We love to visit the weekend market. You don’t need too much money as it is supercheap and the atmosphere is vibrant and lively. There are rows and rows of small cubicles and stalls selling all kinds of interesting items.
We enjoy poking around in the individual boutiques as the clothing is unique and one-off items. Many of the designers are fresh out of college and trying to make a name for themselves so we like to support their creativity. Saying that however, the sizes are quite small as Thai people are not as large as us foreigners!
Market Cuisine
Our favourite part of the market is the food section. Make sure you go with an empty stomach as the choice is immense and the food delicious. We like to sit down and eat first and then check out the rest of the food stalls in search of fruit, a smoothie or something sweet. There’s always something new we haven’t tasted before – although we haven’t the stomach to try the fried beetles and insects yet.
The best time to go is early evening before it gets too busy and as it’s cooler. Most of the market is under cover now, so if it rains you don’t get soaked to the skin. At some point we find ourselves at the second-hand section where you can get some real bargains. You have to sift through the rails, but more often than not we come away with a few tops and skirts for under 100 baht.
There’s a real mix of people at the market, the Thai locals, expats and tourists come in search of good deals. They have some funky bars now too, just like in Chattuchak Market in Bangkok. Put your bags down, order a cocktail and watch the shoppers while you rest your feet. If there’s time we fit in a quick foot massage too!
Cats & Dogs
There is a gloomier side to the market however, and one we try to avoid as it makes us sad and even angry. This is the pet section where small dogs and cats, and other animals, are kept in tiny cages. The dogs have come from puppy farms which is a business to be discouraged. It’s too heart-breaking when they look at you with their sad eyes thinking you might be there to take them home.
Join MV Phuket Champagne for a Phang Nga bay boat tour where the limestone cliffs and tropical lagoons will amaze you.
