BK Magazine 24 Apr, 2015 by BK Magazine

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Note 4

BK MAGAZINE NO. 586 FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

It's Friday. Let's

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With the Note It Do It campaign, Samsung is celebrating the can-do attitude of prestigious young Bangkok talents; people with unique perspectives on life who have dared to make a difference to society. The Samsung Galaxy Note is built for a generation not afraid to explore, experiment and pioneer fresh ideas.

Pongsak “Off” Kobrattanasuk, Thita “Gift” Kamonnetsawat

Designers and owners of Rotsaniyom fashion house

As soon as ideas enter our head. . . We sketch them What’s your lifestyle? Gift: We've arrived at a point in life where we no longer act like teenagers. I’m expecting a baby so my lifestyle has become a lot more strict. I have to be more careful. Off: I love to visit coffee shops and rent movies from Frame in Tha Phrajan (Maha Rat Road). We can find whatever movie we’re in the mood for at that place. How do you generate new ideas as designers? Off: Simple things from our daily lives inspire us. Our new collection, called Malai, is based on our cultural heritage. We’ve interpreted different kinds of flowers into the collection, combining them in a way that’s very unique and subtle.

Gift: As soon as an idea comes into my head, I look for ways to turn it into a reality. I need to act quick otherwise it disappears. What’s the most valuable tool to help you get through the day? Gift: A smartphone. It makes our lives so much easier. I can now sketch pictures using a tool I carry in my pocket. How do you expect your life to change when the baby arrives? Gift: It will be a stabilizing force for my life and family. Off: Everything needs to be organized. I personally want to take care of the baby, and the easiest solution is to find the right organizational tools.

Busyajaree Srithep Co-owner of What If Decor & Cafe (Sukhumvit Soi 31, Phrom Phong)

Working full-time and owning a business I . . .

need to stay very organized What inspired you to open What If Decor & Cafe? The people around me. I like making new dishes for my friends and family—the people I love and care about. I’m lucky to have my own little space to experiment. I dream up different experiences that I want my customers to have when they visit, and then try to make them a reality. You have a full-time job at GMM media as well. How do you handle both roles? I’m extremely busy right now—burning the candle at both ends with both my full time job and this cafe.

What tools help your life organized? My mobile phone. I need a tool that works quickly and is easy to navigate. For example when I travel and eat out in a restaurant, like when I was in Greece, I can look up the ingredients of exotic dishes before ordering. How do you maintain a quality work-life balance? I always make time to travel. It doesn’t have to be anywhere far away. But so long as I’m making plans, I have something to look forward to. Why do you say you’re good at smiling? Happiness is contagious. Smiling is like a universal language to show the people around us that we’re happy without the need for any words.

Lynn Visudahromn Editor-in-chief of Two Magazine (www.2-mag.com)

To catch up on fashion . . . I use my smartphone How did you become the editor-in-chief of a lifestyle magazine? I happened to be in the right place at the right time. I was offered a fashion editor position but then the magazine’s previous editor-in-chief resigned—I got promoted and here I am today. How does your smartphone help you with your work? Thanks to Instagram I can get the freshest fashion news from everywhere in the world. When I wake up in the morning, I can check what's happening in New York over breakfast because that's when all

the shows and parties are happening over there. It has really democratrized the information—by the time any of the mags come out, it's already old. How do you deal with pressure? I say a prayer to God and face it with a smile. I also need people I can trust and the best technology to manage my routine. What does your role as a magazine editor add to society? We add beauty to the world, and encourage the young generation to dare to follow their dreams.

Be inspired and share your thoughts at www.noteitdoit.com

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it's free! Down with five-day weeks

BK MAGAZINE NO. 586 FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

The perfect staycation for Bangkok locals

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page 3 6 cover story

Urban Escape

Labor Party

14 escapes

20 fashion

Life’s a Beach

Next Big Thing

22 home

26 bites

Biting Style

Weekend Retreats 34 BK Now

41 last word

5-Day Forecast

Comic Perspective

Who's in charge? General Manager Andrew Hiransomboon

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 Associate Doungporn Wanasinchai

Managing Editor, Product Director Gr goire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Staff Writer Vasachol Quadri Staff Writer Pinnyada Tanitnon Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Lily Kittisrikangwan, Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Sam Nathapong

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

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Kwanwalai Rodsaward, Soravis Laopadolkij, Dharath Hoonchamlong, Arisa Wiwatsomwong, Natchaya Angsatitanan Cover by Panita Thiraphapong

IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen

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

Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant

Group Directors

Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang

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

Where to find us!

The Asia City Publishing Group 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

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #07-02 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65-6323-2512 Fax: 65-6323-2779 Email: contact@asia-city.com.sg

Kuala Lumpur Pacific Tourism Communications Sdn Bhd 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

Everything you know about work and nationalities is false. Surely, the French, with their preposterous 35-hour week, are the least hard-working people in the world? Wrong. According to the OECD, in 2013 the Germans worked an average of 1,388 hours a year, compared to 1,669 in Britain and 1,489 in France. That’s right, the industrious Germans work even less than the French. Then there’s the question of productivity: the Germans and the French are about 30 percent more productive than the British, meaning they get more done despite working fewer hours! This, dear readers, is all great news for Thailand. Apr 6, 13, 14, 15 (might as well add 16 and 17 to that), May 1, 4, 5 (how about taking the 6-8 off too?) and May 13 are all holidays. What a splendid opportunity. It could well be Thailand’s most productive month ever. There are so few working days, you’re going to have to make every single one count. Here’s how: Firstly, you shall harness the French savoir-vivre. Twohour lunches refocus the spirit. A couple glasses of Beaujolais increase creativity. Butter (copious amounts of it) lubricates the cogs of enterprise. Grumbling keeps the mind alert. Three-day weekends (with many long naps) stimulate the soul. In short, if you spend enough time doing nothing, the few hours you spend at the office may actually feel like a welcome respite, a kind of refuge from endless days of flicking through your Facebook while suffering from the painful digestion triggered by a Dominical four-hour lunch. Secondly, here’s what Germans know about productivity. They don’t socialize around the coffee machine. They get in, get work done, get out and take six weeks of vacation a year. Their work is measured in terms of output, not time spent at the office. Given the messages we get from advertising agencies around midnight—inane missives that demonstrate a totally disorganized workflow, a totally disorganized mind, actually—we’d love to see Bangkok get a bit more Deutsch about its work. So don’t let your boss bully you into staying late because of a couple five-day weekends and holidays peppered throughout the month. Just proudly announce you’ve massively jacked up your productivity by enjoying long boozy lunches and chatting with your colleagues a lot less. As such, you not only deserve all these days off but the inalienable right to go home at 5:30pm. Bonne chance with that.

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, April 24, 2015

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: French Thainess

Not: Thai Frenchness

The TAT has announced that roughly 657,500 travelers from France are expected to “come to Thailand to experience Thainess” this year. Let’s hope they leave before we pick up any more of their culture, because France is decidedly the worst thing that has ever happened to Thailand. First it was macarons. Then the name Emquartier. And finally the news that our very own Section 44 was pinched from the French Constitution of 1958. Sacrebleu.

SCENE STEALER Pangina Heals

Hot: Comic book cafes Not: Board game cafes A massive congratulations to Bangkok Comic Con and Thailand Comic Con (see page 13), whose decision for the second year running to both take place on the same dates and double as anime festivals will no doubt once again ensure that neither is any good. And right at a time when comic book fever is sweeping the city, with not one but two superhero-themed cafe openings (ow.ly/LJxcW) taking up space that might otherwise have been turned into more board game-related businesses.

After a three-month break from the nightlife scene, Bangkok’s favorite drag MC and “waack” dancer, Pangina Heels (aka Pan Pan Narkprasert), has finally returned to entertain the crowds. Here, BK has a little chat with the fabulous drag queen and recent winner of Maya Channel’s reality show T Battle. What were you doing before you discovered your waack dance? I was an underground parking lot hip-hop dancer. I learned waacking from Princess Lockeroo on So You Think You Can Dance? I fell in love with it because there’s no restraint or construct. You’re never “too gay,” “too feminine” or too anything.

What would a typical night out with you involve?

Hot: Districts

Not: Neighborhoods

Apparently, we’re all meant to be calling Charoenkrung Bangkok’s “art district” now that a couple of new galleries have opened (learn where they are during this weekend’s art tour, see page 36). Meanwhile, the Mall Group is busy rebranding Phrom Phong as Em District––sorry––The District Em (there’s that French word-play again) and Sukhumvit 11 is gearing up for The District DJ Festival (see page 33).

Shots, conversations, ass grabbing, more shots, dancing on the verge of dehydration and waking up to the thought, “who the hell are you?” What’s your favorite club in town? Maggie Choo’s. The cocktails are amazing, the music is pure 70s’ disco and the boys are yummy-licious. Which means even more fun after I get out of drag! What bugs you most about Bangkok nightlife?

Hot: Indigo swimwear Not: Indigo shirts Now that most of Bangkok’s fashion brands are done reinventing themselves with natty lines of homemade indigo shirts, Janesuda has proven the same half-colored technique can be applied to swimwear (see page 20) for a look that’s simply tie-dye for. We’re really, really sorry.

The Top 40 f***ing music. No More. Club-goers need more soul and depth to their nightlife experience. Bangkok clubs should stop treating us like we

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are stupid music listeners. No more Pitbull, Maroon 5 and David Guetta every night.

ing the world; teaching dance and judging competitions as a waacking drag queen.

What has been your worst experience as a performer?

Where can people catch your shows?

When I accidentally swallowed a 10 baht coin onstage, a few weeks ago during a lip-synching performance. Don’t ask me how, but I went to the E.R., and it was gone! Lesson learned: never put things in your mouth that you cannot swallow.

You can catch me at Tuesdays’ Theatre of Oddities night and Sunday gay nights [The Importance of Being Earnest], both at Maggie Choo’s. I’m also involved with G-Spot entertainment—we throw the most fabulous gay parties twice every month: TGIF every last Friday of the month [Apr 24, themed “Nudity”] at Hilton Sukhumvit, and Splash Out Pool Party every first saturday of the month [May 2] at DoubleTree by Hilton Sukhumvit.

What’s the wildest place in Bangkok? Lumphini Park. There are Godzilla babies roaming the place while you row your boat with a date around the beautiful pond. Then night time comes, and it’s the place men pick up “working women” by the trees outside. I love this beautiful contrast.

How was the experience of being on T Battle and what are your plans now? We lip-synched, danced and sang for our lives, similar to RuPaul’s Drag Race. And now the possibilities are endless! I’m enjoying my life as a drag MC entertainer and travel-

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What makes a good drag MC? I’m very blessed to be a gay man as it makes me understand what gay men want in a party. So I try to deliver that cherry on top of their sundaes whenever I’m hired. I am crazy, loud, and I love making fun of people. But at the end of the day, it’s all out of love and a celebration of life. Interview by Lily Kittisrikangwan

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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cover story

old town staycation

Staying in Bangkok this long, long weekend? Have a Bangkok break with our guide on where to go, what to eat and where to stay around Phra Nakhon-Rattanakosin. By Lily Kittisrikangwan Photos By Panita Thiraphapong

DAY 1:

EXPLORE RATTANAKOSIN ISLAND MORNING

Grand Palace Chotima Sitthichaiviset

Note: no sleeveless tops and only long trousers or skirts, otherwise you’ll need to rent an item of clothing to cover up.

Buddhaisawan Chapel

Museum Siam

Nut Onaree

Within a few minutes’ walk of the palace is the latest riverside (and bike-friendly) community mall, 2 Tha Maharaj (1/11 Trok Mahathat, Maharaj Rd., 02-8663163). While stores are still slowly opening, it’s got a chill riverside Starbucks as well as a few other cafes like Creamery Boutique Ice Cream (094-196-9169) and the new Gram Cafe (02-866-3163-4) from the same people as the Sukhumvit Soi 49 branch. After Tha Maharaj, make your way down Maharaj Road to check out the food stalls around Tha Phra Chan Pier, which sell stuff like moo tod and sticky rice and grilled squid. It’s also home to the 3 Amulet Market, which gets busiest on Sundays. Right by the gate of 4 Thammasat University, be sure to grab the decently priced frozen yogurt at the ice cream joint Dairy Mix—a students’ favorite.

AFTERNOON Hop on a boat and cross over to 5 Wang Lang Pier to check out the vintage and second-hand clothes at very pocket-friendly prices. There are also lots of snack stalls, like the well-known bread loaves of Wang Lang Bakery (113 Soi Wang Lang Plaza, Arun Amarin Rd., 02-8661649), super cheap sushi at Sushi Wang Lang (Soi Wang Lang, Arun Amarin Rd., 02-866-8828), and all sorts of Thai dishes lined up as you stroll through the tiny alleys. Sala Rattanakosin

What are your favorite local eateries? Wanladda Nanthaphoonsap, partner of Creamery Boutique Ice Cream, Tha Maharaj Branch “I really like the street food around here, so usually cross over to Wang Lang to see what they’re selling. My favorite is the yum (Thai spicy salad).”

If you’re going to the 1 Grand Palace (Na Phra Lan Rd., 02-623-5500. Open daily 8:30am-4:30pm. B500), it’s best to get there as early as possible to beat the worst of the heat. While it will inevitably be full of tourists, the great Buddhist architecture of Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) makes it well worth a visit. Plus, other buildings and throne halls within the Palace grounds are actually less crowded and architecturally very beautiful. Save the ticket because you can use it to enter Dusit Palace (see page 10) within seven days.

While on Rattanakosin Island, make time to check out some of the city’s oldest museums. You’ve got the 6 National Museum (Na Phra That Rd., 02-215-8173. Open Wed-Sun 9am-4pm), where you’ll find antiques ranging from jewelry to ancient Siamese weaponry (just be aware that many of the exhibition rooms are under renovation), as well as the 7 National Theatre, where you can watch traditional performances throughout the year. The next show is the khon dance performance of Ramakien on May 3 at 2pm. Reserve your seat at 02-224-1342. Walk under the Phra Pinklao Bridge if you want to make a stop at the 8 National Gallery (4 Chao-Fa Road, opposite the National Theatre, 02-282-2639. www.thailandmuseum. com/national_gallery. Open Wed-Sun 9am-4pm), which

is currently hosting The Autopsies - Lives in BKK, an exhibition by a group of contemporary artists. Next, make merit at 9 City Pillar Shrine (Mahachai Rd. Open daily 7am-5pm)—a favorite of locals looking to escape Wat Phra Kaew’s crowds. Here, you can do traditional things like merit-making and gold gilding without having to suffer the stress of hundreds of tourists. It’s also right next to the well-preserved, Western-style 10 Ministry of Defense (Ratchadamnoen Nai Rd., 02-225-0098), constructed in 1882 and featuring a front yard filled with cannons and other artillery. A walk down Rachini Road will take you to the rather Spanish-looking 11 Saranrom Palace and the pretty 12 Saranrom Park (Rachini Rd.), where you can stop for a breather under the shade. From Saranrom Park, it’s just a short walk to 13 Museum Siam (Maharaj Rd., 02-225-2777. www.ndmi. or.th. Open Tue-Sun 10am-6pm), also known as the National Discovery Museum, which hosts multimedia presentations and interactive panels, as well as a permanent exhibition that takes you through the history of Siamese communities.

Note: A B199 Muse Pass gets you free entry into 20 museums and momuments across Bangkok, including Museum Siam, Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall and Phayathai Palace. Available on Thaiticketmajor and at participating Museums. More info at 02-225-2777 ext. 505. At the end of the day, loosen up with a massage at the original branch of 14 Wat Pho Massage School (392/33-34 Soi Maharaj, Maharaj Rd. 02-688-3551, open daily from 6am-5pm). Travelers come from all over the world to experience what’s considered to be the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. It’s B260 for an hour of Thai massage, B280 for a 30-minute foot massage, or B420 for an hour.

EVENING There are a few nice choices to dine by the river, like 15 The Deck at the quaint Arun Residence hotel (Maharaj Rd., 02-221-9158). Pick an outdoor seat, or ask for seating upstairs for a nice view of the river and a more chilledout vibe. Alternatively, try 16 Eat Sight Story (Maharaj Rd., 02-622-2163), which was once used as a commercial dock. Afterwards, grab a drink on the rooftop of the stylish Sala Rattanakosin (39 Maharaj Rd., 02-622-1388), right at the end of Tha Tien Alley. With stunning views of Wat Arun and the calm Chao Phraya River at night, it can feel like you’ve left the city. 17

See map, page 12

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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Street Feasts Saphankwai, an authentic and bustling neighborhood just beneath Chatuchak is a serious street-food destination for connoisseurs.

ADVERTORIAL

Expert Street Food Picks

While Bangkok hipsters flock to Ari for cool cafes, fashionistas hunt for bargain clothes and accessories at Chatuchak Weekend Market and the health-conscious spend their leisure moments running around Chatuchak and Suan Rod Fai parks, nearby neighborhood Saphankwai often goes under the radar. However, in-the-know foodies will tell you it’s one of Bangkok’s best places to go for old-school street food offerings. Chawadee Nualkhair, the celebrated author of Bangkok's Best Street Food and the recently published Thailand's Best Street Food is a fan.

Sri Lueng Pochana (in Soi Rong Nung Kao) One of the most talked about Saphankwai restaurants on social media, Sri Lueng Pochana’s claim to fame is its succulent khao mun kai (chicken rice).

"Saphan Kwai? It's awesome! It's busy, it's just such a high concentration of great places, and it's good for those nights when you want street food without having to deal with the crowds in Chinatown."

“There are so many different food vendors in the area you simply must try, from Saphankwai intersection all the way down to Chatuchak. This is one area where you'll never go hungry!"

Sanan (BTS Saphankwai, Phahonyothin Rd., near a bridge crossing to Chatuchak Market) This long-running place is best known for its khao tom pla (rice and fish in hot, clear soup) and fresh seafood offerings.

Chitphon Fungsathit has lived in Saphankwai for 25 years. An avid foodie and explorer, he fell in love with the neighborhood for its laid-back charm. In fact, he loved it so much that four years ago he founded the website Saphankwai.com. “Saphankwai residents have had access to an amazing array of local specialties for nearly three decades. But before social media's attention, outsiders might not have been aware of this,” says Chitphon. "The positive side is that the area is more active.” Bangkok foodies have much to enjoy in Saphankwai, and the best way to explore the area is by foot.

Credit Isriya Paireepairit

Abu Ibrohim (Soi Praditpat 14) Perhaps the only restaurant in the area that offers serious halal food, Abu Ibrohim is tucked behind a discreet wooden facade where loyal customers flock for the famed goat curry.

Yiew Kee (near Soi Pradipat 10) For more than 30 years, Yiew Kee has been serving up Cantonese-style casual food, with highlights including dim sum, barbecued pork and deep-fried, crispy-skin pork.

“There are so many different food vendors in the area you simply must try, from Saphankwai intersection all the way down to Intamara, Pradipat, Ari and Chatuchak. These vendors start operating from around 4pm daily. This is one area where you'll never go hungry!" says Chitphon.

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ADVERTORIAL

Ms. Pattapanee Ekahitanond Marketing Manager of Heineken®

One of the year’s most highly anticipated electronic music festivals returns once again on May 8-9 to the familiar location of BITEC Bangna. As the main partner responsible for all this fun, Heineken® has put together the best lineup yet, bringing a world-class clubbing experience to Bangkok.

This year’s headliners include the world’s number one electronic DJ, Hardwell from Breda, Holland, as voted by DJ Mag (20132014). To complete the night, his unique progressive mix will be supported by the Dutch trance duo W&W, electro poster boy Steve Aoki, and Australian EDM producers Vinai, who also joined Hardwell in DJ Mag’s Top 100 in 2014.

This year, Heineken®s Marketing Manager, Ms. Pattapanee Ekahitanond, wants to offer a beyond-exclusive experience to all EDM devotees by presenting a special meet and greet event with big-name DJs. You can win your ticket by joining Heineken®’s “Unlock Together” social campaign. All you have to do is simply share a photo from www.heineken-thai.com/ unlocktogether. The winner will receive two tickets to the party and an opportunity to meet and greet world-class DJs Hardwell, Steve Aoki, Vinai, W&W and Dyro.

'' VISIT WWW.HEINEKEN-THAI.COM/UNLOCKTOGETHER AND FOLLOW

FACEBOOK.COM/HEINEKEN NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT. REMEMBER THE MORE YOU SHARE, THE HIGHER CHANCE YOU WILL WIN THIS WORLD-CLASS EXPERIENCE BROUGHT TO YOU BY HEINEKEN®'' FOLLOW FACEBOOK.COM/HEINEKEN AND @HEINEKEN_TH

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cover story Monruedee Jansuttipan

ACCOMMODATION To make the most of your staycation, here are our top hotels in the area.

Giant Swing

NEW Here Hostel (see page 16) We love: The budget prices and friendly staff Nearby: Correction Museum and Ratchadamnoen Klang Rates: B590-B1,350 196/3-8 Ratchadamnoen Rd., 086-771-6488.

Democracy Monument

RIVERSIDE Sala Arun We love: The amazing view of Wat Arun and all the nearby riverside restaurants Nearby: Wat Pho and the Grand Palace Rates: B3,500-B6,500 47-49 Soi Ta-Tien, Maharaj Rd., 02-622-2933

Dialogue

Passport Bookshop

Wat Phu Kao Thong

DAY 2:

SLOW LIFE ON RATCHADAMNOEN MORNING Start the day with a classic kai gata set (fried egg in an aluminum pan, Chinese sausages, green peas and ground pork) and a cup of strong kopi (coffee) at the retro coffee house 18 Kopi Hya Tai Kee (Wisutkasat Intersection, Phra Sumen Rd., 02-629-0446). Then, take a stroll down Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, which was built during the reign of King Rama V and modeled after Paris’s Champs Elysees. The buildings on either side of the road are kept to no more than 3-4 stories, and their facades largely preserved from when they were first built. Learn the area’s history at the 19 Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall (Ratchadamnoen Klang Rd., 02-6210044. Open Tue-Sun 10am-7pm), an interactive twohour exhibition that brings to life Rattanakosin’s old communities, traditions and palaces. It’s B100 per visit for all visitors (free for Rabbit card holders and buy one get one ticket free for True users), with a new tour starting every 20 minutes. Once you reach the fourth floor of the tour, the True Coffee shop at the top has panoramic views of 20 Wat Phu Kao Thong (1344 Boriphat Rd., 02-6212280. Open 8am-5pm), also known as Golden Mount, Prakarn Fort, and the only surviving 21 Loha Prasart (metal castle) in the world (Mahachai Rd., 02-224-8807. Open daily 9am-5pm).

Note: If you’re willing to brave the heat, you can climb the Golden Mount for a 360-degree view of the Old Town. Otherwise, just wait until both temples light up at night to get amazing pictures of the iconic intersection.

AFTERNOON The 22 Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center (84 Ratchadamnoen Klang., 02-422-8827), adjacent to the Exhibition Hall, is one of Bangkok’s most interesting modern galleries. Nearby you’ll also find a little record store called 23 Tonchabab Record Shop (Boonsiri Rd., 081-486-7528), which is worth a browse even if you don’t collect vinyl.

It’s just a short stroll from there down Dinso Road, which leads off 24 Democracy Monument. As you walk past the small Ban Bat community, you’ll eventually see 25 City Hall and the red 26 Giant Swing, right by 27 Wat Suthat. Don’t miss the milk-toast joint 28 Mon Nomsod (160/1-3 Dinsor Rd., 02-224-1447) on the other side of the street—it’s always packed out.

LUXURY Praya Palazzo

What are your favorite local spots?

We love: The 1920s Italian-style mansion setting and very fancy royal Thai dining Nearby: Wat Arun Rates: B3,500-B9,500 757/1 Somdej Phra Pinklao Soi 2, Bangyeekhan, 02-883-2998, 02-322-9155. www.prayapalazzo. com

In fact, there are lots of cafes down Phra Sumen Road, where locals love to spend the entire afternoon with a good read and a cup of joe. Popular stops include the bike-friendly 29 Dialogue Coffee and Gallery (533 Phra Sumen Rd., 084-754-8799), the quiet travel book hub 30 Passport Bookshop (Phra Sumen Rd., 02-6290694) and the tiny 31 Bamsha Cafe (507 Phra Sumen Rd., 093-860-9545).

EVENING The Old Town has some of the best restaurants in Bangkok right now. Local gem 32 Seven Spoons (22-24 Chakkaphatdi Phong Rd., 02-629-9214) serves up Mediterranean-inspired dishes like crab ravioli and quinoa salad in a softly-lit one-story establishment. If you’re more of a burger-and-beer person, the same people own 33 Mad Moa on the other side of the road (22-25 Chakkaphatdi Phong Rd., 085-155-2601). After dinner, head over to 34 Brown Sugar (469 Phra Sumen Rd., 089-499-1378) for some live jazz music. It’s often graced by talented local jazz vocalists from The Voice Thailand like Natt Buntita and The Attention Please Band. You’re also sorted for a drunken late-night bowl of rice soup at either 35 Khao Tom Wat Bowon (02629-1739) or 36 Khao Tom Fah Mui (552 Phra Sumen Rd.) on Phra Sumen Road. Otherwise, a 10-minute walk down Mahachai Road takes you to 37 Pad Thai Pratu Phee (313-315 Mahachai Rd., 02-221-6280. Open daily 5pm-2am), although beware: the queue is mega long all the time and it won’t be a budget choice, especially the B140 orange juice. See map, page 12

Krissada Sukosol Clapp, hotelier, actor, singer “Seven Spoons and Brown Sugar are my favorites. At Seven Spoons, I love their tapas appetizers, which are both cheap and delicious. I love collecting old stuff in my spare time so I often visit this small curiosities shop called Dang, and on the way there I stop by Dialogue for a coffee. “

RETRO Phra Nakorn Nornlen We love: The quirky but cozy rooms, complimentary organic breakfast, and the rooftop garden Nearby: Krua Apsorn, Samsen Road Rates: B1,800-B3,200 46 Thewet Soi 1, 02-628-8188

BIG SPENDER The Siam Hotel We love: The amazing Art Deco rooms and private vintage cinema Nearby: Dusit Palace, Rama V Monument Rates: B10,950 3/2 Khao Rd., Dusit, Bangkok, 02-206-6999. www.thesiamhotel.com

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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cover story

Thewarat Market

Dusit Palace

Mulligan’s Irish Pub

Thamna Hometaurant

DAY 3:

BEST OF THE REST

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What are your favorite local eateries?

44 47 45

Ch ak ka bo ng se

Ri ve r ra Ph

t hi At

I sometimes go to Talad Nang Loeng for some really good noodles at Suwimol Guay Tiew Kae. There’s also really good roasted duck at this traditional Chinese joint called Jib Gee, right across the street on Nakhon Sawan Road. Guay Tiew Nua Nai Soei is also another local favorite, right on Phra Athit Road.

Ph ra ya

If you still don’t want to call it a night, the tourist hub 49 Khao San Road is a short walk from Adhere. Mulligan’s Irish Pub (Khao San Rd., 02-629-4477) and Brick Bar (Khao San Rd., 02-629-4556) always fill up with both locals and traveling backpackers. For others though, ending the night in the relatively less busy Soi Rambutri at the original 50 Bombay Blues (Soi Rambutri, 095-520-1515) and munching away on some spicy snacks on the sofa in one of the outdoor tents isn’t half bad either.

Sa m se n

After dinner, laze around with a glass of wine on the comfy sofa on the second floor of 47 Cinema Winehouse (61 Samsen Rd., 096-465-6526), or head to the old blues institution 48 Adhere 13th Blues Bar (13 Samsen Rd., 089-769-4613) for some live music.

ge rid oB kla Pin ra Ph

Sample the famous southern yellow curry with lotus stems and shrimp at the simple but popular restaurant 41 Krua Apsorn (Samsen Rd., 02-668-8788). Their coconut-juice ice cream is also refreshing on a hot day. While in the area, you can also shop for fresh produce at 42 Thewarat Market, or cross over the canal for a spot of plant shopping. The bustling Thewet intersection is always full of office workers during lunch hours.

Cinema Winehouse

Sana m Lu ang

AFTERNOON

Go veggie for dinner at the innovative and homey 44 Thamna Hometaurant (175 Samsen Rd., 02-2824979) or 45 May Kai Dee (33 Samsen Rd., 089-1373173), or just stick to a good alfresco Thai dinner with a view of the iconic bridge at 46 Steve Cuisine by the Pier (68 Sri Ayutthaya Soi 21 (Thewet), 081868-0744), which now has a second branch downtown in Ari.

Rd. ng Pho tdi pha kka Cha

A short drive takes you to 40 Dusit Palace (U-Thong Nai Rd., 02-281-5454, 02-628-6300-9. Open daily 9:30am-4pm), another of the Western-influenced architectural relics built after King Rama V’s royal visit to France. Highlights include the Thai Contemporary-European influenced Vimanmek Royal Teak Mansion (B100 with an English-speaking tour guide), the moorish Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall and the grand Italian-Renaissance Anantasamakhom Throne Hall, but there are other well-preserved smaller buildings, monuments and gardens within the grounds.

EVENING

Cinema Winehouse

Start the day with a local brunch at 38 Nang Loeng Market (Trok Nang Loeng 1, Nakhon Sawan Rd. Open daily around 10am-1pm). Not your typical hotel buffet, this place dates back over a hundred years, though has since been renovated into a food-focused hub with a Chinese-Hainanese slant. Across the road is another popular spot for Chinese food, 39 Jib Gee (355-359, Nakhon Sawan Rd., 0-2281-1283), which is guaranteed to sell out completely by 1pm.

Later in the afternoon, we like to cross over the Rama VIII Bridge to the relatively obscure 43 Suan Luang Rama VIII park and just enjoy the breeze by the river in one of the pavilions, with a view of the Bang Khun Prom Palace on the Phra Nakhon side.

Ch ao

MORNING

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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escapes

Ao Yai Fishermen’s Village

KOH KOOD

Eastern Promises Escape the Andaman rainy season by heading to Koh Kood. By Monruedee Jansuttipan

hailand’s rainy season is soon to kick off. But head to the islands on the far east of the Gulf of Thailand and you can still find sun-drenched beaches till well into August. The country’s fourth largest island, Koh Kood, is far quieter and less developed than its better-known neighbor, Koh Chang. Roads are narrow and beaches short on facilities—the whole island doesn’t even have public electricity—but this just adds to its unspoiled charm. In fact many have dubbed it the Maldives of Thailand thanks to white, powdery sand, crystal-clear sea, pristine forest and inland waterfalls. Shops, restaurants and nightlife might be few and far between, but that’s why we love it, and there are plenty of other ways to spend your time.

Beach Hopping

Fishermen’s Villages

There are a bunch of beaches on the island but not all have public access or pristine sand. Your two best options are Klong Chao Beach and Klong Hin Beach, both of which have places to eat and drink. On Klong Chao, make your way to View Point Cafe (Had Klong Chao Road, 089-555-3598, www. fb.com/viewpointcafe) for Thai-Western meals like spaghetti and hor mok (steamed seafood curry cake, B100), as well as a highly recommended rich coconut ice cream with banana split (B100) and cocktails like mojito (B100)—best enjoyed with one of the most amazing sunset views on the island. Too bad that they annually close during rainy season (May-Nov). When night falls and you want some live music, Tawan Eco Bar (121/1 Moo 2, 098-3374223, fb.com/tawankohkood) is about your only option. The owner of this earthy wooden hut, Jongkol Chompupetch, leads jam sessions every night with various visiting musicians. At Klong Hin Beach, take advantage of the long white stretch of sand during the day, then grab some drinks and a meal at Bombyx Beach Bar (Cham’s House hotel, 2 Moo 5, Klong Hin Beach, 082-878-2878, www.chamshouse.com), which serves international dishes and cocktails (starting at B260). They have a beachfront barbecue on Saturday night at B1,200 net per person. It’s also worth taking the 20-minute drive over to Ao Phrao beach, one of the longest stretches of sand on the southern part of the island.

There are two main fishing hubs on Koh Kood, one at Ao Yai in the south and another at Ao Salad in the northeast. The latter is also the island’s main pier, where you’ll find plenty of seafood restaurants and fishing tour operators. If you want a quieter atmosphere, Ao Yai features a beautiful bay where locals still very much live a traditional way of life. There’s only one restaurant, Chonticha Seafood (7 Moo 3, Ao Yai, 084-348-4992, www.fb.com/chonthichahouse), which doubles as a homestay.

Diving BB Divers (082-220-6002, bbdivers-koh-kood.com) is one of several operators who offer everything from snorkeling trips to PADI-certification. Highlight scuba spots include Hin Loy, Ao Yai, Koh Rang National Park and Koh Raet, where you stand the chance to see stingray, moray eels and abundant coral fish species. All these islands are within 20-30 minutes of Koh Kood. Dive trips at BB Divers start from B3,000 while snorkeling starts from B1,000. PADI courses in open water start from B14,500 for 3-4 days.

Waterfalls Though Klong Chao Waterfall is the island’s most well-known, there are actually three waterfalls on the island. Klong Chao and Hua Ngu are both inland, while Klong Yai Ki is over on the west coast. Klong Chao is the most spectacular, thanks to white rapids that flow down into a giant pool. It can be reached by car followed by a 500-meter hike. If you’re adventurous, take the 30-minute paddle from Klong Chao Beach to the pier near the waterfall. Trekking to Hua Ngu is more of a daytrip, but worth it for the giant Makka tree believed to be 500 years old.

Spa Retreats Though Koh Kood is blissfully free of the usual touristy massage places, there are a couple of beautiful spas to really spoil yourself. Weave Spa at Cham’s House hotel (2 Moo 5, Klong Hin Beach, 082-8782878) offers unique treatments involving silk worm cocoons, rich in the anti-oxidant sericin. The hotel owners are descendants of the Cham people, long known for their silk-making skills, and the grandmother of the family was actually one of the first people to produce silk for Jim Thompson. For an even more upscale experience, the five-star Soneva Kiri is home to Six Senses Spa (110 Moo 4, 082-208-8888. www.soneva.com), where you’ll find a complete range of spa activities including Ayurvedic massage, yoga, detox and weight management programs.

Cham’s House at Klong Hin Beach

View Point Cafe

Essentials WHERE TO STAY

Cham’s House (082-8782878, www.chamshouse.com) is a charming four-star resort with tropical-style beachfront rooms and villas ranging from B4,501 to B14,697 for a pool villa. Soneva Kiri (082-208-8888, www. soneva.com) is the island’s most upscale resort, with rooms ranging from B22,300 (Bay View Pool Villa Suite) to B40,727 (Ocean Front Pool Villa). HOW TO GET THERE

Plane: Flights from Bangkok to Trat take 45 minutes with Bangkok Airways (www.bangkokair. com). They offer three flights daily at 8:30am, 11:40am and 5:10pm. Round-trip tickets start at B5,400. Do note that the transfer from Trat airport to the pier takes 45 minutes, which some hotels will arrange. The airport limo service offers private transfers at B1,800. Contact 082-222-5296.

Klong Chao Waterfall

Bus: It takes six hours from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal at Ekkamai to Trat. From there you’ll need to grab a local songtaew to Laem Sork pier to get a boat to the island. Boat: Traveling from Trat to Koh Kood is easy thanks to Boonsiri Speed Boat (www.boonsiriferry. com), which now offers 1.5-hour catamaran boat trips from Laem Sork to Koh Kood’s Ao Salad pier in. A one-way ticket is B500. They also offer van transfers from BTS Phaya Thai and Khao San Road. Including boat ticket, both cost B850. On the island: There is no public transport. Rent a motorbike for B300 per day or the local taxis, which start at B500.

Weave Spa

Coral reef at Koh Kood

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES By Pinnyada Tanitnon

HUA HIN

Retro Stay With only nine rooms, new boutique hotel The Restro boasts a retro-style interior with bright, playful decor, like faux animal-skin rugs in the bedrooms and retouched thrift-store furniture. Located 200 meters from the beach, the hotel also has a cozy garden, while inside floor-to-ceiling windows provide lots of natural sunlight. Room prices vary by type and season, from B2,500-3,200 inclusive of breakfast. For more information, visit www.fb.com/therestrohotel.

SAMUI

Southern Comfort Koh Samui last month welcomed another new luxury hotel with the launch of the Sheraton Samui Resort (goo. gl/39AI4G), near the island’s nightlife hub on Chawaeng Beach. Visitors are greeted with a beautiful panoramic view of the ocean through the lobby’s glass-encased balcony, before being escorted to one of the 141 luxury ocean-themed rooms decked out with a mix of modern decor and pastel colors. Each room comes with either a view of the ocean or the garden. The resort also boasts two saltwater swimming pools, tennis courts, a 24-hour gym, plus four restaurants and bars. To celebrate their launch, they’re offering special nightly rates starting at B4,200 per room for visits through Dec 23.

PHUKET

On the Run Runners, brace yourself for another big race down South. After a successful ninth edition last year, which saw 6,000 participating runners from over 50 countries, the Laguna Phuket International Marathon returns on Jun 17. As ever, the race will start and finish at Laguna Phuket Beach Resort, with this year’s route promising scenic views of the beach as well as cuts through various rubber and pineapple plantations. Apart from a full marathon, there will be shorter runs such as a half-marathon, 10km and 5km runs and a 2km kids’ race. Registration fees range from B500-3,450 depending on event type, while the kids’ fun run costs B200. Visit www.goadventureasia.com for more information.

MYANMAR

Railway Romance For a more scenic way to explore Myanmar, Steam Locomotive Tours (www.myanmarsteamloco.com) has launched a 55km vintage steam-train tour through the Mandalay region from Bagan to Kyaukpadaung. Built in England in the 1940s, the train runs only on Tuesdays at 8am, accepting passengers at the Bagan station and allowing them to enjoy the picturesque rural Mandalay scenery throughout the train ride. Upon arrival at Kyaukpadaung, you can visit a small village before going to Mount Popa, a volcano which is also a popular pilgrimage site (just beware the monkeys). Tickets for the tour cost about B6,500, which includes breakfast and lunch.

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

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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avenue HOSTEL

Right Here, Right Now Nestled behind Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, Here Hostel is a charming new staycation spot in the Old Town (see cover story, page 6). It’s designed by architect Sompoom Tangchupong, the guy responsible for Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center (RCAC) next door, who’s retained the original wooden exterior so that the hostel blends in with its surroundings. Inside, however, is a completely different matter, with six shophouses combined into an intriguing mixture of new and old, including playful touches like a children’s slide instead of stairs. Room rates start from B590 per bed in the 12-bed mixed dorm up to B1,350 for a private twin room. The front area of the hostel is currently used as a breakfast spot but will eventually be turned into a proper coffee and drinking spot. Cyclists are also welcome to pop in and use the dedicated shower room before continuing on their route. 196/3-8 Ratchadamnoen Rd., 086-771-6468. www.herehostel.com

TECH

GROOMING

FASHION

Wear Wireless

Tattoo Time

Garden Gathering

Harman Kardon’s Soho Wireless (B9,990) are some of the most handsome Bluetooth headphones out there. While they look similar to the brand’s wired 2014 offerings, built from gentlemanly stainless steel and leather, the Soho Wireless also boast a number of design improvements. The right ear cup is equipped with a touch-sensitive control panel, which lets you manage your music without touching your device. As you’d expect from the brand, the audio performance is solid, too, with decent sound isolation despite the small size. The new model is also foldable and very light, and comes with an ultra-slim carrying case. Visit www. mahajaklife.com for list of retailers or call 02-256-0020-9.

Located near Foodland in the less-than-salubrious Patpong Soi 2, Future Ink Tattoo is a new tattoo studio from KMITL fine art graduate Amarit “Nay” Vandee. Nay specializes in old-school Thai and Japanese designs, with prices starting at B1,500 for a small font job and B5,000 for a palm-sized graphic. Customers can choose a pattern from the menu or have Nay sketch it out. Although walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended. Nay is only at the shop on weekdays from around 7pm onwards. Patpong Soi 2, 086-336-6225, 081-931-9350. Open daily 2pm-midnight (or until no more customers show up). BTS Sala Daeng.

Preppy NY fashion label Kate Spade’s new collection of eyecandy handbags incorporates lots of garden party imagery under the concept of “Escape the Ordinary.” Key items include the wicker snail clutch (B16,500), wicker frog satchel (price TBA), flowerpot cross-body bag (B14,500) and sprout-green watering can satchel (B18,500), while there are a range of other products like boxy tops, bows and sunglasses. 1F, Zone A, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-646-1260. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Chit Lom

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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avenue FASHION

Hit the Runway Four brand new Thai designers to check out this year. By Vasachol Quadri

Pin and Tux

Pitchana

Sequin and Suede

Commit a Sin

The brand: A new collaboration between Sarit “James” Chokchainirand, the second-generation owner of womenswear tailor Supinda boutique, and young designer Natcha “Pong” Kanchanachitra, who use James’s family’s manufacturing facilities to create fashionable ready-to-wear items that retain the quality of traditional tailoring.

The brand: Another brand run by the second-generation owner of a womenswear tailor shop, Pitchana started out as an Instagram account over a year ago before leaping onto the runways with its first mini-collection for spring/summer 2015.

The brand: Launched in 2013, this brand initially imported collections from Korea and sold them via Instagram (@sequinandsuede). After opening its first flagship store at Siam Square One last year, it’s since branched out with its own specially-designed collection, titled Shakespeare Unknown.

The brand: This brand announced itself with a fall/winter 2014 collection full of sharp and boyish designs and forestry-inspired graphic prints in gold, deep blue and white tones. Pattamon Taechanarong’s new Young Diana collection keeps things equally adventurous.

The style: The brand focuses on timeless designs that can be used for more than one purpose and last more than a season. The basic-yet-classy first collection consists of women’s must-have pieces like a maxi jumpsuit, black dress and blazer. Our picks: The basic dress (available in black or white, B4,890) with sheer sleeves and sides for a sexy touch. The Posh Jumpsuit (available in white or navy, B5,890) also goes for a work and play crossover look, with its smart black cross waistband and casual V-neckline. Available via www.pinandtux.com, 093-660-0655

The style: Designer Pitchana Ekachai goes for a casual-meets-elegant look with items for the on-the-go working woman. The first collection keeps things functional but gorgeous in a variety of crop tops, flared trousers and asymmetrical skirts. Our picks: The halter crop top (B3,990) boasts a sporty touch in colors like gray-blue and olive green, while flared trousers (B3,990) in the same colors complete the look. The drop-shoulder creme dress (B5,990) comes in a nice, curved cut and crepe fabric. The asymmetrical black skirt with fringe detailing (B4,990) is another must-have if you’re looking for a playful and sexy piece. Showroom at 84 Sukhumvit Soi 62, 084-411-9955

The style: As the collection’s name suggests, you can expect graphic prints featuring European literary influences. The cuts stick to boyish styles with slightly oversized silhouettes. Items like crop tops, blazers and bell-bottom pants encourage an interchangeable work-toparty look. Our picks: We like the collection’s twisted takes on Victorian imagery which feature on the strapless top (B3,350), bell-bottom pants (B6,250) and blazer (B6,200). The blazer, in particular, can be worked both during the day in the office and later at night.

The style: Commit a Sin is aimed at independent women with a carefree attitude. This is reflected in the bold red and disco colors of blue and pink in the new collection, and the standout cuts which are alluring without showing skin. Our picks: The highlights are the red pieces. If you’re going to buy just one piece, make it the suit-collar maxi jumpsuit (B11,500)—very professional yet very sexy. The double button longsleeve top (B7,500), too, can be paired with trousers, a flared skirt or a crop top. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam. www.commitasin.com

1/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd., 090-424-4222. BTS Siam. www.fb.com/sequinandsuede

FASHION More Swimwear for Summer

Essentials Janesuda. G/F, Eight Thonglor Building, Thonglor Soi 8 Misty Mynx. 2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-613-1510. BTS Chit Lom Coralist Swimwear available at Sense of Style, Siam Square Soi 1, Rama 1 Rd., 080-605-6160. BTS Siam Sky print swimwear, Janesuda, B7,950

White halter bikini with ethnic detail, Misty Mynx, B2,995

Signature black strappy one piece, Coralist Swimwear, B1,290

High-waisted strapless twopiece, Something Boudoir, price TBA

Something Boudoir. 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1098. BTS Siam

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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avenue

Bridge

Addicted Coffee & Car Wash

Lay Lao

HOME

Coffee Shop Finds Ever wonder where those coffee shop owners get all their cool furniture? Read this. By Vasachol Quadri

Addicted Coffee & Car Wash

One Ounce for Onion

Highlight: Wood and pipe dining table

Highlight: Glass cabinet with wood edges

The design reminds us of those plastic tables at fast-food shops with the seats attached. It’s a great fit for this cafe and car wash, which feels like a cross between an allday chill-out spot and somewhere to just sit and wait for your car to be ready. The use of wood and piping gives it a higher level of style, like a solid piece of furniture that could happily sit in your home.

The item itself looks very mid-century, which makes it easy to blend with contemporary loft-style spaces. Use it to display your bags, shoes, accessories or collectibles.

Where to get it: The table is made to order. Try Qiiid.com, where prices start from B9,500 for ready-made dining tables. Made-to-order price is subject to spec.

Where to get it: Y50 has various retro cabinets similar to this one. Prices range from around B6,000 (for dark brown oak) to B13,000 for items above one meter tall or with more detail. Showroom at Ekkamai-Ramintra Rd., 081-373-0980. 19/12 Ekkamai Soi 12, 02-116-6076. Open daily 9am-8pm. tinyurl.com/k3c5p2b

Prachachuen Rd., 02-984-5251. Open Sun-Thu 9am-9pm and Fri-Sat 9am-11pm. www.fb.com/addictedcafeandcarwash

Black Amber Thonglor Social Club

Bridge

Highlight: Ostrich skeleton

Highlight: Wooden daybed with emerald green cushions Emerald green has dominated the fashion scene since last year. On furniture, the color hints back to the 60s and 70s, especially when matched with dark wood like on this chair. Bridge makes the style look contemporary thanks to its white-washed brick walls. Where to get it: One of a Kind Nordic Vintage Furniture & Café, Rama 9 Soi 46 (opposite The Nine), 081-255-0033. Price TBA. Charoenkrung Soi 51, 086 - 986 - 9421. Open Wed-Mon 10am-10pm. www.fb.com/bridgeartspace

S’Mores Highlight: Log stool You don’t need to go straight for the Tolix replicas if you want a good bar stool (cough cough, Bitterman and Smokin’ Pug). The log stools at S’Mores are a little more original—pretty gentlemanly looking and easily adapted into book or TV stands, too. Where to get it: Cast by 56th Studio has stools exactly like these starting from B6,000. 235/10 9-11 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-662-1593. 2/F, Groove at CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-613-1271. Open daily 11am-1am. tinyurl.com/lgmg7l7

One Ounce for Onion

The genuine ostrich skeleton outside the recently opened Black Amber Thonglor Social Club adds a really exotic, Victorian curiosity shop vibe to this space which is otherwise dominated by wood and leather. Other curiosities like a creepy clown model and crocodile skull give the place some real attitude. Where to get it: Nature Decoration, Jatuchak Plaza, Room 158-159 Zone B Soi 1, Kampheangphet 2 Rd., 085-1082936. B48,000 for the ostrich skeleton. Thonglor Soi 6, 092-276 -2772. Open daily 6pm-1am. www.fb.com/blackamberbarber

Lay Lao

Black Amber Thonglor Social Club

Highlight: Round wooden table with stool set This Isaan restaurant by a former partner of Somtum Der offers a choice of Western dining tables, Japanese-style low tables with cushions and quaint round tables with stools. We like the last option, especially for the home. The design is contemporary, like those marble tables at old Chinese restaurants but way cooler. It also takes up less space and is easy to match with other decor. Where to get it: Casa Pagoda, Sukhumvit Soi 45, 02-2581917. B15,000 for the industrial round table. 65- 67 Paholyothin Soi 7. 02- 023-4521. Open Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 5-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-11pm. tinyurl.com/ mx4r77b

S’Mores

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BK MAGAZINE Friday, April 24, 2015

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bites & blends

TEA

Hot Pot Leave behind your luxurious Western tearooms and go oriental with the new Zen-looking Peace Teahouse in Ekkamai. Owner Teerachai Limpapaitoon sources teas from Japan, China, Taiwan and Thailand, and says the list will change twice a year. There are three main types of tea served: hot tea (B180-450/pot), matcha (B4501,980/bowl) and latte matcha (B150/200ml). Each kind is brewed using a different technique to get the most out of the leaves. Green tea lovers should try the ceremonial grade matcha prepared as koicha (thick tea). 70/5 Sukhumvit Soi 63 (Ekkamai), 097-267-2626. BTS Ekkamai. www.peaceteahouse.com

DINNER

CAFE

RESTAURANT

Sound of Silence

Breaking Bread

In Fashion

Gliles Poitevin, head chef at La Vue has teamed up with Marco Galardi, an Italian sound designer who founded the Foodfrequency project, to offer an extra-sensory new dining concept this Apr 24-25. Participants in The Art of Food Frequency will enjoy a four-course menu (B3,555) while listening to immersive sounds (via headphones) that supposedly tell stories of the ingredients’ origins. This will be the first time the project takes place in Asia and diners can expect dishes like grayfish, asparagus and black truffle soup, pan-seared duck foie gras with vanilla and honey, and chocolate mousse with poached pear, all served up to a specifically tailored soundtrack. Reservations at 02-217-3070. Siam@ Siam, 865 Rama 1 Rd., 02-217-3070. BTS National Stadium

Opened in 1998, La Baguette, the lovely all-white Frenchstyle patisserie and cafe in Pattaya, has just launched a branch in Bangkok. Like the original, the new Emquartier shop rolls out homemade treats such as almond croissant (B80), banana chocolate crepe (B210), cannelles (B40), waffle sundae (B190), strawberry tart (B140) and croissant croque monsieur (B260). There’s plenty to please Thai palates but, to be fair, there are also classics like pain au chocolat (B60) and plain baguette (small, B25; large, B80) G/F, Building B, Emquartier, 693, 695 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-003-6420. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phrom Phong

Here’s another Emquartier opening, and one with a lot less credibility. Having made his name with the modern, ready-to-wear womenswear label Asava, designer Polpat Asavaprapa is now combining fashion with food with Sava Dining by Asava. Here, the focus is on hearty, home-style dishes with slight twists, such as bruschetta nham with fresh chili and garlic sprinkled with cheddar cheese (B190), fish and shrimp balls in spicy and tangy sauce served with poached morning glory and crispy fish flakes (B220), and baked garlic and spiced clams in crispy puff pastry (B260). Set to open Apr 29. 5/F, The Helix Quartier, The Emquartier, 693, 695 Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong

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blends

Varietal Show Pairing food with wine isn’t nearly as complicated as you’d think. Just know these nine grapes and you’ll be fine.

Riesling Where from: Originally from the German Rhine region, it is also a staple of Alsace, in France, right across the border. Many other countries like Canada grow it, too. Especially in Australia, Riesling is considered to be a long-living wine. In the glass: Highly aromatic, with flowery, almost perfume-y, notes and strong acidity. Impress the wine snobs: Riesling is a grape that expresses terroir, meaning it tastes very different in Germany (apple notes, high acidity) and in nearby Alsace (sweeter, citrus, peach notes).

Gewürztraminer Where from: Traminer is from South Tyrol, an Alpine region in Northern Italy. At some point, traminer traveled to Alsace (them again), where it mutated into the more aromatic gewurztraminer. In the glass: Heady lychee and rose aromas. It packs a ton of sugar, and makes for off-dry wines that stand up well to spicy food. Impress the wine snobs: Gewürztraminer looks red or pink but is considered a white grape.

Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio Where from: Pinot Gris is the French name. It’s usually from Alsace. Pinot Grigio is the Italian name—it’s mostly grown in Lombardy and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. In the glass: The Alsatian style has high alcohol, low acidity and an almost oily texture, plus tropical fruit flavors like mango.The Pinot grigio style maintains more acidity and keeps some of the tropical fruit notes in check. Impress the wine snobs: Pinot gris was first introduced into Australia in 1832.

Sauvignon Blanc Where from: One of the most famous white grape varieties from the Bordeaux region. In your glass: Crisp and refreshing. Though it generally produces wines on the drier side, this grape is also blended with others to produce dessert wines, such as those from Sauternes. Impress the wine snobs: New Zealand’s fresh and vibrant style of Sauvignon Blanc has become extremeley poplar due to it’s strong nose of exotic fruits.

Pinot Noir Where from: It’s most famous for being used in France’s Burgundy region wines but has now traveled around the world. In Australia, Tasmania, Yarra Valley and Adelaide Hills produce great pinot noir. In the glass: Medium bodied, with low tannins and red fruit (strawberry, cherry, raspberry) notes. Pinot Noir produces some of the world’s finest wines. Impress the wine snobs: It is the main varietal used in Champagne, a sparkling white wine.

Chardonnay Where from: While it originated in Burgundy, it’s grown everywhere these days as it is a fairly neutral grape. In the glass: While famous for its oaky, buttery flavors, Chardonnay grown in moderate climates can also be lighter and slightly fruity, with notes of peach or apricot. Impress the wine snobs: Winemakers often toy around with Chardonnay to give it more flavor, by aging it in oak barrels or triggering a malolactic fermention to give it buttery notes.

Cabernet Sauvignon Where from: A key component in most Bordeaux wines, it’s now grown in every major wine-producing region, from Lebanon to Chile. Only Merlot is more widely planted. In the glass: Deep rich and spicy wines with high tannins, acidity, hints of herbs, blackcurrant or jam (depending on the climate in which it is grown). Impress the wine snobs: Two California wines topped the Paris Wine Tasting of 1976, beating Bordeaux, and paving the way for New World wines to finally be taken seriously.

Syrah Where from: It originated in the Rhone Valley in France but became so popular in Australia as to get its own name there, Shiraz In the glass: This red grape produces dry wines with a full body and high tannins. Look for flavors of chocolate and black pepper. The Australian Shiraz is riper and richer., with hints of licorice and leather. Impress the wine snobs: It’s Australia’s most popular red grape.

Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains Where from: The Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains grape dates back to ancient Greece, making it one of the world’s oldest varietals. In the glass: It’s used to make sweet fortified wines, like Vermouth in Italy and vin doux naturels in France’s South. You’ll also find it in Italy’s Moscato d’Asti, a sweet sparkling wine. Impress the wine snobs: Vin doux naturels are wines where you add grape spirit to your wine before the fermentation transforms all the sugar into alcohol. Sweet!

Champagne Where from: First of all, we’re cheating here. Champagne isn’t a grape varietal. It’s a region in France that makes sparkling wine. In the glass: A blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, Champagne is naturally bubbly but not naturally sweet. Sugar is added during the second fermentation, leading to Champagnes ranging from extra brut (very dry) to doux (very sweet.) Impress the wine snobs: There are some amazing sparkling wines from outside of Champagne, too.

Hot Restaurants Serving Bold New Wines

Wine I Love You

Namsaah Bottling Trust

Tsu

Wine I Love You has expanded its empire to the trendy mall Groove at CentralWorld. Amid a handsome bistro vibe, it serves up a range of Comfort food to accompany the floor-to-ceiling list of wines from all around the world. New bottles keep coming in, for those wishing to explore fresh flavors, like the recent arrival, Jacob’s Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Coonnawarra. The bottle presents a strong taste of plum and tobacco leaf with a fresh fruity aroma from blackcurrant and spicy cinnamon. Have it with lamb, beef or cheeses platters.

Set in a 100-year-old house painted in pink, the restaurant does twists on Asian comfort food, like pad Thai with duck foie gras or salmon tartare wonton tacos. To go with spicy flavors, the restaurant now serves Jacob’s Creek Lamoon, which supports Thai dishes with its fruity flavor (a good complement to chili) and its silky tannins to balance out the meal. Plus, the wine can be served chilled.

The JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok’s elegant Japanese restaurant is one of the best designed locales in Bangkok for Nippon food. The food consists of contemporary tweaks on authentic Japanese favorites. To go perfectly with the fresh dishes, the restaurant also serves the new Jacob’s Creek Wah, a wine created especially to be paired with Sushi and Sashimi. The white Wah has notes of fresh pears and melon with a creamy finish that is just perfect for seafood, ranging from fish sashimi to shellfish.

G/F, Groove at CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd. 081-921-2016. Open daily 11am-midnight. BTS Siam/Chit Lom.

brought to you by Jacob’s Creek

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401 Silom Soi 7. 02-636-6622. Open daily 5pm-2am. Last Order Midnight. BTS Chong Nonsi

JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, 4 Sukhumvit Rd. Sukhumvit Soi 2, 02656-7700. Lunch daily 11:30am-2:30pm. Dinner daily 6:00pm10:30pm BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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bites The Classics

BRUNCH

Something for the Weekend

ANANTARA SIAM’S SUNDAY BRUNCH

The best new Saturday and Sunday brunches in town. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai and Dharath Hoonchamlong Tandoor

Despite the hotel’s name change (from Four Seasons), the classic Sunday brunch remains. The open-air Parichart Court Shopping Garden is lined with international delights from the hotel’s top-drawer restaurants, including Madison Grill and Biscotti, served along with great wines. The highlight: The steak from Madison, various foie gras dishes, sashimi and cheese selections, not to mention the Indian, Mediterranean and Chinese. The price: B3,472 per person including free-flow beer, wine, cocktails and sparkling wine When: Every Sunday 11:30am-3pm G/F, Anantara Siam, 155 Rajadamri Rd., 02-126-8866

The Kitchen Table

La Vie

SURF & TURF CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH

Fifty Five’s long-established Champagne brunch serves up a hearty Western meal in a prime, sky-high setting.

Tandoor

W Does Brunch

The Big Blu Brunch

The restaurant: After going into hibernation for a few months, the brunch at The Kitchen Table is back again. Besides the numerous food and cocktail stations, the amber-colored dining room displays fashion items from W Store.

The restaurant: The brunch is split across two restaurants on two levels— the chic Twenty-Seven Bites and the more formal China Table. The former serves a range of international brunch favorites, as well as Indian, Vietnamese and Thai flavors, while a DJ spins low-tempo house tracks; the latter is a more traditional Chinese affair. There’s also a kids’ corner.

The food: Cheese, salad, cold cuts, seafood, barbecue, ceviche and sweet treats. There are also cocktail stations where baristas mix mimosas, margaritas, mojitos, gin and tonics and more. The highlight: The vast variety of fresh seafood on ice including Alaskan king crab and oysters from France and Australia. The price: B2,300 per person; an extra B600 for free-flow sparkling, wine, beer and cocktails 2/F, W Bangkok, 106 North Sathorn Rd., 02-344-4000. BTS Chong Nonsi

When: Every Sunday 12.30-3.30pm

The food: North Indian specialties like tandoori chicken, chole bhature (spicy chickpeas with fried bread) and various kebabs, as well as unlimited soft drinks and lassi (Indian yogurt-based drink). The highlight: The rotating chef’s specialty curry menu, biryanis and jain (strict vegetarian) items like paneer tikka (grilled cottage cheese)

When: Every first Sunday of the month 11:30am-3pm 55/F, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-100-1234

The highlight: China Table’s handmade dim sum selection The price: B1,490 per person; an extra B300 for free-flow sparkling, wines and beers

The restaurant: Up on the sixth floor of Holiday Inn in Upper Silom, Tandoor specializes in North Indian cuisine—typically less spicy than dishes from the South—in a plush but not overly fancy setting.

The price: B3,955 per person

The food: At Twenty-Seven Bites, the live cooking stations serve up tender roast meats and fresh pastas, while seafood picks include Alaskan king crab and king prawns. China Table focuses on Cantonese favorites such as Peking duck and suckling pig.

When: Every first Saturday of the month from 12:30-4:30pm

Indian Sunday Brunch

La Vie

The highlight: Free-flow Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut Champagne, Bellinis and selected wines, plus premium imports like lobsters, charcuterie, wagyu, foie gras and rare cheeses from Italy and France. We also like the cooked-to-order menu, which includes artichoke and black truffle soup with toasted mushroom brioche, and the oysters with French “Echiré” butter and herbs.

2/F, Radisson Blu Plaza, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-302-3333

Vie Love Brunch The restaurant: French restaurant La Vie serves modern French cuisine amid a classy but casual wood-dominated setting. The food: At this a la carte brunch, you can order as many dishes as you like from the restaurant’s regular menu. The highlight: Signature dishes like foie gras escalope, ahi tuna nicoise salad, and lamb chop with aubergine caviar and garlic confit rosemary sauce

The price: B650 per person

The price: B1,200; add an extra B1,300 for free-flow Lombard Champagne, wines and other selected beverages

When: Every Sunday 11:30am-3pm

When: Every Sunday 12pm-3pm

6/F, Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom, 981 Silom Rd., 02-238-4300

11/F, Vie Hotel, Phaya Thai Rd., 02-309-3939

COLONNADE’S SUNDAY BRUNCH

This laidback Sunday feast features live cooking stations and views of the hotel’s water garden. The highlight: The five-page-long list of international buffet dishes covers a lot premium produce, from Maine lobster to Japanese king crab to oysters from four countries to pan-fried foie gras and steaks. The price: B3,000 including a welcome drink and free-flow fruit juices When: Every Sunday noon-3pm 1/F, The Sukhothai, 13/3 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-8888

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ADVERTORIAL

Old Town Charm Tha Maharaj community mall captures the heritage and culture Rattanakosin Island.

ha Maharaj is a large outdoor community mall cozily nestled on Rattanakosin Island, right by the Chao Phraya River. Housed across three floors and seven buildings are various big-name stores, small, exclusive cafes and boutiques, as well as a river-walk area for you to enjoy the calming riverside breeze.

new lifestyle mall on Old Bangkok’s riverside

1/11 Trok Mahathat, Maharaj Road, Phranakorn District, Bangkok 10200. Tel: (66)2-024-1393, (66)90-926-5265 Email: info@thamaharaj.com

www.thamaharaj.com

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Setting Tha Maharaj apart from the typical shopping community is a style of ancient charm that can’t be found anywhere else in Bangkok. Tha Maharaj promises a shopping experience that goes beyond what other places offer: it’s isolated, rich in culture and draws on the history of the Rattanakosin area. Established on the birthplace of Bangkok City and surrounded with ancient Thai landmarks such as The Grand Place, Wat Pho and Wat Arun, this ancient set of shop-houses turned community mall still carries an ancient, traditional charm. Experience a slow, charming way of life without sacrificing any modern comforts. Enjoy a cup of fresh coffee and a breakfast of eggs from Gram, cool off with some home-churned ice cream from The Creamery or even get a workout in at the Muay Thai Lab, all conveniently located right beside the river. Tha Maharaj can easily be reached either by a low-cost boat from the Saphan Taksin pier, by car via Maharaj Road or even by bike via special bicycle lanes. There is even bicycle parking provided.

4/17/15 5:22 PM

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bites

OPEN DOOR

Barcelona Gaudi This casual new Spanish restaurant specializes in food from the Catalan region. The buzz: Catalan chef Marc Font Garriga, formerly of Hola, the Spanish restaurant at Eight Thonglor, has partnered with three friends (two of whom are from Barcelona), to open this homey restaurant specializing in Catalonian Spanish cuisine. The decor: The work of Catalonia's most famous son, architect Antoni Gaudi, inspires the facade of this two-story restaurant. Its floor-to-ceiling windows are framed by organic, cave-like pillars, while inside you’ll find a space that’s somewhat more ordinary, with simple square tables and little to lighten the mood beyond colorful mosaic tiles and a hand-painted mural of Barcelona on one wall. The food and drinks: Typical Spanish and French-influenced Catalan-style dishes. The laminated menu placemats include all the

Spanish classics like croquettes (B80), Spanish omelet (B100), gazpacho soup (B80), fried potatoes (B90), garlic prawns (B200) and cold cuts (starting B150). There are also a few vegetarian dishes like the canelo verd (spinach and mushroom cannelloni with rice milk and bechamel sauce, B170). A highlight here is the hearty paella. During lunch service, try the rotating paella of the day at just B100, or choose from the menu—seafood, vegan and squid ink (B460/690) or lobster (B1,750). Traditional Catalan dishes include the fideua (noodle paella, B460/690), mandonguilles (pork meatballs with squid, B130) and tomato and olive oil sandwiches (B120490). Also look out for signature Catalan desserts like the creme brulee-style crema Catalana (B120) as well as Spanish sweets like churros (B80) and rice pudding (B120). For drinks, house wine

starts at just B60 (Australian Shiraz and Chardonnay) while sangria is B200/500 per jar. You can also enjoy your wine (B350) and sangria (B500) right from a porro (a traditional, narrow-necked glass wine pitcher) the same way the Catalans do, or simply sip Spanish beers (from B200/bottle). Wine by the bottle starts from B700. Why you should care: This is one of the few Spanish places in Bangkok actually helmed by a Spanish chef. The casual space is also well-matched by the appealing prices—we can’t think of anywhere else serving paella for just B100. Soon they plan to launch Spanish cooking classes and a churros street cart, too. Natcha Sanguankiattichai Le Premier 1 Condominium, Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-661-7410. MRT Sukhumvit

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Croissant Taiyaki

TABLE TALK The Shaker Cafe

Cuba Libre

1/F, Groove, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-613-1270. Open daily 10am-1pm. BTS Siam

NEW AND NOTED

Gone Fishin’

Having conquered Instagram with pop-up booths at Esplanade Ratchadapisek and Siam Square in recent months, Croissant Taiyaki has finally opened permanent outlets at Mega Bangna and Emquartier. The Japanese brand offers a playful twist on traditional taiyaki (fish-shaped cake) by using croissant dough instead of cake batter. Join the queues at either branch for the classic red bean (B60), cold custard (B65) and ham and cheese (B70) options. G/F, The Glass Quartier, The Emquartier. 1/F, Mega Bangna, Take home zone.

Cuban Classics

There's a new Cuban restaurant in town: Cuba Libre (888/57, Mahatun Plaza, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-651-5657, www.fb.com/ cubalibrebkk). The menu spans Cuban favorites like masas de puerco fritas (fried pork, B160), camarones enchilados (shrimps with Cuban sauce, B195), potaje de frijoles (bean stew, B100),

Tales of Gold Mine

tostones (fried banana, B40) and dulce de fruta bomba (B50 papaya with cheese and cinnamon), which the owners say are prepared in a Havana style. Drinks include daiquiri (classic, strawberry, banana or peach, B180), the namesake Cuba Libre (highball of cola, lime and rum, B120) and Cuban-style coffee (B45), though the beans come from Vietnam.

Shake it

Taking its cues from Korea, The Shaker Cafe (8/1 Kanjanapisek Rd., Phet Kasem Soi 49, 081-558-8950, www. fb.com/theshakercafe) brings a welcome dose of coffee culture to Bangkok's outer suburbs. The specialty is iced coffee and other cool drinks poured out of a Boston shaker—try the iced Americano (B65/85/105), Korean-style (B75) or iced orange dream latte (B110). Sweets include lemon tart (B110) and cupcakes (B70), while they also offer leather craft classes (contact them for more info). By Dharath Hoonchamlong

This restaurant boasts probably the fanciest decoration of all at Groove thanks to its California gold-rush theme—from the gold mine-evoking walls to the heavy-looking furniture. Tales of Gold Mine serves Western-Chinese fusion food with plenty of twists, created by a chef who worked in the US for more than 10 years. The wonton nachos (B220), for example, use fried wontons instead of tortilla chips, while the Chinese barbecue pork (B350) is served with quinoa. The drinks are also gold inspired, including the likes of the Gold Chocolate Mint (B320) and the gold jelly sparkling (B330), using Johnnie Walker gold label as the main spirit. Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers. Get 10% discount on food only (Today – 30 Sep 15)

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

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bites FOOD REVIEWS

Lay Lao HHHH Thai. 65-67 Phahon Yothin Soi 7, 02-023-4521. Open Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 5-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-11pm. BB

This addition to Bangkok’s upmarket somtam scene is managed by a former partner at the ever-reliable Somtum Der, Sittiporn Sukngam. This time, he’s taken seafood influences from his hometown of Hua Hin, and blended them with classic Isaan recipes in the hope of adding something new to the city’s somtam circuit. Decor-wise, think Smith meets Casa Lapin. The ground floor’s corrugated metal walls and concrete floor are softened by warm lighting, naturallytreated wood, fabrics, flowers and quaint, curvy dining chairs. Move upstairs and you’ll find a space that’s comfortable and contemporary, if somewhat more generic. Lots of blond-wood, steel-framed windows and industrial lighting, as well as Japanese-inspired short tables and cushions. The restaurant’s signature is a long list of different seafood somtams,

Bitterman HHHH Thai/Western. Silom Soi 1 (Sala Daeng), 091740-6486. Open daily 11am-11pm. MRT Silom. BB-BBB

Bitterman is a triumph of style over substance. Set in a spacious two-story glasshouse teeming with tropical greenery, the restaurant is a picturesque refuge from bustling Upper Silom. The food, though, is mired in mediocrity. Like many a Thai bistro, the menu goes big on pasta, protein and cheese—all “handcrafted,” if the menu branding is to be believed. One of the recommended dishes, the Mr. Rapee (B280), perhaps best sums up the overall misdirection: a mountain of black spaghetti, spicy Arrabbiata sauce, a bechamel-like creamy substance, a massive layer of melted cheese and, the cherry on top, a large river prawn. It’s part cheese-saturated lasagna with a hint of local flavor (owing Ratings

Price guide

PPPP Forget it PPPP Only if you’re in the neighborhood PPPP A pleasant dining experience PPPP Not to be missed

B BB BBB BBBB

BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

most using salt-cured and raw crab sourced from Hua Hin, like the substantial green papaya salad with raw black crab and crab roe (B385). Other seafood dishes like the crab curry kanom jeen (B220) also really stand out thanks to the succulent, fresh-tasting crab and the well-balanced flavor profile of the coconut curry. Their beef is just as exciting, like the French-Thai beef tenderloin steak at B250, which is succulent, tender and accompanied by a perfectly pitched jim jaew sauce. Lay Lao is no Somtum Der though. The simplest somtam Thai (B65) has a bland and sweet flavor, while the salted egg somtam (B70) has little more going for it. Likewise, Lay Lao’s Isaan sausage (B95) seems to lack any trace of acidity, spice or moistness. It is some of the worst we’ve tasted. The drinks: a compilation of Thai staples like roselle juice (B45), as well as some refreshing and reasonably priced signature concoctions such as butterfly pea juice mixed with lemon and honey (B55). The crowd on our last visit was not too plentiful despite the neighboring bars being packed. Clearly, we’re not the only ones who aren’t entirely taken by what Lay Lao’s offering.

to plenty of Thai basil and chili)—and simply not very good, though the prawn is fresh and plump. Dishes like The Deep Fryer (soft-shell crab with seasonal greens in a chili mustard dressing that tastes of green seafood sauce, B180) and Fish-SauceChicken (chicken wings marinated in fish sauce, B140) are less outrageous, but fairly pedestrian. At least they’re relatively cheap; another recommendation, the Bitterman 4.1 (B760), is a massive let-down, both in size and in quality. The meat of the slowcooked beef short ribs is chewy and the dish’s flavor profile one-dimensional thanks to a slathering of what tastes like instant gravy rather than the promised red wine and beer reduction. The side of mashed potatoes and seared veggies is also too buttery for our tastes. On our last visit, dessert was a boozy if otherwise nondescript pannacotta with strawberry sauce (B140). We’re not completely writing off Bitterman. Despite its obvious “slow life” appeal, the restaurant is regularly bustling at lunchtime. It feels like a place to be, a bit like Sala Daeng’s version of Ari’s Salt, except the execution is way off. Bitterman is no foodie destination, but as a day-time workspace or after-work hangout (there’s a long list of cocktails and a pool table upstairs), it’s not without its charms.

Under B500 B500-900 B900-1,500 B1,500 and up Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.

Symbols

H Reservations recommended F Parking available E Dress requirements G Live music

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bites & blends market + Events

Hemingway 25 Degrees

Biggest Burger Contest Round II 25 Degrees challenges burger lovers to finish a 1kg wagyu burger in 30 minutes. Winners dine free and get free a burger per month for a year. Otherwise pay B1,200 for the burger. Apr 16-May 16. Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, 188 Silom Rd., 02-238-1991

Sunday Fried Chicken Brunch with Modern Times Beer Hopsession and Little Beast host a three-hour, all-you-can-eat-anddrink session featuring fried chicken and beer (Modern Times’ City of the Sun or City of the Dead) on Apr 26. B1,700, starting from 1pm. Reservations at goo.gl/6CCV7f.

Hemingway’s Every Monday Hemingway’s offers buy-one-get-one-free on margaritas from noon-midnight and happy hours from 4-9pm with bottled beers and wines starting at B95; house spirits from B100. 1 Sukhumvit Soi 14, 02-653-3900. Open daily 11:30-1am. BTS Asok

Octagon Buy-one-get-one-free on cocktails from 5-9pm, Mon-Thu.

Advertise your business with us starting from B6,000

4/F, Mercury Ville, 504 Phloen Chit Rd., 088842-4044

Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601

44/9-10 Thonglor Soi 13, 02-185-2670

Celebrating South Africa Day Red Oven adds South African specialties like peri-peri chicken skewers and boerewors (coriander spiced sausages) to its buffet on Apr 25-27. B1,950 for brunch (B2,350 with wine) and B1,300 for dinner on weekends; B900 for brunch and B1,200 for dinner on Monday. Sofitel So, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumphini

22 Kitchen & Bar

22 Kitchen & Bar Every Thursday from 7-9pm, free-flow sparkling wine and selected cocktails for ladies with DJ tunes from Kollectiv. 22/F, Dusit Thani, 946 Silom Rd., 02-2009000

Eatdustry Every Tue-Fri from 5:30-7:30pm, buyone-get-one-free on classic cocktails, bottled beers and house wine. 555/55 Thonglor Soi 19, 081-567-5544

New Venues The Jam Factory

Bangkok Farmers’ Market This weekend, the foodie market happens at two spots in town: Siam Square One and The Jam Factory. Apr 25-26, 10am-8pm.

Gokfayuen This Hong Kong street-food import offers pao dong-style dishes including wonton meen, char siu and more. 161/7 Thonglor Soi 9, 02-712-5779

Visit BKmagazine.com/TopTables2015 or Download the free iPad version from BK Magazine App

Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd., BTS Siam The Jam Factory, 41/1-5 Charoennakorn Rd.

Deals 1 Baht Dining Every second diner pays B1 at Seasonal Tastes international buffet. Just enroll as a free Starwood Preferred Guest. Available for weekday lunch, weekend sublime supper, Saturday and Sunday lunch. Throughout April. Westin Grande Sukhumvit, 259 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-207-8000

Happy Hours Red Sky Bar Buy-one-get-one-free on selected drinks from 4-6pm. 55/F Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama1 Rd., 02-100-6255. BTS Chit Lom

Missed the guide?

R.E. 234

R.E. 234 Enjoy free live jazz every Fri and Sat at the new colonial-inspired restaurant serving both Thai and European dishes. 45 Sukhumvit Soi 24, 02-117-2829

Garibaldis This new restaurant and bar specializes in Mediterranean food. Look out for the new specials every month. Somerset Lake Point Tower A, Sukhumvit Soi 16, 02-262-0835

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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now TUE On the Road Launching this week on Apr 28 at Chulalongkorn University is Forms of Devotion, a traveling exhibition derived from a project at the Museum of Sacred Art in Belgium. Bangkok is the exhibition’s first international stop, where it forms part of this year’s Festival of India in Thailand. The opening night will feature a live drawing performance by famed Indian artist Satish Gupta. See ART, page 36.

FRI Hop to It Art junkies won’t want to miss the third self-guided Silom/ Charoenkrung Gallery Hopping evening, during which 12 participating galleries around the area will stay open late on Apr 24 to show off their latest exhibitions, from the dramatic photographs in The Fall of Phnom Penh at Soy Sauce Factory to the interactive workspaces at Atta Gallery. For a preview, see ART, page 36.

THU Geeky Gathering SUN Voice of God Go extravagant at the opera this Apr 26 with Mahanakhon: A Magical Night with Andrea Bocelli. The Italian tenor’s concert is poised to be one of the most expensive ever in Bangkok with tickets going a staggering B12,000-25,000. You can also go premium for a table of eight for a pre-concert gala dinner by L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, priced at 1-1.5million. See MUSIC, page 36.

Comic and anime fans have a busy week ahead as Bangkok Comic Con joins forces with the Anime Festival Asia for a four-day convention at BITEC filled with booths selling rare merchandise, performances by Japanese acts and fun contests, kicking off this Apr 30. The fun doesn’t stop there as Thailand Comic Con x Anime Idol Asia starts the day right after at Siam Paragon. See LONG HOLIDAY EVENTS, page 34.

FRI Turn it up to 11 Here’s a chance to see what’s new in Sukhumvit Soi 11. Pay B500 for entry to The Vault, Azura, Q Up and Le Derriere this Friday, Apr 24, as 20 Bangkok-based DJs play their best tracks across multiple music genres till late at the first The District DJ Festival. See NIGHTLIFE, page 33.

ADVERTORIAL

WORLD CLASS CALLING Founded in Thailand in 2011, Diageo’s World Class™ mixology competition is now the global standard for seeking out the most talented bartenders in the world. Apart from the competition, the event also encourages Thai mixologists to show off their talent, as well as enrich their knowledge, creativity and skill.

And now mixology fans can win a free ticket to the SEA World Class Finals on Jul 2 at EmQuartier by visiting participating venues displaying the World Class logo—i.e Bottom’s Up, Myst, Perfume Fragrance Bar & Aromatic Cuisine and Iron Fairies—starting Apr 24. Look for the World Class™ logo at the outlet and collect 10 coupons to receive free entry into the SEA Finals. You can This year, the World Class™ South East Asia also win a spot at the event by taking a photo with bartender competition will be held in Thailand the World Class™ troops on the weekend and from Jul 1-2 at the brand new, lux-and-trendy uploading to Instagram with the hashtag Emquartier, where the world’s top ranked bars #WorldClassTH. For more information, visit like Employees Only (New York), Night Jar www.facebook.com/WorldclassThailand (London) and Bulletin Place (Australia) will set up pop-up establishments. Celebrate Responsibly

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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Milk & Sugar

NIGHTLIFE The District - DJ Festival A massive party on Sukhumvit Soi 11, with four music genres at four clubs: The Vault, Azura, Q Up and Le Derriere (behind Q Bar). DJs include the Kolour Krew, Master Dee of the Bangkok Invaders, Zidov Akuma, Alex Fischer and Jaydubb. Apr 24, 8pm. The Vault, 34 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 082-308-3246. B500. BTS Nana.

DJ Fudge at Vogue Lounge The French DJ/producer who's performed all over the world headlines at the chic Mahanakhon lounge with deep, afro and classic house tunes. Special buy-one-get-one drink deal for "Belle & the Beat" collection cocktails, Garden Fizz and French Velvet. Apr 30, 9pm. Vogue Lounge, 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, Silom, Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Rd., 02-0010697. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

Kontraband at Dark Bar The monthly club night returns to the Ekkamai Bar, with an extra sound system to support the heavy bass played by DJs DeLorean, Azek, Will and Stuart Nombluez. Apr 25, 9pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10, 02381-9896, 090 528 4646. B150.

Milk & Sugar at Ku De Ta The two DJs/producers/label owners, known for their tracks "Higher & Higher" and "Let The Sun Shine," perform their Ibiza-style house tunes. Apr 25, 9pm. Ku Bar (Ku De Ta), 39/F, Sathorn Square, 98 Sathorn, 02-1082000. B500 (one free drink). BTS Chong Nonsi.

Nite Ride Vol. 4: Modern Funk/ Boogie/Disco DJs Boogie G, Lows, Dangdut Banget and special guest Maarten Goetheer bring back a classic dance party vibe. Apr 25, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B100. BTS Thong Lo.

Red Bull Thre3Style Showcase: Thailand The first edition of this contest in Thailand features local DJs remixing three genres of music in a 15-minute slot. Spinning the tracks are 2012 winner Four Color Zack and Thai DJs Khan, Bang Bang Bang and Tech 12. Apr 30, 8:30pm. Demo, Thonglor Soi 10. Free.

Bangkok Boat Party Board the boat at Sathorn Pier for a party on the top deck. DJ lineup TBA. Tickets available now at www.bangkokboatparty.com or 081887-1032. May 16, 8:30pm. Sathorn Pier. B800 -1,200 (one free drink). BTS Saphan Taksin.

MUSIC

gigs Isan Connection "Kammao & Friends" The phin player of Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band invites different guest artists to perform Isaan sounds once a month. Apr 29, 9:30pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661. B100. BTS Thong Lo.

International Jazz Day 2015 dedicated to Clark Terry Unesco Bangkok and jazz music organizer Sweets Records celebrate International Jazz Day with live jazz by Kengchakaj Kengkarnka Trio, Laura Brunner Quartet, Destination Unknown and Space Trio + 1.5, in tribute to Clark Terry, the American trumpeter and composer who passed away last February. Apr 30, 7pm. Badmotel, Next to J Avenue, Thonglor

between Soi 15 and 17, 02-712-7288. Free.

Incomplete A live experimental and improv electronic music night, featuring Tri Minh from Hanoi, Nannue Tipitier from Samut Prakarn, ZKIII from Manchester and Space360 from Chiang Mai. May 1, 7pm. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 0835451-833. B200 (one free drink). BTS Surasak.

Show Your Attitude Vol. 9 Live performances by Japan's Taiki Hatazaki and Life Garden, plus local groups Free Typewriter, The Ginkz, Handicat and LowFat at the rock-focused live music venue. May 8, 7:30pm. Immortal Bar, 6 Soi Bun Chu Si, 086-707-1749. B150.

Sound Craft: The Socialist Local indie groups Fwends, Safeplanet, Two Pills After Meal and Summer Dress play at the hip Lad Phrao bar. May 9, 8pm. Play Yard by Studio Bar, Lad Phrao Soi 8, 081-173-3616. Price TBA. MRT Phahon Yothin.

Jetlab: Nap On Green and Lean On Grass A mini party for the launch of indie group Nap A Lean's first EP, with chill music and drinks in a garden atmosphere. May 16, 3pm. The 66 Cottage, 66 Sukhumvit Soi 66, 086-8950202. Free. BTS Udom Suk.

concerts In Love Concert: The Unforgettable Love Songs International radio channel Love Radio 104.5 presents a concert by eight leading Thai vocalists, including Maleewan Jemina, Radklao Amaradit, contestants fron The Voice Thailand and KPN plus guest artists, who will be taking the audience through all-time greatest love songs from the UK and Billboard charts. Doors open 30 minutes before the show. Apr 24, 8pm. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. B1,5003,500. BTS Siam.

Backstreet Boys In a World Like This Tour The ultimate boy band of the 90s perform in Bangkok as a part of their 2015 World Tour. They'll be taking the fans through their biggest hits, from "As Long As You Love Me" to songs from their latest comeback album. May 6, 8pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,8005,000.

The Script Live in Bangkok The British pop rock band, whose albums have debuted at number 1 on the UK and Ireland Charts, perform in Bangkok for the first time. Their latest singles, "Superheroes" and "No Good in Goodbye," have both peaked at number 1 on the Thai radio charts. May 8, 8:30pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,000-3,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

Band On the Run Concert Series 2015 Show #1 (Crescendo vs Tattoo Colour) Two popular local groups battle it out on stage as part of Sanamluang Connects Band On The Run Concert series, with special covers, jam sessions and collaborations with guest artists. VIP ticket holders receive a gift plus access to a meet and greet with the artists post-concert. May 9, 7pm. Muang Thai GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. B1,000-2,800 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Chit Lom.

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now TAKE NOTE

Bar & Cafe, 6/1 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 081701-7664. Free.

Plan Ahead For These Parties

Comedy Night at Overground Bangkok Hilarious hosts its monthly comedy night, with music by DJ Rory Breaker-Morant. Buy four-get-one-free drinks deal all night. May 2, 8pm. The Overground Bar & Cafe, 6/1 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 081-7017664. B250.

One Night Only: Ari Shaffir Live in Bangkok DJ Hardwell

MUSIC/CONTINUED Katy Perry The Prismatic Tour BLOCK PARTY

This May, WTF Bar & Gallery celebrates its five-year anniversary with a two-day party on May 29-30. AKA WTF 5th Anniversary Festival’s program includes the launch of art exhibition “Wonderful Thai Friendship II” on May 29, featuring experimental multi-media artwork by 14 non-artists such as singer Gene Kasidit, BK’s very own Gregoire Glachant, restaurateur Sanya Souvanna Phouma and performer/producer Ka-ge Mulvilai. Also launching on the same night is digital artist Wit Pimkanchanapong's new mural street art in WTF alley, and Floating Sculpture at WTF Cafe by Pongsuang Kunprasop (aka Note Dudesweet), with free-flow frozen Bacardi Daiquiris from 6-8pm. Trasher’s resident DJ Jojo takes over the turntables from 7:30-10:30pm. May 30 sees a screening of short films curated by Top Changtrakul at Studio Lam from 5:30-6:30pm, as well as a block party on WTF alley (starting 4pm), with food provided by Soul Food Mahanakorn, Rocket Coffeebar, Nahm and Appia. AKA After Party continues at Studio Lam till late.

One of the most successful female pop artists of the decade brings her world tour to Bangkok, taking the fans through her hits like "I Kissed a Girl," "TGIF" and "Dark Horse." Expect a very grand and colorful production. May 14, 7pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B2,000-6,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

We Came As Romans Live in Bangkok

WTF Bar & Gallery, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51. BTS Thong Lo

The American metalcore group, whose latest album Tracing Back Roots topped the Billboard charts for Independent Albums, Internet Albums and Hard Rock Albums, make a stop at Live House BKK as a part of their Southeast Asia tour. May 25-24, 9pm. JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-331-5657-8. B900 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Mo Chit.

EDM FEST

classical

Good news for the fans that don’t want to fly all the way to Japan, Korea or Miami for the Ultra Music Festival. Confirmed to play at Road to Ultra 2015 this Jun 12 are DJs Alesso, Knife Party, Adventure Club, Galantis, Laidback Luke and Quintino. Early bird tickets are B2,600 (regular price B2,800), available now at www. amiando.com/ultra2015. BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., BTS Bang Na

INDIE CONCERT

Back by popular demand, the second concert organized by online streaming website Fungjai is confirmed to take place this Jun 6 at Voice Space Hub. Hedsod2 will feature performances by some of the hottest bands in the local indie music scene like Part Time Musicians, Yellow Fang, Summer Dress, DCNXTR, Srirajah Rockers and Goose. They’ll be playing their unique tunes, as well as a special re-arrangement of a song selected from www.fungjai.com. Early bird tickets are B500, available through May 31, and B1.000 thereafter. Available now on Thaiticketmajor. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit Rd., 02-261-3883

WEEKEND PLANNER

Yazaki Conducts SSMS Orchestra Students from Silpakorn Summer Music School perform a program of Beethoven, Hinesmith and Koussevitzsky, conducted by guest conductor Hikotaro Yazaki from Japan. Doors open 30 minutes before the show. May 3, 5pm. Mahisorn Hall, Room 18-19, 4/F, SCB Park Plaza, New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-937-5400. B100-600 from Thaiticketmajor.

Complete Beethoven's Piano Sonatas by Christian Leotta Dubbed one of the best Beethoven soloists of our time, the award-winning pianist who first performed in Bangkok last year returns with a series of performances, taking the audience through over 20 of Beethoven's

Piano Sonatas. In collaboration with The Embassy of Italy. Cocktail reception at 6:30pm. May 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 7:30pm. Sala Sudasiri Sobha, Lad Phrao Soi 41, 02-541-8662. Free (donations accepted).

The Paganini of the Oboe Christoph Hartmann, solo oboist from the Berlin Philharmonic, performs with the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra in a program of Italian composers. The performance will be conducted by Gudni A. Emilsson. Pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the show. B100 for undergraduate students. May 8, 7pm; May 9-8, 4pm. Prince Mahidol Hall, Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), 25/25 Buddhamonthon Sai 4 Rd. B300-500.

music festivals Together Festival 2015 One of the biggest EDM festivals in Bangkok this year features some of the most popular DJs in the world right now: Hardwell, Steve Aoki, W&W and Vinai. Tickets are all 2-day passes. VIP benefits include: fast lane entry, elevated area for premium view, VIP bathrooms, private bars and standing tables. 20+ guests only. Tickets available at on. fb.me/1xfEOdb. May 8-10, 7pm. BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., 02-749-3939. B3,1006,000. BTS Bang Na.

STAGE

comedy Bangkok Lyrical Lunacy - Spoken Word Poetry Open Mic The theme for this month's open mic night is "Lift." Aspiring poets and performers are encouraged to sign up at bangkoklylu.com/ openmic. Apr 26, 7pm. The Overground

The LA-based standup comic and the host of Comedy Central's This is Not Happening makes his debut in Bangkok. B500 presale tickets available at Royal Oak and comedyclubbangkok.com. May 5, 8pm. The Comedy Club Bangkok, The Royal Oak Pub, 595/10 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1, 02-662-1650. B750. BTS Phrom Phong.

Return of Bangkok Poetry + Bombyx Stories The story-telling crew returns with a joint event in collaboration with Bangkok Poetry, opening up the stage for six Bangkok poets and four bombyxes (unique true stories). There is no theme. Interested performers can contact bangkokpoetry@gmail.com. May 7, 8pm. WTF Gallery & Café, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-662-6246. Free. BTS Thong Lo.

dance Angulimala A creative contemporary Thai dance performance, inspired by the Buddhist tale of the same name. Choreographed and performed by artists from Theatre of the East. An extra matinee round at 4pm on the weekends. Price TBA. May 8-10, 15-17, 8pm. Sun Dance Theatre, 5/F, Silom Society, 12/3 Silom Rd., 088-018-5966. BTS Sala Daeng.

musicals The Magic of the Musicals The New Broadway Company returns to the stage for its monthly musical evenings. Tickets include tapas and unlimited white, red and sparkling wines plus selected cocktails. The shows this season include: Les Miserables on Apr 24 and Phantom of the Opera on May 29. Make reservations at 02-207-7777 or email fb.bangkok@stregis. com. Apr 24, 8pm; May 29, 8pm. The St. Regis Bangkok, 159 Ratchadamri Rd., 02-207-7777. B1,850. BTS Ratchadamri.

Long Holiday in Bangkok

Here are some ideas for those sticking around town from May 1-5.

THROWBACK CONCERT

GET GEARED UP

THAI CLASSIC

ARCHITECT’S DREAM

BEYOND THE BOOKS

For a change of scene from the regular gigs at Moose and Play Yard, the Cat Radio presents Cat to the Future concert this May 2 reunites classic indie groups like Futon, Proud, 2 Days Ago Kids and Ornaree. Doors open at 5pm. Tickets are still available at the following stores: DJ Siam, Reco Room, Coffee Model and House RCA.

The International Bangkok Bike 2015 trade show runs from Apr 30-May 3, giving Bangkok cyclists a great opportunity to find their new bike gadgets, accessories and cycling apparel from both local and international exhibitors. There’ll be an exclusive bike parking zone, an indoor bike park, as well as bike fitting and bike clinic sessions throughout the day. The TAT is also unveiling “12 cities” that cyclists should not miss. The fair runs from 10am-9pm in exhibition halls 3 and 4.

Appreciate the beauty of Thai music in this adaptation of the well-known Thai musical-drama film Homrong The Musical (The Overture) which follows the life of Thai palace musician Sorn through the golden age and the decline of Thai classical music, inspired by the story of Luang Pradit Piroh. The show runs from Thu-Sun through May 3 at 7:30pm, with extra 2pm rounds on the weekend at the brand new theater.

Architect Expo 2015: The 29th ASEAN Largest Building Technology Exposition kicks off this Apr 28-May 3. The long break gives you a chance to stroll through 700 exhibitors from leading architecture firms worldwide that will be showcasing their latest innovations, technologies, products and services in the construction sector. Price: Free

Comic and film lovers have this weekend to explore Bangkok Comic Con 2015 x Anime Festival Asia 2015. The fair promises to double in size with the addition of anime performances on stage. Expect lots of booths selling rare collectibles and the latest merchandise from DC, Marvel, Warner Bros and Asian artists and producers this Apr 30-May 3.

Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455

Price: B300, available on Thaiticketmajor

Price: Free

Siam Pikanet Theater, 7/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd., BTS Siam

Price: B1,500 Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455

Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455

Price: B1,000-3,000, available on Thaiticketmajor

BITEC, 88 Bang Na-Trat Rd., 02-749-3939. BTS Bang Na

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now Corp and Thumbsup at the second edition of the career workshop series run by Career Visa. Register now via Career IQ test at goo. gl/vi0042. Limited to only 50 participants. Apr 25, 8:30am. Sasin University, Chulalongkorn Soi 2, 02 216 8833. Free.

ART Exhibitions Opening This Week

sales & fairs Wonderful Thailand Wonderful World 2015

FORMS OF DEVOTION

THERE IS NO BOX BY BUI THANH THAM

View over 50 Indian paintings, drawings, sculptures, videos and digital artworks by well-known artists in the debut of this traveling exhibition which touches upon faith, culture and change. Dates: Apr 28-May 10

The Vietnamese artist’s first exhibition in Thailand features colorful, contemporary oil paintings of Vietnamese women who are embracing Western values. Dates: Apr 25-May 23

Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd., MRT Sam Yan

COLOURFUL COLOURYO#2 BY YOTAKA JULLOBOL

The first art exhibition at the Thai restaurant features a solo exhibition by local artist Yotaka Julloboll, combining vibrant acrylic painting from her two collections of artwork, Rhino Mask and Real is Not Real. Dates: Apr 29-Jun 28 Mangkud Cafe and Gallery, 94/87 Ratchapreuk Soi 34, 02-432-0968

DRIFT PROJECT #3: ACCIDENT

The third series of the BACC’s experimental sound project features a “Daily Act” sound installation on Apr 28-30, a workshop with Makha Sanewong Na Ayutthaya, Siwanat Boonsripornchai, Liew Niyomkarn and Umeda Tetsuya (May 1, 2pm), a lecture titled “Sound Installation Sound Art in Public Space and Bonn Hoeren” (May 2, 2pm) and a sound installation/performance at 7:30pm on May 1 and 7pm on May 2. Dates: Apr 28-May 2

Thavibu Gallery, 4/F, JTC Jewelry Trade Center, 919/1 Silom Rd., 02-266-5454

THE FALL OF PHNOM PENH

Marking 40 years since the Fall of Phnom Penh to the Khmer Rouge in 1975, French photo-reporter Roland Neveu presents images from his book of the same name, which has been redesigned and updated from its 2008 edition. Dates: Apr 24-May 24 Soy Sauce Factory, 11/1 Charoenkrung Soi 24, 081-301-2669. MRT Hua Lamphong

LIFE IN PLASTIK BY ELI REZKALLAH & POPLITICALLY INCORRECT BY SAINT HOAX

The annual fair to promote Thai tourism on weekdays offers tours at discounted rates and promotions from leading hotels, resorts, cruises and flights. May 14-17, 10am. Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 60 New Ratchadapisek Rd., 02-229- 3000. Free. MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.

Babymime Carisma. Table bookings for 8 guests that include a pre-concert gala dinner by Robuchon are B1-1.5million. Dresscode: Cocktail dress/smart casual. Apr 26, 8:30pm. Royal Paragon Hall, 5/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-8023. B12,000-25,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

STAGE/CONTINUED The Sound of Music A Thai remake of one of the most popular musical films of all time, following the lives of the von Trapp family during WWII. The all-Thai cast includes Chai Chatayodom, Fang from the local girl group FFK, Dao Nutpatsorn and pop singers Lookwa Pijika and Parn Thanaporn. Shows run every Thu-Sun, with extra matinee rounds every weekend. Through Apr 26, 7:30pm. Muang Thai Rachadalai Theatre, 4/F, The Esplanade, 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B1,000-4,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

sports Eastin Grand Yoga Charity The Sathorn hotel hosts a full day of yoga classes, run by leading yoga instructors from Yoga Sutra, Root 8 Yoga, Yoga & Me, R&R and Trika. Revenue goes to an orphanage for disabled children in Bangkok. Reservations at 02-210-8100 ext. 7302. There will also be healthy foods, bakery items and locally produced handicrafts stalls. May 17, 10am. Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn, 33/1 Sathorn Rd., 02-2108100. B499 complimentary eco-friendly bag. BTS Surasak.

theater Baby (no) Mime Show The number one local mime group celebrates its 10th anniversary with shows running for two weeks every Thu-Mon. 2pm rounds on the weekend. Tickets available at www.showbooking.com and Happening Shop at the BACC (3/F). Early bird tickets through Mar 31 at B600. More information at 088-462-2669. Apr 23-May 4, 8pm. Pridi Banomyong Institute, B-Floor Room, Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-3813860-1, 08-6787-7155. B650.

opera Mahanakhon: A Magical Night with Andrea Bocelli - The World's Most Beloved Tenor The world-renowned Italian opera singer debuts in Bangkok with a grand concert in celebration of HRH Princess Maha Chakri's 60th birthday, featuring Grammy-Award winner David Foster, American Idol finalist Katharine McPhee, America's Got Talent contestant Jackie Evancho, Maria Aleida and

Singha Bangkok 14K Run Singha's summer mini marathon has two distances to choose from: 7K fun run and 14K mini marathon. Register now at JogAndJoy.com. Pick-ups to the site available on the day at Lumphini Park, Sanam Luang and Suan Chatuchak, all depart at 5am. May 17, 6pm. Suan Luang Rama XIII Public Park, Arun Amarin Rd. B400.

HAPPENINGS

classes & workshops Passion Decode Episode 2: Digital Meet the guys from Google, Microsoft, Line

Did you enjoy that?

A fun exhibition themed around pop culture featuring large-scale interactive photographs and art installations from Eli’s work in Plastik magazine, and satirical digital recreations of popular icons in the first solo exhibition by Saint Hoax. Dates: Apr 30-Jun 12

Jamboreer SCG Magazine / October-December 2014

Pure Mastery

THE ONE ISSUE 04 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2014

Adler Subhashok Gallery, 160/3 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-0299. BTS Asok

ดื่มดํ่าสถาปัตย์ ไทยชั้นครู อาจารย์ภิญโญ สุวรรณคีรี

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Flavors of Siam โรงเรียนสอนทำ�อ�ห�ร ใต้ช�ยค�ไทยแท้ Heritage Highlights เยี่ยมเรือนโบร�ณกล�งกรุง

Every Little Thing Matters Travel Guide

The fastest, most reliable transport in Bangkok

BACC, 939 Rama 1 Rd. BTS National Stadium

CHAO PHRAYA TOURIST BOAT

WHY NOT Get Sporty Haven’t got anything planned this long, long weekend? Perhaps you should give the Summer Triathlon 1255 a try at Vsano Adventure Park on May 2. Kicking off at 7am, the course includes a 1km swim, a 25km cycle and a 5km trail running course. General entry is B1,500, which includes insurance, post-competition party and sport drinks, available through Apr 28 on www.vsanoadventure.com. The park is a three-minute drive from Bang Bua Tong, Nonthaburi. To visit the site and practice open-water swimming drills before the tournament, contact 095-908-9888. 33/3 Moo 2 Kanchanapisek, Lat-Lum-Kaew District, Pathum Thani. 095-908-9888

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BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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GUIDE Upcoming Market Days Before the rainy season kicks in, make the most out of these niche outdoor markets coming up around Bangkok.

LOL Market

FASHION IN THE BOX MARKET

I AM MARKET EP. 3 POP! POP!

Dates: Apr 20-26, 11am-10pm

Dates: Apr 25-26, 1pm-10pm

Central Plaza Grand Rama 9, Ratchadaphisek Rd. MRT Rama IX

CentralWorld (Square E+F), 999/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-635-1111. BTS Chid Lom

LOL MARKET EP. 2: SUMMER IS PINK

HI-SO MARKET SEASON 2

Dates: Apr 24-26, 2pm-10pm

Dates: Apr 25-26, May 2-3, 2pm-9pm

CentralWorld Square, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-6351111. BTS Chid Lom

The Circle Ratchapruk, 39 Moo 13, Ratchapreuk Rd., 02-865-6850. www.thecircle.co.th

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It's Hippie*Happy Weekend Market

FOOD x ART x MUSIC FLEA FEST 5

THE WANDERING JOURNEY NO. 1

Dates: Apr 26, 2pm-8pm

Dates: May 1-3, 4pm

Rockademy, 120/8 A Square, SukhumviSoi 26. 02-261-3833. BTS Phrom Phong

Asiatique the Riverfront, 2194 Charoenkrung Rd., 02-108-4488. BTS Saphan Taksin (free ferry from Sathorn Pier)

IT’S HIPPIE*HAPPY WEEKEND MARKET

Dates: May 1-3, 4pm-midnight Canapaya Riverfront, 888 Rama 3 Rd., 02-2919499

Spring Epicurean Market

RECURRING HANDMADE HOMEMADE MARKET

SPRING EPICUREAN MARKET

Dates: Apr 24, 4pm-10pm, Apr 25-26, 11am-8pm

Dates: Apr 26, 8am-1pm

93-95 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 088-507-8694. BTS Phrom Phong

POP X HAUS MARKET

BANGKOK FARMERS’ MARKET

Dates: May 2-3, 11am-10pm

Dates: Apr 25-26, 10am

93-95 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 088-507-8694. BTS Phrom Phong

Siam Square One, LG/F, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam/ The Jam Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd.

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Spring Summer, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-3922747-8. BTS Phrom Phong

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now FILM Opening

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): The time between now and your birthday will provide you with excellent opportunities to resolve lingering problems, bring drawn-out melodramas to a conclusion, and clean up old messes––even the supposedly interesting ones. You want to know what else this upcoming period will be good for? I’ll tell you: 1. Surrendering control-freak fantasies. 2. Relieving your backlog of tension. 3. Expelling delusional fears that you cling to out of habit. 4. Laughing long and hard at the cosmic jokes that have tweaked your attitude.

AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON (USA) Action. Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) and the Avengers must stop the villainous Ultron’s terrible plan to wipe out humanity. Apr 30

ST. VINCENT (USA) Comedy. A hedonistic war veteran (Bill Murray) forms an unlikely friendship with a boy who lives next door whose parents have just divorced. Also stars Naomi Watts and Melissa McCarthy. Apr 30

FILM

now showing Furious 7 (USA) HHHHH Action. Dominic Toretto’s (Vin Diesel) life is shaken up by the appearance of Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham), a highly skilled assassin seeking revenge for the death of his brother. Also starring Tony Jaa and the late Paul Walker.

Home (USA) HHHHH Animation. After an extra-terrestrial race called the Boov invade Earth, misfit alien Oh (Jim Parsons) forms an unlikely friendship with an adventurous young girl, Tip (Rihanna). Together they embark on a journey and find the true meaning of the word “home.”

Paddington (UK) HHHHH Family. A homeless Peruvian bear (Ben Whishaw) makes his way to London where he finds shelter with the kindly Brown family. However, he soon comes face-to-face with the sinister taxidermist Millicent Clyde (Nicole Kidman).

The Divergent Series: Insurgent (USA) HHHHH Action. In the ruins of a futuristic Chicago, Tris (Shailene Woodley) and Four (Theo James) run from the power-hungry Eridites, and search to discover why Tris’s family sacrificed their lives.

The Way He Looks (Brazil) HHHHH Drama. This coming-of-age tale follows a blind teenager whose world is changed forever by the arrival of a handsome new classmate. At SF Cinema CentralWorld.

The Age of Adaline (USA) HHHHH Drama. After eight decades of solitude, the ageless Adaline (Blake Lively) finds herself attracted to the charismatic philanthropist Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman), who ignites her passion for life and romance once again.

Woman in Gold (USA) HHHHH Drama. An elderly Jewish survivor of World War II (Helen Mirren) goes on a mission to reclaim a painting from the Austrian government which she believes rightfully belongs to her family.

Fleet of Time (China) HHHHH Romance. Five high school friends reunite and share stories of their romantic pasts since the 1990s.

Love Is (Thai) HHHHH Romance. A Thai-Chinese man must fight to be with his true love against his family’s wishes for an arranged marriage.

free screenings Jam Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night. Theme for April is Stoner Films. Screenings start from 8pm, visit www.fb.com/JAMCAFEBKK for schedule. 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-545-1833. BTS Surasak. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight.

The Friese-Greene Club The schedule follows a daily theme. This April the FGC presents Herzog Wednesday, Woody Allen Thursday, Cult Indies Friday and Western and French Classics for Sat and Sun. 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. Apr 29. Quai D’orsay (The French Minister): A young writer (Raphael Personnaz) is hired to write a speech for France’s self-indulgent Minister of Foreign Affairs. Directed by Bertrand Tavernier. 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-670-4200

Get all the latest events and restaurant openings from BK Magazine in real time with BK Now

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): In the mid-19th century, the entrance exam for the British Royal Navy was quite odd. Some candidates were required to write down the Lord’s Prayer, recite the multiplication table for the number three, get naked and jump over a chair, and drink a glass of sherry. I’m guessing that your own initiation or rite of passage may, at least initially, seem as puzzling or nonsensical as that one. You might be hardpressed to understand how it is pertinent to the next chapter of your life story. And yet I suspect that you will ultimately come to the conclusion that this transition was excellent preparation for what’s to come. CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): In 1909, Sergei Diaghilev founded the Ballets Russes, a Parisian ballet company that ultimately revolutionized the art form. The collaborative efforts he catalyzed were unprecedented. He drew on the talents of visual artists Picasso and Matisse, composers Stravinsky and Debussy, designer Coco Chanel, and playwright Jean Cocteau, teaming them up with top choreographers and dancers. His main goal was to excite and inspire and inflame. That’s the spirit I think you’ll thrive on in the coming weeks, Cancerian. It’s not a time for nice diversions and comfy satisfactions. Go in quest of Ballets Russes-like bouts of arousal, awakening, and delight. LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): “Don’t ever tame your demons—always keep them on a leash.” That’s a line from a song by Irish rock musician Hozier. Does it have any meaning for you? Might their presence be a reminder of the fact that everyone you meet has their own demons and therefore deserves your compassion? I suspect that these are topics worthy of your consideration right now. VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): Will you be the difficult wizard, Virgo? Please say yes. Use your magic to summon elemental forces that will shatter the popular obstacles. Offer the tart medicine that tempers and tests as it heals. Only you have the tough humility necessary to solve the riddles that no one else can even make sense of. LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): My message this week might be controversial to the Buddhists among you. But it’s my sacred duty not to censor or sanitize the raw data. So here’s the truth as I understand it: More desire is the answer to your pressing questions. Passionate intensity is the remedy for all wishy-washy wishes and anesthetized emotions. The stronger your longing, the smarter you’ll be. So if your libido is not already surging and throbbing under its own power, I suggest you get it teased and tantalized until it does. SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): Karelu is a word from the Tulu language that’s spoken in South India. It refers to the marks made on human skin by clothing that’s too tight. As you know, the effect is temporary. Once the close-fitting garment is removed, the imprint will eventually disappear. I see the coming days as being a time when you will experience a metaphorical version of karelu, Scorpio. You will shed some form of constriction, and it may take a while for you to regain your full flexibility.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): Georgia is a country that’s at the border of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. Many people who live there speak the Georgian language. They have a word, shemomedjamo, that refers to what happens when you love the taste of the food you’re eating so much that you continue to pile it in your mouth. I’d like to use it as a metaphor for what I hope you won’t do in the coming days: get too much of a good thing. On the other hand, it’s perfectly fine to get just the right, healthy amount of a good thing. CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): When you’re a driver in a car race, an essential rule in making a successful pit stop is to get back on the track as quickly as possible. I understand that you’re trying to become more skilled at the arts of relaxation, but can’t you postpone that until after this particular race is over? Remember that there’s a difference between the bad kind of stress and the good kind. AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): Until the early 20th century, mayonnaise was considered a luxury food, a hand-made delicacy reserved for the rich. An entrepreneur named Richard Hellman changed that. He developed an efficient system to produce and distribute the condiment at a lower cost. He put together effective advertising campaigns. I foresee the possibility of a comparable evolution in your own sphere, Aquarius: the transformation of a specialty item into a mainstay, or the evolution of a rare pleasure into a regular occurrence. PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): Piscean author Dr. Seuss wrote and illustrated over 40 books for children. Midway through his career, his publisher dared him to make a new book that used no more than 50 different words. Accepting the challenge, Seuss produced Green Eggs and Ham, which went on to become the fourth best-selling English-language children’s book in history. I invite you to learn from Seuss’s efforts, Pisces. Take advantage of the limitations that life has given you. Use your constraints as inspiration to create a valuable addition to your life story. ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): The California Gold Rush hit its peak between 1849 and 1855. Three hundred thousand adventurers flocked to America’s West Coast in search of gold. In the early days, gold nuggets were lying around on the ground in plain sight. But later prospectors had to work harder, developing methods to extract the gold from rocks that contained it. One way to detect the presence of the precious metal was through the use of nitric acid, which corroded any substance that wasn’t gold. The term “acid test” refers to that process. It’s a good time for you to use the metaphorical version of an acid test as you ascertain whether what you have discovered is truly golden.

BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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marketplace PROPERTY For rent

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A-SPACE Condo. 2 klm from BTS On-Nuch (Sukhumvit 77). 6 Floor, 35.5 SQM. 1 bed 1 living, wide balcony. Swimming pool view. Furniture includes: Bed, Sofa, TV, Air-con, Microwave, Fridge. Facilities are pool, security card & guard, parking. 1.87 MB. or rent minimum 1 year contract. Contact: Duke 084-081-1178

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last word

Pop Mhanaojyakorn From college dropout to one of America’s most highly regarded comic book illustrators, Pop Mhanaojyakorn, aka Pop Mhan, 42, has worked for Marvel, Nintendo and DC Comics, among many other top names. Ahead of his appearance at Bangkok Comic Con this Apr 30-May 3 (see BK Now, page 34), BK talked to the artist about his uncertain career path and plans to kick-start Thailand’s comic industry.

With drawing, I’m a student of detail. It started when I was seven. I was never good at math or reading textbooks, but my brother and I loved to collect comic books. It was Jim Lee [a Korean-American comic illustrator], who inspired me to break into the comic industry. Art is a dangerous profession to pursue. Prepare for heartbreak. It’s so hard to predict what will make you popular. Sometimes you might have to do dumb things to see if they will make you popular or unpopular. I got very lucky getting into the comic industry two years after I dropped out of college. At the Chicago Comic Con in 1994, I showed two years’ worth of my drawings to Jim Lee’s assistant. She loved them and passed them on to Jim, who later contacted me to work for him. Any profession is a gamble. Just because you’re a doctor doesn’t mean you’re a good doctor. I can understand

ClarkHatch_125x82.pdf

how many parents are scared when their kids pursue a career in art. I can tell you, you’re lucky if you can make it.

doesn’t give the impression of real work. Some people think I’ve spent way too much time on my hobby.

If one day my three-year-old kid told me he wanted to become an artist, I would tell him all about the industry. People get hired and fired all the time. It’s unsteady. I would show him all the obstacles I had to overcome to get to where I am today. If he shows his dedication, I would give him my full support.

To all those kids who think dropping out of college is cool, I say: think again. School is a safe bet. If you have the chance, and the support from your parents, stay in school.

My parents hated that I dropped out of college and chased my dream of becoming a cartoonist. Having grown up in America, they wanted me to become a doctor or study medicine or become something respectable. Working in the comic industry is fulfilling, but it’s also hard work to make a good living. I draw a lot, all day long. It’s not glamorous, but it is what I love. Drawing is the kind of job that

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I want to tell young people to listen to your heart. People would always yell at me to listen to them. The important thing is to take all their advice and understand their perspective, but listen only to yourself. Set your goals high. I always thinks I’m the worst artist in the world because I compare myself to the very best. I never compare myself to people in the same class. It sounds con-

ceited but that’s why I keep pushing myself. When I started out I compared myself to Jim Lee. I never got close to him, but I am much better now. I started off as a copycat, imitating a lot of people. Style is something you develop through your mistakes. It’s how you interpret those mistakes. Artists shouldn’t be worried about style. It’s impossible to not have your own style because no one will interpret life the way you do. Concentrate on being a good artist and the style will come naturally. Comic books will stay on paper for at least the next 10 years, because they’re a collectable items. We’ll always have that market. But things going digital is good too. We make a lot of our sales digitally. But, ultimately, I think people still like to hold the real thing. Interview by Sam Nathapong

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CMY

9/F, THANIYA PLAZA BUILDING, THANIYA ROAD, SILOM (A 2-minute walk from Saladaeng BTS Station) Tel : 02 – 2312250

Art is a dangerous profession.

I’ve been working in the comic industry for 20 years. I draw for Marvel and DC Comics. The whole thing is transient; a reflection of cross-cultural ideas and society. These days we’re focusing on women. Many comic houses are trying to build female heroes. Previously, female characters were used only as sex symbols, but we’re trying to change that.

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There’s no such thing as a Thai comic industry. We’re unrepresented. I want to train people, build up Thai talents, and show them to the American market . Unfortunately, I am the only one in the spotlight right now.

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MARKETING/EDIT /PRODUCTION INTERNS • get experience • develop your portfolio email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th

www.clarkhatchthaniya.com│E-mail : info@clarkhatchthaniya.com BK Magazine Friday, April 24, 2015

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