We all know that counterfeit goods are bad, but those affordable handbag copies and super-cheap pirated DVDs hawked in Asian marketplaces are mighty tempting.
Category: Thailand
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Counterfeit Shopping in Asia – Where To Buy Cheap Designer Fakes
While we'd never encourage loading up your suitcase with these faux products, if you can't help yourself we suggest frequenting the following cheap and cheerful shopping centers. Thailand is the king of the counterfeiters, with most of them doing a roaring trade in Bangkok. The latest bootlegged albums and even fake IDs are available on Khao Sarn Road. Factory seconds and other cheap gadgets are sold at Pantip Plaza. Quality does vary, and you won't get any of those shiny warranties, but you might just find a bargain. Just make sure that your preferred language is switched from Thai to English before you depart with your new toys. If your needs are less specific, then the Chatuchak Weekend Market is ideal. It's the world's largest market, selling everything from live chickens to handicrafts. You might spot Coach and Gucci logos on the accessories, but if they're sold here don’t expect authenticity. If Thailand's capital is a little hectic for you, then enjoy life at a slightly slower pace at Chiang Mai. The city is famous for more than its elephant nature park; its night bazaar has a diverse array of goodies including many impressive designer copies. Shop from sunset each night for these treats, but be prepared to haggle. Prices typically start higher than they do in Bangkok, so you'll need to do some work to get a bargain. Hong Kong loves to shop for fine designer goods, but if you want them you'll need to frequent the country's malls. For the same looks at much cheaper prices, the markets are your best bets. The Ladies Market in Hong Kong is great for a girl's night out, with vendors selling handbags, apparel, and other items targeted at fashion-forward females. While you're spending up, your other half can busy himself at Mongkok Computer Shopping Center around the corner, or the tech-focused Sai Yeung Choi Street South located one street over. The underperforming dong allows most Western travelers to live the high life in Vietnam, which makes it a great shopping destination. For the best bargains head to Ben Thanh Market, just outside Ho Chi Minh city. I'm not sure any of the Nike shoes, Ray-Bans sunglasses, and Tag watches are genuine, but they certainly look it. The dollar DVDs are also a big attraction for movie buffs. But before purchasing designer replicas and counterfeit goods, it's important to remember that you get what you pay for. Often that's watches that will turn your wrists green, sunglasses that won't protect your eyes, films that are barely watchable, and apparel that will fall apart quickly. It could also land you a nasty fine when you return home, so make sure you research your own country's rules on counterfeit goods before shopping up a storm. -
Affordable Tailored Suits in Asia – Fine Fashion for Less
A tailored suit is one of life’s luxuries that those of us on a budget can rarely experience. But if you’re planning a trip to Asia, there’s no better time to indulge.
Tailors in cities around the continent can create fully lined suits in your choice of fabric for a fraction of the price you'll pay back home. And best of all, they'll do it in as little as a day. Despite the quick turnaround, it's advisable to give your tailor as much time as possible. Second or even third fittings may be required for the perfect fit, so it’s best to plan your trip to the tailor early in your vacation. It's also smart to have some idea of the suit you'd like. Bringing photographs from fashion magazines or the internet will help the tailor create your dream garment. Once you're organized, you're ready to find your tailor. Ask your hotel concierge or some friendly locals who they recommend, and seek them out. Make sure you negotiate a fair price up front, including hotel delivery costs, to ensure you're treated justly. Thailand is the home of some of the world's finest silks, and in Bangkok it comes at a relatively affordable price. Rajawongse Clothier is one of the city's best, with more than 30 years experience in the business. Father and son owners Jesse and Victor have even made suits for American presidents George Bush and his son George W. Bush!
When in Vietnam, forget the bustling shopping districts of Hanoi and the action packed Vietnamese markets. Instead travel to the casual coastal town of Hoi An, where tailors will handcraft suits and a wardrobe to wear with it! Master craftsman will make dresses, shoes, and even handbags. Yaly Couture is regarded as one of the town's best tailors for its high quality garments and fast, friendly service. Staff will even keep your measurements on file in case you want to order something else once you arrive home.
Custom suits in Hong Kong are a bit more expensive than in other Asian centers, but they're still a fraction of the cost you'll pay on the High Street back home. There's also plenty of choice with many tailors of distinction. Bill Clinton chose Sam's for several suits during his presidency, and he's still a popular choice for travelers today. But don't overlook other tailors in the city. The family-owned Roger Concepts has been another good option for Western travelers as it specializes in suits and shirts for larger men.
So why travel to Milan or Paris for fine fashion? You'll find it for far less in Asia!
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Meet The Macaques of Lopburi – Thailand’s Monkey City
Lopburi is a Thai city steeped in history, but today most travelers have just one thing on their minds: monkeys.
Every year many international tourists visit the area located three hours north of the country's capital, Bangkok, to meet the city's simian residents. It's estimated that some 2000 crab-eating macaque monkeys call Lopburi home. And why wouldn't they? The city has far less pollution and traffic than Thailand’s capital, and the little creatures are treated very well by the locals and tourists. [caption id="attachment_4713" align="alignright" width="150" caption="A sleepy Macaque monkey in Lopburi, Thailand"]
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If you don't mind braving the crowds, the best time to visit the monkeys is the Lopburi Monkey Festival, which is held on the last weekend in November each year. The locals prepare an exhaustive feast at the Wat Phra Prang Sam Yot temple for their monkey mates. You wouldn't guess that these monkeys favor crabs. They devour some 2000 kilograms of food, including eggs, fruit, and even soda. It seems quite generous of the locals to spoil the monkeys this way, but they believe their acts of altruism will bring them good luck.
However you can spot the macaques monkeying about the city any time of year. In fact, your interaction with them is likely to be a bit more special if you pick a quieter time to visit. You'll also save the 30 baht it costs to attend the festival. Look for them in the area known as the Old Town, especially the religious sites of Wat Phra Prang Sam Yot and the Phra Kaan Shrine. You can buy some sunflower seeds for a few baht from Wat Phra Prang Sam Yot if you want to coax the monkeys closer.
The monkeys are eager to meet tourists and always hungry, but don’t be afraid. They are not aggressive, and even when they jump on you they won’t cause any harm. If you’d prefer to observe them from a distance, don’t tempt them with any treats. It’s also advised not to wear any accessories when you’re around the monkeys, as they can become fascinated by earrings, sunglasses, and baseball caps. If you forget this rule, don’t be surprised if a curious monkey steals your clothes!
Trains from Bangkok depart several times a day for Lopburi, making the three-hour journey via Ayutthaya. The station is a short walk from Wat Phra Prang Sam Yot, so if you only want to see Lopburi's monkeys a day trip is easily achieved.
If you love wildlife, you'll likely see Chang Mai's elephants and the tigers of Wat Pha Luang Ta Bua Yannasampanno monastery. But no Thai animal safari would be complete without visiting the monkeys of Lopburi.
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Asia’s Quirky Natural Wonders – Outdoor Experiences in China, Japan, and Thailand
When many people think of Asia they think of shopping up a storm in the cities and discovering the continent’s cultural heritage in temples and museums.
But some of Asia's most interesting attractions are actually outdoors. Just outside Kunming in China you'll find the Shilin Stone Forest, a forest which really isn't a forest at all, at least not in the way that most of us imagine. Rather than trees, the forest features thousands of differently shaped stones which appear to grow from the ground. Apparently the area was a shallow sea some 270 million years ago, but as the earth moved over time the water retreated and the limestone structures emerged. Visitors can discover attractions like the Major Stone Forest, Strange Wind Cave, and Subterranean Stone Forest over this 400 square kilometer space. If you can visit in June, it's worth making a trip during the Torch Festival. The native Sani people demonstrate wrestling, lion-dancing, and bull-fighting, and legend says it’s the best time to meet Mr or Miss Right! [caption id="attachment_4231" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The Shilin Stone Forest"]
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For interesting animals and plants, look to the Bonin Islands off the Japanese coast. These 30 different islands were formed long ago by an ancient volcano, and have since evolved in their own unique ways. The islands are home to more than 14 different animals and 100 unique plant species including the protected Ogasawara damselfly, the Japanese Woodpigeon, and the Bonin Flying Fox. Access is difficult though, so you’ll need to be keen. The Ogasawara Maru liner leaves from Tokyo Bay four or five times each month, and takes around 25 hours to reach its destination.
Tourists can feel like royalty traveling on the backs of elephants in northern Thailand. The elephants will take you through the forests and hilltribe villages of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Kanchanaburi. There are rides to suit your time and budget, from a half-hour walk to a five-day expedition. The elephants are all well trained and love people, so you needn't worry about being on the back of a petulant pachyderm!
Asia offers plenty of natural beauty and experiences for tourists; you've just got to know where to look!
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Explore Asia’s National Parks – Natural Paradises in the East
When international travelers think of Asia they think of technological innovation, a bustling lifestyle, and all that delicious food.
While Asia's cities buzz, its national parks are a real draw card for tourists looking to get back to nature. The following parks, many of which are UNESCO World and Natural Heritage sites, are amongst Asia's best. The Three Parallel Rivers Protected Areas in China's Yunnan Province is somewhat of a lost paradise. Here 16 indigenous groups live simple lives, free of the stresses of the modern world. Many offer accommodation for visitors who come to the area to see the gorges, glaciers, and enormous rivers. While much of Hong Kong is a thriving metropolis, one fifth of the nation belongs to the trails of Tai Tam Country Park. This area is steeped in history; tourists can explore ancient forts and towers while admiring the ocean views and diverse flora. There are also several areas for barbecues and picnics, so why not make a day of it? Many ecological experts consider Shiretoko National Park to be Japan's last surviving wilderness. It's a haven for marine and land animals, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the brown bears, dolphins, and seals that live there.Sightseeing boats regularly leave from the mainland to take tourists closer to the warm Kamui Wakka Falls. Or you could travel to the falls on foot and soak yourself in the hot springs. You might not know it, but if you're a James Bond fan you're already acquainted with Thailand's Ao Phang Nga National Park. This gorgeous natural oasis was featured in the spy flick The Man with the Golden Gun. You can hire small boats to explore the area and its natural rock formations and limestone pillars which emerge almost mythically from the ocean. It's the kind of locale you'll want to linger at, and with bungalows and camping sites available you can. The buzzing cities of Asia are alluring, but if you'd like a change of pace the continent's national parks can deliver it. -
New Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Opens on Thailand Island
The Westin chain recently opened the doors of its first resort in Thailand. The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa is located on Siray Island in the idyllic Thai province of Phuket.
The hotel’s location couldn’t be better, with views of Siray Bay, its secluded white beach, and the Indian Ocean.
Cross the bridge to travel from Siray Island to Phuket Island, or hop on a boat to explore one of the neighboring islands. Phuket International Airport is 45 minutes drive away; it's close enough to be convenient, but far enough away to allow you to really relax away from the crowds. That's pretty easy to do here. All of the 261 rooms, suites, and villas feature the Westin's standard creature comforts like flat-screen televisions, iPod docking stations, rain showers, and patented Heavenly Beds. For true indulgence, make sure you book into one of the luxury suites or villas. These have their own private plunge pools and rooftop areas for chilling out with loved ones.
It's easy to hole yourself up in the luxurious rooms, but then you'd miss all of the Westin's other attractions. For total bliss, there's the spa, with single and couples treatment rooms, steam and sauna rooms, and an Ayurveda wellness center. There are also six restaurants and bars ready to cater to your every whim. It's easier to enjoy this pampering knowing your tiny tots are having fun in the Kids Club. The local arts and craft activities, open air movies, and stargazing will keep children so busy they'll never miss you.
To celebrate the opening of Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, the resort is offering selected rooms for 2010 baht, or $59 US.
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Eat Like a Local in Bangkok – Thailand’s Best Restaurants
When you’re on a trip to Thailand don’t overlook the fact that Bangkok is a foodie’s paradise with many streets lined with restaurants ready to serve up delicious cuisine from around the globe.
All those choices can overwhelm tourists, but as with any city you'll find the best meals where the locals eat. Here are some of Bangkok's most popular haunts. The Bed Supperclub doesn't get its quirky name for nothing; diners actually eat from the top of mattresses! It serves up contemporary Asian cuisine and is one of the hottest spots in the city. Make a night of it, as diners can enjoy complimentary entry into the adjoining dance club. After a big night of clubbing, snacks at Soi 38 Night Market are just what the doctor ordered. The markets are open until 3 am, so it's rarely too late to indulge in the flame-fried phat thai or sticky mango rice. Ordering can be tricky with many traders speaking only broken English, but it's worth persevering.
If you want a market meal during the day head to Tanao Road. The stalls sell typical Thai fare, but everything is fresh and tasty. This is the perfect spot for grazing on the go.
Delightfully casual, Khrua Aroy Aroy is a relaxed restaurant which delivers just what it claims. Its name means "delicious, delicious kitchen," and it specializes in hearty curries.
For something even more relaxing make sure you dine at Spring. While the weather is warm, between November and May, you can lounge about on beanbags on the front lawn! It's worth visiting all year round though for its surprisingly affordable prices and delicious seafood dishes.
Hong Kong Noodles is so tiny that it's easy to miss, but it's worth seeking out this eatery in the heart of the New Market. Its wheat-and-egg noodle soups are legendary. Come early for breakfast to get a jump on the seemingly ever-present crowds.
If you'd prefer a fish dish look for one of Somboon Seafood’s five Bangkok locations. The chain serves up uniquely Asian interpretations of seafood favorites including sea bass steamed with garlic and chili, and curry-powder crab.
Italian dishes cooked up by an Australian chef may seem like an unlikely choice in this Asian city, but Antonio's Trattoria is one of the most popular restaurants in Bangkok. The locals love this menu which serves up Italian classics and some interesting twists on Mediterranean fare. However as the restaurant is only open for dinner between Tuesdays and Sundays, you'll need to plan ahead.
If you want a meal with a view, make sure you visit The Deck. The beautiful backdrop of the Chao Phraya River makes the Thai and Mediterranean style meals taste even better. Prices are surprisingly modest considering the restaurant's amazing vista.
Whether you want to taste Thailand's national dishes or enjoy something more familiar, you're spoiled for choice in Bangkok.
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How to Bargain – A Guide to Shopping in Asian Markets
The busy markets of Asian nations like Thailand and Vietnam are a mecca for bargain shoppers, but the culture shock of bargaining can scare some foreign tourists.
The process won’t be so daunting if you follow these simple tips. It's good to get a feel for the markets before you commit to your first purchase. Spend some time walking around, perusing the wares and watching other shoppers bargain for the best price. This will give you some sense of what items are worth, and what sellers may be willing to settle for. It's also important to choose the optimum time to shop. Many sellers may be willing to discount goods in the late afternoon, particularly if they have not had a successful day. Surprisingly the early morning can also be a good time to shop, as some marketeers may reward their first customers with some bargains. Once you've found the perfect item, make sure you keep your composure. It's best to feign disinterest and inquire about several items rather than zeroing in on the one you covet. Make your first offer very low, as the seller will typically drive this cost up before you reach an agreement. It's also advisable to bargain away from other customers if you can; a shop owner may be willing to offer a larger discount if other potential buyers don't know about it! Buying several goods from the same market stall can also be to your advantage. One tactic is to begin bargaining for one item, then ask the seller what discount you could receive if you buy more. Another is to suggest a small complimentary item could help to seal the deal. Above all, it's important to remember that those selling in the markets expect you to bargain with them. They may protest and declare that you are sending them broke, but it’s all part of the game. Hold your nerve and enjoy the rewards of this unique Asian shopping experience! -
Our Jungle House, Back to Basics Eco-Friendly Accommodation in Thailand
Thailand’s Our Jungle House invites travelers to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities and get back to nature.
The setting of this eco-friendly accommodation could not be more idyllic. The resort is set on 25 acres of private rainforest near Khao Sok National Park. These parklands, majestic with their limestone peaks, are a thriving habitat for Thailand’s tropical flora and wildlife. The sounds of the native animals, including lemurs and civet cats, only add to the atmosphere of Our Jungle House.
Our Jungle House’s bungalows and tree houses were built to complement the surrounding rainforest rather than disturb it. All natural building materials were used and environmentally-friendly practices made the Jungle House the area’s first green resort.
The rooms are neat but not overly luxurious, delivering guests what they need without the frills. Many tourists may be disappointed by the lack of air conditioning, but there are fans to help keep you cool. The lack of hot water is also disappointing, but at least drinking water is made available. The mosquito coils and nets also come in handy during summer. Free WiFi is also on hand so you won’t feel completely cut off from civilization!
The resort’s staff are friendly and attentive to all your needs. You need not worry about a language barrier either, as staff members are trained to speak English and German.
As the resort is somewhat isolated, you’ll probably enjoy many meals at Our Jungle House’s restaurant.
The cooks specialize in authentic Thai cusine, but fussy appetites and young children are not forgotten. The menu also includes vegetarian dishes and western options including fried chicken, spaghetti, and homemade French fries. If you'd like to venture out, the resort has vans, cars, and motorcycles available for hire. A cheaper alternative is to use the public buses. Staff can provide free transport to the bus stop, so you need only pay a small fare. There's plenty to do around the resort though, whether you'd like to laze on the nearby River Beach, explore the surrounding area on your own, or enjoy one of the organized activities. These tours include jungle treks on the back of elephants, canoe excursions down the Sok River, scuba diving, and nighttime wildlife safaris. Our Jungle House may not offer much in the way of luxury, but its back-to-basics accommodation might be just what you need to recharge your batteries. -
The River Kwai and Kanchanaburi Province – Learn More About Thailand’s War History on Vacation
When most people think of vacationing in Thailand they imagine shopping up a storm in Bangkok or lazing by the beach in Koh Samui.
But the Asian country also has a rich history just waiting to be explored. The best place for history buffs to discover is Kanchanaburi Province, home to the famous River Kwai. This is the site the Japanese Imperial Army invaded during the Second World War, and there are many remnants of this tragic time in Thai history. Visitors can take a train ride along the stretch of the Thai-Burma Railway commonly known as the Death Railway. The Japanese soldiers used this passage to carry supplies to their troops in Burma. The train trip leads to the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. Immortalized by the Hollywood film, prisoners of war built the bridge so the railway could cross the water. Many prisoners lost their lives here, and seeing it today is a sobering reminder of the horrors of war. If you want to learn more about the Death Railway and the River Kwai, make sure you call in to the Hellfire Pass Museum. Located at Konyu Cutting, otherwise known as Hellfire Pass, this museum features artifacts from the period which tell the story of the Thai-Burma railway in unflinching detail. [caption id="attachment_3440" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The famous bridge over the River Kwai"]
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There is a memorial walking trail on site which takes travelers alongside one of the old railway tracks. At four kilometers long it's not a trip for tourists short on time, but it's a journey worth making for the gorgeous valley views from Kwae Noi Lookout.
By all means, enjoy Thailand's shopping opportunities and soak up some rays. But make sure you take the time to see some of the country’s historical sites as well. They're the memories you’ll have long after your sun tan fades.
[Image Source: Ahoerstemeier/Wikipedia Commons]