(left) The Wad Pra Kaew Palace.

(right) Marble temple.

(bottom) Loha Prasart.

Bangkok is a relatively new city. After Rama I (1782-1809),first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty, was crowned king, hebuilt his residence, now Bangkok'Grand Palace complwx, on the cacated lasnd.

Modernization has extended the range of employment opporyunities open to people migrating to the capital. A decade ago, newly-arrived girl was to take a position as a domestic.