Filipino Expats Blog in Thailand

When it comes to handicrafts, textiles and garments, jewelry, art and antiques, Bangkok will never fail to make it to any shopping guru’s top five list. And so, in order to assist those who have money to spend on their trip to the Land of Smiles, we have our own top five must-shop-in places to assist your appetite for shopping.

These places were chosen for those who are looking for ‘something Thai’ to take on their way back home. We steered away from the upscale shopping centers, so you go home with tons of artistically made products to show your friends back home, without you ending up spending half of your life savings away!

CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET

Number 1, of course, is the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is most convenient to get to from the Morchit Sky Train station, and two subway stations, Chatuchak Park and Kamphaeng Phet . This is said to be Asia’s biggest outdoor market, and by that, you expect to get lost in here; the biggest and the best place in Bangkok to look for just about anything, with market stalls that spread over 35 acres (14 hectares) of Bangkok’s inner northern suburbs.

Chatuchak is yours to enjoy only on weekends. The best time to go there is Saturday early morning, around 8ish. This should give you plenty of time to roam around, when it is not yet unbearably hot, and when there are not that many shoppers yet. We recommend you do not go there anymore, if your only time left is late afternoon on a Sunday, unless you are prepared to just about take off your clothes under the heat, and to get squashed between so many other shopping bodies, trying their best at last minute shopping.

To make the most of your time, list down your top five items of must-sees. It’s best also, if you bring along a picture of those very items to show to sellers as you try to find your way around. Since not everyone speaks English in Thailand, the pictures will save you your breath and your time, trying your darnedest to explain to everyone in your best English what it is you are looking for.

And when it gets too hot outside, you can always traipse down to JJ (Jatujak/Chatuchak) Mall, where you can find some items on sale in an air conditioned, and less crowded shopping environment. Just be prepared to pay a bit more though.

Many orchid lovers from all over visit Chatuchak for its wide selection of Thailand orchids. And to assist shoppers who buy in bulk, they have stores that readily give out certificates/documents so you won’t have any problems at the airport when you fly out with your choice orchids.

And for those buying furniture and other big items, there are numerous forwarding companies such as DHL, on the ready to ship the center table you fell in love with while shopping your way in Bangkok.

A lifesaver when you are out in the middle of Thailand’s shopping jungle: a bottle of water. Never forget to always have one at hand. During the hottest season in Bangkok, which is from February to April, temperatures can get to as much as 35degrees centigrade.  For comfort, dress in shorts, or other light clothing. You might want to throw in some sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and flip flops as well.

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Selection Criteria, Process and Scoring

Introduction

The annual Award is given to outstanding migrant Filipino workers in Thailand in recognition of their: 1) outstanding professional and personal achievements that give honor to the Filipino people and country; 2) unstinting dedication and commitment in service of humanity, especially the less privileged and marginalized segments of Thai society; 3) distinguished contributions in fostering closer relationship between Filipino and Thai individuals, groups and societies at large; and 4) exemplary life integrating their faith with their personal life, profession and service according to Gospel truths. In essence, these are outstanding individuals who have made a significant difference in the lives of others.

Instituted in 2009, the first recipient was Dr. Dominica P. Garcia who distinguished herself in helping the poor, refugees, prisoners and other less privileged people in Thailand, Cambodia and Laos through her medical profession and altruistic service.

1. Selection Criteria

The proposed ten (10) criteria consist of three clusters, namely: 1) demographic profile, 2) character and qualities, and 3) achievements.

1. Demographic Profile

a. Filipino migrant worker (This criterion includes existing Filipino migrant workers and Filipinos married to non-Filipinos and are now living or working in Thailand)

b. Filipino citizen/nationality (This criterion covers Filipinos working and living in Thailand who have changed their citizenship by virtue of marriage, etc.)

More details here