Information to stay in Thailand
Book flights to Bangkok for your next getaway and you’ll find yourself in the heart of a thriving location steeped in history yet completely modern in aspects.The capital of Thailand, Bangkok underwent a boom during the 1980s and 90s and is now a bustling business hub with many contemporary elements while still retaining its charming antique buildings.Browse the many cheap flights to Bangkok and you’re sure to find a bargain to help you create the perfect holiday. Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, you might want to set about exploring.Known formerly as the Venice of the East, Bangkok once had many canals – or khlongs – running throughout the city. Now, most of the waterways have been filled, but some still exist, along with a few floating markets. Sights such as these can help you gain a better insight into the city and how it once traded.There are all kinds of attractions to take in once you’ve completed your cheap flights here, but if you’re looking to relax after the long journey a great way to do so is with a river cruise.You might enjoy a trip through downtown Bangkok along the Khlong Saen Saeb, making use of the canal boat service here, while there are also numerous cross-river ferries.If you decide to take a cruise during the daytime, it could be a great way of getting to know your surroundings and figuring out where you’d like to see in more detail. By night, however, you find a trip through the area to be a romantic excursion as you watch the bright lights of the city go by.One of the most popular waterways for dinner cruises is the Chao Phraya River, which travels all the way through Bangkok and eventually empties out in the Gulf of Thailand. If you choose to take a ride on a boat here, you can expect to pass landmarks along the way, such as riverside temples.Enjoy a welcome glass of wine when you climb aboard and take in the live music and professional singers as you choose some delicacies from the buffet-style dinner. You’ll find plenty of Thai food if you fancy sampling some local fare, as well as international dishes to provide a broad range.If you’re a sushi fan, head to the sushi bar for some freshly prepared fish and keep your ears open for the announcements as you traverse the river – messages are delivered in English so you won’t find any language barriers here.Once you’re back on dry land, turn in for the night and prepare for a busy day of exploring.There are numerous must-sees on a trip to Bangkok – especially if you want to learn more about the history of the city. Number one on your itinerary could well be the Grand Palace – the official residence of Thailand’s kings and queens from the 18th century. This complex of beautiful buildings is highly ornate and traditional in style.Inside, you’ll find another star attraction – the Temple of the Emerald Buddha – Wat Phra Kaew. If you’d like to view the 14th century Buddha statue for yourself you’ll need to dress modestly, as this is one of the city’s most sacred sites and has a strict dress code.There are plenty of other tourist draws in this area of the city, too. You could visit the Wat Pho temple to see the reclining Buddha and find out more about traditional Thai massage, which is thought to have originated at the temple. Alternatively, take a look at the Giant Swing – a religious structure built in 1784 and used during ceremonies.A more recent landmark is the Democracy Monument, made in the 1930s to commemorate the nation of Siam changing from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy during the 1932 Siamese coup d’etat.There’s also the public square of Sanam Luang to visit in these parts, an open field formerly known as Thung Phra Mane (the royal cremation ground). On this site, many kings and queens were cremated over the years.If you’ve had your fill of history, you might like to head to the more modern parts of Bangkok, such as Ratchaprasong – a great place to go shopping. Here you’ll find Central World Plaza and Siam Square, as well as the popular tourist haunt of Sukhumvit. Bargain hunters should visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market to pick up some cheap souvenirs to remind you of your Asian adventure when you’ve completed your flights home.
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