Shopping in Bangkok has always been an experience. Therefore it comes as no surprise that the activity often takes up a spot of its own on every traveler's itinerary. With its majority Buddhist population, Christmas is not widely celebrated in Thailand. However, the expatriate and tourist-friendly Bangkok has been getting into the holiday spirit over the past few years.
There is no shortage of shopping options in Bangkok. From sparkling mega-malls to quaint hole-in-the-wall shops, Bangkok has something for everyone.
Malls
When it comes to mega-malls, you can't beat CentralWorld and Siam Paragon, Thailand's largest shopping malls. While Siam Paragon boasts flagship stores of high-end luxury brands such as Chanel, Rolex and Louis Vuitton, CentralWorld caters more to young urbanites, with the likes of Kate Spade, Fred Perry and local fashion brands like Disaya and Kloset. Siam Paragon is also home to the beautiful Sansiri Lounge, exclusive to members of the Sansiri family, to rest your tired feet or have a coffee break in the midst of your Christmas shopping. The Christmas decorations also match the malls' grandeur with sparkling lights and huge Christmas trees to add onto the festive atmosphere. The malls would be a good place to go to if you’re looking to splurge on a gift for your loved ones.
Note: Approximately half of CentralWorld is under renovation at the time of writing, so some outlets may not be operational. Surrounding malls such as Gaysorn Village and Erawan Bangkok are also great options during this period of time.
Night Markets
If malls aren’t your cup of tea, and you wish to bring back souvenirs that are uniquely Thailand, the night markets will be a perfect place to find them. The Rod Phai night market is popular across all age groups, and is bustling with lively crowds and never-ending line of stalls. Authentic Thai gifts like traditional Thai silk, handcrafted woodwork and leather accessories, to name a few, are nice gift ideas for Christmas.
For those looking for a more wholesome and family-friendly experience, why not swing by Sukhumvit for Sansiri's annual Winter Market Fest? Back for its 5th year, the outdoor market festival promises visitors "Food, Fun, Festive, Family and Freedom". Beautiful handcrafted trinkets and unique hand-painted artwork made by young local entrepreneurs make for truly one-of-a-kind gifts for your friends and family.
So if you're in town on 16 & 17 December, be sure to include this in your itinerary! Entrance is free and more details can be found here.
Wholesale Markets
If your Christmas list is long but your budget is falling a little short, fret not! Bangkok’s wholesale markets are great for shoestring budget shoppers. Pratunam and Sampeng markets are world-famous for a reason - these enormous wholesale markets are a sight to behold. Filled to the brim with apparel, souvenirs and other accessories at rock-bottom prices, you will definitely be spoilt for choice. Warm up your haggling skills before you start shopping to really stretch your dollar to the last cent.
Have fun shopping for your loved ones in Thailand and remember to make space in your luggage for your hauls!