Bangkok – the capital and largest city of Thailand. It is situated on the east bank of Chao Phraya River near the Gulf of Siam.
The capital of Thailand at that time – the city of Ayutthaya was served by the small trading center and port, called Bang Kok – “a place where olives grow”. In 1767, Ayutthaya was ruined by the Burmese and the capital was temporarily moved to the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi – is now a part of Bangkok. In 1782, the year King Rama I built a palace on the east coast and declared the capital of Thailand Bangkok renaming it Kroon Thep, which means “City of Angels.” Thus the village of Bangkok ceased to exist, but foreigners still call the capital of Thailand – “Bangkok”.
Most visitors arrive in Thailand through Bangkok International Airport, “Don Muang”, is just 22 km north of the capital. Inside the city the tourists can travel by taxi, bus, rickshaw (tuk-tukah), while the Chao Praya River and adjoining canals – on motor boats.
Today’s Bangkok – a modern urbanized city, but, nevertheless, the holy city keeps its unique heritage of Siam of the past. It is reflected in the culture and exotic architecture, in Bangkok by it self, Buddhist patience and true Thai hospitality.
There are more than four hundred temples in Bangkok. Among them a very special place is occupied by the Temple of Emerald Buddha, Wat Po temple complex and the Temple of Dawn. For fine arts lovers Bangkok offers field trips to museums, which holds the richest and most unusual masterpieces of Asian art and sculpture.
Network of canals (Klong) won the glory of Bangkok “Oriental Venice”, however they are not so plentiful as it once. But the river is still the heart of Bangkok. Trips run daily on the river, and without them it is impossible to imagine a meaningful visit to the capital. Don’t leave Bangkok without visiting the floating market, which is located on the outskirts of the city.
Particularly attractive source of Bangkok and a part of his charm is night life. Restaurants with traditional Thai cuisine and classical performances in the form of national dance, a huge variety of bars and various entertainment facilities to suit every taste will surprise anyone, even the most demanding and had seen many a tourist. On Patrong and New Petchaburi Rhoads are hundreds of bars and restaurants.
Bangkok is the perfect place for shopping. Life in Bangkok really does not fade away even for an hour. It has everything: a gentle Thai silk, handicrafts items, clothing, gifts, furnishings, antiques, paintings. And look at the bright windows tout visitors – this is fun and it can take more than one day,. To leave without buying is mission impossible. The highest concentration of commercial establishments is in Chinatown.
In several amusement parks located in the vicinity of Bangkok, one can find attractions for all tastes. At the Sunday market sells pets, fruits, vegetables, Buddhist amulets and much more.
