Sightseeing

Bangkok, known to the Thais as "Krungthep", which means the City of Angels, was established in 1782 by King Rama I as capital of Siam. Over the past two centuries, it has developed into a great metropolis with a population of over eight million. Like other modern cities in the world, Bangkok boasts lots of massive buildings, numerous luxurious hotels, shopping centres, and a modern international airport. But Bangkok has also retained its traditional charm. It is a mixture of East and West, the ancient and the modern. Its surface has taken on the look of the present time, while underneath the old ways are much alive in Thais' everyday life. So, despite its modernization, Bangkok is still best suited for a glimpse of the traditional arts, architecture, religion, and other aspects of the culture of the Thai people.