Bangkok is the capital and chief port of Thailand and one of the most important cities in Southeast Asia. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. It is the epitome of the country's kaleidoscopic blend of old and new. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. More than anywhere else, it is an expression of the Thais' respect for tradition coupled with their vibrant involvement with modern progress. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises.
Located 26 miles upstream from the Gulf of Thailand on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok started out as a small agricultural community. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. It became the capital of Siam in 1782 when Chao Phraya Chakkri (Rama I), founder of the Chakkri Dynasty, moved his government to Bangkok from Thon Buri. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises.
Rama I built the walled Grand Palace, which contains the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. The first major secular construction projects were undertaken during the reign of Mongkut (Rama IV, 1851-68). Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. Today the population of metropolitan Bangkok, which includes that of the industrial city of Thon Buri on the west bank of the river, is about six million people. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises.
During the 19th century, Bangkok was known as the Venice of the East because of its many canals, which served as streets and commercial thoroughfares. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. The city has undergone extensive development in recent years and many of the canals have been paved over. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. Houses perched on stilts lining the banks of the remaining canals are still a common sight. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. Although Bangkok has many modern skyscrapers and buildings that reflect a European influence, perhaps its most distinctive features are the approximately 400 Buddhist temples, known as wats. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises.
Bangkok is Thailand's economic center. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. The city's industries are based primarily on the products of the surrounding region. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. Processed rice and lumber are most important. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises. Others include sugar, paper, textiles, cigarettes, soap, matches, metal and processed foods. Bangkok, Thailand Gay Cruises.
