Call for revival of Thai floating market

THAI agents are urging the authorities to rehabilitate the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, which has declined in popularity over the past years. Association of Thai Travel Agents president, Mr Apichart Sankary, said the floating market had lost its charm for many years due to inconsistent development plans between the local authority and private sector. Mr Apichart, who is also AED Travel managing director, said his company had included the floating market as a must-see attraction to overseas market for many decades. However, he added, it was removed from the company's tour programme last year due to the declining tourist demand. The floating market, which has existed for 142 years, used to be one of the must-see attractions for first-time and repeat visitors worldwide. It is located in Ratchaburi, about two hours' drive from Bangkok. To revive the market's charm, Ratchaburi governor, Mr Wongsak Sawadpanit, said the authority would seek a 54.1 million baht (US$1.60 million) budget from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to clean the 10km canal, train local staff, renovate the cultural exhibition centre and create a brand new image. ttgtravelhub.com