Emporium is an upmarket Shopping Complex close to soi 24 on Sukhumvit Road. It consists of the Emporium Department Store and various retail outlets of famous brands. Emporium Shopping Complex started operating in 1997.
When entering the shop you will see shops of these brands all around you :
Cartier, Fendi, Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Chanel, Versace, Kenzo. Now, you are in Bangkok, but this is all the real stuff.

When entering, the retail stores are surrounding an atrium, 5 floors high. A corridor connects on the right hand connects to another area of retail shops. The Emporium Department Store itself is located behind the retail stores.

A weak point is that there is apparently no reception desk at the entrance. Neither are there any small maps available that may guide you through the rather big shopping center.

Besides the multiple fashion outlets (and a lot of people visiting Emporium seem to actually be wearing the stuff), there are other interesting shops.

On the third floor (around the main atrium) is a large Kinokuniya bookstore, offering only (and a lot of them) English-language books. For Japanese language books (and other languages) you will have to go to Kinokuniya bookstores at Isetan (Central World Plaza) or Siam Paragon. An Asia Books store is also located on the third floor.

Also on the third floor (to the right through the connecting corridor) you will find large Sony and Panasonic outlets. A large shop named Sportsmall, is located there also selling Nike, Adidas and Puma apparel and sportshoes.

Jim Thompson (high quality silk) is located on the 4th floor.

Let’s not forget the Emporium Department Store itself, offering even more brand names. The store itself is well laid out, with ample walking space.

A big section of the 5th floor is taken by Power Mall. Here you will find all kinds of televisions with plasma or LCD screens, besides other home appliances.
Towards the back of the 5th floor (above Emporium Department Store) there is a supermarket and a food court. The Gourmet Market is somewhat unluckily located on a top floor, but offers a wide selection of groceries at upmarket prices. Closeby you can also buy a variety of freshly made Thai desserts. The bakery at Gourmet Market is not up to standard. You better cross the road to Villa Market for bagels, and more tasty breads and rolls.

Emporium Wine Cellar is to be found adjacent to the supermarket. It is also a place where you can find pipe tobacco and cigars (though they can not be displayed anymore in Thailand). A food court called Park Foodhall offers better (and pricier) than average fast food. Starbucks is also located on the 5th floor.

The 6th floor of the Emporium Shopping Complex houses the Emporium SFX Cinema with about 6 movie theatres, offering recently released Hollywood films. There is also a large Garden Lounge, where you can have a coffee or soda.
The movie theatres are very comfortable, and one should know it is really rather cheap to watch movies in Bangkok. Last time I checked, the going rate was 140 baht for a ticket. Exiting the movie theaters at a time when the main store is already closed, is somewhat of a nuisance though. One is guided by elevator to the parking basement, and then it is a ‘dark’ walk to reach Sukhumvit Road. Emporium closes at 10 P.M., but some shops actually close earlier.

Emporium stands on its own. It is not located close to other major shopping complexes. But when looking for famous fashion brands, you may find them here. While not located between Siam Square and Central Chitlom, where most of the other fancy shopping complexes are located, it can easily be reached from there by the BTS skytrain in about 10 minutes. The skytrain station is directly connected to Emporium. Clearly the Emporium Shopping Complex seems to be the most upmarket shopping complex in Bangkok and Thailand. The even bigger Siam Paragon complex (same management) attracts surely more visitors nowadays, but Emporium is still attracting the fashion-conscious crowd.

Emporium Suites, offering luxuriously appointed accommodation, is connected to the Emporium Shopping Complex.

Thank : thaiwebsites.com

With regards to the history and culture of Thailand, Ayutthaya is one of the most important cities in the country. This fact is evident in the number of ruins and cultural attractions which are dotted around the city. This ancient capital once glittered with gold and led the way in commerce and trade. Unfortunately, the sacking of the city by the Burmese led to it being destroyed forever.

While many travellers choose to visit Ayutthaya for a day trip while in Bangkok, the city is a great destination in its own right. There are countless ruins, some working temples, elephants, museums and excellent restaurants and bars. Hotels and guest houses are abundant, with some noteworthy chains represented here. For those not after such lavish accommodation, you will also find mid-range hotels which are ideal for the family and offer excellent facilities.

For architectural fans, Ayutthaya is in a class above many cities. The style of most buildings is a fascinating mix of Khmer and early Sukothai style; although many of the buildings now lay in ruins. You will find temple ruins throughout the city alongside headless Buddhas and crumbling pagodas. These ruins is what draws most people to the city as it is possible to get a glimpse into how spectacular Ayutthaya would have been during its golden era.

Ayutthaya is not home to a frenetic nightlife with countless bars and clubs. It is suited to people who enjoy good food, quiet drinks by the river and traditional Thai shows. There are of course the ubiquitous karaoke bars that are found across the country. Restaurants are aplenty and to savour the Thai atmosphere while you are here, visit a local eatery and try some delicious Thai dishes.

The city is one large museum preserving its ancient past and using this past to help rebuild its future. It is one of Thailand’s most important historical cities and as soon as you arrive, you will understand why.

Since Ayuthaya is a day trip from Bangkok, many visitors prefer the comfort and selection by returning to stay in the capital. Ayuthaya itself has a modest selection of hotels, mainly family run three star establishments. There is however a few comfortable choice of you prefer to stay several nights to truly explore this World Heritage site properly. They are modestly priced and some, such as the River View Place have a waterfront location.

History

The city of Ayutthaya was founded in 1351 by a man called U Thong. He established this city on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It is believed that U Thong was the son of a Chinese merchant who had married into local aristocracy and it was this that allowed him to create this new thriving settlement, under his new name of Ramathibodi.

In 1378, Ayuthaya conquered Sukhothai and became the capital of the entire Thai kingdom and in 1431; the Ayutthayan army defeated the Khmer kingdom of Angkor Wat. Ayuthaya became the most important power in Southeast Asia.

The move of the Thai capital from Sukothai to Ayuthaya has remained very important in the history of the country. The move to the capital closer to the coast and as a result, Thai people became more commerce oriented and began prospering through trade.

King U Thong was the first of 34 kings in his line, with King Ekathat (1758-67) being the last. This royal lineage lasted for over 400 years and ended with a sacking by the Burmese.

The Burmese army invaded Ayuthaya in 1765 and while it took them two years to gain control, they made sure that the city was completely destroyed. Temples, statues, manuscripts and official memorandums were all lost forever. This resulted in a very fast decline of the city, which found itself under Burmese control for just over two years.

In 1769, Phaya Taksin (a Chinese-Thai general) appointed himself as king in 1769 and established a new capital, Thonburi, on the Chao Phraya River. This did not help Ayutthaya and the city was never restored to its former glory.

Today, Ayutthaya is famed for its relics and reminders of its distinguished past and sees a great number of people arrive in the city to see what’s left of this ancient Thai capital.

Weather

Despite its close proximity to Bangkok, Ayutthaya does not suffer from the extreme humidity as the capital. This is mainly due to the fact that much fewer people live there. It does however see the same three seasons as Bangkok: hot, cool and rainy.

Summer temperatures (March through until June) sees highs of up to 40°C and high humidity levels. While it is not as humid as in Bangkok, temperatures can still feel very uncomfortable. April is the hottest month of the year, so air con is a must if you are travelling during this time.

It is slightly cooler in the months of November to February, with temperatures dropping to about 20°C. This is one of the best times to visit the city as sightseeing is a lot more enjoyable in the cooler weather.

Rainy season runs from July through until October and can see heavy showers and occasional flooding. While temperatures are cooler than at the height of summer, it can still be very hot and muggy. This being said, the sun will still shine on many days, with showers taking place early evening, so sightseeing can still be enjoyed.

Sightseeing

Much of Ayutthaya’s charm lies in its ruins and historical significance. A sightseeing tour around the city will take you to a number of famous ruins such as temples and chedis as well as a number of working temples and also an impressive palace. For some peace and quiet, take a trip to one of the city’s parks where you can relax and indulge in some people watching.

Ancient Palace
This historical palace is largely in ruins which are located in large grounds. They are a stunning sight to see, with some free-standing buildings remaining.

Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre
This modern museum attempts to portray life in Ayutthaya with model images. It is a great place to take the kids and will fascinate anyone who is interested in the history of Thailand.

Bang Pa-In Palace
This palace is located 18kms south of Ayuthaya and is a stunning palace rich in history and importance. It was originally built by King Prasat Thong in 1632, but was ransacked in the Burmese occupation. The palace was semi-restored by King Mongkut (Rama IV) in the 1850s, and was completed by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V. It was last restored in 2001 and has been maintained ever since. Phone: +66 224 3273

Chedi at Wat Phu Khao Thong
This is an enormous chedi which is famed for being crooked and is located in grounds which house a smiling fat Buddha. You will also find the monument of King Naresuan the Great close by

Khun Phaen Residence
Khun Phaen Residence is a reconstructed traditional teak house which can be found in beautiful parklands with water features and a number of places to sit and enjoy the serenity. Many elephants taking tourists round the sights stop here for photos as Wat Phra Ram can be seen in the background.

Phra Chedi Sisuriyothai
This white and gold chedi was built as a memorial to a former queen. It can be found amid small well-maintained gardens and is a great place to escape to for a bit of peace and quiet.

Phra Ram Park
Phra Ram Park is in fact stunning woodlands dissected by nature trails and picturesque bridges over walkways which lead you past a variety of Buddha images and buildings.

Wat Nah Phra Meru
This impressive temple boasts a large viharn which houses the biggest bronze Buddha image in the city. Elsewhere in the grounds, you will find a small carp pond and three chedi ruins.

Wat Phanancherng
This is a working temple which boasts the oldest large cast bronze Buddha image in Ayutthaya. There is a small room which contains an impressive collection of Buddha images.

Wat Yai Chaimonkorn
This large working temple features many ruins which appear on many photographs of Thailand. You will find a large reclining Buddha in saffron robes and a large chedi which is wrapped in golden cloth and lined by Buddha images.

Wiharn at Wat Thammikarat
This is an actual working temple but also houses the remains of a large chedi and a wiharn, which has a large tree growing out of the side of one of its walls.

Ayutthaya Transport

Airports  Suvarnabhumi Airport is Bangkok’s new airport and the nearest international airport to Ayutthaya. It is the largest airport in the country and services a number of flights every day to worldwide destinations. There are also frequent domestic flights to cities across the country.

Facilities are extensive and include a number of banking and exchange facilities, ATM’s, a wide range of restaurants, snack bars and other eateries, a number of shopping opportunities, both duty-free and duty-paid, information desks, car hire, left luggage, first aid facilities and extensive amenities for passengers travelling with disabilities.

Transportation options are comprehensive and include local and shuttle busses, taxis and car hire. A link to the MRT train line will allow quick and convenient services to and from downtown Bangkok, from where you can catch train services to Ayutthaya.

Cars can be hired and driven by yourself, or hired with a driver who will chauffer you to your intended destination.

Public Transport

Ayutthaya is easily reachable from other cities in Bangkok by train and bus services. It is a short drive out of Bangkok which also makes it convenient for those looking to hire their own car.

Once you are in the city, song taews and tuk-tuks are the most popular way of getting around as they offer cheap and convenient services to a number of tourist hot spots. This being said, if you want to embark on a tour of many of the city’s ruins, the most economical way of getting around is to hire a bicycle. This will also allow you to fully appreciate the sights and to travel around at your own pace. Walking is also an option, although not advised during the heat of the day.

If you want to travel outside of the city centre and explore Ayutthaya’s hidden gems, hiring a mini bus is cost effective for families as well as having the convenience of your own driver. These can be hired by the day and will take you wherever you want to go, so it’s adviseable to have an itinerary ready.

Taxis can be found across the city and while they are all metered, it is wise to always check that the meter is switched on before embarking on your journey.

Thank : hoteltravel.com

Thailand’s spectacular capital city, Bangkok is one of Asia’s most famous tourist destinations and contains a mixture of gleaming skyscrapers and ancient oriental shrines. Bangkok’s elevated Skytrain is becoming an increasingly popular way to travel around the city, while for others, a river taxi or cruise along the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River is hard to beat.

Bangkok was founded in 1782 and has grown dramatically in size since then, gaining almost epic proportions and a vast metropolitan area. However, beneath the multi-lane highways, traffic jams and modern concrete jungle is the appealing Old City district (Ko Rattanakosin), where you will discover a huge concentration of old temples, museums, bazaars, theatres (wats) and also Bangkok’s original palace.

All over Bangkok, tourism is an important part of day-to-day life. Various tourist information offices are located around Bangkok and also at the city’s nearby Suvarnabhumi Airport, including the head office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which is located along New Phetchaburi Road and features many English-speaking staff.

Top Bangkok Sights
There is more than enough within Bangkok to keep even the keenest tourist occupied throughout their holiday. Look out for the sightseeing city tram and the river cruises, both of which are a great way to see many of the city’s premier sights. For families in Bangkok, many attractions suit children, such as Dusit Zoo (Khao Din), and also the Bangkae Amusement Park, home to both funfair rides and a water park. Indoor roller coasters are available at the air-conditioned Leo Land, sited within the Central City Bangna Shopping Centre, while for many the countless parks around Bangkok are a great place to relax, with the centrally located Lumpini Park being especially popular.

Bangkok Sightseeing
Bangkok is one of the most lively and tourist friendly cities in the whole of Thailand and this exciting metropolis is brimming with top tourist attractions. Many tourists arriving in Bangkok begin their visit by enjoying a guided tour aboard the Sightseeing City Tram, or a pleasure cruise along the Chao Phraya River.

For others, a trip to one of Bangkok’s many family friendly tourist attractions is in order, with popular attractions including the Bangkae Amusement Park, the Mall Ngamwongwan Water Park and Playland, the animals at the acclaimed Dusit Zoo (Khaio Din), or the indoor theme park of Leo Land, within the Central City Bangna Shopping Centre. Other popular tourist attractions in Bangkok include many nearby elephant shows, tenpin bowling at the city’s numerous bowling alleys and entertainment complexes, and traditional Thai boxing at the famous Lumpini Boxing Stadium, close to Lumpini Park.

Sightseeing City Tram – Bangkok Tourist Bureau, 17 / 1 Phra Arthit Road, Phra Nakorn, Bangkok, 10200, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 02 225 7612
Various guided tours of Bangkok’s main attractions are available and are a good way to begin your sightseeing in this large and busy city. Most tours can be arranged by your hotel or at one of the many travel agencies, which reside in the main tourist regions. The Bangkok Sightseeing City Tram is especially popular and features English-language commentary. The tram tour starts from the Sanam Luang Park (Royal Fields) and takes in many of the city’s best sights, such as the colourful Flower Market, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew and also a number of top museums.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: daily, tours operate at 30-minute intervals
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge

River Cruises / Manohra Cruises – 257 / 1 – 3 Charoen Nakorn Road, Krunghtep Bridge, Bangkok, 10600, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 02 477 0770
The ultimate way to sightsee in Bangkok is to relax and enjoy a cruise along the meandering Mae Nam Chao Phraya River. Various pleasure cruises are available and pass many appealing waterfront attractions along the way. Particularly popular are the Manohra Cruises, which use teak barges and offer both lunchtime and evening cruises, featuring a sun deck, where the uninterrupted views are at their best.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: hours vary according to cruise
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge, concessions

Bangkae Amusement Park – 275 Moo 1 Phetkasem Road, Bhang Kae, Bangkok, 10160, Thailand, TH
Fun for all the family, the many family orientated attractions at the Bangkae Amusement Park can be found within the Mall Bangkae. Particularly popular are the state-of-the-art video games and amusements, while the additional attractions of a water park, tenpin bowling, cinema and fast funfair rides will be sure to please.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: Monday to Friday – 10:30 to 22:00, Saturday and Sunday – 10:00 to 22:00
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge, concessions, children under 1.2 metres / 3.9 feet are free

Dusit Zoo (Khao Din) – 71 Rama V Road, Dusit, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 02 281 2000
Founded in 1938, Dusit Zoo has long been one of Bangkok’s most popular family attractions and was previously a royal botanical gardens for King Rama V, covering around 47 acres / 19 hectares. Today, the zoo is home to a large collection of animals, which include some 300 mammals and also 1,000 exotic birds. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, rhinos, monkeys, crocodiles and some extremely rare native species.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: daily – 08:00 to 18:00
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge, concessions

Bangkok Playhouse – 2884 / 2 New Petchburi Road, Bangkok, 10310, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 02 319 76414
The Bangkok Playhouse is a relatively new addition to the city’s theatrical scene and first opened its doors in 1993. A modern venue with many regular performances, which range from puppet shows to serious dramas, other attractions include art exhibitions, seminars, lectures and many visiting international shows.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: Monday to Saturday – 09:00 to 19:00, hours vary according to event
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge

Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute (QSMI) and Snake Farm – 1871 Rama IV Street, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 02 252 01614
A popular local attraction, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute is home to a large collection of extremely poisonous snakes, including the king cobra and numerous vipers. Known for its important research into snake venom and its deadly effects, the institute is also home to a snake farm, where many different snakes are successfully bred and reared.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: Monday to Friday – 08:30 to 16:30, Saturday and Sunday – 08:30 to 12:00
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge

Leo Land – 6th Floor, Central City Bangna, 1094 Bangna-Trad Road, Bangkok, 10260, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 02 361 0888
Part of the popular Central City Bangna Shopping Centre, this air-conditioned indoor theme park features a good selection of fast rides, roller coasters and simulator attractions. Particularly popular is the waterpark, water slides and go-karting, appealing to all ages.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: daily – 11:00 to 18:00
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge, discounts for children

Mall Ngamwongwan Water Park and Playland – Ngam Wong Wan Road, 30 / 39 – 50 Ngamwongwan Shopping Centre, Bangkok, 10220, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 02 550 0011
The perfect way to cool off during one of Bangkok’s many hot days, the Water Park and Playland is part of the Ngamwongwan Shopping Mall and is full of water-related attractions, together with a play area for children. With water slides, pools, miniature train rides and plenty of places to simply sit back and relax, the Mall Ngamwongwan Water Park is close to the cinema complex and many shopping opportunities.
Bangkok tourist attraction open: daily
Bangkok tourist attraction admission: charge

Bangkok is truly steeped in history and apart from its modern skyscrapers, of which the Baiyoke Tower is the tallest at 304 metres / 997 feet, the most impressive landmarks are its historic structures. Be sure to find the Grand Palace, where you can also enjoy a visit to its Wat Phra Kaew, perhaps better known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Other notable temples in Bangkok include the Wat Bowonniwetwihan (Ratchaworawihan), the Wat Benchamabophit (Wat Ben), the Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha), and also the Wat Pho, the city’s oldest and biggest temple.

Culture abounds within Bangkok and tourists will enjoy the city’s many outstanding museums. Located within the Sanam Luang area, the National Museum contains everything from information about traditional Thai art and textiles, to literature and weaponry. Completely unique is the Royal Barges National Museum and its extensive collection of large boats. Those with a love of aviation should search out the Royal Thai Air Force Museum, while art lovers in Bangkok will be overwhelmed at the traditional and contemporary pieces on display at the National Gallery.

Almost the epitome of everything that Asia has to offer, Bangkok has plenty to offer tourists. However, should you choose to venture outside of this sprawling metropolis, you will find a wealth of tourist attractions within easy reach. Particularly close to Bangkok, the Crocodile Farm and Zoo and Samut Prakan is always extremely popular, as are the countless temples within Samut Songkhram, which is located just a short distance to the south-west. To the north of Bangkok, the Ayuthaya Historical Park contains such as wealth of temples and shrines that it has gained the status of World Heritage Site.

Fast Facts and Orientation

Country: Thailand
Location: east bank of the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River and close to the Gulf of Thailand
Status: capital city of Thailand (Thai: Krung Thep Maha Nakhon)
Area: approximately 600 square miles / 1,553 square kilometres
Population: approximately seven million
Language: Thai
Currency: Thailand Baht (THB)
Time zone: UTC / GMT +7 hours
Country dialing code: +66
Telephone area code: 02
Religion: mainly Buddhists, remainder includes Muslims and Christians
Average daily Bangkok January temperature: 31°C / 88°F
Average daily Bangkok July temperature: 35°C / 95°F

Thank : bangkok.world-guides.com