For a Half Day

Rose Garden: The Rose Garden (tel: (034) 322 544; website: www.rosegardenriverside.com) is a popular tourist attraction located 32km (20 miles) to the southwest of Bangkok. It features daily cultural shows, including dancing and Thai boxing. The resort is set in well-kept gardens and is open 0800 to 1700.

Damnoan Saduak Floating Market: Although this market is 80km (50 miles) west of Bangkok, it is far more interesting than the floating market in Bangkok, as it has not been turned into a tourist attraction. In the early morning, the narrow canals are full of small boats carrying fruit and vegetables sold by local women. The market is very colourful and atmospheric - but it is all over by 1100, which necessitates an early start from Bangkok. Although it is possible to take a bus from the Southern Bus Terminal to within a mile of the market, it is probably easier to join an organised tour from a hotel (see Tours of the City).

For a Whole Day

Kanchanaburi: Located 122km (76 miles) from Bangkok is the site of the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai. Built by Allied PoWs during WWII, this is an area of exceptional natural beauty, with forested mountains and wooded valleys. Two immaculately maintained Allied war cemeteries are located just outside of the town. Kanchanaburi can be reached by either bus or train or by tour bus from Bangkok. The local Tourist Authority of Thailand office (tel: (034) 511 200; website: www.tourismthailand.org/kanchanaburi) can provide further information.

Ayutthaya: This was the Thai capital for over 400 years until its destruction in 1767. Ruins of numerous temples and palace buildings cover a vast area. The beauty of the place is such that it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is located 76km (47 miles) north of Bangkok and can be reached by bus, train or boat. The local Tourist Authority of Thailand office (tel: (035) 246 076/7; website: www.tourismthailand.org/ayutthaya) can provide further information.