Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. It is also the largest urban area and the primary city. Other names for Bangkok include "Krung Thep" and "Krung Thep Mahanakhon".

It served as a small trading post along the mouth of the popular Chao Phraya River at the time of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. It because the forefront of Siam only when it gained the status of a capital city. This was in the year 1768 – after the burning of Ayutthaya.

Since then, Bangkok has developed and grown, acting as the social, political and economic center of Thailand, Indochina and even South East Asia. It influenced most of the arts, politics, entertainment and fashion industries as well as the education of most Asian countries. It has gained the status of a global city since it is now regarded as the center of finance, culture and business in Asia.

Bangkok has also gained cosmopolitan status through its mixture of diverse cultures such as Indian, Chinese and even Western descent. It has an estimated population of about 8,160,522 according to the July 2007 census.

Tourism in Bangkok

Tourism is the bolstering industry of Bangkok. In fact, it is a favorite tourist destination – serving as Thailand's major tourist gateway. It is also a shopping destination, especially when it comes to intricate home decors, curtains, linens and even the style of clothing along with its artistic designs. Although many tourists find it hard to talk to the locals here because not all of them can understand or even speak English, they
are known to be very nice and hospitable people. Their taxicabs will even give you change to the last cent. For shopping, you can get good deals at their flea markets but you should expect the high traffic of people including tourists who go there. If you've money to spare, it is still good to shop at their local malls.

Historical venues you should visit include Wat Arun, Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

Bangkok Resorts

With Bangkok's popularity as a tourist destination, Bangkok has a high number of visitors during the summer and holiday season. During this time, most of its hotels are packed with guests. You shouldn't worry because Bangkok is noted for the various types of accommodations it can offer. Whether it's for a short stay for long term vacations, there are many lodging accommodations you'll find in this city. Depending on your budget, you can stay in cheap to expensive hotels, apartments and even resorts. Here are some of the resorts in Bangkok:

Thong Ta Resort – This resort is only 10 minutes away from the airport. It is along On Nut, Suyaabhumi, Lat Krabang. It is close to many bars and a vibrant restaurant. They provide an American breakfast to their guests. Accommodations start at 800+ baht.

Queen's Garden Resort – This resort is only 5- to 10-minutes away from the airport. Its address is 44 Soi 7 Suyanabhumi Lat Krabang. It is along the sleepy river's banks. You will love the fascinating views of the Lat Krabang Temple from here. They provide Internet access, big screen TVs, an onsite restaurant, beer garden and a pool table. Their phone number is +66-2-172-6114. Accommodations start at 900+ baht.