Bangkok, Thailand

Regional Population: 5,104,476

Elevation: 2 meters

Time Zone: Asia/Bangkok

Local Currency: THB

Latitude: 13.75

Longitude: 100.5166667

Nearby Airports: BKK

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and by far its largest city with an estimated population of over 10 million. Just under 14 degrees North of the Equator, Bangkok is a tropical metropolis that is also one of the most traveler-friendly cities in Asia.

Bangkok, for many, represents the quintessential Asian capital. Saffron-robed monks, garish neon signs, graceful Thai architecture, spicy dishes, colorful markets, traffic jams and the tropical climate come together in a happy coincidence. It is difficult to leave with lukewarm impressions of the city.

Most of Bangkok’s sights are concentrated in the “Old City” on Rattanakosin Island. Of Bangkok's many temples, Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), The Grand Palace, featuring Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Pho are a must for any visitor.

Bangkok also is an extremely popular place for all sorts of pampering. The options available range from massages and spa treatments to haircuts and manicures and even cosmetic surgery, all at prices far lower than in the West.