Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand with over 11 million inhabitants. It is a cosmopolitan metropolis with magnificent temples, royal palaces, canals, busy market places and vibrant street culture.
Bangkok’s official name is the “City of angels, great city of immortals, magnificent city of the nine gems, seat of the king, city of royal palaces, home of gods incarnate, erected by Visvakarman at Indra’s behest” – making it the longest official city name in the world.
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Bangkok was chosen to host the One Young World Summit 2015 because the bid team set out a spectacular vision for the event. The 1,300 delegates who attend will have the opportunity to debate and discuss ideas in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
Bangkok is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It welcomes nearly 25 million visitors each year but the tourism industry represents only 10% of the economy.
The city attracts huge amounts of foreign investment with the UK, USA and Japan playing a large part in its import and export markets. BP, G.E. and Honda all have regional offices in Bangkok. Bangkok is also a manufacturing hub, with expertise in telecommunications products, textiles and the automotive industry. It is home to Thailand’s biggest port and the country’s only stock exchange.
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The Old City
Most of Bangkok’s sights are located on the island of Rattanakosin, commonly known as the “Old City”. This is a living, breathing open-air museum with 100 major monuments.
Canal Tours
Another great way to see the city is to take a canal tour along the Chao Phraya River and the canals. Bangkok’s original city residents lived in rafts on the river so the waterways have a special place in people’s hearts.
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Bike Tours
Bangkok’s roads are notoriously hectic – but away from the main roads there is a vast system of small streets and alleys where you can enjoy a leisurely bike ride away from the hustle and bustle.
Historic Temples
The Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun are the most popular temples. The Grand Palace is immense. It is home to Wat Phra Kaew, the most sacred temple in the whole of Thailand.
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