Shopping-mad Bangkok is fertile ground for this sin of excess. Second only to Buddhism, consumerism or materialism (or whatever 'ism' you like to call it) is the creed most of the city now lives by. With more disposable incomes than ever, few Bangkok dwellers come Saturday morning can be found heading to the temple - instead, most are flocking to malls or markets.
Do as they normally do and begin at malls. Air-conditioned and, in this era of globalization, immediately familiar, they're the perfect place to work up an unhealthy appetite for acquiring. If you've been happy up to now saying no to greed, ask yourself why the glowing masses sporting shopping bags full of fresh purchases look doubly contented? That settled, proceed to shop like crazy. If you're a brand-junky or fashionista wielding some real spending power, go for classy: Siam Paragon, Gaysorn or the Emporium. For the closest thing to a market brought inside the mall, head for MBK and hone those bargaining skills to perfection while purchasing jeans, handbags or electronics. And those coveting anything computer-related, best head for Panthip Plaza.
Those with small budgets but avaricious appetites, will find even more bang for their baht at a market, such as the biggest, Chatuchak Weekend Market. Here you'll find fashion, jewellery, Thai crafts and many other irresistible items at equally irresistible prices. OTOP outlets too are perfect for those hungry for exotic, hand-made items you'll never ever find back home.
And before going to one of the city's many sales or year-round shopping promotions, take note of what medieval theologian, Thomas Acquinas, once said: "One cannot abound in external riches, without another man lacking them." Once you've digested that reflective statement, get grasping for all the bargains, employing firm elbows and quick hands as you go!
If your truly greedy your work won't be done here. Go seek out Envy, Lust, Pride, Gluttony, Anger and Sloth. |
