Bangkok delivers an incredibly unique mix of relentless bustle, intensity, and excitement. That's why I lived and worked here for over a decade since 2010 as everything from a local journalist and guidebook author to a TV host and DJ.

What has kept me gripped after all these years is Bangkok's 24/7 state of flux. Living here, you learn the local Buddhist principle of impermanence quickly — bars, restaurants, and skyscrapers open and shut in a heartbeat, ex-pats come and leave with the seasons, and street vendors bounce around the city at a baffling pace. 

With so much activity, navigating Bangkok as a first-timer can be daunting, so I put together the following guide on the best things to see and do in Bangkok from a local's perspective to help you out.

Explore Insider's guide to visiting Bangkok.

→ I've lived in Bangkok for years and think it's a challenging city to navigate. Here's what any visitor should know about its airports, boats, and trains.

→ I've deeply researched Bangkok's best hotels as a travel guidebook author. Here are my 10 top places to stay, from magical tree houses to no-frills hostels.

→ I've lived in Bangkok for most of the past decade — here are 10 places where you should actually eat, from fine dining to street food

→ 10 activities that locals love in Bangkok, Thailand, that go beyond the main tourist spots, including the best markets, museums, and spas

→ If you're traveling to Bangkok, Thailand, here are the latest COVID-19 rules, the best time of year to visit, and important items to pack

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