2023/11/09
Geography
Bangkok, the buzzing capital city of Thailand, is also known as "Krung Thep," which translates to "City of Angels". Overflowing with vibrant street life, ornate shrines, and exciting nightlife, it's no surprise that this city attracts millions of visitors each year. But how many actually know it's the most visited city in the world?
One of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks is Wat Arun, "The Temple of Dawn". This riverside temple with its towering spires is a sight to behold, especially when illuminated at sunset. However, its name is deceiving; it looks more magnificent at sunset than at dawn. Now that's trivia even repeat travelers might not know!
For food lovers, Bangkok is a paradise. The city is famous for its street food, offering an array of dishes from tom yum soup to pad Thai. Interestingly, Thai cuisine follows the principle of balancing the five fundamental tastes in each dish or the overall meal: hot (spicy), sour, sweet, salty, and bitter. This balancing act contributes to the unique and diverse flavors Thai food is known for.
Did you know that Bangkok was once referred to as the "Venice of the East"? In the past, life revolved around the waterways, and today, the city still hosts numerous floating markets. At these markets, sellers float in small boats brimming with goods – from tropical fruits to fresh flowers. Some of the famous ones include Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, and Khlong Lat Mayom.
The charm of Bangkok lies in its contrasts. Temples and skyscrapers coexist, seamlessly blending the old with the new. For instance, Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha revered as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, is in the same city as the Mahanakhon, Thailand's tallest building. This juxtaposition adds a unique layer to the Bangkok visitor's experience.
Bangkok is not just about bustling markets and ancient temples. In a city where green spaces are limited, Lumpini Park, often referred to as the "Green Lungs" of Bangkok, offers a place for locals and tourists alike to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Providing a calm oasis amidst the urban landscape, it's a space where Thai traditions continue – like public collective exercises and Tai Chi classes at dawn.
Bangkok, a city of contrasts, cuisines, and cultures, continually captivates visitors. Its illustrious history intertwined with modernity offers a distinctive travel experience that keeps people returning. The 'City of Angels' holds many secrets yet to be explored and promises not just a customary excursion but an enriching experience with each visit.