Rayong

Rayong, a small city with charm beyond its size by mr.hotsia

When talking about Rayong province, many people probably think ofKoh Sametthe paradise island ranked as a “must-visit at least once in a lifetime.” For mr.hotsia, who has had the chance to visit many times, I can say that Rayong is not only about Koh Samet. It also offers a way of life, beautiful beaches, old markets, and seasonal fruits that you should not miss.

1. Koh Samet, a paradise for sea lovers

Koh Samet is the number one destination for tourists visiting Rayong. With fine white sand beaches, clear clean sea water, and an atmosphere that perfectly blends fun and tranquility. I personally enjoy taking the ferry from Ban Phe to Koh Samet. When I visited during non-peak times, I could book accommodation walk-in. But during long holidays or festivals, it’s better to book in advance online for convenience and better prices.

There are accommodations on Koh Samet at various levels, from small bungalows to luxury resorts. Sai Kaew Beach is popular because it’s easy to access and has many restaurants. I once had dinner at Jeab Bungalow, famous for delicious food. For those who want to experience nightlife, beaches like Ao Wong Duean, Ao Thian, or Ao Lung Dam have restaurants with exciting fire-spinning shows. For transportation on Koh Samet, mr.hotsia recommends the green songthaew (shared pickup trucks) that serve various beaches. The prices are reasonable and there’s no need to worry about overcharging. Read more details atTransportation on Samet

2. Wat Lum Market and Old Wat Lum Market, Rayong city spots you shouldn’t overlook

Besides the sea, the old market and Wat Lum Market in Rayong city impressed mr.hotsia a lot. This is a place that truly reflects the lifestyle of Rayong locals. Early in the morning, I woke up and rode a motorcycle to stroll aroundWat Lum MarketHere, there are many stalls selling fresh sea fish, and the lively atmosphere reminds me of my hometown market in Bang Bo.

Wat Lum Market also offers many traditional snacks and sweets to try, such as Khanom Tang Taek, Khanom Krok, and Khanom Rang Phueng. mr.hotsia highly recommends not missing these treats. If you get tired from walking, stop by for traditional Rayong-style coffee at the ice factory near the market, served with perfectly boiled soft-boiled eggs. It’s so delicious I have to share.

From Wat Lum Market, if you walk a few hundred meters along the path, you will findOld Wat Lum Market areawhich preserves old houses and a nostalgic atmosphere very well. Here, besides admiring beautiful old houses, there is a cultural plaza displaying antiques and hosting important events for Rayong locals. I believe walking here will help you deeply understand the lifestyle and culture of Rayong people.

3. Seasonal fruits and local food in Rayong

If you visit Rayong during the summer, don’t forget to taste fresh fruits from the province’s famous orchards, such as rambutan, mangosteen, and longkong. mr.hotsia guarantees they are sweet, fragrant, and very fresh. You can take some home as souvenirs.

Besides fruits, Rayong’s local food is equally charming, such as spicy Tam Lao that you can find on Koh Samet, especially at the restaurant by Sai Kaew Beach where I once stopped to try (watch the clipThe Ultimate Street Vendor Tam Lao, Samet). Or if you want to try flavorful grilled chicken with hot sticky rice, there are many options at local restaurants in Rayong city and on Koh Samet (watch the clipGrilled Chicken, Tam Lao, Sticky Rice, Koh Samet)

4. Transportation and accommodation in Rayong and Koh Samet

For travelers who have never been to Rayong before, getting to Koh Samet is very easy. I traveled from Rayong city to Ban Phe pier, then took a ferry to Koh Samet, which takes about 30 minutes. Importantly, Koh Samet has a good internal transport system. The green songthaews run to various beaches at affordable prices with no overcharging.

Accommodations on Koh Samet range from budget bungalows to expensive resorts. Those visiting during festivals or long holidays should book in advance online for convenience and better prices. But if it’s not peak season, I usually walk in to book accommodation myself. Many places still have vacancies and prices are not much different.

5. Personal atmosphere and feelings from mr.hotsia

I, mr.hotsia, can say that Rayong feels like a warm second home. Experiencing clear seas, white sandy beaches, tasting fresh seafood, and strolling through old markets made me feel like I saw the real life of Rayong people, not just ordinary tourist spots.

If you’re looking for a trip full of experiences including nature, food, and culture, Rayong meets all your needs. Don’t forget to visitWat Lum MarketandOld Wat Lum Market areato experience the local lifestyle. See you in Rayong, from mr.hotsia.