Visit tropical fruit farm at Faasai

03:21pm, Friday 4 August 2017

Freshly picked rambutan

In addition to having a beautiful coastline and the biggest gemstone market in Thailand, Chanthaburi is the fruit capital of Thailand, famous for exotic fruits such as durian, mangosteen, rambutan, longkongs and zalacca which are rarely found outside Southeast Asia. The king of the fruits is the durian. These are large and spiky on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside. Many people adore the rich and unique taste of the durian, although others despise it, mainly because of its pungent odour.

The fruit season is usually in May and June and visitors to Chanthaburi during this time can also visit local orchards including the organic farm of Faasai Resort and Spa. This small mixed farm follows traditional Thai farming practices along with permaculture techniques and grows a rich variety of produce including rice in the wet season and peanuts in the dry season. There is also a wetlands area at the farm which is a sanctuary for wildlife where many heritage and local trees are being grown. Local fruit is naturally part of the breakfast menu at the resort where guests can also enjoy fresh eggs from its free-range chickens.

The resort is nestled in the back of a forest-covered hill which descends down to Kung Wiman Bay. At this quiet little beach visitors can relax by the sea and admire the local sunsets while enjoying freshly caught local seafood from the local fishing village.

The owners of Faasai Resort and Spa, Surin Laopha and Bronwen Evans, encourage visitors to check out local markets, experience the local culture and explore the province.

″Chanthaburi is one of Thailand's best-kept secrets,″ says Bronwen. ″It has beautiful beaches and mountains, gemstones and crafts and is steeped in history. It is only three hours from Bangkok and what better time to visit than the fruit season!″

Durian on a roadside stall

Durian - spiky on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside

Rambutan in the orchard

Longkong tropical fruit is especially delicious from Chanthaburi