High rise buildings, gleaming corporate head offices. These towers of power make up the ultra modern skyline around Sathorn Road, Bangkok's 21st century business district. Stretching from Lumpini Park south to the river, Sathorn contains some of the smartest of Bangkok's chic new hotels like the Metropolitan, the Sukhothai and the Banyan Tree. The area has also has some excellent restaurants serving both a business and embassy clientele. Bangkok's Skytrain (overhead rail system) runs along the southern part of Sathorn terminating at the riverfront. Here you can catch a boat to the historical sights like the Grand Palace or to the riverside hotels like the Oriental, Peninsula or Shangri-La. The northern part of Sathorn is well served by taxis. At the other end, is Lumpini Park, Bangkok's largest green area and a great place for people watching.

Thailand's thriving and lively capital city is one of the best reasons for visiting. The new underground rail system and Skytrain now link most of the main tourist and business areas, allowing easy access to virtually anywhere in the city. The old city area (Rattanakosin) and the riverside are becoming popular areas near Bangkok's temples but if you're a shopaholic, head for Sukhumvit, Ploenchit and Rachaprasong.