Essays on Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand. It is known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon or simply Krung Thep. The city occupies 1,568.7 square kilometres (605.7 sq mi) in the Chao Phraya River delta in Central Thailand, and has a population of over eight million, or 12.6 percent of the country's population.Over fourteen million people (22.2 percent) live within the surrounding Bangkok Metropolitan Region, making Bangkok an extreme primate city, significantly dwarfing Thailand's other urban centres in terms of importance. Bangkok traces its roots to a small trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 15th century, which eventually grew and became the site of two capital cities: Thonburi in 1768 and Rattanakosin in 1782. Bangkok served as a regional and international trading centre, as the site of a royal residence, and as a religious centre. It was the centre stage for power struggles between the military and political elite as well as the site of numerous coups and uprisings.The city grows rapidly through industrialisation and urbanisation, which brings an influx of migrants from the countryside and contributes to the city's sprawl. The result is an extensive transport network including a well-developed mass transit system, roads, canals and an international airport. Despite rapid development and urbanisation, much of Bangkok retains a feeling of a small town with its own unique character and flavour.The city is divided into numerous districts, each with its own unique features and attractions. The historic centre of Bangkok is on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, which flows through the city. The river is a major transportation artery and is lined with numerous temples and palaces.The central business district is on the west bank of the river and is home to most of the city's skyscrapers as well as many of its embassies. Bangkok's Chinatown is located in the district of Yaowarat, while the Little India district of Phahurat is home to a large Indian community.The city's nightlife is centred in the Sukhumvit district, which is also home to many of the city's luxury hotels and shopping malls. Bangkok is also a major shopping destination, with a wide range of both local and international stores.Bangkok is a city of contrasts, with its modern skyline juxtaposed against its historic temples, its bustling streets and markets alongside its tranquil parks and canals. It is a city that has something to offer everyone, from the visitor looking to experience the exotic East to the business traveller in search of modern conveniences.