‘Three servings of Somtam with fermented crab, extra spicy’. When I heard the couple next to me order spicy papaya salad with their ice coffees, I knew I had to stick around. ‘Maybe you could try one portion first?’. The friendly waiter really wanted to ease them into Isan cuisine, but there was no stopping these weekend warriors out for an authentic adventure. Last Saturday, I paid a visit to Siam Senses in Antwerp.
Every year, the Thai community in the Benelux area meets up late August in the seaside city of Bredene for the event formerly know as Thaise Markt (Thai market). Rebranded as I ❤ Thailand Festival and on a slightly different location, this year’s edition on August 19th seemed to draw in an even bigger crowd than before. With a large food court, a market area, traditional Thai dance, family-oriented activities, an outdoor live music stage, an indoor party area, this year’s introduction of a Muay Thai boxing competition and plenty lot of Chang beer, there is something for virtually anyone. Just like last year, I did a photo spread in my signature style. Available if you continue reading. I do hope you’ll enjoy the pictures.
Whenever I return to Europe after a longer period in the Land of Smiles, I always take a selection of products with me. Let’s skip the ones that are to be expected and let me tell you about the more unlikely apparel, cosmetics and seasoning.
In spite of reports that the Ang Sila seafood market had been closed down in August (due to structural work to the pier) we decided to head over on December 5th and found it to still be thriving at the same location. The Ang Sila market sells extremely fresh and prepared fish and seafood, right on the local pier. Worth a visit for seafood lovers or anyone into authentic local markets. Pictures are available in this gallery.
The restaurant of the Phimai Inn hotel is easily my favorite proper eatery in the town of Phimai. Sadly, I cannot extend the praise to the outdated and rather dingy hotel rooms, but the dining experience is top notch. Allow me to convince you.
Key to living the Thailand lifestyle is eating local food, sometimes derogatorily referred to as going native by expats. Sure, Western food is readily available in the city and the cost of life is significantly lower when compared to Farangland, but I still stick to my opinion. Let me tell you why.
In stead of driving to the town center every lunch break, I’ve decide to explore the eateries in our direct neighbourhood too. This lovely Tom Yam Khung came to about EUR 1.25 and contains fresh shrimp.
Many of the road-side rest stops along the highway in Isaan include locally-styled snack shops, alongside the usual Amazon coffee shop, 7eleven convenient store and gas station. They feature food and snacks from across the North-Eastern provinces of Thailand.
Came across these seafood pancakes at the night market, across the new Tesco-Lotus in Phimai. Highly recommended.
