Bangkok

Elect's take

"Bangkok is the Asian city that I find most consistently overwhelming in the best possible sense. The combination of extraordinary temples, outstanding food, world class hotels and the sheer vitality of the city creates something genuinely unlike anything else in the region."

The Grand Palace is one of the most spectacular royal complexes in Asia, a dazzling ensemble of golden spires, mosaic-covered buildings and ornate pavilions that represents the pinnacle of Thai decorative art. Wat Pho adjacent houses the magnificent Reclining Buddha. Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, provides one of the finest views in Bangkok from the Chao Phraya opposite. The street food culture here is extraordinary — from the pad thai of the tourist trail to the more complex and regional dishes available throughout the city. The rooftop bar culture is outstanding. The floating markets of Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa provide beautiful traditional experiences.