Places To Visit In Bangkok

Places To Visit In Bangkok
By Pauline Go

Thailand is one of the most attractive places to visit in Southeast Asia. And why not? Endowed with sandy white beaches fringed by lush green vegetation, beautiful monasteries and temples, shiny and peaceful images of Buddha and the ever smiling natives, Thailand offers you the perfect gateway to luxurious and relaxing vacation. Aptly called the Land of Smiles, the people of Thailand are always generous and hospitable to the tourists.

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is one of the most frequently visited places. However, if you are planning to visit Bangkok, the city of lights and the city of culture and tradition, you must make a list of the places that you plan to visit.

If you want to have a taste of the history of Thailand, then Grand Palace is one of the places that is worth a visit. It was the former residence of a royal family and consists several temples, houses, and government offices of the olden days.

Another interesting place to visit is the Erawan shrine. This was built during the year 1950 in the honor of Brahma and his elephant, Erawan. Various traditional dances are also held in the open air.

To feel the hustle-bustle of the shopping outlets, Thewet market is the perfect place to go. It is colorful and bustling with life and series of products like pottery, plants, flowers, and Thai cuisines.

To uplift your spiritual mood, you can visit the famous temples in Bangkok, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Wat Pho. The former features intricate and delicate carvings and sculpting of Hindu deities on the walls while the latter is a 200 year old temple. Wat Pho is noted for the majestic gold plated reclining Buddha, which is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. It is also adorned with mother of pearl inlaid feet, which is three meters long.

Check Out More Articles: Thailand Travel Information , Moving To Thailand , Phuket Trip Advisor,

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10 Fun Things to do in Bangkok

10 Fun Things to do in Bangkok
By Orson Johnson

1. SPA: Give yourself a treat, relax every muscle and visit a spa! With many reputable massage shops in the tourist areas of Bangkok, indulge in a traditional Thai massage for a full hour for around 200 to 400 baht.

2. Weekend Market: Go to a weekend market such as Chatuchak and surprise yourselves at what you can find; collectibles, clothing, pets to exotic foods. Remember most weekend markets open on Fridays and weekends only!

3. Bangkok Floating Market: Make your way down to the Bangkok Floating Market, at this infamous market, you will be able to see the lives of the Thai traders and how they sell their fresh produces on vendor boats along the canals. The market is roughly about 80 km outside of Bangkok and can be reached by bus or by signing up with an organized tour in Bangkok.

4. Shop at MBK (Mah Boon Krong): This enormous shopping centre is a total of six floors worth of small shops! MBK has almost everything under the sun! From mobile phones to fake designer goods to tailoring of apparels to your whims and fancies. Get good steals and deals and brag about how little they cost to your friends back home!

5. Clubbing at Bed Supper Club: Bed Supper Club is the most exciting and enjoyable night clubs in Bangkok! With a classy and relaxing ambience combined with its white oval interior with couch beds, it is by far one of the best clubs to have a good time at. One can also enjoy fantastic music and an array of cocktails, mock tails and liquor at the club!

6. Tiffany Cabaret show: Book tickets to the famous Tiffany Cabaret show and be amused by the talented artists and entertainers who will perform and show you a fun-filled musical night! Pictures can be taken with these beautiful lady boys after the musical!

7. Riverside Cruise: While dining, take a riverside cruise along the spectacular Chao Phraya River, which is an amazing sight to behold. The magical city lights whizzes past as the cruise speeds up, with the breeze and romantic candlelit ambience, enjoy an unforgettable experience with your loved ones!

8. Hard Rock Cafe: Dine in a western cafe in Thai style with Thai local beer and groove to featured bands playing nightly. Hard Rock Cafe Thailand Tees can also be purchased for remembrance.

9. Joe Louis Puppet Theatre: Watch a traditional Thai style puppet show and be entertained by the puppets gesture which vividly expresses emotions.

10. Wat Phra Kaew (The Emerald Buddha): Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha inside the Grand Palace to see the respected Buddha image carefully carved from a single block of jade. Although small in size, this intricate Buddha image is an important icon for the Thais.

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Bangkok holiday apartments & Holiday rental accommodation.

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How to Get Around Bangkok

How to Get Around Bangkok
By Chris Norriss

Crowded with people and cars, the bustling city of Bangkok can be overwhelming for visitors, but should not be missed by those enjoying Asia Pacific travel. Those indulging in Bangkok travel can easily be overwhelmed by the fast-paced life of the city and often don't know where to start when it comes to finding their way around. However, there are far too many historical and interesting things to see and do in the city to avoid it all together, so we've come up with everything you need to know about getting around this busy, yet fascinating city.

Road Taxis - Because the streets of Bangkok are so crowded, we recommend that those interested in Bangkok travel not use traditional taxis, but three-wheeled, open-air motorized taxis. Ideal for short distances, you'll find that you spend less on this mode of transportation and get where you need to go fast.

Boats- There is a boat service that runs along the Khlong Saen Saeb, a canal that flows through the city's downtown area. Trying out this kind of water transportation service is a must while on Asia Pacific travel. Travelers can also hail a water taxi, which is often time a ferry that crosses a river or canal. There are, however, some water taxi routes along the waterways that are useful when trying to avoid the streets.

Bus Services - Like any other large city you may stop in during Asia Pacific travel, Bangkok has a large network of bus services. There are two large terminals that you can visit to take buses out of the city as well as several stops littered throughout the city as well. Though the bus is inexpensive, it can be frustrating because you have to deal with the traffic.

Subway - Those who want a quick way to get around during their Bangkok travel should really take the subway, which avoids the congested streets and is still relatively inexpensive. Though there aren't as many stops as there would be in other city's, Bangkok's subway is ever-expanding and the city has many plans to add several new lines to the rail system. These new lines include a skytrain that was started a few years ago. There's also a high speed railroad in the works, which will take those flying in to the city's airport directly in to the city.

For more information on Bangkok travel or the region in general go to: http://www.southpacifictravelcenter.com/

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Bangkok Budget Hotels - 5 Tips on Choosing the Right One

Bangkok Budget Hotels - 5 Tips on Choosing the Right One
By Edwin M Clark

The exotic city of Bangkok in the Kingdom of Thailand is filled with great hotel accommodations befitting all manners of budget and discerning taste. What most visitors will find staying in Bangkok's budget hotels is that the money they pay goes a long way in terms of hotel value and service.

When most people think about the words "Budget Hotel" the first thing that comes across their mind is blood stained carpet, peeling paint and a giant rat for a room mate. That is certainly not the case for budget hotels in Bangkok. Sure you're not going to have a butler or a jacuzzi in the room. But here is what you can get in a budget hotel in the $40 USD range; Flat screen television, CD/DVD player, small swimming pool, free Wi-Fi Internet connection and daily breakfast.

If I was in a hotel in the USA I would be lucky to get a bagel included in my stay in a $40 a night hotel.

Now, here are 5 tips on choosing budget hotels in Bangkok for a trip of a lifetime.

1. Choose hotels with easy access to Bangkok's MRT or BTS stations

The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is an underground subway train and the BTS (Bangkok Train Station) is an elevated two way train also known as the Sky Train. These two modes of transportation combined will take you to about 60% to 75% of the main attractions, historical sights and red light districts in Bangkok. So as you can see staying in a hotel near any of these stations is a major advantage. The MRT and BTS are fast, cheap and easy to use especially because signs and maps are in English. But most importantly they're well air conditioned.

2. Stay in hotels near and on Sukhumvit, Siam, Silom and Chidlom.

There are plenty of budget hotel choices here so there's no need to stay far off from Bangkok's main attractions. Staying in hotels in these areas will put you right up to many shopping and other commercial sights in Bangkok.

3. Do some research about where you want to go

Not to state the obvious but wandering around Bangkok is not a great idea as the city is not organized and planned well. So if you're main goal is shopping and sight seeing, then plan accordingly. One of the main attractions are the red-light districts such as Patpong, Nana and Soi Cowboy. These areas are filled to the rafters with all sort of bars including the infamous Go-Go bars that make Bangkok so well known. And yes there are plenty of budget hotel options around these areas.

4. Look for Serviced Apartments in Bangkok

Serviced apartments are very affordable and are great for a long stay especially if you are traveling with a family because the rooms are bigger. They offer the same hospitality as a hotel but often at a lower or more reasonable price. Certainly a great alternative to standard hotels and worth a look at. Most even include buffet breakfast in their rates. Not to be confusing, but most serviced apartments are labeled as hotels, such as Centre Point Hotels, which is a very popular serviced apartment choice in Bangkok.

5. Book ahead of time

The best times to travel to Bangkok is between October through March because the weather is cooler with less humidity. Rates are higher during these months but you can still find a lot of great value on the Internet.

For further information on Bangkok's budget hotels with reviews please visit Bangkok's Best Budget Hotels.

If you're interested in checking out serviced apartments then please visit Centre Point Hotels in Bangkok.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels to Southeast Asia, specifically to Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business venturers and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

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Thailand Holidays - Hotels in Bangkok

Thailand Holidays - Hotels in Bangkok
By Victor Tuszing

People who want to enjoy really interesting holidays are looking for tourist destinations that feature at the same time many vacation attractions, original culture, historical remains, tropical nature, gorgeous beaches, and great accommodation in luxury resorts and hotels. There are many spots that offer all this, but few of them are so rewarding as Thailand. Kingdom of Thailand is located in southeast Asia and is one of the favorite tourist destinations in Asia, this happening because it has a multitude of excellent vacation spots such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Phuket, or Phi Phi Island. All this places offer attractive deals and great accommodation in hotels or vacation rental properties. Hotels in Thailand play an important role in drawing tourists to this country because it belong to the most luxurious lodging units in entire Asia and welcome its guest with tasty decorated rooms, modern furniture, comfortable beds, good restaurants, and high skilled staffs.

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand since 1768, is one of the main tourist gateways of the country and also one of its main holiday spots. It is located at the mouth of Chao Phraya River and belongs to the most populated areas in the world, in the entire region living around 15 millions people! Bangkok is also called as Venice of the East, because the city stretches over a series of plains and river deltas and has a large number of canals, most of them ending in the Bay of Bangkok. Due to the large number of tourists who visit it, in the capital city have been developed a large number of accommodation units. As the overall best city in the world in 2008 (according to Travel and Leisure magazine), of course that hotels in Bangkok are some of the best in Thailand. There can be found lodging for all pockets, from budget hostels or rooms for rent up to all inclusive resorts, most of them displaying proudly 4 or 5 stars on its doors. Luxury accommodation units in the capital city are very many, so it can not be mentioned all, still some of the best 5 star resorts are Hotel Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa, Hotel Royal Orchid Sheraton Towers Bangkok, Hotel Emporium Suites, Hotel Grand Sukhumvit by Sofitel, Hotel Le Royal Meridien Plaza Athenee, Hotel Miracle Grand Don Muang, Hotel Sofitel Centara Grand Bangkok, Hotel Metropolitan Bangkok, Hotel JW Marriott BKK, Hotel Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Hotel Grand Hyatt Erawan, Hotel Banyan Tree Bangkok, Hotel Four Seasons Bangkok, or Hotel Oriental Bangkok.

Bangkok is visited by different kind of tourists. Some just crossing it during their way to other vacation spots like Hua Hin, Chiang Mai, Chinag Rai, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Phi Phi Island, or Phuket, while other people come in Thailand intending to spend holidays in Bangkok and enjoy its attractions. Tourist attractions in Bangkok are plentiful, some of the most important being the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. There are also many other Buddhist temples (called Wat) which draw many holiday makers in the city due to their impressive architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The capital city region is also visited by a category of people who take trips to this destination with a another purpose: shopping! Not all people know that there are a lot of malls, markets, and shops which offer a multitude of renowned brand goods at very affordable prices, so tourists with a higher vacation budget should make stop-overs in Bangkok during their holidays in Thailand and take advantage on this opportunity.

The relaxing days enjoyed during holidays in Thailand fly away very fast and suddenly comes the day when tourists have to leave the beautiful resorts and return to home. In that moment many people have deep regrets that have not booked longer stays in hotels in Thailand and are already planing a another vacation in this magic country!

More information about accommodation in Thailand can be found on Thailand Holidays and Thailand Hotels. This article belongs to Victor Tuszing.

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Bangkok Culture

Bangkok Culture
By Ken Marlborough

Bangkok's culture dates back to many centuries that it is said that archeological excavations in the area north of Nakorn Ratchasima indicate that there were people living here over 4000 years ago. Monarchy played a major role in the medieval times. But now Thailand has a rich bout of democracy with its own constitution.

The Bangkokians are a bunch of warm and friendly people, usually too polite to show offense. Yet, as with any nation, there are borders of behavior that should and should not be crossed. They take great pride in their monarchy. Visitors are well-advised to respect the reverence in which devoted Bangkokians hold their royal family. The Buddhist religion is considered sacred by Bangkokians. Monks, temples, and Buddha images are everywhere and most of the people treat them with great respect. It is expected that appropriate clothing be worn in temples, and shoes removed when entering certain areas in the temples.

For Bangkokians, the maintenance of surface calm and harmony is crucial. Loss of temper, arguing, or direct criticism are best avoided among them, because they feel it serves little purpose in any case. The famous wai is a used as a gesture for both greeting and respect. Wai requires the person to use both of his hands as if praying in front of his face. In general, it is considered to be a mark of respect to try to keep the head at a lower level than that of a senior or older person when talking to or passing them. On entering a private chamber or house, it is customary to remove your shoes. The polite form of address when talking to or about people of similar or older age are to use the title "Khun" and the person's first name.

Many Bangkokians will be too polite to comment on behaviour that is disrespectful of a fellow Bangkokian, but you should be aware that it is still offensive. Looks and appearances are important to Bangkokians. When meeting them, dressing smartly, or at least appropriately, reflects the degree of respect you hold for them.

Bangkok provides detailed information on Bangkok Hotels, Bangkok, Bangkok Airfare, Bangkok Nightlife and more. Bangkok is affiliated with Bali Culture.

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Cultural Activities in Bangkok, Thailand

Cultural Activities in Bangkok, Thailand
By Orson Johnson

Thailand is known for being one of the friendliest Asian countries in the world today. Also known as the land of smiles, Thailand is usually a "must go" for most people who want to visit Asia. Most frequently visited for its mix of modern and tradition would be Thailand's beautiful capital, Bangkok.

Bangkok is a real gem if you spend enough time exploring it thoroughly. Exploring the city through its rivers can be a great way to start the visit. The Chao Praya River, or "the river of kings" is probably the most famous river in all of Bangkok. A lot of Thailand's history can be found on the shores of the Chao Praya River, which makes it an even better way to get to know Bangkok. Unlike the modern city, the river gives you a glimpse of how the people here still stick to their old ways and traditions. Canals, or "Klongs", show the wooden houses on stilts with Sampans and floating kitchens nearby.

Further down the river, you can see the famous floating markets which sell all sorts of knickknacks and Thai craft, popular to tourists but yet as much a part of everyday life as it has been for the locals for decades. And if you're not sea-sick by the time you get through the crowded narrow canals, head for the Royal Barges Museum. Beautiful barges which are a distinct trait of Thailand line the area, reminding you of movies like the King and I.

Back on land there is as much to see as there is to do. One thing most tourists who've frequented Bangkok come back time and time again for is the Erawan Shrine. Adorned by hundreds of locals and tourists everyday, this shrine located at the corner of Ploenchit and Ratchadamri Road is one to not miss out. Though it isn't a temple (Wat), its one of the most famous sights in the bustling streets of Bangkok. Many pay their respects and give offerings in hope that their wishes would come true.

For those looking to see a totally different side of Bangkok and something totally unique to Thailand, head down during the Songkran ( Thai New Year ) or also known as the water festival. Held on the hottest days of the year, the streets of Bangkok suddenly line up with people carrying water guns and water balloons, preparing to aim for anyone and everyone. This festival has been part of even the oldest traditions combined with the Thai's spirit of showing people how to have a good time just like they do.

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Thailand holiday accommodation & Holiday accommodation.

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