Whether revisiting the past or embracing the present, the following destinations offer travelers a glimpse into the enduring spirit of the places THAI flies to. Kunakorn Vanichviroon invites readers to explore Kolkata, one of the iconic destinations alongside Hong Kong and Tokyo, in his ‘Tales of Four Cities’.
When THAI first flew to Kolkata, then known as Calcutta, the city was still India’s cultural and intellectual capital. Founded by the British in 1690, Kolkata was once the administrative heart of British India. The Hooghly River, lined with stately colonial buildings, bustled with merchant ships transporting jute, tea, and textiles. Landmarks likebands the gothic Writers’ Building stood as reminders of the city’s imperial past. Park Street was the epicenter of nightlife, where jazz clubs and cabarets entertained Kolkata’s elite.
Though modern-day Kolkata may not top the list of India’s most sought-after travel destinations, the “City of Joy” holds a unique allure for those willing to explore its depths. Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal, standing as the largest city and leading port in eastern India. It is revered as the center of Bengali intellect and culture, having given birth to an astonishing volume of literary works, performing arts, paintings, music and cinema.
While new business districts have since emerged, there is no denying that the soul of Kolkata still resides in the often chaotic, vibrant pulse of its historic neighborhoods. The iconic Howrah Bridge continues to ferry thousands of commuters daily. The Victoria Memorial, now a museum, preserves the grandeur of colonial architecture. Park Street buzzes with life, its restaurants serving dishes unchanged for decades. The legendary Moulin Rouge, once a glamorous jazz venue, now offers classic Indian and Continental cuisine, keeping the spirit of old Kolkata alive.
Plan to sightsee the bustling Kolkata? Fly to Kolkata with Thai Airways!
