The Best of OTOP

Having had yesterday free from obligation, Rin and I decided to check out "The Best of OTOP," which stands for "One Tambon, One Product," a sort of bran name for handicrafts made with good quality sold at a good price.

I find these OTOP fairs to be hard to come by, with shops along the highway going down to Rin's house usually closed or lacking stock as we pass through. But, this fair, was amazing. it was held out at 'Impact' Arena, a huge venue that was filled with thousands of vendors selling silver, silk, handmade everything, food and everything you could imagine from the South, North, Northeast and Central regions of Thailand, each with their own distinct flavour.

Rin and I arrived when the fair opened around 10am, and walked around sampling wines and different dishes from around Thailand and shopping and watching performances of traditional hai dancing until about 4 in the afternoon.

Typically, market shopping in Thailand puts me in a bad mood, with the crowds which are only emphasized by the heat. However, this was air conditioned, carpeted, and imagine this, the event organizers planned ahead! There were trolleys to take you to the arena from your car, and there were even free carts given to each shopper so you wouldn't have to carry your purchases! Imagine the progress! I was so amazed by the whole experience, and the organization and planning, with a nice atmosphere with amazing, affordable good from everywhere! The fair is going on until this coming Sunday, and I might find some time to head over there one more time to get some more gifts to take home next month. All in all, two thumbs up to OTOP!