Koh Samui Shopping

Shopping

Shopping on Koh Samui is for many an exciting and pleasurable experience. Whether you are shopping for a suit or bargain hunting, looking for that extra special 'something' for someone at home...whatever it is, shopping in Thailand can be fun.

Nathon Market, Chaweng Market and Lamai Market are the main shopping areas on Koh Samui. There are plently of retail outlets scattered throughout the island, but it’s at the markets where you’ll get your best bargains and find the greatest variety. The available goods range from Thai silk, gems and jewellery, pearls, gold, lacquer-ware, silver, pewter and other products and bric-brac.

Designer labels (but fakes) are another popular item on visitors purchasing list, a nightmare for the ‘label’ companies, but a gift for those looking for Gucci, Levis and alike. Koh Samui also produces cotton hammocks and woodcraft items, that prove popular with visitors. All in all, there’s a lot to choose from and shopping can be extended to include many pleasurable browsing hours, before you buy.

Koh Samui has numerous tailor shops. They will take your measurements and create a fashionable dress/suit for you in a few hours or days. Leave your sizes with them and once you have returned to your home country, you can still beeing in touch with your tailor and order a new outfit or suit from home next time.

Antiques

Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Khmer antiques are excellent buys. Certain categories of antiques are restricted, particularly Buddha images. Other pieces may require an export license, but any reputable dealer will be able to advise you the appropriate restrictions and the necessary documentation.

Gems

Throughout Thailand, coloured gemstones such as rubies and sapphires are readily available. Many other varieties of coloured stones can be found here as well.

Clothing

Thailand is one of the world's leading manufacturers of ready-to-wear clothing. Fashion boutiques are found in every shopping mall, while cheaper clothes, such as T-shirts and jeans are available at bargain prices from street vendors and stores. Custom tailoring is also very affordable and tailors can produce most styles promptly. Then of course there are the 'designer label' copies, that frustrate the designers themselves, but here a dream can come true for many bargain hunters.

The most recommended tailor on Koh Samui 'ARMANI INTERNATIONAL SUITS' For more infomation
visit: www.armanisuits.com

Furniture

Rattan and rosewood furniture items are available in many designs and styles. They can also be made to order in some shops in Pattaya. Arrangements for oversea shipment are often available at the place of purchase.

Nielloware

Practiced in southern Thailand for hundreds of years nielloware is the craft of decorating gold and silver objects with delicate etched designs filled with a metal inlay. Nielloware trays, boxes, vases and other items are often strikingly beautiful and can be a great value, because they are created from precious metals. They are excellent examples of souvenirs unique to southern Thailand.

Orchids

Thailand is famous for its huge variety of orchids. Their magnificent colours and beauty make them a popular purchase. Specially packaged flowers, complete with water supply are readily available for the long journey home and can be conveniently purchased in many locations, including the Gift Shops at the International Airport.

Pewter ware

Pewter is fashioned with great skill by Thai craftsmen, the smooth, silky finish of this attractive alloy is enhanced by delicate decorative relief. Pewter ware items include plates, boxes, vases and pocket flasks and are available in many shops throughout Pattaya.

Silk

Probably the most famous of all kingdom's handicrafts. Thai silk is available in a range of colors, patterns and plys. It is sold by yard or as ready-made clothing and souvenir items. A unique style of Thai silk is Mat Mee, a tie-dye silk traditional to the North-East.

TIP: The art of haggling is, never drop your guard. The first price is there only for show and has no real meaning. There is always room for negotiation. The starting price can often come down to half or less, depending on your haggling skills and those of the vendor. All the time, remember to smile. This is a game, it should be fun. Don’t take it too seriously. The price agreed for the transaction is always a “win-win” price. A benefit for both sides. You get a product much reduced in price from the “decoration” price and feel happy with your newly acquired bargaining skills and the vendor sells their product and still makes a handsome profit. Remember, that they will never sell for a loss.