Bangkok is a teeming city full of excitement and contrasts that is the classic introduction to South East Asia. Long considered a gateway to the region, Bangkok sprawls out on either side of the Chao Phraya River and there are numerous smaller canals (klongs) dissecting the city. The name itself in Thai means ‘City of Angels’ though some would argue that 20th century expansion has rather put paid to this notion. Whatever your opinion, there can be no doubt that Bangkok provides plenty for the senses with a unique style, ancient cultural history and a wonderful ‘buzz’ that exemplifies urban life in South East Asia.

Taking to the city’s waterways on a long tailed klong boat is a good way to observe the city without getting caught up in traffic and there are a wealth of interesting sights to see. The Grand Palace, although only officially used for occasional ceremonies, is an impressive Thai structure that hosts the famous Emerald Buddha. Wat Pho is the city’s oldest temple, founded long before Bangkok was the capital and contains the famous reclining Buddha – a gold plated reclining Buddha 46 metres long and 15 metres high that was designed to illustrate the passing of the Buddha into Nirvana. Other places to go include vibrant Chinatown, the National Museum, Vimanmek Palace and Jim Thompson’s House. The latter was built by an American silk trader and this wonderful residence has a wealth of interesting textile exhibits.