As the capital city in a devoutly Buddhist country, Bangkok has no shortage of temples and shrines. Though, while they may offer you a chance at reaching enlightenment, they can't promise that you'll get your shoes back once you have it. … [Read more...]

Generally, spirit houses are meant to evoke the building that they belong to- luxury hotels have elaborate shrines, financial complexes have sleek modernist spirit-houses, and upcountry homes often have theirs built in a traditional style out of wood. So does this elaborate gold … [Read more...]

The streets and sidewalks of vendors are crowded with stands, where a wide range of vendors sell their wares. Most stands have obvious purposes: some sell tasty grilled chicken, others offer bootleg DVDs, and some sell cheap tourist t-shirts. But what does the stand topped with … [Read more...]

It's unclear whether it takes it's name from the image of the King above its entrance, or it's close proximity to the Royal Palace. Whichever it is, with it's faded beige walls and graying exterior, The Royal Hotel is looking anything but regal these days. … [Read more...]

It's not quite a hallowed shrine, but even in a dark and dusty alley, these statues of the Buddha retain their serene expression and beatific glow. … [Read more...]