Bangkok (Laem Chabang)

THE CITY OF BANGKOK

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital was founded in 1782 by King Rama For over 200 years the city has been the political, social and economic center of Thailand. However,  it has also been a guiding light for much of South East Asia and Indochina as well. Bangkok has really become a global city because of Its influence in arts, politics, fashion, education and entertainment. Furthermore, its status as a business, financial and cultural center for a large part of Asia is undisputed. The capital is part of the heavily urbanized triangle of central and eastern region of Thailand which stretches from Nakhon Ratchasima along Bangkok to the industrialized eastern seaboard.

Bangkok has no real city centre, but is made up of several different areas. Sukhumvit is one of the areas. It is one of the heaviest tourist areas as it has many hotels, shopping areas, and nightlife. There are also many high priced apartments and condos that make up this area. Many Japanese and European citizens have relocated here. The Chao Payra River is an area that houses most of the upscale and world renowned hotels. There is a beautiful view of the river and there are shops around the area that cater to the tourists staying nearby. Chinatown also known as Sempang is an interesting area which seems like it has a jewellery shop on every corner..

With some 8,100,000 inhabitants, Bangkok is the world's 22nd largest city. Because of the presence of many unregistered immigrants from the North East of Thailand and of many nations across Asia, the population of greater Bangkok is estimated at nearly 15 million people. Thailand is now no longer a country with a homogenous Thai population, but rather a country with a very lively mix of different races  such as Thai, Indian, Chinese and Western people.

The Bangkok Province has borders with the other provinces of Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon and Nakhon Pathom. This entire area is now known as the Bangkok Metropolitan Area.

THE PORT OF BANGKOK

Bangkok Port is located on the left side of the Chao Phraya River between km.+26.5 and km.+28.5 Klongtoey District, Bangkok. It is well connected with road and rail systems, which help transport of cargoes between the port and its hinterland fast and economical.

Cruise ships visiting Bangkok can dock at two ports. Large ships must use Laem Chabang, about 90 minutes south-east of Bangkok and about 30 minutes north of Pattaya.

Modest sized ships may dock farther up-river at Khlong Thoey, much closer to the city centre. A modest terminal provides processing for passengers (who may receive Thai customs and immigration processing on-board), as well as offering "managers" who arrange tours and taxis.

Costs to reach major hotels and points of interest are much lower than for Laem Chabang, but can vary according to passenger negotiating skills. The facility is fairly close to but beyond practical walking distance to MRT and SkyTrain stations

TRANSPORT IN BANGKOK

The Skytrain (or BTS) is Bangkok's biggest weapon against the traffic jams and the most uses-friendly form of public transport. You can buy individual tickets as well as monthly, yearly, and other alternative usage tickets. The BTS reaches most major places in Bangkok.

The Chao Praya river can be crossed by two types of boats : a ferry to the other side of the river, and another one that goes up and down the river. Prices depend on the travelled distance.

Buses are a cheap means of transport in Bangkok. However, because bus drivers speak little English, it is sometimes difficult to find out if you are going in the right direction.

Bangkok has several taxi companies. Before boarding the vehicle, make sure that the meter is working. A tip :  carry the business card of your hotel with you for your return trip. Most business cards will have directions in Thai language on the back.

Tuk-tuks are open bicycle or tricycle taxis. The name relates to the sound they make. The are open and therefore don’t offer the airconditioned comfort of regular taxis or buses. Drivers tend to overcharge tourists.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN BANGKOK

Khao San road also known as Banglampoo is where the backpack set congregate to swap stories about bargains and the best places to go and stay. It is an interesting area made up of travel agencies, small Mom & Pop stores and low priced accommodations.

The stunning and intricately decorated temples that are all over Bangkok range from the exquisite to the magnificent – Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho being two fantastic examples.

Chinatown is one of the oldest districts in the city. Chinese settlers came to live here around the year 1780. Chinese architecture, signs and attributes, markets, food and all kind of businesses is what you will find here. Yaowarat road is one of the streets that we recommend you to visit. The Thieves market, or Nakhon Kasem, has good prices on antiques, second hand, electronics and many other products and goods.

The National Museum of Thailand is a must if you want to broaden your knowledge about the history and the culture of the country It is located on Na Phra That Road, close to Banglamphu, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho. It is opened Wednesday to Sunday, between 9.00 am - 4.00 pm.

The Crocodile Farm in Samut Prakan belongs to the largest crocodile farms in the world. It lies a few miles South of Bangkok.  The crocodiles can be seen performing in shows for tourists. Monkeys and elephants are also performing at this farm.

For those who prefer snakes to crocodiles, Bangkok snake farm. Is the place to be. Located on Rama IV road. Here you will obviously find all kind of snakes

Damnoen Saduak is the Thai name of the floating market of Bangkok, one of the most internationally renowned tourist attractions in the city. The market is found about 100 kilometres from Bangkok, which means that a trip to go there takes several hours.

Lumpini Park lies as a large green oasis in the middle of Bangkok. A nice place to get away from the bustling traffic and crowded streets. Many Bangkok citizens perform their morning gymnastics as Tai Chi, strength training or jogging etc. here. You will find Lumphini Park next to Rama IV Road and Ratchadamri Road. In the park is a large lake were you can take a boat ride.

Baiyoke tower II is the tallest building in Thailand and one of the tallest in South-East Asia. It has 85 floors and is 304 meters or 997 ft high. It has a hotel from the 22nd to the 74th floor and a couple of restaurants. On the 84th floor there is an observation deck with beautiful views