PORTS OF CALL - Asia
Bangkok (Laemchabang), Thailand
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With its hulking skyscrapers and ultramodern hotels, Bangkok is one of the most contemporary cities in Asia. Thankfully, it's never lost its Thai charm, with the museums, temples, food and, of course, people that make Bangkok both quintessentially Thai and culturally diverse. One great way to think about your exploration of Bangkok is to traverse the streets for a taste of the modern, but to get a feel for the historical, more old-style Bangkok, take to the canals.
Don’t Miss
Wat Pho is a must-see, famous for its huge (46 by 15 metres tall) gold-plated reclining Buddha and renowned massage school. You will also see over 1,000 additional images of Buddha, mostly from the ruins of the former capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. As for the massage school, a traditional Thai massage alone is worth the trip to Wat Pho. Many of the world's celebrities and dignitaries have come here in need of a break from the hectic pace of their famous lives.
Sporting Adventures
On every second Sunday of each month, the private and exclusive Royal Bangkok Sports Club (RBSC) on Henri Dunant Road opens its doors to the public for its horse races, where you can bet on a win basis only (i.e. not to place or show). To enjoy the other amenities such as golf, squash and tennis, you'd better befriend an RBSC member during your stay, because those activities are decidedly “un-public”.
Local Flavours
Enjoy the freshest and most delicious pad thai and tom young goong in the world. And the satay sold by street vendors is a delicacy that should not be missed.
Shopping for Bargains
Take a boat tour down the San Saep canal and visit the Bo-be Market, the locals' favourite place to buy affordable clothing.
Currency
Thailand's legal tender is the baht. One baht is divisible into 100 satang. Banknotes are valued at 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 baht, as well as 1, 5 and 10 baht coins. Copper coins are valued at 25 and 50 satang. Silver coins are in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 baht.