Overview
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a wonderful blend of rich Siam heritage and modernity. The city feels enormous, and both its crowdedness and its intricate system of bus, train, and metro routes add to that effect. Bangkok's commercial district, Sukhumvit, and the city's center, Siam Square, are filled with malls, department stores, restaurants, and high-rise buildings. South of Sukhumvit is Silom, a financial district by day and, by night, a popular place for drinking and clubbing. North of Silom is Rattanakosin. Bordering the Chao Phraya River, Rattanakosin is the home of the Grand Palace, Wat Po, Khao San Road, and the National Museum. West of the river is Thonburi, a fantastic destination for its intricate systems of canals and displays of historic buildings. North of Thonburi is Phahonyothin, the location of the Chatuchak Weekend Market.