When going to another country, lots of international visitors are often on the lookout for opportunities to shop for a wide range of items. Visitors will search for both locally made and foreign items that they can buy for themselves and their people. So, if Thailand is your destination, you might be wondering whether this Southeast Asian country is good for shopping.
Without a doubt, Thailand is good for shopping as the country has loads of amazing items that many international visitors like buying. This Asian country is one of the topmost shopping destinations for people visiting Asia. In fact, innumerable individuals visit the nation every year for the sole purpose of shopping for different things.
Whether you want to shop in modern shopping malls or prefer going to local Thai markets, Thailand provides everything you want. Besides, Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and other places in the country have different shopping options for interested people. To get the most out of your shopping experience in the country, you just have to know the right places to visit.
What to buy in Thailand
When it comes to shopping in Thailand, some items are more available in abundance than others. For instance, you don’t want to shop for cars in Thailand because the country isn’t one of the best places to get such items. According to Holidify.com, Traveltriangle.com, and other credible sources, the best items to purchase in the Land of Smiles are:
- Thai silk – Thai silks are expertly made clothing items that lots of foreigners often buy when visiting the country. These products are sold almost everywhere in Thailand.
- Thai loincloth – This item is made with silk or cotton and is often used for different purposes. So, you should not hesitate to get some during your visit to Thailand.
- Thai handmade jewelry – Many Thais are skilled jewelers. So, if you are looking for exceptional handmade jewelry, Thailand is the right place to visit.
- Thai spices and sauces – If you want to cook astonishing Thai delicacies, then it is compulsory to get some Thai spices and sauces.
- Pottery and ceramics – Most Thai shops have Sangkhalok stoneware and Bencharong porcelain. So, don’t hesitate to get some of them during your visit to Thailand.
- Muay Thai accessories – Muay Thai is one of the most popular sports in Thailand. So, if you are in the country, you can get Muay Thai accessories such as shorts. You don’t even need to practice Muay Thai to get some of these things.
- Thai food, sweet treats, and snacks – There are tons of Thai dried durian, sweet bites, coconut candies, chocolates, etc. to buy for yourself and your friends. Some of the items are shaped in different forms.
- Thai spa and aroma products – If you want to get some of the best spa and aroma products, Thailand is one of the best places to shop. You can find loads of essential oils, herbal massage packs, scented candles, carved soaps, and lots more in the country.
- Wooden carvings and furniture – You can also shop for beautiful wooden carvings and furniture in Thailand. Without mincing words, Chiang Mai is the best place to get these items.
- Wickerwork – This includes exclusive items made specifically in the Land of Smiles. These items are usually eye-catching woven handbags and carvings made from local plants such as bulrush, rattan, and bamboo.
- Elephant souvenirs – In Thailand, elephants are some of the most important animals. Wooden carvings are shaped like elephants and used as home décor. You can get elephant souvenirs in different places in the country.
- Antiques – You can also get wooden carvings, antique silverware, pottery, etc.
Modern shopping malls in Thailand
If you prefer shopping in modern shopping malls, there are loads of options available for you in Thailand. As noted by Myholidays.com, the best modern shopping malls in Thailand include the following:
- Icon Siam Mall in Bangkok
- MBK Center in Bangkok
- Central World in Bangkok
- Siam Paragon in Bangkok
- Amarin Plaza in Bangkok
- Limelight Avenue in Phuket
- Jungceylon in Phuket
- Market Village Hua Hin
Several other options are also available in other cities and towns in Thailand. So, don’t hesitate to check them out.
Local shopping centers in Thailand
Apart from the modern shopping malls, Thailand also has a plethora of local street shopping centers that you can visit. According to Holidify.com, a few of the street shopping centers are:
- Chinatown in Bangkok
- Pattaya Floating Market
- Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin Night Market
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Maharaj Market in Krabi
- Krabi Town Walking Street
In these local shopping centers, you can find handmade handbags, jewelry, clothes, ceramics, and so on.
Tips for shopping in Thailand
- Bargain for different items
In Thai culture, everyone bargains before buying anything. So, if you are going to shop in the local markets in this Southeast Asian country, you should hone your bargaining skills to get the best deals.
- Buy in bulk
If you want to save money on any item you want to purchase in Thailand, you should buy in bulk. This ensures that you will get good discounts on the items.
- Beware of fake items
Some people are often afraid of shopping in Thailand because fake items are often sold as original to unsuspecting buyers. Therefore, when shopping in the country, you need to be on the lookout for fake items. To get original items, you should visit the original store.
- Check different shops before buying
If you are looking for the best deals when shopping in the Land of Smiles, it is crucial to check various shops before purchasing anything. Visit different stores and see the prices of similar items.
- Be friendly
Thais are friendly individuals and also like associating with friendly people. Some market people can offer you the best deals if you are friendly to them. However, if communication is impeding your friendliness to the locals, you should shop with a local friend.
Conclusion
Thailand is a good place for shopping for a wide range of items. However, follow the points above to know where to shop, things to do buy, and how to buy them.