Bangkok: Things To Do

Chao Phraya Express Boat Co. It's not the Venice of the East anymore, but Bangkok's life still revolves around waterways. Express boats offer cheap sightseeing, long-tail boats tour private groups around the city's canals, and converted teakwood rice barges offer lunch and dinner cruises. 78/24-29 Maharaj Rd.; 011-66-2-623-6143; www.chaophrayaboat.co.th
family | cruise | tour

Get a spa treatment Nothing beats a spa treatment or a traditional Thai massage at the end of a busy day of sightseeing. The Dusit Thani Hotel’s Devarana spa is equipped with private suites that include a steam room, floral bath, massage area, lounge, and shower room. Dusit Thani Hotel, 946 Rama IV Rd.; 011-66-2-636-3596; www.devarana.com
spas | smart splurge

Grand Palace and Wat Pho The Palace is home to the sacred Emerald Buddha (but not the Royal Family) and a blend of intriguing Siamese and European architecture. Tranquil Wat Pho harbors a huge reclining Buddha and is the place to receive a traditional Thai massage. Na Phra Lan Rd.; www.palaces.thai.net, www.watpho.com
architecture | culture | history

Lumphini Park The “Central Park of the Tropics” offers a much-needed break between sightseeing and shopping, with picturesque lakes and wide lawns, the possibility to practice sundown aerobics, and a glimpse into the lives of Bangkokians. Rama IV & Ratchadamri Rds.; www.bma.go.th/bmaeng/pathumwan/lumphini.html
family | culture | walk | park

Thailand Creative and Design Centre This sophisticated design institution raises the bar for Thailand with imaginative, thought-provoking multimedia exhibitions (not to mention a cool design store) that draw in crowds. The Emporium, 622 Sukhumvit Rd.; 011-66-2-664-8448; www.tcdc.or.th
architecture | culture | design | art

The Jim Thompson House The exotic mansion of the man who brought Thai silk to the world's attention is a treat, with bustling tropical gardens and six traditional teak houses filled with art and antiques from around Southeast Asia. Soi Kasemsam 2; 011-66-2-216-7368; www.jimthompsonhouse.com
architecture | culture | tour | history | art