Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Bangkok City Guide

The City of Bangkok is truly one of the most dynamic centres around the world; the noise, pace and heat gives the tourist an intoxicating fast-paced experience which is easy to get caught up in. There is a mix of Western and Eastern culture within the area, where temples and serenity meets bustling shopping centres. This is an experience for those hungry for a cultural challenge and an adventure into another world.

Sightseeing

One of the most popular tourist spots in the Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The stunning views consists of hundred of exotically coloured building, glittered mosaics and golden spires. Upon entering the compound, the main attraction is the sacred temple which has to be treated with respect due to its great importance within Thailand. It also hosts the tiny Emerald Buddha which is placed above the worshippers’ heads.

Another great temple is the Wat Pho which famously houses the gigantic statue of the Reclining Buddha. The figure has its eyes and feet engraved with mother of pearl in reference to the Buddha passing into Nirvana. As well as holding the Thailand’s largest Buddha, it also has the largest number of Buddha images in Thailand, with over 1000 in total. As well as holding this great aesthetic awe, the temple also is one of the oldest in Bangkok providing you with an historical insight into the city.

Travelling Around

One of the problems with Bangkok is attempting to travel around as the heat means it can be impossible to walk.  With taxis, you must be very clear on the destination you give to the driver so you don’t find yourself somewhere completely different.  Moreover the taxi meters are not reliable; find out the journey’s price before entering the vehicle. Despite these cautions, Bangkok has a range of options for travelling around. Some of the transports such as tuk-tuks, canal boats, river boats and the sky train differ from UK transportation and make a journey a sightseeing adventure too. Once you get used to the transport, find which one you are comfortable with and stick with it.

Cuisine

The food on offer within Bangkok ignites different sense and tastes due to its aromatic flavour. An important aspect of Thai food is that each dish must have harmony, which the combination of flavours such as hot and spicy, or sweet and sour. The foods tend to get its richness of flavour due to the fresh ingredients used and the high fibre vegetables. Most food is also cooked for a short period of time so that the flavour can remain punchy and bold. The dishes that make up Thai cuisine contains influences from both Western and Eastern food which creates a unique combination. With the Buddhist influence being the shredded meat, Thai cooking methods of stewing, baking or grilling and Chinese Merchants penchant for stir and deep frying

There is so much on offer within Bangkok as it is jam packed with activities, sights and attractions. A world a way from the UK, visiting this city is a true adventure allowing you to truly immerse yourself into a different culture.

Recent Bangkok City Guide articles

Bangkok Thailand On A Cheap Budget

Bangkok Thailand On A Cheap Budget

Visiting Bangkok is not always as cheap as people talk about, however there are still things you can save your money on to make Bangkok a cheap and interesting travel destination, read our guest post to find out more.

July 6, 2010  Leave a Comment