Every area in Thailand has its own historical evidence or remnants from the past that we may be familiar with, such as ancient temples and historical sites. These places, through their art and culture, convey the essence of the past. However, if we lower our gaze and look for things around us in these areas, such as the urban areas and old houses, there will be a different perspective of the past. This includes aspects of daily life and experiences encountered or passed down in this city, each with its own unique characteristics. Today, ThailandConnex recommends interesting vintage town destinations in Thailand.
- Old Town Phuket: It is an ancient community that has been around for over 100 years since the reign of King Rama V. Many foreigners came here for trading and settled in large numbers, resulting in a blend of lifestyles, art, culture, and cuisine. It also features the architectural style of "Sino-Portuguese," which was popular in that era and extensively built in the old town area of Phuket. However, over time, there has been an increasing influence from other countries, leading some scholars and local residents to refer to it as "Sino-European," which better represents the distinct characteristics of these buildings. They are usually two to three stories high, narrow but deep, with a mixed-use design of commercial spaces at the front and residential areas at the back.
- Old Town Chanthabun, Chanthaburi: This old street tells the history, community culture, and ancient architecture that have been preserved for over 100 years in Chanthaburi Province. It was a prosperous trading center and has been preserved in its original condition to serve as a tourist attraction that allows visitors to relive the past. People walking along this street will encounter art and architectural elements on both sides of the road, including carvings in Western, Chinese, Thai, and mixed styles. For example, large Thai-style engraved steel balconies and Chinese-style wooden lattice windows. Besides the architectural aspects, the banks of the Chanthaburi River also exude the charm of the local way of life, with peaceful and friendly communities on both sides of the street. There are shops selling local products, souvenirs, and traditional food recipes for visitors to savor.
- Ban Mae Kampong, Chiang Mai: This is a popular tourist destination in Chiang Mai. It is a small village nestled amidst hills and nature, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,300 meters above sea level. The village is over 100 years old, and most of the residents migrated from Doi Saket District. The houses are built along the banks of the Mae Kampong stream, surrounded by abundant natural resources, and reflect the simple way of life of the villagers. The weather is pleasantly cool throughout the year, with a significant drop in temperature during the winter season. The main occupation of the villagers is tea production, and coffee cultivation is a secondary occupation.
The Thai government's initiative, ThailandCONNEX, aims to be another platform for connecting and promoting communication among Thai citizens. It serves as an additional channel to facilitate interaction and accessibility, surpassing the previous limitations. This development has made it easier than ever to connect and access information and resources in Thailand.
