Chatuchak Weekend Market, known as JJ to the locals, has to be seen to be believed! Whatever you are looking for, this sprawling open-air market will have it. The JJ sells crafts made in all regions of Thailand, antiques, silk and textiles, jewellery, clothing, books, pets and plants – you name it, you can find it here. The market is open on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. till around 7 p.m. If you are travelling by the BTS Skytrain, get off at Mor Chit station or at Kampaengphet station on the MRT underground.
Siam Paragon is located in the heart of the city, right next to Siam BTS station. If you are in search of quality goods, this is the place. It also houses the Paragon Gourmet Market and Food Hall.
Siam Square is a shopping hotspot for teenagers, students and those looking for a bargain. The block comprises of a dozen parallel streets with smaller lanes connecting them. The emphasis is women’s fashion, with most of the shops selling clothes. Located beside Siam BTS Skytrain station.
Platinum Fashion Mall is enormously popular with the ladies. Here, you’ll find six floors of fashion, shoes, jewellery and more. Wholesale prices are available at the collection of 2000 shops. Platinum Fashion Mall is open: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. It is located at 222 (Pratunum) Petchaburi Road, Ratchathevee.
An excellent night market in central Bangkok is Suan Lum Night Bazaar, close to Lumpini Park. The market is like a stripped down version of Chatuchak. There are also several restaurants and beer gardens plus a huge open air food court selling a wide variety of Thai and international cuisine. The nearest MRT station is Lumpini.
Bangkok’s Chinatown is a crowded and vibrant area spanning Yaowarat and Chareon Krung Road. Chinese traders settled on the site over 200 years ago. Today, Chinatown is known for selling a wide variety of cheap goods and its network of small side streets and markets are fun to explore. The Chinese food in the area is particularly good and varied. The Indian district of Phahurat is also close-by.
