No other city in the Far East exudes energy like Bangkok, blending old and new with dramatic effect. It is a historic city of temples, palaces and museums, a great place to get the feel of Thai tradition and culture. The mighty Chao Phraya River is the lifeline of Bangkok, and some of the best hotels in the city lie along its banks, as do some of the magnificent temples and the Grand Palace.

Bangkok is an exciting city, both by day and by night, and shopping is fantastic, with a huge selection of goods on offer from elegant silks and fashions to fake watches and genuine antiques and jewellery. The markets are best for bargains and Siam Square, Sukhumvit, Silom and Ploenchit Roads are worth a visit.

For a view of everyday life, take a riverboat taxi or longboat ride, or use the elevated Skytrain to reach the tourist and shopping areas. Or take a tuk-tuk, a motorised “saamlor” which are good for local journeys around Bangkok’s crowded streets, but agree a fare before you get in! With its lively nightlife, markets, shops and restaurants, and splendid temples, museums, palaces and parks, Bangkok has something for everyone.