Asiatique is definitely a tourist trap that offers a sanitized Bangkok shopping and dining experience with higher prices as part of the deal. With that said, it is a very pleasant oasis along the river, and they provide a free water taxi. It's a relaxing place to walk around and get a bite. It's also an easy place for more timid tourists to get a feel for what the city has to offer. I would recommend, however, being more brave and checking out the shopping and dining along almost any street in the downtown area. The adventure of that is always rewarding.