Thailand Shopping

Outdoor markets throughout Asia (specially Thailand) are fun, challenging, economical ways of purchasing your souveniers and, even essentials while you're visiting.
Nothing adds more to the flavour of coming to Thailand than immersing yourself in the market scene of which there is practically one designed to cater to each of your specific needs.
Hard barganing is a must AND expected. Rule of thumb is ALWAYS start at 1/4 to 1/3 less than they initially offer you.
Some of the following we figured out after a couple of days: Vendors will be vying for your attention: The sounds of Halooooo Mr....Cheap...just looky...." are forever etched in our minds.
They will be trying to get you toenter their "space" in the market. It is not until you actually enter, pick up an item and ask it's value that the true bargaining sets in. Once you have established that you are interested in something remember, counter offer 1/4 to 1/3 of what they've asked. They may act insulted, surprised....it's all part of the game. They in turn will again offer a price (usually a couple of bucks less)....you may raise YOUR offer a little. This may go on for as much as 15 mins until an agreed sum is reached.
Another thing to note: (it really helped us). Thais seem to be very superstitious...if you "walk away" and say no, thank you, i'll look a bit further; they will consider this "bad luck" as they've been unable to complete the sale. Often the BEST price is gotten by walking away! You will notice them begging you to give them their "lucky sale, pleeeese" and, once they chase you down and finally agree to your "too low a price" they'll rush back to their stall, with your money in hand and proceed to touch everything in their stall with your dollars to ensure "luck" for the rest of the night.

Everything from DVD's and copies of designer watches, clothing, jewelry and lots of knick knacks.
Chiang Mai was better for Village artifacts (specially if you take one of the Hill Tribe treks), Ayutthaya was excellent for cheap souveniers. Phuket was great for Tailors and clothing.
Note: Chao Phraya Tailors (Bangkok) were the best tailors we found and were professional and courteous. We paid approx. 200USD for a 100% Cashmere suit which included 2 pants, Jacket, shirt and Tie.
Beautiful stitching and material.

Always start your bargaining 1/4 to 1/3 below what they initially offer. You can always walk away and, if they're interested, they'll chase you down...literally. Also: Travel light, stock up in Thailand. Suitcases can be bought very cheap and it's cheaper to pay excess baggage than to ship back to mainland

Thailand Shopping

Visiting Thailand?

Visiting Thailand?