Inside Bangkok

When most people think of Thailand they think of glittering beaches, palm trees and backpackers. They don’t initially think of culture, modern urban areas and luxury city-based accommodation.

For the past few decades, since Thailand was ‘discovered’ by tourism, holidaymakers have been flocking to this South East Asian country in droves in search of exotic sun, sand and sea. Of course Thailand doesn’t disappoint on this front. Its beaches are spectacular, particularly on the west coast where sheer limestone rock plunges deep into the warm, tropical ocean below. Resorts are friendly and affordable and with the food and glimpses of temples and Buddhist shrines, travellers feel they are getting a small view into another exotic culture.

However, many people bypass its capital altogether, using it as nothing more than an entry and exit point. The rumours are true. Bangkok is smoggy, congested, chaotic and slightly crazy, but under the dirty veneer and stress-inducing traffic there is an enthralling and engaging city, full of wonderful people, colourful history and shimmering temples.

Thailand, and Bangkok more specifically wants to embrace modernity and it does so by building malls and towering glass office blocks. There are so many malls here it is hard to know where to start. Having said this, Siam Paragon and MBK are two of the biggest and best. The Siam Centre has a giant aquarium and MBK has a huge cinema and bowling complex.

However, it is also a city that remembers its heritage. There are temples and shrines everywhere as well as old houses, stately mansions and museums. The most famous temple complex is the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, home of the Reclining Buddha and Emerald Buddha. This is the most sacred place in Thailand and everything from the decoration to the symbolism is divine.

The National Museum documents Thailand’s history with vast collections of artifacts, furniture and art. It is well worth a visit and only around 50 Baht, which is roughly £1.

The National Theatre and Thailand Cultural Centre are great places to go for traditional and classical dance and music shows. The costumes of the performers are so decadent and colourful they are reason enough to go.

A cruise along the Chao Phraya River is also a must. There is no better insight into Bangkok culture.

Flight Centre offers a variety of cheap flights to Bangkok for travel throughout the year.