Joanna James
Bangkok is well known for being a shopping destination. Out of all the streets and markets it has to offer, here are six that are locally famous as well, and you must try out.
There is no city that can compare to Bangkok when it comes to variety in shopping malls. From luxurious shopping experiences that will make you weak at the knees to even look at, entire malls with great bargain shops, the shopping malls in Bangkok offer a lot of diversity. Many of the shopping malls are located in such a way that they are within easy distance from popular hotels. For example, Central World, one of the largest malls in Asia is mere minutes away from many a hotel in Asoke, B&B, and even higher-end accommodation options like AVANI Atrium Bangkok.
The Chatuchak Market is arguably the most exhilarating experience for a shopaholic. While the market runs throughout the week, the best deals and ware is found over the weekend at the Chatuchak weekend market. It massive in size, and even an entire day might not be enough to get you through everything there is to see.
When most cities and town go to sleep, a whole other side of Bangkok awakens. The night markets in Bangkok are a pure treat, a place that is rich in culture, food, and great bargains. There are several streets dedicated to these markets, which operate as roads to corporate offices during the daytime. Spend some time exploring the night markets of Bangkok, taste some of the street food, and it would be the best contemporary cultural experience you could ask for.
Floating markets are a signature of Bangkok, catering more to the foreign visitor than the local. Nonetheless, they are still quite abundant and bountiful, boats that float along the waterways piled sky-high with fresh vegetables and fruits. Some of these boats serve freshly cooked food as well, often on a skewer or on another easy to consume form. There are guided boat tours available at floating markets as well if you merely want the experience without actually purchasing anything.
Pratunam is the place to go if you are looking for wholesale bargains. It is an outdoor area dedicated to a plethora of items sold at wholesale prices and in wholesale quantities. There is no airconditioning or any creature comfort. Most of the shops are spread across the large expanse. However, you are unlikely to note the lack of comforts because the goods available for sale are beyond description.
Chinatown markets are a phenomenon of their own, a place of preserved culture in an alien land. Chinatown markets are also great places for bargains, and little knick knacks you are unlikely to find anywhere else. At Chinatown in Bangkok, you can easily stumble upon a souvenir shop as well as a restaurant or be tempted to buy some of the fried spicy goodness emanating from a little stall.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
