Thailand resorts attract travelers from all over the world with their picturesque nature, azure coast and white sandy beaches. Everyone who comes to the territory of this wonderful state remains completely satisfied. But do not forget that a trip abroad is not only a beach holiday with local sightseeing, but also quality shopping.
Thailand has always been famous for its excellent shopping centers, and, accordingly, for the products that can be found there. And there really is something to see.
Mostly shopping in Thailand can be divided into several territorial zones: Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket. Every year, a huge stream of tourists flock to these cities, and store shelves are emptied in a week.
In today's article we will talk about the most relevant shopping centers in the country, the right purchases and the main nuances, as well as share some of the reviews of tourists about shopping in Thailand.
Sales
Traditionally, the topic of shopping should be opened from the sales period. What shopaholic doesn't like to be pampered?yourself with promotional goods in the style of “two items for the price of one” or “discounts up to 50%” on all products presented.
The biggest sale in Thailand usually takes place between June and August. This event even has its own name Amazing Thailand Grand Sale, which means “Thailand's Grand Discounts”. Many tourists come specifically during this period in order to get to such events. What's unique about Thailand's Big Deals is that many of the price tags are reduced by up to 70 percent. Absolutely all major shopping centers and brand stores take part in this event.
No less popular discount time is considered to be Christmas Eve. Quite large discounts often fall out for this period, and many tourists have a unique opportunity to purchase branded items at an adequate cost.
Shopping malls
As practice shows, popular shopping centers in Thailand are located in tourist areas, so travelers usually do not have any problems finding shopping areas.
On the territory of this country, full-fledged shopping centers are in great demand, where visitors can find absolutely everything: from simple trinkets to accessories of famous brands.
Let's look at popular outlets in big cities and popular resorts.
Bangkok
According to numerous reviews of shopping in Thailand, the best shopping centers in Bangkok are considered to be Support,Terminal 21. Siam Paragon and MBK.
First bidder specializes in handicrafts, handicrafts and more. In addition, the Support shopping center is considered one of the oldest sites. The uniqueness of "Terminal 21" lies in its structure and similarity with the airport building. Each floor here represents a specific country and sells goods specific to that nation.
Siam Paragon and MBK also complete the list of the largest marketplaces.
Phuket. Reviews of shopping in Thailand
It also has its own shopping centers, which are very popular especially among tourists. This number includes Big C, Tesco Lotus and Central Festival. They have a huge variety of small shops for every taste, offering a wide range of goods. If you went to Phuket (Thailand) for quality shopping, you should also pay attention to JungCeylon. This shopping center is considered one of the best selling sports goods, clothes and shoes. According to tourists, shopping in Phuket (Thailand) is the most attractive.
Pattaya
The resort area offers its visitors no less high-quality shopping. There are two huge shopping malls in Pattaya - Mike Shopping Mall and Central Festival, where the assortment of goods will surprise even the most devoted shopaholics. All visitors and locals go to Outlet Mall because of the affordable cost of most goods, and Royal Garden Plazais one of the best resort areas. People come here not only for quality shopping in Pattaya (Thailand), but also for a busy time. There are great movie theaters, food courts and more.
Chiang Mai
Of course, this city did not go unnoticed. Kad Suan Kaew and Central Airport Plaza are very popular among tourists in this place. The first five-story contender is located in the city itself and is filled from top to bottom with boutiques for every taste and color. There is also a separate entertainment area, a cinema, a food court and even a hotel. The noble location of the shopping center explains the large flow of visitors during the day.
The name of the second shopping center speaks for itself. Since Central Airport Plaza is located within walking distance of the airport, the flow of visitors here is almost never interrupted. In this shopping center you can find a wide range of goods, as well as products from both local factories and world brands.
What to buy?
Having thoroughly understood the topic of the best shopping centers in Thailand and having studied each of them individually, many tourists are wondering: “What to buy among the large abundance of goods?” No wonder the range of Thai products can amaze each of us. And to make it easier for our readers to navigate while shopping, this section will focus on the main popular products on the territory of this wonderful state. Well, let's go!
Gemstones such as sapphires or rubies are in great demand in Thailand. The fact is that the price tag for jewelry here is much lower than in other countries, and the workmanship is many times better.
Thai silk is the golden niche of the country. The export of local silk brings the greatest profit to Thailand. Not only is it amazingly made, it is also appreciated all over the world. You can buy Thai silk cheaply only in the country itself, keep this in mind.
Souvenirs are an integral part of all tourists. No trip is complete without buying something to remember. So, it is best to buy souvenirs in Chiang Mai. There is a wide range of different knick-knacks at low prices. As practice shows, travelers mainly buy items made of silver, bronze or copper. Also in the markets of Thailand you can find various souvenirs made of ceramics, wood or porcelain in the form of figurines of a deity and local idols.
VAT
All visitors should take into account the fact that in Thailand the tax on all products is 7 percent of the cost of goods or services. Any tourist can return their due money, given to the country's treasury, at the border. Unfortunately, this rule does not apply to purchases made in local markets, since the Tax Free system implies a refund for purchases in specialized shopping centers and stores. In which, at the time of purchase, one of the company's employees draws up an appropriate form for you in a specialized room marked asusually with a VAT Refund sticker.
Basic rules for applying for Tax Free:
- The buyer must be a citizen of another country.
- The duration of his stay in the country does not exceed 180 days.
- The purchase period does not exceed 60 days.
- Departure from the country is through the international airport.
- Purchase by one check exceeds 2,000 baht (3,700 rubles), by several checks - 5,000 baht (9,200 rubles).
- The item purchased must be in its original condition.
- Receipts, tags, price tags are saved and there are return documents issued in the store.
The basics of proper shopping
Sometimes the knowledge of the main trading platforms and the rules for issuing Tax Free is not enough for proper shopping. Let's take a look at some tips.
- Any product can be returned within 90 days with tags and receipt.
- Jewelry and jewelry should be purchased in specialized stores in order to avoid collision with fakes.
- All local markets and shops with no fixed price involve reasonable bargaining, so you should not blindly settle for the original declared value of the goods. Reasonable bargaining is the key to successful shopping.
- Wearing bundles of all your money and documents in Thailand is not worth it. Better to play it safe and only take what you plan to spend.
Conclusion
Thailand is a rather colorful country that can surprise with its gorgeous beaches, traditions and picturesque nature. According to numerous reviews of tourists aboutshopping in Thailand, we can draw the appropriate conclusion: this country definitely knows a lot about fashion. Many tourists often face a financial question: "How much money do I need to take with me?" First of all, it all depends on your desires and needs. A typical day in Thailand will cost a family 2,000 baht (3,500 rubles), but if your goal is shopping, then be prepared to give over 4,000 baht (7,000 rubles) to buy quality items. Enjoy your holiday and new discoveries!
