Bangkok OverviewChaotic, carnal and congested, Thailand's capital is divided by
the Chao Phraya River and is nestled in one of the world's most
fertile rice-producing deltas. Bangkok's 579 square miles (1,500 sq
km) are criss-crossed by a series of canals carrying passengers and
cargo, its roads clotted with endless traffic jams, while the city
sprawls in all directions with a hodgepodge of urban, commercial
and industrial buildings. A new overland metropolitan railway
speeds above the city, providing visitors with a relaxed and
efficient way to observe the hustle and bustle below. Despite its pollution and overcrowding, Bangkok is undoubtedly
one of Asia's most exciting cities, and one of the world's largest,
promising to reveal to each traveller the wild and untamed
mysteries of the east. Khao San Road is one of the city's most
vibrant streets, and is probably one of the best examples in the
world of a backpacker's 'ghetto'. Day and night the short stretch
of road is abuzz with activity. On the banks of the Chao Phraya
visitors will find the Grand Palace as well as Wat Phra Kaew, the
palace temple housing the Emerald Buddha, constructed entirely from
translucent green jade. Slightly upriver are the exquisitely
ornamented Royal Barges, still used today for special floating
processions. Of the 30 or so temples in Bangkok, the largest is the Temple of
the Reclining Buddha, which houses an impressive statue of the
deity. The famous Floating Market is a delight to visitors and well
worth a visit. As the sun lurches towards the horizon in the west
and the sweat cools, this city of royalty and religion comes alive
with a palpable decadence. Music and dazzling neon advertise a
miasma of trendy bars and nightclubs, as well as the notorious
'girlie joints' that have ensured the Patpong district its
reputation for hedonism. Though the city's frenetic pace and infamous congestion can be
overwhelming, a holiday in Bangkok is a must for anyone travelling
in Thailand. |