One doesn’t come to Bangkok for calm. Nor does one come for ultimate luxury experiences. Bangkok is a city for the explorer. Those looking for a contagious energy. Those looking to feel alive. The capital of Thailand is electric chaos, from the animated street-food vendors to traffic jams galore. The only balance for Bangkok’s vibrant character is found in its spiritual dimension. Intricate Buddhist temples and monasteries offer momentary respite. Then it’s back to the buzz of the city life.

Bangkok is a place of abundance. Abundant in religious institutions, abundant in delicacies offered at the food markets, and abundant in places for an unforgettable night on the town. With Thailand’s first skate company (Preduce Skateboards), Princess Sirivannavari’s eponymous fashion label, and an avant-garde collaboration between Chef Gaggan Anand and Louis Vuitton, Bangkok is clearly abundant in its creative output as well. An intimate story of exploration recounted by author Simon Liberati is accompanied by dynamic images—several of which have been provided by local photographers—to present an invigorating portrait of Bangkok.