Joanna James
Bangkok is a treasure trove for shoppers, offering a vibrant mix of traditional crafts, modern designs, and exotic treats. Visitors often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer variety of souvenirs available in this bustling city. This guide explores the best souvenirs to buy in Bangkok and where you can find them, ensuring that your shopping experience is as enriching as the items you take home. From intricately crafted handmade goods to the latest fashion trends, Bangkok's markets and shops are sure to delight every type of shopper.
Thai silk is renowned worldwide for its luxurious texture, vibrant colours, and intricate patterns. This fabric is perfect for clothing, scarves, ties, and even home décor. Jim Thompson, a brand synonymous with premium Thai silk, is an excellent place to start your search. The flagship store near Siam Paragon offers a wide variety of silk products crafted to perfection. For budget-friendly options, head to Chatuchak Market, where you can find smaller vendors selling high-quality silk at competitive prices.
Bangkok is home to exquisite traditional handicrafts, including wooden carvings, ceramic ware, and lacquerware. These items make for meaningful keepsakes or gifts. The Amphawa Floating Market and Asiatique The Riverfront are popular spots to find authentic, handcrafted products. If you seek a wide range of choices, the Narai Phand shop near CentralWorld specializes in premium handicrafts, showcasing Thailand's rich cultural heritage.
Bringing home the authentic taste of Thai cuisine is a delight for food enthusiasts. Spices, curry pastes, and sauces are compact, affordable, and easy to pack. Or Tor Kor Market, known for its cleanliness and high-quality produce, is a great place to purchase fresh ingredients. Alternatively, supermarkets like Gourmet Market or Tops Market stock a variety of pre-packaged Thai condiments that retain their flavour for months.
Thai spa products, including herbal balms, essential oils, and scented candles, are perfect for relaxation and self-care. These items often incorporate natural ingredients like lemongrass, jasmine, and coconut oil. Health Land Spa and Massage and shops within MBK Center offer a wide selection of such products. For premium, handmade spa products, visit the HARNN stores located in major shopping malls like Central Embassy. After a long day of shopping for relaxing products, you can unwind in your hotel's steam room or spa like the one at Gardina Asoke.
Bangkok’s fashion scene is a dynamic blend of traditional and contemporary styles. From quirky t-shirts featuring Thai motifs to intricately designed jewellery, the city offers an endless array of unique fashion items. Siam Square and Platinum Fashion Mall are hotspots for trendy, affordable clothing and accessories. If you are looking for designer brands or bespoke items, the stores in EmQuartier cater to more refined tastes. These massive shopping precincts are some of the best things to see in Bangkok.
No trip to Bangkok is complete without sampling its delectable snacks and sweets. Dried fruits, crispy coconut rolls, and tamarind candies are favourites among tourists. These treats can be found in abundance at Chatuchak Market and Or Tor Kor Market. Additionally, packaged versions of Thai desserts like mango sticky rice are available at Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi Airports, ideal for last-minute purchases.
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.
