The headlong pace and flawed modernity of
BANGKOK
(called "Krung Thep" in Thai) match few people's visions of the capital of exotic Siam. Spiked with scores of high-rise buildings of concrete and glass, it's a vast flatness which holds a population of at least nine million, and feels even bigger. But under the shadow of the skyscrapers you'll find a heady mix of frenetic markets and hushed golden temples, of glossy cutting-edge clubs and early-morning almsgiving ceremonies. Most budget travellers head for the
Banglamphu
district, which is just a short walk from the dazzling
Grand Place
and
Wat Phra Kaeo
and the very worthwhile
National Museum
. For livelier scenes, explore the dark alleys of
Chinatown's bazaars
or head for the water: the great
Chao Phraya River
is the backbone of a network of canals and a useful way of crossing the city.
Arrival And Information :
Most travellers' first sight of the city is the International Terminal at
Don Muang Airport
, 25km to the north of the city. Once you're through immigration, you'll find 24-hr exchange booths, a TAT information desk (daily 8am-midnight), an accommodation booking desk and a left-luggage office (B40 per day). The domestic terminal at Don Muang is 500m from Terminal 2, connected by a walkway and a free shuttle bus (daily 5am-11pm; every 20min). More Bangkok information...
US EMBASSY 1 BLOCK / BANGKOK Welcome to the Conrad Bangkok, one of the world's most exciting and innovative hotels. Contemporary, conducive and unconventional, the Conrad Bangkok is a hotel with new attitude.
Call toll free..
US and Canada: 1-800-780-5733
Europe: 00-800-11-20-11-40
Use discount code: 89865
