BK Magazine June 26, 2015

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it's free!

Slippery when wet

BK MAGAZINE NO. 595 FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015. www.bkmagazine.com

How social enterprises both make profits and give back to the community

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ADVERTORIAL

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page 3 10 cover story

Social Enterprise

Die Another Day

18 fashion

22 tech

White Lines

Camera Hacks

26 blends

27 bites

Rum Times

In Season

28 restaurant

41 last word

Claw Space

Makeup Maven

Who's in charge?

General Manager Andrew Hiransomboon Managing Editor, Product Director Grégoire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Senior Staff Writer Vasachol Quadri Staff Writer Pinnyada Tanitnon, Lily Kittisrikangwan Junior Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Sam Nathapong Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Art Director Dechart Sangsawang Senior Graphic Designer Panita Thiraphapong Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Nemintorn Ketkeaw, Wariya Whangwaewklang

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Manager Tipkritta Chiraporncharas Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Orajira Sukkasem, Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri, Amarit Jinaya Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive, Creative Services Puttipat Teerakawongsakul Marketing Service Associate Chochat Masrat

Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Arisa Wiwatsomwong, Thammika Sawaengsri, Lalita Kittisrikangwan, Pimploy Phongsirivech, Jatuphorn Yamprasert, Varunthorn Uraroongroj, Pornchanit Visitchaichan, Korakodch Suratanamongkon, Pinyapat Bannarakhiran, Rattika Sudechawongsakul

IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang

Cover by Dechart Sangsawang

Group Directors 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

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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Which terrible disaster in Bangkok will kill you this week?

Take our quiz!

Krathom is addling the brains of Bangkok’s school children! Mers is spreading through Nana! The whole city is sinking even faster than we thought! Our planes will soon drop from the sky! How will you die this week? Find out in BK Magazine’s latest viral quiz.

1. Where do you live? a. Your parents place, in the suburbs. b. A shoddily built luxury condo in Sukhumvit. c. Chiang Mai in the winter, Samui in the summer. d. Home? What home? You’ve been living under the stairs at Smalls for the past two months.

2. How do you like to spend your weekends? a. Karaoke and homemade liquor. b. A bit of Emquartier then Central Embassy. c. Brunch at the Four Seasons, which you refuse to call the Anantara. d. In a blur of prescription drugs and Absinthe-based cocktails.

3. What is your relationship status? a. Just stickers, so far, but you’re seriously considering trading nude selfies. b. There’s a good chance you might be able to keep the apartment. c. 15 years of happiness! Or at least mutually beneficial sexless companionship. d. You’d ask the person sleeping next to you but can’t quite recall their name. Or gender.

Majority of As: Did you know that Ramkamhaeng is sinking by 2cm a year (versus 10mm for the rest of Bangkok) and that the rainy season is upon us? You better be a strong swimmer, or get your own place in the CBD. The suburbs will be the first to sink as they struggle to save the city.

Majority of Bs: Your shallow middle-class consumerist life has you ping-ponging between Phloen Chit and Thonglor. Sounds like you.

Make sure you wear a face mask when going through Nana.

Majority of Cs: You’ve made it in life and have secondary residences to escape the big bad city every weekend. You do realize that the the front of the plane is the least safe place in a crash landing. Try flying coach, or even taking trains, for the time being.

Majority of Ds: Your partying days are out of control. You’re constantly accusing people of slipping you roofies but really you’re just blacking out from having 10 cocktails, three glasses of wine and a couple beers. Alcohol will kill you if you don’t watch out.

Switch to krathom, a natural plant-based drug, and get your life in order. latest news and trends

@bkmagazine

see what’s happening

@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Local bartenders Not: Imported bartenders Why is it, every bar we go into is staffed by a pony-tailed Swede when our local bartenders are killing it in Diageo’s global bartending championships (see page 32)? As if the Nordic races didn’t already have the scene sewn up with UNCLE, Ku De Ta, Viva Aviv and Hyde & Seek, we’ve now found them behind the bar in the newly opened Viva 21 (see page 29).

Hot: Social enterprise Not: Handouts That’s it. Bangkok’s charities have given up on thinking we’ll give them money out of the kindness of our hearts. These new guys (see page 10) have instead resorted to providing stuff we actually want to buy (such as cut-price hotel rooms). That’s way more like it!

STREET TALK Radio DJ Autchara Buasomboon, 48, has spent the last 24 years reporting live on Bangkok’s infamous traffic and various catastrophes for the JS100 station. Here, the station’s deputy director of radio broadcasting discusses the challenges of keeping Bangkok residents up-to-date on the latest transport and weather conditions in a city with one of the highest road fatality rates in the world.

What’s the most difficult situation you’ve had to face while broadcasting live?

Hot: White sneakers

Not: Man sandles

Ask us again in six weeks, but for now, we’re really not digging the whole suit trousers and Birkenstocks thing. Especially not at a time when we can look just as good in a pair of B1,500 white Supergas (see our white sneaker roundup, page 18).

Hot: Uni in everything Not: Taiwanese buns When a new restaurant­—one that specializes in American seafood and has nothing to do with Japan—serves a single dish containing uni butter, uni sauce, fresh uni and uni rostini (see page 28), you know Bangkok’s stumbled on its next gua bao. Expect sea urchin to make its way into all your dinners for at least the rest of 2015.

One of my most challenging cases was to save a man who was contemplating suicide by jumping off a bridge. The most difficult thing is when the situation is unstable.

Without any background information, you have to be able to think fast. People can be nervous or in a panic when they’re in a stressful situation, both victims and witnesses, so I help them to relax by saying something like “We will get you through this.” Then, once they compose themselves they slowly tell us more information, like where they are or what aid has been provided.

Even when I can’t properly figure out the solution, my crew can help them off the air.

What’s the biggest challenge of your work?

Fact-checking. This is very sensitive.

It’s not a TV drama but real life. We need to make sure that every request for help is dealt with seriously. In the media, accuracy equates to credibil-

ity, so every broadcasted issue is rechecked over and over again. We receive a thousand calls an hour, a number that’s only capped due to our staff limitations.

Why do you do it?

It’s delightful to be able to help other people in society. Money doesn’t come into it. The kindness of Thais has always warmed my heart. During great catastrophes like floods or earthquakes, not only in this country, Thai people have always provided aid for the have-nots, whether it’s food, money, medical assistance or shelter. We once talked about this situation where a cow ran away from a slaughterhouse. Our listeners felt so much pity, they donated money to buy that cow’s life. They named her Wan Mai and she stays at a temple.

How can we reduce traffic accidents?

Too many lives have been lost on the road. Traffic law enforcement in Thailand isn’t strict enough to make people abide by the rules. When someone drives recklessly without

thinking of the safety of other road users, whether it’s drunk-driving or drowsy driving, accidents are inevitable. Some people think it’s not a big deal to break the law since the fines are not that expensive or they will be released anyway. There should be harsher punishments for traffic offences so that people realize just how significant the law is.

Then, people will respect the law— just like when Thais travel abroad, they wouldn’t dare run a red light.

What’s next for JS100?

We are going to launch our free application soon. Apart from providing real-time traffic updates for road users, this application has new features such as an SOS button and a function that automatically pinpoints the current location to notify others of accidents or high frequency accident spots ahead. It’s a whole new channel for offering help. Interview by Arisa Wiwatsomwong Listen to Authchara’s program every Thursday from 9.30am-2pm on JS100 Radio, FM 100, or follow @js100radio on Twitter

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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cover story

Change-Makers Why a new generation of Thai entrepreneurs has switched to socially-minded businesses. By Lily Kittisrikangwan

KlongDinsor

B

angkok’s social enterprise (SE) start-up scene is booming. A new batch of young entrepreneurs is looking to create businesses that, instead of creating maximum profit for individuals, address social problems and generate income for those who need it most. But can the philanthropic business aspirations of young graduates really solve our social problems? Or are SE’s just a sexy new trend for a small pool of young elites?

“I get asked a lot if social enterprises are just a new trend. Even if it is a trend, it’s still doing good for society—I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that,” says Aliza Napartivaumnuay, whose project SocialGiver (see right) utilizes spare business capacity (like empty hotel rooms and unused spa packages) and directs the profits towards charitable causes.

Though there has been a recent surge in the number of locally operated SE companies, support from the Thai government for the SE ecosystem has actually been steadily growing for some time. In fact, Thailand has a positive standing in the region because of its government-backed SE initiative, the Thai Social Enterprise Office (TSEO), which runs workshops, gives consultations and also pushes for policies that will create a more favorable business environment.

(Even if social enterprises, unlike foundations and charities, are still taxed like commercial entities.)

LocalAlike

The SE startups worth your support SocialGiver

“People already want to do good; they just need someone to make it more fun, convenient and accessible.”

—Aliza Napartivaumnuay, co-founder of SocialGiver Who they help: New social projects, small enterprises, foundations and charities

Wo-Manis

Private initiatives supported by the TSEO like ChangeFusion, Unltd Thailand, Banpu and Ashoka also help kick-start new ventures through incubation programs and competitive grants. Pin Kasemsiri, the founder of internship platform CareerVisa, which has recently been hosting a series of one-day career workshops to help Gen-Yers discover their career potential (see BK Now, page 32), explains how these programs can help young businesses flourish: “What started as a side project—something I explored at university—grew a lot from the Banpu Competition. If a social enterprise cannot identify a social problem that needs fixing and develop a sustainable revenue model, it can’t succeed.”

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Farmsook Ice Cream

How they help: By partnering with local businesses, SocialGiver gets you great online deals which make use of spare business capacity—like empty hotel rooms and un-booked spas. Each baht you spend on a gift card gets converted into a social coin, which then gets distributed to social projects like SavingNepal, Food4Good and The Swimsafe Sharks. Users can vote on where their money goes, leaving the consumer in charge of what they do— and don’t—want to support. These guys are also representing Thailand on the world stage this July at the Ventures competition in San Francisco.

How to get involved: Just check out their website www.

SocialGiver.com and shop away.

KlongDinsor

“Lots of companies are using their CSR budget for good—all of the 12 schools for the blind in the country now have access to Lensen as an educational tool.”

—Chatchai Aphibanpoonpon, founder and CEO of Klong Dinsor Who they help: Children with blindness How they help: Klong Dinsor has developed an educational tool to facilitate blind children’s learning process through art. The Lensen drawing kit is really simple: draw on a velcro-like board using a specially-developed wool pen, which rolls out a yarn that gets stuck in the velcro. Kids are then able to feel the shape that they’ve just created. At present, the drawing tool is also being distributed abroad.

How to get involved: Lensen drawing kits are available for purchase at www.klongdinsor.com. They also organize events during which the blind and volunteers can exchange experiences with one another. For the latest updates, go to www.fb.com/klongdinsor.

BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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cover story Not all start-ups want to be heavily dependent on outside help, though. Chairit Imjaroen, founder of the charitable ice-cream brand Farmsook, which provides finance and education to children from underprivileged backgrounds, is skeptical of extra support being given to SE. “We’re just like any other startups,” he says. “Some succeed and some fail. We have to change the mindset that we need extra support. Sure, it’s not easy, and can feel even harder when you’re trying to achieve two things at the same time. But normal businesses don’t get that extra support. We all just have to work at it and not develop a cycle of dependency on financial grants.”

For the next generation of wannabe SE startups, the channels of formal education are growing, too. Two years ago, Thammasat University started an accredited Bachelor’s degree in Global Studies and Social Entrepreneurship (GSSE), and there are now plenty more courses at leading business schools across the country, as well as regular youth camps and workshops that serve to educate, train and inspire socially conscious entrepreneurship—Sasin Centre for Sustainability Management at Chulalongkorn University and Srinakarinwirot University’s regular talks and workshops are just two examples.

LocalAlike

But professional consultation and mentorship systems are still in their infancy, which means many rely on networks of friends and experts from different fields for support. That’s where groups like Thai Young Philanthropist Network (TYPN) and Ma.D Hub for Social Entrepreneurs come in, which serves as a social hub for startups working on like-minded projects. “Anyone can just approach us,” explains Ma.D. founder Preekamol Chantaranijakorn. “We started off as a co-working space, but it just didn’t make sense to charge people who want to do good for society. So now we provide free space for social entrepreneurs to discuss new ideas, and also bring in experts in different fields for training workshops. We try to connect like-minded people, because that’s how things start. We’re also planning to run our own incubation program in the near future.”

Achiraya Thamparipattra, founder of Hivesters, also another great local online marketplace for socially responsible lifestyle activities, believes that the main problem in Thailand is the false perception of SEs. “A lot of people still think that a social enterprise is an NGO, which is not the case. We are just a group of passionate people who want to create good businesses that not only solve social issues, but are also profitable and scalable. Thailand needs more and more people to be a part of the movement and help create positive changes.”

So what is the likelihood that we’ll be seeing any of these new SE startups in five years’ time? “There are actually many success stories,” says Viria Vichit-Vadakarn, founder of GSSE and GLab, a social innovation lab that supports the Thammasat program and runs skill-training workshops on Human-Centered Design and Social Innovation Tools. “They’re just not well-documented.” The Doi Tung Development Project, Grassroot Innovations Network, the Abhaibubejr Hospital Foundation and Cabbages and Condoms are just a few notable local success stories.

Aliza of Social Giver sees great potential in the future of locally-grown social enterprises. “People just need to see that social enterprises can be as successful as any other startups. They need to realize that these sort of ventures are not out of reach, not foreign, not limited to just businesses outside of Thailand.”

The SE startups worth your support LocalAlike

Wo-Manis

“We make sure that we only work with communities that are ready. Profits generated will never go to just a single individual. That’s what community-based tourism is meant to achieve.”

“We’re different from other NGOs because we’re actually a part of the community. We’ve helped create a new community of women that otherwise would not have been able to come together.”

—Somsak “Pai” Boonkam, co-founder and CEO of LocalAlike

Who they help: Hill-tribe and agricultural communities How they help: This tour company says hotels and agencies are reaping too much of the income generated by Thailand’s tourism industry, rather than the small villages and communities that the tourists actually come to see. LocalAlike works on the ground with villages that are ready to accept tourism, and teaches them how to manage and plan tours by themselves. They are then connected to customers through LocalAlike’s online marketplace, which also compiles detailed profiles and user reviews. Profit is split 30:70 between LocalAlike and the community, with five percent from each party’s share ring-fenced to address development issues within the community.

How to get involved: If you haven’t planned your next trip, there are plenty of options to choose from: village homestays, day trips and half-day trips. It also offers customized corporate tours. Find out more at www.LocalAlike.com.

Ma.D Hub for Social Entrepreneurs: 094-661-6046, madeehub.com ChangeFusion: 02-938-2636, changefusion.org Ashoka Thailand: 02-9419294, thailand.ashoka.org

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Thai Young Philanthropist Network (TYPN): fb.com/ groups/thaiypn

How they help: In an area plagued with violence, the loss of family members means mental and financial strains on those left behind. Wo-Manis is a social enterprise from Pattani province that creates jobs for widows by training and employing them to create handmade products like scarves, shawls, hijabs and other accessories. This utilizes the skills that already exist within different communities of women in the South. Social media is used as a tool to raise awareness, which has in turn developed into an e-commerce platform. In addition, a portion of the proceeds goes towards funding education for local orphans.

How to get involved: They’re currently in the process of developing a new website platform, but products from their old collection can still be purchased at www. fb.com/womanisscarf or on Instagram at wo_manis.

Who they help: Underprivileged children How they help: Farmsook Ice Cream not only holds classes on how to produce homemade ice cream, but also teaches basic business skills to children from disadvantaged homes, orphanages and foundations, mainly targeting children aged between 13-18 years old. The ice creams which the children produce are distributed and sold, with proceeds reinvested into the training program, as well as syphoned into a fund to support the children’s future commercial business practices. The CEO was also one of the speakers at TedxBangkok, organized earlier this month.

Global Studies and Social Entrepreneurship Program (GSSE): 02-564-3089-91 ext.

77057 sgs.tu.ac.th Banpu Champions for Change: 02-938-2636, fb.com/banpuchampions

Who they help: Widows and orphans who have lost family members to violence in the Southern provinces of Thailand

Farmsook Ice Cream

Essentials: How to get in touch Thai Social Enterprise Office (TSEO): 02-619-8440, tseo. or.th

—Asma Nakasewee, founder of Wo-Manis

“We’ve helped over 500 children and raised over a million baht.”

How to get involved: Their tasty ice creams are available at Cafe Velo Dome, TCDC Shop, Ma:D and more (see full list at www.fb.com/farmsookicecream. Pre-order delivery also available at 083-137-9705.

—Chairit Imjaroen, founder of Farmsook Ice Cream

BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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ADVERTORIAL

Organic Farming Brings Sustainability to the Table Great food is key to a successful event. As Thailand's Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) pushes our MICE industry towards greater sustainability, environmentally-conscious producers like Arrut Navaraj are essential to its success.

Aiming to breathe new life into his 50-year-old family business, the Sampran Riverside Hotel in Nakhon Pathom, managing director Arrut Navaraj turned to sustainability. Not only did he

“

start growing organic vegetables on their property, he also asked surrounding farmers to join in and supply local produce

to his kitchens. Now, his organic projects, Sampran Model and

Sookjai Market, are recognized by the International Federation

Arrut Navaraj Managing Director of Sampran Riverside

of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) and EU standards

“

while the hotel is considered at the forefront of the MICE (Meeting, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) industry's sustainability movement in Thailand.

Why did you start the sustainable Sampran Model?

I’m a health-oriented person so naturally I thought it would be

good to use organic produce at our hotel because food is the

most important part of our business. We started growing organic produce on our own 30-rai farm and then asked neighboring farmers in Sampran district to join us.

I'm trying to encourage hotels to buy directly from local sources, which would help cut their carbon footprint tremendously.

Was it hard to convince farmers to join your movement?

Yes, it was the hardest part actually. We had to ensure that the farmers had full confidence that this was right for them; that going organic could liberate them from the middlemen and chemical suppliers. Now we have 80 farmers in our Sampran Model. We

to meet the farmers and talking to them about both our needs and theirs. We want to convince them that this change goes far beyond their day job. This approach actually helps boost morale, too. If they really do engage in sustainable practices, they'll see the benefits, because employees will be happier and place more value on their job.

Has it helped your bottom line?

Our MICE business has grown a lot, and much of that is thanks to CSR- and organic farming-related activities. We’ve received a lot of attention from the international organic movement; for example, IFOAM held a conference here recently.

How would you like to see hospitality industry develop?

Sustainability in the MICE industry is about more than reducing plastic bottles and electricity; you have to delve deeper into the subject and look at supply chains. I'm trying to encourage hotels to buy directly from local sources, which would help cut their carbon footprint tremendously. If that was the case,

also launched Sookjai Market, a weekend market selling organic

Thailand would win hands-down against Singapore or Hong

products from our farmers, which is packed with day-tripping

Kong sustainability-wise. If we simply remove chemicals from

Bangkokians every weekend.

the food chain, everything gets better. It all begins with the local

How did you teach your staff the value of sustainability?

community.

I include our staff in every step of the process like taking our chefs

Visit www.sampranmodel.com for more information.

Sookjai Partners Sutis Jiravuphong, 57, Sampran Model staff

Siriwan Mapetsri, 45, rice farmer

Choosri Joradol, 57, guava farmer

“I’m proud that I can help the farmers create chemical-free environments and bring safe, organic food to families. It’s like I’m making merit by being a part of this sustainable movement.”

“It was hard to sell organic rice many years ago. Now, I consistently get monthly orders from Sampran Riverside, while I’m also able to sell rice at their Sookjai Market in Sampran.”

“I was stuck in a vicious cycle of chemical suppliers and middlemen before, which only able to sell my guava for B7-B20 a kilogram. But now I can sell for B30 all year long.”

To get more information, please visit www.micecapabilities.com

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Pinnyada Tanitnon

CHIANG MAI

Creative Juices Tucked between Nimmanhaemin Sois 3 and 5, Arttitude Gallery (052-002-202, www. fb.com/arttitudegallery) not only serves coffee, but also specializes in sugar-free, 100-percent pure cold-pressed juices. And because they are health-focused folks, there isn’t any alcohol served here. The loft-style venue features plenty of wood and plants for a homey, airy feel. There is also a small gallery space, where the owner intends to host exhibitions starting this coming winter. With the goal of wanting customers to become more familiar with art, all of the drinks are named after famous paintings, based on their flavor and color scheme, with the most popular so far being the Monet Sunrise (carrots, passion fruit and pineapple B65). Before your fresh beverage is served to you, a staff member will wrap a tag (similar to one you attach to a present) with a printed image of the painting your drink is named after, as well as a brief history and explanation. Neat, huh?

PATTAYA

Hippie Hooray Don your fisherman pants and hippie hair band, and head over to Welcome Town shopping complex in Central Pattaya this Jun 27-28 for the Baa-hop-fang Hippie Beach Party, where you’ll be able to score some unique finds from vendors selling everything from clothing to household items and temporary tattoos. You can expect over 150 stalls that have been rented out by popular Pattaya restaurants, pop-up Instagram stores and food trucks. Apart from the market area, there will also be a free concert featuring stars such as Ammy The Bottom Blues, The Parkinson and Aey from The Voice. Visit www. fb.com/baahopfang.

HUA HIN

Out of the Box Not long ago, Ari’s The Yard Hostel introduced a new sustainable hostel concept—buildings made from shipping containers. Now, not too far from the city, there’s another place that has adopted a similar concept. Hua Hin in Boxes is a boutique resort decked out in brightly-colored recycled shipping containers surrounding a communal swimming pool, each container serving as one spacious bedroom. There are 10 rooms in total, all equipped with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Located in central Hua Hin, the resort is just 1km from the beach and the food market. The hotel won’t suck up your life savings, either. If you book directly through them you’ll get the lowest rates, where rooms will cost B1,000 per night Mon-Thu and B1,300 per night on weekends, inclusive of breakfast for two. There are also motorbikes for rent at the hotel for B300 a day. Call 090-9833660 or visit ow.ly/O7kYY.

FRANCE

Paris on a Budget The Paris branch of Generator Hostel (www.generatorhostels.com), a lowcost European chain of design hostels, sits in a restored insurance office block in the emerging 10th Arrondissement.

Housing 199 stylish bedrooms, the hostel boasts a playful retro and bohemian vibe with its jazzy communal spaces including a naturally-lit cafe and seating area boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, a mezzanine lounge area and a nifty basement bar.

Apart from the design, the hostel is also conveniently located a 15-minute walk to Gare Du Nord, Buttes-Chaumont Park and the trendy Canal St. Martin. Most importanly, the room rates are a steal! You can opt for a shared bedroom starting at 25 Euros (approximately B880) per night, or a private room starting at 98 Euros (approximately B3,500) per night. The breakfast buffet isn’t included, but you can add it for an additional 6.50 Euros (B247) per day.

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

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HEALTH

Hit The Barre There’s more to group fitness than yoga, Pilates and Crossfit. After a long wait, the popular barre fitness studio from New York, Physique 57, known for its celebrity clients like Demi Moore and Emmy Rossum, has opened its second international branch in Bangkok. The studio promises quick results after eight sessions of its ballet-inspired, barre-based, 57-minute workout, which combines intervals of cardio, strength training, stretching and recovery.

Beginners can learn the fundamentals before tackling the level one classes and the additional moves of level two. Prices start from B950 per class, B4,750 for five classes, B8,500 for 10 classes and 16,000 for 20 classes. 4/F, Erawan Bangkok, 494 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-652-1703. BTS Chit Lom. www.physique57bangkok.com

EXHIBITION

SHOPPING

TECH

Bear Essentials

Eggs in the Basket

Sporty Sound

Siam Center is teaming up with Japanese toy manufacturer Medicom Toy Incorporated to host the Be@rbrick World Wide Tour II, an exhibition of limited edition versions of the much-loved bear figurine by 80 leading artists from around the world. Collaborators involved include Hong Kong designer Edison Chen, Swedish graffiti artist Andre Saraiva, British illustrator James Jarvis and Japanese photographer Mika Ninagawa. The highlights, though, will be the unveiling of a special 2.1-meter-high Muay Thai edition of Be@rbrick, and another in memory of the late Thai street artist Prusapol Mookdasanit, aka Mamafaka. The exhibition will go on display from Jul 6-31, at Idea Avenue, 1/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam

Long-standing French luxury leather goods brand Longchamp seems to be getting livelier with age. Prior to rolling out its full fall/winter 2015 collection, the brand has teamed up with one of the runway’s most young-at-heart American designers, Jeremy Scott, known for his vibrant pop art-inspired designs for Moschino, for a limited edition of its Le Pliage bag. Jeremy Scott’s “Humpty Dumpty, a nursery rhyme” bag features a cute and colorful mix of rabbits, elephants, mushrooms and tortoises in classic Walt Disney colors. The item will be available in early July at Longchamp boutiques. Try 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9973, BTS Siam

Leading German sound-system manufacturer Sennheiser has rolled out a sporty series of four new headphones. Fans of the brand’s crystal-clear sound technology might have noticed that their design is not the most gym-friendly, but that’s been addressed in the new products made with lightweight-yet-durable, water-resistant material and featuring anti-bacterial ear adapters. There are four models to choose from, each with different cover-ear designs and supportive of different operating systems. Prices range from B2,790-B4,390, available at Sennheiser authorized retailers nationwide.

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ADVERTORIAL

Join the Singha party crowd for a night of communal bar-hopping at Groove, Central World.

S

ingha's pub crawls are the freshest nightlife concept in Bangkok. Banding together crowds of bar-crawlers, they blend awesome local bands and DJs, beautiful people and a playful sense of exploration. Join the third edition this Saturday Jul 11 and get ready to party hard.

The pub crawl kicks off at Groove's Groovy Zone at 7pm, before moving over to the chic Hyde & Seek Peek-A-Boo at 8:30pm, the rustic Tales of Gold Mine at 9:30pm, and ending with a bang at the classic 1881 by Water Library with an exclusive performance by guest DJ Octo till midnight. Expect signature cocktails, live bands, free swag, complimentary creative tapas and awesome deals on Singha.

at 1881 by water library

Get your pre-sale tickets now (B700), available at each participating venue. Each ticket comes with one free beer and a Singha Pub Crawl T-shirt, plus exclusive deals on Singha at all outlets. Ready to meet new friends, party hard and delight your senses? See you at Groove on July 11!

Pre-sale tickets: B700 / Tickets at the door: B900 Activity Details:

Free Singha beer + Singha pub crawl t-shirt at registration Beer Pong Competition Live Bands all night Lounge in the Chill Zone

"Frozen" lucky draw Free Singha michelada shooter Free 4 special appetizers

MORE INFORMATION AND RESERVATION VISIT

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SINGHABEERTH

Singha 593 Jun12_3.indd 7

The "Gold surprise" Singha beer on tap at special price Free 3 special mini signature dishes by Gold mine

"Flair" Bartending Ice-carving challenge Singha cocktails—Singha Mojito & Singha Sangria at special prices Free 3 canape menus

Groove @ CentralWorld, Rama I Rd. BTS Chit Lom

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avenue FASHION

SPA TIME

White Riot

Deals you don't want to miss in July

Seven classic white sneakers and where to get them in Bangkok.

By Pimploy Phongsirivech

SPA CENVAREE 6

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The spa at Centara Grand is offering spa buffet deals throughout the months of June and July, where you can choose any combination of treatments within two hours and pay just the one price: B2,500 per person or B4,500 per couple. The treatments include Herbal Steam Therapy (15 minutes), Succulent Strawberry Scrub (45 mins), Mocha Chino Mud Wrap (45 mins), Aromatherapy Oil Massage (60 or 90 mins), Thai Massage (60 or 90 mins), Head Massage (30 mins), Foot Massage (30 mins) and Signature Organic Facial (60mins).

Through Jul 31.

Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99, Rama 1 Rd., 02-100-1234 ext.6511. BTS Chit Lom. spacgcw@chr. co.th

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Adidas Stan Smith

Nike Cortez Classic

BK PICK!

Price: B3,490

Price: TBA

You don’t get more classic than these low-top tennis shoes. Originally created in the ‘70s and named after American tennis star Stan Smith, they boast signature perforated stripes and unblemished white full grain leather. Forget the Superstar, these are the all-white shoes of the summer.

Recently reissued, this early ‘70s classic features a smooth leather upper and traditional herringbone patterned rubber outsole. Nicknamed “The Forrest Gump” thanks to their appearance in the 1994 film, these running shoes are a must-have for those with a love for vintage footwear.

Try Adidas Originals Concept Store, G/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-6581733. BTS Siam

Try Super Sports, 3/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-613-1492-3. BTS Siam/Chit Lom

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Adidas Ultra Boost All-White

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Superga 2750 Classic

BUDGET PICK!

Price: B6,990

Price: B1,490

The Ultra Boost All-Whites, as sported by Kanye West onstage at the Billboard Music Awards, were released by Adidas at the beginning of this month. Thanks to the sporty Primeknit upper and Adidas Torsion System cushioning intended to assist runners, these have dual benefits for those with a love for both fitness and style.

Superga’s 2750 Classic is the model behind the Italian brand’s century-long legacy as “the people’s shoes of Italy.” This timeless canvas tennis shoe comes complete with a pure cotton upper that cradles for a soft fit.

Try Super Sports, 4/F, Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-655-7729. BTS Chit Lom

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Converse Jack Purcell Signature

Price: TBA Unlike their hefty All Star Leather Hi Top cousins, the Jack Purcell Signature can also function as light slip-ons should their laces be removed. The use of Nike Zoom cushioning technology enhances the canvas sneakers’ comfort and practicality. Perfect for Chuck Taylor fans looking to branch out.

Try Central Shoes Dept., 3/F, Central Chidlom, Ploen Chit Rd., 02-793-7777.

BTS Chit Lom

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New Balance White Instinct 999

Price: B4,250 A descendant of the New Balance White Instinct Pack, the White Instinct 999 is a white-on-white model with a leather upper and mesh toe box. This combination, along with the implementation of New Balance’s Abzorb cushioning technology, creates an oldschool look with maximized shock absorption.

Try New Balance Concept Store, 3/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-6461366. BTS Siam/Chit Lom

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RARINJINDA WELLNESS SPA

The luxury Thai spa brand from Chiang Mai launches its new treatment this month with a value-for-money package. The Siamese Himalayan Salt Therapy is a one-hour Thai massage in a special room with Himalayan salt, which you inhale during the massage for increased serotonin levels, better sleep, decreased blood pressure and support for your immune system.

The treatment is B1,500/hour, while the promotional package is priced at B9,999/10 times (available only at the Phloen Chit Branch). You can also share the 10-times package with a friend as it needs to be used within six months of purchase.

30/F, Grand Center Point Hotel, 100 Wireless Rd., 02-651-5224/5

Try Central Shoes Dept., 3/F, Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7777.

BTS Chit Lom

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Vans True White Slip-On

Price: B1,880 We’re guessing the first thing that springs to mind when you hear “slip-ons” is this staple skate brand. The Vans True White Slip-On comes with a sleek all-white canvas upper and the trademark Vans Waffle outsole. Pairing outfits with these classics is a breeze.

Try Fashion Sports Dept., 5/F, ZEN Department Store, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-100-9999. BTS Siam/Chit Lom

SO SPA

Sofitel So offers a special price for its innovative So Nippon Treatment this June. The treatment includes foot ritual, back scrub (15 mins), back and shoulder massage (45 mins) and Japanese Ko Bi Do Anti-Aging facial (60 mins), all at B4,300 per person through Jun 30 (normal price is B6,150). On top of that, any 90-minute treatment is 50-percent off during So Spa’s happy hour from 10am-2pm, Mon-Fri, through Jul 31.

11/F, Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-6240000. Open daily 10am-10pm. MRT Lumpini

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avenue TECH

Go Pro Six reasons why you’ll never buy a DSLR again. By Gregoire Glachant

Sony RX100 IV Despite cameras getting smaller and smaller, you actually want a really big sensor. Big sensors have outstanding low-light capabilities, and they also produce much more beautiful background blur on food and portraits. That’s why cramming a one-inch sensor in a compact camera is a groundbreaking achievement. Add a very bright f/1.82.8 zoom lens (24-70mm equivalent) and you’ve got a real photographer’s camera. Oh and this one also shoots 4K video. The whole thing borders on science fiction.

Sony RX100IV: 20.1 MP, 1” sensor, B33,000

Sony HX90V We’ll just come out and say it: We think “Super Zooms” are stupid.

But if you belong to that very narrow category of photographers who somehow believe their next trip to Chiang Mai will involve spotting some rare wildlife, don’t embarrass yourself by packing one of those white 600mm Canon lenses which weigh 5.5kg. The Sony HX90V’s lens goes up to 720mm (in 35mm speak) and fits in your pocket. The Chiang Mai zoo will never have looked so good and neither will you.

Sony HX90V: 18.20 MP, 1/2.3” sensor, B15,500

Panasonic LX100 This is another crazy compact with an outstandingly bright zoom lens (f/1.7-2.8) and an even bigger sensor––twice the surface of the Sony RX100 IV, actually. It’s stretching the term “compact” to the very limits of your cargo pants, but this is some of the best image quality you’ll find outside of big interchangeable lens cameras with full frame or four thirds sensors. It evens feels like a DSLR thanks to very well -designed controls that reward photographers looking to go manual.

Panasonic LX100:12.8 MP, 4/3”sensor, B23,000

LG G4 This phone has Samsung and Apple shaking in their boots, not to mention every DSLR camera out there. First, the lens has an f/1.8 aperture. The best zooms on DSLRs are f/2.8 (smaller is better) and the average kit lens is even worse, from f/4 up to f/5.6. That’s less light coming in and less of those pretty, blurred-out backgrounds. Secondly, the LG G4 shoots RAW, the pro format that allows a ton more flexibility when editing images in Lightroom, in particular for color balance. Thirdly, the LG G4’s lens is optically stabilized.

LG G4: 16MP rear sensor, 8MP front sensor, B21,000

Ricoh GR Part of the charm of shooting with a proper camera was slapping on a bright, fixed-focal lens and going out for some street photography where you did the framing, not a ring that turns on your lens.

The trend for compacts that can do just that was kicked off by the beloved Fuji x100. Today, we’d recommend the Ricoh GR. It’s got a fixed 28mm equivalent that opens up to f/2.8. It looks as sober as the kind of photography this kind of non-zoom lens allows. And it’s got a massive APS-C sized sensor just like on many mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses.

Ricoh GR: 16.2 MP, APS-C sensor B27,000

Leica Q Take a full-frame sensor and attach it to a fixed 28mm lens that opens all the way to f/1.7 and, voila, you’ve got the craziest, most expensive compact camera ever made. Yes, it sounds a whole lot like the Ricoh GR, but the sensor is that little bit bigger, the lens that little bit brighter. Do note that this “compact“ is 3.3 deep. But, of course, it is a Leica, which is the only real reason to buy this thing.

Leica Q: 24MP, full frame sensor, B142,000

Essentials Ricoh GR, Sony HX90V, Sony RX100 IV Fotofile, 3/F, MBK, Phayathai Rd., 02-620-9200 BTS National Stadium

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Panasonic LX100, LG G4 4/F, Siam Paragon, Rama I Rd., BTS Siam Leica Q 2/F, Gaysorn Plaza, Rachadamri Rd., BTS Chid Lom

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bites & blends COCKTAILS

Go Green One of Bangkok’s first new-wave cocktail lounges, Vesper, is keeping up with the Joneses with the launch of a new menu focusing on botanical-infused cocktails. Scottish bar manager Colin Tait’s latest creations read unlike anything else we’ve seen in town, and taste just as impressive. A Doubting Thomas (B480) is that rarest of beasts—a tea cocktail that actually tastes good, blending lapsang souchong (a smoky black tea from Foujian province) with Ardberg (an even smokier Scotch whiskey), Aperol, sherry and bay leaf. A Thyme to Kill (B420) is alo a great take on the classic negroni, mixing thyme-infused Cointreau with barrel-aged Tanqueray gin and La Quintinye extra dry vermouth. The Campari is served on the side as jelly. In total, there are 14 new drinks ranging from B390-480. Vesper, 10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight; Fri-Sat 5pm-1am. BTS Sala Daeng. www.vesperbar.co

NEW BAR

DEAL

BRUNCH

Second Tap

Finger Lickin’

Sunday Chandon

Less than a year after arriving as a supposed “pop-up” bar on Sukhumvit Soi 23, craft beer joint Craft has landed in a second, permanent location. Craft Silom offers some 20 craft beers on tap from Hopsession, Mikkeller, Evil Twin and Brewdog. Names include Rogue Dead Guy Ale (B220/320 per half-pint/pint), Deschutes Fresh Squeezed IPA (B250/350) and Two Tales Black Ale Draught (B310-410). Joining the Silom branch of whiskey and cigar bar Whisgars, which is also owned by the Hathor Invesment Group, the new spot also offers food as well as some takeaway beers. In more Whisgars news, the bar just unveiled a hidden Victorian cocktail lounge dubbed Belle’s Room. G/F, Holiday Inn Silom, 981 Silom Rd. Open daily noon-midnight

Ruen Mallika, the Thai restaurant situated in traditional teakwood houses on Sukhumvit Soi 22, has a new promotion that encourages diners to eat with their hands. At B1,500/person, the Finger Dining deal gives you a 13-course meal––appetizers, soup, curry, spicy salad, chicken, pork or beef dish, seafood dish, egg dish, vegetable dish and dessert––which includes specialty dishes like chan chue boosaba (deep-fried flowers) and tom kha pla salid (coconut milk spicy soup with dried snakeskin gourami). Rice, sticky rice and rice noodles are all refillable, as well as drinks.

You can also rent traditional dress at B500/person. Note that this deal is valid for a minimum of two people. Reservations required.

Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02-663-3211. Open daily 11am-11pm

Sathorn’s J’aime by Jean-Michel Lorrain is rolling out a new Sunday brunch. The Chandon Sunday brunch offers all-you-can-eat French specialties with premium produce like Alaskan king crabs and traditional Lyon charcuteries from Michel Augier. Dishes include Lorrain’s innovative creations like pan-seared foie gras miso soup, stuffed sous-vide quail with braised garden vegetables and jus brun with tomato water gastrique. You can also expect more comforting dishes like egg yolk confit with fried egg white, cheese fondue and melting pork belly. The brunch runs every Sunday from noon-3pm, priced at B3,999 with free-flow Chandon. Reservations recommended. U Sathorn Bangkok,105 Soi Ngam Duphli, 02-119-4899

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blends TASTE TEST

Bottles on the Wall Can dark rum be enjoyed neat like whiskey?

We put seven brands to a blind taste test. By BK Editorial

Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum (B1,130)

Mount Gay (B777) BK PICK!

The background: What claims to be the oldest rum distillery in Barbados serves a “secret” blend of single and double distilled rum aged for 2-7 years.

The background: Distilled in the US Virgin Islands, this bottle takes its influence from Caribbean rum and incorporates spices from the Far East for a little extra kick.

They say: Full-rounded with notes of flowers and honey on the nose and a taste that’s a little fruity with banana, vanilla, oak and spice notes.

They say: Vanilla, butter oak, cinnamon and ginger on the nose, while the taste is dry and sweet with a long, crisp finish of oak and spice.

We say: The lightest in color. Straight, this just tastes sweet with little depth, and has a slightly platic-y aftertaste.

We say: Pours a nice clear, copper color. Right away you do indeed get smacked with the smell of vanilla and a hint of caramel. The taste is sweet, with a real lack of smokiness meaning it goes down easily—a little too easily.

Verdict: OK if you stick to cocktails.

Verdict: Overly spicy and perfumy, it’s a bit of a guilty pleasure.

El Dorado Dark Rum (B590) The background: Produced in Guyana, this bottle is a lightly aged rum.

They say: Smooth and full-bodied.

We say: Less potent on the nose than others, with a flower-y touch. The taste is sweet with a mouthfeel that hits hard and disappears all too quickly.

Tastes better mixed, but lacks the character.

Verdict: Underwhelming on the rocks. Better as a mojito.

Sangsom (B275) The background: This classic Thai rum is distilled from molasses and aged in charred oak barrels for five years before bottling.

They say: Despite what the haters say, this bottle has performed well on international rating website masterofmalt.com: “The nose is particularly aromatic whilst the flavor is distinctively mellow.”

We say: Our panel’s attempts to pick Sangsom from the unmarked list invariably fail—we’ll put it down to a lack of character on the nose. The taste is rather caramelly but with a very bitter aftertaste.

Verdict: Have no fear, drinking Sangsom on the rocks won’t kill you.

Bacardi 8 Year Old Rum (B1,900)

RUNNER UP

The background: Blended rum that has been aged for at least eight years (and sometimes up to 16).

They say: Fresh and perfumed with notes of oak and peel. The taste, too, is sweet with hints of tropical fruits and spices, plus a gentle finish.

We say: The smell is very floral. There’s a natural, complex sweetness. To taste, it’s like maple syrup, a little sharp and even reminiscent of whiskey. Mixing it with sugar and lime does no favors.

Verdict: Pour it straight, add ice and enjoy.

Captain Morgan Black (B739) The background: Full-bodied blend of pot and continuous still rums from Jamaica, Guyana and Barbados aged in an oak cask.

Ron Zacapa 23 Year Old Rum (TBA)

BK PICK!

The background: A blend of rum from 6-23 years old.

They say: A light mahogany color, this rum is a complex mix between honey, butterscotch, spiced oak and raisin.

We say: The darkest color of the lot, with a woody aroma and full-bodied taste that packs a punch.

It really reminds some of our panel of a gentle, well-aged Speyside whiskey. Full of spice, it’s a bit heavy-going on its own, but definitely works if that’s your thing.

Verdict: Top pick if you’re the cigar bar, no ice kind of drinker.

*All rums were served straight at room temperature. For a second test, we mixed each with ice, one freshly squeezed lime and honey lime syrup.

They say: Dark, rich and distinctive.

We say: The smell hits you almost like bad office coffee. The taste is sweet like maple syrup but with a burnt aftertaste. Mixing it only adds to the confusion.

Verdict: Part post-pubescent hangover, part old man’s pullover—the taste of this one brings up mixed memories in our tasting panel. None of them good.

ON THE BAR Marcel The buzz: Located next to Hanakaruta on the now-swinging Sathorn Soi 10, this new bistro and bar foregoes the formality of a lot of French drinking and dining spots in town. The place is run by a French-Thai couple, Arisa “Pomme” Nakkerd and Louis Brunissen, with more than 10 years’ experience operating a fine-dining restaurant in Paris. Here, they’ve partnered with their friend Ugo Li, who you might know as the quirky-looking model from Sretsis shows.

The decor: This shop-house looks like a black box from the outside with its glass doors at the front and arched windows on the side. The ground floor has a laid-back bar vibe while upstairs has proper dining tables and a semiopen kitchen. The whole place is dimly lit without being overly moody, with the black and white checked floor and dark wood furniture balanced by the walls in different shades of blues and all sorts of plant life.

The music: Pulsing electronic-pop.

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The crowd: An even split between Thais and expats, some of whom arrive well-dressed from their offices in Sathorn and Silom, and other local residents who rock up casually in shorts and flip-flops.

The foods: Downstairs is just as focused on French small plates as it is on cocktails; start with the calamari (B190), which is stir-fried with chorizo and pastis rather than deep-fried, or the beef tartare (B190), which comes with wonderful matchstick French fries. Another pick is the delicious egg parmesan (B240), a poached egg served with bell pepper cream, mushroom and parmesan foam, which has us asking for more and more baguette to soak up the flavor. Also check with your server about any special fish of the day before placing your order; Pomme has ties with an Eastern fisherman’s village (she’s originally from Trad province) so promises an ever-changing daily supply. For upstairs, other mains include chicken breast, lemongrass and grilled egg-

plant served with tomato and onion jam (B480), and salmon wasabi pea puree, cauliflower and baby carrots served with raw fennel salad (B510).

The drinks: The signature cocktails here are all named after late French writers who had a penchant for boozing; try the gin-based Cocteau (B250), which comes with passion fruit, fresh lime and honey garnished with mint leaves, or the Rimbaud (B250), a potent combo of vodka, melon syrup, apple juice and lime (B250). All the classics are here too—margarita, negroni, caipirinha, well-priced at B200270. The wine list is short and easy; choose from the likes of Chateau Jalousie 2012 from Bordeaux (B230/glass, B1,250/bottle) and Pinot Grigio Alto Adige DOC. 2013 (B250/glass, B1,650/bottle). By Vasachol Quadri Sathorn Soi 10, 02-635-3533. Open Tue-Fri 6pm-midnight and Sat-Sun 11:30am-midnight. www.fb.com/ marcelrestaurantbangkok

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bites INGREDIENTS

Best of the Season What you should be eating in Bangkok right now. By Oliver Irvine

A

sk most chefs in Thailand, and they’ll tell you now is really not a good time to be sourcing locally grown ingredients. The soil is parched and then flooded. But there are a few gems that are at their finest right now. Here, some of Bangkok’s top chefs tell us their favorite foods of the season. And what they’re doing with them.

Bo.lan

Nahm

C H E F / OW N E R DY L A N JONES “This is what we call fruit season. We’re utilizing lychee in our amuse bouche with a cashew nut relish. There’s also a lot of sala (snake-skin pear), which has an apricot-like flesh which we’re using in our kanom, nam prik plate and curries. Fruits like longans and rambutans are all going in our desserts, too.”

Eat this: Ocean prawn salad with snake-skin pear, served as part of the Bo.lan Balance Set (B2,680) “You’ll also find sour leaves like bai makrok. We’re using that in a single plate dish—nam prik lang luang—as well as for garnish on our nam prik plate and our amuse plate.”

Eat this: Bo.lan amuse bouche, served before all set dinners.

24 Sukhumvit Soi 53, 02-260-2961. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-11am; Thu-Sun noon-2:30pm. BTS Thong Lo. www.bolan.co.th

Opposite CHEF/OWNER JESS BARNES “It’s fucking hot and wet, the soil is parched and then it gets flooded. But there is a local mushroom called hed tup tao available which is considered the Thai porcini. Ton from Le Du put me onto it. Adams Organics (02-234-6523) is now also producing western kale which is great.”

Eat this: Smoked burrata, kale and bottarga (B450) 2/F, 27/1 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-662-6330.

BTS Thong Lo. Open daily 6:30-11pm

HEAD CHEF PRIN POLSUK “In the rainy season I think a lot about shoots and leaves, like tamarind leaves and hok plam leaves—a lot of the leaves we use don’t have specific names in English. There’s a sourness that comes in the rainy season; tamarind, kaffir lime, Asian citron, young galangal, young ginger, ginger leaves. These leaves can be really hard to buy on the street or in restaurants, so we grow them upstairs.”

Eat this: Pork and lobster with shredded ginger and Thai citron (B400); green mango salad with grilled pork and sour leaves (B590)

Eat this: Eggplant caviar salad (eggplant, cooked and blended with olive oil, topped with needle beans), served as part of the degustation menu (B3,500) “The peaches are also still here. Royal Projects is developing many types that are suitable for this time of year. They’re a little bit firmer but very fragrant and with strong flavor. We make them into peach melba, turning the peach into a gel, as well as slicing them thinly like a carpaccio, served with raspberry, strawberry and vanilla cream, finished with wild sorrel.

Eat this: Peach melba, served as part of the degustation menu (B3,500) 68 Sukhumvit Soi 31, 02-102-2323. Open daily 6:3011pm. www.astonbkk.com BTS Thong Lo

“This is also the time for wild mushrooms. They’re quite earthy, so local people use them in curries with a lot of spice and sour leaves to cover the earthy taste and balance it out.”

Eat this: Wild mushroom and ginger soup (B280); salad of wild mushroom with grilled prawns and chili jam (B620) G/F, Metropolitan Hotel, 27 Sathorn Rd., 02-625-3388.

Open daily 7-10:30pm; Mon-Fri noon-2pm

Aston Dining Room

Le Du CHEF/OWNER THITID TASSANAKAJOHN “Now is really the best season for mushrooms! I’m using them a lot right now, especially earthstar mushroom (hed por). It has a unique, earthy flavor and crunchy texture—very flavorful!”

Eat this: Tiger prawn, winged bean, red onion, poached farm egg, earthstar mushroom (B600)

CHEF/OWNER ZRA JIRATH

399/3 Silom Soi 7, 092-919-9969. Open Mon-Sat 6-11pm. www.ledubkk.com

“Right now I’m using needle beans. They’re grown by the Royal Projects when it’s hot and wet. I compose them into salads: boil them, put in ice water to keep their crispness and color, or juice them and mix with a little bit of vegetable stock. When boiled you can just toss with vinaigrette and they go very well with creamy ingredients like ricotta, fetta, goat cheese and foie gras terrine.”

CALENDAR When and where to shop for some of the Royal Projects’ best produce.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

organic lemongrass (Jun-Sep)

plums (Apr-May)

okra (Aug-Sep)

tumeric (Mar-Jun)

baby corn (Aug-Sep)

artichoke (Jan-May)

grapes (Nov-Feb)

kumquat (Sep-Oct)

gooseberry (Jul-Sep)

peas (Nov-Mar)

Japanese apricots (Mar-Apr)

white asparagus (Aug-Oct) potatoes (Jan-Apr)

peaches (Mar-May)

persimmon (Jul-Sep) avocado (Jul-Sep)

mango (May-Jul)

kiwi (Aug-Sep)

grapefruit (Oct)

mulberry (Mar-Apr)

strawberries (Nov-Mar)

Shops in Bangkok Or Tor Kor Market (Kamphaeng Phet Rd., 02-2791551)

Bon Marche Market (105/1 Tedsabarn Songkroh Rd., 02-158-0673)

The Old Siam (Tri Phet Rd., 02-225-0623)

Kasetsart University (50 Ngamwongwarn Rd.)

Future Park Rangsit (Phahon yothin Rd., 02-9855925)

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6/22/15 5:15 PM

bites

OPEN DOOR

Crab and Claw A New England-style seafood joint that highlights premium, sustainable ingredients.

The buzz: Since its opening night, Crab and Claw has been one of the most-talked-about restaurants in Emquartier’s Helix food zone, with photos of lobsters, lobster rolls and bibs lighting up Instagram and other social platforms. The restaurant is a collaboration between Hawaiian chef Colin Stevens (former executive chef of Centara Karon Resort and All Seasons Naiharn Phuket) and restaurateur Ployparn Markawat (The Local and Naj), and specializes in the kind of seafood dishes you’d usually enjoy sitting by the shore in Maine, USA. The decor: The raw concrete-dominated space sets the stage for the food with its bright wall paintings of lobster ships trawling the sea, big orange crabs and other underwater critters, photos of oyster farms, ropes, cast nets and rods lying alongside.

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The assorted wooden and tolix chairs with veneer tables keep the vibe casual enough for diners to don bibs and bang lobsters with hammers.

The food and drinks: This restaurant emphasizes two main things: quality ingredients and authentic New England flavors.

Live lobsters are imported daily from Maine in limited quantities and presented in a range of styles: steamed and served with drawn butter, grilled with garlic and butter (both B1,800 for 600-700g; B2,600 for 900-1,200g), baked in organic uni (sea urchin) butter, topped with uni and flying fish roe (B2,200 for 600-700g; B3,000 for 900-1,200g) and in a fresh chilled lobster roll (B950) served in buttered house-made bread and without the slathering of mayo you find elsewhere. The other produce is

just as impressive, including at least six rotating oysters sourced from sustainable locations in the USA, France and Ireland. The highlight is arguably the big Irish premium oysters (B170/piece) which take three to five years of raising. Other picks include the pasta uni-ara (squid ink pasta made in-house with cheese, uni butter, uni sauce and fresh uni, B480), uni crostini (B320) and New England clam chowder (B220).

Why you should care: Lobster is an expensive delicacy around these parts, but Crab and Claw delivers if you’re after premium seafood that’s not only fresh but also organic and sustainable.

Natcha Sanguankiattichai

7/F, The Helix Quartier, EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 095-564-5422. BTS Phrom Phong

BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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6/19/15 7:53 PM

Clik

TABLE TALK The Mud 26

Clik

G/F, Boulevard Tower A, Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-160-0311. Open 6am-midnight

NEW AND NOTED

Grill it Yourself At The Mud 26 (32 Ladprao Soi 26, 081-822-1143, www.fb.com/ themud26), every table comes with a tabletop charcoal brazier so you can grill your own fresh seafood amid an American barn-style setting. The highlight is the XL Sea Platter (B999), comprising a 30cm-long giant squid tentacle, Japanese scallops and freshwater prawns. Finish your meal with a classic campfire dessert of s’mores (chocolate and toasted marshmallow between crackers, B80).

A Click Away New fusion restaurant Clik (25/10 Soi Sukhumvit 16, 090-9840840, clikthailand.com) promises healthy dishes from across Asia with a few Western touches. Chef Clement Ng, who formerly owned Singapore’s Just Eden, serves up sandwiches like the sai oua (Chiang Mai sausage) croissant (B175), salads like the minced pork and basil (B160) and a variety of cream-

All Six To Twelve Cafe & Social Bar @ Sukhumvit 39

less soups (B120). Get cozy with warm cup of rose fusion tea (B90/cup, B180/pot) and enjoy the relaxed, environmentally-friendly decor.

Viva La Vida

Thonglor’s newest retro bar and restaurant, Viva 21 (387 Sukhumvit Soi 55, 02-712-8184. www.fb.com/VivaThonglor21), is a collaboration between the team behind riverside haunt Viva & Aviv and chef Tim Butler (Eat Me, #7 in our Top Tables 2015), who helped craft the menu. The decor goes heavy on the leather and wood while the kitchen is helmed by Spanish chef Guillermo Carnicero, who serves fusion fare like spicy pork belly with mango salad (B550), wild salmon gravlax (B550) and Wagyu steak tartare nam tok (B550). Cocktails include Lost Star (Tanqueray gin, blue curacao, star fruit, B280) served with white egg with cream and caviar, and Al Capone (Hennessy, Scotch whiskey, Irish whiskey, Grand Marnier, honey and lemon, B320).

This second venue of All Six to Twelve is a really handsome industrial spot boasting a bare concrete floor, wooden beams, rustic walls decorated with newspaper and corrugated iron bars. The place offers n interesting a la carte breakfast dishes like smoked salmon scrambled eggs, fusion dishes like pad Thai moo mantou (stir-fried pork with pad Thai condiments on steamed bun, B160) and the Shanghai Burger (Chinese-style stir-fried pork burger, B165), and a long list of drinks ready to take the edge off after a hard day at work.

Signature cocktails include the Apollo-Landing (gin, Malibu, strawberry liqueur, strawberry syrup, strawberry milk, B280) and Hell Boy (Hell’s blue boy syrup, mango vodka, peach liqueur, lime, passion fruit, B280).

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit cardmembers.

Get 10% discount on food only when spend 1,000 Baht or more on food /sales slip (Today – 31 Dec 2015)

Lalita Kittisrikangwan

To redeem your favorite dining vouchers, please visit www.citirewards.com.

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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6/22/15 5:19 PM

bites & blends market + Events

Kyushu Food Fair Shop for food and produce from Kyushu region, Japan this Jun 25-Jul 5 at Isetan.

5/F, CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd., 02-255-9898. BTS Chit Lom

Farmers’ Market

Bangkok Farmers’ Market The weekend foodies market pops up in two locations this weekend.

Jun 27-28, 10am-8pm.

Gateway Ekkamai, 982/22 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-108-2888 The Jam Factory, 41/1-5 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-861-0950

Urban Eatery This foodie market promises international dishes, mini cafes, handicrafts, clothing, home decor and more in a vintage garden atmosphere.

This weekend, there’s a new zone for drinks with activities like beer pong and drinking contests which stays open till 11pm. Jun 26-28, 10am-10pm.

K Village, Sukhumvit Soi 26

Bangkok Wine Expo 2015 On Jul 10 from 6pm, Dusit Thani hosts the annual wine expo with more than 15 wineries presenting their bottles. Tickets are priced at B1,400 which includes food and wine tasting. Advanced booking is required via 081-584-5995 (Opal) or napaphanwinecellar@gmail.com Dusit Thani, 946 Rama 4 Rd., 02-200-9000.

MRT Silom

Food Deals Build Your Own Burger Barsu lets you personalize your 200g wagyu beef or chicken burger, starting at B440 with a free drink.

Advertise your business with us ­ starting from B6,000

250 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-649-8358. BTS Asok

Saturday Dinner Roast Every Sat from 3-9pm, come-fourpay-two on the dinner buffet priced at B790 at The Huntsman Pub.

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

B/F, Landmark, 138 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-2540404

Cocktails & Kebabs Charcoal offers an all-you-can-eat brunch at B625 with a welcome glass of Martini Prosecco. Kids get fifty-percent discount with pool access and towel. Seafood and free-flow bubbles option is priced at B999.

Senor Pico

Spring Epicurean Market A community market devoted to good food featuring a line-up of local artisans and vendors including Joe Sloane’s sausages and Conkey’s breads with a space for kids and live music. Jun 28, 8am-1pm.

5/F, Fraser Suites, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 089307-1111. BTS Nana

Drink Deals

Spring Summer, 199 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-392-2747

Luis Felipe Edwards Wine Dinner On Jun 25, Senor Pico does a fivecourse dinner paired with Latin American wines at B1,500/person with a live Mexican band.

1/F, Rembrandt Hotel, 19 Sukhumvit Soi 18, 02-261-7100

Mixo

Wine Down Friday Every Fri from 7-9pm, Mixo offers free-flow wine and tapas at B600/ person. Come five-pay-four till Jul 31.

Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 Sathorn Rd., 02-6240000

Missed the guide?

Visit BKmagazine.com/TopTables2015

Female Friday Every Fri from 7-8pm, ladies get free sparkling, vodka and gin at Party House One. From 8pm, cocktails are B150 net.

Siam @ Siam 865 Rama 1 Rd., 02-217-3000

Mikkeller

4th of July Mikkeller throws a garden party on Jul 4 with a barbecue by chef Dan Bark, four special beer taps and two draught cocktails from Mikropolis.

26 Ekkamai Soi 10 Yaek 2, 02-381-9891

New Venues Frozen Bride CentralWorld welcomes an Italian-style gelato parlor.

7/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd.,

Harrods Cafe and Ice Cream Parlour For its Emquartier outlet, Harrods has rolled out something different.

G/F, Emquartier, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-0036424. BTS Phrom Phong

THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 30

Find out more at www.chope.co/toptables

BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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6/22/15 5:20 PM

bites FOOD REVIEWS

Smokin’ Pug HHHH Barbecue. 88 Surawong Rd., 083-029-7598. Open daily 5pm-midnight. BBB. H F

After opening at the start of 2015, Smokin’ Pug didn’t take long to catch the attention of Bangkok’s craft-beer-swilling, industrialAmericana devotees. Even now, on a Tuesday night, we can spot the odd face from Made by Legacy and craft mixology consultants amid the crowd of wizened American expats and affluent-looking office types. We’re glad, because these people would do well to take a note out of Smokin’ Pug’s cocktail menu, all of which is under B300 without any tax or service added—and as far as taste goes, we don’t see where the compromise is.

The whiskey sour (B275) is made with Wild Turkey Kentucky bourbon, poured generously, while Dana’s Choice (B270) mixes Maker’s Mark with fresh ginger and ginger ale. Both taste delicious and match well with the smoky barbecue food. A fullrack of baby back ribs will set you back B825 (half-rack B575), and believe them

Osha HHHH Thai. 99 Wireless Rd., 02-256 - 6555. BTS Ratchadamri. Open daily 11am-2:30pm, 6pm-midnight. BB-BBBB. F E

Osha is a famous chain of five Thai restaurants in San Francisco that’s been around for 17 years. Late last year, its owners, who are Thai, decided it was time to open a venue in Bangkok, causing quite a buzz with their B1,500 version of the humble pad krapao (more on that later).

The kitchen is helmed by Thaninthorn Chantrawan, aka Chef Noom of the TV show Iron Chef, whose modern Thai cuisine is occasionally brilliant, but at times disastrous. It’s particularly difficult to forgive the restaurant’s treatment of Thai staples like the aforementioned krapao, dubbed the Volcanic Beef (seared wagyu beef stirfried with king basil, chili-jam and a slowcooked egg yolk, B1,500), and tom yam goong (Thai spicy soup with prawns, B400).

The former lacks both taste and style. The Kagoshima wagyu beef might be good in itself, but it’s served in a pre-prepared jam

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.

when they tell you it’s “enough for two.”

The meat is tender without being too fatty, and glides from the bone with a little lubrication from a sweet and smoky, house-made barbecue sauce. The pulledpork chili (B365) is equally amazing, and like the ribs comes served with a hefty and delicious chunk of cornbread. The same meat used in the pulled-pork sandwich (B350) doesn’t quite match the tenderness of the ribs, but it’s not bad. Mix in plenty of sauce (of the three options, we recommend sticking to the Kansas City), ’slaw and a good dollop of smoky beans and you’ve got a tasty package, even if the bun is below the standard of this city’s finest. But there are issues. The macaroni and cheese is a monotonous stodge with little flavor once you’ve skinned the gratin off the top, while our banana cream pie dessert (B295) tastes like someone forgot to add any sugar. None of this would ever stop us going back, however. Compared to neighboring American barbecue places like Roadhouse, Smokin’ Pug is in a different league—tastier, similarly priced and with infinitely more charm. Special mention has to go to the two owners who, without a spare seat in the house, give each table their personal attention, pour cocktails themselves and ensure dishes fly from the kitchen. For this and and many other reasons—the slide-guitar soundtrack, the huge portions, the free -f low homemade potato chips—eating at Smokin’ Pug is a joy.

that tastes like a non-descript sweet chili sauce. It falls a long way short of some of the highly aromatic and piquant stir-fries you can get all over town. We were also disappointed to see the king basil leaves smothered in a thick layer of flour. The tom yam, meanwhile, is a massive example of style over substance which sees liquid infusions of galangal, lemongrass and kaffir lime poured through a coffee syphon into a tiny bowl at your table. The results are nothing short of bland. We also have a lovehate relationship with the kao klong (steamed organic brown rice in coconut shell, B120)—the aroma is nice, but the young coconut makes some of the rice too mushy. There are a number of innovative dishes that Osha gets right, though, like the pad Thai chai ya (stir-fried noodles with salted egg and king prawns, B450) which bursts with sweet and sour flavors. The salted egg yolk is perfection, too. The spicy ice cream sauce that comes with the Dancing King Prawn (prawn ceviche with chili-cilantro granite, B380) is also a tangy hit, while the aromatic duck spring rolls (spiced duck confit in rice paper smoked with roasted coconut shell along with ginger and plum dipping sauce, B450) add a nice Thai touch to Peking duck. Another red meat dish, the spicy beef salad (B850), gets it just right too: nicely seared with the juiciness of well-marbled beef. When Osha’s not trying too hard, some of its flavors just about merit their lofty price tags, but we’d definitely steer clear of the more high-blown offerings.

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

BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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6/22/15 7:00 PM

now SAT Parisian House Veteran French DJ and producer Dimitri from Paris plays his blend of disco, R&B, electro and house at the speakeasy-themed club The Vault (34 Sukhumvit Soi 11) this Saturday Jun 27 as part of Sukhumvit Soi 11’s launch of The District DJ Festival, which will feature over 30 DJs. One of the first DJs of the "French touch" wave (Daft Punk, Air, Bob Sinclair), Dmitri will spin from from 10pm onwards. B1,000 tickets (one free drink) are still available at the door.

FRI Art and About Bangkok art junkies’ favorite event is back this Friday, Jun 26. The Mid Year Gallery Hopping Night this time gathers together 12 of the hottest art spaces along the Chao Phraya River, each of which will stay open later and offer a variety of special events. The self-guided tour starts from 5pm, and continues all the way through midnight.

For more details on participating spaces and a suggested route, see our guide, page 34.

ADVERTORIAL

VESPER’S BOOK OF BOTANICALS: A COCKTAIL ODYSSEY

DIAGEO WORLD CLASS FINAL AND BAR SHOW 2015

Martina Breznanova @ Woo Bar

Charles Joly @ Hyde & Seek

Having recently announced Thailand’s four top bartenders to attend the Southeast Asia stage of the Diageo World Class competition at The Emquartier on July 2, Diageo will offer a sneak peek into proceedings by hosting a guest bartender night.

For the first time in Bangkok, Diageo World Class will bring in internationally-renowned mixologists from award-winning bars around the world to shake and stir up their creative cocktails at some of the city’s best bars over two nights, Jun 29 and Jul 1.

Jun 29, 8:30pm: The night starts at W Hotel’s Woo Bar, which will welcome Slovakian mixologist Martina Brenanova, who has spent five years behind the bar at Nightjar in London. The glamorous venue was rated 2nd Best Bar in the World by Drinks International in 2013 and nominated for World’s Best Cocktails Menu at the Tales of the Cocktails of the same year. Meanwhile, Hyde & Seek Gastro Bar will host Chicago native Charles Joly, the Global World Class Bartender of the Year 2014. Joly also co-founded Crafthouse Cocktails in 2013, for which he was awarded the World’s Best Cocktails Menu at the Tales of the Cocktails 2014. Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok will open its doors to Tim Philips, the Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year 2012 who currently works at one of Australian’s best cocktail institutions,

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BK Magazine Friday, June 26, 2015

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BK Now_595_Jun26_15_6.indd 32

Jeff Bell @ Vesper

Tim Philips @ Bamboo Bar

Bulletin Place. And finally, Silom cocktail institution Vesper will welcome New York-based mixologist Jeff Bell from the famed PDT Bar. Bell has over a decade’s experience in bartending and is perhaps best known for being named one of Zagat’s 30 under 30 for New York City and Diageo World Class American Bartender of the Year, both in 2013.

Jul 1: As if the first night wasn’t enough, here five bartending teams behind five of the region’s best bars will take over five of their Bangkok counterparts under the theme The Hijack Night. The lineup starts with Vesper, which will host the Tippling Club from Singapore; luxury semi-rooftop hangout Vogue Lounge will be the setting for Taipei’s Alchemy Bar; Lady Brett on Sathorn Soi 12 will be hijacked

by Manila’s Ninerlchi Nana; long-standing cocktail institution Hyde & Seek still opens its doors to Bali’s renowned Potato Head; and finally The St. Regis Hotel will be the spot for a showdown between Zuma Hong Kong and Zuma Bangkok.

That’s not all for one of Bangkok’s first new-wave cocktail lounges. Initially launched on Jun 2, Vesper’s new list of 14 cocktails inspired by specific botanicals features both well-known and lesser known ingredients. Scottish bar manager Colin Tait’s impressive creations include A Doubting Thomas (B480), which is that rarest of beasts—a tea cocktail that actually tastes good, blending lapsang souchong (a smoky black tea from Foujian province) with Ardberg (an even smokier Scotch whiskey), Aperol, sherry and bay leaf. Also, A Thyme to Kill (B420) is a great take on the classic negroni, mixing thyme-infused Cointreau with barrel-aged Tanqueray gin and La Quintinye extra dry vermouth. The Campari is served completely separately as jelly.

Try now at Vesper Cocktail Bar & Restaurant, 10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight and Fri-sat 5pm-1am. BTS Sala Daeng

Experience these special nights with some of the world’s best bartenders around Bangkok on Jun 29 and Jul 1 from 8:30pm onwards, ahead of the Southeast Asia World Class Finals 2015 the day after. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ worldclassthailand

6/19/2558 BE 6:08 PM

6/19/15 8:00 PM

now the stage with his Spanish guitar at 10pm. Reserve your seats in advance at 099-918-1600. Through Jun 28, 8pm. The Iron Fairies, 404 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-714-8875.

SAT Primal Scream Live RCA (next to Tops Supermarket, Rama 9 Rd.) this week plays host to Primeval Music Festival. A collaboration between underground organizers So::On Dry Flower, Dubway and L.a.a.w., the festival will feature a lineup of international and local live electronic noise-makers. The party kicks off this Jun 27 at 5pm, with drinks and a barbecue available on-site. Expect chin-stroking performances by Oake (Germany), Ena (Japan), Dragon, Koichi Shimizu and Highlag, plus lots of exciting collaborations between local acts till late.

B400 entry, with one free Pistonhead Lager.

SUNDAY LIVE

Somkiat Daniel Castrellon

THU Beyond Bangkok So, it’s pretty rainy in Bangkok—all the more reason to seek out some bargain low-season deals elsewhere around Thailand. Due to increasing popularity, the 35th Thai Teaw Thai Fair will take place in an even bigger space at BITEC (88 Bang Na-Trat Rd. BTS Bang Na) this Jul 2-5, with booths from resorts around the country, tour operators, low-cost airlines, spa packages, transport companies and experience organizers. Tip: check out the exhibitors’ list in advance at www.thaiteawthaiplaza.com.

GIGS WILDERNESS - VALLSUNDET 1924

The album release party for the Stockholm-based indie pop group, with performances by local indie acts Aerolips, Hariguem Zaboy and Lala.

Tickets only available at the door. Jun 26, 9pm. The Beer Cap, RCA Block C, 21/66 Soi Soonvijai, Rama 9 Rd., 02-641-4544. B200 (one free drink).

BETTY FOLKS BANGKOK

A mini folk music festival featuring artists Gabriel Lynch, Soranut Masayavanich, Ben Edwards, Jeff Baker, Eico and Alex Sypsomos, plus local craft beers by Uppercut Brews and live art by Joe Delaney on the night. Also coincides with the launch of John Will Sail's debut solo album, The City Sea. Jun 27, 8pm. Bangkok Betty, G/F, Holiday Inn, 1 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 02663-4223. Free. BTS Phrom Phong.

Red Bull Thre3style

NIGHTLIFE SINGLE FRIDAYS CELEBRATE TOGETHER

The launch of the very first Single Friday event in Bangkok, to be held on the last Friday of the month, in collaboration with B-Concept Media Entertainment Group, aiming to connect people in different cities to the latest trends, brands, luxury properties and destinations, plus high quality entertainment and music. Tickets available www.ezy-go.com. Jun 26, 9pm. AmBar Bangkok, 4 Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02-309-3288. B500 (one free Smirnoff Ice and free B300 for new Uber users).

BERLIN BEATS PRES. MODELMAKER LABEL NIGHT

British DJ James What makes his Bangkok debut at this month's Berlin Beats party, with local support from Sarayu. Jun 26, 10pm. Glow, 96/45 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B400 (one free drink).

MRT Sukhumvit.

VERTIGO

Superstar Panda, Andrea Settesoldi and Charlie Kwenta play deep and underground techno sets in this new party at the Ekkamai party spot. Jun 26, 10pm. Dark Bar, 2/F, Ekamai Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10. 02-381-9896. B100.

SOUL SHOTS

Uplifting rare soul, funk and deep jazz setlists by DJs Mike 'The Butcher' Allin, NK Chan, Maft Sai and Masa Niwayama. Jun 27, 9pm. Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-261-6661.

B200. BTS Thong Lo. PHATFUNK 5TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY

In celebration of the drum n' bass night's anniversary, the team is bringing in special guest DJ RoyGreen from Austria to headline the night till late.

Local support by the crew's resident DJs, plus live visuals by VJ Gorb. Jul 3, 9pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-261-3007, 02-261-4446. B450 (one free drink). MRT Sukhumvit.

RED BULL THRE3STYLE THAILAND 2015

Bangkok's final round of the global DJ competition features performances by local DJs Spydamonkee, Dragon, Maiam, Nutty, Tnt, Bomber Selecta, Zlexii and Jedie. Each will pick at least three genres of music to spin during their 15-minute set. Jul 4, 8:30pm. Route 66, RCA, 02-203 0936. B300.

A live gig at the new Silom bar, featuring Wasabi Bytes, Max White & the Voodoo Chicken and Alex Sypsomos. Jun 28, 5pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. B100. BTS Chong Nonsi. #BEERBODS SPACE: COLLECTIVE GIGS AND GIGGLES

MY HERO

Live concert organizer Get out from the Encircle returns with an indie band lineup of Somkiat, Tabasco's, Electric.Neon.Lamp, Gym and Swim and Blues Tape. They'll be doing covers of their fave international and local bands. Jun 27, 6pm. Play Yard by Studio Bar, Lad Phrao Soi 8, 081-1733616. B350 (one free drink).

Local bands Follows, Hariguem Zaboy, New Mandarin and DJ Sokoke at I'm Park Chula's niche cafe. First 50 guests get a complimentary shot. Jul 4, 7:30pm. High Thyme Cafe, 3/F, I'm Park Samyan, Chulalongkorn Soi 22, 02-214-4221. B350 (one free draught beer).

SWEET, SWEET SONIC

The album launch concert for the Thai indie band, with special guests Free Typewriter and Monomania. Tickets are available now through bank transfer at on.fb.me/1J4hoMK. Limited band T-shirts available for sale, designed by Sahred Toy. Jul 11, 8pm.

Mongkol RCA Studio, 3/F, RCA Plaza (Same building as Tops Supermarket and House Rama RCA), Rama 9 Rd., 081-911-6541. B500.

A night of alternative rock by Bangkok-based acts, featuring Jay, Panic Station, Superhans, Degaruda and Screwdriver. Jun 27, 8pm. The Beer Cap, RCA Block C, 21/66 Soi Soonvijai, Rama 9 Rd., 02-641-4544. B200 (one free drink).

THE SPIRIT OF THE GYPSIES FEAT. CLARK BERGER

The establishment's new resident act, Signe Krog & Hvetter, kicks off the night, with the international Flamenco-classical guitarist taking over

Machine Head

CONCERTS & MUSIC FESTIVALS ONE LOVE... ALWAYS

The legendary Thai folk singer Pu Pongsit performs an intimate concert for his fans, promising his most well-known love songs across the decades plus his latest single featuring Boom Boom Cash. Tickets at www.allticketthailand. com. Doors open 30 minutes before the show. Jun 2728, 2pm, 7pm. Siam Pikanet Theater, 7/F, Siam Square One, Rama 1 Rd. B1,000-2,000. BTS Siam.

MACHINE HEAD LIVE IN BANGKOK

The veteran heavy metal band from Oakland are on an extended world tour this second half of the year, making stops in Japan, Taiwan and Thailand. This will be their debut live show in Bangkok. B1,800 tickets also available at the door. Jul 8, 8:30pm. Centerpoint Studio Thailand, 9, 11 Sukhumvit Soi 105, 02-361-9229. B1,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

GANGSTAR PARADISE

The first 4Element hip-hop culture festival in Bangkok brings together local acts from across the community's spectrum. Expect B-boy and street dance shows, live MCs, rap battles, live DJs and improv jams through midnight.

B300 tickets come with three Singha light. Jun 28, 3pm.

JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-331-5657-8.

B200-300. BTS Mo Chit.

INSPIRATIVE: MYSTERIOUSLY AWAKE

Purbayan Chatterjee

and Indian jazz fusion. Tickets can be used for a special buffet dinner at Pathummat International Restaurant. Part of the proceeds go to Sirindhorn Craniofacial Center. Jun 29, 7:30pm. The Sukosol, 477 Sri Ayutthaya Rd., 02-2470123. B500 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Phaya Thai.

POW! FEST

Parinam Music's first official mini-music festival at Live House BKK features guest artists from indie labels like Smallroom and Panda Records. The lineup includes electronic pop act Gym & Swim, Slur, The Fin, Summer Dress, Seal Pillow, Aire, Hariguem Zaboy, Wave and So, Fwends and Safe Planet. Early bird tickets at B500 through Jun 30.

Jul 4, 4pm. JJ Green, 110/46 Lad Phrao Soi 18, 086-3315657-8. B500-700 from Thaiticketmajor. BTS Mo Chit.

BIG BANG 2015 WORLD TOUR [MADE] IN BANGKOK

The R&B K-pop boys make a return to Bangkok after three years, and VIP tickets are already sold out for both shows.

Expect songs from their earlier years like "Lies" and "Last Farewell" along with their latest hits like "Fantastic Baby," "Blue" and "Bad Boy." Jul 11, 7pm; Jul 12, 4pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455.

B1,500-8,500 from Thaiticketmajor.

INDIAN CLASSICAL AND FUSION CONCERT

World-renowned sitar artist Purbayan Chatterjee, Bangladeshi singer Joyeta Choudhury and young tabla performer Rupak Battacharjee take the stage for a night of classical

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now HIGHLIGHT Mid-Year Gallery-Hopping Night

HIGHLIGHT Thai Indie Bookstores Week Events (Jun 26-Jul 2)

What to expect and where to get your creative fix this Jun 26 when galleries will stay open from 5pm till late. Food and drinks will be available at some participating venues. Here is the full lineup (pack an umbrella).

Candide Books

Rice is Life

BOOKBURI

HOUSE OF COMMONS CAFE & SPACE

PASSPORT BOOKSHOP

On Jun 27, meet with acclaimed authors Tomorn Sookprecha, Sarinee Achavanuntakul, Kamin Kamani and Prachakorn Lunachai at Bookburi’s The Immortal Book Talk. The discussion topic is “How Reading Can Change the World” and the talk will take place from 2:30pm-5pm. Book your seat at 081-649-2214.

Over in Khlong San, this cafe and bookstore is offering special promotions throughout the period. Spending B500 on books will get you a 50-percent discount on drinks, B800 earns you a free bag and B1,000 gets you both a free bag and a free drink.

In addition, House of Commons will also be hosting a Ceramic Workshop this Jun 28 as part of their monthlong event, “Art of Handmade”. Admission for the workshop is B1,200.

Passport Bookshop, a hidden gem in Phra Nakorn, invites readers to participate in its weeklong event akin to a book swap. The store will provide three baskets of books from which passersby are welcome to pick and choose a book each, free of charge.

Book donations are also welcome. In addition, Jun 28 will be the launch of the Thai version of Sinclair Lewis’s satirical classic Main Street, along with an opportunity to meet the editor and translator.

102/3 Krungkasem Rd., Bangkhunprom, Phra Nakorn, 02-282-4916

Paused Dreams

Song Without Word

Zone 1 plied Arts, Jirapat Pitpreecha, Kritsana Just opened on Jun 20, Rice is Life by Chaikitwattana and Adivit AnsathamBurmese artist Aung Kyaw Htet takes marat. the audience through the process of Opening hours: 6pm-11pm rice plantation through to harvest, and Through Jun 30. 919/1 Silom Soi 19. depicts how it relates to religious and KATHMANDU PHOTO GALLERY non-religious contexts in Myanmar.

The photography-focused studio presOpening hours: 5pm-7pm ents Paused Dreams, an exhibition Through Jul 18. 4/F, JTC Jewelry Trade Center,

by British-Thai photographer Cattleya 919/1 Silom Rd. www.thavibu.com Jaruthavee that brings to light stories ARTERY POST MODERN GALLERY of girls working along the Thai-Laos The current exhibition is Song Without border.

Word, featuring a series of abstract Opening hours: 6pm-11pm artworks by artists from Chulalongkorn Through Jun 28. 87 Pan Rd. BTS Surasak University’s Faculty of Fine and ApTHAVIBU GALLERY

Passport Bookshop

ZEROBOOKS AND STUDIO DIALOGUE SHOP

Zerobooks and Studio Dialogue Shop presents Dialogue 01 Wrong Design + Folder Architecture Journal this Jun 27. Kornmaipol Sirimongkolrujikul, a book cover designer from Wrongdesign house, will be leading a discussion about the relationship between graphic design and publishing. Those interested in architecture can join a talk with the figures behind Folder Architecture Journal, a publication dedicated to understanding and exploring Thai architecture.

The event begins at 1pm, and is free of charge.

Beside Chulalongkorn’s Faculty of Architecture, Phayathai Rd., 089-144-5029

664 Charoennakorn Rd., 082-983-8099, www.fb.com/HOCSpace

MAHUNA BOOKS ET CETERA

Book Bazaar will take place on Jun 27 from noon-7pm at Aree Garden’s cozy Mahuna Books Et Cetera.

The event will exhibit 10 publishing houses and feature a talk with two writers who have both received S.E.A. Write Awards, Naowarat Pongpaiboon and Rewat Punpipat. There will also be a variety of activities such as book swaps and sales, so bring your fellow book-loving friends along.

62 Rama 6 Soi 30, Samsennai, 085-9037371, 02-278-0944

523 Prasumeru Rd., 02-629-0694

CANDIDE BOOKS

The Read Nobel Prize Winning Writers’ Books event will be held at Candide Books, The Jam Factory’s charming bookstore in Khlong San. Candide presents the chance to meet with literary scholar Assoc. Prof Threesil Boonkajorn and writer/critic Sakul Booyatad in an intimate, afternoon tea party setting. The event is held in collaboration with Nanmeebooks, and will take place on Jun 27, at 4:30pm-6pm. For more information, call 02-861-0967.

4/14 The Jam Factory, Charoen Nakhon Rd.

Other bookstores participating in Thai Independent Bookstores Week include: Ton Mai Teen Doi (online bookstore), BookTime (Pinklao), Bookmoby (BACC), Book Sky (King Mongkut’s University of Technology, Thonburi), Mali Mali Book Cafe (Rat Burana 33), Maew Thai Bookstore (Don Mueang), Readery (online bookstore), Rimkhobfa Books (Democracy Monument), Steel Roses Book Club (Bang Na), Suan Ngern Mee Ma (Fuang Nakorn Rd.), Suksit Siam (Fuang Nakorn Rd.), 10000 Tip Book (Phahon Yothin).

The third annual Thai Independent Bookstore Week’s closing event will take place at Kummnum Cafe in Nakhon Prathom on Jun 28.

The Pa-O People

8pm. Democrazy Theatre Studio, 1034/29-30 Soi Saphankhu, Rama 4, 089-126-7112, 081-441-5718. B490.

MRT Lumphini.

ACCORDING TO MARGUERITE DURAS Womb: The Art of Fabrics

Impossible to Imagine

Zone 2 ARTHA GALLERY

The Southeast Asian contemporary art gallery, situated behind the French Embassy, exhibits works by the young generation of artists from Burma, Vietnam and Thailand. Currently on show is The Pa-O People by Than Kyaw Htay.

Opening hours: 6pm-11pm 1236 Charoenkrung Soi 67. 090-310-0257

ATTA GALLERY

Through Jun 27. OP Garden, Charoenkrung Soi 36. BTS Saphan Taksin

THEATER & OPERA THE SNOW DRAGON

SERINDIA GALLERY

Thai artist Ploenchan “Mook” Vinyaratn, graduate of London’s Central Saint Martins college, opens her first solo textile exhibition at 6:30pm. Womb: The Art of Fabrics combines mixed media elements, hand-weaving and embroidery techniques, inspired by the ultrasound images and recordings during her pregnancy.

Opening hours: 6:30pm-11pm

The contemporary art jewelry gallery hosts the closing reception for Jorge Manilla’s Impossible to Imagine exhibition. It features his abstract jewelry inspired by flowers, symbolically repJun 26-Jul 31. OP Garden, Charoenkrung Soi resenting culture, society and religion. 36. BTS Saphan Taksin

continued >>

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Iceberg

Curated by Pisitakun Kuantalaeng.

Opening hours: 6pm-11pm

Recently premiered in the US to rave reviews, this is the latest production by renowned Thai-American composer Somtow Sucharitkul, known for his contemporary take on opera.

Sponsored by Skylight Music Theatre (Milwaukee, USA), Department of Cultural Promotion and Opera Siam, the fantasy opera is a short story of an abused young boy and a troubled counsellor who enter an imaginary world filled with dragons and princesses. This is said to be the compos-

er's best production to date. Jul 1516, 8pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

B500-2,000 from Thaiticketmajor.

MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

ICEBERG

A restaging of Ka-ge Teerawat Mulvilai's solo, movement-based production, addressing the controversial issue of social oppression, which launched last year to critical acclaim. A part of the Monsoon Theater program by B-Floor Theater and Democrazy Theatre Studio. More package deals available at democrazystudio.com. Jul 7-18,

A month-long series of performances and film screenings dedicated to the French novelist and playwright.

The first part features a reconstructed, experimental performance of the controversial "An Epilogue to the Malady of Death," which touches upon issues of male homosexuality.

7:30pm on weekdays and 3pm on weekends. B390 advance tickets.

Films directed by the playwright will also be screened every Tue-Wed at 7:30pm. Jul 9-Aug 1, 7:30pm.

Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B500.

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Ferry Gallery

Shibukaru Matsuri goes to Bangkok

Intimate Politik

ART Opening

INSTAL - ACTION; 30 YEARS OF PERFORMANCE ART

SKEPTICAL

An exhibition dedicated to Chompon Apisuk, founder of the Asiatopia International Performance Art Festival in Thailand, featuring photographs and videos of his previous works that have been shown abroad. Also features live performances and talks by the artist and invited guests Vasan Sitthiket, Surapol Phanyawachira, Paisan Plienbangchang, Sompong Tawee, Jittima Philsawek, Mongkol Plienbangchang, Padungsak Kochsomrong, Vichuhorn Tangpaiboon and Nopawan Sirivejkul until the end of the exhibition.

Thai artist Aof Smith presents his pop-surrealist paintings of a girl and a fluffy bulldog, in a style inspired by Mark Ryden and Ron English. His artworks have previously been featured in group exhibitions in New York, LA and Philadelphia.

Dates: Opens Jun 26 at 6pm. Through Aug 31 The Adler Subhashok Gallery, 160/3 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-6620299

Dates: Jul 1-20, 1pm Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8

Zone 3 SPEEDY GRANDMA

Currently on show is Intimate Politik, a collaborative, multimedia exhibition

by Eyedropper Fill, Ian Infant III, Kamolros Wonguthum, Tammarat Kittiwatanokun and Wichaya Artamat, as inspired by Chus Martinez’s essay Octopus in Love. There will be a special artist/curator’s talk on the night.

Opening hours: 7pm-11pm Through Jul 5. 672/50-52 Charoenkrung Soi 28. MRT Hua Lamphong

FERRY GALLERY

ed pictures and sketches of hands and napkins Opening hours: 8pm-11pm Jun 26-Sep 30. Ferry crossing between River City Pier and The Jam Factory Pier

THE JAM FACTORY

If you missed the opening night, here’s an excuse to see the ongoing group exhibition Shibukaru Matsuri goes to Bangkok, which originated from Tokyo and features 2-3 dimensional illustrations, installations and fashion designs by 10 young female designers from Japan, and seven from Thailand, selected

by Practical Design Studio.

Opening hours: 9pm-11pm

This is possibly the coolest art initiative in town, hosting art installations on four privately owned ferries operating on the Chao Phraya River. Opening on Through Jun 28. 41/1-2 Charoennakorn Rd. the night is Iranian artist Payam Mofidi’s video installation, titled Cohesive Disorder, which features three animat-

SYNTHESIS

YIWARRA KUJU: THE CANNING STOCK ROUTE

A contemporary group exhibition by eight art school graduates across Asia: Haffendi Anuar, Kedsuda Loongthong, Krisada Suvichakonpong, Lalinthorn Phencharoen, Melissa Tan, Pattana Chuenmana, Promthum Woravut and Yeoh Choo Kuan.

The Australian Embassy brings over reproductions of contemporary Aboriginal art previously shown at the National Museum of Australia back in 2010, featuring 14 colorful artworks of traditional patterns by veteran and emerging Aboriginal artists.

Dates: Opens Jun 26 at 6:30pm. Through Aug 8

Dates: Jun 29-Jul 16

The Art Center, 7/F, Center of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University, Phaya Thai Rd., 02-2182-965

Thavibu Gallery, Room 433, 4/F, JTC Jewelry Trade Center, 919/1 Silom Rd., 02-266-5454

MARKETS & FAIRS

Made By Legacy

LOL Market

Colors for Nepal

VISIT JAPAN FIT TRAVEL FAIR #7

Dialogue in the Basement

CHO WHY

Colors for Nepal is a two-day charity exhibition that puts street artwork by over 30 contributing artists up for sale, with 20 percent of all earnings going towards the Nepalese relief effort. B100 donation for entry (one free drink). Featured artists include Abi Street Art, Alex Face, Asin, Diamond One, Stev Bonhage, Kidkyan, Toska Vosd, TRK and Warhead.

Opening hours: 7pm-11pm Jun 26-27. Soi Nana 17, Charoenkrung Rd. MRT Hua Lamphong

BRIDGE ART SPACE

Transformation

Pete Tunvichren, who created artwork inspired by human forms, flowers and insects, and Patdanu Tameekul, who paints oil on canvas.

Opening hours: 7pm-midnight Through Jul 22. Charoenkrung Soi 51. BTS Saphan Taksin

JAM

Also launching on the night is a new installation exhibition titled Dialogue in the Basement. It is a collaborative project between Voraprada Voratananchai (visual and installation artist/art therapist), Worramet Matutamtada (sound designer and electro-acoustic composer) and Pasakorn Nontananandh (visual experimental artist/DJ).

Opening hours: 6pm-midnight

The gallery/art space holds an exclusive exhibition preview of Transformation.

It features the emotive artwork of local artists Wal Chirachaisakul, who uses Through Jul 25. 41 Charoenrat Soi 1. BTS mezzotint print-making techniques, Surasak

36

The fair attracted a massive crowd at the end of last year at Siam Paragon with its winter edition, offering travel information, deals for flights, hotels and rail passes, plus travel consultation for those that want to explore Japan on their own. Organized by Japan National Tourism Organization.

Through Jun 28, 11am. Central Plaza Rama 9, 9/8-9 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-667-5555. Free.

FOOD & HOLISTIC HEALTH FESTIVAL 2015

The second edition of the food expo for the health-conscious packs in over 100 shops from all over Thailand, plenty of tastings and 20 free food-related workshops on topics such as urban farming, traditional massage, choosing organic produce and nam prik-making. Through Jun 28, 10am. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-8334455. Free.

LOL MARKET EP. 3

The third edition of the fashion-focused fair turns into a Warhol pop-art style supermarket. This is also the first aircon market to be held in a new 1,200 sq-meter space set up on

CentralWorld's front square. Jun 2628, 12pm. CentralWorld, 4, 4/1-4/2, 4/4, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-635-1111.

Free. BTS Chit Lom. ARTBOX EXHIBITION MARKET

Unlike the so-called Container Market at the Bloc, here all the booths are actually organized inside real shipping containers. Expect 300 stalls in the fashion zone and over 100 stalls in the food and cafe zone, plus live music. Jul 3-5, 2pm. Makkasan Airport Link Station.

SOMART SOCIAL MARKET

The social media pop-up market moves to the Old Town community mall, featuring two outdoor shopping zones, an art workshop zone run by Silpakorn students, two food zones and live music by local bands.

Jul 4-5, 3pm. Tha Maharaj, 11/1, Maharaj Rd., 02-866-3163-4, 090926-5265. Free.

MADE BY LEGACY VI

pect the usual antique finds in a 4,000 sq-meter space, with a panoramic view of Bangkok. Jul 11-12, 11am.

Central Embassy, 1031 Ploenchit Rd., 02-119-7777. B120. BTS Phloen Chit.

PANKAN #6

Social enterprise Pankan Society holds a second-hand pop-up market, offering furniture, electrical appliances and home decor items. Proceeds go towards the scholarship fund at Yuvabadhana Foundation. More information at pankansociety.com. Jul 11-13, 10:30pm. Crystal Design Center, 1420/1 Praditmanoontham Rd., 02-101-5999. Free.

THE GREAT OUTDOOR MARKET

The popular outdoor pop-up market takes refuge at a secret rooftop location in Ekkamai, promising a panoramic view of Bangkok. Expect a parade of food trucks and Instagram fashion pop-ups. Jul 17-19, 4pm. Location TBA. Free.

The Brooklyn-style vintage flea market takes the theme "Modern Market," for its debut at an exclusive part of the luxury mall that has never been opened to the public before. Ex-

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now PLAN AHEAD Art & Design Festivities

Bangkok Book Festival 2015

A Design Film Festival

BEYOND THE COVERS

Although Thailand Independent Bookstores Week is coming to an end this week, Bangkok book lovers still have something to look forward to this July with the launch of the first Bangkok Book Festival 2015. Set to take place between Jul 17-19 at the BACC, the festival focuses on the artistry behind book publishing and will feature an exhibition titled The Early Book Cover Designs of Chuang Moolpinit (National Artist 2013 in Visual Arts), book-binding, illustration and screen-printing workshops by local studios, and talks by leading book publishers. Detailed schedule at www.bangkokbookfestival.com.

Bangkok Art and Culture Center, Rama I Rd. BTS National Stadium

ON FILM

Launched in Singapore back in 2010, A Design Film Festival will be making a stop in Bangkok this Jul 18-26 at TCDC. Previously shown in Portland, Berlin, Taipei and Kaohsiung, the film fest focuses on films related to architecture, fashion, photography, street art, motion graphics, technology and the subcultures of design. Some of the official selections for Bangkok include: Capital C, Dior and I, Print the Legend and the Asia premiere of Time Zero: The Last Year of Polaroid Film. For more trailers and ticketing information, see www.fb.com/designfilmfestival TCDC, 5/F, The Emporium Shopping Complex, 02-664-8448. BTS Phrom Phong

THROUGH THE LENS

From Jul 30-Oct 4, the city will be focusing on the art of photography at Photo Bangkok Festival 2015, with exhibitions, interactive installations, talks, workshops and portfolio reviews held across Bangkok. Some of the participating spaces include: Kathmandu Photo Gallery, the BACC, Adler Subhashok Gallery, The Jam Factory and Bangkok University Gallery. Detailed schedule TBA. More information at www.photobangkokfestival.com or www.fb.com/photobangkok

CREATIVE MINDS

The annual Creativities Unfold symposium, organized by Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) is scheduled to be held between Aug 8-Sep 13, this year under the theme “Shift - Decode: Design: Disrupt,� touching on the third Industrial Revolution, namely mass customization. The month-long program will feature symposiums and workshops run by Thai and international experts and thinkers across different industries. Ticketing details TBA. Stay up to date with the latest news at www.cu-tcdc.com.

TCDC, 5/F, The Emporium Shopping Complex, 02-664-8448. BTS Phrom Phong

Reunrom by Lek

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS RUENROMBYLEK DRESSING WORKSHOP

A how-to-dress workshop, offering styling tips on how to create the perfect look for your body type and skin tone. Also features guest speakers from Tawn C. womenswear and Panipa hair salon. Reservations at 087-687-9145. Jun 26, 3-5pm. Jun 27, 2-4pm. Maduzi Hotel, 9/1 Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-615-6400. B1,800.

PASSION DECODE EP. 4: FINANCE

Local internship platform CareerVisa organizes a three-hour workshop with career coaches from the Thai Finance industry, in collaboration with i-Learn, for first to third-year university students interested in a finance-related career. Limited to 50 students. Register at goo.gl/PtVny9. More information at www.careervisathailand. com. Jun 27, 9am. TechGrind, 21/F, Liberty Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 55. (Thonglor)

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SUNDAY MILONGA RETRO

A brand new tango social night in Bangkok, with a 30-minute free introductory lesson, and a tango demonstration

by Argentine professional dancers from 10pm onwards. Drinks and snacks available. More information at 081-551-8878.

Jun 28, 8pm. The Hop, 252/9 Silom Rd. Between Silom Soi 18 and Soi 20. B150.

NICK DUNLOP WORKSHOPS

A five-day intensive photography workshop, run by award-winning photographers Nic Dunlop and Yvan Cohen, who will be teaching you how to research, shoot and edit a photo essay. Limited to 15 participants. More details at www.photographer.asia. Jul 12-17, 10am. The Jam Factory, 41/1-41/2 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0950. Around B50,347 ($1,495).

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now FILM Opening

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): In its early days, the band Depeche Mode had the infinitely boring name Composition of Sound. Humphrey Bogart’s and Ingrid Bergman’s classic 1942 film Casablanca was close to being called Everybody Come to Rick’s. And before Charles Dickens published his novel Bleak House, a scathing critique of the 19th-century British judicial system, he considered eleven other possible titles, including Tom-all-Alone’s. The Solitary House that was always Shut up and Never Lighted. I bring this to your attention, Cancerian, as the seeding phase of your personal cycle gets underway. The imprints you put on your budding creations will have a major impact on their future. Name them well. Give them a potent start.

Maggie (USA)

Barely Lethal (USA)

Drama. When his daughter (Abigail Breslin) is infected by a disease which slowly turns her into a zombie, Wade Vogel (Arnold Schwarzenegger) tries to protect her for as long as possible. Jun 25

Action/Comedy. Teenage spy prodigy Megan Walsh (Hailee Steinfeld) fakes her own death and enrolls in high school in order to experience the life of a normal teenager. Jun 25

Steak (R)evolution (France)

The Duff (USA)

Documentary. Filmmaker Franck Ribiere goes on a gourmet road trip in search of the best steak in the world, while taking an inside look at the modern meat industry. Limited at SF World Cinema. Jun 25

Comedy. High school senior Bianca Piper (Mae Whitman) looks for a way to reinvent her reputation as a DUFF—Designated Ugly Fat Friend—in order to date a jock (Robbie Amell). Jun 25

It Follows (USA)

Love Sucks (Thai)

Horror. After a sexual encounter with a stranger in a car, a young woman (Maika Monroe) is followed by a supernatural force. Jun 25

Romantic/Comedy. News reporter Jay (Teya Roger) gets fired from her job and has a one night stand that takes her down an unexpected path. Jun 25

Upcoming

The Trials of Cate McCall

The Wolfpack

Terminator: Genisys (USA)

The Wolfpack (USA)

Action. James Cameron’s sci-fi classic gets rebooted. When humanity’s last hope John Connor (Jason Clarke) sends Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) back to 1984 to protect his mother from a Terminator assassin, an unexpected turn of events creates an altered timeline in which Sarah (Emilia Clarke) is a skilled fighter with a Terminator guardian (Arnold Schwarzenegger). Jul 2

Documentary. Locked away inside their Manhattan apartment, the six Angulo brothers learned about the outside world through movies. Limited at SF World Cinema. Jul 3

The Trials of Cate McCall (UK) Drama. Determined lawyer Cate McCall (Kate Beckinsale) recovers from a breakdown to take on the case of a woman who’s been framed for murder. Jul 2

Magic Mike XXL (USA) Drama/Musical. Three years after retiring from stripping, Magic Mike (Channing Tatum) rejoins the Kings of Tampa for one last show. Jul 9

Minions (USA) Animation. Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by super-villain Scarlet Overkill, who hatches a plot to take over the world. Jul 9

Free Screenings Alliance Française The Friese-Greene Club Movies are subtitled in English and screened at 7pm. Jul 1. Grand Central: Rebecca Zlotowski’s drama follows a nuclear power plant worker Gary (Tahar Rahim) as he attempts to keep his affair with his supervisor’s wife (Lea Seydoux) a secret while simultaneously fighting rising radiation levels. 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-670-4200.

The schedule follows a daily theme. This June it’s Pushing the Boundaries (Wed), Costa-Gavras (Thu), Peter Sellers (Fri), Cooking Up Something Special! (Sat) and Spielberg (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, 087000-0795. Open Wed-Sun 6pm-late.

Jam

Japan Foundation

Every Wednesday night is Cult Movie Night.

Screenings start from 8pm, visit www.fb.com/ JAMCAFEBKK for schedule. 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 089-889-8059. BTS Surasak. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight.

Movies are subtitled in Thai and screened at 6:30pm. Theme for July is Spirit. July 3. Haunted School (1995): The students at a suburban elementary school are locked up in an old building after dark after one of them accidentally breaks an ancient artefact which releases supernatural forces.

10/F, Sermmit Tower, 159 Soi Asoke, 02-260-8560. www.jfbkk.or.th

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): One summer afternoon when I was seven years old, my friend Billy and I grabbed an empty jar from my kitchen and went looking for ants.

Near the creek we found an anthill swarming with black ants, and scooped a bunch of them in the jar. A little later we came upon a caravan of red ants, and shoved many of them in with the black ants. Would they fight? Naturally. It was mayhem. Looking back now, I’m sorry I participated in that stunt. Why stir up a pointless war? In that spirit, Leo, I urge you to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): In order for everyone in your sphere to meet their appointed destinies, you must cultivate your skills as a party animal. I’m only slightly joking. At least for now, it’s your destiny to be the catalyst of conviviality, the ringleader of the festivities, the engineer of fun and games. To fulfill your assignment, you may have to instigate events that encourage your allies to leave their comfort zones and follow you into the frontiers of collaborative amusement.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): Your symbolic object of the week is a magic wand. See yourself wielding it to carry out a series of fantastic tricks, like materializing a pile of gold coins or giving yourself an extraordinary power to concentrate or creating an enchanted drink that allows you to heal your toughest wound. I think this playful imaginative exercise will subtly enhance your ability to perform actual magic in the real world.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): The taskmaster planet Saturn wove its way through the sign of Scorpio from October 2012 until the end of 2014. Now it has slipped back into your sign for a last hurrah. Between now and mid-September, I urge you to milk its rigorous help. For example, cut away any last residues of trivial desires. Hone your focus and streamline your self-discipline. And if you’re serious about capitalizing on Saturn’s demanding gifts, try this ritual: Write either “I will never squander my riches” or “I will make full use of my riches” twenty times—whichever motivates you most.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): The advanced lessons on tap in the coming days are not for the timid, the lazy or the stubborn. But then you’re not any of those, right? The purpose of these subterranean adventures and divine interventions is to teach you to make nerve-racking leaps of faith, whether or not you believe you’re ready. Here’s one piece of advice I think will help: Don’t resist and resent the tests as they appear. Rather, welcome them as blessings you don’t understand yet. Be alert for the liberations they will offer.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): “Man’s being is like a vast mansion,” observed philosopher Colin Wilson, “yet he seems to prefer to live in a single room in the basement.” Wilson wasn’t just referring to Capricorns. He meant everybody. Most of us commit the sin of self-limitation on a regular basis. That’s the bad news. The good news, Capricorn, is that you’re entering a time when you’re more likely to rebel against the unconscious restrictions you have placed on yourself. You will have extra motivation to question the

rationales you used in the past to inhibit your primal energy. Won’t it be fun to venture out of your basement nook and go explore the rest of your domain?

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): “An obscure moth from Latin America saved Australia’s pasture-land from the overgrowth of cactus,” writes biologist Edward O. Wilson. “A Madagascar ‘weed,’ the rosy periwinkle, provided the cure for Hodgkin’s disease and childhood leukemia,” he adds, while “a chemical from the saliva of leeches dissolves blood clots during surgery.” I think these are all great metaphors for the kind of healing that will be available for you in the coming weeks, Aquarius: humble, simple, seemingly insignificant things whose power to bring transformation has, up until now, been secret or unknown.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): “She is hard to tempt, as everything seems to please her equally,” said artist Anne Raymo in describing a hedonistic acquaintance. A similar statement may soon apply to you, Pisces. You will have a talent for finding amusement in an unusually wide variety of phenomena. But more than that: You could become a connoisseur of feeling really good. You may even go so far as to break into a higher octave of pleasure, communing with exotic phenomena we might call silken thrills and spicy bliss and succulent revelry.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): During my regular hikes along my favorite trails, I’ve gotten to know the local boulders quite intimately. It might sound daft, but I’ve come to love them. I’ve even given some of them names. They symbolize stability and constancy to me.

They teach me about how to be steadfast and unflappable in all kinds of weather. I draw inspiration from the way they are so purely themselves, forever true to their own nature. Now would be an excellent time for you to hang out with your own stony allies, Aries.

You could use a boost in your ability to express the qualities they embody.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): “Everyone is a genius at least once a year,” wrote German aphorist Georg Christoph Lichtenberg. “The real geniuses simply have their bright ideas closer together.” According to my astrological analysis, Taurus, your once-a-year explosion of genius is imminent. It’s possible you will experience a series of eruptions that continue for weeks. Unleash the dormant parts of your intelligence through activities like these: having long, rambling conversations with big thinkers; taking long, rambling walks all over creation; enjoying long, rambling sex while listening to provocative music.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): “I think if we didn’t contradict ourselves, it would be awfully boring,” says author Paul Auster. “It would be tedious to be alive.”

In defense of inconsistency, he adds, “Changing your mind is probably one of the most beautiful things people can do.” This may not apply to everyone all the time, but it does for you in the coming weeks, Gemini.

You should feel free to experiment with the high art of changing your mind. I dare you to use it to generate extravagant amounts of beauty.

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Pearypie Thai beauty-blogging sensation Amata ‘Pear’ Chittasenee, 26, better known as Pearypie, has amassed more than 186,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel (youtube.com/pearypie) where she posts make-up tutorials and reviews. Having just returned from New York, where she drew a crowd of fans at the Sephora Times Square Shop, Pear talks to us about the experiences that shaped her and why beauty is more than skin-deep.

Make-up is about more than making girls look attractive. It’s about looking and feeling glamourous. It’s an art form with the face as a canvas.

Make-up has evolved from this old grandmother thing to something very bright and experimental where you’re rewarded for breaking the rules and trying to be different.

With a sense of creativity and an Instagram account, the sky’s the limit.

When you’re creating an artwork, you’ve got to go with the flow and take things as they come. Sometimes I maybe enjoy myself a little too much and go totally bananas applying glitter and confetti paper to my face—but the results can be quite alluring.

Fine art is overrated. I’ll never fully understand art on an academic level.

But I have my own way of interpreting it. Back when I was studying in the UK we had to produce a Shakespeare play and I was part of the costume design team. It was a total blast being given the freedom

to interpret Shakespeare the way I saw it; without medieval costumes but modern outfits instead.

The experience was pretty sick, having these actors wearing masks and bandanas. It was like we were constantly revealing different layers of make-up for each character. We could do that because the mindset in London is more open than in Thailand.

Before I moved to England at age 15, I was an introverted kid. I had so many ideas and crazy thoughts but not very much encouragement from my teachers.

The education dynamic in England is completely different to here.

Everyone knows who they are and they have the right to express it in school.

When I was in Thai school I felt like I was being suppressed. Over there, though, the teacher would open things up for discussion and the classroom would become a forest of raised hands. My own thoughts and ideas exploded like fireworks.

I no longer fear being seen as stupid. There’s nothing wrong with admitting you don’t know or understand something straight away.

Thailand tends to look down on those who ask questions in class. It’s like there’s some secret agreement among students to let our question marks float and let silence fill the air before the teacher lets us out of the classroom.

When I came back to Thailand, no one understood the simple beauty of a strong shade of lipstick. You could forget blood-red lipstick; back then, Thais were obsessed with Korean make-up. All these light-skinned girls with sweet, but almost scary, dolly eyes. I decided to change that.

Everybody is as good as you.

You have to stand out.

In Thai school I was a golden child. I received many awards and certificates. In London, everyone was gifted. It got to the point where I had to tell myself, “Wake up young lady! This is the real world: everybody is as good as you. You have to stand out.” I learned that if you want something, you have to pursue it.

I wear red lipstick because it represents my cheerful, somewhat reckless, attitude. I’ve always tried to encourage people to discover their best asset and use it to become tres chic. Defining your own beauty is a way of being true to yourself.

If you watch my videos, you’ll basically see a young woman apply make-up and progressively look more attractive. I use visual effects and editing to make the videos feel more like a piece of art that’s likely to inspire someone. There’s no point binge-watching YouTube videos but never figuring out who you are.

There’s nothing gutsier than going out without make-up. It means being honest about your most valuable assets. To be honest, I think my face looks weird, but I’m comfortable with it. I have my event face, but if I’m out with friends or family you will see a different me.

Beauty is a matter of what’s inside. You may look pretty and all, but hon, if you’re a natural liar who casually throwing shade at others, there is no make-up on this earth, no matter how expensive, that can help you Interview by Arisa Wiwatsomwong and Sam Nathapong

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