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Koh Kret: Isolated from the Eastern bank of the river by the Pak Kret Canal , the island has no roads or cars, only a narrow encircling laneway with paths leading to houses and the famous Mon potteries which dot the island. On weekends the island is bustling with tourists and the many small restaurants and bars lining the narrow thoroughfare do a brisk trade; on weekdays the pace is a little more relaxed.
Classic Barges will carry bicycles if requested in order that you can cycle around the island. The 'road' consists of a concrete pathway which varies from 1 to 2 metres in width and elevated up to 2 metres as it passes through mangroves and plantations in the low lying western part of the island. Scattered general stores and small restaurants are dotted along the way; the buildings, right against the pathway, their roofs joining overhead; cause you to slow to a walking pace to avoid the locals chatting at the counters. Always a friendly (bemused) smile from the islanders; not many ‘farangs' ride bicycles around the island. The eastern side of the island is just across the ‘khlong' from Bangkok . Most of the potteries, restaurants and souvenir shops are located in this area. The houses here are perhaps only a metre apart, their roofs joining overhead, and the path makes sudden 90 degree bends; it seems like you are riding a bicycle through someone's house. It takes about 40 minutes to leisurely cycle around the island, with about 10 minutes shopping along the way.
The intimate experience of the unique culture and atmosphere of the island, makes this visit definitely worthwhile. |
