Bangkok - bustling, congested, high-rise, polluted and intense. Perhaps not first on the list of everyone's 'must see places' but there is also another more beguiling side to the Thai capital.
Culturally Bangkok is all things Thai, offering a comprehensive look at what north, south, east and west have to offer - it can all be found here.
Hotels in the Far East are some of the best in the world and Thailand is no exception to this rule. Service with a smile is everywhere and tourists, or as the Thai's call them 'farangs'(meaning foreigner), are welcomed in most establishments.
The Grand Palace is an essential sight during a flying visit to the city. It has been residency to the Thai monarch since the 18th century and the complex is made up of jaw-dropping Thai buildings, including the golden chedi, Chakri Mahaprasad Hall, and Wat Phra Kaew, which is the temple containing the Emerald Buddha. Tourists are welcome but, as the Buddha is sacred, strict guidelines, such as covering bare arms and legs must be adhered to out of respect for the Buddhists.
If you suffer from aches and pains then look no further than a Thai massage for the perfect solution. Wat Pho is near the Grand Palace and is home to a renowned medicinal school. You will most probably have to take a ticket and wait but a half hour massage comes in at the reasonable price of five pounds, depending on what you choose of course.
Wat Pho also houses the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. At 45 metres long and 15 metres high, this effigy is a truly dazzling sight to behold, with gold plating and feet decorated with mother of pearl.
Street food is a fundamental part of Thai culture. You will see many families dining out on the street on plastic chairs, enjoying food that is so affordable, it would cost them more to stay in and eat at home. Stalls have their own specialities but the most common dish is Pad Thai, an appetising dish of fried noodles. The language barrier should also be no cause for concern as most stalls include photos on their menus to help you out. Mango is another street begging to be tried. It may be unripe but covered with a mix of chilli, sugar and salt, it provides a surprisingly good snack with a tangy taste. You may not like the sound of that but a quick taste will soon change your mind.
Bangkok is also the perfect place to learn these recipes for yourself too as cooking course have become increasingly popular. Start with a trip to the market for ingredients, and then you will be guided through preparation and the recipe itself. The best part of course is sampling your food at the end. These courses can usually be arranged through your hotel but a dependable travel agent should also be able to help.
Staying in Bangkok is always a pleasing experience whatever your budget. Standards are excellent throughout the industry and most places have their own unique special touches, whether the maid folds down your pillow with an orchid and chocolate, or your towels are folded into the shape of an origami crane. Sukhumvit is a sophisticated location, with up to five star hotels, and luxurious Thai royal cuisine. Khao San Road however is a famous haunt for budget travellers and backpackers with many a bar offering the local beer, Chang, and Mekhong whiskey.
If you are moving onwards from Bangkok then there are excellent buses to all over the country as well as cheap flights to various domestic and international airports.
The Thai capital may appear congested but if you look through that you will see how truly special it is. With its down to earth, laid back population, vibrant colours and cultural diversity, Bangkok offers something for everyone.
Culturally Bangkok is all things Thai, offering a comprehensive look at what north, south, east and west have to offer - it can all be found here.
Hotels in the Far East are some of the best in the world and Thailand is no exception to this rule. Service with a smile is everywhere and tourists, or as the Thai's call them 'farangs'(meaning foreigner), are welcomed in most establishments.
The Grand Palace is an essential sight during a flying visit to the city. It has been residency to the Thai monarch since the 18th century and the complex is made up of jaw-dropping Thai buildings, including the golden chedi, Chakri Mahaprasad Hall, and Wat Phra Kaew, which is the temple containing the Emerald Buddha. Tourists are welcome but, as the Buddha is sacred, strict guidelines, such as covering bare arms and legs must be adhered to out of respect for the Buddhists.
If you suffer from aches and pains then look no further than a Thai massage for the perfect solution. Wat Pho is near the Grand Palace and is home to a renowned medicinal school. You will most probably have to take a ticket and wait but a half hour massage comes in at the reasonable price of five pounds, depending on what you choose of course.
Wat Pho also houses the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. At 45 metres long and 15 metres high, this effigy is a truly dazzling sight to behold, with gold plating and feet decorated with mother of pearl.
Street food is a fundamental part of Thai culture. You will see many families dining out on the street on plastic chairs, enjoying food that is so affordable, it would cost them more to stay in and eat at home. Stalls have their own specialities but the most common dish is Pad Thai, an appetising dish of fried noodles. The language barrier should also be no cause for concern as most stalls include photos on their menus to help you out. Mango is another street begging to be tried. It may be unripe but covered with a mix of chilli, sugar and salt, it provides a surprisingly good snack with a tangy taste. You may not like the sound of that but a quick taste will soon change your mind.
Bangkok is also the perfect place to learn these recipes for yourself too as cooking course have become increasingly popular. Start with a trip to the market for ingredients, and then you will be guided through preparation and the recipe itself. The best part of course is sampling your food at the end. These courses can usually be arranged through your hotel but a dependable travel agent should also be able to help.
Staying in Bangkok is always a pleasing experience whatever your budget. Standards are excellent throughout the industry and most places have their own unique special touches, whether the maid folds down your pillow with an orchid and chocolate, or your towels are folded into the shape of an origami crane. Sukhumvit is a sophisticated location, with up to five star hotels, and luxurious Thai royal cuisine. Khao San Road however is a famous haunt for budget travellers and backpackers with many a bar offering the local beer, Chang, and Mekhong whiskey.
If you are moving onwards from Bangkok then there are excellent buses to all over the country as well as cheap flights to various domestic and international airports.
The Thai capital may appear congested but if you look through that you will see how truly special it is. With its down to earth, laid back population, vibrant colours and cultural diversity, Bangkok offers something for everyone.
