DK Travel : Bangkok : Places of interest

Page
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11

Amulet Market

There is a strong belief among Thais that small images of the Buddha, famous kings, or even tigers’ teeth worn as pendants can provide protection from misfortune. It is thus quite common to see people wearing a string of such amulets around the neck, and some even become ardent collectors of amulets. One of the best places to see this faith demonstrated is in the Amulet Market on the streets around Wat Mahathat. Potential buyers scrutinize the tiny objects with magnifying glasses and quiz the vendor to ascertain the amulet’s properties.
Ananda Spa

Ananda is a Sanskrit word meaning bliss and harmony, which is what this spa attempts to restore in its clients. It offers a wide range of treatments, with the most popular being the Ananda Retreat, consisting of a herbal body polish, a massage, and a facial.
Ao Prao (Koh Samed)

The only beach on Koh Samed’s west coast, Ao Prao, or Paradise Bay, has been commandeered by expensive resorts. The island is so narrow it is possible to stay on the east coast and walk across to the west coast to watch the sunset. There is a dive center here, as well as kayak and boat tours on offer.
Ao Thian (Koh Samed)

The candles that used to flicker in the bungalows before electricity arrived here lend the beach its name – Ao Thian, or Candlelight Bay. It now offers air-conditioned accommodations built along a hillside, but fortunately the laid-back image conjured up by its name still prevails. The narrow bay is interspersed with huge, smooth boulders that give it a very distinctive character.
Ao Wong Deuan (Koh Samed)

Located half-way down the east coast of Koh Samed, Ao Wong Deuan, or Moon Bay, is the island’s second-most popular beach. Several ferries a day head directly to this bay from Ban Phe (Rayong Province). There are some attractive accommodation options and the place is a bit more peaceful than Hat Sai Kaeo, except in the center where there is a clutch of bars.
Assumption Cathedral

Nestled in quiet backstreets near the riverside, this imposing building, erected in 1910, replaced a structure from the 1820s. It dominates a tree-lined square, which is part of a Catholic mission. An elaborately decorated pink and white exterior matches the brightly painted Rococo interior. The cathedral bears testimony to the success of French missions to Bangkok in the 19th century. While they made few conversions, they managed to secure religious tolerance for all.
Ayutthaya

From 1350 to 1767, Ayutthaya ruled supreme as the capital of its own kingdom, only to be abandoned after being sacked by the Burmese (see 1767: Ayutthaya Overrun by the Burmese ). The Ayutthaya Historical Park is a must-see for anyone interested in Thailand’s rich history, with its ancient ruins set in tranquil countryside. The most important temples – Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburuna, and Wat Sri Sanphet – are centrally located and can be covered in a day trip (see Ayutthaya ).
Bang Pa-In

While visiting Ayutthaya, it is well worth stopping off at the nearby royal retreat of Bang Pa-In. Established by King Prasat Thong (r.1629–56) in the mid-17th century and expanded by Rama IV and Rama V (see 1868: Rama V Crowned ), its exuberant buildings are an eclectic mix of Thai architecture, particularly in the Aisawan Thipphaya-at pavilion, and European influences, as seen in the Phra Thinang Warophat Phiman. The manicured lawns and tranquil lakes give the place a relaxed feel (see Bang Pa-In ).
Bangkok Dolls Museum

This museum was created by Tongkorn Chandavimol in the 1950s after a visit to Japan, which aroused her interest in the various types of dolls from different countries and periods of history. The dolls on display are from all over the world and are from the owner’s personal collection. Dolls can even be purchased for around B400–500. The museum is tricky to find, but well worth the effort.
Bangkok Planetarium

Aspects of the universe are projected onto a huge domed ceiling at this planetarium. There are also exhibits on space travel, astronomy through the ages, and the life of stars and the solar system, as well as a separate computer zone and an aquarium. Allow at least half a day to see everything of interest.