Official Language:
Thai
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Currency:
Thai Baht
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Population:
Approximately 6 million people call Thailand home
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Bangkok Thailand: Hot & humid throughout most of the year Warmest temperatures are from March through May. Temperatures are generally in the 80°F and the 90°F/(27°C-32°C).
The rainy season runs from June through October. Climate Basically, Thailand has three seasons: a dry and hot season (from November until February), a very hot season (from March until the end of April; the weather is still dry, but very hot, and doing sightseeing tours may be uncomfortable) and a wet and hot season (this is the monsoon season from May to the end of October), and these distinctions also apply to Phuket.
The best months for travelling are December, January, and February, but November, March and April are also acceptable (though the air is more moist and it may rain occasionally).
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Bangkok is the capital of Thailand as well as one of the most important cities in Southeast Asia.Located 26 miles upstream from the Gulf of Thailand on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok started out as a small agricultural community. It became the capital of Siam in 1782 when Chao Phraya Chakkri (Rama I), founder of the Chakkri Dynasty, moved his government from Thon Buri to Bangkok. He built the magnificent walled-in Grand Palace complex, which contains the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The Thai people came from a province in southern China known as Yunnan about 1,000 years ago when the Mongols invaded the area. During the 12th century, Khmers ruled Thailand, and the real nationalism of the Thai people began in the 13th century when the Thai chieftains started a rebellion against the Khmers. As the Thai alliance began to gain strength and recognition, it expanded mightily. In 1350, the capital of the country was founded at Ayuthaya. A transition of power took place over the next couple of centuries, with many different forces occupying the region at one time or another. A new capital was established at Bangkok in 1783 when the Chakri royal dynasty, ruled by King Rama I, took power. Thai culture and tradition have survived intact throughout the decades. Tourism plays a huge role in the present economy. Without it, Bangkok would really suffer, but thankfully, the enjoyment that travelers from around the world derive from their visits help keep the sightseers coming in droves. While touring Bangkok, you are sure to encounter amazing architectural sites, picturesque terrain, and bustling city life, unique to that found in Western culture. It is the epitome of the country's kaleidoscopic blend of old and new. More than anywhere else, it is an expression of the Thais' respect for tradition coupled with a vibrant involvement in modern progress.
During the reign of Rama IV (1851-1868), the first major secular construction projects were started. Because of its many canals that served as streets and commercial thoroughfares, Bangkok became known as the “Venice of the East”. However, in the past century, the city has undergone extensive development and many of the canals have been paved over. Houses perched on stilts can still be seen lining the banks of the remaining canals, which are also the site of colorful floating markets.
Bangkok is Thailand's economic center. The city's industries are based primarily on the products of the surrounding region. Processed rice and lumber are most important. Others include sugar, paper, textiles, cigarettes, soap, matches, metal and processed foods. In addition, tourism makes for a very important factor in the country’s economy. Although Bangkok’s city skyline is punctuated by many modern buildings that reflect Western influence, its most distinctive features are still some 400 Buddhist temples, known as wats. They range from opulent, colorful structures to basic temple-monasteries.
This region is certainly living up to this title, and virtually everything about the city is amazing. The gorgeous beaches, fast-paced nightlife, and exquisite Thai cuisine are capturing the hearts and minds of tourists everywhere. It is only in the past few years that travel to Thailand has really exploded. But now that it has, watch out, because there is no stopping the expansion. The transportation and amenities in Bangkok have all been upgraded, and the city has a newfound safe and comfortable feel to it that it did not have before. The atmosphere is exciting and modern, and the shopping facilities are tremendous. The bazaars are as interesting as they are bizarre, and the shows and clubs are fantastic. They are fantastic as long as you exercise certain degree of caution. Prostitution is still heavily promoted in the area, and with prostitution comes sexually transmitted diseases that you can certainly do without. So be safe and say no.
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Bangkok (Klong Tuey), Thailand located at 444 Tarua Road. From here, you can arrange for taxi or bus service to take you to your destination in this fascinating city. Local Transportation in Bangkok, The primary method of transportation while in Bangkok is the buses. Although navigating the streets of Bangkok is a challenge indeed, once you familiarize yourself with the labyrinth of bus routes, you will be on your way. Taxis are also available, but expect to pay a hefty fare, as taxis are not only expensive but your trip through the notorious Bangkok traffic will be a long one, as well. Contact Call-Taxi (tel. 02/319-9911) for more information. Overall, your best bet in Bangkok is simply walking.
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Attractions |
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The Grand Palace:
The number one destination in Bangkok is also the most touristy. However, you shouldn't let the large busloads keep you away It's a terrific sight to see, and, if you arrive at 8:30am when the gates first open, you can have the place to yourself. As this is sacred royal ground, visitors are required to wear long pants or skirts, and shirtsleeves that cover the upper arms. The rules are inconsistently enforced, but many have been turned away for inappropriate dress. And remember - it closes at 3:30pm so don't show up any later than 2:30pm!
One of King Rama I's earliest accomplishments was to move the capital from Thonburi to a more defensible site on the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya. He chose the center of the Chinese community, which was then moved south to Sampeng, the current Chinatown. He intended to reproduce the destroyed capital of Ayutthaya. The construction of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo were the first phase of his grand goal, though both were added to and rebuilt in subsequent reigns.
The palace as it appears today was greatly influenced by Western architecture, including colonial and Victorian motifs. Anna - tutor to the son of Rama IV and the central figure in the story The King and I - lived here. The royal family moved to Chitralada Palace after the death of King Ananda in 1946, but it was here, in 1981, that General Chitpatima attempted to overthrow the government in an unsuccessful coup.
As you enter the palace gate, built in the 1780s, you'll see the Pavilion for Holy Water, where priests swore loyalty to the royal family and purified themselves with water from Thailand's four main rivers. Nearby is a lacquered-wood structure called the Arporn Phimok Prasad (Disrobing Pavilion), built so the king could conveniently mount his palanquin for royal elephant processions (Most of the time it served as a kind of elephant parking lot.)
Also nearby is the Chakri Maha Prasad, designed by Western architects as a royal residence for Rama IV to commemorate the centennial of the Chakri dynasty. The king's advisors urged him to use Thai motifs to demonstrate his independence from growing Western influence: The Thai, temple-style roof rests physically and symbolically on top of an imperial Victorian building. This Thai-Victorian building contains the ashes of royal family members on the third floor, the throne room and reception hall on the main floor, and a collection of weapons on the ground floor.
The whitewashed stone building nearby now serves as the Funeral Hall, though it was originally the residence of Rama I and Rama II. The corpse of a deceased royal figure is kept in this building for a year before it is cremated in a nearby field. On each of the four corners of the roof is a garuda (the half-human, half-bird "steed" of Rama, an avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu), symbolizing the king, who is considered a reincarnation of Rama. The palace garden was rebuilt under Rama IV in the 1860s, and the highlight here is a section that reproduces the landscape of a Thai mountain-and-woods fable. This structure was used as a ceremonial place for Thai princes to cut their topknot in a coming-of-age ritual.
The Grand Palace also has a harem, the Forbidden Quarters (no one other than the king was allowed to enter), where the king's wives lived (King Bhumibol Adulyadej ended the age-old tradition of polygamy and has only one wife, Queen Sirikit). Close by is the Amarin Vinichai Prasad, or Coronation Hall, built by Rama I and added to by subsequent kings. Today, this building is used, like the palace in general, for royal coronations, weddings, and state events only, and it is here that the king makes his grandest appearances.
Ancient City(Meuang Boran):
South of Bangkok, is billed as the largest open-air museum in the world. Over 100 of Thailand's most impressive monuments are rendered slightly less impressive in this 80-hectare (200-acre) collection of scale models. The grounds follow the basic shape of Thailand itself and the monuments are placed accordingly.If you're an architecture buff on a brief stay, or just a lover of these sorts of educational theme parks, Ancient City is well worth the trip out of town. The attraction is south of the Thai capital, near the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Depending on traffic, it can take as long as two hours to make the trip.
Ayuthaya Historical Park:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayuthaya's historic temples are scattered throughout this once magnificent city and along the encircling rivers. Several of the more central ruins – Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mongkhon Bophit, Wat Na Phra Meru, Wat Thammikarat, Wat Ratburana and Wat Phra Mahathat – can be visited on foot.You could add more temples and ruins to your itinerary by touring the city on a rented bicycle. An ideal transport combination for visitors who want to see everything would be to hire a bicycle for the central temples and charter a long-tail boat to take a tour of the outlying ruins along the river.
Ko Kret:
In the middle of the Mae Nam Chao Phraya at Bangkok's northern edge is Ko Kret, one of Thailand's oldest Mon settlements. From the 6th to the 10th centuries, the Mon people dominated Thai history and culture, and their ancient crafts still draw visitors from around the world. Pottery is the main claim to fame of the Mon and visitors to the island can visit the Ancient Mon Pottery Centre, which displays a wide variety of local earthenware. There are also plenty of opportunities to watch potters go about creating these fine examples of traditional handicraft.
Klong Bangkok Yai:
Located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, the canal affords trips to Wat Sang Krachai, Wat Werurachin, Wat Intararam, Wat Pak Nam, and a snake farm on KlonSanam Chai.
Wat Rakang Kositharam:
Located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River opposite the Grand Palace, the temple dates from the Rattanakosin Period and was restored by the Association of Siamese Architects.
Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn):
One of Bangkok's most famous temples (and the one you will see on all the postcards after the Grand Palace.)The chief attraction of Wat Arun is the tower of the Phra Prang, 79 metres high, which offers a beautiful view of Bangkok, the Grand Palace, and it has an imposing spire (prang) over 70 metres high, beautifully decorated with tiny pieces of coloured glass and Chinese porcelain placed delicately into intricate patterns. You can no longer climb the steps to the top of the prang for those vertigo inducing views over the river but it's worth visiting. Although known as the Temple of the Dawn, (will appear to shimmer given the right weather conditions) it's lovely at sunset and particularly stunning when lit up at night. On the Chao Phraya river, opposite Tha Thien Pier Open: 08:00 -17:30
Wat Mahathat :
The headquarters of Thailand's largest monastic order and the home of Vipassana Meditation, Wat Mahathat is the most important centre for the study of Buddhism and meditation. Although most programmes are in Thai, there are some in English and the temple has become a popular place to learn the Vipassana meditation method. (Insight Meditation) Classes are held daily from 7 - 10am, 1 - 4pm, and 6 - 8pm. Time needed for practice will vary with each individual English-speaking monks assisting.
The temple was originally built to house a relic of the Buddha and one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. You can also have your fortune told inside.
Just next to the temple, every Sunday is the Bangkok's largest amulet market, where religious amulets, charms, talismans, and traditional medicine are spread on the ground to be inspected by buyers looking for one that will bring good luck or ward off evil. Different amulets are used for specific purposes, to bring money, restore health, deal with unrequited love or keep your enemies away so choose carefully.Location: Phra That Rd. (near Sanam Luang Park, between the Grand Palace and the National Museum. Open: Daily 09:00 - 17:00
Chao Phraya River:
The "River of Kings" is Thailand's major waterway and was the main artery of Bangkok's commercial life in former times, it now still teems with waterbourne traffic and is the majestic setting for ceremonial royal barge processions.
Grand Palace:
A walled town covering an area of over a square mile containing the Chapel Royal (Wat Phra Kaeo) where the Emerald Buddha is enshrined and the two halls of audience; the Dusit Maha Prasad Hall and the Amarindr Vinichai Hall.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha - Wat Phra Kaeo:
The Chapel Royal was erected by King Rama I to house the Emerald Buddha which is placed upon a magnificent altar raised on a base added by King Rama III.
The National Museum:
It's important to remember that the facility is closed on Monday and Tuesday, but the National Museum, just a short (15-min.) walk north of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the country's central treasury of art and archaeology (32 branches are located throughout the provinces). Some of the buildings are themselves works of art.The current museum -- the largest in Southeast Asia -- was built as part of the Grand Palace complex when the capital of Siam was moved from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1782. Originally the palace of Rama I's brother, the deputy king and appointed successor, it was called the Wang Na ("Palace at the Front"). The position of princely successor was eventually abolished, and Rama V had the palace converted into a museum in 1884. Thammasat University, the College of Dramatic Arts, and the National Theater were also built on the royal grounds, along with additional museum buildings.To see the entire collection, which is highly recommended, plan to spend a few hours. Start with the Thai History and the Prehistoric Galleries in the first building. If you're rushed, go straight to the Red House behind it, a traditional 18th-century Thai building that was originally the living quarters of Princess Sri Sudarak, sister of King Rama I. It's furnished in period style, with many pieces originally owned by the princess.Another essential stop is the Phuttaisawan (Buddhaisawan) Chapel, built in 1787 to house the Phra Phut Sihing, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images, brought here from its original home in Chiang Mai. The chapel is an exquisite example of Buddhist temple architecture.From the chapel, work your way back through the main building of the royal palace to see the gold jewelry, some from the royal collections, and the Thai ceramics, including many pieces in the five-color bencharong style. The Old Transportation Room contains ivory carvings, elephant chairs, and royal palanquins. There are also rooms of royal emblems and insignia, stone carvings, wood carvings, costumes, textiles, musical instruments, and Buddhist religious artifacts.Fine art and sculpture are found in the newer galleries at the rear of the museum compound. Gallery after gallery is filled with both Thai and pre-Thai sculpture (including some excellent Mon work) and Hindu and Buddhist images from the provinces.
Sanam Luang:
A large grassed public area, formerly known as the Pramane Ground, located in front of the Grand Palace, used for the Thai New Year Festival in April and the Royal Ploughing Ceremony in May.
Wat Phra Kaeo (The Emerald Buddha):
One of Thailand's most revered temples, Wat Pra Kaeo is located inside the grounds of the Grand Palace. This Royal temple contains an exquisite Emerald Buddha which dates back to around the 14th century. No one is allowed near the Buddha which is raised high on a series of platforms, except H.M. King. A seasonal cloak, changed three times a year to correspond to the summer, winter, and rainy season covers the statue. A very important ritual, the changing of the robes is performed only by the King to bring good fortune to the country during each season. The temple is beautifully decorated and has a great sense of peace about it. Location is Na Phra Lan Road - Inside the Grand Palace complex. Open: 8:30-12:00 and 13:00-15:30. Admission 100 Baht
Marble Temple - Wat Benchamabophit:
Built by King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V), the Marble Temple was constructed using Italian Carrara marble and Chinese glazed tiles and is a fine example of modern Thai art.
Golden Mount - Wat Saket:
The golden "chedi", or pagoda, begun during the reign of King Rama I, houses relics of the Lord Buddha and affords a panoramic view of Bangkok.
Chinatown District:
An old business center covering a large area around Yaowarat Road and Charoen Krung Road (New Road) consisting of many small lively streets and alleys full of shops and sidewalk stalls. Lying south of Dusit and Banglamphu, the Chinatown district is one of the oldest areas of Bangkok as Chinese merchants were originally moved to this area in the early 1780's when Bangkok was founded. One of the main streets of this area, Charoen Krung (translating as 'Prosperous city'), was actually Bangkok's first paved road, so it's English name, New Road, couldn't really be more inappropriate nowadays. The area has got a somewhat seedy historical reputation for large numbers of opium dens, brothels (which hung green lanterns outside, giving it the name of the Green Light district), pawnshops and a fondness for gambling. Today, gold shops and pawnshops are still very popular in Chinatown and can be found almost anywhere. Drug dealing, prostitution and gambling (all now illegal in Thailand) are also still thought to be widespread in this area, though they are not likely to be very noticeable to the average visitor. Nevertheless, Chinatown remains a pretty interesting area to visit. With the exception of Wat Traimit, it's almost completely untouristy, though this has the downside that most people round here speak very little English. Though the main roads are not very dissimilar to those of other parts of Bangkok, the genuine Chinatown lies down the busy numerous smaller roads, narrow alleys and backstreets. The Chinese in Chinatown have been living in Thailand for generations, and generally consider themselves very much as Thais - most can no longer speak any Chinese.Very close to the intersection of Charoen Krung and Yaowarat road is perhaps the only real top attraction in Chinatown, Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha. At first glance, the 3m high Buddha image in here looks distinctly average and undeserving of the busloads of tourists that visit every day. What attracts them all however, is the remarkable fact that it's made of 5.5 tonnes of solid gold. The story behind the image is that in 1957 a large stucco Buddha image was being moved by crane during development of a port. To the horror of all concerned, the crane operator accidentally dropped the image, sending it crashing towards the ground. Instead of smashing however, the stucco covering merely cracked and in the process revealed the solid gold image hidden underneath. It is thought to have been covered like this during the early Ayuthaya or Sukhothai period, apparently to protect the image from the invading Burmese, and remained that way for several hundred years. Just north of here is Hualamphong, Bangkok's main train station. Though other attractions as such are thin on the ground, Chinatown is an interesting place to just wander around. A couple of Chinatown's most interesting roads are Yaowarat road (sometimes spelt Yaowaraj), leading westwards from near Wat Traimit, and Sampeng Lane
(also known as Soi Wanit), running parallel south of Yaowarat. Busy Yaowarat road is Chinatown's main street, and has surely one of greatest concentrations of gold shops anywhere, reflecting the love of gold the Thai-Chinese are often thought to have. There's dozens of them, all dazzlingly brightly colored, and with mainly very good prices. There's also plenty of restaurants round here also, where you can get birds-nest soup, dim sum, shark fin soup and other traditional Chinese delicacies. The narrow, crammed Sampeng Lane was previously infamous for the gang fighting and high numbers of murders that took place here. Nowadays, it's a very busy predominately pedestrian street, with the main danger being the odd motorbike that tries to get past. The street is a hive of constant commercial activity, mostly in textiles and cloth, and while it's not really a great place for buying anything, it's an interesting authentic experience that doesn't seem to have really changed in decades. The Thieves Market, or Nakhon Kasem is slightly north of the western end of Sampeng Lane. Though legitimate today, it was so named because this was where goods stolen from houses inevitably turned up. It's now a good area for looking or buying Thai or Chinese antiques. There's quite a number of shops and reasonable range of supposedly antique and second hand goods.
Pahurat :
Bangkok is a cultural melting pot and there's no better evidence of this than Pahurat, on the edge of Chinatown. A wide variety of Indian goods are available in this small area, ranging from an astonishing array of silks to Thai shoulder bags. The choice is amazing, the haggling is fierce and the bargains can be unbelievable - if you're good enough, that is. Head down little alleys into the 'bowels' of this area and you'll find foodstuffs, household items and a thriving culture that might ordinarily pass by unnoticed. Pahurat lies west of Chinatown towards the river.
Vimanmek Palace:
The magnificent golden teakwood residence of King Chulalongkorn which houses numerous exhibits including antique furniture, glassware, porcelain, and many other items of
historic interest. Vimanmek is one of those great old wooden houses built by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) at a time when teak forests covered large parts of southeast Asia. It's the biggest wooden building made from golden teak in the world and contains more than 80 rooms, lots of winding staircases, beautiful Thai, Khmer, Burmese, and Western objects d' art, and exquisitely carved teak and mahogany furniture. A former royal residence, it was recently renovated by H.M. Queen Sirikit, and made into a museum paying homage to the late King. As well as antique furniture, there's glassware, porcelain, old photographs and memorabilia from the late King's reign (1868-1910) Parts of Vimanmek are still used for various state functions and receptions for visiting royalty when the buildings are closed to the public. Location: Rajavithee Road, Bangkok. Close to the Dusit Zoo and Dusit Palace complex Admission: 100 Baht Open: 08:30 until 16:30. (Last ticket 15:00) Tues-Sat . Please note: No shorts or sleeveless shirts and skirts must be at least knee-length or you won't be allowed in.
River City Shopping Complex:
A center for arts and antiques with over 150 shops selling Thai silk and cotton, jewelry, home decor items, paintings, and souvenirs from all parts of the country.
Oriental Hotel:
Renowned for more than a century for its unique ambience of timeless colonial-style elegance in an exotic Eastern setting on the Chao Phraya, the "River of Kings".
Temple of the Golden Buddha - Wat Traimitr:
Constructed during the Sukhothai period and housing the Golden Buddha which is made of solid gold, is three meters high, and weighs five and a half tons.
Jim Thompson's House:
Located at the end of an undistinguished lane next to Khlong Saen Saep, the former abode of mystery man and silk entrepreneur Jim Thompson is a great spot to visit for authentic Thai residential architecture and South-East Asian art. Thompson was a New York architect who served as a spy in Thailand during WWII. After setting up house in Bangkok, he gradually built up worldwide clientele for a craft that may otherwise have died out. Each wall of Thompson's house has its exterior side facing the building's interior, exposing the wall's bracing system to residents and guests. In 1967, Thompson disappeared mysteriously in Malaysia; that same year his sister was murdered in the USA. This fuelled various conspiracy theories: who killed Jim Thompson - spies, rivals, or a man-eating tiger? Perhaps the answer lies in his ancient Siamese horoscopes: there's a table at the front where you can buy copies and see for yourself.
Patpong Road:
The center of Bangkok's red-light nightlife scene also has a Night Bazaar famous for designer-label "look-a-like" products including clothing, watches, and fashion accessories.
Suan Pakkard Palace:
The former residence of Princess Chumbhol, one of Thailand's leading art collectors, houses a large collection of Asian art and antiques, including mineral crystal and painted pottery from Ban Chiang.
Erawan Shrine:
Located at the Ratchaprasong intersection, the Brahminic shrine is worshipped by devotees offering images of the elephant god Erawan and is attended by traditional Thai dancers.
Lumpini Park:
Bangkok's largest and most popular park, named after the Lord Buddha's birthplace in Nepal, features a large lake surrounded by broad, well-tended lawns, wooded areas, and paved paths.
Chatuchak Weekend Market:
Located in a large public park with thousands of local products, including exotic fresh fruits and vegetables, handicrafts, clothing, shoes, and toys, on sale.
Sukhumvit Road:
Downtown area featuring numerous hotels, restaurants, stores, footpath vendors, and the nightlife venues Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy, and the Thermae Coffee Shop.
Kam Thieng House:
A typical Northern Thai house about 120 years old with antique wood carvings on display located at The Siam Society, Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke Road).
Wat Po (Temple of the Reclining Buddha):
Wat Po is Bangkok's largest temple, famous for its huge and beautiful reclining Buddha 46 metres long and covered in gold leaf. The Buddha's feet are 3 metres long and exquisitely decorated in mother-of-pearl illustrations of auspicious laksanas (characteristics) of the Buddha.
As well as the reclining Buddha, Wat Po is also acknowledged as Thailand's first university and the place to learn Thai massage from the traditional source. Courses in traditional herbal medicine and Thai massage are available in English and Thai, and last between 7 to 10 days. If you've never tried a traditional Thai massage this is a good place to get the original. It's quite different to most other forms of therapeutic massage and tends to be invigorating rather than relaxing incorporating yoga style postures to relieve stress and improve circulation. Cost around 120 Baht for 1/2 hour or 200 Baht per hour. Or wander around the grounds in the late afternoon where you can see some of the massage practitioners at work. Wat Po also has good English speaking guides who will provide interesting information for around 200-400 Baht depending on the numbers in your group and your negotiating skills. There are also a few astrologers and palm readers available for consultation. You can also receive a blessing from a monk for a small donation which helps to maintain the Wat. Located Maharat Rd. Close to the river (about a half mile south of the Grand Palace.) Open: Daily 8am-5pm (Massage available until 6pm)
Ayuthaya:
About 86km (53mi) north of Bangkok is the former Thai capital of Ayuthaya. By the end of the 17th century it had a population of over a million people and many foreigners claimed it was the most illustrious city they had ever seen. These days, the city is really only of interest for its many ruins and museums, but it''s definitely worth a visit if history is your bag. Along with its two impressive museums - Chao Sam Phraya National Museum and Chan Kasem Palace) - the city''s large collection of temples and ruins have been declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO.Ancient City Ancient City (Meuang Boran), to the south of Bangkok, is billed as the largest open-air museum in the world. Over 100 of Thailand''s most impressive monuments are rendered slightly less impressive in this 80-hectare (200-acre) collection of scale models. The grounds follow the basic shape of Thailand itself and the monuments are placed accordingly. If you''re an architecture buff on a brief stay, or just a lover of these sorts of educational theme parks, Ancient City is well worth the trip out of town. The attraction is 33km (20mi) south of the Thai capital, near the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Depending on traffic, it can take as long as two hours to make the trip.Ko Kret In the middle of the Chao Phraya River at Bangkok''s northern edge is Ko Kret, one of Thailand''s oldest Mon settlements. From the 6th to the 10th centuries, the Mon people dominated Thai history and culture, and their ancient crafts still draw visitors from around the world. Pottery is the main claim to fame of the Mon and visitors to the island can visit the Ancient Mon Pottery Centre, which displays a wide variety of local earthenware. There are also plenty of opportunities to watch potters go about creating these fine examples of traditional handicraft
The Dusit Zoo:
It is located at Ratchawithi Road (02/281-2000) and is home to a variety of extraordinary animals. Wildlife indigenous to Thailand can be found here, animals that cannot be seen anywhere else on earth. The royal white elephants are magnificent, and a favorite activity is to rent a paddleboat and cruise along the pond. The area is wonderfully scenic, and children love the zoo because of the elephant rides and exotic life that abounds.Wat Saket is a picturesque mountain that is located at Ratchadamnoen Klang and Boriphat Roads. The climb is relatively short but the scenery is absolutely spectacular. This is a wonderful hike, and for nine days in October and November an enchanting temple fair is held around Wat Saket. A carnival of epic proportions is held, complete with animal circuses, theater, freak shows, and other tomfoolery. It is an incredible experience, and if you happen to be in Thailand during this time of the year, a trip to Wat Saket is a must.The Grand Palace is located near Sanam Luang (02/222-0094) and is the premier sightseeing destination in all of Thailand. It is one of the oldest buildings in the land, a splendid edifice that was constructed in the 1780?s. The king resided here until 1946, when the Chitralada Palace became the official residence of the royal family. Presently, the Grand Palace is used for dignitaries and for royal ceremonies. The most important ceremonies are held at Amarinda Vinichai Hall, which is located directly next door to the Grand Palace. It is an ornate and enthralling site that is of interest as an historical site, a flamboyant piece of architecture, and a memorable tourist attraction.
Nightlife in Bangkok:
The outrageous nightlife that you have been hearing about. The Shangri-La Hotel Lobby Lounge is located at 89 Soi Wat Suan Phlu (02/236-7777) and is a great place to have a cocktail and enjoy live shows. The performances are typically soft music and light pop, which is relaxing after an exciting day of sightseeing. Thai boxing is excellent entertainment if you enjoy this violent and competitive sport. One of the best places to see boxing matches is the Ratchadamnoen Stadium (02/281-4205). Gambling on the matches runs rampant, but know what you are getting into before you take any action with the locals. Lumphini Stadium is located on Rama IV Road (02/251-4303) and the programs are as outlandish as they are exciting. The bouts often get quite intense, but the area is well patrolled and quite safe. Calypso can be found on Phayathai Road (02/261-3991) and is a fun place to catch a cabaret show. They are extremely popular with tourists, and the sets and costumes are amazing. As popular as the sex shows, go-go clubs, and bars may be, this topic will be avoided except to note that Patpong is the most sought after location for these types of places. Please exercise extreme caution if you happen to venture into one of these seedy joints.A traditional Thai massage is a must-do for visitors in Thailand and is quite unique. You don't just lie back and passively receive a Thai massage; instead, you are an active participant as masseursmanipulate your limbs to stretch each muscle, then apply acupressure techniques to loosen up tense muscles and get energy flowing. It's been described as having yoga "done" to you and your body will be twisted, pulled, and sometimes pounded in the process.
Bangkok, like most tourist destinations in Thailand, supports some fine spas, most in the larger hotels. Le Banyan Tree Spa (tel. 02679-1054; www.banyantree.com) and The Oriental's spa tel. 02439-7613; www.orientalbangkok.com) are two of the finest places going if price is less of an issue. These are just two of the many fine spas in town (in hotels and out). For a more budget spa experience, stop by the newly opened Chivit Chiva (16/1-2 Sukhumvit Soi 19; tel. 02253-0607; near the Asok BTS station), a fancy little getaway with services starting at just 600B ($14.50).There are countless massage places around Bangkok, and many offer fine services at very reasonable rates (where else can you get an hour of massage for 205B/$5). Be aware that certain massage parlors cater to gentlemen, with services beyond the standard massage: aim for places offering "traditional massage" and open storefront areas instead of backrooms. Many places have "no sex" or other blatant signs indicating the place is hanky-panky free (and if you're looking for hanky-panky, those signs are just as blatant). Try Po Thong Thai Massage, in the basement of the Fortuna Hotel, Sukhumvit Soi 5 (tel. 02255-1045; 300B/$7.30 per hr.), or Arima Onsen (37/10-11 Soi Surawong Plaza near Sala Daeng BTS station; tel. 02235-2142; 220B/$5.40 per hr.). According to the experts, 2 hours is the minimum to experience the full benefits of Thai massage, but 1 hour treatments are the norm. These places, and the many like them, also offer foot massage, but honestly, this bone-grinding process can be pretty painful (ask for a gentle foot massage unless you can handle the pain.)
There are numerous travel agencies offering local tours. Diethelm Travel (tel. 0255-9150; www.diethelm-travel.com.), a leader in the region, can arrange tours of any length. World Travel (tel. 02233-5900) and Sea Tours (tel. 02216-5783) both arrange English-speaking guides and have branch offices in many of the international hotels. You can also hire your own car and driver, with guide and interpreter for about 2,000B to 3,000B ($45-$68) for a whole day -- you design the agenda, where you want to go, and what you're interested in doing. Any hotel concierge can make the necessary arrangements.
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Useful Links About Bangkok:
Bangkok Travel Information
http://www.bangkok-city.com
Bangkok Maps
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