Meeting Our Wonderful Guide Elena
Elena met me at the condo where I was staying, which is quite a distance from the city center. She arrived smiling and stayed that way throughout the entire tour.
Therefore, our Bangkok adventure started with positive energy that lasted all day. Moreover, Elena’s willingness to travel far from the city center showed her commitment to excellent service.
Efficient Travel Using Bangkok’s BTS System
We started by hopping on the BTS Skytrain, switching at Siam station, and heading to the Jim Thompson house. Elena waited while the guide inside the Jim Thompson house conducted a brief 45-minute tour, and then we hopped on a boat and took that farther into town.
Because we used the BTS system, we avoided Bangkok’s notorious traffic jams. Furthermore, combining different transport methods gave us a complete local travel experience.
Exploring Temples and Stunning Views
We climbed to the top of Wat Saket, which is not a strenuous climb because very low steps make it easy for those who have difficulty with stairs. There are plenty of places to rest, and we got some great views of the city from the top.
We then headed to Wat Pho, which was absolutely beautiful. Elena guided me through some Buddhist rituals, including lighting incense for a prayer and applying gold leaf to a statue of the Buddha.
Visiting the Grand Palace at Perfect Timing
Next up was the Grand Palace, which was stunning in its opulence and colors. We went late in the day, just prior to closing, and it seemed less crowded. It was a great time to visit.
Elena’s timing strategy helped us avoid the worst crowds. Therefore, we could appreciate the palace’s beauty without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by tourists.
Shopping and Local Assistance
We ended the day on Khao San Road, where Elena helped me haggle some great prices. Sometimes, you just want that really cheesy souvenir and end up with the most comfortable pajamas ever.
Elena’s final act of the day was finding me a cab back to Siam station that wouldn’t rip me off. The first 5 taxis refused to turn on the meter, and she probably saved me a few hundred baht in the process.
A Friend-Like Experience
Overall, it was a great day with someone who very quickly felt like a friend. I’d definitely recommend this tour to those who want to see the big sights with genuine local guidance and support.
