Bangkok

Bangkok was once dubbed as the “Venice of the East” because of the canals that ran through it. Waters flowed from the Chao Phraya River. Bangkok was originally Bang Makok, or “The Village of Olives.” Back then, Bangkok was only a small village.

The capital of Thailand, Bangkok is now one of South East Asia’s political and economic centers. It is also arguably its most exciting and vibrant city. Bangkok is a heady mix of the old and the new. The city’s landscape is marked with impressive skyscrapers, condominiums and commercial centers. Heavy traffic is a normal occurrence, and so is the bustle of day and night markets in the city. The city’s busy roads lead from the metropolitan attractions of Bangkok to its old houses and awe-inspiring temples. The royal island of Rattanakosin is within reach. Its antiquated buildings and temples beckon those wanting a feel of the old Thailand.

A new visitor to the city might feel lost at first. In this land where the fusion of the east and the west makes for a delirious delight, the traveler is drawn to the joys of visiting shopping malls and street markets, go-go bars, gay bars, ritzy night clubs, street food stalls, and modern buildings. At the same time, there is a slew of places to delight those in search of history. The city’s temples, old homes, and museums all speak of Bangkok’s colorful and tumultuous past.

The present Bangkok is still marred by instability every now and then. The political scene is volatile and regularly disrupts day-to-day commerce, as well as travel to the city and its nearby provinces. However, like its people, the city always gets back on its feet, with turmoil just like a passing storm – powerful yet ending quickly.

Travelers from the US only need a valid passport to get into Bangkok. The city is safe, except for the occasional scammers and unsavory characters. While tourism is active all year long, the best time to be in the capital is from November to February, when the weather is more cooperative to a traveler’s ramblings.