With such a rich and diverse culture to enjoy, visiting Bangkok for the first time can be an exhilarating experience. The good news for those of us keen to sample its many attractions is that flights to Bangkok from London and other UK airports make it easy to enjoy this remarkable place at first-hand.
Landmarks
Often described by seasoned travelers as a “golden land”, there’s no better place to start your own journey of discovery than Wat Arun, a stunningly beautiful temple on the shores of the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River. Named after the Indian God of the Dawn, the temple was the last home of the Emerald Buddha before it was moved to the Wat Phra Kaew across the river. The 269-foot prang tower was built during the early 19th century and remains a powerful reminder of the area’s long association with religion and royalty.
The Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s most famous architectural landmarks, was the official residence of Thailand’s king and royal family. Built in the late 1700s, the palace lies on the eastern side of the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River and is composed of several buildings and pillars covered with detailed mosaics. The Wat Phra Kaew temple, located on the grounds, is known as the new home of the Emerald Buddha.
Located in the heart of Bangkok, the Neilson Hays Library’s architecture is as impressive as its extensive contents, including more than 20,000 different volumes, many by famous western authors, as well as many local documents and visiting exhibitions.
The can’t-miss Victory Monument is a prominent military landmark constructed in 1941. Consisting of a tall obelisk surrounded by a number of military statues, it commemorates Thailand’s victory over Indo-China.
Markets
The famous floating markets along the many rivers and canals are not the only attraction for the curious shopper; Bangkok has a variety of different markets each with their own unique character.
Khao San Road houses dozens of markets and vendors selling a wide variety of wares, from pirated CDs and DVDs to purses, clothing and tattoos. Elsewhere, Pak Khlong Market offers fresh flowers and vegetables at wholesale prices – even attracting local flower vendors to buy the flowers they will resell during the day.
The largest market in Bangkok, and arguably the most diverse, is Chatuchak Market. More than 15,000 shops and vendor stalls are spread over a whopping 35 acres. Everything is sold here and it is one of the best places to buy Thai handicrafts.
Food
Tasting the essence of Bangkok means eating from one of the many vendors scattered around the city. Offering everything from falafel and kebabs, to fresh fruit and spring rolls, travellers will enjoy tasting the local and regional favourites, including Pad Thai (Thai-style Fried Noodles), Kai Med Ma Muang (Chicken with Cashew Nuts), and Pak Boong (Morning Glory).
