Rayong, located on Thailand’s eastern coast, has a rich history dating back over 500 years, beginning with its establishment under Khmer influence. First referenced in historical records during the Ayutthaya period in 1570, Rayong gained strategic importance as a military stronghold. In 1766, it served as a refuge and rallying point for King Taksin and his forces against Burmese invaders, marking its legacy in the Thai fight for independence. Besides its historical role, Rayong is celebrated as the birthplace of Thailand's famous poet Sunthorn Phu, with natural coastal landscapes, including Koh Samet, inspiring his works. Today, Rayong remains a major hub for tourism, fishing, and tropical agriculture, particularly noted for high-quality fruits like durians and rambutans. Its coastal location has also made it part of Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor, a development initiative aimed at boosting the industrial sector and enhancing connectivity.