Supermarkets are the new shopping malls in SE Asia. Everything is under one roof and there is no need to go anywhere else – for anything. In fact you could easily take your sleeping bag and just move right in. Locals and foreigners alike compare the advantages of different establishments down to the last loaf of bread and show scathing contempt for small, corner shops.

From entertainment and fashion to arts and culture to international and local gourmet, Suria KLCC in Kuala Lumpur is a shopping Mecca. It is easy to navigate and with numerous levels boasts a huge number of retail outlets, not to mention world class cafes and restaurants for those needing a time-out. This is one shopping experience in SE Asia you don’t want to miss.

Jim Thompson established the Thai Silk Company in 1947, revolutionising the silk weaving industry and in the process saving a dying skill and transforming it into a designer brand. Thai silk is now known all over the world and the best places to purchase silk products are the Jim Thompson shops which still carry his name and his emphasis on quality.

If you are in Bangkok and looking for something to take home for friends and family, or would like to increase your wardrobe or even buy a rare bird, there is only one place to go. Chatuchak Market has everything under the sun and it won’t cost you a fortune and after a long days shopping you won't go hungry either.

Hunting for a bargain is great fun if you know where to shop. The best place for shopping in Koh Samui is Chaweng Main Street; there you will find imitation handbags, CD's, casual clothes, fine silk products and everything for the happy-go-lucky fashion conscious.