Banglamphu

Much more than just a backpacker party zone
Word to the wise: Avoid taking one of the parked taxis from the Khao San area—these guys are literally waiting to rip you off.

You've seen the pictures and heard the rumours about Khao San Road and guess what? On the scuzzy surface, it's all true. An assault of unfavourable bars blast out painfully generic party hits for scantily clad backpackers each and every day, flanked by big-name fast-food outlets and novelty t-shirt stalls. But trust us—there's so much more to Banglamphu than that.
In recent years, young Thai hipsters have started to reclaim the area, lured in by the cool vintage clothes stalls, makeshift camper-van bars, and vast choice of dining options. Head towards the river via Soi Rambuttri and you'll find the mania of Khao San slowly disappearing, replaced by more agreeable volumes and pleasantly packed food stalls.

Better yet, make a dash for the record-playing artsy bars and cafes in the trendy enclave of Phra Athit Road. You're likely to be one of the few visitors around.