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Exploring Beyond Amphawa: A Fresh Perspective on Samut Songkhram
This article delves into the hidden gems of Samut Songkhram, venturing beyond the well-trodden path of Amphawa. While Amphawa remains a culinary and cultural haven, the author, a seasoned traveler, seeks to uncover new experiences within the province. This exploration aims to showcase the diverse offerings of Samut Songkhram, encouraging readers to broaden their horizons and discover the lesser-known treasures that lie beyond the familiar.
Let's Explore Samut Songkhram!
I personally tend to confuse Samut Songkhram with Samut Sakhon, as they are two provinces located very close to each other. However, as I mentioned earlier, our travel adventure will take us to Samut Songkhram, specifically to Amphawa. Yes, if you're reading my blog, you'll know that we'll start with food! That's right, we're going to have a delicious meal at Lung Geng Seafood, which is absolutely amazing! It's the perfect place to bring your partner, family, or friends to enjoy a delightful culinary experience.
Uncle Keng Seafood Restaurant
We drove from Bangkok to Khlong Kon, the origin of giant egg crabs, where we had a delicious and satisfying meal. This restaurant accepts credit cards. My favorite part was the steamed crab with fresh milk and spicy dipping sauce!
Hungry to the point of trembling hands, we had a feast of fresh shrimp and water mimosa salad, crab claw curry, blue crab papaya salad, and seafood fried rice.
Steamed crab with fresh milk, a personal favorite of the author. Ordered half a kilo, fearing that it would be a waste if I couldn't finish it. Let me tell you, the dipping sauce is absolutely amazing!
The complimentary dessert from the shop, stuffed with delicious filling, was truly delightful.
Location of Uncle Keng's Shop
1/18 Khlong Khon Subdistrict, Mueang Samut Songkhram District, Samut Songkhram 75000
Spend a Relaxing Night at Galacanal Resort
The reader may wonder, "Didn't you say you were tired of Amphawa?" As I mentioned, even though I was tired of Amphawa, I still wanted to stay nearby. We decided to try staying at Gala Canal Resort. The entrance felt like we were entering Jurassic Park.
The front sign of the accommodation is shown above.
The overall atmosphere is lush and green, with a variety of houses. Most of them have names starting with "Tuen", such as Tuen Roo, Tuen Sai, Tuen Toom, and the room we chose, Tuen Ten (meaning "excited"). In fact, there are many other "Tuen" houses in this area, surrounded by a dug canal.
A natural house by the canal.
The atmosphere by the canal is bustling with long-tail boats speeding past.
The resort's rooms, located along a natural canal, will be named Baan Fun Cheun, Baan Fun Chum, and Baan Fun Nai. I apologize for any confusion, as the names are quite similar.
The house you see in front is a zipper-style yurt.
In addition, there are zippered tent rooms available for a few thousand baht. These rooms do not have private bathrooms and guests must use shared facilities. There are approximately 5 tents available.
The dining area offers a full immersion in nature!
The price of the room we chose depends on the date of your stay. It is recommended to call in advance.
Our room is called the "Excitement Room". Hooray! The bed is very comfortable. There are three beds for two people. We can see the stars clearly because the gable of the house is made of glass.
In the vicinity of the Galacanal Resort, there are various dining options, including barbecue restaurants, duck noodle shops, and other eateries. For those seeking convenience, two 7-Eleven stores are located nearby, offering a wide range of goods and services. However, it is important to note that these stores require driving, as walking is not recommended.
Awaken to the serene ritual of morning alms-giving by the riverside.
Waking up to the sound of birds singing in unison, a native northerner, I was filled with excitement for the morning alms-giving ceremony by the river. The anticipation of sitting by the canal, waiting for the monks to arrive by boat to receive offerings and blessings, was truly heartwarming. It was a moment of pure joy and spiritual fulfillment. Here are some pictures to share with you.
"This way, please, Father."
Alms are ready, the almsgivers are ready.
Location: Kalakarn Canal Resort
81/2 Moo 4, Phlat Phong Phang Subdistrict, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province, 75110, Phlat Phong Phang Subdistrict, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110
Visiting the Thai Ancient Cat Conservation Center: A Cat Lover's Paradise
"Meowww!!" I told you, I'm not going to Amphawa. For this mission, we're going to drive around and find a new tourist spot not far from the Amphawa Floating Market. Let me tell you, this location is perfect for cat lovers. True cat slaves must visit the Thai Cat Conservation Center in Samut Songkhram Province. This place is home to over 100 Thai cats, divided into 4 breeds: the Korat, the Siamese, the Burmese (handsome reddish-brown like Johnny, the cat idol), and the Khao Manee.
The Thai cat breed is known for its affectionate nature, and it's easy to fall head over heels in love with them. We felt a sense of home among these feline friends and were warmed by the hospitality of Ms. Aew, the heir who has taken over the care of the Thai cat house. Ms. Aew is the daughter of Mr. Preecha Pukkabut, a renowned Thai cat conservationist who passed away in April 2018. Ms. Aew considered closing the Thai cat house, but her love for the cats motivated her to continue her father's legacy and preserve this unique breed for future generations.
The mother cat, father cat, and their older sibling are feeding the kittens in their cage. The reason they are kept in a cage is for their safety. If they were left outside, they could be in danger, such as being bitten by a dog or hit by a car.
These kittens are quite attached to their cages. They don't believe it, look at their sleeping positions, spreading their bellies for us to see.
"Look at me, I'm sipping water! If you're interested in adopting me, you can do so for a reasonable dowry of only 6,000 baht."
When we asked how many cats were there, Ms. Ae replied that there were over 100. It takes almost the entire day to care for these adorable four-legged creatures.
A cat cafe will be opening here soon.
This photo captures Ms. Aew secretly caring for 17-year-old cat, Samsee. Samsee is a feisty cat and the leader of the pack here. Ms. Aew plans to open a Thai cat cafe in this zone, allowing both Thai and international tourists to interact with the cats more closely. The cafe is currently under development, and we will keep you updated on its progress. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!
"Let me take a picture with Khun Sam See, the leader of the Thai cat gang. Oh, what's that in the background? 5555+"
A photo with Aew and Meow Goja, whose slogan is "I've never been thin in my life" (555+). Below, joining the frame is the cuddly calico cat, who loves to wave its hand to call people.
Stop by to buy souvenirs and help support the cause.
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Grab a bite at a restaurant near the Thai Cat House
This cafe, named The Kittens Koffie Arts 'n Eats or simply Kittens Koffie, boasts a loft-style interior adorned with numerous art pieces and paintings. Let's take a closer look at the visuals.
Entrance to the shop
The front of the shop counter is decorated with lights.
The angle we chose and the coffee we ordered were satisfactory. We ordered a cappuccino, which was okay, but not recommended for those who prefer strong coffee, as it might not be to their taste.
The dessert we ordered was a banana waffle. I don't remember the exact name of the menu item, but the whipped cream was slightly sweet and the chocolate drizzle balanced out the sweetness, making it more harmonious. After our bellies were full, our eyelids started to droop, so we headed straight back to Bangkok. The drive back took about two hours, and there wasn't much traffic since we left in the afternoon.
Location of the Ancient Thai Cat Conservation Center
2 Kwae Om 1 7 Road, Project Village 8 Wat Langka-Liapkhlong Khok Village 9-Wat Chula, Kwae Om Subdistrict, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110
Additional Notes:
While driving, I noticed a roadside sign that read "Free Pomelo Giveaway" at Wat Inthararam. I couldn't resist, so I made a beeline for the temple before returning to Bangkok. I discovered a pomelo festival taking place from August 9th to 29th, and there was indeed a free pomelo giveaway near the pier. I tried one, and it was delicious. I would like to express my gratitude to the temple kitchen for their generosity.
The beautiful older sister is making pomelo salad with river prawns for us to eat. We secretly took a picture and stood waiting eagerly with drooling mouths. Sister, please speed up a bit. No, I'm just kidding! 55+
This is a picture of pomelo salad. It is not very spicy, so children can eat it. People who like spicy food may not like it very much. But for us, it is okay overall. We give it a score of 7 out of 10. As for the next location, Butter Cutter will take you on a trip. You must follow and read on the README.ME website.
Where would you like Butter Cutter to follow you on your adventures?
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Wednesday, February 26, 2025 7:37 PM
