Got time to kill in Bangkok? Good, you'll need it. The grinding traffic means getting around takes longer than you'd think, although the metro and tuk-tuk drivers help.

One great destination: The massive Chatuchak Weekend Market -- touristy, but energetic.

History enthusiasts will love the gleaming gold Grand Palace, as well as the Jim Thompson House, and enormous Wat Saket temple (via 344 steps).

For dinner, it's hard to go wrong with Thai food at Issaya Siamese Club or the award-winning Nahm restaurant at the COMO Metropolitan Bangkok. Neo-Indian restaurant Gaggan has topped Asia's 50 Best list for three years running, so Chef Gaggan Anand must be doing something right.

After hours, seek out Ashley Sutton's Iron Fairies workshop-turned-bar. It transports you to a fairy-dusted lair with industrial decor.