"Klongs." or "Waterways" in English. What is Bangkok without them? Hundreds of miles of klongs, many pulsating with long-tail boats ferrying goods and people These klongs are a continuation of a riverine tradition that has been going on for centuries.

For many visitors, the trip may provide some of the most unforgettable experiences while in Thailand.

The place to catch one of the unusual boats is the Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier. Walk down on Na Phra Lan Road to Tha Chang Market on the riverside.

Just before boarding the ferry, pick up some local fruits, cold juices in plastic bags or any Thai snacks to enjoy while cruising.

Take the tour to one of Thonburi klongs on the other side of the river aboard any of the long-tail boats at the pier on your left. You can also walk straight ahead to the outer pier to catch the Chao Phraya Express ferry boat to Chinatown, Wat Arun, Park Klong Talad (the largest fresh market), River City Shopping Complex, the Oriental Hotel, Shangri-La Hotel or to Nonthaburi Town Hall.

Each canal has its own charm, but Klong Bangkok Noi (the former Chao Phraya River) is the most popular because it offers a constantly changing view of life along the klong.

You will see Thai riverside house much as they were for centuries: beautiful temples adorned with intricately cut-glass and ceramic pieces, and saffron robed monks meditating placidly under the shade of a tree.

You may even be invited to share a bottle of Thailand's own potent rice whiskey, Mae Khong. Try mixing it with soda or fresh water over ice, or added a slice of lime and top up with Coke. You can also sample genuine Thai cooking at any of the small restaurants along the way. But ask the cook to go easy on the chilies if you haven't tried Thai food before.

The boatman will drop you anywhere you want along the way, so if you see a place you'd like to explore, wave you hand and he will stop. When you're ready to move on again, flag down another boat and continue your journey. Have a nice water trip!

Designated Piers from Wat Ratchsingkorn Pier to Nonthaburi Pier

Shangri-La Hotel to Dumax Pier Oriental Pier to Suwan Pier Si Phaya Pier to Klongsan Pier Ratchawongse Pier I5 to Din Daeng Pier I5 Thien Pier to Wat Arun Pier Chang Pier to Phrannok Pier Pra Chan Pier to Thonburi Railway Pier Pra Chan to Phra Pin Klao Pier Pra Atit Pier to Phra Pin Klao Pier