BANGKOK

Bangkok, or city of Angels is locally known as Krung Thep. Bangkok is the largest city in Thailand, as well as being it's capital and main port.  It is the cultural, educational, political and economic center of Thailand, as well as being the only metropolis, a fascinating travel destination, frequented by millions of visitors from all over the world. Visitors would appreciate its modern skyscrapers, luxurious hotels and shopping malls, along with the traditional Thai culture that still has its own charm. There are plenty of things to see and do in Bangkok, as the city boasts impressive temples, museums, colorful markets, as well as plenty of bars, nightclubs and cinemas.

Thailand's huge, noisy, polluted capital can be an overwhelming introduction to Southeast Asia. Justifiably known as ‘The Jewel of the East’, Bangkok is a sensual feast, enveloping the visitor from the first moment: a fascinating blend of ancient and modern; offering a plethora of cultural tours, temple visits and river trips, as well as a wide array of restaurants, nightlife and great shopping. A popular side-trip from the city takes in the raft houses of Kanchanaburi, the infamous site of the Bridge over the River Kwai.

Bangkok is the centre of all things Thai it’s a great place to see many of the most important, not to mention beautiful, buildings and temples in Thailand. There really is plenty to see and do in this vibrant city and we hope this Bangkok guide will help you plan your visit.

 
Among the highrises is a rich heritage of culture Bangkok offers a wealth of culture, interest and sightseeing, contrary to what you might believe. Most Bangkok guide books will dedicate a large chunk to it's many impressive sites, activities and numerous exotic characters.

The stunning and intricately decorated temples that are all over Bangkok range from the exquisite to the magnificent – Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho being two fantastic examples. But there are many more besides, and you’ll be in danger of becoming ‘templed out’ if you’re not careful. While in Bangkok a guide is recommended to help you navigate your way and maximise your time.

There are numerous other sights throughout Bangkok which a guide can take you to: the backpackers’ haven of Khao San Road is famous as a buzzing, energetic street that has now become something of a tourist attraction itself. It’s located in the Banglamphu area which is loaded with tourist attractions, including the national museum, Temple Mount, Grand Palace and nearby Dusit Hall and Zoo.

The teak palace of Vimanmek and Jim Thomson’s museum house, along with the canals of Thonburi and lanes of Chinatown are all recommended in every Bangkok guide book, and the modern attractions of shopping malls, markets, monuments and entertainment complexes all pull the crowds.

Then there is the famous evening entertainment, including the go go bars, lively pubs, plush restaurants and night markets. In this mini Bangkok guide we cover them all.

Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, and part of your trip to Thailand should certainly include a day or two for browsing the shops and malls of the city. The range is impressive and the prices unbeatable.

 
Thais love shopping and so will you in BangkokIn Bangkok’s incredibly urbanised cityscape there are shopping malls and department stores everywhere. When out shopping in Bangkok you can discover ultra-chic and trendy malls such as the Emporium or Central Chitlom where the store guides read like a who’s-who of designer labels. Then there are the all-encompassing mega-malls such as MBK or Seacon Square in which seemingly every product you can think of is available. You can also break up your shopping trip by catching a movie in the multiplex cinema, go ten pin bowling, take a Thai massage or dine at any one of the many excellent on-site restaurants.