Take a trip back in time when you visit the Grand Palace Complex, once the home of the King of Siam. Built in 1782, the palace also served as the Royal Court and administrative seat of government until the early 1900s. Still very much the spiritual centre of the nation, the luxurious former royal residence is used regularly for various ceremonies throughout the year. Continuing our spiritual quest, we will next encounter Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the revered Emerald Buddha. Your local guide will lead you through the grounds of the palace, offering a fascinating insight into this majestic place and its spiritual significance. A short walk from here, you can marvel at the magnificent Wat Po temple, the country's first university and the centre of Buddhism in Thailand. Founded in the 17th century, Wat Po is also the oldest Buddhist temple in Bangkok and remains today as a learning centre for traditional Thai massage and medicines. Take a leisurely stroll to the Chao Praya River (River of Kings) to board a long tail and cruise along the river before entering Bangkok's network of canals known as khlongs. In centuries past, Bangkok was often referred to as the 'Venice of the East' with its vast network of khlongs that were utilised as a transport network. While many Khlongs have been filled in and converted to roads for more modern forms of transport, in the Thonburi area of Bangkok many still survive. It is these we will weave through to gain an insight into the lives of people who call the khlongs home - seemingly a world away from the chaotic streets of Bangkok!