Ao Nang Shopping Guide

Everything you need to know about shopping in Ao Nang

Shopping is excruciating enough in an air-conditioned mega-mall. It would be inhumane, impossible, even torturous, under the tropical sun. Wait for the sunshades to retract, the umbrellas to fold, and the sun to retreat.

Bargain without being under the influence of sunstroke. During all of your wheeling and dealing, don't forget to bring your smile - it's the best bargaining tool you have.

Shops in Ao Nang

Ao Nang doesn't have any department stores, just small shops selling lots of beach gear - snorkelling equipment, beach mats, sarongs, transfer tattoos, sun cream, hats - as well as DVDs, jewellery, and souvenirs ranging from quirky T-shirts to knives to authentic Thai handicrafts.

Nearly as ubiquitous as tailors, but lacking the overbearing salesmanship, Ao Nang's artists put on a good show of their talents in the many galleries-slash-studios. Often composed of arresting colours, dramatic lines, and subjects borrowed from classic moments in Western pop culture, Thailand is the easily the best place to pick up a hand-painted rendition of Samuel L. Jackson in "Pulp Fiction." Dismiss the critics, art is personal.

Fancy some wearable art? Thai tattoos are popular; an astounding number of travellers wear lifelong reminders of their journey in the Land Of Smiles. Mr Tattoo and Nut Tattoo Studio are hygienic and safe. Select one of their designs or bring in your own custom creation; quite possibly the most economical souvenir available.