Phe

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A historic fishing port town serving as the departure point for islands like Koh Samet and Koh Man Nai. Retains traditional Thai character with fresh seafood markets and a genuine local atmosphere.

Things to do

• Phe Fishing Port — Walk through the working harbor where longtail boats and fishing vessels dock daily, observing local fishermen unload their catch and repair nets.
• Fresh Seafood Market — Browse the morning fish and shrimp market to see the day's catch displayed on ice, with vendors selling directly to locals and restaurants.
• Boat Trip to Koh Samet — Take a speedboat or longtail from Phe pier to the island of Koh Samet, a popular destination for beaches and snorkeling just 45 minutes away.
• Koh Man Nai Island Tour — Arrange a guided boat excursion to the quieter Koh Man Nai island for swimming and exploration of its small fishing community.
• Sunrise at the Pier — Watch fishermen depart at dawn while enjoying the peaceful waterfront atmosphere and photographing traditional wooden boats against the morning light.
• Local Temple Visit — Pay respects at Wat Phe, a modest riverside temple where locals worship and which offers insight into the town's spiritual life.

Food to try

• Gaeng Som Pla — A sour and spicy curry made with fresh local fish, turmeric, and bitter fruits that reflects the region's abundant seafood and coastal flavors.
• Pla Tod Kamin — Whole fish fried golden and topped with fresh turmeric powder, a simple preparation that highlights the day's catch from Phe's market.
• Goong Pad Priao Wan — Fresh local shrimp stir-fried with sweet and sour tamarind sauce, often served at waterfront stalls near the pier.
• Khao Tom Pla — Rice porridge cooked in fish broth with shredded fish and morning herbs, a traditional breakfast that uses locally caught seafood.
• Fresh Grilled Squid — Simply grilled whole squid from the daily catch, served with lime and chili dipping sauce at market food stalls.
• Nam Pla Crab — Fresh crab simmered in a light fish sauce broth with aromatic herbs, showcasing the day's coastal ingredients.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Fishing Schedules — Visit the market and pier early in the morning (5-7 AM) when fishermen are most active; afternoons can be quieter as boats are out at sea.
• Modest Dress at Temples — If visiting Wat Phe or other local temples, wear long pants or skirts and cover your shoulders out of respect for Buddhist customs.
• Ask Before Photographing — While Phe is welcoming, ask permission before photographing fishermen or their boats, as this is their workplace and livelihood.
• Learn Basic Thai Greetings — Speaking a few words of Thai like 'Sawasdee krap/ka' and 'Khob khun krap/ka' will earn appreciation from locals in this traditional town with fewer foreign visitors.