What the guidebooks said came to pass: We were conned by people outside the Palace (claiming it was closed), when they had an "understanding" with the tuk tuk (tricycle) driver to drop us off at the side of the Palace that was closed. The "guide" then regaled us of a palace that was open, and after that, the tuk tuk brought us to a jewelry shop. With that unpleasantness out of the way, I can say that the palace deserved its name: Grand. It was huge, house and corridors after one another of amazing architecture, and devotion to their gods and ancestors was so apparent. It is a place that can make you feel enlightened - were it not for the thousands of tourists jostling for camera positions, running to and from their assigned tour group schedules, and what-not. We went in August 2007, admittedly a "touristy" time. What surprised me, considering the fact that there are millions of tourists who go through Thailand each year, is their weak English skills. I realize as a tourist, I have no right ot impose my language on them - but their counterparts in Asia (China, Hong Kong, Singapore) all have better English skills, which left me wondering considering the amount of business they get from the tourism industry. Even shopping in the malls (I went to Nike in Siam Paragon) was a chore - they couldn't understand basic words like "How much?". And their oft repeated claim about being "The Land of Smiles" just didn't turn out to be true. Many of them were downright surly or rude. (I've been to Guangzhou in China, which isn't really a must yet on anyone's tourist spot list, but despite the lack of sights, the hospitality I received thenre more than made up for that and made it a better traveling experience than the one we had in Thailand.) I have been to Japan, Taiwan, the USA, China, Hong Kong, etc., and Thailand really ranks the worst for me in terms of "customer service". Thailand really has some of the most spectacular sights (like the Grand Palace). The human factor was the big letdown.

The home of Thai Royalty and some of the greatest treasures of the region such as a piece of the Great Buddha's breast bone housed in a magnificent temple. The structures are an amazing and powerful site. We hired an officially licensed tour guide at the gate for 400 baht (12.00) and it was well worth the price. We bargained, of course. Her detailed explanations and of each building were interesting and sometimes humorous. A truly amazing visit.

There were just too many unofficial guides outside of the Grand Palace to con you from entering the Palace so you will need to pay other guides to visit other temples before you come back. That really spoilt my day. At the end, we didn't even enter the Grand Palace! There must have been tons of people got con the way we saw it.

I think the trip to Thailand was fantastic. We were on a tour and got alot for the money. the Grand Palace was spectacular. Some Americans might say it was "over the top". I loved every aspect of the country that we saw. Visiting the Mesa Elephant camp was a joyful experience. Especially the artistic talents of the elephants. No wonder they made the Guiness Book of Records. I had my first balloon ride there also. The night markets were a challange because of the crowds and that made it fun. The food was better than expected. Carole Frank Grayslake Illinois USA

The Grand Palace is a collection of temples and buildings in the old Thai style. They are stunning, and awe inspiring and beautiful. They are in a compound; the king used to live here and some government functions are still performed here. The architecture and decoration is unbelievable and amazing. The buildings are colorful and intricately detailed. I have been to Bangkok and Thailand dozens of times (for business) over the years and this is by far the best thing I have seen. I recommend this as your #1 stop; don't miss it. It is usually crowded and of course Bangkok is always hot, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and water.

this place had many things to be seen with a proper guideance of person who knows about it. I really aenjoyed this place. I invite all the people who love to see pice of art visit to there. By Iresh

Overall the place (thailand) is great with its architecture and landscape, what a place to visit its worth your time and money.one thing annoying are the local people who pose as tourist guide but pry for tourist to make money.Anyway its part of tourism business and as a part help them alleviate their livelihood. PUT THIS TRIP ON YOUR LIST,I LOVE TO COMEBACK AGAIN- thailand people are friendly and always wears a smile.

Unbelieveable place to visit. Very spiritual too. Wear long pants however as they will not let you walk around in shorts! Forget the long pants and you can rent a pair while there if you wish.

For first visit in Thailand.I'd like to recommend u to visit this place..The Grand palace & The Emerald Buddha temple.dress politely. This inner-city riverine landmark contains several buildings with highly detailed architectural features. Wat Phra Kaeo within the same compound, is a treasure house of Thai arts, and houses the Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha image in Thailand. To help tourists enjoy their tour of the Grand Palace, a Personal Audio Guide can be rented at 100 Baht for two hours. Discs are available in seven languages-English, French, German, Spanish, Russian, Japanese and Mandarin. The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.rn.-3.30 p.m. Admission fee is 200 Baht. (including a ticket to Vimanmek Royal Mansion). Proper attire is essential.

Great, it represent Thai style. I'll recomend all of my friends ot visit. It's look high class place, green, and ... try by yourself. Great, it represent Thai style. I'll recomend all of my friends ot visit. It's look high class place, green, and ... try by yourself.