Bangkok, Thailand

Posted by Ann on January 17, 2009

Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, is also the largest city in this exotic country. The Thai royal family, the longest continuous monarchy in the world, has their official residence in Bangkok and every year large celebrations are held for the birthdays of the King and the Queen. As the Thai capital and primate city, Bangkok is home to not only the Grand Palace, but the House of Parliment. It has been the capital of Thailand since 1768.

Bangkok has grown from a small trading post to a large, urban metropolis and a recognized economic and political center of a region expanding beyond Thailand to include much of Indochina and Southeast Asia. The city’s influence extends to finance, education, fashion, the arts, and entertainment. It is truly a cosmopolitan and global city and was recognized as the “Best City in the World” in 2008.

The population of Bangkok is a mixture of Chinese, Indian, and even western peoples and the city reflects this mixed heritage in its languages, architecture, and traditions. Likewise, Bangkok is a blending of traditional and modern, home to both ancient temples and steel skyscrapers. Visitors will find the confluence of cultures intoxicating and unforgetable.

Some of the more popular tourist attractions in Bangkok include the Grand Palace, the Victory Monument, and the Ancient City. The city also has several intriguing museums such as the anantasamakhom Throne Hall, the National Museum, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Museum of Contemporary Art. The city also has numerous parks and animal sanctuaries including Lumphini Park (imagine a Thai version of Central Park),the Dusit Zoo, the Crocodile Farm & Zoo, and the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium.

Shopping in Bangkok is amazing. Many items, especially clothing and other locally-produced goods, are priced considerably less than you’d pay in the west and everyone haggles over price, so you can sometimes get an even better deal. The city has several markets that are even cheaper, but be careful because a few markets are actually more expensive. Visitors can choose from the best hotels in the city of Bangkok and experience a variety of cuisines from around the world, just make sure to take advantage of getting fresh Thai food. The nightlife in the city ranges from bars and nightclubs to theater, dance, and concerts.

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17Jan

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