Next, we took a small ferry, holding about 50 motorcycles plus pedestrians, to cross the river. Once across, we hopped on traditional Thai tricycles (think pedicabs...) and had a leisurely ride throughout the small fishing village. The ride ended at a large temple filled with swallow nests. Again, we were the only visitors at this site.
Our next stop: the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Upon arrival, we stopped for a few bowls of noodle soup, per our guide's recommendation. To this day, I think this is one of the best meals I've ever eaten. After devouring our soup, we caught a wooden row boat to explore the canals. Many locals have set up shops at the edge of the canal, but many vendors still float around, offering snacks, fresh coconuts, flowers, or hats. While the buzz of the market was fun, we most enjoyed the experience after boating away from the main part of the market. Then, we were alone in the local canals, which snaked through the nearby houses and fields.
As our last sight of the day, we visited the Maeklong Train Market. While many tourists are driven to the market to observe the train barrel through the stalls as they shop, our guide suggested we take the train in. We rode the train for about fifteen minutes before arriving at the famous market. The tracks run through the center of the market, so vendors must lift their displays in time for the train to pass. Paul captured the little-to-no room for error with a video.
