Bangkok/Laemchabang, Thailand

Bangkok is a city of contradictions: high-rise buildings and popular clubs abound, but so do golden temples and lively street fairs. A visit to the National Museum is great for history buffs, while shoppers will love the bargains in the Banglamphu district. Klong Toey, in central Bangkok, features a highly discounted market, offering fresh eel, dried fish, and the lively smells, sights, and sounds of this waterfront-pier area.