What is a night market? I would term it as an open air night bazaar that creates a leisurely and informal shopping         atmosphere. In some places like Ramkhamhaeng it is well organized as pictured on the left while in other  places it is not. In terms of products, they have a wide array of items      including clothes, leather goods, shoes, watches, perfume, costume  jewelry and even sometimes live   pets (dogs, rabbits, turtles).   

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RAMKHAMHAENG NIGHT MARKET
What is a night market? I would term it as an open air night bazaar that creates a
leisurely and informal shopping
atmosphere. In some places like
Ramkhamhaeng it is well organized
as pictured on the left while in other
places it is not. In terms of products,
they have a wide array of items
including clothes, leather goods,
shoes, watches, perfume, costume
jewellery and even sometimes live
pets (dogs, rabbits, turtles).
Location
Ramkhamhaeng night market is located off Ramkhamhaeng Road just outside the gate
of Hua Mak Sports Complex. It covers almost the whole of Ramkhamhaeng road. In the
past there was no protection for the stalls from the fast flowing traffic. But now the
authorities have placed concrete barriers for safety.
Bargaining
One of the shopping techniques you must master for shopping in a
night market is bargaining. If you are interested in a product, ask how
much is it. Then counter offer half of the quoted price. Of course the
seller will say no. Then you increase your counter offer by another 5%.
At this juncture the seller might make a new offer. If you think it is
reasonable, take it. If not, continue to bargain as long as the seller is
willing. But there is one rule of the thumb. “​Never start bargaining if
you have no intention to buy as that is asking for trouble from an
angry seller​.”
Eating At Your Own Risk
There is always plenty to eat at the night
market. Name it, they might have it. If you are
a foreigner, you better be aware that the
standards for food quality, preparations and
©2015 by Thesigan Nadarajan

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RAMKHAMHAENG NIGHT MARKET
handling is totally different from your expectations.
Seafood
On the brighter side, seafoods like bbq freshwater fish can very appetizing with side
dishes like the popular Thai salads. I find generally, sea­food in Thailand is fresher and
cheaper than even my home country, Malaysia. But sometimes, be prepared to sit
cross­legged on the floor, eating from low tables as pictured above.
Don’t be in a hurry
To really enjoy the night market’s sounds, aromas, sights and colours, “​don’t be in a
hurry!​” Take it leisurely. Stroll, don’t brisk walk. There is so much to see. It can even be
a relaxation therapy after a hard day’s work. Relax and enjoy!
©2015 by Thesigan Nadarajan