I'm coming over to Bangkok from Myanmar tomorrow and my 12 year old son has asked me to buy him a telescope, (scientifically-minded boy...).

 

Pantip is an obvious place to visit, but in case there are no telescopes at Pantip, does anyone know of another shop in BKK that sells them?

 

If there are any 'telescope experts' on the forum, I'd appreciate your recommendations about what to look for/look out for when buying a telescope for a child.

 

BTW, I have no idea how much these things cost - will I need a bank loan?  

Is this to be used for viewing heavenly bodies in the sky or window?  Might make a difference in what he wants and if attachment to camera is needed. This site should provide a good idea of what is available.  I would try Fortune Town myself.  

http://www.lazada.co.th/catalog/?q=telescope

A friend bought one of the cheaper ones at Pantip, paid about B2000 and it's not too bad.  Look through the one you intend to buy at something as distant as possible...a sign with small lettering is good, to see just how sharp it is.  The main thing to look for is color fringing,  known as "Chromatic abberation"  If red or yellow fringe appears in high contrast areas, then it is probably not very well made. 

Also, make sure the included tripod or stand is fairly solid. The slightest shake makes a highly magnified image very difficult to look at.