Ibrahim Jabbari
If shopping is your game then Bo Bae should be the name on your lips. This is the place to visit if you’ve got an extra suitcase to fill and don’t want to spend a fortune. It’s rather like the more famous Pratunam Market: a centre of wholesale clothing. It’s been running for over 30 years, and there are over 1,000 shops within the Bo Bae Tower.
Head outside to the open-air market along Padung Krung Kasem canal for even more bargains. There’s everything you could possibly imagine here, from wigs to diamante flip flops. Don’t have enough luggage allowance? Shipping services are also available for those who want to send packages back home.
How to get there
Bobae Market is near Yotse Bridge and is located directly on Krung Kasem Road. If you’re OK on public transport, try taking the BTS to National Stadium. From there, Bobae Market is a 10 minutes drive or a twenty minute stroll.
What’s on sale
Bobae Market is pretty much a clothes and textile shopper’s paradise. With a variety of styles to choose from, in addition to good quality fabrics at amazing prices, Bobae should be on the top of any clothes horse or clothing trader’s list. In addition, Bobae has a fantastic selection of fun jewelry that is some of the cheapest I’ve seen in Thailand, especially if you buy in bulk.
What prices to expect
We’re looking at rock bottom prices here: you’ll usually have to buy in multiples but can occasionally persuade a shop owner to sell you a single piece. For a set of three dresses, I’ve seen as low as 550 baht. That’s a steal.
Newbie tip
Don’t miss out on Bobae Market’s food selection: yes, they have a variety of delicious Halal Food, but they also have an incredible selection of fresh fruits and vegetables that are, of course, native to Thailand.
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
