BANGKOK
Bangkok, the
capital of Thailand since 1782, is a relatively new capital city; however,
it is bursting with mixture of old; stunning temples and shrines, the Grand
Palace, reclining Buddha’s and new; skyscrapers, the Skytrain rail line,
luxury accommodations. The energy in the city is tangible, with bustling
street markets, high-end shopping, the notorious shows, late night clubbing
and early morning almsgiving. The city never sleeps.
Yet despite the frenetic atmosphere, you don’t have to look far for the
meditative
and tranquil feeling that many associate with the Buddhist City.
Let yourself go
limber during a massage at Wat Pho, float your tension away
on a boat cruise
along Chao Phraya River or delight in the local food at one of the many
street stalls.
HOW TO GET AROUND;
You can hire a
local tour guide for any particular site you wish to visit. They are easy to
find outside each site.
Rent a minibus or a taxi; ask for the price. Normal is from 2.000 THB per
day.
The Skytrain is easy. The stations are well manned with lots of security, shops and friendly staff who speak English. The trains are on time, very fast, clean, air conditioned, cheap and easy to navigate.
If you just want to walk around, remember a map so you find out where you are, if you ask you will always get a smile and an answer, but not be so sure that it is the right one. For sure it is a nice experience to feel the city with sounds and smells on your own.
Tuk Tuk, the
small motorbike like touring vehicles are very cheap and always faster than
Taxi or Bus to snake through the traffic,
but the smog can be a killer. When
you take a Tuk Tuk always agree on a price before you start the journey and
a small tip goes
a long way.
As most big cities Bangkok also have their Subway; I guess one of the
cleanest in the world and a joy to ride; just as good as the Skytrain. It is
all depending if you want to go over the streets or under them.
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