Bangkok is a city that welcomes visitors but is complex in both history and layout. There's a reason that people come back time and time again: this is not a place you can fully comprehend with just one trip. The Thai capital is both socially tolerant and deeply conservative; its businesses are often friendly but difficult to find. It's a city where both an old monarchy and a young creative class find common ground.

In helping you navigate Bangkok's streets, Monocle will show you a city where business and design is thriving. Hidden in plain sight are great parks for running, architectural...