Phuket is a great place for shopping as it has something for everyone, no matter how shallow or deep your pocket. Market shopping is inexpensive and cheerful, high-end boutiques offer exclusive designs and top class quality, and shopping centres compete with those found in any modern city.
There are some beautiful fabrics and clothing items, including Thai silk and cotton products made in Thailand alongside the cheap t-shirts that make unique gifts to take home.
Thai Silk
A favourite for shoppers is Thai silk and you’ll find items can vary greatly depending on where in Thailand they were manufactured, and the quality of the silk. Designs are intricate, colours are unique and the quality is generally very good for the price. You should be able to pick up some real bargains if you look in the right places.
Phuket Town is the best place for silk as there are more independent stores selling a variety of items including silk scarves, ties, saris, shirts, shorts, furnishings, tablecloths and cushion covers. You can also get some good silk buys from the weekend market, prices are cheap and though the quality isn’t as high they make nice souvenirs.
It used to be that Thai silk was worn to show your status in society, certain colours and patterns were designed for royalty and nobility. The rest of the country would wear it only for a special occasion. Even these days you can still see the older generation dressed up in their best thai silk outfits for a wedding or if they’re going somewhere special.
Tailor Shops
There are so many tailor shops in Phuket that you wonder how they make any money, but it seems there are also many holiday-makers that come here to buy something made by a Thailand tailor. It’s easy enough to get a suit, jacket or dress made up in a short time and the prices can be reasonable. There are plenty of excellent tailors who know their craft. When choosing your tailor, check out their premises, quality of material and ask for references before deciding.
Colourful Batik
Batik sarongs, bags, shirts and trousers are popular here and perfect for this tropical climate. Island style is vibrant, bright and comfortable, popular images on products are of palm trees, beaches, the ocean and colourful fish. Made in Phuket they make great souvenirs to take home. Wear batik when you visit Phang Nga Bay and sail the seas in style.
Natural Fabrics
Cotton is a popular buy in Phuket, though it’s made up in the northern regions not here on the island. Perfect for this climate items are wearable, light, and the quality high. Cotton shirts, trousers and skirts, tablecloths and cushion covers can be found in stores around the island and are reasonably priced.
Join a day cruise on MV Phuket Champagne and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and the beautiful colourful coral from the comfort of a traditional fishing boat.
