Jenny Sky Is The Limit

Persistence Pays Off: Navigating Damnoen Saduak’s Waterways on a Whim!

The next adventure on my list near Bangkok was a visit to a Floating Market. Consulting my  Lonely Planet guide, Damnoen Saduak seemed like a viable option. However, the online reviews presented a mixed bag because some reviews were downright appalling, while others were remarkably encouraging. Caught in the whirlwind of conflicting opinions, I found myself in a prolonged state of overthinking, contemplating whether or not to go. As a consequence of this indecision, I  missed the opportunity to experience it on my last day in Bangkok. Little did I know, booking is a prerequisite, necessitating at least a two-day advance notice. Ah, the perils of overthinking!

Undoubtedly, the decision to extend my stay for this elusive activity was met with determination. Faced with the choice of going solo from the bus terminal or opting for an organised tour through a travel agency, I sought advice from my Couchsurfing contact. The consensus? A resounding recommendation for the latter.

Considering the market’s substantial distance of more than 90 kilometres from Bangkok, the potential exhaustion and the uncertainty of public transport schedules became apparent. Heeding this advice, I booked a half-day tour through my favourite ground excursion’s app: Viator, at the cost of £27.20. The chosen local operator? Tour East (T.E.T.) Ltd. Time to embark on a six-hour adventure through the waterways of Damnoen Saduak!

The adventure kicked off bright and early as the market shuts its bustling waterways promptly at noon. A 6:20 am pickup from my hotel marked the beginning, and after a swift transfer to our starting point, our eclectic group commenced the journey out of Bangkok around 7 am.

The route took us southwest on a comfortable air-conditioned coach, offering over an hour and a half of picturesque views. Our guide, whose name proved a linguistic challenge for many, became a storyteller extraordinaire. Amidst pronunciations I could neither master nor pen, he wove tales of Thai traditions. He shed light on the younger generation’s migration to urban hubs, chasing the elusive promise of a “better” future, and the looming threat to the preservation of age-old Thai customs. A poignant reflection emerged in my thoughts,  these vibrant markets, though teeming with tourists, might fade into oblivion in the not-so-distant future. 😦

A 30-minute pitstop along the way unveiled a hidden gem: a small Orchid and Coconut Farm, complete with a charming souvenir market to explore. The journey, it seemed, was as much about cultural insights as it was about the destination itself.

Upon our arrival at Damnoen Saduak, a swift transition awaited us as we boarded a long-tailed speedboat. This nifty vessel navigated us through a stretch of low-lying land, enveloped by stilt houses, creating a mesmerising panorama that unfolded over roughly fifteen exhilarating minutes. The soundtrack to this aquatic escapade? The unmistakable,  roar of the speedboat engine, a memory etched with the pulse of adventure.

Our journey brought us to the heart of the market, a bustling scene teeming with stalls. Here, I discovered a kaleidoscope of goods, mirroring the eclectic offerings of the Chatuchak weekend market. Amidst the lively commerce, food vendors and quaint restaurants added to the sensory tapestry, creating an atmosphere that was both familiar and uniquely Damnoen Saduak.

As the clock struck 10 am, our guide wisely proposed we embark on a small boat ride through the intricate canals, available for an additional 100 baht for 30 minutes. The suggestion held not just the promise of a peaceful excursion but also strategic timing, ensuring we could relish the tranquillity before the market’s crescendo of activity after 11 am. Without hesitation, I embraced our guide’s recommendation and hopped onto one of the canal rides.

Navigating the waterways of Damnoen Saduak proved to be a tranquil escape before the inevitable surge of activity after 11 am. Observing the market from this unique vantage point, a heartening realisation struck me,   every vendor was a tenacious local entrepreneur. The market, evidently, plays a pivotal role in sustaining the local economy. While a substantial number of visitors, myself included, hailed from foreign shores, a significant contingent of Thai locals added a delightful authenticity to the scene. From an array of fruits, refreshing drinks, and delectable food to raw vegetables, aromatic spices, clothing, souvenirs, and intricate handicrafts, Damnoen Saduak’s market was a treasure trove of eclectic finds, a testament to the vibrancy of Thai commerce.

Amid this vibrant visit, I found myself immersed in the true “art of bargaining.” Merely showing a hint of interest or daring to inquire about an item triggered a cascade of persuasive charm from the stall vendors!!!. The unwritten rule? Once you express curiosity, the odds of making a purchase skyrocket to a staggering 98%. Thai vendors, it seemed, were masters in the delicate dance of persuasion.

A captivating anecdote unfolded during my boat ride. A fellow adventurer, entangled in a ten-minute bargaining “heated war,” succumbed to the charm and persistence of a vendor. The prized possession? A wooden craft elephant, secured for 400 baht, a significant markdown from the initial 1200 baht price tag. The lively negotiation, more entertainment than a transaction, provided me with a front-row seat to the unique spectacle of Thai market dynamics. Amidst these haggling theatrics, the boat ride through the enchanting canals emerged as the undisputed highlight of the entire excursion. An experience I thoroughly relished, it added an extra layer of delight to my Damnoen Saduak adventure.

Post-Boat Adventures: Noodles, Laughter, and a Swift Exit from Damnoen Saduak’s Bustling Market

Following the entertaining boat ride, we were granted an hour to explore the remainder of the market. Opting for a noodle “brunch” at one of the many food stalls, I found myself in the delightful company of two friendly English ladies who shared this adventure with me. The “brunch,” a satisfying affair inclusive of the local Thai beer Singha, set me back 200 baht. However, our leisurely post-meal seconds were abruptly interrupted. It was as if a theatrical scene change unfolded before us, we were swiftly and somewhat comically escorted out of the area. To put it mildly, we were “kicked out” with a dash of haste. The reason? The vendors were on the prowl for fresh customers. Amidst shared laughter, we graciously departed the scene, leaving behind the bustling market and its eager merchants in search of their next clientele.

Reflecting on this genuinely special journey, I still recommend it to anyone willing to dive into the experience! provided you’re not afraid of fellow tourists (many of them, that is!). It’s a truth I’ve come to accept: all those unfavourable online reviews likely stem from individuals yearning to be “travellers” rather than “tourists.” In reality, the dichotomy between the two is impossible to maintain.

True travellers, in my opinion, embrace the journey in all its facets, even the touristy ones. This trip to Damnoen Saduak served as a testament to that notion. It’s not about avoiding the well-trodden paths; it’s about relishing every moment, embracing the tourist within, and finding the extraordinary in the seemingly ordinary. After all, the distinction between a traveller and a tourist is a blurred line one that, in the end, matters far less than the richness of the experiences gained along the way.

Onward to Ayutthaya: A Swift Transition from Bangkok’s Bustle

Ayutthaya is a historic city located 80 kilometres north of Bangkok. Founded in 1350, it served as the capital of Siam (Thailand’s former name) until 1767. The Ayutthaya Historical Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

There are several options to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok, and the choice depends on personal preferences for comfort and cost. Initially, I considered travelling by train, but online reviews suggested that trains might be slow and prone to delays. Alternatively, I discovered a minivan service departing from Victoria Monument, which appeared to be both cost-effective and quicker compared to buses or trains.

In the end, I trusted my instincts and opted for the train, considering I wasn’t in a rush. I made my way to Hua Lamphong Bangkok Train Station and approached the counter designated for foreigners. The train ticket to Ayutthaya in the second class amounted to 15 baht (£1.50 or COP 5500), and this included seat allocation.

The train departed promptly at 3:30 pm, and the journey, spanning 1 hour and 40 minutes, proceeded without any delays. The seats were comfortable, and there were several train vendors in case I wanted to purchase water or snacks during the trip. I encountered absolutely no issues or complaints throughout the journey. It left a lasting impression in my mind as a truly memorable experience.

Upon reaching Ayutthaya rail station, I realised I hadn’t finalised my choice of accommodation. I had two options, one from the Lonely Travel Guide and another I found on my hotels.com app. Opting for the latter, I hailed a tuk-tuk and headed there. Fortunately, there were available rooms, although this hotel only boasts 9 rooms. I made the right decision, as it turned out to be a charming little hotel, managed by its native Thai owner. If you ever find yourself in Ayutthaya, I highly recommend considering a stay at Silp-pa. This establishment embodies true hospitality and is conveniently located, just a 15-minute walk from the historical sites.

That was my day! Thanks again for reading!

“Explore, live, discover”

❤️

Love from Jenny 😊