Today’s Wonder of the Day was inspired by Kayla. Kayla Wonders, “I would like to learn about Bangkok, Thailand” Thanks for WONDERing with us, Kayla!

Do you ever dream of traveling around the world? Earth is such a WONDERful home, isn’t it? You probably know your home town or city fairly well. You may have even traveled around the state or nation you live in. But what about other countries or continents? Today, grab your passport and pack a bag for a trip east. Where are we going? Let’s visit Bangkok!

Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand. It’s home to over 10 million people. Bangkok is the country’s only major city. Thailand is mostly made up of small towns and villages.

Bangkok became the capital of Thailand in 1767. It has been the country’s cultural and historical center ever since. It’s on the Chao Phraya, one of southeastern Asia’s most important rivers. Bangkok is also a major center of commerce. It has grown into a large modern city over the past several hundred years.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Bangkok is just a shortened version of the city’s full ceremonial name. What’s the full name? Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. We think we’ll just stick with Bangkok! The city holds the world record for the longest name of a place.

Have you ever been to Bangkok? If so, we hope you packed summer clothes! The city’s subtropical climate stays warm most of the year. In fact, it has been named the hottest city in the world by the World Meteorological Organization.

Another thing that’s hot in Bangkok is the cuisine. Thai food is loved around the world. It’s known for being spicy, so have a tall glass of water on hand! If you ever visit, be sure to try an authentic Pad Thai with jasmine rice. You might also try another local specialty—fried cockroaches and caterpillars!

After a spicy meal, you can also get some exercise. Take a walk around Bangkok and visit its many fascinating sights. Sometimes called “Temple City,” Bangkok’s streets are filled with beautiful Buddhist temples. For example, Wat Pho features the biggest Buddha statue in all of Thailand!

Other must-see places include Wat Arun, the Ancient City, the Grand Palace, and the Dusit Zoo. A short trek outside Bangkok will take you into areas of rainforest. There, you could ride a zip line. You could also see an incredible variety of wildlife!

As you travel around Bangkok, you’re sure to meet many friendly people. Thailand is actually known as the “Land of Smiles.” Its friendly nature probably contributed to Bangkok being named “World’s Best City” in 2008 by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine.

Would you like to visit Bangkok? What other cities are you interested in learning more about? Our world is full of amazing places—we hope you get to see them one day!

Standards: CCRA.L.3, CCRA.L.6, CCRA.R.1, CCRA.R.2, CCRA.R.4, CCRA.R.10, CCRA.SL.1

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