Travel facts

GETTING THERE

• THAI Airways International flies direct daily to Bangkok from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, with one-stop flights from Adelaide and Hobart. 1300-651-960; thaiairways.com

• For internal flights in Thailand, Bangkok Airways has a large network; bangkokair.com

GETTING AROUND

Bangkok’s streets are choked with traffic, but its public transport is exceptionally good. Metered taxis are cheap, but endure the traffic jams. Tuk-tuks can weave through the tangle of cars, buses and trucks, however rip-offs are not uncommon and you need to bargain a fare. Best by far are the Skytrain, MRT (subway) and Chao Phraya River Ferries, all of which are inexpensive, clean and efficient.

WHEN TO GO

Bangkok’s tropical heat is relentless, but the period from November to February is less humid and generally dry, and evenings are pleasantly cool. The hottest months are April and May, and the wettest are from July to October.

WHERE TO STAY

• Sofitel So Bangkok is a luxury hotel with fine views over Lumpini Park, and all the ‘So’ brand’s quirkiness. Staff wear Christian Lacroix uniforms, and rooms are decorated in four distinctive ‘elements’ of water, metal, wood and earth. The rooftop bar is a great spot for cocktails, and Park Society is one of the city’s most renowned fusion restaurants. +66-2/624-0000; so-sofitel-bangkok.com

• VIE Hotel Bangkok MGallery by Sofitel is a boutique-style property of 154 rooms that sits close to Bangkok’s key shopping areas. It is just a couple of minutes’ walk to the Ratchathewi Skytrain station, which gives the hotel outstanding access to the city’s attractions. La VIE French restaurant often hosts Michelin-starred guest chefs, and the hotel’s sushi bar is regarded as Bangkok’s best. +66-2/309-3939; viehotelbangkok.com

FURTHER INFORMATION

• Tourism Authority of Thailand. 02/9247-7549; tourismthailand.org