| Article Index |
|---|
| About Bangkok |
| Climate |
| Public Holidays |
| Bangkok Map |
| Bangkok Events |
| All Pages |
Bangkok is the largest city in Thailand, as well as being it's capital and main port. It is the cultural, educational, political and economic center of Thailand, as well as being the only metropolis. Bangkok has grown and expanded to include the area Thon Buri, which had at one point been the capital of Siam, and the combined area is commonly known as Krung Thep Mahanakhon. The area of Bangkok, including Thon Buri and other provinces, is approximately 23 miles (37 km).
The population of Bangkok is close to 9 million people. This very highly populated city is currently faced with pollution problems in addition to traffic congestion and critical housing shortages, like any other large city. Bangkok's weather is hot and humid year round with temperatures ranging from 26 to 31 degrees C (78 - 90 degrees F).Most residents of Thailand are native Thais, although there is an influx of Chinese immigrants as well as Indians, Arabs, Malays and Europeans. Most Thais are welcoming and friendly to visitors to Bangkok, as it is one of the most highly visited cities in Southeast Asia. In addition, Bangkok has an important influence on Southeast Asia's industrial and financial sectors.
One of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia is located just outside Bangkok, Don Muang International Airport. Bangkok is also well-known for its water travel by way of its rivers. Bangkok is also the center of transportation in Thailand with major roads and railways branching out to various parts of the country.In Bangkok, numerous beautiful temples can be found featuring traditional Thai architecture. The old sections of Bangkok are immensely popular tourist spots, particularly with the royal Grand Palace. Bangkok is an interesting blend of traditional buildings and modern skyscrapers.
Weather and Climate in Thailand
Climate
Thailand's climate is tropical, high both in temperature and humidity, and dominated by monsoons. April and May are the hottest months of the year, when even the locals are moved to complain about the heat. June sees the beginning of the South West Monsoon, and brings with it the rainy season, which continues intermittently until the end of October.From November to the end of February the climate is much less trying with a cooling North East breeze and a reduction in the humidity level. This is also the main tourist season, and the best time to visit Thailand.The north and north-east are generally cooler than Bangkok in winter, and hotter in summer. In the far north, around Mae Hong Son temperatures can occasionally drop as low as 2 degree Celcius.
What to Wear
For the Western visitor there is no such thing as "cool". Just cooler than "hot" and "drier than humid", so light cotton clothing is the order of the day. Don't worry about bringing too much clothing with you, as almost everything can be purchased locally, at a fraction of the price you will pay at home. Do remember that the tropical sun can be quite fierce so a hat is useful, and don't forget to use a good sun screen.
Public Holidays
| 2007 | Holiday Name |
| January 1 | New Year's Day |
| Tue Jan 2 | New Year's Holiday |
| Sat Feb 03 | Makha Bucha |
| Sun Feb 18 | Chinese New Year (3 days) |
| Fri Apr 6 | Chakri Day |
| Fri Apr 13 | Songkran (Thai New Year) (3 weekdays Mon-Fri) |
| Tue May 1 | Labour Day |
| Wed May 2 | Visakha Bucha Day |
| Sat May 5 | Coronation Day |
| Sun Jul 29 | Asanha Bucha Day |
| Sun Aug 12 | Queen's Birthday |
| Tue Oct 23 | Chulalongkorn Day |
| Fri Oct 26 | End of Buddhist Lent |
| Sat Nov 24 | Loy Kratong |
| Wed Dec 05 | King's Birthday |
| Mon Dec 10 | Constitution Day |
| Tues Dec 25 | Christmas Day |
| Mon Dec 31 | New Year's Ev |
Bangkok Map
Bangkok Events
As with just about every other large city, Bangkok is place where there's always something going on. There are several exhibition and convention centers, among the largest in Asia, where there are almost always some kind of trade show going on. Plus there's the famous - some might say infamous - nightlife.
Major Event Venues
BITEC
The Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC) is one of the largest trade venues in Thailand. Their web site lists upcoming events.
Impact Arena
The Impact arena and exhibition center is near the Bangkok International Airport. Its currently the preferred venue for international music acts stopping in Bangkok. The list lists upcoming events.
Queen Sirikit National Convention Center
Centrally located convention center. Their web site lists upcoming events.
Bangkok Recorder Webzine
The Bangkok Recorder web site has quickly become the site of record (if you'll pardon the expression) for music and nightlife. A quick look at the site will tell you what's going on around town.
