Saturday, March 9, 2019

The Island of the Artisans



Each week we post a link to an article in Bangkok 101 -  and the article today is about ‘The Island of Artisans’.

“Visiting the urban oasis of Koh Kret is like taking a step back in time” 
– original words by Bruce Scott.

A little north of Bangkok is the island of Koh Kret. Interestingly it was not originally an island but in 1722 King Taisra dug a canal so that the boats would not have to follow the meandering Chao Phraya river. This canal gradually got bigger and became a river – Lat Klet.

And visiting the island you may think that this was the last time that there was modernization here.



After arriving on a small ferry from Pak Kret and the lovely Buddhist Temple of Wat Sanam Nuea it is simple to rent a bicycle and cycle around the island – here’s a route - . And it is even better because cars are not allowed on the island, although the way through the markets can be a little narrow.

There are several things that you may see on this trip



1)     The Leaning Chedi – because it is so close to the edge of the water
2)     Coffee House No.1 – where they still make their coffee in clay pots
3)     Baan Slip Siam – a wonderful place to explore and learn about the history and cultures of Thailand. The Khon mask miniatures are especially wonderful and performances are at 12 pm and 3 pm.
4)     Chit Beer – a river front restaurant serving locally brewed beer, a fabulous location to sit on a Sunday afternoon
5)     Pottery Factory Praditwong – a master craftsman makes delightfully exquisite pottery and if you have time he can give lessons.
6)     Lots and lots of food and street vendors
7)     Wat Bang Chak is a temple you can see on the other side of the river whilst sitting in one of the many riverside cafes and there are more scattered over the whole island.



For more information please read the full article here - https://www.bangkok101.com/the-island-of-artisans/. Please note that the best time to go is the weekend because many of the shops are closed.


      

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