The shopping in Chiang Mai is the best in the country, so save your baht for up north, or for the markets in Bangkok. Phuket pales in comparison to those two cities. Patong Beach is teeming with storefront tailors (give them a pass; the quality is bad), leather shops (again, skip), jewelers, and ready-to-wear clothing boutiques. Vendors line the sidewalks, selling everything from bras to batik clothing, arts and crafts, northern hill-tribe silver, and of course the usual fake Nikes and selfie sticks. Most prices are inflated compared to Bangkok or other tourist markets in Thailand even when you’re able to bargain the price down. Many items, such as northern handicrafts, are best if purchased closer to the source.

If the hotel’s body wash or the aromatherapy from a massage left you smelling delightful, it probably came from Lemongrass House. This Phuket-based shop has locations across the island and outfits many of Thailand’s hotels and spa with personal care products.

Phuket Town is your best shot for finding something special; don’t miss a walk down Thalang Road, both for the shopping and the old architecture. While you’re cruising the street, keep an eye out for Drawing Room for funky local art and Ranida for Asian decorations and some Thai-inspired clothing. The night market runs from 4-10pm on Saturday and Sunday. The car-free streets are a mix of buskers, people selling handmade goods, and street food vendors selling everything from noodles to fruit to fresh coconut ice cream. It’s as much of a social event as it is for shopping.