Pushpitha Wijesinghe
Thailand is undoubtedly every shopaholic's dream. Enjoy the high-end sophisticated malls of Koh Samui or step out at night from your hotel in Samui and gaze in wonder as the streets are converted into night markets, and have the shopping expedition of a lifetime.
Given Thailand's coastal belt and the thriving tourist industry it assist, beach wear is something that is very much in demand. In Koh Samui, tourists and locals alike can find colourful beach wear, wraps and more. For a great selection, head over to Samui Hot Club, but ensure that you make your selections carefully for the shop does not offer refunds nor accept returns.
Ideal when the weather is too warm for jeans and perfect souvenirs for when you return home, sarongs in Koh Samui come in a variety of shades, colours and patterns. Pick a fun, bright and colourful item (or two) to keep a part of Thai culture always with you. Colourful sarongs can be purchased from almost everywhere in Thailand, and the Chaweng Walking Street in Koh Samui can be recommended.
The wonderful thing about exploring the dizzying Samui streets is the abundance of vendors selling a variety of treats. Sample some authentic Thai street food and even enjoy a cocktail or two while strolling down the Maenam Walking Street!
Flip flops are a must have when travelling across Thailand especially given the warm weather. They allow tourists to travel with ease and these can be purchased from almost anywhere. A good selection can be found at Chaweng Beach near Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort & Spa and Lamai Night Plaza.
Thailand is also a well known hub for pirated goods as well as 'knock offs' of certain global brands – if this is what gives you a thrill, the Lamai Night Plaza in Koh Samui is the place to go. Described as a mini-version of the night market in Patpong, at the Lamai Night Plaza, one can purchase Swiss army knives and other pirated items for a fraction of the cost.
For families travelling with children or tourists who wish to purchase gifts for kids back home, the Buddy Oriental Plaza in Lamai is the place to go. While the atmosphere here is much different to that of street shopping, the experience is no less pleasant. For children's toys make your way to Budd Kids' Club.
Thailand is the perfect place to go for a shopping expedition and this excitement extends to jewellery as well. Choose from a diverse selection of jewellery ranging from chunky, handmade items to sleek and classy earrings and necklaces and enjoy the extremely low prices!
For cheap imitation knock offs of global brands, shopping in the streets and walking paths is bound to expose you to some fabulous deals when it comes to handbags. However, one should be wary of the quality. For those who seek high quality designs and do not mind splurging for it, the Samui Shopping Malls beckon.
Thailand is all about the splash of colour and while clothes, handbags and shoes of a multitude of shades can be found, scarves and shawls are undoubtedly subtle items that can spruce up an everyday outfit.
