The Thaka floating market is a small, old-world floating market located in Samut Songkhram province, an interesting drive of about 90 minutes from Bangkok.

Whilst its neighbours, the Damnoen Saduak floating market and the Amphawa floating market, are well-trodden tourist paths catering to their many visitors each day, the Tha Kha floating market has been largely protected from the commercial onslaught of mass tourism and has remained a more authentic, off-the-beaten-track alternative. At the moment, it is relatively unknown on the tourist circuit, but it isn't going to last much longer this way, meaning that it would be a good idea to visit before word really gets out!

During this half day tour, you will visit several features of Thailand's smallest, but very special, province.

Meet your Guide and Driver no later than 7.15am. at Chamchuri Square, which is quick and easy to reach using Bangkok's safe, modern and reliable underground train service.

In your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle you will soon cross the gigantic Rama IX Bridge. This is the world's longest single plane cable-stayed bridge. With an overall length of three kilometres, it is made even more impressive because of its gold cables. The drive then heads out past industrial zones into an interesting part of rural Thailand full of farms, coconut trees and irrigation canals.

At Tha Kha, the majority of buyers and vendors are older locals doing their week's shopping for fruits and meats, etc. in the old-world, customary way. Because this floating market was not set up for tourists, don't expect to see the typical souvenirs or trinkets here! Quite the opposite, in fact. Here you have the wonderful opportunity to try some noodles traditionally presented in a bowl made from a banana leaf or a coconut pancake, a Thai-style omelette or fresh pomello, etc. served straight from a boat. And you'll not pay extra for the privilege of a fascinating paddle boat ride through the market too.

This area is famous for its coconut Palm Sugar industry, and just ten minutes away is a farmer's home. See how Palm Sugar is made from the sap of environmentally friendly palms the good old fashioned way.

Then it is off to Wat Bang Kung, a small temple built centuries ago now wrapped in the roots of a huge Banyan Tree. Lastly, you'll love the breeze during a delicious lunch at a simple, yet inviting, open-air restaurant that sits right against the edge of the Mae Kong River