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Ayutthaya: Former Capital Of The Kingdom Of Siam.

admin — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Although recently inundated by severe flooding on October 14, 2011, since Ayutthaya has survived many floods and destruction of various types throughout history, hopefully this once beautiful place will continue to be visited once travel bans are lifted.

Ayutthaya was the second capital of ancient Siam believed to have been first developed by Prince U-Thong in 1350. By the 1700s this city was designated the world’s largest city with a population of around 1 million residents and in 1991 was included on the World Heritage Sites listings.

Chanthara Kasem National Museum is the site of the palatial residence built for King Rama IV in 1577. The museum contains items used by the King. The palace, destroyed during the 18th century Burmese invasion, was restored in 1936. A summer palace of Chinese architectural style, Bang Pa In, was erected as a gift for King Rama V. Visitors are required to observe the Chinese tradition of removing shoes upon entering the palace.

Thailand is land of palaces and monasteries, one of which is Wat Phra Si Sanphet. This temple was home to a gigantic statue of Buddha whose remains were carefully gathered by one of the kings and now displayed in Bangkok.

How To Visit Bangkok’s Floating Market.

admin — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The Damnoen Saduak market is unique to Bangkok. This area has hundreds of rows of boats, full of merchandise for tourists and locals to shop from. The unique appeal to this floating mall, is that each boat is representative of a store front. The locals park their row boats and fill them with goods from foods to merchandise they hand craft.

A tourist can take a guided tour. One simply pulls up beside the boat of their choice and lets the haggling begin. This area is quite chaotic and “parking space” is limited. It is open everyday and is a favorite with the ladies. See ladies rowing their boats up and down the canal in hopes of a good deal. The market place is loud and exciting all at the same time. This is something that is famous in the Bangkok area and one that no one will want to miss. One can find fresh coconut juices or home made gourmet treats for the native country. Bangkok has a several of these markets around, while one may get a good deal, the experience is priceless. The next time one visits the ancient city, taking a tour of the floating markets is a must see on every list.

A Stroll Down Yaowarat Road: Navigating Bangkok’s Chinatown.

admin — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

China town is one chaotic mess of fun. People visiting this area, not only get to experience the life in Bangkok, but they also get to see just how many people can pack themselves into one street. Yaowarat Road, is where the famous China Town is located. This road during the day is not overly congested. One can easily maneuver up and down without problems. At night time, the signs come on and all the shops open for business. While it is a great area to travel in, it can take some real skill.

The area is full of narrow alleys and pedestrian only walkways. Many of the road signs are blocked by flashing neon merchant signs. To avoid alleys and streets which go no where, avoid roads that have the name trok or soi in them. This is Chinese for alleyway. Charoen Krung Road borders Yaowarat Road to the North and can easily be used as a way to get around and to different parts of China Town.

Though you will have the time of your life, plan on being lost at first a great deal. Once you get the hang of where the signs are, where the pedestrian walkways are, you should be just fine.

Visiting The Grand Palace And Wat Prakeaw.

admin — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw is one of the most magnificent places to visit in Thailand. The palace is over two hundred and eighteen thousand square metres. The palace is surrounded by four great walls that were constructed in 1782. These walls are still guarded by soldiers bearing arms. The Wat Prakeaw is known in English as the Temple of Buddha which is a very important religious symbol for this country. This statue is dated back to the fourteenth century and is still in great condition.the Buddha is made out of emeralds. The places hosts not only government offices but the Chapel Royal of the Emerald Buddha and other royals.
The Grand Palace is a breathtaking sight. There are building with pointed tops that are too spectacular to put into words. The buildings hold many holy statues. Three times a year the cloak covering a statute is changed to mark the changing of the seasons. Only the king may change the cloak and it is said to be a sign of good fortune to the country. While visiting the Grand Place one should keep in mind that it is a sacred religious place and follow the customs of the culture to show respect.