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Samut Sakhon
This coastal province, 28 kilometres from Bangkok, is best known for its salt
production, the coastal fishing community of Mahachai where excellent
local seafood can be enjoyed, and for bird-watch-ing opportunities on coastal
mudflats. The province is served by airconditioned buses leaving Bangkok's
Southern Bus Terminal (Tel: (66 2) 435-1199) every l0 minutes between 5.30
a.m. and 8.00 p.m.; and by train leaving Thonburi's Wong Wien Yai station (Tel:
(66 2) 465-2017).
Major Attractions
Manachai Marhet
This is one of Thailand's largest traditional fresh seafood markets, but there is
much more than just seafood. Handicrafts such as wicker furniture, pottery and
local sarongs are among the colourful offerings in the market.
Crossing the river from Mahachai to the west bank, visitors will arrive at Tha
Chalom, a large fishing village and industrial land for marine products.
Phathai Norasing Shrine
Regarded as the symbol of honesty, it was erected to be a memorial to Phanthai
Norasing, a man of integrity of the Ayutthaya period. A cruise along the canal is possible by boat chartered
from a landing near the Mahachai Market.
Bird Watching
Wat Ratsatthakayaram in Amphoe Ban Phaeo is where thousands of birds live in
peace among the bushes. Migrating mangrove birds can be found along the
muddy shore between the Tha Chin and Mae Klong Rivers during the cool season.
Salt Farms
Samut Sakhon is the biggest producer of brine salt. Its picturesque salt farms, which
sprawl across the border with Samut Songkhram and along the Thon Buri-Pak Tho
Highway, have provided a back drop for many holiday snapshots.
Bencharong
This craft is a form of exquisitely patterned pottery, which was used at the tables
of the aristocracy. Its name means 'five colours' -red, black, blue, yellow, green-
and only these five may be used to decorate it.
Fruit
Tasty fruit produced in Samut Songkhram include coconuts with aromatic juice,
sweet pomelos, grapes, and guavas.
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