Like most places frequented by tourists in Thailand, Krabi also has lots to offer to the shopping enthusiasts. There are high-end, latest department stores and supermarkets like Vogue on Maharaj Road, as well as the medium-level shops selling anything from clothes and handicrafts to electronics and souvenirs.

A visit to the local market located between Phruksauthit Road and Maharaj Road is highly entertaining, with its colorful displays and lively atmosphere. All the fresh produce, including fish, from the areas in and around Krabi are brought here for sale. It is a treat for all the senses. The market starts the day’s trading early in the morning and by 10, it almost gets over.

Krabi has active night markets at Maharaj Soi 8 and near the river at Khongkha Road. Here you will find a variety of fruits including Durian – a large fruit that smells like hell and tastes like heaven. You can also taste the cheap Thai food, sweets and drinks here.

Ao Nang also offers similar shopping facilities as Krabi. Here you will find more tourists than in Krabi Town. Just behind the beach, there is a row of shops selling essential items. The Beach Plaza, which is a kilometer away on the road to Nopparattara Beach, provides more shopping opportunities. It has a variety of products including branded clothing, toiletries and electronic items. Here you also have the pleasure of experimenting with a wide range of cuisines from Thai to Western.

Advice to shoppers

Department stores and many other shops stick to fixed prices for their products. However, bargaining is acceptable and expected in most other shops. It is an enjoyable experience for both shoppers and shopkeepers. So get ready for long sessions at shops for maximum satisfaction. While buying jewelry and gem, keep the following points in mind to avoid disappointments.

• Visit few shops and compare the pricing to get a fair deal.
• Make sure that you are given a receipt of goods and verify that it is correct. This is important for future reference.
• Never do shopping through agents or newly acquired friends. They may be paid commission from the amount you pay for the item, which hikes up the price unnecessarily.
• Jewelry once sold is not taken back. Some shops do so after deducting up to 30% of the price. Even this is done within the time limit specified. If the shop owner is offering a 100% buyback, that too through overseas embassies or consulates, do not believe them. It is better to stay from such shops as the chances of getting duped is very high.
• For other items, the reputed shops give a written agreement for 100% refund within 90 days of purchase. Do not buy from shops that refuse to comply with this.
• Shops operating from hotel premises, charge more than outside shops for the same items. This is due to high rentals they pay. However, for those who are short of time, it is a convenient way of shopping.