Tag: thailand

Tulip Season in the Netherlands
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Top Spring Events and Festivals Around the Globe

on March 19, 2026

Spring is a season of new beginnings, colors, and celebrations across the world. As winter fades and flowers begin to bloom, many cultures welcome the warmer months with vibrant festivals and unique traditions. From colorful parades to century-old celebrations, spring offers travelers unforgettable experiences that highlight the culture and spirit of destinations around the globe.

Tulip Season in the Netherlands

Each spring, millions of tulips bloom across the countryside of the Netherlands, transforming fields into a stunning patchwork of bright colors. Tulip season in the Netherlands runs from late March to mid-May, with peak blooms usually in mid-April. The best place to see these are at the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse (open March 19-May 10, 2026).

keukenhof Gardens

If interested in seeing this beautiful spectacle in person, Gate 1 has you covered with our 9 Day Tulip Time River Cruise tour. Travelers will embark on a panoramic tour of Amsterdam, next they will visit Willemstad to view the iconic windmills built in the 1700s, and last, they will take a morning tour in the Keukenhof Gardens. Gate 1 also offers this trip with up to seven different variations for travelers to pick from.

Holi Festival: India’s Celebration of Color

The Holi festival typically occurs on March 3-4 every year. Though this date has already passed, we thought it was worth mentioning. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, a night of bonfires symbolizing the destruction of evil. The following day, known as Rangwali Holi or Dhuleti, involves joyfully applying colored powders and water to friends and family.

Holi Festival

The significance of the Holi festival in India commemorates the legend of Prahlad’s devotion to Vishnu and the burning of the demoness Holika. It also celebrates the divine, playful love of Radha and Krishna. The different colors featured in the festival all have individual meanings. Red (love), blue (Krishna), Green (new beginnings), and yellow (turmeric/auspiciousness). Participants often wear white, enjoying traditional foods like gujiya and thandai, and celebrate in the streets with music and drums.

Songkran: Thailand’s Famous Water Festival

Songkran, the Thai New Year and world’s biggest water fight, is celebrated annually in Thailand from April 13-15 as a time of renewal, purification, and family reunion. The purpose of the festival is to celebrate after the rice harvest to mark the sun’s passage into Aries. This represents a spiritual cleaning to welcome the New Year with good fortune.

Songkran Thailand

The festival has evolved into city-wide water battles, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, involving both tourists and locals. If you’re planning on participating in Songkran, tourists must follow these rules. Make sure to wear bright floral shirts (Songkran shirts), use waterproof bags, and bring a small change just in case. Do not pour water on monks, infants, or the elderly.

Cherry Blossom Season in Japan

Hanami is a Japanese tradition of celebrating spring by holding picnics and parties under blooming cherry blossom trees (Sakura). This typically occurs between late March and early April, signifying new beginnings. Locals will gather for food and drinks to enjoy the beautiful scenes, often extending into illuminated night viewing (Yozakura).

Japan Cherry Blossom

This iconic blossom moves from Southern Japan to Northern Japan. The top locations to see this gorgeous view include Hirosaki Park, Maruyama Park, and the Yoshino area. Some tips for travelers visiting the blossom are to get to the spots early, many locals have spots reserved hours in advance. Also, do not pick the blossoms from the trees, it is strictly prohibited.

Las Fallas in Valencia

The Fallas of Valencia, Spain is a UNESCO listed festival held annually from March 15-19 to welcome spring. It features hundreds of giant, satirical, papier-mâché sculptures called fallas and smaller ninots erected throughout the city. The celebration hits its peak with a “La Cremà”, where these artistic monuments are burned, symbolizing purification, renewal, and a fiery start to the new season.

Valencia Las Fallas

This tradition dates to the 18th century, originating from local carpenters burning old wood and remnants on the feast day of their patron saint, Saint Joseph, to welcome spring. Though the main events are from the 15-19, celebrations occur starting on the first day of March. Every day from the 1st to the 19th, synchronized firecracker displays go off at 2 PM in Valencia’s Town Hall Square.

Celebrating Spring Around the World From flower-filled gardens in the Netherlands, to colorful celebrations in India, and lively traditions in Spain, spring festivals bring communities together to celebrate new beginnings. Experiencing these events first-hand offers travelers a deeper understanding of local cultures while celebrating the beauty and energy of the season. If interested in visiting any of these countries mentioned above, click here to see Gate 1’s full itinerary.

Architecture Asia Building culture
AfricaUncategorized

Asia’s Most Extraordinary Hotels: Where to Stay for a One-of-a-Kind Experience

on November 6, 2025

Asia is a continent full of life. From ancient temples to bustling cities, or even beaches and lush jungles, where you choose to stay can really make or break a vacation. Across the globe, travelers are discovering hotels that go beyond luxury, offering unforgettable experiences that reflect local culture, design, and nature. Gate 1 offers many unique hotels to pick from when traveling to countries in Asia, let’s take a look.

Japan

When visiting Tokyo, consider staying at the Tokyo Prince Hotel. This hotel can be booked on Gate 1’s 9 Day Classic Japan Escorted Tour. It has the perfect location for those looking to explore the city to its fullest. The Tokyo Tower, the 14th century Zojo-ji Temple, and local gardens are about a five-minute walk from the hotel. Plus, you can explore beyond this neighborhood easily by taking advantage of the Onarimon subway station just 0.3 miles away. Plus, with plenty of shops and restaurants onsite, savoring the local flavors and bringing home something to help remember your stay is easier than ever.

Tokyo Prince Hotel Japan

Each guest room has an electric kettle, television, telephone, and a private bathroom with a hair dryer and toiletries. Guest Wi-Fi is available in both private and public spaces throughout the building. The rooms are air-conditioned on a seasonal basis. Plus, if you’re visiting when it’s warm out, you can cool off with a dip in the seasonally open outdoor pool (surcharge required).

The Tokyo Prince boasts a variety of restaurants and bars fit for royalty. Porto offers buffet style dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Marronnier serves Chinese fare, and the Café and Bar Tower View Terrace offers delicious bites and stunning views of Tokyo Tower. Authentic local Japanese dishes abound at the Shimizu Japanese Restaurant, with an additional bar, beer garden and tea salon are available on-site as well.

China

The next unique hotel to stay at is the Royal Pacific Hotel, located in Honk Kong, China. Travelers can stay at this hotel if they book Gate 1’s 17 Day China with 4 Day Yangtze River Cruise & Hong Kong Guided Tour. The first-class hotel is centrally located in the prosperous Tsim Sha Tsui shopping district. It overlooks Victoria Harbour and Kowloon Park. We highly recommend taking in the view of the harbor at night, as it offers one of the most beautiful views of the skyline available. With public transit stops nearby at the China/Macau Ferry Terminal, exploring the rest of the city like a local is easier than ever. And if you’re looking to slow down after a long day of on-the-go sightseeing, The Hong Kong Museum of Art is a moderate stroll away.

Royal Pacific Hotel China

The guest rooms are well equipped with modern furnishings and large windows. Each room features tea and coffee making facilities, wireless internet access, and an in-room safe. Rooms are air-conditioned seasonally. The hotel’s fitness center offers guests a variety of free weights, benches, and cardio machines.

The onsite restaurants include: Café on the Park, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets; Pierside Bar and Restaurant, which serves contemporary Australian fare; and Satay Inn, which serves Singaporean dishes.

Mongolia

To get the full experience of staying in rural Mongolia, you should stay at the Alungoo Lodge. This tourist class lodge is nestled near the scenic landscapes of Gorkhi Terelj National Park. The guest rooms are decorated in the style of a traditional Mongolian ger, each one thoughtfully designed to provide comfort while preserving authentic aesthetics. Guest rooms include private bathrooms, ensuring privacy throughout your stay. It should be noted that this lodge does not provide air conditioning, so travelers who struggle with heat may want to take that into account when planning their stay.  

Alungoo Lodge Mongolia

The prime location near Gorkhi Terelj National Park is a benefit that cannot be overstated. Additionally, Turtle Rock (Melkhii Khad) is just a six-minute drive away, while Ulaanbaatar is about a one-hour drive from the lodge. On Gate 1’s 13 Day Mongolia & Gobi Desert Guided Tour, travelers will have the opportunity to interact with locals and the environment surrounding the lodge. You’ll be immersed in the culture with a visit to a Kazakh family, meet a Golden Eagle hunter, and even visit a local horse breeding family as well.

Guests can enjoy meals in a traditional setting with cuisine options ranging from local Mongolian specialties to familiar Western fare. The on-site pub provides a selection of beverages, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Thailand

If you’re looking to travel somewhere a little warmer, consider planning a stay at the Mida Resort Kanchanaburi. This superior tourist class resort is situated inside a tropical garden located in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. It overlooks the Khwae Yai River, providing scenic views you can’t find anywhere else. The iconic River Kwai Bridge is about a thirty-five-minute drive away. And (movie buffs, this one’s for you!) if you’re a fan of the film The Bridge on the River Kwai, we highly recommend seeing this landmark in person. After a long day of traveling on Gate 1’s 9 Day Central Thailand with River Kwai Guided Tour, you can come back to the resort and relax in the on-site sauna, spa, or outdoor pool.

Mida Resort Kanchanaburi Thailand

The elegant, modern guest rooms are decorated with contemporary Thai style decor. All guest rooms are equipped with a variety of amenities for a comfortable stay, including Wi-Fi, a hairdryer, a safe, cable/satellite television, and a private bathroom. Air conditioning is provided seasonally with limited hours depending on the time of year.

The Terrace Café is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snacks and beverages are served at the resort’s Pool Bar for those who want something to provide a quick fill.

Stay Somewhere That Tells a Story

Asia’s most inspiring hotels aren’t just places to rest, they’re a part of your journey. From a sleek modern design to a lodge that honors the local culture, these properties capture the essence of their destinations and invite travelers to enjoy the moment and connect. No matter where you choose to go, picking the right place to stay can transform a simple trip into an unforgettable experience. If you’re interested in other countries in Asia, click here to browse through Gate 1’s full itinerary of Asian tours!

#G1PhotoFridayAsia & Pacific

Serenity and Beauty in Wat Pho, Bangkok

on August 30, 2019

Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is a must for visitors to the country of Thailand and specifically travelers to the city of Bangkok. With the full name being Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Ratchaworamahawihan, the temple complex is one of the oldest and largest in the entire city. It is best known for its large, gold leaf-covered reclining Buddha. The reclining Buddha measures in at about 50 feet tall and 150 feet wide!

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @khriz_just_travels using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken at Wat Pho in Bangkok, Thailand. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Thailand trips here! 

Did you know: Wat Pho is home to one of the leading massage schools in Thailand so this is a great place to try out a Thai massage!

#G1PhotoFridayAsia & Pacific

The Ornate Temple of Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai, Thailand

on November 16, 2018

Wat Rong Khun, or the White Temple, is located in Chiang Rai, Thailand and is one of the most unique destinations in Southeast Asia. The temple is a place of worship and is covered in ornate designs. The pure white color of the building is meant to symbolize the purity of the Buddha and nearly everything about the temple depicts a religious or symbolic meeting. The building was completely restored around 1997 and was designed by the same man who funded it.

chiangrai

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @jingle_dancer_ using the hashtag #gate1travel. This dreamy scene was taken at Way Rong Khun in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Thailand trips here!

Travel Tips

Top 10 Friendliest Cities in the World

on November 1, 2018
Pictured: Queenstown, New Zealand

Hello and warmest welcomes to our list of the friendliest cities in the world. Let’s be honest, sometimes travel can be a little uncomfortable and stressful, especially in a new location. A helpful culture, friendly people and beautiful sights all help make you feel at home in a new city and may even help contribute to making it your new favorite vacation spot! Follow us around the world as we bring you to some of our friendliest spots due to their authenticity and unashamed personality.

10. Thimphu, Bhutan
Welcome to the tiny, magical kingdom of Bhutan, located in-between India and China. Tradition and independence reign supreme in Bhutan and you will see that instantly in the people who live here. The capital city of Thimphu gives you the perfect taste of what Bhutan is all about. This city is located in the Himalayas and is extremely isolated from outside cultures, meaning it has largely kept its authenticity. Thimphu is the most modern in the entire country and boosts a great amount of sights to see. A great thing to do here is to surround yourself with temples and courtyards that will make you feel just like a local. Top attractions here include the Dochula, a mountain pass through the Himalayas and Simtokha Dzong, an important historic building and former Buddhist monastery, Do not forget to be on the lookout for the rare national animal; the Tazin.

9. Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Travel along the beautiful Sea-to-Sky Highway to get to alluring Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, Canada. This town is a true homage to Victorian charm, through the architecture and genuine nature of the locals. It is also the oldest city in the Pacific Northwest, which means its has a lot of history stretching back thousands of years. British and Asian traditions are also prominent here thanks to the cities past involvements with trading and British rule. While in Victoria, you will want to visit Beacon Hill Park, Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum. Perhaps stop in Canada’s oldest Chinatown and indulge in a delicious snack! Perhaps you’ll enjoy a stroll or have a meal along the Victoria Harbor and take in the view of the Parliament Building along the water. Victoria, British Columbia welcomes you and you will be greeted with a warm embrace!

8. Hoi An, Vietnam
The ancient town of Hoi An, Vietnam will give you a feel for the culture as soon as you get here. Many of the people in this city still wear the “ao dais” or cultural dress of the Vietnamese. Hoi An is bursting with tradition, given its past as an important Asian training port. This city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has an impressive collection of canals, pagodas, temples, bridges and shops in the Old Quarter. While in Hoi An, be sure to visit the Organic Village where you can enjoy vegetables and herbs grown in the area to support the local community. This town has no airport or train station so you will oftentimes land in the airport of Da Nang and drive to Hoi An, but it is worth it! Warm weather, happy people and a city with much to do will make Hoi An a new favorite of yours.

7. Savannah, Georgia, United States
Welcome to the “Belle of the South” Savannah, Georgia, and what a beauty this city is. A storied past and numerous landmarks give this city a heart all its own. Historic landmarks you must see in Savannah include Forsyth Park, River Street, the Waving Girl statue and the Cotton Exchange. While here, be sure to keep an eye out for the manicured gardens, historic district, antebellum architecture and horse-drawn carriages, that will transport you to another era. Take a walk down the cobblestone streets at night and get a real feel for the city; breathe in the warm weather and magnificent sights of the South in Savannah.

6. Galway, Ireland
You’ve arrived in the Emerald Isle and we have an excellent spot for you to visit! Galway is a seafaring town in this country that deeply honors tradition. The Gaelic language is alive here and can be observed in the people of this area. When in this city, be on the lookout for folk music, traditional pubs and fun shops. These are all a must to truly understand the character of this city and those who live here. Must see sights in this city include the Eyre Square, River Corrib, Latin Quarter and Galway Cathedral. If you love a city that marches to the beat of its own drum and has a truly unique nature, Galway is a must for you.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is located in the mountainous Himalayas in the region of Northern Thailand. Northern Thailand is said to have a persona and food scene all its own and cannot be compared with the cities in the south. This is due to its close border to Myanmar and Laos and the Lanna inspiration that exists here. This area is rich in character and is very fond of festivals and celebrations! Chiang Mai is a perfect example of the culture of the north and has temples and wats that you will not believe. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Wat Suan Dok and Wat Phra Singh are just a few of the must see attractions. Some things to try and do here that are authentic include sampling local dishes, perhaps Larb, a spicy salad, or Khao Soim, coconut curry soup, enjoying a Thai massage, venturing through Sankampang Street for handicrafts and exploring the temples. Experience for yourself, the spirit and beliefs of Northern Thailand, with a visit to the genuine Chiang Mai.

4. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown, New Zealand was named for Queen Victoria and is located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu on the South Island of this Pacific nation. Queenstown has a rich Maori culture and history of gold-mining that helped shape what this area is today. This city is considered the adventure sports capital of the country and is a perfect place to live like the locals. Bungy-jumping, skydiving, paragliding and zip-lining are all available here. For more natural scenes, Milford Sound, Elington Valley, Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls are some of the few in Queenstown. See excellent views of the city below at Bob’s Peak and view some of the Lord of the Rings filming locations. Be sure to also get acquainted with the downtown of this resort area and perhaps visit a relaxing spa, find a good restaurant or do some exploring! Getting yourself into some adventures in Queenstown is sure to make you feel like a kiwi and meet kiwi friends as well.

3. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is your gateway to the Angkor temples and a unique city all it’s own. It is very probable that the Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat masterpieces brought you here, and that’s an excellent reason. These amazing temples were built by Khmer Kings and were once home to over a million people! These temples are truly a must see for your travel bucket list and are unlike anything you have seen. This city is very popular and safe and has adapted to accommodate travelers. Hotels, restaurants and shopping are all prevalent and excellent in this city. Many of the people of Cambodia are grateful and happy to meet travelers and people from all over the world so do not be afraid to interact! The Cambodians have had a fascinating and sometimes horrific history but they are more than happy to share their country, as well as ancient sights, with the world.

2. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland is one of those cities that is always a good idea and will always provide travelers with a good time. Whether you are walking around, exploring sights or having a drink in the pub at night, this city is full of excitement, singing and people enjoying themselves. Some of the must see sights in Dublin include Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, O’Connell Street and St. Stephen’s Green. If you are looking for a place to enjoy a drink, eat Irish fare or do a little shopping, head down to the Temple Bar area. This area can get a bit touristy and crowded, so do not be afraid to spend a little time here and move on to another area. If you are looking for an authentic Irish experience, this is one of the best places in the country to find it! Have a bowl of Irish Stew with a local or listen to an Irish folk band at the pub and you are sure to feel more green.

1. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Hola! Welcome to San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. This location tops the list thanks to its impressive history, friendly people, tasty restaurants and easy exploration of the city by foot. San Miguel de Allende also has a large ex-pat community that can make you feel more at home. The city itself is best known for it’s Colonial-era and Spanish architecture and intertwining history with Mexico’s Independence. Cobblestone streets, majestic churches and plentiful parks and gardens help add to the perfection of this story-book city. Here, you will feel safe, enjoy a friendly and exciting place and have a stress-free time exploring the sights. While in this city, be sure to visit Parroquia de San Migual Arcangel, Juarez Park and the Artisan Market to get a feel for this area. Do not be afraid to walk in this city, it is very safe and effortless to explore on foot.

Bonus: Charleston, South Carolina, United States
We couldn’t end a friendliest cities list without mentioned the warm and charming city of Charleston, South Carolina in the United States! Cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions and multi-colored homes are all the norm for this city in the South. This city has so much to offer with its historic charm, excellent food scene and shopping. If you are a big shopper or want a bite to eat, head down to King Street or the Historic Charleston City Market. Both of these areas have great shopping and have restaurants and stands for wonderful food. If history is more your style, visit Fort Sumter, a Civil War fort, or the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, a historic house with tours and a lush garden to explore. Feel the Southern hospitality of South Carolina while in this gem of the South.

#G1PhotoFridayAsia & Pacific

The Spiritual Legacy of Ayutthaya, Thailand

on June 1, 2018

Ayutthaya, Thailand was the second capital of the Kingdom of Siam after Sukhothai. This ancient city was founded in 1350 and flourished; once being one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia. The city was mostly destroyed in the 18th century but what remains is a magnificent archaeological site that includes temples, statues, Buddhist monasteries and more. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an excellent place to explore and a must-see while in Thailand.

thailand

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @Nancy using the hashtag #gate1travel. This spiritual view was taken in Ayutthaya, Thailand in Southeast Asia. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Thailand trips here!

Asia & PacificSmall Group Discoveries

8 Things You Didn’t Know about Southeast Asia

on April 26, 2016

Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam hold many exotic and fascinating secrets, and you’ll learn a lot of them during our Gems of Southeast Asia itinerary. But we think some of them are so fascinating and fun that we couldn’t wait to share them.

With this kingdom, I thee wed. Angkor Thom, Cambodia’s massive city adjacent to Angkor Wat, was created from an aggressive building program headed by King Jayavarman VII. To give you an idea of how passionate he was about his beloved city, one surviving inscription in stone here refers to Jayavarman as groom and Angkor Thom as bride.

Shape shifters. Apsaras, the supernatural female beings of Cambodian mythology, are said to be able to change their shape at will. Sometimes compared to muses of ancient Greece, they can also rule over fortunes, especially those acquired (or lost!) in gambling. Two types of apsaras live on in Cambodian lore: Laukika and Daivika, or the worldly and the divine, respectively.

What’s in a name? Bangkok’s current name in the Thai language is Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. But this is merely an abbreviated version of its full ceremonial name, which takes a native speaker 14 seconds to say: Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit.

This hearty mouthful translates as “City of angels, great city of immortals, magnificent city of nine gems, seat of the king, city of royal palaces, home of gods incarnate, erected by Visvakarman at Indra’s behest.”

Epic journey of a Buddha. The Emerald Buddha, the revered statue of Nephrite in the Grand Palace’s Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, has an adventurous history worthy of any summer blockbuster. It was carved in India in 43 BC. After 300 years here, civil war began to brew and so it was taken to Sri Lanka for safety. In 457 AD, the king of Burma asked that it be brought to him to support his country’s embrace of Buddhism, but the ship upon which it sailed lost its way in a storm and landed in Cambodia. When the Siamese army took Angkor Wat, they also took the Emerald Buddha and moved it around several cities until it arrived here.

Good tidings. It may seem a trivial custom to tie strings around each other’s wrists as a gesture of welcome. But to the Laotian people, this important ceremony, known as baci, which means “calling of the soul,” is central to greeting new friends. To accompany the simple act, a silver tray is festooned with flowers, banana leaves, and bamboo poles.

Morning stroll. Every morning in the streets of Luang Prabang, Laos, a parade of orange-robed monks appears in the streets with satchels and baskets. As they walk, they fall into reception lines to collect modest offerings of rice and other foods from locals. It is one of the most moving rituals we witness, this simple offering of kindness received with humility.

Halong by the numbers. Within its 600 square miles, Vietnam’s Halong Bay has between 1,960 and 2,000 islands and islets. The karst that makes up many of the islands has evolved over 20 million years in a tropical wet climate. Of its flora, 14 species are endemic. Of its fauna, 60 species are unique to this area. But no matter how you measure it, Halong Bay is a magnificent natural wonder.

One way to keep your taxes down. Real estate tax in Hanoi, Vietnam, is calculated by the street frontage that your house occupies. One way around high taxes was to build narrow houses, which you’ll see plenty of in both the city’s Old Quarter and modern areas. Known as “Tube Houses,” what these dwellings lack in width they make up for in depth. In the front section of the house, business is conducted, whether retail or other transactions. Heading to the back, you would walk through courtyards, gardens, and private family quarters.

Asia & PacificSmall Group Discoveries

A Tale of Two Southeast Asian Cities

on April 19, 2016

Over centuries, grand and sprawling kingdoms rose and fell throughout Southeast Asia. Borders shifted. Alliances crumbled and formed. So it is remarkable that some of the region’s most spectacular ancient cities still survive; the voices of their residents whisper in architectural elements that are as sweeping as massive temples and as tiny as intricate bas reliefs. As you might expect, the grandest of Southeast Asia’s ancient cities have histories that are inextricably linked: Angkor, Cambodia and Ayutthaya, Thailand.

Angkor was the seat of power for the Khmer Empire as early as the year 802, when the imperial Hindu monarch Jayavarman II crowned himself the “god king.” Under his reign and the reigns of his successors, the Khmer city grew into the largest preindustrial city in the world, totaling 390 square miles and one million people.

More than 1,000 temples were built throughout the city, but none as grand as the resplendent Angkor Wat, built in the early 12th century as a state temple by King Suryavarman II. Many historians call it the largest single religious monument in the world. Its five lotus-style spires are said to represent the five peaks of Mount Meru, home of deities from Hindu mythology. Its walls and moat symbolize Meru’s surrounding mountains and ocean. Remarkable in scale and design, it is considered a perfect example of the high classical style of Khmer architecture.

Angkor grew into the envy of all surrounding tribes and in 1177 the Cham people moved in and sacked the city. But the Khmers took it back under the leadership of Jayavarman VII, a Buddhist. With his rise, Angkor Wat converted from Hinduism to Theravada Buddhism. (Buddhist monks still practice here today and can do so because the moat that encircles the complex prevented the jungle from swallowing its buildings, even during periods of abandonment.)

The causes of Angkor’s rapid decline have been debated for generations. Some believe a plague or earthquake sent its citizens fleeing. Others say that a Buddhist ruler could not sustain such a huge population. By definition, Buddhism did not celebrate individual achievement and so the people of Angkor lacked an inspiring leader around whom to rally and maintain the infrastructure of their huge city. The economy crashed and the population scattered.

Meanwhile north of Angkor, the Siamese capital of Ayutthaya grew into power as the previous capital, Sukhothai, fell into decline. Their approach to governing took the best of both previous Khmer eras: an absolute “god-king” monarchy coupled with Theravada Buddhism. This rigid yet spiritual approach seemed to work for the new capital as it, ironically, sacked city after city in the region.

Angkor could not withstand the onslaught and in 1431 its Khmer leaders fled Siamese forces and set up their new capital at Phnom Penh. By the year 1700, Ayutthaya had blossomed into a city of one million, making it one of the world’s largest cities. Roaming the ancient city’s grounds today, you can imagine its past splendor from its reliquary towers and huge monasteries. As grand as its buildings were its ideas. Here, King Boroma Trailokanath centralized the military and administrative functions of his country and put in place a system of land ownership and social status that would shape the country for centuries to come.

In the 17th century Europeans took interest in Southeast Asia – Dutch, English, Danes, and French were all spellbound by the grandeur of Ayutthaya. As French interests became suspect (were they mere admirers or expectant colonizers?), King Narai made a decision that would shape Thailand’s history up to the present day: He expelled the 600 legionnaires from his city. To this day, the country has never been colonized by an outside power – a claim that other Southeast Asian nations cannot make.

To be sure, the magnificent architecture of the ancient cities of Angkor and Ayutthaya inspire wonder and fascination. And the stories behind the facades help us glimpse life here when these two urban centers thrived.