The 5 Must-See Attractions in Bangkok
Saturday, August 20, 2011
By Devin Brindinshire
It is probably to be expected that most first-time visitors will begin their holidays to Thailand in Bangkok. With that being the case, I felt it imperative to offer a brief guide on what I consider to be the city's best attractions for new visitors, or those who are pressed for time in the capital city. Obviously, this will not be the same list you may find in more comprehensive guides, yet I feel that it does represent a nice blend of the many different flavors that make Bangkok such a fascinating tourist destination.
No. 5 - Khao San Road - The Sights, Sounds, and Smells of Bangkok
Without question it is over-commercialized and has lost some of its past appeal, but Khao San Road is still as good a place as any in all of Bangkok for those on their first visit to Thailand to take in their first sights, smells, and sounds of the "City of Angels". Looking past the cheap gold watches, pirated DVDs of Western movies, and low-quality tee-shirts, Khao San Road continues to be an outstanding place to have a few drinks, do some people watching, and soak in the Bangkok evenings.
No. 4 - Wat Arun and Wat Pho - Two of Thailand's Best-Known Shrines
Two of Thailand's best-known Buddhist temples and most-famous examples of Siamese architecture, Wat Arun and Wat Pho are unforgettable fixtures of the Bangkok skyline. They're extremely easy to visit in the same day, since they are just across the Chao Phraya River from each other, and fit nicely into any tour of the historic Old City. Given their proximity to the river, and the incredible views offered by boat tours, I given the highest recommendation to including these as part of a river cruise tour during your stay.
No. 3 - The Floating Markets
The image of Thai merchants in boats hawking their goods alongside other boaters is iconic in Thailand. This is how commerce has been conducted in the Kingdom for centuries, and you can see it for yourself at any one of several floating markets in the Bangkok area. While it is true that these markets have become a bit touristy, they're still good fun for the first-time visitor. Just be aware that you'll have to get up before sunrise to catch them as they start early and typically wrap up in time for lunch.
No. 2 - The Chao Phraya - One of Asia's Most-Renowned Rivers
One of Asia's greatest waterways, the Chao Phraya River holds great historical, and cultural significance in Thailand. The fact that it cuts through the center of Bangkok's Old City also makes it an ideal route for those who wish to see the city's main tourist attractions without dealing with the traffic that clogs the roadways.
You'll find boat tour operators all along the waterfront, or would have no problem scheduling tours from your hotels if you'd prefer to approach it that way. A particular favorite cruise of mine starts up in the old capital city of Ayutthaya (you'll have to bus your way up there first, though), and then brings you all the way downstream to Bangkok. It's a great way to see the city, and even includes a Thai buffet.
No. 1 - The Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Undoubtedly one of Bangkok's most-visited attractions, the Grand Palace is a must-see for anyone on holiday in Thailand. This gorgeous, 17th-century compound has been the residence of both Siamese and Thai kings for centuries, and continues to hold a great mystique for subjects of the Kingdom. The highly-popular outer area of the Palace is particularly beautiful, as it houses mausoleums for every king of the current dynasty, and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Out of respect to the monarchy, it is required that you wear long pants and shirts that cover your shoulders and midriff while visiting the Palace. Not to worry if you arrive dressed inappropriately, however, as there is a fitting room on-site that will loan you appropriate attire for your visit.
No. 5 - Khao San Road - The Sights, Sounds, and Smells of Bangkok
Without question it is over-commercialized and has lost some of its past appeal, but Khao San Road is still as good a place as any in all of Bangkok for those on their first visit to Thailand to take in their first sights, smells, and sounds of the "City of Angels". Looking past the cheap gold watches, pirated DVDs of Western movies, and low-quality tee-shirts, Khao San Road continues to be an outstanding place to have a few drinks, do some people watching, and soak in the Bangkok evenings.
No. 4 - Wat Arun and Wat Pho - Two of Thailand's Best-Known Shrines
Two of Thailand's best-known Buddhist temples and most-famous examples of Siamese architecture, Wat Arun and Wat Pho are unforgettable fixtures of the Bangkok skyline. They're extremely easy to visit in the same day, since they are just across the Chao Phraya River from each other, and fit nicely into any tour of the historic Old City. Given their proximity to the river, and the incredible views offered by boat tours, I given the highest recommendation to including these as part of a river cruise tour during your stay.
No. 3 - The Floating Markets
The image of Thai merchants in boats hawking their goods alongside other boaters is iconic in Thailand. This is how commerce has been conducted in the Kingdom for centuries, and you can see it for yourself at any one of several floating markets in the Bangkok area. While it is true that these markets have become a bit touristy, they're still good fun for the first-time visitor. Just be aware that you'll have to get up before sunrise to catch them as they start early and typically wrap up in time for lunch.
No. 2 - The Chao Phraya - One of Asia's Most-Renowned Rivers
One of Asia's greatest waterways, the Chao Phraya River holds great historical, and cultural significance in Thailand. The fact that it cuts through the center of Bangkok's Old City also makes it an ideal route for those who wish to see the city's main tourist attractions without dealing with the traffic that clogs the roadways.
You'll find boat tour operators all along the waterfront, or would have no problem scheduling tours from your hotels if you'd prefer to approach it that way. A particular favorite cruise of mine starts up in the old capital city of Ayutthaya (you'll have to bus your way up there first, though), and then brings you all the way downstream to Bangkok. It's a great way to see the city, and even includes a Thai buffet.
No. 1 - The Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Undoubtedly one of Bangkok's most-visited attractions, the Grand Palace is a must-see for anyone on holiday in Thailand. This gorgeous, 17th-century compound has been the residence of both Siamese and Thai kings for centuries, and continues to hold a great mystique for subjects of the Kingdom. The highly-popular outer area of the Palace is particularly beautiful, as it houses mausoleums for every king of the current dynasty, and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Out of respect to the monarchy, it is required that you wear long pants and shirts that cover your shoulders and midriff while visiting the Palace. Not to worry if you arrive dressed inappropriately, however, as there is a fitting room on-site that will loan you appropriate attire for your visit.
About the Author:
Looking for more ideas on your upcoming Holidays to Thailand?, then visit www.holidays-to-thailand.com and find advice on destinations, finding cheap travel, and everything else you'll need for your Thailand Holiday.
Posted byBertie at 3:13 AM
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