Located at Bang Kho Laem in Bangkok, Asiatique has combined two of the most popular experiences in Thailand, a night market and a shopping mall.
Located 10 minutes downriver from Saphan Taksin BTS station, the Asiatique Bazaar, opened in 2012, was originally a international trade port and has been rebuilt to house a diverse range of over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants in the replica warehouse complex.
The easiest and fastest way to get there is by boat, taking the BTS to Saphan Taksin and then jumping on the free shuttle at the end of the pier. You can take a taxi there, although you will be faced with heavy traffic, but the cost isn’t to bad and you do get to sit in a air-conditioned car while you wait.
Open from 5pm daily, dedicating an evening to browse through the streets of the port can leave you overwhelmed. It’s a great place to stop by and pick up those necessary souvenirs for family and friends back home as well as great a great meal and beer from one of the 40 restaurants catering to international cuisine. Enjoy a wine from one of the air-con restaurants along the boardwalk. You can find the usual corporate giants life MK’s, KFC and Pizza Company if that’s your thing, mind you I would only recommend MK’s as a real choice there.
The decor of the market leaves you mesmerized, with exceptional attention to details to recreate an almost authentic feel to the port.
Some of Asiatique’s shops are situated in the old renovated sawmills, including antique train cars, anchors, and push carts lying around. The overall design and feel of the bazaar is both flashy and contemporary; it’s far more of a modern boutique mall than historical museum.
Staying late into the evening, especially on weekends will feature live bands and DJs, with the bazaar holding small music festivals on holidays, complete with spectacular fireworks over the river.
It’s not exactly what you would call authentic by any stretch, but for a night out where all your senses will be stimulated it’s worth the trip.