Bangkok Overview

Bangkok, capital of Thailand and one of Asia's most dynamic cities, is the heart and soul of the country. This frantic and steamy tropical city offers surprises at every turn. Gleaming skyscrapers, glittering temples, colourful street markets, sophisticated shopping malls, bustling nightlife, and a vibrancy which reflects the incredible economic growth of the last few years.

A booming, modern capital, Bangkok still manages to retain its unique Siamese heritage in the wonderful food, culture, exotic architecture, Buddhist tolerance and Thai hospitality. The new "Skytrain" a symbol of Bangkok's rapid development, provides not only a convenient way to get around the main areas, but also some great views over a capital in constant change.

No longer the "Venice of the East" nor the city of Angels, Bangkok is, without doubt, one of the most exciting cities in the world. A trip to Thailand would not be complete without at least one visit....

Culture Vulture?
Must Visit: The Grand Palace with its soaring roofs, majestic architecture and gleaming spires......
Get up early for a classic picture of the morning sun reflecting on the river by the temple of the dawn (Wat Arun) If you want to see more, Bangkok has over 400 temples in varying architectural styles. There are also a number of strange and interesting museums. The National Museum, Jim Thompson's House, Vimanmek Mansion and Suan Pakkad Palace, all of which house fine art collections. You can visit historical sites, art galleries, exhibitions, and summer workshops. Tours leave daily to some of the historical sites like Ayutthaya - the former Thai capital.

Non-stop Shopping?
A dream place for shopping. Thai silk, handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, furniture, antiques, paintings, or just fun stuff. A wander around the local markets and back streets will give you not just great bargains, but an insight into the local life of this bustling city. Whether you're looking for upmarket brand labels in airy glass and steel shopping malls, or inexpensive souvenirs, you won't leave empty handed.

Night Owl?
Bangkok has a great nightlife, and we're not just talking about Patpong and the bars. There's a thriving music scene, lots of clubs, pubs, live music and Karaoke bars.

Concerts featuring visiting international artists (both classical and modern) performing in large and small venues all over the city, are a regular feature. Check with Metro magazine for music listings.

Food Lover?
Thailand is justifiably famous for its wonderful food, and Bangkok is the place to find Thai specialities from all over the country. Spicy salads from the North east, curries from central Thailand, seafood from the south. From sophisticated air-conditioned restaurants to roadside noodle stalls, you'll find food is everywhere! Yearn for food from your own country? No problem, you'll find it here. Swedish, Irish, Korean, Japanese, the list is endless. If you want to learn the secrets of Thai cooking, you can take cooking classes. See our food section for all details.

Fun Things to do
Cruise along the Chao Phraya river for a glimpse of a fascinating lifestyle. The network of "klongs" (canals) which once made Bangkok the “Venice of the East” are not as numerous as before, but the river still remains an important part of Bangkok. Tours leave daily along the canals. No trip to Bangkok would be complete without a visit to the famous floating markets, located on the edge of the city and a trip to see a noisy bout of Thai boxing, or 'Muay Thai,' considered the ultimate form of hand-to-hand fighting among all the martial arts.

For Kids
River and canal trips, Safari World, Siam Water Park, The Science Museum and Planetarium, there's even an ice rink! For kids fascinated by "jaws and claws" the Snake and Crocodile Farm will hold the attention of the most bored teenagers.

Alternative Bangkok
A city of contrasts, Bangkok also has a traditional and spiritual side. There are many Buddhist temples which offer a retreat from modern living. You can study Buddhism, learn traditional Thai massage and learn meditation techniques in places like Wat Pho - a revered place of learning. Or you can simply visit to get away from the hustle and bustle.

Where to Stay
From the famous Oriental Hotel - consistently voted Best Hotel in the World, to a local guesthouse in the backpacking district of Banglamphu, to an international name like the Holiday Inn. Bangkok has a huge range of accommodation - the result of an economic boom which quadrupled the number of rooms in the city. Many high rise hotels have superb views of the Bangkok skyline and excellent service. Whether its a lowly guesthouse or upmarket hotel, they all offer much better value for money than their European counterparts.

Thailand Travel Information Guide

Thailand has a rich and colourful culture, and many exotic monuments and stunning beaches, which draw millions of visitors each year, ranging from budget-conscious backpackers to those seeking luxurious pampering in a spa.

Where else but Thailand can visitors cruise on a converted rice barge, roar upriver in a long-tail boat and take a white-knuckle ride on a bamboo raft, then stay in jungle tree houses as guests in the homes of hilltribe villagers, or on rafthouses floating on a river? Equally memorable are the trails leading deep into the rainforest past cooling waterfalls, and the simple beauty of the translucent sea lapping onto endless white, soft sand. Not to be missed is dynamic Bangkok, a city that is larger than life, with its futuristic high-rise buildings juxtaposed against the glittering Grand Palace.

Early morning is when the saffron-robed monks leave the sanctuary of their wats to receive alms from the people, be it in a dusty village or on crowded city streets. Buddhism is a way of life here and with the reverence the people have for the monarchy, a dynasty that has maintained the independence of the country for centuries, the result for the Thais is a blend of tradition with contemporary living.

His Majesty King Bhumibol is the longest reigning monarch in the world, having come to power in 1946. Following the end of absolute monarchy, Thailand moved towards democracy, but this was thwarted by the military, which has often staged coups in protest at government policies. The most recent was in September 2006 when a bloodless coup overthrew Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and replaced him with an interim prime minister until elections could take place, probably in October 2007.

For all this, Thailand has risen above economic collapse in 1997, SARS, avian influenza and the devastating tsunami in December 2004 to become a hugely popular destination on the long-haul tourist trail, possessed as it is of great natural beauty and a very rich cultural heritage.

Thailand offers something for everyone. The capital, Bangkok, is alive with commerce and street-bustle nearly every hour of the day and night. Whether in big cities, the country or on a pristine beach, Thailand offers business and leisure travelers a safe, friendly atmosphere full of possibilities. Indeed, one reason Thailand is among the most visited countries in Asia (more than 10 million visitors annually) is because of its accessibility and extensive tourism infrastructure.

Thailand has fabulous architecture, diverse hill-tribe villages, ancient ruins, beautiful islands, excellent shopping and all the amenities as well. The balance between comfort and excitement is up to you: Stay at a five-star hotel or trek through the jungles; eat at gourmet buffets or buy fruit from local vendors; shop in underground malls or wander through outdoor markets. Thailand offers a curious mix of the ultramodern and the simply delightful.

Unfortunately, the tsunamis that struck Southeast Asia in December 2004 dealt a serious blow to Thailand's western coast: The hardest-hit regions were Phang-Nga, Phuket and Krabi provinces, including popular resort areas in Phuket and Phi Phi Island. In addition, many small fishing villages were completely destroyed. Although tourism has returned to many areas and much has been repaired, it is best to check with the Tourism Authority of Thailand for updates before planning trips to the west coast.