Joanna James
Ranked among Asia's finest holiday destinations, Bangkok is home to some of the region's most iconic attractions. Here are some highlights every visitor should explore during a Bangkok getaway.
Often compared to Central Park due to its role as the only green space in Bangkok, Lumpini Park is a sprawling parkland as impressive as its New York counterpart. Surrounding a man-made lake, visitors who want to experience a respite from the hustle and bustle of the Thai capital can escape into this green oasis where boating excursions and other recreational activities are available. As the largest park in the city, the jogging paths and the towering trees and bandstands offer travellers the chance to unwind and catch their breath during a holiday in the city.
The Bangkok National Museum is not only the largest museum in the country but also the biggest in Southeast Asia and a cultural institution of truly mammoth proportions. It is necessary to devote at least half a day to explore the confines of this illustrious space which explores the political, cultural and artistic evolution of Thailand and its capital city. Divided into several buildings, the compelling displays and relics on show at this highly modern but stately museum are bound to leave travellers fascinated with the Thai story.
Often regarded as the best local market in Bangkok, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is a thriving and bustling thoroughfare like no other. With a whopping 15,000 stalls contained within its confines, it is no surprise that nearly two hundred thousand visitors shop at this massive marketplace each day. The Jatujak Plaza, which is a section of the Chatuchak Weekend Market, is open throughout the week but the weekend market is what attracts both locals and tourists to haggle over the prices of everyday commodities, souvenirs, gifts and handicrafts. Affordability and cheap goods are one of the main draws for bargain hunters while the unique retail experience is also different from a spree at a shopping mall.
Resplendent and ethereal, the term "grand" does not accurately convey the beauty of majesty of Bangkok Grand Palace. As one of the main attractions in all of Thailand, the royal residence occupies pride of place on the shores of the Chao Praya River. Having been built in the 1700s the palace is made up of several large buildings and also includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. While no royal family members occupy the palace nowadays, the venue is used to host state events such as official ceremonies and other royal functions. Visitors based at Citadines Sukhumvit 11 Bangkok and similar hotels or Sukhumvit serviced apartments will be within close range of the palace.
As one of the most expansive aquariums in all of Southeast Asia, Sea Life Bangkok is no ordinary highlight for marine life enthusiasts. Once called Ocean World, the massive aquarium is home to hundreds of marine species and considered one of Bangkok's finest child-friendly highlights.
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