Bangkok Shopping – Shop Till You Drop!
For bargain shopping in cool comfort, the famous MBK (Mah Boon Krong) Shopping Center, also in Pathumwan near the National Stadium, is where you will find both tourists and locals browsing through over 200 shops that sell everything from garments, handbags and accessories to electronics, furniture and luggage. Besides this, another popular shopping destination is Central World in Pathumwan, which is the largest shopping mall in the city with lifestyle brands and entertainment options that includes an ice skating rink.  Other shopping malls that are worth a visit for lifestyle brands are Emporium and Gaysorn Plaza. Central Department stores, which offer reasonable prices for brands have branches in several areas, including Silom Centre and Central Chidlom. Robinson Department store, another popular option is at the corner of Silom Road and Rama IV Road.
For a more localized version of Bangkok shops browsing through open air markets such as the Chatuchak weekend market should be top of your list. Spread over 35 acres with over 8,000 stalls, be prepared to spend an entire day here winding through the maze of shops selling almost everything you could think off at really cheap prices. There are also several outdoor markets that are famous for a specific thing. Pratunam is the fashion center where you can find cheap apparel, accessories and leather goods. The quaintest market on the Bangkok shopping scene is the Amulet Market near Tha Chang Pier. Although this is where locals buy religious charms and idols, it has become a tourist attraction because it offers the opportunity to see the spiritual side of shopping in Bangkok. Another unique aspect of shopping in Bangkok is the night markets. Patpong night market near the famous red light district is the most popular of them and a great place for bargains, but don’t expect authentic goods at the prices you get. When you step out of your hotel and explore the neighborhood, chances are that you will turn a corner and be dazzled by the vivid colors and chaos of an open air street market. While shopping malls may give you everything you expect, for more exciting Bangkok shopping, stroll through market stalls and bargain for local crafts, home accessories and Thai silks. By the end of your trip, you may feel the need to get an additional piece of luggage, but there is no need to fret. You can even buy luggage at bargain prices!
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Of course, some travellers love shopping in Bangkok, to the extent that they give sightseeing a miss and head straight to the malls for an all-day shopping marathon. Whether you are a cautious shopper or a shopaholic, Bangkok has a wide range of options that will delight you. Almost every area has malls and local markets. Depending on what you are looking for, all you have to do is head in the right direction with a wallet full of Baht and a comfortable pair of shoes.
