One of the most exciting aspects of travel is purchasing goods and foods that may not be available in your hometown. A trip to Bangkok, Thailand, offers tourists with a penchant for shopping a chance to visit the unique and sometimes chaotic floating markets on the city's canals.
The Damnoen Saduak floating market is probably the most well-known market in the city. It's open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and is easily reached by bus. However, travelers should be prepared for adventure - this isn't the type of market one can just stroll through. Small, flat boats crowd the canals, or klongs, offering everything from street food to crafts to exotic fruits. The drivers of these boats are often older women who deftly maneuver through the waters, looking to make a bargain.
While the Damnoen Saduak may be the most popular, visitors who want a floating market experience that is slightly more authentic should check out the Taling Chan Floating Market. This sector offers a slightly different experience - instead of traveling up and down the canal, boats are typically tied to piers. From here, visitors can hop on a canal tour to see other parts of the city.
Bangkok's floating markets offer fare, wares and fun
Posted on Friday, June 22nd, 2012
