Bangkok is an intoxicating jumble of history, spiritualism and hedonism in one. Explore the royal Grand Palace, cruise the bustling Chao Phraya River, then sample the bars and restaurants around Silom. South-east Asia's ‘city of angels' also offers spicy cuisine and traditional healing massage at Wat Pho temple. There's always reliable retail therapy to be had in glitzy malls at Siam as well as at lively street stalls.
Bangkok, located on the wide Chao Phraya River, has been Thailand's capital since 1767. Bangkok's recent and rapid growth means you can't ignore the contrast between Buddhist temples and skyscrapers. Despite traffic, it's still easy to get around. Around the river, hop on and off the ferries or hire your own long-tailed boat. Use the excellent Skytrain and MRT Metro for Sukhumvit and the world's biggest market at Chatuchak and don't get ripped off (or scared to death) by those tuk tuk (rickshaw) drivers.
See dawn break on Wat Arun's temple precinct before beating the crowds to the Grand Palace. Cruise the breezy Chao Phraya River then dip into the vibrant back streets of Chinatown. Witness Thais at prayer at the Erawan Shrine before discovering your inner peace with a traditional Thai massage. Begin your evening with a cocktail high atop a hotel in the business district, then opt for a sophisticated fusion dinner in Silom or authentic spice on the street. Leave time for the varied treasures of both the National Museum and Chatuchak weekend market.
Explore the floating market, Barges Museum and klongs (canals) of Thonburi on a zippy long-tailed boat. Then stretch your legs, although not quite as athletically as the traditional takraw kick volleyball players in Lumphini Park and visit King Rama V's all-teak Vimanmek Palace in Dusit. For cultural insights, marvel at Lumphini's Muay Thai boxers or take some flavour home with a Thai cookery class.
Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport is 25 km (16 miles) east of the city. It is a major hub in south-east Asia and flies an estimated 45 million passengers from its one huge terminal.
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