Discovering Venice of the East

Years ago, South East Asia’s vibrant and bustling city Bangkok was referred to as the “Venice of the East,” and for good reason, this Asian metropolis was given this name. It wasn’t just because of its architectural heritage and legacy but also its location. Built around the majestic banks of the Chao Phraya, along with numerous canals or khlongs crisscrossing the city at every twist and turn, Bangkok epitomized the traditional stereotypical image of Venice in the 19th century.

Currently, this vibrant city is growing by the day; many of the smaller canals are being converted into streets and roads to accommodate the burgeoning population. Nevertheless, Bangkok still boasts bodies of water, and these canals are, by all means, the city’s lifeline, enabling people to travel from one location to the other using ferry boats quickly and efficiently. 

Bangkok’s canals, or Khlongs, were built in 1782 by a decree from his Majesty King Rama IV to ease transportation and communication among the provinces. During the 19th century, the canal system was expanded; both the canal and river network stretched hundreds of kilometers connecting houses and temples. The canals played an important role in transporting commercial goods from Thailand to the world.

Today some of this riverine lifestyle has survived, and there is no better way to experience Bangkok than immersing yourself on a cruise or a boat tour along the Chao Phraya or the “River of Kings.” Bangkok has no shortage of cruises where you can enjoy some breathtaking scenery along the river, with temples and 18th-century civic buildings spreading out from its embankments. 

Consider the Anantara Cruise; this typical boat cruise takes you in luxury and style from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam. The magnificently refurbished rice barge features teak and mahogany designs. Feast on delicious meals prepared by a specialized onboard chef as you take in the serene and majestic settings around you i.e., the Grand Palace, the Temple of Dawn, and ancient temples and civic buildings en route to the old capital of Ayutthaya. A cruise on Anantara is far from boring; in the afternoon, consider sitting on the deck as you sip your choice of English tea, complete with scones, strawberry jam, and cream. Before dusk, a formal Thai dinner is served on crisp white linen as you watch the sunset on the horizon. After a good night’s rest in your state-of-the-art Thai-designed suite, champagne and breakfast are served before arrival in Ayutthaya.

If you want to experience the majestic North, consider the Asian Oasis; their authentic and fascinating private charter sails from different regions in Thailand to secluded areas around the Andaman. Thailand’s unique cultural heritage can be experienced onboard the Luang Say cruise; starting in Chiang Rai, this magnificent tour will take you around the scenic routes that stretch from the Mekong river into Laos. You will come across hill tribe villages, jungles, and caves and discover the traditional lifestyle of tribes living in the Golden Triangle between Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. Navigate the legendary waters while experiencing ultimate luxury and comfort. 

With many options, guests are enthralled when they cross paths with Montha, a unique and elegant barge that redefines your cruise experience. Its classic barges are made of golden teak and mahogany; the boat features a colonial-style dining room on the upper deck and an impressive overnight suite with special hand carvings depicting ancient Thai history. A typical cruise on the Montha sails from the north of Bangkok through fishing villages and ancient temples to Ayutthaya. 

If an overnight cruise isn’t on your agenda, then you might want to consider a two-hour cruise along the Chao Phraya. One of the most fascinating and luxurious choices is the Supanniga Cruise, a brand-new 40-seat dinner cruiser. The elegantly designed cruise liner epitomizes luxury, giving both locals and visitors a new outlook on the Chao Phraya. Guests can enjoy two options, an evening cocktail cruise with champagne complemented by the magnificent scenery as the sunsets over historical temples and 18th-century buildings in one of the world’s most vibrant and iconic cities. If you prefer to enjoy the nightlife around the river, you might opt for the sunset dinner cruise complete with a 6-course menu of authentic fine Thai dining. 

If you are in the mood for a lively atmosphere, consider floating onboard the Grand Pearl Cruise. Tours typically start in the evening and pass by all the major tourist attractions gracing the Chao Phraya, including the Temple of Dawn, the Emerald Buddha, and other Royal Palaces. Once onboard, you will be welcomed by a cocktail before settling into your dining table, ready to enjoy the international buffet. A live band drumming up the latest hits gives tune to the night as you cruise along some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Everything is illuminated, creating spectacular views for photos; Thai dance shows are a regular feature. 

A trip along Bangkok’s canals and river is a delightful experience; it is another great way to discover the city. Bangkok’s khlongs or canals are still a vital means of transport; many of the city’s residents frequently use boats and ferries to get to work and school and commute to shopping areas. As a newcomer to the city, you can also make good use of them.

For example, you can take a long-tail boat from Pratunam khlong to the Golden Mount in the Sanam Luang area or the nearby popular shopping area of Khao San Road.  Also of interest is hopping on a boat or ferry for pleasure; instead of taking a taxi or bus from the city center to the Grand Palace, you can hop on a passenger ferry boat from Saphan Taksin pier. All boats typically stop along every pier along the Chao Phraya river.

Floating onboard a vessel on Bangkok’s river and khlongs is definitely an intriguing experience, to say the least, and an exciting way to explore another side of the city of smiles!