Tag: Bangkok

Thai Royal Guards Parade: A Stunning Display of Military Prowess

Established in 1859 by the then Crown Prince Chulalongkorn, the Thai Royal Guards have evolved throughout history and has served a multitude of purposes. Initially entrusted with simple duties such as scaring crows, the Royal Guards soon became a strong division of the Thai Armed Forces and is, at present, entrusted with the protection of the Thai Royal Family.

In keeping with the special position the Royal Guards occupied within the Armed Forces, in 1953, they received colours from the then reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, one of the highest accolades that the King, as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, may bestow. Since then, this event has been ingrained into the colourful history of Thailand as the Royal Guards of the Armed Forces participate in a massive parade displaying military prowess in celebration of the birthday of the King of Thailand and humbly pledge their loyalty to the reigning King.

What began as a minor activity in the mid 20th century has now blossomed into a massive display of the capabilities of the Thai Royal Army and is attended by the Army, the Navy, the Thai Marine Corps as well as the Thai Air Force. The event is broadcasted live throughout the nation and is attended by thousands of citizens who flock to the Royal Plaza in Bangkok to witness this great display of might. Though the colours ceremony aspect which was initially the focal point of the 1953 parade is no longer a part of the national celebration, other elements such as a 21 Gun Salute and ceremonial march pasts are still retained in this fifty year long tradition.

If one is in the country during December, making a visit to witness this parade is a worthwhile endeavour. It is usually conducted in front of the Dusit Palace at the Royal Plaza in the capital of Thailand, Bangkok. Whether the excursion to modern day Siam is for business of pleasure, opting to stay at a serviced apartment Bangkok is a sensible option in terms of accommodation. One such award winning option would be the Anantara Baan Rajprasong Bangkok which affords all the modern comforts you deserve. Overall, its location further affords an exclusivity that is enjoyed by only the very best of Bangkok serviced apartments.

River Cruises to Ayutthaya: Where Culture and Tranquility Intertwine

The city of Ayutthaya, the capital of the province of Ayutthaya in Thailand is a city encapsulated with historic importance and is fondly known as the Venice of the East as well. The city is located in the valley of the Chao Phraya River and tourists often opt to make an excursion to the city to visit its temples such as the Wat Chai Mongkol, the Wat Phra Sanphet and the Wat Mongkhon Bophit.

There are a number of ways of exploring a city of such historic importance, but a river cruise is truly one of the best ways to see it up close. Travelers have the option of selecting a luxury cruise or the economical choice of a converted rice barge to do so. One of the most popular cruises is the River Sun cruise which allows you to arrive back in Bangkok from Wat Chong Lom Pier. The cruise lasts for around three hours and allows patrons to witness the pristine beauty of the river and observe the routine life styles of the locals living along the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

Another cruise, the Grand Pearl, takes its patrons through the provinces of Pathumthani and Nonthaburi. In addition, it allows you to take in the sights of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Dawn as well. the 4 days RV River Kwai Cruise takes river cruises to another level altogether with a number of stops along the bank to enjoy activities such as elephant rides, hiking and even shopping as well as lectures on the historical and cultural importance of the sites that are passed while on board, are made. Of course, each of these cruises is complete sumptuous buffet lunches featuring a variety of cuisines that is sure to set your taste buds tingling in epicurean delight.

For Bangkok cruises to the city of Ayutthaya which encapsulates the luxury that you deserve, opt for Anantara cruises Thailand which is a three day excursion passing the Royal Barges Boat House, Temple of Dawn and many other historic landmarks. Opt for this Bangkok cruise tour and allow its exquisitely luxurious converted rice barges complete with delectable meals and personalized service, cater to your every need.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Ultimate Adventure in Paradise with Spidermonkey Climbing

The broad spectrum of activities available for tourists in Thailand is the main reason it is one of the hottest vacation destinations in the world. Visitors can navigate its crowded cities, enjoy South East Asian cuisine, see age old traditions in action, and escape to the beaches or tropical forests. The island of Ko Phi Phi Don gives tourists the opportunity to engage in most of these activities – including climbing the rock faces of its numerous cliffs.

Rock climbing in these regions is an emerging trend, and it looks like there is plenty of room to grow. The southern islands of Phi Phi, which is already a popular destination due to its beaches and tropical settings, have been attracting climbers for the past few years. The non-volcanic island of Ko Phi Phi Don is largely made of limestone and sports cliffs that are ideal for climbers. Even the bay of Nui is dotted with rocks that rise above the blue sea. There are around 50 routes over 5 interesting crags, and these have been developed over the years. As the cliffs overlook the coast of the tiny island, the views are amazing. Access to this island is only available by boat through Phuket or Krabi.

Safety is the most important factor in this activity where a small slip can have disastrous consequences. So it is vital that visitors who are not experts or are not carrying their own gear get the best help that the island has to offer. Spidermonkey Climbing, found in the main village, is a favourite due to the locals’ professional knowledge and friendliness, and caters for beginners and experts alike.

Half a day’s climbing at the end of Tonsai beach will give beginners a chance to learn basic techniques, take in the view and take a relaxing walk back from the 12- 40 metre climbs available. If you are looking to polish up your climbing skills and learn new techniques, the three day course is suitable. This course introduces customer belay, leading a climb, and if possible, multiple – pitch as well. For a more formidable climber, the multiple pitch course offers two experiences. Either climb the 100 foot Tonsai Tower in 4 pitches, or practice and improve your skill on various other double pitch routes. Renting your own gear is only advisable for experts who know the art of climbing. Whichever way you choose you are sure to end up gazing at the clear blue waters of Tonsai, with a spectacular view over the island.

After you have exhausted yourself in scaling these vertical overhangs, enjoy the rest of Thailand in a Bangkok Cruise Tour. Float down the river Chao Phraya on a 100 year old rice barge that is refurbished for luxury with Anantara Cruises Thailand. Take in the scenery of Thai temples and Buddha statues along the river as the personal crew attends to all your needs. These Bangkok cruises are the perfect way to relax in style after an exhilarating tour of rock climbing.

 

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
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Bangkok Butterfly Garden

Unlike so many other butterfly gardens which feature carefully preserved butterflies in display cases, the Bangkok Butterfly Garden is a vibrant place filled with hundreds of these colourful flying insects. Officially known as the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, the garden contains roughly five hundred butterflies flitting about amongst lush ferns, gentle waterfalls and rainbow hued flowers. The butterfly park is not just a family venue but can be enjoyed by everyone. In addition to the main dome there is also an exhibition space, a breeding room, and an activity area. The garden is home to a host of other insects as well.

This attraction is open daily from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm and is closed on Mondays. It is located near the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, right between the Rotfai Gardens and the Queen Sirikit Gardens. There are ample buses that go through the area. The nearest BTS station is the Mochit Station and the closest MRT station is the Chatuchak Park Station. Entrance into this tranquil paradise is completely free. Tourists can head over to the park to relax in after experiencing the bustle and noise of the Chatuchak Weekend Market. The venue was made for taking photographs and visitors should not forget to bring their cameras!

Bangkok is home to many sights of historical and cultural significance. The city boasts a vibrant night scene and is a haven for shoppers. However, what really makes Bangkok an ideal tourist destination is its versatility and the ability to find restaurants, shops and accommodation that cater to different budgets. Here the open air markets make a perfectly acceptable substitute to air conditioned malls, while street hawkers serving delicious local food compete with trendy restaurants serving sumptuous gourmet fare.

Those on a budget can readily find plenty of inexpensive places to stay while those who want to enjoy the finer things that the Thai capital has to offer can find a Bangkok luxury hotel which offers some personal pampering. Tourists looking for a luxury Bangkok hotel can try Metropolitan Bangkok. With the hottest nightclubs and most popular shopping malls located in the vicinity, it is the ideal place to stay at.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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