This bustling social scene known as “talaad nam” or floating market (actually, “water market” if you want a more direct translation), still exists in many locations outside of Bangkok’s modernised center. Unfortunately, a lot of them have devolved into picturesque tourist traps. Vendors are there to cater to visitors looking for an “authentic” experience, but it ends up being packed mainly with hawkers selling souvenirs or barely edible Thai food and snacks. Luckily, there are still some floating markets that are true to their heritage, catering to a mainly local population. Among them is Lat Mayom, a “water market” just across the Chao Phraya River.

Lat Mayom translates to Gooseberry Slopes, referring to the fruit trees that once flourished in the area. While the idea of slopes may bring hills and steep gradients to some minds, this region is mostly flat plains, so it doesn’t take much of an incline to qualify as a slope here (in Thai, it now just generally refers to higher ground). On the slopes, a burgeoning weekend floating market thrives surrounded by a community that has, for the most part, continued traditional practices of life along the canals.

The “floating” part of a floating market doesn’t mean that the entire market, including buyers and sellers, are on the water. Lat Mayom is no different. It means that the main access for vendors is by boat. Some will paddle or motor up to small piers to sell their wares from their boat. And the variety of wares may surprise you. Of course, there are boatloads of fresh fruits and flowers, but there are also some logistical marvels such as a noodle soup which serves piping hot noodles from a traditional boat. You may also see second-hand electronics on sale from the repair shop just downstream.

The market also takes place on land. There are over seven sections along both sides of canal, with footbridges connecting the two sides. Fresh produce and meats are on sale. There’s also an incredible food court-like set up with delicious fresh grilled prawns, roasted duck, made-to-order noodles, and so much mouth-watering dishes.

And while the market can take hours of exploration, a side trip along the canals offers insights into a vanishing culture. It’s like you’ve stepped back in time here. Quaint wooden homes and peaceful orchid and banana groves reveal satellite dishes and laughing teenagers trying to capture you in their selfies as you pass. Little old ladies selling traditional coconut ice cream treats to children at the temple may charm you just as much as the bustling boat repair shop, even with the cacophony of the angle grinder!

So, if you must visit a floating market, make sure it’s Lat Mayom—a floating market that truly provides a taste of Thailand.

Smiling Albino searches for these authentic experiences to ensure your trip reveals the true heart of Thailand to you. If you would like to discover the delights of Lat Mayom Floating Market or want to embark on a genuinely Thai journey, contact us today!

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We’ve had 15 years to explore and discover the mystical countries of the East and guide many guests into our world, now we share our insight with our online community. When you finally make your epic trip across the ocean remember to pack this list of destinations. And without further adieu. . .

Treasure #5 – Mahabharata Range, Nepal

Picture for a moment following an ancient footpath with unspoilt nature on both sides. In front of you is an amazing landscape of the Mahabharata range.

On one side you pass lovely, lowly villages with terraced fields and forests on the other in the horizon is a spectacular silhouette of the majestic Himalayas.

Treasure #4 – Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia

Reach the lake by a comfortable private car or a slower, healthier cycling trip through quaint villages, rice fields and temples.

Tonle Sap Lake is Southeast Asia’s largest lake, and a must see when you wish to escape from temple-overload.

Board a charming boat for an interesting look at floating villages where locals literally live right on the lake, relying on it for everything.

Treasure #3 – Marble Mountains, Vietnam

As you travel, by the means you find worthy, from Ho Chi Minh to Hue in the north you pass quaint villages, fantastic white sandy beaches, endless green rice paddies, over three mountain passes, and psychological the boundary between the north and south Vietnam. On the journey you pass the Marble Mountains, there are 5 in total each with a name of the five elements. These mountains are littered with numerous caves and tunnels as well as Buddhist sanctuaries. Nearby is the spectacular Hai Van Pass overlooking Danang’s coastline and the tele-famous sites around China Beach.

Treasure #2 – Shan State, Myanmar

In the northern Shan State of Myanmar out the town of Hsipaw, are the fascinating Shan and Palaung villages. With the natural beauty, historic stupas and cottage-industry factories, this region is still a rare unspoiled gem. Learn more about the Shan culture or the history of Hsipaw as you walk through panoramic scenes of paddy fields, small creeks and smiling families. Don’t miss the unique wooden monastery as well as some small home industries like cheroot (cigar) rolling, bamboo weaving “factories”, among others. Here you discover genuine, simple village life.

Treasure #1  – Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, Thailand

A classic Thai experience is a day as a ‘mahout’ or elephant handler. During the course you work alongside a professional elephant trainer and learn about these magical creatures.

Responsibilities include retrieving the elephants from the jungle, assisting with feeding, cleaning, bathing and learning how to drive an elephant via native verbal and physical commands.

Part of your payment is donated to support the foundations work to rescue elephants, so you can come and play with a free conscious!

See more unsuspecting treasure spots from Smiling Albino.

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