Monday, December 6, 2010

Focusing Bangkok

Bangkok is Thailand's capital city and there is actually an interest history behind it!

Basically, Bangkok became Thailand's capital when Rama I moved the city across the Chao Phraya river from Thon Buri in 1782 to ensure fortification against the Burmese, who had sacked the capital of Ayutthaya.

Bangkok is a vibrant city though it may be a lesson in the dangers of uncontrolled urban expansion. It has a lively nightlife, markets, shops and restaurants. Not forgetting the magnificent wats museums, palace and parks.

Some must-see places in Bangkok



The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo complex is Bangkok/s premier tourist attraction. The Grand Palace serves as the official residence for the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards and Wat Phra Kaeo is the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

The temple and palace grounds are filled with a bewildering number of other buildings and sacred structures that provides and architectural lexicon of the country and the single most comprehensive introduction to the physical and cultural charms of Thailand.



The next attraction is Dusit Park

Is leafy walkways, fascinating museums, Vimanmek Palace, and neighboring zoo is more than enough to provide a full day's time of sightseeing. It is the main attraction in the Dusit area. One who really loves nature and heritage would really enjoy this wonderful park.

The Floating Market

Immerse in the local culture and way of life as it once was before the arrival of global consumerism. Welcome to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market!



The small wooden boats are paddled mainly by female traders, some of whom are dressed in traditional blue farmers' shirt called mo bom. The floating market consist of three markets in total. Tom Khem, Hia Kui and Khun Phitak.

Tom Khem is the largest market followed by Hia Kui which acts as a warehouse that sells souvenir to tourist. The smallest and least crowded market is Khun Phitak.

The best way of getting around the three markets is by boats. To see the floating market in its full swing during operation, be sure to visit it between 7am - 9am!

The Death Railway

Lastly, for those who are keen in Dark Tourism, then the Death Railway is a MUST to see. Kanchanaburi is situated to the west of Bangkok. The Death Railway was constructed in 1942 by Allied POWs under strict supervision by the Japanese as the Japanese need the railway to transport supplies urgently.

The present Death Railway



Building of the Death Railway by Allied POWs



About 7000 Allied soldiers died during the construction of the Death Railway and are buried in Kanchanaburi

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