91热爆

Michael Portillo continues his exploration of Thailand by rail, steered by his 1913 Bradshaw鈥檚 guide. He steps into the ring under the guidance of champion trainer Master Toddy to learn muay Thai boxing. Can he perfect the cobra-inspired right hook?

Michael confronts his fear of snakes to assist in a surgical operation on a deadly venomous king cobra. He discovers the life-saving work of Bangkok鈥檚 Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, established at the time of his guide by the royal family after the death of a young princess.

Beginning in the capital, Michael learns how the late-19th-century King Rama V founded the city on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, built a grand palace and introduced railways to his country. Michael discovers the fine terminus commissioned by the king and meets a historian and designer who shares family roots with the present royal dynasty. Michael learns that King Rama V鈥檚 love of steam engines was inspired by Queen Victoria.

At the colossal new station under construction in the city, Michael hears how its four levels and 24 platforms will transform Thailand鈥檚 transport infrastructure. He circles the Grand Palace by tuk tuk then boards the 21st-century Skytrain for a wonderful view of the city.

Michael dines on the water in a floating market, where purchases are made from boat to boat. Following in the footsteps of writers such as Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene and John Le Carre, Michael checks into the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, built just before his guide.

Striking south to the resort of Hua Hin, Michael learns the history of the Southern Railway and hears how royal patronage kickstarted today鈥檚 Thai tourist industry. He meets the niece of the present king, Rama X, at the Palace of Love and Hope, created by their ancestor, King Rama VI.