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We are standing at a flooded jetty when we are unexpectedly approached by an older Australian. We get talking because the next ferry is a long time coming. His destination for today, Chinatown! A place where a sheer number of goods are on offer, countless warungs prepare delicious dishes and tourists haggle over the price. The gentleman doesn't need to tell us any more, because our next stop is set!
The easiest and most convenient way to reach one of the world's largest Chinatowns is definitely by water. Ferries run regularly along the Chao Phraya. It is best to choose the orange line. You can get a ticket on the boat for 16 baht (~ 40 cents) and then enjoy the 15-minute crossing past Wat Arun and the Royal Palace. However, you should have your belongings together by the time you reach the Rachawongse stop, as this is the starting point of a short walk.
After a short time, the first stalls line the street and vendors try their luck with the tourists. Here you can really get everything your heart desires, especially first-class food for little money. The history of this shopping street dates back to 1782, when the then king re-founded the kingdom after the fall of Ayutthaya. He accepted the help of foreign merchants, who in return were given some land on the site of today's royal palace. During the construction of the Grand Palace, however, these very people had to relocate once again and so today's Chinatown is located in the Sampheng district.
You should definitely not miss out on a short detour to Wat Traimit, as this temple is home to a special feature. Inside the marble building is the largest Buddha statue made of pure gold. After this exciting insight into this city, it's time for us to pull up our tents in Bangkok. We are drawn to the north of the country. Sukhothai is our next destination and it should more than surprise us!
