The old city of Ayutthaya recreates its ancient floating market with some thoroughly modern ideas

If a few hours spent among the ruins of Ayutthaya Historical Park aren’t enough to whisk you back in time and imagination to sixteenth-century Siam, then head to the newly opened miniature of the old Ayothaya Floating Market for a taste of rural life in bygone days.
This new hip hangout for tourists and local residents, the Bt150 million market opened in May on a 32-rai plot bordered by a canal and sheltered by big trees and other lush vegetation. It’s divided into three parts and home to more than 200 wooden shophouses, street vendors plus a pavilion for cultural performances.
There are more than 20 zones, each of the named after the old fresh-food markets of Ayutthaya. Browse around and you’ll found stacks of you creative merchandises in just about all categories, ranging from magnificent handicrafts to wooden toys and handmade apparel to decorative items.
The main attractions are found along the long street that’s known as Ta Rua Market, home to quality OTOP items, wickerwork and colourful wooden toys made by skilled artisans. On offer are hats, baskets, wooden kitchenware, fish-shaped hanging mobiles made from palm leaves, coconut shell dolls, herbal products, silverware and more.
Foodies should head to Buachom Island, where 50 vendors sell a wide range of delectable local foods, desserts and drinks on boats. Enjoy a big bowl of hot and spicy kuay tiew rua from Jum Jim Rua Jaew, along with PAD Thai, khanom krok, som tam, khanom jeen, crispy vermicelli, rice and curry, ice cream, Thai iced coffee and herbal beverages.
For clothes, head to the main streets of Pa Chee, Maharat, Chao Phrom and Lad Bualunag markets, where local designers offer their latest collections of handmade apparel, accessories and home decor items. Most merchandise features smart graphic designs, cool messages and cute cartoons reflecting Thai culture.
You can find colourful skirts, pants and bags made from Thai sarongs, T-shirts with the Thai alphabet and messages, silk outfits, zinc dolls, birdcages, mailboxes, magnets, beautiful postcards and more.
If you’re weary of foot by now, spa treatments and massage await at Pak Hai market.
T learn more about Thai culture, take a seat and enjoy the dance performances put on by students and local artists. Among the regular shows on stage are classical dances from all four regions, Thai martial arts, elephant battles and mini light & sound performances about Ayutthaya city.
IF YOU GO
Ayothaya Floating Market is in the same area as the Elephant Village, next to Maheyong Temple and it’s open daily from 9am to 9pm. Admission is free. For more information, call (035) 881 678, (035) 881 733 or visit http://www.ayothayafloatingmarket.com/.