Bangkok

Bangkok: The Big Mango of Asia

Bangkok or known by its Thai name as “Krung Thep Maha Nakhon”, is the capital city of Thailand. Voted numerous times as the No. 1 vacationers destination annually, it has made its mark as the “go to” place for an economical and exotic destination.

Bangkok has a sprawling area of over 1,568.7 square kilometers and divided into two areas which are old and new Bangkok. The huge population of the city is more than 8 million citizens comprising mostly of those coming from other provinces such as from the north and south of Thailand. This makes for an interesting mix of cultures and foods from these regions.

This metropolis offers a plethora of activities for the visitors. New Bangkok is where the modern buildings mostly are such as the new Siam Mahanakhon Tower which offers a sprawling view of the city atop its glass tower and flooring for those not afraid of heights. New Bangkok is also the place where most shopping complexes, central business district and financial district are located as well as the famous Silom and Sukhumvit Streets are located where it is mostly populated by the expatriate community. Lively pubs and discothèques and some really upmarket cafes and restaurants are located in these areas.

Old Bangkok is located in the Thonburi district which includes the area of the famed Royal Palace and some really beautiful and historical temples. However, the jewel of Old Bangkok is its  quirky canal routes and the famed Chao Phraya River which is also known as the River of Kings. The Chao Phraya River divides New Bangkok from Old Bangkok, which is all connected by numerous magnificent bridges that crisscross between these two districts.

For those adventurous enough to discover not just the known and popular touristy locations, there are numerous other jewels of community, culture and exotic foods to discover in lesser known places. These places offer the daring at heart to discover little “homestyle” cultural activites such as indulging in local crafts, making traditional items or even joining in a family cooking experience.

Exploring the canal ways also enables one to discover the little island of Koh Kred that sits as a divider of the famed Chao Phraya River which is also the island of the Mon community. One can also discover places like Bangkachoa by river or canal boat rides ride up to the Samut Phrakan area or those interested enough to discover the river mouth community of Bang Phu where one can see the fishing boats come in and enjoy the sea breeze with its wildlife of rare birds in the estuaries.

There is much to discover in Bangkok for the golfers who are interested to play a challenging game or even to hit a few strokes while in the city. There are more than 20 golf courses ranging from the most challenging pro golf courses to the average and even golfing schools for those who want to learn or improve their golfing skills. Pro golfers can check out the likes of the Summit Windmill Golf Club or the Royal Golf and Country Club which has competition golf courses for those up for a challenging game.

Most of these golfing clubs also have beautiful hotels for those not wanting to go too far out of the area and are more focused on playing golf. Their non-golfing partners on occupy their time with plenty of activities within the city during the day.

Whatever the fancy or purpose, Bangkok is a great city to explore and indulge in. One can immerse oneself in the vibrant colors, sights and sounds of the city to discover the true Bangkok. There is always something for every person that visits this wonderful city, that makes it a repeat visit for most who have already visited before.