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Bangkok - A Beginners Guide

By: Jonathan Cainer


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As well as being the biggest of the Thai cities, it is its capital city too. Home to a dizzying array of cultures, and more than 7 million people, it has a modern and truly international feel.

The level of modernisation that has taken place in Bangkok may surprise many. It is a sprawling metropolis, crammed with as many Mcdonalds and Starbucks as you would find in any other major city around the world. But it is a truly unique place all the same.

Most major cities that you visit have an obvious central point where all the hub-bub takes place, but not Bangkok. The whole city is one big city centre and is packed full of activity and things to do. Bangkok is situated in the south west of the country, with the Gulf of Thailand on its outskirts and the Chao Phyra River running through it.

Located to the west of the country, Phuket is the largest and most popular island in Thailand. The island was hit hard by the 2004 Tsunami, but recovery has surged through tourism in the time since. With miles and miles of idyllic beaches and a collection of hotel resorts that wouldn’t look out of place in a list of the world’s best, tourists pour here by the bucket load. Some of the top resorts lie in the northern town of Ao Bang, where serious pampering comes at a serious price. This is home to a 7km long white beach and the Laguna Phuket golf club. Further south is Patong, a popular resort that lights up with neon during the night while providing home to the island’s most popular beach - Hat Patong.

One of the things visitors love best about the city is its shopping experience. The sheer scale of Bangkok means that the number of places to spend your money in is bewildering. You can literally shop til you drop.

Those in search of something to do besides spend their money will find some great free days out in Bangkok too. A visit to the beautiful, and central, Lumpini Park is always a relaxing experience. And at 6pm, listen out for the Thai national anthem which is played out across the park as a mark of respect for king.

While on a visit to Bangkok, trying some of the local cuisine is a must. The food here is so fresh, and you will find an endless selection of unique and sumptious rice, noodle and seafood dishes. Eating on the street at one of the thousands of street vendors is a traditional Bangkok pastime. And for a refreshing drink, try some of the local sweetened milk Thai tea, called Chai Yen.

Chang Mai and the surrounding province of the same name are located to the north of the country. The city is one rich with history and culture, having being founded in 1296 while boasting more than 300 Buddhist temples and being surrounded by picturesque mountains. The most famous temple in the city is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, built in 1383 and offering superb views over the surrounding area.

Chang Mai is also host of many Thai festivals. One of particular interest is Loi Kratong, which usually falls in November in the western calendar. Every year thousands of people float banana leaf containers onto the waterways of the city, while also launching sky lanterns into the air in a spectacular display.

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