Ibrahim Jabbari
WHERE: Ayutthaya, Thailand
Ayutthaya was the capital of Thailand (then Siam) for more than 400 years until it was succeeded by Bangkok in the late 18th century. During that time it grew enormously and became a commercial trade hub. The Burmese army razed Ayutthaya in 1767, leaving it in ruins. Despite the destruction, many of the stupas, temples, and carvings that fill the Historic City of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are remarkably well-preserved. If you think many of Ayutthaya’s stupas and prang (stone and brick corn-cob shaped towers) look much like those at Angkor Wat, you’re spot on: these were built in Khmer style (the others are in Sukhothai style). Like Angkor Wat, the Historic City of Ayutthaya is quite spread out. Cycling is a nice alternative to walking, but avoid the middle of the day when it’s very hot. Grab a tuk-tuk if you start flagging.
