**"Chumphon, Gateway to the South, Pay Homage to the Prince, Admire Coffee Plantations, Witness Sandy Beaches, Savor Delicious Kluai Leb Muu Bananas, and Renowned Bird's Nest."**

Does the motto of this province sound familiar? In addition to the local specialties mentioned in the motto, Chumphon province now boasts a new tourist attraction that perfectly caters to the trend of authentic Thai tourism with a profound twist: "Lard Tai Kiem," a large community market beneath the Kiem tree, a medium-to-large-sized tree. Let's just say that the lush greenery and refreshing atmosphere are guaranteed!

Location: Pak Nam Lamae (opposite Pak Nam Lamae Temple), Village 1, Lamae Subdistrict, Lamae District, Chumphon Province.

The journey is straightforward. Starting from Lamae Railway Station, head west and turn left onto Route 4112. Turn left again onto Route 4134. At the fork, turn right and continue along the road. Turn left again onto Route 4019, and you will find Laad Tai Kiehm on your right, opposite Wat Paknam Lamae. The total distance is 8.8 kilometers.

Opening Hours: Every Sunday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Open for sale from December 2016)

It is no surprise that "Lad Tai Kiem", or "Tai Kiem Market", is one of the "Must-Visit Markets" designated by the Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce. But what exactly is a Must-Visit Market?

According to the "Must-Visit Market" project manual for local business community markets, the Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, defines a "Must-Visit Market" as "a community market that the Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, has promoted and developed local businesses to promote commercial identity and community identity." The concept aims to make "Must-Visit Markets" a channel for creating jobs, generating income, and creating work for people in the community. These markets are places where both locals and visitors from other areas can stop by to shop and experience the local culture, way of life, and unique characteristics of the villagers. This generates income while preserving the customs, arts, and culture of the community. The project is carried out in collaboration with all relevant sectors in a public-private partnership model to ensure the sustainable strength of the local economy.

We have arrived! Now, the hunt for a parking spot begins! Just a short distance past the market entrance, you'll find a natural, open-air parking area. Feel free to choose any spot that suits your fancy! Just make sure you don't accidentally bump into anyone's car. 😉

The entrance is marked by a large, thatched pavilion with a striking sign reading "Pa Khai Kai." Flanked by photo booths on either side, this spot is a dream come true for photography enthusiasts and selfie addicts. A cool breeze carries a hint of saltiness, as the market's rear end abuts the seashore. Oh, the excitement!

Before heading to the market's diverse food offerings, take a moment to make merit for good fortune in your eating, or rather, in your life. Just past the entrance archway on the right-hand side.

The Talat Tai Kiem market is divided into 7 zones with over 50 stalls selling a variety of goods. These goods are primarily sourced from local residents and include agricultural products, herbs, fresh seafood, organic fruits and vegetables, regional cuisine, rare local snacks, beverages, and handmade crafts.

The shops are built in a simple and natural style, with bamboo frames and thatched roofs. Although the products sold vary, one thing they all have in common is that each shop displays a portrait of King Rama IX above the entrance, as a token of gratitude for his immense kindness.

A herbal tea shop that comes with a bamboo water bottle.

A traditional Thai noodle shop with fresh vegetables and seating.

The restaurant is spacious, with ample seating options in various styles, including tables.

Sleep in a hammock

Or you can just chill by the sea. It's your choice! Do whatever makes you happy!

Wander around looking for food. In addition to ready-to-eat food, the market also has a fresh market zone where you can find fresh seafood, local vegetables, and rare ingredients.

Looks delicious!!!

Affordable!

Pass it around, one each! ^^

There are many beautiful photo spots.

Trees are also available for sale. Choose what you want to buy and plant.

The library is also available for free reading.

Nine chairs can be arranged in a way that is pleasing to the eye.

An ancient sailboat also came . . .

At the very back, there is a small canal leading out to sea.

Most of the seafood is unloaded from the boats fresh and sold immediately.

The stage will be set up across the canal.

Beautiful, sharp eyes, typical of southern women ^^ As for the performance costumes, they will be rotated. Each set will reflect the identity of the local people.

Enjoy watching . . .

Near the stage, there is a coffee shop.

Simple but very comfortable, sipping coffee while enjoying the sea breeze.

The place is bustling with people, all taking photos. As I said, it's beautiful from every angle.

Everywhere you look, people are holding bamboo cups. It feels good. I've completely forgotten about plastic cups.

Many shops use handwritten signs, which adds a personal touch and artistic flair.

Made fresh, sold fresh.

This article provides a general overview of the market. The next article, "Shop, Eat, Relax, and Stroll @ Lad Tai Kiem (Part 2)," will focus on the food available at the market, so be sure to follow along.

Thank you for reading. Goodbye. ^^