A guide to shopping in Samui
By Kirsty Turner
Beach apparel is sold by vendors everywhere
Whether you are looking for seashell souvenirs, cheap copies of designer gear or a deadly Chinese throwing star, you’re sure to find it on Koh Samui. The island is divided into particular areas, with each offering something different.
Samui Island truly is a shopper’s paradise and once you arrive, it’s time to indulge in some retail therapy. Check out the night and day markets for the best bargains in town and don’t forget to negotiate the price – politely, of course.
Most visitors are drawn to the large area of Samui known as Chaweng, which can be a great place for shopping, especially in the evening when the drop in temperature and cool breeze make this a good time for trying on clothing. As you walk along Chaweng’s central beach road you will find a multitude of small shops and stalls nestled among the loud neon signs of bars and restaurants.
Take your time and feel free to stop and sort through the colourful collections of clothing, jewellery, and other souvenirs. Although you won’t find the cheapest prices on the island here, you can’t beat Chaweng for sheer convenience and you will be amazed by the variety of goods as you spy giant insects displayed alongside Buddhist trinkets and elaborately carved wooden elephants. The vendors are very used to tourists and you can strike up some interesting conversations.
Another good place to pick up a bargain or two is Lamai. Although this area has fewer shops than loud and proud Chaweng, prices tend to be slightly lower and this is a great place to pick up souvenirs such as magnets, bracelets and shell jewellery. Most of the shops here are clustered along the beach road and on the main road around Ban Lamai.
Many people head to tranquil Bophut for fresh fish, but the winding lanes of the fisherman’s village also contain shops selling interesting and unique furniture. The shops here are all within walking distance of each other.
For a memorable shopping experience, visit one of the local markets early in the morning, just after sunrise. This is a great way to get an insight into local life and also snag the best bargains. The markets are particularly lively when the haul from the fishermen is being brought in at around 05:00 or 06:00.
Tailors offer fine silk garments
There is also a night market that spans Cheweng’s beach road. Here you will find everything from Thai boxing shorts for men to counterfeit Louis Vuitton handbags for women. The market can get busy after dark so be prepared to shuffle along at a slow pace if you are keen to pick up bargains.
If you want a cheap bite to eat and some real local flavour, check out the island’s other night markets. Not only can you find meals at a fraction of the restaurant price, you can also buy tasty treats to take away. One favourite place to try out is the temple night market at Bophut, where Thai style noodles, insects and desserts are all readily available.
Samui is also a great place to buy gems. This area of Thailand contains a wealth of precious and semi-precious stones such as sapphires, rubies, jade, onyx and zircon. Another speciality of this tropical paradise is the rich supply of creamy Mobe pearls, which come in a range of colours from classic creamy white to black.
While you are at the jewellery shop, take advantage of the cheap prices and local talent to have something designed especially for you. The clever jewellers can create any design you desire, or create an entirely original design to your specifications.
Another area to check out is Maenam, which has a modest collection of shops in among the restaurants and trendy cafés. Here you will find some great teak and Asian style furniture, all available to be shipped anywhere you desire.
Samui’s stunning natural vistas tempt artists from around the globe to pick up their pencils and brushes and try to capture the unique beauty of the southern shores. Whether you are an avid art collector or just have an eye for beauty, step into one of the island’s galleries and be amazed at the talent on display.
Most local people do their shopping in Nathon town, and you are guaranteed to find the best deals here. Not only will you find plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, this is also a great place to buy Thai silk, which comes in a spectacular range of colours and patterns and is made into a multitude of gifts and garments such as shirts, shorts, trousers, bags and even belts.
Nathon is situated on the west coast of Samui and is blessed with some of the island’s best sunsets. Dinner and a drink at sunset make the perfect end to any Samui shopping trip. Nathon is also a great place to buy shoes and copied designer label wear. Thais are very good with their hands and there are numerous stalls selling souvenirs crafted from coconut and other local materials.
A great way to get an original keepsake is to select a ream of the silk you prefer and take it to a tailor’s shop to transform into a stunning suit, all for a fraction of the price you’d pay back home. Tailors are mostly found in the busier resorts and can produce clothing in just 24 hours though you should allow for three days for something special.
Regardless of where you choose to shop in Samui, you will have fun practicing your bargaining skills with the locals as you barter for a reasonable price.
