Bob Lin, MS-MVP, MCSE & CNE
Data recovery, Windows OS Recovery, Networking, and Computer Troubleshooting on
http://www.ChicagoTech.net
How to Install and Configure Windows, VMware, Virtualization and Cisco on
http://www.HowToNetworking.com
If you’re having trouble using USB with your Sony a7R III (ILCE-7RM3), here are some steps you can try:
Check USB Connection Settings: 1, Go to the camera’s menu. 2. Navigate to Network and select Ctrl w/ Smartphone. 3. Choose Off. Then, go to Setup and adjust the USB Connection setting according to your needs: Auto: Automatically establishes a Mass Storage or MTP connection based on the connected computer or USB devices. Mass Storage: Creates a Mass Storage connection. MTP: Establishes an MTP connection. PC Remote: Allows control of the camera from a computer using Imaging Edge software1.
Check USB cable and Ports.
Use the supplied USB cable or purchase a compatible, commercially available cable.
If your camera has a USB Type-C terminal, you can transfer images faster if you use a USB 3.1 compatible USB Type-C cable.
If your computer only has a USB Type-C port, a USB conversion adapter is required.
A gap will remain between the camera’s USB terminal and the USB cable once inserted.
If the computer doesn’t recognize the camera even after performing the operations above, check the following:
If the computer and the camera are connected via a USB hub, connect the USB cable directly to the USB port of the computer.
Connect the camera to a USB port on the computer that has already recognized a mouse or other device.
Try to connect the camera to other USB ports on the computer.
Also, Firmware updates may improve this in the future.
Accurate Planning: Weather conditions significantly impact the quality of your shots. Whether you’re capturing a dramatic sunset, a stormy sky, or serene landscapes, knowing the weather in advance helps you plan effectively. These apps provide real-time data on temperature, cloud cover, precipitation, wind speed, and more.
Golden Hour and Blue Hour: The magic hours around sunrise and sunset are ideal for photography. Weather apps help you pinpoint these moments by providing sunrise and sunset times. Additionally, they indicate when the golden hour (warm, soft light) and blue hour (cool, twilight light) occur.
Storm Chasing and Dramatic Skies: For landscape photographers, dramatic skies can transform an ordinary scene into something extraordinary. Weather apps allow you to track storms, cloud formations, and lightning. You can position yourself for captivating shots during thunderstorms, rainbows, or moody weather.
Safety and Preparedness: When shooting outdoors, safety is paramount. Weather apps provide severe weather alerts, lightning detection, and wind advisories. Being aware of approaching storms or sudden weather changes helps you stay safe and protect your gear.
Sun Position and Shadows: Some apps offer augmented reality features that show the sun’s position throughout the day. This helps you visualize shadows, plan compositions, and choose shooting angles.
Cloud Cover and Reflections: Clouds can add drama or soften harsh light. Weather apps indicate cloud cover percentages, allowing you to predict how the sky will appear. For water reflections, partly cloudy days work best.
Fog and Mist: Misty mornings create an ethereal atmosphere. Weather apps help you find locations with fog or mist, enhancing your landscape shots.
Now, let’s explore some powerful weather apps that cater to landscape photography and travel videos:
AccuWeather: Available for iOS and Android, AccuWeather provides detailed forecasts, radar maps, and hourly updates. It’s great for planning outdoor shoots.
Weather Underground: Another free app for iOS and Android, Weather Underground offers hyperlocal forecasts, satellite imagery, and storm tracking. It’s useful for predicting localized weather patterns1.
Dark Sky: Although it requires a small fee, Dark Sky (iOS) provides hyperlocal minute-by-minute forecasts. It’s excellent for precise planning and avoiding sudden rain showers.
The Weather Channel: If you prefer a TV-style experience, The Weather Channel’s mobile apps (iOS and Android) offer comprehensive weather information. They include radar maps, severe weather alerts, and video forecasts.
RadarScope: For serious storm chasers and photographers, RadarScope (iOS and Android) provides detailed radar data. It’s especially useful for tracking storms and understanding their movement.
When: Monday, April 8, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. depending on your area. A total solar eclipse can be divided into two events: the partial and total phases. The beginning of the partial phase is called first contact. First contact (C1) marks the initial touch of the Moon’s silhouette on the outer edge of the Sun, gradually obscuring a small portion of it. At this stage, a tiny crescent-shaped bite appears on the Sun’s surface, signaling the beginning of the eclipse. Observers may notice a subtle dimming of the ambient light as the Moon commences its journey across the solar disk.
The second contact (C2) is a pivotal moment during a total solar eclipse. It occurs when the Moon fully covers the Sun, resulting in complete darkness at the eclipse’s peak, known as totality. The sky darkens, revealing the Sun’s outer atmosphere—the corona. This remarkable phase provides a rare opportunity for astronomers and skygazers to observe the Sun’s outer layers, which are typically invisible due to the Sun’s overwhelming brightness. The breathtaking sight of the solar corona and any accompanying phenomena, such as Baily’s beads, becomes visible during this awe-inspiring moment.
Just before second contact, when the Moon fully covers the Sun, observers can witness Baily’s beads. This phenomenon occurs as sunlight passes through lunar valleys and hills along the moon’s edge, creating a beady effect. Photographing Baily’s beads requires the same settings used for the partial eclipse.
Where:
The 2024 solar eclipse will be a cross-country and pan-continental event. The 2024 eclipse will first make landfall over the coast of Mexico near Mazatlan and move northeast over cities like Durango, making its way to the Rio Grande River and the border of the United States and Mexico. About 43 million people can see the total solar eclipse at their doorsteps, and nearly 200 million people can see the total solar eclipse at their doorsteps. The population lives within a 3-hour drive of the total eclipse zone.
Mexico offers perhaps the best opportunity to view the solar eclipse. It will be over Mexico where the eclipse reaches its longest duration of 4 minutes and 28 seconds. Moreover, the weather prospects in Mexico are significantly better than in the United States. Mazatlan, for example, has only, on average, less than a 30% chance of cloudy skies compared to cities in Texas like Uvalde and Dallas, which are essentially a coin toss. As the eclipse progresses over the mainland United States, the duration will get slightly shorter, and at its shortest over Maine, it will last about 3 minutes and 20 seconds, or one minute shorter. The closer you are to the center of the eclipse line, the longer the eclipse will last compared to the full possible duration at your location.
Unfortunately, the United States is at a significantly greater risk of seeing substantial cloud cover because April is the peak of the Spring storm season for many regions across the path of totality. Indeed, this area of the United States is called “tornado alley” for the high number of tornadoes and severe weather outbreaks that occur in April. There is a non-zero probability, with an El Nino winding down in the Pacific and a likely La Nina taking its place, that a significant severe weather event with a trough tilted in the same axis could be sweeping across the direction of totality.
However, there is an equally likely chance of clear skies over the path. Statistically, Arkansas and Texas are the most likely regions to have decent skies. While many eclipse articles will encourage you to book your hotels and campsites months in advance, we personally believe that is a recipe for missing the eclipse if your main goal is photography due to the high chance of cloudy skies in April. This is especially true if you plan to photograph in cloudier states like Ohio, New York, or Pennsylvania. Instead, be prepared to travel and have highly flexible driving plans once the weather forecast begins to unfold.
Then there’s the traffic situation. To avoid high traffic, your best bet is to avoid major cities in the path of the eclipse. Instead, focus on viewing the eclipse in small towns and local parks, especially if you are not planning to reserve a hotel. Be prepared to bring extra gasoline cans if you drive a gas car. And, of course, bring tons of snacks and water! You will likely be at your observing site for several hours, and the locations in the path of the eclipse will likely be short on resources to make your viewing experience comfortable. Put on sunscreen, bring a towel, and other basic needs to stay comfortable.
It’s also obviously important to know what time the eclipse takes place in your area! But how do we know that? Several resources are available online to figure that out based on your location. Our favorite is Xavier Jubier’s Total Solar Eclipse Map or
Time and Date https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2024-april-8
Simply click on your location on the map, and the times will appear! You will see options for the start of the partial eclipse, the start of the total eclipse, and so on. Note that these times are in Universal Time (UT).
The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible over approximately 128 miles of Illinois April 8.
Total Solar Eclipse in Illinois, United States
Totality enters Illinois as it crosses the Missouri state line southwest in Carbondale at 1:58 p.m. The eclipse will follow a diagonal line crossing over Fairfield and exit Illinois at Mount Carmel at 2:06 p.m.
April 8, 2024 — Total Solar Eclipse — Indianapolis, IN, USA
Weather: Sunny days are the most important. According to historical cloud map statistics in the past 20 years, Mexico and Texas in the United States have the highest probability of sunny days, while the eastern United States and Canada have a high probability of cloudy weather.
However, the recent weather is very ironic. Due to the influence of the warm and humid airflow from the Gulf of Mexico, a low pressure is forecast to appear near Texas in the United States, and it is likely to be rainy on April 8. Texas, which originally expected millions of travellers to flock to watch the solar eclipse, has now entered a state of self-deprecation. On the contrary, there is currently a relatively stable high pressure in Canada and the northeastern United States, and there is a high probability that there will be good weather.
Recommended apps:
Windy: Provides multiple weather models, such as ECMWF (European model) and GFS (American model), and you can see the cloud map predictions for the next few days. You can also choose to see high clouds, medium clouds and low clouds in the cloud chart. Astrospheric: Provides many data needed by astrophotography enthusiasts. In addition to cloud information, there are also atmospheric transparency and seeing, as well as solar and lunar eclipse data.
Meteoblue: Similar to Windy, it provides cloud images, rainfall and other information. You can check the weather for the next 5 to 14 days. Some enthusiasts report that it is more accurate than Windy.
PHOTOGRAPHING THE ECLIPSE
It is strongly recommend using a DSLR or mirrorless camera to photograph Solar Eclipse. The most common one is to use a wide-angle lens to shoot the entire process of a total solar eclipse, that is, a gourd string; you can also use a telephoto lens to record details such as the corona, Bailey’s beads, diamond rings, and solar prominences when a total solar eclipse occurs.
Camera Settings: Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO… and Bracket! During the progression from direct sunlight to the height of a total solar eclipse, the light will quickly change from broad daylight to twilight-like darkness. The light really will not change dramatically until the eclipse approaches totality, so your camera settings can be static for a huge portion of the event—a good thing. The curse is that, when the eclipse show is at its most exciting, the light will be changing quickly, and you must be ready to adapt.
When the eclipse reaches totality and you have removed your solar filter from your camera, this is the time to start bracketing your shots heavily. Use the exposure guide as just that, a guide. Bracket, bracket, and bracket some more. According to experts, there is a vast 12-stop dynamic range from the corona at the sun’s surface to the outer edges of the corona. Shoot a ton of shots at different exposures. When you post-process later, you can choose the one that looks best. But, during this rarest of events, do not just lock into one exposure and take a bunch of equally exposed images.
Low ISO#: between100-200.
Shutter Speed: The shutter speed can be the reciprocal of the focal length of the lens. For example, for a 600mm focal length lens, 1/600 second can be used.
Aperture: F8 or high # (low aperture).
Lens: telephoto lens. The lowest focal length we recommend is around 100mm; anything smaller may result in losing precious details like Bailey’s Beads or Prominences.
It is recommended to choose manual focus MF. The operation method is as follows: Adjust the focus ring in advance and focus to infinity. There is usually a “∞” symbol on the lens. Just make the reticle face this symbol.
Other Basic Gear
Certified eye protection/solar filters – All filters should be ND100000 standard certified
Remote shutter release.
Tripod.
Here is the standard progression of a total solar eclipse:
1. The eclipse approaches, you attach the solar filter to your lens and start by shooting the full sun, and then continue to shoot as the moon intercepts the sun’s light.
2. Once the sun is totally obscured, you must then remove your filtration and photograph totality without a filter—capturing the awe-inspiring sight. The start of totality is indicated by the famous “diamond ring” effect. During totality, you can remove your solar filtration (and solar glasses). The diamond rings should be photographed and can be viewed without filtration.
3. At the end of totality, when the second diamond ring appears, replace your filters and continue to shoot as the moon slides clear of the sun.
Other tips:
Compose your shot using live view mode only (not the camera’s viewfinder)
Turning autofocus to off.
Shoot in RAW instead of jpeg.
Don’t be afraid to underexpose by a stop or two, or more. Avoid blown-out highlights.
Take test shots before the eclipse begins to ensure your settings (particularly your exposure) are correct
Start capturing the eclipse as soon as it starts. Include shots over and underexposed to capture all the details
Review your images and adjust accordingly as the brightness will continue to change throughout the eclipse
Take breaks to enjoy the eclipse visually with your solar glasses
Tip: Do NOT remove your solar filter during the partial phase of the eclipse. Only remove the solar filter about 30 seconds before the total solar eclipse. The only time it’s safe to look at the Sun during a total solar eclipse is the 4 minutes of totality and no other time.
PHOTOGRAPHING THE ECLIPSE WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE
You can get some stunning widefield images of the eclipse with just your smartphone that those with superzoom lenses and telescopes cannot see. For example, you can create a timelapse of the Moon’s shadow coming across your viewing location by using any timelapse app or one already built into your phone. With an iPhone, for example, you can record a time-lapse video showing the Moon’s shadow approaching your location. To do this, simply open the camera app, select time-lapse mode, and record until completion of the event. You will need a photographic tripod to be able to do this, as well as some way to attach your smartphone to your tripod.
Another idea could be to take photographs of the partial eclipse with your eclipse glasses. This is as simple as it sounds; however, it could yield some great photographs of the eclipse, especially if you want some zoomed-in shots of the partial eclipse phases. This could show you the partial eclipse in the sky through your eclipse glasses, as well as your surroundings.
Viewing Tips
As always, you should never look directly at the sun during an eclipse. To safely view the eclipse, consider:
Eclipse glasses: These special shades are similiar to 3D glasses abut are certified eclipse-safe for direct viewing. Regular sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe to view the eclipse.
Solar filters: If you want to use a telescope, binoculars or camera, do not use them unprotected even if you have safe eclipse glasses. Consult the manufacturer for a proper filter to attach to your device.
Pinhole viewer: This is a simple, inexpensive way to indirectly view the eclipse. Just take two sheets of white paper (card stock is best) and poke a hole in the middle of one sheet. With your back to the sun, hold the sheet with the hole over the other sheet and adjust them until you see a dot of light. That’s the sun! As the moon travels across the sun, a crescent will appear.
Tip: NEVER LOOK AT THE UNECLIPSED/PARTIALLY ECLIPSED SUN WITHOUT ISO-CERTIFIED SOLAR ECLIPSE GLASSES!!!!
Self-employment income refers to money earned from carrying out work or operating a business as an independent contractor or sole proprietor rather than as an employee of a company. It encompasses various types of work where individuals are not employed by a company but rather work for themselves. Some common examples of self-employment income include:
Freelance Work: This includes any work done on a contract or freelance basis, such as writing, graphic design, consulting, or photography.
Independent Contractors: Individuals who provide services to clients or businesses but are not employees. For example, independent contractors could be plumbers, electricians, web developers, or IT consultants.
Sole Proprietorships: Business owners who operate their businesses as sole proprietors are considered self-employed. This includes small businesses such as local shops, online stores, and professional services operated by a single person.
Gig Economy Work: Work performed through gig economy platforms such as Uber, Lyft, TaskRabbit, or Airbnb falls under self-employment income.
Business Owners: Owners of small businesses or startups who are not considered employees of their own companies but rather draw income from their business profits are also categorized as self-employed.
Self-employed individuals are responsible for paying their own taxes, including self-employment taxes (which cover Social Security and Medicare contributions) in addition to income taxes. They often need to file quarterly estimated tax payments to cover their tax liabilities throughout the year.
Individual Retirement Account (IRA) contributions are subject to certain requirements set forth by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States. Here are some of the key requirements:
Eligible Income: You must have eligible compensation or earned income to contribute to an IRA. This typically includes wages, salaries, commissions, self-employment income, and alimony. Passive income such as interest, dividends, and capital gains generally do not count unless they are derived from self-employment activities.
Age Limits: There are no age limits for contributing to a Traditional IRA. However, for a Traditional IRA, you must be under the age of 70½ at the end of the tax year in which you make the contribution. For a Roth IRA, you can contribute at any age as long as you have eligible earned income.
Contribution Limits: The IRS sets annual contribution limits for IRAs. These limits can change from year to year. For example, in 2022, the annual contribution limit for both Traditional and Roth IRAs was $6,000 for individuals under 50 years old, with an additional $1,000 “catch-up” contribution allowed for individuals aged 50 and older.
Income Limits for Roth IRA: While there are no income limits for contributing to a Traditional IRA, there are income limits for contributing to a Roth IRA. These limits can change annually and depend on your tax filing status. If your income exceeds these limits, you may be limited in the amount you can contribute or may not be eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA at all.
Spousal IRA Contributions: If you are married and file a joint tax return, you and your spouse can each contribute to your own separate IRAs even if only one of you has taxable compensation.
Tax Deductibility: Whether your contributions to a Traditional IRA are tax-deductible can depend on your income and whether you or your spouse are covered by a retirement plan at work.
Deadline for Contributions: You can make contributions to an IRA up until the tax filing deadline for the tax year. For example, contributions for the tax year 2023 can be made until the tax filing deadline in 2024 (usually April 15th, but it can vary depending on weekends and holidays).
Situation: If the WeChat groups are lost or we want to sync all chats’ history after changing phones, you can retrieve it by methods such as joining a group chat with mutual friends, accessing group chats through contacts, searching for the group chat name., migrating them from old phone or restore from a backup. In this article, we will show you how to use WeChat migration tool to transfer chats.
Step 1: In the current device, Tap Me in WeChat.
and then Settings.
Step 2: Under Settings, tap Chats.
Step 3: Under Chats, tap Chat History Migration & Backup.
Step 4: Now, you should have two options: Migration and Backup and Restore.
Step 5: Tap in Migration to transfer Chats to another device.
Note 1: Make sure both devices are the same WiFi.
Note 2: You have an option to select which chart to migrate.
Step 6: You have two options to migrate Chats: Migrate to WeChat for PC and Migrate to mobile/tablet WeChat.
Step 7: Assuming you would like to migrate all Chats to the new device, the WeChat Migration tool will generate a QR code. Login the new device using the same account and scan the QR Code. All Chats will be migrated to the new device.
The Federal Tax Credit for purchasing an electric vehicle, such as a Tesla, is claimed on IRS Form 8936, “Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit.” This credit is commonly referred to as the Electric Vehicle Tax Credit.
After completing Form 8936 to calculate the amount of your tax credit, you would then enter the total credit amount on your IRS Form 1040, specifically on Schedule 3 (Form 1040), “Additional Credits and Payments.” The amount from Schedule 3 then carries over to Line 20 of Form 1040.
Here’s how you would fill it out:
Complete Form 8936 to calculate your Electric Vehicle Tax Credit.
Enter the total credit amount on Schedule 3 (Form 1040).
The credit amount from Schedule 3 transfers to Line 20 of Form 1040.
The Grand Palace (or the Royal Palace) is a landmark of the Thai monarchy, representing the pinnacle of preservation, scale, and national character among Thailand’s royal palaces. It’s a must-visit destination for every tourist to Thailand. The Grand Palace showcases the essence of Thai painting, sculpture, and decorative arts. Comprising towering palaces, the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall, the Emerald Buddha Temple, and the Dusit Maha Prasat Hall, the entire complex is an architectural marvel. However, it’s important to note that some parts of the palace are not open to the public, so please abide by the relevant visiting regulations. It serves as the residence of the Thai royal family and the official venue for royal ceremonies. The grandeur of its architecture and meticulous decoration is truly awe-inspiring, making it a must-visit landmark in Bangkok.
Photography enthusiasts may consider entering around 5:00 PM or before closing time to capture the night scenery.
Wat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan) in Bangkok boasts a history spanning over 220 years, making it one of Bangkok’s oldest and most revered temples. Situated to the south of the Grand Palace, the temple houses a colossal reclining Buddha statue measuring 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height, with each foot sole spanning 5 meters. Additionally, it features over a thousand Buddha images and stupas. The entire statue is covered in gold leaf, while the soles are inlaid with mother-of-pearl, adorned with over 100 auspicious symbols of Buddha. The temple complex itself is adorned with stunning wall paintings, exquisite sculptures, and serene courtyards.
⏰ Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
🎫 Admission: 200 Thai Baht
Wat Arun Ratchawararam, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a temple dedicated to King Taksin, the 41st monarch of Thailand and a national hero. Situated on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, this temple faces the reclining Buddha of Wat Pho on the opposite bank. Due to its location, many visitors prefer to arrive by boat on the Chao Phraya River. The majestic pagoda, standing at 79 meters tall, becomes particularly sacred and magical at night. Its spires are adorned with intricate carvings and embellished with colorful ceramic tiles, glass, and shells. Legend has it that it is the first place to catch the morning light, hence its name “Temple of Dawn”. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, it offers a breathtaking sight, especially at sunrise or sunset. The temple’s spires, decorated with vibrant tiles, shimmer in the sunlight, creating a captivating rainbow-like display.
⏰ Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎫 Boat Fare: 30 Thai Baht
Wat Traimit, also known as the Golden Buddha Temple, houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue, weighing over five and a half tons. Crafted in the Sukhothai style, this temple is home to a genuine marvel, adding to its allure with its significance in discovery and history.
⏰ Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎫 Admission: 100 Thai Baht
The Floating Market: Among them, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most famous and popular. We recommend joining the Bangkok Damnoen Saduak Floating Market + Maeklong Railway Market day tour. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market still retains the appearance of the traditional floating market, located about 80 kilometers southwest of Bangkok. It gathers the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, suitable for tourists who enjoy early gatherings. The market operates from early morning until 2:00 PM, with the liveliest time being from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Various ingredients piled up on small boats, vendors shouting to attract customers, and the aroma wafting from rudimentary stoves all contribute to the vibrant atmosphere. Rent a small boat and you can navigate through this floating city, immersing yourself in Bangkok’s cultural vibe. Exploring the floating market is a must-do experience in Bangkok. Vendors sell their goods from traditional long-tail boats. The scene is vibrant and colorful, with fruits, handicrafts, and delicious street food.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Boat Ticket: 300 Thai Baht
Erawan Shrine, also known as the Four-Faced Buddha or the Deity of Fulfillment, is a representation of the Hindu deity Brahma, who is considered the creator god in Hinduism. The term “Erawan” refers to the elephant Airavata, which carries the god Indra in Hindu mythology. The shrine features four faces, each representing different wishes: the front face for business prosperity, the left face for romantic relationships, the right face for good health, and the back face for financial success. It is not located within a temple but instead stands at a street corner in the heart of Bangkok. Legend has it that it was erected after a series of unfortunate events in the vicinity, with the purpose of seeking peace and prosperity. It’s one of the most bustling places for worship in Thailand.
The Chao Phraya River, located within Thailand, also known as the River of Kings, is the largest and longest river in Thailand. In Thai, “Chao Phraya” refers to the highest noble rank under the Sakdina system during Thailand’s feudal era, hence the name. The Chao Phraya River connects many famous landmarks such as Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace. Taking a boat cruise on the Chao Phraya River to admire Bangkok’s night scenery is an extremely romantic experience. Evening cruises typically operate from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM, lasting about 2.5 hours. During the daytime, visitors can explore various attractions such as Asiatique The Riverfront, Chinatown, and Wat Arun by taking public boats. The daytime Chao Phraya River is solemn and quiet, but at night, it becomes enchanting. It’s recommended to take a boat cruise during sunset for a mesmerizing experience.
Chinatown: Among the Chinatowns scattered throughout Southeast Asia, Bangkok’s Chinatown stands out as the leader. According to records, there was a large influx of Chinese immigrants to Thailand in the past, especially from the Teochew region. Therefore, the strong Cantonese and Teochew flavors make up the main characteristic of Bangkok’s Chinatown. Additionally, there are countless Michelin-starred restaurants and shops here, guaranteeing a delightful culinary experience. Apart from food, there are also gold shops, pharmacies, and even some Chinese temples. Walking through this area evokes a strong sense of nostalgia. Today, it has become a popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world, offering cultural experiences and sightseeing opportunities.
ICONSIAM – The Ultimate Destination on the Banks of the Chao Phraya River: Can you imagine a mall that encapsulates all of Thailand? That’s ICONSIAM. It’s not just a shopping paradise; it’s a perfect showcase of Bangkok’s lifestyle. ICONSIAM brings together top global fashion brands, traditional Thai arts, leisure entertainment, and a variety of cuisines, making it a new must-visit tourist attraction and commercial landmark in Thailand. Here, you can stroll through the indoor floating market and enjoy panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River from the high-rise observation deck. Unlike typical malls, the CEO of ICONSIAM emphasizes, “Our vision is not just to create a commercial center or shopping mall, but to create a place that fully showcases Thai culture and vitality.” Moreover, the architectural design of ICONSIAM is innovative, blending technology with traditional Thai design, creating multiple smaller structures within a large building, akin to a luxurious Thai art museum. This is definitely one of the malls you must visit! Especially recommended for its nighttime views.
Ladyboy or kathoeys Show: Thailand’s reputation as a breathtaking tourist paradise owes much to its unique specialty, the “ladyboys.” Ladyboys are a distinctive feature of Thai culture and are renowned as part of the urban scenery in Thailand. They embody Thailand’s unique cultural charm and are an integral part of Thai cultural expression.
Other Attractions: The Siam Station of the Bangkok BTS Skytrain is almost always on the itinerary for visitors because it opens up to Bangkok’s trendiest and most bustling shopping district, Siam Square. Adjacent to the station are department stores like Siam Paragon and Siam Center, creating a lively atmosphere. What’s even more remarkable is that the adventurous Thais have constructed Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium inside the department store – Siam Ocean World. Inside, you’ll find over 30,000 marine creatures, including sharks. Come and explore this marvelous oceanarium!
King Power Mahanakhon – Bangkok SkyWalk: This iconic skyscraper is located in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling business district, serving as one of the city’s landmarks. Its exterior presents a pixelated effect (mosaic effect) that spirals around the building, resembling a dazzling jewelry box. At 314 meters high, it features a transparent glass skywalk that provides stunning panoramic views. In addition to the observation deck, King Power Mahanakhon also houses a shopping center, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment facilities, offering visitors a comprehensive shopping and leisure experience. The building also hosts various cultural events and exhibitions, attracting tourists from around the world. Observation Deck Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Observation Deck Tickets: Adult – 1050 Thai Baht (approximately 30 USD), Children/Seniors (60 years old and above) – 350 Thai Baht (approximately 10 USD)。
Asiatique Sky – Night Bazaar: Asiatique The Riverfront, home to the Ferris wheel, opened in 2012 and is one of the newer scenic spots along the Bangkok riverside.
大皇宫（The Grand Palace or the Royal Palace）泰国王室地标建筑，是泰国（暹罗）王室的皇宫，是历代皇宫保存最完美、规模最大、最有民族特色的皇宫。这里是每一位来泰国旅游的游客必须前来打卡留念的地方。这里聚集了泰国绘画、雕刻和装饰艺术的精华。整个建筑由摩天宫殿、节基皇殿、玉佛寺和武隆碧曼宫组成。不过需要注意的是，里面部分宫殿是不对外开放的，请遵守相关参观规定。是泰国王室的居所和官方活动场所。宏伟的建筑和细致的装饰很震撼。是曼谷必打卡景点. ⏰开放时间:8:30-15:30 🎫门票:500泰铢
其他景点：曼谷BTS捷运的暹罗站几乎是一定会来的地方，因为一出车站就是曼谷最潮最繁华的暹罗商圈，Siam Paragon、Siam Center等百货公司毗邻营业，相当热闹。更奇特的是，疯狂的泰国人还在百货商场内建了全东南亚最大的海洋馆——『暹罗海洋世界Siam ocean world 』，里面还养了鲨鱼等超过30000多只海洋生物，一起来逛逛这个奇妙的海洋馆吧。
王权云顶大厦（King Power Mahanakhon）-曼谷天空之旅： 这是曼谷市中心的一座标志性摩天大楼，位于繁华的商业区，是曼谷市的地标之一。其外表呈现出一种像素化效果（马赛克效果），围绕楼体盘旋而上，看起来犹如璀璨珠宝盒。这里有高314米的透明玻璃走廊，除了观景台，泰国王权云顶大厦还设有购物中心、餐厅、酒店和娱乐设施，为游客提供全方位的购物和休闲体验。大楼内还举办各种文化活动和展览，吸引着来自世界各地的游客。
