Accommodation: Hotel in Kanchanaburi
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
After breakfast at the hotel, take just a short drive from the bustling streets of Bangkok, the high-rise urban landscape dissolves into a lush green rural idyll. This full-day trip to Samut Songkhram Province, only an hour outside the capital, allows guests to experience the traditional charms of the Thai countryside.
The day starts with a trip to Maeklong Railway market, a country market has sprouted up along the tracks. When a train pulls in or out of the station, the vendors quickly clear their stalls, only to set them up again moments later when the train has passed! From here, the journey continues to very famous touristic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Although quite touristy today, the market remains the best example to showcase how a floating market originally was like decades ago. A relaxing paddle boat ride through the labyrinth of canals offers the chance to see the old part of the floating market and local lifestyle along the canal side. Off the boat, it is time to enjoy strolling around the colorful floating marketplace bustling with boats and vendors selling tropical fruits and other delights.
For visits falling on a Saturday or Sunday, the tour offers the option of an exploration choosing between visiting Damnoen Saduak or the smaller and less touristy floating market Tha Kha where a short paddle boat tour in the backwaters offering a visit to an old Thai ho Duse making coconut palm sugar.
Next you transfer to Kanchanaburi for a visit to the World War II memorial including the Cemetery. Lunch served in a floating restaurant next to the Kwai River Bridge. We continue to Wang Pho to feed wild monkeys. Afterwards get on a train ride along the railway from Wang Pho along the river around 30 minutes. Transfer to the city for the night. Stay overnight in Kanchanaburi.