Many Bangkok hotels Thailand have their own state of the art spas. So consider it one of the best Bangkok hotel deals when you are able to find a great spa in your hotel.
10Mar/100
Asia Hotel Bangkok – An Ideal Place to Stay while Discovering Mystical Thailand
Planning on taking a grand vacation in Bangkok? The first thing to do is to book yourself and your companions in a hotel of excellent value, like Asia Hotel Bangkok. Not only is it strategically located near the business and commercial attractions of scenic Thailand, but it is also a few kilometers away from the international airport.
Tourists and business-oriented visitors alike gravitate towards Asia Hotel Bangkok because of its warm hospitality and highly appealing atmosphere that’s conducive for resting the body that’s weary from travel and exploration of the city’s many treasures. The hotel’s facilities and amenities are at par with the finest that Asia has to offer. These include fitness & massage centers, restaurants, internet access, no-smoking rooms, business facilities, pools for adults as well as kids, clinic & laundry facilities, and retail shops, among others.
The hotel is situated near Pratunam market, a favorite place of shoppers of apparel at rock bottom prices. You’ve got to be able to keep walking to find your way in the maze of stalls and tiny shops offering all kinds of outfits from beach attire and jackets, to sexy tops, children’s clothes, and the most outlandish togs, not to mention designer fakes. Most tourists also get to experience the night markets, shop for souvenirs & cheap goods, and get a glimpse of Bangkok’s “adult entertainment area.” On the other hand, a taste of alternative style is offered by Siam Square, regarded as the center of all things cool and stylish. Siam Square is where shoppers will delightfully find internationally renowned high-end brands and independent traders offering merchandise at amazing prices. With the construction of the Bangkok sky train, Siam Center has emerged as a prime shopping destination with a wide array of stores, eateries and entertainment complexes that easily lure visitors looking for great finds and a nice time.
When the entire shopping, sightseeing and gastronomic journey and other leisure/business agenda are done, hoe off for your much needed rest at the terrific place where you booked yourself -- Asia Hotel. Bangkok is one place you’ll surely have fond memories of, thanks in large part to friendly and accommodating people who have made your stay utterly pleasurable.
Have we mentioned that the hotel is connected to the Bangkok Sky Train Station and is quite accessible to Siam Centre, Siam Paragon, Maboonklong Centre and Central World Plaza? Next time you find yourself in exotic Bangkok -- which has been described in various ways – from crazy & busy to fun & exciting – you know where to go if you want tastefully decorated rooms that are at par with hotels of international standards. Moreover, choose hotels where you may enjoy not just superior amenities but also a wide range of sports and recreational options, and also offers four restaurants catering to exquisite gourmet tastes and multicultural cuisines. Be seduced by the serene and pleasant ambience conducive to relaxation, and enjoy the high standards of service and upscale amenities that have earned for the hotel a strong market hold and prominence among the plethora of hotels in Thailand.
Bruce Tan is the expert travel guy based in Singapore. He is founder of http://www.urgentroom.com, a leading hotel search tool which allows users to search and compare millions of room deals globally from a single website. If you need to search hotel and accommodation rates fast, go to www.urgentroom.com
9Mar/100
Bangkok Thailand Hotels – See the Capital and Stay in Comfort
Bangkok Thailand hotels host scores of travelers excited to see the capital city. Over the past two hundred years it has grown to be the social, political and economic center of Indochina and South East Asia. Bangkok is an especially influential city in the areas of politics, art, fashion, education and entertainment. It is also considered to be the business, financial, and cultural center of Asia bringing both national and international visitors to Bangkok hotels. Bangkok is the 22nd largest city in the world and its population is a diverse mix of Western, Indian and Chinese people.
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Bangkok hotels are not for a lack of business as it is considered one of the world's top tourist hotspots. It has consistently ranked in the favorite lists of vacation destinations in not only Asia, but also worldwide. As the primary gateway to Thailand, Bangkok is the first stop for most international tourists. The city is home to some of the most visited historic sites in all of the country including: the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.
One of the most popular attractions in Bangkok is the cityâs system of waterways. Historically referred to as the Venice of the East, the river still plays an important role in the daily life of locals and tourists. River taxis take commuters to work and school and barges transport goods. Visitors can enjoy seeing the sights from water taxis, dinner cruises, and a variety of waterway tours. Dinner tours are one of the most romantic ways to see the spectacular sights of Bangkok at night. You can also view some of the cityâs most famous sites from a river tour. These include the Bangkok's temples, the Chao Praya River and the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. There are also several Bangkok hotels conveniently located on the riverside. Another beloved water-based site is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This gives tourists a view into the old, traditional way locals sold and bought produce and other items. The small canals are filled with boats carrying their goods.
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Bangkok is home to some of Thailandâs most well known and important temples and monuments. Bangkok Thailand hotels are filled with tourists coming to see these sites. No visit to Bangkok is complete without visiting some of the legendary temples. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is the most revered temple in all of Thailand. This historic and beautiful temple was carved from one single block of jade. Adjacent to this temple is the largest temple in Thailand known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha for a statue within it. The Buddhaâs feet are three meters long and are intricately decorated in genuine mother of pearl.
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There are also several significant monuments in Bangkok. The Democracy Monument symbolizes Thailand's adoption of democracy and liberty. The Victory Monument celebrates the Thai victory over the French in Indochina. Some of the most famous statues include: King Rama I, King Rama V, and King Rama VI, all of whom played important roles in the history of Thailand.
No matter which sites you are coming to see in Thailand, there are Bangkok hotels to meet your needs. Visit us for more information on Bangkok Thailand hotels today!
16Nov/090
Cheap Hotels in Thailand Bangkok Discount Rates In Thailand,Hotel Bangkok
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4Nov/090
Bangkok Hotels Thailand – Find Bangkok Hotel Deals for Relaxing Spas
If you have been looking for a relaxing vacation, you should consider traveling to and staying at the Bangkok hotels Thailand. There are a number of luxurious spas in the wonderful city of Bangkok, so you will not have to worry about your trip causing any stress on you. One of the better things about staying here are the Bangkok hotel deals. At certain times of the year, it is easy to find these deals. Many times, the hotel itself offers the deals because they know you will enjoy their accommodations so much.
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Thailand is quickly becoming a huge vacation spot for tourists around the world, for a variety of reasons. One of the main reasons is because of the health spas across Bangkok. These spas alone make the Bangkok hotels Thailand book up quickly. If you are considering a trip to the Land of Smiles anytime soon, you will want to look into the different Bangkok hotel deals you can find. These spas are one of the best places to go if you are looking for a place to relax and leave feeling rejuvenated. You will be amazed at how refreshed you can feel after just one spa visit.
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There are so many people these days that go on vacation and need to spend all their time doing something. They just feel as if they are not enjoying themselves if they are not moving for a few minutes. That thought process is completely different in Thailand because this is a country that appreciates the need to rejuvenate oneself. If you are looking for a wonderful place to relax, then look no further than Bangkok hotels Thailand. If you stay at the right hotel, you will get amazing Bangkok hotel deals on the spas located within the hotels. They typically give guests a discount compared to what non-guests have to pay.
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Because many of the resorts offer these Bangkok hotel deals, it really makes sense to use them. Even if you are not huge on spas, it is well worth the effort for you at least to try them. You will be amazed at how relaxed they can make you feel. You really will feel like a new person when it is all over. One great thing about vacations is that you can try new things that are available to you. Relaxing spas is one of the main things you will find around you when you look into the different Bangkok hotels Thailand.
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When you are looking for the different spas to use, you will want to make sure you go for a convenient spa that offers a variety of package options. It can get quite confusing finding your way around the busy city of Thailand, so it is great when the Bangkok hotels Thailand have their own spas. Because there are so many people who visit for spas, you can be sure that they are state of the art spas. The best part is they are right in your hotel, so they provide great Bangkok hotel deals.
3Nov/090
A Vacation To Beautiful Bangkok
The capital city of Thailand - Bangkok is one of the world's biggest cities as well as the top among the Asia's hotspots. With its attractions that are a blend of traditional and modern, Bangkok has not only lured the people touring the destination but also has attracted many foreigners to stay here permanently.
From more than 400 ancient temples and incredible palaces to interesting museums and lively markets including Chatuchak Market and floating markets, attractions in Bangkok are truly endless. Discussed further in this article are some of the not-to-miss attractions in Bangkok.
Grand Palace: Built in 1782, the Grand Palace is a magnificent structure, much famed for its intricate architectural designs. The palace provides you a deep insight into the history of Thai royalty.
Temple of the Reclining Buddha: Located adjacent to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, otherwise known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is the largest as well as one of the oldest temples in the city. As the name indicates, the centerpiece of the temple is a splendid image of Lord Buddha in reclining posture. A school of traditional massage can also be found within the temple, where you can indulge in rejuvenating as well as refreshing Thai massage.
Wat Phra Kaeo: Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaeo is located within the precincts of the Grand Palace and is regarded as the most prominent Buddhist shrine in the region. A highly revered image of Lord Buddha that has been scrupulously carved out from a single block of jade is enshrined in the temple.
Wat Arun: Otherwise known as the Temple of Dawn, this temple features an 80 meters high magnificent Pagoda.
National Museum: Once used as a palace, the National Museum has on display the arts and artifacts ranging from the periods of Neolithic and Ayutthaya times to modern times.
National Gallery Museum: Exhibited here are traditional and contemporary works created by Thai artists.
Philatelic Museum: It is a must-see destination for stamp enthusiasts. One can also buy stamp from here.
Vimanmek Mansion Museum: It is credited to be the largest teak building in the world. With about 80 rooms and halls spread over its three stories, the museum displays a large number of royal memorabilia.
Ancient City: It holds the distinction of being the world's largest outdoor museum. Sprawling over an area of about 250 acres, the museum displays gigantic sized replicas of renowned temples, monuments, and buildings that are spread across the country.
Chao Phraya River: Set against the backdrop of historical landmarks comprising ancient shrines and stunning palaces, the river is one of the most significant attractions in the area.
Snake Farm: Snake Farm, officially the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, is one of the Asia's largest producers of anti-venom Serum in Asia.
Crocodile Farm: More than 50,000 fresh and seawater can be seen here. The farm also houses other animals such as elephants, lions, snakes, and gibbons.
Chinatown: A bustling area in the city, packed with an array of Chinese shops and restaurants. In fact, it is always crowded, particularly during the Chinese New Year.
Points of interests in and around Bangkok also include Wha Mahathat, Wat Ratchanatdaram, Wat Indravihan, Wat Bowon Niwet, Erawan Shine, and Jim Thompson House. Apart from these, people touring the place could engage in a number of activities such as spa and golf, with an array of golf courses of international standards, such as Kantarat Golf Course, Royal Bangkok Sports Club, and Royal Thai Army Sports Center. Also, while your stay at Bangkok, take a chance to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the city and experience the exhilaration of traditional Thai Muay boxing.
The fame of the city is further enhanced by some of the most upscale as well as luxurious hotels in the region. Many of the hotels in the region come with more than 100 guest rooms, all of which are elegantly appointed with such comforts as air conditioning, automatic wake up call, coffee and tea making facilities, hair dryer, mini bar, safety deposit box, TV with satellite connection, Wi-Fi High speed wireless Internet service, and more.
There are also some hotels providing one-bedroom suites attached with facilities like balcony and kitchenette. When comes to facilities, hotels are mostly complete with two or more restaurants, wine bar, swimming pools, state of the art fitness centers, spa facilities, and banquet facilities coupled with most sophisticated equipments. No matter you are couples, honeymooners, or leisurely or business travelers, Bangkok has superb options to suit every preference.
Pullman Bangkok King Power - The city's latest upscale hotel in bangkok. The hotel's 386 rooms and suites exude Asian contemporary style, Part of the King Power Duty Free Complex.
3Nov/090
Traveling in Fast Forward – Bangkok, Thailand in 24 Hours
After arriving in Bangkok at around 3am, I found that my room was unavailable due to it being flooded, not the best way to start my 24 hour adventure but not enough to slow me down. After a power cut and a couple of hours waiting I finally got my room, I didn’t really have enough time to sleep much after the delay, so I had to settle for just a couple of hours.
I got up at 8.30am and felt surprisingly refreshed, it’s not often you have to survive on only 2 hours sleep but at the same time it’s not often you get the opportunity to explore an environment and culture that’s completely new to you. I took a look out the window and just gazed at the concrete jungle that is Bangkok.
For the troubles of the night before, the hotel graciously gave me a free breakfast and a few other nice treats. I enjoyed a few fruits that I’d never had before; I’m quite the food lover so even simple things like that were interesting to me. It’s amazingly humid and very hot, 30 degrees at just 9am in the morning. Luckily for me and the other Hotel guests having breakfast, there are half a dozen huge fans cooling the area.
After finishing up my breakfast I head out into the unknown. I have no idea where I’m going or what I want to do which is part of the fun, it’s sometimes nice to have no plans or schedule, just the freedom to do whatever crosses your path.
It doesn’t take much time for me to meet some of the locals, there are street vendors everywhere and they can be very persistent, with an emphasis on very. It’s a little intimidating at first but after a good 5 hours of shopping I was a pro.
The Pantip Plaza was the first real building I stumbled into, it was full of cheap gadgets and huge amounts of DVD’s (all no doubt perfectly legal). I moved onto Siam Square next and watched a game of street football which was cool. The temperature was edging 35 degrees at this stage and this seemed even more surprising when I looked up and spotted a huge dark cloud forming right above me.
It didn’t take long for the rain to come and what a display it was. I’ve never encountered such a massive display of thunder and lightening in my life. Everyone scurried through the shop awnings and backstreets to take cover, it was impressive watching the speed at which the street vendors set up protection from the rain, this was obviously something they had learned to put up with. It felt like I was wading through millions of people as I made my way back to the hotel, it was cramped before the rain arrived but now it was just crazy.
After a nice dinner, I did some more looking around. I found some cool t-shirts and plenty of great presents for when I eventually got back home to New Zealand. While haggling over prices was new definitely new to me, I ended up enjoying it. It’s not something I could really be bothered with all the time but for that one day it was really fun.
My 24 hours in Bangkok was nearly over. I had to get some sleep before my early flight to London, especially after missing out the night before. It was a shame I had to leave so soon but I’m looking forward to coming back another time and exploring more of Bangkok, especially their many beautiful temples and other tourist attractions. 24 hours certainly wasn’t long but it was enough to give me a taste for Thailand and all the fun and excitement it offers.
Rene Smith is a travel guru who lives and works in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Visit his Christchurch travel guide for other articles, reviews and all the information you'll ever need to know on Christchurch, New Zealand.
2Nov/090
Hotels In Bangkok, Thailand
You have decided to visit Asia for your next vacation and have decided to go to Bangkok, Thailand. Your flight is booked but you are still looking for a hotel. But, how do you decide which hotel to stay at?
Your decision should be based on what you plan to do while you are "Krung Thep". Will you be spending most of your time sightseeing, shopping or enjoying the nightlife? You don't want to waste valuable time in a Bangkok taxi inching along Sukhumvit Road.
Siam Square area is a good place to stay if you want to have some fun shopping. There are hundreds of small shops at street level and the Siam Center and the Siam Discovery shopping centers have many up-market brand label shops. On the top floor of Siam Discovery Center there is a cinema complex with some of the most comfortable seats to be found in the world. After a hard days shopping, relax and lie down as you watch a movie!
Another great shopping mall nearby is Mahboonkrong (MBK). It will take only 10 minutes to walk there from Siam Square and you will find literally hundreds of smaller shops and stalls, selling many goods at bargain prices. Electronics and clothes are the specialties here. Both of these areas are on the Skytrain routes and are easily accessible.
If you plan on seeing other parts of the country, taking ½ and full day trips, I suggest you book your hotel near the Bangkok Airport. Make sure that you stay near the new Bangkok Airport - Suvarnabhumi and not at Don Muang. Only stay in this area if you do plan to go to Bangkok proper. Bangkok Airport hotels are conveniently located and easy to get to from Suvarnabhumi.
If soaking up the Bangkok nightlife is your reason for visiting, there are a few different areas you can stay. If Patpong Road is your destination, stay either on Silom or Suriwongse Road. The Nana Entertainment Plaza is on Sukhumvit and Soi 4 (or Soi Nana) and there are a variety of hotels - everything from the JW Marriott to the Majestic Suites or the Dynasty. In the Soi Cowboy area, you can stay anywhere near Soi Asoke, Soi 22 or anywhere along Sukhumvit Road and just catch the Skytrain.
Probably, your hardest decision will be selecting your hotel since there are so many 4 and 5 start hotels in Bangkok. For the budget traveler, there are also cheap hotels in Bangkok. Some hotels that I recommend are: Windsor Suite Hotel Bangkok, Viengtai Hotel Bangkok, Radisson Hotel Bangkok, or the Amari Airport Hotel Bangkok. Another solution is to do a search for Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit in any search engine. Or visit my Thailand Link Directory.
Do your research, and look for a discount Bangkok hotel, and enjoy your stay in the Land of Smiles.
Larry Westfall is the owner of My Thai Links
2Nov/090
A Simple and Easy Guide to Renting a Service Apartment in Bangkok, Thailand
What are the best areas of Bangkok to rent? What facilities and services can I expect from a Bangkok serviced apartment? What are the best and worst serviced apartments in Bangkok? Read on to learn the answers to these questions and much more in my simple and easy guide to renting a serviced apartment in Bangkok for expats and travelers.
Bangkok is the Center of Southeast Asia
As the commercial center of Thailand and the hub of business and leisure travel within Southeast Asia, Bangkok has exceptional hotels of all kinds catering to the business elite and casual traveler.
Recently, a new kind of accommodation has gained favor with business executives on short stays in Bangkok--the luxury serviced apartment. With increased commercial expansion over the past several years, serviced apartments are quickly becoming the favorite choice of living style for their affordable luxury.
What is a Serviced Apartment?
The serviced part of the equation usually refers to the daily or twice weekly cleaning of your room, the furniture, kitchen amenities and so on that normal apartments do not include. Some service apartments also function as hotels, and these are called Aparthotels.
What's So Special About Bangkok Serviced Apartments?
Real estate and relocation agents believe Bangkok has the most number of sophisticated apartments the world has to offer. There are not just one or two luxurious apartments, but close to 50. This is because skilled labor is cheap in thailand, and the city itself is a major business hub for the southeast asia region.
Renting a serviced apartment in bangkok can be a daunting task for several reasons--the primary one being there are so many 'fine print' and extra costs involved when signing a weekly, monthly or yearly contract.
I have been living in Bangkok for a few years now, and have gone through several serviced apartments, learning on the way which 'services' are included and what to expect from your stay in Bangkok.
Bangkok's City Plan
The Bangkok Jungle has several meanings, one of them being that the city was never built with a city plan or urban design in mind. The city is a sprawling landscape, a montage of residential and commercial buildings juxtaposing one another. It is home to 10 to 15 million people, depending on who is arriving from the rural country and abroad. The people as well, from poor to affluent, live side by side.
The city itself is lopsided; if you look down any major road in bangkok, you will see that both sides of the road arent balanced, building heights are different, and there is an overall lack of symmetry. This is what makes Bangkok unique and charming. And what makes it a jungle.
The Best Areas To Live In Bangkok
Bangkok contains inexpensive to exclusive apartments, but the best ones are found in the following regions of Bangkok:
Sukhumvit, the main road or artery of Bangkok
Asok, one of the most exclusive and expensive areas to live
Thong Lo, the chic and fashionable street,
Sathorn, the business district of Bangkok
Silom, another business and red light district
Ploenchit, business district
Chit Lom, business district
The areas listed above are all within easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, trains, skytrains, and expressways. If you choose to live in one of these areas, you will experience life in the center of Bangkok's thriving business and shopping centres while indulging in an ultra private serviced apartment in Bangkok. I personally recommend Asok and Chit Lom, as they are the classiest areas of Bangkok, but if you are looking to be close to the night markets Silom is perfect, and Sukhumvit is always a colorful experience.
Facilities and Services of Typical Bangkok Serviced Apartments
These vary between the different types of apartments and condos, but a standard of excellence has been establlished from the increasing competition among serviced apartments. Facilities and services are upgraded regularly to keep up with rival residences. However, before investing in a serviced apartment, be sure to check if these services and facilities are available.
5 Services That Should Be Included Free of Charge:
Room Cleaning
Water/Utilities
Internet Usage
24 Hour Security
Room Service/Errand Boy
4 Facilities That Should Be Included
Restaurant
Gym
Pool
Convenience Store
The Loopholes: Length of Stay, Deposits and Electricity
If you are staying for a month or year, the serviced apartment may charge you for electricity. Make sure that you negotiate this price to 6.5 Baht/Unit. A lot of times the apartment owners will charge 8 Baht/Unit for more profit. They only pay 3 or 4 Baht/Unit.
Be careful when signing leases; most require a 2 month deposit, and if you move out before your contract is finished you forfeit this deposit.
Make sure the serviced apartment has a laundry service, either in house or out of house. Most serviced apartments have coin operated laundry rooms as well as pick up services. More deluxe suites will have washing machine in the room. Note that most places do not have dryers.
How much Should I Pay?
This is a difficult question to answer, but the more facilities a serviced apartment has, the more it will cost. If a serviced apartment has a pool, gym and also functions as a 24 hour hotel, then the monthly price will be above 30,000 Baht.
Location also has a large part to do with cost of a bangkok serviced apartment. If you are staying in an area not close to skytrain or subway access, your price will be much lower. Conversely, staying in the business districts of Silom or trendy spots like Ekkamai or Thonglor will raise your monthly rent.
Which Serviced Apartment Should I Choose?
The serviced apartment market in Bangkok is lead by three groups, The President Group, The Ascott Group, and Centre Point. Most of them offer first class accomodation and have a decent system of serving their customers. However, there are numerous independent serviced apartments to choose from.
The 2 Worst Serviced Apartments in Bangkok
Ascott Bangkok Sathorn
There have been several articles written in trade journals about the decline in service at the once famous and most prestigious serviced apartment in Bangkok. Once known for attention to customer relations, their lack of it is now glaringly obvious to everyone who stays there. This place is an example of a chain serviced apartment becoming too much like a corporation with no human touch of service.
Lebua
Rumor is their staff is very untrustworthy. Read the trade journals and 'google' the residence for reviews.
Top 2 Most Luxurious Bangkok Serviced Apartments
Siri Sathorn Apartments
Siri Sathorn is a five-star luxury `boutique` property which epitomises private and elegant living in a residential setting. It is a concept of the perfect home which appeals to international traveller. This place caters to Japanese clientelle but of course is open to everyone.
Fraser Place Urbana Langusan
They have an exclusive 45-metre driveway leading from the main road to the serviced residence for great privacy. They also have some of the best services and customer relations I have ever experienced, pampered is the only word that comes to mind
Best Value Bangkok Serviced Apartments
Silom Convent Garden
Newly built in November 2006, this chic serviced apartment is located in the Silom-Sathorn area but has some of the cheapest rates for this business and night market district. For 36,000 Baht/$1000 a month you can have a 38 square meter, 1 bedroom, fully furnished luxurious apartment complete with full kitchen, washer machine, flat screen tv, and rain shower. The only drawback is the place doesn't have a pool or gym, but thats the reason the price is so low and why its one of the best values in Bangkok.
If you are still undecided whether to have a stay in Bangkok on your next trip, it was just recently announced that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to make Bangkok a "paradise" city. The article from the Bangkok Post states the BMA will establish a fund to address trash, pollution and traffic problems. Now is the time to take your next vacation or business trip to Bangkok, as life couldn't get any better in the City of Angels!
This article is brought to you by Silom Convent Garden, the exclusive 44 room serviced apartments that offers tastefully decorated Studio, one, and two bedroom apartments for lease in a charming, peaceful, and private living environment boasting all the latest facilities and appliances.. Book Today and Save 10% at one of the best Serviced Apartment in Bangkok.
28Oct/090
Bangkok – Capital of Thailand and Where East Meets West
If New York is the city that never sleeps then Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital city, comes a very close second place. The city was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty. Today it's the country's spiritual, commercial and educational hub, home to approximately ten million people or more than 10% of the Thai population.
Bangkok (or Krung Thep in Thai which means "city of angels") is an exciting, high contrast melting pot of east meets west. It is a dynamic city that has embraced technology and modern living with its busy expressways, bold skyscrapers and designer brand filled shopping centres. Yet underneath it all, it remains a traditional haven of culture, history and time-honored customs, where elders are respected and family always comes first.
As you travel from the airport you'll see plenty of examples of modern architecture dotting the cityscape and amongst them all, standing proud, are glittering Buddhist temples such as Wat Phra Kaew and The Grand Palace. Snaking through the concrete jungle, you'll spy remnants of the "old Bangkok" below you - ancient canals and waterways that are well worth exploring on a boat trip.
Every Thai household and building, even the most modern, has a traditional spirit house built outside for good fortune and to honor the spirit of the land. Each day, small offerings of fruit and water are laid out, often with arrangements of flowers. If you're an early riser, keen to make the most of your vacation time in Bangkok, don't be surprised when you see Buddhist monks in saffron robes making their morning "alms" rounds accepting food and donations from local people, young and old.
Thailand has a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of around 75 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack light clothing for your trip. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are often more comfortable when you're walking and touring in hot weather. Practically everywhere you go in Bangkok you'll find you some relief from the heat, with blasts of icy cold air conditioning in retail outlets and hotels.
From March to May it's the hottest time, with the highest temperatures and humidity. From June to October is monsoon season, so remember to take an umbrella. November to February is cooler and less humid. Remember that the monsoon season varies throughout the country and can affect the weather you experience.
You'll find all types of accommodation in Bangkok - from lavish 5 star international names to smaller backpacker hostels, favored by young tourists. Book online and see what special rates you can find to suit your mood and that all-important budget. You'll discover everything from peaceful luxury escapes with spas to exciting hotels right in the heart of the action.
One of the first words you'll learn in Bangkok is "Rot tip" or "rot tit" which literally means "cars that stick", in other words traffic jam. But the everyday snarls and gridlock have been vastly improved by Bangkok's cosmopolitan transport system.
You can now ride the subway, the Hua Lamphong - Bang Sue line has 18 stations along the 12 mile route. It's fast, quiet and modern.
Jump on a BTS Sky Train. BTS sky trains ply along Sukhumvit, Silom and Phahonyothin roads. The routes connect Bangkok's leading hotels and major shopping areas such as Siam Square, Silom, Ratchaprasong and Chatuchak Weekend Market.
Of course, you can't go to Bangkok without a ride in a tuk-tuk. These zippy three-wheeled open-air motorized taxis are popular for short journeys. Fares must be bargained in advance, it's part of the fun.
The Grand Palace: the number one attraction. Every visitor to Bangkok should see the magnificent buildings within the Grand Palace compound to get a feeling of this grand architectural style. Since the founding of Bangkok as the Nations capital by King Rama I, The Grand Palace has been the major architectural symbol of The Thai Royal Family. The Royal Family actually resides at Chitralada Palace while The Grand Palace is used for ceremonial purposes.
Wat Pho: possibly the most interesting temple in Thailand. It combines history, medical science and is a center for meditation and traditional massage training. Have a massage while you're here, at a very fair price.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: with over 9,000 shops and stalls you'll be tempted over and over. Close to everything that is for sale in Bangkok is here, including antiques, Buddha amulets, handicrafts, clothes, flowers and furniture. (You'll notice that some maps spell it "Jatuchak". Many English words have multiple spellings, so if you're in doubt, ask the hotel concierge to write it in Thai for the taxi driver.)
Vimanmek Mansion Museum: the world's largest golden teak building located in the compound of the Dusit Palace on Ratchawithi Road. The three-storey royal mansion has 81 rooms, halls and ante-chambers containing unique memorabilia.
Jim Thompson's House: this exquisite Thai house and buildings stand as a museum to the man who revived the Thai silk industry after the Second World War. The company he founded, Jim Thompson Thai Silk, is recognized worldwide for its brilliant fabrics, home accessories and fashion items. The gardens are equally impressive with a lush tropical jungle imitating nature's haphazard beauty right in the center of the city.
Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two streets. You'll find dozens of malls, markets and luxury retail outlets throughout the city. The most popular are located around the Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong area, Sukhumvit Rd and Silom-Surawong-Patpong, including the fantastic Patpong night market where you can pick up your souvenirs, fashion and Thai handicrafts. Don't be shy to bargain in the market (nicely) as your dollar can go a long way.
Bangkok's main river, the Chao Phraya is the place to be. Imagine a royal armada stretching as far as your eyes can see. A flotilla of superbly carved royal barges slowly sail into view, manned by the Royal Thai Navy dressed in ancient ceremonial uniforms. Each sailor rowing in perfect unison, perfected through months of intense practice.
Thailand has a well deserved reputation as the "The Land of Smiles". You'll receive a warm welcome and feel the genuine friendliness of the locals. One thing's for sure, the memories of a vacation here will stay with you for a lifetime.
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Bangkok (Thailand) vacation May 2005
Image taken on 2005-05-01 05:57:50 by Marc van der Chijs.