Bangkok, Thailand

Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, near the Gulf of Thailand , Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand. Bangkok is a massive city that spills over into five Thai provinces, making population estimates difficult. Between 12 and 14 million people live in and around the city.

The city was originally a trading port of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the precursor to modern-day Thailand. Today, Bangkok is a major economic and cultural center of Southeast Asia and has the highest rate of construction for high-rise buildings in the world. The city of Bangkok serves as the corporate headquarters for virtually every major Thai business. The city itself accounts for nearly half of Thailand's GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Bangkok is one of the world's top tourist destinations, drawing millions of people every year. Bangkok's top attractions are The Grand Palace (the home of the former King of Thailand) and Wat Pho and Wat Arun, two beautiful Buddhist temples. Bangkok's massive growth and bustling tourism industry have also caused problems for the city. It is one of the world's most congested and polluted cities.