| About Bangkok |
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Bangkok
Fascinating, vibrant, colourful, and at times even mind-boggling... Welcome to Bangkok, where gleaming skyscrapers grace the skyline alongside dazzling, historical temples, and luxury hotels. Where a wrinkly garland maker plies her trade outside a posh five-star mall. Past, present and future live harmoniously together. Indeed, Bangkok has it all; it’s a sensory thrill that never ceases to delight.
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Shopping in Bangkok
From floating markets and fruit carvings to robed monks and the infamous tuk-tuks, postcard images abound. But, to experience the true marvels of this city of contrast and diversity, take a deeper look – far beyond the visual images you are familiar with even before your plane touches down.
While you’re in Bangkok, make sure to make the most of the city's famous nightlife, experience the excitement of a Muay Thai boxing match, or the glitz and glam of a ladyboy show. Perhaps an elegant dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River tickles your fancy? What about treating yourself to a legendary Thai massage and rejuvenating spa treatment, bound to elevate you to heavenly bliss? And then, of course, bargain shopping galore! This – and much, much more – is Bangkok. Explore. Experience. Discover its hidden secrets. And enjoy your stay! |
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Temples
Bangkok's dazzling temples are a unique part of the capital's heart and soul. A visit to Bangkok would not be complete without seeing at least two of them. The architecture is awe-inspiring and the glittering decoration is quite like no other. Imagine thousands of pieces of coloured glass and pottery adorned with intricate structures gilded in glaring gold - you're indeed in a City of Angels! The best time to visit most temples is in the early morning. It's cooler, and generally less crowded. The temples ('wats') are not just tourist attractions but also play an important part in Buddhist traditions.
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Monks live in the temple complexes, wake up around 04:00, attend to prayers and duties and then collect food and necessities from ordinary people on the streets. If you are up very early in Bangkok you will see monks walking around, dressed in saffron coloured robes. This daily alms ritual (called 'tam boon') takes place all over Thailand and is part of the Buddhist philosophy of giving and making merit to attain a better life beyond this one. |
It's daunting to visit all the temples, so we've listed in the following sections those in the 'must- visit' category, according to their beauty, cultural significance and high regard in Buddhism. Please not that most temples are not open after 18:00.
Thai temples are sacred places so you must dress appropriately. No shorts or revealing tops, otherwise you won't be allowed in. This applies particularly to Wat Phra Kaew (inside the Grand Palace.) |
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City Tours
A day or two is not enough to sample the best of what Bangkok has to offer. Thailand's capital now for nearly 300 years, Bangkok has many sights and attractions that represent the country's rich historical and cultural heritage.
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Bangkok Floating Market : Damnoen Saduak
Well on the tourist trail, a trip to the Damnoen Saduak floating market is still worth doing. Totally chaotic, small 'khlongs' or canals are filled with flat boats piled high with fresh produce, each jockeying for position and paddled by ladies ready to stop and bargain at a moment's notice. It's colourful, noisy, touristy but great fun. During the long-tail boat ride to market, you'll pass orchards, traditional teak houses and local people going about their lives. You'll also visit Nakorn Pathom town, site of the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia. |
Cycle off the Beaten Track
Cycling is possibly one of the best modes of transport to really experience a slice of local life. Cycle along Bangkok's canal paths to see how locals live, work and play… The best way to do this is with an organised tour.
River Cruises
River cruises provide the perfect opportunity to see a more traditional side of Bangkok; from quaint villages to minority communities on small islands upstream, and the ancient ruins of Ayuthaya. Let the River of Kings inspire you with its beautiful sights and scenery. |
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Thai Cooking Classes
Discover the secrets of Thai cuisine. Learn from expert chefs at five-star hotels how to blend spices, identify herbs and to produce the perfect Thai dish that will wow family and friends. All that's left is to learn the Thai word for delicious: 'Aroi!'
Thai Temples & Palaces
Visiting Thailand's temples and palaces is an awe-inspiring experience. The elaborate detail is a proud salute to Thai craftsmanship that is so admired and renowned worldwide. A temple tour should feature highly on anyone's travel agenda.
Tours Beyond Bangkok
Thailand's capital is a good starting point for exploring the rest of this amazing country. Domestic flights are frequent and affordable. Whether you're flying north or south of Bangkok, it won't take longer than 90 minutes to reach your destination by plane. |
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