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Immerse yourself in the excitement of Chiang Mai's bustling markets
Visitors to Thailand are often spoiled for choice when it comes to shopping, however, it can sometimes be difficult for them to sample "authentic" Thai culture when doing so. One area where you can, however, is Chiang Mai's famous Night Bazaar on Chang Khlan Road.
The bazaar is popular with backpackers, bargain-hunters and curious visitors that are more interested in casually browsing for cheap trinkets and enjoying the lively atmosphere than serious shopping.
A dazzling choice of goods on offer range from wooden carvings, Buddha statues and handicrafts; cheap clothing, shoes and bespoke suits; and lanterns, jewellery and beads. Real silk scarves draped across stalls in a kaleidoscope of colours make a popular gift and there are skilled artists on hand to paint portraits or transform a treasured photo into a beautiful canvas painting. Though many visitors aren't too fussy about the quality of the countless cheap clothes and trinkets on display, you should be aware of street hawkers peddling fake designer goods and cheap pirate DVDs.
Bartering with the local traders is all part of the experience and they fully expect you to haggle. Negotiate with a friendly smile, patience and a smattering of humour and traders will appreciate your efforts. They can be very charming and if you're not careful you can easily come away with a few more items then you intended to buy. It is worth bearing in mind that despite the friendly banter the traders rely on tourism for their income. If energy levels are flagging after all that bargaining, however, then a range of cheap and tasty snacks can be found at the market's food court where traditional Thai dancers and musicians perform.
As you trawl through the bustling stalls it can be easy to let your guard down. However, you should be aware that pickpockets target tourists and are able to weave in and out of the crowds unnoticed, often with tourists' precious belongings in their possession. Keep an eye on your wallets and purses or take a moneybelt with you to keep your cash secure.
The street markets that take place at the weekend are less well-known and offer a more relaxing, laid back shopping experience with finer quality goods. There is no need to jostle for elbow space in these smaller markets and local artisans display their handmade goods without adapting some of the pushier sales techniques to be found at the night bazaar. They also have a choice of several food stalls offering exotic and traditional local delicacies - including dried insects!
The Saturday market on Wualai Road (open from 5-11pm) specialises in silver jewellery whilst the Sunday market on Rajdumnern Road (open from 2-10pm) is set around a number of temples and offers handicrafts. Both markets appeal to shoppers in search of less commercial and more authentic Thai shopping. There are still bargains to be found but the standard of the goods tends to be a lot higher than the Night Bazaar which can put some visitors off with its abundance of cheap knock-offs.
For Thailand holidays 2011, keep space in your suitcase for trinkets and souvenirs to serve as unique mementos of your Chiang Mai holiday.
About the Author
Paul is a part of the digital blogging team at digitalcrosstalk.com who work with brands like Kuoni. For more information about me, or to keep up to date with the latest in travel news, check out my posts at digitalcrosstalk.com or visit my Twitter account, @dcrosstalk
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