on the Chao Phraya River Delta.

Starting life as a small trading post in the 15th century,

today the Thai capital is home to over 8 million people,

and is a South East Asian financial and political powerhouse.

Tropical Bangkok enjoys one of the world's steamiest climates;

it's also one of the world's hottest travel destinations.

Judged on criteria like culture, attractions, cuisine, shopping and value for money,

Bangkok repeatedly wins the highest travel awards for World's Best City.

Bangkok is a kaleidoscope of contrasts

that charms and assaults the senses simultaneously!

And it's these contrasts, between the old and the new, the energetic and the serene, that keeps travelers coming back.

Bangkok is also known as Krung Thep, the City of Angels.

First timers confronted with this steamy, sprawling metropolis,

might wonder where all the angels are.

But they're here,...watch the gentle gestures of the people, and you'll begin to understand.

At the cities heart lay it's river and canals.

Climb aboard a long-tail boat to experience the city from the cool of its waters.

Then hop off at one of the many temples which line the river.

One of the most important is Wat Pho, home of the reclining Buddha.

Be sure to admire the statues feet,

inlaid with 108 mother-of-pearl symbols which symbolize the Buddha.

Then drop coins into the 108 bronze bowls, for blessings and good fortune.

The Thai attention to detail you'll see in the temples,

spills out into Bangkok's daily life.

Each year during the festival of Loi Krathong,

Thai's gather to create incredibly decorative offerings for the water spirits.

Releasing these offerings represents the letting go of anger and negative thoughts.

Perhaps that's what keeps Bangkok locals so calm and good natured,

even when the monsoonal waters occasionally rise!

Thailand is a country of great traditions.

Even the simplest acts are done with skill and grace,

especially it's culinary arts.

From the 5-star, to the funky,

there are over 50 000 places to eat in Bangkok.

But if you're a foodie in search of paradise,

you'll find it on Bangkok's streets.

Many travelers come to Bangkok just for the street food

...and it's a bargain!

And while some come to eat, others come to shop.

At times it seems the entire city is one gigantic street market.

From fabrics to spices, handicrafts to clothing,

Bangkok is shopaholic heaven.

Central to the Thai mindset is the word, sanuk, which means fun.

Thai nightlife is legendary. For a great night out head to Khao San Road.

For over 20 years, Khao San Road has been a major backpackers' hub;

a great place to pick up vacation tips,

and to party with travelers from all over the globe.

While Bangkok is a complete destination in itself,

other treasures lay just beyond the city.

An hours journey to the North,

lays the ancient Thai capital of Ayutthaya.

Rent a bicycle and spend a day exploring the network of ruins

of this once great city.

For a completely different experience,

head South and explore the nightlife, in the seaside resort town of Pattaya.

Bangkok is just a short flight away

from some of the world's best beach, island, jungle and cultural destinations.

But don't just stop-over or pass through,

do as the angels do, and stay a while - in Bangkok.