Shopping The Thai Way

Mahboonkrong, or MBK, is the mall to go to and experience how Bangkokians like to shop.
Once the largest shopping mall in Asia, MBK is loved by tourists and by Thais, who make up more than half its daily visitors.

Conveniently located at the intersection of Phaya Thai Road and Rama I Road, it is easy to reach by BTS.

The first three floors are dedicated to clothes and shoes, but cosmetics and beauty products can be found, too.

The fourth floor is dedicated to electronics, and many official stores can be found there.
On the fifth and sixth floors, different cuisines can be tasted, close to where you can find high-tech, furniture, and souvenir shops.

And the last two upper floors are dedicated to entertainment: cinema, bowling, and karaoke.
Every Wednesday, for the past 4 years, MBK hosts a Fight Night, a free show with six muay Thai matches.

Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: National Stadium BTS station

When the shopping experience in Bangkok starts looking repetitive after jumping from one shopping mall to the next, paying a visit to Chatuchak Weekend Market—also known as J.J. by locals—is worthwhile.

This is one the largest open-air markets in the world and, because if its intricate little streets and the variety of products it offers, it can easily compete with the world-famous Arab souks. Anything you can possibly imagine can be found in this market, from clothes and shoes to typical Thai handicrafts; from pets and vintage leather items to glassware and bed linen. Lose yourself in its alleys and enjoy every stand and corner, try the food, and remember that at J.J. bargaining is not only suggested, but compulsory.

Hours: Open Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Mo Chit BTS station

Located in Phetchaburi road, close to the Platinum Fashion Mall, this shopping plaza is a paradise for all tech enthusiasts in Bangkok.

Laptops, cameras, smartphones, tablets, and every other possible high-tech gadget can be found in its five-story building. The range of quality is also wide; it is possible to find both original products as well as “same same” ones. The best way to be certain of the authenticity of the goods is to buy from official resellers.

On the fifth floor, IT City offers quality products and, at a large open space on the ground floor, there is a promotion almost every day. A small food court is located on the first floor. Avoid Pantip Plaza during weekends if you don’t like big crowds.

Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Rachatewi BTS station