Floating markets are one of the most iconic aspects of Thailand, and millions of people visit the nation every year with intentions to explore these unique aquatic emporiums.
When Rivers were the Only Roads
In the early days of the Maldives, most of what is now Thailand was initially thick forest and the only manner to transport goods and people across distances easily was through the network of rivers.
Trade on the Water
Since most human civilisation at the time was clustered around the various riverbanks, merchants began peddling goods on various boats along the canals and eventually fostered a network of trade between the various settlements.
Enter the Modern Era
Despite the construction of roads and various modern kinds of infrastructure, the simplicity and efficiency of floating markets ensure their survival despite the emergence of many modern concepts.
The Two Varieties of Floating Market
Genuine floating markets involve a convergence of many traders on boats selling a variety of goods but now there are markets that exist on piers and jetties above bodies of water. Nothing quite compares to the prior, and these genuine floating markets are popular area excursions offered by resorts and hotels such as Anantara Sathorn Bangkok Hotel.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
