Bob Coffey
Often described as a vintage shopper's dream come true Phuket's retail landscape is chockfull of collectible and rare items. Here are some of the resort town's must visit hotspots for collectors.
Housed within the charming confines of a shop house showcasing Chino-Portuguese features Colonial Influences is a one of a kind stopover for collectors in search of unique items. Run by an Italian and Thai origin couple the venue is a hotspot for antiques and other specialty crafts from the Asian region. Retailing everything from Burmese dolls and paintings to clothing and furniture the tastefully arranged shophouse offers a little something for every vintage goods connoisseur.
Occupying pride of place in Phuket's town's old quarter Hi.So. is not only a hotspot for those in search of collectibles but also a beloved restaurant and bar in its own right as well. Managed by designer Marc Gliede with the help of several Canadian artists the venue specializes in vibrant home decor items as well as other art pieces. Shoppers can expect to find everything from lamps and furnishings to teak and mirror work while works of art using rattan and bamboo are also available. objets d'art made of fiver and mahogany as well as recycled materials are also sold at Hi.So where accessories reign supreme.
Tipped to be a treasure hunter's dreams come true the Phuket Weekend Market takes place in a spacious precinct a little outside the heart of the Phuket town centre. Also known as the J J Market or Tai Rod Market as well as the Jatujak Market this bustling thoroughfare is an open bazaar where second hand wares are sold alongside local products, food items and specialty products. Hot pick items at this bargain lover's heaven are of course its handmade soaps and candles while spa products, souvenirs and other Thai curious are also available for unbelievably affordable prices.
Musicians and musical instrument collectors shopping around in Phuket must not forget to spend an afternoon scouring through the wide variety of products available in this popular music store. From pre-owned guitars to a plethora of other musical instruments the shop specializes in accessories is a favourite hotspot for the musically inclined.
As a veritable institution in the Thai textile industry exquisite silk purchases from this globally recognised brand is a must for all collectors touring Phuket. From pristine Thai silk scarves to multihued home decor items and clothing the products available at this historic Thai silk hub are one of a kind and of the highest quality as well. Visitors based at the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort or any other luxury hotels Phuket counts among its most strategically located accommodation providers will have easy access to the shop.
Located in the heart of Phuket City this intriguing retail space down Phang Nga Road is the best venue to purchase authentic ethnic wares from not only Thailand but other regional handmade product manufacturers such as India, China and Afghanistan. Handmade and beautifully crafted, the range of ethnic wares sold at this stylish little boutique is some of the most unique items one comes across in Phuket.
Known as one of the most well-stocked shop houses for specialty goods, Kid Dee or Think Positive is renowned for the eclectic collection of items decorating its storefront. Top buys at this popular handicraft hub include products hailing from Indonesia and India including Buddha sculptures, wooden objects d'art and masks.
