BK Magazine Dec 19, 2014

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 570 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2014. www.bkmagazine.com

The Bangkok Booze Awards What, where and how we drank in 2014

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Best in Booze

A White Christmas

14 escapes

24 fashion

Hot Rooms

Thai Style

30 tech

34 bites

Got Game

Christmas Dinners 38 bites

55 last word

En Vogue

Bill the Builder

Who's in charge?

General Manager Andrew Hiransomboon

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Sherry Maturose Kato Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Orajira Sukkasem, Onwara Sittirug, Waranuch Thaneerat, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri Junior Sales Associates Doungporn Wanasinchai

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

Regional Marketing Manager Pavida Chitprasertsuk Marketing Executive Thasanee Sethi Marketing Executive, Creative Services Puttipat Teerakawongsakul IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen Distribution Executive Suda Angsuputiphant

Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Senior Administrator Kanokgon Parajit Accountant Manita Bangmoung Contributors Rob Brezsny, Kathy MacLeod Interns Tewit Phanitprachaya 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

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

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

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

Santa Claus is coming to town! And boy do we hope he’s been doing his T25 if he plans on fitting through the air-con’s tubing.

We’re all snug in our beds, in our Uniqlo Heat-tech undies, and can’t help but wonder whether we’ve been naughty or nice. That and also whether we should use our bonus to buy more LTFs for the tax break or just blow it all on an iPhone 6. Santa must be excited, too. It’s a known fact Scandinavians really dig Thailand: its temples, its culture, its food, etc. Now, there are just a few things we’d like to tell the elves so they can brief Saint Nick before he gets here.

Santa, if you go to Asoke and a policeman asks you for your passport, or asks you to pee in a cup, remain calm and do as the man says. He is not a creep with a uro fetish (that’s U-R-O, not E-U-R-O). He is just making sure you’re not one of those drugged up tourists that have been making Asoke unsafe. Or just avoid Pala, which is where they all hang out, pretending to eat Romanstyle pizza while planning their criminal deeds. Now you may feel this is racial profiling, but it’s not our fault if most, if not all, crimes around Asoke are committed by white people.

Secondly, some people still doubt your existence. If we got that all wrong, or even if we got it kinda wrong, we hope we at least got your gender right. A bunch of old men are writing our constitution right now. A bunch of old men just decided women can’t be monks. That’s how we roll here. We love old men.

Women, not so much. So if you’re not the old man we think you are, please ask an adult male to accompany you. Oh, and dress politely, please. We wouldn’t want you getting hurt and then blaming Thailand.

Lastly, please understand things work a little differently here.

If you’re making a really nice gift, say a couple million baht in cash, you need to wrap it in a garbage bag and leave it behind a couch. It may seem odd, but that’s just Thai tradition. We’re a discreet bunch—except when we’re giving away crap. If you have a basket full of instant coffee, cookies and fruit juice (yes, that qualifies as a gift here), you must do a selfie as you hand it over. And post it on Facebook. And on Instagram. And share it on Line. Otherwise you don’t exist, which is something we all agree you need to work on.

Follow these simple tips and you’ll have a lovely holiday.

Welcome to Thailand. Head straight to the licensed taxis on the ground floor, ignore the official Airport of Thailand limousines, and enjoy your stay.

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 ©2014 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250

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@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, December 19, 2014

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: Charoenkrung

Not: Sukhumvit Soi 51

That’s it, it’s over for Soi 51, now that Opposite’s chef, Jess Barnes, has gone public about moving to Sathorn next year. And in case you need more proof that Lower Silom is the place to be, Charoenkrung is welcoming cool new exhibitions, a market at the docks and some vintage bicycle thingie (see page 48).

Hot: Thais in New York Not: New York in Bangkok I Fine… Thank You… Love You (see our review, page 50) has eclipsed Pee Mak Phrakanong at the box office with the story of Sunny Suwanmethanon trying to learn English to win back the heart of his girlfriend who has moved to New York. And one of our favorite designers this year is SSAP (see page 24), which first launched in the Big Apple. But frankly, trying make your bar look like it’s in Manhattan despite it being in Silom or Thonglor is getting really tired.

Hot: Retro games

Not: Retro cameras

Instagram killed the Polaroid, Lomo killed the Holga. What’s a hipster to do with their disposable income? Buy a 10-year-old console that has a fraction of your phone’s processing power! We’ve got just the retro game shops (see page 30) you need, where a Nintendo Famicom goes for a mere B5,000.

ALMOST FAMOUS Sinsupa “Mink” Wannasuta, 28, made headlines at this year’s King’s Cup Regatta as the event’s first Thai female skipper. OK, so her all-woman team (PTTEP’s Platu 132) came last in their class, but that hasn’t dampened their hopes to compete in next year’s SEA Games. Here, BK talks to Mink and her teammates—Theeranoot “Im” Vongruck, 34, and Nichada “Bo” Pijarawat, 31—about their chances.

How did you form as a team?

Mink: I’ve participated in this regatta three times, but always with male teams, like the Thai navy. But this year I finished my doctorate [in management], so decided I’d come back to compete in the national team. So I started practicing with friends in Sattahip, Chonburi, before deciding to participate in the King’s Cup as part of the Platu team. It’s like a warm-up to get in the national team, and part of the qualifying for the next SEA Games.

Were you happy with how the race went?

Mink: This is my first time as the skipper and I forgot to bring a radio on board. We also went to the wrong buoy and were cut points despite being so much ahead of the ex-champ’s boat and even our teachers, the navy team. It is a steep learning curve but so much fun.

Hot: French cuisine

Not: Burgers

Wasn’t French food pronounced dead at the height of El Bulli mania? You’d never know in this town, as a flurry of Michelin-starred chefs doing traditional French food have recently opened shop. Check out newcomers Henk Savelberg and Jean-Michel Lorain’s Christmas dinners on page 34. The headline news, though, is the opening of Joel Robuchon’s long-awaited Atelier, also on Dec 25 (see page 32). So put down that burger and learn some table manners.

Im: The last time I raced was 16 years ago, for the 420/470 class at the Asian Games in Bangkok in 1998.

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So it’s kind of exciting to come back and feel the same thrill.

Mink: There were mistakes during the race and we shouted at each other a lot. But at the end of the day we just let it go. We have been friends for 20 years so we know that it’s part of competing. Our aim coming here was just to experience it. We had so much fun.

Are women at a disadvantage sailing in the same field as men?

Bo: There is a physical disadvantage, yes. We admit that we can’t compete with guys in strong winds, we’re strong in other ways like detail; observing what the wind is doing and how to adjust the sail.

Im: It’s chaotic but it’s good. Our team was probably the loudest in the race.

What are your day jobs?

Im: I’m the manager of Kasikorn Bank’s Chonburi branch. But I go sailing every weekend.

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Mink: I help with my family’s dried fruit factory and have also started my own cosmetics business.

Bo: My family’s business is in Pattaya, where we have restaurants and bars.

Why did you all decide to come back to competitive sailing this year?

Bo: As you know, you can’t make a living as a sportsman in Thailand without sponsors or a rich family.

But when you get to a position in life where you’re comfortable, there’s another part inside you that wants to fulfill other dreams. That’s why we want to be part of the race once more.

It’s what we’re passionate about.

What’s your next goal?

Mink: I aim to once more be a national athlete, this time in the team division. We hope to take home some medals at next year’s SEA Games in Singapore. Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan

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THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

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cover story

The Bangkok Booze Awards 2014 Craft beer boomed, cocktails got better with age and a whole heap of barsslash-restaurants opened. Here’s what else we loved (and didn’t love) about drinking in Bangkok in 2014. By BK Editorial

BEST NEW BAR BEFORE 10PM Hot Rod Heck, you could even have a liquid lunch here, if you wanted. The cocktails are by Chanond Purananda, of Hyde & Seek fame, the food’s by his buddy Peter Pitakwong (Smith) and the décor is by Ashley Sutton (Iron Fairies, Maggie Choo’s). So come early for surprisingly authentic Thai food at the kind of pocket-friendly prices you’d never find in Thonglor.

Room A103, G/F, Park Lane, Sukhumvit Soi 63. Open daily 6pm-midnight. BTS Ekkamai

BEST NEW BAR AFTER 10PM Studio Lam Hot Rod

We dig the stone tile wall, we dig the wooden louvres, we dig the turquoise floor and massive, block-party-style sound system. But most of all, we dig that this bar manages to stay completely welcoming despite being a magnet for cool people. No, the drinks aren’t the cheapest— B300 for yaa dong-based cocktails? but where else dishes out such a consistently original lineup of musicians and DJs. This is world music without an incense burner or dreadlock in sight.

Sukhumvit Soi 51. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-1am. www.fb.com/studiolambangkok

BEST NEW BAR FOR DRINKING FOOD Namsaah Bottling Trust

U.N.C.L.E.

Namsaah Bottling Trust We don’t need much prodding to accept an invitation to drink in a bright pink house from the 1900s. But when they’ve got such great drinks as the Salted Caramel Whiskey Sour (B260) and Sex on the BTS (vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry and orange, B290), then you’d be a downright fool not to go. Plus Namsaah is a serious restaurant. Ian Kittichai’s the chef. The menu of pan-Asian comfort food definitely encourages nibbling. And drinking. And more nibbling.

So make sure you order a bowl of shrimp popcorn to go with that cocktail.

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

Do Not Disturb

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BEST NEW CLUB Do Not Disturb A club specializing in electronic music that’s actually good? Such a great idea.

While the tunes at Demo and Safe House have been getting weaker and weaker, Do Not Disturb has snuck up as the place where Bangkok’s coolest DJ collectives hang out. There’s drum n’ bass from Zoo Studio, electro-house from CMYK, retro sounds from the Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band, and regular performances by Tul Apartment Khunpa and DJ Pichy. The decor’s pretty nice, too.

Behind Nunglen and Escobar, Ekkamai Soi 7.

Open Tue-Sun 8pm-2am. BTS Ekkamai

BEST POP-UP Craft The result of a partnership between Beervana and the team behind Whisgars cigar and whiskey bar, this pop-up sells craft beers with 20 labels on tap rotating monthly and 50 bottled varieties.

Expect familiar names like Deschutes, Rogue and Anderson Valley, with a particular focus on hoppy, high-alcohol-content IPAs. 16 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-661-3220. Opens daily 2pm-12am. BTS Asoke

BEST NEW SECRET BAR THAT ISN’T SECRET AT ALL U.N.C.L.E. J. Boroski, Sugar Ray, U.N.C.L.E.—we can barely afford to drink at any of them, but it’s the latter’s mix of chocolate-leather couches and top-draw spirits that most makes us wish we could.

2/F, Lady Brett, 149 Sathorn Soi 12. 02-6350406. Open Tue-Sun 6pm-1am

BEST NEW BAR TO BE A WOMAN IN Ku De Ta Opened back in late 2013, this Balinese/ Singaporean bar and restaurant generated big buzz with its B1 million memberships before actually opening. But (broke) ladies, fear not. Head there on the Lipstick Night every Wednesday for free-flow sparkling wine till midnight, or turn up as a group of five before 10pm on Fridays for a free bottle of vodka.

39 -40/F, Sathorn Square Complex, 98 Sathorn Rd., 02-108-2000. BTS Chong Nonsi

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cover story BEST NEW BAR THAT’S REALLY A RESTAURANT

BEST COCKTAILS UNDER B250

Vesper

Opposite Mess Hall

Bottego di Luca is a long-standing favorite of Bangkok’s in-the-know hisos. And we love Luca’s food at Vesper just as much. The cocktails created by London-based consulting team Fluid Movement are equally exciting, especially the barrel-aged list, matured in oak barrels for four weeks for exceptional flavor.

10/15 Convent Rd., 02-235-2777. Open MonFri 11:30am-2:30pm, Sun-Thu 5:30pm -midnight and Fri-Sat 5:30pm-1am. BTS Sala Daeng

BEST TREND WE WANT TO END Tea Cocktails How can something that looks so refreshing—the beads of condensation, the pretty little orchid flower garnish— always taste so wrong? We’ll happily see the back of all tea-infused cocktails, especially when there’s milk in the equation, too.

BEST NEW BAR IN A MALL Minibar Café We can’t believe how many bars (or bar-slash-restaurants) opened in a mall this year: Hyde & Seek Peek-a-Boo, S’Mores, Minibar Café. They’re all great in their own way, but Minibar Café is the comeback kid. These guys launched both the whole New York style (industrial, white tiles, etc.) and the brunch thing in Bangkok. We think this new space is even cuter than before. Plus the barman is amazing (try Maple Champagne Cocktail containing sparkling wine, maple and pomegranate granita, B290). When the Park Hyatt hotel is finished, Minibar Café will even have its very own terrace with views of the Phloen Chit intersection.

5/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5610. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Pholen Chit

BEST NEW INTERIOR Tied: J. Boroski Mixology/A.R. Sutton Engineers Siam Have we mentioned how much we admire Ashley Sutton’s work? We think he’s at his best when working in cramped spaces, though. Remember the first Iron Fairies? What a trip that was. With J. Boroski, he’s created a little jewelbox of a bar, finished in velvet and dressed with butterflies. Same goes with A.R. Sutton, which is more colonial and perhaps less sexy, but it’s got that steampunk madness from Iron Fairies, a bit of British flair and an absolutely massive distillery in the front imported from Germany. It’s hard to top that.

Yeah, you kind of feel guilty just going there for a drink when everyone around you is eating, but who cares when the cocktails are often cheaper than at WTF. Take the negroni: at WTF, B280; at Opposite, B220 (the menu says Aperol but ask for Campari and they’ll charge the same). What’s more, there are enough seats to go around, and they have some impressive creations of their own, like the B210 bourbon pineapple sour (seven-year-old bourbon, clove, pineapple shrub and lime juice).

27/1, Sukhumvit Soi 51. 02-662-6330. Open Tue-Sun 6:30pm-midnight. BTS Thong Lo

J. Boroski Mixology

Opposite Mess Hall

BEST OUTRAGEOUSLY PRICED COCKTAILS J. Boroski Mixology There’s no menu at J. Boroski Mixology, just the promise that if your cocktail is booze-forward—which covers just about any serious drink like a negroni or Old Fashioned (see opposite)—it’s going to cost you over half a grand. But you feel so cool for even knowing about the place (whose address we cannot print for fear of no longer being able to drink there for free) that you don’t dare complain. See, you should have gone to journalism school.

Mikkeller

BEST INTERNATIONAL INVASION Japan It wasn’t just our sushi restaurants that got a whole lot better this year. All things Japanese and boozy got stepped up a notch. First there was the supercheap (for how good they are) drinks of Sathorn’s new Hanakaruta, then the mellow Sukhumvit whiskey bar Walden put Bangkok’s other rugged-Americana bars to shame. We even rated a Japanese craft beer as the best match with Thai food. Meanwhile, Japan’s Yamasaki Cherry Oak whiskey was voted the best in the world, and the Okura hotel even brought in Japanese wine.

Walden

Hanakaruta

BEST NEW BEER BAR Mikkeller Though pricier than your average brew, there’s no beating a good craft beer, and Mikkeller does some of the best.

About 30 regularly rotating taps pump out Brew Dog, 3 Floyds, Beer Geek and plenty more in a laidback and spacious setting with a house-party feel.

26 Ekkamai Soi 10. 02-381-9891. Open daily 5pm-midnight. BTS Ekkamai

A .R. Sutton, G/F, Park Lane Ekkamai, Sukhumvit Soi 63. Open daily 6pm-midnight Minibar Cafe

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cover story BEST COCKTAIL YOU CAN BEST EXPANSION NO LONGER ORDER Brew Beers

Tied: Old Fashioned/ and Ciders Negroni Not just active in bringing heaps of new It pains us to say this of drinks we like so much. But in 2014, we only have ourselves to blame for drinking so many of the things that they’ve both gone the way of the mojito.

BEST NEW WINE SPECIALISTS Wine Garage Le Du

The Beer Cap

The new import business from one of the partners at Quince has made wine cool by specializing in unique labels (both Old and New World), unknown grapes and tasting events we’d actually sign up for. See for yourself at the monthly “What’s Your Grape” series at the Hive co-working space (next session is in January).

4 Sukhumvit Soi 45, 02-262-0255, www. winegarage.asia

BEST NEW WINE LIST Osha

Osha

Forget about intimidating regions and grape varietals. Osha’s wine menu is a simple, straightforward listing of all their bottles categorized according to flavor profile. It’s a much more sophisticated (Napa Valley has been doing this for the past ten years) and user-friendly approach.

Though, if you have some extra cash to spare, just opt for a bottle of Möet & Chandon, since they have a billion of them on display.

99 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-256-6555.

Open daily 11am-2:30pm and 6pm-midnight

BEST NEW BAR SNACK Hyde & Seek Peek-aBoo’s Scotch Eggs We love anything deep fried, but when that thing is wagyu beef and korabuta pork mixed together and wrapped around stilton cheese, we couldn’t be happier. Just don’t order them if you plan on getting lucky later in the night.

Soulbar

Hyde & Seek Peek-a-Boo

1/F, Groove, CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 02 646 1099. Open daily 11-12:30am.

BEST BOOZY FOOD PAIRING Le Du We tried, guys. We really did. We went to all your beer pairing events and sampled your cocktail pairing menus for an extra B1,500 plus plus. Mostly, they suck.

We don’t want to down five glasses of fruit juice with our food, unless that fruit juice is fermented grape juice. And on that topic, Le Du remains not only our favorite modern Thai restaurant but has a carefully thought-out wine pairing at a reasonable B1,590 for 5 glasses of wine and selected dishes. If you insist, you can also call for a “special pairing,” which cost the same but offers wine, selected sake and craft beer for more variety.

Brew Beers and Ciders

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

beers from around the world to town, but also in building a growing empire, owner Chris Foo now has HOBS and Brew on Thonglor, another branch of Brew at Asiatique, Beer Cap in Cosmic Café’s old spot on RCA and even plans to open a place in Siem Reap by early 2015. Of all his places, Beer Cap’s our pick.

Beer Cap, RCA Block C, 21/66, Soi Soonvijai, Rama 9 Rd. 02-641-4544. Open daily 5pm-1am

BEST NEW GALLERY TO DRINK AT Soy Sauce Factory 2014 saw many of Bangkok’s best parties take place in galleries rather than bars and restaurants. Mind you, it’s harder than ever to make that distinction. This actual former soy sauce factory down in Chinatown launched in February with a jampacked dance party, hosts everything from pop-up dining events to artists’ residencies, and recently opened as a Thai restaurant for lunch and dinner. Thirsty work. It helps that the exhibitions, like the current one from provocative Chinese artist Ren Hang, are pretty special, too.

11/1 Chroenkrung Soi 24. 092-115-8696.

Open Tue-Sat noon-11pm. MRT Hua Lamphong

BEST BAR FROM THIS YEAR THAT WON’T GET GOOD TILL NEXT YEAR Parking Toys Watt Run by the guy behind one of Bangkok’s live music institutions, Parking Toys Watt brings an alternative scene to Ekkamai, taking over what used to be PlernTa. The seating is effortlessly cool, with an openair Marrakesh-inspired bar sitting alongside retro furnishings. Top marks go to their music, too, which right now focuses on Thai roots, notably molam, luuk thung and Isaan ballads. Take note.

Soonvijai Soi 14.

BEST NEW LIVE MUSIC Soulbar One of a slew of new openings breathing fresh life into Chinatown, this straightforward but stylish bar does just what you’d hope for. Live soul and funk bands fill the tiny front room every TueSat, often continuing the party after the shutters come down, and the bar serves stiff drinks. It’s the twists that make it most memorable, though, like the bar stools hewed from industrial clutter sourced from around Talad Noi or the surprisingly palatable Summer Beer (mint chocolate kombucha and half a pint of draft beer, B160).

945 Charoenkrung Rd., 095-521-1541. Open Mon-Sat 8am-midnight. BTS Hua Lamphong

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escapes

New Arrivals With the holiday season in full swing, we take a look back at Thailand’s best new hotel openings in 2014. By BK staff

OZO Samui

Monkey Dive

AWA Resort

KOH CHANG

KHAO YAI

Escape Khao Yai

Sireeampan

Situated on Kai Bae Beach, AWA Resort offers a contemporary blue-and-white decor finished with oriental art pieces and Chinese-style decorative tea pots. There are five room types including a huge 108-sq-meter beachfront suite.

Offering 48 contemporary rooms and six pool villas, Sansiri’s debut hotel is set right

by Khao Yai National Park. Breakfast is available until 2pm, while the hotel restaurant, Green Oak, offers a farm-to-table concept using organic vegetables grown at the resort.

02-261-6364, www.awakohchang.com

044-756-669/70, www.escape-hotel.com

The 11 gorgeous Western-style suites are inspired by the early Rattanakosin Era. The traditional Thai touches start at the entrance, where you’re asked to take your shoes off. The food, too, ranges from local Thai treats to hampers packed with freshbaked pastries.

KOH KOOD

Thames Valley

This relatively isolated island has welcomed a new resort on Khlong Chao Beach.

The beachfront boutique is all modernist wooden cubes with tastefully rustic accents, such as Sino-Portuguese-style tiles and whitewashed furniture.

This one adds to the area’s themed attractions with the chance to pretend you’re staying in the English countryside. The 58-room resort also features the Castle Restaurant, which serves English favorites like fish and chips in a manor house setting, and Clotted Cream Tea Room, where you can find TWG Teas and pastries.

02-966-1800/2, www.wendythepoolresort.com

SAMUI

OZO Samui Located on Chaweng Beach, this is another new hotel decked out in blue and white.

A reasonably priced option on the increasingly upscale island of Samui, rooms range from 20-26 sq meters and come with sound proofing and blackout curtains.

077-915-200, www.ozohotels.com

KHAO LAK

Monkey Dive

044-009-999, www.thamesvalleykhaoyai.com

Botanica Khao Yai The hotel consists of 116 contemporary rooms, an onsen spa, two swimming pools, a barbecue pit, a library lounge and a jogging track. Panoramic views of the national park, which is just 3km away, complete the experience.

044-001-111, www.botanicakhaoyai.com

KANCHANABURI

X2 River Kwai

High-end beach destination Khao Lak recently welcomed this alternative accommodation option. Under a diving theme, the design hostel is decked out in vibrant colors and graphics of underwater creatures.

There’s also a café on-site.

Eight stark cabins are positioned with views of Kwai Noi River. The resort boasts an industrial chic design and facilities like an infinity riverfront pool with sun loungers and sun beds, a library, free Wi-Fi and iPads for loan. Bicycles are also available for guests to explore the surrounding countryside.

081-956-5654, www.monkeydivekhaolak.com

034-552-125, www.x2resorts.com

X2 River Kwai

CHIANG MAI

AWA Resort

Wendy The Pool

Sala Ayutthaya

053-327-777. www.sireeampan.com

Happy Nest Inspiring Hostel

CHIANG RAI

Happy Nest Inspiring Hostel The border province welcomed a cute design hostel which aims to present traditional art and culture in a modern setting.

Packages like bike tours are also available.

0 5 3 -7 1 5 - 0 3 1 , w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / happynestchiangrai

AYUTTHAYA

Sala Ayutthaya Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Pratu Chai, opposite the renowned Wat Phutthaisawan, the recently opened and very stylish boutique resort consists of 26 rooms, and is decked out with modern white furnishings as well as Eastern-inspired décor in the form of wood fittings and tiger-motif walls.

Wendy The Pool

02-231-2588, www.salaresorts.com/ayutthaya

Escape Khao Yai

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Lower Lobby @ JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok | 4 Sukhumvit Road Soi 2, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 | t: 02 656 7709 |

facebook.com/JWMarriottBKK

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escapes

Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort

Kata Rocks

Iniala Beach House

Point Yamu by Como

PHUKET

Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort Situated on a hillside overlooking Kamala Cove at the southern tip of Kamala Beach, the five-star property consists of 199 rooms with unobstructed views of the Andaman Sea. Their Regency Club offers exclusive access to a large infinity pool, personalized check-in/out, and complimentary beverages all day.

076-231-234, www.phuket.regency.hyatt. com

Kata Rocks The new five-star boutique resort consists of just 34 secluded oceanfront pool villas overlooking the Andaman Sea. Each villa is equipped with its own infinity pool, spacious living area and iPad. 076-284-750, www.katarocks.com

Point Yamu by Como The hotel is situated at the peaceful tip of Cape Yamu and features 106 rooms and villas created by Italian designer and architect Paola Navone. Guests can enjoy ocean-facing views from each room as well as the spectacular 100m swimming pool and signature treatments at the eight-room Como Shambhala Retreat.

076 -360 -100, www.comohotels.com/ pointyamu

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Iniala Beach House Iniala Beach House is possibly Thailand’s most luxurious resort, and made headlines with the visit of Kim Kardashian.

Situated on Natai Beach, the 10 rooms here were each designed by 10 international designers including Brazil’s Campana brothers and Jaime Hayón of Spain. Stays start at a hefty BTK, but rest assured owner Mark Weingard gives 15 percent of the resort’s revenue towards health and education projects in Thailand, Indonesia, and India.

076-451-456, www.iniala.com

U Zenmaya The 50 -room resort on Kalim Beach incorporates Sino-Portuguese touches in its rooms, which ranged from balcony Jacuzzi to seaview suite. Like other U Hotel properties, guests can personalize their pillow type, tea, soap and music prior to arrival.

076-336-888, www.uzenmayaphuket.com

Le Coral Hideaway Beyond Phuket Phang Nga Bay has welcomed another stylish resort located on the serene Natai Beach. The property consists of 58 rooms offering views of the Andaman Sea. 076-679-888, www.coralhideaway.com

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By Monruedee Jansuttipan

HUA HIN

Make a Splash Next time you’re headed to Hua Hin why not combine your stay with a visit to what’s been dubbed Asia’s first water jungle. Intercontinental Hua Hin Resort is offering packages that include a night’s stay plus tickets to the newly opened Vana Nava (www.vananava.com) waterpark. The deal starts at B6,900 per room with one ticket to the park or B8,400 per night with three tickets (two adults and one child). Among Vana Nava’s highlights are Thailand’s tallest waterslide, Boomerango, as well as the Abyss, a slide that allows up to six friends to soar from a height of 28 meters. There’s also a bodyboard and surf simulator. Available through Jan 31, 2015. For more, visit www.intercontinental.com/huahin or call 032-616-999.

PATTAYA

Jewel of the Ocean Pattaya seems to be back on travelers’ radars with more and more big chain hotels popping up. The latest is Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort ( w w w. m e rcu re. co m , 02-659-2888), in North Pattaya, which offers 210 contemporary guestrooms plus direct access to the beach—pretty rare in a new opening these days. The hotel comprises 24 Deluxe Ocean View rooms and eight Ocean View Suites offering views of the Gulf of Thailand, plus a mini waterpark boasting a giant slide. This high season, they’re offering an introductory rate of B1,890 per night, through Mar, 2015.

SAMUI

Island Brew Small-scale beer and spirit-makers aren’t only on the rise in Bangkok. Samui’s been pretty famous for its Magic Alambic Rum for a while, but now the island’s welcomed its first brewpub, Bee Knees Brewpub (83/3 Moo 2, Tambon Bophut, 085-537-2498, on.fb.me/1G6u9lk), near Chaweng Beach. Englishman Jim Smith brews his beer using mostly organic ingredients and water sourced from a deep well 125 meters below the bar. Currently on offer are Summer Bee, a pilsner-style lager; Black Bee, a chocolate coffee porter; Bitter Bee, an English-style bitter beer; and Wheaty Bee, a wheat beer with a soft fruit flavour. All beers have a relatively low 3.5-5% alcohol content, and are priced from B85 for 1/3 liter and B125 for a half liter.

KHAO YAI

Run Wild Thailand’s largest trail-running event , The North Face 100 Thailand (www.facebook.com/ TNF100Thailand) returns on Jan 31, 2015 in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Pakchong district. This year, more than 600 runners will take part over distances of 50km, 100km (duo and solo) and, for the first time, 15km. Though registration is closed, sports enthusiasts can still get up close to the action. One option is to stay at Escape Khao Yai (www.escape-hotel.com, 044-756-669-70), where they’re currently offering a “Winter Yard” package, which includes a luxe camping-like experience with outdoor picnics and afternoon tea, plus a barbecue dinner with craft beer and cocktails, after which you can retreat to your Deluxe Corner Room. The package starts at B4,800, until Jan 31, 2015.

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

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avenue FASHION

Best in Design

BK speaks to some of Bangkok’s leading fashion gurus, editors and stylists to pick out 2014’s best local designers.

By Vasachol Quadri BEST EMERGING ACCESSORIES BRAND

Nasha Bag

BEST BANGKOK-VIA-LONDON BRAND

Lalalove London

Having built a reputation globally through retailers like Topshop and Oxford Circus since 2009, Linda Charoenlab’s vibrant Thai brand Lalalove London finally opened a store here in October at Siam Center.

3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1000. BTS Siam. www.lalalovelondon.com

BEST NEW WOMENSWEAR BRAND

Vick’s Weekend

The designer behind womenswear brand Vickteerut, Teerut “Vick” Wongwatanasin is certainly not a new name. But in mid-2014, Vick introduced his second brand, which offers more casual-yet-stylish items for women, along with more affordable prices. We like the minimal designs and earth-tone color schemes with loose fabrics, which result in casual pieces that can also be spritzed up when needed.

Ari Soi 2, 02-279-1260. www.vicksweekend. com

Vick’s Weekend has had strong branding since the beginning: these are ready-towear clothes you can wear 24/7. They don’t have to follow the trends; these are basic pieces for all occasions, very well suited to classic Thai tastes. It’s more casual than Vickteerut, but just as iconic. Despite the minimal designs, the pieces stand out as unique thanks to well-selected materials and fabrics.

— Thitikan Kanchanapakdee, Fashion Editor at Hamburger Magazine

Lalalove London pops to mind immediately. It’s not quite new globally but very new for Thai consumers, and it’s received a very good response. Print patterns are really hot right now, and this label has a unique character: fun, simple patterns with themes that are easy to understand.

The pieces really fit the character of our country, too.

—Tada Tongthawornsuwan, freelance fashion stylist

BEST RAGS TO WHITE DRESS STORY

Rotsaniyom

The brand has been a long time coming. Rewind almost 10 years and Rotsaniyom was a popular T-shirt brand at Chatuchak before expanding their line to dresses and men’s shirts. Then came the premium “White Label” line, offering more artistic, all-white designs. To top it all off, Rotsaniyom White Label opened its first flagship store at Siam Center’s designer zone in October, this year.

3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1000. BTS Siam

White Label is fresh on the runways. I like the brand’s creative mix of traditional Thai touches and modern forms. They use a lot of lace, which also adds a vintage feel, but the cuts are not boring at all.

Their designs are like pieces of art that you can actually wear.

—Parisa Chatnilbandhu, Group Vice President, Retail Business Developement of Siam Piwat Co., Ltd

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Silapakorn interior design graduate Nasha Mekraksavanich designed shoes at Ars Sutoria in Milan and accessories at Istituto Marangoni in Milan, before founding her accessories brand Nasha Bag in 2013. Her first collection premiered at Paris Fashion Week before being selected as part of Vogue Italia Talents 2013.

Now the brand has arrived in Bangkok at Club 21 Thailand.

Club 21, M/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam. www.fb.com/nasha.accessories.official

I came to know this brand from Vogue’s Who’s Next program, which she won.

I really like her simple designs: unique with neat details. The square cut is simple but very strong plus the materials—stingray leather, g o a t skin and bullskin—are also interesting. I think it has a lot of potential to grow both nationally and internationally.

—Natthawut Saengchuwong, Deputy Editor GQ Thailand

BEST ONLINE BRAND

BEST THAI BRAND TO BREAK NEW YORK

SSAP

Having launched in the US back in 2012, this brand quickly established a following for its signature use of Thai dying techniques. Now with the opening of Gin & Milk multi-label store this year, the brand is finally available in Bangkok, arriving with their latest fall/winter collection.

Gin & Milk, 3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02658-1000 (1376). BTS Siam. www.fb.com/ginandmilkstore

This is a Thai brand that started in NYC, making waves from utilizing Thai indigo dying techniques in streetwear and workwear.

They get the quality fabrics and dyes in Sakonnakorn and cut them in NYC. Every piece is made by heart and cut by soul.

—Napat Sutithon, Fashion Editor at Elle Men Thailand

Wrong Sole

This brand started as a graduation project before growing into a proper made-to-order footwear business. We’re particularly impressed by the irregularly-patterned shoes with exposed steel heels in black, white and grey. After going a little bit quiet, they recently came back with a line of slippers as well as an official web store.

Shop online at wrongsole.com

I’m in love with their modern and concep tual approach to footwear design. Their minimal aesthetic really resonates with the concept of city living. The shoes are beautifully crafted with genuine leather and top notch materials. They are also tackling the unisex approach which is really refreshing to see in Bangkok’s fashion scene.

—Nan Tohchoodee, freelance fashion writer

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avenue

Vatanika A/W 2014

BEST LEADING BRAND

Milin and Vatanika (TIE) Milin Yuvacharuskul’s Milin and Vatanika Patamasingha’s Vatanika are two of the fastest-rising labels in the land. After a busy past couple of years, they’re now standing on equal footing with luminaries like Soda, Greyhound and Kloset.

Milin F/W 2014

3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1000.

BTS Siam

If I had to pick young Thai designers who have performed the best over the past year, I’d pick Milin and Vatanika. Milin made such a clear statement of her character and customer base, that personally I had doubts whether she could come up with new collections without losing her identity. But she’s done it, and continues to do it. As for Vatanika, I like the exotic design. She dares to aim high, too. The brand focuses on luxury evening gowns with fresh designs and custom finishing. I wasn’t sure Thai customers were ready for such high-priced dresses, but she’s already proven successful. The quality of the brand is also worth the price.

—Mallika Ruengkrittiya, Kloset founder and designer

BEST MENSWEAR THAT MEN CAN ACTUALLY WEAR

Painkiller

If you follow Thai designer brands, you would have noticed the swift development of Painkiller over the past couple of years—from a pop-up stall at flea markets to a shop in Siam Square to a spot in Siam Center’s Thai Designer Zone to joining the country’s high-flying brands as a member of Bangkok Fashion Society. We love that they’ve retained their focus on modern menswear that’s not too dressy—and that their prices are still the cheapest among local designer labels.

3/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd., 02-6581145. BTS Siam

I like Painkiller if talking about menswear. Most local menswear is still about metrosexuals and some items are simply over-the-top. But Painkiller have these interesting-yet-appropriate designs that every guy can actually wear.

—Mallika Ruengkrittiya, Kloset founder and designer

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MOTORS

Trail Blazer Japanese automobile giant Nissan recently launched its latest SUV model, the new X-TRAIL, which boasts a number of updated smart functions and a sleeker, more contoured design. Among the new features is the Active Ride Control, which monitors the road surface to detect anything that could potentially affect the pitch of the car and alters the damping accordingly. Similarly, the Active Engine Brake feature helps add a greater degree of brake control with less pedal effort. The real highlight, however, may be the new design, which sees the previous boxy structure get a cleaner, more pared-back look. Prices range from B1.172-B1.551 million, at Nissan dealers nationwide.

WELLNESS

SERVICE

FASHION

Yogi Escape

On the Move

Denim Details

A low-key alternative to the major yoga hubs, Yogatique is a small, community-based studio that’s just opened on Sukhumvit Soi 23. It offers a variety of classes, covering all physical practices (flexibility and fitness) as well as holistic approaches like breathing and balancing the body and soul, aka Yin and Yang. Newbie? Fear not. There are classes designed for beginners, too. There is no need to book in advance (B400 for a drop-in session), and the December Special 10 class pass, valid for 60 days, is available at B2,000. See its weekly schedule at www.yogatiquebangkok.com. 4/F, 116/8 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 02-662-0172. BTS Asoke

Looking for a safe, sweat-free way to move your stuff? lalaMove, a 24-hour delivery-slash-logistics service from Hong Kong, has recently launched in Bangkok, promising fast-track delivery for your documents as well as big items. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can have a motorcyclist or pickup driver in minutes. The base fare is B60 for a document or small parcel plus B9 per km, but you can also book a whole truck, with driver to help with loading, from B600 plus B20 per km. All deliveries in Thailand are protected up to B2,000 and they’re offering a 20-percent discount through Dec 31. For more information, 097-369-5252, www.lalamove.com

Having forged a name for their affordable jeans made with selvedge denim sourced from Okayama, Japan, local brand Nama Denim are stepping things up with a new premium product line. The Nama Premium NP-001 (B5,600) is made with deep indigo dyes and blue selvedge stitching. What makes this new pair of jeans particularly eye-catching are the gold-gilded solid brass buttons and rivets. We also like the hand-stamped horse leather patch and indigo herringbone pocket lining. Shop 2088, 2/F, Terminal 21, 2,88 Sukhumvit Soi 19, 081-906-1265. BTS Asok

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avenue Modern Ways to Play Retro Videogames

TECH

RETROARCH (Free)

Press Start!

RetroArch is the Android tablet users’ answer to everything retro gaming. This all-in-one emulator app supports pretty much every console from the SNES to the PS1 via either touch-interface controls or various USB and Bluetooth controllers. The app works with iOS as well, though only on jailbroken devices. Avail-

Relive the pixelated glory days of eight-bit videogames at these retro-gaming stores around Bangkok. By Kanin Srimaneekulroj

able for Android and iOS (jailbreak only)

OPENEMU (Free) If you’d rather play Contra on a large screen, try OpenEmu for Mac. With an interface very much like iTunes, the emulator a l l ow s yo u to a rc h i ve a n d browse through your collection of retro games with ease, but doesn’t support every console.

Available for Mac OS

PROPER SHOPS

BK PICK!

ONLINE SHOPS

O-Corner

Game Club Retro

If there is really such a thing as the coveted nerd-vana, this is probably it. Stacked from floor to ceiling with retro videogames and vintage toys, this little, tucked-away shop in MBK is co-owned by a Japanese man, meaning all the products in the shop are shipped straight from the source. They also have a pretty impressive stock of videogame merchandise, the likes of which is usually only found in the US or UK, such as limited edition action figures, T-shirts and posters.

The focus here is games and consoles, and the catalog of products is pretty impressive. As well as secondhand Famicoms (Japanese Nintendos starting from B6,900) and classic Gameboys (starting from B2,000), there are plenty of Nintendo’s hard-to-find early hand consoles, the Game & Watch (starting from B1,600). They also sell vintage Japanese toys and limited-edition G-Shock watches, all of which are decorated with a geeky theme like Ironman or Gundam. Their website is a mess, though, so finding specific items can take some fiddling around.

6/F, MBK, Phaya Thai Rd., 02-611-4880. www.fb.com/ OCorner

Love Game Shop Interesting fact: The owner of this store came upon an abandoned factory filled with unopened Sega Mega Drive (aka Sega Genesis) consoles and games, so it’s no wonder this place has some of the best-condition gear in town. He even has rare relics from Nintendo’s short-lived days as a toy manufacturer, before they focused exclusively on videogames, like the physical version of the hit Super Nintendo game Duck Hunt (B3,900). Serious collectors should really check this one out.

083-138-2992, gameclubretro@hotmail.com. www. gameclubretro.com

Classic-Gameshop Not quite as retro-focused as the others, this shop is still worth a look as they accept pre-orders of many limited edition items released only in Japan (though shipping can take up to a month), plus the website is much cleaner than the competition and very easy to navigate.

Really, though, the focus here is on new games, and they produce their own Youtube video series telling you about the latest releases.

J-Retro Games Shop The selection of products can be scarce, but this is one place especially for serious collectors— they even offer complimentary acrylic display cases for all purchases to show off your retro gaming treasures. Like Classic-Gameshop, they too have a pre-order service called 2UP Japan.

As long as it’s being sold on a Japanese website somewhere, 2UP can get it for you.

081-914-4313. www.facebook.com/JRetroGamesShop

1983 Crazy Game Shop As well as secondhand retro consoles (starting from B5,000 for Famicom / B1,000 for Mega Drive), this shop has some unused ones (starting from B2,000), so should be on the radar of anyone who like their collectibles in mint condition. There’s also a good stock of legitimate PS1 games, which are extremely hard to come by in a country where pirated copies are the norm.

Baan Klang Mueng Village, Srinakarin Rd., 089-6923174. www.facebook.com/1983CrazyGameShop

GAME-OLDIES.COM (Free) Why own a console when you can play games straight from your browser? That’s exactly what Game Oldies lets you do.

This awesome website lets you instantly play a huge number of games for free straight from their website and even lets you save your progress. It’s impressively flexible, considering it’s only a web app.

Available for all internet browsers (Google Chrome recommended)

080-264-6445. www.classic-gameshop.com

5/F Mega Plaza, Mahachai Rd., 084-434-5115. kokoshop.tarad.com

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bites & blends

NEW RESTAURANT

Pacific Heights After the big revamp at Benjarong, the former D’Sens on Dusit Thani’s 22/F has been given a makeover of its own. Now called 22 Kitchen & Bar, it’s nothing like the refined French restaurant it replaces. California-born Nikolas Ramirez helms the kitchen, bringing with him influences from his Hawaiian and Latin roots.

The menu focuses on Pacific coastal cuisine like the fresh and simple scallop carpaccio with corn and avocado salsa (B350) as well as Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese fusion) dishes like grilled Maine lobster with “ramen gnocchi” and miso tea (starting from B900). The signature drinks (all at B370) also fit the theme well, like rum-based Catch 22. 22/F, Dusit Thani Hotel, 946 Silom Rd., 02-200-9000. Open daily 4pm-midnight

CIGAR LOUNGE

Manhattan in Silom The city’s favorite cigar lounge has expanded again, this time into upper Silom. More spacious but still maintaining that dark, solemn tone of its mother outlet, the new Whisgars feels like a cavernous Manhattan speakeasy. Smoking laws also seem to have passed this place by, which means you can enjoy your nutty and leathery Nicaraguan L’atelier LAT52 cigars indoors from the comfort of a wingback leather armchair while sipping on an Oban 14-year-old single malt (at B1,100 for the pairing).

981 Silom Rd., 02-661-3220. Open 2pm-2am. BTS Sala Daeng

NEW CAFÉ

Scandinavian Rivalry Has Siwilai Rocket met its match? Hailing from Copenhagen, Granola is a cafécum-restaurant also linked to a fashion shop and serving Nordic comforts such as smorrebrod (sourdough with simple toppings). We really like the seared bay scallop option, served the fresh rocket pesto (B250) on local sourdough from Conkey’s. Other feel-good meals on the menu include mushroom tea soup (B200) and the chocolate mud dessert with bacon-infused vanilla foam (B240). The interior is solemn and clean, in keeping with the hipster fashion store to which it’s attached, Soulland. 3/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5626. Open daily 11am-10pm. BTS Phloen Chit

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NEW RESTAURANT

Noel Robuchon L’Atelier de Robuchon is taking reservations and plan to open on Dec 25. The much-delayed opening is a source of frantic excitement among foodies. French legend Joel Robuchon’s restaurants have a total of 25 Michelin stars across the world.

Located at Mahanakhon Cube, the retail wing of the as-yet-unbuilt skyscraper, L’Atelier’s concept is that “guests are part of the action,” meaning an open kitchen surrounded by a high bar. Set 8-course (optional wine pairing). Open daily 11:30am-2:30pm.

6:30-10:30pm. 02-001-0698. BTS Chong Nonsi

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bites CHRISTMAS EVE

ROUNDUP

Can’t wait till Christmas Day? Here are three special dinners on Dec 24.

Festive Feasts

There’s no shortage of Christmas Dinner options out there. Here are the ones we most like the sound of.

By Kritthee Visitkitjakarn

Park Society

HYDE & SEEK GASTROPUB

J’Aime

For the first time ever, Hyde & Seek will be hosting a Christmas Eve dinner. The à la carte menu features thoughtful twists on familiar Christmas favorites like roasted turkey (B550) and puff ginger mille fueille (B250). Come as a party of six to receive a free bottle of Chandon sparkling wine.

G/F, Athenee Residence, Soi Ruamrudee, 02-168-5153. BTS Phloen Chit

Savelberg

GULA AT VIVA & AVIV

Savelberg

Rossini’s

FOR A LUXURY HOTEL BUFFET

FOR SOMETHING ASIAN

Brasserie Europa (Siam Kempinski)

The Okura Prestige

We really like their garden, and the all-you-can-eat festive offerings are also right up there with what all the top hotels are doing. At B4,200 you get free-flow Moët & Chandon Imperial Rosé and a traditional buffet (noon-4pm) of imported seafood, premium roast meats and heavy yuletide desserts. Kids pay B1,450.

Dec 24-25. 1/F, Siam Kempinski, 991/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-1629000. BTS Siam

FOR AN ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BARGAIN

Latest Recipe (Le Méridien) The price of B2,550 is over 1K short of what most fancy hotels are charging for their festive buffets, and you still get foie gras, Alaskan king crab and oysters to go with your traditional turkey. Free-flow wines, beers, cocktails and bubbles included.

Thanks to its Japanese heritage, The Okura Prestige has a very alternative offering this Christmas. Chef Hagiwara Shigeru of Yamazato will be doing a sixcourse teppanyaki dinner for B4,000, featuring king crab, scallops from Hokkaido and wagyu sirloin.

Dec 24-25. 25/F, The Okura Prestige, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Rd., 02-687-9000. BTS Phloen Chit

FOR AN ELABORATE SET DINNER

Park Society Want a Christmas dinner with theater and flair?

Head up to the 29/F of Sofitel So, where chef Angela Brown whips up a five-course Christmas degustation dinner for B4,800. Expect molecular flourishes and foams as well as substantial mains like the mustard-and-herb crusted Tajima wagyu tenderloin.

Dec 24-25. 2/F, Le Meridien Bangkok. 40/5 Surawong Road, Bangrak, 02-232 -8888

Dec 24-25. 29/F, Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 North Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumpini

57th Street (Marriott Sukhumvit)

FOR A WELL-PRICED SET MENU

For those looking to eat around Thonglor, the Marriott has a similarly priced deal at B2,690 with freeflow wine, beer and bubbles (B2,350 if you just want to eat) from 12-4pm. The buffet includes a live foie gras cooking station, wagyu beef, smoked salmon, caviar, sashimi and plenty more international and Asian dishes.

Dec 25. 2 Sukhumvit Soi 57, 02-797-0000. BTS Thong Lo

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Rossini’s With most top hotel’s set dinners pushing B4,000, we like the sound of chef Luca Cesarini’s Tuscan-style Christmas menu. The B2,500 price not only includes four courses like pan-seared Hokkaido scallops with rosemary potato foam and roasted deep water cod but also a selection of Primo Vino wines.

Dec 25. 1/F, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit , 250 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-649-8888. BTS Asoke

Lenzi

Lenzi Tuscan Kitchen Apparently real Italian Catholics only eat fish for Christmas. That’s why Lenzi’s B2,400 six-course Tuscan Christmas menu features dishes like gratin scallops and fresh tagliolina pasta with sea urchin, prawns and cherry tomatoes. It’s all finished off with a traditional slice of panettone in vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce.

Gula is the private-dining project of a former chef from El Bulli, Jacobo Astray. On Christmas Eve, he’ll be at the popular riverside bar for a one-night-only four-course dinner (B2,500) featuring elaborate culin a r y c rea t i o n s s u c h a s o l i ve spheres, 65-degree sous vide eggs plus hearty mains of red mullet or Iberico pork.

B/F, River City Shopping Complex, 23 Yotha Rd., 02-639-6305

Dec 24-25. R u a m r u e d e e S o i 2, W i re l e ss R d . , 02-001-0116

FOR A MICHELIN-LEVEL EXPERIENCE

J’aime At B3,399 net, we’re impressed by the sound of what the three-Michelin-star-winning Jean-Michel Lorain has planned. His four-course degustation menu features Fin de Claire oysters, lobster medallions and turkey roulades. To guarantee you leave uncomfortably stuffed is a Provencal dessert buffet.

Dec 24-25. U Sathorn Bangkok, 105/1 Soi Ngam Duphli, Sathorn Rd., 02-119-4888

Savelberg You may need to break the bank to get a taste of Savelberg, but Christmas is actually a little cheaper than regular days. For B4,472 net per head, feast on a five-course menu of luxurious dishes like lobster with goose liver and black truffle vinaigrette, and poached North Sea sole with capers and white wine sauce. You’ll also receive complimentary sweets to take home.

SRA BUA BY KIIN KIIN

Looking for a different Christmas vibe? Go to Sra Bua, the high-wired Thai molecular act guaranteed to wow the adventurous and piss off traditionalists. At B3,500 per head, the 10-course experience includes signatures such as frozen red curry with baby lobster salad and lychee foam.

1/F, Siam Kempinski, 991/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-162-9000. BTS Siam Visit bit.do/BKxmas2014 for many more deals

Dec 24-26. G/F, Oriental Residence, Wireless Rd., 02-252-8001

BK Magazine Friday, December 19, 2014

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ADVERTORIAL

PROPERTY

FOOD REVIEWS

Home for the Holidays From a vibrant beach retreat to a private coastal hideaway, two new properties offer the dream resort lifestyle.

Papa’s Kitchen HHHH Western. Pattanakarn Soi 30, 02-318-6831.

Open daily 11am-10pm. Corkage B200. BB-BBB

The Deck

The Deck Stunning beaches, non-stop nightlife and the best shopping on Phuket— it’s no surprise Patong just keeps getting hotter, and not just as a tourist destination but as a place to live. Located right in the heart of the island, The Deck promises to be the most enjoyable investment you’ll ever make. With spectacular sea views and facilities worthy of any hotel, the property consists of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, all with their own private sun decks and use of a rooftop infinity pool, plus a huge ground-level pool and terrace. Patong has been a tourist magnet for decades, but with new markets coming online and tourism figures currently higher than ever, now is the perfect time to invest in a slice of prime coastal living. Prices start at 4.6MB*.

The main partner behind Papa’s Kitchen, Jim Moroney, says he left his last Bangkok burger partnership due to compromises in quality. Going it alone with this small dining room on the outskirts of town, he’s followed the winning recipe for a cozy and contemporary neighborhood restaurant, and the room buzzes with Englishspeaking locals and expats. The menu of burgers, classic comfort food and a few more inventive signatures is, for the most part, not particularly inspired, but well executed and satisfying. The Guv’nor burger (B395) comes in an over-stuffed bun impaled with a stick

Water Library Brasserie HHHH French. 5/F, Central Embassy, 1031 Phloen Chit Rd. 02-160-5893. Open daily 10am-10pm (food served from 11:30am only). BTS Phloen Chit.

BBB-BBBB. No alcohols from outside allowed. F

Baan Mai Khao

Baan Mai Khao On the pine-tree fringed sands of one of Northwest Phuket’s most beautiful beaches, Baan Mai Khao is a world away from the island’s bustling South.

Awarded Best Condo Development in Phuket at this year’s Thailand Property Awards, the area’s first ever beach-front condominium is sensitive to what makes Mai Khao Beach so special—the dappled light falling through pine fronds, the natural sea breeze winding through the trees, the island’s colonial Portuguese heritage. The 206 resort-style, low-rise units are spread across nine buildings, with a swimming pool stretching throughout the site to offer many units their own private pool access. A multi-purpose lawn area adjacent to the beach-front pool also provides substantial space for social activities right by the beach. Throughout the luxurious yet humble development, natural materials dominate the design, creating an environment that is at one with its surroundings, yet provided with every modern convenience residents could wish for. Prices start at 13.5MB*.

Did you know...

Buyers of Sansiri properties can rent out their resort condominiums for vacation stays using Sansiri’s Rental for the Holidays program.

For more information, please visit rentalfortheholidays.com.

Call 1685, email info@sansiri.com or visit sansiri.com BK Magazine December 19, 2014 36570 Sansiri Adver.indd Friday, 1

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Water Library is a group of restaurants, most of which do excellent French cuisine, have dramatic, slightly industrial decors and are located in malls. (They also own the Chinese Chef Man restaurants, which are obviously very different.) This particular branch is dubbed Water Library Brasserie and, indeed, the food here is that little bit more Gallic, with dishes such as salade Nicoise (B410) and duck confit (B690), or even specials like the cassoulet (B380), the ultimate Toulousain comfort food. Without being all that expensive, Water Library operates at a very high level of execution, making it perhaps the best bang for your buck you can get in this town. For B999, you get a three-course menu that’s not exactly generous with portion sizes, but tastes like something you’d be happy to have even when in France (particularly for 20 euros). Their service always gets us, too: as confident, on-the-ball and informed as a five-star hotel’s, without the weird frozen smile.

This B999 deal is no degustation menu, though, and you’ll have to go à la carte for the highlights, such as the wagyu steak tartare (B490). It’s a bit heavy on

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.

and served on a cutting board (we’ve certainly seen that before). Everything is well-seasoned and the molten cheese flavorful, but the meat is rarer than we’d like and a bit soggy—overall, a satisfying burger. Their fish and chips (B260) are about on par with Fat Gut’z, with crisp beer batter and cod that’s flakey and moist. The special of the day, seared tuna with avocado (B450), is fairly standard bistro fare but a well-balanced combination. The fiery, spiced tuna tastes not quite at its prime but marries well with the much fresher avocado purée and peppery rocket leaves. The baby back ribs (B395) are also really nicely done. The meat falls off the bone while heat from the spice rub permeates through the tangy barbecue sauce. But other dishes don’t stand up so well. The seafood soup (B195) tastes like a weakly diluted shrimp-head stock, and isn’t saved by the kick of liquor. Washed down with a vanilla shake (B100) that tastes a lot like the one at Swensen’s, a meal at Papa’s is far from a disappointment and hits the spot for more than just a good burger.

the dressing , which manages to overpower the raw meat, but is otherwise beautifully presented and includes thin slices of crispy ciabatta for a bit of texture.

We aren’t entirely happy with the grilled tiger prawns (B550), either. The sauce, which uses the fat in the prawn’s heads, is pretty amazing. And we do like our prawns bordering on raw but, on our last visit, they were downright raw. Still, while Water Library Brasserie isn’t quite Le Beaulieu, it costs a fraction of the price.

The creamy mushroom soup, for example, is lovely, but you weren’t expecting porcini in a menu costing one grand, were you? The flavor ends up being a bit light, and the milk cream almost too present.

Big and bold seems to be a safer bet here: the onion soup (B290), the wagyu steak with its beautiful wedge fries (B1,290), the tender, perfectly cooked lamb (B890).

Thanks to occasional creative touches like a bed of jicama (Mexican turnip) purée or foie gras oil, some of these dishes come pretty darn close to perfection. Case in point: the tarte tatin (B380), which is possibly the best in Bangkok, with a truly decadent, buttery crust and apples with just the right balance of natural acidity and sweet caramel. As is customary for Water Library venues, you get good deals on wine, too (they import it themselves), with plenty of solid options under the B2,000 mark. The decor is kind of fun in a steampunk, Eiffel tower kind of way, but it does look like a poorly finished version of something Ashley Sutton (Iron Fairies, Maggie Choo’s) might have done. Add a mall location to the mix and it’s hard to unconditionally love the place—and its occasional misfires—quite as much as we’d like to.

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

Symbols

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

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OPEN DOOR

Vogue Lounge

Does this cocktail bar have the most ambitious small plates in town?

The buzz: What started as a bar is now generating serious heat among Bangkok foodies thanks to a small menu that offers far more than your usual bar snacks. The chef, Vincent Thierry, comes from Hong Kong's two-Michelin-starred Caprice restaurant, and is a master of complex flavors and elaborate presentation.

The décor: The small, 1920s-inspired indoor area is dominated by rich, plum-leather seating, gleaming bronze bar stools and lots of marble, while the vast outdoor terrace (which covers most of the venue) has a cool black and white theme. The outdoor air-con also makes it the comfiest roof terrace in Bangkok.

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The food: Savory dishes that look like desserts and desserts that look like works of art, all minutely portioned and precisely executed. The Japanese wagyu sirloin with black truffle potato and bone marrow butter is probably the heartiest thing on the menu, while the onsen egg yolk with sea urchin espuma and pork knuckle stew showcases Thierry’s ability to match very bold flavors. The price of B350 per dish (savory) looks reasonable for somewhere so fancy, but it’ll take a lot more than one dish to fill you up. For dessert (all B250), don’t miss Thierry's take on apple tarte tartin with vanilla ice cream.

The drinks: Complement the delicate bites with the light and fruity cocktails (all B340). We particularly like the Mahanakhon Julep (Niki Thai vodka, absinthe, mango juice and passion fruit). The menu only covers signature creations, but the bartenders are competent enough to handle any classics you throw at them, too. Mocktails are also good, like the mixed berry ice tea (B220).

The crowd: Intimidating young(ish) things—early-30s, welldressed and not afraid to order Champagne. Kritthee Visitkitjakarn 6/F, Mahanakhon Cube, 96 Narathiwat Ratchanakharin Rd., 02-0010697. Open daily 10-1am. BTS Chong Nonsi

BK Magazine Friday, December 19, 2014

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Sora City

TABLE TALK Sumi Tei Yakiniku

Sora City

230/5 Sukhumvit Soi 1, 02-205-7600.

Open daily 6am - 11pm.

NEW AND NOTED

Deco on Decho The Deco (Decho Junction, next to Pullman G Hotel, Silom Rd., 02-635-6002) is a new, moodily-lit addition to Lower Silom’s burgeoning live jazz scene. Bands perform every night from 9-11pm, while the kitchen serves up straightforward Thai and Western, from goong oob woon sen (B250) to fish and chips (B450). Classic cocktails start at B250. The decor, you guessed it, references the Roaring Twenties.

Rare Grills Move over sushi, yakiniku (barbecue) is the Japanese flavor of the month. The latest opening, Sumi Tei Yakiniku (9:53 community mall, Thonglor Soi 9, 02-662-5818), comes from the team behind the ubiquitous donburi (rice with toppings) chain Chounan. The main attraction is the melt-in-your-mouth A5-grade wagyu, which the owners rather loftily claim comes from a special breed usually only available to the royal family

Ad Lib

of Japan. Cuts range from short rib (starting from B980) to rib eye (starting from B920). If you are not keen on red meat, try the Imperial seafood set (B3,380) which includes king crab, Hokkaido scallops, and tiger prawns.

Life Cycle After the recent closure of Café Bicycle at Mahatun Plaza, it didn’t take too long for Bangkok cyclists to get a readymade replacement. Still in its soft opening, the cement and light wood-dominated Sora City (Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02-0016600) looks like something straight out of Japan. Besides selling vintage-style bicycles (with the eponymous brand starting from B13,900), the café also does latte tiramisu and bitter chocolate (both from B95). On a hot day, order refreshing heavenly blue soda (B100). To celebrate it's soft launch all hot drinks are priced at B70, while cold ones at B80.

Sleek and modern, Ad Lib's decor sticks to a muted palette of blond woods, earth-tone fabrics and monochromatic minerals. Its modernist boxiness is offset by a surprising amount of greenery, given its downtown location in the heart of Sukhumvit. At the restaurant and bar, you'll want to kick back on the generous sofas piled high with pillows, and sip a cocktail before heading to your dinner table. The food is cosmopolitan, with just enough creative tweaks to keep things interesting, such as the pistachio purée on grilled angus beef or the potato and leek soup that comes in a miniature dutch oven. The breezy terrace also makes for an ideal breakfast spot.

Exclusive privileges for Citibank credit card members.

10% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Now – Aug 31, 2015

Kritthee Visitkitjakarn

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

Simply click “Thailand” and then “Gift voucher”

BK Magazine Friday, December 19, 2014

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now Interstellar (USA) HHHHH

FILM REVIEW

With Earth quickly deteriorating, a group of explorers uses a newly discovered wormhole to venture into the vast unknown of space with only one mission: to find a place for the human race among the stars. Starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain.

upcoming

The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies

I Fine… Thank You… Love You HHHHH Movies like I Fine… Thank You… Love You are the reason why GTH is, to most, the best mainstream production company when it comes to Thai films. The third effort from established comedy director Mez Tharatorn (director of 2012’s ATM Er Rak Error) isn’t just funny; it’s one of the best-produced Thai movies in a long, long time.

The excellent opening sequence quickly introduces us to Pleng (Preechaya Pongthananikorn), a beautiful and talented English tutor who, in exchange for a Louis Vuitton purse, agrees to help one of her students (played by Japanese pornstar Sora Aoi) break up with her boyfriend. This puts her on a collision course with Yim (Sunny Suwanmethanon), a rough-talking mechanic. What follows is an adorable and very human, albeit predictable, love story. Director Mez has shown a knack for telling subtly grounded and relatable stories coated in over-the-top slapstick comedy, and his latest film has both in spades.

Much of the film’s success lies in the incredible likeability of Pleng and Yim. Both Sunny and Ice Preechaya have truly brought their A-game here, playing off each other like a well-oiled comedy machine. That doesn’t mean the sweeter scenes aren’t as good though (subtle actions like Yim lightly brushing away mosquitoes for Pleng will definitely tug at a few heartstrings).

The supporting cast is also excellent, though we do wish some of them had bigger parts. Joke So Cool’s character steals every scene he’s in, and it’d be nice if we could see more of him than five or six appearances.

Neatly wrapping things up are excellent cinematography and a strong score, both of which truly enhance the film’s emotions. When the camera starts slowly zooming in and the music kicks up, you’ll see what we mean. If you like GTH films, or just romantic comedies in general, you’re going to love this one. Kanin Srimaneekulroj

SPECIAL SCREENINGS Xmas Film & Theater

FILM

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

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

Phra Nakorn’s cozy wine venue Cinema Winehouse holds a film screening every night, with an updated monthly schedule available online. In the spirit of Christmas, it will be screening the family Christmas classic A Christmas Story (1983) every night till Christmas Day. 59/61 Samsen Rd., 096-465-6526. Free.

CULT MOVIE NIGHT

On top of all the music events and indie parties, Jam hosts weekly film screenings on Wednesday with a new theme every month. If it isn’t obvious enough, the theme this month is Christmas. This Wednesday Dec 24, the screening starts at 8pm. 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1. BTS Surasak. Free.

See more on the BK iPad app bkmagazine.com/bkapp

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Summer to Winter (Thai) HHHHH The love story of Tum (Attanee Tohkiree), a lonely, introverted young man who feels dissatisfied with his overbearing family life, and Kim-Han (Ratchasak Panasantiparp), the cheery boy who changed his life.

The Return (Thai) HHHHH This horror film tells four interconnected stories taking place in Bangkok, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar centering on a mysterious murder with consequences more far-reaching than anyone could imagine.

Jessabelle (USA) HHHHH

now showing

Saint Laurent (France) HHHHH

I Fine… Thank You… Love You (Thai) (See review) Yim (Sunny Suwanmethanon) is an average Thai man with abysmal English skills. When his Japanese girlfriend breaks up with him to go work in America, Yim must reluctantly take English lessons from Pleng (Preechaya Pongthananikorn) in order to get her back.

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

A CHRISTMAS STORY

Ig Perrish (Daniel Radcliffe) wakes up one day to find mysterious horns sprouting out of his head. Using the horns’ power to compel people to confess their sins and give in to their deepest, darkest desires, Ig goes on a mission to clear his name of his girlfriend’s rape and murder, and make whoever is responsible pay.

Stonehearst Asylum (US) Inspired by the works of Edgar Allen Poe, this film follows aspiring doctor Edward Newgate (Jim Sturgess) as he begins his apprenticeship in Stonehearst Asylum, only to realize that no one is really who they seem to be.

Kill the Messenger (US) HHHHH Journalist Gary Webb’s (Jeremy Renner) life changes forever when he uncovers a terrifying conspiracy being covered up by the CIA.

A Christmas Story

Horns (USA) HHHHH

The Good Lie (US) HHHHH The heartwarming story of a group of Sudanese war-orphans who were brought to live in the USA, and the altruistic efforts of Carrie (Reese Witherspoon), the employment agency counselor who helped them.

App Love (Thai) HHHHH In order to avoid enrolling in cadet school per his father’s wishes, a young boy pretends to be gay, only to fall in love with the sister of one of his flamboyant gay friends.

Big Hero 6 (US) HHHHH The latest film from Disney Animation Studios follows prodigal engineer Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) and his bubbly robot buddy Baymax (Scott Adsit) as they join a group of friends to form a band of unlikely heroes.

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

In order to recover from a devastating car accident, Jessabelle (Sarah Snook) returns to her childhood home in Louisiana, only to discover that an evil spirit has been waiting for her there, with horrific plans to make sure she never leaves again.

This biopic about legendary French designer Yves Saint Laurent (played by Gaspard Ulliel) follows his life from 1967 to 1976, the peak of his illustrious career.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 (USA) HHHHH This first part of the film series’ closing act sees Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) lead her army of freedom fighters on a quest to free their nation from the oppressive grip of the Capitol.

Magic in the Moonlight (USA) HHHHH In Woody Allen’s latest film, Stanley (Colin Firth), a magician with a talent for revealing fraudulent spiritualists, meets his match when he is called in to uncover the truth behind Sophie (Emma Stone), a woman who seems to have legitimate connections to the spirit world.

Vengeance of an Assassin (Thai) HHHHH This new film from Panna Rittikrai and Prachya Pinkaew of Ong Bak fame follows Natee (Dan Chupong), a hired gun who is determined to uncover the mysterious circumstances of his parents’ deaths.

The Hundred-Foot Journey (UK/ USA) HHHHH Escaping from the violent political situation in India, Hassan Kadam (Manish Dayal) uses his culinary talents to open a restaurant in France right across the street from the Michelin-starred eatery of Madame Mallory (Helen Mirren).

Before I Go to Sleep (USA) HHHHH Nicole Kidman stars as Christine Lucas, a woman who wakes up every day without memories due to a tragic event in her past.

As horrifying truths start to surface, she is forced to question her life and everything around her.

Love on the Rock (Thai) This booze-centric love story follows Joe (Naparat Rattanit), a young bar owner, as he meets Fai Leaw (Pilaiporn Subinchumroo), a girl who only believes in casual relationships free of commitment.

As their expectations become unaligned, they must ask themselves again what it is they truly expect from love. Dec 25 Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (US) Ben Stiller returns as a museum security guard and must unite the museum’s greatest heroes such as Theodore Roosevelt (Robin Williams) and Attila the Hun (Patrick Gallagher) in a globe-spanning quest to save the magic that brings the museum’s exhibits to life. Dec 25 The Rewrite (US) Has-been Academy Award-winning screenwriter Keith Michaels (Hugh Grant) reluctantly takes on a teaching job at a university, only to fall in love with Holly (Marisa Tomei), a single mother attending his class. Dec 25

The Tale of Princess Kaguya (Japan) This Japanese animated film from the legendary Studio Ghibli chronicles the life of Kaguya (Aki Asakura), a mystical girl born from a bamboo shoot. Growing into a woman of otherworldly beauty, Kaguya is met with many suitors, all of whom she sends on a series of impossible tasks in order to win her hand in marriage. Dec 25

free screenings The Friese-Greene Club The schedule follows a daily theme. Films start from 8pm, visit www.fgc.in.th for the full lineup and to reserve your seat.

259/6 Sukhumvit Soi 22, 087-000-0795.

Open Wed-Sun 6pm-late.

Alliance FranÇaise Movies are subtitled in English and screened at 7pm. Dec 24. Brendan Et Le Secret De Kells (2009): 12-year-old monk Brendan is taken on a fantastical adventure when he meets Frere Aidan, a famous illuminator. Jan 7. 8 Fois Debout (2010): Elsa and Mathieu are two ordinary people who are trying their best to get by in a world that doesn’t seem to be made for them. 179 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-670-4200 Goethe Institut Movies are in German and subtitled in English. Jan 6. Forget Me Not (2012): Filmmaker David Sieveking explores how Alzheimer’s Disease has affected his family, as well as two million other Germans.

18/1 Sathorn Soi 1. 02-108-8200. www. goethe.de

Japan Foundation Movies are subtitled in Thai and screened at 6:30pm. Theme for December is Comedy. Dec 19. The Chef of South Polar (2009): Mr. Nishimura, along with seven other researchers, must live together in Dome Fuji Station in Antarctica for over a year. Dec 26. Nodojiman–Sing Your Heart Out (1999): Based on a popular TV show, the film follows the efforts of three aspiring singers as they take their daring shot at stardom. 10/F, Sermmit Tower, 159 Soi Asoke, 02-260-8560. www.jfbkk.or.th

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THE OKURA PRESTIGE BANGKOK SET TO SPARKLE ON NEW YEAR’S EVE Celebrate the New Year in style at The Okura Prestige Bangkok.

Join us as we welcome 2015 with tantalising Japanese set dinner menus and traditional late evening Soba noodles at Yamazato. There’s a sparkling set dinner at Elements with live jazz and a welcome glass of Champagne. The Prestige buffet dinner and dance at Up & Above features a five-piece band, dance floor and, at midnight, prime viewing of Bangkok’s spectacular fireworks from our half-moon terrace and balcony on the 24th floor.

Fabulous choices at The Okura Prestige Bangkok for New Year's Eve. Call 02 687 9000 for more details.

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FREEWILL ASTROLOGY SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “A savage desire for strong emotions and sensations burns inside me: a rage against this soft-tinted, shallow, standardized and sterilized life.” So says Harry Haller, the protagonist of Herman Hesse’s novel Steppenwolf. His declaration could serve as an interesting point of reference for you in the coming months, Sagittarius -- not as a mood for everyday use, but as a poetic inspiration that you periodically call on to invigorate your lust for life. My invitation has a caveat, however. I advise you not to adopt the rest of Harry Haller’s rant, in which he says that he also has “a mad craving to smash something up, a department store, or a cathedral, or myself.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): I have lived near an open space preserve for five years. Up until the last two months, it has been a peaceful, quite place. But then the coyotes moved in.

Just after dusk every evening, a pack of them start yipping and yowling in the distance. At first I found the racket to be eerie and unsettling. It activated some primal unease in me. And yet the coyotes have never actually been a problem. They don’t roam into my neighborhood and try to bite people or prey on pets. So now I’ve come to relish the situation: The wild things are close and exciting, but not dangerous.

I’m guessing this has a metaphorical resemblance to what your life will be like in the next six months, Capricorn.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 -Feb 18): Stanstead, Quebec and Derby Line, Vermont are really a single town that straddles the border between the U.S. and Canada. Many of the people who live there have dual citizenship, but they’re still supposed to carry their passports with them at all times. I suspect you may experience a metaphorical version of this split in the coming months, Aquarius. You will be in a situation that has a split down the middle or a seemingly unnatural division.

Whether it turns out to be a problem or an opportunity will depend on your adaptability and flexibility.

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PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): When a dead tree topples over in the woods, its withered branches may get entangled with the branches of a living tree that’s standing nearby. As years go by, the living tree must grow the best it can with the decaying wood trapped in its midst. Has something like that ever happened to you? Are you still carrying the rot that other people have burdened you with? If so, the coming months will be an excellent time to get disentangled. A tree isn’t capable of freeing itself from the dead weight of the past, but you are -- especially in the first half of 2015.

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): “Too much happiness can make you unhappy,” reported journalist Marta Zaraska in the Washington Post. Citing research by psychologists, she concluded that being super-extra cheerful can make you selfish, gullible, and more prone to stereotyped thinking. On the other hand, she said, maintaining merely moderate levels of happiness is pretty damn good for your mental and physical health. So here’s the takeaway, Aries: The astrological omens suggest you’re due for a surge of joy and pleasure. Just be careful it doesn’t spill over into rash, delirious excess. Here’s your watchword: well-grounded delight.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): In the 19th century, the Grimm brothers gathered

over 200 old fairy tales from a variety of sources and published them in an unprecedented collection. Many of their stories are still popular, including “Cinderella,” “Snow White,” “Hansel and Gretel,” and “Rapunzel.” Around the same time they did their work, a storyteller named Franz Xaver von Schönwerth assembled his own compendium of fantastic myths, fables, and folklore.

Unlike the Grimm brothers’ book, his work faded into obscurity. But it was rediscovered in 2011, and 500 lost fairy tales are now finding their way into newly published books. I foresee a comparable phenomenon happening for you in 2015, Taurus. Forgotten stories will return. Raw material from the depths will resurface. Interesting news from the past will come flowing into the present.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): Your first task is to ascertain the half-truth, the whole half-truth, and nothing but the whole half-truth. Only then will you be able to find the other half of the truth.

I realize it may be frustrating to use this approach. You’d probably prefer to avoid wrangling with the deceptions and misdirections. But I think it’s the only way to jostle loose the hidden or missing information. For best results, be a cunning and unsentimental detective who’s eager to solve the mystery.

Don’t focus on finding fault or assigning blame.

CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): One of the ingredients that makes yoga mats so soft and springy is the chemical azodicarbonamide. The same stuff is added to the soles of shoes. There’s a third place where it’s used, too: in the burger buns sold by McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, and other fast food joints. I’m not suggesting that you order a big supply of azodicarbonamide and ingest it. But I do hope you will consider the metaphorical equivalent: doing whatever’s necessary to make yourself bouncy and fluffy and pliable and supple and resilient.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): “There are two kinds of light,” said author James Thurber, “the glow that illuminates, and the glare that obscures.” Lately you have been an abundant source of that first kind of light, Leo. The fire in your heart and the gleam in your eyes have not only brightened the mood wherever you’ve gone. They have also clarified confusing situations, warmed chilly attitudes, and healed dispirited allies. Thank you! In the coming weeks, I’d love to see you continue on your hot streak. To help ensure that you do, keep your ego under control. Don’t let it pretend that it owns the light you’re emitting. With a little introspection, you will continue to generate illumination, not glare.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): Studies suggest that 57 percent of all people with access to the Internet have engaged in the practice known as ego-surfing. This modern art form consists of searching Google for mentions of one’s own name. This is a suspiciously low figure unless we factor in the data uncovered by my own research—which is that a

disproportionately small amount of Virgos go ego-surfing: only 21 percent. If you are one of the 79 percent of your tribe who does not indulge, I invite you to remedy the situation. It’s an excellent time to risk exploring the potential benefits of increased self-interest and self-regard.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): When I started writing horoscopes many years ago, I was a good astrologer but an unexceptional writer. Eventually, the practice of composing 12 packets of pithy prose every week allowed me to improve my authorial skills. The stuff I composed in the early years wasn’t bad, but I wouldn’t want to present it as my work any more. So should I feel guilty that I got paid and appreciated for those old efforts even though I was less than perfect? Did I get away with something I shouldn’t have gotten away with? I don’t think so. I was doing the best I could at the time. And even my unpolished astrological musings were helpful to many people. Now, Libra, I invite you to apply these meditations to you own unfolding destiny.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): You may already know what I’m about to tell you. It’s a core principle at the root of your Scorpio heritage. But I want to focus your attention on it. In the coming months, you’ll be wise to keep it at the forefront of your conscious awareness. Here it is, courtesy of philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche: “You have it in your power to invest everything you have lived through—your experiments, false starts, errors, delusions, passions, your love and your hope—into your goal, with nothing left over.”

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last word

Bill Bensley One of the most highly regarded landscape architects in the world, Bill Bensley, 55, has designed more than 200 hotels, including the award-winning Four Seasons Tented Camp in Chiang Rai and The Siam Hotel in Bangkok. As he works on his latest project designing the residence for the Malaysian sultan, BK talks to Bensley about how he got his start, his charity work in Cambodia and his other exciting projects around Asia.

Gardening got me interested in landscape design. My parents were really into botany when I was growing up in the US. They taught me how to maintain and arrange a garden, and I grew to love it. I even got paid by my neighbors to pretty much maintain every garden in the neighborhood.

meals. It was a blast. I finally made my way to Lek’s doorstep in Singapore, where I got a landscaping job at an American firm. Not long after, I moved over to Hong Kong to establish a branch of that firm. Finally, in 1989, I arrived in Thailand and started my own firm.

I fell in love with amusement parks.

In high school, when a landscaper came to my school and showed us pictures of an amusement park he was designing, I was like, “Wow! I want to do this!” That’s how I got into design.

I am actually working on an amusement park in Vietnam right now, called Asia Park.

I live my life under the simple philosophy of mai mun mai tum [if it’s not fun, I won’t do it]. This applies to my work, too. If a project fails to interest me, then I don’t do it. I believe if someone doesn’t enjoy their work, then they won’t do a good job.

Mathar “Lek” Bunnag [the renowned Thai architect], my classmate at Harvard University, led me to Asia. After college, he asked me where I wanted to go. I had no idea, and just told him I was going backpacking in Europe. He was going to Singapore and told me to join him.

I spent all my savings in Europe. I then hitch-hiked around Malaysia, sketching people in exchange for

To do the unexpected, that’s what makes a design special. I love to create impressions in every detail of my hotels. I also always try to incorporate local flavors in my designs.

Designing a space is a lot like writing music. You need to learn the natural rhythm and flow of the space in order to make your designs feel natural and unobtrusive. The same applies to music, as you must first have a solid rhythm to follow before you can write a melody.

Thai designers are incredibly talented. I attribute this to the fact that almost all Thai designers know how to draw by hand, and they’re really good at it, too. It’s a very special skill, the ability to visualize a clear picture and actually draw it in detail.

The Four Seasons Tented Camp—which received the [Condé Nast Traveler] prize for best hotel in the world for three consecutive years—Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, and the palace for the Malaysian sultan, which I’ll finish early next year.

Thai people are so nice and caring, and very honest.

Bangkok especially has gotten better and better. The quality of life has improved a lot over the past 30 years.

Designing experiences, that’s what I’m interested in. I love to design every aspect of the hotel to give people the best experience possible, from the first thing they see in the lobby to the food and services. I want my designs to evoke specific feelings. It’s quite challenging, but I’m having a hell of a time with it. I did it for Four Seasons Tented Camp and The Siam Hotel.

Thai designers are incredibly talented

At least we don’t have Thaksin [Shinawatra] now. I even joined the protest to dispel him from the post. For all the change we’re now facing, Thailand has a bright future ahead.

My favorite places that I’ve designed are, in random order, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, The Siam Hotel,

Helping others is important. I founded the Shinta Mani Foundation in Cambodia because I saw people

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there living in depressing conditions.

Kids were running around and rummaging for food in the garbage. So I decided to create the foundation and run a small hotel and cooking school under the same name to teach these poor kids how to work in hospitality so that they may have a better future.

Participating in the foundation’s graduation day always makes me cry.

Each student gets to tell their story.

It’s so touching.

I aim to start a farming school in Cambodia. I want it to be somewhere people can learn about botanical diversity and how to plant various crops, as farmers in each area tend to stick to only a couple. There will be a garden that the community can help maintain, as well as take home seeds and bulbs.

Everyone needs to love and be loved. My partner, Jirachai, and I have lived together for nearly 30 years because of this principle. That’s what gives value to a person’s life.

Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan and Kanin Srimaneekulroj

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CLARK HATCH FITNESS CENTERS : HELPING PEOPLE IMPROVE THEIR HEALTH AND FITNESS SINCE 1980

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

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