Rush hour in Bangkok

The world knows it more as the city of many mysteries than as the capital of Thailand. A magical oriental city by day and a hub of exotic decadence by night. It pulsates with a mad hustle and bustle frenzy during the day, and comes ablaze with neon lights like a beast of phantasmagorical beauty, at night. Bangkok is everything that travelers who have been here will tell you and more. It’s exciting, exotic and exhilaratingly beautiful.

Bangkok is divided by the Chao Phraya River and nestles in of the world's most fertile rice-producing deltas. It is also one the world’s largest cities - 579 square miles (1,500 sq km) criss-crossed by a series of canals which have a constant traffic of passengers and cargo. The city seems to have spread like wild weeds in any direction that allowed it some room. It’s a disorderly maze full of all kinds of buildings – urban, commercial and industrial and the roads always seem to have traffic jams.

Very much part of this lively buzz, yet rising above it is the new overland metropolitan railway which speeds above the city, providing visitors with a more comfortable and efficient way to get around in Bangkok.

Despite the pollution and overcrowding, Bangkok is still regarded as one of Asia’s most exciting cities. Among its daytime attractions are the 30 or so temples. The most impressive of these are the Temple (the largest temple) of the Reclining Buddha, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo, the palace temple which houses the famous Emerald Buddha. This statue was constructed entirely from translucent jade. You could also experience the exotic way of shopping by visiting the famous floating market. If you go upriver, you will see the ornately decorated Royal Barges which are still used for traditional floating processions.

As the sun goes down, the city comes alive with music and neon advertising everything from bars and nightclubs to places of great carnal pleasures.

If its present avatar is mesmerizing, its history is no less enchanting. The previous capital of Siam, was Ayuthia, the legendary city with temples and golden pagodas and fables and a prosperous people. After Ayuthia was destroyed, Bangkok became the capital of Siam in 1782. Although the rule of monarchy was replaced by a system of constitutional monarchy, the people of Bangkok continue to regard the monarchy with almost religious reverence. So much so that any act which is seen as an insult to the royal family is considered an offense, punishable by imprisonment. King Bhumibol, who came to power in 1946, was the longest reigning monarch in the world.

The locals do not use the name Bangkok while referring to this capital. They prefer calling it Krun Thep, which is actually a very short version of its rather long title. As monarchy passed into the sunset of history, Thailand moved towards democracy. But this move has time and again been thwarted by the military, which has often staged coups in protest at government policies. As a result the nation has seen many upheavals. 1990s saw many governments come and go. The role of the military in domestic politics is now more curtailed. And ever since the government promised decided to be tackle the economic crisis with more vigor, the nation has seen some stability.

Shangri-la Hotel Bangkok
89 Soi Wat Suan,
New Road,
Bangkok
10500 Thailand

There are many reasons why this hotel is considered among one of the world’s top ten. It is the largest riverside hotel in Bangkok. Set amidst lush tropical garden landscaping, it is like an exquisite gem in the middle of this exotic city. It’s elegant, luxurious and offers world-class service to its guests. The well-trained, discreet and professional staff is known for their efficiency and politeness. The rooms are not only stylishly graceful and beautiful, they are also equipped with every feature that you might need. Every room provides a great view of the river or the city itself.

The hotel property offers babysitting services, a business centre, concierge, dry cleaning services, fitness facilities, meeting rooms, outdoor pool, sauna, tennis courts, valet parking and whirlpool.

Its location couldn’t be more advantageous. As Bangkok is known for endless traffic jams, staying in Hotel Shangri-la is a great convenience. It is located 40 minutes from Don Muang International Airport, in the midst of historic “Old Bangkok”, within walking distance to many dining, shopping and entertainment venues.

Rama Gardens Hotel Bangkok
9/9 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd,
Bangkok
10210 Thailand

This is Bangkok’s only true resort style hotel. So you can be assured of soothing tranquility and great comfort. You will find it nestling in 21 acres of a well-maintained and beautiful landscape, with cool lotus ponds, tropical flora and shady trees. It’s like having your very own oasis in this amazing city. It offers world-class service and comfort. Each of the hotel’s 368 rooms is elegantly appointed and equipped with amenities to provide maximum comfort. The hotel property offers a choice of restaurants that are in their own right world-famous. The Zhang Restaurant for their deliciously fresh approach to Cantonese cuisine; the Capriccio for authentic Italian dishes; the garden-overlooking Ruen Nam for mouth-watering Thai food; and the Greenery Café for a more informal dining experience.

The Hotel Rama Gardens is conveniently located. The airport is 5 minutes away and downtown Bangkok is just 20 minutes away by complimentary shuttle bus service.

Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok
372 Rama 3 Road,
Bangkok
10120 Thailand

The Montien Riverside Hotel is the only riverside hotel that offers a combination view of the river, plus the Bangkok harbor and the cable-stay bridge. In itself it is a sight worth seeing. This deluxe-class hotel is located 32 kilometres from Don Muang International Airport. The hotel’s complimentary bus shuttle service leaves every 30 minutes taking guests to major shopping and entertainment venues of the area. A tour counter in the lobby can arrange sightseeing tours to enable you to enjoy the beauty and rich history of Bangkok.

Besides the great view, the rooms also offer every amenity for your comfort - individually controlled air conditioning, personal electronic safe, mini bar and hairdryer. The staff is professional, discreet and efficient.

Intercontinental Bangkok Hotel Bangkok
971 Ploenchit Road Lumpini,
Bangkok
10330 Thailand

Although opened as recently as 1999, Le Royal Meridien has acquired a reputation for its world-class service as well as for its onsite restaurants which are known for some delicious Western and Asian dishes.

Its modern looks and ornately decorated lobby create an ambience of great luxury. All the rooms offer a spectacular view of Bangkok and are tastefully furnished with every imaginable facility for guests comfort. This luxury hotel is located 25 miles from Don Muang International Airport, and is very much in the city center, next to a Skytrain station.

The hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool and a full-service spa for a healthful way to relax.