The beautiful and historic area centred around the Grand Palace, bordered by the Chao Phraya river on the west and Ku Muang Derm canal on the east, is undoubtedly Bangkok's cultural centre and contains many of the key sites all tourists want to see. Known as Rattanakosin Island, it is home to many of the city's most important temples--Wat Pho, Wat Rajabopit, and Wat Mahathat, to mention just a few, as well as the Museum Siam and the recently renovated National Museum. To the south of this area is the famous flower market, while to the north is the tourist mecca of Khao San Road. Exploring Old Bangkok takes the visitor around all the most important sites and explains the meaning of lesser-known but still significant landmarks such as the Pig Memorial and the Monument to the Expeditionary Force. The guide also includes eight iconic sights on the west bank of the river, including Wat Arun and the Royal Barge Museum. With the opening of the magnificent metro station, Sanam Chai, access to this centre of culture and Thai art has never been easier. Alternatively, visitors can reach the area via the ever-popular tourist boats and maybe take a canal trip from Tha Chang. Lavishly illustrated throughout in full colour, Exploring Old Bangkok also features two talking tours than take in the diversity of the area and a pull-out map with suggestions of where to stay and where to eat and drink in this historic and storied neighbourhood.