Bangkok
The Thai name for Bangkok (short version) is Maha Nakhon Krung Thep, usually just Krung Thep. I first visited the capital in 1982 and it was fair to say that, as a city, it was hard work. Stuck in traffic jams, flooding, risking a sprained ankle on the pavements or getting knocked over by a motorbike - all in humid tropical heat of course. That has changed significantly with the arrival of an elevated rail system (BTS), a metro (MRT), and malls galore. From the tourist point of view, a lot of the street vending stalls have disappeared due to government policies and Covid-19. Much of the vibrant street atmosphere has now gone. It was half the fun - will it return?
Chao Phraya River
Khlong Ong Ang
Erawan Shrine
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Rama VIII Bridge
Sukhumvit
Ekkamai BTS Station
Khlong Ong Ang
Paragon Mall
Em Quartier Mall
Emporium Mall
Loy Krathong by the river
Viva Aviv The River
An unsubtle reminder as to why you are entering the mall...
Maha Nakhon Building, (BTS - Chong Nonsi)
Icon Siam
L to R: Central Embassy Mall; Erawan Shrine; Wiring near Bumrungrad Hospital
Asiatique The Riverfront - free ferry from Saphan Taksin
Above: Yuletide - Central World style!
Santa's helpers - typical Thailand!
Left: Maha Nakhon Building; Above: Wat Pho
Such a great cityscape to drive into! Above: From the Kanchanaphisek Motorway Bridge. Below: Approaching the city centre on Rama IX.
