Edwin Doran Sports Travel | Destinations : Bangkok

DESTINATION INFORMATION

This metropolis of over 15 million people is a mix of old and new, of exotic and commonplace, all tumbled together in an urban sprawl. Located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, near the Gulf of Thailand, the city has become one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, and is also known for relatively low retail prices.

Bangkok is one of the fastest-growing, most economically dynamic cities in South-east Asia. It is emerging as a regional centre to rival Singapore and Hong Kong. An elaborate network of canals (khlong) once led to city to be called the 'Venice of the East' at a time when all transportation was done by boat, although these are almost all filled in and converted into streets, however some have survived, such as the floating market in Taling Chan district. There is also Khlong Saen Saeb, which has a canal-boat service, as well as ferries and water taxis on the Chao Phraya River.

Bangkok has a tropical monsoon climate and was recently named the world's hottest city by the World Meteorological Organization.

And another thing ... The ceremonial name for Bangkok is Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanu Kamprasit' which means "The city of angels, the great city, the eternal jewel city, the impregnable city of God Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, abounding in an enormous Royal Palace that resembles the heavenly abode where reigns the reincarnated god, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukam." Officially recognised by the Guinness Book of Records for the place with the longest name in the world!

WHAT TO DO

Grand Palace ~ This is where the king's actual residence and audience halls are located. Amongst other buildings located within the palace are the European-styled Phra Thinang Boromphiman, the oldest building in the palace, the Phra Maha Monthien, and the Chakri Maha Prasat hall.

Temples ~ Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha); Wat Arun, located on the Chao Phraya River and covered with millions of pieces of Chinese porcelain donated by Thai citizens; Wat Po, Bangkok's oldest and largest temple, pre-dating the Bangkok dynasty, and home to a mammoth Reclining Buddha; Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) the last major temple to be built in the city.

National Museum ~ Comprising several small buildings, most of which were once home to various members of royalty, now contain a trove of Thai and South-East Asian treasures.

Giant Swing ~ A 200 year old swing, once the centrepiece of an annual ceremony honouring the Hindu god, Shiva. A bench bearing teams of young men was suspended from the cross-piece, and when the swing was swung, the men would attempt to catch, with their teeth, a bag of gold suspended from above.

Dusit Zoo ~ the city's animal park and one of the most popular places for family outings.

Silk Museum & shop ~ The former home of American silk-dealer, Jim Thomson, who disappeared without trace in 1967. Now a craft museum and a shop selling high-quality silks at reasonable prices.

Suan Lumpini ~ a tranquil and tropical garden, with boating lakes, outside gymnasiums and outdoor cafes.

Snake Farm ~ Operated by the Red Cross, its main function is not to entertain the public, but to produce anti-venom serums to be used on snakebite victims, of which there are many.

Some dining suggestions:

Mango Tree ~ Made up from two old houses with old photos of Bangkok on the walls, this restaurant serves excellent Thai food at very good value.

Reilly's Irish Pub ~ Great atmosphere, offering a selection of Thai and European food.

Singapore Chicken Rice ~ Frequented by visitors and locals alike, the food is extremely good. Diners can watch the food during preparation.

The Whole Earth ~ Set in large candlelit garden of an old Thai house, this restaurant offers an excellent choice of Thai and Indian cuisine. A very relaxing place to enjoy well cooked food, and a good selection for vegetarians.

Witch's Tavern ~ Friendly local, with comfortable leather sofas to watch the large screen TV's or Jazz at the weekends, serving English and Thai food, as well as a selection of pastas.