Spice, rice & intestines

The first thing you want to try in Bangkok: Street Food.

Despite not being the grand culinary experience granted by the high-class restaurants that the beautiful capital has to offer, Thailand's street food is bursting with authenticity, flavour and spectacular variety.

As my mind, and palette, opened up to the possibilities of the curiously tasty cuisine that can be found on almost every street corner, I found myself being delighted by dishes that I would have previously turned my nose up at.

"KuayTiew Tom Yum" is a personal favourite. Typically consisting of blanched noodles, a special spice unique to the Tom Yum dish, pork intestines (but can be other varieties of meat) and fried won ton. All placed in a broth-like soup. Delicious, filling and very cheap. Other popular dishes around the city are Pad Thai, stir fried noodles and if you've got a sweet-tooth, ice cream on bread from a cart.

In a league of its own, Thai spice is something that anyone not native to the country better watch out for. Potent and packed in, spice can be found in nearly every item on the menu, with chili being used widely across the country. Yet despite the raw strength of it, there certainly is a remarkable amount of balance and flavour throughout, with lemon or lime being used as a nice acidic counterweight.

Street food can cost anywhere between 25-40 Baht, meaning you can get a decent meal for less than one pound. An absolute bargain with an experience that you won't forget quickly.