The capital city of Thailand is called the City of Angels in Thai, and it is a strange blend of old and new; a skyscraper sits next to a 300-year-old Buddhist temple, and stunning green parks can be found hidden in concrete jungles. While you might know quite a lot about this unique city, we feel sure that we have a few facts that you did not know about the City of Angels.
- There is a huge canal network in the city – Most foreigners have no idea that there are waterways that run through all parts of Bangkok. Many years ago, the canals were the major way to travel, and today, the locals use the canal boats to commute to work and back, as it is much faster than the roads. If you stay in one of the 4 star hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 11, you are not far from one of the main canals.
- The city floods every year – The end of October is when rainwater runs down from the north to flow into the Gulf of Thailand in Bangkok, and this causes temporary floods in areas near the Chao Phraya River. The major reservoirs in the north must release water at this time, and it takes a few days for the water to reach Bangkok.
- Vaping is illegal – Do not vape openly anywhere in Thailand, as you will likely face arrest. Vaping equipment does not have a tax classification, and this is the reason they are illegal. We don’t recommend you bring any vaping stuff with you when you come to Thailand, as it could land you in hot water.
- Cars and motorcycles do not automatically stop at pedestrian crossings – As crazy as this sounds, it is true. Never step out onto the street assuming that vehicles will stop for you; some will, but some will continue, expecting you to wait until they have passed. Click here for tips to help you plan the perfect road trip.
- Cars with red plates are not allowed on the road after 7 pm – New cars receive red plates, which they use until they get their new registration plates, and according to the law, red plate vehicles are not supposed to be on the road after 7 pm. The red plate is owned by the car dealership and stays on a car until the permanent plate is sent from the vehicle registry department.
- Bangkok is the birthplace of Red Bull – The famous energy drink Red Bull was created in Bangkok by Chaleo Yoovidyha in 1976. While the drink was always popular in Thailand, it quickly became a world favourite and Red Bull went on to become a major sports sponsor.
- Bangkok is home to the largest Chinatown in the world – Yaowarat is a district in Bangkok that is the largest Chinatown on the planet. It has been there for over 200 years. If you are planning a visit to the City of Angels, we hope this new knowledge enriches your experience, and we feel sure that you will return at some point in the future.
