Friends will be joining us for their first trip to Asia, in Taiwan, Chiang Rai, Bangkok and (for them) Hanoi. They are interested in buying a Thai paddle or oar, to hang as art. It's a bit of an unusual request, but I thought if anyone could help me, it would be the Fodorites. If you've got a suggestion (we will be there over a Saturday, so the weekend market is an option, if you think it likely), I'd love to hear it. Thanks.

I think the weekend market is your best bet.I was just there today and have seen just about everything but I don't remember seeing paddles or oars but this place has the most items so if its in Bangkok - its likely to be at the market. Go early - take the skytrain and MRT so to put you right inside the market.

seems like it would be best found at a seaside place...

maybe hanuman or michael have ideas??

Hmmm... That's a new one. Great as the weekend market is, I don't think you'd find anything like that there. You might stumble across something on a canal tour.

However, what actually comes to mind if you want something paddle-like for decoration is a monk's fan. You should be able to find one in the supply shops around Wat Suthat.

A monk's fan? That's an ingenious alternative. I'll see if I can find a picture online to show them. Thanks for the help. I'm very appreciative.