Shopping in Phuket - Saving Money
Shopping Tips for Making Your Baht Go Further in Thailand
Nov 25, 2007
Phuket is renowned for its world class shopping and has several large malls along with many Thai handicraft and specialist shops.
The recently opened Jungcelyon center in Patong is worth a visit, especially the That’s Siam Section in the basement, 200 boutiques selling Thai handicrafts and souvenirs. Central Festival Mall on the outskirts of Phuket town is the most upmarket.
Unless you are in the major shopping malls then don’t be afraid to try and bargain. Negotiating politely, with a smile, may get you further discounts. If you buy several items from the same stall or shop then this gives you more bargaining power.
Saving Money When You Shop
• Every major town on Phuket has a twice weekly local market, starting late in the afternoon and finishing around 8pm. These sell everything from food, clothing, household items, DVD's, jewelry and Thai handicrafts. Rather than spend all your holiday money in the tourist outlets, notice the big difference in prices at these local markets. Clothing is extremely cheap. This is a fun excursion, giving a flavor of typical Thai life. Take a look at the vast selection of exotic fruits and vegetables. The very adventurous can try some fried insects at one of the local stalls. A great photo opportunity!
There is also a large, Sunday afternoon market in Phuket Town, which attracts people from all over the island. This is the shopping highlight of the week for many Thais. Prices are low and bargaining is the order of the day.
• Learn a few Thai phrases for your shopping expeditions and see how this increases your bargaining power. Knowing the Thai for "How much?" and "can you give a discount?" will put a smile on a vendor’s face. Don’t worry about remembering numbers as most have a calculator to hand. Learning Thai will make a big difference to your vacation.
• If you choose to stay in one of the quieter, less touristy resorts like Nai Harn or Rawai then you have more bargaining power than in the more populated tourist resorts, especially during low-season (June – October)
• If you are an avid reader then take a visit to the South Wind Book Shop in Phang Na Road, Phuket Town (a few minutes walk from the Rasada Road Fountain and main Songtaew stop) This is a large second-hand bookshop selling fiction, non-fiction and magazines. Save money by purchasing second-hand travel guides and travel writing books on Thailand. A credit of half the original price is given for returned books.
• If you intend making a few international calls on your cell phone during your stay then buy a local SIM card. The One-to-Call prepaid package only costs around 300 Baht. You do not need to show any ID or personal documentation to buy a prepaid card.
• Should you choose to eat from some of the local Thai Restaurants and food stalls (where the Thais go) you will be amazed at the low prices. A substantial meal will cost you around 100 Baht. Most individual dishes are around 30-60 baht.
To get to and from your destination, rather than using the red tuk-tuk taxis, you can also save money by using the local transportation network, the humble Songtaew. They are incredibly cheap and there is a regular service from the main beach resorts into Phuket Town.
 |
 |
