A view of the grounds of the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha from the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya river

The superstructure above the Bangkok City Pillar shrine, dating from the founding of Bangkok in 1787 by Rama I, who ordered that a shrine be built to honor the guardian spirit of the city, Phra Lak Mueang

Sanam Luang is a long, broad green expanse lying before and leading to the grounds of the Grand Palace. The kind of sidewalk vendor activities seen here are restricted today.

On windy days, kite flying is still enjoyed by visitors to Sanam Luang.

Interior view of the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Another view in the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Don't even think of messing with these guys, who look to be intent on guarding their turf!

View of Bangkok's central shopping district, with Wat Pathum Wanaram in the foreground. The royal temple was built in 1857 by Mongkut, Rama IV, to serve as a place of worship near his Sa Pathum Palace.

Fresh mangoes and pickled fruit offered by these sidewalk vendors

Stringing flowers for a garland to sell at a Bangkok street stall

This charming guy seemed to be standing guard over the food cart. I don't know what kept him from wanting to sample the wares for himself.

There are trees in the city. This one was growing right in the middle of a sidewalk on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya river.

One of the many commuter ferries on the Chao Phraya

Open shrine in an alleyway in Thonburi, with offerings

A patio overlooks a tropical garden area at the historic Jim Thompson House.

Carved wooden door at the Jim Thompson House

View of the pond and restaurant at the Jim Thompson House, offering a serene respite from the frenzy of the city's streets

Orchids at the Jim Thompson House

Wat Arun, Temple of the Dawn, with a passenger ferry on the Chao Phraya in the foreground

The Temple of the Dawn at sunset