For many years Bangkok’s preferred mode of transport were its waterways so much so that early visitors to the city could not but draw parallels to that famous water based city in the west, Venice. Although many other cities in the east have now earned the epithet Venice of the East, Bangkok remains the original ‘Venice of the East’. Its waterways still buzz with activity and it is common to see passenger laden water taxis whizzing past heavily laden rice barges and sedate tourist cruise boats.
The Chao Phraya River, one of the world’s most famous waterways is still a favourite tourist destination and boat trips are popular ways to see the city. Phra Arthit Road with its quaint shops, restaurants and bars is a popular calling point as are Thewet with its wet market, Oriental the old western enclave with its occidental architecture and Pak Khlong market famous for its flowers, fruits and vegetables. Some of Bangkok’s renowned attractions such as Wat Pho, the Grand Palace and Wat Arun are located along the river and are accessible by boat. A luxury cruise up river to Ayutthaya, the furthest navigable point or down river from Ayutthaya to Bangkok is another way of seeing the city and the adjacent countryside. Dinner cruises are always touted as the most romantic way to view the city once the sun goes down. However, one of the cheapest and probably the most exciting way to see Bangkok is to zip along on the river on a long tail boat. Failing all else, the public boat lines that ferry passengers from 34 piers from 6 in the morning to 6.30 is a really cheap way to see the city.
Exploring what remains of the city’s khlongs or canals is another interesting way to get acquainted with Bangkok. The Khlongs of Thonburi on the west side of the river, Khlong Saen Saeb and Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem and the khlongs of Nonthaburi offer sights from old teak houses to shacks on the water’s edge, great modern structures, floating markets, glimpses of wildlife and temples.
Stay close to business, shopping and entertainment areas and transport links in one of the city’s coolest hotels the Metropolitan Bangkok. Exuding an air of contemporary chic this Bangkok luxury hotel offers a selection of beautifully designed spacious rooms and suites in addition to fabulous facilities and amenities that include the Met Bar, award winning Nahm where Chef David Thompson presents delectable and innovative interpretations of Thai cuisine, Glow where healthful Como Shambala cuisine is served in addition to Mediterranean dishes. Stay at this luxury Bangkok hotel to experience a distinctly modern vibe.
