Bangkok Destination Guide

The capital of Thailand, Bangkok is home to ten million inhabitants and sees at least a further ten million visitors every year. There are countless adjectives used to describe Bangkok, it is essentially a big dirty city and first time visitors are sometimes alarmed by its intensity, however this big dirty city definitely has a certain appealing charm – which is underlined by the number of visitors who return to Bangkok again and again.

The most visited attraction in Bangkok is the Grand Palace. This complex of impressive buildings dates back to 1782 and was home to the King of Thailand his royal court and government until the mid twentieth century. The wonderful architecture with its elaborate detail combined with the atmosphere of reverence and respect makes the Grand Palace a truly unique cultural experience. The spiritual centre of Thailand is a must see for visitors in Bangkok.

Among the most inspiring sights in Bangkok are the temples. These places of Buddhist worship are masterfully architected and ornately decorated with gold, coloured pottery and coloured glass, a true spectacle to behold. Among the most popular are Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its seventy metre high spire this temple is an iconic symbol of the Bangkok skyline and looks most captivating when lit up. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) is another temple popular with visitors. It is the largest of Bangkok’s temples and is home to the famous Reclining Buddha statue, which is forty-six metres long. This huge gold leaf covered statue is something every visitor to Bangkok should observe.

While on holiday in Bangkok visitors should take time to visit the markets. These narrow alleys of stores stocking all sorts of goods (some of questionable legitimacy!?!) offer a unique experience. Excellent bargains can be had and the food stalls can offer a true taste of Thai cuisine. A visit to the markets gives a true impression of Thai culture. To make the market experience more unique visit the floating markets of Bangkok.

What better way to get a view of real Thai culture than attending a Thai boxing (Muay Thai) bout. A unique atmosphere as locals bet furiously on the outcome of the ongoing bouts of the national sport. Best places to catch Thai boxing bouts are at Lumpini stadium and Ratchadamneon Stadium.

Perhaps one of the things that Bangkok is most famous for is its nightlife. Boasting excellent restaurants and trendy bars and nightclubs Bangkok offers plenty away from it’s raunchy and dirty image. However while in Bangkok why not embrace the culture and take in one of the famous Ladyboy Cabaret shows, they offer excellent entertainment.

With so much to see and do in Bangkok it is easy to see why it is such a popular tourist destination. Many people visit Bangkok on their holiday to Thailand for just a few nights, take in the atmosphere and sights and carry on to one of Thailand’s many beach resorts which include Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin,Cha Am, Koh Samui, and Krabi.