Handsome antiques—everything from delicate clocks to entire carved doors—are sold from this three-story colonial mansion. Just walking through, even if you aren't planning to buy, is a kick.
Best for Jewelry: Uthai’s Gems
Honesty. It's a rare trait for the jewelry sellers of Bangkok but at Uthai's you can trust that you're being given a straight answer about the quality of the gems on sale. Also good: the store is expert in creating custom settings for rings, earings and more.
Best Cheap Clothes (That Will Last for Years): Pratunam Market
Fake designer gear and sturdy local clothes are on sale here, and much of it will not only fool the eye, it will fool the touch. Yes, it's all inexpensive, but that doesn't mean that quality (always) suffers.
Best Designer Labels: Siam Paragon
The trendiest place to be seen in town is this luxurious mega-complex. It features chic fashion stores, perfumeries, gourmet cafes and more.
Best English Language Bookstore: Kinokuniya
Beloved by ex-pats and visitors alike, this handsome bookstore is a delight to browse, both for the breadth of their offerings and the kindliness of their book-loving staff.
Best Place for a Shopping Haze: Chatuchak Weekend Market
Perhaps half a million people visit this market every weekend. With 15,000 stalls, you can expect to find everything—from clothes, plants, and household goods to live snakes, Buddhist antiques, herbal medicines, CDs, and hill-tribe handicrafts.
Best Made-to-Measure Suits for Men: Marco Tailors
The best in made-to-measure men’s cotton suits, especially for conservative styles. Note that you will need 2 weeks and two fittings.
Best for Protection Against Evil Spirits: Amulet Market
Every sort of disaster known to mankind is covered by the amulets you can buy at this street market—and for very little money. Consulting with the astrologers who sell the items is part of the fun of shopping here.
Best Selection of Silk: Almeta
The creator of à la carte silk shopping, Almeta offers a choice of some 50,000 colors and weaves in the finest Thai and Chinese silk for gorgeous made-to-measure gowns, kimonos, and suits.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
