5 reason why Bangkok is famous .

Thailand’s capital city attracts hundreds of thousands of people from all over the globe every year. It offers tourists a unique set of characteristics – it is the largest and most developed city in Thailand, but manages to maintain its historical architecture and traditions dating back hundreds of years. Bangkok, which is for most a jumping off point for Thai holidays, is packed with everything from excitement and chaos, to freedom, beauty, and adventure. Through the hustle and bustle, gigantic skyscrapers, grand palaces and temples, and a world-renowned floating market, Bangkok continues to attract millions of travellers from around the world.

Here are 10 reasons why Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world today.

1. Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn

Wat Arun is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, opposite the Grand Palace. This is a must see sight in Bangkok as the architectural design is completely unique to that of the other temples in Thailand’s capital. The spire which sits directly on the river bank is covered from top to bottom with minute pieces of colourful glass and Chinese porcelain. And for the brave at heart, one can even climb this steep 70-metre high spire which boasts the best views of Bangkok’s skyline. Although named the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun is best at night when lit up as it gives off a golden beam of light over the Chao Phraya River.

Wat Arun, locally known as Wat Chaeng, is situated on the west (Thonburi) bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is easily one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok, not only because of its riverside location, but also because the design is very different to the other temples you can visit in Bangkok. Wat Arun (or temple of the dawn) is partly made up of colourfully decorated spires and stands majestically over the water.

Wat Arun is almost directly opposite Wat Pho, so it is very easy to get to. From Sapphan Taksin boat pier you can take a river boat that stops at pier 8. From here a small shuttle boat takes you from one side of the river to the other for only 3 baht. Entry to the temple is 100 baht. The temple is open daily from 08:30 to 17:30

2. Floating markets

This is one sight you won’t see anywhere else other than in Southeast Asia. Picture this – anchored on either side of the river, boats stocked to the brim with fresh tropical fruit and veggies, coconut juice, and local food which has been lovingly tendered on open grills. The best way to go about exploring Bangkok’s floating markets is to hop aboard one of the many guided boat tours on offer. The 3 most popular floating markets in Bangkok are Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, and Klong Lat Mayom with Damnoen Saduak being the most popular floating market in the country.

3. Khao San Road

Khao San Road – home of the backpacker, the nocturnal party fiend, and a chaotic intersection where west meets east. Most famous for its revered nightlife scene and carefree atmosphere, this is where 99% of all youngsters will find themselves at least once when in Bangkok. It is also an accommodation hotspot for many as a great variety of cheap accommodation types can be found within the vicinity of Khao San Road. When the sun sets, the street transforms rapidly: mobile street bars pop up all over the place selling buckets of “deadly” cocktail concoctions while bars and clubs line the street from top to bottom. Liberal Thais flock to Khao San Road come nightfall searching for a “farang” (foreigner) partner and a taste of the Western world.

4. The Grand Palace

Built in 1782 and once the home of the Thai King, the royal court and the administrative seat of government, Bangkok’s Grand Palace is the most glorified and world-renowned landmark in the capital. Here all you architectural and culture junkies can lose yourselves in the ancient designs of the diverse array of Buddhist sculptures and temples that flow through the vicinity. Most popular amongst tourists has to be Wat Phra Kaew, in English the “Temple of the Emerald Buddha”.  The 14th century Emerald Buddha, revered by all Thais, is a highlight too.

5. Soi Cowboy

In Thai, Soi means “street”. This particular street got its name in the 1970s when the first bar was opened by a real American, Stetson-wearing cowboy. Bangkok is a sex-oriented city, a characteristic that won’t go unnoticed unless you stay indoors at night, and Soi Cowboy is recognised as the epicentre of the city’s Red Light District. It’s very different from Amsterdam’s Red Light District; bars line the street, the “Hello, welcome!” yells from girls becomes a familiar sound as you walk by. Here you can simply have a good time with your friends .

Soi Cowboy was named after the cowboy hat-wearing African-American who opened the first bar here in the early 1970s, this red-light district has a more laid-back, carnival-like feel to it than Patpong or Nana Plaza. Flashing neon lights up a colourful streetscape comprised mainly of middle-aged expats, Japanese and western tourists, and of course a lot of sexily dressed girls. With cries of 'helloooa, welcome!' the latter try to lure you into one of the 20 or so A go-go bars that line its sides... don't be shy, it's pretty easy going and open-minded, entry is always free and drink prices are fixed.

Soi Cowboy is just next to Terminal 21, this very popular new shopping mall, so just cross the street and see it for yourself... or use Terminal 21 as an excuse to have some fun time! Remember, you might not see this again anywhere else in the world!