Street vendors often seem to be on every street corner showing you their goods (with a calculator in one hand) from silk scarves, hammocks and sarongs to laser pens etc. If you are interested in any of the wares you find, then it is time to start bargaining, If you are not interested in what is on offer, simply smile and continue on your way.

Antiques Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Khmer antiques are excellent buys. Certain categories of antiques are restricted, particularly Buddha images. Others pieces may require an export license, but any reputable dealer will be able to advise you the appropriate restrictions and necessary documentation.

Gems Throughout Thailand, coloured gemstones such as rubies and sapphires are readily available. Many other varieties of coloured stones can be found here as well.

Clothing Thailand is one of the world's leading manufacturers of ready-to-wear clothing. Fashion boutiques are found in every shopping mall, while cheaper clothing such as T-shirts and jeans are available at bargain prices from street vendors and stores alike. Custom tailoring is also very affordable and tailors can produce most styles promptly. Then of course there are the 'designer label' copies, that frustrate the designers themselves but are a dream come true for many bargain hunters.

Furniture Rattan and rosewood furniture items are available in many designs and styles. They can also be made to order in some shops in Krabi. Arrangements for oversea shipment are often available at the place of purchase.

Nielloware Practiced in southern Thailand for hundreds of years nielloware is the craft of decorating gold and silver objects with delicate etched designs filled with a metal inlay. Nielloware trays, boxes, vases and other items are often strikingly beautiful and because they are created from precious metals can be of great value. They are excellent examples of souvenirs unique to southern Thailand.

Orchids Thailand is famous for its huge variety of orchids. Their magnificent colours and beauty make them a popular purchase. Specially packaged flowers, complete with water supply are readily available for the long journey home and can be conveniently purchased in many locations including the Gift Shops in the international airports.

Pewter ware Pewter is fashioned with great skill by Thai craftsmen, the smooth, silky finish of this attractive alloy is enhanced by delicate decorative relief. Pewter ware items include plates, boxes, vases and pocket flasks and are available in many shops throughout Krabi.

Silk Probably the most famous of all the kingdom's handicrafts, Thai silk is available in a range of colors, patterns and plys. It is sold by the yard or as ready-made clothing and souvenir items. A unique style of Thai silk is Mat Mee, a tie-dye silk traditional to the North-East.

Shopping on PHI PHI

Phi Phi has a wide selection of goods for sale though most items are more expensive than anything you will find on 'mainland' Thailand. As with shopping elsewhere in the country, taking time out to shop at leisure is important and if you have time to practice your bargaining skills you will more than likely be happy with the final price.

Shopping on Koh Lanta

There's not much in the way of shopping on the islands belonging to the Lanta group. If you do plan on making major purchases it's probably best saved till you get back to 'mainland' Thailand somewhere, such as Krabi town itself, where there are seemingly endless choices and the prices will be cheaper anyway