Wednesday in Bangkok: Floating markets

Erik and Laura on the boat

Today we went on an unplanned and really fun excursion to Damnern Saduak, about 80K outside of Bangkok. Our new friend, Khun Wilairut from Ratchasude College, accompanied us to shop on the so-called “floating markets”.

One of the boat markets selling goods

We got into canal boats that took us along the canal where canal residents sell their goods along the canal. It’s a fantastic tourist trap but it was good fun and allowed us to buy some nice hand-made craft items to take home with us as gifts. There were silk products, Teak wood crafts, Chinese fans, Thai hats, among many other items, and lots of different fruits and vegetables. I enjoyed a fresh coconut that was very sweet (Alec, much sweeter than the one we tried from the market at home!). We also tried fresh mango, rose apples, pineapple, and some sugary products made from coconut.

Fresh coconut! Yum!

After visiting the market, Khun Wilairut took us to a small restaurant for lunch and helped us order some delicious local food. Upon our return, we had class discussion about our thoughts on Thailand then the rest of the day we were free. Some of us went for Thai massages or manicures, others went shopping or touring around the neighborhood. For your information, Thai massages are not the sports massages that I am accustomed to though; they are kind of rough!

Tomorrow is our last day in Thailand and our last day before reentering the U.S.! Several of us plan to visit the Royal Palace and the Thailand history museum.

Uncle Art, if you are following my blog, I have really enjoyed Bangkok. The people are very nice. My only regret is that I didn't get to see more of the country side.