The Grand Palace, Bangkok

If there is one must-see sight that no visit to Bangkok would be complete without, it's the dazzling, spectacular Grand Palace, undoubtedly the city's most famous landmark. Built in 1782 - and for 150 years the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government - the Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed, that continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail, all of which is a proud salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people. Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.

The architecture is amazing. I love the details and work they put into making it so grand. Can't really enter the palace and temple buildings but can see from outside (except to see the emerald Buddha but can't take photo inside). Lots of other tourists around, especially Chinese tour groups. Make sure shoulders and legs are fully covered to get in, otherwise, they'll make you buy clothes to cover.

The entrance fee of 500baht is a surprise but this place is a must see when in Bangkok. You must be fully dressed, no shorts or exposed shoulders, to able to enter. The palace architecture is amazing and you also can visit the green jade Buddha temple. Bring water and a hat because it is hot. The surrounding area is full of temples to walk to so plan a few hours in the area. Metro is close and so are food stands and convenience stores. Enjoy!

Honestly, there were just way too many people. To the point where it made the whole time there uncomfortable. And having travelled around a lot of SEA, it also wasn't much different to what I've seen before. Don't get me wrong, it is a huge, amazing palace. Just very similar to my previous experiences. Guess it is a must do while in Bangkok though. REMEMBER to wear long pants. They will make you buy a pair outside the palace gates if you don't have them.

Ok, I understand why people want to visit this place and it probably shouldn’t be missed if you’re in Bangkok. HOWEVER, it’s pretty much a tourist trap. It was extremely crowded, expensive, and full of tourists just taking selfies all over the place. Yes it’s beautiful, but we enjoyed all the other temples we visited MUCH more than this one. Things to know: 1) Men ALSO need to wear long pants. We weren’t aware of this and my boyfriend got stuck buying pants at the entrance for 200 baht. 2) Women apparently cannot just drape a scarf or shawl over their shoulders. Make sure you wear a t shirt or long sleeve shirt. Not sure if I just got targeted since I was with my boyfriend who was in shorts and obviously a tourist, or if this is an actual rule, but I also got stuck buying a T-shirt for 200 baht at the entrance. Because it’s so crowded, by the time you make it to the entrance you definitely won’t want to leave to buy something off the street and come back only to wait in line again. That being said, you’re better safe than sorry. Bring extra clothes if you think what you’re wearing is at all questionable. With tickets at 500 baht/piece as is, you definitely won’t want to spend the extra money on clothes you’ll never wear again. Go visit the reclining Buddha and some of the other temples in the area, they’re nicer (in my opinion), significantly cheaper, and much more pleasant experience. We also enjoyed the Golden Mountain very much.