This floating market is an outdoor market built on a lake and is a very good place to shop, hang out or visit, not far from the town and Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa which is one of the choices of Hua Hin resorts available to travellers visiting the locale. There are many crafts, T-Shirt and souvenir, especially some Thai style soap. All shops are located on a pathway with shelter. There are about 193 shops of all different kinds and 40 shops on the boats (only on the weekends), selling local food, handmade products and souvenirs. One can stroll through the heart of the floating market on foot, by boat (on weekends) or even a take a pedalo (paddleboat on weekends). Alternatively, one has the opportunity to tour the floating market on a miniature railway, a major thrill especially for the kids. There is a replica train station and the miniature train that runs behind the stores of the market which would be fun for the children.

Designed to reflect Hua Hin’s unique history and architectural heritage, Sam Pan Nam Floating Market adopts the same identity as Hua Hin town. The sign posts, railings, roof tiles, folding doors all evoke an air of 1920s. Although there’s no actual fishing pier, the lake has a few moored fishing boats where one can climb aboard and take photosThe floating market has the added attractions of three large elephants and a baby elephant that one could feed them bananas and take photos. Another feeding opportunity is the many, goldfish in the lake. Several shops sell fish food one could throw at the fish in the lake – really fun for children.

Thus, this floating market offers alternatives to shopping malls and traditional outdoor markets. One gets to experience a little bit of everything, whether Thai food, architecture, culture or shopping. For sheer variety and fun activities, Sam Pan Nam Floating Market in Hua Hin is the place to visit.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+