Page 44 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL SUMMER 2025 THAILAND

In similarly delightful ways, scheduled
stops continued our immersion in Thai tra-
ditions. One warm humid morning found us
at Damnoen Saduak Floating market, one
of the country’s most iconic—and most pho-
tographed — floating markets. Established
in the 19th century Damnoen Saduak canal
was built to connect the Mae Klong and Tha
Chin rivers, creating a vital trade route.
Over time, this “floating market” became a
bustling hub of commerce, where vendors
paddled long-tail boats to sell fresh farm
produce, flowers, and prepared foods.
Sadly, it's now one of the last of its kind in
the country.
We strolled along the waterway, snap-
ping photos of the colorfully dressed ven-
dors in wide-brimmed hats, expertly
navigating their boats down the crowded
passages. Giddy tourists packed into small
skiffs floated past us too, buying every-
thing from sizzling street food to coconut
ice cream. One of the most popular boats
sold frosty local beers to thirsty
passersby. Touristy? Yes. But, as the easy
buying and selling among locals and
boaters showed, the market retains strong
connections to its roots.

44 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2025