In Thailand, as in other parts of Southeast Asia, many cities grew along rivers such as Chao Phraya. These rivers were perfect for navigation and facilitated the transport of people and goods between regions. The merchants sold and exchanged their products from their own boats, taking advantage of the canals that crossed towns and cities. In this way the floating markets emerged, very popular even in the times of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya (1351-1767).
With the expansion of Bangkok and improvements in land transport, the vast majority of these floating markets disappeared or moved to the mainland. However, a few are still present. The best known and most spectacular is the Damnoen Saduak floating market, located 100km southwest of Bangkok. Of course, its activity is very focused on tourism. The next most popular one is Amphawa (80 km southwest of Bangkok), somewhat smaller, but apparently more genuine.
The rest of Bangkok's floating markets are smaller and less frequented by foreigners, although none lives completely outside tourism. One of them is the Taling Chan floating market (10km from the center in a northwest direction), with few boats, but a large market and the possibility of boat trips.
UPVOTE is to Like
RESTEEM is to Share
COMMENT is to Encourage
Thank you for your support! Follow and Enjoy!