Bangkok – What’s in a Name

Demons and monkeys support a gilt stupa at the Grand Palace in Bangkok Thailand

Thai society erupted in controversy last month when the government approved a proposal to change the official name of Thailand’s capital from Bangkok to Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. While this might seem slightly bizarre to most Westerners, Thais have always referred to their capital city as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. In everyday conversation, they shorten the … Read more