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Set
on the banks Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is the capital of Thailand
represents the pros and cons of a successful Asian metropolis. Krungthep
or City of Angels as it is known to the locals, has many places of
interest. One of the best ways to absorb the grandeur is to wander
through its streets. Bangkok, for many, represents the typical Asian
capital. Saffron-robed monks, garish neon signs, graceful Thai architecture,
spicy dishes and colourful markets.
In
the midst of dynamic growth as a fast paced modern commercial center,
Bangkok manages to preserve its cultural heritage to a marked degree.
The soaring roofs and gleaming spires of the Grand Palace and the
city's many historic temples: Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Temple
of Dawn and other shrines present the visitor with a picture of medieval
Oriental wonder; as in an Eastern fairytale.The broad Chao Phraya
River, which winds through the city providing transport for passengers
and cargo.
With an easy access to the river provided by the new skytrain, travelers
who stay in the city can now enjoy the highlight of any visit to Bangkok,
a boat cruise along the Chao Praya River. Boats of all sizes and shapes
cruise the Chao Phraya River day and night. Ferries run up, down,
and across the river, carrying commuters.
Bangkok is divided in two by the main north-south train line. Old
Bangkok, where a large number of the city's temples and palaces and
its Chinese and Indian districts are found, lies between the river
and the railway. East of the railway, comprising the main business,
tourist and sprawling residential districts, is 'new' Bangkok. Outside
of these general classifications, Bangkok sprawls in all directions
with a mixture of commercial, industrial and residential areas.
Bangkok
is both an ancient and a modern city, where the network of klongs
(canals) offset a steady stream of automobile traffic, where giant
outdoor markets compete with glittering shopping malls, and where
modern buildings rise in the city that grew around the Grand Palace
and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
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The strangest, most frequently seen boat on the river is the hang yao,
or long-tailed water taxi, a long, thin, graceful vessel, powered by
an automobile engine connected by a long, exposed shaft (tail) to the
propeller.. These water taxis carry passengers throughout the maze of
klongs and are vital in transporting fresh food from upriver farms and
fresh fish from coastal villages to Bangkok.
Shopping is a popular activity in Bangkok. The best known market is
the one held on Saturdays and Sundays at Chatuchak from 7 in the morning
to 5 or 6 in the afternoon. Even if you have nothing on your shopping
list, it is still worth the trip to see what is offered. An amazing
array of items can be found, such as: military surplus, clothing, crafts,
jewelry, art work, live animals, antiques, old books, the list is endless!
And it is only a short trip by Sky Train from the city. If you have
time, take a day to visit the authentic floating market at Damnoen Saduak,
about 48 miles southwest of Bangkok in Ratchaburi Province.
Bangkok offers unrivaled shopping for Southeast Asian handicrafts, antiques,
silk, and jewels. It also provides a vibrant, exciting nightlife with
Thai classical dance, jazz, discos, caberets, pubs, and dinner cruises.
Indian, Khmer, Chinese, European, and Thai histories collide in the
design of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaeo, and Wat Po, as well as in
the superb collection of priceless items on display at the National
Museum. There are gardens and other outdoor attractions to explore that
will delight even the youngest members of the family. The zoo, Marine
Park and Safari World are just a few examples.
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