Thailand – dream destination also for hire car travellers

Bangkok – Love at second sight

The journey begins in Bangkok, the country’s metropolis. At first glance, the city is a shock. Cars and all sorts of two- and three-wheelers line up close together. Everyone seems to be in a permanent traffic jam, the shimmering hot air is saturated with exhaust fumes. High-rise buildings line the streets. But then you discover a Buddhist temple in an alley, step through the gate and find yourself in a world of peace and meditation. So don’t leave right away, but give Bangkok a few days to show its true colors. Start your tour in the city at the Royal Palace. Exotic and fearsome statues guard the gold-adorned buildings. Inside Wat Phra Keo, you will find the Emerald Buddha, one of the country’s shrines. Countless worshippers pay homage to him on their knees. Feel free to take half a day to visit the palace at your leisure. And be sure to dress appropriately. Tourists in shorts or skimpy tops are often turned away by the strict palace guards. Afterwards, take in a bit of the city from the river. Hop on one of the express boats on the Chao Praya. Enjoy the cooling breeze and let the sea of houses pass you by.

Now you can delve a little into the past and visit the Jim Thompson House, for example. The successful silk merchant Jim Thompson had a residence built for himself in 1959 in the old Thai style. Here you get a good idea of how it used to look in Bangkok. There are many other sights to discover. Stroll through the market in Chinatown. Everything from lucky amulets to live frogs are sold here. Or enjoy a Royal Thai meal at Bussaracum restaurant. This place serves Royal Thai cuisine that’s not as spicy as the usual street food.