Thailand has a wealth of local crafts - ceramics, textiles, tailor-made clothing and excellent furniture to name a few. If you simply want a few souvenirs or some inexpensive beach or sportswear, the local stalls in Phuket town and the beach resorts have masses. If you need the essentials, head for the western style department stores or the new huge supermarkets - Tesco Lotus and Big C, on the edge of town. For specialist items like gems and jewellry, there are specialist shops like Gem Gallery offering good discounts, along the main bypass road, together with shops selling Chinese and Thai ceramics. Many local sightseeing tours will take you to these places, so check with your tour agent, or you can simply hire a car and go by yourself.

   

 

General Tips

Smile
Bargain with a smile and you will be rewarded.
Many Thais work long hours, so they appreciate a smile and good humour - you'll get better bargains.

The Tourist Authority of Thailand warns against touting taxi drivers and tour guides who offer to take you shopping and receive commissions for bringing tourists to various places to shop. Often the experience is a waste of your valuable shopping time.

Export restrictions

Be aware that it is forbidden to take images of Buddha, deities, and some antique artifacts from the country without first obtaining approval from the Fine Arts Department in Bangkok.

Most department stores and large retail outlets have fixed prices, so bargaining is not applicable.
At markets, small stalls, shops or street vendors, bargaining is the norm. Expect to pay from 10-40% less than the original asking price - depending on your bargaining skills and the will of the vendor.