During the reign of King Rama V, the King preserved the good relations with Singapore started by King Rama IV. The first visit to Singapore of King Rama V was in 1871 to study economic and social affairs in Singapore for the benefit of Siam. The fact that Singapore was the centre of international navigation meant that the King visited Singapore many times. For example, the King stopped at Singapore on his way to India. He also visited Singapore to send his son off for studies in Europe. King Rama V liked Singapore so much that he bought a house in Orchard Road, today the site of the Thai Embassy. His trips to Singapore cemented strong ties between Singapore and Siam and built up trade and investment between the two countries.