FOLLOW THE PATH OF ASIA'S MOST WELL-TRAVELED RELIC! CHASING THE EMERALD BUDDHA is a new type of travel guide which follows the path once taken by Southeast Asia's most sacred statue. Today, the jade image is the centerpiece of Bangkok's elaborate Grand Palace complex. But few are aware of the long, eventful journey it took to get there. Travel through bustling Bangkok, historic Chiang Mai, tropical South Thailand, the astonishing ruins of Angkor and laid-back Luang Prabang - all while learning the amazing story that connects them all together. This book is meant for adventurous and independent travelers with a special interest in culture, history, architecture and local legends. Whether you're an experienced visitor to Southeast Asia or going there for the first time, Chasing the Emerald Buddha offers a completely fresh perspective on the region that no other guide book provides. Inside You'll Find: HUNDREDS OF PHOTOGRAPHS to give you a feel for each place before you even get there INSIDER TIPS on what to do and see, from cultural landmarks to the great outdoors DETAILED MAPS for easy navigation COMPREHENSIVE INFO on the region's history, culture, religion, architecture and more PRACTICAL TIPS on transport, where to stay and how to plan your trip A complete, modern retelling of the CHRONICLE OF THE EMERALD BUDDHA which covers the statue's eventful 2,000-year history Featured locations include: THAILAND: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Nakhon Si Thammarat & South Thailand, Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Kamphaeng Phet, Sukhothai, Phimai, and more LAOS: Luang Prabang and Vientiane CAMBODIA: The ruins of Angkor and outpost temples such as Banteay Chhmar