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You can find pretty much anything in Bangkok,
there are so many malls selling the latest international fashion
that most cities in Asia would find it hard to compete, and yet
there’s also a great selection of cheap, quality products to be
found. Most big malls will have a cinema and bowling complex to
boot, and the usual “food court” – a whole floor dedicated to fine
food and drinks and often very international cuisine. As for the
street markets, they provide a very different atmosphere. There are
usually more diverse people in the markets, since you’re more prone
to find people from different social classes and of different ages.
In that sense, one could say the street markets are more
“authentic”, since they give a great feel of what the local culture
and lifestyle is. Also, markets are usually better places to look if
you want to buy pirated goods, and the prices tend to be cheaper if
you know what you’re getting into; you shouldn’t be afraid of asking
for a lower price. Nonetheless, most hip young people are to be
found in one of Bangkok’s many malls when it comes to shopping, and
both shopping experiences have to be experienced in order to truly
have a feel of Bangkok.
Many famous Shopping Malls such as Siam Paragon, Gaysorn or the
Emporium are all conveniently located around the city centre (Siam)
and can be easy accessed via the BTS Sky Train (Sky Train Map).
Genuine fashion goods and other famous brand names can be found
there. If you are more into a Thai-style market with air-conditioner
that offers nearly everything you can think of, you definitely
should have a look at the mega-mall MBK which is located at the
National Stadium BTS Sky Train Stop (One stop from Siam by Silom
Line). Most shopping centers and department stores are open from
10am – 10pm, while markets are open around the clock.
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