Planning my first trip to Bangkok in the next few months. I've read through a lot of the older threads but wanted to check if the info is still current.

My main questions:
- Best area to stay for easy access to the scene?
- Realistic daily budget?
- Any areas to avoid?
- How welcoming are the locals to foreign visitors?

I'm coming from the UK and have experience in Europe but this would be my first time in Bangkok.

Thanks for any help!