Bangkok – A Cosmopolitan, Contrasting, And Compelling Destination

by erin on October 13, 2010

Not only is Bangkok the capital of Thailand, but it also has the largest population in that country. One of the things that makes this area very unique is the fact that the historical and religious buildings and areas are in the midst of many large modern buildings and a nightlife scene that is very active. This blend of contrasts is one of the main reasons that Bangkok should be on the top of your list of places to visit. When getting prepared to travel to this area, don’t forget to secure a passport. If you already have one and need to seek services for renewing a U.S. passport, look online.

International travel has required a passport for many years but it used to be a process that was filled with frustration and long waits. That is now a thing of the past because passport online agencies can get your passport renewed or, if necessary, can even get your overnight U.S. passport.

One of the best ways to experience the culture of a foreign country is to participate in one of their annual festivals. The culture of Thailand is beautifully revealed through the Chinese New Year Festival which occurs in January or February. During mid April, Bangkok’s Songkran Festival occurs and is an event where the locals celebrate and maintain the statue of Phra Phuttha Sihing. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is celebrated in May. This is a time when the farmers participate in an ancient ritual to receive the weather prediction for the coming farming season.

One of the best ways to spend a day (or a couple) is by visiting Chinatown in Bangkok. Some of the most delicious street food can be purchased and enjoyed here, and there is never a lack of street-side shopping. However, shopping and delicious food can be found all over the city. Many street vendors sell satay, pad thai, and tom yam kung, but there are some specialized sellers, such as those who sell kanom roti, a deliciously sweet crepe-like dish. If you are feeling particularly bold, search out a vendor on Khao San Road, the well-known spot to sample some deep fried insects!

There are some definite sights you must see while exploring Bangkok. One of the sights to keep an eye out for are the various shrines and spirit houses dotted all over Bangkok’s streets. These tiny little houses are used in order to offer gifts and prayers to the spirits that are said to inhabit the city and the trees, and they can literally be found everywhere in the city, meaning you don’t have to look far to find them. There are some really unique shrines if you are interested in seeing them. Erawan Shrine is one of the most popular, Trimurti Shrine, a monument to the god of love, attracts those looking to find romance every Thursday at 9:30, and Mae Nak Shrine, which looks more like a comfy home than a religious monument.

Other areas of interest around the city include temples like The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. They are very large and hold tons of cultural significance.

One of the beautiful things about Bangkok is how it still continues to acknowledge the past while continuing to grow and modernize. The mix of tradition and modern style makes this place a top destination to travel to. In your excitement to travel here, make sure not to forget that renewing a USA passport can be accomplished quickly and easily online. You can receive your overnight American passport if you happen to need it that fast.

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