Bangkok Shopping Advice

No bargaining is normally allowed in department stores and a wealth of shops in Bangkok as they have fixed prices of the products. But at most other places bargaining is acceptable and expected. An important point to keep in mind is that Thais appreciate good manners as well as a sense of humor and tend to be put off by a loss of temper. Shopping in Thailand is in general trouble-free, enjoyable and satisfying. The following advice is useful especially when making gem and jewelry purchases:

          - Shop around to compare prices. This is particularly important with gems and jewelry.
          - Obtain a receipt for goods bought and check if is correct before leaving the shop.
          - Never let a tout or new found friend take you shopping. Stores give commission to these people and the cost is reflected in the price you pay.
          - In general, jewelry items cannot be returned. If refunds are allowed, then often 25-30% of the selling price will be deducted as “Costs of Damages”. More reputable shops may offer a full refund although usually only within a certain time limit such as 30 days. Do not believe any claims by shop owners that purchases can be refunded at Thai embassies, consulates or other government offices overseas.
          - Reputable shops will give a written agreement to a full refund on any goods returned within 90 days. If a shop refuses to do this, go elsewhere.
          -  Shops in hotel arcades pay high rents and for that reason prices tend to be higher than at street shops. On the other hand, hotel arcades are very convenient if you have limited time for shopping.

Be Extra Careful
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) receives over 1,000 complaints a year about fake jewelry purchases. To avoid being a statistic, you must stay alert to the warning signs of a swindle at work. Heeding the TAT warning could help you stave off unpleasant surprises and make your vacation what it should be – namely full of fun and enjoyment. The following are valuable pointers for your protection:

          - Be wary of any encounter that ends up requiring your presence in a gem shop. Most probably it is a scam.
          - Buying gems or jewelry to resell at double or triple the purchase prices is an impossible proposition under any circumstances. Buy jewelry only for personal satisfaction for your own use or for loved ones.
          - Never mail sapphires or other precious stones. Carry valuable items with you.
          - Do not believe special (jewelry) sales of any kind. Reputable dealers hardly ever offer sales and never send touts to lure tourists to their stores.
          - There are no promotions, shows or special sales on jewelry authorized by the government or any official agencies at any time of the year.
          - The government does not own, operate, subsidize or authorize any jewelry stores.
          - As far as you can, take time to verify all claims. Words, promises, personal guarantees, unchecked documents, unauthorized verbal or written statements, casual references, encounters and the like do not constitute verification. Remember, you are your own best protection. (Source: The Tourism Authority of Thailand)

If you are in doubt about a gem shop, it is always advised to check it with the Tourism Authorities at:

Tourist Assistance Center
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Le Concorde Building
202 Ratchadapisek Road, Bangkok 10310
Tel: 0-2694-1222 Ext. 1090-1094