"Known as JJ Market to most locals (the official name, Chatuchak, is pronounced with a J sound), this is the granddaddy of all markets: With 15,000 stalls, it's among the largest outdoor markets in the world. Everything is buyable, from practical stuff like home décor, art, clothing, accessories, and cooking equipment, to trinkets and oddities like knock-off Nikes and Beats by Dre, iPhone covers, and—yes—even live animals. Despite its sheer size, though, the market is very well organized, with goods arranged by type and a large map posted near the entrance. There are water vendors, ATMS, and food stalls galore, so the only thing you’ll need to bring is small bills, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and bargaining skills. At the end of the day, grab an excellent mojito garnished with gobs of fresh mint and a sugarcane stick at Viva 8, a funky little bar where DJs spin house in the evenings." - Diana Hubbell, Katie Lockhart
