JUNE - AUGUST 2015
Ariana Grande From Child Starlet to Superstar
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48 hours in singapore A Short Trip to the Lion City travel
fiji The Enchanted Isles Off the beaten track
beyond phuket’s beaches Welcome to the jungle
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elcome to this great issue giving you a huge array of ideas for travelling, places to stay, eating at some of the best restaurants Thailand can offer and much more help and tips, for making your stay in the Land of Smiles, enjoyable and stress-free. Head for the hills! Most people know Phuket as a beach lover’s paradise, but there is so much more than sand and surf. Take a trip into the interior and discover a whole new destination, lush rainforest, crystal clear waterfalls, and wildlife rich, Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park where if you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of Phuket’s more bashful inhabitants, check out Beyond Phuket’s Beaches feature for more very different places to visit. This issues celebrity feature focuses on pop music superstar Ariana Grande-Butera. What a year she has had, winning countless awards around the globe, from her early career on as a child star on Nickelodeon’s television show Victorious, to the megastar status she now enjoys, you read all about her rise to fame and fortune. CREDITS EDITOR: James Chanodom Editor@AbsoluteThai.com FEATURE EDITOR: Paul Eastland PaulEastland@AbsoluteThai.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jason Hull Advertising@AbsoluteThai.com PUBLISHER: The Design House Co Ltd www.thedesignhouse.co.th Tel.: +66 (0)76 319 909
A new regular feature starts this issue with our short trip feature called “48 Hours in…” and where better to start than the Lion City, Singapore, here you will find all the best, must do and see places, within a limited time frame. June is the time of year where Thailand’s fruit industry comes into its own, especially in Trat, (Thailand’s Orchard) here you can taste all of the famous and not so famous fruits that the Kingdom is renowned for, at the Trat Fruit Festival 2015. No matter where you are enjoy yourself and as always, stay safe.
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Absolute Thai is published by The Design House Co Ltd. Registration Number 8837354810366. Registered address 42/11 Taveewong Road, Kathu, Patong, Phuket Tel: +66 (0)76 319 909 Printed by Royal Siam Printing Services Co., Ltd. All material is strictly copyrighted and all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission of the copyright holder. While every care has been taken in the production of this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for an errors, loss or omissions that may occur.
contents
Fiji
32
THE ENCHANTED ISLES
10 WHAT’S ON 26 48 HOURS IN SINGAPORE A Short Trip to the Lion City
Ariana Grande YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE, UNTIL IT’S GONE
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thailand
A BOTANICAL BOUNTY
42 GRAND MERCURE Patong, Phuket
48 OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Beyond Phuket’s beaches
52 LUXURY SPEEDBOAT SERVICE Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
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62 SUMMER LOVE Fashion
Amphawa
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FLOATING MARKET
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TRANG THAILAND AWAY FROM THE CROWDS
81 TOP BOOK
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What’s On
what’s on UPCOMING EVENTS IN THAILAND
Shoot & Share Trat, the Islands of Dream
Date: now – 20 August, 2015 Venue: at 11 tourist attractions in Trat The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Trat Office, Bangkok Airways, and the public and private sectors in Trat are organising the ‘Shoot & Share’ initiative as part of the ‘Sharing the Travel Experience via Social Media’ tourism marketing project. Under the initiative, tourists are invited to shoot selfie pictures of themselves together with Nong Sukjai, the TAT mascot, and generic shots of the attractions at 11 designated locations. Shots with Nong Sukjai must be taken in at least 5 of the 11 attractions to be eligible to share via the TAT Trat Facebook Fanpage. The 11 designated attractions are eight locations on mainlan Trat and one each on the islands of Chang, Kut and Mak. They are at: TAT Trat Office; Ban Namchieo community village; Trat Airport; Trat Bus Terminal; Trat Museum; Thammachat Ferry; Ratchakarun Beach; Makathanee Resort Ko Mak Pier; Kong Chao Beach Ko Kut; and Ban Salak Khok Ko Chang. Shoot and Share - Trat For more information, contact: TAT Trat Office Tel: +66 (0) 3959 7259 to 60 Follow Facebook Fanpage: tattrat5
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Dok Krachiao (Siam Tulip) Blooming Festival 2015
Date: 1 June – 31 August, 2015 Venue: Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Thep Sathit district and Sai Thong National Park, Nong Bua Ra Haew district, Chaiyaphum The Siam Tulip, or Dok Krachiao, flower comes in to full bloom in the early part of the rainy season from June to August. During these months, the fields of Pa Hin Ngam National Park in Thep Sathit district and Sai Thong National Park in Nong Bua Ra Haew district will be blanketed with the exceptional beauty of these pinkish-purple flowers. Dok-Krachiao-Field-in-Sai-Thong-Natinal-Park Every year, the Chaiyaphum province in cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) are joining hands to organise a range of fun-filled activities including special sightseeing tours to see the fields of the pinkish Krachiao flowers and the rock garden, music concerts, trekking tours in the two National Parks and also booths selling local indigenous One-Tambon-One-Products (OTOP) items of Chaiyaphum province.
Located in a vast area, Pa Hin Ngam National Park earns its name comes from its location surrounded by bizarre shaped rocks. Here are various sizes of stone eroded by wind and rain over millions of years. Some are world cup shaped rocks, others are radar shaped ones, or even different figures which play on the imagination. After rain showers, both small and large varieties of Siam Tulip species rooted deep down for years gets a chance to bloom, providing color to the park. In some areas, meadows can be seen due to abundant Siam tulips. These pink-white flowers, leaves and grasses offer fields of delightful colors. The cool foggy fields experienced at dawn are spectacular. For more information, contact: TAT Nakhon Ratchasima office Tel: + 66 (0) 4421 3030, 0 4421 3666 Fax: +66 (0) 4421 3667 E-mail: tatsima@tat.or.th www.facebook.com/tat.korat
Sukpaiboonwat / Shutterstock.com
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What’s On
Trat Fruit Festival 2015
Date: 5-8 June, 2015 Venue: Ban Thachod, Saentung, Khao Saming District Trat Province is organising “Trat Fruit Festival 2015” that will highlight variety of fruits of Trat, including salak, durian, longkong, pineapple, mangosteen and rambutan. Visitors will have the chance to taste and buy all these fruits as well as enjoy a host of activities, including fruit competitions, exhibition on agriculture, local food contest, cooking contest, dessert cooking contest, and fruit eating competition. Khao Saming has been chosen as the venue for this event as it is the area with the most number of fruit orchards in Trat. For more information, contact: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Trat Office Tel: +66 (0) 3959 7259-60 E-mail: tattrat@tat.or.th
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Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2015
Date: 15 June – 15 August, 2015 Venue: Throughout Thailand The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in cooperation with other tourism industries such as shopping malls, airlines, hotels, tour companies, duty-free shops, luxurious shops, golf clubs and spas will hold this annual famous event where shoppers can secure the best deals for different goods and services. This event also attracts target tourists from Malaysia, Singapore, Hongkong, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Russia, and United Arab Emirates to travel and buy products from Thailand during this off-peak tourist season. There are many special campaigns for tourists to choose during this event. It is a great time for everybody that seeks to find the best deals in Thailand. Contact information: TAT Bangkok Office Tel: +66 (0) 250 5500
Charlie Edward / Shutterstock.com ettawat Udom / Shutterstock.com
Important Event dates and program details may be subject to change. Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand’s official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.
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Feature
Thailand A BOTANICAL BOUNTY words: Neil Stacey
T
hailand’s superb year-round climate and rich fertile soil enable local farmers to cultivate an unbelievable rainbow of juicy exotic fruits, crisp crunchy vegetables and fresh aromatic herbs that enliven the country’s dinner tables. These colorful botanicals are nurtured in warm tropical sunshine, instilling pure freshness and vitality. They are harvested and maintain their goodness without the need for additives or preservatives. Eaten fresh, cooked, dried and juiced,
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these succulent ingredients bring extraordinary taste sensations that contribute to Thailand’s deserved reputation as one of the world’s cuisine capitals. Coconut, pomelo, papaya and durian, flavored with a hint of mint, lemongrass and ginger, all washed down with guava and lychee juice. Sounds like an exciting recipe to create some gastronomic delight, but these are just a handful of the abundant natural resources utilized in the refreshing elixirs served up in our Thai cocktails.
The exceptional quality of Thai fruits has made the country one of the main global exporters, and the orchard of goodness is astounding. Considered the ‘king of fruits’, with its pervasive aroma, the golden creamy durian is another much sought-after export that is in high demand in the growing Chinese market. The durian is only outsold by the longan fruit, whose sweet translucent flesh makes it the country’s top fresh-fruit export. While most of us know and adore fruits like the tart to sweet flavored mangoes,
and the refreshing red watermelon, less familiar are the fleshy segments of the purple-skinned mangosteen, which is crowned as Thailand’s ‘queen of fruits’. In fact, some fruits are so highly regarded that special annual festivals are held in provinces that yield the finest harvests Aside from nourishing fruits and vegetables, Thailand is a major exporter of medicinal herbs and spices, earning billions of baht annually through the promotion of botanicals such as penetrating ginger, spicy black pepper, and saccharine sweet stevia, which help fight a variety of ailments. When it comes to unique scents, who can forget their first whiff of a lemongrass burner as it banishes mosquitoes from a garden
sala (pavilion), or of pandanus leaves freshening the stuffy interior of a Bangkok taxicab. The amazing healing properties of Thai herbs are truly staggering. The bitter root, black galingale, is taken as an aphrodisiac by men and was improving vitality long before Viagra came onto the market. Meanwhile, female villagers in rural Thailand have been ingesting the magically rejuvenating kudzu root for centuries as a youth restoring potion that smoothes out wrinkles, improves eyesight, promotes hair growth and generally puts a spring back in the step. And while ‘king of bitters’ tastes exactly as its name suggests, it is known to be a potent and speedy remedy if suffering with the sniffles
The exceptional quality of Thai fruits has made the country one of the main global exporters, and the orchard of goodness is astounding. of a common cold. The dazzling array of Thai botanicals is an inescapable element to daily life in the kingdom. The curative and preventative effects of the fruit, vegetables, and herbs selected for these special recipes are detailed in the ingredient descriptions.
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Feature
E
ach botanical is rich in nutrients and the potential capabilities are incredible
– bringing vitalisation, building up immune defences, calming the mind, and restoring beauty and well-being. While consumption of certain fruits especially citrus fruits like tangerines, limes and pineapples – is known to detoxify the body, other botanicals like mulberry reduce cholesterol, and Asiatic pennywort is known to stimulate memory. While alcohol certainly isn’t the healthiest liquid to fuel the body and mind, by combining it with natural ingredients, the potential negative effects of its consumption are minimized and counter-balanced by nutritious botanical goodness. For hundreds of years, Thais have been instinctively infusing beneficial herbs and roots to white liquor to make the unique tasting medicinal yaa dawng – herbal liquor.
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So, when exhausted after a hard week at the office, simply nip into the kitchen and whisk up a couple of these exceptional cocktail recipes, and see how instantly perky and in tune your whole body feels – rejuvenated, energized and ready to embrace whatever life can hurl at it! Some of the Recipe of cocktails is: Rosellita • Roselle-infused Ballentines whiskey 40 ml • Grand Marnier 10 ml • Angostura bitter 4-5 drops • Sugar cube 1 • Orange zest 1 teaspoon • Soda water 10 ml In an old-fashioned glass, soak the sugar cube with bitter. Add orange zest and soda, and stir. Add half the Ballentines whiskey, half fill the glass with ice and stir. Add the remaining whiskey and Grand Marnier. Top with ice, stir and garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Leaf Eater • Vodka 30 ml • Absolute Currant 20 ml • Kaffir lime leaf 1-2 • Lemongrass 2 cm • Gomme 10 ml In a mixing glass, muddle lemongrass with gomme. Stir in the remaining ingredients and double strain into an ice-filled old-fashioned glass. Thai Lander • Tom yum-infused vodka 30 ml • Malibu 30 ml • Lime ½ fruit • Lemonade top • Gomme 10 ml Muddle lime in a mixing glass. Add the remaining ingredients, except lemonade, and fill with ice. Shake sharply, pour into a highball glass and top with lemonade. Garnish with red chilli.
Celebrity
Ariana Grande-Butera YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE, UNTIL IT’S GONE words: Paul Eastland
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ew artists are having a bigger year than pop music superstar, Ariana Grande. With two GRAMMY Award nominations including Best Pop Vocal Album for My Everything and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Bang Bang” with Jessie J and Nicki Minaj, a coveted performance spot on the 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards, a Platinum-certified No.1 album for My Everything, several chart-smashing singles, a Billboard Women In Music Award, an MTV Video Music Award and a recently announced highprofile recurring role in a new FOX television series, Ariana has become an unstoppable force in pop culture. Ariana Grande-Butera was born in Boca Raton, Florida on June 26, 1993, to Joan Grande, and Edward Butera. Her name was originally inspired by Princess Oriana from Felix the Cat. Grande is of Italian descent, and has stated that she is “half Sicilian and half Abruzzese”. She has a halfbrother, Frankie Grande, an actor, dancer and producer, who is ten
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years her senior. As a child, Grande performed with the Fort Lauderdale Children’s Theater showing the first signs of stardom, playing her first role as Annie, as well as performing in the musicals The Wizard of Oz and Beauty and the Beast. At the age of 8, she performed at a karaoke lounge on a cruise ship, in various orchestras such as South Florida’s Philharmonic, Florida Sunshine Pops and Symphonic Orchestras, and made her national television debut singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” for the Florida Panthers. Grande’s rise to fame came when she auditioned for the Nickelodeon television show Victorious in New York along with 13 year old co-star Elizabeth Gillies in 2009. In this sitcom set in a performing arts high school, Grande was cast as Cat Valentine, a classmate and friend of protagonist Tori Vega (Victoria Justice), while Gillies landed the role of the “mean girl”, Jade West. The show began filming in October 2009 and premiered on March 27, 2010
to the second largest audience for a live-action series in Nickelodeon history with 5.7 million viewers A star is born. The role helped propel Grande to teen idol status, but she was more interested in a music career stating that acting is “fun, but music has always been first and foremost for me.” After the first season of Victorious wrapped, Grande wanted to focus on her music career and began working on her debut album in August 2010. To strengthen her vocal range, she began working with vocal coach Eric Vetro. She made her first musical appearance on the track “Give It Up.” While filming Victorious, Grande made several recordings of herself singing covers of Adele, Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey, and uploaded them on YouTube. Now a You Tube starlet. A friend of Monte Lipman, CEO of Republic Records, came across one of Grande’s videos. Impressed with her vocals, he sent the links to Lipman, who signed her to a recording contract. She released her first single
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Celebrity
Few artists are having a bigger year than pop music superstar, Ariana Grande
In December 2012, Grande collaborated on the single version of “Popular Song”, a duet with British singer and songwriter Mika. Grande recorded her debut album, Yours Truly, over a three year period. She completed the album, originally titled Daydreaming, in June 2013; it was released on August 30, 2013. In September 2013, it debuted at No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 albums chart with 138,000 copies sold in its first week making Grande the first female artist, since Kesha, to have her first album debut atop of the charts. From here on in Grande’s success. By January 2014, Grande had begun recording her second studio album, with singer-songwriter Ryan Tedder and record producers Benny Blanco and Max Martin. The same month, she earned the Favorite Breakout Artist award at the People’s Choice Awards 2014 her first but not her last award.
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FashionStock.com / Shutterstock.com
In March 2014, Grande sang at the White House concert, “Women of Soul: An outstanding performance at the White House”. The following month, President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama invited Grande again to perform at the White House for the Easter Egg Roll event along with collaborator Big Sean. A duet with R&B singer Chris Brown, “Don’t Be Gone Too Long”, was scheduled for a March 24 release date but was delayed. In addition, she received the “Breakthrough Artist of the Year” award from the Music Business Association. Award number 2 was in the bag. The award recognizes
Grande’s achievements throughout 2013, including her No. 1 debut on the Billboard 200 with her first album and her top ten single on the Hot 100. This yielded the game-changing pop smash “The Way” featuring Mac Miller. One of 2013’s defining songs, the single went double-platinum, hit the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No.1 on the iTunes Overall Top Songs Chart. In the aftermath, she was named “Best New Artist” at THE AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS in 2013. Grande released her second studio album My Everything on August 25,
Celebrity
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2014, with Rolling Stone magazine writing that “My Everything is where the 21-year-old Nickelodeon starlet grows up. It’s a confident, intelligent, brazen pop statement, mixing
“Break Free”, and “Bang Bang”). It also went to No.1 in the UK. She joined Adele as the only female artist with three top ten hits simultaneously as a lead artist.
bubblegum diva vocals with EDM
climbing to No. 2) on the Billboard Hot 100, and yes you’re getting the idea now. Another No. 1 this time on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Grande’s first No. 1 single in the United
THE HONEYMOON TOUR summer run will kick off July 16, 2015
Kingdom. She performed the song at
Pop Video for her single “Problem.” Grande’s third song in the Hot 100’s top ten the same week (“Problem”,
Nation, THE HONEYMOON TOUR kicked off on Feb. 25, 2015 and has been an overwhelming success with sold out dates throughout the first leg summer run will kick off July 16, 2015 at Amalie Arena in Tampa Bay, Fla. and visit nearly 40 cities throughout the U.S. and Canada including stops in Nashville, Montreal, Las Vegas, Toronto and more. The future for Ariana Grande can only
the opening of the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards, while winning Best
and promoted exclusively by Live
of the tour. THE HONEYMOON TOUR
break beats”. It sold 169,000 copies. The song debuted at No. 3 (eventually
Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com
Recently, she announced that THE HONEYMOON TOUR, her North American headlining tour, has been extended into the summer. Produced
be good. Her charismatic personality, her outstanding voice and her ability to charm audiences secures a bright and successful future.
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Feature
48 Hours in Singapore A SHORT TRIP TO THE LION CITY words: Paul Eastland
J
ust 48 hours on a stopover or a short city break, what can I do in such a small space of time, well, would you believe it there’s plenty to do and see, here’s my itinerary for a fun filled, never forgotten break. I’d always wanted to visit Singapore, but never really had the chance. Sure, I’d been to Changi Airport, but that doesn’t count. To truly experience a destination, people always say you need at least 48 hours to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, smells and tastes... and even then you’re only just scratching the surface.
Day one Most of the tourist attractions don’t open before 11 in the morning, and when you’re a on a mission, the best way to make the most of the early hours, is to just slip into your walking gear and make your way to the Botanic Gardens which open at 5 am every morning to welcome morning joggers, dog-walkers and people practicing their tai-chi moves. Singapore Botanic Gardens sits on 63.7 hectares of land holding many rare specimens of plant life. Enjoy and relax by either taking a slow walk
Songquan Deng / Shutterstock.com
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Just 48 hours on a stopover or a short city break
Itsaret Yannasit / Shutterstock.com
around these beautiful Gardens It probably does take a full day to see everything that is on offer such as the Trellis gardens, Evolution garden the many different types of plants and flowers, there is also quite a lot of wildlife to see here too. However if you don’t have a full day then a few hours is all you need here to relax, just make sure to bring along plenty of water or juice with you. Lunch A short trip to the Maxwell Road Food Centre for lunch is a must. According to those in the know, the 3 famous dishes of choice are, Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice dish, are hokkien mee (a noodle dish usually served with prawns) and the deliciously calorific char kway teow, which is made of flat rice noodles stir
Juriah Mosin / Shutterstock.com
fried with chili, prawns, cockles, bean sprouts and chives, often including egg, sausage and fishcake as well. Afternoon The range of Singapore shopping malls is so vast that some visitors to this tiny island state book their plane tickets purely for one reason: to shop till they drop! In fact, Singapore has more highend shopping malls per capita than anywhere else in Asia, and visitors are simply spoilt for choice in terms of both quality and quantity of the many retail options, so what better way to spend a few hours than browsing in these extraordinary complexes. My top two are They don’t come any bigger or brighter than Vivo City. Situated on the Harbor Front and billed as a shopping, entertainment and lifestyle destination rolled into one, Vivo City is home to Singapore’s largest cinema, biggest toy store, an amphitheater, wade pool and four food courts - it might more appropriately be referred to as a mega mall given its sheer size and facilities.
Niti Chuysakul / Shutterstock.com
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Feature
As I said 48 hours is not nearly enough time to see all the wonders of this incredible Island State Everything / Shutterstock.com
Everything / Shutterstock.com
Superior services include butler style concierge and a celebrity chef fine dining establishment Evening No trip to Singapore would be complete without the must do trip to the iconic Raffles Hotel and the Long Bar, to sample the world famous cocktail, the Singapore Sling. This cherry red cocktail was reputedly invented at the turn of last century by Hainanese-Chinese bartender Ngiam Tong Boon at the Long Bar, the drink was designed to be for women, who in those quaint days needed to be enticed to drink alcohol, so the
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stylish architectural wonder, ION Orchard glows like a futuristic beacon at the end of Orchard Road enticing window and luxury shoppers inside. Welcome to Singapore’s most glamorous shopping complex a glass, marble and steel work of art where there are even extra special toilets for high spending customers and celebrities.
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cocktail was made pink. For those that, like a little flutter (gamble), or for those that just want to see how the other half live, what better way than to visit the second most expensive building in the world, The iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel here everything you could possibly wish for a great evening out, is all here, the “SkyPark” Sitting on top of
the massive, three-pronged hotel that overlooks the bay that practically put Singapore on the map, is for viewing Singapore from above. This large wooden decked area on 57th floor offers a 360-degree panorama, with nothing but a sheet of glass and a few wires between you and the view. With world class restaurants, theatres, more shops and entertainment venues, the world’s largest infinity pool at its height, not forgetting the revered brand name Sands Casino, this is one hotel/resort of unparalleled luxury and decadence that everyone should try at least once. Day 2 Take the Singapore Cable car from the main island and sore across Keppel Harbor, with a birds eye view of the uncountable shipping vessels that Singapore is renowned for, to the incredible “State of Fun” Sentosa. Sentosa is an island resort located off the coast of Singapore. It is easily reached from Singapore and is visited by about 5 million people a year. It is a modern, top class resort facility
and just full of fun attractions for the whole family. One day is not nearly enough to see all the attractions this wonderful island offers, so to spend the day at Resorts World Sentosa is a must, with some of the great world name attractions. It takes up a big slice of the island and is the first attraction you will find when arriving from mainland Singapore. It is home to a casino, many hotels, restaurants, food courts, shops, Trick Eye Museum and some of the biggest attractions on Sentosa Island – Universal Studios, Adventure Cove Waterpark, S.E.A. Aquarium and Dolphin Island - where you can meet dolphins. For the speed lovers, like me Universal Studios have added a new attraction, until 16th August here you can see the Fast & Furious 7 Display, view the actual cars that were used in the
production of the movie, and meet the stars, all be it waxwork models of them, great for the kids. If you are lucky enough to be around in September, the Formula 1 circus rolls into town. Since 2008 Singapore has been the proud host of the world’s only Formula One night race. The backdrop of heritage buildings, modern architecture and breathtaking skyline culminates in an unparalleled combination of sights, sounds and a festive atmosphere. The speed thrills
many more sights to see, including Kampong Glam has been Singapore’s Arab-Malay quarter since the early 1800’s and Little India, where you can even have your fortune read by Mani the parakeet - a local star. Also no trip to Singapore is complete without a venture on the Singapore Flyer, here you experience breathtaking, panoramic views at a height of 169 meters, (that’s 34 meters higher than the London eye) on the worlds largest observation wheel. Enjoy your trip, I certainly did.
and non-stop action will once again enthrall crowds for the eighth year as the world’s finest drivers prove their mettle on the challenging Marina Bay Street Circuit. As I said 48 hours is not nearly enough time to see all the wonders of this incredible Island State, with
CHEN WS / Shutterstock.com
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Phon Promwisate / Shutterstock.com
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Travel
Fiji THE ENCHANTED ISLES words: Peter Holthusen
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s long as there are yearnings to escape to paradise, the remote islands of the South Pacific will exceed all expectations. At the crossroads of the Pacific, Fiji is a vibrant fusion of cultures and a natural paradise of islands fringed with coral reefs and covered with coconut groves, sugar cane fields and breathtaking beaches. More than anything else, Fiji is an exotic destination, best known for scuba diving, surfing and romantic honeymoons.
landscapes from 4,500 foot mountain peaks to the only sand dunes in the South Pacific make this island nation’s 333 emerald isles a treasure trove of activities for both seasoned and occasional travellers alike. Not surprisingly, it is one of the Pacific’s most popular tourist destinations. Fiji’s historic blend of Polynesian and Melanesian cultures and European, Indian and Chinese influences provide rich opportunities for cultural tourism, delicious dining and inspired shopping, while one-of-a-kind land excursions and unparalleled ocean sports offer the ultimate in adventure. There is no shortage of accommodation options, ranging from exclusive resorts, lavish five-star islands and romantic spa hideaways, to time shares and cosy bungalows offering something to fit everyone’s holiday dreams and budget.
However, once you touch down on this South Pacific paradise, you’ll soon discover that sugar white beaches, transparent seas and technicolour coral reefs are just the beginning of Fiji’s tropical magic. Ancient traditions, modern trends and lush
The word Fiji is actually the Tongan name for these pristine islands – it was adopted and made prevalent by the early European settlers. Before this, the inhabitants of the archipelago called their home ‘Viti’. The Vitian culture was shaped by Polynesian, Melanesian and Micronesian peoples over 35 centuries of settlement. In about 1500 BC, the Lapita people arrived from Vanuatu and the eastern Solomon Islands. For about 1000 years, they lived along the coasts and fished the fruits of the sea, then around 500 BC, they became keen on agriculture, the population exploded, tribal feuding got nasty and cannibalism became common.
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Travel
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he archipelago’s treacherous reefs and the Fijian’s reputation as formidable warriors and ferocious cannibals deterred sailors from visiting the islands. During the 17th and 18th centuries the only Europeans to settle in Fiji were the odd deserting or shipwrecked sailor and an escaped convict or two. It wasn’t until the early 19th century that European whalers, sandalwood and bêche-de-mer traders arrived. The introduction of firearms by the Europeans resulted in an increase in violent tribal warfare, with some chiefs selling their land and even villagers for arms, but things have since changed considerably and Fiji is now one of the most influential of all the Pacific nations and home to both the South Pacific Forum and the University of the South Pacific.
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Most visitors head to Fiji for the sublime sun and sea. Lapped by cerulean waters, this remote archipelago encompasses over 300 islands, so notions of cocktails on an alabaster beach aren’t mere whimsy.
The word Fiji is actually the Tongan name for these pristine islands Fiji is a former British colony, so everyone here speaks English. And nowhere on earth will you find as friendly a people! The Fijian’s genuine warmth and friendliness turns every day into a treasured memory.
It has been my good fortune to visit Fiji on a number of occasions during my travels throughout the South Pacific and I learned very quickly that almost everything here begins with ‘kava’ - a traditional alcoholic brew made from the powdered root of a plant from the pepper family, served in a halfcoconut shell - from village tours to evening entertainment at the resorts. Cultural adventure tours on Viti Levu, Fiji’s ‘big island’, offer more opportunities to share Fiji’s thousandyear-old history. Frequently referred to as ‘the mainland’ Viti Levu is that hub of a place where commerce, industry and the small matter of running a country supersedes the idyllic holiday business ‘offshore’. Around threequarters of the population resides here, many in the three biggest cities; Suva, Lautoka and Nadi.
Fiji is a former British colony, so everyone here speaks English.
On one such tour of the rugged interior of the island I found myself deep inside a vine-draped cavern in the mountains of the Sigatoka River Valley. “Our ancestors hid from their enemies for months at a time here”, the local priest told me, pointing out the children’s hiding place, the women’s work area and the sleeping compartments carved into the rock of this vast, sacred cave. Afterwards, we floated down the river on a traditional ‘bilibili’ bamboo raft. The famous red-and-white skirted Fijian guards standing to attention outside the President’s imposing colonial-style residence in Suva, Fiji’s vibrant and cosmopolitan capital, are handsome reminders that Fiji was once a British colony. And in Nadi, Fiji’s largest city, the ornate Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple is the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere, and a symbol of Fiji’s thriving Indian population.
Many of Fiji’s attractions are just plain fun. Swimming in the fresh water pools beneath thundering waterfalls is the perfect reward for a walk through the flowering hibiscus to the Tavoro Falls in the Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni, Fiji’s ‘garden island’. River rafting, jet boat rides, mountain and jungle hikes, horse riding, sport fishing, yachting, sailing, surfing and, of course, snorkelling and scuba diving abound.
the severe winters of the Northern Hemisphere. The average ambient temperature is 29˚C and the crystal clear waters of the lagoons are a fairly constant 28˚C even at night, so it is quite safe to swim under the stars from the steps of your luxurious overwater bungalow.
Island hopping is extremely easy too, thanks largely to the many frequent inter-island flights, ferry and private boat services between the three main islands and their idyllic islets – crowned with a single resort, a small village or serenely uninhabited – in the sun-kissed Mamanuca and Yasawa island groups to the west of Viti Levu.
As for my own stay here, I felt right at home in the luxurious blend of European environmental responsibility, Fijian culture and hospitality at the award-winning Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort situated on Fiji’s relatively undiscovered island of Vanua Levu. This five-star eco resort is located amongst 17 flourishing acres of a former coconut plantation overlooking the crystal clear waters of Savusavu Bay, and is one of the South Pacific’s most renowned vacation destinations.
Fiji enjoys an ideal South Seas tropical climate nearly all year round. It is thus a perfect holiday destination, especially for those trying to escape
The resort is owned by Jean-Michel Cousteau, the pioneering French explorer, environmentalist and film producer, who is the son of the
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Travel
Island hopping is extremely easy too, thanks largely to the many frequent inter-island flights
shorter at just over 12½ hours. With a time difference of GMT+12 hours, the journey will leave you in a bit of a daze, so I would seriously recommend an upgrade to Business of First Class. What is my favourite memory of Fiji’s magic? I would say the sunset torch-lighting ceremony. As the sun
famous ocean explorer JacquesYves Cousteau. A stay here is truly an experience to behold, where heavenly surroundings, unrivalled accommodation and creative gourmet cuisine combine with an unsurpassed range of luxury hotel activities. The flying time from London to Nadi International Airport with Air New Zealand is approximately 23 hours, via Los Angeles. The flying time from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport with Thai Airways to Brisbane and Fiji Airways to Nadi is considerably
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begins its explosive descent into the Pacific, guests at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort make a point to be
Further information Fiji Tourism Board www.fiji.travel.com How to get there Air New Zealand www.airnewzealand.com Thai Airways www.thaiairways.com
‘warrior’ running through the resort
Fiji Airways www.fijiairways.com
with a flaming torch lighting the tiki
Where to stay
at the beach bar to watch a Fijian
lamps, culminating in a spectacular firewalking display. This is my signal that another day in paradise is ending and a heavenly night is beginning under a canopy of stars. So, as the islanders say, “Ni Sa Bula” and welcome to the alluring Fiji islands.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort www.fijiresort.com Yasawa Island Resort & Spa www.yasawa.com
springfieldresort
BASK IN BAREFOOT SPLENDOR 858 Jumnong-Poomivej Rd., ChaAm, Petchaburi 76120 T: 032 709300
BKK Office : 52 Thaniya Building, 9M Floor, Silom Rd., Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 T: 02 2312244 ext. 108, 109
E: reservationbkk@springfieldresort.com
W: www.sprignfieldresort.com
Review
Modern Dining Trends Asia words: Laurence Civil
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oday dining in Asia is more than just about eating a plate of food it’s a total experience. The theatre of how meals are prepared and presented then the interactivity between the chef, cooks and their customer. The formality of this historic fine dining is all but gone. Rather than intimidating it’s now more inviting and has evolved into a
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more approachable stylishly relaxed experience. The table is de-cluttered, cloths are out having been replaced by individual place mats, with only the cutlery for the meal you are about to eat plus one water and one wine glass complimented a fresh flower or two in a simple vase. While French cuisine is a culinary foundation, which many try to
emulate, the formal idea of individual portions is at odds with the Asian, family sharing style of dining. When 3 MIchelin star chef Jean-Michel Lorain of Cote Saint Jacques in Joigny, Burgundy, France opened his first restaurant in Asia J’Aime at U Sathorn, Bangkok he decided to present his food in a way that would be more approachable for his potential Thai customers. The taste remains authentically French but the food is served Asian family style, individual serving dishes placed together an a rotating glass lazy suzanne and a pair of black lacquer chopsticks compliment the usual silver cutlery. As dining becomes more informal and less structured customers are looking for something other than the traditional three course meal of a
starter, main course and desert rather a multiple choice of single dishes, the individual elements of a degustation menu that can be selected as the customer requires. Such as Vincent Thiery, former Executive Chef at the 3 Michelin stared restaurant Caprice at Four Seasons Hong Kong is now serving at Vouge Lounge in Bangkok. Dishes such as duck Foie gras with a hazelnut crust served with red berry jelly or crusted Palmas Carabineros veal sweetbread wrapped in nori seaweed served en croute, quality grazing. With dining becoming more casual street food has found its way into the restaurant environment. David Thompson the globally recognised master of Thai food and passionate advocate of its street food has recently brought that experience to his newly opened Long Chim Restaurant at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The food is fast, full flavoured and affordable where as if they were on the streets, guests have their food cooked in front of them. The likes aromatic beef skewers with cumin, grilled lamb curry, prawns roasted with vermicelli, noodles of all kinds, in soup or stir fried, and
duck roasted in a wood-fired oven and; delights banana roti or durian ice cream. While back in Bangkok, Gaggan recently voted Best Restaurant in Asia 2015, takes dishes from the streets of India and re-interprets them in the best way possible. His Papri Chaat transforms the traditional northern Indian afternoon street- food snack into a spherical yoghurt egg resting on a wafer. The humble being elevated to the highest level. Bangkok’s Food Truck culture is changing the city’s street food. Food trucks essentially offer one dish which are predominantly pizza and burgers in two or more variations affordably priced gourmet food. The patties are made with top quality ground beef that is freshly ground daily, and served in buns that are baked by the same bakeries that supply five star hotels. They have also dispelled the myth that Bangkok street food has to be cheap to sell. In the middle class Thai Chinese area of Bang Lampu there will be 30 plus locals sitting waiting for the food trucks to open. Honest food sells.
The burger once held at arms length by refined dining establishments as junk or fast food is now readily accepted. The reality is irrespective of a persons walk of life the reality is they all like burgers and now they are brave enough to admit it. “It’s no secret I love to eat burgers, who doesn’t,” says Chef Mirko Keller, Chef de Cuisine, “my goal is to make the most yummy version on the planet. The meat needs to still be juicy even when a customer orders their’s well done. The chips or fries are equally important, cooked three times to ensure a crisp she’ll with a soft interior.”
Today dining in Asia is more than just about eating a plate of food it’s a total experience.
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Review
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he dining community isn’t just about chefs and restaurants, they need the collaboration of local producers to bring there produce to the market. One very pleasing trend is the growth in artisanal producers of meats, breads and cheeses. While the bacteria found in raw milk is essential to the flavour of the cheese it’s also a health concern that prohibits its importation into most countries in Southeast Asia. The solution is artisanal cheesemakers such as Reinhard Matheis has been making cheese since 2008 in Nakhon Sawan sourcing raw cow’s milk from a small local farm under the ‘Heaven on Cheese” label. The cheese making process starts once the milk has been tested within 24 hours of having been milked. He believes it’s important to
ideally using produce raised within 100 miles of the point of purchase. Young Thai Chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn chef and co-owner Le Du in Bangkok, rated 3rd in Bangkok’s Top Tables 2015 now uses 99% local produce including lamb and beef from Pak Chong, northeast of Bangkok. “I want to encourage local production,” says Chef Ton, “If I can’t get the local ingredient I am looking for I will cook the dish with what local ingredients I can find but sourcing is a challenge. I grow the micro greens I use to garnish my dishes in my own home garden as I can’t buy them in the small quantities I need.” The same Locavore spirit can be seen at Cuisine Wat Damnak, in Siem Reap, Cambodia who were
recently rated 50th in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2015. Chef/Patron Joannès Rivière from Roanne, a small town in France’s Loire Valley is creating French cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. He has introduced diners to indigenous, often rare ingredients, some of which you may never even have heard of, let alone tasted. These include fruits such as ambarella, feroniella and kuy fruit; local fish and shellfish unique to the Mekong and Tonlé Sap lake, and fresh lotus seeds, wild lily stems and edible flowers. Some are highly challenging to source through the local market channels, but Rivière goes the extra mile and hunts them down, working with foragers and fishermen directly to ensure his food represents Cambodia’s unique pantry. The use of locally sourced produces adds a sense of location to the cuisine. Dining in Southeast Asia has progressed signify from a bowl of rice and a handful of fragrant herbs and spices. Today it’s global culinary hub putting some of the world’s best food on the plate.
keep the milk as natural as possible, neither adding milk powder nor removing butterfats for the taste quality. There is also Cheesemaking in Chiang Rai and goat’s cheese in Chonburi on the Eastern Seaboard. Many top restaurants in Thailand have only local produce on their cheeseboard. It’s this same growth in artisanal producers that has seen a growth in the Locavore movement of supporting farmers and
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Review
Grand Mercure PHUKET PATONG words: Paul Eastland
W
ell it’s happened Grand Mercure brand by ACCOR have opened their first Grand Mercure resort on the island of Phuket, and they couldn’t have chosen a better location. This luxurious 5 star hotel is set right in the heart of Patong, amongst all the legendary attractions, but set in grounds that give you a relaxing, peaceful interlude to the scene around you. On arrival
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I was greeted and quickly whisked away to the executive lounge “Grand Club” where I was quickly checked in, and shown the lounge which is available for VIPs, those people whom have decided to book into a pool access rooms and above. The resort itself offers accommodation in an arrangement of options from Superior through Deluxe rooms with
pool access, right up to the opulent Pool Villas of which there are ten 1 bedroom and for the family’s four 2 bedroom, with great hindsight I decided on one of the one bedroom Pool Villas. What a treat I was in for, with direct access to my own private pool, these villas are the pinnacle of luxury. As you would expect from a world class name as Grand Mercure, no expense has been spared
to guarantee your comfort, every conceivable furnishing and appliances are at your disposal, from luxurious Bathrobes, free internet access and what for me was very important, fully functioning blackout drapes, that ensured a wonderful night’s sleep on one of the most comfortable beds that I have ever tried. Grand Mercure Phuket Patong has seen what a lot of hotels in the area have failed to notice, that now Phuket is fast becoming one of the favorite family destinations in this part of the world, hence they have had the foresight to make this a very family friendly environment, with such amenities such as dedicated children’s club, childcare, fully equipped gym and activities monitored closely by the well qualified staff. Dining is centered round Bubbles, an amazing restaurant that represents the perfect fusion between authentic Thai and the flavors imported from the diverse Mediterranean coasts, Asian fresh markets, the Middle East and Indian spice souks.
Don’t miss the chance to try out “Bubbles” renowned homemade Chinese noodles alongside delicious signature dishes from India and as far away as Korea and Japan, a truly cosmopolitan array of dishes to suit every palate. ‘Bubbles” is where you will enjoy one of the best breakfasts that you will ever come across, with a huge buffet selection of intercontinental dishes,
The name Grand Mercure just conjures up the romantic French air in everybody, a real French mainstay.
I was spoilt for choice, all the usual favorites with a stunning assortment of Italian aromatic pasta dishes complemented by an endless selection of fresh exotic fruits and salads.
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Review
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he name Grand Mercure just conjures up the romantic French air in everybody, so it
was of no surprise when I stumbled across the unbelievable Chou Chou delicatessen, a real French mainstay. Chou Chou Deli Shop presents a new generation of deli shop, defined by unique tastes and world-class recipes, all found in one place. With Choux-like signature favorites such as the Mango or Green Tea éclairs to a fantastic selection of colorful cakes, tarts, chocolate and macaroons. In addition to dining in, Chou Chou also offers a wide selection of take-aways, from Parisian-like sandwiches and Panini to homemade jams, pralines & gift éclair boxes! What better way to unwind from the intensifying heat than by just relaxing at the ‘Bounce” pool bar. Set at the heart of the three lagoon pools, the Bounce Pool Bar is the perfect alternative for those who prefer chilling by the pool rather than meeting the heat of Patong Beach or bustle of Patong’s city center.
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Try out the signature cocktails such as ‘Mai Tai Chalong’, Mango Mojito or Phuket Libre, all made from locallyproduced Thai Rum. What made it for me was the unprecedented “Craft Beer Lounge”, if you are like me you will be in your element at a place just like home from home. The Craft Beer Lounge is a beer – themed bar boasting the largest selection of draught, local and craft beers on the island, presenting over 150 different labels to choose from, including all local beers, up to the more exotic brews from all corners of the globe including Hitachino, Brewdog, Mikkeller and Rogue, here you can literally drink your way around the world.
If beer is not your favorite tipple, don’t worry, you cannot miss out on the signature cocktails or Grand House wines at the Craft Beer Lounge, as well as all the imported favorites you can imagine. The Craft Beer Lounge’s fully equipped offerings boast a 150” LCD TV screen to spend a night cheering for your favorite sports teams “luckily for me, my team Spurs won” so it was a happy night for me all round, alternatively engage in various other activities such as games or try your aim at the pool table, for a chance at sweeping the highest score, or just sit back and relax to the bar’s chilled out music selection, featuring traditional Thai tunes or watch the live band that plays nighty, for a most relaxing and enjoyable evening.
The Craft Beer Lounge’s fully equipped offerings boast a 150” LCD TV screen to spend a night cheering for your favorite sports teams
If you want to relax and indulge in some “me time”, then spend a few hours at the awesome Ryn Spa, a truly unique haven of peace and tranquility. Whether you opt for a one hour relaxing session or prefer a complete rejuvenation program, allow Ryn Spa to revitalize and invigorate your senses. From centuries-old practices to traditional Thai techniques, the team of talented specialists can help you soothe out any aching muscles and breathe new life into your body and soul. For my experience, I chose a 1 hour Ryn Royal Massage (a tailor made, therapeutic full body and scalp massage which the highly trained masseur Khun Jupa expertly put me into a deep state of relaxation using long slow stroking movements, uniquely before the massage I was asked what month I was born as they
have 4 selections which represent Earth, Water, Wood and Fire as my birthday is in February Fire was my oil, and the oils contained Rice Brand oil, Sweet Almond oil, safflower, Tocophero, Jojoba, lime grapefruit, Ginger Clove. The aroma was soft and left my skin feeling totally refreshed. Then I chose the one hour Facial treatment, of which I chose the Men’s Hangover treatment, this was the best facial massage I have ever had, my face just felt so soft and young, specially created for the well groomed man. A power program with a caffeine kick the treatment dispels “the morning after look” while awaking and energizing fatigued skin function, I felt like a new man. I truly enjoyed my stay here, due to the friendliness and professionalism of all the staff making me feel so wanted and relaxed, this is one hotel that I will not hesitate to return to.
more information
Contact details: 1 Soi Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi 2, Kathu, Patong, Phuket 83150 Tel: +66 (0) 7623 1999 Email: h8109@accor.com Grandmercurephuketpatong.com
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Off the beaten track
Beyond Phuket’s beaches WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE words: Vicky Taylor
I
t’s a bit of a marketing cliché, if a charming one, to call Phuket “The Pearl of the Andaman”. But the moniker shows how everyone associates this lush and lovely island with its warm southern seas and soft, sandy beaches. These are what made it a tourist Mecca after all. But there’s more to Phuket than sand, scuba and spas. The island covers 575 square-kilometres (70% of which is jungle-clad and mountainous), and the eastern coast boasts more mangroves than beach mats. There are rewarding days to be spent hiking in the hills, swimming in waterfalls and discovering a very different, but equally delightful Phuket. So let’s leave the beaches and head for the hills.
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It’s a bit of a marketing cliché, if a charming one, to call Phuket “The Pearl of the Andaman”
be tough. So take insect-repellent and water and make sure you’re wearing sturdy footwear.
Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park in
The animals hide among dense foliage
the northern Thalang area is a good
and flee at unexpected noises, so
place to start – the park covers
keep your eyes peeled. Hiring an
57 square kilometres – the largest
experienced guide at the Ton Sai
evergreen rainforest in Phuket.
waterfall gives you a better chance
There are various treks but the most
of seeing something special. Even
popular is the 8 km trail from Bang
without boars and bears, the flora is
Pae to Ton Sai. Along the way, look
spectacular, with ancient towering
for birds such as the Asian Fairy-
trees and groves of bamboo and ferns.
bluebird or Red-Billed Malkoha. If you’re lucky, you may glimpse larger animals. There are wild boar, barking dear, and monkeys in the forest as
You may encounter the rare White Backed Palm (kerriodoxa elegans), which is native to the island and first discovered here in 1929.
well as a small, if shy, population of
Be warned though, Khao Phra Thaeo
Malay Sun Bears.
is a humid rainforest and trekking can
For more of Phuket’s wildlife, visit the “Gibbon Rehabilitation Project” at Bang Pae. This NGO rehabilitates whitehanded gibbons, aiming return them to the jungle where they can survive on their own. Most animals here were captured when young and became pets or tourist attractions only to be abandoned by unscrupulous owners when they reached maturity and were less docile. Many visitors sponsor a gibbon which helps pay for the long and expensive rehabilitation process. Phuket-BangRong_mangroves_After seeing the gibbons, relax at the Bang Pae waterfall which is the largest in Phuket and offers wonderful bathing in cool waters. It’s a gorgeous picnic spot so keep it so by taking any rubbish back home. Just as important as rainforest is to Phuket’s eco-systems are the mangroves on the east coast. These sustain not only rare animals and plants but also families who’ve made a living here fishing and farming for centuries. Even today, in the Muslim village of Bang Rong over 80 per cent of the residents rely on the mangroves in some way. This is increasing as visitors seek more traditional, and sustainable tourism experiences.
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Off the beaten track
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ith its chatty locals and informative museum, Bang Rong is the perfect place to learn about life in the mangroves. There’s a charming floating restaurant called Chum Chon where you can enjoy local food and cooling breezes. But to explore, follow the wooden walkway that takes you deep into the mangroves, or rent a kayak and paddle around. This quiet mode of transport means you see more of the wildlife. The most famous residents are the noisy Crab-Eating Macaques. They often jump in the water for a cooling dip. Don’t stray too near for they can be fierce and territorial.
It’s so tranquil in the mangroves that many people stay overnight. The bestknown home stay is Maneerat Goat Farm where you can milk a goat and learn about the life-style of the area’s Muslim families. Once you’ve got the exploring bug, there’s much more to see on Phuket as well as other off-shore islands. The mangroves and mountains are a far cry from Phuket’s lovely beaches, but few people regret seeing more of the province. It’s a tropical wonderland and a treasure island of adventure. So if you’ve a few spare days, head for the hills and make some memories.
Information: Gibbon Rehabilitation Project Open daily 10.00 – 16.00 hrs. Tel: +66 (0) 76 260491 www.gibbonproject.org Maneerat Goat Farm Ban Bang Rhong Tel: + 66 (0) 83 3918602, (0) 84 8375157
The mangroves and mountains are a far cry from Phuket’s lovely beaches
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Review
Luxury Speedboat Service AT SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT words: Neil Stacey
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A
t Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, we believe in making every moment truly magnifique. With our Luxury Speedboat Service you can travel with safety and style. Your experienced captain and personal Leisure Butler will whisk you off to idyllic islands and deserted beaches where you can sip champagne, savour gourmet delights, or enjoy an unforgettable romantic Andaman sunset. Choose from half-day or full-day private tours that whisk you to a variety of enchanting destinations such as Hong Island, Hong Lagoon and Pakbia Island. The Four Islands tour to Tup and Mor, Chicken, Poda and Four islands allow guests to discover the magical underwater world with some of the region’s best snorkeling, and also take in one of one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches, Railay Beach. Join an exclusive day of dramatic limestone landscapes, crystal clear waters and idyllic beaches, colourful island reefs, and personalised Sofitel service. Let us help make your stay in paradise unforgettable.
200 Moo 3, Klong Muang Beach, Tambon Nongtalay, Amphur Muang, Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 75 627 800 Email: H6184-RE@SOFITEL.COM www.sofitel.com/6184
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Dusitbuncharesort.com
DUSIT BUNCHA RESORT KOH TAO Dusit Buncha Resort Koh Tao lies on the most north end of Koh Tao providing you a relaxed vacation of our luxurious architecture, classy living, perfectly blended in the natural beauty of its environment
31 /3 Moo 1 T. Koh Tao, Surathani , Thailand 84360
+66 2 697 9133 - 4, 098 896 5329, 082 418 2215
info@dusitbunchakohtao.com
Review
Chrysanthemum ROYAL CLIFF GRAND, PATTAYA DYNASTY CHINESE CUISINE words: Paul Eastland
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fter last year’s very successful portrayal of Breezeo, the beach front dining restaurant, it was a pleasure to be invited back to review the recently refurbished Chrysanthemum Chinese restaurant at the also completely new look Royal Cliff Grand Hotel in Pattaya For years and years, whilst living in England, Chinese food to me was Chop Suey, Chow Mein or Special fried rice on a Saturday night treat from the local takeaway, boy was I in for a treat.
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Chrysanthemum has been completely refurbished to an incredibly high standard, boasting a seating capacity of 104, of which there are three 10 seat, special rooms for your very own private dining area. On arrival I was met by the highly efficient, impeccably turned out staff and presented with the brand new revamped menu, with a choice second to none it was a bit of a problem actually deciding what to order, after speaking to Khun Atid, the Chinese Master Chef,
Chrysanthemum has been completely refurbished to an incredibly high standard, boasting a seating capacity of 104 who incidentally has been dishing up his own brand of cooking at this restaurant for over 20 years, he decided to serve us up a selection of his signature dishes
As we don’t drink alcohol we had an unlimited supply of freshly brewed Chinese tea, and mineral water, Chrysanthemum offers a wine list second to none, with famous labels from all corners of the globe. As newly appointed Resident Manager, Jason Villarino explained, Pattaya has many, many restaurants, good and bad, what we at Royal Cliff Grand are trying to do is put Chrysanthemum up there with the best restaurants Pattaya can offer, and if my experience was anything to go by, and with the quality of the food and professionalism of his staff, it will be only a matter of time until they reach that goal, maybe right to the pinnacle, I really believe they can.
First off was the legendary Peking Duck, this was served in delectable wafer thin pancakes and topped with honey sauce, I’ve tried this before with plum sauce, but the honey just gave it that something extra, it tasted divine. After another cup of the addictive tea, to the delight of my wife we were presented with Sautéed Pacific scallop accompanied with the special “XO” sauce, these were cooked to perfection, plump and bursting with flavor, they simply just melted in your mouth, more tea and gratefully a carafe of ice cold water this time as the next dish was Szechwan hot and sour soup with seafood, served in authentic clay bowls, consistency was thick and creamy and packed full of a selection of different kinds of seafood, this was one dish I shall remember for a long time, the different tastes just exploded in your mouth, with the hot and
the sour marrying perfectly. If the wife’s favourite was the Pacific scallops, then mine was delivered next, Fried tiger prawns served with black pepper sauce and garlic, these huge prawns were simply delicious, to avoid the mess that all too often can happen to this dish, thankfully they were already deveined and shelled, again cooked to perfection leaving the precious meat so tender, time for some vegetables so next up was Sautéed kale, Hong Kong style accompanied with oyster sauce, the kale was fresh and crisp that paired nicely with the tangy sauce, a great way to finish the main courses. For dessert we had one more dish to try, Chinese pancake with Lotus seed filling, by this time my wife was full, but I just managed to try these delicious treats, with a crispy batter casing and the sweet taste of the Lotus seed paste inside these rounded off the meal perfectly.
more information
Royal Cliff Hotels Group 353 Phra Tamnuk Road, Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand 20150 Tel: (66 38) 250421, (66 2) 2801737-40, (66 2) 2820999 Email: relax@royalcliff.com
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Review
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Monsoon WHERE EAST MEETS WEST words: Paul Eastland
f all the multitude of dining establishments in the center of Bangkok, it sometimes is a chore to find a single restaurant offering different cuisine from around the globe. This is not the case at Monsoon, which boasts a menu second to none, with dishes from all the world’s major food capitals, this is truly Bangkok’s premier cosmopolitan haunt. Location is always a consideration in a city of this size, so where better to be situated than right in the heart of the entertainment center, set on the lively Sukhumvit Soi 8, you are but a few seconds stroll away from the BTS station Nana.
Mein Host at Monsoon is the extremely popular Executive Chef Stephan Bouwman, with 29 years in the trade
Monsoon has a laid back ambience, with an interior that is spacious and very comfortably furnished or Al fresco on the large outside terrace, where you can sit in splendor and watch the world go by where, the choice is yours. With the restaurant/ café moniker it is perfectly acceptable to sit down for a light lunch, mid afternoon snack or a full blown A la carte experience. With such a comprehensive menu we were spoilt for choice with fare from Mexico, burgers and sandwiches from the States, a whole range of European dishes from Italy, Spain, Greece, and for those who Thai cuisine is a must, you will not be disappointed with the extensive selection of all the famous dishes and those not so easily identifiable.
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be disappointed, every cocktail that you can possibly imagine, a great selection of fine wines and a vast selection of internationally branded beers and spirits, you are spoilt for choice, take it from me the Mai Tai cocktails are awesome.
Madam and I chose a selection of dishes, the first dish that caught my eye was one of my all-time favorites Seafood Paella, this arrived cooked to perfection, with a huge selection of different shellfish, Madam started with Hawaiian Pizza, prepared and cooked entirely on the premises, the base was thin and crisp with a topping overflowing with cheese, ham and pineapple, such was the size, I ended up helping her demolish this, duck has always been a dish I can never resist, so the 2 ways cooked platter was something I just had to try, on a bed of sweet mashed potato, arrived 2 different styles, marinated and roasted, again compliments to the chef couldn’t cooked it any better, next followed pan fried Butterfish accompanied by the chefs special sauce this was so succulent it literally melted in your mouth, last but not least madam had to try the ever popular Massaman Gai (chicken), this passed her very strict taste test with flying colors, with its thick creamy sauce, it just tasted divine.
the trade, learning his trade from 2 star Michelin chefs at the illustrious Sullberg Hotel in Hamburg; he has dedicated himself to making Monsoon one of the the premier eateries in Bangkok, every aspect of the day to day running goes directly through him, with his exceptional eye for detail, and the dedication of his highly efficient staff, everything runs smooth as clockwork, in his own words he says” no one is bigger than the team from the top chef to the serving staff everyone plays their part, if they didn’t it wouldn’t work at all” with a goal of a maximum of 20 minutes from ordering food to serving, even in a packed restaurant, this theory certainly seems to be working.
Mein Host at Monsoon is the extremely popular Executive Chef Stephan Bouwman, with 29 years in
What about the drinks? With a menu boasting what must be one of the largest selection around, you will not
Only the best ingredients are used all of these going past the ever watching Chef Stephan’s eyes, from the authentic imported spices, top quality Imported beef from Australia, to the local fresh vegetables and abundant seafood, all have to pass his strict scrutiny.
more information
Monsoon Café and Restaurant 6 Sukhumvit Soi 8, Tel: 02 653 1110 www.monsoonbangkok.com
Such as the popularity and professionalism of all involved, Monsoon will shortly be opening their second restaurant in upmarket Thong Lor in Sukhuvit soi 49, this promises a whole new experience of dining with its completely revamped menu, and the truly exceptional evening we spent here, I can hardly wait, watch this space!
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Review
BABA IKI IRASSHAIMASE BABA IKI, WELCOME TO BABA IKI, I AM READY TO SERVE YOU words: Paul Eastland
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his traditional Japanese welcome awaits as you enter the newest restaurant to grace the classy Sri panwa Resort located at the southern end of Phuket, which boasts alongside its high quality cuisine, some of the best views of the region to add to your dining pleasure. Japanese cuisine is exploding in popularity around the world and not least in Phuket where a number of places have opened up offering Sushi and Sashimi but none of these come close to the quality that is offered at Baba IKI. There are several reasons for this but possibly the main reason is Managing Director Wan’s love of Japanese food. So much is his preference for the different styles of Japanese cuisine and the lack of high quality offerings in Phuket that he opened Baba IKI both for his guests and himself. Baba IKI offers both indoors and outdoors dining with the former having the option to dine either at table or at work stations in the traditional Japanese style which you can move between as you change your dishes.
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If you are a fan of Japanese cuisine and know what you are asking for go right ahead, if like me you are less certain, you can choose from the comprehensive menu or simply ask the chefs for their recommendations as each style of cuisine, Sushi / Sashimi, Yakitori, and Teppanyaki has their own Masterchef. Master of the Sushi / Sashimi station is Chef Haru, a Thai who started his working life in the kitchen, over a period of 16 years watched and learnt his trade to the point he recently trained under Khun Boontham, Champion of Iron Chef and acknowledge as the icon of Japanese Cuisine in Thailand. We started our journey into Japanese Cuisine with Chef Haru’s recommendation of 3 grades of Tuna, Otoro, Chutoro and Akami served both as Sushi and Sashimi with wasabi, and a blend of sesami oil with sake and soy sauce. Having not tried the different qualities of tuna I was amazed by the differences in flavor and texture all from the same fish – an experience that everyone should try once in their life.
Following this was Chef’s recommendation of Hamachi and Kumpenchi which are a small and lighter textured yellowtail tuna whose flavor was slightly sweeter but without the strong fish flavor that most associate with raw fish. Time for a palate cleanse and here we were recommended Shirao Salad served with complex and delightful sauces made from sesame oil and miso. Crisp local salads topped with deep fried small fish that were very similar to whitebait. Moving stations we were served a selection of Yakitori, or Japanese BBQ. With over 20 different options to choose from we once again left it to the Chef to decide, and an excellent choice he made with a selection of 4 sauces that crossed the 4 main tastes. My personal favorite was the Ponstu,
Exploding with flavor and making you keep going back for more
a blend of Thai chillis served as a paste that went superbly with both the beef and lamb rib skewers although the other Thai sauce was reminiscent of flavours from North – East Thailand.
Final move was to the Teppanyaki station where Chef Kim showed his skills at the cooking plate first with his knife and utensil “flair” spinning show and then in preparing sensational dishes in just a matter of minutes. First up was a simple mixed vegetable dish cooked with garlic butter and served al dente yet piping hot. The garlic add a subtle something to the fresh local vegetables and served as an accompaniment to the next 2 dishes served. I have to confess to not being a big hot lobster fan but Chef Kim has converted me with his Phuket Lobster cooked to perfection with the meat light and flavorsome, not at all chewy which has been my experience in the past. Sitting next to the cooking station means you get to enjoy the aromas of the cooking before you get to taste,
exciting the taste buds twice over. We were served this with a Japanese Lobster soup that was subtle in its flavors and not at all overpowering as I have had in the past. The final dish to be prepared for us was Chef Kim’s signature dish – Hida Beef, and I can assure you that this is the one dish that no one should miss when they go to Baba IKI. Cooked on the hot plate to your preference the Hida Beef is cut in to small cubes and served with Chef’s secret oils and sauces used when cooking. This simply melts in your mouth with the fats that run through the meat exploding with
more information
Baba IKI Japanese Cuisine Sri panwa Estate, Phuket Thailand Tel: + 667 6371000 www.babaphuket.com
flavor and making you keep going back for more. To accompany our meal we were served one of Baba IKI’s signature cocktails made from Sake and lychees. Amazing taste and surprisingly went well with all the dishes we were served, something that would not have been possible with wine. To finish off the meal we sampled one of the 10 different sakes Baba IKI has available, some served hot and some cold. I can definitely get used to all of this and need to go back a number of times to finish off the rest of the menu.
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Fashion
Beauty & Fashion S UMMER L OVE
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Model: Pla Kanyanut MUA: A. Tanat (เอ ธนัช) Photographer: Khan Thongduang
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Fashion
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PEACE LAGUNA RESORT & SPA, AO NANG, KRABI. RELAX INTO THE NATURAL FLOW OF SEA AND SKY. DRIFT IN LAZY SPIRALS. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THE RHYTHM OF STILLNESS AND SPACE BETWEEN THE STARS.
PEACE LAGUNA RESORT & SPA 193 Moo2, Ao Nang Beach, Krabi 81000. Thailand. Tel : (+66) 75-637344-7, Fax : (+66) 75-637347 Email: info@peacelagunaresort.com, www.peacelagunaresort.com Peace Laguna Resort & Spa
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Feature
Trang THAILAND AWAY FROM THE CROWDS words: Neil Stacey
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rang, the seaside province in southern Thailand, boasts hidden charms and is the perfect destination for anyone who likes to feel they are off the beaten track and getting away from the mainstream tourists. The province stretches out into the blue of the Andaman Sea in an archipelago of 46 islands; there are limestone caves and peak to explore; vibrant local cultures and traditions as well as gorgeous beaches and other natural wonders. Tourists who make it to Trang tend to stick to the province’s islands, which have much to recommend them. The most popular are Koh Mukknown for its spectacular Emerald Cave, Koh Kradan – regarded as the most beautiful island in Trang and for being the venue for the famous annual Underwater Wedding Ceremony, and Koh Chuek – which boasts an underwater paradise of shallow and deep water corals. All of these lovely isles are within the boundaries of Had Chao Mai Marine National Park. If you go island hopping, do keep an eye out for the playful dugongs (sea cows), often said to be the basis for legends of mermaids, but uglier mermaids you’ll never see.
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Tours of Trang’s islands can be booked from local tour operators and generally cost around 700-800 baht per person. There are some good travel agents near the train station and near Pakbeng pier who specialise in day trips. If you want to get there under your own steam, then the main islands are easily reached by getting local ferries and boats, most of which leave from the Pakmeng pier. It takes about an hour to reach the Morakot Emerald cave on Koh Muk, and there’s often a little crowd there fighting the current to get inside and see the wonders of the cave. It is worth waiting your turn, for this is one of the most mysterious chambers in the world. After swimming into what seems to be a deep and menacing cave, you are suddenly in a natural room into which the sun streams – albeit a room containing a warm emerald sea and soft sands in which you can relax and play. After seeing the islands, head to dry land and discover Trang town itself. This is a centuries-old seaport and has a multicultural blend of Thai, Malay and Hokkien Chinese residents. The colourful mix of people and traditions means that there’s a great deal to see around the town.
The Phraya Rasadanupradit Mahisorn Phakdi Musuem in Kantang district offers a fascinating glimpse through the mists of time to tell the story of the province’s history. Chinese by origin, Phraya Rasadanupradi was, and still is, highly respected by local Trang people and regarded as a great man who brought wealth and prosperity to Trang thanks to his astute organisation of transportation, agriculture, education and local administration. Phraya Rasadanupradit was the first person in Thailand to plant commercial rubber trees, which of course can now be found all over southern Thailand – indeed the kingdom is one of the
The most distinctive feature of the Buddha image is its decorated headdress called a Thoret leading international exporters of this natural product. Wat Phu Khao Thong, around 20 kilometres from the city is another
place worth seeing. The tranquil monastery sits in lovely surroundings and there is a stunning limestone cave within the compound. It houses the unique Manorah – Reclining Buddha image of Srivijaya which is said be around 800-1,000 years old. The most distinctive feature of the Buddha image is its decorated headdress called a Thoret, This holy and royal ornament is associated with the dance of Manorah – which originates in Southern Thailand and tells the legend of Nora, one of the kinneree, mythical half-bird half woman creatures from the Himmaphan forest.
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Feature
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eing the only Buddha image with such adornment, the Manorah Reclining Buddha, was last year listed as one of the seven Amazing Ancient Wonders of Thailand by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. For it is not only a beautiful piece of Buddhist art, but also unlike any other statue in the kingdom. Legend has it that the famous reclining Buddha image was here long before the temple was officially established as a Buddhist monastery. These days there are only two monks residing here but there are classes for Buddhists to come and meditate and study. During the Songkran festival, the temple stages a very special performance of the Manorah dance, as a way of paying homage to the reclining Buddha.
There are also many Chinese temples and shrines in Trang which show the huge influence that settlers from China have played in the history of the province. With their dragons and distinctly Chinese imagery; these temples offer an interesting contrast to their Thai counterparts.
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If you are interested in the golden age of travel, you should stop by Trang’s famous Kantang train station which offers a nostalgic peep back to the days when getting around the kingdom was a distinctly more romantic than the tedium and transit lounges we endure today.
These are just a few of the wonders of Trang, but you’ll see a great deal more by plunging in and exploring for yourself.
The station, built in 1913, is crafted entirely of wood and is one of the oldest in Thailand as well as the last stop on the railway south. Being historically significant, Kantang is maintained to a high standard but remains a working station. Little wonder the station is so often photographed and used as the backdrop for romantic movies. To meet the locals, head for their favourite dining spots and coffee
shops or make friends in the little local markets. Pong Ocha Restaurant is best known for its dim sum, roasted pork – the famous dishes of the Trang – and local cuisine and ingredients. This is where tourists are advised to mingle with the locals and try local dishes to start the day.
If you go island hopping, do keep an eye out for the playful dugongs
BAAN AMPHAWA RESORT & SPA 22 BANGKAPOM-KAEWFA RD, AMPHAWA, SAMUT SONGKHRAM THAILAND 75110 TEL: +66 (0) 3475 2222 FAX: +66 (0) 3475 2229 E-MAIL: RESERVATIONS@BAANAMPHAWA.COM WWW.BAANAMPHAWA.COM
AWARD OF OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE THAILAND TOURISM AWARDS 2010
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LOCATED ON THE BANK OF MAE KLONG RIVER, BAAN AMPHAWA RESORT & SPA OFFERS THE IDYLLIC RETREAT IN TRADITIONAL THAI HOUSES AND THE LUSH TROPICAL LANDSCAPE. THE RESORT IS LOCATED IN HERITAGE TOWN OF AMPHAWA, ONLY 63 KILOMETERS SOUTH OF BANGKOK, WHERE DUMNEON SADUAK FLOATING MARKET IS ONLY 30 MINUTES AWAY. The accommodation is in traditional Thai houses and villas nestle among ponds and shaded walk¬ways creating the perfect hideaway for those looking to avoid Thailand’s mass tourism. Resort’s facilities include a restaurant by the river, 2 swimming pools, a fitness room, kid’s playground, Suphannika Spa and Salon, 5 standard meeting rooms (10-150 people), bicycles, free WIFI. Amphawa is well known as a place to see thousands of fireflies sparkling at night along the river bank. The cruise along the canals to see local people’s way of life also adds to your unique experience
Off the beaten track
Postcards from Amphawa MESSING ABOUT IN BOATS A DAY AT AMPHAWA FLOATING MARKET words: Neil Stacey
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veryone loves old travel posters, especially those from the early days of mass tourism. They were designed to tantalise travellers by reducing countries to charming clichés – Britain became Big Ben and cream-teas, Spain was known for bullfights and flamenco while Japan was all blossom and kimonos.
canal when shopping for dinner in 2014.
But for Thailand, floating markets were the theme: colourful photos showed widely-smiling ladies under broad-brimmed hats, paddling boats in packed canals, and selling exotic foods and fruit. A lovely image of course, but even the most nostalgic travellers know that the residents of Bangkok rather visit the nearest supermarket than the local
Amphawa offers a glimpse of how Bangkok looked when canals outnumbered the roads and people travelled by boat. This is where the Mae Klong River meets the Gulf of Thailand and ancient canals irrigate the region. People still live on the canals but it’s only at the weekends that the market boats come out.
So it’s always a delight for visitors to discover that there are still some floating markets around though not in the heart of Bangkok. Visitors will have to visit the canals of Amphawa in Samut Songkhram province, but it’s worth it when you buy your breakfast from a boat and see the smiling ladies in big hats.
Casper1774 Studio / Shutterstock.com
nimon / Shutterstock.com
MJ Prototype / Shutterstock.com
Amphawa Floating Market is on a bustling canal; its banks lined with attractive teak shop-houses that open to the water. Arrive early enough, and you’ll see Buddhist monks making their rounds by boat and the local people offering food and alms as they paddle by. Most visitors arrive around midday though to enjoy seafood lunches of shrimp and shellfish that are cooked on boats and handed up to diners on the bank. Wat Bangkhae Noi Many floating markets in Thailand are staged for visitors but Amphawa feels more authentic. Tourists here are mostly Thais enjoying a taste of yesteryear and the area’s unique snacks. Boats sell fruit and vegetables from the local orchards and fields, and vendors offer colourful desserts traditional to the area. Even handicrafts, fashion and art are locally
produced. This means you won’t find many of these goods in Bangkok’s markets so if you see something you like, snap it up. By evening, the canal’s banks throng with people eating barbecue and seeking bargains. Coloured lights strung along the bridges, country music and tempting smells of cooking dinners make Amphawa a delightful place to be. But there’s more than the market to enjoy. Boat trips to the temples are a fun way to see the area and are well-priced, especially if you’re in a group. You can also peep into the lives of people living in their riverbank homes and wave at the local children who seem more at home in the water than on land. There are several temples to see, but don’t miss, Wat Bangkhae Noi. As you clamber from the boat, it seems like
Amphawa is near enough to Bangkok to make a day trip
any other sleepy provincial temple, until you enter the main building (bot). The interior is intricately decorated with elaborately carved wooden panels, showing scenes from the life of the Buddha and tales from Thai mythology and the detail is breathtaking. The carving in this Siamese Sistine chapel was done by skilled artists from Phetchaburi and took ten years to complete.
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Off the beaten track
Amphawa Wat Bang Kung Another must-see temple is Wat Bang Kung, which dates from the Ayutthaya period. Inside there are some ancient murals and an impressive Buddha image, but it’s the outside that will blow your mind. For 200 years, the temple was forgotten and the local jungle closed in. It was restored in 1967, but the whole building remains covered with the mighty roots of the banyan tree that grows above it. The vines and roots bind and squeeze the building, holding it together as though protecting it. Also at Wat Bang Kung are dozens of life-sized statues of Muay Thai fighters, illustrating the dance-like moves of the martial art. The statues honour General Phraya Phichai, a Muay devotee who fought the
Burmese here in 1768 alongside King Taksin the Great (1734-1782). To reach the temple you pass through a mini-zoo, home to hungry goats, a flirty ostrich and distinctly sleepy crocodile. A temple is a strange place to come face-to-face with a camel, but he seems happy enough being fed by passers-by. Amphawa is near enough to Bangkok to make a day trip. But with so much to see, many people stay overnight so there are some charming homestays to accommodate them. These give tourists the chance to experience a different side of Thailand. You stay in real family homes, sharing meals and learning about provincial life. If you stay overnight you can take an evening boat trip to see Amphawa’s famous fireflies that flit around the canals. The mating insects put on
an enchanting show, lighting the vegetation like living Christmas decorations. It’s said that boatmen use them to guide their way home. They certainly bring the day to a lovely end. Amphawa should be on any Thai shopping and sightseeing list; after all, the Market offers an experience that lives up to the promise of the travel posters.
kalapangha / Shutterstock.com
Travel tips When: Amphawa Floating Market is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday Best time to visit: 15.00 – 20.00 hrs. How: Mini buses leave regularly from Victory Monument, near Century the Movie Plaza. By car: From Bangkok take Rama II Road (Highway No. 35). At Samut Songkhram province, take Highway No. 325 (Samut Songkhram-Bangphae). Go on for about 6 kilometres, and you’ll find Amphawa with parking by the temple. Blanscape / Shutterstock.com
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good night
ADDRESS: 96 Prachaseth Road, Amphawa, Samutsongkram 75110
AMPHAWANANON HOTEL & SPA Superbly located in the heart of the famous Amphawa Canal Market, Amphawa Na Non Hotel and Spa is designed to offer you a complete relaxation. Switch off the light. Host fireflies are blinking in distance to serve you a sweet dream tonight. It’s nothing but the pure delight.
T: +66 (034) 752-111 F: +66 (034) 752-011 E: info.amphawananon@gmail.com AMPHAWANANON.COM Amphawa Nanon Hotel
good day YOUR CHOICE TO INDULGE YOURSELF WITH OUR SPA & MESSAGE SECLUDED SERVICES, OR CHILL OUT ON THE MOONLIT ROOFTOP WITH YOUR SPECIAL ONE.
Review
BayWater RESORT KOH SAMUI words: Paul Eastland
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ayWater Resort has opened its doors offering a perfect destination for families and couples alike, located just 4 km from the airport in the North West corner of the island and only 175 meters from Choeng Mon Beach, which boasts the calmest and cleanest waters on the island, perfect for swimming and snorkeling and a whole range of watersports. Fan Noi Island sits just offshore and can be reached by foot at low tide. Accommodation consists of 100 rooms and villas split into 3 categories, Deluxe, Deluxe Pool rooms and Pool Access Villas, all rooms are decorated and furnished to an incredibly high standard, including free internet access and satellite TV with multi language channels.
All this and much more awaits you, we strive to make your vacation one you will never forget
Dining is centered around the BayWater Restaurant which overlooks the resort swimming pool, offering an open air, all day dining venue serving a buffet as well as a wide selection of international cuisine and of course all the local Thai favourites. Enjoy a well needed refreshing drink at the swim up pool bar, with a wide selection of fresh fruit juices. Beers, cocktail, and for the children and teetotalers an impressive array of delicious mocktails. For the energetic, there is a brand new, fully equipped Fitness center, which is complimentary for all guests Relax at our Omsen Spa, and be pampered by our expertly traind therapists. All this and much more awaits you, we strive to make your vacation one you will never forget.
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more information The Unique Collection of Hotels & Resorts Tel: +66 2250 4527-9 Fax: +66 2250 4525 E-Mail: info@theuniquecollection.com
www.theuniquecollection.com
Absolute News
HILTON PATTAYA RUNS A FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
“The Teddy Bear for Charity”
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ilton Pattaya Runs A Fundraising Campaign “The Teddy Bear for Charity” To Support The Habitat For Humanity Thailand
we would like to invite guests to participate in this charity by purchasing a teddy bear as all profits from the sale of the bears will go to HFH.”
To celebrate its fifth anniversary, Hilton Pattaya is introducing its latest corporate responsibility initiative, “The Charity Teddy Bear for Habitat for Humanity Thailand”. The objective is to raise funds to support the Habitat for Humanity Thailand (HFH), the project that helps poverty by providing decent housing, improving their quality of life and provide response and solution for natural disaster recovery.
“This is not just simply a Teddy Bear. It is also a message of hope - making big differences to families in need,” said Smith Jingkaojai, chief executive officer, Habitat for Humanity Thailand.
“We have started the year with the calendar donation project for the visually impaired and will continue to support humanitarian projects in partnership with HFH to help lowincome families and people impacted by natural disasters,” said Rudolf Troestler, general manager, Hilton Pattaya. “For this fund-raising project,
The adorable teddy bear comes in two limited editions: different characters and outfits – the Joyful Bear in jumper outfits (April – July 2015) and the Friendly Bear (August – November 2015) at only THB 499 nett. These adorable teddy bears are available for sale from April 7, 2015 at Hilton Pattaya. Habitat for Humanity Thailand is an NGO which improves the quality of Thai people’s lives through building homes and transforming communities. HFH Thailand works with likeminded partners, focusing on holistic development and sustainable change
to achieve a positive and lasting impact. By providing decent homes, HFH boosts a family’s economic and educational opportunities, improves health and social integration.
more information
To buy a charity teddy bear or for more information please call +66 (0)38 253 000 or email pattaya.info@hilton.com
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Absolute News
Pictured from left: Mr. Puripat Teerakunpisut, Chief of Phuket Marine Office; Mr. Chula Sukmanop, Director General, Thailand Marine Department; and Mr. Gulu Lalvani, Chairman of Royal Phuket Marina.
Thailand’s Marine Industry
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hailand’s marine industry is now on the national agenda, which lead to a public hearing at Phuket City Hall to discuss how to develop Phuket as the maritime hub in Asean. A large turnout from the Island’s marine industry, local government departments and associated authorities together discussed a number of items and reached consensus on the need for a special charter license for superyachts.
“There are many superyacht owners who would bring their superyachts to Phuket if they could charter them while here, and I know many people who charter superyachts around the world for in excess of USD100,000 per week. Introducing a charter license for superyachts who wish to charter in Thailand will significantly increase charter revenue for the country,” added Mr. Lalvani.
On the back of a meeting between Mr. Gulu Lalvani, Chairman of Royal Phuket Marina, and Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, in January earlier this year, the Royal Thai Government has put marine tourism on the national agenda and Phuket is set to become the testing ground.
With its stunning cruising grounds and the best marina facilities in the region, Thailand is the destination of choice for superyachts coming to Asia and amendments to the current rules and regulations will likely encourage growth in superyacht arrivals and potential charter income.
Following Thai Prime Minister Mr. Prayuth Chan-ocha taking a direct interest in developing Thailand’s marine industry, yesterday’s public meeting was led by Mr. Chula Sukmanop, Director-General, Thailand Marine Department together with Mr. Nisit Jansomwong, Governor of Phuket. With over 150 members of the Island’s marine industry and relevant authorities present, Mr. Sukmanop explained the government’s aim to position Phuket as the maritime hub in Asean, to improve the current legal framework, and to develop a special charter license for superyachts. Often referred to as the Monaco of Asia, Royal Phuket Marina is a 5-Gold Anchor, 100-berth marina centrally located on Phuket’s East Coast. A destination in its own right, the marina is complemented by a collection of award-winning luxurious waterfront villas and condominiums, and a plethora of dining and shopping options along the marina boardwalk. For more information, visit www.royalphuketmarina.com.
Absolute News
Welcome to Kalima Resort & Spa, Phuket Thailand YOUR HILLSIDE HIDEAWAY
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alima Resort & Spa offers a fresh new eco-friendly holiday experience, the luxurious contemporary resort nestled on a lush jungle-clad hillside, like a secluded secret lagoon, where you can lounge outside your elevated poolside room and soak up the encompassing sun-drenched view over Patong Bay. Immersed in natural tropical surroundings with a sunset horizon over the Andaman sea, Kalima Resort & Spa is the only hillside resort overlooking the bay to offer such luxurious seclusion so close to Patong Beach
more information
Kalima Resort & Spa 338/1 Prabaramee Road, Patong Beach, Kathu, Phuket, Thailand 83150 Tel: +66 (0) 76 358999 Fax: +66 (0) 76 358988 Email: info@kalimaresort.com www. kalimaresort.com
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Absolute News
The Roof Gastro SIAM@SIAM DESIGN HOTEL BANGKOK
The concept
Behind The Menu
xperience amazing cuisine and hand crafted drinks at the minimalistic designed The Roof Gastro Restaurant perched high on the 25th floor of the Siam@ Siam Design Hotel, located in the very heart of Bangkok in the heart of Bangkok. With panoramic views over both new and old town areas of this vibrant city, The Roof Gastro has the perfect setting.
“True taste of nature” is the concept that The Roof Gastro takes. Our head chef and his dedicated staff believe in the science of Gatromony which comes from the ancient Greek word “gastro” and “nomos”meaning heathy food that’s good for life. The creation of every single dish carefully uses only the freshest natural ingredients cooked by our skillful kitchen team to bring out the best taste in every bite. Too much seasoning is the thing that our culinary team carefully avoids, believing that a proper mix of fresh ingredients can result in “clean food with good taste”
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With the charismatic minimal design of both indoor and outdoor areas, the restaurant gives you a closeto-nature feeling especially with its fresh from the source concept, be it sea or farm, we strive to provide only the freshest fare available. Compliment your culinary experience with a wide range of special created cocktails, wines and champagnes from all around the world to make your night become a special night.
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Recommend Menu 1. Bouchot mussels Mariniere cream potage ( Ocean-inspired) 2. Blue Brittany poached lobster with seasonal market garden vegetables (Light dish)
3. Sablefish served with steamed thyme, black olive tapenade, basil and regional vegetables (Mediterranean Sea - inspired) 4. Pan-seared filet of sea bass with fennel mousseline and butter lemon comfit (a refreshing dish)
more information
Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok 865 Rama I Road, Wang Mai, Pathumwan, Bangkok, Thailand 10330 Tel: +66 (0) 2217 3000 Fax: +66 (0) 2217 3030 Email: info@siamatsiam.com www.siamatsiam.com
Top Books
top books Confess
BY COLLEEN HOOVER
Auburn Reed has her entire life mapped out. Her goals are in sight and there’s no room for mistakes. But when she walks into a Dallas art studio in search of a job, she doesn’t expect to find a deep attraction to the enigmatic artist who works there, Owen Gentry. For once, Auburn takes a risk and puts her heart in control, only to discover Owen is keeping major secrets from coming out. The magnitude of his past threatens to destroy everything important to Auburn, and the only way to get her life back on track is to cut Owen out of it.
Manwhore
BY KATY EVANS
Is it possible to expose Chicago’s hottest player- without getting played? This is the story I’ve been waiting for all my life, and its name is Malcolm Kyle Preston Logan Saint. Don’t be fooled by that last name though. There’s nothing holy about the man except the hell his parties raise. The hottest entrepreneur Chicago has ever known, he’s a man’s man with too much money to spend and too many women vying for his attention. Mysterious. Privileged. Legendary. His entire life he’s been surrounded by the press as they dig for tidbits to see if his fairytale life is for real or all mirrors and social media lies. Since he hit the scene, his secrets have been his and his alone to keep. And that’s where I come in. Assigned to investigate Saint and reveal his elusive personality, I’m determined to make him the story that will change my career.
A Perfect Ten
BY LINDA KAGE
Let your hair down, Caroline, they said. It’ll be fun, they said. I know I’ve closed myself off in a major way over the past year, ever since “the incident” where I messed up my life completely. It’s past time I try to live again or just give up altogether. But this is quite possibly the craziest thing I’ve ever done.
ABSOLUTE THAI
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Top Apps
top apps Tinder Plus What it does: Tinder has been one of the most popular “dating” apps on mobile devices, allowing you to hook up with other Tinder users, just as long as both of you swipe right on each other. It’s a genius concept, but the developers have introduced a new paid version of the service.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO PUT SOMETHING NEW ON YOUR IPHONE, HERE ARE THE BEST NEW IPHONE APPS.
Peak Brain Training
Cost: Free
What it does: Already a hit on iOS, this slick brain-training game is now available for Android devices too. It gets you to play a set of simple, fun mini-games everyday, and tracks your performance over time, letting you know you’re (hopefully) improving. Cost: Free
Vine Kids What it does: Vine is a cool app that allows users to record sixsecond videos and share them on social media sites. However, the developers have now made a Vine app specifically for kids. Vine Kids is simple, in that it features hand-selected Vine videos that are appropriate for kids, and it’s an app that’s really easy to use, where you simply just swipe left or right to view the previous or next Vine video, respectively. You can also just tap the screen to enable/disable audio. Cost: Free
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Darkroom What it does: The Photos app on your iPhone does a good job of making basic edits to your pictures, but if you need something a bit more in depth, Darkroom may be the app you’re looking for. The app is really easy to use and it gives you access to all kinds of editing tools. There’s even a feature that lets you create your own filters to give your photos a unique look, and the app saves the entire edit history, so you can undo as many changes as you want on a photo. Cost: Free
CalPal What it does: There are an abundance of calendar apps available for the iPhone, but CalPal is one that has a unique feature. The app can act like any other calendar app, allowing you to easily enter in events and reminders, thanks to the easy-to-use user interface, and it can sync with existing calendars from different services, like Google, Exchange, iCloud, Yahoo, etc. Cost: Free
Gadgets
VESSYL NEW HI TECH
must buys
AUTOMATICALLY KNOWS AND TRACKS EVERYTHING YOU DRINK Manage Weight Track your liquid calories over the course of the day and week.
COBRA JUMPACK™ JUMP STARTER / POWER PACK
Stay Hydrated Be in your Prime Zone during the day, so you can perform to your limits Regulate Caffeine Stay sharp, but not jittery. Vessyl will help you smooth out your consumption. Build Muscle Vessyl will track protein and recovery drinks, to make sure you get the most out of your workouts. Sleep Better Learn how to choose and time your beverage intake to get quality sleep.
What if you could jump start your car and charge your mobile devices off the same battery pack that easily fits in your backpack or purse? The Cobra JumPackTM is all of that and more. With a starting current of 200A and 400A peak current the Cobra JumPack has enough power to jump start most cars multiple times on a single charge. This compact portable power pack also contains a 7,500 mAh battery with a 2.1 Amp USB output to rapidly charge any mobile device from smart phones to tablets to digital cameras, making it the ideal emergency battery pack for a home, office, vehicle or the outdoors. The Cobra JumPack has a built-in LED flashlight with a strobe and S.O.S function for emergencies. It also includes jumper cables and two different charging methods; a wall charger for home, and a 12V charger to charge your battery pack on the go. So whether you need to jump start your car, motorcycle, boat or snow mobile or just need a little recharge of your mobile devices, the Cobra JumPack has you covered and can keep you going.
Curb Sugar There is nothing sweet about having too much sugar. Don’t let sugar sneak in. It’s not magic, but close to it. The Vessyl knows and analyses the makeup of everything you drink. No more guessing. It keeps track of what’s important to you… all automatically. Your Vessyl connects to iOS and Android mobile devices. So all of your nutrient data gets updated to your mobile device… automatically (we love this word). We know being active is important, so your Vessyl connects with popular activity trackers for more accurate net calories and hydration awareness. myvessyl.com
cobra.com
ABSOLUTE THAI
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Gadgets
GOPRO HERO4 BLACK
SINGTRIX American Idol has turned us into a nation of wannabe pop stars. It’s just that we don’t all have the necessary pipes to pull it off. Well, with Singtrix’s karaoke machine, you won’t need them. The kit’s included vocal processor lets you auto-tune that wail into an ear-pleasing vibrato. It’s the kind of thing that’ll get the party really started. Sing like a rockstar From the creators of the original Guitar Hero®* comes Singtrix®, the next-generation karaoke machine that makes bad singers sound good and good singers sound amazing! Sound like your favorite stars with hundreds of professional vocal effects, live backup harmonies created from your own voice & natural pitch-correction. It works with any music and any audio device. Singtrix.com
Most advanced GoPro ever. Introducing HERO4 Black, the most advanced GoPro ever. Featuring improved image quality and a 2x more powerful processor with 2x faster video frame rates,1 HERO4 Black takes Emmy® Awardwinning GoPro performance to a whole new level. Incredible high-resolution 4K30 and 2.7K604 video and high frame rate 1080p120 video enable stunning, immersive footage of you and your world. New Protune™ settings for both photos and video unlock manual control of Color, ISO Limit, Exposure and more. Waterproof to 131’ (40m) with 12MP photos at a blistering 30 frames per second and improved audio,1 HERO4 Black is the ultimate life-capture solution shop.gopro.com
XBOX ONE Xbox One was built by gamers, for gamers. With the best exclusive titles and all the biggest blockbusters you want to play, Xbox One takes gaming to a whole new level. Stunning realism. Advanced AI that adapts to the way you play. And a new generation of multiplayer that is both smarter and faster. Powered by over 300,000 servers, with millions of players around the world, and more than a decade of multiplayer experience, Xbox Live is the proven place to play the best exclusive titles and all the biggest blockbusters. And now, everyone is invited to experience smarter matchmaking, less waiting, and better performance with Xbox Live on Xbox One. You can even record and share your moments of glory, or live broadcast your gameplay with Twitch. With the best games, TV, movies, music and sports all in one place, you don’t have to compromise. Snap a game, live TV, or apps like Skype and YouTube side-by-side, and quickly switch from one to another. And use Bing search to find the entertainment you are looking for on your console, in an app, or on the web.
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Feature
A NEW HOSPITALITY CONCEPT
Capri by Fraser words: Paul Eastland
F
or a refreshing stay that blurs the line between business and leisure, Capri by Fraser, Kuala Lumpur / Malaysia is set in a 33-storey tower with a rooftop bar, offering stunning city views. A destination in itself, this smart new property features 240 spacious studios and apartments with kitchenettes, hi-speed Wi-Fi throughout, and the latest facilities. Accommodation 240 spacious units comprising Studio 60sqm, One Bedroom 80sqm, Capri Club 60sqm, Capri Club Premier 80sqm, and Three Bedroom 132sqm with kitchenettes.
Facilities and Services Amentities • Complimentary High-speed WiFi • 24/7 Fully-equipped gym with kickboxing facilities • Swimming Pool • Garden Terrace • Capri Club Floor • Yoga Room • Games Room • Indoor Kids Playground • Steam and Sauna Room • Jacuzzi • Caprilicious (All-day dining) • Delite • Ripples Bar @ Level 33
ABSOLUTE THAI
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Feature
Meetings and Conference • Meetings and event spaces raised 32 floors above the ground • Full length windows overlooking city skyline • Exclusive and extensive packages to fit your needs • Complimentary high speed internet at all meeting and event space • All meeting rooms are with natural daylight Package Inclusion for meeting rooms
Services and Offerings • 24-hour reception, security and concierge services • Daily house keeping (3 times a week for monthly stays) • Complimentary scheduled shuttle bus service • Laundrette Capri by Fraser, Kuala Lumpur / Malaysia is a new hotel residence for today’s always on lifestyle. Enjoy all day dinning at Caprilicious. Work out 24/7 in the Gym. Relax in a hammock in the outdoor garden terrace. Grab a bite from Delite. Explore the Play Room. Take a sauna. Unwind in the Yoga Room. Chill out with incredible panoramic view across the Kuala Lumpur skyline from the Ripples Bar.
Capri by Fraser, Kuala Lumpur is located in the prestigious Bangsar South residential come commercial enclave, a fully integrated commercial and residential complex centrally located midway KL, PJ and Bangsar It is the commercial hub of New Bangsar, close to the iconic Menara Telekom, the university of Malaya and the Pantai Hospital and Medical Centre. Bangsar South enjoys a host of food and beverage outlets and retail shops in the newly built NEXUS mall, a healthcare centre, its own clubhouse and a vast 6-acre park. With the KL City Centre and MidValley Mega Mall just a drive away, be spoilt for choice with its abundance of shopping, dining, entertainment and recreational options
• Use of function room with your preferred set-up • Optional set up with white boards/ flipcharts and assorted markers • With options of built in LCD projector and screen • Water and writing materials Direction By Car Accessible via federal Highway, New Pantai Expressway (NPE), Kerinchi Link By Train RapidKL LRT, University Station (Kelana Jaya Line) Distance from airport KLIA - 57km / 43 minutes by car KLIA2 - 57km / minutes by car Subang Airport - 22km / 28 minutes by car
For more information Please call our Meeting and Event Planners at +603 2386 0800 or reservation.kualalumpur@ capribyfraser.com www.capribyfraser.com
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LUXURIOUS FOUR BEDROOM PRIVATE VILLA FOR RENT ON PHUKET’S BEST GOLF COURSE Imagine staying in your own private villa one at the best Thailand golf resorts? Our Villas offer luxurious 4 bedroom accommodations and can be shared between families and/or golf buddies travelling together. Well that’s what you get within loch Palm Villas set on the 13th Green of Loch Palm this villa offers fabulous accommodation for 8 set with the grounds of 2 great golf courses, Red Mountain and Loch Palm. Red Mountain nicknamed the most exciting Golf course on Phuket, which has been sculptured into the rugged rock terrain, is a scenic and true challenging course. The Par 72 is a very strategic course with numerous risk and reward opportunities, with twisting fairways, red rock cliffs and thick jungle back drops this course offer spectacular viewpoints through this 6,781 yard course Loch Palm, dubbed the most relaxing golf course In Phuket is regarded as Red Mountains older and softer sister. The 6,422-yard par 72 course offers a more relaxing game around Phuket’s Largest lake, with water coming into play on 13 of these holes.
SALE 38 MILLION THB
ON
I OT OM
PR Positioned a short putt from the 13th green, this luxurious property offers 4 bedrooms (all ensuite) while the master has a full bathroom with shower, bath and a walk-in changing area and uninterrupted views over the golf course, with full width sling doors that open straight onto the patio and the 12-meter pool. With a large living room which opens up directly onto the patio and swimming pool and a poolside area. The kitchen is fully fitted with expansive cupboards space with gas hob/oven plus extraction with enough space to cater for any party. CONTACT US Tel: +66 (0)85 064 4806 Email : svealochpalmlakeviewvilla@gmail.com
STAY 6 NIGHTS, PAY FOR ONLY 5
Promotion includes complimentary
breakfast for 8 persons during the period.
Two persons can play FREE on the 18 hole course at Loch Palm Golf Club for one day during your 6 night stay. This promotion is available from June 1st 2015 until January
10th 2016, SO BOOK NOW TO BE THE FIRST TO ENJOY AT LOCH PALM GOLF VILLA. 1 Jun - 30 Nov 1 Dec - 31 Dec
25,000 THB per day 40,000 THB per day
(excluding 20 Dec - 10 Jan)
20 Dec - 10 Jan 50,000 THB per day