A Review of Huai Khwang
While Huai Khwang offers a unique and vibrant experience, it's important to understand that it may not be suitable for all visitors. Those seeking a more traditional tourist experience may find the market's bustling atmosphere and local-centric approach challenging. However, for travelers who enjoy immersing themselves in local culture and adapting to new environments, Huai Khwang can be a rewarding destination.
Accessibility (5 stars): The market is easily accessible by MRT, with a short walk of approximately 10 minutes. During weekends, the market expands, offering even more variety.
Prices (4 stars): Prices are generally lower for locals compared to foreigners. It's advisable to research prices beforehand and avoid haggling aggressively. Remember, prices are often set, and comparing them to prices in your home country can provide a valuable perspective.
Variety (5 stars): The market offers a vast array of products, particularly fresh fruits and vegetables. If you have a particular interest in local produce, Huai Khwang is an excellent choice.
Noise Level (1 star): The market can be extremely noisy, due to the constant activity and traffic. This may be bothersome for some visitors, especially those sensitive to loud environments. Additionally, the traffic contributes to air pollution, which can be a concern for those with respiratory issues.
Conclusion: Huai Khwang is a wonderful market that offers a unique cultural experience. However, it's essential to approach the market with an open mind and avoid comparing it to your home country's standards. By doing so, you can fully appreciate the market's charm and diversity. If you cant accept that, you shouldn't visit the market and better stay in your home country if the culture cant be...
Read moreHuai Khwang Market is a very local-style market in Bangkok that is essentially open 24 hours and can be divided into three main sections: Indoor Section: This is the core of the market, offering a full range of fresh products such as pork, beef, ribs, seafood, vegetables, and seasonings. It operates for the shortest hours, usually from around 5 or 6 AM until about 1 or 2 PM. The goods here are the freshest and cheapest. However, the floor is often wet, the aisles are narrow and crowded, and there is a noticeable smell from the fresh meat and seafood. Many foreigners walk past this indoor area countless times without ever stepping inside — like myself — and only realize later that this section is the real hidden gem of Huai Khwang Market. Streetfront Alley Section: This part consists of storefronts lining the narrow alleyways and is often what tourists mistakenly assume to be the whole market. These stalls are open from early morning until evening, with some operating overnight. The products sold are similar to those in the indoor market, with little price difference, although freshness may vary depending on the time of day. Streetfront Shops by the Entrance: Located along the main road at the market entrance, this section includes a row of vibrant fruit stalls on the left, which operate overnight, and several seafood vendors on the right, who typically close by evening. Overall, Huai Khwang Market is the top shopping destination for long-term local residents. It's cheaper and fresher than any...
Read moreMy friend from Canada wanted hair extensions. We went to a place and they wanted 20,000 THBs. Then she remember a small shop across the street from a plastic surgeon hospital where she got a boob job a month prior. These people only asked for 6k THBs and for FOURS straight two to four girls worked on her installing her new blind hair with a tiny bit of green. This is real hair so when she forked over the 6k I thought they would put it in a bag and say "thank you". I had no idea the work involved. As I had time to kill, I want a few shops down and got an amazing haircut for 10 bucks Canadian. Near the end she wanted a bit more so for only 500 THBs she bought some pink hair and they added it. Then she said it looked all so flat so one lady curled it all and she looked amazing and did not charge her more. The atmosphere in the shop of about six or so girl was one of happiness and it seemed like a family spirit. It just goes to show that if you want to save money, shop or get services where the locals do. Stay away from the touristy areas where you can pay three...
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