|
Pratunam is northeast of the Chao Phaya River and the mecca of wholesale and retail bargain shopping in Bangkok. Central World Plaza, Pratunam Market, Bayoke Sky Hotel, Pantip Plaza, and Suan Pakkard Palace are the top spots to visit here.
This is the center of the garment district, and night brings an explosion of street stalls crowding every bit of free space available. Modern, air-conditioned shopping malls have sprouted up amid the long-established street shops that have been around seemingly forever. Pratunam Market contains several buildings and many floors of wholesale and retail fashion outlets where you're sure to find bargains in air-conditioned comfort. If you have time and patience, and are dedicated to the sport of shopping, welcome to heaven.
For electronics and computer shoppers, the huge Pantip Plaza mall is stuffed full of every type of electronic gear. You'll also find bootleg software, DVDs, computer games, and more.
On a clear day, head for the Bayoke Sky Hotel, Thailand's tallest building. Pay the small fee and ride up to the observation decks on the 77th and 84th floors for a dramatic view of Bangkok and the surrounding area. The restaurant at the top is a great place to enjoy a drink or meal in an amazing setting.
For a change of pace and a bit of tranquility in this bustling area, visit Suan Pakkard Palace, also known as the Lettuce Farm Palace. The former home of Princess Chumbhot, one of Thailand's foremost gardeners and art collectors, there is a lot to see here. The landscaped gardens feature Thai and foreign specimens, and the art collections housed in antique Thai houses include a lacquer pavilion with an impressive Ayutthaya period mural in gold leaf.
Along the southern border of the Pratunam area along Rama I Road is Central World Plaza. Reputedly the biggest shopping mall in Asia, you'll find major retailers, designer boutiques, restaurants, a supermarket, and much more here.
The area is not accessible by SkyTrain or MRT subway, but taxis and tuk tuks are plentiful and cheap. For a change of pace, try a water taxi on the Klong Saen Saep. You can hop on at the intersection of Rajadamri and Phetburi and ride all the way to the river for a great view of Bangkok and a glimpse into the way life used to be in this Venice of the East. |
