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Chanthaburi: A Hidden Jewel in Thailand
As a National Geographic Journalist, I had the pleasure of exploring the beautiful and exotic city of Chanthaburi, located on the eastern coast of Thailand. The city is known for its natural beauty, eclectic architecture, delicious street food, and interesting historical heritage. I spent a week in the city, wandering around its old-town streets, enjoying its natural attractions, and sampling its delicious cuisine. In this article, I will share my experiences of the city and provide some useful information for travelers who plan to visit this hidden gem.
The Scenery of the City
Chanthaburi city is surrounded by green hills and has a number of natural attractions, including rivers, waterfalls, and beaches. The city’s old town, which is located near the river, has an eclectic mix of architecture, with old Portuguese-style buildings, Chinese shophouses, and Thai-style wooden houses. The city is also known for its gemstones and has a fascinating gem market where buyers can find various precious stones.
What I Liked and Disliked
Overall, I enjoyed my stay in Chanthaburi. The city has a laid-back and peaceful atmosphere, and its natural attractions are stunning. I particularly liked the peaceful riverfront and the beautiful Wat Khao Sukim temple, located on a hill overlooking the city. The street food is delicious, and the people are friendly and welcoming.
However, I did find the traffic in the city to be a bit chaotic, and the sidewalks were often crowded with parked motorbikes, making it hard to walk around. Additionally, some buildings in the city were in need of renovation.
Cost of Living in a Day
The cost of living in Chanthaburi is quite reasonable. On average, a traveler can spend between $20 and $30 a day, including accommodation, food, transport, and a few attractions. Street food is very affordable, with prices ranging from $1 to $3 per dish.
20 Points of Interest
1. Chanthaburi Gem Market – Trirat Rd, Chanthanimit, Mueang Chanthaburi District, Chanthaburi 22000
2. Chanthaboon Waterfront Community – Chanthaboon Rd, Mueang Chanthaburi District, Chanthaburi 22000
3. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception – 366 Sukhumvit Rd, Tambon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
4. Wat Khao Sukim – 249 Khao Sukim Rd, Tambon Tha Chang, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
5. Amphoe Si Maha Phot – Si Maha Phot, Khao Khitchakut National Park, Chanthaburi 22130
6. Chao Lao Beach – Tambon Pak Nam Lueat, Amphoe Tha Mai, Chanthaburi 22120
7. Khao Kitchakut National Park – Tambon Khao Khitchakut, Amphoe Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi 22160
8. King Taksin Shrine – Naruebodindra Rd, Tambon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
9. Chanthaburi River – Mueang Chanthaburi District, Chanthaburi 22000
10. Living Museum of Bang Kaeo – Tambon Khlong Narai, Amphoe Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi 22160
11. Moon Waterfall – Tambon Plab Pla, Amphoe Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi 22160
12. The Pillar Shrine – Naruebodindra Rd, Tambon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
13. Wat Bot Muang – Tambon Plab Pla, Amphoe Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi 22160
14. Saphan Hin Beach – Tambon Pak Nam Lueat, Amphoe Tha Mai, Chanthaburi 22120
15. Wat Phai Lom – Phai Lom, Khlung, Chanthaburi 22110
16. Somdejphraphuttharesdamuni Park – Sukhumvit Rd, Tambon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
17. Chanthaburi City Pillar Shrine – Naruebodindra Rd, Tambon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
18. Wat Phlup – Tambon Phlu Pla, Amphoe Khlung, Chanthaburi 22110
19. Wat Phlap – Khao Phlap, Soi Khao Phlap 1, Tambon Wat Mai, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
20. Robinson Department Store Chanthaburi – Sukhumvit Rd, Tambon Na Yai Am, Amphoe Mueang, Chanthaburi 22000
Top 20 Popular Street Food
1. Khao Tom Mad (Savory Rice Porridge) – Around the City – $1
2. Kanom Jean (Rice Vermicelli with Curry) – Around the City – $1.5
3. Guay Tiew Rad Na (Noodle in Thick Gravy Soup) – Around the City – $2
4. Hoy Tod (Fried Oyster Omelet) – Around the City – $2
5. Som Tam (Papaya Salad) – Around the City – $1
6. Kai Jiew Moo Saap (Fried Egg with Minced Pork) – Around the City – $2
7. Pad Cha Pla (Stir-fried Spicy Fish with Basil) – Around the City – $3
8. Kuay Jub (Thick Noodle Soup) – Around the City – $2
9. Bamee Moo Daeng (Egg Noodle with Roasted Pork) – Around the City – $2.5
10. Tom Yum Kung (Spicy Shrimp Soup) – Around the City – $3
11. Kao Na Ped (Roast Duck with Rice) – Around the City – $3
12. Pla Pao (Grilled Fish) – Around the City – $4
13. Gaeng Phet Kai (Red Curry Chicken) – Around the City – $2.5
14. Pad Thai (Stir-fried Noodle) – Around the City – $2
15. Larb Moo (Spicy Pork Salad) – Around the City – $2
16. Nam Prik Kapi (Shrimp Paste Dip) – Around the City – $2
17. Khao Klook Kapi (Fried Rice with Shrimp Paste) – Around the City – $2
18. Peek Gai Tod (Fried Chicken Wings) – Around the City – $3
19. Khao Moo Daeng (Roasted Pork with Rice) – Around the City – $2.5
20. Pad Krapow Moo (Stir-fried Pork with Basil) – Around the City – $2
Reasonable Hotels and Airbnb Lists with Detail and Price in US Dollars
Hotels
1. Brookside Valley Resort – $30
2. Uzenmaya Sanctuary – $29
3. Diya Valley Resort – $27
4. Serene Residence – $25
5. The Peak Coffee Farm Stay – $23
6. Loft House Chanthaburi – $20
7. Sabydee Valley Resort – $20
8. X2 Chanthaburi Riverside Resort – $80
9. Ploy Resort – $19
10. K.P.Garden Chanthaburi – $15
Airbnb
1. Nipa and Napha House – $22
2. Mountain Village – $28
3. Yellow House Chanthaburi – $25
4. Big Trees Hostel – $18
5. Patab Beach Bungalow – $23
6. Riverside Villa – $30
7. Tony House – $21
8. Rustic House Chanthaburi – $20
9. Jungle House Chanthaburi – $30
10. Garden Home – $25
Rating
Overall, I was impressed with Chanthaburi city. It has a beautiful natural setting, a fascinating history, and a delicious cuisine. Its charm lies in its laid-back lifestyle and the friendly locals. The city’s traffic and crowded sidewalks may be a downside, but the positives far outweigh the negatives. I rate Chanthaburi eight out of ten stars. It is a hidden jewel in Thailand that has a lot to offer for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.
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