Bangkok

Bangkok is Thailand electrifying capital and one of the most visited cities in the world. The best time to visit is November through March, when the cool, dry season brings comfortable temperatures in the low 80s and minimal rainfall. This window coincides with peak tourist season, but the city sheer size means it never feels overcrowded. Avoid June through October if possible — the monsoon season brings heavy downpours, though they typically pass quickly.

The city is a feast for the senses. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) are must-sees, while Wat Arun glowing spires across the Chao Phraya River create one of Asia most iconic skyline views. Bangkok street food scene is legendary — Chinatown Yaowarat Road and the countless night markets serve everything from pad thai to mango sticky rice at unbeatable prices. For shopping, the sprawling Chatuchak Weekend Market and luxury malls like Siam Paragon offer opposite ends of the spectrum.

Bangkok is a goldmine for points travelers. With hotels across Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, IHG, and Wyndham, the city offers some of the best cents-per-point values in all of Asia. Luxury properties like the Park Hyatt Bangkok and The St. Regis Bangkok deliver five-star experiences at fraction of the cash price when booked on points.