Visit what was once the world’s greatest city, Ayuttaya, located only 50 miles north of Bangkok.After Sukhothai, Ayuttaya was the second capital of Siam, founded in the mid-14^th Century and subsequently burnt almost completely to the ground by the Burmese in 1767.

By 1700, with 1 million inhabitants, 3 palaces, and 400 temples, it was the largest city in the world, and reported by many visitors to be the grandest.Traders from around the world set sail for Ayuttaya, and she was home to 33 kings and many dynasties.With a little imagination, one can almost envision the fleets of boats, the processions, the ceremonies, the pomp and grandeur of an extraordinary city that flourished just 3 centuries ago.

An interesting and illuminating way to visit Ayuttaya with your family is by cruising up the Chao Phaya River from Bangkok.A number of excellent cruises are available, which also stop at Bang Pa-in, also known as the Summer Palace.Its immaculately landscaped gardens and European-style buildings make it well worth a visit.Stay overnight on some of the cruises if you like; very cozy cabins are available.Then return to Bangkok the next day.