Are you looking for an insider’s adventure travel guide for the best outdoor activities in Bangkok?

As part of our Adventure City Guide series, Ian from Where Sidewalks End shares his expert insider tips on the top adventure and outdoor activities to do in Bangkok.

Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Adventure City Guide – Photo by Evoflash

Why visit Bangkok for adventure?

Bangkok is one of the world’s largest metropolises and a gateway for most of the world to access the rest of South East Asia. With numbers surpassing 14 million people in the Greater Bangkok Region, this is no small player in the world’s super-cities. Of course, having such a long history with foreign visitors, the city has become incredibly established in the world’s tourist sector.

This has allowed it to grow many facets of adventurous activities – making access to something for everyone!

Outdoor Activities in Bangkok

Exploring the Klongs

Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – The Klongs

Klongs are canals that used to feed the entire city with life-giving water, branched off from the city’s main artery – the Chao Phraya River. Today, the locals wouldn’t drink the water if you paid them, but there is still a fascinating life along the Klongs’ banks. There is so much to explore, from floating markets to old houses on stilts, and it gives insight into this ancient way of life!

What’s it cost, and how to get to the Klongs?

You can usually arrange the Klongs from the pier “Saphan Taksin” along the Chao Phraya River. This is conveniently a stop on the Skytrain, making it very easy to access. Usually, you will be renting the entire boat for the day (about 1000 THB, or USD 35) and not paying a per-person rate. So if you can find a few people to go with, the price will drop significantly per person.

Rickshaw City Tours

If you’ve never been to Asia before, Rickshaws are one of the most fun ways to get around. Although they can often be a little more expensive than metered taxis, you get an experience (and a view) that is unparalleled, especially in the busy streets of Bangkok.

What’s it cost?

Occasionally, you can even haggle a deal for a city tour for next to nothing (50-100 THB or $1.50-3 USD), as long as you visit a couple of affiliated ‘custom suit tailors’ throughout the day, as they’ll get a kickback from the shops just for bringing you there… No purchase is necessary.

You can often find Tuk Tuk drivers willing to do this standing along the perimeter of the Kings’ Palace. It may take a few attempts of asking for a ‘special city tour,’ but you will be bound to find someone ready for a cut of this business.

Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Rickshaw Tours

Local Secret Spot

Chatuchak Market

Though most people wouldn’t consider going to a market an adventure, they probably have never experienced the likes of Chatuchak (also known as JJs). This is one of SE Asia’s LARGEST outdoor markets. It’s so prominent that you can find maps of the market to help navigate. It’s roughly the size of 4 city blocks and is divided into various sections.

You’ll find everything under the sun here, from clothing to handicrafts, food, mobile phones, and even puppies and other cute critters for sale!! It’s bonkers. If it gets too much for you, you can take a break in one of Bangkok’s most famous parks (Chatuchak park), located next to the market.

How to get there?

You can get here via Skytrain (BTS), subway (MRT), taxi, bus, you name it – it’s very accessible! But it’s only open on weekends, from about dawn until 5 or 6 pm at its peak. Some shops stay open longer, but most will be closed by dusk. It’s free entry and a perfect place to buy ANY souvenirs at the end of your time in Thailand.

Suppose you can coordinate to be here on the weekend. I generally hate shopping for ‘stuff,’ but I love this market and its energy!

Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Chatuchak Markets

Best time of the year to visit Bangkok for adventure?

Bangkok is in the tropics and quite close to the Equator. Of course, this means it’s hot on a year-round basis.

It’s considered the rainy season from May to October, though showers can happen at any time of the year. This is generally a less busy time for tourists, though the rains are not quite as bad as expected and often only last 30 mins-1 hour, cooling the city’s heart. Peak season is in December-January when temperatures are at their most astounding ad driest… though it’s still pretty hot!

And if Bangkok isn’t to your taste, the luxury Koh Samui will be. Endless sandy beach, beautiful clear waters, and nightlife that could be lived in forever. The luxury rental properties are stunning, and we recommend Tempston Luxury villa rentals.

Finally, the reason I love Bangkok for adventure is that…

It’s never-ending. This city is SO BIG that you could get lost in a new neighborhood almost every day. Single. Day. And still find new, exciting things to explore. On my list for the upcoming weeks, I’ve got the Scala Cinema, the Thai Air Force Museum, Papaya Vintage Shop, and the Erawan Museum – to name a few. Every time I explore one place, I learn of 3 more!!

BIO:

From a young age, Ian was always a wanderer. He’s since travelled to all 7 continents, and has spent the majority of his life pursuing this passion. You can follow him in his off-the-beaten-path adventures and discoveries on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and his travel blog Where Sidewalks End.

Have you been to Bangkok? What were your favorite outdoor activities in Bangkok?

Are you looking for an insider’s adventure travel guide for the best outdoor activities in Athens?

As part of our Adventure City Guide series, Stephen Shreck from A Backpacker’s Tale shares his expert insider tips on the top adventure and outdoor activities to do in Athens, including how to go on holiday to Greece and the costs.

Why visit Athens for adventure?

Athens’ location lends itself to the adventurous. On one side, you then have the Aegean Sea and the beautiful Greek islands begging to be explored. And on the other, you have scenic mountains and hillsides, which are perfect for people who want to hike, mountain bike, and take in some of the countrysides.

Best Outdoor Activities in Athens

Corinth Canal

This world-renowned canal is a stunning sight in itself. Imagine standing on the edge of the platform, looking down the right before diving yourself head-first into the middle of the canal. Taking on the challenge of bungee jumping into Corinth Canal is an adventure you will never forget.

Getting to the Corinth Canal

Hop on the train from Athens to Corinth. The ride takes between 60 – and 70 minutes.

Additional information

The Bungee jump is only available from April to September and costs 60 Euros. Check out Zulu Bungee for more information.

Mt Parnitha

Towering over Athens at 1,400 m, Mt. Parnitha is one of Greece’s most beautiful and scenic mountains.

Not only does Mt. Parnitha have the ancient fortress of Frourio Fills and Spileo Panos, the cave to the Greek god Pan to explore, but it also has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails that allow you to take you across the stunning Greek countryside, making it perfect for sightseers and adventurers of all skill levels.

Outdoor Activities in Athens – Mt Parnitha

Getting to Mt Parnitha

Located just 25k outside of Athens, the easiest way to reach Mt Parnitha is by public bus or car.

Explore a Greek Island

Athens is the doorway to the Greek islands, and a few of them are close enough to enjoy as day trips. Aegina and Hydra Island are the most popular, but if you have to choose only one, then I would recommend Hydra.

This island offers a good mix of sights and plenty of things to do. You can wander the streets of the beautiful port town and get some great photos of the tall marble bell tower of the Church of Assumption. There are areas to enjoy cliff jumping for those seeking more adventurous activities.

Cost of Exploring a Greek Island

How much you will spend will vary on what island and adventure travel activities you choose. However, it’s safe to say that most of the cost will be getting there. Boat fares change all the time, but a reasonable estimate is about 50 euros round trip.

Outdoor Activities in Athens – Visiting Hydra Island – Photo by Francisco J Gonzalez

Best time of the year to visit Athens for adventure?

Many people are worried about visiting Athens since the European debt crisis, but honestly, this is the perfect time to visit. You will have to deal with smaller lines, but you will also find lower prices. Athens’ weather is gorgeous in the summer, making it the perfect time to visit, especially for Island hopping. Mt Parnitha is beautiful in any season, and the view you can get from hiking in the winter might even be more beautiful than in the summer.

Where to stay in Athens?

If you’re a budget traveler, you will want to check out the hostel, City Circus.

It has a great location in the middle of the city, as well as a fantastic atmosphere and a great bar at a budget price. The hostel staff is also accommodating.

Finally, the reason I love Athens for adventure is that…

Athens has a little to offer everyone with beaches, mountains, and extreme sports, like bungee jumping, all right near the city. This makes Athens the perfect home base for your next travel adventure.

Bio:

Stephen Schreck is a world traveller, nomad, and mistake-prone backpacker. He is currently traveling the world full-time making his dream his reality. His adventure travels lead him on a endless quest to try and tackle his growing bucket list.

Make sure you check out his travel blog, A Backpacker’s Tale to follow along with his many entertaining misadventures in random locations. You can also find him on Twitter and Facebook.

Are you looking for an insider’s adventure travel guide for the best outdoor activities in Cairns?

As part of our Adventure City Guide series, Charli from Wanderlusters shares with you her expert insider tips on the top adventure and outdoor activities to do in Cairns, including how to get there and costs.

Why visit Cairns for adventure?

Cairns sits on the northeast coast of the state of Queensland. Known as the place where the rainforest meets the reef, the area provides many activities for adventurous traveller. With its warm climate and laid-back vibe, the city is an excellent base to explore Australia’s tropical north.

Outdoor Activities in Cairns – Diving the Great Barrier Reef

We spent two months living in Cairns, although we’d only planned on visiting for a few days. Camping each night in our Winnebago, we utilised the city’s excellent network of bicycle lanes to discover all that is on offer.

Outdoor Activities in Cairns

Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and it would be impossible to visit the city without hopping aboard a boat to see first-hand the beauty of the world’s most extensive coral reef ecosystem. The only way to experience the reef for the adventurous traveler is to join one of the liveaboard dive boats that take guests out to the best dive sites on the reef.

The famous Cod Hole, Steve’s Bommie, and Pixie Gardens all provide world-class dives and give a brilliant insight into the diversity of life on the reef.

If you’re a more experienced diver or wish to gain experience fast, join Mike Ball’s seven day Coral Sea Safari and see the best of the Great Barrier Reef as well as the epic shark dive 150km from the shore at Osprey Reef. This five-star liveaboard is world-renowned for ensuring you see the best the reef has to offer.

Jump in at the Cod Hole and dive with fish the same size as you!

Cairns Adventure City Guide

Brush up on your macro photography skills at Steve Bommie where you’ll spot nudibranchs, frogfish, and sea horses. You’ll need nerves of steel for the shark feed dive out at Osprey Reef. Descending to fifteen metres, your heart will race as you watch their shadows appear from below, anticipating a meal. As they frenzy around, you’ll need a steady hand to take a photo as they swim inches from your mask. In our opinion, this trip is the only way to submerge yourself in an unforgettable Great Barrier Reef adventure.

Getting to the Great Barrier Reef

You can jump aboard any of the liveaboard boats in Cairns, so no transportation is required.

Mike Ball offers three, four, and seven-night trips. You must opt for the four or seven-day trip to experience the shark feed. Prices start at AUD 1600 for the three-night trip, but cheaper rates can be negotiated a week before departure.

SAVVY TIP – We secured a placement on the Mike Ball Expedition Volunteer Programme and worked as dive crew on the boat for two weeks. This meant that we experienced the seven-night Coral Sea Safari twice in exchange for two weeks of unpaid employment to the ship. Averaging three dives a day is a brilliant way to experience the reef on a budget.

Note: To work on the dive deck, you must be a certified Dive Master. However, there are opportunities for Open Water divers to volunteer in the galley.

For more information, read our trip report.

White Water Rafting

For adrenaline junkies, the opportunity to get off the beaten track and onto some white water is always met with enthusiasm.  The runoff from the rainforest and mountain ranges surrounding Cairns provides several significant stretches of river to explore. The Tully River is known throughout Australia and New Zealand for its exceptional rafting and encompasses classes one through five.

Along with the white water rafting, a day trip to the River Tully includes the opportunity for rock jumping, raft surfing, and rapid swimming. With memorable spots along the stretch of forty-five rapids like ‘Alarm Clock’ named because it provides those who pass a soggy wake-up call, and ‘Stair Case’ a nail-biting drop, the Tully makes for a first-rate adventure from your base in Cairns.

Logistics

When booking your white water adventure, you will be advised of a collection point for your journey south to the Tully River. The transport is included in the cost of your rafting experience.

Cairns Rafting offer a collection and return to your accommodation, a lunchtime BBQ, and five hour rafting experience for AUD 195

SAVVY TIP – Visit the numerous tour desks in the town and barter for the best rate you can. Booking direct with the company is not always the cheapest option. The tour desks receive a commission, and they often give extra discounts to secure a sale.

Crystal Cascades

The Crystal Cascades Waterfall – Photo by Brian Gratewicke

If you’re strapped for cash, take a day trip to the freshwater paradise of Crystal Cascades. Located just twenty minutes west of the city this area is known to locals and tourists alike and is a popular place to cool off in the heat of the day.

With no entry fees, this is one of the most affordable paradise retreats you’ll ever find.

With numerous waterfalls and swimming holes set in stunning rainforest surroundings, it’s a great place to explore or relax and soak up some sun. There are opportunities for the more adventurous to take part in some cliff jumping. A short walk up the cliff from the largest waterhole will take you to the ‘No Fear’ point, the highest part of the cliff face from which you can launch yourself into the water below.

Logistics

While not far from Cairns, there are no public transport options to Crystal Cascades.

We recommend hiring a car which can be done for around $35/day. If you’re considering taking a taxi note, there is intermittent mobile reception at the falls, and you may find yourself unable to call for a ride home. Drive to the suburb of Redlynch and simply follow the signs to Crystal Cascades. From the Red Beret Pub, the swimming hole is about 10 kilometers away.

There is no entry fee to the falls however, be sure to take supplies and sun cream as there are no shops close by.

SAVVY TIP – Chat to other travellers about visiting the falls. They may have their transport and be interested in experiencing the beauty of the falls themselves. Leave a wanted advert on the noticeboards in hostels and caravan parks advertising for travel buddies to share the cost of the car rental and fuel.

Local Secret Adventure in Cairns

Suppose you’ve spent your day laid by the lagoon and require something to get your blood pumping pop down to the esplanade for an evening exercise class. The best part about this program is that all the types are accessible. All you need to do is arrive at the esplanade in the city’s center equipped with the motivation to burn some calories, and away you go.

Choose from yoga, pilates, beach volleyball, aqua aerobics, boot camp, and Zumba, and get that booty in shape for free.

Best time of the year to visit Cairns for adventure?

Cairns provides adventurers with activities throughout the year; however, be aware that the Minkie Whale migratory season is from May to August, and you can scuba dive with them aboard Mike Ball’s Minke Whale Expedition in June and July.

Temperatures in northern Queensland can also reach 40°C during the summer months, and the area can be hit with thunderstorms and cyclones from December to March. If visiting during this time, be vigilant about applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and always carrying water.

The reason I love Cairns for adventure is that…

The city is nestled in between the aquatic splendour of the Great Barrier Reef and the vibrant canopy of the surrounding rainforest that covers many of the coastal mountain ranges. Both provide endless opportunities for exploration and would keep any explorer happy for the duration of their stay.

And once you’ve explored the natural beauty of the surrounding environment, you can experience the cities thriving nightlife and relaxed beach vibe. Sometimes an excellent beer and a sea view are just what you need after a day of adventure.

Sea Snake on the Great Barrier Reef

BIO:

In 2010 Charli & Ben made the decision to live a life less ordinary and six months later embarked on an undefined period of travel.  Enforcing no restrictions on their itinerary they have chosen to travel at a slow pace and incorporate house sitting assignments in each country they visit.

With no time limit restricting their experience they are content to continue exploring the world as digital nomads. From backpacking through Central America to road tripping around Australia they embrace each and every opportunity for adventure.

Find them on Facebook and Twitter or catch up with their journey at their travel website Wanderlusters.