On my one-night visit last year, I stayed at the Sukhothai, and ate like a pig at their chocolate buffet lunch. It was a high-class tea and light snacks spread PLUS every variety of chocolate desserts one could imagine. Very indulgent! I got a Friday-only internet rate. The Sukhothail is a wonderful hotel.

The Royal Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple, of course, are must-see sights. However, I am surprised that no BKK experts here warned of the numerous scam artists who try to divert wide-eyed tourists (like me) to the fake gem stores and other bad places. Since the thread was started by someone who has never been to Thailand before, I'll offer some rules that I think might save someone's time in BKK from being wasted, ruined, or worse:

1. If someone tells you that the temple or palace is closed or that you are dressed inappropriately, DO NOT BELIEVE IT.

2. If someone suggests an alternative sight to visit, DO NOT GO.

3. If someone offers to send you on a pedicab ride somewhere, DO NOT ACCEPT IT. (I'm talking about street touts, not legitimate hotel employees, for items 1 thru 3 here)

4. If it is a gem or an antique, buy it only if you like it for how it looks.
ASSUME IT WILL HAVE NO VALUE EXCEPT TO YOU.

5. Do not be fearful or paranoid; crime in BKK is more likely to be by stealth or trickery rather than violence.

Bowgie