Joanna James
Bangkok is home to Chao Phraya River; once a main throughway for royalty. There are temples as old as time and traditional markets that were operational for over a century. Read on to discover more.
The Grand Palace was home to Thai royalty for over 150 years. Built in 1782 the place although no longer home to the royal family plays venue for official functions; the architecture is absolutely stunning and elegant in true Thai style with golden edifices that show-off intricate craftsmanship. Adjoining Wat Prakeaw is home to the country's most sacred relic the Emerald Buddha. Discovered through a storm the statue carved from single piece of emerald is revered for its historical value.
Located along the Chao Phraya River Wat Arun is one of Asia's most iconic attractions. Easy to reach from Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort; the temple reflects the architectural styling's of the Khmer Empire and was built in the 19th century. The most attractive aspect of the building is the stupa; elaborately decorated with glazed porcelain tiles and well worth a close scrutiny. Sunsets from the summit of the temple are legendary as are the magnificent sunrises which many tourists try to catch by visiting the temple before dawn. Wat Arun is especially impressive from the Chao Phraya River at night; lit up in a golden glow of light the temple exudes a magical ambience that engulfs the entire region.
There are many floating markets located in close proximity to most Bangkok resorts. These ancient trading posts are unique encounters for the curious traveller. There you can hop in a wooden canoe and travel bumper to bumper with a hodge podge of sellers and shoppers. Buy steaming hot bowls of phad Thai straight from the wooden canoes or shop for fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers all offered along the water way. Damnoen Saduak is the most popular of all markets and is somewhat tourist oriented. There are others of course that offer one an authentic view to how the floating markets operated in olden times.
Yaowarat or Chinatown is an ancient district you must visit when in Bangkok. The bustling neighbourhoods, colourful festivities and aromatic food stalls promise to beguile and thrill all who browse the precinct. The Chinese New Year and Vegetarian Festival periods are ideal times to visit the place for a taste of tradition, culture and customs that are as old as time. Celebrations are colourful affairs that are hard to miss while the foodie in you will love the experience of savouring all that Chinatown food stalls have to offer.
Wat Pho is best known for the huge reclining Buddha Statue that is covered in gold leaf. Get past this spectacular statue and you will also find ancient murals, sculptures and inscriptions adorning the interiors of the temple. The place is also home to the traditional Thai Massage School well established since days of yore. This is the best place in Thailand to experience the holistic nature of the world renowned healing and relaxation techniques that Thai massage promises.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
