Copycat Commerce
The most visible and vibrant form of commerce are the street stalls peddling souvenirs, knock-off clothing and pirate DVDs. These open in the afternoon and operate all along lower Sukhumvit road around the main hotels. Many don't close until late into the night. Shops, meanwhile, sell everything from hair-cuts and antiques to tailored suits and happy-ending massages.
The Extravagance of Emporium
Upmarket shopping is almost as easily found. Connected by elevated walkway to BTS Asok is Robinsons Department Store, and to BTS Phrom Phong the massive Emporium complex. This is without doubt one of Bangkok's swankiest malls, a place to be seen as much as to shop. The department store here stocks pretty much every status-enhancing brand known to mankind. Those it doesn't can be found in the upscale luxury stores seen throughout (think Louis Vuitton, Prada, Greyhound etc). Popular with the hi-so set here there are also book stores, gadget and lifestyle shops, food courts, cafes and beauty salons.
With funky boutique department stores like Playground, the swanky street of Thonglor (Soi 55) - the 'Beverley Hills of Asia' according to the New York Times - is perfect for those wanting trendy clothes, gadgets or home wares crafted by homegrown and overseas designers. Many fine interior and home décor stores in this area celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people.
