Life on the Water
Water has always played a large part in Thai life. With so many rivers and tributaries flowing generously from the northern mountains through most of the country, there has always been plenty for drinking, growing food, washing and transport.
Bangkok itself was until quite recently a city of canals, most of which have been covered up with pillared concrete slabs to make roads in the interests of “progress”. Fortunately, not everywhere has followed suit. You don’t have to travel far out of Bangkok to enjoy the charming sights and sounds of life lived on the water. In many places in Thailand, people live on boats or stilted houses over the water, and the children learn to swim at an age most kids are learning to walk. It’s only natural then that things are bought and sold on the water as well.
A Lively Scene
There are countless floating markets throughout the country, many within a couple of hours’ of the capital. The colorfully clad merchants at these lively markets paddle along congested canals in sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruit and vegetables to sell to shoppers on the banks. There is lots of chatter and activity – bargaining is common – that’s all part of the fun -- but don’t expect to get the price down more than a few baht.
The most famous of the floating markets is Damnoen Saduak, about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok. This buzzing market is at its best in the early morning before the crowds arrive and the heat of the day builds up.
There are several more similar markets in the same area, and other parts of the country many of which you can access via organized tours.
Rose Garden (Suan Sam Phran)
Situated just 32 kilometers outside of Bangkok is the popular Rose Garden Country Resort or Suan Sam Phran in Thai. Set in 75 acres of landscaped tropical gardens and lawns encompassing a small lake, the resort is an ideal setting for family picnics and walks. The first-class hotel offers modern accommodation and full recreational and sports facilities. These include tennis courts, ozone-treated swimming pool, children's playground and an award winning golf course that ranks among the best in the world.
A cultural village show starts every afternoon with Thai folk dancing and demonstrations of handicraft skills, Thai boxing, sword fighting, and cock fighting. There are also performances on certain Thai rituals, traditional ceremonies, and an outstanding elephant show.
Tourists searching for souvenirs can stop at nearby shops that sell a variety of locally made consumer goods, such as handicraft products.
Floating Market Damnoen Saduak & Rose Garden
