Bangkok Khlongs and Canals

The nickname 'Venice of the East' has been enchanting travelers for centuries, long before Besso even put pen to paper. While the exact origins of this phrase remain a bit of a mystery, its allure is undeniable. No travel guide, whether in print, online, or shared by a fellow explorer, can seem to resist its charm. It conjures images of the exotic East, reminiscent of Burma's 'Mandalay,' but with a distinctly Bangkok twist: picture serene sampans gliding down lush, tree-lined canals, stoic locals residing in quaint floating wooden shophouses, and a city life untouched by the chaos of tuk-tuks and traffic jams.

Yet, does this 'Venice of the East' still hold its magic today? The answer is both yes and no. Over the years, many canals were drained or filled due to cholera risks or to pave the way for much-needed roads. Unlike the bustling Chao Phraya River, the remaining canals see little to no trade. But don't let this fool you into thinking it's all stagnation. Some khlongs, while a bit aromatic, remain quite picturesque. You'll find old bridges standing proudly and crooked houses huddled along the water's edge. For just a few baht, you can zip past them, enveloped in the cacophony of noise, heat, and fumes, with splashes of murky water adding to the thrill as your boat speeds ahead. Trust me, for sheer excitement, they make Venice's gondolas seem like a leisurely drift. Alternatively, you might prefer a leisurely stroll along the canal paths. Every few steps reveal a peek into a different home, where you might find yourself stepping over shoes or passing elderly ladies tending to their potted plants.

For a deeper dive into this unique side of Bangkok, make sure to explore the khlongs and experience the city's canals like a local. The juxtaposition of old and new, serene and bustling, is what makes Bangkok a city that truly never loses its charm.