The first two things you notice about the Chaisri River are 1) it is filled with floating water hyacinth, and 2) the direction of the current changes through the day coinciding with the tides. The river cuts through the the area of Thailand that was historically the center of Buddhism. As we traveled by motorboat, we saw many of the 100+ Temples lining both sides of the river, as well as many boats filled with Thai tourists there to connect with their Buddhist roots. Motor boats must slow to no wake as they pass temples, so our two hour trip was a constant shift from high to low speeds. Each morning I noticed boatloads of monks dressed in orange robes boating along the river seeking food donations from those who live along the shore.
There were areas where navigating through the thick patches of water hyacinth required puzzle-solving capability. Most of the homes along the river are not just modest, but often in terrible disrepair. These homes are passed down through generations of poor Thai families, who hold on to the properties rather than sell to wealthier locals and foreigners seeking prime waterfront property. Many of these families sustain themselves by cutting various fruits and vegetables, and transporting them to the numerous restaurants along the river where they sell their goods to the dining patrons right over the rail as they eat.
We boated about 45 minutes and reached one of the largest water markets in Thailand. The market is an expansive combination of docks and boats, some covered some not, filled with many hundreds of small booths selling every fruit, vegetable and food known to man. Clothing, fabrics and even electronics and games were also for sale. We purchased some interesting fruits and cakes for the ride back. On the way back we pulled up to a coconut-ice cream stand which was in reality two boats anchored in the river.
The two hour boat ride was fascinating, and a nice glimpse into traditional life along a Thai river. I couldn’t help but think that this is the type of place that Rambo spent his later years.
One of the the 100+ Buddhist Temples lining the river
Water hyacinth is thick in the river at points
Lek and Lucky
Modest and decaying homes line the river
Locals harvest fruits and vegetables to sell along the river
The water market goes on for many blocks, selling everything imaginable
The locals sell their harvest over the railings of restaurant-boats
Hope you are trying some of the more exotic fruits, like chiku, lychee and rambutan — I don’t know what is in season (I’d suggest durian also, but I don’t think Lek would allow it in the house). You probably already found out that the pineapple and mango are possibly the best in the world.
Comment by MAC — February 8, 2009 @ 7:58 pm
Hi Andy! I finally got caught up reading your posts
Looks and sounds like you are having an incredible time! I’m looking forward to reading more. Take care.
Comment by Nicole — February 8, 2009 @ 10:02 pm
Andy, I finally got a chance to read the whole blog. I cannot believe the pictures.. and how beautiful it is! I’m glad your trying so many different things! Although.. The ‘king and i’ will no longer be a fav. spot i’m sure since u have gotten a taste of the real thing. It’s weird with u not here… and i’m not sure I like it too much. I can’t wait for you to go home. I’ll have to take you for a nice american dinner when u get home.. and you can tell me all your fav. parts of the trip. i’m sure there are things your nottt blogging about. love u and miss u!
Comment by Jessica — February 9, 2009 @ 7:53 am
Dude, what havent you eaten ? Maybe you can get some ideas for food at the next tailgate?Hope all is well, the bloog is great!!! P.S are you still wearing the slippers from the plane trip? ARZ
Comment by arz — February 9, 2009 @ 12:31 pm
I wish you had written my history books. Your writing and photos are awesome!
We are jealous and wish we were with you.
Continue to enjoy and keep on blogging! We can’t wait to read more!
Sharon
Comment by Sharon Dirksen — February 9, 2009 @ 9:07 pm