BK Magazine Jan 9, 2015 by BK Magazine

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 572 FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

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page 3 Don’t hold your breath

6 cover story

Life in 2015 10 escapes

18 digital

Luang Prabang

Work Smart

20 blends

21 bites

Drinking Incentives

Beefy Treats

Congratulations, you didn’t die in a car crash during the holidays! It would be a shame to miss out on 2015, which is going to be another awesome year by the looks of it (see page 6). Now, of course, not everything will be awesome. Here’s a top ten of what won’t happen in 2015: 1. Your resolutions. Come on, if God intended us to have six packs, He wouldn’t have let half the bakers in France suddenly open shop in Bangkok. Come to us, Pierre Herme! Our body longs for your smooth, plump, rosy macarons. 2. An election. We Thais find the business of politics and dragging ourselves regularly to the polling station exhausting. Every few years, we need to take a break from the whole thing and have some well-deserved rest under a military regime. This is one such blissful time.

28 BK now

35 last word

Tests of Strength

New Groove

3. More parks, libraries and museums in heritage buildings. It’s hot outside, and culture makes our head hurt. Luckily, it will soon be possible to traverse all of Bangkok, from MBK to Mega Bangna, without leaving the comfort of an air-con mall. Now that’s progress. 4. Taxis taking you to your destination. Uber or no Uber, it ain’t happening, honey.

Who's in charge? General Manager Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor, Product Director Gr goire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Staff Writer Vasachol Quadri Junior Writers Kritthee Visitkitjakarn, Lily Kittisrikangwan, Kanin Srimaneekulroj Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Art Director Dechart Sangsawang Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Nemintorn Ketkeaw, Wariya Whangwaewklang

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Orajira Sukkasem, Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri Junior Sales Associates Doungporn Wanasinchai, Buttri Tanrungruang

Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive, Creative Services Puttipat Teerakawongsakul

Cover by Nemintorn Ketkeaw

Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Intern Tewit Phanitprachaya

Group Directors

IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung

Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan duncann@asia-city.com.sg

The Asia City Publishing Group Shanghai Email: shonline@asia-city.com.cn Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #14-03 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552

Tel: 65-6323-2512 Fax: 65-6323-2779 Email: ismag@asia-city.com.sg Kuala Lumpur Pacific Tourism Communications Sdn Bhd

6. Asean. We’re still a bit confused as to whether Thailand shares a border with Vietnam. It does, right? 7. Fast internet. We’ve been told that there will come a day when the internet will be so fast, we’ll be able to download pictures almost instantly. There may even be video streaming before the century is over. 8. Sensible Thai social media. Is it us or are things just getting worse and worse? It’s like we’re the country where hoaxes, clickbait and chain letters come to die. Remember: it’s only OK to share this stuff if you’re drunk, at work or stuck in traffic.

Where to find us! Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd 22/F, Silom Center 2 Silom Road, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 Email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th

5. Fancy Spanish food. For all the global buzz about “World’s Best Restaurants” El Bulli and El Celler de can Roca, this city simply refuses to do Spanish food that isn’t deep-fried chunks of potato or pans of saffron-colored rice.

Lot 2.44-2.45, 2nd Floor, Wisma Cosway, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: 60-3-2144-4886 Fax: 60-3-2141-1911

9. Peace in the South. Sadly. 10. Gay marriage, the arrival of the Michelin guide and proper bicycle lanes. (Sorry, 10 just wasn’t enough.) Happy New Year.

BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 51 times a year, every Friday of each month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2015 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250

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@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, January 9, 2015

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Upgrading Your Office

Not: Upgrading Your Home

Sorry folks, but it looks like we’re out of holidays for the month and you may actually be expected to look alive at your desk in the coming weeks (as opposed to showing up in beer garden zombie mode). To make your plight a little less cruel, we’ve rounded up some back-to-work gadgets (see page 18) and décor pieces (see page 16) guaranteed to brighten up your office.

ALMOST FAMOUS

Hot: Extra Fine Dining

Not: Comfort Food

If you’re on team Jess Barnes—meaning you like Opposite’s full-on flavors, hearty portions and casual atmosphere—you may just feel a bit out of touch in 2015. With the recent opening of JÖel Robuchon and the upcoming Origin, we’re seeing highly refined presentation and gazillion-course meals making a strong comeback. Then again, Barnes has plans of his own and Water Library Thonglor is taking things down a notch (see page 6-7).

In a great display of human perseverance, motion graphics artist Nicholas “Nick” Ward, 30, and graphic designer Rayvut “Ray” Changsura, 33, successfully returned to Thailand from England traveling on their bicycles. The one-year journey took the friends through 12 countries, including Pakistan, Georgia, Turkey and Nepal. BK joins them as they look back on the eventful year. What was your favorite country on the trip?

Hot: Air-Con

Not: Hipster Markets

It’ll get here, eventually, the crushing heat of Mar-May. But for now, it’s time to enjoy the last of this winter seasons’ hipster markets, Made by Legacy (Jan 10-11, see page 26). After that, it’ll be back to the freezing air-con of malls and hotels, of which there will be plenty more opening this year: EmQuartier, Naiipa Art Complex, Park Hyatt, etc. (see pages 6-7).

Ray: It would probably be Georgia. The country is located right on the divide between Europe and Asia, so it has a unique mix of both continents. It was like traveling back in time to the days of the Soviet Union, where everything looks old and archaic, with mountains and rivers everywhere you look. We were also fortunate that Georgia was just entering spring, so the temperature was pretty nice. The people there were also very welcoming. Georgia wasn’t on the list of countries we originally planned to visit, so everything there was a bit of a surprise, and it was great. What were some obstacles you had to overcome on this trip? Nick : The weather, which was always unpredictable.

Hot: Rising Indie Stars Not: Yesterday’s Hits A glimpse at the upcoming gigs for 2015 (see page 6) will tell you Bangkok is no longer just the last bastion for washed-up pop singers (cough, cough, Michael Buble). With the likes of Iceage, Deers, The 1975 and even Mogwai, we’ve got touring bands coming to town either at the peak of their game or on their way to superstardom.

Ray: And the visas. We got used to the weather by the time we left Europe, but the visas we prepared in advance were starting to

run out, so we had to start applying for them. Iran, for example, was almost a dead-end, as we tried to go around the surrounding countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan. We tried to pass through Dubai, but they couldn’t grant us visas since we weren’t in Thailand. We had to alter our plans and find new routes because of this. What did you learn from this trip? Nick: I think it makes you know yourself better, to know how far you can actually go. You start to realize what it is you really need. We couldn’t bring too much stuff with us on the trip, and we had to throw things away every day to lessen the load, leaving only the bare essentials, like clothes or tools for fixing our bikes. Ray: One thing that is very clear right now for me is that nothing is certain. We had to change our route many times due to various unforeseen complications. Everything is always changing, and change can

happen at any time. There were many times when we bonded with the locals, only to have to pack up and leave the next day. Any close calls or dangerous experiences? Ray: On Crete, we had to set up our tents by this chasm. There was a pleasant breeze in the evening, and it seemed like a great place for us to settle down. Unfortunately, a storm came in that night at around 2am. We couldn’t get a lick of sleep after that, because the winds were threatening to pull our tents out of the ground and into the chasm. Nick: We really were that close to being blown off a cliff. My tent was actually doing decently, but Ray’s tent pegs were uprooted. Ray: I had to just lay there for six hours to let the storm pass before I got out. Interview by Kanin Srimaneekulroj

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

BK Magazine Friday, January 9, 2015

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cover story

The Year Ahead A complete guide to what we know is going to happen in Bangkok in 2015 plus a few early predictions. By BK Editorial

MUSIC Iceage

Incubus

Indie promoters Popscene follow up their busy 2014 by presenting the Danish punk rockers, riding high off their much-acclaimed latest album, Plowing into the Field of Love. Note: this is your big chance to show your appreciation for the hard work of Popscene’s Jimmy Livewire and co., as they may be taking an extended break after this gig. B600 (one drink). Jan 17, Lungsuan Live in the Castle, Kampheng Phet Soi 2, 02-507-4788

Last out here for Pattaya’s Silverlake Festival in 2012, the Californian nu-metal band-turned-sensitive soul boys, led by Brandon Boyd, promise to rock out like it’s 2000 all over again, ahead of a comeback album slated for later in the year. Tickets B1,5003,000, available at Thaiticketmajor. Mar 11, Thunderdome Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455

Michael Bublé Incubus

The Master

Iceage

FILM The Master

The mega-star pop crooner returns to our shores in support of his most recent album, 2014’s To Be Loved. Of course, the biggest shrieks from the crowd will be reserved for his mid-00s chart-toppers like “Home” and “I Just Haven’t Met You Yet,” which will see Bublé backed by a big band. Jan 24, 7:30pm. Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455

Touring on the back of last year’s well-received album, Rave Tapes, the veteran Scottish post-rockers chase the sun in Bangkok again. If you’re not acquainted, expect a mix of delicate melodies, thunderous noise and jocular stage banter—better pack those earplugs. Tickets B1,500 available from Thaiticketmajor. Mar 13, Moonstar Studio, 701 Ladphrao Soi 80, 02-539-3881

The 1975

Keep on the Grass

With a sound recalling an 80s teen movie, this Manchester synth-pop band ought to get the girls dancing. Tickets are a little steep, but it’s perhaps a small price to pay for the radiofriendly hooks, sex and excess being promised. Tickets B2,000-3,000, available at Thaiticketmajor. Jan 25, Centerpoint Studio, 9-11 Sukhumvit Soi 105 (Soi Lasalle). BTS Bearing

Deers

Produced by one of Bangkok’s hottest film makers of recent years, Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit (36 and Mary is Happy, Mary is Happy), The Master is a documentary that focuses on the issue of piracy by telling the story of the legendary Mr. Van, a bootleg video vendor who sold arthouse flicks from around the world to Thai audiences. Currently, the film has a limited screening at House RCA, but it should get a proper run in cinemas later in 2015, and hopefully with English subtitles.

Mogwai

The gig promoters-turned-fashion designers Supersweet recently opened a concept store on Sukhumvit Soi 49 (see Avenue Landing, page 12). To celebrate, on Valentine’s Day, they’ll welcome bodacious Spanish girl rockers Deers. From Jan 15, spend over B1,000 at the Supersweet x Moumi store to receive an entry wristband. Feb 14, Grease, Piman 49, 46/12 Sukhumvit Soi 49. 02-662-6120. BTS Prom Phong

Miss last month’s Wonderfruit festival? Here’s a more low-key option to look forward to, just out of town. The third instalment of the breezy folk fest from the people behind Stone Free Festival promises a folk-heavy lineup consisting of Into the Air, Zweed n’ Roll and Two Million Thanks, proving yet again that everything’s better on grass. B1,500 (B1,000 presale), including camping spot. Tickets available at www.fb.com/keeponthegrassmusicfestival. Jan 31, Phu-Uthai, Saraburi

Backstreet Boys Details are still sketchy at best, but internet rumors suggest the 90s boy band will be back on our shores in 2015. We’ll keep you posted.

Samui Song Following his slightly disappointing Paradoxocracy doco in 2012, Pen-Ek Ratanaruang returns with Samui Song, the story of a lady, played by Ploy Cherman (who worked with Pen-Ek on his classic Last Life in the Universe, 2003), whose husband becomes a cult devotee in the service of “the holy one,” played by Vithaya Pansringam (Only God Forgives). The film is currently in production and should hit cinemas later in 2015.

Michael Bublé

The Two Kings Nonzee Nimibutr, of 2499 Antapan Krong Muang (original version in 1997), Nang Nak (1999) and Ok Baytong (2003) fame, is also back with his latest production, The Two Kings. The film will follow an Elvis impersonator who was spotted at a transsexual cabaret club and asked to enter a competition in Las Vegas. The Thai-American production will be co-produced by Henry Ko and Sandra Gaviria, and is expected to be in Bangkok cinemas sometime in 2015.

Deers

Keep On The Grass

BK Magazine Friday, January 9, 2015

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cover story PROPERTY Mahanakhon Residences The Mahanakhon project will be completed in 2015, when the super-luxurious Ritz-Carlton Residence condos and a Marriot hotel designed by Ian Schrager (the man who introduced the world to “boutique” accommodation) open alongside the f&b ventures of The Cube. Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd. BTS Chong Nonsi

Emquartier

RESTAURANTS AND BARS

Park Hyatt (Central Embassy)

Origin In addition to all the star-studded ventures from Michelin-star chefs, including the just-opened L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon (see page 22), Bangkok is also about to have a little glimpse of the world-famous three-Michelin-star eatery Alinea. Headed by 23-year-old Marcus Townsend, who cut his teeth at the Chicago-based restaurant for over a year, Origin offers five- to 33-course meals of small bites with labor-intensive presentation. Set to officially open its doors on Jan 10. 139/5 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 081-551-1387

Located next to Central Embassy, this luxury hotel from Hyatt is sure to become a popular tourist spot. Specific details on what we can expect at the hotel are scarce. The only thing we know for certain is that it will have a rooftop bar overlooking downtown Bangkok. Opening date is to be confirmed. Ploenchit Rd. (next to Central Embassy) BTS Phloen Chit. Mahanakhon

Italics The boutique hotelier-group AHMS (Aleenta, Akaryn, Akyra Samui) will open this Italian restaurant in the heart of Bangkok. Set to launch this March, the kitchen, led by Aleenta’s chef James Noble, promises to deliver innovative dishes made with locally-sourced produce. With what they’re calling a “Thai-influenced” design, the restaurant will offer 56 seats, both indoor and al fresco, plus a 13-seat coffee bar. Ruamruedee Soi 3, 02-514-8112

Origin

Landmark Waterfront: Jumeirah Hotel, Capella Bangkok The Landmark Waterfront project will consist of a residential condo and hotel from Capella, as well as a luxury hotel from Jumeirah. Having two five-star hotels and a condo in one development may be a little excessive, though both Capella and Jumeirah are big names in the hotel scene, and we are interested to see what they’ll look like once completed. Charoenkrung Rd.

The long-awaited Indigo boutique hotel will finally open on Wireless Road this week, said to be incorporating lots of locally-inspired art pieces, like pictures of old Bangkok on the walls as well as pop-art style pillows bearing iconic scenes from around the city. Situated across from Lumphini Park, the 192-room hotel will have opening rates starting from B3,700 per night. 81 Wittayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-2074999.

Avani Bangkok Riverside Hotel & Spa After the B335-million revamp to Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa, Minor Group is now focusing on its new hotel, Avani, right next to the riverside property. Unlike most new hotels being built around Bangkok, which seem to be very luxury-focused, this one has a more laid-back approach, more about convenience and lifestyle. The project includes a retail space in front with facilities like all-day dining restaurant and rooftop pool bar grill. We heard that it will have the biggest ballroom in Bangkok, too. Opening date is to be confirmed. 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Rd. (next to Anantara Bangkok Riverside)

Naiipa Art Complex Located in Sukhumvit Soi 46, a five-minute walk from BTS Phra Khanong, Naiipa Art Complex is a lifestyle mall built under a green city concept (Nai-Pa or Naiipa is the Thai word for “in the forest”). The mall is still under construction, but expected to open in Feb 2015. It will house rental space for retailers (expect some organic and artisanal shops), as well as exhibition and co-working spaces. Sukhumvit Soi 46, BTS Phra Kanong. www.fb.com/naiipa.art

TRENDING NEIGHBORHOODS

Water Library Thonglor

Chinatown/ Charoenkrung

While the revamped concept is still being finalized for this break-the-bank fine dining establishment, Water Library GM Oliver Kramny says the new focus will be on fun and accessibility. We’ll find out when it opens sometime in the first or second quarter. The Grass Thonglor, 264/1 Thonglor Soi 10 (Sukhumvit Soi 55), 02-714-9292/3

Abbot This brand new venture from some of the team behind Bed Supper Club, who call themselves Bed Buzz, will feature a lively bar downstairs, while the upper-floor will offer a much more refined dining experience. Helmed by Rene Michelena, previously a top 10 Chef of the Year in Food & Wine Magazine (USA), the food here is California-inspired, using a balanced combination of local and imported produce. Set to open in late January or early February. 253/2 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-258-6250

This project from The Mall Group (the folks who own Emporium) will see the entire Phrom Phong area completely redesigned under the “District Em” concept. A project area roughly the size of Paragon will include a variety of uses, from retail and office spaces to residential areas. Word is it will also include EmQuartier, kind of like Emporium 2’s version of Groove, set to open in March, 2015. Opposite The Emporium, Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong

Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road

Italics

2014 saw us actually enjoy proper nights out in Chinatown. Soy Sauce Factory, Soulbar, Speedy Grandma, Bridge, Cho Why—the list of venues is still small, but we’re expecting it to grow this year. (We’ve seen a lot of the “For Rent” signs come down around Soi Nana, for instance.) Word is our fave café empire, Casa Lapin, will be muscling in soon, too.

On Nut OK, Sansiri, last month’s Winter Fest has us convinced. We’re still not quite ready to rename it T77, but On Nut is one community on the rise. For starters, it’s only one BTS stop from Phra Khanong, which we spent all of 2014 telling you is cool. Speaking of which, it’s about to welcome a new artisan-focused community mall, Naiipa (see above), so maybe all our prophesying will pay off.

Jess Barnes’ New Digs Opposite Mess Hall’s chef has gone public about moving to Sathorn later this year. He’s got hold of a massive shop-house on Soi 12 and says it’ll be open in time for Songkran. As Kelly Wheatly (who did Eat Me) is doing the design, we’re expecting great things—but we’re not expecting an April opening.

Chinatown

Park Hyatt

BK Magazine Friday, January 9, 2015

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escapes

Laos banana boats

Misaiphon Restaurant

Mekong River

LAOS

Northern Retreat

Tangor Bar and Lounge

Night Market

Luang Prabang offers culture and relaxation in a picturesque riverside town. By Eimear Elkington

lthough well known for its myriad golden temples, Luang Prabang also offers a host of other treats, from colonial restaurants and charming cafés to breathtaking natural wonders.

Eat Luang Prabang is quiet and low-key, which makes it a great spot to enjoy lots of long lunches and indulgent dinners. Start with the many cute French bakeries around town, most sporting colonial architecture. Le Banneton (Sisavang Vong Rd., across from Wat Sop Sickharam temple) has so many travellers lounging outside eating crusty baguettes you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Paris in the summertime. The Lao coffee is thick, strong and served black or with sweetened condensed milk (from 12,000 kip/B48). Obviously you need to sample some traditional Lao food during your visit, which has similarities to both Thai and Chinese cuisines. Grab a spot on the wide wooden balcony at restaurant and cooking school Tamnak Lao (Sakkaline Rd., +8 56 71252525, www.tamnaklao.net), order up some say ua kway, a traditional spicy Lao buffalo sausage (35,000 kip/B140) and ask for a pot of their jeowbong—an intense green chili dip that packs a serious punch. For dinner, head to relaxed, open-air Misaiphon Restaurant (Phu Vao Rd., +8 56 7121-2888) to catch a performance of traditional Lao dance and music. Try the whole fish with herbs (55,000 kip/ B220), which is perfectly moist and cooked in a fragrant mix of peanuts, lime and lemongrass. If you really want to push the boat out, enjoy the town’s French cultural legacy with a meal at fine dining restaurant L’Eléphant (Vat Nong, +8 56

7125-2482, www.elephant-restau.com). The setting is open, elegant and airy, the food rich and flavorsome and the wine list one of the most extensive in town. Try one of the set menus (from 127,000 kip/B580) for items like coq au vin and tarte tartin with warm apple, mango and pineapple.

Drink

Luang Prabang is so chill it borders on sleepy, so you’re hardest partying will probably be sipping a quiet beer. Your best bet is along Sisavang Vong Road near the center of town. Tangor Bar and Lounge (Sisavang Vong Rd., +8 56 7126-0761) is an expat hangout with dark lighting, soft jazz and a wide veranda, while Coconut Garden (directly across the road) serves Lao food and cold drinks in an open courtyard space dotted with palm trees and white umbrellas. Just remember the local curfew means bars start winding down around 11pm and close at 11:30pm on the dot.

Stay We stayed at the swanky Le Palais Juliana Hotel (Chao Phetsalath, +8 56 7126-0417, www.julianahotels.com), a gorgeous resort-style property outside of town with rooms overlooking the pool and gardens. Prices start from US$189 per night (B6,000). For something more central, Villa Santi (Sakkarine Road, +8 56 7125-2157, www.villasantihotel.com) is a beautiful colonial building with wide open rooms and shuttered windows in the heart of the temple district, making it a good spot to catch the early morning almsgiving. Prices start from US$128 (B4,000) per night.

Monks accepting alms

Essentials GETTING THERE

Bangkok Airways flies twice daily to Luang Prabang at 9:40am and 15:05pm. Round-trip starts from B10,350. Thai Airways flies to Luang Prabang five times a week. Prices start at B9,465 for a return. VISA

Thais don’t need a visa for stays of up to 30 days but you need to go with a passport. Citizens from most other countries can get a visa-on-arrival for B1,000 (you’ll need a passport photo, too). CURRENCY

The official currency in Laos is the Laotian Kip (LAK) but the majority of shops and businesses will accept Thai baht or US dollars. EXCHANGE RATE

Save the Date Feb 3 Boun Khao Chi This temple festival is held during the third moon of the lunar calendar. You will see worshippers circumnavigate the town’s temples and make offerings to monks. April 14-16 Lao New Year Falling in April, the local, much calmer version of Songkran lasts three days and involves water ceremonies, processions and feasts—without as much drunkenness. Early May Rocket Festival This fun festival involves people gathering in fields to launch miniature, homemade rockets in the air in an attempt to make rain. Expect booms and plenty of revelry.

www.tourismlaos.org

B1 = 250 kip

BK Magazine Friday, January 9, 2015

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Tad Kuangsi waterfall

View from Phousi Hill

Le Palais Juliana Hotel

Do Luang Prabang is set along the mighty Mekong River so make sure you get out on the water with a boat trip. A standard two-hour tour costs US$40 -50 (B1,300-B1,600, depending on your bargaining skills) and should take in the thousands of Buddha images stored in caves at Pak Ou. It also usually involves a stop off at one of the small villages along the way to visit local markets and sample some homemade whiskey. Another worthwhile adventure is Tad Kuangsi waterfall, around 30km south of Luang Prabang (about US$20/ B620 return in a taxi). After a short walk through the forest you’ll hear the sound of crashing water before you see the breathtaking three-tiered falls. If you can spare the time, bring swimmers and take a dip, the turquoise water is crystal clear and refreshing.

Those looking for souvenirs should head to the daily night markets from 5pm on Sisavang Vong Road. A welcome departure from the usual tacky tourist tees and key rings, these higher-end markets have locals selling silver and beaded jewelry, patterned ceramic kitchenware, local art and ground Laos coffee beans to take home. There’s also a great range of hawkers selling everything from fresh juices and pancakes to barbecued meat skewers. If extra time presents itself, just wander the town’s picturesque streets which snake between traditional wooden Lao homes, faded colonial guesthouses and golden temples. For a bird’s eye view climb to the top of Phousi Hill and its mountaintop temple. It’s a bit of a trek (comfy shoes and mosquito repellent are recommended) but the panoramic views make it a great spot for sunset.

Temple Tour Wat Visoun The oldest temple in the city is a huge stone structure surrounded by lush gardens. Sisavang Vong Road

Haw Kham temple

Wat Xieng Thong One of the country’s most important temples, attracting monks from all over Laos. Khem Khong Road Wat Sop Sickharam It’s beautiful and highly ornate with gold detailing, located right in town. Sakkaline Road Haw Kham The city’s royal palace is over 110 years old and has some French colonial touches. Sisavang Vong Road

Wat Visoun temple

BK Magazine Friday, January 9, 2015

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES By Tewit Phanitprachaya and Monruedee Jansuttipan

CAMBODIA

Eat, Learn, Love Ever wanted to experience life as a travel writer? Backyard Travel is offering a refreshing itinerary called Eat, Learn, Love Cambodia Tour, which gives you the opportunity to pack your bags and be whisked away with travel and food writer Lara Dunston, who’s contributed to the likes of Australian Gourmet Traveller and The Guardian. The eight-day expedition lets you experience Cambodia’s culture, cuisine, arts and history through visits to Angkor Wat, Battambang and Banteay Chhmar. Limited to 12 seats, it all kicks off on May 22, with a price tag of US$1,998 (about B64,000) per person, covering stays at the stunning Sala Lodges, Maisons Wat Kor and a charming homestay Banteay Chhmar. Visit bit.ly/1x3y8wf.

PATTAYA

Oh So Beach Situated just a stone’s throw away from Pattaya’s famous night spots, OZO Pattaya (038-103-777, www.ozohotels.com/pattaya) is a recently opened 170-room hotel comprising a rooftop all-day dining restaurant, complete with swimming pool and spa. And if you’re looking for a New Year gift, the hotel is now offering 20-percent discount for all bookings online through Jan 31 for stays until Oct 31.

RACES

On the Trail This year looks like a big one for running-related traveling. Firstly, Koh Chang will hold the Ultra & Trail Unseen Koh Chang 2015 on Feb 28. The event ranges from a 10km fun run to a 66km super marathon for veteran runners. Fees are B850-2,100 and you can register online at tinyurl.com/lh2hskt before Feb 19. For more information, call 089-749-1949. Heading north to Chiang Mai, the Thai Ultra Race is a more herculean affair, covering 140km of Huey Tueng Tao Park (Mae Rim district) on Feb 18-20. Fees are B3,900 for Thai residents and B6,000 for foreigners. Get all the info from www.thai-ultrarace.com.

AIRLINES

Take Flight Emirates (www.emirates.com/th) is welcoming its new A380 model with huge promotional sales from Bangkok to many destinations, such as Hong Kong, which starts at only B6,040 return including taxes. Bookings can be made until Jan 14 for travel during Jan 12-Jul 31, 2015. For those seeking cheap domestic flights, Thai Lion Air (www.lionairthai.com) is offering incredibly low fares to leading destinations around Thailand such as Udon Thani, Surat Thani, Krabi and Phuket. Prices start from B615, for a round-trip to Udon Thani (including tax).

Have some cool rooms? Email your news and promotions to travel@asia-city.co.th

BK Magazine Friday, January 9, 2015

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avenue FASHION

The Lovecats Hip gig organizer and cat devotees Supersweet signed off 2014 not with a concert but with the opening of a new home for their kitten-centric clothing brand, Supersweet x Moumi. The store, located at The Terrace 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, houses a new ready-to-wear collection, Bang! Bang!. For spring/summer 2015, they’ve got boho and psychedelic pieces bearing illustrations of unruly cats battling their foes. The label, first launched in 2012, also does chiffon-made blouses, dresses and onesies, coupled eccentric footwear adorned with details such as pajama piping and pompoms. The Terrace 49, Sukhumwit Soi 49, 02-662-5535

HOME

New Accent New bric-a-brac store ACCENT sources sophisticated decorative items from brands all around the world, as handpicked by leading Thai luxe furniture store MOTIF. Among the highlights are romantic home essentials like the Scent Elements Gift Set (B9,800), which comprises four different scented candles, and the the Apothecary porcelain bottle (B3,000). Prices range from B3,000-B30,000. 1/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloenchit Rd., 02-119-7777. BTS Chit Lom/Phloen Chit

SHOPPING

The Makeover The high-end mall The Emporium just underwent a facelift, but still offers a plethora of luxury brand-name stores from all over the world. Joining familiar labels such as Louis Vuitton, Bvlgari, Loewe, Cartier, Chanel, Dior and Prada are other luxury labels like Tiffany & Co., Burberry, Dior Homme, Tod’s and Charlotte Olympia—all opening shops for the first time in Thailand. Still to come are another two adjacent luxe malls, EmQuartier and Emsphere, which are scheduled to open later in 2015 and 2016, respectively. (See cover story, page 6). 622 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-269-1000. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phrom Phong

BEAUTY

Work It Last year, we got so excited about the arrival of multi-label cosmetic giant Sephora in Bangkok. This year, we’re celebrating American beauty brand Bath & Body Works, which has finally launched its first Thai flagship store on the second floor of Siam Center. Items on offer include their famous range of body lotions (B650/236ml), creams (850/226g) and fragrances (from B700/236ml). Despite quite a price markup, having the shop here means you won’t have to stock up on every trip abroad anymore. 2/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-252-5800. BTS Siam

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avenue DECOR

Work Chic

Snap to it with these top new Thai designer office essentials. By Vasachol Quadri

Cheesecake Desk B12,000 and B Chair, Flo, B5,600

Desk organizer, Pana Object, B1,850

Desk organizer, Karv Design, B1,500

USB Data Clip 4GB, Elecom, B299

Cactus in concrete pot, Little Garden, B550

Mamuang pencil protector, Grey Ray, B550

Thumm iPhone dock, Pana Object, B2,600

Dachshund magnet, Qualy, price TBA

Terrarium, Tiny Tree Garden, B2,350

Library in the City book shelf, Partly Cloudy, B24,600

Essentials Flo. Available at Urban Home (Ratchada). 249 Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-693-8998 Partly Cloudy. Products made to order only. Showroom at Chatuchak Plaza, Zone C, 599 Kampangpet 2 Rd., 090-552-2720. BTS Mo Chit/MRT Kampaengpet Pana Object. Selected items available at Loft, 3/F Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., 02-687-5000. BTS Siam or shop online at www.pana-objects.com Karv Design. www.facebook.com/karvdesign Little Garden. www.facebook.com/smgarden Qualy. Loft, 3/F Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., 02-687-5000. BTS Siam or shop online at www. qualydesignstore.com Grey Ray. Selected items available at Loft, 3/F Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Rd., 02-687-5000. BTS Siam or shop online at www.grey-ray.com Elcom. Available at Copperwired 2/F Sermit Tower, 159/6 Sukhumvit Soi 21. 02-665-2950. BTS Asok Tiny Tree Garden. available at The Selected, 3/F Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1194. BTS Siam

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avenue VIDEO ON DEMAND

Stream movies from the internet the legit way

DIGITAL

Smart Office

Four cool work gadgets to get you back in the groove. By Kanin Srimaneekulroj

Pencil 53 Price: B2,990 Available at: Groov Store, Kanchanapisek Rd., 080-2011234. www.groov.asia Working with the Paper app (iPad only), this stylus allows you to accurately write and draw on your iPad. Connect to your iPad via Bluetooth to jot notes, or even create drawings or paintings. The stylus also has a pretty impressive battery, lasting up to a month on a single, 90-minute charge.

HOLLYWOOD HDTV

Cheero Powerbanks Price: B2,190 Available at: .life, 3/F, Siam Paragon, Rama I Rd., 02-6109884-6. BTS Siam. www.dotlife.co You’d be forgiven if you couldn’t tell that this little cardboard-looking curio is actually a powerbank. It’s not a shabby one either, packing over 10k milli-amp hours—that’s equivalent to four full charges for an iPhone and one full charge for an iPad. It’s probably not the easiest powerbank to carry around, but darn if it isn’t cute.

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Price: B29,500-69,900 depending on specs Available at: Banana IT, 4/F, Siam Discovery, Rama I Rd., 02-658-0480-81. BTS National Stadium. www.bananait.com

Dubbed Thailand’s number one movies provider, Hollywood HDTV aims to bring the HD media-streaming service—a la Netflix—to Thailand. With a monthly subscription fee of B299 (or 360 days for B3,588), customers are given a staggering amount of movies and TV shows to pick and stream, both old and new alike. The service is available on PC browsers and smart devices, allowing subscribers to access the service anywhere they like. Keep in mind that some movies might not be part of the “buffet” rotation, and will require you to pay additional fees to watch them.

AIS LIVE TV/ MOVIE STORE Thai phone service provider AIS also has their own streaming services. AIS Live TV is an app that lets users browse through a limited number of channels both Thai and foreign. Thai channels include ONE HD and GTH On Air, while foreign channels include Warner TV, FOX Crime and National Geographic, to name a few. The AIS Movie Store is a separate app with functions similar to the Hollywood HDTV app, except the AIS Movie Store doesn’t operate on a subscription basis, and thus requires users to purchase individual movies to download or stream on their iOS or Android devices.

TRUEMOVIE

Long gone are the halcyon days of laptops—except when you need to get actual work done. That’s where this product comes in, fusing the best of both tablets and laptops. Running on Windows 8 means this tablet can run all the programs you’d normally only see on laptops, such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop. The cheapest model, costing B29,900, comes with the lackluster Intel Core i3 processor and a measly 64GB of storage. We recommend picking one of the Core i5 models instead, starting at B35,500.

Operating on a subscription of B139 a month, TrueMovie allows subscribers to not only stream or download movies, but also to watch up to 70 channels of TrueVisions. You can switch between the original soundtrack and Thai language audio, or even turn on subtitles. The app should also appeal to fans of Korean dramas, as it collects all the broadcasted episodes in one place, allowing you to binge watch your favorite series to your heart’s content.

DTAC WATCHEVER

Transcend StreamJet Portable Wireless Drive Price: B2,490 Available at: Seed Camera, 3/F, Gateway Ekamai, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-108-2728. BTS Ekkamai. www.seedcamera.com As anyone who owns an iPad or iPhone can testify, getting files off these devices and onto a computer can be a hassle. With this portable hard drive, you can instantly transfer data from your devices through a simple Bluetooth connection. The drive also works the other way around, allowing you to open files stored on the drive with your smart device.

Dtac users don’t have to feel left out, as they have their own streaming service, even if it doesn’t necessarily stand up to True and AIS’s. While Watchever allows users to stream movies and TV shows, they are only able to do so via Dtac’s cellular networks, and not via Wi-Fi. Not only that, but the subtitle options in the app aren’t as flexible, with only a few movies offering subtitles in both Thai and English. The subscription fee is pretty cheap, though, costing only about B80 a month for Dtac users.

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Marbled Goodness Fresh from all its festive deals, The Okura Prestige has unveiled a new promotion especially for red meat lovers with some cash to spare. From today until the end of the month, Elements’ Chef de Cuisine Henry Jordan will prepare different cuts of Matzusaka and Kiwami beef (starting from B2,200), along with traditional accompaniments such as roasted morels or wagyu fat-roasted carrots. 25/F, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Rd., 02-687-9000. BTS Ploen Chit

NEW RESTAURANT

VISITING CHEF

REVAMP

New York Via Shanghai

Swanky New Year

Nouvelle Maison

There seems to be a new burger joint popping up around town every other week. The latest is New York Style Steak & Burger, a Shanghai import owned by Thai model and foodie Naalinlat Kollmann. The flagship is the Manhattan Monster (B450), made with 220g of American Angus beef, complimented by strips of bacon and dripping American cheese. If you’d beef without the trimmings, order the striploin (starting from B1,150 for 250g). Beers include Deschutes Chain breaker White IPA starting from B300 per bottle. Park 22, Sukhumvit Soi 22 (opposite the former Imperial Queens Park Hotel), 094-482-4769. Open daily 11am- 10:30pm. BTS Phrom Phong

It’s the New Year, and you’ve got a big, fat bonus check to blow— why not give yourself some Michelin-caliber treatment? From Jan 12-17, Eric Pras of the acclaimed three-Michelin-star Maison Lameloise will be cooking at Le Normandie, Oriental Hotel. One of the mentors of Le Normandie’s Executive Chef Arnaud Dunand Sauthier, Pras’s cuisine is all about reinterpreting the classics, which means using modern cooking techniques and elegant presentation, along with fresh seasonal produce. He’ll present a seven-course lunch menu (B4,300) and nine-course dinner menu (B7,900). For more visit bit.ly/1rehPfy. Le Normandie, The Oriental Bangkok, 48 Oriental Avenue, Charoenkrung Rd., 02-659-9000. Open Mon-Sat noon-2:30pm, 7-10:30pm

Sponsored—After a year of renovations, Ari all-day hangout Tanyamama has re-launched as Tanyamama Maison and Café. The décor remains very New York (exposed brick, black and white diamond tiles), but the place is now a lot more spacious thanks to the high ceilings. The menu is not as keen on fusion as the old days, with the focus now more squarely on rustic French classics.One of the highlight dishes is Fisherman Recommended (B450), grilled sea bass with caper sauce, served with spinach and mashed potatoes. The smoked Scottish salmon crepe with egg and vegetables (B270) is also worth a try. 10/27-28 Phahon Yothin Soi 5, 02-001-6848, 02-001-6759. Open Mon-Sat 10am-2:30pm, 5-9:30pm. BTS Ari

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blends

A.R. Sutton Engineering Siam

Butler Service at A.R. Smoke and Mirrors Sutton Engineering Siam at Maverick In keeping with the colonial class of Ashley Sutton’s latest bar, a personal butler will mix your drink right at your table so you never have to get up and wait at the bar. Be sure to try their homemade, cinnamon infused Sailor Jerry Spice Rum (B220).

BARS

Playful Spirit

Our six favorite watering holes with their own special gimmicks to make drinking that little bit more fun. By Vasachol Quadri

G/F, Park Lane Ekkamai, Sukhumvit Soi 63. Open daily 6pm-midnight. BTS Ekkamai

A.R. Sutton Engineering Siam

Sugar Ray

Studio Lam

G/F, Ocean Tower II, Asoke Soi 3, 02- 665-2772. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm and Mon-Sat 5:3011pm. BTS Asok/MRT Sukhumvit

Molecular Wizardry at Perfume Fragrance Bar Getting Pickled at and Aromatic Cuisine Since this molecular-centric cocktail Studio Lam bar, which sits on the ground floor of Eight Thonglor Building, opened two years ago, we’ve learned nothing is as it appears. Plus, everything is so darn potent. It’s not just drinks served with liquid nitrogen, either. You can get cocktails that resemble caviar and even ravioli, while there’s a Blue Hawaii that’s served as flakes.

Perfume

Molecular gastronomy is taken seriously at Maverick, and that goes for the drinks as well as the food. Expect theatrical smoke to pour forth from signature concoctions like the Maverickstini (gin, brandy, raspberry and liquor, B190) and Maverick Cocktail (vodka, triple sec, pineapple juice and Galliano, B210).

Ei8ht Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55. 02-714-8071. Open daily 10pm-am. BTS Thong Lo

DJ Maft Sai’s new venture lets you drink the classic Thai homebrew along with pickles from the comfort of a proper bar. Straight up or on the rocks, try classic variations like maa gra teup rohng (Thai whiskey with moraceae herb, said to boost energy and combat tiredness, B150) and doh mai roo lom (Thai whiskey with Elephantopus scaber herb for tendon and muscle development, B150). Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-1am. BTS Thong Lo

Swordplay at St. Regis Casino Royale at Bar For those impressed by tradition, Sugar Ray St. Regis Bar is home to one of the oldest gimmicks around: the hotel chain’s Champagne sabering service, which sees a skilled barman take a sword blade to the neck of a Champagne bottle at 6pm every day.

St. Regis Bar

Perfume

159 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-207-7826. Open Sun-Thu noon-1am and Fri-Sat noon-2am. BTS Ratchadamri

Game cafés might be popping up all over town, but we’d rather play cards with the barman at Sugar Ray. With every order of a Vesper martini (B350), he’ll play you at baccarat. Win and you’ll get a second martini on the house. 2/F, Baan Ekkamai, Ekkamai Soi 21, 086-547-4633. Open Wed, Fri-Sat 8pm-2am. BTS Ekkamai

POP-UP BARS Three More Reasons to Drink Outdoors this Season CAMP AT THE VUE

The new pop-up beer garden at The Vue riverside community mall in Klongsan offers up pub grub along with draught drinks and live music from Lek Proud, Paradox and Desktop Error. There’s an open-air grilling station in the middle of it all, dishing out burgers, hotdogs and ribs, while beers from Singha to Hitachino Nest can be found on tap. Through Jan 31, 2015. The Vue, 707 Charoen Nakorn Soi 13. Open daily 5pm-midnight. www.fb.com/campbyshout

HOBS THE RIVERFEAST

The long-standing beer franchise HOBS welcomes winter beer garden season with a pop-up at Canapaya Residence by the Chao Phraya riverside. The bar offers HOBs’ classic list of on-tap beers including Hoegaarden, Stella Artois, Leffe and Boddingtons along with a long list of bottles. The bar is also the venue of special live performances from Nop Pornchamni, Tu Popetorn and artists from The Voice Season 2. For reservations, call 080-777-3325 or 094-439-8236. Through Mar 29, 2015. Canapaya Residence, 888 Rama 3 Rd., 02-291-9499. Open daily 5pm-1am.

CARLSBERG ARENA

Enchanted Bar on J Avenue’s rooftop has partnered with Carlsberg for this temporary drinking space. The special menu focuses on beer-friendly dishes like pork/ beef nachos, deepfried German pork knuckle and plenty of sausages. There’s a buytwo-get-one-free promo on small bottles, while draught towers start from B800 (B999 with a German pork knuckle). Through End of Feb, 2015. 4/F, J Avenue, Sukhumvit Soi 55, 095-641-6626. Open daily 6pm-2am. www.fb.com/enchantedbar

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bites

Where’s the Beef? There’s much more to beef than a slab of steak. To ring in the New Year, we revisit some of our favorite restaurants offering red meat in a variety of styles. By Kritthee Visitkitjakarn

Osha

Attico

Côte de Boeuf

Something Raw

Also known as the tomahawk, this is arguably the king of steaks—and the price tags reflect it. Head to Attico (28/F, Radisson Blu, 27 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-302-3333), where Dario Busnelli grills 1.3kg of Australian wagyu tomahawk (B3,990) to medium-rare fat-melting perfection. Served with roast potatoes, grilled vegetables and a truffle-infused red wine shallot reduction, this is a dish fit for a party of four. Offering a more Japanese option, Fillets (3/F, Portico, 31 Lang Suan Rd., 02-652-2607) does a gargantuan 1.05kg M6 Australian Darling Downs wagyu tomahawk (B4,200), served with an assortment of roasted carrots, silky mash and different sauces, such as the Thai favorite jaew. Lately we’ve noticed a lot of KU beef on menus across town. Raised by the Kasetsart University cooperative, this newer breed, though perhaps a little chewy, is downright flavorful. Our favorite Neopolitan pizzeria Peppina (27/1 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-119-7677) serves a massive char-grilled 1.5kg chunk of this local favorite at an affordable B2,500.

Steak tartare is not for everyone, but raw beef offerings can provide another dimension of satisfaction when seasoned and served correctly. At Savelberg (G/F, Oriental Residence, 110 Wireless Rd., 02-252-8001), the Angus beef steak tartare (B1,250) is presented like a little garden, with capers, piccalilli, caramelized onion and egg yolk providing splashes of color. These elements provide a clean-yet-complex pepperiness to the already flavorful Australian Angus. If you want more straightforward joy, with a citrusy twist, make your way to The Capital (Empire Tower/F, 3, Narathiwas Rd., 02-286-9548). The “Capital” beef tartare (B490), though not as elaborately presented, delivers a well-balanced combination of wagyu, egg yolk and the chef’s own smoky chipotle sauce, a burst of flavor and freshness in every bite.

Pad Krapao We never tire of this Thai street food classic, but we are open to elevated versions, using more premium cuts of beef. The Volcanic Beef (B1,500), Osha’s (99 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-256-6555) high-end rendition of the dish, uses marbled Wagyu for a luxurious mouth-feel. Thanintorn Chantrawan (the man to beat on Iron Chef) also uses tree basil leaf, stir-frying it with some chilies, oyster sauce and garlic. The dish is served with savory confit egg yolk in a hot clay bowl— one memorable pad krapao experience. For something more wallet-friendly, but even bolder in flavors, head to Ruen Urai (Rose Hotel, 118 Surawong Rd., 02-266-8268/-72), where they offer a variation (B350) using KU beef.

J’aime

Slow-Braised There are few things as tantalizing as a tough cut of beef, cooked so slowly under low heat that it becomes fork tender. For some smoky barbecue goodness, visit the city’s newest Mexican joint, Mejico (see New Tables, below), where they slowly braise an Australian Angus short rib (B695) for a total of six hours in their own smoky chipotle marinade. The result is a flavorful piece of beef, coated in a thick, smoky gastrique, which literally melts in your mouth. If you want a more refined touch, head over to J’aime (U Sathorn Bangkok, 105/1 Soi Ngam Duphli, Sathorn Rd., 02-119-4888) for the boeuf a la bourguignon (B1,550). Don’t expect butter-like texture, though. Amerigo Sesti slowly cooks his beef cheeks for long hours but still lets them retain some toughness. Served with a robust red wine sauce, cut with some marinated onions and coriander, this is a must-try for Francophiles.

Peppina

Fillets

Savelberg

NEW TABLES Mejico The buzz: A new addition to Groove, this first Bangkok branch of the Sydney-based restaurant Mejico serves creative and refined dishes that do away with Tex-Mex cliches. The décor: A fine effort by Ovo construction, all the furnishings here are locally sourced and custom-built to maintain the same blueprint as the original Sydney branch. Moodily lit, the interior is a successful combination of dark wood and rustic painted walls, resulting in a pretty high-end ambience, especially for Mexican food. The food: Mejico incorporates theatrical elements into its dishes like fresh oysters

served with sangrita jelly and jalapeno (B360) and guacamole made table-side with banana chips (B235). The menu does include some simpler items, too, like the substantial braised beef short rib in smoky chipotle marinade (B695). Local palates may particularly like the adventurous mustard-seed crusted salmon with pumpkin puree and green bean-corn salsa (B375), while even the soft tacos come in interesting variations such as the turmeric-laden crispy softshell crab (B235).

reposado (aged 2-11 months in an oak barrel), and anejo (aged for at least a year in an oak barrel). For fans of cognac, we recommend you go smooth with the oaky and aromatic Grand Corralejo (B750). There are also cocktails like the El Jimador Blanco tequila-based Feeling Groovy (B250), which combines freshly-pressed apple and cinnamon-vanilla infused syrup.

The drinks: There are also over 40 different labels of tequila behind the bar, categorized into three different ages: blanco (unaged),

2/F, Groove @ CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 081616-4026. Open Sun-Thu 11am-midnight, Fri-Sat 11-1am. BTS Siam/Chit Lom

The crowd: Groove’s well-groomed young professionals, and a few of the city’s curious Mexican taste trekkers.

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OPEN DOOR

L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon France's greatest chef has just landed in Bangkok.

The buzz: Joël Robuchon is the most important French chef since Escoffier codified haute cuisine. He's known for being the guy with 28 Michelin stars across 20 restaurants in the world—fancy, expensive restaurants doing Gallic food that's modern without losing its rusticity. As such, Bangkok is pretty psyched about finally getting its own Robuchon place, and the restaurant is already packed. The décor: Borrowing the same concepts from all L’Atelier branches, and designed by interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon (who did London's Savoy and Paris’s Four Seasons George V), L'Atelier has diners seated around a large open kitchen, a format more remniscent of a sushi bar than classic dining à la Francaise. On top of the 30 seats at the bar, there is table seating for another 20 guests in the back, and even a small outdoor garden.

The food: Led by executive chef Olivier Limousin, the kitchen combines French techniques and the best ingredients they can get, which means produce from Thailand's Royal Projects along with some European imports dependent on the seasons. Signature dishes include the French Brittany lobster served with Malabar sauce, baby spinach and coconut foam (as part of the set, see below) and caviar from Sologne served with a salmon tartare (B1,900). They don't shy away from Asian twists, such as the soy sauce-marinated free range quail stuffed with foie gras and potato purée (B900). Everything is exquisitely arranged and photogenic; particularly when you get a color combination like the chilled green kale veloute and spicy tomato jelly (B600). Lunch sets start from B950, while fivecourse degustation menus, both lunch and dinner, are B5,000 per

person. Wine pairing is an additional B3,000-B4,000 for 5-7 glasses. The drinks: Wine is the leading actor here. There's a vast cellar you can ogle next to the bar, with a very French selection, and a few rotating options by the glass such as the 2012 VDP des Cotes Catalanes, Passion Blanche (B400 per glass) or 2010 Ventoux (B360 per glass). The crowd: Michelin-star groupies, high-flying execs inking deals in the private room, hisos who need to check in on Instagram, genuine food lovers and deep-pocketed tourists. Monruedee Jansuttipan 5/F, 96 Mahanakorn Cube, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-001-0698. Open daily 11:30am-6:30pm, 2:30-10:30pm. BTS Chong Nonsi

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A25 Bar & Restaurant

TABLE TALK Mulatto

Black Breeze Café

Sukhumvit Soi 45, 02-662-4478. Open daily 11am-midnight. BTS Phrom Phong

NEW AND NOTED

Bugged Out Located way out on the Chalong Rat expressway, A25 Bar & Restaurant (25G, 88 Khlong Lam Chiak, Nawamin, 083-4181818) combines comfort food with vintage Volkswagens. Order a bottle of local beer (starting from B180 per bottle) or the crowd-favorite Hoegaarden (starting from B220), while dining on familiar fare such as pad thai with fresh prawns (B150) or New Zealand mussels au gratin (B220). If you’ve rocked up in your own wheels, you might want to make use of the on-site car wash, too.

Choco House Situated in the recently opened Japanese-themed community mall Taka Town, Mulatto (Taka Town, Sukhumvit Soi 39, 096-

Quince Eatery & Bar

429-3235) is a café-cum-bistro all about Belgian chocolate. The warmly-lit, leathery-brown interior is just the place for a steaming Mulatto Dark Choc (B249) or Choco waffle with chocolate sauce (B189). To further line your stomach, order the creamy black spaghetti with pan-fried tuna croquettes (B219).

Creature Comforts The new cutesy cat-inspired Black Breeze Café (Siam Square Soi 9, 02-251-2439) serves up a menu of pasta and dessert. Popular picks include the spaghetti coq au vin blanc or lasagna (both at B165). Occasional desserts include red velvet cake (B105), the Japanese matcha-choc mousse (B95) and matcha cheesecake (B115). A warning for cat lovers: real cats are prohibited here. Kritthee Visitkitjakarn

Quince serves up casual European food that’s light, fresh and bright (meaning local and seasonal) in portions that encourage sharing and eschew the formality of a traditional three-course dinner. Perfectly paired with the Mediterranean flavors, the faux-vintage brasserie meets idyllic country home atmosphere draws a crowd of beautiful people. Thanks to the very solid wine and cocktail menus, Quince is the kind of place that will make you want to stick around until late.

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit card members. 15% discount for Citibank Ultima, Preferred, and Select. 10% discount for other card types. Both discounts applicable only from 11:30am-5:30pm. Now –Feb 28, 2015

To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com. Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

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Events

Vesbar Thursday lady’s night offers buyone-get-one-free on draught beer or cocktails for ladies (sorry gents) from 6-9pm. 28-68/69 RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 089-269-9446. Open Mon-Sat noon-midnight. www.fb.com/ govesbar

Mikkeller

Splendid Saturday Launch Party This Saturday, Jan 10, the new daytime party collective Splendid launches at Bangkok Bar Infinity, and they’ve collaborated with Opposite Mess Hall and the team from U.N.C.L.E. cocktail lounge to ensure the food and drink will be as good as the music. Party runs from 3pm till late. Entry costs B350 with one free drink.

Ku De Ta Every day, two hours’ free-flow Asahi draught beer at B480, available for both lunch and dinner. 39/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 North Sathorn Rd. 02-108-2000. Open Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 5pm-10:30pm; Sat 5pm-10:30pm

Service

8/F, Opus Building, Thonglor Soi 10, 02-7138581

Bangkok Beer Week One of Bangkok’s best beer bars, Mikkeller, celebrates its first anniversary from Jan 26-Feb 1 with a week dedicated to craft beer. Meet the brewers behind some of the best beers in the world, and sample over 50 kegs on tap and a few hundred bottles. Event starts at 12pm on Jan 26. 26 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891

Spring Epicurean Market The community market devoted to good food returns to the garden of Spring Summer restaurant on Jan 25. Turn up any time after 8am to enjoy Joe Sloane sausages, Conkey’s bread, kids’ activities and live music. Free entry.

Passion Delivery

Passion Delivery Can’t make it to the Spring Epicurean Market? This new food delivery service has you covered. Passion Delivery promises to deliver Bangkok’s favorite artisanal produce to your door within 48 hours of an order being placed either online or by phone. Choose from over 200 products including Maison Jean Philippe bread, Accidental Butcher lamb racks, Roots coffee beans and Yellow Spoon pastries. www.passiondelivery.com, 096-354-4624

New Venues

199 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-392-2747/8. www.springsummer.com

Happy Hours 22 Kitchen & Bar

Fat Gut’z

Fat Gut’z Daily buy-one-get-one free draught Heineken and Tiger from 6-9pm and buy-one-get-one-free on red and white wine by the bottle all night.

Vogue Lounge This cocktail bar serves more than just expensive drinks, boasting some serious Michelin-star power in the kitchen. 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Narathiwas Rd., 02-001-0697. Open daily 10-1am

Salt Smoke A microscopic burger bar from the owners of Salt, within spitting distance of Salt.

Grass Thonglor, Thonglor Soi 12, 02-7149832. Open daily 5pm-2am. BTS Thong Lo

Piyawan Bldg., Ari Soi 1, 0898741205. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-midnight

YouBahn Daily buy-one-get-one-free on house wine by the glass or buy-two-getone-free Singha beer from 6:30-8pm.

22 Kitchen & Bar Dusit Thani’s new 22/F restaurant is nothing like the refined French eatery it replaces—think Pacific coastal cuisine.

Soi Phra Chen, Wittayu Rd. (opposite Lumpini Park), 095-546-9163. Open Mon-Fri 5-11pm; Sat 5-10pm. MRT Lumphini. www. fb.com/youbahn

Wine Bibber Daily buy-one-get-one free on beer and cocktails from 5-9pm. Ekkamai Soi 2. Sukhumvit Soi 63. 02-7140709. Open daily 5pm-2am. BTS Ekkamai. wwwfb.comWineBibberSangria Bangkok

Coming Soon in March

Who’s going to make the cut this year? Sign up for Bites & Blends e-newsletter to get more updates www.bkmagazine.com/ newsletters

22/F, Dusit Thani Hotel, Rd., 946 Silom Rd., 02-200-9000. Open daily 4pm-midnight

THE BITES & BLENDS NEWSLETTER The latest updates on Bangkok’s dining scene www.bkmagazine.com/newsletters

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Mugendai HHHH Japanese. 264/1 Thonglor Soi 12 (Sukhumvit Soi 55), behind Grass, 02-726-9222. Open Mon-Fri 5:30pm-midnight; Sat-Sun 11:00am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-midnight. No Corkage. BTS Thong Lo. F BBB-BBBB

Sushi, tempura, shabu-shabu, tonkatsu and steak restaurant Mugendai made a big splash when it opened in 2011, and was immediately considered one of the city’s top Japanese restaurants, both by those into more casual places like Honmono and by purists drawn to the refined delights of a classic like Aoi. Situated on the 7/F of the building at the back of Grass Thonglor, its views of the neighborhood add an urban twist to the otherwise traditional décor. And some dishes are stunning to look at. More importantly, the quality of the produce is impeccable—Mugendai was one of the first to claim its fish flies in from Tsukiji Market, in Tokyo, five times a week, back when twice a week was still the norm. In re-assessing Mugendai, though, we can’t help but feel it hasn’t done much to keep up with the times. It’s still cranking out identical orders of signature sushi dish Aburi 7 (an assortment of

Roast HHHH Mediterranean. Seenspace, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-185-2865. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, FriSat 9am-11pm, Sun 9am-10pm. Corkage B400. BTS Thong Lo. F BB-BBB

A combination of vast windows, high ceilings, wood tones and bare concrete flooded with natural light; it’s easy to see why Roast draws such large queues of upper-crust families and couples for lunch and brunch. But turn up for evening service and you’ll find things are a lot mellower, with dim lighting and a slightly more elaborate menu to match. One that, for the most part, Roast’s chefs are perfectly capable of handling. The plump Alaskan scallops (B380) are faultlessly cooked, and nicely paired with a light cauliflower purée and slightly charred Brussel sprouts. Simple crab cakes (B350)

seven partially grilled sushi at B2,400) to nearly every table, a (once) creative lineup of blow-torched slabs of fatty bluefin tuna, snapper, halibut fin and Matsuzaka beef (among others) topped by dabs of shredded garlic, crab eggs, ponzu or miso. The first time you have it, the combinations and charred notes are interesting. But are they better than dipping raw fish in soy sauce? Not really. One thing that could markedly improve the dish is if you had it at the counter, and asked to have the sushi served one by one, as opposed to a giant plate where everything just end ups lukewarm after the first couple bites. The menu also has a full page of outrageous maki such as the decadent Unagi Foie Gras Roll, which combines eel with duck liver (B1,500). But for something much more affordable, the crunchy roll (shrimp tempura, avocado, B370) is nearly just as fun and the crispy batter doesn’t taste or smell of oil. On our last visit, we were most impressed with the simplest of dishes: sashimi. The slabs of fish were gargantuan and bursting with flavor. At B2,700, the sashimi set 2 (15 pieces of fish, two shrimps and a plump scallop) also seems like a much better deal than the Aburi 7 or the sushi set 2 (B2,000, eight sushi, three maki). Mugendai remains a totally dependable address for ordering high-end produce like fatty beef and tuna, even if its creative twists seem to woo more Thais than Japanese expats. But given how crowded the market is, we wish they would continue to innovate (and perhaps even redecorate), rather than rest on their laurels.

are similarly impressive, the hearty patties laced with plenty of fresh crab and beautifully matched with plain yogurt and a ripe mango salsa. The grilled flank steak (B400) here is also a welcome break from expensive cuts in heavy sauces. Though a little chewy, the meat is flavorsome, cut by the accompanying seared bell peppers, sweet cherry tomato and a peppery salsa verde. We find just as much to like at dessert, from the fluffy waffles with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream and acidic local strawberries to the hot raspberry crumble (both at B240) and apple strudel (B200). Downsides? The cheeseburger (B420) isn’t anywhere near a match for neighboring food truck counterparts, while the execution of other main dishes can be below par. The panfried sea bream (B520), for example, although served in a nicely acidic, white wine and cream sauce with fennel and mussels, is overcooked, while the (again) beautifully flavored seafood risotto (B350) is let down by a gloopy texture and rice that has lost all bite. The occasional flaw aside, it’s easy to see why Roast has become such a powerhouse for the wellgroomed crowds of Thonglor. We’d happily go back.

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now Brooklyn meets Bangkok

A Splendid Afternoon

Fans of all things vintage have something to look forward to this week as the super-popular retro community Made by Legacy brings back its hip Brooklyn-style flea market on Jan 10-11. Taking over the parking lot of the State Railway of Thailand, Hua Lamphong, from 3pm till midnight, the theme this time is “Children,” in celebration of National Children’s Day. Expect stalls selling old-school toys, classic action hero figures, rare vintage home décor items, and a great selection of food and drinks. See HAPPENINGS, page 32.

Make the best of your Saturday afternoon this Jan 10 as the new party collective Splendid Saturday hosts Splendid Saturday Launch Party at Bangkok Infinity Rooftop Bar. The very first of its daytime parties promises old-school party tunes from various genres, played by DJs DeLorean, Paulie Sirisant and Monsieur Markus. They’ve also got good food and drink covered, thanks to collaborations with Opposite Mess Hall and the boys from Rocket Coffeebar. This may just be our new favorite way to spend the weekend. See NIGHTLIFE, this page.

Live Stream Indie fans: don’t miss the first concert by the local online independent music streaming site fungjai.com (think Deezer or Spotify but for Thailand). Hedsod Concert by Fungjai takes over Voice Space on Jan 10 with concerts by indie groups like Desktop Error, Polycat, electric.neon.lamp and Death of a Salesman. See MUSIC, page 28.

Reflecting on the Past There are plenty of art openings to look forward to this year (see ART 2015, page 32). A real highlight is Siam: Through the lens of John Thomson at the National Gallery, an exhibition of works by one of the first Western photographers to document Thailand. Thomson's images of people and landscapes taken from 1865-66 show the Rama V era in vivid detail. HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will be at the gallery on Jan 9, 3pm, for the opening ceremony. See ART, page 29.

NIGHTLIFE Phatfunk Drum&Bass feat. Lenzman (Metalheadz) The monthly drum n' bass night is back for its first event of 2015, featuring a two-hour set by Dutch DJ/Producer Lenzman, and the usual support by DJs Azek, DeLorean and Instinct. Jan 9, 9pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B450 (one free drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

Splendid Saturday Launch Party

Dubfire

The new daytime party collective launches its first party at the rooftop bar, bringing you party tunes by DJs DeLorean, Paulie Sirisant and Monsieur Markus. Enjoy food from Opposite Mess Hall and chilled afternoon cocktails craft-

Made in Korea The award-winning non-verbal Korean comedy performance Nanta Show 2015 returns to Bangkok’s RCA Plaza Building as a part of its world tour this month, running through Jan 31. Also known as the Korean Broadway, the show takes you through one-and-a-half hours of live improv interactions that combine traditional and modern Korean beats and a storyline about a crew of hapless chefs. Your screaming crowd of K-pop fan-girls, this ain’t. See STAGE, page 28.

ed by the team of Rocket and U.N.C.L.E. From late afternoon til late. Jan 10, 3pm. Bangkok Bar Infinity, 8/F, Opus Building, Thonglor Soi 10, 02-713-8581. B350 (one free drink).

Krungthep Techno The Thai DJ and artist collective presents Techno DJ Film from Maetta Records, Canada, supported by local DJs Mody, Tj Tiesjungle, Pattie and Status Deeper on Grease's 4/F. Jan 10 2015, 9pm. Grease, Opposite Villa Supermarket, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02662-6120-1. Free.

Sway 1 Year Anniversary Bash Celebrate the bar's first anniversary, with prize giveaways, free food, drinks and shots. Jan 14, 6pm. Sway, Arena 10, Thonglor Soi 10, 02-711-6052. Free.

Borgeous @ Levels The American DJ/producer, best known for his UK #1 hit "Tsunami," visits the nightclub to play popular club remixes. Jan 15, 9pm. Levels, 6/F, Aloft Hotel, 35 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 082-308-3246. B400 (one free drink). BTS Nana.

Retox Sessions Presents Dubfire A night for fans of electronic music, with tunes by Grammy award-winning DJ Dubfire, known for his remix of Dido's "Thank You." Jan 16, 9pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. Free. MRT Sukhumvit.

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now Dark Valentine 2015

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION Get Active

Happening mag hosts an alternative night of moody music for Valentine's Day, with local groups Portrait, Yellow Fang, Stoondio, Zweedz N' Roll, Moving & Cut and Superbaker. Early bird tickets from Jan 15 at B500600. Tickets available at Happening Shop, 3/F BACC. Feb 14, 7pm. Siam Pikanet Theater, 7/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. B750-850. BTS Siam.

After all the New Year dinners and parties, it’s time to start afresh. Here are some upcoming sporting events to get you fighting fit in 2015. Note: places fill up fast, so book now.

classical Concert in the Park - Continuation of Series 22 The 1975

NIGHTLIFE/CONTINUED The North Face 100

Hottest Hardcore running enthusiasts will have already signed up for what’s dubbed to be the most challenging trail-running event in the country, The North Face 100 Thailand 2015. Held in eight countries across the region, the Thailand edition takes places on Jan 31 at Pakchong District, Nakhon Ratchasima, and will be covering distances of 15km, 25km, 50km and solo/duo 100km. Meanwhile, Feb 19 sees the return of popular ride/ race the 8th Annual Conquer Doi Inthanon Ride, B500 per person, which scales Thailand’s highest peak: Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai. The Mountain Challenge starts at Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong (50km) and the Mountain Tour starts at Doi Inthanon National Park headquarters (16km). Places have already filled up, but you still have plenty of options to train yourself in preparation for next year.

French Riviera - Sunset Party A special post-New Year party at the beach bar, in celebration of the launch of its indoor beach club with chilled tunes, a selection of beers and cocktails starting at B100, and a 25-percent discount happy hour on food and spa treatments through 8pm. DJs Yukie Surisa, Thai International Lady Deejay and special guest Gilles Jacks from French Riviera. Jan 17, 4pm. Ocean Urban Lounge and Boutique Resort, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 33, 02-261-2800. B250 (one free drink).

MUSIC

gigs Jeff Neve Live The Royal Embassy of Belgium and Sweets Records present a night of live piano by Jeff Neve, who will be performing his first solo album, One. Guest performers include Danish sax player Jakob Dinesen and progressive local sax player Pey. Jan 11, 9pm. Badmotel, Next to J Avenue, Thonglor between Soi 15 and 17, 02-712-7288. B500 (one free drink).

Iceage Live in Bangkok

Buriram Race 2015

Best of the rest BITEC HALF MARATHON

One of the bigger running events of early 2015 takes place on Feb 1 with three courses to choose from: 21.1km half marathon, 10.5km mini marathon and 5km micro marathon, starting at BITEC Bangna (BTS Bang Na), going all the way through Mega Bangna for the longest course. All participants who finish get a medal. Register now at www.bitec-halfmarathon.com as the early bird rate of B300 finishes on Jan 10. Standard rate continues through Jan 23 at B450 per entry. THAICOM 10K 2015

The second edition of the race is back in 2015 on Feb 8, covering various distances along the beautiful Rama VIII Bridge, from the newbie-friendly walking-running courses for families, under 12s and 13-15 year-old runners, to the youth (16-19yrs old) 5km course to the general 10km course for all. Scholarships to continue your training go to the top five runners (Thai nationals) of each course. Online registration available now through Jan 16 at www.bibmaster.com. B200 for under-19s and B300 for adults. RUN WITH ME 2015 (LET’S RUN TOGETHER)

Here’s a healthy activity for you and your partner this Valentine’s Day. Couples are invited to take part in one of the couple races on Feb 14 at Suan Luang Rama IX: the 20km Couple Run Challenge (B1,200 with a finisher T-shirt), 10km mini marathon (B700) and 3km fun run (B700). All participants must sign up in pairs at www.bibmaster.com, and all finishers will receive a pair of cute couple medals. BURIRAM RACE 2015

Chang Buriram United International Circuit holds its first bike and run race in Buriram Province on Feb 14 where participants have the option to take part in the 13.5km Super Mini Marathon (B400), the 4.5km Fun Run (B100, B20 for students), the 400m Quarter mile sprint and the 36.5km Bike Criterium on what’s known as the smoothest bike track in Thailand. Register online at www.refillmarathon.com, or download the registration form at goo.gl/I6ro20 (running event) or goo.gl/n7k1GS (cycling event) and send it to buriramrace@gmail.com.

The Danish punk rock group make their Bangkok debut following the release of their new album, with support from Sangsom Massacre and The Ginkz. Jan 17, 9pm. Langsuan Live in the Castle, Kamphaeng Phet 2. B650 (one free beer).

The Folk Songs from 90s An evening of your favorite Thai folk songs from the 1990s, featuring Lek Proud and Poe YKPB. Head there early as space is limited. Jan 24, 10pm. Moose Bangkok, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-108-9550. B300.

Supersweet x Moumi present Deers The Spanish rocker girl group Deers holds a mini concert on Valentine's Day to celebrate the opening of the new concept store Moumi. From Jan 15, spend over B1,000 at the store to receive an entry wristband. Feb 14, 11:23am. Grease, Opposite Villa Supermarket, 46/12-13 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-6120-1. B1,000.

concerts Hedsod Concert #1 by Fungjai The concert brings bands from different genres and record labels together, including the likes of Desktop Error, Polycat, electric. neon.lamp and Death of a Salesman. Jan 10, 7pm. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit, 02-261-3883. B700 from Thaiticketmajor.

Salotto Musicale XIX Soprano singer Monique Klongtruadroke and Romantic guitarist Jacopo Gianninoto perform a selection of rare musical pieces of Mauro Giuliani, Matteo Bevilacqua, Napoleon Coste, Friedrich Heinrich Himmel and Carl Marie von Weber in an atmosphere that recreates 19th-century French salons. Styling and costumes by Nasha Mekraksavanich, Kem Issara and MW Makeup Studio. B300 for students and members. Jan 11, 7:30pm. Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd., 02-233-1731. B500.

Avenged Sevenfold World Tour 2015 The multiple award-winning metal group returns to perform live for Bangkok rock fans as part of their 2015 world tour. Door opens at 7pm. Jan 20, 8:30pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,500-2,700 from Thaiticketmajor.

Ghulam Ali - Live in Bangkok The artist performs in Bangkok for the first time, with music in Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu, in the grand King Power Theater. Jan 24, 7:30pm. Aksra Theatre, 3/F, King Power Complex, 8/1 Rangnam Rd., 02-677-8888. B1,000-3,000. BTS Victory Monument.

Michael Bublé Asia Tour 2015 The smooth Canadian vocalist returns to Bangkok for the first time in 10 years to perform his original hits such as "Home" and "Haven't Met You Yet" as well as smash cover versions like "Sway" and "Feeling Good." Jan 24, 7:30pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B2,000-6,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

The 1975 Live in Bangkok The rising British indie rock stars, known for the hit "Chocolate," perform their first concert in Thailand following their appearance at this year's Coachella Festival. Jan 25, 7pm. Centerpoint Studio Thailand, 9, 11 Sukhumvit Soi 105, 02-361-9229. B2,000-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

Thailand International Jazz Conference 2015 The annual three-day jazz event features jazz workshops run by local and international musicians, jazz solo improvisation competitions, and three evenings of concerts by George Garzone Trio, Chai & The Blues Maniacs feat. Nurse, Lage Lund Trio, Jetset'er, Pomelo Town with Koh Mr. Saxman and Jakob Dinsen, Mahidol University Jazz Orchestra and Silpakorn University Jazz Orchestra. B500 for a day pass, B800 for evening concerts. Full schedule available at ow.ly/Gk4e1. Jan 30-Feb 1, 6:30pm, 9:30am. Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), Music Auditorium, College of Music, 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd., 02-800-2525/-34 ext. 154-5. B500-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra performs popular tunes from a wide range of genres every Sunday through Feb 1, at Lumpini Park's Sala Bhirom Bhakdi. Note: Alcohol is not permitted. Jan 11, 5:30pm; Jan 18, 5:30pm; Jan 25, 5:30pm; Feb 1, 5:30pm. Lumpini Park, Rama 4 Rd. Free.

The TPO New Year's Concert 2015 The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates the beginning of 2015 with a night of Strauss, Brahms and Tchaikovsky, conducted by Christoph Poppen. Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show starts. B100 for students. Reservations at 02-800-2525 ext. 153-154. Jan 9, 7pm; Jan 10, 4pm. Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), Music Auditorium, College of Music, 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd., 02-800-2525/-34 ext. 154-5. B300-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Afternoon of a Faun The Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra performs Debussy's L´aprés-midi d´un faune, Copland's Appalachian Spring and selected pieces by Narong Prangcharoen. Conducted by Jeffery Meyer. Pre-concert talk starts 45 minutes before the show. B100 for students. Reservations at 02-800-2525-34 ext.153-154. Jan 16, 7pm; Jan 17, 4pm. Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), Music Auditorium, College of Music, 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd., 02-800-2525/-34 ext. 154-5. B300-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

Francesca Dego plays Paganini The young Italian violinist performs Paganini's Violin Concerto and some Tchaikovsky with the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Alfonso Scarano. Pre-concert talk starts 45 minutes before the show. B100 for students. Ticket reservation at 02-800-252534 ext.153-154. Jan 23, 7pm; Jan 24, 4pm. Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), Music Auditorium, College of Music, 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd., 02-800-2525-34 ext.154-5. B300-500 from Thaiticketmajor.

American in Paris Young classical performers selected to take part in the Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music Youth Orchestra (PYO), and popular pianist Saksit Vejsupaporn perform George Gershwin's Cuban Overture, Porgy and Bess Suite and American in Paris. Conducted by Norman Huynh. Make your bookings at reservation@pgvim.ac.th or call 02-447-8597. Jan 3, 7pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. Free. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

Sangsom presents Bird Ekachai Jearakul

music festivals

The only Thai and Asian artist to win the GFA Guitar Foundation of America International Concert Artist Competition joins leading local artists including Pod Moderndog, Burin Grooverider, Singto Numchok, Tor Saksit, Ratklao Amaradit and Tanit Sriglindee in a concert conducted by world-renowned composer/conductor Trisdee Na Patalung. Feb 7, 7pm. Muang Thai GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. B1,000-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Chit Lom.

Held on the fourth Saturday of every month through Feb 2015, the festival brings together jazz performances by hot local acts, many from the Phra Athit bar Jazz Happens and The Voice, with art exhibitions from Silpakorn University, art and music workshops and plenty of other stalls. Tickets can be purchased at 02-282-9934 and 084-4500505. Jan 25, 4:30pm; Feb 28, 4:30pm. National Gallery, 02-282-2639-40. B250.

New Found Glory Live in Bangkok The veteran American pop-punk band from Florida perform old hits and new tunes from their latest album, Resurrection at Live House Studio. Reserve your tickets now at 081-930-3633. Feb 10, 7pm. JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-331-5657-8. B1,500. BTS Mo Chit.

Winter Jazz and Arts Festival

STAGE

comedy Nanta Show 2015 The popular non-verbal comedy cooking show returns to Bangkok as part of its world tour, entertaining the international audience through its improv live interaction, and the combination of traditional and modern Korean beats. Show runs every day except Mondays and Tuesdays through Jan 31. Doors

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open 30 mins before the show starts. Through Jan 31, 8pm. Nanta Theatre, 1/F, Royal City Avenue, Petchaburi Soi 47. 1,300 from Thaiticketmajor, one welcome drink.

theater The Rainy Afternoon A short play by William Inge, known as the Playwright of the Midwest, about three children immitating their parents in a play house. Suitable for audiences over 15, and highly recommended for parents. Directed by Pannatat Po-dhivejakul. Play in Thai with English subtitles. Reservations at 086-600-6574 (Eng) and 086410-7696 (Thai) or fb.com/Arts.Hub.Group. Jan 9, 16, 7:30pm; Jan 10, 3pm, 7:30pm; Jan 11, 3pm, 7:30pm; Jan 17, 3pm, 7:30pm; Jan 18, 3pm, 7:30pm. M Theater, 2884/2 New Petchaburi Rd., 08-0260-0771-6. B350.

The Last? Decision The annual play by Silpakorn University's Faculty of Architecture follows a man who wakes up with no memory and a surgeon whose wife is terminally ill. Jan 9-11, 7pm. Silpakorn University's Auditorium, Na Phra Lan Rd. B200-240 from Thaiticketmajor.

Falling From Heaven Paitoon Laisakul directs mime performances of eight short stories featuring 14 characters. Jan 15-16, 22-23, 26, 8pm; Jan 17-18, 19, 24-25, 7pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B500.

Brundibar In commemoration of Holocaust Memorial Day, the Embassy of the Czech Republic and the Department of Cultural Promotion present Hans Krasa's fairytale, originally performed for the first time by the child inmates of Theresienstadt Concentration Camp. Performed by Opera Siam's Young soloists and the Siam Sinfonietta. Directed by Somtow Sucharitkul and conducted by Trisdee Na Patalung. In Czech with Thai and English subtitles. Jan 22, 23, 7:30pm; Jan 24, 2pm, 7:30pm; Jan 25, 2pm, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-2623456. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

Bang-La-Merd: The Land I do not own B-Floor Theatre's award-winning actress Ornanong Thaisriwong makes her directorial debut for this solo performance of 2012's Best Original Script award-winning play from the International Association of Theatre Critics Thailand. Reserve your tickets at 095-542-4555 or 095-924-4555. Free parking at Marriott Hotel for advanced payment. Performances on every day except Tuesdays and Wednesdays. B350 for students who pay five days in advance. Jan 22-Feb 9, 8pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B500.

ART

ongoing (-)1: The Great Artist of Tomorrow Will Go Underground This part of the pilot project Young Artist Network by BACC shines a light on emerging artists, with activities taking place within the exhibition space itself. Through Feb 1. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-2146630-8.

71 Years Kamol & Friends A special exhibition by celebrated artist Kamol Tassananchalee, awarded National Artist in Visual Art of 1996, in celebration of HRH Princess Theparat Ratchasuda's 60th birthday. Opening ceremony on Jan 10, from 5pm, in the presence of the Princess herself. Through Feb 6, 5pm. Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center (RCAC), 84 Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd., 02-422-8837.

Boun: Abstraction The experienced Sino-Vietnamese artist paints with intense but natural pigments for this exhibition. Through Feb 28. Artha Gallery, 5-7 Charoenkrung Soi 36, 02-630-9489.

Clairvoyance Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's new mixed-subject photography exhibition, which takes its title from the traditional Thai epic Inao. Through Mar 8. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-

6630-8. BTS National Stadium

Distance by Steps (Nub Tao Nub Tang) A collective exhibition by leading artists from across Thailand, initiated by Naowarat Pongpaiboon and Kaewkao Pongpaiboon, comprising photographs, drawings, sculptures and poetry on the subject of elderly, neglected and isolated members of society. Through Feb 5. The Queen's Gallery, 101 Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd., 02-281- 5360/1.

Historical Correction American artist Maxine Helfman presents a symbolic exhibition at the sky-high gallery, featuring images of slaves dressed in the garments of their masters. Curated by Susan Baraz. Through Jan 17. Rooftop Gallery by Farmani, 440/10 Sukhumvit 55 (between Thonglor Soi 14-16), 091-573-6841.

Interiority: Puun, Phanang, Laea Phedan American artist and professor of architecture at Chula Saul Aaron Appelbaum opens his first solo exhibition in Bangkok, incorporating his abstract paintings on plastic and fabric into the walls of the gallery. Through Jan 17. Brownstone Studio, 1395 Sukhumvit Soi 77, 085-483-7675. BTS On Nut.

Joyful Khaen, Joyful Dance The gallery explores traditional Isaan folk music and culture, and its history. Expect a variety of music and narrative performances. Through Mar 31. Jim Thompson House Art Center, Jim Thompson House, Soi Kasem San 2, Rama 1 Rd.

Lotus Disco For his new solo exhibition, Maitree Siriboon displays mosaic tile-covered "disco balls" produced during a residency at Thaillywood arts studio in Chonburi. Through Jan 18. Whitespace Gallery, 1 Sala Daeng Soi 1, 02-235-2500. BTS Sala Daeng.

Le Kinlaads A new painting exhibition by Pom Jitpratuk, a graphic design graduate from Central Saint Martin, who has exhibitied all over Thailand. Jan 9-Feb 15. Koi Art Gallery, 245 Sukhumvit Soi 31 (Soi Sawasdee), 02-662-3218.

Memorandum Narrating the relationship between reminiscence and forgetfulness, this exhibition curated by Ark Fongsmut brings together selected works by four artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Chalarak Rueanchumchoei, Dusadee Huntrakul, Kentaro Hiroki and Nipan Oranniwesna. Through Jan 17. Bangkok University Gallery (BUG), 2-4/F, BU International College Building (Bld.7), 119 Rama 4 Rd., 02-350-3626.

Mythical Reality Wittawat Tongkeaw presents 13 artworks, questioning the reality of this world through the rearrangement of everyday objects. Through Jan 18. S.A.C. Subhashok The Art Centre, Sukhumvit Soi 39.

On The Way Celebrated artist Somboon Hormtienthong shows the places that he's visited on his motorbike over the past two years. Through Jan 31. Numthong Gallery, 72/3 Phahon Yothin 7 Soi 5 (Ari), 02617-2794.

On-Nuch The final exhibition of the year for this contemporary gallery, featuring the works of celebrated local artists. Through Jan 26. Tadu Contemporary Art Gallery, 2225 Sukhumvit Soi 87 2/F, Thaiyarntony Building (Sukhumvit).

Pastorale H Gallery presents the works of Chiang Maibased artist Mit Jai Inn, who's exhibited at biennales in Singapore and Sydney, in its new art space at Gaysorn Plaza. Through Jan 31. G1 Contemporary, 999 Phloen Chit Rd.

Planet Dao Solo Exhibition The latest exhibition by local artist Dao Paoviman, influenced by Asian pop culture, graffiti and the streets of Bangkok. Through Jan 25. GOJA Gallery CafĂŠ, 5/2 Pridi Soi 3, 085-848-7576.

Predetermined A new series of paintings and sculptures by Prasert Yodkaew, inspired by Thai idealism and scientific truths. Through Feb 8. Tang Contemporary Art, Room B-28, Basement/F, Silom Galleria, 919/1 Silom Rd., 02-630-1114.

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EXHIBITIONS Art 2015

Spring Epicurean Market A community market devoted to good food featuring a lineup of local artisans and vendors including the likes of Joe Sloane's sausages and Conkey's breads with a space for kids and live music. Jan 25, 8am; Feb 22, 8am; Mar 29, 8am; Apr 26, 8am. Spring Summer, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-3922747/8. Free. www.springnsummer.com.

2014 was a great year for the Thai art scene. And if this year's lineup so far is anything to go by, 2015 will be just as good.

Made by Legacy Flea Market V

Made by Legacy V

ART/CONTINUED Sculptural Paintings An exhibition of 25 pieces by experienced make-up artist Bilou under the theme zebra. Through Jan 3. Golden Tortoise Gallery, 100 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-5600. Siam: Through the Lens of John Thomson

Warlords Hyper-masculine photos of foreign Muay Thai fighters taken by Australian-born artist Troy Schooneman. Through Feb 28. Eat Me, 1/6 Phiphat Soi 2, Convent Rd., 02-2380931. BTS Sala Daeng.

closing 10: A Decade of Illustrations

Man's Religion

Barry x Ball

A collection of illustrator Patcharin Jitviriyanon's eclectic mix of paper collages and paintings, as featured in many leading Thai magazines. Through Jan 11. Serindia Gallery, Room 3101, 3201, OP Garden, 4-6 Charoenkrung Soi 36, 02-238-6410.

Bangkok Unbalanced CROSSOVER: THE UNVEILED COLLECTION

The gallery’s main exhibition for the first half of 2015 explores how Thai art has been collected throughout history. Exhibits range from well-known pieces to the work of previously underrated artists, amassed from the collections of both private individuals and organizations. Through Jun 14. BACC, 939 Rama 1 Rd. 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium

SIAM: THROUGH THE LENS OF JOHN THOMSON

The photography exhibition looks at Thailand during the era of King Rama IV through images taken between 1865-66 by Scottish photographer John Thomson, one of the earliest Western photographers in the Far East. The photographs were developed from the original glass plate negatives at Wellcome Institute London, and show spectacular detail of Thailand 150 years ago. Through Feb 28. National Gallery, 4 Chao Fa Rd., 02-281-2224

BARRY X BALL: PORTRAITS AND PHOTOS

The internationally renowned Californian sculptor, whose work was shown at the 54th Venice Biennale, holds his first Asian exhibition, featuring various images based on his past Italian stone sculpture installations. The highlight is a dual-portrait sculpture of himself and American contemporary artist Matthew Barney, crafted in Mexican onyx. Food, drinks and music on the opening day (Jan 15). Meet the artist himself at the closing party on March 19. Jan 15-March 29. 100 Tonson Gallery, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-684-1527. BTS Phloen Chit

THRESHOLD 2

After a successful first edition, dubbed by many as one of 2014’s best, the group exhibition returns to the Charoenkrung art gallery, featuring artists Sayumphorn Janthasorn, Justin Mills, Rebecca Vickers, Karma Sirikogar, Christian Hogue, Anjali Mandrekar, Chip Seven and Dan Burman. Jan 24-Feb 20. Bridge, Charoenkrung Soi 51. 086-986-9421. BTS Saphan Taksin

MAN’S RELIGION

Kathmandu Gallery follows up last year’s exhibition of Nipon Intarit’s work with this new collection of his monochrome nude photography. Intarit (born 1978) held his first exhibition at the gallery last year, after he was discovered working as an air-conditioning salesman by gallery owner Manit Sriwanichpoom in Tak, Northwestern Thailand. Opening party on Jan 10 from 6:30-9pm. Through Feb 28. Kathmandu Photo Gallery, 87 Pan Rd. 02-234-6700. BTS Surasak

ASANO SOLO SHOW

Bangkok-based Japanese illustrator and beat-maker Asano Ryuhei presents a solo exhibition, using oil, acrylic, water color, ink, pencil and pen, with 20 limited-edition screenprints, framed and signed, now available at B2,200 each. Email the organizer at thomasmenard31@gmail.com. Feb 20. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 092-115-8696. MRT Hua Lamphong

A group exhibition by four street and grafitti artists, exploring the juxtapositions inherent in Bangkok. Through Jan 10. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. BTS Surasak.

Dek Oey Dek Dee Inspired by the tense political and social climate, Tawan Wattayu's new satirical paintings are reminiscent of Thai schoolbooks. Through Jan 13. Toot Yung Art Center, 12/6 Ekkamai Soi 2, 02-714-3766. BTS Ekkamai.

Have a Meal with the Famous The new solo exhibition by celebrated artist Lolay Thaweesak Sritongdee asks what it would be like to converse over a meal with an interesting famous figure. Through Jan 17. Moose, 24 Ekkamai Soi 21, 02-108-9550.

The Journey Continues The bar and gallery's latest exhibition shows for the first time photographic work by late artist Wit Ariyasriwanich. Through Jan 9. WTF Gallery & Café, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-6626246. BTS Thong Lo.

Transcendence An oil/acrylic painting exhibition in the Charoennakorn gallery by Keerada Songwattana. Through Jan 11. The Jam Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950.

HAPPENINGS

classes & workshops Free Acting Class The new English-speaking theater company introduces free acting classes for two days. The classes include: musical theater for ages 5-7, 8-15 and 16+; world dance for theater; first time in theater; and fundamentals of acting. Places are limited. Book your space at 099-447-4670, 087-079-3446 or email info@culture-collective.com. Full schedule at culture-collective.com. Jan 10, 11, 10am. Culture Collective Studio, 3/F, Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok , 26/276 Charoen Krung Soi 70, 099-447-4670. Free.

Sean Lee & Shauna: Book Launch + Portraiture Workshop The Singaporean photographer, winner of the 2011 Icon de Martell Cordon Bleu, launches his photobook "Shauna" at 5pm on Jan 10, and holds a full-day theoretical

and practical portraiture workshop the next day from 10am-6pm. B9,500 for students, and B11,000 for adults. Pre-book at bangkok@mostgallery.com. Jan 10-11. Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 092-115-8696. Free.

The French Touch Workshop A two-day musical comedy workshop run by French-Thai tenor Yves Baron, who currently instructs at Superstar Academy and College of Bangkok. Students can select French classics to perform on the closing night (Jan 24) from 7:30pm at the Au Cabaret concert. Limited to only 12 participants. Reserve your spot at 02-670-4222 or email warittha.kraiwee@afthailande.org. Jan 23, 3pm; Jan 24, 2pm. Alliance FranÇaise de Bangkok, 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02670-4200. B2,900. MRT Lumphini.

competitions Nadzproject presents Injustice Tournament Bangkok #1 The indie bar hosts a PS4 tournament for 32 brave players, with Askham Knight Collectors Edition up for grabs. Other prizes for runner-ups. Register for B100 at ow.ly/ FI95a, and you'll receive a discount voucher for your next Nadzproject game purchase. Jan 31, 6pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. Free. BTS Surasak.

design exhibitions Debut by TCDCCONNECT TCDCCONNECT introduces the work of 16 outstanding creatives and designers from Chiang Mai Design Week 2014. Through Jan 31 2015, 10:30am. Thailand Creative and Design Center (TCDC), 6/F, The Emporium, 662 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-664-8448. BTS Phrom Phong.

NASA: A Human Adventure Produced by John Nurminen Events in cooperation with NASA, the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, and the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, this massive exhibition showcases 350 space exploration-related objects, many of which were used in actual space missions. Through Feb 1. CentralPlaza Lardprao, 1693 Phahon Yothin Rd. B250-500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Phahon Yothin.

Pop-Up Art Library by The Reading Room This temporary art library project runs as a part of the (-) 1 The Great Artist of Tomorrow Will Go Underground exhibition, and features literature from twelve libraries around Bangkok. Throughout the duration of the show, a fact sheet is available on Bangkok's best resources for contemporary art literature. Through Feb 1. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. Free. BTS National Stadium.

foodie events Bangkok Beer Week A whole week for beer lovers as Mikkeller celebrates its first anniversary with exclusive new bottles and 50 taps from popular breweries around the world. Jan 26-Feb 1, 12pm. Mikkeller, 26 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-9891. Free.

The return of the Brooklyn-style flea market, which this time takes over the parking lot of the State Railway of Thailand with the theme "Children," in celebration of National Children's Day. Expect stalls selling old-school toys, classic action hero figures, rare vintage home décor items, and a great selection of food and drinks. More information at www.madebylegacy.com. Jan 1011, 3pm. State Railway of Thailand, 1 Rong Muang Rd. B100. MRT Hua Lamphong

ThaiCraft Fair The year's first regular craft fair helps to promote local handmade products from over 50 artisan groups. Shop for home décor, toys and other accessories. Jan 24, 10am. Jasmine City Building, 2 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-204-5888. Free.

Bike Show: Ride For It The biggest evening outdoor bike show in Bangkok spans three days at the riverside venue. Feb 5-8, 3pm. Free.

Noise Market 4 The fourth edition of the much-loved music/ art-focused market has been confirmed to return to the grounds of the museum over the Valentine's weekend, bringing handmade goodness and live performances back to Rattanakosin Island. Apply now for a stall of your own at www.fb.com/noisemarket. com. Feb 13-15, 4pm. Museum Siam, 4 Sanam Chai Rd., 02-225-2777. Free.

sports BITEC Half Marathon 2015: The Heart Runners One of the bigger Bangkok running events of early 2015, with three courses to choose from: 21.1km Half Marathon, 10.5km Mini Marathon and 5km Micro Marathon. Register now before places run out at www. bitec-halfmarathon.com. Sales end on Jan 10. Feb 1, 3am. BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., 02-749-3939. B300-500. BTS Bang Na.

Thaicom 10K 2015 The second edition of the Rama VIII Bridge race offers various distances, from newbie-friendly walking-running courses for families, under 12s and 13-15 year-old runners, to the youth (16-19yrs old) 5km course to the general 10km course for all. Scholarships to continue race training go to the top five runners (Thai nationals) of each course. Online registration available now through Jan 16 at www.bibmaster.com. Feb 8, 5am. Suan Luang Rama XIII Public Park, Arun Amarin Rd. B200-300.

Run with Me 2015 Couples are invited to take part in the following races this Valentine's Day: the 20km Couple Run Challenge (B1,200 with a finisher T-shirt), 10km mini marathon (B700) and 3km fun run (B700). All participants must sign up in pairs at www.bibmaster.com, and all finishers will receive a pair of cute couple medals. Feb 14 2015, 6am. Suanluang Rama IX Public Park, Sukhumvit 103, 02328-8982. B700-1,200.

talks Valerio Olgiati/A Lecture Swiss architect Valerio Olgiati, who's taught at ETH Zurich, Architectual Association School of Architecture London and Cornell, and is the Kenzo Tange Chair at Harvard, speaks as part of the Silpakorn University Architectual Talk. Reserve your seat at goo.gl/forms/ fvf36IQjMh. Feb 7, 1pm-4pm. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium

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now Baymax (Scott Adsit) as they join a group of friends to form a band of unlikely heroes.

SPECIAL SCREENINGS Polish Film Festival

Exodus: Gods and Kings (US) HHHHH Christian Bale takes on the role of Moses, the biblical figure who stood up against Egyptian king Ramses (Joel Edgerton) in order to free the Jewish people from tyrannical oppression at the hands of their Egyptian masters.

Serena (US/France) HHHHH The owner of a vast timber empire (Bradley Cooper) discovers his wife Serena (Jennifer Lawrence) cannot bear children, and thus cannot provide an heir for his empire. Seventh Son

Ida

The Polish Embassy, in association with the Polish Film Institute, will be hosting the Polish Film Festival from Jan 18-22 at CentralWorld. Six movies will be screened, each aimed to display the country’s rich culture. An opening event will be held at 3pm on Jan 18, where the film Ida will be screened, followed by a Q&A with one of the film’s producers. There will be discussions with other production team members after their respective film screenings, except for Walesa: Man of Hope and Life Feels Good. Films will be screened with English and Thai subtitles. B120 per seat. Our picks include:

IDA Poland’s Oscar entry in this year’s Best Foreign Film category, Ida takes place in 1962 and tells the story of Anna, a young woman on the verge of taking her vows to become a nun, only to find out that she is actually Jewish. She sets out with her only relative, to discover where they come from and where they belong. Directed by Pawel Pawilkowski.

WALESA: MAN OF HOPE From world-renowned filmmaker Andrzej Wajda comes this biopic chronicling the life of Lech Walesa, the founder of Polish trade union Solidarity, and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1983. The film focuses on Walesa’s efforts to rally the people of Poland against the Socialist regime in order to bring about democracy in the 1970s.

GODS The story of a famous heart surgeon who fought against all odds to become the first surgeon in Poland to successfully perform a heart transplant during the

FILM

opening Black & White: The Dawn of Justice (China/Taiwan) HHHHH The latest in this crime-thriller series follows a prodigious police officer (Mark Chao) as he tries to stop a terrifying conspiracy to release a virus that will destroy the world in 14 days. Jan 8

Frozen Sing-a-long (US) (No rating) Ironically, Disney seems to be reluctant to let Frozen go, hence this sing-a-long version of their phenomenal animated film. Jan 8

Taken 3 (US) (Not yet rated) Liam Neeson is back yet again as Bryan Mills in this latest entry to the Taken series. This time, Mills is framed for the murder of his ex-wife (Famke Janssen), and must utilize his “particular set of skills” to outsmart and outrun the police, FBI and CIA. Jan 8

Foxcatcher (US) HHHHH Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum), an aspiring wrestler, is approached by John du Pont (Steve Carrell) to join his Olympics wrestling team. Schultz, hoping to step out of the shadow of his older brother (Mark Ruffalo), agrees to join the team, unaware of the tragedy that is eventually going to unfold. Jan 8 The Woman in Black 2 (UK) (Not

ALTERNATIVE VIEWS

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb

yet rated) This sequel to 2012’s horror flick, takes place 40 years after the original, when a group of WWII orphans are transported to live in the Eel Marsh House, unknowingly awakening the malevolent spirit that dwells there. Jan 8

now showing The One Ticket (Thai) (Not yet rated) Pong (Worawech Danuvongse), an unmotivated cartoonist, must go to the edge of his limits to get a sold-out concert ticket for his young daughter (Nattaya Ongsritrakul).

The Iron Ladies (Thai) (Not yet rated)

Directed by Shawn Levy. Starring Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, Ricky Gervais, Ben Kingsley, Steve Coogan and Rebel Wilson. “The exhibits in this Night at the Museum may still come to life nightly. But their latest movie stays stubbornly inert.” Stephen Whitty, Newark Star-Ledger “Let the dust finally settle on these museum pieces.” Peter Howell, Toronto Star “What began as a fun and unique high-concept comedy with 2006’s Night at the Museum is by this third installment bereft of life and creativity.” Kirk Baird, Toledo Blade “The best of the now three—I even laughed twice—and it’s the last time we’ll see Robin Williams or Mickey

Rooney. Swan songs for great actors deserve better.” Gary Wolcott, Tri-City Herald “Somewhere amid the rictus grins of this cynical seasonal offering there lurks the spectre of the old-school variety show in which tradition demands that you applaud a string of famous people for simply turning up, rather than actually being any good.” Mark Kermode, Observer

A remake of the cult hit released in 2000 under the same name, this based-on-a-truestory film follows the fabulous exploits of a team of male volleyball players who happen to all be flamboyantly gay and is said to be more faithful to the source material.

Seventh Son (US) (Not yet rated) As an evil witch (Julianne Moore) escapes her imprisonment intent on bringing destruction upon the world, Master Gregory (Jeff Bridges) must take on a new apprentice (Ben Barnes) to fight back against the evil spreading across his homeland. Stand by Me Doraemon (Japanese)

“Made from the ‘kids-won’t-carehow-badly-we-slapped-this-thing-together’ school of filmmaking.” Jeffrey M. Anderson, Combustible Celluloid

HHHHH Massive cultural icon Doraemon returns in his first 3D-animated feature film to answer a question burning in the minds of all fans: What will Nobita do when his blue robotic-feline friend isn’t there anymore?

“Now in its third instalment, it’s clearer than ever that this franchise is based on one joke that has been stretched far beyond the breaking point.” Rich Cline, Contactmusic.com

The Rewrite (US) HHHHH Has-been Academy Award-winning screenwriter Keith Michaels (Hugh Grant) reluctantly takes on a teaching job at a university, only to fall in love with Holly (Marisa Tomei), a single mother attending his class.

Love on the Rock (Thai) HHHHH This booze-centric love story follows Joe (Naparat Rattanit), a young bar owner, as he meets Fai Leaw (Pilaiporn Subinchumroo), a girl who only believes in casual relationships free of commitment. As their expectations become unaligned, they must ask themselves again what it is they truly expect from love.

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (US) HHHHH Ben Stiller returns as a museum security guard and must unite the museum’s greatest heroes such as Theodore Roosevelt (Robin Williams) and Attila the Hun (Patrick Gallagher) in a globe-spanning quest to save the magic that brings the museum’s exhibits to life.

The Tale of Princess Kaguya (Japan) HHHHH This Japanese animated film from the legendary Studio Ghibli chronicles the life of Kaguya (Aki Asakura), a mystical girl born from a bamboo shoot. Growing into a woman of otherworldly beauty, Kaguya is met with many suitors, all of whom she sends on a series of impossible tasks in order to win her hand in marriage.

The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies (NZ/UK/US) HHHHH The thundering conclusion to the Hobbit epic sees the dragon Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch) awake and head towards Lake Town. Meanwhile, Sauron sends an army of Orcs to attack Erebor, where Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his friends are.

The Possession of Michael King (US) HHHHH Spurred by the sudden loss of his wife, filmmaker Michael King (Shane Johnson) is determined to disprove the existence of the supernatural by involving himself in various occult rituals. But when myth becomes reality, Michael finds himself stuck with an evil entity he can’t get rid of.

Stonehearst Asylum (US) HHHHH Inspired by the works of Edgar Allen Poe, this film follows aspiring doctor Edward Newgate (Jim Sturgess) as he begins his apprenticeship in Stonehearst Asylum, only to realize that no one is really who they seem to be. I Fine… Thank You… Love You (Thai) HHHHH Yim (Sunny Suwanmethanon) is an average Thai man with abysmal English skills. When his Japanese girlfriend breaks up with him to go work in America, Yim must reluctantly take English lessons from Pleng (Preechaya Pongthananikorn) in order to get her back.

Kill the Messenger (US) HHHHH Journalist Gary Webb’s (Jeremy Renner) life changes forever when he uncovers a terrifying conspiracy being covered up by the CIA. The Good Lie (US) HHHHH The heartwarming story of a group of Sudanese war-orphans who are brought to live in the USA, and the altruistic efforts of Carrie (Reese Witherspoon), the employment agency counselor who helps them.

upcoming Water Diviner (AU/US) After the Battle of Galipoli during WWI, an Australian farmer named Connor (Russel Crowe) must travel to Turkey to find his three missing sons. Jan 15 After (US) Set in 2002 New York, this film tells the story of a family struggling to keep both their business and their relationships intact. Unbeknownst to most in the family is a well-buried secret that could shatter their fragile lives forever. Jan 15 American Sniper (US) The story of Chris “Legend” Kyle (Bradley Cooper), the man known as the most lethal sniper in the American army. Jan 15

Into the Woods (US) An alternate version of the classic Grimm fairy tales, the film follows The Baker (James Cordon) and his Wife (Emily Blunt) as they journey to find the ingredients needed to undo a curse put upon them by a witch (Meryl Streep), meeting the likes of the big bad Wolf (Johnny Depp) and Cinderella (Anna Kendrick) along the way. Blackhat (US) Nicholas Hathaway (Chris Hemsworth) is a criminal hacker released from prison in order to help the police take down an international cyber-criminal. Jan 15 Big Eyes (US) Michael Keane (Christoph Waltz) is known to everyone for his extremely popular paintings of big-eyed little girls in the 1950s. Little do they know that the paintings are actually by his wife, Margaret (Amy Adams). Jan 15

free screenings Jam Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night. The theme for January is Banned Films. Films start from 8pm. Visit www. fb.com/JAMCAFEBKKfor schedule. 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-545-1833. Open Tue-Sun noon-midnight.

The Friese-Greene Club The schedule follows a daily theme. Films start from 8pm. Visit www.fgc.in.th for the full line up and to reserve your seat. 259/6 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 087-000-0795. Open Wed-Sun 6pm-late.

Alliance FranÇaise Movies are subtitled in English and screened at 7pm. Jan 14. Camille Redouble (2012): Twenty-five years after she became pregnant at 16, Camille finds that her husband has left her for a younger woman. On the night of New Year’s Eve, Camille finds herself transported back into her 16-year-old body, where she meets her husband again for the first time. 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-670-4200 Goethe Institut Movies are German and subtitled in English. Jan 13. The Silent Mountain (2014): Andreas finally meets the love of his life, only to be sent to fight in World War I the very next day. For more information, visit www. goethe.de/ins/th/en/ban/ver.cfm, or contact 02-108-8200, info@bangkok.goethe.org

Big Hero 6 (US) HHHHH The latest film from Disney Animation Studios follows prodigal engineer Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) and his bubbly robot buddy

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