Joanna James
Bangkok, the Thai capital, dazzles visitors with its heady mix of attractions. Ratchada, a bustling neighbourhood in the city, is a delight for those who love a bit of shopping and jaunting about.
An outstanding shopping mall in Ratchada, The Esplanade is loved by locals as well as tourists, all drawn in by its many offerings. Shopping is, of course, the icing on the cake, but there’s a lot more. The mall also houses several dining establishments serving Thai street food as well as Western cuisine, with both casual and upscale dining options available. The mall throws a bit of entertainment into the mix, too. There’s a cinema, and it regularly doubles as a venue for art exhibitions, dance shows, and music performances. Besides shopping, dining, and entertainment, The Esplanade has a very relaxing and welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to hang around, even if you’re not big on shopping.
Another prominent shopping mall in the Ratchada area, Central Plaza Grand Rama 9 is a haven for shopaholics. From shoes to clothes and jewellery, the array of fashion items you find here is extensive. You can also sample a variety of dishes, spanning Thai, Japanese, and Western cuisines. The food court offers a much-needed break from all the shopping; cafés provide a casual respite, and the restaurants are good for a bit of fine dining. Watch the latest flick at the cinema, and you might even be able to catch a musical show. Central Plaza Grand Rama 9 is a family-friendly shopping mall. Inside, you’ll find a variety of facilities, including ATMs and free Wi-Fi. You can get to the mall with minimal effort from anywhere in Bangkok. For instance, from Avani Ratchada Bangkok Hotel, one of the five-star hotels in Ratchada, Bangkok, it’s only a 10-minute walk.
For a bit of street-style shopping, head over to Ratchada Train Night Market, also known as Talad Rot Fai Ratchada. The many stalls lining the market sell lots of things, from clothes and handmade items to street food delights. You can find a few vintage items here too. Quite different from your regular Thai street markets, this one features a few bars with outdoor seating and music playing at all hours of the night. The atmosphere is inviting and colourful, and the mix of things on offer is head-spinning. The market also hosts the occasional musical dalliance, where local musicians take out their guitars to entertain the shoppers. The market is a quick hop from the Thailand Cultural Centre Station by MRT.
A tech haven right near the MRT Phra Ram 9 station, Fortune Town sells a variety of electronics, including computers, laptops, mobile phones, cameras, and gaming equipment. The town also has shops that conduct repairs. If you’re in Bangkok for a business meeting and your laptop starts to malfunction, you can quickly run down to Fortune Town to get it repaired. Although it’s a place where tech enthusiasts flock, foodies find plenty to do as well. It features several restaurants and cafés where you can stop for a short interlude amidst all the shopping.
A quick walk from Thailand Cultural Centre MRT station, you’ll find The Street Ratchada, another Eden for shopping lovers. Offering not just shops but also dining and entertainment, this lifestyle shopping haven is open all day, so drop by anytime you feel like a bit of retail therapy or a snack. Shops sell clothes, bags, and shoes. What’s different about this mall is that the shops are largely local, so you can find unique items. You’ll also find a fitness centre, not to mention karaoke rooms. The Street Ratchada is a great spot to snap something for your IG account.
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.
