Bangkok 2026 Update - Old Bangkok, Rambuttri Village

Introduction

Bangkok update — round two in Thailand. In this video we're covering accommodation on Rambuttri Road, food and costs in Bangkok in 2026, getting from the airport into old Bangkok, a first visit to the Chinatown night market, and things to do right from the neighborhood. Let's get into it.

Getting to Bangkok — Suvarnabhumi Airport to the City

A flight to Thailand is roughly 20 hours — worth it, but plan to stay at least two weeks to make the journey worthwhile.

At the airport: Once through customs, you'll arrive in the main atrium. First stop — grab a SIM card. A 5G plan for 30 days cost $50 CAD and took less than five minutes to set up. Great value.

Getting a taxi: Look for the official taxi kiosk near the exits. Enter your destination, receive a printed ticket with your driver's name and photo, find them in the lineup, show them the address, and you're off. Safe, efficient, and cash-friendly.

The drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport into central Bangkok takes at least one hour depending on traffic — and it's a great intro to the city.

Accommodation — Rambuttri Village Area

Staying on Rambuttri Road in the Khaosan neighborhood with my son Charlie for nine days. Total cost: $422 CAD — strong value for money.

Why this area was chosen:

• Familiar, walkable neighborhood with easy access to major hotspots
• About 15 minutes on foot to the river pier
• Rooftop pool — a big hit
• Felt safe and comfortable, especially traveling with a younger companion

The Room: Requested two twin beds but received a queen — comfortable either way. Clean and functional.

• Comfortable mattress, firm pillows
• Good sheets and strong water pressure
• Workstation
• Two towels and two water bottles provided daily
• Small bathroom — classic Asian-style layout with shower, sink, and toilet in one open space

This is typical of good-value accommodation in Southeast Asia — simple, clean, and practical.

Things to Do — Right From the Hotel

1. The Temple Next Door A roughly 300-year-old temple sits just behind the hotel — beautifully maintained, spanning about a full city block. Free to walk around during the day. Feels like a quiet oasis in the middle of the city.

2. Chinatown Night Market About a 10–15 minute walk to the pier, then a 40–150 baht river boat ride (single trip or full-day pass). Alternatively, grab a tuk-tuk or Grab directly to the market. First visit — highly recommended. Dinner options everywhere, plenty to see and do, and street experiences like fish tank foot cleaning. Expect crowds and a little confusion navigating in and out, but tuk-tuks are readily available for the return trip.

3. Early Morning Monk Offerings & Market For early risers — 5:30 to 6:00 a.m. Monks walk from the temple across the street to receive offerings from locals. A peaceful, culturally rich experience. The early morning open-air market is also running at this hour with fresh produce, meat, and fish — worth seeing.

The Neighborhood — Rambuttri Road

Everything is within a five-minute walk of the hotel:

• Massage spots up and down the street
• Cafes for morning cappuccinos and evening drinks
• Street food — pad thai for as little as 50–60 baht (~$2.20 CAD)
• Sit-down restaurants available at higher price points for a more relaxed experience
• ATMs and money exchange booths
• Laundry service
• Barbershop — a haircut costs about the same as a beer

Special Highlight — Custom-Made Suit

Two years ago the idea was considered and passed on — this time, went for it. For $150 USD, received a fully custom suit and shirt: self-selected fabric, custom embroidering, and a personalized jacket lining. Turnaround was quick and the quality was excellent.

Viewer discount: Mention Finding Fish when ordering at the same tailor and receive 10% off your suit.

Closing Notes

Bangkok in 2026 remains an incredible destination for value, culture, and food. The Rambuttri/Khaosan area is a solid base — walkable, lively, and well-connected to the rest of the city. If you're considering Southeast Asia, this trip makes a strong case for doing it sooner rather than later.