Shopping in Thailand

If you get a thrill every time you pass the windows of a store, or a shiver of excitement at the prospect of going to the mall, or does shiny, silky, and gleaming things catch your eye when ever you step out on the streets, then you will experience the “Thrill of Shopping“ in Thailand. In other words, if Shopping is in your Genes (jeans :)), then Thailand is the place for you. If there was ever a good reason to get some travel guides, shopping in Thailand would be a good reason. Thailand – Bangkok & Pattaya, has so many shops, markets, malls and stores that it can be hard to decide just where to start. Since it can be difficult to decide where to go and what to watch out for while shopping, it will be helpful to prepare yourself by researching and getting some helpful tips. Here are some tips for those who are getting ready to take on the shopping in Thailand: •    Jewellery :  Thailand is a jewellery hub, but it is also home to many jewellery scams and con men. You can get real quality jewelry for lower prices, but you have to be on your guard for the scams. Be alert and aware of people who pose as government representatives and promises of gems and deals that are too-good-to-be-true. Be smart about where you buy jewellery and don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are also many high quality gold shops in Thailand and the prices of the gold fluctuate each day. Those buying diamonds / diamond jewellery must insist on certification.

•    Malls: There are many different types of malls in Thailand; from the Siam Paragon megamall, to MBK mall. The Siam Paragon is where many well-to-do people spend time looking around at the bookstores, restaurants, Cineplex and Ocean World Aquarium. The MBK mall is a well known tourist mall because of its affordable prices. The MBK mall has 2,000 plus shops and a very large food court. There is also the Platinum Fashion Mall, the Central Chidlom, the Gaysorn, the Emporium, and the Pantip Plaza.

•    After Dark Shopping:  Thailand is open for shopping at anytime. Bangkok has many after dark shops like Patpong Market, Nana Market and Khao San Road to keep you busy even after everyone else has gone to sleep. •    Street Shopping: Thailand is also famous for its street shopping. Places like the Prachan Pier, Maharat Road, Wat Pho, and Thammasat University all offer shopping experiences right on the street and sidewalk. If you are a haggling master, then street shopping is a must because the street shop regulars love to haggle. Khao San Road is another good street shopping place as well as a famous backpacker strip. •    Markets: The Chatuchak market, one of the many Bangkok, Thailand markets, is a huge marketplace with an unbelievable variety of wares. Many of the markets in Thailand allow and encourage haggling. There are also flower, fresh produce, and food markets. Madison Hewerdine is an author who likes to write a visitors guide for traveling and has a passion for painting. Looking for vacation rentals in Thailand? Click here