Hello everyone

It has been over 15 years since I last visited Nonthaburi Pier. This place, situated along Tha Nam Nonthaburi, was famous for its big fresh market and bustling activity in Nonthaburi Province. This morning, my niece and I decided to hop on the Chao Phraya Express Boat to enjoy a ride along the Chao Phraya River. But we were a bit too early; the passenger boats hadn't started operating yet. So, we found ourselves with time to kill.

We took a stroll around Non-Nam Pier, reminiscing. The atmosphere was surprisingly quiet, except for the occasional ferry crossing the river and tugboats leisurely making their way. We also spotted a few folks out for their morning exercise.

Standing proudly along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the old Nonthaburi City Hall is a testament to the region's rich history. Constructed over a century ago, this wooden structure has weathered the passage of time with grace, its historical significance carefully preserved for generations to come.

With its prime location facing the majestic Chao Phraya River, the city hall commands a picturesque view, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while surrounded by the beauty of nature. The wooden architecture exudes a sense of timeless elegance, a stark contrast to the modern skyline that now dots the horizon.

As a symbol of Nonthaburi's heritage, the old city hall serves as a reminder of days gone by, where simplicity and tradition intertwined seamlessly with progress. Its enduring presence stands as a tribute to the pioneers who laid the foundation for the vibrant community that thrives along the riverbanks today.

Near the old Nonthaburi City Hall, there's a small Chinese shrine perched by the Chao Phraya River. On that particular morning, the area was deserted except for the shrine caretakers going about their tasks.

Curiosity piqued, I decided to visit the shrine. Stepping inside, I was greeted by a serene atmosphere, heightened by the gentle flow of the river nearby. The caretakers quietly tended to the shrine, adding to the peaceful ambiance.

As I took in the sights and sounds of the shrine, I couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over me. The morning air along the Chao Phraya River added to the refreshing vibe, making it a moment of quiet solace amidst the bustling city life.

After offering our respects at the shrine, we made our way to the nearby wet market. As we approached, the lively bustle of the morning greeted us, with throngs of people milling about, eager to start their day's shopping.

The Nonthaburi Fresh Market was a familiar sight to me, its vibrant energy and array of fresh produce always drawing me in. Memories flooded back as I recalled the delicious snacks I used to indulge in during my visits here.

Navigating through the bustling aisles, we were greeted by the sights and sounds of vendors peddling their wares, each stall offering a tempting array of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. The aroma of freshly cooked snacks filled the air, beckoning us to indulge in a culinary adventure.

Amidst the hustle and bustle, we took our time exploring the market, savoring the familiar sights and flavors that had once been a regular part of my routine. It was a nostalgic journey through familiar territory, a reminder of the simple joys found in the everyday hustle and bustle of life in Nonthaburi.

One aspect of the market that remained unchanged was the presence of beggars, a sight all too familiar in the bustling aisles. Thai culture is known for its compassion and generosity, often reflected in the willingness of people to extend a helping hand to those in need. As a result, beggars were a common sight, their presence a reminder of the socioeconomic challenges faced by many in the community.

In the past, I had been among those who regularly offered monetary assistance to beggars, driven by a desire to alleviate their apparent suffering. However, my perspective shifted upon learning the harsh reality behind many of these beggars' situations. It became apparent that some were not genuinely in need, but rather victims of human trafficking, exploited by organized gangs for profit.

These revelations led me to reconsider my approach, realizing that indiscriminate giving could inadvertently perpetuate exploitation. Despite my decision to refrain from contributing financially, I recognized that many Thai people continued to extend their generosity to beggars, driven by their compassionate nature and desire to make merit.

The dichotomy between the genuine desire to help and the complex reality of exploitation underscored the ongoing challenge of addressing poverty and vulnerability in Thai society. While the intentions behind giving may be pure, the need for informed and ethical approaches to support those in need remains paramount.

Thank you for your support
ขอบคุณสำหรับการโหวต
เลิฟนะยู้ววววววว