Looking for that one of a kind gift to commemorate your holiday in Bangkok? You’re in luck – because we did all the hard work and scoured the never ending mélange of markets in Thailand’s capital city to bring you this list of cool stuff to take home.
Dress Socks
OK, we know this list is supposed to be ‘cool’ stuff – but you really can’t underestimate the importance of dress socks. We’ve found that the designer department store brands quickly grow holes – so why not stock up for this war of attrition? Reasonably priced at around 40 THB per pair – you can score loads for cheap.
Random Art
Whether you’re a connoisseur of the finer things in life or someone with simpler tastes – the Bangkok street art scene has something for you. Want a commissioned painting of Barak Obama shaking hands with Elvis or a subtle hand printed beer Singha placemat? You can find them in Bangkok. Be sure to pick up a tuk tuk sculpture constructed entirely of recycled beer cans – a gift that is sure to please.
Thai Silk Ties
Again, ties don’t exactly strike one as ‘cool’ – but what’s cooler than a bright pink elephant pattern silk tie? Merchants selling this essential masculine accessory abound and comparatively speaking they are cheap – plus most come with matching cuff links and handkerchief – with elephant print of course.
Wooden Frog Stick
You can’t miss these vocal contraptions and their purveyors around various tourist areas of Bangkok. Look for the person dressed in traditional hill tribe garb and listen for a high-pitched croak. Arguably, the most annoying device ever conceived – these wooden frogs bellow when stroked with a stick. Take one home and show your noisy neighbours who the boss really is.
Virgin Organic Coconut Oil
Take this soothing ointment back to your homeland and amaze your friends with its healthful properties. The latest craze among Thai people – this beneficial oil is good for hair and skin, helps relieve stress, increases immunity, and could perhaps hold the secrets to world peace. Well, not really – but it is great stuff and will surely make your friends jealous.
This list is by no means exhaustive or sensible – but it is a good start for shoppers that want to get the most out of Bangkok. Stay tuned for part two.