Wednesday, February 25, 2009

The Unique Charm of Bangkok

By Chris Linch

Because Thailand was never colonized, it has managed to keep its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpses of Thailand's gentle culture within the larger context of a bustling city. This great metropolis has had amazing success in combining the ancient and modern world. It offers visitors not only the cosmopolitan amenities they would expect from other big cities, but a treasure trove of cultural attractions as well.Bangkok is home to approximately 10 million people, and serves as the country's economic, spiritual, cultural and educational center.

For tourists, Bangkok is a banquet of attractions. The city houses 400 glittering Buddhist temples, magnificent palaces, classical dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centers and examples of traditional ways of life. This is especially evident along the "Venice of the East"timeless canals and the Chao Phraya River that winds through the city. It is worth taking a trip along its waters before exploring further into old Bangkok. The best time to make a canal boat trip is around six o'clock in the morning in order to capture the authentic atmosphere and the varied activity which begins early in the day: Monks receiving alms, children hurrying to school, and boats delivering vegetables from farms to markets.

If possible, time your visit to take advantage of one of the colorful festivals that Bangkok celebrates:

1)Bangkok Songkran: The Thai New Year is celebrated with parades, music troupes and boat racing.

2)Chinese New Year Festival celebrates the best in Chinese culture. Enjoy Chinese Lion and Dragon dances, special recipes, traditional costumes, and music.

3)Loi Krathong; One of the most beautiful festivals, this is the "festival of the lights". At night, celebrants gather waterside to float lotus-shaped boats decorated with flowers and lit candles, as a thanksgiving and worship of the Goddess of Water.

Other things to do and see in Bangkok include: a trip to the Royal Grand Palace, or the floating market on the River Kwai. See the reclining Buddha at Wat Yai Chai. Take a Thai cooking class. Enjoy traditional Thai dancing, or a kickboxing demonstration. Relax and indulge your senses at one of the famous Thai spas. Shop at open air markets, or an upscale Mall.

With so many delights waiting, a trip to Bangkok is sure to charm everyone.

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