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.