A shopping feast awaits...
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OTOP is the brand of products under the 'One Tambon* One Product' project, a nationwide sustainable development initiative launched by the Thai government in 2001. It aims to promote the unique products made by local communities, by utilising their indigenous skills and craftsmanship combined with available natural resources and raw materials. The Thai government provides communities with valuable assistance with regard to product development and opportunities to market products in a global arena. This project is also an important way to preserve traditional skills and ancient Thai heritage, which have been passed down through generations. OTOP offers an extensive range of exquisite handicrafts, quality agricultural products, food, beverages, gems, jewelry, textile, garments and so much more. Major OTOP trade fairs are held twice annually in Bangkok (and we, of course, will keep you posted), but you can also visit any of the permanent OTOP outlets listed below.
(*Each of Thailand's 76 provinces is subdivided into 'amphoes' or districts, which again consist of 'tambons' or sub-districts.)
OTOP permanent outlets in Bangkok
OTOP Shop at Thailand Export Mart: 6th Floor, Thailand Export Mart, 22/77 Ratchadapisek Rd., Chatuchak. Contact: +66 (0)2 511 527984 Opening hours: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:00, Sat 09:00 - 18:00
Army Wives Handicraft / OTOP Centre: Located in front of the Army Welfare Building, Sri Ayuthaya Rd., Seesao-Thewet, Dusit Contact: +66 (0)2 280 4269| Opening hours: Mon - Fri 08:00 - 16:00 (closed on public holidays)
Cooperative Promotion Department's OTOP Centre: Ground Floor, The Cooperatives Division Department, Krung Kasem Rd., Thewet, Phra Nakorn Contact: +66 (0)22813095 Opening hours: Mon - Fri 08:00 - 16:00 (closed on public holidays)
OTOP Plaza at Pratunam Centre: Pratunam Centre, 555 Pratunam Junction, Ratchaprarop Rd Contact: +66 (0)2 309 8888| Opening hours: Daily 10:00 - 10:00
Over the past few years various design disciplines in Thailand have emerged to make Bangkok one of the best places in Asia to shop for household goods, contemporary furniture, home furnishings and decorative items. In fact, the city is fast becoming a 'style capital'. A great selection of malls, fine hotels, beautifully-designed restaurants and bars are silent proof of the creative talents of Thai people that have evolved to keep up-to-date with the latest worldwide trends.
With shopping on the agenda, also have a look at our malls and markets sections with a listing of the city's best offerings, and for variation there are some exciting nightlife happenings. And once you've satisfied your shopping and fun urges, spoil yourself with a pampering session at one of Bangkok's heavenly spas...
Over the past few years various design disciplines in Thailand have emerged to make Bangkok one of the best places in Asia to shop for household goods, contemporary furniture, home furnishings and decorative items. In fact, the city is fast becoming a 'style capital'. A great selection of malls, fine hotels, beautifully-designed restaurants and bars are silent proof of the creative talents of Thai people that have evolved to keep up-to-date with the latest worldwide trends. |