A trip to Bangkok would not be complete without a visit to Chatuchak
Market which is a 27 acre open air marketplace. Chatuchak Market is
open on Saturdays and Sundays and attracts crowds of an estimated
200,000 per day.
The
easiest way to get there is to take the Sky Train to Mo Chit which is
the last stop on the line. After exiting the train, follow the crowd.
Before
entering, make a stop at the information center to pick up a free map
of the market. It is divided into sections based on the merchandise
being sold and helps in finding your way around. Once inside, the clock
tower can be used as an orienting landmark or as a meeting place.
Prepare
to haggle as it is expected and the vendors will think you're strange
if you pay the asking price of their items. Personally, I dislike
haggling as it makes me uncomfortable, but even I gave it a go. I must
admit it was rather satisfying to walk away with my purchases after
paying quite a bit less than the asking price!
Everything under the sun can be found here from clothing to jewelry to art to home decor to pet supplies and much, much more.
There
are also food vendors throughout the market as well as a food court
offering delicious food and treats like vanilla ice cream served in a
coconut shell. Yum!
When
visiting the market, keep in mind that it can be hot and crowded. Wear
light clothing, comfortable shoes and drink plenty of water to stay
hydrated. Put yourself in the right frame of mind for dealing with
large crowds and a lot of noise. Don't be in a hurry and plan to spend
the day. Having been there twice we probably won't go back anytime
soon, but it was definitely an experience not to be missed!
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