Do It Go

Bangkok came into existence in the later portion of the sixteenth century. Before this time Bangkok was a series of independent principalities that existed without official status. The city is perched on the Chao Phraya river which is formed by the convergence of the Ping, Nan and Nakhon Sawan rivers. The name derives form Bang Makok, bang being the central Thai name for village or town and makok being the name of Spomdias dulcis, a tree producing a yellow plum like fruit. In 1767 the fall of Ayutthayan to the Burmese Kingdom the newly declared King Taksin established what is now the capitol city of Thailand. The reconstructed city now on the east bank of the river was established on April 21st 1782. Through the mid nineteenth century more foreign visitors came to Thailand missionaries and traders came from Europe and North America. By the 1860′s economic trading alliances were formed and strengthened. Under the rule of King Mongkut 1851-1868 and latter his son King Chulalongkorn 1868-1910 brought many improvements and modernizations to the city. It is under King Mongkut’s rule the very first paved streets were introduced to Bangkok and his son proceeded to construct new city roads, developed railway lines, and connected Bangkok to the north. In the 1900′s market zones began to develop into residential districts. In 1932 the Memorial bridge was completed thus connecting Thonburi and Bangkok promoting growth, trade and modernization of the city. Since the 1960 modernization and population of over eight million people have brought much congestion and pollution to this city. However there are always the Bangkok business hotels with their world class service offer the visitor an escape from the modern bustle of Bangkok. Modern Bangkok offers many opportunities, historic districts, markets for shopping, temples, shopping mall, night clubs, resturaunts and more.

Tags: Bangkok, Burmese Kingdom, business hotels, Chao Phraya river, Historic
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One aspect of Thai culture that is often overlooked by Western visitors when making travel plans is the country’s vibrant performing arts scene. Bangkok, in particular, has a strong focus on performance and entertainment. The scene offers everything from local community theatre productions to major touring companies and high budget productions. Studio 9, is an excellent example of Thai performance at a moderate price.

Studio 9 has its home in the Patravadi Theatre, which has been in existence for more than 10 years. Billing itself as Dining By The River, the space is the latest studio offering of the Theatre and includes for its patrons a magnificent evening view of the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is one of the most enchanting complexes of buildings in Bangkok. It has housed the kings of Thailand since the 18^th century and serves as a major landmark to the city and country. Any traveler to Thailand seeking luxury accommodations in one of the five star hotels Bangkok would be remiss to not seek out this unique and charming theatre space. Studio 9 has the distinction of showcasing some of Thailand’s most distinguished artists, as well as the up and coming, performers. Its range of genres is diverse, offering dance, puppetry, music, theatre and more every Saturday. There is also an open rehearsal on Fridays and Sundays where audiences have the privilege of witnessing first hand how the magic all comes together.

The Patradavi Theatre continues is standard of excellent entertainment with the addition of Studio 9. It remains a unique fusion of performance and dining along the river. The theatre is most known for its presentation of shows with traditional Thai roots, but also focuses on international styles. It hosts the annual Bangkok International Fringe Festival, which features among its many performances a special engagement of contemporary Thai dance. The theatre is so prestigious that the name has become synonymous with performing arts. Patravadi Mejudhon is the founder and artistic director of the company. She has been a pioneering and driving force on the Bangkok arts scene for many years. She opened the doors to the Patradavi in 1992.

Tags: Bangkok, five, hotels, star
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