Welcome studentflyer!
Bangkok is an assault on the senses. The city is teeming with activity, the sights and smells like no other. The Thais are a friendly people and "the land of smiles" is just that.
If you are not going on a World Vacations package, then I recommend www.planetholiday.com to book your accomodations. I have used them, and they are extremely professional AND inexpensive. I much prefer the hotels on the Chao Phraya (pronounced Jo Prya) to those on Sukhomvit Road. These include The Royal River (inexpensive), the Marriott Royal Garden Riverside (moderately expensive), The Sheraton Royal Orchid (moderately expensive), The Shangri-La (moderately expensive and my personal favourite), The Oriental (expensive landmark) and the new Peninsula (very expensive and currently considered the best in BKK).
BKK has a reputation as a shopper's paradise, but bear in mind that the Asian flu does not extend to imported goods. They are similar in price to the US. Food, locally made products and anything involving labour is cheap.
Do go to the D a m n o e n S a d u a k Floating Market. It is very interesting AND entertaining. Don't miss the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. They are impressive, and you can get there easily and cheaply by river express boat. Once you are on the Palace grounds and have passed the entrance fee wicket, there is a waiting area on the left hand side where you can await a scheduled free official english-speaking guide. Much better choice than the for-hire types.
Night markets abound in BKK and they are best enjoyed after 9 PM. Souvenirs, knock-off designer clothes and watches and various local goods are sold at VERY negotiable prices (about a third to a half of the asking price).
Do a lot of research on the web, as the sites you stumble across all have a useful tidbit or so. Try the newspapers online such as The Bangkok Post to get a feel for the city and also any goings-on.
If you want more detail, e-mail me with your questions or interests. I'll gladly provide you with as much information as I can.
Cheers,
Rick

BTW, D a m n o e n S a d u a k is written in this fashion because if you write it in the normal manner D a m n becomes ****. Since when is that a four letter word?




[This message has been edited by flyme2 (edited 08-12-1999).]