Bangkok by Boat

Bangkok's waterways are much more than just bodies of water. Water transport is an integral park of the city, a daily part of life for many, who commute across the water for work or to their home. Likewise, for those who like the water and want to see another side of Bangkok, there are many opportunities to get to know the city this way. Various types of transport, from large boats to river taxis and smaller tail-boats, are at your disposal depending on your destination. The Chao Phraya River is the major thoroughfare, and crossing it alone is only a minimal charge of 2.50 THB (less than 10 US cents!) However, many visitors opt for a 75 THB (~2.30 USD) for a day pass, which allows stops at 10 major piers throughout the city plus a guide and water. Among them: Wat Arun, Wat Po, the Grand Palace, and others.

Bangkok's famous klongs (canals) not only weave in and out of neighborhoods, but are the fabric of some neighborhoods, which are build up on the water and use boats to get around. Take a klong tour to weave through these neighborhoods yourself, and see a slice of local life on the water. Even if they aren't floating markets, floating sellers may still appear next to you with food or wares. It's easy to catch a klong tour on the smaller boats at almost any pier, but beware of prices and be ready to bargain.

Many tourists chose to enjoy the rivers with dinner cruises, of which there are plenty. One of the best known is Loy Nava (http://www.loynava.com), which has been operating for over 40 years and operates two dinner cruises daily, at 5:30pm and 8:25pm.