: : Introduction to Bangkok : :
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Bangkok Overview
Sawadee Kha! "Welcome"
We at BangkokHotels.com have put together this information more
as a primer for first time visitors to Bangkok; certainly Bangkok
veterans will already know most of this material. That said, this
should get most people off to a good start. If you are looking for
more information on Bangkok there are any number of good guide books
from which to choose. BTW, if you are one of those Bangkok veterans
and you think we missed something, don't hesitate to drop us an
e-mail.
Bangkok, Krung Thep 'City
of Angles' (for Bangkok's official name click
here!) became the capital of Thailand in 1782 when Chao Phraya,
the first monarch of the current Chakri Dynasty combined his capital
city with that of Thonburi , the capital city of King Taksin.
Bangkok, encompasses 1,537 square kilometers and has a population
estimated at some 8-9 million which would be 12-15% of the Thailand's
entire population of 65 million.
Bangkok has grown both up and out since the mid 1980’s as people
immigrate from rural communities into the city in search of opportunity
the population have nearly doubled in the last 20 years creating
demand for housing in multi story buildings. As well with increased
prosperity and motor vehicle use more Thais live further from the
centre of the city.
Thailand is keen to develop its tourism sector with Bangkok playing
an important role as a major gateway not only to the rest of Thailand
but also to Southeast Asia in general. Most Thais working in tourism
are fluent in English and many other European languages. And the
Thai people are nothing if not polite, courteous and caring.
Quick travel facts:
Total population of Thailand is approximately 65 million.
Total population of Bangkok is estimated to be 8 - 9 million or
about 12 percent of the total population.
Local time is GMT + 7 hours. Daylight averages between eleven and
a half and twelve and a half hours depending on the season.
Electricity is 220 volts AC at 50 hertz with 2 prong plug.
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