Jumping on a flight to Bangkok isn't quite the mission it would have sounded a few years ago. Thailand has become a mainstream holiday destination for those travelling from the UK and what better place to start than the thrillingly vibrant city of Bangkok. Flights operate direct to Bangkok from London and can be found with one stop from Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow or Edinburgh so there's plenty of choice.

So where should you head for when you step off your Bangkok flight? The city is awash with bustling markets where you can snap up an almost infinite range of designer copies or haggle over local silks and gems. The best place to head for if you fancy a day of bargaining is Patpong, although be aware that the seedier side of this district is home to the red light clubs that Bangkok is also famous for. Alternatively if you fancy a more polished shopping experience try one of the many modern retail emporia such as Gaysorn Plaza where a range of international brands abound.

If your motivation for jumping on a cheap flight to Bangkok is more cultural than a good old bit of retail therapy you'll find a vast array of temples to visit in the city or perhaps try a day trip. Many choose to head out to the river Kwai and its allied war cemetery or to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya which is now recognised by UNESCO as a site of interest.

So, what of the entertainment? From Thai Boxing to lady boy shows and nightclubs to night markets Bangkok is no longer the seedy cousin of the Far East. Sukhumvit is the most fashionable district for upmarket nightlife where a variety of ultra modern clubs can be found. Across the rest of the city there are countless bars and clubs and of course restaurants where the adventurous can sample any one of countless weird and wonderful dishes.

So what other options are there once you've booked your flights. Bangkok is close enough to Pattaya to make a few days on the beach a very easy option on your trip, or alternatively you could be more adventurous and head north to the hill tribes of Chiang Mai where you can experience the ancient culture of the jungle.

What ever you choose to do when you get there don't book your flight to Bangkok without shopping around for a great deal. Use our search to save yourself time and money on your Bangkok flights.