This is a culturally diverse community, home to ethnic Thais, Thai Chinese, and Muslims of Khmer descent (also known as "Khaek Cham"). Over time, the cultures of these three groups have blended harmoniously, with each retaining its own charm and distinctive identity – offering visitors a rich cultural experience.

The Ban Nam Chiew commune is located in the Nam Chiew subdistrict, Laem Ngob district, Trat province – about 8 kilometers from the heart of Trat city – and is a waterside settlement with a history spanning over 200 years.

• Multiculturalism: The community is home to members of two religions (Buddhism and Islam) and three ethnic groups (Thai, Thai-Chinese and Muslims of Khmer/Khaek Cham descent, whose ancestors immigrated here during the reign of King Rama III).

• Opening hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

• Nam Chiew "Ngob" (Traditional Sun Hats): Handwoven sun hats made from *Nipa* palm leaves. They are available in five different styles: "Upside-Down Wok", "Turtle Shell", "Pointed Head", "Somdet", and "Skull Cap".

• The “Wat Jai” Bridge (also known as the “Courage Bridge”): A steep, high-arched bridge over the Nam Chiev Canal. Test your courage and enjoy the view of the surrounding area.

• The Al-Kubra Mosque (Ban Nam Chiao Mosque) and Wat Nam Chiao – spiritual centers of two faiths that coexist harmoniously.

• Mangrove Nature Study Centre: A huge 30 rai mangrove forest area.

• 1 Boat trip to observe the local fishing lifestyle, discover Brahmin kites and enjoy a trip on a “wet raft” (floating raft).

• 2 Discover and try local delicacies such as *khao kriap ya na* (crispy rice crackers with savory toppings), *tang me krop* (crispy traditional toffee) and other local snacks.

• 3 homestays to immerse yourself in the local way of life (accommodation and meal packages available).

• The “Village of the Landless” (Bang Chan, Chanthaburi): A village built on wooden stilts over the sea – there is no solid ground here! The inhabitants live from coastal fishing and shellfish farming. For more information, visit TrueID Travel or the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) website.

• Brahminy Kite Watching: Take a boat or raft trip to see hundreds of Brahminy Kites diving to catch fish from the sea – a truly up-close experience! (Best seen from 3:00 pm onwards; available year-round.)

• Raft trip and fishing tour: Enjoy a ride on a floating raft, feel the sea breeze, and observe traditional fishing practices of the locals. Experience a relaxed atmosphere.

• Fresh seafood / homestay: Trips here are typically offered as 2-day, 1-night homestay packages that include fresh seafood (often served buffet-style) and activities such as rafting or boat trips.

• Day trip option (for Brahminy kite watching only):

• Boat charter fee: approx. 1,000 THB per boat (for multiple passengers) (Duration of the boat trip: approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes)

For further inquiries, please contact: 061-683-0926 or 089-249-7027 (information provided by the TAT – Tourism Authority of Thailand)

• Homestay package (includes 2 days, 1 overnight stay + 3 meals + activities such as rafting/boat trips, eagle watching and crab eating)

• Estimated price: 1,500 – 1,800 THB per person (varies depending on the host family, e.g. Sai Nam Chan, Ban Chai Len, Ai Le, Manee Daeng, etc.)

• Getting there: Park your vehicle at a pier (e.g., Plai Chan Pier in the Khlung district) and then take a longboat or speedboat provided by your host family (journey time 15–30 minutes).

For inquiries and bookings:

• Community-based tourism company Ban Nam Chiao

• Tel.: 061-660-0955 or 089-244-6702

Ban Nam Chiao Township, Laem Ngop District, Trat Province

Open daily from 8:00 to 17:00

Contact: Ban Nam Chiao Community-Based Tourism Enterprise at 06-1660-0955