Top 15 Things to Buy in Bangkok
Well-made, local products not only remind people of the trip they've had, but also make great gifts to bring home to family and friends. Following is the list of original and representative of Bangkok local specialties that you might wish to consider as a memorable souvenir.
(To visit the venues mentioned in this article, check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bangkok)
1. Benjarong Porcelain Ware
Wish to treat your dinner guests back home like royalty? These gorgeous wares with intricate designs were once used solely by the Royal family; nowadays, however, all of us commoners can afford it too. Benjarong Porcelain’s artistry transcends the unique character of Thailand. Benjarong means 5 and reflects the 5 main colors found on the porcelain; white, yellow, black, red and green. Have a high tea or afternoon party using this royal china. Benjarong porcelains can be found at MBK (National Stadium BTS station, Exit 4), and the Thai Thai Shop on 6th floor, room 41-42. The price ranges from 900 to several thousand baht. At an extra cost, they can also provide a fabric box for a more elegant packaging. There are other stores which sell the Benjarong Porcelain on the same floor, so walk around and hone your bargaining skills.
Where to find it:
MBK444 Phayathai Rd.,Pathumwan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
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2. Herbal Spa Products
Thailand is known as a top leisure travel destination, particularly renowned for its superb value-for-money goods and services. Authentic local scents, such as jasmine, lemongrass or plumeria, will definitely excite your senses during your stay in Thailand and will keep reminding you of your Thai trip, long after return back home. A popular and posh Thai spa brand, named HARNN, is distinct for its beautiful and sophisticated packaging. HARNN outlets are found on the ground- and 4th floors at Siam Paragon (Siam BTS,) the 5th floor at the Emporium (Phromphong BTS,) and the 3rd floor at Gaysorn Plaza (Chidlom BTS.) Just make sure not to buy anything too big, as liquid luggage limitations are quite stringent these days at most international airports. There are quite a few other massage and spa products in Thailand available, alongside HARNN, with wonderful aroma and beautiful packaging. A perfect gift to pamper one's body and spirit!
Where to find it:
Siam Paragon, 991 Siam Paragon Shopping CenterChidlom
999 Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Phone number: +66 2 656 1149
gaysorn.com
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3. Disaya Accessories
Fun, feminine, and fabulous - these are the words fit to describe the oh-so-chic accessories line of a successful ready-to-wear Thai designer brand Disaya, addressing young girls and ladies young at heart. One of its collections, inspired by winter moon, has been named accordingly, “Call of the Winter Moon”. Disaya jewelry shops are located in the luxurious malls of Bangkok: 1st floor Siam Paragon (Siam BTS) and 1st fl. The Emporium (Phromphong BTS,) Lobby Level Gaysorn Shopping Centre (Chidlom BTS, exit 6) 2nd floor, Beacon zone, Central World (Chidlom BTS, exit 6) 2nd Floor, Central Chidlom Department Store (Chidlom BTS, exit 5). The prices start at a few thousand baht, but that’s what you have to pay for an in-style lavish brand. The top celebrities, who have worn the Disaya label, include Jennifer Lopez, Kelly Osbourne, Agyness Deyn and, most recently, Camilla Belle.
Where to find it:
Siam Paragon, 991 Siam Paragon Shopping Center
Offline reading and travel directions:
With GPSmyCity App you can read this article offline on your mobile device, use the embedded offline city map and GPS navigation, as well as create a self-guided walk to visit the venues featured in the article.
4. Thai Good Luck Dessert
A moist treat made of egg yolk, sugar, flour and coconut. These gold colored desserts are named after precious metal, and are eaten at special ceremonies, like weddings or house warming parties, to supposedly bring good fortune to the hosts and guests. The taste might catch you off-guard, as they tend to prove too sweet to some people, but if it’s for luck, why not? Most convenient locations to get this dessert are on G floor at Siam paragon (Siam BTS) and the 5th floor Emporium, a place called kaopeenong (translated to "9 siblings"); the shops are located in front of Gourmet Supermarket at the department stores. A pack of 6 pieces costs 40-120 baht. The ones especially used for special ceremonies are “Thong-Ake”, a.k.a. Golden Pinnacle (70 baht) “Sa-Nae-Chan”, a.k.a. Charming Moon (70 baht), and the most intricate one “Ja-Mong-Kut”, a.k.a. Royal Crown (120 baht). You can also purchase the desserts in gift box versions ranging from 250-1,500 baht.
Another popular place for these golden Thai desserts and actual experience is at Koh Kret, where you can go by car or by boat and see the real making of these lucky desserts by local villagers. For ultimate convenience, take the once-weekly Chao Phraya Express Ko Kret tour from the Central Pier (BTS Saphan Taksin) that starts every Sunday at 09:00 am and costs around 300 baht (no lunch included).
Another popular place for these golden Thai desserts and actual experience is at Koh Kret, where you can go by car or by boat and see the real making of these lucky desserts by local villagers. For ultimate convenience, take the once-weekly Chao Phraya Express Ko Kret tour from the Central Pier (BTS Saphan Taksin) that starts every Sunday at 09:00 am and costs around 300 baht (no lunch included).
Where to find it:
Siam Paragon, 991 Siam Paragon Shopping Center
5. Nantakwang Cushion Animal
A well-known homespun cotton weaving brand originating from the North of Thailand. These cushion animals are adorable and have unique patterns and characteristics. Due to its strong well-made cotton material and high standard handmade quality, these lovely animal dolls will last for many years. An adorable oriental gift for young children, if maintained well, it could even become one of those cool classic family heirlooms. The store also provides first class cotton apparels from table linens, purses, pillows and clothing. While the quality and brand image are superb, the prices are rather friendly; the average size animal cushion starts at about 360 baht. Convenient shop locations are on 4th fl. Siam Discovery Center (Siam BTS station). There is also a bigger showroom at Sukhumvit 23.
Where to find it:
108/2-3 Sukhumvit 23 Klongtoey-Nua Wattana Bangkok 10110 Tel: 0 2664 0017
Siam Center
Address: Siam Tower, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok, Pathumwan 10330, Thailand
Phone:+66 2 658 1000
6. Durian Chips
An intimidating fruit with notorious smell. When turned into chips, however, they are as addictive as buttered popcorn. The normal ripe durian is even prohibited on the skytrain and in cabs, that’s how serious people are about the smell, and they have a dedicated signs to let you know. Durian chips can be found at many places in Bangkok, such as the local product section in supermarkets; for the most convenience, go to “Gourmet”, a premium supermarket chain which is located in big department stores along the BTS (skytrain) line; at Siam Paragon on the Ground fl. (Siam BTS station), at the Emporium on the 5th fl. (Phromphong BTS station) and Terminal 21 located on LG (Asoke BTS station). Another good place is at a shop called Chainarong on 5th floor at MBK (National Stadium BTS station, exit 4). Prices range from about 100-350 baht, depending on the quantity and brand. Be cautious, durian chips are addictive, you might just find yourself munching down to the very last piece. The store also sells other dry goods like dry fruits, nuts, and crunchy fish snacks, etc.
Where to find it:
Siam Paragon, 991 Siam Paragon Shopping Center991/1, Rama I Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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7. Music Composed by the King of Thailand
It’s not a well publicized fact, but King Bhumibol Adulyadej is an accomplished Jazz musician and composer. A priceless gift for the music aficionado. King Bhumibol plays saxophone and has recorded with Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Maynard Ferguson and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Where can you purchase music composed by the King? You can find these CDs at B2S stores at Central Department Stores; 1st fl. Central World (between Chidlom BTS and Siam BTS), 7th fl. Central Chidlom (Chidlom BTS), and 3rd fl. Esplanade (Thailand Cultural Centre MRT station). When you go into the store, ask for “Pleng-rat-cah-ni-pon” which translates to "music composed by the King." The most recently released album is called Royal New Orleans Jazz (385 baht). There is also another store at 1st fl. MBK (National Stadium BTS station) across from a fast food place called Santa’s, near McDonald's, where they sell Thai classical music. Seeing the store is like seeing a Thai music history museum; you can purchase the original version of songs, composed by the King of Thailand, recorded back in 1964 (170 baht).
Where to find it:
MBK 444 Phayathai Rd.,Pathumwan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
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8. Shirts/ T-Shirts from Phufah Shop
The shirts from Phufah shop are embroidered or printed with delightful hand-drawn graphics by the Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Not only is it such an exclusive memorabilia of Thailand, the sales of the products also go to help raise the quality of life for the less fortunate Thai communities. The polo/t-shirt with the graphics designed by the princess comes out once a year, according to the yearly constellation, and are usually sold out. Sizes range from SSS to XXL. Polo size SSS and SS (for kids) are sold for 300 baht, whereas the rest of the polo sizes are 350 baht. T-shirts are fixed at 200 baht. Convenient locations of Phufah shop are on 2nd floor Siam Discovery Shopping Centre (Siam BTS station,) 123 Sukhumvit 7 (Nana BTS station,) and Chamchuree Square (MRT Saamyan) by the office section elevators.
Where to find it:
Siam CenterAddress: Siam Tower, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok, Pathumwan 10330, Thailand
Phone:+66 2 658 1000
9. Pre-made Thai Seasonings
Mussaman Curry was once voted the world’s most delicious dish by CNN’s travel website CNNGo. Popular Thai dishes, like Tom Yum Goong and Pad Thai, have also made it to the top 10 list. These pre-made seasonings could easily be found in big supermarkets around the city; for the most convenience, “Gourmet” is a premium supermarket chain which is located in big department stores along the BTS (skytrain) line; at Siam Paragon on the Ground fl. (Siam BTS station), at the Emporium on the 5th fl. (Phromphong BTS station) and Terminal 21, located on LG (Asoke BTS station.) However, if you stay nowhere near the BTS line, these seasonings can also be found at a supermarket chain like “Foodland”, or the big retailers, such as Tesco Lotus and Big C. Prices are economical, ranging from a mere 12-30 baht per package. So, have fun selecting all the Thai dishes you’d like to try and bring home the true taste of Thai delicacy. Light for both, your wallet and luggage!
Where to find it:
Siam Paragon, 991 Siam Paragon Shopping Center991/1, Rama I Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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10. Silk and Cotton Scarf
Beautiful handmade scarves, delicately soft to the touch. Comes with many colors and patterns, it can be a fashion statement and keep both the body and the memory of Thailand warm. Although you rarely ever need a scarf in Thailand’s all-year-round tropical weather, there is an abundant sale of good quality scarves everywhere. Prices range from 150-2,000 baht, depending on quality and design. Find the scarves at MBK 6th floor Zone C (National Stadium BTS station, Exit 4). You will find many scarf stores, particularly in this zone, with plenty of variety, fabric, colors, from pashmina to cashmere to quality handmade silk. If you want scarves, this is the place for you to shop around. The more you buy, the more you can bargain.
Where to find it:
MBK 444 Phayathai Rd.,Pathumwan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
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11. Ready to Eat Chili Paste
Thailand is known for its spicy food; the huge variety of ready-to-eat chili paste is a unique gift for the daring taste buds. This gift is for the advanced food experimenters, even for Thai people (not everyone eats chili paste). Price of the chili paste varies depending on size, brand, and ingredients (for example if the chili paste is made with shrimp, it will be more expensive than a fish paste) from 35-85 baht. These containers are sealed air-tight, so do not worry about the interesting aroma coming out. “Gourmet” is a premium supermarket chain which is located in big department stores along the BTS (skytrain) line; at Siam Paragon on the Ground fl. (Siam BTS station), or 1st fl. Market Place at Central Chidlom (Chidlom BTS station). So, put some chili paste over freshly cooked rice or pilaf, or try dipping your vegetables with Thai chili paste for your afternoon snack! Don’t forget to have a glass of water or milk ready.
Where to find it:
Siam Paragon, 991 Siam Paragon Shopping CenterChidlom
1027, Soi Somkid,, Thanon Phloen Chit, Lumphini, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Phone: +66 2 793 7777
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12. Lanna Silver Jewelries
Lanna, or hill tribe silver jewelry, is precious and mesmerizing. Lanna silver jewelry is, however, more expensive than the kind made by hill tribe villagers. As a cultural artifact, its price, yet affordable, ranges depending on its complexity and added gemstones. This jewelry comes from the Northern part of Thailand renowned for the local arts and crafts. You can purchase a beautiful selection at a small stand at the end of Khaosarn Road. The store is across from the Rikka Hotel and close to a well-known place called Buddy. The owner is a Thai lady with dreadlocks and she is highly recommended by many people. There is a large selection of silver jewelry there - necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings - from small elaborate jewelry to large statement ones. Prices depend on the weight of the silver and start from a few hundred baht to a few thousands. There are also other silver jewelry shops nearby, and you may also meet tribal women carrying and selling silver jewelry along Khaosarn Road. The most convenient way to get there is to take a taxi; every taxi driver knows Khaosarn, a district famous with tourist backpackers for souvenir shopping, food stands, and nightlife. Go there around 6 pm or later to enjoy a lively night out. Most likely, you will leave with a full stomach and an empty wallet.
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13. Boxing Shorts and Gear
Thai boxing is a world renowned sport, so why not bring back some famous boxing gear and have a friendly match. Boxing shorts, besides being a true Thai commodity, are really very comfortable too. These boxing shorts can be purchased at MBK (National Stadium BTS station), a shop called Arunrat boxing on 6th floor, Paco Zone. Boxing shorts range from 299-1,290 baht apiece, depending on materials and brands. Boxing gloves for adults range from 1,200-2,450 baht, from amateur mitts to real leather gloves. Boxing gloves for kids are about 350-400 baht. Thai boxing garland starts from 350 baht to 1,400. Thai boxers wear these over their heads for auspicious reasons and to give respect to their teachers. The shop also has other boxing memorabilia like t-shirts, dolls, or koozies.
Where to find it:
MBK 444 Phayathai Rd.,Pathumwan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
And while you’re in Thailand, why not go to boxing camps, experience the real Thai Boxing and get trained by the pros!
OneSongchai Institute of Muay Thai: 100 Tiemruemmitr Rd., Huaykwang, Bangkok, 10320, Thailand Phone: +6626185314,+66876838338
Email: siraphop@muaythai.co.th
SMAC Boxing Club: 9 Floor Panjit Tower, 117 Sukhumvit 55, Bangkok, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand
Phone: +662-7128810
Email: info@smacboxingclub.com
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14. Elephant Patterned Ties
No other tie says “Thailand” more than a silk elephant pattern tie, a charming and sophisticated gift known to be quite the “lucky charm.” A good place to get quality ties are major department stores around Bangkok. When you go to MBK (National Stadium BTS station, exit 4), you will find there Tokyu, a small department store. The neck tie section is on the 3rd floor by the escalator. There you will find many ties and, of course, many elephant pattern ties of different designs and colors. Prices range from 950-1,590 baht, depending on the material. This is more expensive than usually with street vendors, but you can expect higher quality.
Where to find it:
MBK 444 Phayathai Rd.,Pathumwan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
15. Fishermen Pants
These super comfortable free-size wrap-around pants comes in various colors and patterns. The ultimate pants for Thais to wear on their beach vacation or when relaxing at home, thanks to their light and breezy quality. These pants are also popular among foreign backpackers. The name “fishermen” pants come from the fact that the fishermen in the south of Thailand wear them on a daily basis, presumably because the fabric gets dry very easily. However, the exact story of how these pants became so popular is unknown. You wear them by wrapping the pants around your waist, the pants come with 2 strings so you tie them around your waist over the fabric (basically they act as a belt). You can easily find them at MBK (National Stadium BTS station, Exit 4), on 4th floor Zone AA in front of Tokyu department store (supermarket section). The prices are 199 baht for standard fishermen pants at MBK; you can get them cheaper on Khaosan Road, if you stay nearby or already plan to go there for a nightly stroll (take a cab there, every cab driver should know the place).
Where to find it:
MBK 444 Phayathai Rd.,Pathumwan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
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Other Interesting Souvenirs from Thailand
If traveling to Thailand is not on your immediate agenda, or you simply can't afford an extra space in your luggage, fortunately, these days, you can find a wide selection of authentic and truly interesting Thai souvenirs online. Presented here are some of the Thai products sought by foreign visitors, now available online for your convenience.
1. Exotic Sauces - Delicious and convenient option to enjoy Thai cooking at home. Whether your tastes gravitate more toward curry, pad Thai, stir fry, noodles, or soup mixes, there are a number of superb Thai sauces that will push your recipe to the top and instantly improve the flavor of your favorite dishes. Just add a few drops and see your kitchen turned into a gourmet Thai restaurant!
2. Thai Spices - It's really hard to choose a favorite from the versatile, delicious and easy-to-use range of Thai spices currently available, owing to which making healthy Thai curries, stir fries, marinade or condiment, outside Thailand, is now easier than ever! Hand-selected and hand-packed, these gourmet-quality spices are essential for Thai dishes: meats, vegetables, noodles, pasta or rice. Vegan friendly, they are great for creating delicious Thai foods at your kitchen.
3. Handmade Loincloths - Loincloth, or “Pha Khao Ma”, is a cultural symbol of Thailand that has been worn by males and females alike, both old and young, for hundreds of years. Handcrafted in a very traditional style, this is more than just a regular piece of clothing found in all regions of Thailand, but is very much a form of art. The usage of Pha Khao Ma extends from clothing to baby hammock to weapon wrap to storage bag to sleeping pad to bathing wear to towel and more. Hand-woven of cotton yarns, these multipurpose apparel wraps are distinguished by stripe patterns and rectangular shape. Its very light and easy-to-dry fabric makes loincloth a useful household item, decoration piece, or a gift for birthday, wedding, Christmas, New Year, or any anniversary.
4. Muay Thai Shorts - If you are keen on combat sports and see yourself in a ring or cage some day, ready to show off your Muay Thai skills, a good pair of shorts is a must for you. When picking the right one, just make sure it provides wide enough leg room for high and low kicks. This is, after all, a fight gear for a boxing match, not a tickling competition!
6. “Hippie Elephant” Handmade Bags -If you were born too late (i.e. way past 1969) to “the world that doesn't care”, it doesn't mean that you cannot be a hippie at heart or at least sympathetic to the movement, albeit only from an aesthetic standpoint. In that case, a cross-body sling bag, handmade in Thailand, reflecting a floral print of Hippie Elephant, will attest to your loyalty to the cause of Flowery Love, if only half a century later. Peace!!!
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