The ceremony attached to a country's military is often one of the most interesting ways to see the traditions of a nation at their best.

Each year, to mark the end of another year and the birthday of the King of Thailand, the very best of the Thai military takes part in the Trooping of the Colour.

Regarded as one of the most popular events for people staying in hotels in Bangkok to attend, the display at the city's Royal Plaza also offers the chance to catch a glimpse of the senior members of the nation's royal family.

Taking place on 2nd December, the event falls three days before the birthday of the King and is one of the most celebrated events on the calendar for patriotic Thai nationals as the Royal Thai Army, the Royal Thai Navy and the Royal Thai Air Force file past their monarch in their finery.

As the event is so popular, people staying in the Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Hotel are advised to make sure they arrive well ahead of the 5.00 p.m. start time, as people fill the square many hours before to make sure they have a prime spot to watch the procession.