If you live to shop, Thailand can drive you to new levels of ecstasy.

But there are some cautions to observe.

• Protect your cash
• Watch your credit cards
• Credit cards often cost extra
• Shop "alone" at reputable shops
• Learn to bargain
• Be willing to walk away
• If it's too big to carry, including shipping
• Buy it now or buy it later

Read the details on shopping considerations

Buying Gems in Thailand
The best advice is simply don't! But if you insist on entering that minefield, here are some suggestions.

• Do your homework
• Get a referral from a trusted source
• Avoid the common gem scams
• Ignore touts & taxi or tuk-tuk escorts
• Remember the "rules of value"

Read the details on buying gems

Antiques Made to Order
I saw that sign on a shop near Chiang Mai. Their definition of antiques may be different from yours.

• Some antiques require permission to export
• Know antiques before you shop
• Will it really get home
• Reproductions can be good

Handicrafts and more
More than you might imagine and some very nice quality

• Silk for the senses
• Bronze, silver and gold
• Wood and furniture
• Designer knock offs
• Tailored clothing

Pearls in the South, Silk in Issan
More than you might imagine and some very nice quality

• Mudmee silk in Issan and Jim Thompson in Bangkok
• Silver and gold jewelry on New Road and Silom
• Chiang Mai - Hangdong Road and Sankampeng
• Phuket is for pearls
• Bangkok tailors