Learn, Travel, Art: Floating Markets in Bangkok

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mekong

A flurry of rushed activity, people squirreling around to sell trinkets, exotic fruits and precious metals, and the sound of wooden canals slowly bumping against each other is the sound of the famous floating markets in Bangkok, Thailand. The most famous is the Damnoen Saduak market (as well as the Amphawa(อัมพวา) floating market), where a motley crew of Thais are attracted to sell their commodities to the increasing number of gawking tourists. This particular canal was dug in 1866 by Thai King Rama IV, who wanted a 32 km corridor to connect with Mae Klong River with the Tachine River. In the 19th century, the soil around the new canal was fertile and could support widespread agriculture, so fruits and vegetables were grown near the market; farmers could then directly sell their juicy products right on the canal! Of course, people have been transporting goods on boats for thousands of years, from the majestic ancient Egyptians to the sophisticated Romans.

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Floating_Market_Thailand.jpg

Today, the Damnoen Saduak market attracts thousands of tourists who want to feel exotic and exciting or just snatch up Thai bargains to bring back home. From the pictures I have seen, the water is deep blue or murky brown and the sellers don Farmer’s Straw Hats. Bananas, red peppers, pears, cantaloupes, grapes, limes, coconuts, mangoes and plants usually litter the interior of the low tan boats while the farmers sit on the end of the vessel. But what are the markets really like? What were they like before the visitors came gawking? I asked my friend Ravi who actually lives in Bangkok!

1. Are the canals usually crowded with more locals or tourists?
The canals have many locals but the tourists stay at banks.

2. What is your favorite item that is sold in the boats?
I love desserts in the the boats
3. How often do you go to the markets?

I sometimes went to floating market but I go to flower market once a week.

4. Do you or your parents have any funny experiences from the markets?
My family never have funny experiences from the markets because we often to go there.
5. Have you ever fallen in the water?

I never fallen in water, I think everybody here is frightened of falling in.