PHUKET: SHOPPERS’ PARADISE
Phuket offers a vivid range of products and preeminent variety for shoppers with a niche for local charm and traditional unification. It justly satisfies the term “Shopaholics’ Paradise” in the exact sense.
Some of the renowned shopping malls that have recently brought a new dimension to Phuket’s shopping sphere include:
- Robinsons,
- Tesco Lotus,
- Big C,
- Central Festival
Other than these, there is of course the bargain hunters’ plethora of street vendors. Depending on your requirements and of course your frame of mind and budget-limits, you can both wheel and deal in the busy streets or enjoy a relaxed stroll through the air-conditioned shopping centers.
With a significant infrastructural development streak sweeping across the island, Phuket has certainly earned a notable recognition from the “Shop till you drop” enthusiasts.
Shopping in Phuket is certainly a fun experience, with the stunning diversity offered at the different hotspots, such as:
PHUKET TOWN:
It is the site for the biggest local markets, with a mammoth range of products and souvenirs. The “Chatuchak Phuket” which opens every weekend, can often drive even the most insane shoppers’ crazy for more.
It is also home to hyper markets such as Big C and Tesco Lotus, having evolved from slowly from generations old department stores. However, the downtown historical district of “Old Phuket” is still renowned for its authentic Thai offerings, ranging from unique boutiques to hand-made souvenirs.
PATONG BEACH:
The frenzy around Patong beach is worth mentioning for the diverse blend of sparkling nightlife and shopping niche. Patong comes alive after dawn, with a bewildering numbers of street vendors vying for the perfect location, thus mystifying the atmosphere with shopping potions.
The night market stretches from the Patong beach road, through the clogged lanes. It may seem to be chaotic at a casual glance, but once you approach it with the right spirit, the vibrancy will involuntarily draw you closer to it.
Other noted shopping hotspots around the island include:
- BANG TAO, SURIN BEACH AND KAMALA BEACH
- KATA & KARON BEACH
With traditional furniture, local handicrafts, skillfully fashioned clothing, extravagant jewellery, spectacular antiques and much more to choose from, the only thing you'll lament about shopping in Phuket is that you can’t carry everything home in your suitcase.
