Chinese lanterns, Vietnamese architecture, and a French cathedral?

It is easy to forget what country you’re in, when traveling through Chanthaburi, Thailand. The cultural hodgepodge was created by waves of Vietnamese immigrants escaping war and a French Occupation at the turn of the the 20th century.

Today, the downtown streets of the southeastern coastal town are littered with hipster coffee shops and river-view restaurants, making it a popular weekend destination. At least it was for the locals. When we visited over a long weekend, the town was packed with sightseers but we were the only farangs in sight.

Cathedral of Immaculate Conception

The Gothic-style cathedral is the most visually dominate feature in the city. It felt strange being in a familiar setting after a year of adapting to such different cultural and religious norms. My alter server training kicked in and I got to play the tour guide for the first time on my travels, pointing out the Virgin statues and the stations of the cross. But the western influence only extended so far. Temple or cathedral, shoes always come off at the door. I’m fairly certain this is the only place I’ve genuflected while barefoot.

 

Namtok Phlio National Park

A 30-minute motorbike ride out of town leads to the Namtok Phlio National Park. On a hot day in rainy season, we needed that swim. I wore a bathing suit under my clothes but in conservative Thailand there was no need. Women swim fully clothed to preserve modesty. For 200 baht you can get a commemorative photo. Totally worth it.

Lighthouse Laem Sing

Cross. Hike. Climb. View.

Noen Nangphaya Viewpoint

Names and hearts are etched into every inch of this little overlook. Thousands of locks hang from the fence, hung by those who long to be remembered for as long as there is a view to see. And those who really like Minions.