Bangkok – Metropolis of Contrasts

Fascinating attractions, inexpensive shopping, a vibrant nightlife and exquisite restaurants of every shade and colour – Bangkok certainly has a lot to offer and bustles with life!

However, Bangkok is far from being pretty: Traffic moves sluggishly through the vast concrete jungle that houses 10 million inhabitants and receives numerous tourist arrivals. Despite the first impression, the city is well worth a second look.

Those that are not easily deterred will discover a fascinating city of contrasts that has abundant charm and esprit hiding just beneath the surface. Bangkok has lured countless Europeans that first arrived as visitors and decided to settle.

Brave the traffic and discover gold-plated Stupas rising above heavily decorated archways. Bare-headed monks in red robes carry fragrant incense sticks to venerated Buddha statues. The most famous temple is the Wat Phra Kaew, housing the inspiring Emerald Buddha. The Thai worship the statue like to other.

Another Buddha temple boast another attraction: Wat Pho accommodates the country’s oldest massage school. The traditional massage lore can be experienced but a reservation is required. Services are in high demand.

Bangkok’s strong point is uniting contrasting elements. The Venice of the East’s waterways have lost importance and many canals have disappeared but the unhurried Chao Phraya, the River of Kings, still bustles with cargo canoes, ferries and watertaxis.

Bangkok official name is “Krung Zhep Mahanakhon”, which translates into “large city of angels”. The lengthy tongue-twister has earned the city the Guinness Book’s record for the world’s longest city name.

It is not just the city’s name that has acquired a reputation for its lengthiness. Bangkok’s nightlife is pulsating and endless. The night market is a famous attraction that has to be experienced.

On the grounds of a former banana plantation, street vendors peddle Prada and Rolex imitations. Seedy bars and table-dancing venues noisily promote their programme. The atmosphere is fascinating - but please be very careful and conscientious where you put your dollars.

Needless to say that Bangkok also sports more sophisticated entertainment. Jazz has become popular and the Brown Sugar or the Oriental offer funky tunes and stiff drinks to accompany delicacies like the Straight Prawns.

Bangkok – you love it or you hate it? It cannot just be put down to the weather. Learn to appreciate the city’s rough-edged flair: the maddening traffic, crushing heat, pungent smells and the organised chaos.

This is the essence of Bangkok. The city is a spicy blend of medieval with modern influences, chaos and order, art and kitsch, supreme relaxation and nervous excitement.

Experience Bangkok - city of contrasts! Let yourself be inspired en route to Australia. It is a pleasure for Intosol to tailor the perfect itinerary for you.