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15 Amazing Christmas Gifts You Can Only Buy in Thailand

Hand painted paper parasols
Hand painted paper parasols | © Brian Jeffery Beggerly/Flickr

Want to wow your loved ones this Christmas? We’ve put together a list of 15 amazing Christmas gift ideas that have a distinctly Thai flavour. If you are shopping in Bangkok or elsewhere you should be able to find these uniquely Thai presents in most street markets.

Lights and Lanterns

Thai markets are full of stalls selling colourful lights of all kinds. Most popular are the colourful ball string lights but you can also get stunning lanterns carved out of coconut shells. Lights not only make an ideal Christmas gift but they are also easy to transport, cheap and lightweight.

Lights for sale in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thai Spa Products

Many spas in Thailand make their own natural products out of local ingredients like lemongrass, tamarind and kaffir lime. Why not treat yourself to a relaxing spa package to test the products out and then buy a few for Christmas presents, it’s a sure win-win situation.

Carved Soaps

Stop and watch as a local stall vendor delicately and skillfully transforms humble soap bars into magnificent works of art. The soaps are usually carved into colourful flowers and are sold in round wooden boxes.

Carved soaps

Thai Coconut Oil

Natures multi-purpose coconut oil is not only the latest craze it also has many nutritional benefits. Thai coconut oil is ranked among the best in the world and is an easy gift to pick up when you’re travelling around Thailand.

Hill Tribe Creations

Thailand’s diverse hill tribe communities craft beautiful and colourful handmade bags, wallets, pillow cases and bed throws. These bohemian and tribal creations make ideal Christmas gifts and support local communities at the same time.

Thai hill tribe stall

Coconut Decorations

Thai people are an innovative bunch, making and recycling items into creative new works of art. Carved coconut shell decorations bring a taste of tropical Thailand in the form of hanging plant pots, candle holders, soap dishes and much more.

Thai Silk

Looking for a gift for your mum or aunty? Thai silk is a long-time crowd-pleaser. Luxurious Thai silk scarves come in all colours of the rainbow to mix and match with different outfits. If you plan to buy a bunch, you’ll likely get a lower price.

Thai silk scarfs

Silver Jewellery

Northern Thai hill tribe silver is world famous at 925 sterling silver and is renowned for its beautiful designs. Silver jewellery is an excellent romantic gift to give your respective other. To add a personalized touch look for places that craft bespoke pieces.

Thai Alcohol

Literally, bring a taste of Thailand home and pick up some local alcohol to crack open on Christmas day or as a fun Christmas gift. SangSom rum is made from distilled sugar cane, which by no means can be compared to its Cuban counterparts, but will likely be a hit nonetheless.

SangSom

Batik

Exotic batik crafts are popular in southern Thailand and are an ideal present for those that love handmade products and textiles. A bonus is that you can simply fold the batik cloth and put it in your suitcase.

Parasols

If you have been to a Thai market, you’ve likely seen colourful hand-painted umbrellas for sale. These parasols are beautiful and will brighten any room.

Hand-painted paper parasols

Triangle Cushions

Triangle cushions may not be the easiest to transport but they do make fantastic Christmas presents. Once you have tried the Thai triangle cushion you’ll soon realize that every house needs one and that it is indeed worthwhile schlepping across the globe.

Spices

Take your loved ones on a journey of Thailand’s authentic flavours by stocking up on local spices. Paired with a good cookbook, this gift will charm any foodie.

Thai spice stall

Accessories

For a Christmas present that won’t break the bank, pick up a few cute Thai themed accessories. Choose a phone case made from wood with a beautiful picture of an elephant or orchid on it or a little handmade purse.

Sweets

If you’ve left your Christmas shopping until the last minute then head to your nearest 7-Eleven’s confectionary aisle. Not knowing what something says on the packet or what it is adds to the fun of trying Thailand’s mysterious sweets and snacks.

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