Life in Bangkok
Why Bangkok?
Bangkok is one of the world's leading holiday destinations. It's excellent shopping, fantastic culture and friendly people bring visitors back again and again. More recently, The Kingdom has also begun focusing on establishing itself as a regional hub in the arenas of health care, technology and education.
Bangkok School of Management offers you the opportunity to live and learn in this amazing capital. The heart of the bustling downtown area offering venues rivaling Singapore, but at a fraction of the cost! Enjoy all the city has to offer while studying your degree with professional tutors in a friendly, personal and caring learning environment.
Life in Bangkok, Thailand – The Land of Smiles!
When Bangkok or Thailand are mentioned, many images are evoked. Monks walking in saffron robes, women selling goods at the market, or palm trees fringing white sandy beaches. Thailand is all of this and more. A true marvel to behold. It is a country of extreme diversity, and all of these things can be discovered within the capital itself.
Affectionately called Krung Thep by locals, which translates into "City of Angels", Bangkok is an exciting mix of old world charm, extravagant offerings and futuristic pursuits. Present day Bangkok is actually the fourth capital of Thailand. The original one, Suhkothai and its successor, Ayutthaya are both beautiful historical sights and well worth a visit. After the fall of Ayutthaya, the Thai capital was moved to Thonburi, across the Chao Praya River from Bangkok. When King Rama I and the Chakri dynasty ascended to the throne, the new capital was established and remains to this day.
Out and About
Bangkok is an alluring blend of cultural charm and modern technology. Anywhere you go in town you will find examples of these extremes. Explore down the side roads behind major shopping centers or luxury hotels and you will find quaint teak houses and local families enjoying a lifestyle, untouched by the surrounding metropolis.
You will never run out of things to do in Bangkok, and it would take years to explore all that the city has to offer. However, there are many opportunities to experience the wonders of Thai culture during your time in the city. If you like the idea of someone else taking care of the details, many tour operators in town offer excursions around the city. Alternatively, you can explore on your own. Visit the major palaces and temples, with their stunning visual displays of history and architecture. Try cruising the Chao Praya on a hired riverboat or public water taxi. After dusk, the temples along the riverbanks are lit up, making a night time ride one of Bangkok’s most aesthetically appealing pleasures. Indulge at some of the best restaurants in the world, many taking advantage of the gorgeous views with their roof top patios.
If sports are of interest to you, take in a Muay Thai boxing match, or make a trip to see Thailand’s National Football team. For a less passive sporting experience, join a local gym, Muay Thai boxing club or head off to one of the city's numerous driving ranges for a round of golf. If you prefer tennis or badminton, you'll find you're equally well catered for.
Cool down in the afternoon and take in a matinée at one of Bangkok’s many air-conditioned cinemas. Shopping anyone? Bangkok’s commercial district boasts massive malls, with everything from indoor market stalls, to the most upmarket designer outlets. Bangkok has enough sights and activities to keep you busy and interested for a lifetime. It’s no wonder that many have come here for a vacation and never left!
Transportation in Bangkok has improved tenfold in recent years. While it is still possible to enjoy the traditional river barges, motorcycle taxis, tuk-tuks (motorized tricycles) and public buses, you can also enjoy the convenience and comfort of the ultra-modern fleet of air-conditioned taxis serving Bangkok as well as the state-of-the-art “Sky Train” and underground metro/subway train lines. An ever increasing number of purpose built overhead walkways are also transforming central Bangkok into a pedestrian paradise.
Further Afield
Bangkok has become a major transit hub, making Thailand one of the most popular and uncomplicated countries in which to travel. If you need a break from the city, or want to see what else Thailand has to offer, there are many exciting destinations and all within a short distance of the capital. From the day-trip attractions of Muang Boran (the ancient city) and the Crocodile Farm to further afield. Most are easily accessible by bus or train. Kanchanaburi, to the northwest, is an inspiring blend of nature and history. Visit the death railway or one of the many waterfalls in the area. Down the south coast of Thailand you can find the beach towns of Hua Hin or Cha Am, also accessible by train. Take a walk on the beach or sample some world class seafood which both these towns are known for. Just north of Bangkok is the ancient capital of Ayudahya. In less than two hours you can be exploring amazing ruins, discovering Thailand’s rich cultural history, or enjoying a river cruise over dinner. Finally, for a little sun, and a whole lot of fun, why not head east to Pattaya, Thailand’s famed beach resort, known for its entertainment and nightlife.
If you have more time and want to explore Thailand in depth, try heading further north or south. Ten hours north (or an hour by plane) is the picturesque town of Chiang Mai. Situated at the base of the mountains, this thriving town is the center of Thailand’s cultural charm and the starting point for a multitude of northern activities. Treks, cooking schools and a variety of adventure sports can be arranged in Chiang Mai. If it’s beaches you are looking for, fix your eyes south, on Phuket, for fun, sun, sand and surf. Phuket is a beach lover’s paradise and is also Thailand’s largest island. On the other coast, in the Gulf of Thailand, you'll find Koh Samui, a haven for nature lovers and heaven for scuba divers and snorkelers alike. Koh Samui is Thailand’s third largest island and is home to some amazing scenery, pristine beaches and dynamic night life.
Immerse yourself in Thai culture and allow yourself the chance of a lifetime. Come and see what it is that draws so many people here and discover why they are compelled to stay. Experience the grace and charm of a people that are guaranteed to make you feel welcome. Thailand is an exotic treat and a delight to the senses. Surround yourself in the sights, smells and sounds that are guaranteed to stay with you long after you leave.