chanthaburi
The province of Chanthaburi in the south-east of Thailand is known for mining gemstones, especially rubies and sapphires. Chanthaburi town is a sizeable regional hub, but the focus for tourists is the Waterfront Community, settled over 300 years ago. This merchant neighbourhood became the commercial centre of the town, astride the Chanthaburi river. The Chinese and Vietnamese settlers there had a cultural impact that can be seen today. Walking along the main thoroughfare, the old shop frontages are noticeably in Vietnamese and Chinese styles. Pagodas and Catholic churches, including a cathedral, are also prominent.
Above and Left: the jewelry sector sees row upon row of traders dealing in gems in bulk. Many non-Thai traders are there, judging by appearance, from the Indian sub-continent and the Middle East.
Above: Chaomae Kuan Im Shrine - the old and the new (more Chanthaburi wats in separate section).
Above: The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception