Bangkok Shopping

Amulets
There is a belief that amulets will protect the wearer from harm. For those who require such protection, these charms are available at the Amulet market at Sanam Phara near Wat Mahathat, and the antiques section of Chatuchak Market.

Antiques
Bangkok has countless antique shops where many pleasant hours can be spent examining old and fascinating treasures. Some shops offer startling reproductions, so you might consider this option in favour of a genuine article. Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Khmer antiques are particularly excellent buys. Be aware that there is an export ban on certain pieces, particularly Buddha images. Other pieces may require an export licence, but any reputable dealer will be able to provide advice on restrictions and any necessary documentation. Available at River City Shopping Complex (02237-0077-8), Silom Galleria, O.P. Place Shopping Centre (0-22660189-95) and Chatuchak market.

Curry Mixes
Pratunam markets house shops which sell Thai curry pastes, herbs, and spices. Department stores and supermarkets also sell Indian, Thai and Chinese curry pastes.
Custom Tailors Bangkok has many excellent tailors and dressmakers who stock imported fabrics and Thai silks. Brochures and catalogues of the latest styles are available, and can be used as the basis for some excellent copies. will their ir own designs or styles. There are tailoring shops in most shopping complexes. Suits and Dreses can be made within 24 hours, and most custom tailors provide a delivery service to hotels. Available at Alex's Fashion (0-2237-3229, 0- 2237-3216), A Prime tailor (0-2236-7777) and 0.P Place Shopping Centre (0-2266-0186-95).

Cutlery
Thailand has developed an outstanding reputation for its stylishly designed stainless steel cutlery, and it is no wonder that it is in demand throughout the world.
Available at department stores and shopping centres and Narai Phand.

Dolls & Puppets
The art of doll making has been revived, and one can see the hilltribe and dancing dolls with full traditional costumes and head gear in many shops. Available at most department stores, Silom road, Narai Phand, Suan Lum Night bazaar and Chatuchak market.

Dresses, Custom Made
Most of the tailoring shops also specialize in custom made dresses for men and women. These tailoring shops are scattered all along Sukhumvit and Silom roads and around most hotels. Most offer good quality at very reasonable prices. (see Custom Tailors)

Dresses - Ladies (Women's wear)
Buying clothes off the rack or at markets in Bangkok could take some time if you take a size larger than a US size 10 or Australian size 12. De partment stores, however, db carry imported clothing in western sizes, pirticularly Central Chidlom, Zen, and at the less expensive end of the range, Big C. There are also many established specialty stores, as well as shops that will make to measure.

Electrical
Virtually all electrical appliances from the least expensive to top-of-the-line are available in Bangkok. Many international brands are made or assembled under license in Thailand. Available through department and large chains such as Tesco Lotus, Carrefour, Robinson, and manufacturers's outlets.

Fabrics & Textiles
Bangkok has numerous small fabric stores and there is a reasonable selection of material at most markets. Several shops also exist along Sukhumvit Road and at O.P. Place. Tailors carry imported suits, shirts, and other woven fabrics. Sampeng Lane and Pahurat cloth market (Indian market) in Chinatown have the widest variety of both imported and local fabrics.

Flowers
Bangkok is a world centre for orchid cultivation. Other fresh flowers are also available in abundance from street vendors, stores, florists, and especially from the spectacular wholesale flower market Pak Klong Talad.

Fresh Fruits
From the more exotic Durian and Mangosteen to the ever popular mango and jackfruit, Thailand is a country blessed with an abundant supply and variety of fruits available all year round. Freshly cut fruits are also available from road side fruit hawkers and at food markets.

Royal Crafts
These beautiful pieces of arts and pottery are available at Narai Phand, Chatuchak market, and Suan Lum Night Bazaar. There are also handicraft shops within most hotels, and in various shops on Sukhumvit and Silom road.

Sa Paper
Sa Paper is a hand crafted thick, durable paper which has been used in handicrafts for centuries. It is also the main material for making Thai traditional puppets. The Sa umbrella is one of the most popular souvenirs available in local markets and shops in Chiang Mai. Varieties are also available at Chatuchak market.

Sculpture
Thai sculptures are well known for their elaborate artistry. Sculptures are made from wood, stone, metal and grounded on antique artifacts such as legendary angels, dancing figures and animals. Replicas of decorative debris from old temples and palaces are also popular. Available at River City Shopping Complex (02237-0077-8), Narai Phand, Chatuchak, Suan Lum, and roadside stalls on Silom.

Shoes
With Thailand's inexpensive labor and high quality workmanship, major footwear menufacturers have relocated to Thailand. Production of major international brand names made in Thailand include: Nike, Reebok, Olympic, Adidas and Converse.
There are many shoes available in numerous shopping complexes and department stores. While it may be difficult to find shoes larger than size 39 for women and size 10 for men, some shoe shops will copy or make to measure.

Silverware
The most famous center for the production of silverware is in Chiang Mai, where the industry has been in operation for over a thousand years. Here, silversmiths, skilled in ancient techniques blend their art with newer technology to produce the finest quality silverware. The tribal groups living in the hills of the north also make exquisite silver jewelry in traditional styles. Also, available at Chatuchak market, Chinatown,
and Khao San road.

Sportswear
Most department stores carry a wide selection of sportswear and sports equipment, and there are also specialty shops in shopping malls. Stainless Steelware Beautiful and stylish tableware is made in Thailand and exported all over the world. The quality is very good, and there is a wide range of styles and finishes, including platters, underplates, candle holders, trays, and vases. Available at department stores and Chatuchak market.

Stainless Steelware
Beautiful and stylish tableware is made in Thailand and exported all over the world. The quality is very good, and there is a wide range of styles and finishes, including platters, underplates, candle holders, trays, and vases.
Available at department stores and Chatuchak market.

Stamps
For stamp collectors, hotel book shops generally have a collection of new stamps from Thailand. Visit the New Road area near the general Post Office for a collection of old stamps.

Thai Silk
Probably the most famous of all the kingdom's handicrafts, silk is available in a broad range of colours, patterns and plies, and is sold by the yard, or as ready-made clothing. A unique style of Thai Silk is Mudmee, a tie-dye variety common in the Northeast. The glistening texture of Thai silk intelligently reflects the rich diversity of Thai culture. Many handicraft villages allow visitors to observe the entire silk-making process, through silkworm cultivation, spinning, dyeing, and weaving.
Available at Jim Thompson (0-2632-8100), O.P. Place Shopping Centre (0-2266-0186-95), River City Shopping Complex (0-2237-0077-8), various department stores, shopping malls ,and specialty shops.

Toys
Wooden toys have been produced for export markets only within the last decade or so. The range of wooden toys cover building blocks, beads, trains, and horse and cart sets. Major shopping centres will have several toy retail outlets. The best buys in Thailand are the wooden toys made by the big manufacturers for export. A visit to shops on Sampeng Lane can also be worthwhile. Plastic and Metallic toys are available at the toy sections of major department stores, and roadside stalls on Silom and Sukhumvit road.

Umbrellas
Hand-painted Chaing mai umbrellas made from waterproof paper protected by a resin-like substance are adorned with pictures of flowers, birds, butterflies, or Thai scenery, and make colourful additions to any home or garden. Chiang Mai's Bor Sang is the largest umbrella making village in Thailand. From the outlying villages of Ton Pao, Mae Hoi Ngeon, Noi, and Ton Haen come supplies of umbrella frames, handles and struts, all made from bamboo and sa papar. Self-trained artists give the final touch to the works by hand-painting floral and scenic designs on the umbrellas. Available at Chatuchak market, department stores, and shopping malls.

VCD/DVD
Genuine DVDNCDs are available at CD Warehouse, Panthip Plaza, MBK, and other department stores.

Bags
Bags are now Thailand's most demanded leather items, even overtaking shoes. Products in this cat-,gory include ladies's handbags, luggage, satchไls, briefcases, toiletry cases, and wallets. Major raw materials used are tanned cow, crocodile, and buffalo leather, as well as pig, snake and other reptile skins. Department 'stores and many shopping complexes, such as MBK, have a wonderful range of Imported and locally made handbags.

Beer
Beer can be found just about everywhere. A wide selection ranging from Thai brands like Singha and Chang to European, American and other Asian brands are waiting to be enjoyed.
Available at roadside convenience stores, food plazas, pubs, bars, department stores, and Boonrawd Trading (0-2241-1361-9).

Books & Magazines
Bookshops in Bangkok range from large bookseller chains to small specialty shops. There are also technical bookshops in Pantip Plaza, art books stalls in galleries, secondhand bookshops on Khao San Road, Chatuchak market. Many types of English books can be found at the Asia Books (02715-9000). Bookazine and Kinokuniva.

Basket Weaving
Basket making has played an integral role in Thai life for a very long time. Today, it is still one of the most flourishing folk arts in the country. Thai basketry is booming mainly because items are being fashioned for more decorative purposes than in the past. Thai baskets are made from coconut palms, beads, rattan, bamboo and many other types of vegetation. Even the water hyacinth that clogs the rivers and klongs is now being gathered and used to make trays, lampshades and furniture. Items such as food baskets, fans, hats, trays and even fish traps make inexpensive souvenirs or gifts. Also available are Intricately crafted 'yan lipo' gaskets and handbags made from rainforest vines found in southern Thailand. Available at Chitrlada shops, Narai Phand and Chatuchak market.

Benjarong
Introduced to Thailand from China, Benjarong is made from porcelain decorated exquisitely in multicoloured enamels. There are superb collections at Jim Thompson's House and the Prasart Museum. Also available at Chatuchak market, River City Shopping Complex, and Department Stores.

Boats
Thai traditional boats or barges make beautiful souveniers. Available at Narai Phand, Chatuchka Market, River City Shopping Complex (0-2237-0077-8), O.P. Place Shopping Centre (0-2266-0186-95), Silom and Sukhumvit road.

Brass & Bronze
Brass is one of the crafts-people's fไvourite metals to form into sculpture. Handicrafts in this medium are mainly decorative such as bells, religious, and animal sculptures and ornaments Available at River City Shopping Complex (02237-0077-8), Chatuchak market, Silom market and Narai Phand.

Cameras
Thailand offers very competitive prices on cameras. Most of the shopping malls like Central, Robinson, Emporium, etc. have dedicated camera departments which offer a wide selection of the latest brandname models. Available at most department stores.

Furniture - Rattan
There are more than 40 kinds of rattan in Thailand, mostly found in the southern part of Thailand and in a few northern ones. Yet, the supply is not sufficient to fill the demand for this product. The once cottage industry has quickly developed into a several modern industrial factories who have made substantial improvements in both quality and design. The stores will make to order and also furnish fabrics and swatches from which to choose. Most stores have brochures to help your selection. Many rattan shops can be found on the odd-numbered side of Sukhumvit Road.

Furniture - Wood
Thailand produces very high quality wooden furniture made from indigenous varieties of wood, such as teak, pine, parawood, and rattan. Some styles invoke the use of steel, aluminum and plastic, along with synthetic leather and fabric upholstery. The most popular Thai furniture is made from parawood and rattan. An area known as Wood Street, near Chatuchak market (On Prachanarurmit Road) has many family-owned furniture stores which offer their own stock, or will copy or reproduce pieces to your design. In addition, various furniture fairs pop up during the year which give a good overview of what's available.

Gems
For decades, Thailand has been renowned as a leading center in the world for colored gemstones. This is due to the abundance of various stones available and the inherited expertise artisans have in cutting and treating these coloured stones. Sapphire, ruby, onyx, jade, zircon, opal and diamonds abound in gems and jewellery shops all over Bangkok. Some of the popular and established destinations are Rama Jewelry, Gemopolis, and Peninsula Plaza. Gem shops in leading hotels and department stores, plus jewellery shops on Silom and Sukhumvit Road offer a reliable selection. Buyers can ask for a certificate of authenticity, along with a gem identification report issued by authorized gemologists.

Glasses
Choose from a variety of designer brands in the shopping malls, or visit road side stalls on Silom and Sukhumvit which offer replicas of designer wear.

Mother of Pearl (Mook Thai)
This intricate craft was refined during the Ayutthaya and Ratanakosin (Bangkok) periods. Although it was formerly associated with royalty, it is now broadly available for use in furniture and utensils, as well as decorative items. A wonderful example of the artistry of the unique Thai mother-of-pearl is on the feet of the Reclining Buddha at Wat Po.
Available at Narai Phand and department store across Bangkok.

Neckties
Choose from designer brands like Salvarote Ferragamo and Marks & Spencer, as well as traditional Thai silk ties and inexpensive roadside stalls offerings. Jim Thompson shops (0-2632-8100) offer a good range of ties in traditional Thai and modern designs.

Nielloware
Practiced in the south for hundreds of years, nielloware is the craft of decorating objects with delicately etched designs, which are filled with a metal alloy to produce a smooth patterned surface in black and gold. Nielloware trays, boxes, vases and other items are in high demand with many vistors to the Kingdom. Available at Chatuchak market and antique shops.

Paintings
Numerous art gallerys have exhibitions all year round. Some of the more famous ones are at River City Shopping Complex (0-2237-0077-8), O.P. Place Shopping Centre (0-2266-0186-95), Jim Thompson House (0-2632-8100), Neilson Hays Library, and the Tang Gallery.

Palm Leaf Fish
Plaited palm leaf fish is a symbol of wealth. There is a belief that when the fish is ready, it is time for the rice to be harvested, and the fish, in turn, would help babies grow healthy and strong. Available at most department stores in the Thai handicrafts section and Narai Phand.

Pearls
Pearls are fabricated by complicated natural processes whereby they grow around grains of sand which have slipped inside oyster shells. Cultured pearls are made by the same process, but employ tiny beads as catalysts to trigger the growth. Pearl farms are to be found along both sides of Thailand's southern peninsula, especially in Phuket, Phangnga, and Ranong. Available at Gem and Jewelry Trade, as well as most department stores.

Pewterware
An alloy of lead and tin that produces a metal that has a smooth and silky touch. It is fashioned with great skill by Thai craftsmen and molded into figurines, beakers, goblets, plates, and vases. Available at Chatuchak market, department stores, and Silom market.

Pottery - Blue & White
Bangkok has many outlets for this attractive and reasonably priced pottery. Visit the factories to watch the craftsmen handpaint the designs on bowls, vases, planters and dinnerware. Exquisite pieces can also be found at Chatuchak market, Narai Phand and Suan Lum Night Bazaar.

Watches
Most of the shopping malls have designer watch sections displaying an impressive selection. Other venues for your search are at MBK, Gaysorn Plaza, Peninsula, Silom Complex, Robinson's and Central Department Stores.

Wine
Wine in Bangkok is mostly imported from all over the world. Villa Market at Sukhumvit Soi 33 has the largest selection, including some very fine Bordeaux and New World wines. Foodland has a well-chosen selection, too.

Wood Crafts
Thai craftspeople are well known for their artistic and versatile style in woodcarving, handicrafts, and furniture. Common woodcraft items for sale include dancing figures, animals, and statues. Other favourites include mythical devas and miniature reproductions of ancient palaces and temples. A recommended item to buy is the wooden elephant, by far the most popular woodcraft items.
Available at O.P. Place Shopping Centre (02266-0186-95), Narai Phand, Suan Lum Night Bazaar, and River City Shopping Complex (0-22370077-8).

Artificial Flowers
Thailand's artificial flower production can be categorized into home and export industries. The former are usually handmade varieties using cloth, paper and a mixture of fabrics as raw materials. The latter are made in factories employing machinery, and the raw materials used are either plastic or polyester. Making hand-made artificial flowers requires skillful craftsmanship. The materials used include silkworm cocoons, coconut fiber, seeds, and Sa paper. Most overseas visitors, however, prefer blooms made from polyester cloth, silk, rayon and organza to those made from plastic, and their lifelike appearance justifies their higher prices.
All varieties are available at most department stores and Chatuchak market.

Artificial Plants and Fruits
Artificial plants and fruits are available throughout Bankgok in markets, department stores, specialty shops, and handicraft outlets. A selection is also available at Chatuchak market.

Caps & Hats
Formal hats and sports caps are available at various department stores, Than iya Plaza (for golf caps) and apparel shops. Traditional Chinese hats are also available on Silom road shopping area, Suan Lum Night Bazaar, Chatuchak market, and Chinatown.

Celadon
Originally from China, the art of celadon was introduced to Thailand about 600-700 years ago. Named after the particular glaze used in its creation, celadon is traditionally made in various shades of green, but the addition of different minerals produces blue, mushroom and occasionally a deep red. Available in department stores, Chatuchak market, Suan Lum Night bazaar and Narai Phand.

Ceramics & Pottery
Ceramics and pottery of consistently high quality have been produced in Thailand and exported abroad. Most of the items produced today retain classical styles down to the type of clay used. The most popular item is the Benjarong, a 19th century decorative urn that can make any living room a little more exciting. The 14th century Sangkhalok is another favorite among foreign and Thai collectors. Both traditional and contemporary styles of pottery are available throughout the kingdom. Available at most department stores, River City Shopping Complex (0-2237-0077-8) and Chatuchak market.

Coins
Coin collectors shops in Narai Phand, Chatuchak market, and Klong Tom offer new and old Thai coin collections. There are also plenty of shops along New Road near the general post office.

Computers
For the computer buff, Thailand is a virtual Mecca. Computers and related software and hardware, from individual components to complete custom-built systems, are available in all forms and price ranges. For the unintiated, the range can seem quite overwhelming, but with a little perseverance, the right choice in terms of needs and budget can usually be found. Available at Pantip Plaza and Fortune Town IT Mall.

Cosmetics & Toiletries
A wide range of international cosmetics and toiletries brands are available in all department stores and shopping centres. Small street stalls and market stalls sell inexpensive local brands of cosmetics and perfumes. Mostly available at department stores, and the Duty Free shop at River City Shopping Complex (0-2237-0077-8)

Cotton
Thai cottons have become increasingly popular and can be acquired at bargain prices. Particularly notable are the cottons woven by the tribal people of the North, typically displaying bold designs and often lavish embroidery. Equally distinctive are original batiks crafted at several studios in Bangkok. Pahurat market or Sampheng Lane shops are known for selling reasonably priced plain and printed cotton materials of very good quality, with styles ranging from India, China, and Japan.

Knives & Swords
While there are a lot of imitation knives and swords on the streets, it is also possible to find ones produced by descendants of the original Aranyik blacksmiths of Ayutthaya who once produced swords that were used as instruments of war. Available at River City Shopping Complex (0- 2237-0077-8) and Chatuchak market.

Lacquerware
Lacquerware is one of the most famous handicrafts from the North of Thailand. The shapes and designs have changed tremendously over the centuries. Lacquerware items are named according to the process in which they are decorated, such as painted lacquerware, kreung khem lai kud, and eggshell lacquerware. The dazzling selection of painted, engraved. eggshell, and antique lacquerware, all created by the skillful hands of northern artisans. The best place to find fine lacquerware is Chiangmai, though they are also sold in Bangkok for slightly higher prices. Products available for sale include trays, boxes and dolls. Available at Chatuchak market.

Gold ornaments
Gold has long been a symbol of status and wealth, as well as good luck in many cultures. Favourite souvenirs include handcrafted bracelets, necklaces, earrings, chains, coins, and pendants. Available at Yaowarat road in Chinatown and River City Shopping Complex (0-2237-0077-8) and MBK as well as most shopping malls.

Jewelry
Jewelry is usually high on the list of shoppers coming to Bangkok. There are many jewelry shops in shopping malls such as Peninsula Plaza, The Central World Plaza, Emporium, O.P. Place Shopping Centre (0-2266-0186), River City Shopping Complex (0-2237-0077-8), and in luxury hotels. There id'also a concentration ofjewellers in the Silom and Chinatown areas, the Silom Galleria complex, and the Jewellery Trade Centre. Two popular Gems & Jewelry Fairs are held in Bangkok annually, with buyers visitingfrom all over the world. These are held in Marcttand September.

Khon Masks
The traditional headdresses worn in Thai dances and dramas can be bought in miniature and full size versions. Crafting the real thing is both time and labour intensive, but papier-mache versions with colourful shapes and decorations are an inexpensive alternative. Available at Chatuchak market and Narai Phand

Leathergoods /Luggage
The leather industry and its downstream manufacturing have greatly developed their quality and styles during the past five years, resulting in increased demand. Most of the shopping malls house designer brands selling a wide variety of leather products like handbags, suitcases, belts, etc. Silom market also has shops selling imitation leather brands. Of course, Chatuchak also has an interesting selection.

Menswear
Department stores and boutiques in shopping centres carry a full range of imported menswear. Everything from shirts, ties, cumberbunds, dinner suits, trousers and tuxedos can be made to order
or picked from the rack.

Mobilephone Service Providers
Thailand has serveral service providers including AIS, DTAC, Orange, and Hutch . Most shopping malls have a section for mobile phones registration and rental. AIS has extensive nationwide coverage, and innovative value-added services along with 24 hour techinical support. By selecting AIS, you can obtain special benefits and privileges such as the easyto-dial World Wide Number service. For more information on AIS GSM Network and services, please contact their 24-hour Call Center at 1175 or +66 2271 9000, or visit their website www.ais900.com.

Women's Wear
Department stores and boutiques in shopping centres carry a full range of imported clothing in western sizes, particularly at Central, Zen, and Robinson's. More casual and inexpensive items are available at Big C. There are also many established specialty stores, along with those which will make to measure.

Wickerwork
Whereas wickerwork is generally expensive in the west, it can be available at reasonable prices in Thailand. Bamboo and rattan are commonly used to produce furniture such as tables, chairs, baskets, and other decorative items. Other materials used in wickerwork include sedge, bulrush and vine used to produce handbags, cigarette cases, hats and even earrings. Available at department stores and Chatuchak market.