OVERVIEW

Venture out of Bangkok in to the rural province of Samut Songkram on this full-day guided tour. Travel by local train to an amazing countryside market, situated along the railway tracks. Continue to Tha Kha floating market, for a boat ride amongst the villages, stalls, and temples of this beautiful area. A short bike ride through local orchards and a visit to a pottery village completes your rural experience.

PROGRAM DETAILS

At just an hour's drive south of Bangkok, Samut Songkram province offers visitors a glimpse into Thai countryside life. We will start the day with a stop at a local train station to experience a short regional Train Ride bounding for an amazing country market that has sprouted along the railway tracks. Here, you will witness the dexterity and speed of the vendors as they quickly pack their stalls away whenever the trains approach, hence bringing shopping to a brief halt. It is a standard practice and stall holders have learnt the art of assembling and reassembling their wares at a moment's notice! Then we will visit Tha Kha**, one of the many floating markets in the area where you can observe local trading in its authenticity. We will take a fascinating paddleboat journey through the maze of klongs (canals), cruising past plantations and Buddhist temples before stopping to enjoy a glass of palm sugar syrup and chat with a friendly local family.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, proceed to King Rama II Memorial Park which houses a Thai style pavilion museum displaying artefacts from the early Rattanakosin era and a landscaped garden filled with native flowers. An easy bike ride through the orchards provides great fun and completes the village experience. Visit artisans who produce exquisite hand-painted Benjarong porcelain and potteries before returning to Bangkok in the late afternoon. If the visit falls on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, we will spice up your upcountry trip with a visit to the weekend evening floating market full of vendors selling local delights.

NOTE: Tour runs from 0700-1700; lunch included; The Tha Kha market is held every Saturday and Sunday. Weekday availability is 5-6 times a month depending on the lunar cycle calendar. On days when Tha Kha is not open, we will head to Ladplee Floating Market, an original site that is reminiscent of the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market in its early days.

PRICING: in Thai Baht per person

Rates are valid until 31 October 2012

Our services include:

• Transportation with driver in A/C vehicle
• Service of English or French speaking local guide
• Entrance fees and activities where mentioned
• Drinking Water & cold towel during the tour
• Meals as specified

Our services do not include:

• Other meals than mentioned
• Other services than mentioned
• Gratuities, personal expenses, drinks, and other items