Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Chatuchak Market in Bangkok

Crafts for sale in Chatuchak
Chatuchak. Nothing in your experience can compare to this weekend market in Bangkok. 25 years of travel to Asia and watching the development of this Bangkok market has never stopped my fascination each time I visit.

We were there a couple of days ago and I can assure you, it is even more crowded now as it was years ago when it first opened. In fact, it is like an international weekend market where people from all over the world come not just to buy but also to sell products.

The variety is with no comparison. You can buy anything from crafts, clothes, hardware, food, house wares and jewelry. The goods are not just from Thailand but from so many other countries who have found Chatuchak a much more lucrative market for their goods. What with all the tourists flocking to this market.
Bags for sale in Chatuchak


There are ATMs, post office and courier places as well as a good array of transport. The shopping infrastructure is really strong encouraging many to buy and you should see what people buy. I often wonder how they'd bring these things home.

When you plan your trip to Bangkok, make sure you have a weekend to spare in Chatuchak. Even if you don't buy, it is still a fascinating experience.


Spa Products for sale in Chatuchak
There are so many products for sale here especially spa ones. This young man deserved my support. He has tried to develop this business and young entrepreneurs need the encouragement.
Food stalls in Chatuchak
You can sit in any of these stalls and try out some of what they offer. These are delicious, freshly cooked right in front of you.
Food for sale in Chatuchak

Hats for sale in Chatuchak
60 baht is about $2. Prices vary though depending on who comes with all the overruns from factories. But there are bargains to be had in this place. Besides the fun alone is enough to make your visit.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Tour West Lake Hanoi in an Enviro-Buggy

New York's Central Park is a defining part of the city. Museums and wealth hug its edges and its cleaning power regenerates the air. Most Asian cities are missing this kind of grand central green lung and although they can boast ancient monuments and historic contexts, very few can combine the two. 

Hanoi has West Lake partly filled with floating greenery, partly surrounded by hotels and restaurants, its edges dotted with temples and pagodas. West Lake is a vast cooling air conditioner in the heart of the city that can cook your toes in May and June. It's not a pond. It will take a few hours to walk around it and even the battery-driven tourist cart is an hour and a half venture.