Shopping in Bangkok: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

Dhaka
October 03, 2024, 11:50 AM
by Farhana Afrose Rini

UNB News
Dhaka
Publish- October 03, 2024, 11:50 AM
Farhana Afrose Rini
Update- October 03, 2024, 12:30 PM

Shopping in Bangkok: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

Siam Paragon

Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, is a shopper’s paradise that offers high-end malls as well as traditional markets. Whether you are looking for luxury goods or affordable trinkets, Bangkok has something for every taste and budget.

Most Popular Shopping Malls in Bangkok

Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon, located at 991/1 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, is Bangkok’s premier luxury shopping destination. Its European-inspired design houses luxury brands like Hermes, Prada, and Versace. Visitors can enjoy attractions like Siam Ocean World, an I-MAX Cinema, and even Madame Tussauds Museum, offering a complete shopping and entertainment experience.

Central World

Central World, located at 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, is one of Bangkok’s largest malls, featuring over 600 stores across seven floors. From international brands like Uniqlo and H&M to local gems like Naraya, this mall offers a combination of versatile brands. Highlights include the SF World Cinema, The Rink, and the trendy GROOVE dining zone.

Central World

Emsphere

Emsphere, Bangkok’s latest shopping destination, opened on December 1, 2023, and redefines the shopping experience. Located near BTS Phrom Phong, it is known for its "Sleepless Gastronomic Destination" theme presenting a wide array of international and local cuisines from 7 AM to 3 AM, alongside luxury shopping and unique dining experiences.

MBK Center

MBK Center is located at 444 Phaya Thai Rd, Pathum Wan. It is another well known shopping destination in Bangkok, known for its affordable prices and variety. With eight floors, it offers everything from fashion and electronics to souvenirs. Conveniently located near the National Stadium BTS, this mall also features a cinema and Blu-O Rhythm & Bowl for relaxation.

MBK Center

Terminal 21

Located at the intersection of Sukhumvit and Asok, Terminal 21 offers a unique shopping experience with each floor themed after cities like Tokyo, Paris, and Istanbul. Shoppers can explore international brands like H&M and Zara alongside local boutiques. The mall’s diverse mix and vibrant decor make it a must-visit destination.

Terminal 21

Platinum Fashion Mall

Platinum Fashion Mall, located at 222 Phetchaburi Rd, Pratunam, is Thailand’s largest wholesale and retail mall. With over 2,000 shops, it offers a vast range of affordable clothing, accessories, and shoes, making it a fashion lover’s paradise. The mall also features a food court with diverse Thai and international cuisine options.

Platinum Fashion Mall

ICONSIAM

ICONSIAM, located on Charoen Nakhon Road along the Chao Phraya River, is Thailand’s most luxurious shopping mall. With eight floors, over 7,000 Thai and international brands, and high end brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, it offers a premium shopping experience. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy fine dining at Blue by Alain Ducasse or explore the vibrant SookSiam food court and floating market.

ICONSIAM

Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront, located on Charoen Krung Road, is a combination of a night bazaar and a mall, offering boutique shopping, riverside dining, and live performances. Housed in renovated warehouses, it recreates Bangkok’s historic charm. Just 10 minutes from Saphan Taksin BTS by boat, it is perfect for an unforgettable evening, topped off with a ride on the giant Ferris wheel.

Asiatique The Riverfront

What to Buy from Bangkok

Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, offering a rich variety of unique and culturally significant items. One of the top attractions is silver jewellery, which is skillfully crafted by artisans from northern Thailand. Intricately designed anklets, bracelets, and necklaces reflect Thai tradition and are available at affordable prices in Bangkok’s markets and malls.

Another popular item is Thai handicrafts, such as Benjarong porcelain, hand-carved wooden décor, and textiles. These beautifully crafted pieces showcase the country's artistry and are perfect souvenirs or gifts. Visitors can also explore spices at local markets, where aromatic ingredients like lemongrass and galangal make great culinary souvenirs for food lovers.

Bangkok’s malls also feature a range of cosmetics, including herbal and aromatic products made from local ingredients like lavender and basil. These items are known for their soothing properties and come in stylish packaging, making them ideal gifts.

Thai silk, known for its vibrant colours and luxurious texture, is another must-buy item, often found in markets and high-end shops alike. Lastly, the city is also known for its antique furniture, Buddhist artefacts, and traditional art, which offer a touch of Thai history and culture. With such a wide range of products, Bangkok is an essential shopping destination for both tourists and locals.

Exotic Foods in Bangkok

Thailand is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse range of exotic dishes that tantalise the taste buds. One must try Mango Sticky Rice, made with sticky rice, ripe mango, and coconut milk. This sweet, refreshing treat is readily available at street food stalls and restaurants.

For those who love communal dining, Thai Suki is a popular choice. This variant of hot pot involves cooking meats, vegetables, and noodles in a flavourful broth at the table, and then dipping them in spicy sukiyaki sauce.

Among Thailand’s iconic dishes is Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish made with shrimp or chicken, peanuts, and tamarind sauce. Another flavourful staple is Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and sour shrimp soup infused with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. For a refreshing beverage, Thai Iced Tea is a must, combining strong black tea, condensed milk, and spices.

If you are adventurous, try Durian, known for its strong smell and distinctive taste. Street food snacks like Khanom Buang, crispy Thai crepes, and Khao Soi, a coconut curry noodle soup, offer more unique flavours.

Dishes like Khao Pad (fried rice), Laab (spicy meat salad), and Som Tam (green papaya salad) are also popular, each showcasing Thailand’s rich culinary diversity.

Cautions and Tips

- Always check customs regulations to understand what items are allowed to be taken out of Bangkok and Thailand.
- Carry a map of Bangkok for easy navigation, especially when exploring markets and shopping districts.
- Bargaining is common in markets like MBK and Pratunam. Be polite and negotiate for better deals, but note that some malls and stores have fixed prices.
- Some stores offer overseas shipping, which is useful if you are limited by airline luggage restrictions. Ensure you understand the store’s shipping policies and legalities.
- Be cautious of counterfeit products, particularly with luxury brands. Always check for authenticity and quality before purchasing.
- While Bangkok is generally safe, stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and public areas.
- Carry Thai Baht for shopping in smaller stores and markets, as many may not accept credit cards. Currency exchange booths are available in malls and tourist spots.
- Always be cautious of knock-off goods in markets and ensure you are purchasing genuine items if authenticity is important.

Verdict

Bangkok offers a diverse and exciting shopping experience, with something to appeal to everyone. From luxury malls to bustling markets, you will find a wide range of products and unique souvenirs. With its delicious food, friendly people, and vibrant atmosphere, Bangkok is a must-visit destination for international tourists who love shopping and unique experiences.