View ornate architecture in the city of Bangkok.
Bangkok, Thailand, is a city of mystery and energy. The crowded streets and markets, the shabby huts and street traffic compete with skyscrapers and glitzy hotels. The general disposition of the Thai people in Bangkok tends toward openness and humor. It is true that there is pollution and an overdose of concrete, but there are also ancient temples, delectable cuisine and luxurious accommodations.
Sights
Common to all Thai cities is a shrine in which the guardian spirit of the city is housed. In Bangkok, the shrine is quite interesting to visit. The shrine itself is a wooden pillar, and dancers are often commissioned to perform here. Less appealing to some are the pig heads and incense left here as gifts. The shine is free to the public, and the hours run from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Sri Mariamman Temple, on the other hand, pays tribute to Hinduism in a colorful and architecturally marvelous structure. When visiting here, travelers should remember to take off their shoes before entering. Also, while photographs outside are encouraged, no photography is allowed inside the temple. The Lingam Shrine is definitely the raciest shrine to visit. A garden of phalluses surrounds a house and shrine devoted to a female-fertility deity believed to reside in a nearby banyan tree. You can find the Lingam Shrine just behind the Nai Lert Park Hotel. A number of tourists and worshipers visit daily.
Where to Eat
Famous for its curry crab, Somboon Seafood has five locations in Bangkok. Locals and travelers go head over heels for the meals here, which also include deep-fried grouper with basil and roasted freshwater prawns with glass noodles. If you are in the mood for pad thai, skip the street vendors and head straight to Thip Samai. Revered for what they bill "superb pad thai," Thip Samai uses Chantaburi noodles and a heavenly blend of spices. For a true taste of Thailand, make this a stop on your trip.
Where to Stay
Bangkok is famous for luxury hotels. If you want to experience the ultimate in decadence, stay at the Mandarin Oriental, which has hosted dignitaries and presidents. Writers Ernest Hemingway and Joseph Conrad stayed here. The hotel is breathtaking, offering fantastic spas, cooking lessons, views and fitness options. The lounges here glitter and the staff is impressive. For old world decor and indulgence, stay at the Eugenia Hotel. The atmosphere here breathes colonial-style living and exploration. The comfort derives from features such as the overstuffed armchairs and the four-poster beds. Spas and pools can be found on the grounds, as well as a fabulous restaurant and lounge.
Tags: Lingam Shrine, Thip Samai