Royal Thai Maps Exhibition

[GWR]

Here's a nice three-in-one Bangkok activity if the likes of Siam Paragon & MBK are beginning to appear rather banal. Take yourself over to Jim Thompson's House. On your approach to the building you may be hit on by uniformed guys who you will initially think are employees of JT. At this point, you will probably begin to learn something about the Gem Scam. Having dodged this dubious delight, you can take in the House itself. And until March 31st you will also be able to visit the 'Siam in Trade & War: Royal Maps of the Nineteenth Century' exhibition at JT's Centre for the Arts.

These hand-drawn maps were discovered by assistants of HRH Princess Sirindhorn at the Grand Palace in 1996. Free exhibition; although I suspect you may have to pay to get into the house first.

http://pics.manager.co.th/Images/549000001133701.JPEG

Call 02-612-6740 or email supicha@jimthompsonhouse.com for more info.

Well, the good news is that admission to the house is only 100 baht (50 Baht for [Thai?] students).

http://www.jimthompsonhouse.com/index.asp

There's also a canal boat stop on the San Saeb Canal very close to the house. Further East on the canal, this service has an interchange with the underground system.

There's an article about the maps here:-

http://www.manager.co.th/IHT/ViewNews.aspx?NewsID=9490000009560

Doubtless, you will also be able to peruse & buy 'the book' too:-

http://www.asiabook.com/browse/bookinfo.asp?ProdID=9789748225920&cat=&subcat=&d=