Search results for ""Author Narisa Chakrabongse""

For the past three years Bangkok has been the world’s most visited city. From tourists using it as a gateway to explore the rest of Thailand to those seeking out the city itself, from travellers from East Asia heading west to those from the west heading east, Thailand is an exotic and accessible and irresistibly attractive country that offers both busy city life, tranquil mountain retreats, historical centres, outstanding beaches, and a wealth of culture to boot. Thailand is a fascinating exploration of this magnificent country. From the sophistication of modern Bangkok to the ruins of the cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, from the beaches of Koh Samui and Ko Chang to the mountains around Chiang Mai to verdant national parks such as Kaeng Krachan, the book tours the country’s most interesting destinations, region by region. Featuring street markets and floating markets, riding an elephant to racing by tuk-tuk, Bangkok’s Sky Train and the story of the World War II Burma Railway, the book is packed with more than 200 spectacular photographs. Thailand’s mix of traditions, spiritual beliefs and landscapes make it stand out as one of the most exciting places on Earth. Presented in a handy pocket-sized landscape format and with captions explaining the story behind each entry, Thailand is a stunning collection of images celebrating this vibrant country.

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At the heart of Southeast Asia, the kingdom of Thailand is full of diversity, created by its long history and successive kingdoms. Renowned for food, beaches, friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle, Thailand shows just how much there is to explore. With 40,000 temples throughout the country and 97 per cent of the population being Theravada Buddhists, the religion pervades everyday life. From the sophistication of modern Bangkok to the ruins of the ancient Hindu temples at Prasat Hin Phimai and Muang Tham, from the beaches of Koh Samui and Cha-am to the mountains of Chiang Mai to verdant national parks such as Kaeng Krachan, Thailand tours the country’s most interesting destinations, region by region. Each region of Thailand is very different, from the mountainous north and northeast, to the historic sites of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya in the centre, and glorious beaches in the east, west and south. Thailand is a biodiversity hotspot and the national parks are a lesser-known delight. Featuring street markets and floating markets, riding an elephant to travelling by tuk-tuk, idyllic beaches to ancient cities and historic temples, Thailand is packed with more than 200 spectacular photographs.

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A tsarevich, Nicholas visited Bangkok in 1891 as part of his Eastern Tour, celebrating the opening of the eastern branch of the Trans-Siberian Railroad. Lavishly entertained by the Thai monarch, the two become close and an enduring friendship ensued. The king's son, Prince Chakrabongse, was invited to study in St Petersburg at the Tsar's court, and his 8-year stay was paid for by Nicholas. He was treated as a member of the family and had a unique insight into Tsarist Russia. His letters home to his father, the king, are insightful, full of observations and news about the Russian court. The king was equally candid in his replies, making for a revealing read for anyone with an interest in this period of history.

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The area centred around the Grand Palace bordered by the Chao Phraya river on the west and Khlong Khu Muang Doem on the east is undoubtedly Bangkok's cultural centre. Known as Rattanakosin Island, it is home to most of the city's most important temples - Wat Pho, Wat Rajabhopit, and Wat Mahathat, to mention just a few - as well as Museum Siam and the recently renovated National Museum. To the south of this iconic area is the famous flower market, while to the north is the tourist mecca of Khao San Road. Exploring Old Bangkok takes the visitor around all the most important sights as well as explaining the meaning of lesser-known landmarks such as the Pig memorial or the Monument to the Expeditionary Force. The guide also includes iconic sights on the west bank of the river such as Wat Arun and the royal barge museum. With the opening of the magnificent metro station, Sanam Chai, access to this centre of culture and Thai art has never been easier. Alternatively, visitors can reach the area via the ever-popular tourist boats and maybe take a khlong trip from Tha Chang. Exploring Old Bangkok also features two fascinating walks and a pull-out map with suggestions of where to stay and where to eat.

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The photographs of these journeys form one of the most extensive records of any region taken in the 19th century. The range, depth and aesthetic quality of John Thomson’s photographic vision mark him out as one of the most important travel photographers. Thomson arrived in Siam in 1865 and with the help of the British Consul in Bangkok, he was able to gain an audience with King Mongkut who granted him permission to take some formal portraits of the King, his royal family and chief ministers, as well as recording important ceremonies and travelling to Ayutthaya, Petchaburi and the surrounding countryside. Staying in Bangkok for several months he photographed many aspects of the city, river scenes, its surrounding countryside and people, before journeying to Cambodia and the amazing Angkor Wat ruins. After an arduous and dangerous journey, Thomson became the first photographer to document Angkor Wat before returning to London. Between 1868-1872 Thomson turned his attention to China, making extensive trips to Guangdon, Fujian, Beijing and China’s north-east travelling down the Yangtze river and covering nearly 5,000 miles. In China, Thomson’s photographic skills reached their zenith and his portraits of women are particularly remarkable. His collection of over 600 glass negatives form a unique archive of images, which are today housed in the Wellcome Library, London.

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