Renowned as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand Trang is a unique hamlet full of culture and scenic beauty. Frequented by visitors of all ages this quaint corner of the Thai Kingdom has long been reputed as a hotbed for a wide variety of authentically Thai products and art forms. Famed for dance traditions such as the Manora and Likae Pa other art forms native to the region include shadow play performances. The coffee flavoured, orange flavoured and three taste combined Trang Cakes are also a local specialty as are the roast pork delicacies of its Muang district. Khao Chong coffee and Lam Phu Ra Cakes are all the rage in Trang’s Huay Yod district while long-stemmed durian and the hot Tha Kham shrimp paste are specialties of Palian.

As one of the country’s handicraft capitals Trang is also famous for its intricate woodcarvings which are largely concentrated in the Ban Nong Pru region. But the area’s signature product is of course the exquisite Na Muensri cloth. Created by the villagers in Na Muensri, Nayong, which is encountered en route to the Chang Hai Cave, the beautifully woven cloths produced in the region are one of the most sought after items for those visiting Trang from across the globe. Maintained by a cottage industry the Na Muensri cloths feature delicate Thai motifs and are fashioned into headdresses, scarves and handkerchiefs for high class ladies. Na Muensri cloths are also used as a Sabai or a cloth worn over the blouse area of the traditional Thai dress and are often associated with the elite, high-class Thai society and the inherent grandeur of their way of life. In fact, Na Muensri cloth motifs such as the Lai Look Kao pattern were fashioned exclusively for the use of the wealthy class. The Na Muensri cloths are typically used for head ornamentation and belts in men’s fashion although visitors have the option of employing these vibrant fabrics to enhance their own wardrobes or take back home as a treasured keepsake.

The responsibility of carrying on this traditional art form and transferring local know-how to a younger generation of Na Muensri cloth weavers has fallen into the hands of Lady Kuson Nil-Laors who keeps this precious art form alive in its birth place at Na Muensri Village.

Travellers on the lookout for Krabi Resorts will be more than pleased with the Anantara Saiko, Thailand. Ideally located on a private beachfront property in Si Kao this elegant Trang hotel is also just an hour away from the nearest airport.