We've been to Bangkok several times but have never visited any of the floating markets. Is it worth it? If so, which one(s)? We only have a day in Bangkok this time and want to do something we haven't done before. Thank you.

I'm not fond of the floating markets. IMO, they are tourist traps. Crowded and loud, with hawkers hanging on your boat, they have nothing there I would like to buy as it's mostly gee-gaws or food. Some people think they are wonderful photo ops. And I suppose the markets are better in photos than in person.

Maybe someone who loves the floating markets can give you their perspective.

WE LOVE THE FLOATING MARKETS... yes they have a touristy side but they are colorful, vibrant and fun...

the SD market is the most famous.. the ones nearer to bkk are a disappointment and very small.

have you been to the railroad market?? it's fun and different.

Thank you, I appreciate both perspectives

rhkkmk - Thank you for the railroad market suggestion. We have not been there but will check it out.

We also love floating markets. They are touristy but after all, thats what we are right?

Damnoen Saduak is the name of the one rhkkmk mentions above.

Aloha!

Yes, they are touristy. But, we enjoyed it, I believe we were at the same one mentioned above. We did it with a driver who took us out to the railroad market first, I would also recommend that.

sealstep, could you tell me how you lined up your driver? Do you have a contact you can recommend? Thanks!

I have used a hotel car (most expensive), I have used rat, and I have used tong---the last 2 often mentioned here...

its the most enjoyable way to go, imo.

http://www.ratservice.com/

You can reach Ratt here. I am also a very satisfied Client of Ratt.

Be assured Tongs site will appear shortly

Aloha!

We liked the train msrket better than the floating market. Scheduled with Tond

I liked the floating markets. I liked the boat ride to get there and the houses and people you saw on the way to the market. Yes it's a tourist trap but buy buying something you're giving someone a chance to look after their family.

I have also used Ratt for this and am a very satisfied customer...

What would be the difference between using Ratt or Tong to see these places?

Ratt is a driver who gives excellent commentary. Tong and her team are all licensed tour guide, and with most you need a driver which comes with them. They are all very personable, and speak good English. We have used both, and you will not go wrong with either group. Tong info is Tourwithtong .com. Bothe the floating market and train market are do able in a morning. They will probably have suggestions for an afternoon stop out in that general direction. HAVE FUN

Thanks to everyone for the wonderful suggestions. We will check out both Ratt and Tong.

tong just did a facebook saying that the train market is undergoing some time changes which makes it somewhat less desirable

Funny, we did use Ratt! Actually for that day she had one of her other drivers take us - Mana. Really worth it I thought, he found us a nice local restaurant for lunch too.

I coincidentally just found Mana's card - his contact info is thailanddriverguide@hotmail. com, or try http://www.thailanddriverguide.com.

Hi The Railway Market is interesting and different- if you are there over a weekend ( Friday-Sunday ) you could add in Amphawa Market. This is frequented by Thai people- although the floating bit is small the village is really fun and lively and very photogenic . We gave been to both with Wandee and this year we went back and did a fishing village tour again- now that was fun. This started in a small floating market small and very local. If you want some information you can drop Wandee a mail [email protected] She is usually quite quick at replies