Tip Off

Chatuchak will deter even the most confident shopper, so reliable intelligence is a must. Before venturing into the labyrinth, make an investment in the quirky, illustrated map of Bangkok by Nancy Chandler. It features a detailed ground plan of Chatuchak and with it you mightjust mightmake it back to the hotel bar with most of your faculties intact. The map is widely available for 140 baht ($3.50) at Asia Books and Bookazine stores throughout the city, or via nancychandler.net.

Avoid missions during heavy rain as Chatuchak's drainage system can easily overflow. As much of the market...