Two years later, I returned to Thailand. Starting from Bangkok, I drove eastward for over three hours to reach my destination this trip: Chanthaburi! The moment I set foot on Chanthaburi’s land for the first time, I was captivated by the unique charm of this coastal city. With its enchanting natural scenery, rich history and culture, and vibrant local vibe, Chanthaburi shines like a radiant pearl in eastern Thailand.
Chanthaburi boasts a blessed natural environment, where the sun shines generously upon the land, and the warm, humid climate nurtures the growth of all living things. As a result, it has become a premium fruit-producing region in Thailand, particularly renowned for durians and mangosteens. Thus, on my first day in Chanthaburi, I couldn’t wait to embark on a fruit exploration journey.
My first stop was a large-scale organic orchard in the area. The most eye-catching features here were the mangosteen trees, with their layers of deep green leaves, and the mangosteen fruits hanging like emerald or purple gems. Durian trees loomed subtly among the orchard, with huge durians dangling from the branches—their spiky outer shells resembling nature’s intricately crafted “mystery treasure boxes.”
The orchard staff enthusiastically introduced me to the growth habits and cultivation processes of various fruits, deepening my understanding of organic farming. Here, natural laws are followed, with no chemical fertilizers or pesticides used. I tasted freshly picked durians and mangosteens right in the orchard, and even made durian cakes and mangosteen juice with my own hands. The durian was rich and sweet, while the mangosteen was fresh, sweet, and juicy, instantly dispelling the summer heat.
As a country where diverse cultures blend, Thailand is equally inclusive in terms of religion. Besides countless temples, there are also churches and other religious buildings! In Chanthaburi, in particular, stands the legendary Our Lady of Chanthaburi Cathedral. This Gothic-style building, inspired by Notre-Dame de Paris, is famous for its towering spires and exquisite carvings, resembling an artistic pearl accidentally left in the East.
Founded in 1711 by Vietnamese Catholics and French priests, the church underwent four reconstructions and numerous renovations before its final completion in 1909. It is not only a sacred site for Catholics but also a symbol of cultural integration. The most stunning feature inside the church is the one-of-a-kind gem-encrusted statue of the Virgin Mary, adorned with over 200,000 blue, red, and yellow gemstones totaling 20,000 carats—each stone embodying the devotion of pious believers, making the statue shine brilliantly.
