Bangkok

Khao San Road, Bangkok's backpackers' hub, is the kind of place that needs to be experienced to be believed—and no traveller should leave the city without coming here. Frequented by swathes of international tourists and locals alike, the area is always bursting with action, but it is at night when Khao San Road truly comes alive. Here you'll find a rich and diverse selection of bars and nightclubs catering to all kinds of travellers. Enjoy ice-cold drinks at institutions like Gulliver's, Mulligan's, and The One. Dance the night away to smooth grooves at Brick Bar. Be seen at local favourites The Club and Lava Gold. For people-watching, head to The Roof Bar. Khao San Road is also an excellent place to try local flavours. Sample from the famous pad Thai to deep-fried spring rolls, grilled meat skewers, mango sticky rice, fried roti, and coconut ice cream to barbecued crocodiles and fried and crispy bugs, like grasshoppers, cockroaches, and scorpions. Feeling like spending some bahts? There are also plenty of shopping opportunities here: clothing and accessories, traditional handicrafts, handmade jewellery, vintage goods, and much more. Why not finish your night at Khao San Road with a relaxing Thai massage?

At Bangkok’s highest open-air bar and restaurant, take a seat amongst the A-list at classy Sirocco. Here you can expect smooth jazz, crisp drinks and delectable décor. If Vertigo’s views do not cut it, then Sirrocco’s sprawling panorama will definitely take your breath away.

Hugely popular with university students and backpackers, Phra Nakhon Bar & Gallery is the perfect spot to chill and knock back a few bottles of Chang in the summer steam, located just a short saunter from the bustling Khaosan Road.

Maggie Choo's is the creation of designer Ashley Sutton and is unlike any other bar in Bangkok. To enter, you step through a hidden wooden Chinese door into what will remind you of an underground vault. Experience this unique atmosphere while listening to some excellent live jazz music.