Thailand’s strong reliance on its inland waterways for communications and commerce created a strong relationship between the people and the water. Nowhere is this relationship is better represented than at Thailand’s floating markets. Unlike regular markets, Floating Markets ('Talaat Naam') have sellers pack their wares onto small boats and jostle with each other for the attention of buyers alongside canals. Set against a country backdrop they are very picturesque and a natural draw for visitors. You should though keep in mind that these are equally as much a place of commerce as any of the regular markets you might visit. Occasionally you’ll find people wandering around in traditional Thai clothing; these enhancements have been made by authorities and local businesses for the sake of visitors and their cameras. However, the Thai women paddling along the canal in their blue shirts ('Mor Hom') and flat-topped hats ('Muak Nob') are the real thing – they are here to make a living!
If you are in Thailand long enough, a visit to a Floating Market will be well worth your while.
Worth seeing
