10 Splendid Malls of Bangkok

Just recently, Bangkok was declared as the top shopping destination in the world. Why not? Aside from the markets where one can buy loads of cheap stuffs, the city is also home to numerous shopping malls housing hundreds of stalls selling almost everything under the sun. Different brands, different styles – these malls are sure paradise to traveling shopaholics.


Malls are already part of the culture of the city. Many even avail cheap flights to Bangkok in order to just shop until they drop. Among the most renowned malls are as follows:


1. Siam Paragon

Named after the old name of Thailand, Siam Paragon is one of the biggest malls in Asia. Located in the Pathum Wan District, this splendid shopping venue opened on December 2009. It gives home to hundreds of local and international specialty stores, 15 movie theaters, and the Siam Ocean World, the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia. Numerous dining venues can also be found there.

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2. MBK Center

MBK is the shorter term for Mahboonkrong. It is a large 8-storey shopping mall in the Phatum Wan Area which is home to more than 2000 stalls selling fashion items, household materials, delicacies, and more. A favorite hub among local Thais, this shopping mall is also famous among foreigners. It is located near hotels and other city attractions and is easily accessed via Bangkok Sky Train.


3. Central World

One of the most prestigious and the sixth largest mall in the world, CentralWorld is a definite shopping destination in Bangkok. Nestled in a strategic area in Ratchadamri Road, it is within a large complex that has hundreds of specialty stores, dining facilities, amusement amenities, and more. It also has a hotel and a tower, emphasizing its status as one of the bests.

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4. Terminal 21

Located at the Sukhumvit Road, Terminal 21 is an interesting shopping mall that is often visited by foreigners. It is set within a 9-storey building and features a one floor-one concept scheme. It is designed to make shoppers feel like they’re in cities like Rome, Paris, Tokyo, London, etc. Aside from the stores, Terminal 21 is also known for having the longest escalators, which reach up to 36 meters long.

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5. Central Chidlom

The flagship store of Central Group which opened on 1973, the Central Chidlom is considered an institution already. It is an 8-storey luxury mall that features designer boutiques like Gucci, Burberry, Ferragamo, Paul Smith, and more. It is a favorite destination among many splurging shoppers because of the variety of items sold there.


6. The Emporium

One of the most famous shopping venues is in Klong Thoei District. It is The Emporium, a luxurious shopping mall owned and operated by the owners of The Mall and Siam Paragon. It is a lifestyle mall which offers upscale shopping experiences, thanks to its designer specialty stores, and dining and entertainment venues. It is located along Sukhumvit Road and is easy to reach via public transportation.

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7. Gaysorn Plaza

Gaysorn (/gay-sawn/) Plaza is a sophisticated shopping mall located within the Ratchaprasong Shopping District in Bangkok. Set within its 5-storey building are different luxury brands like Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Celine, Louis Vuitton, and more. It is often visited by foreigners as it has direct link to nearby hotels like InterContinental, Grand Hyatt and Holiday Inn.

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8. Siam Discovery

One of Bangkok’s first shopping malls, Siam Discovery is a popular shopping destination for many locals and tourists alike. It has four floors, each concentrating on different themes. Within the mall can be found flagship stores globally acclaimed brands, international specialty stores, local brands, and food havens. Even if people aren’t shopping, the mall is a great place to do some sightseeing.

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9. Platinum Mall

Specializing in fashion clothes and accessories, Platinum Mall is a huge complex that features numerous boutiques where people come for an extensive shopping spree experience. Located at Phetchaburi Road, stores here even sell items for wholesale prices. The building has six floors, topped with an 11-storey condominium.

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10. Pantip Plaza

Another spectacular mall in the Pratunam Area is the Pantip Plaza. It is a rather simpler mall compared to the others but it is sure a success because of the people’s preferences for pirated DVDs and software. However, it is also known for being an IT mall, as most stores there sell computerware and other gadgets.

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These shopping malls are located in conspicuous areas and are easily reached by public transportation. Getting there is definitely an ease even to first timers in the city. For those who do not wish to venture out on their own though, it is ideal to book a Bangkok tour package which includes shopping in their itinerary.


See other Bangkok Top 10 List

Related Reads:
* Shopping in Bangkok, Made More Fun
* How to Avoid Scams in Bangkok

Top 10 Must-See in Phuket

As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket (pronounced as ‘pu-ged’) is one of the more famous destinations for cheap flights. People from all over the world are coming to this stunning city for its renowned beaches where award-winning Phuket hotels abound. Summer is always at its best in the island, especially with the tropical sun. The sunset is definitely spectacular as well.

However, Phuket does not just take pride on its gorgeous shores. The island is home to other wonderful places where people can awe themselves with a plethora of architectural eye treats, natural wonders, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Here are some that the list consists:


1) Phuket Temples

As a part of Thailand, Phuket encompasses the diverse religious heritage of the country. Thus, a number of temples can be found in the island. The most famous would be the Wat Chalong, a beautifully decorated edifice adorned with pieces of glass. It is complemented by numerous pagodas.


2) Phang Nga Bay

One of the most dramatic spots in Phuket is the Phang Nga Bay. Its limestone cliffs that appear majestically above the emerald green water are very picturesque that it looks like it was taken right from a postcard. One of the islands is named the James Bond Island.


3) Phuket Nightlife

After sunset, an exciting part of Phuket comes to life. Bars and night clubs open its doors for operations, providing tourists and locals alike with a lot of options for a very exciting nightlife. Whether on the streets or by the beach, there opportunities for fun are certainly limitless.


4) Old Phuket Town

Phuket has a very interesting history which can be explored by anybody through the Old Phuket Town. In the area, people can experience how it feels like to be in a Sino-Portuguese territory. It is brimming with restaurants, cafés and shophouses.


5) Simon Cabaret Show

The island of Phuket is also famed for its transvestite community; and at the Simon Cabaret Show, the transsexuals (ladyboys) give off spectacular performances which could rival Las Vegas’ musical productions. It is definitely one feature of Phuket that you will never want to miss.


6) Big Buddha

A classic icon, the Big Buddha is located atop the Nakkerd Hills and look down on Chalong, Kata and Rawai. It is made up of brass and is one of the biggest of its kind in Asia. It is a very important and revered landmark in Thailand and one of a must see sights when you join Phuket tours.


7) Muay Thai

Muay Thai Boxing is a famous sport in Thailand, especially in Phuket. Thus, it easily became a top attraction itself. There are many venues scattered around the island that hosts Muay Thai events, like the Saphan Hin Stadium or Patong Beach.


8) Festivals in Phuket

Aside from summer, the best time to go to Phuket is when there is a festival being celebrated. Done for a variety of reasons (religious, historic, or just for fun), events like the Gay Festival and Songkran will definitely expose people to a better Phuket heritage.


9) Phuket FantaSea Show

It’s yet another spectacular musical show that could rival Las Vegas’. Only, the Phuket FantaSea Show doesn’t just feature human performers, but also well-trained elephants who will dance for you all throughout the show! It’s truly an entertaining watch.


10) Phuket Viewpoints

Even though Phuket consists mostly of natural attractions, it is still a commercialized place which could exhaust people mentally and physically. However, it compensates through the viewpoints in the island. Serene and beautiful, these places are where people can really find peace that could get them going further.


Air tickets to Phuket are cheaper nowadays so visiting these attractions – and many others – is no longer a difficult task. Take advantage of the offers online. That would do wonders.

Top 10 Reasons to Travel to Bangkok

As a city with over two decades of history, it is not impossible to get attracted with Bangkok. It flaunts off a vibrant environment which highlights the impressive fusion of different cultures, eras, and tastes. For this general reason, many people decide to travel to Bangkok; and here are the top 10 reasons why they should:

1. Grand Palace

Visiting Bangkok will not be complete without a trip around the Grand Palace. Having served as the official residence of the King and his court, this royal complex is endowed with structures which showcase the grandiose Thai architecture. It is located at the banks of the Chao Phraya River.


2. WatArun

Bangkok is known for its temples, and one of the most stunning is the WatArun. Situated near the Chao Phraya River, this astounding temple is visited not just for its religious importance but because of its photogenic quality. Its spires are exceptionally beautiful when viewed during sunset.


3. Chao Phraya River

An important landmark of Bangkok is the Chao Phraya River. History-wise, it has played an important role so the city could achieve its present status. Tourism-wise, it is just so beautifully peaceful that it emanates a tranquil charm to everyone.


4. DamnoenSaduak Floating Market

One of the most fascinating features of Bangkokis the floating market. While on a boat, people can buy and haggle with vendors for the freshest fruits and vegetables. It is a way of living, a beautiful part of the city’s culture – and is thus important to be experienced by tourists.


5. Chinatown

For an exciting experience of going Chinese in Thailand, Chinatown is the place to be. It is brimming with Chinese stalls selling different items, medicines, and food. The area is basically famous for its exotic and colorful atmosphere. It is very lively during Chinese New Year.


6. Chatuchak Weekend Market

Probably one of the biggest weekend markets in the world, the Chatuchak Weekend Market brings shopping into a whole new level. Hundreds of stalls sell just about anything under the sun, for cheap prices. Haggling is even possible, and that doubles the fun.


7. Jim Thompson’s House

A remarkable icon in Bangkok is the Jim Thompson’s House. More than its pleasantly-designed layout, the house is famous for being a museum which exhibits different kinds of Thai silk.


8. Khao San Road

The fusion of different cultures is made evident in Khao San Road. Exceptionally vibrant and truly attractive, the area is home to various bars and restaurants, and other commercial establishments, which highlight the impressive features of the east and the west. Tourists will surely feel at ease in the place.


9. Wat Pho

During your Bangkok tour, it is important to visit Wat Pho. Seeing it completes one’s tour around the city. It earned its fame by housing the largest reclining Buddha in the world. Furthermore, it also features a popular massage school.


10. Lumphini Park

To break from all the modernity and explore nature without living the city, visit the Lumphini Park. It is an exceptionally beautiful and huge park which features plants, trees and ponds, which serves as a breather to people throttled by life’s fast pace.


Above are just some of the famous attractions in the city, and indeed there are more to discover. Thus, booking those flights to Bangkok, Thailand would surely be worth it.


Related Reads:
* Memorable Attractions in Bangkok
* Bangkok: Exploring the Spectacle
* Enjoying the Summer Season in Bangkok
* Exploring the Lovely Culture of Bangkok City
* Tips when Traveling to Bangkok