Ko Kloi Floating Market

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About Ko Kloi Floating Market

The Ko Kloi Floating Market, despite its name, is not a traditional floating market. Visitors expecting to see a bustling waterway filled with boats laden with goods may be disappointed. Instead, they will find a quiet, static market with only a few shops open. The lack of human activity can make the place feel deserted and underwhelming. The only highlight for some visitors is the opportunity to feed the fish in the ponds.

The market is located next to Central Rayong and is often compared unfavorably to the Pattaya Floating Market. The concept is similar, with small shops surrounding a man-made pond. However, the products sold here can be found elsewhere in Thailand at a fraction of the price. This has led some visitors to label it as a tourist trap.

Despite the criticisms, the market is not without its charms. At night, it transforms into a lively spot frequented by young locals. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, with live music and seating near the water. It's a nice place to enjoy a cold beer and soak in the local culture. The market also houses a few vintage restaurants that remain open at night, offering visitors a chance to dine in a unique setting.

The concept of floating markets dates back hundreds of years to a time when Thailand, then known as Siam, had extensive networks of canals. These waterways were the main thoroughfare for trade and commerce. Farmers and cottage industries would load their small wooden boats with produce and goods and paddle them to local congregation areas, which became known as floating markets. These markets usually operated from early morning until midday or until the merchants had sold their produce.

As towns and cities expanded, canals were filled in and replaced by roads and highways. This led to the decline of the traditional floating markets. However, the tourist industry has attempted to recreate the mystique of this bygone era by dredging fake canals and setting up floating markets in theme park-like settings. The Ko Kloi Floating Market is one such attempt. It claims to recreate the ambiance and atmosphere of the old floating markets, but some visitors feel it falls short of this promise.

In conclusion, the Ko Kloi Floating Market may not offer the authentic floating market experience some visitors may be seeking. However, it does provide a unique setting for dining and socializing in the evening. As with any tourist destination, it's best to manage expectations and take the criticisms into account before planning a visit.