Bangkok is definitely dirty, but it is a huge and fun city. I felt sick for the first few days I was there...possibly due to jet lag, the heat, hygeine, new food etc. I have heard some people call it the "Bangkok funk". I dunno. I few cold Beer Chang's will make you feel fine...but watch the "Changover"! Some people say the beer can range from 5% to 8%+ due to inconsistencies in quality control...and on a few rare nights, three 22's totaled me. But this can be good, since your beer tab in Bangkok may overshadow the cost of a room, depending on your amenities. I stayed on Khao San road, which is very touristy and full of backpackers, not to mention cheap accomodation. I stayed in places that were about $4 a night, but I was stretchin my dollars. This is a great place to meet other travellers and to hear their recent experiences, considering you may follow in their footsteps. Street food is great here...spring rolls for 25 cents, and a portion of pad thai for 40 cents. You can buy beer on the street here as well, vs. a bar where it is more expensive. Be careful of "students" telling you of a new promotion where they will set you up with a tuk-tuk driver who will show you various buddhas around the city for just 50 cents. It is a scam and they will take you to jewelry stores and clothing stores in between the attractions. At the attractions, guys will come up to you and tell you to buy jewels and send them to America for big money. Many people get scammed and loose loads of cash. At the end of the tour, the tuk-tuk driver will get mad when you pay him 50 cents. Set your price before you leave, and if he gets mad, walk away. I befriended some cool Thai people and they often set up rides for me, took me to authentic Thai bars throughout the city, and bargained for me. The people are very friendly and you can start a conversation with most everyone...so making friends is easy. You guys will have no problem.