The floating Markets of Bangkok

Bangkok Floating Markets to Visit for the Ultimate Thai Experience

Shopping is a big part of the culture in Bangkok, and its floating markets are some of the most exciting ways to enjoy it. Here, we look at some of the floating markets of Bangkok.
A floating market is a whole new way to shop, and you can experience it at one of the top locations in Bangkok. Thailand found a creative way of taking advantage of the waterways that it has access to. Floating markets are not only fascinating tourist attractions but also affordable shopping alternatives. Whether its fresh produce or souvenirs to take home, almost anything is present. The markets are in different areas of Bangkok, so wherever it is, you are usually not far away from a floating market. The following are some floating markets that you can visit in Bangkok.

Damnoen Saduak

This market is among the most famous in Bangkok. For this reason, it has become a tourist hotspot. It is a large and colourful market with rows of boats lining the waterway. Over time, Damnoen Saduak has lost the traditional feel, but it remains an interesting place to see. You can take a three-hour bus ride to the market from the city. It is about 80 Km from Bangkok in Ratchaburi Province. Alternatively, take a tour to Damnoen Saduak and see a few more attractions on your way there.

Wat Sai

If you are looking for a floating market to visit that is close to the city, Wat Sai is one recommendation; it is only a half hour away. Take a taxi ride from Lancaster Bangkok or book a tour to get here. The appeal of Wat Sai floating market is the authentic Thai culture that you come into contact with. Interact with the locals and enjoy traditional street food as you roam the market.

Taling Chan

Another floating market to venture into close to the city centre is Taling Chan, which is about 12 Km from downtown Bangkok. Taling Chan has a traditional market next to it, so the shopping options are quite extensive. It is a tad smaller compared to some other floating markets. Take short boat trips and see what the place has to offer.

Amphawa

The charm of Amphawa makes it irresistible. Although it is a bit far from Bangkok, about 50 Km, the trip is worth it. Small wooden houses rest on the side of the canal, forming a picturesque scenery. Arts and crafts are some of the main goods in this market, but you will find a great selection of clothes. It caters more to natives than foreigners and, therefore, has a different feel.

Bangkok offers more than just colourful floating markets. Spare time to talk to the locals and enjoy the delicacies while visiting.

March 28, 2019 0

The history of Portobello Road Market.

The history of Portobello Road Market – from Country Lane to World Class

The very nature of the 21st century causes many people to hanker after the good old days of yesteryear. They love the solidness and craftsmanship of old items and the nostalgia connected to them. They sift through the odds and ends at an antique market and pick up gems from the past.

Today the antique market is experiencing a boom, and Portobello Road Market is prepared for it. Found in Notting Hill, London, they’re the world’s largest antique market with a history that goes back more than 300 years. Today the market has more than 1 000 traders.

When you browse through the stalls of this splendid market, you realise how rewarding it can be – a colourful market presenting top quality items from different countries – offering something for everyone.

High-quality Antiques on Offer

Apart from there being plenty of stylish lodgings in the area, many people opt to stay at the newly refurbished 5-star Royal Lancaster London Hotel, loving the idea that the hotel has a long-standing history, two restaurants and beauty treatments on site. One of the restaurants Nipa Thai is one of few with the distinguished Thai Select award from the Thai Government.

The hotel is conveniently located near the likes of Hyde Park and of course, Portobello Road Market which offers trendy pubs and restaurants apart from all those exciting bargains. With the market stretching 2 miles along, the atmosphere and attractions seem to be never-ending.

The Metamorphosis Starts

Who can believe that this buzzing market once was a country path known as Green Lane. There was a farm too, known as Porto Bello, with the market getting its name from this farm. The farm got its name after the town of Porto Bello which the British captured in 1739 from the Spanish.

The farm area remained pretty much unchanged for decades really, and then slowly residential development began to change the landscape. Wealthy people began moving in and beautiful homes started emerging along with ordinary terrace homes being built for the working class. It was the northern end of the road that was the last to see development, with the opening of the Notting Hill Station.

A Mixed Bag is Offered

At first Portobello Road Market mainly sold food, but in the 1940s other traders moved in, among which were antique traders. Antiques are essentially what Portobello Road Market is all about, and Saturday is the top trading day. Today, while it is still known for its amazing antiques, other traders have come in selling a wonderful mix of fascinating clothes, scarves, shoes and other things too – ensuring the market’s vibrancy lives on.

Thanks to the film Notting Hill, this famous market is a tourist destination too, with Portobello Road attracting visitors from all over the UK and the world, and you want to be counted in next time you visit London.

February 17, 2019 0

Top Things to do in Florence

Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy: it’s full of history, stunning architecture and art, all having a small town feel. Millions of tourists visit the city every year and keep coming back to experience its mystery, beauty plus laid-back lifestyle.

That being said, here are the top things visitors can do in Florence:

Scale the Bell Tower and Duomo – Visitors Get The Best View of the City

Visitors can climb the 476 stairs, which is one of the architectural wonders of the world and look at Giorgio Vasari’s frescos that line the dome’s interior. From the top, visitors can see the whole city, but they can also climb the Bell Tower, which is just adjacent, where they can get a chance of examining the Duomo from an excellent angle.

Giardino delle Rose – Enjoy a Picnic with the Friends

This little garden that is tucked between San Niccolo and Piazzale Michelangelo offers visitors a fabulous, green refuge from the cyclist, wandering crowds and stone walls of the city.

Giardino delle Rose spans a hectare and within the park visitors will find lemon groves, a dozen sculptures, Japanese garden and over 350 varieties of roses, as well as unparalleled views of Florence. There are grassy spaces for visitors to bring snacks and wine and start enjoying.

Piazzale Michelangelo – Families will Enjoy the Best Sun Set in Town

At Piazzale Michelangelo, visitors will get to see the sun while It sets over the city. This is the most popular view overlooking the city: it has been reproduced on numerous photographs and postcards. Also, they will find David’s bronze replica believed to be safeguarding Florence. Visitors can either hire a cab, take the bus or hike to the top.

The Bargello – Visitors will See a Room Full of Donatello’s Masterpieces

Visitors can visit the national sculpture museum, Museo Nazionale del Bargello. The building, which looks like a castle, was built in 1255 to 1350 and was the original government seat. Tourists will get to see Florence’s best Renaissance sculpture collection, which is also among the greatest collection in Italy.

Dante Alighieri – The Whole Family Can Go on a Treasure Hunt

Florence isn’t shy about displaying Dante Alighieri’s Florentine roots. There is a large statue in his honour located in Piazza Santa Croce, which is a museum that is dedicated to Alighieri’s life and works (this includes The Divine Comedy).

There are also verses that are inscribed on several streets in the historical centre. Visitors can go to Santa Margherita de’ Cerchi, this is the church where Alighieri fell in love with the beautiful Beatrice, a doomed plus unrequited passion believed to have inspired most of his work. Link to a site showing the map of Florence: https://www.italyguides.it/en/tuscany/florence/interactive-map-of-florence

Those who have not visited Florence should not be left behind, the should join the millions of tourists who come here yearly to enjoy what the city has to offer. For accommodation in Florence, visitors can go at fiBNB apartments and they won’t be disappointed!

January 31, 2019 0