A SPRAWLING
metropolitan area home to more than 10.5 million residents, Bangkok is Thailand’s biggest and most energetic city. Its Thai name, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, translates to “city of angels” – a reference to the myriad historic temples and shrines it is home to. Built on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, it’s a crucial trading port for the region as well as a dynamic hub for business networking, trade events and more. Stepping out from Bangkok’s boardrooms, opportunities abound for business travellers with a little leisure time, from cultural landmarks and bustling markets to luxury shopping malls and world-class dining.
WHERE TO START
Despite Bangkok’s size, it’s surprisingly easy to find your bearings. Sukhumvit Road acts as a crosssection, running through downtown and offering access to the disparate neighbourhoods. Along this road, you’ll pass key sights, including the newly expanded Em District, with luxury retail complexes like the new EmSphere. Not too far away is Chatuchak Market – the world’s largest weekend market, with more than 15,000 stalls selling everything from homewares and electronics to clothing and food.
Elsewhere, if you head south from Sanam Luang square, you’ll reach The Grand Palace, a historic royal complex spanning more than 2 million sq ft and bordering the meandering Chao Phraya River. Follow the river southwards to Iconsiam, a stylish new mall occupying prime real estate on the other bank and facing the King Power Mahanakhon, dubbed the Pixel Building for the glass blocks that line its façade.