Buzz
Embark on a tuk-tuk journey from the glamorous, luxurious shopping centers in Siam Square to Pratunam – known as the haven of affordable treasures.
Here, travelers will find everything from clothing, accessories to electronics sold at wholesale prices. Initially, you might be overwhelmed by the bustling and somewhat chaotic scene, but with a pocket-friendly tip or two, everything will unfold more smoothly.
Initiate your quest for budget finds by bargaining.
Phetchaburi is considered the main artery of Pratunam, extending from the east of the Ratchathewi BTS sky train station to Ratchaprarop Road. Heading north on Phetchaburi, visitors will encounter City Complex – a shopping center specializing in items for women such as clothing, handbags, cosmetics, and jewelry. Due to its affordable prices, this place always attracts a bustling crowd of female shoppers on a budget.
In addition to fashion stores, numerous restaurants and street-side eateries are concentrated here. Some places even serve unique Indian dishes. Near the tallest building in Thailand – Baiyoke Sky, there is a row of local tailor shops specializing in items like belts, luggage, and sportswear.
Adjacent to this area are two major shopping centers, Garment Centre and Indra Square, featuring hundreds of fashion stores catering to all demographics.
Heading a bit to the east of Ratchaprarop Road, travelers come across Pratunam Market.
With narrow, cramped pathways, it's like a maze. However, it's also the place where you can find unique items at unbelievably low prices.
Alongside affordable fashion items, the market captivates visitors with unique finds such as beauty pageant crowns, traditional Thai costumes, sparkling bikinis, and wigs made from... human hair.
In recent years, due to intense competition from large shopping centers, this market has become less hectic and crowded. Nevertheless, it's still a must-visit destination.
Stroll around Pratunam Market until you see lights at the end of the alleyways – that means you've found Ratchaprarop Road, the bustling street market area. Despite the bustling crowd of buyers and sellers, it's not often chaotic here.
Continue the journey to two prominent buildings to the south of Phetchaburi Road. First up is the Platinum Fashion Mall – the 'home' to over 1000 fashion stores for women. Not as luxurious as the centers at Siam Square, Platinum is a bustling and cramped place. Visitors always keep in mind that the Louis Vuitton bags and Diesel jeans here are surely not genuine.
Towards the west of Platinum is Pantip Plaza – the 'king' of electronic malls (at least in Thailand). Here, travelers can find computers of all brands, models, and styles, from the latest releases to 'vintage' machines from the 1990s. Mobile phones, cameras, model airplanes, and other high-tech products are also widely available.
Pratunam is not just a shopping paradise but also an ideal spot for food enthusiasts. Located to the east of Phetchaburi Road is a chain of khao man kai (chicken and rice) shops, featuring the famous Kai Ton dish. All are open until late at night.
Some tips when shopping in Pratunam:
– Theft is quite common here, so always be cautious of your wallet and personal belongings.
– Examine carefully before making purchases, as counterfeit and smuggled goods are also offered here...
– Wearing a smile during negotiations will help you secure better prices.
– If buying in bulk, sellers will deliver straight to your hotel. There are also international shipping companies with offices located at the east end of Phetchaburi Soi 15.
If you haven't found your desired items in Pratunam or wish to shop more, continue your journey to the Chinatown market, Khlong Thom electronic market, Baan Mo, MBK, the shopping districts near Siam Square, the vintage market at Wang Lang Pier in Thonburi, Union Mall in North Bangkok, the fashion stores at Terminal 21, Huay Khwang night market, and of course, the renowned Chatuchak.
***
Source: Travel guide on Mytour
MytourOctober 1, 2015
