Page 29 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Bangkok

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market ❮❮ 27

Boats
8
Most vendors
paddle around in
sampans, which are
easily maneuvered
and ideal for displaying
goods for sale (left).
The tourists, however,
are propelled around the
canals in longtail boats.
These boats can be
noisy but offer protection
from the elements and
can cover a big area
in a short time.
Boat Vendors
9
The sampans that
the vendors paddle along
the canals provide no
protec tion from the
elements, so most
vendors wear a ngob –
a traditional hat that
ingeniously allows for
ventilation. Many also
wear a type of collarless
denim shirt typical in
rural Thailand.

Hia Kui Market
Khun Pitak
6 7
Market
A short way
south of Ton Kem, On a smaller canal south
Hia Kui market has a of Hia Kui, Khun Pitak is
more authentic feel the least crowded of the
to it. The banks of the three markets, but it is
canal are dotted with still a bustling place early
souvenir shops where in the morning when
some group tours stop locals buy fresh produce
for mementos. and spices.
Souvenirs
NEED TO KNOW to stay over night in a 0
With busloads
local guesthouse and
MAP S2 • 62 miles of tourists arriving in
(100 km) SW of Bangkok get out on the canals Damnoen Saduak every
• (03) 224 1204 • AC bus in the early morning. morning, many locals
78 from Bangkok’s • Most guided tours operate souvenir stalls
Southern Bus Terminal include refreshments, on the banks of the
but there are a large
• To enjoy the market canals, selling traditional
number of vendors
before busloads of tour ists selling food and drink for hats (above), silk purses,
arrive (usually around independent travelers. carved soaps, and,
9–10am), it is necessary of course, colorful
postcards of the market.

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