In 2006, Bangkok in Thailand was named the second most visited city by tourists after London. For many, it is seen as a gateway to the rest of the country due to the many cheap flights to Bangkok that are available. The capital itself is also widely regarded as a wild city of nightlife for younger people and as a respite for backpackers – it has built up a reputation in the UK that has not really done justice to the rich cultural display that is on show there. What follows are four Bangkok attractions which celebrate cultural and historical significance of this inspirational area.

The Jim Thompson House is an intriguing museum in Bangkok. Unlike, what many people consider a museum, the establishment is actually a collection of many buildings and structures that Thompson collected in the 50s and 60s. Thompson himself was an American businessman who helped revitalize the Thai silk industry, and became very wealthy because of his success. He was a fan art native to the area and began collecting as his success grew, and he soon needed to house his collection. Thompson famously went missing in 1967, and no trace of him was ever found.

Vimanmek Palace is a former house of royalty in Bangkok. The palace was built at the turn of the 20th Century by King Rama V, considered one of the greatest leaders of Siam due to the impressive modernization of the country at the time of his reign. The palace is now a museum in dedication to Rama V, housing photos, artistic pieces, and examples of Thai national heritage. Incidentally, it is also the biggest golden teakwood mansion.

Suan Pakkad Palace is a museum near the Victory Monument that commemorates the Thai victory in Indo-China in 1941. The museum itself celebrates art and antiques of the country, with some pottery pieces dating back over 4000 years. The building used to be the home of Prince Chumbhotbongs Paripatra and his wife, Princess Mom Ratchawong, but he converted it into a museum in 1952. Not only did the prince deem it important fro the country to have art, but he was also a musician and song-writer of notable talent.

Princess Mother Memorial Park incorporates an interesting building as wellas an impressive amount of green area, which is in keeping with the city’s green policies. The park was opened in honour of The Princess Mother of Thailand, Srinagarindra, by her son Kin Bhumibol Adulyadej. The parkland is home to an exact replica of the Princess’s home as well as statues, a pavilion, and two exhibition halls that tell the story of her life.

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Sarah Maple writes about travel, places, city breaks and package holidays.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

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