Think you know everything there is to know about Bangkok? Think again, there is more to the capital than Pad Thai and Pattaya Beach. Here are five things that you didn’t know about Bangkok.
Bangkok Holds a Guinness World Record
Bangkok proudly holds the Guinness World Record for having the longest name of a place. The name “Bangkok” is the shortened version of the city’s ceremonial name: “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.”
Thai People Tell the Time Differently
Rather than having AM and PM like we do in the Western world, in Thailand the time is broken up into six hour segments. Learning how to tell the time in Thailand before you go will be beneficial but not essential. You will still see many 24 hour clocks in the luxury hotels of Bangkok but this article explains the process well.
Going Shirtless Could Get you Arrested
Every country has its own set of unique laws and if you aren’t careful, your holiday antics could get you into trouble in Thailand. It is wise to read up on these rules before you get on the plane but there are some rules that you won’t find in the guide books. Going shirtless in the streets of Bangkok is illegal so be sure to abide by this rule while you are there.
Sepak Takraw is the Second Most Popular Sport
Martial arts may spring to mind when you think about popular sports in Thailand. You may know that the national sport in Thailand is Muay Thai which is similar to boxing. This sport is popular throughout the country and you can find a match in most places, regardless of where you stay. But did you know that Sepak Takraw is also huge in Thailand? If you are planning a trip to Thailand, this is a sport not one to miss out on. It’s basically kick volleyball and is an entertaining sport to observe.
It is Year 2552 not 2013
The Buddha was born before Jesus and as a result you will find that in Thailand the year is actually 2552 rather than 2013.
So, there you have it, five fascinating facts about Bangkok.
