Recycling Resurgence: Florida Waste Recovery Revolution

Waste recovery

It must be said that organic waste from the kitchen or garden represents the largest part, or 29% of the total volume of our trash cans. Too bad when you know that this type of waste can be easily transformed to serve other uses. In total, green waste can be recovered in three different ways:

  • By composting, at the end of which our waste is transformed into an excellent natural fertilizer.
  • By anaerobic digestion, similar to composting but practiced without oxygen and which makes it possible to obtain a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide. It is biogas, which is used today to produce heat, electricity or as fuel. In town, some buses are already running on biogas.
  • Last process, energy recovery thanks to wood which will also make it possible to produce heat and electricity.

Since it is much less expensive, composting remains the most frequent method of recovery, but all are part of a brand new approach that aims to consider this waste as a resource in its own right. In Florida, for example, some distilleries offer beer brewed from unsold bread and coffee grounds are transformed into biofuel for buses.

This is the principle of the circular economy which seeks to make maximum use of all the resources at our disposal so as to no longer generate waste at all. This is what nature has been doing for thousands of years. Recycling, repair and reuse are all part of the circular economy concept, and the sector also generates jobs since 1.6 million people contribute to it around the world, for a global turnover of 190 billions dollars.

It remains to generalize ecological practices in the industrial sector, but here too things are changing over time.

Florida waste management policies

Since 2015, companies in Florida have been forced to sort their waste at source, but the projects also go further since it also involves rethinking the methods of extracting raw materials and manufacturing methods. Tomorrow’s products will have to be more durable and easier to recycle, and waste management will have to be as clean as possible.

In 2018, government of Florida revised its framework directive on waste to incorporate new objectives, including:

  • recycling 55% of municipal waste by 2025.
  • reducing food waste and recycling 70% of packaging by 2030.
  • and a 10% reduction in global landfill waste by 2035.

Each county is free to adopt the strategy that suits it best. In St. Augustine, this will involve creating new sorting centres, reducing the number of storage centers and setting up composting facilities throughout the country. The long-term objective will be to generalize the collection of green waste in the same way as other types of waste by 2024.

In general, the directives of tomorrow are based on 5 main points:

  • prevention, by promoting responsible behavior by professionals and consumers.
  • reuse, by getting out of the all-disposable and extending the life of our objects.
  • recycling, by carrying out selective sorting correctly.
  • the valorization of what can be used to produce gas, build roads or even fertilize crops.
  • elimination finally, as a last resort, but using more responsible processes.

Of course, the transition has a cost. In low-income countries, waste management accounts on average for 20% of the municipal budget. This is why the World Bank has already supported nearly 340 waste management programs around the world, for a total of more than 4.7 billion dollars.

Daily junk disposal gestures

And at the same time, since waste management is everyone’s business in Florida, it is also up to us to support responsible initiatives by adopting behaviors in line with what is being put in place, and to reduce pollution. Buy in bulk, for example, limit packaging, monitor use-by dates and cook all products as much as possible to throw away as little as possible.

You can also give up plastic bottles by choosing to drink tap water. At work or outside, if necessary, we will carry a stainless steel water bottle that can follow us for a very long time. And for body care, we will rather choose more natural solid cosmetics, and much less packaged. With a few ingredients, it is even possible to make your own cosmetics and cleaning products.

In the same way, a Stop Pub sticker affixed to the mailbox will considerably limit the waste of paper. And in the event of a damaged object, we will try to repair it or find a new function for it rather than throwing it away. A shoebox can easily become a storage box, glass jars can be kept for food storage or to create pretty candle holders.

And in case of purchase, we can also take the time to look at second-hand offers. It also works in reverse, our old objects may please others. As for more occasional objects such as a ladder or a spray gun for example, renting could well be an option to consider.

Waste management for the future

Reduce, reuse, recycle, compost, the circular economy is at the heart of the Zero Waste approach. In St. Augustine, recycling is on the rise and the gradual awareness has already enabled several fundamental restrictions to be put in place, including better St Augustine junk disposal services. Gone are the cotton swabs, bags and plastic cups and years to come should ban other disposable products. Despite everything, we still have a lot of catching up to do with some of the East Coast neighbours.

In a world where throwing away has become commonplace, we have forgotten the concept of sustainability. In nature, however, nothing is lost, everything is transformed. And it is this naturalness that we find today in alternatives to practically all our everyday plastic objects. Bamboo toothbrushes, fabric pouches, natural food packaging… For a smooth transition to a more responsible way of life both for yourself and for the whole planet.

The beauty of beaches in Georgia

The beautiful beaches of Georgia, USA

Georgia, USA boasts a stunning coastline adorned with exquisite beaches that enthrall visitors with their natural beauty and serenity. With a wealth of diverse coastal landscapes, these beaches offer a delightful retreat for beach lovers. One such gem is Tybee Island, known for its picturesque beaches, gentle waves, and captivating sunsets.

The island’s pristine shoreline invites visitors to bask in the sun, take leisurely walks, or indulge in water activities like swimming and kayaking. The relaxed atmosphere, coupled with the island’s charming beach town vibe, makes Tybee Island an idyllic destination for a memorable beach getaway.

Jekyll Island, another coastal paradise in Georgia, enchants visitors with its unspoiled beauty and rich history. This barrier island features miles of undisturbed sandy beaches, framed by dunes and maritime forests. The peaceful ambience allows for leisurely strolls and the chance to observe an array of wildlife, including nesting sea turtles. The island’s commitment to preservation ensures an untouched coastal environment, making Jekyll Island an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility by the sea.

Cumberland Island, the largest barrier island in Georgia, captivates with its untamed landscapes and remote charm. Accessible only by ferry, this secluded paradise boasts miles of pristine shoreline, where visitors can find solitude and marvel at its unspoiled beauty. The island’s beaches are a sanctuary for various wildlife, including wild horses that roam freely. Exploring the shores of Cumberland Island is like stepping into a world untouched by time, making it a truly unique and enchanting beach experience.

St. Simons Island offers a blend of natural beauty and coastal charm, making it a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts. Its wide, sandy beaches provide ample space for relaxation, beachcombing, and family fun. The island’s rich history is reflected in its iconic lighthouse, which stands proudly overlooking the coastline.

Visitors can explore the beaches, go fishing, or simply soak in the coastal ambiance while enjoying breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Savannah Beach, located just minutes away from the historic city of Savannah, combines the allure of a vibrant city with the pleasures of a coastal retreat. This beach destination offers a lively atmosphere, with a bustling beachfront and a range of recreational activities. From sunbathing and swimming to surfing and paddleboarding, there are plenty of options for adventure and relaxation. Check https://visitsavannah.com/tybee-island-savannahs-beach for more information.

The beach’s proximity to Savannah also allows visitors to indulge in the city’s cultural offerings, including historic sites, museums, and delectable cuisine. Savannah Beach presents an enticing blend of coastal allure and urban sophistication, making it a popular choice for those seeking a beach getaway with a touch of city charm.

Waste management issues in the city of Pooler, GA

Pooler, a vibrant city in Georgia, faces significant waste management challenges that require attention and sustainable solutions. One pressing issue is the inadequate infrastructure to handle the growing population’s waste.

As the city experiences rapid growth and urban development, there is a strain on waste collection and disposal services. Insufficient waste management infrastructure can lead to overflowing dumpsters, littered streets, and potential health and environmental hazards.

Another concern in Pooler is the limited recycling options available to residents. While recycling is a crucial component of waste management, the city lacks comprehensive recycling programs.

The absence of convenient recycling facilities and curbside recycling services makes it difficult for residents to dispose of their recyclable materials properly. As a result, a significant amount of recyclable waste ends up in landfills, adding to the environmental impact.

Illegal dumping is also a prevalent waste management issue in Pooler. Improper disposal of waste, including household items, construction debris, and hazardous materials, not only degrades the aesthetic appeal of the city but also poses health and safety risks. Illegal dumping can contaminate soil and water sources, harm wildlife, and create breeding grounds for pests and diseases.

Addressing this issue requires increased enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and the establishment of designated waste disposal sites.

The lack of public education and awareness regarding waste reduction and proper disposal is another challenge in Pooler. Many residents may not be fully aware of the importance of waste management practices or the impact of their actions on the environment.

Implementing educational programs and initiatives to promote waste reduction, recycling, and responsible waste disposal can help create a more informed and environmentally conscious community.

Lastly, Pooler could benefit from exploring sustainable waste management strategies, such as composting and waste-to-energy systems. Composting can divert organic waste from landfills and provide nutrient-rich soil for gardening and agriculture. Waste-to-energy systems can convert non-recyclable waste into usable energy, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.

By adopting innovative and sustainable waste management practices, Pooler can mitigate waste-related issues while promoting environmental stewardship and resource conservation.

The benefits of renting a dumpster in Pooler, GA

Renting a dumpster in Pooler, GA can provide numerous benefits for residents and businesses alike. Whether you’re renovating your home, conducting a construction project, or simply decluttering, here are six advantages of renting a dumpster in Pooler:

Efficient Waste Management: Renting a dumpster allows for efficient waste management on your property. Instead of dealing with multiple trips to the local landfill or relying on limited curbside pickup services, a dumpster provides a convenient and centralized solution. You can dispose of various types of waste in one place, saving time and effort.

Easy and Convenient: Dumpster rental companies in Pooler make the process simple and hassle-free. They deliver the dumpster directly to your location and pick it up once it’s full or at the end of your rental period. You don’t have to worry about transportation or disposal logistics, as the rental company takes care of it all, providing you with a stress-free waste removal experience.

Versatile Waste Disposal: Dumpsters come in various sizes, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. Whether you have bulky furniture, construction debris, yard waste, or general household junk, there’s a dumpster size that can accommodate it all. This versatility enables you to effectively manage waste from different projects or situations.

Safety and Cleanliness: Renting a dumpster helps maintain a safe and clean environment during your project. Instead of having debris and waste scattered around your property, you can keep everything contained within the dumpster. This reduces the risk of accidents, such as trips and falls, and keeps the work area tidy and organized. Check https://www.poolerdumpsterrental.com/ for more information.

Compliance with Local Regulations: By renting a dumpster, you ensure compliance with local waste disposal regulations in Pooler. Improper waste disposal can result in fines and penalties. However, dumpster rental companies are knowledgeable about the local regulations and will guide you on the proper disposal of specific types of waste, ensuring you stay within the legal requirements.

Environmental Responsibility: Dumpster rental promotes environmental responsibility by facilitating proper waste disposal and recycling. Reputable rental companies prioritize environmentally friendly practices, such as sorting and recycling materials whenever possible. Renting a dumpster allows you to contribute to waste reduction and promote sustainable waste management practices in Pooler.

In summary, renting a dumpster in Pooler offers efficient waste management, convenience, versatility, safety, compliance with regulations, and environmental responsibility. Whether for residential or commercial purposes, a dumpster rental can streamline your waste removal process and provide peace of mind during any project or cleanup endeavor.

Environment impact of landfills in Tallahassee


In humid and temperate countries such as Europe, the evolution of landfills is guided by significant microbiological activity. This, like any microbiological process, is directly dependent on the water content of the landfill. In countries with a drier climate, the humidity rate in the landfill is a very important parameter that will condition the type of evolution of the landfill.

It is essentially defined by climatic conditions and local hydrogeology as in Tallahassee. For example, in Africa, six climatic zones are defined in particular on the basis of the rainfall regime: rainfall and distribution over the year. This may cause some particularly large countries to be globally divided into two or more climatic zones with their own landfill management requirements.

Cities located in desert (II) and Sahelian (III) climatic zones have neither water reserves nor ground humidity. A few cities located far north of the tropical zone with a long dry season (IV) such as Dakar, Ouagadougou and Segou are almost in the same situation. It is expected that no microbiological degradation of waste from landfills located in this way will be observed.

Like in Florida, the humidity brought by the waste evaporates quickly and the rains cannot possibly ensure this type of activity. Only physicochemical degradation could be observed. Such a landfill, far from being a bioreactor, would rather be a place of fossilization of organic waste by desiccation. However, it is essential to determine whether during storms, percolation and hypodermic flow water has time to reach the water table.

On the other hand, the majority of cities located in the humid tropical (V) and equatorial (VI) climatic zone present water balances apparently favorable to a biological evolution of landfills. In addition, the periods of soil humidity are usually long (7 to 10 months). Biomethanation should be easily observed there.

In these same climatic zones, however, there are cities such as Cotonou (zone VI), located in West Africa, which present an intermediate situation similar to several cities in the tropical zone with a long dry season (IV). A soil humidity rate of 50 to 80% is observed there over a short period (2 to 5 months). The type of evolution of landfills subjected to these conditions is not very predictable.

Such an intermediate situation also seems to exist in the Mediterranean zone (I), for example in Tunis. Consequently, each station, in the Mediterranean zone or in a tropical zone with a long dry season, will have to be examined on a case-by-case basis according to soil humidity, climatological data (such as wind speed, drought factor), starting humidity of the waste.

The presence of leachate and biogas must be taken into account in order to classify the landfill objectively. For bringing junk to Tallahassee landfills help reduce the problem. Indeed, the investigations carried out on four landfills in Tunisia and Haiti show that, despite the dryness of the soil and a negative water balance (low or poorly distributed rainfall and lower by a factor of two to five than the potential evapotranspiration data), the interior of the landfill remains sufficiently humid to produce, even during the dry season, low quantities of biogas and little or no leachate.

We are faced with an intermediate discharge that we will call a crust. Rainfall and potential evapotranspiration data are therefore not sufficient to classify a landfill. When the waste arrives at the landfill, with a well-defined humidity, the water activity gradient is relatively high and allows microorganism activity. The water falling on the waste is then only slowly evapotranspired.

Due to the structure of the waste, a certain time is necessary for the evapotranspiration to be complete. During this time, water migrations may have fed the lower layers of waste to activate biodegradation. Similarly, the water that constitutes the waste can play this role. Therefore, only the waste on the surface and in contact with the ground dries out.

We are witnessing the formation of a dry crust around the edge of the mass of waste and a low or even non-existent production of leachate. Subsequently, this crust of dry waste prevents the exchange of water and oxygen between the inside of the landfill and the outside. Thus, the humidity of the waste is maintained within the mass and allows a certain methanogenesis accompanied by a slow but continuous production of biogas.

The management of Tallahassee landfills poses the problem of controlling the biogas that must be evacuated and of evaluating the lifespan of this landfill, which should evolve extremely slowly. In summary, the diversity of climatic and hydrogeological conditions leads us to consider three types of landfills depending on the humidity level present: the dry-fossilized landfill, the wet landfill, and the intermediate landfill.

The search for waste specifies, for Florida, the type of discharge that should be observed according to the climatic zones. However, it is obvious that this classification can easily be extended to other countries around the world. This is particularly the case in Talahassee where most of the existing landfills are either dry-fossilized or intermediate.

The Shame of Beach Pollution


Tons of litter on the beach: the images of shame. Waste on the beach has become a symbol of overconsumption. You can see in pictures the direct consequences of a hot day at the beach and this is disgusting! Such images are impressive and multiply in the general indifference. Tons of garbage accumulate on our beaches every day. There is no reason to be surprised that the ocean is dying from plastic pollution.

Garbage on the beach makes the coastal area repulsive. Exit sand, deckchairs, parasols and straw hats. The ingredients for a day at sea are very different. Cigarette butts, plastic and glass bottles, soda cans, single-use plastic bags … This is what is commonly found on our beaches. And not in small quantities! Waste on the beach is a shameful symbol of overconsumption.

For proof a video published on social networks last year showed the state of a North Sea beach in Blankenberge in Belgium, after a bit of a hot day, once all the tourists left: thousands of garbage sometimes deposited next to the full bins but often scattered on the beach. Taking measures against this kind of behavior is not obvious, if not conceivable, as people come on the beach to relax. And government officials want them to feel good. But in the meantime, while humans are enjoying the sun, the coastline doesn’t have much fun.

Welcome to the sea of waste! The problem obviously does not only concern Europe. In Bali for example, Green Peace has been denouncing figures that are chilling in the back for a few years. On Kuta beach, in 2018, about 100 tonnes of debris were collected, between the waste thrown by tourists, attracted by surfing in the archipelago, and the debris washed up on the beach from the ocean.

The authorities employ 700 cleaners and 35 dumpster trucks for this every day. And to clarify this problem does not come from people living in Kuta and around the beach. This cleaning up requires a massive waste management effort coordinated by the local authorities. The city had to order new roll-off dumpsters just to cope with the increased demand for large junk collection.

And for good reason, you can see in pictures the diver Rich Horner literally swimming in plastic. The consequences are obviously not only visual, and it is no longer possible to ignore the environmental issues. People thus recently discovered off Corsica a new island entirely made of plastic. Marine species are particularly threatened by pollution. As for us humans, we now know that we eat the equivalent of a plastic credit card every week in our food. Polluting the beach therefore makes this situation even less manageable.

Removing plastic pollution on beaches is a big challenge. There are ideas, but they come from independent initiatives. WWF stated that the Mediterranean Sea is the most polluted in the world with 600,000 tonnes of plastic waste discharged per year.

In May 2019, a competition was held to collect waste in the Marseille coastal area. Kayakers and divers participated in the operation and managed to recover 1.2 tonnes of waste. On the Belgian side, we are also looking to coordinate. The Governor of East Flanders explained for example that he had invited the burgomasters of the coastal municipalities to coordinate on this subject. Among the measures proposed: fines for polluting tourists

Best Nature Spots in Indonesia


Mt Rinjani, or Gunung Rinjani, is the second highest volcano in Indonesia. Located in the North of the island Lombok, the top of the mountain forms a crater lake 1.2 miles above sea level, known as Segara Anak. Visitors can hike to the lake, which offers spectacular views of Bali and Sumbawa, and while there also visit the Aik Kalak hot springs situated on the crater rim. The trail takes two days to reach the crater, so it is a challenging trek and not recommended for the inexperienced, however it is an adventure that is greatly rewarding should you make it.

The lower elevation slopes are densely forested, with trees giving way to sparse and rugged volcanic rock further towards the crater. Fig trees are prevalent in the lower forests, as well as the Syzygium Jambu, an attractive shrub that bears edible fruit similar to guavas. A wide variety of fauna can also be seen, from the fairly common long-tailed grey macaque, to the rare ebony leaf monkey and rusa deer.

KomodoKomodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated within the Lesser Sunda Islands. It is made up of twenty nine islands, the largest three being Komodo, Padar, and Rinca. These islands are home to the majestic Komodo dragon, a threatened species of lizard that can reach up to ten feet in length and weigh up to 150 lbs. The park is also well know for having one of the world’s richest marine environments, including whale sharks, manta rays, blue-ringed octopuses, and over two hundred species of coral. Because of this it is a haven for divers and snorkelers, who travel to the park by boat from the nearby towns of Labuan Bajo or Sape to experience the world famous coral reefs.

Lake Toba, in Sumatra, is the largest lake in Indonesia, and the largest volcanic lake in the world, covering an area of 660 square miles. An even smaller island, Samosir, lies within the lake and can be reached by boat or road bridge. The lake is a popular destination for tourists looking to get off the beaten track, relax and take in the beauty of the water and mountains. The main town visited is Parapat, and from here visitors can swim in the volcanically warmed lake, visit nearby Sipisopiso waterfall, or rent a motorbike to explore the island of Samosir.

Mount-BromoMount Bromo is one of the most visited attractions in East Java. The volcano sits in the middle of an immense plain named the Sea of Sand, and constantly emits white smoke from its crater, giving it an eery, other-worldly feel. The area surrounding the mountain is inhabited by the Tenggerese people, and plays a huge part in their culture, with sacrifices of fruit, vegetables and livestock being thrown into the crater during the Hindu festival of Yadnya Kasada.

The volcano itself, though beautiful, is largely barren, with rugged peaks and gravel plains, however the surrounding area of lower elevations and valleys are covered in forest. Here wild animals can be spotted, such as pigs, rusa deer, and leopard cats, as well as birds of prey. The mountain is easily climbed from the village of Cemoro Lawang, or alternatively locals offer jeep hire and guided horseback rides to the summit. One can also find the stunning Madakaripura waterfall in the foothills of Bromo, close to the village of Sapih, the waters of which are said to be an elixir of life.

Located off the island of New Guinea, Raja Ampat, or The Four Kings, is a group of over 1500 islands, shoals, and kays. The main attraction for visitors is the amazing biodiversity of marine life, which is the highest recorded on Earth according to Conservation International, and as such it is ranked one of the top ten locations for diving by many sources. Most tourists choose to stay in dive resorts or liveaboard boats that collect them from the nearby city of Sorong, but eco-friendly homestays are an alternative option for a genuine Indonesian experience.

The four main islands are Salawati, Waigeo, Misool, and Batanta, and aside from the marine landscape these islands offer an array of amazing scenery and natural attractions. The waterfall of Salawati is a must-see, or one could explore the caves of the islands by sea kayak.

Must Try Indonesian Food


Do you love Asian food? If you do, then you must have tried Chinese, Thai and other Asian cuisines – Indonesian food must be one of them! Indonesia is not just rich in culture, it’s not only famous for Bali, but the goodness of their local and simple food can satisfy that hearty cravings. Here are some of the Indonesian Food you must try.

Beef Rendang

All the way from Padang, Sumatra, this dish is certainly known for its rich and spicy kick. Beef Rendang has similarities with beef curry. The only difference is that beef rending is not cooked in broth. One thing you can appreciate about this dish is that, yes, it takes forever to cook, but the tenderness of the beef is mouth-watering.

Indonesian Satay

Indonesian Satay is one unique staple. Started out as food sold by street vendors, Indonesian satay has become a very popular food all over Indonesia. A skewer is inserted in chunks of marinated meat, then, it is cooked over hot coals. This juicy dish is usually served with sweet peanut sauce poured on top of it together with rice cakes. This dish is highly addictive and there’s no doubt about that.

Siomay

Simay is originally a Chinese food. But through time, the dishes from china have circulated all over Asia. Each country has made their very own versions and Indonesia is no exception. There is something about this country and the use of peanuts. Siomay is Indonesia’s dim sum version. It is steamed fish dumplings. It comes with egg, potato, cabbages and served with – you’ve guessed it – peanut sauce! If you really want to experience its authentic taste, the best place to buy siomay is from a bicycle vendor who tows a small cart with a steamer at the back of his bike. This is street food at its finest.

Nasi Rawon

Nasi Rawon is Indonesia’s version of beef stew. Originated from East Java, this dish has a very bold and nutty flavor. It’s color ranges from deep brown to black due to the keluak nut used in the dish. This yummy and hearty dish is best served on top of hot and steamy rice.

Sop Buntun or Oxtail Soup

The name of the dish says it all. Oxtail is the protein of this soup. It is believed that London invented this dish during the 17th century but Indonesians have a different version of it. Just like the other popular dishes in Indonesia, it is also a hearty soup. The protein is usually either broiled, barbecued or fried, then, a soup base is incorporated.

Sweet Martabak

Sweet Martabak is a popular dessert in Indonesia. It is actually their own version of pancake and crepe fused into one. Oddly enough, this is usually served only at the evenings. You can also choose different kinds of toppings, fillings and of course, peanuts.

Pempek

This may sound odd but this dish is actually made of fish and tapioca. It is a specialty found in South Sumatra. Kapal selam is the most popular variety of pempek as it contains egg at the middle. Before pempek is served, it is first topped off with pulverized shrimp or shrimp powder with a dark dipping sauce called cuka – a mixture of chili, sugar and vinegar.

Nasi Uduk

Indonesia’s national dish is Nasi Uduk. This meal’s signature is that rice is cooked slowly in coconut milk. This is very similar to the Nasi Lemak in the neighboring countries of Indonesia, the difference is that nasi uduk is also served with tempe or soybean cake, shredded omelette, anchovies, fried chicken, fried onion topped with emping and sambal or also known as nut crackers. This dish usually served on lunchtime cannot do away with sambal.

Cha Am, Thailand


Cha Am is by far the most popular beach of Petchaburi province. The beach itself is a clean white sand beach stretching over 7km long, and offers a variety of accommodations. Arrays of shops and recreations abound in the area: water scooter, horse riding, banana boating, golfing or even para-gliding.

The north and south end of the beach provides more quietness and are more suitable for leisurely pursuits such as sunbath, swimming or just observing the coastal environment and the locals’ way of life. Compared to the crowded and brassy ambience of Pattaya, Cha Am offers an alternative of a peaceful and less touristy seaside resort ideal for a relaxing getaway.

Cha Am beach was established after Hua Hin had been taken up by the royalty and dignitary as the imperial resort. A group of aristocrats had pushed the clear-up of this sea-front mangrove forest to build a new seaside village in 1921. They built a route from the railway station to this beach, and another road along the beach.

A cart-path was cut behind the sea-front plots of land. The prince called the new village Sahakham Cha Am. Since that time the site has undergone several developments, including the establishment of modern roads and the opening up of new resorts as well as myriad of facilities to serve tourists. Nowadays, Cha Am ranks among one of the most frequented weekend resort towns.
Apart from the beautiful sand beach, there are many attractions around Cha Am and most of them are within short reach. Here are some of the points of interest you may like to stop by while you are in Cha Am.

Maruekkha-thayawan Palace

This palace was once a seaside summer palace of the royal family. Designed by an Italian architect during the reign of King Rama IV, it comprises of three two-storey wooden buildings adjointed to each other by elevated walkways. Today the palace is open for public viewing.

Hua Hin

Hua Hin is a well-known seaside resort of Thailand and the oldest one of its kind. The beach extends about three kilometers southwards of the fishing village. It boasts a fine white sand, quality resort hotels, many water sports opportunities and boasts to be as popular as when it was first established.

Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park

Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, or more locally known as Khao Wang, represents a fantastic mixture of traditional Thai, Chinese and Western architectural styles. Its construction was commissioned by King Rama VI for himself and royal guests. The park comprises of palaces, temples, royal halls and groups of building sprawling on Mahaisawan Hill.

Kaeng Krachan National Park

This park is the largest national park of Thailand. Visitors to Kaeng Krachan will find plenty of outdoor activities available here such as trekking along the mountain paths, visiting cliffs and rock formations, boating in Kaeng Krachan Reservoir and watching various species of birds.

Khao Luang

The cave is located at about 3 kilometers away from the township inside Khao Luang, and boasts a fine collection of magnificent stalagmites and stalactites which reflects the sun beams filtered through the ventilating hole at the top. In addition to the beautiful natural environment of the cave, there are also several Buddha images built by King Rama V.

Phra Ram Ratchaniwet (Ban Puen Palace)

The construction of this palace was commissioned by King Rama IV who conceived it to be his retreat in the monsoon season. It was modeled after the palace of Keiser Wilhelm in Germany and a German architect was ordered to design and overlook its construction. The final product is an impressive combination between the Baroque and Art Nouveau architectural styles.

Wat Kamphaeng Laeng

Wat Kamphaeng Laeng is the biggest and oldest historical site of the province and perhaps of the country since its historical relics suggest that Petchaburi was a great settlement from 12th-13th century. The dominant architectural style of this temple is influenced by the Khmer’s style. The wall is made of laterite and there appears the Dvaravai stucco mouldings in patterns of Naga or serpent gripped in the mouth of dragon and the lotus petals on the capitals of columns.

Wat Yai Suwannaram

This well known temple houses a fine collection of mural paintings which can be dated back to Ayutthaya period. The ubosot enshrines the main stucco Buddha image in the posture of subduing mara and a cast figure of the former Supreme Patriarch Taeng-mo.

Wat Ko Kaeo Suttharam

This temple was built during the late Ayutthaya period and has a unique architectural style characteristic of its time. There are various mural paintings depicting ten previous lives of the Lord Buddha. The wooden panelled walls of its exterior-walls or Fa Prakon are regarded as the most beautiful in Thailand. Sala Kanparian, the pavillion, has a superbly-carved wooden pulpit by the river is called Sala Mahesuan.

Wat Phuttha Saiyat

Wat Phuttha Saiyat is more popularly known by the name Wat Phra Non by the local people. The temple houses one of the four largest statues of the reclining Buddha or Phra Phuttha Saiyat in Thailand. The statue is presently enshrined in Phra Wiharn (formerly laid outdoor) which contains inside many Dvaravati and U-thong Buddha images.

Wat Mahathat Worawihan

Wat Mahathat Worawihan was built according to the Buddhist precept by erecting a temple inthe middle of the town to enshrien Bhudda relics. The temple is believed to have been bulit 800 years ago and has in its collection a variety of historical and artistic artifacts.

Shopping

The famous souvenirs of visitors to Cha Am are sweets which are mostly made of tanot (palm) sugar, flour, eggs and coconut cream, and handmade crafts made of seashells. Other souvenir iems include woman accessories and housewares made of hemp, products of palm sugar and a variety of processed fruits. Sweet shops can be found in abundance around Khao Wang, along Phetkasem Road and in the town center.

Dining

Cha Am is a paradise for dining because you’ll find a cornucopia of restaurants serving both local food and seafood along the beach road. The dishes are prepared upon request and generally have reasonable prices. In addition, there are many food sellers who walk around selling fruits and skewerd meat balls or dried squids right up to your beach chair.

Golf

Golf has been a very popular outdoor pastime in Cha Am. There are several fine golf courses that they are usually very full most weekends, so reservation in advance is recommended. Many of the hotels run FOC shuttles and most clubs can arrange pickup and drop-off to any hotel. Visitors can request for more information from the hotel’s information counter.

Watersports

While most of the larger resorts will plan watersports activities for you upon request, you can make arrangements with small operators on the beach (for a significant savings). Most resorts forbid noisy jet skis, but the beaches are lined with young entrepreneurs renting them out for 500B ($12) per hour. Windsurfers and Hobie Cats are for rent at most resorts or with small outfits along the beach (starting at 300B/$7.30 and 600B/$15 per hr. respectively).