Red-hot Bangkok

WHY GO Discover Thailand at its best by visiting this unique capital. From historical sights to a myriad of shopping experiences, Bangkok is a must-see city.

TO DO

• Although Bangkok is home to the royal family, they no longer live in the Grand
  Palace (Na Phra Lan Road) which is home to Bangkok's most some stunning temples and the emerald Buddha -Thailand's most revered image. The temple of the 46-metre long reclining Buddha - situated just behind the Grand Palace - is another must-see.
• Stop by The Jim Thompson House (www.jimthompsonhouse.com) - the Thai-style home of the famous silk entrepreneur - for an insight into traditional Thai living.
• Climb the Golden Mount - part of Wat Saket temple - for spectacular views of the capital.
• Shop 'til you drop at the enormous Chatuchak Weekend Market (Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak) featuring everything and anything. Discover a warren of 5,000 stalls selling anything from furniture and food to clothes and even animals. And don't miss Suan Lum Night Bazaar - a large and colourful open air market featuring clothes, bags and organic foods at bargain prices plus performances from a live band.

STAY Shangri-La Hotel (www.shangri-la.com) is one of the best hotels in Bangkok. Prices may be high but it's in a great location and all rooms have river views. With five restaurants to choose from it's also adjacent to Bangkok's sky train (www.bts.co.th/en/btstrain.asp). Mandarin Oriental (www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok) is also a bit pricey, but river views and its unique Sala Rim Naam restaurant ensure its popularity. A boutique property owned by the Dusit group, Bel-Air Princess Sukhumvit (www. bel-aireprincess.com) is in a handy location and is reasonably priced. 30 minutes from Bangkok International Airport it's within walking distance of the sky train and a 24-hour limo service is available if you're uncomfortable with taxis. Tours and cooking classes can be arranged.

GETTING THERE Fly direct from Singapore with Singapore Airlines (www.singaporeair.com), Thai Airways (www.thaiair.com), Tiger Airways (www.tigerairways.com), JetStar Asia (www.jetstar.com) and Air Asia (www.airasia.com).

WHEN TO GO Visit Thailand from November to April to avoid the rainy season.

Posted Sep 09