’s well worth taking the time to learn about it. One of the oldest areas in Bangkok is Rattanakosin Island, which is home to numerous ancient temples and palaces. Visit Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, and marvel at the intricate carvings and architecture.

For an even deeper dive into Bangkok’s history, venture to the Ancient City, a massive open-air museum with replicas of ancient Thai palaces, temples and structures.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions: Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

If you want to experience something truly unique in Bangkok, head to the Siriraj Medical Museum. It’s not for the faint-hearted but offers an intriguing look into Thailand’s medical history. Or, visit the Bangkok Corrections Museum, which used to be a prison and is now a museum. It’s eerie and fascinating all at once.

Another unique experience is a visit to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. With vendors selling all sorts of goods, from souvenirs to fruits and vegetables, a ride on the wooden boat through the market will be a memorable experience.

In conclusion, Bangkok has so much to offer beyond the common tourist attractions. By exploring the city’s hidden gems, culinary delights, cultural experiences, local history and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you will experience Bangkok like a local, with an unforgettable journey that stays with you forever.