17/04/2026
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On the last day of our short visit to Trang, I intended to head out in search of a place where locals grow those distinctive fragrant peppercorns the province is so well known for. I was particularly interested in finding somewhere that also sold small plants - also something I could take back and grow at home in Koh Samui.
After some research, I came across a small farm run by an elderly local who ships his precious products all across the country. Unfortunately, his place was quite far off our planned route for the day, and for a moment I considered simply calling him or ordering the plants online.
But after a brief reconsideration, we decided to make the detour anyway. The moment we arrived at his farm, we knew it was the right decision.
“Bang Kai” was such a lovely man - full of passion for his life’s work and genuinely happy to share the knowledge and experience he had gathered over the years. He spoke in depth about farming, caring for the plants, the soil, and environmental considerations. Just as engaging was our conversation about the peppercorns themselves - their flavour profiles and how different processing methods shape their fragrance and aroma.
We had the privilege of meeting someone deeply devoted to his craft, putting heart and soul into his beautiful farm.
We left with half a dozen pepper plants and a selection of products crafted by Bang Kai. On the way back, I found myself reflecting on the experience. Yes, I could have ordered everything online. And yes, I could have found much of the information on the web - but none of that would have come close to the depth and memorability of visiting him in person.
Once again, I was reminded how important it is to go out, to meet local people, and to experience things firsthand. So often, it’s the unspoken details, the sensory impressions, and the human connections that elevate learning to a level no book or screen can replicate.
Another research trip around the South is now slowly coming to an end. The next one, hopefully, is already on the horizon - with new opportunities to quite literally "learn from locals".