Your day begins with an early visit to Ching Fish Market, located at Nai Yang Beach, Thalang District, just a short drive from Sirinat National Park. The market opens early, and it’s essential to arrive by 08:00 AM to experience the freshest seafood, as the market closes once all the goods are sold. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, with local vendors offering a variety of food, from fried chicken with sticky rice to traditional Thai desserts like kanom krok. You’ll also find coffee vendors selling kopi, a popular local drink. Watch the local fishermen unload their daily catch fresh fish, crabs, and shellfish directly from their boats. The market runs on a “first come, first served” basis, so you’ll need to be quick to grab the best of the sea’s bounty.
After exploring the market, a short drive takes you to a local village immersed in nature, where you’ll take part in an eco-print activity, using leaves to create intricate designs on fabric all without chemicals. This hands-on activity allows you to connect with nature and learn traditional craft techniques. You’ll also head to the fields to pick fresh miang vegetables, which will later be used in your cooking class. If you’re visiting during the fruit season, you may even have the chance to sample fresh fruits straight from the trees.
Next, you’ll dive into a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Southern Thai dishes using the fresh, local ingredients you’ve gathered. Under the guidance of local experts, you’ll create a meal that’s a true reflection of the region’s rich culinary heritage. After cooking, enjoy the fruits of your labour by sitting down to a delicious lunch of the dishes you’ve just prepared.
After lunch, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences. You’ll then be driven back to your hotel, bringing home not just delicious memories, but a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.
