|
Given that Pattaya is about 120kms away form Bangkok, you’re only an hour and a half away from the best shopping opportunities in the country. However, unless you are looking for something really special, there is no reason to head into the capital as everything you need could be right on your doorstep.
One of the most popular purchases, as you might expect, is clothing. Whether you’re looking for beachwear, the latest fashions or tailored clothing you won’t be short of options. Clothing can be found in the local markets, supermarkets, shopping malls and beach promenades. Beach Road is lined with stalls selling swimwear, beachwear, casual clothing, evening dresses, fake t-shirts and an abundance of accessories to boot. These stalls are ideal if you’re on holiday and easily avoidable if you live here.
The beachfront market is targeted at tourists and while you will find a wide selection of everything you could possibly need while lounging on the beach, prices will be ramped up and you will hard pushed to find the real bargains.
If money is no object and latest fashion is key, Central Festival Pattaya Beach should be your shopping destination of choice. Here you will not only find high street stores such as MNG, Zara and Levis or designer brands such as DKNY, Guess and Diesel, the shopping centre is also home to a Big C store and a brand new Hilton hotel. There is another Central shopping centre in Pattaya, but it is not as impressive and is found in North Pattaya on Second Road.
|
The Avenue Shopping Centre comes as a close second to Central Festival and also boasts an abundance of fashion outlets. However, it is open air and therefore there are no air-conditioning units on the walkways between the shops to cool you down on those hot and humid days. For this reason, the shopping centre is not so popular with Thai people., but more so with foreigners.
If you’re looking for a real bargain but don’t want the hassle of bargaining at every turn, the supermarkets are always a good bet. While the clothes are not always at the height of fashion, there are many bargains to be had and a wide range to choose form. Big C, Carrefour and Tesco Lotus are the best bet for finding clothes and accessories. These are especially popular with expats and locals.
Finally, when it comes to tailors, these are found in abundance all over Pattaya. Wherever there are tourists, there are tailors. Visit a few to compare prices and quality and don’t be talked into anything you don’t want.
As you can see, the list is exhaustive and as such, there is no need to travelmiles to pick up a brand new outfit. Whether you live here or are just passing through; it is an ideal destination for all of those shopaholics among us!
|
