Laem Sing Brew House: Magnificent Munificence
Maneeya Dhammataree
Visitors to Laem Sing ('Cape Sing') in the eastern province of Chanthaburi can experience some incredibly picturesque views thanks to its unique position along the coast of the Gulf of Thailand.
While the view out to sea includes a long, sandy beach peppered with pine trees, the outlook towards the mainland features a beautiful lagoon, which is home to a small fishing community. Right next to these dwellings is a homestay called Laem Sing Brew House.
Historical Attractions
Two interesting tourist attractions relating to the kingdom's history are located just a short distance away from the homestay.
Khuk khi kai ('Chicken shit prison') was used by French forces during the latter part of the 19th century to deal with local opposition to their presence, while Tuk Daeng ('the Red Building'), which is located about one kilometer away from Laem Sing, was built by the colonialists after they destroyed Phikat Patchamit Fort (a base used by the Thai military).
Nongnuch Chumnanchol inherited the two-story, wooden residence from her mother and is responsible for the property's outstanding design and décor. In many ways, the development resembles a small, boutique resort rather than a typical, fairly modest homestay.
Creative Input
I would suggest that the main reason Laem Sing Brew House really stands out is Nongnuch's artistic streak. Nongnuch has a passion for wooden crafts and this will be immediately apparent should you stay at Laem Sing Brew House since the building features several interesting examples of her work. You'll also spot a number of interesting antiques, including a Chinese-style trunk made from iron, which once belonged to Nongnuch's great grandmother. The antique lanterns, which are used liberally as decorative items throughout the property, once belonged to Nongnuch's grandparents.
Nongnuch has also ensured that the homestay features lots of potted plants and shrubs, while the layout provides several areas that are open to the elements. There's a nice, wooden terrace situated alongside the lagoon, which provides a great spot for a romantic dinner.
The homestay provides a ladder so you can even climb up on to the roof of the terrace area. This offers the best possible view from the homestay of Laem Sing and the surrounding area.
'Typically Thai'
Among the accommodation options at Laem Sing Brew House are two special guest rooms located right by the lagoon (see photo, above). Both include floor-to-ceiling windows, which provide an exceptional view of the surrounding area. I was particularly impressed by the room called Reun Nai Talay ('house in the sea'), as it includes some features that are 'typically Thai'. It even includes an open-air bathroom, so it's possible to enjoy a refreshing shower outdoors.
My homestay experience would be incomplete without sampling our host's culinary expertise. I can report that there were several reasons why dinner at Laem Sing Brew House was an extraordinary experience. The quality of the seafood was exceptional, while the dishes served clearly illustrated chef's creative talents.
One particular highlight of the meal was the Pla Meuk Neung Manao (steamed squid in a soup featuring chili, garlic and lime). Overall, the ambiance during dinner was absolutely outstanding.
Finally, I should note that dinner is included as part of your stay at Laem Sing Brew House, which costs a very reasonable 800 baht (US$ 27) per person, per night.
For further information, or to make a reservation, contact Laem Sing Brew House on Tel: +66 (0)86 560 0819.
Transport connections:
Car: Highway 3 takes you right around the coast through Chon Buri province and Rayong to Chanthaburi. Alternatively, you can cut across from Chon Buri via Highway 344 to Klaeng, thereby avoiding Pattaya and Rayong altogether. Rejoin Highway 3 at Klaeng, which will take you right into Chanthaburi.
Laem Singh is located about 31 kilometers from downtown Chanthaburi. Take a right turn at km 347.
Bus: Both air-conditioned and regular buses depart regularly for Chanthaburi from the Eastern Bus Terminal at Ekkamai (BTS: Ekkamai). Regular buses leave hourly, while air-conditioned buses leave every 30 minutes. For further information, contact Tel: +66 (0)2 391 2504.
Credit: TAN Network (www.tannetwork.tv)
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