"Bangkok, Thailand" a Bangkok Travel Page by Paul_the_Seeker

Bangkok has so much to offer the senses and the soul. It is a big, crowded, congested, polluted city; but to stop at that would be an injustice. It is teaming with culture, color, and contrast. It is a mix of the old and the new; where the latest technologies mix with ancient tradition. Where the "sabai, sabai" attitude creates peaceful harmony in the commotion and chaos of the sprawl. Above all, the element that contributes most to the city's rich ambiance, is its people. In all corners of the city, warm, polite, peaceful, patient, reserved, fun-loving people can be found. Whether they be vendors trying to make a few baht a day or wealthy business owners who seemingly have it all, visitors are welcomed. So come with an open mind and absorb it all. Try getting out and about with the Thai people. Leave the attitudes behind. Let's not spoil our welcome! Sabai, sabai!

This site Bangkok Ideas has the best suggestions I've seen for things to do in and around Bangkok. Many will get you off the beaten path.

Here's another must-see site for off-the-beaten-path ideas (as well as beaten-path ones): BangkokTourist There's a "100 Unseen in Bangkok" list that is quite interesting. The "Memorial for People Born in the Year of Pig" is definitely on my list of things to do before I die. And I bet you've never heard of the "Siberian Duck Pond". Unseen for sure. Alright, I jest, but there really are some neat things listed here.

If you haven't already been there, take a look at the helpful links and other info on my Thailand page: Click Here

I've written a lot of my observations and reflections in my travelogues and in some tips (like the bathroom tip listed under "Hotels & Accommodations"). Some of these could save your life, so I invite you to peruse them. Well, maybe that's a bit dramatic. I just noticed they are hardly read. Are they that bad? See for yourself.

Here are some good maps of Bangkok: Click for Maps

Here is a link to a friend's website showing some of my pics mainly on or near the Skytrain in Bangkok: Click Here

The Siam Square area is a good place to shop, eat, and people-watch. It has a Skytrain station, Siam, and several malls nearby. The gigantic MBK mall is a short walk away.

While ninety-some percent of the population is Buddhist, you will hear Christmas songs (enough to drive you insane) in December and even January and see decorations in department stores. Ratchadamri Road has the most Christmas decorations.

Seen here is the World Trade Center, now renamed Central World Plaza (it is a huge mall). There are three beer gardens in the front plaza during the end of the year. Ratchadamri Road must be one of the busiest in Bangkok for its size.