Bargains in Bangkok part 1

A Bangkok trip isn’t complete without a day spent shopping at Chatuchak (pronounced Jatujak). According to intro-asia.com, it has over 15,000 stalls with over 200,000 visitors each day whose total spending would reach up to 30 million baht, or approximately P45M (1 baht = P1.50). Foreigners and locals alike flock to this flea market hub as the place carries a wide range of good quality products at very competitive prices. Products are categorized and tenants have been organized to sell their wares by areas, making it very easy for us to scout for good finds. From furniture, to paper crafts, and silver ware, even puppies and pets—they have it all here. The prices are super affordable, and haggling is a breeze with nice and friendly Thai sellers. What more can you ask for?

Here are some of what Chatuchak has to offer:

paintings

brass pots

mini fountains

more cute paintings

hand painted sneaks and laptop table pads

shirts with artworks

laptop bags

organizers and bins made out of colorful straws

incense and aromatherapy products

faux flowers

craft paper

silverware

mini versions of food carts

adorable puppies

And this is just the first 45 minutes :o

Visit us again for parts two and three ;)

Bangkok Buys

Whenever I’m abroad, I always make it a point to avoid buying from brands that have already opened shops in the Philippines. Knowing you’ve bought something unique to the country’s culture and lifestyle is always a nice experience. You learn a little more of their style and preference with visits (and purchases) from their local stores.

And from my recent Bangkok trip, I have discovered quite a few new brands—all in one floor! I accidentally passed through Amarin Plaza (at BTS Chitlom) and found a whole area full of Bangkok’s very own fashion retail brands on sale.  The mall hosted at the first floor with top Thai designer brands participating, giving as much as 70% off.

It was love at first sight for me as I stepped into Issue. Known for its colorful ethnic prints, and geometric cuts, I believe the brand definitely mirrors that classy yet edgy Thai flavor.

Too bad Greyhound in Manila closed down. I guess Filipinos weren’t ready for the brand that time. Its androgynous designs are definitely appealing to those who have a preference for minimalist fashion.

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Another brand that has an ethnic feel to its designs and prints is Theater. Staying true to Thai prints and fabrics, this brand goes from jewel-toned textiles to classic muted colors like blacks—all in shapeless styles that give off a Zen-feel.

Animal House offers generic shirts, cardigans and polos in muted colors, all stitched with animal (what else?) emblems. At 50% off, their shirts start from about 370 baht. Quite affordable, don’t you agree?