Phuket Walking Street

Phuket Walking Street

By Unknown   8:38:00 PM   No comments:

Phuket Walking Street is the latest attraction featured in Phuket Old Town. Also-known-as Lardyai (talaad yai), which means ‘big market’ in southern Thai dialect, this weekly market started in October 2013 and is hosted on the beautifully renovated Thalang Road, right in the middle of the historical Sino-Portuguese district of Phuket Town.

Thalang is a 350m-long commercial and cosmopolitan street which hosts a mix of Baba (Chinese migrants settled in Phuket at the beginning of the 20th century during the tin mining era), Thai Muslim and Indian shops. Phuket Walking Street allows visitors to discover some typical southern Thai culinary specialties as well as local handicraft and gift stalls. This weekly event (every Sunday from 16:00 – 22:00) is definitely family-oriented with the presence of toy stalls and a (free-of-charge) trampoline to entertain the little ones.

The main entrance of Phuket Walking Street is on the eastern (Phuket Road) side of Thalang Road at which a superb wooden Chinese-style gate has been installed. The gate boasts a sign with LARDYAI written in three languages (Thai, Chinese, and English) and is a popular photo op. Thalang Road was one of the first Phuket Old Town streets along which electric cables were buried in 2012, in an effort to revive its vintage splendor. Thalang Road’s Baba house facades have even been further enhanced by the addition of colour-changing lighting effects – from blue to green to magenta - on many of the townhouses along the street, giving the place a ‘history meets technology’ feeling.

Phuket Old Town has always been a commercial hub, and nowadays, Thalang Road still hosts many shops selling fabrics/tissues, tools, sports equipment, clothes, and traditional medicines (the oldest drugstore in Phuket is located here) between coffee shops, restaurants and bars; it is indeed an active and lively street, and a great place for a Thai-style weekend market.

The two main items sold at Phuket Walking Street are food and souvenirs. Barbecued squid, chicken and pork are certainly the favorite dishes if you consider the number of stands selling them. Fruit juices, ice-creams and khanoms (Thai traditional sweets) are also very popular. There’s even a stall selling horse-shoe crabs, which is somewhat unusual. The international side of Phuket is represented as an original tuk-tuk sells beef and chicken burgers at the end of the street.

Some young Phuket entrepreneurs have started interesting T-shirt and handicraft businesses and at this open-air market they have an excellent window to promote and sell their products: T-shirts featuring stylized Sino-Portuguese architectural elements, knitted dolls, custom-made flip flops (customers pick the sole, top and decorative elements of their choice which are assembled on site), marinières (striped long-sleeve T-shirts, Jean-Paul Gaultier-style) and fancy jewelry, of which there is a good choice of cool and inexpensive items to browse through.

Summing up, Phuket Walking Street – Lardyai Phuket – is an attractive place to spend a late Sunday afternoon, and a good opportunity to discover charming Phuket Old Town in the best conditions possible.

Opening Hours: Every Sundays from 16:00 – 22:00

Location: Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town

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Jungceylon Shopping Mall in Patong

Jungceylon Shopping Mall in Patong

By Unknown   8:35:00 PM   No comments:

Standing downtown, diagonally opposite Bangla Road, the Jungceylon Shopping Complex has radically changed the face of shopping in Patong. The two main stores in the complex are Robinson - a gleaming well-lit upper end department store, and Big C supermarket.

The 200-plus other stores in this shopping heaven sell brand-name clothes, spectacles, sunglasses, cosmetics and perfumes, shoes, DVDs, computer games, tons of mobile phones and accessories, electrical goods but it is also a great entertainment haven with a five-room SF Cinema and a 16-lane bowling alley, perfect for rainy days or to escape the heat of the day.

Shopping Arcade

Downstairs at Jungceylon you can buy everything from a Kashmir-made rug to a facial massage. It's all cheerfully lit and open spaced and is designed to handle an estimated 45,000 shoppers daily - though this figure seems a little optimistic, given that Patong's official population is 14,700 (and swells to up to 60,000 in high season). Still, it's good to have enough elbow room while shopping.

Robinson

Robinson's downstairs majors in perfumes, cosmetics, watches and timepieces. The brand names featured here are Lancôme, Estée Lauder, Clinique, H20+, Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, Revlon and Paul Smith. The watches are mostly Japanese and are of middle-range quality. Upstairs, Robinson features women's shoes and accessories, and probably the biggest selection of women's underwear in Thailand – certainly the largest in Phuket. Further through is a very attractive child's clothing section which, predictably enough leads to the toy department. To one side here you will find an interesting collection of pewter goods; vases, cups, cigarette lighter covers and souvenir plaques as well as salt and pepper shakers, all at reasonable prices. You'll also find a household appliance department here as well as a sensibly priced men's shoe section – this appears to be a bargain area in Thailand and Robinson features shoes with labels such as Pierre Cardin, Lacoste, Matino, and Polo. 

Sport Shops

Near the main entrance there are two large sports shops almost next to each other: SuperSports and Sport World and so you're going to come out a winner simply by comparing prices in both. Both are on the left-hand side as you enter Jungceylon and of course Big C has a sports section. Also present in the complex is a Surfer's shop with all the necessary accessories.

Big C

The upstairs section of Big C is a neon-lit affair featuring sports accessories, TVs, digital cameras and computer accessories. Downstairs features a large food supermarket, a stand of magazines and DVDs and rows of household goods.

Location: Rat-u-thit 200 Pee Road, Patong, Kratu, Phuket

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Les Artisans d'Angkor in Siem Reap

Les Artisans d'Angkor in Siem Reap

By Unknown   11:03:00 PM   No comments:

A visit to Artisans d’Angkor is a must to get a deep insight into the remarkable skilled workmanship of traditional handicrafts in Cambodia.

It was established in 1998 as a subsidiary of the Chantiers-Écoles de formation professionnelle – a professional training school sponsored by the National Cambodian Institution, the European Union and the French Foreign Ministry to impart free vocational training in traditional Angkorian art forms to the country’s illiterate young people between the ages of 18 and 25.

Founded as a three-year project, Artisans d’Angkor later became a limited company and is now an independent institution providing employment to over 1,000 dedicated craftsmen in the region while nurturing Khmer arts and crafts.

Through its network of 13 workshops spread across more than 10 villages in Siem Reap province, Artisans d’Angkor recruits 50 to 60 young apprentices from rural areas and trains them to gain authentic knowledge on Cambodian handicrafts as well as secure a sustainable career in their home villages.

Artisans d’Angkor enjoys international recognition for the upscale artifacts that are the outcome of constant research, genuine materials and perfect color as well as texture choices. Its workshops and boutiques serve as a platform to procure authentic information on traditional Khmer techniques deployed for lacquering and gilding, wood and stone carving and silk painting. For instance, stone carving is done here with sandstone that has been used by artisans since centuries to carve out stunning stone sculptures. Likewise, wood is carefully chosen to ensure that the end product will take after woodwork seen in ancient structures and pagoda embellishments.

For silk paintings that depict the religious beliefs and poetic implications, the artisans d’Angkor uses special kind of colors made using natural pigments. Upon applying this color on the motif and finishing it with a paintbrush as well as India ink, a gloss whose key ingredient is a natural wax is applied on it to provide an appearance that is akin to murals found in prehistoric temples. Additionally, a specialty of these paintings is that they are primarily created by young deaf women who are part of the NGO Krousar Thmey – an organization that is committed to render assistance to deprived children in Cambodia.

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Vientiane Night Market

Vientiane Night Market

By Unknown   10:38:00 PM   No comments:

The Vientiane Night Market is aimed primarily towards tourists, with clean, orderly stalls, and all manner of merchandise that make great souvenirs or mementos. It all begins around sunset when a small army of sellers begin setting up their red-roofed stalls directly on the riverside promenade.

You can’t fail to see it. The whole riverside area is alive at this time with joggers and dog-walkers taking advantage of the cooling breezes and stunning backdrop of the sun lazily sinking into the Mekong river.

Products on offer are fairly typical of night markets throughout the region. You will find a predictable array of Buddhist-inspired paintings and knickknacks, cheap sunglasses, and Beer Lao T-shirts. The clothes stalls tend to be geared towards the backpacker market with fishermen pants and one-size-fits-all dresses and skirts. With only USD 10 in your pocket you can pick up at least a couple of products here, but, for bargain hunters, it’s worth mentioning that everything on offer here can be found at a slightly cheaper price at other markets. The traders seem to have whittled down all the best-sellers from the Morning Market and set them up in more attractive, and convenient, surroundings.

As with all tourist markets, English is widely spoken but be prepared to test your bargaining skills because initial prices are always inflated, and you should never accept the first price quoted. Most of the products can be found at several stalls so it helps to wander around to find the best price. A little perspective is advised when it comes to the negotiation process however, as the difference of a few thousand Kip is negligible when converted to foreign currency. Even if you have already stocked up on souvenirs and aren’t really planning to buy anything, an enjoyable few hours can be spent browsing and people watching down by the river. It seems to be the Laotians’ favourite pastime.

The one noticeable absence from the market is the lack of food stalls, but with Vientiane being so small there is pretty much every kind of food imaginable only a stone’s throw away. Return visitors may wistfully remember Vientiane before the construction of the promenade – named in honour of Chao Anouvong, the last king of Laos – when many ramshackle riverside bars and restaurants were propped up on stilts directly over the river, offering great sunset vistas, cold beer and fresh, grilled fish. Those days are long gone as the government decided to build a flood wall to protect the city, move restaurants away from the water’s edge to reduce the amount of trash being tossed into the river and generally make it a more communal area for everyone to enjoy.

Nowadays, instead of the riverside bars, there is a children’s playground, a Chinese shrine, a flower garden and an imposing statue of Chao Anouvong, pointing across the Mekong towards Thailand. It’s all part of the transition from sleepy colonial backwater to modern capital city that’s taking place in Vientiane. The Riverside Night Market is the most ascetically pleasing shopping experience to be found in Vientiane and the best place to find some interesting clothes or gifts without breaking the bank. All life seems to gravitate towards the market anyway, so it’s probable that even short-stay visitors will spend some time here.

Opening Hours: 18:00-22:00

Location: Riverside promenade, upstream from the Chao Anouvong statue.

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Chatuchak Market in Bangkok

Chatuchak Market in Bangkok

By Unknown   11:40:00 PM   No comments:

Once only popular among wholesalers and traders, Chatuchak Weekend Market has reached a landmark status as a must-visit place for tourists. Its sheer size and diverse collections of merchandise will bring any seasoned shoppers to their knees – this is where you can literally shop ‘till you drop’.

The 35-acre (68-rai) area of Chatuchak is home to more than 8,000 market stalls. On a typical weekend, more than 200,000 visitors come here to sift through the goods on offer. Veteran shoppers would agree that just about everything is on sale here, although not all at the best bargain rates. But if you have one weekend in Bangkok, squeeze in a day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market and you will not be disappointed.

For first-timers, ‘conquering’ Chatuchak may seem like an impossible task, but worry not. There is a system to help you navigate your way through Chatuchak. Inside, one main walkway encircles the entire market, and it branches off into a series of numbered alleyways called Soi 1, Soi 2, Soi 3, and so on.

These alleyways are grouped into sections, with 27 sections in all. You will find more than one category of goods contained in one section, and the same category of goods will appear again in the other sections. In terms of locating your category of goods, this system is rather useless; but it will come in handy when you try to locate your particular stall or where your exact location is on the Chatuchak map.

Another way to find your way around Chatuchak is to find points of reference as you go along. The BTS and MRT stations as well as banks and numbered entrance gates are good points of references, as you will come across them as you turn corners. Then again, use the map to locate these references to find your correct orientation.

If you can dream it up, Chatuchak probably has it. Here, you will be amazed at the sheer variety of merchandise, whether a Moroccan lamp, an antique wooden chest, a pair of vintage Levi’s jeans, or, on the exotic side, a python.

Although it’s impossible to name all, the selection of goods being offered at Chatuchak can be roughly divided into 11 categories:

• Clothing & Accessories (sections 2-6, 10-26)
• Handicrafts (sections 8-11)
• Ceramics (sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25)
• Furniture and Home Decoration (sections 1,3,4,7,8)
• Food and Beverage (sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27)
• Plants and Gardening tools (sections 3, 4)
• Art and Gallery (section 7)
• Pets and Pet Accessories (sections 8, 9, 11, 13)
• Books (sections 1, 27)
• Antiques and Collectibles (sections 1, 26)
• Miscellaneous and Used Clothing (sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26)

When buying goods at Chatuchak, particularly ‘antiques’, it is wise to exercise a few precautions. Check your goods thoroughly to see whether there is any damage, as many vendors sell factory rejects. For ‘antiques’, don’t trust the vendor when he tells you it is genuine. It’s better to bring along an expert, unless you are happy with what you are paying for. 

Bargaining Tips

Chatuchak Weekend Market is the perfect place for bargain hunting, although whatever you buy here is probably no longer the best deal you can find. So brush up your negotiation skills and be prepared to walk away when the deal fails to go your way. Then, you’ll either be offered a lower price or simply find the same merchandise at another stall. It also helps to do a few practice runs before you actually start buying. Note that a friendly attitude and big smile are your biggest allies in securing the best possible deal.  

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5 Best Shopping You Can Visit at Marina Bay

5 Best Shopping You Can Visit at Marina Bay

By Unknown   12:16:00 AM   No comments:

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Our list of the best shopping at Marina Bay focuses heavily on malls, one of Singapore’s many specialists. Everything thing about this area is new, sparkly and squeaky clean and the shopping options are no exception. The vast malls here go for modern convenience combined with high street and luxury brands. That means large open shopping spaces, bright and cool stores and easy access from MRT stations. Read on to discover our carefully chosen 5 best places to shop at Marina Bay in Singapore as following.

1. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

As part of Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands complex, this vast mall is home to hundreds of shops, world-class restaurants and some sophisticated cafes and bars. Even if you’re not a fan a trawling Singapore’s ever-expanding list of mega-malls, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is worth a look alone for its spectacular architecture, featuring giant glass windows, vast open atrium and a central water feature - all particularly pleasing on the eye. After shopping, wining or dining, visitors can venture up to the casino, observation deck, rooftop bar or restaurants which can all additionally be found at the Marina Bay Sands complex.

Opening Hours: 11:00 - 20:00

Address: 2 Bay front Avenue, Marina Bay Sands

Tel: +65 6688 8868

2. Marina Square

Conveniently located right by Singapore’s Marina Bay, this multi-purpose mall is a great place to come to shop, eat and be entertained. The large range of shops isn’t as extensive or exclusive as at the nearby ‘Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands’; however, you’ll inevitably find cheaper prices at this slightly older mall. What we really love about Marina Square is its dining options – particularly the food court at the top. After doing all of your shopping, head up to the fourth floor to grab some cheap and tasty food from around the world whilst enjoying the stunning views over the bay through huge windows. Elsewhere, Marina Square also boasts a cinema and a 10-lane bowling alley.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 - 22:00

Address: 6 Raffles Boulevard

Tel: +65 6339 8787          

3. Esplanade Mall

Although the futuristic Esplanade building is better known for its theaters and live shows, this vast lifestyle complex also includes a whole host of great shopping options. Specializing more in the way of arts, crafts and home ware, shopping at Esplanade presents a nice change of pace, compared to the more frantic mega-malls Singapore so proudly boasts. Be sure to check out The Naturalist Grandeur for their great range of oils and perfumes, Maestro Guitars & Ukuleles for musical supplies and Csar Luxe for some rather swanky French home ware. You can reach the shops, theaters and restaurants by going to Esplanade MRT Station, just a minute or two away from Marina Bay. 

Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 till 02:00 (shop times differ)


Address: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981 

Tel: +65 6828 8377

4. Suntec City Mall

As one of Singapore’s largest malls, Suntec City is home to around 300 shops, a cinema, gym, a games arcade and a huge central fountain – the largest of its type in the world. As for the shopping opportunities, visitors will find a great variety of fashion, lifestyle, electronics, home ware and cosmetics stores spread over four spacious floors. In the evening, the fountain – or to give it its proper title: The Fountain of Wealth – lights up, creating a spectacular show. You can find it at the very center of this huge retail and lifestyle complex. 

Opening Hours: 10:00 - 22:00

Address: 5 Temasek Blvd

Tel: +65 6825 2668

5. Millenia Walk

Millenia Walk is a mid-sized mall sandwiched between the larger Suntec City and Marina Square malls near the Marina Bay. Although you’ll find a decent range of outlets and restaurants, Millenia Walk’s biggest selling point is its convenient location, accessible directly from Promenade MRT. There are plenty of high street names as well as a good few one-of-a-kind bespoke fashion stores such as Ed Et Al, Rossi, Mr Bulli & sons and Van Laack. The solid dining options include cuisines from around the world: for French, try Wine Universe Restaurant or find Vietnamese and Thai cuisines at Madam Saigon and Ruby respectively.

Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 - 22:00

Address: 9 Raffles Boulevard

Tel: +65 6883 1122

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Things You Can Buy in Cambodia

Things You Can Buy in Cambodia

By Unknown   10:53:00 PM   No comments:

Encouraged by the government and aid organisations, local people are rediscovering their natural talent as weavers and craftsmen. A number of rehabilitation programs have sprung up since the eighties such as the gift shop at Wat Thanh in Phnom Penh, a co-op that trains Cambodians disabled by landmines in making attractive items out of silk and cotton fabrics, rattan, bamboo, wood and clay. The result is a pleasing selection of purses and handbags, clothing, furnishings, paintings and many other items.

1. Antiques

The sale and export of registered antique pieces is strictly forbidden. This, alas, has not prevented thousands of priceless artifacts from Angkor being stolen over the years, and sold overseas. Because of this and protective laws, you are unlikely to come across genuine antiques openly on sale in Cambodia. 

2. Basket Weaving

Carried out mainly by women, many of whom cultivate and harvest the reeds by themselves, it is also an important aspect of rehabilitation programs for victims of landmines. The dexterity of the local people is beautifully reflected in products of all kinds, including baskets, bowls, plates, and many other useful items. 

3. Betel Nut Boxes

These cute containers once reflected the status of their user according to its size, design and the material from which it was made. Mostly of silver, many carry ornate designs, and are often crafted into animal shapes. Originals usually contain a higher quantity of silver, but the newly manufactured varieties are still handmade, and a careful choice can provide you with attractive souvenirs or thoughtful lightweight gifts. 

4. Cotton T-Shirts

Some very cheap and amusing designs are available, which make excellent small gifts or souvenirs. 

5. Custom Made Tailoring

Following the lead of Bangkok's ubiquitous and often over-persuasive purveyors of made-to-measure clothes, ready in a day or even less, there are now many tailor shops opening in Phnom Penh. Tailors will happily copy from a photo or from a sample in your suitcase. 

6. Gold and Gems

24-carat gold is used for most pieces in the Chinese tradition with prices fluctuating with the daily market value. Jewelry tends to be simple and unsophisticated, and although locally mined precious stones – especially rubies, sapphires and emeralds – can make excellent buys, beware of the increasing numbers of fakes. Lacquer ware Most pieces originate in Vietnam, or are made locally by expatriate Vietnamese craftsmen. Local markets normally have a good supply, and the prices are often more competitive (with suitable bargaining) than in the markets of Vietnam. 

7. Rice Paper Prints ('Temple Rubbings')

A lightweight, decorative, inexpensive and attractive buy, made by placing rice paper over a mould taken from a bas-relief carving from one of the Angkor temples and lightly rubbing over it with soft charcoal. When framed and suitably illuminated, they can look superb. 

8. Silver

Silver was prized in the 11th century for religious and ceremonial purposes. With Cambodia's tourism industry expanding, numerous silver shops have sprung up in Phnom Penh, selling carved decorative and practical items. Other outlets are in village center such as Tul Mau, roughly 30km north of the city. The normal working material is an alloy containing 70-80% of pure silver, and prices are based on a combination of weight and artistry, which puts bargaining skills to a good test. 

9. Sculptured Reproductions

Cambodia has excellent reproductions and copies available at reasonable prices. The intrinsic skill of craftsmen – using the same locally mined stone used to build the ancient temples – produces sculptures of such quality that, with artificially induced weathering, have even fooled some experts. There are also bronze copies of small statues, Buddha figures, heads and apsaras for sale. These can be exported freely, but if you pass through Thailand on the way home, remember that the export of Buddha figures from that country is not allowed. 

10. The Krama

The krama is the typical and ubiquitous locally worn chequered scarf. Uniquely Khmer; inexpensive, and immensely practical. 

11. Weaving Silk

Weaving Silk in Cambodia is still handmade using traditional methods with the pattern dyed into the threads before the silk is woven, thus the task of dying and weaving a single piece can take several weeks. Older silk pieces (pre-1970) are increasingly prized.Weavers can be seen in action at the historic silk centre of Koh Dach outside Phnom Penh. Some nice handiwork comes from Kompong Cham, Takeo and Kandal provinces. 

12. Wood Carving

A traditional, if sometimes heavy, addition to your baggage allowance are carved wooden apsaras (nymphs), and a variety of other attractive and decorative wooden items, including furniture, which can be shipped home. Since the quality and maturity of the wood dictates its value as much as the handiwork, care in selection is needed, especially for more expensive items, so shop around. 

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Phnom Penh Central Market

Phnom Penh Central Market

By Unknown   8:57:00 PM   No comments:

Phnom Penh Central Market

Central Market - also referred to as Phsah Thmei, meaning ‘New Market’ - is one of the major landmarks in Phnom Penh. Whether you’re a shopping enthusiast who wants to gauge your haggling skills or a tourist interested to be a part of bustling crowd or just want to explore the amazing architectural wonders of the city, then Central Market is a place not to miss out during your stay in the city.

Designed by Desbois and erected in Art Deco style, Central Market was the largest of its kind in Asia when it was opened in 1937 during the French colonial era. This expansive market actually stands on former swampland. Recently, Central Market underwent a renovation with funds from the French Developmental Agency and was reopened in 2011.

Central Market is truly an engineering marvel that largely reflects traditional Southeast Asian architecture featuring an enormous yellow-painted central dome with four wings extending to huge hallways, each of which teems with an array of shopping stalls. In fact, the major plus point of this lively market is its well shielded, properly ventilated structure that enables both sellers and buyers to engage in the trade while not being affected by monsoon rain or blazing heat.

Speaking of the items sold here, they are almost endless with a wide assortment of goods, from men and women’s clothing, jewelry, gemstones, flowers and shoes to souvenirs and food items such as seafood, spices and vegetables. Just name a product, and it’ll be readily available here. On the eastern side of the building is the main entrance where you’ll come across shops that have items such as ornaments, T-shirts and souvenirs on sale. Likewise, head over to the market’s central area that holds numerous jewel stores, gold as well as silver jewelry collections.

Further, the market has a slew of shops that especially deal in electronics, clothing and second-hand items at incredibly cheap prices. Above all, don’t forget to sample the distinctive food items available here. One of the specialty dishes is the creamy coconut pudding that is particularly great to relish on a hot muggy day.

Opening Hours: from 05:00 – 17:00

Location: At the meeting point of Kampuchea Krom and Street 63

Remarks: Its southwest door leads you to a bus stand while the northwest to a taxi rank.

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Sorya Shopping Centre

Sorya Shopping Centre

By Unknown   8:37:00 PM   No comments:

Sorya Shopping Centre was the first Shopping Mall to open in Phnom Penh 2003 and caused a sensation among the locals when it opened as they had never seen escalators before. The Mall is still one of the most popular malls among the young Cambodians.

Sorya is located just one block south of Central Market on Street 63 and has five floors of shopping. The supply at Sorya does not differ that much from the supply at Central Market but it is indoor with air-condition.

Lucky Supermarket is placed on the ground floor of the mall, City Mart Sports Supply is on the 4th floor and the top floor is dedicated to entertainment including Sabay Cineplex.

SORYA SHOPPING CENTER'S LOCATION

Sorya Shopping Center is located on Street 63 (Trasak Paem) with house number #13-61 in Phsar Thmei 2 Commune , Daun Penh District

SORYA SHOPPING CENTER'S CONTACT INFORMATION

023210018

016700001

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Where We Can Go Shopping in Bagan

Where We Can Go Shopping in Bagan

By Unknown   2:07:00 AM   No comments:

Because Bagan is an ancient city, it is not the place for modern shopping centres or spacious malls. While these major establishments may be absent, there are still many stores in Bagan that interested shoppers can visit. The quality of the products is good, and the prices are reasonable and shoppers can haggle for even lower prices. While clothes and other common items are sold in Bagan, most stores carry a wide selection of arts and crafts. Myanmar is a country of artisan families, and traditional skills are passed on from one generation to the next.

Of all the handicrafts in Myanmar, the most distinctive of all is lacquer ware. It is the most widely produced and used; most households in the country use lacquer ware as everyday objects. In central Myanmar, the centre of lacquerware manufacturing is Bagan. In Myinkaba Village alone, about 600 households manufacture lacquer ware. In the past, Burmese royalty gave lacquer objects to foreign emissaries as gifts and today, visitors need not be an emissary to get their hands on quality lacquer ware because many stores sell it in Bagan.

Chan Thar Lacquerware Workshop

Like the Golden Bagan, the Chan Thar Lacquer ware Workshop is also a highly recommended shopping destination. Shoppers will not be disappointed in this place as the store carries an extensive selection of lacquer ware, and their collection includes everything from kitchenware (plates, cups, etc) to ornamental pieces (jewelry boxes) to furniture.

Location: Main Road, Myin Ka Par, Bagan.

Ever Stand Lacquerware Workshop

Ever Stand Lacquer ware Workshop is another good store to visit in Bagan when it comes to lacquer ware. The wide selection is impressive and the prices are budget-friendly. You’ll probably be enticed to purchase at least one piece because of the sheer beauty of the items sold, which include water jars and vases.

Location: Between Old Bagan & Nyaung Oo.,Wetkyi-in Village.

Golden Bagan Lacquerware Shop

The Golden Bagan Lacquer ware Shop is included in the list of the best lacquer ware stores in Bagan and like other souvenir shops in Bagan, this one presents the consumers with a wide range of items to choose from. From something as small as a cup to bigger items like treasure chests, the Golden Bagan delivers the best when it comes to lacquer ware.

Location: Khaye Main Road, New Bagan.

Golden Cuckoo Lacquerware Workshop

Visitors in search of lacquerware can go to the Golden Cuckoo, one of Bagan's most notable sources of the product. The family-run workshop, which has been around for four generations, displays their best pieces in front of the store: cups, bowls, plates and trays. The proprietors of the shop speak English, and are willing to demonstrate the process of lacquer making to interested tourists.

Location: Myin Ka Par Village, Bagan.

Moe Moe Family Lacquerware

The Moe Moe Family Lacquer ware Workshop is an important shopping destination for consumers who are serious about lacquer ware. Here, you will find both traditional and modern pieces in the spacious showroom. The factory is very busy during the day, but proprietors can still show how the lacquer is created step by step.

Opening Hours: 09:00-21:00

Location: Main Road, Ywar Thit Quarter, New Bagan.

Shwe La Yaung Lacquer ware Shop and Store

The people behind the Shwe La Yaung Lacquer ware Shop and Store know that there is more to lacquer ware than just functionality. The intricately designed merchandise of this shopping destination also tells stories, often those of love and astrology (a prominent feature of their lacquer ware is the mythical bird named Hintha). The store's best-selling products include small finger bowls and bucket-sized betel-nut canisters.

Location: South Quarter, Myinkaba, Bagan.

Shwe War Thein Handicrafts Shop

Shwe War Thein is considered as one of the best souvenir shops in the region. This shopping destination is the place to go for truly exquisite items. Its merchandise includes puppets (antique and new), wood carvings, chess sets, lacquer ware, bronze pieces and gems. The staff members are passionate about the products they sell, but customers will never feel pressure to buy.

Opening Hours: 07:00-21:00

Location: East of Tharabar Gate, Taung Be Village, Old Bagan.

Tun Handcrafted Lacquerware

Yet another lacquer ware store that is a recommended stop for all Bagan shoppers is Tun Handcrafted Lacquer ware. The handmade artifacts in this store include lacquer ware to be used as accessories or for home decoration. Visitors will be impressed by the many kinds of items found in this well-known Bagan store.

Location: 6/1 Khan Laung Quarter.

U Ba Nyein Lacquerware Workshop

Just like Moe Moe, the U Ba Nyein Lacquer ware Workshop has a large showroom to display the best items they have to offer. Everything from plates to cups, ashtrays to vases, jewelry boxes and furniture (lacquer tables and chairs) can be found here.

Opening Hours: 09:00-21:00

Location: Main Road, Myo Thit, Bagan.

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