DESTINATION

On the third day in Chanthaburi, I continued a journey brimming with surprises and heartfelt moments, where ecological conservation and artistic beauty merged seamlessly, adding a vivid and memorable chapter to my Thailand trip.

In the early morning of Chanthaburi, the city had not yet fully woken from its slumber, but the morning market was already quietly bustling—a vivid portrait of life’s earthly warmth. As the sky lightened, the streets of the morning market began to stir. Vendors stepped into the morning light, setting up their stalls one after another. In bamboo baskets, fresh fruits and vegetables just picked from the fields still glistened with dewdrops!

Chanthaburi, rich in mineral resources, is also known as Thailand’s "Gem Capital." So, early on a weekend morning, filled with eager anticipation, I headed to the local and renowned gem market—the oldest and largest gem trading market in Thailand to date. Every weekend, people from around the world gather here to buy and sell gems.

Two years later, I returned to Thailand. Starting from Bangkok, I drove eastward for over three hours to reach my destination this trip: Chanthaburi! The moment I set foot on Chanthaburi’s land for the first time, I was captivated by the unique charm of this coastal city. With its enchanting natural scenery, rich history and culture, and vibrant local vibe, Chanthaburi shines like a radiant pearl in eastern Thailand.