Get lost IN BANGKOK

YOU'LL BE THAI-KEN ABACK BY THIS BUSTLING CITY

Forget just 'One Night in Bangkok' - you'll need a lot longer to get a taste of what this lively city has to offer.

A WELCOME RETURN

The last time I'd come to the Thai capital was in the '90s. I stayed for just a night or two before continuing on to a beachside holiday. Apart from a trip to a temple or two, most of my time was spent in the tourist den of Khao San Road. It didn't leave much of an impression. But either I've changed (most likely) or Bangkok has (probably), because after five days there recently I'd return again in a heartbeat.

One thing that hasn't changed are the white-knuckle tuk-tuk rides. The time saved weaving through traffic while enjoying this vibrant city was well spent.

THE PLACE TO BE

My family and I stayed at the Shangri-La Hotel, and it was one of the best decisions we made, not just for the five-star amenities of the hotel (and the buffet breakfast we gorged ourselves on each morning) but its location. Situated on the Chao Phraya River, the lifeblood of Bangkok and beyond, it was the perfect starting point from which to explore this vibrant city.

SEAS THE DAY