Lookeast Magazine July 2013

LIFESTYLE

HOTELS

DINING NIGHTLIFE SHOPPING EVENTS PERSONALITIES ART CULTURE SPAS

EST. 1971

J U LY I S S N 0 8 5 7 - 1 1 3 9

TRAVEL

JULY 2013

J U LY 2 0 1 3 V O L . 4 2 N O . 7

Business Travel

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The hottest travel news, deals, & events, dining & bar specials, and spa offers this month!

Ubon Revisited Mini-Guide: Khon Kaen Dressed for Business Exclusive Interview: 3 Hoteliers Nurturing Jet Lag Villa Panna Lungarno Suites Shintori Akonoya La Table de Tee Axis & Spin Octave

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TA S T E A S P L A S H of

What's Inside

Pullman Pattaya Hotel G

travel 18 Ubon Revisited: A Sentimental Journey //

A former resident of this province 679km from Bangkok returns and finds himself in a nostalgic recollection of the good old days

Guide Khon Kaen // 22 Mini Another emerging destination in this land

of discovery and diversity to fulfill your requirements for an authentic Thai holiday experience

for Business // 24 Best Thailand is highly desired destination where companies chasing the MICE sector can create “wow” factor events and functions at a fraction of the costs other neighboring destinations may charge

HOTELS 40 Homage to Renaissance Heritage //

Charming Villa Panna is for those who want to be surrounded by history, culture, and nature during their holiday stay

42 Live Like a Ferragamo //

Be a warmly welcomed resident and live like a Ferragamo in the classy, spacious 40-60sqm Lungarno Suites in the capital of Tuscany

PERSONALITIES to the Legend// 44 Adding Having been entrusted with an iconic hotel with exceptional DNA, GM James Wilson finds himself wondering: What could I add to a legend?”

46 Call him ‘Mr. Fix-It’ //

GM Adrian Brown is justifiably proud of the rebranding of Chatrium Riverside Hotel Bangkok. Find out why

48 The DoubleTree Way //

DoubleTree by Hilton Sukhumvit GM says the DoubleTree brand was designed – “a perfect match -- for Thailand”

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LIFESTYLE 52 Fashion Tips for the Office //

A Thai fashion designer shares three ideas on how to build a great office wardrobe, with his PPA : pencil skirts, personalization, and accessories

54 Dressed for Success //

Dressing professionally without trying too hard is the key, says a local fashionista celebrity

60 Ari Emerging //

What’s up in Soi Ari and why it is worth making the trek for those looking to discover yet another excellent slice of “happening Bangkok”

COVER: Pullman Bangkok Hotel G

wine & dine 62 Zen Inspired //

Shintori at the newly opened Dining Zensation of CentralWorld is a very modern Japanese restaurant that draws in other Asian influences, too

64 Audacious Simplicity //

Akonoya is Bangkok’s much-needed Japanese restaurant

66 Tee’s Table //

La Table de Tee is all about French classic dishes with owner-chef Tee´s inventive touch

68 A Retro Approach //

The high-tempo party spot Spin and the more tranquil Axis make The Continent Hotel approachable for different types of night people -- or the same people at different times of the evening

70 An Octave Higher //

This rooftop lounge and bar offers a piece of New York in the nightlife hub of Thonglor

regulars 6 8 14 16 30 32 58 72 78 80 84

Editor´s Note Calendar Film: Reel Life Beach Reads/Travel Gear Travel Deals Travel news Spa Offers Dining Specials Bar Specials Directory My Favorite Place

WORLD-CLASS LUXURY

100 BRANDS MORE THAN 500 FASHION SHOPS WITH OVER

UNIQLO

From the Editor

T

hailand is bullish about Meetings, Incentives, Conventions & Exhibitions (MICE), and for good reason. Last year, the country exceeded its original targets of MICE visitors, indicating a clear vote of confidence in Thailand as a cost-effective, ultra-exciting, and totally enjoyable destination. While the numbers are not yet enough to overtake Seoul or even Singapore as the leading MICE hubs of the region, indications are that if the kingdom gets its act together and effectively it will get up there where it wants to be soon enough.

Thus in this issue, Lookeast focuses on why Thailand is “Best for Business.” Its already growing reputation in the industry rests not only on its value-for-money offers, unrivalled MICE venues and facilities, some of the most professional events planners in the region, not to mention its worldrenowned hospitality service. But local think tanks continue to wrestle with their brains to come up with improving the country’s MICE offerings further and further – and in Chiang Mai, 2013 is “MICE Year.” Just read through what the various stakeholders are doing to excite the market and add “wow” to their activities in our special feature inside (Page 24).

The MICE theme is also timely this month, July being another exciting month to bring in visitors from this sector to the country. Just check out the Trade Fairs calendar of various MICE venues to prove this. And while July is relatively quieter than other festive months of the year in Thailand, there is no lack of attractions (cultural or otherwise) to add to the enjoyment of the various destinations chosen by corporate planners and business visitors. Among them is the “Ubon Candle Festival,” which is one good reason to visit a province 679km from Bangkok for their post-tour programs or incentive trips – Ubon Ratchathani.

What kind of place is Ubon? Read “Ubon Revisited: A Sentimental Journey,” on Page 18). Or, follow our Mini Guide this month on “Khon Kaen; Isan Initiation,” Page 22. Incidentally, Khon Kaen, besides providing an authentic Thai holiday experience, is an emerging MICE hub in the northeastern part of Thailand.

In the same vein, the hoteliers we are featuring in our Interview section this month add their own, distinct personal take on the MICE scene, directly or indirectly. We have Dusit Thani Bangkok GM James Wilson (Page 44), Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok GM Adrian Brown (Page 46), and DoubleTree by Hilton GM Chris Ehmman (Page 48) to spell out the unique DNAs of their respective properties, and why they are perfect match to Bangkok’s pulsating energy.

We even have two leading local fashion gurus giving out tips on how to become fashionably businesslike: “Fashion Tips for the Office,” Page 52), and “Dressed for Success, Page 54).

But more than just our MICE-oriented focus this month are similarly interesting articles in the magazine’s regular sections. On Hotels (Checking In), we highlight two top European hotels that are on our most recommended list of hotels to stay: Villa Panna (“Homage to Renaissance Heritage,” Page 40) and Lungarno Suites Florence (Live Like a Ferragamo, page 42).

In our Wine & Dine section, we put the spotlight on Soi Ari (“What's Up in Ari ,” Page 60), to get a glimpse on what’s up in this new happening part of Bangkok. We also essayed reviews of some restaurant hotspots such as the new Shintori at Dining Zensation CentralWorld (Zen Insired, Page 62), Akonoya described as Bangkok’s much-needed Japanese restaurant (Audacious Simplicity, Page 64), and La Table de Tee (Tee’s Table,” Page 66). We also have reviews on Axis & Spin of The Continent Hotel (“A Retro Approach, Page 68), and Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar of Bangkok Marriot Sukhumvit (“An Octave Higher,” Page 70), As usual, our regular departments will fill you up with the latest events and happenings in town, the current travel news, the best holiday deals, and some of the hottest dining, bar, and spa promotions to enhance your Thailand holiday experience. I hope you will enjoy reading them all.

Whether you are in Thailand for “bleisure” -- a new termed coined in Phuket recently to describe the visitors’ combined business and leisure pursuits -- or just for a fun vacation, here’s wishing that your Thailand stay will more than exceed your expectations.

Safe travels, every one. Sawasdee Krub!

Percy Roxas Editor-in-Chief Lookeast now accepting interns · Male or Female · High School Diploma · Hard working, pleasant, eager to learn · Interested applicants, please contact K. Monika (hr@thesehgalgroup.com or Tel. 02-204-2449)

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Lookeast | from the editor

www.LOOKEASTonline.com | JULY 2013

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what’s on in july 28 Aug-1 Sept 2013 King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament The highly popular King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament, now in its 12th year, will be held Aug. 28-Sept 1 in Hua Hin. Since its inception, the event has raised over US$600,000 to help Thailand’s elephants. This year’s event promises to have more nail-biting action both on and off the field. The event has gone from a small two-day event in 2001 to one of Thailand’s major and internationally best-loved events. Last year’s tournament featured 12 teams encompassing over 40 players, including German royals, Prince Carl-Eugen Oettingen-Wallerstein, his wife Princess Anna, the New Zealand All-Blacks rugby team and Thailand’s famous transgender cabaret team Miss Tiffany’s. Fundraising from last year’s event has, to date, been donated to a number of projects in Thailand. The first is to continue to support research and clinics using elephants in therapy sessions for children in Thailand living with autism.

Last year saw the research to date published and a continuation of the free clinics for Thai children is planned. In February the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF), based at Anantara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa, will host a landmark ‘positive reinforcement training’ workshop with traditional elephant trainers from throughout South East Asia, guided by world renowned trainer Dr Gerardo Martinez and featuring guest speakers from Thai Universities. This will be the first time positive reinforcement training for elephants will be introduced and discussed on a large scale in the range states. GTAEF’s work with Thailand’s wild herd has continued with Human Elephant Conflict mitigation and partial sponsorship of the Wild Elephant Counting Week in Kui Buri Royal Project area. For more information on King’s Cup Elephant Polo, please visit www.anantaraelephantpolo.com

National Events and Festivals

amulets are in fact reflective of how the Dansai folks worship the spirits, whom they regard as protectors of the village.

The rockets and rain dance meanwhile are ways they do to ask for sufficient rains and abundant harvest. The event takes place on the first day of “Boon Pra Wate,” the beginning of a three-day Buddhist meritmaking nationwide. This mix of animist and Buddhist beliefs makes this cultural event unique.

Where: Dansai, Loie Province // Contact: TAT Loei Office

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22-23 Asanha Bucha & Khao Phansa

“Asanha Bucha,” which commemorates the Buddha’s first sermon after his enlightenment, is one of the most important Buddhist festivals.

It comes to life with plenty of lights and parades especially in the Northeastern region, but is generally observed all around Thailand. The event precedes the “Khao Phansa,” the monks´ three-month retreat, which begins the next day. During this time many ordinations are conducted. Where: Nationwide

20-23 Surin Candle Festival

Residents of Surin celebrate the start of Buddhist lent by a massive candle parade, accompanied by elaborately decorated elephants, which they ride into various temples in the Northeastern province.

The symbolic meaning of these candles is to encourage the monks to continue reading the religious scriptures late into the night. During the forthcoming three months´ lent, the monks dedicate themselves to teachings of Buddha and meditation and do not venture out of the temple grounds.

Where: Surin Province // Contact: TAT Surin Office

21 Pattaya Marathon

10-12 Phi Ta Khon Festival

Rumor has it that the name “Phi Ta Khon” originated from the belief of Dansai villagers that even ghosts came out of the forests to follow Buddha when he arrived. Dansai is a province in Northeastern Thailand. Today the annual “Ghost Festival” is mostly known for the colorful ghost masks, sexual amulets, and the joyful rain dance performed by the Dansai villagers. The masks and

internationally to 140 million households. Race classes include cruising/bareboat/charter, and serious racers, as well as more leisurely sailors are all welcome to participate. Where: Phuket // Contact: 084-060-4070

the competitors and spectators during the weekend. Where: Pattaya // Contact: 038-253-129

17-21 Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Race Week

Now in its 10th year, the “Phuket Race Week” introduces four days of competitive yacht racing and five nights of beachside parties at the 5-star Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket - broadcast

Pattaya Marathon is one of the biggest annual sports events in Pattaya. Last year approximately 10,000 runners and walkers joined the event and this year, “The King´s Cup” marathon expects at least as many vigorous athletes from Thailand and abroad. Racers can run from 10.5km to 42.2km, a choice between a full, half and a quarter marathon, and even wheelchair races are offered.

The city embraces the athletic spirit by organizing especially energetic celebrations for both

22-23 Korat Candle Festival

Local artists create large candle sculptures depicting scenes from the Buddha´s life and Buddhist tales, and join the locals for a march through the city in an illuminated parade. A candle procession is held before presenting the candles as meritmaking offerings to the monks in the temples. The religious festival is also accompanied by candle-molding contests,

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folk music and drama shows, as well as demonstrations of local delicacies. Where: Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima) // Contact: TAT Nakhon Ratchasima Office

Arts & Culture

ancient beast of burden for the early farmers and an exotic icon for the tourists of today.

Internationally noted artist shows his photos and mosaics in Thavibu Gallery throughout July.

Where: Thavibu Gallery, Room 308, 3/F, Silom Galleria, 919/1 Silom Rd., Bangkok // Contact: 02-266-5454

3 Thai-Brazilian Music Concert

1-14 A Man’s Soul

Surasak Ittirit presents his first solo exhibition after 10 years of experience as a fashion photographer. Faithful to his medium but independent in style, he shows male portraits, photos in black and white, which according to him are inspired by the minimalism, and the “stillness deep inside” he finds in the Western fashion culture.

Where: Badmotel, Next to J-Avenue, Thonglor Soi between Soi 15 and 17, Bangkok // Contact: 02-712-7288

1-31 Buffalo’s Heart

For this exhibition, artist Maitree Siriboon mesmerized his childhood in Isan and an emblem, a totem animal appeared: in the middle of lush countryside, a buffalo, an

The Embassy of Brazil celebrates the prestigious international relations between Thailand and Brazil by offering a special free concert. Star performers are Bangkok-based pianist Paulo Zereu and Thai violinist Paye Srinarong, who play jazz, bossa nova and classical tunes for the fans of Latin American music. Show starts at 7 p.m.

Where: Thailand Cultural Center, Ratchadaphisek Rd., Bangkok // Contact: 02-262-3456

18-19 Broadway Babe´s Vintage Night: N.Y.C

Broadway Babe performs their new show, “Vintage Night: N.Y.C” – a one hour-long revue is “about a girl with big dreams and a woman who has other plans.” Popping up only for two nights in AriyasomVilla Boutique Hotel, Broadway Babe promises an evening of music, dance, and drama for the lovers of nostalgia. Tickets: Bt500.

Where: AriyasomVilla Boutique Hotel Bangkok // Contact: 02254-8880

19-20 Whiffenpoofs

Fourteen talented young men from Yale University, known as the Whiffenpoops, are again set to thrill Thai music lovers with their unique singing style this month. The group is one of the world’s oldest and most famous American a capella legends. The group’s repertoire draws on a long heritage of original arrangements from many styles and eras, and their traditional barbershop and choral foundation are supplemented with jazz standards, pop songs and comedy routines. The group returns to Bangkok for an exclusive two-night show at the Sapphire Bar, The Sukosol Bangkok (Bt1,500 net with cocktail and pre-show buffet dinner, July 19) and Opium Den, The Siam (Bt1,200++ with one-hour free cocktail and canapés, July 20). 02-247-0123 (The Sukosol) or 02-206-6999 (The Siam).

Until 30 R.C.A (Ratchaburi Construction Worker Open Air Portraits)

German photographer Ralf Tooten captures over onehundred portraits of construction workers in Southwestern Thailand and displays them in their sovereign context: on streets, under a bridge, beside a railway and on the rooftop of a river ferry. Large photos on vinyl and paper dot the surroundings of Tao Hong Tai: D Kunst gallery, and reveal an unseen side of the working class culture in Thailand.

Where: Tao Hong Tai: D Kunst Gallery in Ratchaburi // Contact: 02-287-0942/4

Until 31 Unbuilt/Rare Works 10 Ronan Keating Live in Bangkok

Few know that the record of the longest complete run of top 10 singles in the UK goes to no one else but Ronan Keating, who entered fame as a boy band pin-up in the 90s. After that his solo career hits, such as “When You Say Nothing at All” and “If Tomorrow Never Comes” have continued to charm more fans around the world, and today the Irish singer and songwriter has sold over 25 million solo-albums worldwide. His live tour “Fires” is named after his recent album, the ninth in order, and treats Bangkok with an exclusive show, one-night only. Tickets: Bt2,500-Bt4,500.

Where: Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani // Contact: 02-504-5050

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On the 60th birthday anniversary of Montien Boonma (19532000), Jim Thompson Art Center celebrates the distinguished influence of the contemporary artist to his generation and the future generations to come with this exhibition. Display includes newly discovered documents such as sketchbooks, photos, and video footage, giving viewers of this exhibition a deeper insight into the acclaimed artist’s persona and his graphic, semi-abstract style. Where: Jim Thompson House Art Center,

Jim Thompson House, Kasem San, Rama 1 Rd., Bangkok // Contact: 02-612-6741

Until 31 Trans-structurity

Chiang Mai-based artist Thasnai Sethaseree studies the politics of fear in his exhibition, “Transstructurity.” The Chicago educated artist considers different perspectives of fear and suppression, in terms of risks represented - as well as misrepresented by institutions, and expresses these concerns in forms of sculptures, installations, images and light-box pieces.

Where: 338 Oida Gallery, 4/F, Pongamorn Building, 1028/5 Rama 4 Rd., Bangkok // Contact: 090-198-8749

Trade Fairs & Shows 3-7 Discount Overload

Tons of goods from many leading brands will be available all under one roof - and sold up to 80 percent off. The public event will allow customers to buy products at “super shock prizes” and holders of M cards enjoy additional privileges. Every payment of Bt8,000 will have a chance to win an extra Bt5,000 voucher and two Ipad2s are given to lucky winners every

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day. Where: Impact Exhibition & Convention Center, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-310-1846

13-21 Modern Furniture Fair

This furniture fair showcases the latest styles in Thai interior design, ready for domestic buyers and exporters. The largest event of its kind in Thailand particularly connects the wide market of domestic furniture enterprises and overseas buyers. Interior designers, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, as well as the general public are all invited to enjoy the new design and make some superb deals.

Where: BITEC International Trade & Exhibition Center, Bangna-Trad Rd (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-318-3505

18-21 China-Asean Commodity Fair

Industry leaders and market regulators from China, Malaysia, and Taiwan display their latest developments in building materials, ceramics, electronics and machines.

For four days, toys, lighting products, household items, beverages, farm produce, and more will fill some 380 booths in 4000sqm-space. Attendees will have a chance to interact with the market leaders, learn from their marketing strategies and negotiate with potential business associates. Where: Impact Exhibition & Convention Center, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-6946000

19-28 5th Bangkok Imported Car & Used Car Show

Authorized car dealers and hundreds of used car sellers around Thailand gather to show their best quality vehicles in the 5th Bangkok Imported Car & Used Car Show. Even some luxury and sports cars are on display and ready for sale. Last year the same event collected over 10,000 used cars, including brands of Mercedes-Benz, BMW, F1, DSG and Absolute Auto, and there were also plenty of finance packages available.

Where: Impact Exhibition & Convention Center, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-971-6467

25-28 Thailand Retail Food & Hospitality Services

TRAFS 2013, Thailand´s premier show of food, hospitality and retail, TRAFS offers a platform for manufacturers, distributors

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and suppliers to showcase their expertise for around 28,000 target buyers from 50 countries. Equipment for hotels, restaurants, catering and retail are some of the products on show. In addition to shopping, many entertaining activities are designed for the public, such as cooking workshops and competitions. Fair guests may also combine their visit with the Thailand Franchise & Business Opportunities 2013 (TFBO 2013) fair next door. Where: BITEC International Trade & Exhibition Center, Bangna-Trad Rd (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-8614013

25-27 Thailand Gifts & Premium Fair

With more than 220 importers and exporters, the TPG fair has over 10,000 products of for example jewelry, clothing, eyewear and accessories available for domestic and international traders. This B2B (Business to Business) event gives the traders an opportunity to show their potential and expand their businesses in the gifts and premium industry.

Seminars are held and awards granted during the event.

Where: BITEC International Trade & Exhibition Center, Bangna-Trad Rd (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-749-3939

25-28 Thailand Franchise & Business Opportunities

The largest franchise & business opportunities show in ASEAN, with approximately 250 booths, Thailand Franchise & Business Opportunities 2013 (TFBO 2013) reaches over 28,000 visitors from over 50 countries in four days. It is not a coincidence that the location is in Bangkok, as so far the highest number of international franchises have chosen Thailand as their base, thanks to its purchasing power and strong potential.

For domestic and international franchisers this fair means a valuable opportunity to meet potential investors in ASEAN, which is preparing to become a “single market” in 2015, with free trade and a soaring number of 600 million consumers. Where: BITEC International Trade & Exhibition Center, Bangna-Trad Rd (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-861-4013

25-28 Thailand Health & Beauty Show (THBS)

'THBS 2013' is one of the fastest growing shows of beauty

industry, and it puts the spotlight on the wide range of quality beauty & health care products and services in Thailand.

The show brings together manufacturers, buyers, traders and merchandisers, as well as beauty professionals from around the world and promises to provide a “perfect arena to complete business deals, hold trade negotiations and expand business bases.” Where: Bangkok Convention Center, Centara Grand Centralworld, Ratchaprasong (BTS: Chidlom) // Contact: 02-100-1234

27- 4 Aug Thailand´s Best Shopping Fair 2013

For nine consecutive days, Thailand´s Best Shopping Fair 2013 exhibits the latest products and services related to fashion, health, beauty, weddings, home furnishings, food, gardening, toys, electronics, and more.

Industry leaders, decision makers, agents and experts are here to share and exchange their knowledge on the their respective subjects with the attendees. Where: Impact Exhibition & Convention Center, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-7311331

Others 20-21 Hyatt Open Golf Tournament

Following the success of the past three years of the “Hyatt Open Golf Tournament,” Hyatt Regency Hua Hin and Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok in association with Banyan Golf Club, this year invite amateur golf enthusiasts to participate

in the 4th annual Hyatt Open 2013, to be held at the Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin. This event will allow amateur golfers the challenge of playing at the golf tournament and at the same time, enjoying the charm of Hua Hin as a destination, experience the ultimate relaxation and authentic hospitality at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, and enjoy the chance to win many exciting prizes. The Hyatt Open 2013 Champion will be awarded with the Hyatt Open Trophy in a traditional silver Claret Jug design. A “Hyatt Open Package,” which starts from Bt20,800 net for one player and Bt28,800 net for two players on a twin-sharing basis, has been designed for all interested participants. The package includes a host of benefits (terms and conditions apply).

Participants also have a chance to win the fantasy tournament prizes and raffle prizes consisting of accommodation at many Hyatt Hotels and round-trip airline tickets from Garuda Indonesia, British Airways, Qatar Airways and Jet Airways. The fantasy tournament is associated with the final rounds of The Open Championship at Muirfield, which takes place on the same weekend. Where: Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, Hua Hin // Contact: 02-254-6200 or 032-521-234, or e-mail reservations.hrhuahin@ hyatt.com

July-August Best of Italian Culinary Courses

Dusit Thani College in collaboration with Gambero Rosso, the prestigious Italian culinary institute offers “Best of Italian Culinary Courses” for its students, as well as the general public beginning this month. Adelaide Michelini, an Italian chef who has worked for top restaurants and as an honorary chef for the U.S Embassy, the Swiss Embassy, and the Japanese Embassy in Italy, designed the course. The course aims to teach the quintessential methods of Italian cuisine through cooking demonstrations and individual practice. Participants will take a journey through seven different programs of two-day courses, to practice, perfect, and experience the heart of BEST Italian culinary essentials.

Prices start at Bt18,00 to Bt22,000 per course.

Where: Dusit Thani College, 1 Soi Kaenthong next to Seacon Square// Contact: 02 361-7805

cafe

in theatres now

bar/loun

reel life

MOVIES TO WATCH SHOWING IN July

mall/sho

boutique

where to

The Lone Ranger

Despicable Me 2

Pacific Rim

Johnny Depp stars as “Tonto,” a native Indian spirit warrior who recounts the untold tales that transform John Reid (Hammer) into a legend of justice.

Together, they fight greed and corruption. The story is based on the popular American Old West TV series, brought to life for today’s audiences by Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films.

Director: Gore Verbinski Cast: Johnny Depp, Armie Hammer, and Tom Wilkinson

In this animation comedy, the Anti-Villain League recruits exvillain Gru to apply his expertise and tackle the new powerful super-villain Eduardo. This sequel to the 2010 movie is produced by Illumination Entertainment and distributed

by Universal Pictures. The movie will be released in 3D and in IMAX. Director: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud Cast: Steve Carell, Russell Brand, Miranda Cosgrove, Kristen Wiig, Benjamin Bratt, and Steve Coogan

Guillermo del Toro´s new venture is a sci-fi action movie, where an alien attack threatens the Earth´s existence.

Humankind defends itself with the best technology they have, and pilots giant robots, which are deployed to fight off the menace.

Director: Guillermo del Toro Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Idris Elba, Charlie Day, and Rinko Kikuchi

The Wolverine

Pain & Gain

Turbo

The sixth of the “X-Men” film series, “Wolverine” is an Australian/ American superhero movie.

Portraying the Marvel Comics character, Hugh Jackman travels to Japan where he engages a mysterious figure from his past. Training with a samurai warrior, he is pushed to his physical and emotional limits, confronting samurai steel, as well as his much deeper inner struggles.

Director: James Mangold Cast: Hugh Jackman, Famke Janssen, Will Yun Lee, and Tao Okamoto

// Paragon Imax Theatre 5F-6F Siam Paragon (BTS: Siam Square) Contact: 02 515-5555

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The legendary duo of Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson unite again in “Pain & Gain,” an American action-comedy.

The story follows a group of organized criminal in Sun Gym and the violent spin of happenings they put into action. The story, which originated from a book “Pain & Gain: This is a True Story,” by Pete Collins, first gained public attention in Miami New Times as a crime series in 1999.

Director: Michael Bay Cast: Mark Walberg, Dwayne Johnson, and Anthony Mackle

// SF World Cinema 7th Floor Central World Plaza (BTS: Chidlom) Contact: 02 268-8888

Lookeast | in theatres now

// SFX Cinema Emporium 6th Floor, Emporium (BTS: Phrom Phong) Contact: 02 268-8888

Turbo, a.k.a Theo, is a garden snail who is determined to become the fastest snail in the world.

Unfortunately, his sporty obsession has made him an outsider at the snail community and he desperately longs for a hasty escape. Miraculously, a freak accident enhances his DNA with car characteristics and his dreams come true - in a surprising way.

Director: David Soren Cast: Ran Reynolds, Paul Giamatti, Michel Peña, Snoop Dogg, Maya Rudolph, Michelle Rodriguez, Samuel L. Jackson, and Bill Hader

// Major Sukhumvit 1221/39 Sukhumvit 63, (BTS: Ekkamai) Contact: 02 381-4855 To find the theatre nearest you, log on to www.movieseer.com

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Our Services:

AEC stands for ASEAN Economic Community, a single market made up of 10 Southeast Asian nations -- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, The Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam -- with the goal of transforming the region into an integrated market for goods and services.

• Provide in-depth information on trade and investment, taxes, and laws and regulations in ASEAN countries.

• Offer consulting services for trade, investment, and material sourcing in AEC countries.

• Coordinate and organize business matching opportunities • Form the DITP AEC Club for members to share information, build networking, and participate in DITP activities such as club meetings, mentorship by successful businessmen, business matching, etc.

• Provide support and facilitation for Thai businesspeople in AEC destination countries when they do business in these locations.

Under the AEC structure there will be free flows of products, services, investments, and skilled labor.

Since the 10 ASEAN countries have a total of 600 million consumers, this is a combined market with great potential.

The AEC Business Support Center was established by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) of Thailand in May 2013 as one of the proactive measures taken by the Ministry of Commerce in preparation for the AEC. The Center aims to provide in-depth information, networking, and other services for Thai companies who wish to do business or invest in other ASEAN countries.

The Center also offers sourcing information and business matching opportunities for both Thai and ASEAN importers. DITP has an office in every ASEAN member nation, except Brunei.

As the AEC implementation draws near, in 2015, the AEC Business Support Center hopes to further accelerate the regional integration and enhance regional coopertion with a range of helpful, efficient services.

AEC Business Support Center aecplus.tdc@gmail.com www.ditp.go.th www.facebook.com/ditpaecclub Call Center 1169 (only Thailand) Tel: +66 (0) 2507 8218-20 Fax: +66 (0) 2547 4212-4

Department of International Trade Promotiom, Ministry of Commerce Nonthaburi Office (Head Office) 44/100 Nonthaburi Rd., Bangkrasor, Amphur Muang Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 2507 7999 Fax: +66 (0) 2547 4297

Rachadapisek Office 22/77 Rachadapisek Rd., Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 2513 1909, 2512 0093 Fax: +66 (0) 2512 2670, 2513 6673

Travel

pack & bring BEACHREADS

Some recommended books for you to read during your Thailand holiday:

TRAVELGEAR

Stylish new stuff that makes you look cool during your trip - check them out!

LAPTOP BAGS Behind the Barbed Wire

By Gwendolyn Chabrier Seventy years and at least three generations have passed since the Nazi’s inflicted the abomination of the Holocaust on the Jewish population of Eastern Europe.

And yet the singular horror and monstrosity of those events does not fade with time, and nor should it ever.

“Behind the Barbed Wire” vividly and eloquently records the memories of one who lived through, and miraculously survived, the Nazi atrocities inflicted on Latvian Jews during WWII. This graphic, at times harrowing and always mesmerizing true account should be required reading for all who hold hope that mankind will never again witness such depravity.

Price: US$25 (Ships from and sold by Amazon.com.) //

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And The Mountains Echoed

By Khaled Hosseini Afghanistan,1952. Abdullah and his sister Pari live with their father and stepmother in the small village of Shadbagh. Their father, Saboor, is constantly in search of work and they struggle together through poverty and brutal winters. To Adbullah, Pari -- as beautiful and sweet natured as the fairy for which she was named, -- is everything.

More like a parent than a brother, Abdullah will do anything for her, even trading his only pair of shoes for a feather for her treasured collection. Each night they sleep together in their cot, their skulls touching, their limbs tangled. One day the siblings journey across the desert to Kabul with their father. Pari and Abdullah have no sense of the fate that awaits them there, for the event that unfolds will tear their lives apart; sometimes a finger must be cut to save the hand.

Crossing generations and continents, moving from Kabul, to Paris, to San Francisco, to the Greek island of Tinos, with profound wisdom, depth, insight and compassion, Hosseini writes about the bonds that define us and shape our lives, the ways that we help our loved ones in need, how the choices we make resonate through history, and how we are often surprised by the people closest to us. Price: Bt612 (US$20.35) // Available at Asia Books

For Widescreen Laptops and Tablets Protect your 15.6” widescreen laptops and tablets with the Targus Dash II Backpack. The protective cradle features anti-scratch material to safeguard the surface of your valuable device. The backpack features a built-in hidden rain cover and a water-resistant bottom to cater various weather conditions, including extreme humidity and rain.

Its extra large compartment design provides all the storage space you will need. The front quick-access pocket is ideal to quickly grab the most needed items. The functional organizer will neatly store your pens, business cards, and more. The backpack comes with the comfortable shoulder straps and the ergonomic back panel which provide you with maximum comfort.

Price: Bt 2,990.

Romantic French Homes

By Lanie Goodman A unique collection of timeless French houses featuring original photography makes this a book to treasure. From a chic and sophisticated Parisian pied-a-terre owned by an acclaimed musician to an authentically restored Alpine ski lodge, from a grand chateau filled with antiques collected by generations of the same family to writer Marcel Pagnol's beach cottage in St Tropez, Romantic French Homes presents a stunning selection of homes, most of which have never been photographed before.

Author Goodman gathered a collection of 14 amazing properties that sum up all that is French and romantic, from the city streets of Paris to Megeve in the French Alps, from the windswept coast of Normandy, to the heart of Provence and the sunbaked shores of the Riviera. There are classic country houses, which have been in the same family for generations, tiny boltholes, city apartments, quirky seaside homes, and more.

Each home has its own individual character, reflecting the people who live there and their passions. Price: Bt1,215 (US$40.40) // Available at Asia Books

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Soft Messenger Bag The practical and spacious Kobe soft messenger bag is made from luxuriously smooth full grain leather teamed with lightweight fabric made from recycled bottles. The Kobe has a soft construction that moulds to your body, making it very comfortable to carry. It holds up to a 15” laptop within its quilted laptop protection pouch with shockproof protection, has folders and files fit easily inside, has interchangeable elastic pockets can hold your mobile, PDA, keys or iPod; has external back pocket is handy for your newspaper or book; and with magnetic tabs fasten the front flap. There is under flap that lies open pouch on left with organizer pocket, and zipped compartment on right, adjustable shoulder strap, slip pocket at the back for placing bag over a trolley handle when traveling, and unique ‘If Lost’ ID number to reunite you with your knomo. Price: Bt 7,180.

Slim Laptop Pouch The unique design of Knomo London Slim laptop pouch stands out from the crowd, and is super-practical too. The ultra-light laptop pouch is made from durable nylon quilting, for the ultimate protection against knocks or bumps.

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There’s a retractable top handle, external large pocket at back for cables/paperwork or to keep keys or mobile phone handy, knomo signature front pocket with zipped section for coins. It can hold an A4 pad. The quilted exterior is soft and protective. Price: Bt4,600.

contemporary indian dining

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#71 Sukhumvit Soi 26. | Tel. 02-258-4900 | www.indusbangkok.com | indus@indusbangkok.com

travel

destinations

Ubon Revisited:

A Sentimental Journey

By Satish Sehgal Photos by Dave Stamboulis

I

n the far corner of the northeast Thailand, 679km from Bangkok, lies Ubon Ratchathani. This was until 1972, the largest province in Thailand; Yasothon was split off in 1972 and Amnart Charoen in 1993. According to history, Ubon – once the administrative center of “monthon Isaan” – was founded in 1786

by Thao Khampong, a Laotian prince who fled his country.

“Isaan” – as the northeast of Thailand is commonly called -- comprises of 19 provinces, with a language and culture of its own. Music is an integral part of life in Isaan, and it is said that some of the best Thai dancers come from this region. Isaan music is sweet and melodious, typified by the sound of the khaen, a flute-like instrument made from bamboo, which is representative of the mood of the area.

Ubon has an interesting past. Found in the border town of Khongchiam on the banks of Mekong River is the Pha Taen National Park. It is notable for its forest

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cover and for exclusive rock art paintings estimated to be 3,000 years old. The park also has a collection of mushroom rocks. Pha Taem National Park overlooks the Mekong River and Laos. The view from the sandstone cliff is awesome.

The 300-painting caves are almost 180 meters and are considered to be the finest prehistoric paintings in Thailand.

The province, located on the Korat Plateau, is mostly forests and rice fields, but there are many national parks and botanical gardens. Two rivers, “Mool” and “Chu” run through the province while the mighty Mekong River demarcates the border with Laos.

A modern international airport was built in Ubon in 1990. International in name, it operates only domestic flights. The only international element in Ubon nowadays is the farangs who have married ladies from this province and have made Ubon their adopted home. There are a few hundreds of them.

where to

contact/ Ubon Revisited DESTINATIONS & Culture

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Midtown Ubon is deserted after dark.

Shops close early save for a few restaurants that operate on the banks of the river Moon.

Ubon and I share a special bond. My family lived there for over 20 years (during the 60s). A sister and brother of mine were born there. My father, like most Indian immigrants, was in the textile retail trade. I remember that there were about 15 Indian shops then, lesser now as many relocated to Pattaya and Bangkok after the withdrawal of the U.S. forces.

Ubon also has a large number of Chinese immigrants who mostly indulged in trading activities. Some operated restaurants, coffee shops, and hotels.

With the Chinese, the assimilation and integration into the Thais was a matter of course. The Thai-born children of these Chinese immigrants adopted the Thai culture and way of life. Most changed their family names. The new generation was readily accepted.

During the Indochina war, a large number of Vietnamese immigrants crossed the mighty Mekong River to seek refuge and settle down in the provinces of Northeast Thailand. Having settled down they did all kinds of work to earn a living.

Most of them grew vegetables and fruits, and sold the produce in the market. Over the years they made a conscious effort to mingle and integrate with the Thai society.

Their children married local inhabitants and became a part of the Thai society and the Thai stream of life.

The end of the war marked the revival of mass migration back to their motherland.

The elderly and the older generation,

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homesick, decided to return home while the young ones born in Thailand opted to stay in their adopted country. Many of them now operate shops selling fermented pork sausages and other goodies. Some operate Vietnamese restaurants. A great many of them have joined the government service.

There was a fairly large presence of American troops and aircrafts during the Vietnam War and sorties to Vietnam were flown out of the Ubon airport. The airport was there before the arrival of the U.S. Air Force – it houses the 2nd Division of the Royal Thai Air Force -- but the runway was extended to accommodate the B52 bombers.

American troops who lived on the base frequently came into town when off duty.

The advent of the Americans saw the birth of new businesses: Ubon restaurants thrived, the real estate sector grew, and the once-sleepy town became lively. New jobs and establishments were created to cater to the American soldiers. The Australian Air Force, part of the alliance, followed them.

When the Americans and Australian forces departed, they left a legacy remembered until today.

In trying to renew old recollections, it’s hard to unfold the past as it were. So in coming to a place where we have formerly lived, and until which we have intimate associations, the feeling grows more vivid the nearer as we approach the spot, far from the mere anticipation of the actual impression. We remember circumstances, feelings, persons, and places, names that we had not thought of for years. Long forgotten things, burst upon my eyes sight,

and I begin to feel, think, recall once upon a time.

I remember befriending Capt. Roger Kobylac, a soldier in his early 20s, who was frequently seen in town when off duty. He and I became friends and we spent many moments of joy together. He went home to the States after serving his term and while we communicated for a while, soon lost contact with each other. I tried to locate him when I visited the States in 1980 but to no avail. There were so many others like Roger: friendly, kind, and helpful. They brought not only joy but also a very special feeling of brotherhood to the residents of Ubon.

The presence of farangs was largely instrumental in generating a desire among the locals to learn the English language. A tailor called Harn who, for lack of formal education, saw the importance of learning English after work in the evenings; he was so determined, he seldom missed a tutorial. I lost contact with him soon after relocating to Bangkok. Each time I go back to Ubon, I visit his shop.

The United States Information Service once had a library in Ubon, with perhaps the single largest collection of books in English. It closed down a few years ago.

Now, the only source of information in the area is the Ubon University library.

Ubon is also a seat of learning in the Northeast with a university and several institutes of learning. Students from nearby provinces come for higher education. My friend, the late Ying Sithitham, owned the Sithitham School, which is now known as the Ubon Polytechnic College.

Ubon is still the sleepy town that it was.

Little has changed. There is very little business activity. All the action if any, seems to have moved to the outskirts.

There are a few shopping malls, cinemas, bars and massage parlors that cater to the young students local residents and visitors from provinces nearby. The hustle and bustle that once existed exists no more.

The town has a regular bus service; and small “song thaew” buses operate on few popular routes. There are plenty of “tuktuks” and tricycles, though, and car rental service is available at the airport and at almost all the hotels. The airport pickup service is provided free of charge by the hotels.

In the center of town, Ubon once boasted of accommodating a racetrack where Thai ponies used to race periodically. Racing, like other activities, died a natural death around 1960. The railway station looks the same and so does the town of Varin situated across the Mool River on the opposite banks. The train journey then took 12 hours from Bangkok to Ubon stopping at several stations en route; it takes almost the same number of hours now.

Doing the rounds of the streets of Ubon, I noticed only the elderly folk. The young ones have left for Bangkok in search of jobs and better opportunities. There are few jobs available locally because Ubon lacks major industries. The village and townfolk go the Bangkok; many have ventured abroad.

People in the Northeast are by and large honest, hardworking, and good at whatever they do. The cooks, construction, factory workers, majority of taxi drivers,

and many other employees in Bangkok all come from this area.

The streets of downtown Ubon are fairly deserted except during the “Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival,” which is held around July to mark the beginning of the Buddhist Lent, and draws a good number of visitors from both overseas and the provinces nearby. The “Candle Festival” is the largest religious ceremony in Ubon. It is THE event of the year for the province’s inhabitants.

Every year beginning in July, Buddhist monks refrain from any form of travel, staying in one particular temple for three months, in what is called “phansa” (Buddhist Lent) in Thai. It starts with “Khao Phansa (Rains Retreat) and ends with “Ok Phansa,” and ancient tradition that dates to the time of the Buddha.

I miss the Ubon of the 60’s. I miss all those acquaintances and friends, most of whom have since departed. I miss the hustle and bustle created by the presence of U.S. Armed Forces. I miss the friendly neighbors, the Chinese coffeeshop next door, the street-hawkers, and the old milkman who never failed to arrive each morning. I miss the school where I used to teach English during my summer vacation.

The deserted streets bring back memories of days when I used to roam around.

It’s time for me to return to Bangkok’s madding crowds. At the end of a sentimental journey, I bask without regrets. Wonder has gone, but admiration remains. The town has lost its mystery but found its meaning, and takes its place in a scheme of things far beyond the scope

and comprehension of what was once a childish mind. Someone else now occupies the house where we used to live. I look at it gladly, thinking and reminding myself of the good old days. The past is dead and buried, never to return, leaving behind fond memories of people and places from yesteryears.

Ubon brings me fond memories of an era that will never return; of people I knew then and my frequent often-pleasant interactions with them; and of places in my childhood. I love Ubon. I miss Ubon. I shall return. 

HOW TO GET THERE:

By Train -- From Hua Lumpong, Bangkok, get off at the railway station is located just outside of Ubon City, across the Mun River in Warin Chamrap district. Variety of times, fares, and classes are available for your journey.

By Air -- The airport is conveniently located in town, and you can get to and from most anywhere in the city within 15-20 minutes. Flight time takes around one hour.

By Bus -- Most of the buses run overnight. You can get VIP class express that takes about eight hours or a low fare "local' that makes many stops and sometimes standing room only on board. It’s fairly easy to get seats from Bangkok and Pattaya.

July 2013 | 21

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mini-guide Khon Kaen: Isan Initiation Another emerging destination to fulfill your requirements for an authentic Thai holiday experience

F

By Percy Roxas orget the beach destinations for a while. There is so much in Thailand awaiting your discovery and exploration. In Northeastern Thailand alone, many hidden gems such as Khon Kaen – await to make your Thai holiday experience more meaningful. Established a little over two centuries ago, Khon Kaen sits on an area dating to prehistoric era, making a veritable goldmine of unique holiday experiences at every turn. Khon Kaen is located in the heart of the Korat Plateau, a former home to dinosaurs, experts say. Through the ages, people from various cultures occupied the plateau enriching it with their own varying heritages. It became part of the ancient Khmer Empire in the 12th century, which left its own stamp in the area. Today, the Khon Kaen that was established in 1783, is considered the commercial and political center of the Isan (Northeastern Thailand) region, a hub of education and technology, a leading producer of high quality Thai silk, and not the least – an emerging major educational tourism destination in its own right.

WHY GO While the second largest Isan province may be a bit underrated as a tourist magnet yet, the province is richly endowed with beauty and attractions, both natural and manmade, that should help it rise to its historic tourism fortunes soon. The place is great for eco-adventure activities – there are several national and animal parks -- as well as educational tourism. It also offers visitors a first-hand look at the production of a local silk called “mudmee” (the region’s famous tie-dyed silk).

There is much to learn for history buffs, so much to see for cultural and archaeological vultures, and so much to enjoy for those in search of the more rustic Thai experience. Also, Khon Kaen is easy to visit and with its reputation for fine

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eateries and swanky hotels, assures a most enjoyable breakaway from Bangkok.

You will get plenty of oldfashioned kindness, amazing Thai food, and a chance to experience Thailand as many visitors hope it would always be.

WHAT TO SEE There is no dearth of places to see and visit. The Art and Cultural Center, located at Khon Kaen University, is popular for sampling genuine Isan-style arts and culture.

Khon Kaen National Museum on Lang Sun Ratchakan Road boasts antiques and precious art pieces from pre-historical to historical periods as well as a skeleton of the New Stone Age man and tools from the prehistoric area of Ban Chiang. Visitors should

Suppaniga Home

not miss the sandstone Sema boundary markers from the Semas Dvaravati period. Other interesting exhibits include Khmer stone lintels from ruins in the region as well as art pieces from other periods such as Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras, and native tools. Khon Kaen University, located on the hill called ‘Mo Din Daeng’ on a 5,000+ -rai plot of land, is the largest educational institute in Isan, and particularly famous for the disciplines that directly involve and benefit the Isan people. The Treasure Hall is a place established to strengthen local identity, a museum offering a glimpse of the city’s history. For a Jurassic Park-like experience – sans the terror, of course -- try a visit to Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum, part of the Phu Wiang Dinosaur Fossil Study and Research Center.

The center displays the origin of the Earth: rocks, minerals, fossils, dinosaur models, and related stuff.

As in most places in Thailand, religious places

of varying significance are scattered around Khon Kaen.

One is the Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon (9-storey stupa) at Wat Nong Waeng, a royal temple on Klang Mueang Road that houses Lord Buddha’s relics and important Buddhist scriptures. Another is the Sim Isan (Wat Pa Saeng Arun). Sim Isan is a northeastern term for ordination hall or ubosot. Sim Isan’s outstanding features include its typical shape, style, and solidity, as well as the beautiful murals with mudmee patterns. Interested in art?

Then, Wat Chai might be for you. The temple, located at Ban Sawathi, was declared a national ancient monument in 2001 and has an ordination hall with magnificent mural paintings, both inside and outside, created by folk artisans from Maha Sarakham.

There is also a museum where rare Isan folk artifacts are collected. Archaeological buffs will find the Ku Prapha Chai (Ku Ban Na Kham Noi) most interesting too.

where to

contact/

travel/de

Khon Kaen DEstinations to Discover

thailand map with pointer to the for upcountry dest

Khon Kaen THAILAND Bangkok

// how to get there:

Centara Hotel and Convention Center Khon Kaen

WHAT TO DO Depending on your interests, there are plenty to take your time. Exploring some of the national parks is highly recommended. You can choose from the Phu Kao-Phu Phan Kham National Park and the Nam Phong National Park, a major source of herbs, with several viewpoints. ‘Hin Chang Si’ has a scenic view of the Ubolratana Lake and Khon Kaen city; or the Phu Wiang National Park. Besides dinosaur fossils, traces of ancient civilizations are also evident in this area, including a relief of the reclining Buddha on the cliff at the crest of Phu Wiang Mountain. You can also explore caves such as the Tham Phra, which houses beautiful stalagmites, stalactites, and big stone pillars; and visit several beautiful waterfalls.

For easier chill-out time, relax at the Bueng Kaen Nakhon, a lake occupying an area of 603 rai with a shady park that is dotted with sculptures.

Cultural tours around the area are available, for example to rural spots like the King Cobra village or the ancient pottery site of Ban Chiang. Even more amazingly, you can be eating at the night market or enjoying the Boeng Kak Lake in downtown Khon Kaen by just

driving five minutes from your very own private paradise.

EAT Foodies will not be disappointed either. There is a wide range of eateries specializing in different cuisines and serving them to fit varying pockets. For some authentic taste of Isan, try the Khao Soi Chiang Mai, (along Prachamosorn Rd after the Lao Consulate.). The Smile@ Waterside on 142-144 Rop Beung Rd has a great lakeside garden atmosphere with live jazz. Up-scale by local and backpacker standards for Thai food, but less than what you're likely to pay in similar settings in Bangkok.

TastyChocolat, (across from Tessabansuansanuk School.) is a Belgian chocolate shop for those with a yearning for the real thing, and Pomodoro – as its name implies -- is great for pizza and pasta. Along the road from the Roma Hotel are several street eateries, which are quite cheap and offer a good range of food.

There is a food market in the center of the town. There are various night markets, which also are good places to try out many different kinds of food: a "young and hip" market at Khon Kaen University behind

the complex where students sell many of the goods; a popular one on Glang Muang Rd; and one that sometimes doubles as a carnival, at Bueng Kaen Nakhon. Of course, the leading hotels boast restaurants and bars that may suit more discerning tastes.

DRINK The Club at Hotel Charoen Thani Princess is famous for music and dancing, although the most popular, locals say, is The Rad Club. The place offers live music, disco, and coyote girls. You can also visit the Sync on 43/2 Pimpasut Rd, Na Mueang Rd (beside the Khon Kaen Hotel), and Tawandang Khon Kaen, (Chalermprakiat Rd near intersection with Ammat Road) – which has more or less the authentic Isan feel. There are several other popular nightclubs near the Pullman Hotel in the downtown area too. Both feature live music and bands.

There are many others not mentioned – and all you have to do is venture a little bit away from your hotel.

SLEEP Whatever your preference, whatever your budget, there is something for you in Khon Kaen. There are apartments,

By Plane: Thai Airways (Tel: 043227-701) flies from Bangkok to Khon Kaen and back three times a day. The local airport number is 043-246-345.

By Train: Express trains leave Hua Lumphong Bangkok (Bangkok-Nong Khai line) at 8:20 a.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. for the eight-hourhow journey to the Khon Kaen Train Station daily.

By Bus: Buses leave Bangkok's how Northern (Morchit) Bus Terminal every 15 minutes from early morning until late. There are how also some private VIP bus service operators.

to go by bus

to go by car

to go by taxi

how to go by train guesthouses, and hotels with daily rates starting from Bt550 per night to Bt5000 per month. There are places just how to go by boat/ costing under Bt400 per day

although offering very basic services and facilities but with great location. A bit on the upper scale is the Khon Kaen how to go by airpla Orchid (Tel: 043-334-000); The Piman Garden Hotel (Tel: 043-334-111), and Hotel Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid (Tel: 043-322-155).

In the capital Khon Kaen is a boutique resort, which is on the prestigious Relais & Chateaux list of global boutique lodgings. This is Suppaniga Home (Tel: 089-944-4880).

Those in town for business can stay at the Centara Hotel and Convention Center Khon Kaen (Tel: 043-209-888). These hotel recommendations, by the way, are random. Check the Web for more before you make your plans.

July 2013 | 23

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chasing mice

Thailand’s MICE industry is a major economic driver, contributing 8.95 percent of the country’s overall tourism market, and 0.6% of national GDP. Many factors contribute to Thailand’s success as a MICE destination: Value for money, the variety of exciting yet affordable extra-curricular activities, accessibility, fantastic CSR program extensions -- the list goes on and on. But, as Kerry Healy, director of sales for leisure, meetings & events for Accor Asia-Pacific states, it is the country’s fundamental strength - people, culture, and genuine service-oriented hospitality - that really entice people to frequently select Thailand as their preferred MICE destination.

As Healy points out, Thailand is enjoying a healthy increase in enquiries and bookings. “We see a trend where planners mix the main meeting event in Bangkok with a beach extension, which is positively impacting destinations such as Krabi, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Phuket, and Samui,” she says. “Some of the larger destinations -given their own air flight capacity -- are enjoying the uplift in full programs. For Accor, we have seen huge demand into our recently opened Pullman Phuket Arcadia and Novotel Phuket Vintage Park. We recently held a meeting and event showcase with our

Centra Government Complex Hotel & Convention Center, Chaeng Watthana

Best for Business Thailand a is highly desired destination where companies chasing the MICE sector create “wow” factor events and functions at a fraction of costs in other neighboring destinations

By Percy Roxas

I

n February this year, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) – the kingdom’s central agency responsible for coordinating and driving Thailand’s MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) sector -- announced the revision of its growth targets. TCEB projected a 10% increase in the growth of MICE visitors this year after the country beat industry targets in 2012. This year, more than 940,000 MICE visitors are expected to come to Thailand, boosting revenues by Bt88-million (approx. US$2.93-million).

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where to

contact/ business travel Special Feature

Singaporean meeting planners and the hotels in Thailand were in high demand!”

Indeed, for many hotel brands, Thailand is a great destination because it allows them to really showcase their best. Accor for example, says Healy, “has the best products on offer to our clients of all budget ranges, plus a strong sales and support team to ensure the success of all meetings and events at our hotels.” These range from luxury Sofitel to upscale Pullman and MGallery, from midscale Novotel and Mercure to the economy ibis hotels.

In 2012, the number of business guests staying in Accor hotels in Thailand has increased almost seven percent year-on-year, says Healy. “In the first quarter of 2013, the trend is still strong with a 5% increase of business guests in our hotels compared to the same period last year,” she adds.

This is partly due to the general reputation of the top hotels in the country to exceed requirements for MICE and business visitors.

“At Conrad Bangkok, we are committed to delivering quality and bespoke guest experiences with the aim to set new benchmarks for hospitality experiences in Thailand,” said Harald Feurstein, Conrad Bangkok general manager (GM), echoing the voices of

Amari Watergate Bangkok MICE Executive Lounge

other hoteliers. Conrad Bangkok has recently been named “Best Convention Hotel Thailand” and “Best Convention Hotel AsiaPacific” by the International Hotel Awards, a recognition that Feurstein says “further cements our positioning on the forefront of hospitality and bears testament to our dedication to offer guests professional and flawless service set in luxurious surroundings.”

Of course, several other Thailand business hotels have also been reaping similar accolades from award-giving bodies around the world. The Royal Cliff Beach Hotel Pattaya, among many others, has been receiving honors year after year as one of the world’s “best business and convention hotels.”

Value For Money

While arguably not the first consideration by many events planners when choosing Thailand for their MICE activities, the value-for-money aspect of the kingdom certainly enhances its attractiveness. As competition for the segment becomes stiffer than ever, more and more value-for-money packages are being tailor-made by hotels around the country to further lure MICE visitors to their turf.

Many hotels big and small catering to MICE offer fullday and halfday meeting packages that include use of the meeting rooms, complimentary use of facilities, morning and afternoon snacks, and banquet and technician services on stand-by throughout the meeting such as those offered at Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park,

“We have perfect meeting solutions to meet all kinds of requirements,” says Myla Caceres, the hotel’s director of sales and marketing. “We have a Dedicated Crowne Meetings Specialist as your single point-of-contact who will assist you in planning and managing your events. Guests and delegates are assured of a twohour response on inquiries and will provide a full proposal by the next business day.

She adds, "A handy meeting kit is provided in a professional briefcase containing a complete set of meeting amenities. Our Crowne Meetings Director will also provide a daily meeting debrief for an itemized account of the day’s expenditures, gather feedback, and proactively handle any further requests for support and to ensure that every detail is taken care of.”

The Thai hotels are leaving no stone unturned, indeed, to make sure they provide all possible solutions to the potential needs and desires of MICE and business visitors.

Accor itself has just unveiled a Smart meeting offer that sees its key meeting and event hotels not only in Thailand but across Asia offering clients 20 percent off the master bill and double points on Accor’s Le Club Meeting Planner. It has also launched an “Away on Business” iPad app that allows business travelers on the road to manage schedules, book rooms and restaurants in the group’s hotels, check the local weather, manage expense account, offers shortcuts to Linkedin contacts at customers’ destinations, and display scheduled appointments to “geo-organize” travel arrangements. This app is available free of charge.

And the diversity of offers is definitely attractive. They range from Club Accommodation rates at the Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok (starting at Bt3,560 per night for a Club Deluxe Room along with 15 percent discount on regular a la carte treatments at Spa Cenvaree and 25 percent off on all spa packages), to the value-added wedding packages at the various venues of July 2013 | 25

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Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Center at CentralWorld, where bespoke solutions are offered suited to events at a variety of venues, ranging from the intimate and chic M23 to the convention center (which handles mega events, to complimentary spa treatments for those availing of the “Business Plus” package at the newly opened Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel. Almost all brands and properties within the Centara Hotels & Resort’s group -- 41 deluxe and first-class properties covering all the major tourist destinations in the kingdom -- ensure that specific categories will all find a hotel or resort appropriate to their needs.

As in most hotels, the meeting packages and offers include additional benefits. At Dusit Thani Bangkok, for example, the “Meeting Package” (Bt1,100 per person per day for half day meetings until August 2013) includes sustenance for the attendees in the form of not only refreshment breaks but also the option of International, Western or Asian cuisine buffet for lunch. As the perfect way to round off a day of meetings, each party also benefits from a 50% discount on light snacks and standard drinks at MyBar, the hotel’s popular, stylish after-work drinks establishment. Also like many big hotels, they provide “Outside Catering.” Prices for the exclusive catering options, including equipment hire, standard flower decorations and transportation at Dusit Thani Bangkok start from just Bt800 per person and are calculated based on group size (minimum group size 40 persons).

Similarly, especially designed business packages -- such as the current “5 in 1 Meeting” Package offer at Grand Millennium Sukhumvit -- are available at other hotels. This is true not only for hotels in Bangkok, but also in other destinations.

One resort in the far South, Ramada Khao Lak Resort, recently unveiled its “Boardroom Talks and Jungle Walks” package, offering business tourism planners a perfect getaway with unrivalled experiences trekking through Khao Sok National Park

and diving in the waters around the Similan Islands. The package is available until Sept. 30 and is priced at Bt4,400 net per person per package. Pullman Phuket Arcadia offers a special business group rate starting from Bt2,999 net per room per night and meeting packages from Bt1,199 net until the end of 2013 .

Over in Samui, InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort has special offers for similar travelers until December.

Besides versatile venue options, indoors as well as outdoors, the resort offers an opportunity for guests to discover the vibrant marine life of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, or enjoy an exclusive beach barbeque on a postcard perfect beach ashore a deserted island within the National Marine Park. Of course, other Samui resorts have their own business packages combining similar attractive deals.

The Amari group has not just launched new MICE packages, but unveiled an exciting twist and theme to them. Amari is the leading hotel brand of ONYX Hospitality, relaunched in 2009 to reflect modern Asian hospitality concepts. The Amari brand currently has an inventory exceeding 3,000 rooms within a network of 11 properties around Thailand.

Amari is home of “Dancing with the Stars Thailand” and following a successful first season of the TV show, its properties in Bangkok and Pattaya are embracing the glitz and glamour by creating special meeting packages. As exclusive sponsor of the TV show, Amari has the connections and resources to stage a truly impressive, dance-tastic themed conference for meeting planners or incentive travel organizers.

“It is really exciting for us to associate and theme a meeting package around a globally renowned brand and we can’t wait to stage our first Dancing with the Stars meeting,” says David Barrett, executive director of events for Amari Watergate Bangkok and Amari Orchid Pattaya. “The launch of our Dancing with the Stars themed dinner is timely, meets a clear demand in the market and is guaranteed to engage delegates while injecting plenty of glitz, glam and rhythm into a conference.”

Exciting Themes, Enticing Services

Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Theatre

Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park - Saladaeng Meeting Room

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In the minutes approaching the final witching hour of 2012, partygoers at Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s (DTHH) “Starlight Masquerade New Year’s Extravaganza” were treated to a sensational “Khon” performance that had tongues wagging ever since. Khon is a Thai classical dance-drama that traditionally tells stories with performers wearing distinctively elaborate masks and costumes. The performances involve music, song, dance and acrobatics to enact stories that have evolved culturally, based on the Indian Ramayana, a parable of good triumphing over evil.

In this performance at DTHH, “Khon” was performed on the water for the first time, with the celestial chariots replaced with elaborately decorated celestial boats floating across the lagoon on clouds of dry ice as the white monkey god led his warriors to do battle on the shimmering waters of the Lake of Secrets. The classical choreography was maintained and the setting provided a celestial ambience that complemented the performance tastefully but with a spectacular twist befitting the occasion. Because of the positive feedback that adaptation of “Khon” received, the theme has been made available for booking at the resort throughout 2013.

This is just one theme option available to corporate and business planners these days.

For MICE visitors with a more contemporary frame of mind, Thailand does not disappoint as well. Just visit Thailand’s two coolest new hotels, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G and Pullman Pattaya Hotel G, These two properties, are in their own right, laying it out for meetings and events like never before with a refreshing

new blend of chic contemporary style and creative venues for every kind of out-of-the-box MICE gathering. A fantastic mix of funky restaurants, bars and frequent over-the-top theme parties complement the alternative events experience, from gourmet burgers and Michelin-quality fine dining in Bangkok to Pattaya’s unique beach club on the shores of the Gulf.

“In Bangkok we’ve set new benchmarks for cool and funky style, while our fashionable Pattaya resort is a premier events venue with a relaxing tropical ambience. Design and service at both reflect our distinctive, peerless hospitality,” said Guy Poujoulat, GM of Pullman Bangkok Hotel G and GCP Hospitality director of operations for Thailand. “Our hotels have redefined the best of the cool and edgy style, and our event spaces reflect the same mood. Many businesses are looking for alternative places, somewhere new and inspiring to hold their meetings, and we offer something very different with venues making guests as comfortable and relaxed as possible in an environment that promotes creativity.” The same can be said for other business hotels in various CBDs such as Sukhumvit, Asoke, Sathorn, and elsewhere in Bangkok.

Besides just creating unique, exciting themes, many hotels are also making sure their programs are socially responsbile.

For one, an initiative by Hilton Worldwide has seen Millennium Hilton Bangkok, along with the group’s other 3,900 hotels globally, introduce an innovative meeting and seminar program with the objective to offset carbon emissions. The initiative, which started Oct. 30 last year at Millennium Hilton Bangkok, will make Hilton Worldwide the first and only major multi-brand hospitality company to make sustainability a brand standard at each of its hotels worldwide.

“Sustainability is a priority to Hilton Worldwide and a central part of how we do business,” says Dirk De Cuyper, regional general manager for Thailand and general manager of Millennium Hilton Bangkok. “For us, it’s not just about saying we are committed to sustainability, it’s about taking action. This program gives organizations and individuals a sustainable choice for their conferences, meetings or social events. By offsetting carbon emissions at no cost to our customers, together we’re able to give back to the environment and benefit important renewable energy projects in the region.”

Needless to say, other local hotels and resorts are keen on duplicating initiatives to make their meetings more “green.”

Array Of Facilities And Activities

Dedicated MICE venues in hotels and resorts are complementing the capacities of state-of-the-art fully equipped and dedicated MICE such as Impact Arena, Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok Convention Center (in the capital), or Pattaya Exhibition and Convention Hall (in Pattaya), and similar venues already operating or being built in Chiang Mai (the MICE hub in the North), Phuket and other destinations. Whatever the scale or the purpose of an event or a meeting, from a VIP breakfast briefing for 15 guests to a conference with thousands of delegates, Thailand has the perfect function space. The latest technological advances are usually incorporated into the hotels’ conference and meeting rooms and many offer floor-to-ceiling windows that allow plenty of natural light to maximize the spectacular views.

In Pattaya, recognizing the growing demand for quality MICE facilities in the popular beach resort, the designers of the Hilton Pattaya created numerous, flexible meeting space options sure to satisfy even the most exacting of conference and event organizers.

Hilton Pattaya is proving to be very popular with those

Conrad Bangkok - NY Meeting Room

Dusit Thani Hua Hin

seeking to hold their next conference or meeting in Thailand. The hotel features world-class meeting and conference facilities that have been specifically designed with the demanding MICE market in mind. The hotel boasts a spectacular 635-square-meter ballroom and three additional meeting rooms as well as a purpose-built boardroom.

Said Philippe Kronberg, general manager, Hilton Pattaya: “All the hotel's meeting rooms have been designed to offer maximum flexibility, together with state-of-the-art technical and lighting facilities. This ensures that while even the largest or most exquisite event can be accommodated, we also offer more intimate settings for smaller occasions. Hilton Pattaya’s skilled conference and events team will be on hand to meet all your needs, combining effortless hospitality with the highest professional standards and meticulous attention to detail. We also have a range of leisure amenities within the hotel, including a fitness center, infinity pool, and numerous world-class restaurants and bars to keep conference attendees entertained, and Pattaya itself has a large number of popular tourist attractions. We are expecting a significant proportion of our business to come from the MICE market.”

In Hua Hin, The Royal Dusit Hall of DTHH -- the only one with a panoramic view of the Gulf of Siam -- is the biggest convention center. Sprawled on 11.86 acres of the resort’s garden area, its concept is fashioned along the lines of the turn-of-thecentury (1930’s) Thai-European style of King Rama VI’s summer palace, “Our convention facility was expected to bring in 25% growth in the MICE market for the Central Region after its first year in operation,” says. Victor Sukseree, DTHH GM. “We modestly predict that with this hall, we will capture 10% of the additional business.”

Phuket is also positioning itself more as a business and trading hub. As a favorite tourist destination in the Andaman Sea, Phuket has very good transport infrastructure, hotels and accommodations, meeting and conference venues as well as activities that best address specific needs of meeting and incentive travelers. This makes The Pullman brand, says Matt Fynch, Phuket July 2013 | 27

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Pullman Bangkok Hotel G,The Library Lounge

InterContinental Baan Taling Ngam Resort Samui, Meeting Room

Arcadia’s director of sales and marketing, fit perfectly in Phuket with its “Bleisure” concept of mixing “business” and “leisure” in the one location.

“The most popular activities in Phuket have always been associated with water,” explains Fynch. “Being an island everyone wants to spend some time on the beach or near the amazing clear blue water of the Andaman Sea. We are finding more and more clients asking for teambuilding activities on the beach or on a remote island. Again, this signifies the move toward “Bleisure” and our focus on creating the ideal program in a memorable location on the island. Of course, mixing some of the magic Thai culture and amazing spa facilities on offer also help in making each meeting group leave happily.”

The new Pullman Phuket, he says, creates excitement in Phuket’s MICE industry because, “It introduces a new place to meet and socialize where the action is. An in-style resort with both heritage and modern touches, its style is both timeless and timely to the market. Its meeting spaces have been uniquely designed specifically for the industry. The Ballroom has 8m-high ceilings that create a sense of opulence and grandeur. The resort also offers meetings, breaks, and accommodation rooms all centrally positioned in the heart of the resort. We have 5 state-of-the-art meeting rooms and 6 outdoor function spaces with fantastic ocean views. We can accommodate groups from 10 up to 300 delegates.”

Of course, Bangkok doesn’t want to be outdone by its sister destinations; many hotels are either adding or re-inventing their facilities to capture the ever increasing, lucrative segment.

Amari Watergate has recently undergone an exciting refit, which will give the hotel the newest pillarless 948sqm-ballroom in Bangkok when it re-launches in early August 2013. The dramatic new styling of the ballroom using a palette of earth tones and champagne hues provides meeting planners with a canvas to create their perfect conference, gala dinner or social gathering.

Amari Watergate has always been a popular venue for weddings and with the new ballroom, more happy couples are expected to celebrate their wedding at the Watergate Ballroom. (Teambuilding is also a MICE service offered by Amari Watergate with many corporate groups wishing to engage their staff during a half-day teambuilding activity. A selection of activities that last from three to five hours, are held either at the hotel or outside around

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Bangkok.)

Even hotels like Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square and Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, which are relatively not huge in size to cater to big MICE business, handle medium- to mid-large scale MICE groups. Four Seasons Bangkok, says its director of event marketing, “has many distinctive features that make it popular among international and domestic function planners, enhanced by over 600 professional, energetic, and creative local staff with all the warmth and feeling that Thailand has to offer here -- to provide the ultimate Four Seasons "Experience" 24/7 for all guests and MICE visitors.”

We should not also forget – over at the riverside -- five-star hotels also targeting the MICE market. The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, The Peninsula, Millennium Hilton, Royal Orchid Sheraton, Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa, and The Shangri-La Bangkok, among others, are in fact branding together to regain much of the MICE market, a pie they all share a big chunk of in the past. All have a range of elegantly appointed indoor venues and scenic riverside spaces, and facilities for MICE and other business travelers can balance work with pleasure.

To make the long story short, efforts to make Thailand the MICE hub in the region continue, aggressively and pro-actively.

With current efforts in the private sector boosted by dedicated government backing and strategies, the future for MICE in Thailand is not only bright, indeed. The future for MICE in Thailand is here. 

MICE with Dusit Thani Bangkok Southeast Asia is the fastest growing region in Asia Pacific, this momentum is set to continue with the introduction of AEC in 2015 which offers great potential for Bangkok’s future growth. Dusit Thani Bangkok intends to drive an increase in revenue in the MICE sector to take advantage of this market opportunity,

Dusit Thani Bangkok hosted several high-profile events in 2012, and in 2013 has already received several groups from Europe. “One of our European clients is VIV Asia in Bangkok and we are proud to be their official hotel, providing accommodation for their delegates from all over the world,” says James Wilson, general manager.

“The Bangkok-based company holds international exhibitions about animal breeding and processing. The main exhibitors are farm and slaughterhouse equipment manufacturers. Other exhibitors at the event deal with knowledge transfer, consultancy services and feed and additive producers.”

“Another client is SCANIA Top Team, who are due to arrive on an incentive trip in April 2014. The Swedish group has selected Dusit Thani Bangkok as the venue to host their meeting and will utilise the hotel for all their accommodation needs. These events showcase our ability to not only to meet but also excel in the varied and challenging demands of this segment. We aim to continue in this direction to become the market leader in 2013.

“The key to successfully securing new group business is our high hospitality standards combined with our drive to be creative and differential enabling our guests to enjoy a ‘touch of Thainess’ during their stay in the City of Angels. Dusit Thani Bangkok’s attentive, refined and gracious service perfectly complements our advantageous location.”

travel

travel tips Nurturing Jet Lag

By Emmi Lane

F

or some people, jet lag is considered a workplace hazard.

Nikola Lakic, a captain in Jet Asia Airways in Thailand, is one of them. “The worst jet leg I have had so far was after a flight from Miami to Bangkok. I was so exhausted after it I couldn't differ was it due to jet lag or the length of the trip by itself.” That time he traveled as a passenger, and including a stopover the journey took more than 24 hours.

The time difference between Miami and Bangkok is 11 hours, which is enough to turn the cycle of day and night upside down.

How did he manage? “I just took a shower and went to bed to rest,” he says. “I had no duties until the day after.” In general his airline instructs their staff to always start their flights well-rested.

“During the flight we do some exercises in the seat and after it rest again!”

But what if you have to adapt to a new timezone quickly? Maybe you don´t have time to rest, but have to hurry to the next meeting or flight. Lakic remains resourceful: he takes a nap, but only a short one so that he should still find himself sleepy around midnight.

The adaptation is an urgent matter for passengers who are fly longer. He assists them: “The sooner they do, the better.” On the other hand, he agrees that it might be better not to mix the natural rhythm on shorter layovers.

While Capt. Lakic may tackle his after-air fatigue with rest, others try to do the same with light. One especially innovative example is a collaboration between Valkee, a Finnish electronics company, and Finnair, a Finnish airline. On their direct flights from Helsinki to Shanghai in April 2012. Business class passengers were given Bright Light Headsets, which channel light through the ear canal in hope of reaching the “photosensitive regions” of the brain, and consequently re-balancing the day rhythm.

Sounds suspicious perhaps, but this method might have some scientific substance. It appears, our brain experiences the new time zone as a disorder of the usual light-darkness balance. “It’s only in the past 100 years that we’ve been able to jump time zones,” says Steven W. Lockley, a consulting member of NASA’s fatigue management team to the New York Times. “We haven’t evolved a way to adapt yet.” Basically, even if we set our clocks to daytime, our brain still assures us it’s night.

The existence of this “biological clock” can be pointed in our brain, and it even has a name: hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus. This tiny group of cells in our brain is controlled by melatonin, a hormone which controls our level of alertness, and whose release is crucially affected by the amount of light we sense. In light, our brain responses by warming us up, feeling alert, hungry or in need of a bathroom. When dark, alas in lack of melatonin, the receptors make us feel inactive and sleepy instead.

Consequently the actions in our brain form a “circadian rhythm”, a natural 24-hour clock controlling our body functions of hunger, digestion, bowel habits, urine production, body temperature and blood pressure. So even if we set our clocks again, our whole bodies are still in Australia or Saudi-Arabia, all they know.

Whether we can fool our natural clocks remains unclear. The pilot project with Finnair has not lead into larger collaboration yet, but readers who got interested now may buy their headsets on Valkee´s website for Bt8994 (£186.50). At least NHS, the biggest health website in the UK, predicts a sentence of doom: “It is not possible to prevent jet lag but there are things you can do to reduce its effects.” Perhaps our physics cannot be overcome and harnessed just yet, but what we can do is minimize the effects of jet lag and make our flights more pleasant.

So we hope you find this mini-guide useful for minimizing jet lag, which Veerawat Singhamany, the strategic marketing specialist at Jet Asia, was kind enough to provide: · · ·

· · · ·

No alcohol No soda Prevent Economy Syndrome (potential blood clots formed during air travel) by stretching out, try to walk around in-flight Drink water every 30mins (prevent dryness) Use eye drop for even a regular eyesight Use earplug / Eyemask / U-shape pillow Take Melatonin (helps restful sleep)

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travel deals

The hottest deals this month

Special Club Accommodation Packages at Centara Grand Ladprao

Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok has a special package for its Club accommodations, with rates starting at Bt3,560 per night for a Club Deluxe Room if they stay for two nights or more, along with 15 percent off on regular a la carte treatments at Spa Cenvaree and 25 percent off on all spa packages. Guests also receive all Club benefits. The package is available until Oct. 31, and rates subject to service charge and government tax.

It is available only for online booking at www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand/cglb/ promotion.asp. For more information and reservations, contact 02-541-1234 or e-mail to cglb@chr.co.th

Bangkok

From Bt 2,000 Ramada Plaza Bangkok Menam Riverside is currently promoting the “Be Safe & Choose to Stay’ room offer.

Special room rates are offered for anyone seeking a comfortable and convenient place to sleep over after a late night-out. With Asia’s largest night bazaar, Asiatique The Riverfront just five minutes away offering a host of eateries, entertainment outlets, and great shopping, it is easy to forget the time and it may be too late to drive home, so the safest option would be to ‘Be Safe & Choose to Stay’ in a Deluxe room for onlyBt2,000 or Plaza Suite for Bt2,500 per room per night. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, call 02-688-1000

30% Cash Back Novotel Bangkok on

Siam Square offers guests a 30% Cash Back on new bookings made until July 15,

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(managed

by Siam@ Siam), a new fashionable lifestyle hotel at the heart of Bangkok, is enticing travelers with major soft opening savings – from as little as Bt3,000 net and Bt4,000 net per room night, including privileges -- for those who book and stay from now to Oct. 31. Terms and conditions apply. For more information or advanced reservations, call 02-623-4555, ext. 1055 or e-mail: rsvn@modesathorn.com

From Bt1,980++ Whether you’re a

Bangkok resident desiring a change of pace or a foreign visitor to the Land of Smiles, Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom’s new “City Break” promotion is for you. The promo starts with rates at Bt1,980++ includes breakfast, Wi-FI, and parking – and apply to all room types. Offer is valid until Dec. 31 with no blackout dates. For more information and booking, call 02-206-9100; e-mail: H7172RE@accor.com

valid for stays until Aug. 31. The daily Cash Back entitles guests to use the eligible amount on food, beverages, room service, spa treatments, or even room upgrades throughout the period of stay. And also special discount tickets to famous tourist attractions: Siam Ocean World, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and Siam Niramit.

Rooms are subject to availability. For more information, visit www.novotelbkk.com or call 02-209-8888.

Bt7,000 Net Pathumwan Princess Hotel has a “Family Holiday Package” for just Bt7,000 net per suite per night. Relax in the style and comfort of a 63sqm- ExecuPlus Suite with its separate living and sleeping rooms, and kids benefits perfect for holidaymakers with children in tow. Offer valid until Sept. 30. For more information, contact 02-216-3700, ext.

Sales & Marketing Dept.

Bt9,400++ The Sukosol Bangkok introduces

Bt6,900 Local residents and expatriates can

the “Executives Package” for a professional and pampered VIP stay from now until Dec. 31. Book the two-night package for a stay at the Club Siam DeLuxe Room at Bt9,400++ for two., inclusive of Club Lounge access with daily breakfast, a signature drink at Sapphire bar, special late checkout at 3 p.m., in-room fruit basket, and more. For more information and reservations, call 02-247-0123, ext. 11031108; e-mail: reservations@sukosolshotels. com

From Bt7,880 Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok offers “River Romance,” a unique escape package available for a minimum of three consecutive nights’ stay valid until Sept. 30.

With rates starting from Bt7,880 per room per night in a Deluxe Room, guests can take advantage of the “River Romance” package benefits, which includes buffet breakfast at NEXT2 Café for two, one way airport limousine transfer, one dinner aboard the Horizon Cruise for food only for a maximum of two persons per stay, complimentary late check-out until 3 p.m. and free high speed Internet access. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information or reservations, contact 02-206-8788 or e-mail: reservations.slbk@ shangri-la.com.

From Bt3,000 net Mode Sathorn Hotel

enjoy an enchanting stay at The Peninsula Plaza with its elegant views of the Chao Phraya River by taking advantage of “The River Escape” offer at Bt6,900 per room per night. The package, valid until Oct. 31, includes following privileges: accommodation in a Deluxe Room with glorious river views for two; complimentary international daily buffet breakfast for two; complimentary buffet dinner for two persons per stay at River Café and Terrace; or a complimentary 50-minute aromatherapy massage for two at The Peninsula Spa. For more information, contact 02-861-2388 or e-mail: reservations at peninsula.com

From Bt2,950 Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn

Bangkok offers attractive room rates for Thai residents -- a special rate of Bt3,150 net, available until Sept. 30. The rates are inclusive of international buffet breakfast for two. Exclusive monthly stay rates are also available. Contact the Reservations Department for more details. For more details and reservations, contact 02-210-8100 or e-mail: rsvn@eastingrandsathorn.com

From Bt5,900++ Grand Millennium

Sukhumvit has designed a “5-in-1 Meeting” package for all business guests. Available until Sept. 30, the offer comes at Bt5,900++

mall/sho

boutique Lookeast recommendations travel deals

where to

contact/

travel/de per room per night, inclusive of breakfast, complimentary upgrade to a Grand Deluxe room; complimentary wireless Internet, and more. Minimum booking of 15 rooms. For more information, contact 02-204-4000 or e-mail: rsvn@grandmillenniumskv.com

enjoy VIP premium access to all areas. Then after each enthralling day, guests will be whisked back to Anantara Hua Hin to relax in five-star luxury with all transfers between the hotel and pitch and a daily breakfast included.

Prices start from Bt9,000++ per night for two with a host of exclusive benefits. Terms and conditions apply. For more information and reservations and inquiries, contact 032-520250; e-mail: huahin@anantara.com

From Bt1,500 Enjoy the ‘Explore Bangkok”

special promotion at The Ascott Limited’s (Ascott) serviced residences with prices starting at Bt1,500. You will also benefit from a late checkout and complimentary services including daily housekeeping and Wi-Fi Internet access. This promotion is valid for a minimum stay of two consecutive nights from now until Sept. 30. Ascott has nine properties in Bangkok for you to choose from. They are Ascott Sathorn Citadines Sukhumvit 8, Citadines Sukhumvit 11, Citadines Sukhumvit 16, Citadines Sukhumvit 23, Somerset Lake Point, Somerset Park Suanplu Somerset Sukhumvit Thonglor, and Vic3. For bookings or more information, call 02-344 2500 or 180088-8272 (Thailand toll-free), e-mail enquiry. bangkok@the-ascott.com or visit www.theascott.com

US$799++

Tower Club at lebua offers an ultimate “Girl Getaway Package” with luxury benefits to ensure unforgettable getaway. The package, at only US$799++ for double occupancy is offered from now until Oct. 31. Benefit includes two nights stay at 1-bedroom Riverview Suite, Tower Club at lebua; round-trip airport transfers by BMW 7 series plus Meet and Greet service at the airport with fast track immigration; drop and pick up to Shopping District in Bangkok by BMW 7 series, once during the stay; one lebua Signature Massage (60 minutes) during the stay; Chef Tasting Menu at The Asian Alfresco Restaurant – Breeze on 51st - 52nd floor; and more not to mention exclusive use of the Tower Club Lounge. Terms and conditions apply. For reservations, call Tower Club at lebua, Bangkok at: 02-624-9555 or e-mail resvn@lebua.com, www.lebua.com

Phuket From Bt1,999++ Holiday Inn Phuket Patong Beach Central is offering a special opening rate, which starts at Bt1,999++ per night for stays from now till Oct. 31. As with all Holiday Inn Express rates in Asia, this is inclusive of free breakfast and high-speed Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel. For more information, visit www.holidayinnexpress.com

From Bt13,806 A Hot Deal package is available at Amari Coral Beach Phuket until Oct. 31. Package includes threenights’ accommodation in a superior room including daily breakfast for two, roundtrip

airport transfers, fresh flowers and seasonal fruit basket set up in room upon arrival, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access in room, 20% discount food and beverage credit per stay, 20% discount at Breeze Spa (cannot be combined with any other promotions) and extra nights at Internet rate. Rate starts from 13,806 THB for 3 nights per room (exclusive of VAT and surcharge). For reservations or more information, call 076 -340106 or visit www. amari.com

Hua Hin From Bt9,000++ From Aug. 28 to Sept. 1,

Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa invites you to enter the amazing world of elephant polo and discover a new passion. The resort’s “Pachyderms and Polo Package” gets guests into the swing of the games marveling at the surprising grace and skill played on the two-ton genteel giants at the 12th anniversary ‘Kings Cup Elephant Polo’ charity tournament.

Get to practice your swing on an elephant; savor lunch and a spa treatment at the pitch, have your photo taken with the players and

Samui

From Bt20,250 ++ From now until Oct. 31, Amari Palm Reef Koh Samui offers a package includes 4-nights’ accommodation in a deluxe room with breakfast for two persons, roundtrip Samui airport transfers, a 45-minute signature mood massage at Breeze Spa, Bt1,000 credit on food and beverage, Bt1,000 credit for spa treatment, and 5% discount on Internet rates for extra nights. Rates start from Bt20,250 for four nights for two persons sharing (exclusive of VAT and surcharge). For more information or to make a reservation, call 077-422-394

A holiday treat for late bookers

Centara Hotels & Resorts has special lastminute seasonal rates available throughout Thailand and in overseas destinations for all room categories, with breakfast included.

The special rates are available at selected Centara properties in Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai, Samui, Pattaya, Hua-Hin, Trat, Koh Chang, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. Rates are for single or double occupancy, and with up to two children under the age of 12 years sharing their parents’ room and bedding accommodated with breakfast included for no extra charge. Categories of suites and villas that are designed for a greater number of guests are also included in these special rates. Available from now until Oct. 31.

More information and a booking form can be found at http://www.centarahotelsresorts. com/Special_offers. Rates begin from as little as Baht 1,200 per night for a Superior room at Centra Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana.

Rates, period and minimum length of stay vary depending on the destinations, and all rates are subject to service charge and government tax. For more information and reservations, contact 02-101-1234, ext 1 or e-mail to reservations@chr.co.th

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travel news will “immerse themselves in the spaciously refined ambience” and relax in the “tranquility of Cha Am's nostalgic fishing village charm.”

Bangkok, Phuket, Samui -- favored by most international travelers

InterCon Hua Hin gets ‘Hotel Best Thailand’ award

Bangkok - Bangkok, Phuket, and Samui were the most popular Thai destinations for international travelers in 2012, according to Hotels.com’s Hotel Price Index (HPI).

The hotel booking website also says that with 21 million foreign visitors last year, Thailand is one of the fastest growing countries for the travel and hospitality industry.

Bangkok was most appreciated for its vibrant nightlife, shopping attractions, and cultural sights, as well as great value at hotels in all star-categories. Phuket ranked second especially by Chinese, Hong Kong, Australian, and Kiwi visitors. Koh Samui as third-most popular, and then Pattaya, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Koh Phangan, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Tao – in that order.

In general, Thailand is favored for its pleasant weather, cultural attractions, and variety of travel destinations.

However, two additional reasons, and “mega trends” for year 2013 were stated: “The continued rise of Chinese outbound travelers and the increase in low cost carriers across Asia.” So far China is the top source country for travelers to Thailand. Following countries were Malaysia, Japan, Russia, and South Korea.

Onyx properties bag TripAdvisor awards

Bangkok – Sixteen properties under the Onyx Hospitality Group, a Thailand-based hospitality company, recently received the TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence Award for 2013. The group’s flagship Amari properties – including Amari Atrium Bangkok, Amari Watergate Bangkok, Amari Residences Bangkok, Amari Coral Beach Phuket, and Amari Orchid Pattaya – were honored with 10 Excellence awards. Some Onyx properties were victorious in other categories, too. Out of more than 700 rivals, Oriental Residence Bangkok came out as the overall winner in the category of luxury hotels and top hotels in Bangkok in TripAdvisor´s 2013 Travellers’ Choice® awards.

“We are extremely pleased to have been recognized by TripAdvisor and its users,” says Peter Henley, ONYX president and CEO. “TripAdvisor has become one of the most important and influential sources of information for guests looking to book quality accommodation.

We strive to offer our customers a quality experience, and the numerous accolades achieved this year is evidence that our

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LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

properties hard work is translating into positive reviews on the site.”

The accolade is given to hotels that consistently achieve excellent traveler reviews on Tripadvisor, the leading international travel.

Onyx is one of the Asia-Pacific’s leading hospitality management companies, with over 45 years of industry presence. The group has currently operates 34 properties across Asia, and more are on their way in the next few years.

ballroom for meetings and events. Guests may choose from many dining facilities, such as Elements, serving Thai and Western classics, or Vero, concentrating on Italian cuisine.

For the evening, Vinoteca, a wine library guarantees quality wines sold by the glass or bottle.

Hotel de la Paix Cha Am offers ‘Insider Rates’ Pullman now in Phuket

Phuket – Pullman Phuket Arcadia, the first Pullman resort on the island, opened recently.

The upscale lifestyle resort is located on Naithon Beach, overlooking the Andaman Sea and less than 15 minutes from the Phuket International Airport.

“Pullman has been very successful in Asia, especially in Thailand where this resort will be the fifth Pullman property in the country. I strongly believe that Pullman Phuket Arcadia will become a major player in Phuket’s upscale market,” says Patrick Basset, the senior vice president of Accor Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines.

The resort has 277 guest rooms and a 389 square meter

Cha-Am – As a sign of gratitude for the continuous support of Thailand´s travel industry, Hotel de la Paix Cha Am offers a promotion package for guests working in travel sector. Qualified guests will be given a special rate on room bookings, Bt3,000, with buffet breakfast for two until the end of August.

"Thailand's travel industry is a great institution to be a part of, with companies constantly pitching in to work collaboratively.

This is just our way of saying 'thanks' for generating such a positive working platform," said Nigel Tovey, GM of Hotel de la Paix Cha Am. The 5-star hotel is renowned for its chic contemporary design, planned by Thai architect Duangrid Bunnag. During their stay, the resort hopes the guests

Hua Hin – InterContinental Hua Hin Resort has earned the “Hotel Best Thailand” honors at the Asia-Pacific Hotel Awards, held in Malaysia recently. The award is the latest in the string of awards that the hotel has been garnering since it opened in 2009.

“We are delighted with the recognition that the Asia-Pacific Hotel Awards has give us,” says Mrs. Britta Kutz, general manager of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. “This will further encourage us to continue our efforts and to ensure that we bring the high level of personalized service married with legendary Thai hospitality and the InterContinental’s expert local knowledge to the forefront of every guest encounter and create a lifetime of memories.”

Apart from this recent award, the resort has also been voted “Winner of Excellence” 2013 by TripAdvisor.

Aleenta unveils ‘Great Mates Escape’

Phuket – Aleenta Phuket-Phang Nga Resort and Spa offers 'Great Mates Escape' -- an exclusive package for friends and groups of four to eight people, for only a fraction of the cost of a private holiday. “'Great Mates Escape' was an innovative idea based on the simple concept of sharing,” says Anchalika Kijkanakorn, the founder of the management company AHMS Collection behind Aleenta Phuket-Phang Nga. "A fantasy escape is suddenly much more attainable when the cost of the villa is shared between a group of friends or several couples," she says.

The deal includes four nights accommodation in beachfront villas with 12m to 26m private pools, transport from the airport in luxury BMW or a luxury Van, gourmet breakfasts with a private butler and chef, a private car for shopping and nightlife tour, a visit to a Sea Turtle Sanctuary and Rehabilitation centre and more.

All this for a price of Bt115,465 for four people, up to Bt179,840 for eight people - that is Bt22,480 per person. Contact: 02-514-8112 or e-mail: reservations@aleenta. com

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Eastin Easy expands to Phuket

Bangkok – Jonathan Wigley, CEO of Absolute Hotel Services (AHS) Group, has announced another Eastin Easy property in Thailand.

AHS’ portfolio in Thailand continues to expand quickly with Eastin Easy Patong Phuket, which will be ready to open by within the 4th quarter of 2013.

Eastin Easy Patong Phuket is located on Ratcha Uthit, Patong Kathu and will feature 55 superior rooms, designed in a modern contemporary style with comfortable facilities and functional space. Other facilities include outdoor swimming pool on the ground floor adjacent to the fully equipped gym. A restaurant with an incorporated retail element will be on the second floor, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

AHS properties that just opened in the second quarter of this year are: U Sunsuri Phuket and Eastin Hotel Pattaya in Thailand, U Paasha Seminyak Bali in Indonesia, U Tropicana Alibaug, Eastin Easy Citizen Ahmedabad, and Deltin Suites Goa in India.

“With arrivals hitting record highs in Thailand, the demand for quality and affordable accommodation in the country’s most famous destination such as Phuket is rising,” says CEO Wigley. “This, coupled with our high service standards and great locations, will offer guests the best value for money. Eastin Easy Patong being our second property in Phuket. We will announce an additional two properties in this dynamic island destination in the third quarter.”

Complimentary Shuttle Service to Pattaya

Pattaya – From now to August 31, guests of Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, can travel in style with a shuttle service to the hotel’s sister property Sheraton Pattaya Resort. Simply make a reservation for both hotels and enjoy a

complimentary one-time round trip transfer.

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit is renowned as one of the finest hotels in Asia. Located in the heart of Bangkok's business and entertainment district with a pedestrian sky bridge link from the hotel entrance to the BTS Asok SkyTrain station and Terminal 21 Shopping Mall, and a few steps from the MRT Sukhumvit subway station, the luxurious hotel provides convenient access to the city’s many fascinating attractions. Rates for a luxurious Deluxe room at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit start from just Bt6,500++ per room per night.

Less than two hours’ drive from Bangkok, Sheraton Pattaya Resort is located on a cliff headland, overlooking the Gulf of Siam. The resort enjoys a fabulous beachfront location with unsurpassed views to Coral Island and beyond. The resort features 156 spacious rooms, including 40 pavilions and two villas, each decorated with a tasteful mix of traditional and contemporary Thai design elements. Rates for a Garden View room at Sheraton Pattaya Resort start from just Bt5,500++ per room per night. For reservations, contact 02-649-8666 or e-mail reservations.sgs@luxurycollection. com and 038-259-888 or e-mail reservations.pattaya@ starwoodhotels.com.

Cancer Care Check Presentation

Lubosh Barta, GM of Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, and Ms. Titiya Chooto, GM Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, together with M.R. Priyangsri Watanakun, Director of the Thai Red Cross Society’s Fund Raising Bureau and the sponsors recently presented a check of Bt3,449,312 to Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, executive vice-president of the Thai Red Cross Society, on behalf of the ‘Hematological Cancer Research Center’ at Chulalongkorn Hospital. The monies represent the proceeds from various activities organized including the “16th Cancer Care Run” in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui; “7th Clutter Sale” organized by the NewsMakers; and the “6th Christmas Tree Charity Project” organized by the hotel with Livinget. and Wallpaper Magazines, which will all be used for cancer research to be conducted by the center. In photo (right to left): Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, M.R. Priyangsri Watanakun, Titiya Chooto, Lubosh Barta, Annabelle Daokaew, PR Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok; and Duangrat Watanapongchat, chief of Portfolio Management & Trading of KTZMICO, one of the sponsors.

New 5 Star Hotel for Pattaya-

Pattaya -- Tulip Group has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Golden Tulip Hotels and Resorts for a new luxury 5-star hotel on Soi 5 Phratamnak Hill.

The luxury 25-storey high-rise building of Royal Tulip Suites Pattaya is set to be one of the most beautiful properties in the area. It is just steps from the stunning Cosy Beach, EIA and building permit are already in place, and Tulip Group will start construction on the project as soon as agreements are in place with Golden Tulip Hotels.

Tulip Group is planning to offer a limited number of rooms of the hotel-only property to investors. Full details have not been disclosed but it is expected that investors buying into the project will be offered a leaseback program, with guaranteed returns, no ongoing management or sinking fund costs, as well as some additional investment benefits.

This property will be Tulip Groups second property with the operator.

Last year they signed agreement for a Golden Tulip Hotel and Residence in Central Pattaya.

Social Hour

Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers in Bangkok celebrated the first anniversary of Sheraton Social Hour with wine tasting and the rollout of a new global signature wine program.

They also took part in a 24-hour ‘Toast Around The World’ event, which passed from Sheraton Hong Kong to Sheraton Waikiki. Over 100 in-house guests, local residents of the city and the management attended the anniversary, which showcased Treasury Wine Estate and Ste. Michelle wines, complemented by world-renown cheeses. The “Social Hour" offers guests’ premium wines and weekly tasting.

July 2013 | 33

TRAVEL

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2013 is On Phuket Raceweek celebrates 10th anniversary and Cape Panwa Hotel sponsorship extension

Phuket – The 2013 Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek presented

by Mount Gay Rum, celebrates its 10th Anniversary with a strong fleet of boats and international crews taking part 17-21 July at the five-star Cape Panwa Hotel.

An exciting race programme on-the-water, combined with a popular onshore social scene kicks off with a Barbadian-themed opening party and concludes with a lavish ticket-only Gala Dinner hosted by Cape Panwa Hotel. “2013 is a milestone year for the event. We look back at the last nine years in which Raceweek has built a reputation for delivering one of the best regatta experiences in Asia, and we celebrate this the 10th Anniversary year while looking forward to the next decade and develop on the success of this award-winning regatta,” said Mr. Byron Jones, Managing Director of co-organiser Media Business Services (MBS).

The luxurious Cape Panwa Hotel is an ideal regatta venue with its established international reputation, private beach and pier, and spectacular sailing grounds right on the hotel's doorstep. Following their successful first hosting of the event last year, Cape Panwa Hotel recently extended their title sponsorship and committed to be the home of Phuket Raceweek through 2015.

Four days of world-class yachting racing in Phuket, combined with four nights of magical, beachside parties has proven to be an award-winning formula for Phuket Raceweek having been voted 'Best Asian Regatta of the Year' at the 2011 Asia Boating Awards. Such accolades have helped to firmly establish the regatta on the Asian yachting circuit and the event's worldwide recognition is evidenced by an increasing number of charter boats taking part this year, underscoring Phuket's position as a leading sailing and marine tourism destination. For more information:www. phuketraceweek.com

Sansiri Supports The First Thai Sailor In Transpac 2013

Bangkok -- Sansiri PLC, one of the largest real estate developers in Thailand, supports Patinyakorn Buranrom, a 29-year old sailor from Phuket to become the first Thai skipper to compete in the Transpacific Yacht Race (TRANSPAC) 2013, starting on July 8.

“I have worked very hard getting to the stage where I was competitive and with Sansiri´s support I have now enjoyed success at a local level. To skipper a yacht in the TRANSPAC is a wish come true,” says Buranrom. His recent successful regattas include Phuket King´s Cup, Top of the Gulf, and Samui.

This time, he will be joining an international team of Rolex SydneyHobart, race veteran and Michael Spies, a former winner and record holder on a 40-foot “Sansiri” yacht. His biggest challenge, however is: “To cross the Pacific.”

Also Spies agrees with the challenging factors: “Safety, and obviously the weather.” TRANSPAC is one of the most demanding offshore races, which covers over 4,100km in the Pacific Ocean from Los Angeles to Hawai, the U.S., making it into the longest of the two oldest ocean races in the world. “On average the course will take 12 days to finish,” says coskipper Spies, but sports a victorious spirit: “We believe we are the most competitive and everything falls into its place.”

Sansiri has supported the aspiring Thai sailor´s career for years.

“Sansiri´s aim is to “Construct a life not jus a building,” and having seen Patinyakorn become an inspiration to so many other Thais, especially youngsters, we want to support Patinyakorn to be Thailand´s first-ever skipper in a global ocean race,” says Ob-oom Chutrakul, social director of Sansiri. “We hope he can share his knowledge and experience, and encourage many other Thais to follow their dreams, too.”

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LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

Bangkok – The annual “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale” (ATGS’13), organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) with Visa card, is on. To ensure no one misses out on ATGS ’13, Visa offers cardholders up to 80 percent discounts and other privileges from participating retailers in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Hat Yai, Samui, and Hua Hin. Visa cardholders can look out for special offers at leading department stores and shopping complexes: Central, Central World, The Mall, Paragon, Emporium, Robinson, Gaysorn Plaza, Siam Discovery and Erawan.

A special grand prize awaits international Visa cardholders, offering them a chance to win the trip of a lifetime: all-expense paid trip to Thailand. Some Bt 1-million in vouchers and experience also await domestic cardholders. In addition Visa will host an interactive three day event, the “Grander than Grand Sale” event at Terminal 21, just for domestic cardholders on July 9-11. The shopping extravaganza offers cardholders special privileges, and the opportunity to win more great prizes: including Bt500 and Bt1,000 in cash vouchers.

Visa has worked with TAT to roll out a series of road shows in key international countries, and leveraged its global network to promote ATGS overseas. Visa-led marketing campaigns were also launched in collaboration with key banks and retailers. Tourism campaigns reached key countries, such as Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines, China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, as well as Oman, UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar.

Thai superstar visits Dusit Thani Hua Hin

One of the leading artists in Thailand, Thongchai McIntyre, ‘Bird’ to his fans, paid a visit to Dusit Thani Hua Hin recently. The singer (center) came with his personal manager Pornpichit Pattanatabut (right). Victor Sukseree (left), GM of Dusit Thani welcomed them.

Oasis Spa Staff Party

Oasis Spa recently hosted a flamboyant staff party, giving thanks to the hard work and diligent efforts of the staff for a world-class customer service. According to Oasis Spa management, these qualities are the driving force behind their overwhelming success during the past years. The annual staff party was held in The Dream Hotel Bangkok, and gathered more than 80 employees from Oasis Spa´s four branches in Bangkok and Pattaya. The “Regional Best Employees” were rewarded with overseas holidays for their achievements.

Hugs worth of Bt50,000

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square has collected Bt50,000 for its “Hug a Tree” fundraising program. The event, part of “Planet 21” project, invited hotel guests to receive a hug from tree-mascots in exchange for a small donation. Thanks to this fundraising campaign, 500 trees will be planted as a corrective and preventive action in Northern Thailand.

Networking Night

H.E. Mrs. Chua Siew San, ambassador of the Republic of Singapore, was the guest of honor at the SingaporeThai Chamber of Commerce (STCC) “New Board of Directors Meet Members Networking Night” at Chatrium Ballroom, Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok jointly hosted by Oh Lock Soon, STCC chairman, and Adrian Brown, the hotel’s general manager. Photo shows: (From left) Peter Ong; Adrian Brown; H.E. Chua Siew San; and Oh Lock Soon

Kasemkij Hotels Recognised withMultipleTripAdvisorAwards

EightHotels Honoured as Top Performing HotelsReviewed by Travellers on the World’s Largest Travel Site Bangkok, Thailand, June 2013– Kasemkij Hotels, the owner and operator of Thailand’s three leading hotel brands, the Cape, Kantary and Kameo Collections, today announced that eight of Kasemkij Hotels’ seventeen properties, namely: Cape House, Bangkok; Cape Nidhra Hotel, HuaHin; Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket; Kantary Hotel, Ayutthaya; Kantary Hills Hotel, Chiang Mai; Kantary Beach Hotel, KhaoLak; Kantary Bay Hotel, Phuket; and Kameo Grand Hotel, Rayong have been honoured with aCertificate of Excellenceaward from the travel review website TripAdvisoragain this year.

“Kasemkij Hotels is pleased to have been recognised by TripAdvisor for the quality of its hotels” says PoomiphatNavanukroh, Kasemkij Hotels’ Travel Industry Group Director. “We work hard to offer our customers the best travel experience, whether it is business or leisure; and this review based accolade is a fantastic reward from those who matter the most to us - our guests.”

The accolade, which honours hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews, and only the top-performing tenpercent of hotels listed on TripAdvisorreceive the prestigious award. To qualify, hotels must maintain an overall average rating of four or higher out of a possible five, as reviewed by travellers. Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last twelve months.

For more information, please visit www.kasemkij.com.

travel

tale of the tape Korean Visitors to Thailand: Strong Rebound After Three-Year Slump

By Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive Editor,

K

www.travel-impact- newswire.com

Korean Visitor Arrivals 2007-2013

orea is the 5th most important source of visitor arrivals for Thailand, after China, Malaysia, Japan and Russia.

It is one of six countries that generate more than one million arrivals a year.

In 2012, Korean visitor arrivals to Thailand totaled 1,153,457, up 15.22% over 2011. This has been a remarkable turnaround from a consecutive three-year slump in arrivals between 2007-2009 In January – April 2013, Korean visitor arrivals to Thailand totaled 436,516, up 17.58% over the same period of 2012.

In 2013, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is projecting 1,202,900 Korean visitor arrivals, generating an estimated Bt47,290 million in tourism revenue.

Year 2007

Arrivals (by Residence) 1,075,453

% Change

2008 2009

889,942 610,362

-18.09 -30.71

2010 2011

803,083 1,001,105

31.57 24.66

2012

1,153,457

15.22

-2.36

Source: Immigration Bureau, Police Department.

Tourism Receipts from Korea 2008-2012

Tourism Revenue in 2012 In 2012, visitors from Korea stayed an average of 7.64 days, while their average daily expenditure was Bt4,811 (or US$154.81) per person. This generated about Bt42.39 billion (or US$1,364 million) tourism exchange revenue to the Thai economy.

Year 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Length of Stay (Days) 6.46 6.61 6.70 7.30 7.64

Per Capita Spending Baht/Day US$/Day 4,629.03 138.97 4,451.99 129.83 4,564.43 144.03 4,670.19 153.17 4,811.40 154.81

Tourism Receipts Mil. Baht Mil. US$ 26,850.91 806.09 18,265.70 532.68 24,623.79 777.02 34,130.05 1,119.39 42,399.85 1,364.22

Source: Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

Not: 2008: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 31.31 Baht; 2009: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 34.29 Baht; 2010: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 31.69 Baht; 2011: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 30.49 Baht; 2012: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 31.08 Baht

Profile

Here are some interesting profile indicators of Korean visitors to Thailand in 2012: • 43% were female, up 12.40% to 496,764 while male visitors were up by 17.45% to 656,693.

• 54% were first-time travelers, up 12.64% to 629,350, while repeat visitors were up by 18.47% to 524,107.

• 49.78% were independent travelers, up 16.43%, while visitors traveling by group tour were up by 14.04% to 579,317.

• In terms of age groups, visitors were mainly between 25-34 and 35-44, up by 9.53% and 15.79% respectively. Other fast-growing segments were young people aged under 25 (up by 19.49%) while senior citizens aged over 55 were up by 24.22%.

• By purpose of visit, 87.95% were holiday visitors, up by 102.16% to 1,014,453.

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Lookeast | travel

Profile

2012

% Δ

% Share

Sex Male

656,693

+ 17.45

56.93

Female

496,764

+ 12.40

43.07

140,528

+ 19.49

12.18

Age Under 25 25 - 34

320,272

+ 9.53

27.77

35 - 44

295,344

+ 15.79

25.61

45 - 54

229,213

+ 14.20

19.87

55 and over

168,100

+ 24.22

14.57

First visit

629,350

+ 12.64

54.56

Revisit

524,107

+ 18.47

45.44

Group Tour

579,317

+ 14.04

50.22

Non Group Tour

574,140

+ 16.43

49.78

Holiday

1,014,453

+ 102.16

87.95

Frequency of Visit

Travel Arrangement

Purpose of Visit

Meeting

20,796

- 67.42

1.80

Incentive

1,794

- 99.08

0.16

Convention

4,446

- 96.89

0.39

Exhibition

1,722

- 60.88

0.15

110,246

+ 17.05

9.56

Others

Source: -Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports -Marketing Database Group, Tourism Authority of Thailand

Routes Seoul – Bangkok

Busan – Bangkok Seoul – Phuket Seoul – Chiang Mai

Airlines & No. of flights per week Thai Airways (18) Korean Air (21) Thai Airways/Asiana Airlines (14) Asiana Airlines/Thai Airways (7) Business Air (7) Jeju Airlines (7) T’ Way Air (5) Jin Air (4) Thai Airways (5) Korean Air (7) Jeju Air (7) Korean Air (7) Asiana Airlines (6) Thai Airways (7) Korean Air (7) Total

Total flights/ weeks 18 21 14 7 7 7 5 4 5 7 7 7 6 7 7 129

Source: Air-Sea Guide, June 2013

Bangkok most popular city in the world

Bangkok is the most visited city in the world by international tourists, while London stays behind by less than one percent, says the Global Destination City Index.

Nevertheless, Bangkok does not make the most profit from its tourists. New York receives 4 million less foreign visitors per year, but altogether tourists still spend considerably more money while they are there. But the most expensive travel destination is Tokyo, with an average spending of $2,190 per visitor.

Southeast Asian tourism has exploded, especially due to the number of Chinese tourists in Bangkok, which has surged to a staggering 83 million per year, as Maxwell Watts reports in qz.com. The usual flight origins are from Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul.

Aviation Linkages

As of June 2013, there were 129 direct scheduled flights between Korea and Thailand, operated by 7 airlines including Thai Airways International (TG), Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Business Air, Jin Air, Jeju Air, and T’Way Air. Of these, 83 flights are between Seoul and Bangkok, 19 between Busan and Bangkok, 20 flights between Seoul and Phuket and 7 flights between Seoul and Chiang Mai.

Highlights of Korean visitors • In 2011, the top-five Thai destinations for Korean visitors were Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Hua Hin. • Korean visitors to Thailand were once dominated by family groups, honeymooners, and golfers but today, the profile includes long-stay travelers, those seeking medical treatment and study-trips. They are also traveling more independently and seeking new experiences.

• The Korean honeymoon market has been increasing every year. The most popular honeymoon destinations in Thailand are Phuket, Samui Island, and Krabi (source: Kbank research center 2012) • In the January 2011 issue of Recommend magazine, Thailand was named by the travel agent community as the “Sexiest Romance Honeymoon Destination in Asia.”

• Korean citizens get 90 days visa-free to stay in Thailand.

• Korean visitors see Thailand as a good short-haul destination. Their popular traveling times are during July and August, which goes a long way towards boosting business during what is considered to be a low season period.

• Good weather conditions are favorable for golfers. The availability of a huge number of Korean restaurants in all the popular tourist cities adds to the appeal, especially amongst elderly Korean visitors.

• One interesting new development to cater to the Korean market is the opening of products such as the exhilarating Nanta Cooking dance performance at the Royal City Avenue (RCA) theatre. It is well worth seeing.

• Many charter flights are also being launched to supplement the existing capacity provided by the regular scheduled flights.

Conclusion

Like with other aspects of Thai tourism growth, managing this influx of visitors has now become a challenge. One key issue is the shortage of Korean speaking guides. To address this, the Bureau of Tourism Business and Guide Registration, Department of Tourism together with ASEANKOREA Center (AKC) provided a Korean Language Training Course in November-December 2012. Many such activities will be necessary.  July 2013 | 37

travel

insights New Era Dawns for Thai Tourism – From Mass Markets to Niche Markets

By Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive Editor,

www.travel-impact- newswire.com

T

he Thai tourism industry is undergoing the most important transition in its 53-year history, with farreaching consequences for the kingdom’s society, economy, culture, heritage, and environment. The age of generating mass tourism is making way for an age of promoting niche-market tourism with a greater emphasis on balance and sustainability. With the industry’s potential for creating millions of jobs across the board now a given, the focus is shifting toward ensuring that the goose continues to lay the golden eggs.

Mass tourism is here to stay, thanks to the huge boom in arrivals from within the Asia-Pacific region, possibly the most important influencing factor in shaping industry fortunes over the last two years. In 2012, Thailand hit a record-breaking 22 million arrivals.

Two source-markets, China and Malaysia, are now generating more than two million annual arrivals each. And four sourcemarkets, Japan, Russia, Korea, and India, are generating more than one million arrivals each. With other populous countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam only a stone’s throw away, the flow of numbers is virtually guaranteed well into the future.

This growth, and indeed the growth in the entire travel and tourism industry worldwide, has been underpinned by geopolitical peace and economic stability, mainly in the Asia Pacific, and the absence of any major environmental disasters or health pandemics or local disturbances such as those which occurred almost annually in the first decade of the 21st-century.

The upward trend is continuing in January-April 2013, when arrivals surged to a record total of 8,841,730, up by 19.04% over the same period of 2012, according to figures published by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. This means that in just four months, Thailand is now getting more visitors than it received in all of 1999. Another remarkable statistic (see chart below) is that the number of visitors have effectively doubled between 2004-2012, in spite of declines in 2005 and 2009 due to the impact of the tsunami and domestic political disturbances.

A detailed analysis of the Jan-April 2013 arrivals will show that visitors from East Asia totaled 4.82 million (+28.72%), Europe 2.62 million (+11.89%), the Americas 422,000 (+6.75%), South Asia 410,000 (+9.98%), and Africa 38,000 (+6.70%). Only two regions, Middle East declined -2.20% to 180,000 and Oceania 324,000

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Lookeast | travel

(-1.14%). China’s total of 1.53 million visitor arrivals or (+92.82%) made it the first time that any country had crossed the one million mark in the short span of four months.

In 2013, TAT is confident that if the global, regional, and local situation remains stable, Thailand will receive 24.14 million arrivals, generating a projected tourism income of Bt1.1 trillion.

There are many reasons for Thailand’s tourism success. A longstanding geographical advantage has positioned Thailand at the crossroads of Asia. This has been augmented by the long-standing visa-free and visa-on-arrival policy, which has freed visitors from many key source-markets from lengthy and tedious process of procuring visas at diplomatic missions abroad. Extensive airline and aviation access to Thailand in terms of both domestic and regional linkages has ensured a plentiful supply of seats. On the back of this, strong promotional campaigns have buttressed Thailand’s image as a friendly and service-oriented people with a strong history and cultural tradition and respectful of all races or religions.

However, this growth has not been without its negative consequences. Many popular Thai destinations are groaning under the pressure of congestion. Others, especially in the pristine beach areas, do not have enough capacity to handle the increased demand for water, sewage- and garbage-treatment facilities.

Human resources availability is not keeping up with demand. The pace of change in technology and security requirements is also proving to be an overwhelming task.

TAT’s response is to shift attention toward “a balanced marketing strategy” to promote a better equilibrium between the quality versus quantity of visitor arrivals. Deputy Governor for Asian Markets, Sansern Ngaorangsi, told a media briefing at the recent “Thailand Travel Mart Plus” in June that the TAT was conscious of the fact that the surge in visitors would have an environmental impact, requiring a strategic shift to preserve the quality of Thai destinations, products, and services. The balanced strategy will strive to maintain a good mix of repeat and first-time travelers, probe new markets while consolidating existing markets, iron out the peaks and troughs between high and low seasons in arrivals, distribute visitors between urban and rural areas, and ensure a good mix of customer segments from High Net Worth Individuals to backpackers.

In detail, this will mean attracting more upmarket visitors and decongesting existing destinations by promoting new and emerging ones, especially in the provinces surrounding the popular destinations. Sansern said TAT was trying to move visitors

away from the usual spots of Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiang Mai toward lesser-known provinces such as Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Trat, Chanthaburi, Khao Yai, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Kanchanaburi, Chumphon, and Nakhon Si Thammarat.

He said that the TAT would also be stressing the experiential aspect of visiting Thailand, for example, by having people not just to eat Thai food but also to learn to cook it, not just to watch Thai boxing but also learn the science and techniques behind it.

The TAT has also identified four key product areas, which it believes will generate more earnings than numbers. These are:

Golf: Thailand today has an expansive range of golf tour operators and over 200 top-quality golf courses nationwide.

Golfers come from all around the world, especially places such as Japan and Korea, to play and attend international tournaments.

The cost of playing in Thailand is generally much lower than that of many countries.

for Myanmar. New airlines are emerging and boosting access to Thailand’s 29 provincial airports. Hotel chains such as the Dusit Thani group and Centara Group are pursuing vigorous expansion strategies both within Thailand and around the region.

The number of small- and medium-sized enterprises supplying products and services to the travel and tourism industry is also on the rise. At the same time, the TAT’s marketing skills continue to grow, especially in terms of taking advantage of the Internet and social media.

Barring a global economic collapse or a geopolitical catastrophe, the Thai tourism industry has become too big to fail, in every sense of the term. 

Health and Wellness: Visitors are coming to Thailand for everything from sex-change operations and dental treatment to meditation and detox programs. Recently, Thailand won the “Best Spa Destination (Asia)” voted by readers of AsiaSpa India, the most popular spa and wellness magazine in India. Moreover, TAT has launched a website for dedicated promotion of medical tourism www.ThailandMedtourism.com.

Wedding and Honeymoon: The wedding and honeymoon market has exploded in recent years, especially from India. It has been one factor driving the boom in boutique-style properties designed for guests seeking total privacy in a charming ambience. In April 2012, Thailand was awarded the ‘Best Wedding Destination’ category from Travel + Leisure India & South Asia.

Green Tourism: This has now become an important nichemarket as the impact of global warming and climate change is making global travelers more conscious of their environmental footprint. Thailand’s product range offers everything from quiet treks in the jungles to soft adventure like zip lining and rock climbing. Thailand is also using the carrot approach that rewards Thai companies for best practices and provides them with publicity and marketing exposure at local and international travel shows.

In recent years, Thailand has successfully repositioned itself to dilute one of its most negative image problem -- as a sex-and-smut destination for single males. A boom in shopping malls, although driven by the growth in the Thai middle class, has provided ample opportunities for the tourism sector to market itself as a paradise for women visitors. This has led to a huge trickle-down ripple effect by creating jobs in related sectors also popular with women such as health and wellness, and culinary tourism. Many Thai women who are physically challenged, poorly educated, or former victims of domestic violence are now finding gainful employment in the foot-massage parlors, which have proliferated on every street corner in the main cities.

As it reinvents and repositions itself, the Thai tourism industry can look forward to a bright future. The opening of the Asian Highway has already boosted connectivity to the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia, and will soon do the same

Siam Country Club Pattaya

Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket

International Tourist Arrivals to Thailand 1987-­‐2012 Year Number D (%) 1987 3,482,958 + 23.59 1988 4,230,737 + 21.47 1989 4,809,508 + 13.68 1990 5,298,860 + 10.17 1991 5,086,899 -­‐ 4.00 1992 5,136,443 + 0.97 1993 5,760,533 + 12.15 1994 6,166,496 + 7.05 1995 6,951,566 + 12.73 1996 7,192,145 + 3.46 1997 7,221,345 + 0.41 1998 7,764,930 + 7.53 1999 8,580,332 + 10.50 2000 9,508,623 + 10.82 2001 10,061,950 + 5.82 2002 10,799,067 + 7.33 2003 10,004,453 -­‐ 7.36 2004 11,650,703 + 16.46 2005 11,516,936 -­‐ 1.15 2006 13,821,802 + 20.01 2007 14,464,228 + 4.65 2008 14,584,220 + 0.83 2009 14,149,841 -­‐ 2.98 2010 15,936,400 + 12.63 2011 19,230,470 + 20.67 2012 22,353,903 + 16.24 Source: TAT Marketing Database

July 2013 | 39

Hotels

checking in

Homage to Renaissance Heritage Charming Villa Panna is for those who want to be surrounded by history, culture, and nature during their holiday stay

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he best thing about most European holiday homes is that they are not just hotels or resorts where you check-in, enjoy some of the facilities maybe, and for the most part are simply a place to sleep and rest more than anything else.

Some of the best of them – like Villa Panna in Scarperia, Florence-are real destinations in themselves.

If the name rings a bell, that’s because it’s located beside the Panna spring from which one of Italy’s most renowned lightly mineralized natural mineral waters, Aqua Panna, emerges. Villa Panna, rising up within a 1,300-hectare of unspoiled natural oasis, has always been at the very heart of the history of Acqua Panna, which in turn is a natural part of the spirit, history, and culture of Tuscany.

The Panna spring is located in the 1300-hectare estate that used to be a part of the favorite hunting ground of the Medici family, the powerful dynasty of Florentine Lords during the Italian Renaissance. A visit here would not be complete without a visit

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boutique Villa Panna Checking In

where to

contact/ to the spring. On the way there, not only is the scenery amazing – the greenery, the vast park, and all. The well-preserved wildlife also was. As we drive to the spring an entire pack of deer followed us, making the trip nothing short of magical – some of us were even imagining those days when the Grand Dukes of Tuscany and their illustrious guests where hunting here.

Simply put, Villa Panna was a beautiful property, one that ensures a beautiful holiday experience. Antonella Stefanelli, who is in charge of worldwide PR and media relations for Acqua Panna and S.Pellegrino, told us that the original structure of the villa, built upon the orders of the Medicis in the mid-16th Century when they took over ownership of the estate, was that of a farmhouse. Stefanelli came down from Milan to personally meet the Lookeast team and give them a tour of the estate.

Today it had taken on the appearance of a patrician villa after progressive expansion and development. But the surroundings, obviously, were very much preserved.

Even though Villa Panna underwent significant renovations between 2005 and 2007, they were carried out with complete respect for nature and the villa’s history, bringing back the former splendor of the magnificent, ancient residence, and making it a true meeting point between the Renaissance and the modern world. Such that one member of our group, a well-traveled woman, remarked that this is “one of the most beautiful properties I have ever seen.”

Significant renovations between 2005 and 2007 were carried out with complete respect for nature and the villa’s history, making it a true meeting point between the Renaissance and the modern world.

The romantic villa is adorned with statues and Neo-classical decoration, sweetened by artificial ponds and a spectacular panoramic view. Just exploring the villa is quite an adventure. What was once the main entrance to the villa is now home to a splendid cadastral map dated 1792, which depicts the lands of the vast territory that lies within the Panna estate.

Leaving the cadastral map area behind, one finds the breakfast hall inside, which is adorned with silver services dating to the 19th Century; and the fireplace hall; an addition built in the first half of the 1900s. There is also a modern kitchen where a wonderful chef prepares the exquisite food that usually pays homage to the Tuscan terroir, which are served to guests like us.

Completing Villa Panna are the garden hall offering a wonderful panoramic view of the natural landscape, the internal garden graced with original statues from the Torrigiani era that bring to mind Virgil’s discourses on bucolics, and the small church, built in 1572, that brims with distinctive architectural details. Inside the church, one will find the broad window used by the nobility to attend religious functions separately from servants and commoners, and, just below that, a sacred terracotta image from the late 15th Century attributable to the Della Robbia School.

Today, lucky guests can enjoy the Villa, its garden, and the surrounding oasis of protected flora and fauna that is still around one third of the original hunting ground of the Medicis. But it’s not just the beauty of Villa Panna and its beautiful natural setting. Guests will also enjoy the best of examples of warmth and hospitality that make this region of Italy a favorite of many travelers.

Thanks to on-site experts who make sure this tradition lasting for centuries continues so that discerning modern travelers may enjoy a charming, unforgettable holiday retreat and pay homage to Renaissance heritage, culture, and nature, today.  Contact Details: Villa Panna Scarperia, Florence, Italy www.acquapanna.com

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Hotels

checking in

Living Like a Ferragamo

Be a warmly welcomed resident and live like a Ferragamo in the classy, spacious 40-60sqm Lungarno Suites in the capital of Tuscany

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ungarno Suites at the heart of Florence surely doesn´t look like the usual family residence. Stylish details in the interiors, such as old fashion images, wooden vintage desks and quality textiles may give a hint about the reason.

Look for a tag in their sheets, and you´ll know: It´s all Ferragamo.

The explanation is that Lungarno Suites is a part of Lungarno Collection, which consists of five luxury properties in Florence and more in Rome and around Tuscany, as well as Swan Sailing Yachts in the Mediterranean Sea. These properties, all owned by the Ferragamo family, preserves and caresses the style and lifework of Salvatore Ferragamo, the famous Italian shoe designer.

Salvatore opened his first shop in 1938 and hosted renowned customers including Hollywood stars, and international aristocrats and diplomats. His son Leonardo, who is now in charge, passes on the Ferragamo heritage with a keen eye for aesthetics and service excellence.

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But Lungarno Suites differs from a “regular” hotel in more ways than just by their particularly scrutinized color maps and especially valuable sheets. Indeed, this is a “suite,” not a hotel. It implies that you are more than just a hotel guest, but instead, a warmly welcomed resident. It suggests that, for a while, you can actually living like a Ferragamo in this classy, spacious 40-60sqm residence in the capital of Tuscany.

On a practical level, this means you can walk straight into your temporary home without a hassle at the reception, as the lobby is located in the nearby Lungarno Hotel. Your room has all the latest technology for work and entertainment, such as a high-speed WiFi, a LCD-satellite TV and a pay TV, a DVD player with movie selection, as well as an Ipod docking station.

For food, you can order the ingredients for your breakfast, lunch, and dinner from a grocery list provided, and cook them in a fully equipped kitchenette in your room. You can try, if your personal

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take on Italian classic tastes are even better than here in its homeland – where there seems to be a special magic in the air or in the soil, if not in the spectacular views of river Arno on your balcony that completes the moment. Finally, you can cap your lunch or dinner by making your own espresso as “ristretto” or “lungo” you like with the in-room espresso machine.

Those who would rather leave cooking to the professionals, can head to the Fusion Bar and Restaurant next door at the group´s other property, Gallery Art Hotel. They specialize in contemporary Italian dining, and the Library next door serves breakfast. On the other side of the cobblestone street is the group´s third hotel, Continentale, which has a fine dining restaurant Borgo San Jacopo, whose set lunch Quattro of four contemporary Italian dishes has especially been recommended.

After that, the evening can be completed by drinks at Continentale´s Sky Lounge, with one of the most spectacular panorama over Florence´s treasures: the Arno river, the Cathedral dome, Palazzo Vecchio, San Miniato al Monte, Forte Belvedere, Palazzo Pitti, and bell-towers across the Arno and the surrounding hillsides. What is best, you can enjoy your dinners, lunches, and breakfasts at any of the Lungarno Collection´s properties, or order it into your room. In this way, the establishments in Lungarno Collection work together to create an individualized and a creative holiday for your family.

Speaking of creativity, it is no coincidence that Ferragamo started his career here in Florence, or Firenze as Italians call it. It was the center of medieval European trade and the birthplace of Renaissance - which you can personally detect from the various architectural masterpieces dotting the city. For example, just steps from Lungarno Suites is the last remaining medieval bridge, the Ponte Vecchio.

Other magnificent sights, such as renaissance buildings, historic churches, and beautiful statues are within walking distance, or can be reached by a bike tour. What´s best, you can do it at your own pace and mostly for free.

An educated eye notices Romanesque, Renaissance, and neoclassical styles, and others may want to bring a travel guide for a crash-course on art history.

Moreover, as a resident you will receive free entry to the Ferragamo Museum, where you can study the most beloved shoe designs of the artist.

Numerous world-leading galleries are also situated here, containing for example, Michelangelo´s “David” and Botticelli´s “Birth of Venus.” Some may prefer other types of art, and pop into Gucci´s or Ferragamo´s fashion stores.

Florence is home to these major fashion brands, too. For souvenirs, one can pop into Lungarno Details, a hotel shop that sells the designer´s signature home furnishings and accessories, so you can bring a piece of your Lungarno Suite back home. 

Contact Details: Lungarno Suites Lungarno Acciaiuoli, 4, 50123 Florence, Italy Tel: +39 055-2726-8000 E-mail: suites@lungarnocollection.com www.lungarnocollection.com July 2013 | 43

Personality

hotelier Adding to the Dusit Legend Having been entrusted with an iconic hotel with exceptional DNA, GM Wilson finds himself wondering: What could I add to a legend?”

By Laurence Civil

H

e was away from Bangkok only for three and a half years. But, says James Robert Wilson, general manager (GM) of Dusit Thani Bangkok, it’s as if it was 10 years.

“So much has changed in Bangkok,” he says. “It seems to have become more IT savvy now, has more positive vibe, and offers even more choices. I feel that Bangkok has more of a 'city culture' now than when I left three and a half years ago."

Wilson was GM for Pathumwan Princess Hotel Bangkok, which is also under the Dusit Thani Group umbrella, from year 2000. Here, he was honored as “General Manager of the Year” by Jacob´s Creek & Thai Hospitality Magazine in 2005, and soon, was made the group’s vice president of operations, overlooking all of Dusit International´s five brands. In 2009, he moved to a GM post in Dubai.

He found Dubai most challenging. “One of the biggest challenges was how to export the Thai hospitality culture, which is part of Dusit Thani,” he says. To do this, they strived to keep an average of 1520 % Thais in their workforce, regardless of the strict immigration restrictions. Moreover, they made an effort by a particularly sweet Thai welcome. “When an Arab guest checks in, they would usually be welcomed with coffee and dates on arrival but at Dusit Dubai there is always a selection of Thai desserts waiting for them in their room," he says.

They even came up with the slogan: “We are here to celebrate Thai culture and to embrace local culture.” Their respect for Dubai culture materialized, for example, through their female staff uniform, which modestly showed only one bare shoulder unlike the two as it does in Bangkok.

Consequently, the respect went both ways. During Ramadan, the Islamic Lent, the local authorities were sympathetic to foreign guests. They didn't enforce their customs on non-Muslims. “We operated two restaurants that were screened off from public view, where we could serve food to non-Muslims during the hours of fasting,” he recalls. “We were also allowed to serve alcohol after sunset. Overall, I found Dubai extremely tolerant, welcoming, and a comfortable place to live and work in."

His move back to Bangkok was part of the company rationale on international mobility among its top executives. “The people at the top need to have the experience of having worked in multiple

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destinations,” he explains. Consequently the GM from Dusit Thani Nikko Manila took his place in Dubai, and he returned to Bangkok, the birthplace of Dusit Thani´s success.

"I was honored to be entrusted with this iconic building," Wilson says. “It has an exceptional DNA.” He found himself wondering: “What could I add to a legend?”

Dusit Thani Bangkok’s success can be gauged by its popularity as a venue for special occasions, especially weddings. “It´s possibly the most popular hotel in Bangkok to get married in,” Wilson says. “We offer something unique that relates to the Thai culture. With our gardens, we have the facilities to make their weddings memorable.

Perhaps an even greater accolade, is that from year after year, they also come back to celebrate their anniversaries in Dusit Thani.”

In fact, even if Dusit Thani has a history dating to 1948, and has hotels from Southeast Asia to Nairobi, Kenya -- their latest development -- Wilson admits, "there is a generation who doesn't know about Dusit Thani yet.”

“One of my aims is to make people aware of what this hotel has to offer, when other glitzy brands may be competing for their attention," he says. This means, in addition to launching a new brand -- the dusit d2 Hotels & Resorts aimed at the younger generation -providing more diverse and flexible services and keeping in touch with the clients through social media. "It is what is expected as a part of today's lifestyle,” he says. "Wi-fi is complimentary for our guests, not only in their rooms but also in our restaurants. In the rooms, signing into three gadgets is a standard and if more network facilities are needed, we will provide it at no extra cost.”

He believes, however, that virtual worlds should not take away from authentic face-to-face service. “We are looking forward to implement international systems alongside our traditional culture,” he says. “Of course we now have mobile check-in and interactive television, but we don't want technology to take over from our service, which must be gracious and Thai. Rather, technology has to complement it."

"We are here to create an experience," he concludes. "The wai and kneeling to serve our guests is an essential part of what is Dusit Thani.” 

James Robert Wilson General Manager Dusit Thani Bangkok July 2013 | 45

Personality

hotelier

Call him ‘Mr. Fix-It’

'With 730 plus hotels in Bangkok, it's great to know that people come to you rather than elsewhere in town,' says GM Brown

A

By Percy Roxas

drian Brown’s first job was as cabinet-maker. He was a qualified carpenter with a builder’s license, and would have been happy to remain so. But in the 80s, he got a part-time job as a bar man and loved his first taste of the hospitality industry so much that he decided to move across his entire career. Fast-forward 30 years, and he is now general manager (GM) of Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok.

While he remains interested in building and constructing, he just loves the hospitality industry more. “In this industry, you work with happy people, and in a generally fun environment,” the Australian-born GM says.“It’s exciting. You are meeting a different person, you’re dealing with a different situation – every day -- and I love that.” He makes full use of his passion for social interaction and fixing things at the hotel.

Since Brown joined Chatrium Riverside, the hotel has undergone a major transformation. “There seems to be so much happening at the Chatrium Riverside these days,” says one industry observer. “It has become more visible and always in the spotlight,” comments another. “The hotel is clearly out to make its mark,” observes still another. To quote Brown: “From a business point of view, we’ve come a long way -- from a property of two-and-a half years ago that no one knew, to what it is today. There were lots of reasons but even after two years of operations the hotel was as good as empty. When I got onboard three years ago, my first challenge was to change that; and I love challenges, as my history will show you.”

To cite one example: When Brown first became GM in Kuala Lumpur (1999), he was assigned to a poorly performing hotel.

Bringing his “Mr. Fix-It” reputation there, he eventually reversed the financial fortunes of the property during his term. Today, at Chatrium, the owners are extremely happy with the hotel’s financial performance. “During peak periods we’ve been running with 90 percent occupancy. It’s absolutely fantastic,” Brown says.

“Similarly, we made great leaps -- from a product point-of-view.“ How did he do it? “I believe in great value for money,” he replies. “From the beginning, I had to quickly review the product and its potential markets, those sort of things. I had to get a better understanding of what I’m facing. Since this is my first time to work in Bangkok, I had to very quickly get an idea of all the different market segments, what potential markets are out there, and who we can trade with in the future.

“We need to understand wants, needs, and desires. We have to fine-tune and develop everything according to those needs and then take them out to the market. This has helped us grow while implementing various touches and addressing the required standards.”

The initial success has led to increased growth targets for the hotel.

Now they expect well over 80 percent occupancy from business travelers this year, and are forecasting some 10-12 percent higher levels of business than projected at the beginning of the year. “During peak arrivals, we’ve been running full house for three months,” he adds. A key element in their success is the F&B department. “F&B

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is certainly a great tool to introduce guests to the hotel,” he says.

“Being creative with our F&B is something. We’ve implemented lots of things. For example, in Pier 28 (restaurant) we launched a new world buffet concept. “When I first came to the hotel, this restaurant was all concrete; all cement. There were no canopies, no plants, just all hard -- uninviting hard -- stuff. We brought the live cooking stations outdoors. We built canopies, put lots of plants, brought in some entertainment, and created an engaging atmosphere. Of course, we didn't forget the pricing point, which creates value for money, even with the product’s high quality.”

Brown cites some specifics, such as the World Buffet concept they launched at Pier 28 and the now much awaited wine dinners, which Brown says, has a unique concept. These and other F&B initiatives have helped immensely in positioning the hotel, especially among the local market. In fact, many guests who have been coming to the hotel since the beginning, for breakfast for example, often chide Brown these days: “You have spoiled my breakfast venue.” Of course, they are kidding and loved the changes.

And these are but a few. Plans are either afoot or are already being implemented in some aspect of operations to further improve the hotel services, and enhancing the elements of fun. Says Brown: “The idea of having fun is now cascading into our customers. Throughout our entire rebranding, we’re adding elements of more fun and more color, so you can expect more.” He promises more surprises, not only to long-term-plan on rooms and meeting facilities, but also in more fun activities involving staff and guests.

His hands-on management style deserves much credit for Chatrium’s amazing turnaround, but Brown gives a lot of credit to the entire hotel team for the success. “My philosophy is that I’m the least important in terms of daily operations and customer experience,” he explains. “If I were not here tomorrow breakfast would still be served, rubbish will still be cleared, etc. But if the waiting staff don't’ turn up tomorrow, guests would get no service and we would have a dirty hotel. It is the staff who are the most important. I’m here to educate, guide, and develop everybody else’s skills and knowledge. And I love doing that.

“If I see a person or department struggling,” he continues, “I’ll be the first one to take my jacket off and help. I will be in the porters and bring luggage in. I’ll be out in the kitchen washing dishes. I’ll help clear the restaurant, Doing that helps me build rapport with my staff.” Indeed, it can be safely said that Brown’s open, fun management style has entrenched the hotel with “uncompromising 5-star level of service with touches of fun, warmth, and friendliness.”

With a management style that is extremely compatible with the Thai way, Brown likes people to work hard, but likes to have fun working as well. He has always been this way. “I’m very much like my father,” he admits. “He was an entertainer; always the life of the party, and so people-oriented. Although he passed away last year, he passed away without having one enemy on this earth. He was my role model. And I’ve embraced that from early childhood. This is how I’ve always been. This is how I’ll always be.” 

Adrian Brown General Manager Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok An Australian national, Adrian Brown has almost 30 years experience in the hotel industry, and has worked for well-known hotels such as Hyatt in Australia and England, JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur, New World Renaissance KL, Renaissance International Western Australia, and Sydney Renaissance Hotel, New South Wales. Prior to joining the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, he was GM of the Eastern and Oriental Hotel, and Lone Pine hotel in Penang, Malaysia; and most recently, was pre-opening GM of the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya.

July 2013 | 47

Personality

hotelier The DoubleTree Way

DoubleTree by Hilton Sukhumvit GM almost feels that the DoubleTree brand was designed for Thailand.

“It´s a perfect match,” he says.

O

By Laurence Civil

ther hoteliers may brand-hop to advance their career.

“But," says Chris Ehmann, general manager (GM) of the newly opened DoubleTree by Hilton Sukhumvit, "Hilton gave me a lot of opportunities and it worked for me to stay with the brand." The Canadian-born hotelier has been with the Hilton group for the past 12 years, starting in Bucharest, then in the Middle East, and most recently in Malaysia, before arriving in Thailand just over a year ago.

“Bangkok is a crazy hectic city,” he says, and he wonders how the people seem so relaxed. Yet, he finds similarities in the DoubleTree brand and the busy capital: “I almost feel that the DoubleTree brand was designed for Thailand. It´s a perfect match,” he says. He added, "Every place I have worked before had something great to offer but Bangkok is a fantastic city to work in.”

DoubleTree by Hilton is the fastest growing brand within Europe and Asia over the past five years. When DoubleTree by Hilton opened on Sukhumvit 26 in April 30 this year, it was the 100th Hilton in Asia-Pacific. Chris also works as cluster GM for its sisterhotel, Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok, which is already building up next door and scheduled to open mid-August.

He handles the challenge in two ways. "As a GM, it is my responsibility to manage the business and that means a certain amount of essential paperwork that has to be done.” But he admits to “spending more of my time walking around interacting with our guests rather than crunching numbers. After all that's why I am in the hospitality industry."

Evidently, for Ehmann, welcome is an attitude, which has to be shown in actions, not just in words. "As soon as a guest arrives into the hotel, we offer them one of our iconic cookies in a brown paper bag before we even ask their name," he says. "It´s a welcome that radiates a feel of comfort. It's not so much about the cookie, but rather what it represents. That feeling of coming home to a family environment after a tiring day. We bake cookies according to the same recipe worldwide. One of my tasks, when I took over as GM was to sign for the recipe of the DoubleTree cookie."

He said being a cluster GM for DoubleTree and Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok – he regards both “full service hotels” -- gives him the opportunity to give guests more options.

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“Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok will have more rooms, restaurants, and banqueting facilities than DoubleTree.

Our signature restaurant will be Scalini, an Italian-American restaurant with 20s-30s Prohibition Era concept that we are very excited about, and Mondo, a casual Mediterranean tapas/antipasto eatery with its own charcuterie meat and cheese tower, as well as a barista and whiskey bar. This is the primary dining area in the hotel.

"At DoubleTree, we have two dining options that are already proving popular with guests and locals, as they have their own distinct charm. Dee Lite is a casual all-day diner serving quick and tasty Thai, Vietnamese and Western dishes. Mosaic, on the 7th floor, is a poolside area by day that transforms into an outdoor lounge and cocktail bar serving Western and Thai grilled specialties in the evening.”

For Ehmann, it is important to work closely with the people in his environment. "We make an effort to change our local environment," he says. “We are working closely with ARK, an organisation working in the slum areas of Bangkok. Activities include picking up a group of kids and taking them to play rugby, or our kitchen staff showing them how to make the best of the cooking facilities they have, in the most hygienic way. As the kids grow older, if they demonstrate the right attitude, we maybe can help them start their careers in the hotel."

What does it take to work in his team then? "We hire our people based on their attitudes as that's what is important," he says. The rest will follow. As he says: "We have the resources to train the right people on how to achieve the service skills. The training is very practical and interactive as we want our team members to share, learning by watching.

“If they see that I am not being stuffy they will feel relaxed and have the confidence to approach and talk with me. Working here is all about human interaction. To everyone I am Khun Chris. The use of the first name is part of the Hilton culture.”

A special case of excellent customer service comes to his mind.

“I was so pleased when a guy walked in wearing an Arsenal shirt, the night before they had lost a match and our waiter discussed the game with him,” says the service-oriented GM. “That is the DoubleTree way." 

Chris Ehmann General Manager DoubleTree by Hilton Sukhumvit July 2013 | 49

Lifestyle

fashion Fashion Tips for the Office

Three ideas about how you can build a great office wardrobe: PPA -- pencil skirts, personalization, and accessories.

By Tawn Chatchavalvong

“W

hat makes it so hard to choose clothes for the office?,” I ask my girlfriends with corporate jobs. Their responses – and you have probably thought something similar – include feeling like you are being told what to wear, having to dress in a style that doesn’t feel like you, and sometimes just feeling overwhelmed by the choices.

The frustration is palpable. The fun of getting dressed up in gone.

But it doesn’t have to be. While you can argue that some people were born with a sense of style, such as Grace Kelly and Sarah Jessica Parker (or at least are blessed to have a good personal stylist like Rachel Zoe), I think that “style” in terms of office wear is more about making an effort. It means selecting and trying new pieces and looks, finding out what works for you, and being confident when you wear it!

Let me share my PPA, three ideas about how you can build a great office wardrobe: it is pencil skirts, personalization, and accessories.

Pencil Skirts

In her book, “I Love Your Style,” Amanda Brooks states: “Sometimes I am tempted to get an office job as an excuse to wear a pencil skirt more often.” It is true pencil skirts do make their wearers look adorably elegant and professional. With their slim shape and high waist tightly hugging the hips, pencil skirts emphasize a woman’s hourglass shape and make the wearer feel like Victoria Beckham.

Collection after collection, designers reinterpret this classic skirt.

These little design twists keep the skirt interesting and cement its place as a must-have piece in a working-woman’s wardrobe.

For example, for my TAWN C. brand, I designed a pencil skirt with rows of gold buttons, giving it a nautical touch. It looks a bit like sailor pants. Another example is a classic Dolce & Gabbana rose-print pencil skirt. What an elegant way to present a romantic floral print – perfect for the office!

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mall/sho Dressing for the Office STYLE 2013

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Personalization

Dressing for work means dressing up for your responsibilities at the company. But even wearing an uniform doesn’t have to mean losing all your character and blending in with your colleagues.

Strive to find a balance between your company’s dress code and your personal style.

Do this by adding pieces that convey your tastes and interests. If you like nature, for example, mix a fun Mary Katrantzou printed silk-satin pencil skirt with a classic top, such as an elegant Michael Kors silk-georgette blouse.

You can also personalize your attire by adding a piece that has particular meaning to you – a brooch your mother gave you or a handbag you bought on your honeymoon.

Even if the meaning of these details is not immediately clear to others, your knowledge of them will build confidence and add to your sense of personal style.

Accessories

The dazzling Marilyn Monroe reportedly said, “I don’t know who invented the high heel, but all men owe him a lot.” The importance of accessorizing the office wear cannot be understated. When done well, accessories can make your look more interesting and change the message and tone of an outfit.

While women know the importance of the right man (Manolo Blanik, Brian Atwood) for the right shoes, they should keep in mind that first and foremost, the accessories they wear are supposed to express who they are, not who designed them. For example, if you have a bit of a Bohemian side, you can add some Kelly Wearstler malachite earrings to your otherwise conservative office wear, and in this way make an interesting fashion statement.

Office wear is also a great chance to mix and match masculine pieces. A retro bow or a cute tie, perhaps a pocket watch or shiny dress shoes can spice up the dull uniform into a hot power dress.

For example, if you are wearing a tailored blazer, you can slip a silky Jim Thompson napkin into your pocket. If you want to tone the masculine blazer down instead, add a feminine Lanvin flower pin on your lapel.

Finally, as I suggest to my girlfriends: It is the small things that make the greatest difference. One piece, one choice, one unique accessory – that’s all it takes to add a personal touch in office wear.  Where to shop TAWN C at Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok Tel: +66 80-262-5556 // www.tawn-c.com CLUB 21, Erawan Bangkok 494 Ploenchit Rd, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok Tel: +66 2-250-7712 // www.club21global.com July 2013 | 53

Lifestyle

fashion Valentino Nude Pump

Acne Navy Blazer

Saint Laurent Bag

Dressed for Success

AKRIS: Navy Looks for Travel

The key is dressing professionally without trying too hard

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By Kornkanok Yongsakul

ave you ever got up in the morning and thought: “What should I wear to work or to an important meeting I have today?” It is an endless issue that ladies have to deal with every day. But, on the other hand, finding the right dress for the right occasion can be fun and creative. Dressing for different occasions reflects your character and presents who you are. The right attire also means that you are showing respect to the person and the place that you are in.

According to Malcolm Gladwell, the judgment people make about you happens in the first five seconds they see you. This snapshot usually includes at least your smile, hair, and posture, which are basic to making a good impression on anyone, anywhere. If you want to read more about Gladwell´s ideas on the matter, read his book “Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking.”

Dressing for work means dressing up for your company and your responsibilities. If your company has a dress code, apply your style within those parameters. If you see a lot of clients or customers, consider that how they see you will also have an impact on how they will feel about your company.

Of course, there are different looks and basic rules for the socalled “business style.” Let us go through some of the major ones, and learn how to pull them off nicely.

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AKRIS: Black with Pink Shirt for Travel

Job Interview

AKRIS: LBD with Belt

This is probably one of the most critical moments in anybody´s career. While you should be thinking about what to say to impress your interviewer, you might find yourself worrying instead whether you have dressed too casually, if you sweat too much, or if you have something between you teeth.

To avoid this problem, there’s only one piece of advice: Prepare your attire in advance. In the job interview, it is essential that you appear professional, and capable and confident without going overboard. Remember the smallest detail, perhaps a well-ironed suit or an organized purse, which can set you apart from your competitors.

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mall/sho Dressed for Success BUSINESS STYLE 2013

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What you need

A Tailored Suit: preferably single breasted with slim fit and not too large lapels. The colors should be conventional, such as matt black, royal navy, brown, or even white. Don’t go with too bright colors or neon shades. Fabric plays an important role here; you don’t want to look too shiny in silk, or too revealing in see-through chiffon, or too crinkly in linen.

Gianvito Rossi Patent Leather Pump

Theory carmel blazer

Fine Shirt: Not too revealing, for example, one with a peterpan collar. Sometimes pockets are not necessary because they might make you look bulky. Preferably a slim-fit, so when you wear the jacket on top, the shirt will fit in smoothly. I recommend simple patterns or basic one-colors, such as white (you can never go wrong with it), beige, baby blue, and pink.

Skirt: Preferably the same fabric as the suit, simple shapes such as straight or box-pleated A-line, or pencil skirt. Steer away from anything too fancy or revealing, such as miniskirts or too high slits.

Bottega Venetta Brown Leather Bag

Accessories: Try to keep it simple and minimalist. Wear

something that presents who you are -- it could be your lucky charm or grandmother´s ring. Wear pearls, studs, and even diamonds -- in rings, earrings, and necklaces -- but in moderation. Wear a watch as it makes you look pedantic.

Think practical. For example, large bracelets make a disturbing noise when you move your hand. Thus, you should avoid them because they take the attention away from your talk and overall presentation.

Handbag: Choose a practical, high quality one made from leather. The size shouldn’t be too big; this makes the bag look too casual. No backpacks or gym bags here, either! But it should still be big enough to carry your portfolio. Don’t bring clutches or small purses because they are unnecessarily small and seem too festive.

AlbertaFerretti: Business Look

AlbertaFerretti: Suit Total Look

Heels: Wear something that you can walk in, plus allows you to maintain a good posture. There are many different styles, such as kitten heels (2”inch), sling-backs, and pump shoes.

Shoe production technology nowadays is so advanced that platform heels might be almost as comfortable as lower heels.

So try to find a compromise, one that helps you to walk easily while still adding height.

Business Trip: Packing for a business trip can be a nightmare; you have to consider a chance that if you forget something, there might not be time and opportunity to replace it in your destination. So, before you even pull out your suitcase, do some research on the place you are going to.

Check the climate/weather forecast, cultural fashion etiquette, what sort of meetings will you be attending (seminars, board meeting, presentation) and what is the local business style.

Burberry: Pastel Shirt

Calvin Klein Grey Suit

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Toru Burch Flat

Saint Laurent Black Blazer

Michel Kors Black Leather Bag

What you need

Valentino White Shirt

Dress: Wear something lightweight and tailored, A-Line, or narrow -- something that can be worn with a jacket for the day and brightened up with a few key accessories for the evening. The ultimate “must-bring” is a LBD (Little Black Dress) in high quality fabric. Something that is smooth, cool, and easy against your skin might be fine cotton, polyester, and silk jersey but not linen or wool, as they wrinkle and demand much more attention in their care.

Trousers/Skirt: Pack a pair of smart black trousers and a lean pencil skirt that goes well with the jacket. The important part is the proportion and silhouette, so give yourself and your whole travel attire a look in a full-body mirror before packing the pieces into your suitcase.

Blouse/Shirt: Bring at least three tops and a white button-down shirt. Choose a pastel or neutral color, something that will match with everything else you’ve packed. Rich fabrics, such as silk or satin will go from day to night and fit well together with many different looks.

Jacket: The most important aspect of a jacket is that it fits. So I always recommend tailored and quality fabrics.

Choose a lightweight wool-mixed fabric, and pick up a dark color such as warm grey, black, or navy. Blazers are also very transformable: You will see that the look can instantly change simply by wearing a fancier shirt underneath or adding a scarf or a belt.

Accessories: Bring a colorful scarf for a dash of character and warmth. A belt is the key; you can wear it over an A-Line dress, jacket or cardigan to create different looks. Bring well-chosen pieces of jewelry but favor the classics over trendy pieces, and always wear a watch, as it is practical and smart.

Shoe: Pack at least two pairs of shoes, one pair for the day and another for the evening. Choose your most comfortable and versatile pair of heels. Don’t go for something too trendy such as pointy heels or stilettos. Patent leather instead looks gorgeous, but is weatherproof and easy to take care of. The most important thing is that you can walk all day, so choose clean and neat business flats and avoid the risks of blisters by wearing only shoes you know have worked well before.

These are some examples of how to dress for success. There are many different dress codes that we have to consider. But as long as we know the basics and key rules these occasions should not be too hard to manage. The key is dressing professionally without trying too hard.

The last thing that you shouldn't forget is: “Wear your smile” wherever you are. Even if business is your first goal do not forget the importance of the first impression. No matter who the person is at the other side of the table, in whichever culture, wearing a smile goes a long way. 

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Alex’s il Sarto Measures to Excellence Exquisitely tailored suits Exclusively for you

Tailoring for connoisseurs with taste.

We create perfect apparel for gentlemen. In order to avoid disappointment, we ask you please note the following: Our house does not promise any cheap, unrealistic package deals. Only the best value for money. Dare to prove us wrong!

We are located directly across the Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok. Just ask the staff for directions.

117-121 New Rd., Bangrak 44 (Beside Shangri-La Hotel), Bangkok 10500, Thailand.

Tel: +662 237 3229, +662 237 3216 Fax: +662 236 4459 Mobile: +668 1837 9807 E-mail: ts@alexsfashion.com/ alex@alexsfashion.com Visit us at http://www.alexsfasion.com

lifestyle

spa offers Earth, Water, Air, & Fire

Best Luxury Hotel Spa in Thailand

Eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya was recently named “Best Luxury Hotel Spa” in Thailand by the 2013 World Luxury Spa Awards™. The winner and finalists were chosen by thousands of international spa guests voting for their favorites online. The award comprises of 12 spa categories and is globally recognized as one of the leading awards initiative by the media and spa professionals.

Philippe Kronberg, GM at Hilton Pattaya comments: “This award bears testament to our commitment to offer guests an exclusive retreat in the heart of Pattaya city that is backed by a high level of service excellence.”

Sense of Le Spa

Deliver essential nutrients to your skin with this body scrub special at Le Spa at Pullman Bangkok King Power. Available from July 1 to Sept. 30, the special “Sense of Le Spa” consists of a 30-minute body scrub (choose from Coffee, Green Tea, Jasmine Rice, Thai Herbal) and a 60-minute Le Spa massage, a unique blend of massage oil to help moisturize and soothe your skin. Price is 3,000 net per person. Where: Le Spa, ’ 4th floor of Glass Tower, Pullman Bangkok King Power, Rangam Road, bangkok (BTS: Victory Monument) // Contact: 02-680-9999

Burning Fat at InBalance

The objective of July is clear at InBalance Wellness Center at Novotel Bangkok Platinum: “Burn Your Fat Off.” This promotion introduces membership deals starting from Bt499++/month, up to a yearly membership for a discounted price of Bt15,300++.

As a member you will have access to the state-of-the-art exercise equipment, steam rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a personal coaching service. For more information, call 02-160-7199 or e-mail: H7272-FB4@accor.com

The four elements of traditional Thai medicine: earth, water, air, and fire – are behind the concept of Hansar´s newly launched “4 Elements” spa products. The philosophical elements are regarded as the foundation of the whole body, and Hansar celebrates their power with organic scents, such as Air; Lemongrass and Orange with Sunflower Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Sweet Basil and Thai Bergamot. Buy your favorite as a Massage Oil, Body Lotion, Shampoo, Conditioner and Shower Gel in 200 ml container for Bt370++ - Bt530++. Also package treatments are available at LUXSA Spa at Hansar Bangkok and Hansar Samui. For more information, call 02-209-1234 Bangkok or 07-724-5511 Samui, e-mail: reservations@ hansarbangkok.com or reservation@hansarsamui.com

Harvesting the good effects of While the raw material grows on their rooftop farm, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square offers Spirulina facial and body treatments at their Tammachart Day Spa, for a discounted price Bt1,750++. This nutritious vegetarian protein has beneficial antioxidant properties, which make it ideal for face brightening, pore minimization, anti-aging and removal of dull skin cells.

The hotel also sells 300 g ready-to-eat portions for Bt600++, to be enjoyed with salads, pasta and smoothies. Where: Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, 392/44 Siam Square Soi 6 Rama I Road // Contact: 02-209-8888/Marketing Department

Save 20-30% with Oasis Spa Online Booking Oasis

Oasis Spas are offering a limited-time discount to everyone who books their spa visits online: 30% discount for ‘early birds’ who schedule morning appointments (10 am – 12.30 pm) online for any treatment or package; and 15% when booking an afternoon appointment. It’s easy as 1-2-3:, just go to www.oasisspa.net to find the Oasis Spa near you and choose the date and time of your appointment, Select your spa package or treatments (get immediate confirmation), and make a secure online purchase. This discount is only good for online reservations until Aug. 31. Contact Reservation Center for more information at 02-622-122.

Four Elements Jetlag Relief

Cense by Spa Cenvaree at Centara Hotel Hat Yai will re-balance your energy with their “Jetlag Relief” treatment.

Relaxing warm oils are combined with a pressure point technique, which focuses on the tension areas in your back and shoulders. Your feet will be treated with a green tea ritual, while your eyes rest under a mint-and-green-tea contour. Two hours package at Bt1,700++.

For more information, call 074-352 222 or e-mail: www. spacenvaree.com

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Goûter Party

At InBalance in Novotel Bangkok Platinum, kids below 12 years will receive free snacks after ordering their first ones. The Goûter Party offer is available from Thursday to Sunday, and menu changes every day: for example on Friday Crepes for Bt60++, on Saturday Tartines for Bt60++, and on Sunday Sugar Glazed Apples for Bt60++.

For more information, call 02-160-7100 or e-mail: www. novotelbangkokplatinum.com

Spirulina

Treat yourself to a fantastic program, “Four Elements” spa package provided by professional massage therapists at Neva Spa, Windsor Suites Bangkok Hotel & Convention Center. Relax your entire body and relieve those aches and pains completely in this customized course, designed according to your month birth. The treatment lasts for one hour plus 30 minute extra at only Bt1,699 (normal price Bt3,060).

As Special Bonus, enjoy “Aromatic Facial” treatment on the same day at special price of just Bt1,000 (normal price Bt 2,590). Or, make a reservation two hours in advance for both treatments at only Bt2,699 and receive a free extra 30-minute Body Exfoliating treatment (valued at Bt1,400).

Where: Neva Spa, Windsor Suites Bangkok Hotel & Convention Center, Sukhumvit 20 // Contact: 02-262-1234, ext. 1233

wine & dine

hotspots

What’s Up in Ari There is certainly something for everyone to be found in Soi Ari for those seeking to discover yet another excellent slice of “happening Bangkok”

Text and PHOTOS By Dave Stamboulis

F

or years, those looking for fashionable food and beverage experience in a “seen and wannabe-seen location” head over to Thonglor and Ekkamai, arguably Bangkok’s trendiest and most hip spot. However over the years, the rents have gone sky-high, the crowds and traffic have become beastly, and let’s face it, part of trendiness is being new and up-to-date, so dapper young Bangkokians began looking for somewhere new.

Now, the buzz around town is all about Soi Ari, the new northern Bangkok hipsters' haven.

Soi Ari is located in the north of Bangkok, between Victory Monument and Chatuchak Market. While the BTS Skytrain Station named Ari located on Phahonyothin Road doesn’t reveal any eyeopener, the real delights are to be found down on both Phahonyothin Soi 5 (which leads to Rama 6 Soi 30) and Phahonyothin 7, which are bisected by sois Ari 1-11 and Soi Ari Samphan 1-11, all of which are home to a plethora of snazzy little eateries, artsy bars, chic nightclubs, and plenty of Mercedes and BMW’s rolling into the parking lots curious to find out what the buzz is all about.

What attracts many folks to Ari is precisely its lack of development on a grand scale found elsewhere in the city. The neighborhood is comprised of mostly quiet tree lined streets with lots of low-rise

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residential buildings. There are some nice condominiums here, but nothing overly gaudy or ostentatious, and you can actually walk on the sidewalks here, or even in the side streets at times without the fear of being run over!

Originally, this area was home to a lot of wealthy folks of ministry and military backgrounds, as there are several army bases out the Rama VI way, and the Ministry of Finance sits right in the middle of the neighborhood. However, as a few cute cafes and bars opened up, the area started attracting musicians and artists, and soon the urban indie and hipster set were making tracks for the new small scale and leafy condo developments that graced the neighborhood. These days, the word is out, but there are still plenty of spots to choose from in

Soi ARI EMERGING HOTSPOTS

restaura cafe

bar/loun Drinkers here should head for the area’s only mini mall, the Aree Garden (Soi Ari Samphan 11) where the Belgian House of Beers has set up shop upstairs in the roof garden. There is also a suave wine and cigar bar tucked into the steakhouse Wholly Cow, another industrial glass and brick spot tucked into Ari Soi 2. Over on Rama 6 Soi 30, the former Moods Bar and 1852 Bistro has become Anna’s, with wines from around the world to dig into while watching all the pretty folks cruise the main drag.

There are plenty more spots hidden away in the quiet sois here, and while Japanese fusion seems to be the latest megatrend, there is certainly something for everyone to be found in Ari, and it is worth making the trek north here to discover yet another excellent slice of “happening Bangkok.” 

the area, and they do run the gamut from hi-so to street-so, with good food, good drinks, and good music all waiting for exploration.

As the area is pretty low-key except on weekends, and as it is a bit spread out, here’s a bit of a mini guide to get you going: Phahanyothin Soi 7 leads down to the Ari sois, where you can find such gourmet paradises as Salt, a glass-walled and wooden house serving up French, Japanese, and wood-fire pizza among other favorites (Ari Soi 4). Next door is Oji, serving fusion Japanese, and if the tables at both of these venues are full, head across the street to Fatbird, which features vintage furniture and drinks and is a comfortable little niche to sip a few cocktails or partake of their mostly Western menu. There is also a branch of Basilico Pizza here along with a sleek Coffee Zelection Café, and don’t forget to sample the street food up near the top of Phahanyothin 7, it rocks!

On the opposite side of the skytrain station, Phahonyothin Soi 5 leads down to the set of sois known as Ari Samphan, and here is where you will find the neighborhood’s most famous denizen, Pla Dib (Soi Ari Samphan 7). “Pla Dib” (meaning raw fish in Thai) is another Japanese fusion eatery with a bare industrial look, where indie bands perform on weekends and a very casual and hip crowd packs the place out on most nights. Specialties include the raw salmon with larb sauce and soft-shelled crab salad with wasabi mayonnaise.

Also in this neighborhood is the long-running Suan Kularb (Soi Ari Samphan 3), an excellent unpretentious diner style place that has a mammoth menu, low prices, and a great selection of cakes and baked goodies for dessert.

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restaurant review

Zen Inspired

Shintori at the newly opened Dining Zensation of CentralWorld is a very modern Japanese restaurant that draws in other Asian influences, too

By Laurence Civil

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hintori Japanese Art Cuisine offers contemporary Japanese food, prepared with the freshest and finest ingredients. It is inspired by Japanese Zen Buddhism with focus on simplicity and the importance of nature.

The first Shintori restaurant was founded in Taipei by Jeremy Guo, CEO, who expanded the brand with two branches in China. It's most famous branch to date is in Shanghai. Allan Namchaisiri, president of Zen Lifestyle Trend Megastore and the recently formed Dining Zensations on the rooftop of Zen Tower, decided to bring the brand to Bangkok. Allan worked with Guo and Thai architect Duangrit Bunnag on the concept of this restaurant.

The restaurant is located halfway between Chidlom and Siam BTS stations, easily accessed by the skywalk. For those arriving by taxi, stop at the entrance to Zen opposite the Police General Hospital, then take the glass-sided lift direct to the 18th floor.

Whether you opt for the Grand Dining Hall or one of the four Private Dining Villas, you can enjoy excellent food and creative presentation, while relaxing in a chic and elegant rooftop environment. The restaurant features a gourmet sushi bar, beverage and sake bar, and a “New York Chic� view of downtown Bangkok. The glass-walled kitchen offers a crystal clear view of amazingly beautiful dishes being

Shintori JAPANESE ART CUISINE NEWLY OPENED

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prepared under the watchful eye of executive chef Direk Kamnil.

"Central Retail Corporation (the organization behind Dining Zensations and Shintori) is now focusing on boutique products and that is why Dining Zensations was created," says Warren Lucas, general manager. "Consistency and quality are essential for the integrity of the brand. We have two chefs from Shanghai with us for the opening period to control food standards.”

This means the menu, as much as possible, will be the same as the original from Shanghai, although adds Lucas, “If we can't find ingredients needed for a particular dish then it won’t be on the menu.”

The first dish Lucas presents to me is a 15-piece sashimi assortment containing otoro (fatty tuna belly), salmon from Norway, yellow tail, hirame (halibut), amaebi (sweet shrimp), tai (Japanese snapper) and giant ark clam. They are on a deep bed of ice in a perfectly shaped bowl. "All the chinaware used in the restaurant is made in a factory owned by Jeremy Guo to ensure we have the right pieces to optimise the artistry of the food,” Lucas explains.

The second appetizer is grilled sea eel jelly with seaweed salad, presented like a terrine with the eel running down the middle. The seaweed is combined with cucumber, ginger and tomato, which makes it into a salad. A dressing of ponzu, mirim, soy sauce, and sake accompanies the dish, and has a sourness that works well with the eel. Lucas says it took them two months to find a supplier who could deliver the right eel according to the restaurant´s strict standards of freshness.

Vietnamese-style Peking duck roll follows, presented in a very contemporary way. Bite-sized duck rolls are wrapped in rice paper and partnered with dice-sized cubes of braised beef tongue. A sweet eel sauce adds a subtle Nippon tang.

Next are the main courses: The first of the two is beef steak on Pu leaf, which is thinly sliced Australian-raised beef, cooked in Japanese red miso sauce. It is served artistically on a Pu leaf sitting on a hot granite block, so each guest may enjoy it medium or well-done, as they want.

The second main is grilled cod steak with mono miso soup. The fish is perfectly cooked: flakey and moist, and the hearty miso enhances the flavor.

We enjoyed two sakes during the meal: Ozeki Nama Chozochu and Hakkaisan Honjozo, which were chilled and tasted clean and straightforward. Chilling brings out a refreshing aftertaste, mellow aroma, and moderate sweetness.

We finish the meal with their classic “Desserts On Spoon,” which features bite-sized portions of green tea cake, Thai tea pudding, apple pie, cheesecake and sesame tofu. They were served creatively on white china spoons and washed down with bamboo tea. The accompanying seasame seed ice cream, especially, is a must-try.

Shintori is a very modern Japanese restaurant that draws in other Asian influences, too. Without question, the restaurant’s guests will be presented with a delightful dining experience and a stunning view.  Contact Details: Shintori Japanese Art Cuisine Level 18, Zen World, CentralWorld, 999/9 Rama 1 Rd., Patumwan, Bangkok (BTS: Chidlom) Tel: 02-100-9000 E-mail: info@shintoribangkok.com www.shintoribangkok.com/ July 2013 | 63

wine & dine

Audacious Simplicity

Akonoya is Bangkok's much-needed Japanese Restaurant text & photos By Paul Cypert

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W

e love Japanese food. And for the past few years restaurants from the island nation have been flooding Bangkok's sois. Sadly most miss the mark by a long shot. You can sense the failure before you even walk into the restaurant when you see soba noodles, yakitori, sushi, and other styles all features simultaneously on a menu. It's our firm belief that you can't master all Japanese styles in one shop.

Akonoya Robotayaki, a transport from Singapore, sits humbly on Sukhumvit 49 away from the glitzy shopping mall locales, and stands in stark contrast to the usual do-all delis. The restaurant looks both large and small simultaneously. The large outer front belies the humble two counters you'll find inside. Each side of the shop features the day's fresh produce selection and two chefs sit to the left and right facing the diners.

A Robotayaki is stunning in its simplicity - they'll grill the ingredients, salt to bring out the best flavor, and in some rare instances maybe brush them lightly with oil. Here you'll not get fusion favors, but rather the best ingredients cooked so as to maximize their natural flavors.

There's no menu at Akonoya. You point at what you want to select and the chef's will cook them as they see fit, or if you're bold (or know your Japanese food well) you can make your own request. You can of course ask the waiters for pricing before ordering. We were told meals can run anywhere from Bt300 to Bt3,000 per person depending on the ingredients selected. After our meal we'd go so far as to say a 3K meal would still be relatively cheap for what you get.

Our meal consisted of a humble green salad with tomatoes and fish flakes with the slightest hint of yuzu dressing. Then came a grilled chicken with expertly poached egg followed quickly by a charred and salted Japanese pepper. Then came summer sweet corn (you know a restaurant is good when something as unassuming as grilled corn is something you can't stand to miss). For our main we enjoyed a complicated looking fish who's name I've yet to run across (a fish so tasty we completely optioned out of using the supplied sauce, the flesh was all we needed). We danced back and forth between all the dishes, never able to decide which we preferred. The meal ended abruptly with a ripe melon that lingered in our mouths for hours after exiting.

Though the restaurant might sound precious from this brief review, it's anything but. Orders are shouted out through the restaurant and there's a general energy that makes it feel more Izakaya than Kaiseki (always a good thing in my book).

With some sake or mixed drinks I could see a very lively evening ensuing. I'm sad I don't have more space to write about it, but will say if you want Japanese that has real flavor, taste, with a sense of enjoyment to it, visit Akonoya at your soonest convenience. Take some friends, enjoy some drinks, and try as much as you can.

And trust the chefs to take your ingredients to places you wouldn't think possible with such simple preparations. ď Ž

Contact Details: Akonoya Robotayaki Soi Sukumvit 49, Klongton-Nua, Wattana, Bangkok Tel: 02-662-4237

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wine & dine

Contact Details: La Table de Tee 69/5 Saladaeng Rd, Silom, Bangkok (BTS: Saladaeng) Tel: 02-636-3220 E-mail: info@latabledetee.com

Tee´s Table

La Table de Tee: All about French classic dishes with inventive touch

By Laurence Civil

“W

hen my dad passed away, I went to live with my uncle in the UK,” says Tee Kachonklin, owner and chef of La Table de Tee, nestled deep in a quiet soi on Soi Saladaeng. “I arrived with zero language skills, so I studied English during the day and worked as kitchen helper at my cousin´s Thai restaurant during the night. The chef of Roussillion, French restaurant saw my potential and offered me a job at his Michelin-star venue in Sloane Square, London where I learned classic French techniques, the foundation of my cooking style.”

Returning home after six years, the 25-year-old chef saw that Bangkok was ready for his Franco-Thai expertise. “I decided to open this restaurant to create my own style,” he says. “I have great respect for street food and want to apply techniques I learned from the disciplined and skilled chefs who know how to enhance a dish.”

“My seven-course Degustation Menu takes my customer on a culinary journey to discover who I am,” he says. For an innovative chef like him, it is a must that the menu changes daily. But the comfort of the guest is also very important, so Tee listens to their dietary preferences beforehand.

In addition to Tee and his team's efforts, and the customer’s preferences, there is one more variable in the daily set of dishes. “My menu is seasonal and market-driven,” Tee says. Coming from Korat, his menu displays some Northern and Northeastern influences, which, he says, are little known among the wider public. He closes

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the restaurant on Mondays so he can talk to local producers, who are from outside of Bangkok,“to source the best organic produce,” he says.

I tried his poached egg, which is boiled only for two-three minutes in 60 percent vinegar and 40 percent water, so that the white keeps its shape while the yolk remains moist and mellow. Next chicken breast, smoked in lemongrass, kaffir leaves, and limes to create a taste similar to Thai massaman dishes. Indeed the spices remind one of traditional Thai eateries, but the presentation is fine as if carried from French white tablecloths.

After this, I tried the poached summer season river prawns, with an intense beetroot jelly and crispy salad leaves, followed by green parsley risotto. The secret of this dish lies in the Japanese rice, which provides the moist texture. The rich aroma is gained by the healthier cooking style, using slowly extracted chicken stock, less oil, and cheese, and just a teaspoon of mascarpone.

Remarks of tender texture continue while tasting the pan roasted low-fat Lopburi duck breast complemented with coriander extract.

The dishes make me remember Tee´s words: “Taste and texture are the focus of this menu.”

Finally, a clearly very Western dessert arrived: double dark chocolate mousse with milk chocolate ice cream, topped by a macaroon confectionary, whose traditional almond filling is replaced by peanuts. This dish culminates what La Table de Tee is all about: a French classic with Tee´s inventive touch. 

ER OV

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bar review Retro Approach

The high-tempo party spot Spin and the more tranquil Axis make The Continent approachable for different types of night people -- or the same people at different times of the evening By Emmi Lane

Contact Details: Axis & Spin The Continent Hotel 413 Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok (BTS: Asoke) Tel: 02-686-7000 www. continenthotel.com

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Axis & SPIN ROOFTOP BAR Nightlife

I

lean on the transparent terrace railing of Axis & Spin Rooftop Bar, and my view of buzzing Asok stretches about 200 degrees to my sides. From here, on the 39th floor of the Continent hotel, it is easy to let go of the constant traffic jam below, now reduced into a miniature version.

People around me, like the jubilant Thai birthday group near me, seem to share the same carefree spirit. They toast their colorful cocktails, giggle along with the polished version of Michel Teló´s “Ai Se Eu Te Pego,” and take smartphone photos. These pictures will probably soon add to the hundreds of pictures, which have already been posted in Facebook, from this new party spot that opened in February.

A lizard-imitation menu shimmers in the dark and as I open it, revealing a large selection of brandies, rums, liquors, and cocktails.

These last ones are divided into two: Prohibition cocktails include the familiar drinks with little twists, such as Cucumber Mojito, Black Caipirinha, and Cookie Martini. Pre-prohibition cocktails introduce “old-school” beverages, such as Flip Punch, Tom Collins, and Martinez.

With its retro approach, Axis & Spin proves to be in the know of the latest fashions in the international bar scene. Some of the trendsetting bars in New York have even changed their whole appearance into that of illegal bars of the 1920s United States, rebranded themselves into “speakeasies,” and now serve drinks for the watchers of nostalgic hit-series, such as “Madmen” and “Boardwalk Empire.” As the modern “MadMen of Bangkok” know, the competition among the rooftop bars in Bangkok is so fierce that no newcomer, such as Axis & Spin, can sleep over these current trends.

Or the “Madwomen.” It happens to be “Ladies Night” at Axis & Spin, which means two free cocktails and one canapé for participating women. So I decide to follow the girly theme tonight, and look for drinks that entertain but don’t knock me out. To my delight, the prohibition menu delivers many options fit for my light and sweet preference. I start with Kiwi Caipiroska (Bt250++), a mix of fresh kiwi fruit, vodka, lime and club soda. Fresh and easy, with a hint of healthy bitterness - this is what girly drinks are about.

Next, I order a Hello Kitty (Bt250++). The concoction of vanilla vodka, fresh raspberries and champagne is sweet like a dessert and reminds me of a festive rosé wine.

But what does Axis & Spin offer for food? In keeping with the prohibition-theme, plenty of finger food. Western with a Thai influence to go with the drinks. I order marinated salmon with lemongrass (Bt220++) and the fleshy bites of fish, tomatoes and peppers are soon relished with a sweet chili sauce. The taste appears mild and smoky, but predominantly Western, as the most Thai aspect of this dish is the lemongrass spike, used to sphere the chunks of fish. These light skewers work well as an appetizer, but invite a desperate hunger for more.

A surprise for many is that Axis and Spin are two separate venues. I take the spirally stairs down from Spin, the rooftop bar.

As I enter Axis, the lounge, the music turns down and changes into ambient electric beats. Décor seems deliberate, in line with the dark and sleek interiors of the 5-star hotel and suggests a leisurely, mysterious atmosphere.

“Our customers like the intimate setting,” says Malin Bylund, PR manager “and the two unique levels: the high-tempo party spot Spin and the more tranquil Axis make The Continent approachable for different types of night people, or the same people at different times of the evening. “So I stay a little longer, relieved that there is no reason just yet to face the traffic jam downstairs. 

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Wine & Dine

bar review

cafe Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar Nightlife

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Octave High

This rooftop lounge and bar offers a piece of New York in Bangkok’s nightlife hub of Thonglor

“M

By Emmi Lane

ost of our cocktails are like music,” says the bartender, Ipete, explaining what inspires the signature cocktails at Octave Rooftop Lounge and Bar. Ipete wraps up his sleeves, revealing an armful of tattoos, and pours more alcohol into a wildly lilac concoction. I watch him swirl bottles and joke like a confident bartender from New York. But this is Thonglor, Bangkok.

Even the design concept of Octave is inspired by loft-apartments in New York. “The style is minimalist and industrial, leaving a sense of space and air. However, a few touches make the rooftop terrace more comfortable, such as the natural elements of cherry wood and plant-covered walls, soft beige sofas, and intimate scarce lights,” says Sarinya Mahadumrongkul, PR and marketing coordinator of Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, home to Octave.

One great piece, fit for a design magazine, is a large knitted chair group that shelters our conversation and shields us from the wind.

They are not only creative but also practical. Other highlights include decorative pottery on the shelves and funky zebra-patterned pillows, which add a sophisticated touch. At first glance, the only one thing that could spoil a leisurely night here is the rain. Most of the 45th floor terrace is open, and thus bad weather can force the bar to close temporarily. Fortunately, plans of a terrace cover are on their way, Sirinya says.

Ipete steals my attention again: The lilac cocktail is ready. It´s the classic “Aviation,” except that in Ipete´s hands, it turns into a “Purple Ovation” (Bt350++): a cherry-flavored drink that calls for applause. For the gin, he uses Butterfly Peas & Lemon Infused Tanqueray, and for the cherry liquor, he adds Maraschino Luxardo and 45%-Kirschwasser. A traditional lemon peel completes the presentation. I sense the lemon that hides the strong alcohol percentage in this sweet drink, so I sip sparingly. But I can recommend this for the thirsty party animal.

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Ipete talks of how important it is to use quality products. “We use only fresh ingredients,” he says -- and holds a bottle of Kettle One, a 40% Dutch vodka known for its clean taste. Kettle One is the main ingredient in one of the easiest and freshest cocktails tonight: It is called “Bloom Over the Roof” (Bt320++); a red drink poured over ice and mint leaves. The presentation and taste remind me of a “Mojito” -only with a sour berry sidetrack, which makes the taste more mature.

An explanation follows: “We use Dilmah tea and spicy berries.” I learn that Kettle One Vodka has been infused with these berries, and that only a little more is needed for this delightful refreshment: soda for a bubbly sensation and a swig of Elderflower syrup, which adds a smell of black crowberries.

At around 7 p.m. the lounge is busy with locals, expats, and hotel guests. However, Octave has three levels to sit them all up. One of the best views, I’m told, is at the stairs to the second level; and true, I see a long straight line of BTS tracks along Sukhumvit.

The only covered space is on the third level, which is yet to be opened, but rumors of a shisha lounge have been circulating. On the rooftop, a light-up blue bar centers a dance floor and residential DJs play at nights. A helipad was planned here but the outstanding view of 360 degrees was soon realized to be worth its own rooftop bar.

Profitably I assume, as this is, Sirinya says, so far the only sky bar as well as the highest tower in Thonglor, which is arguably the current hub of Bangkok nightlife.  Contact Details: Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit 2 Sukhumvit Soi 57, Bangkok (BTS: Thonglor) Tel: 02-797-0000

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'Eating in Style'

Central Pattana Public Co. Ltd. (CPN) is jazzing up the retail industry with its new "Lifestyle Dining" projects. Three "Lifestyle Dining & Gastro Bar Landmarks," developed with a budget of over Bt1.4 billion -- Groove@CentralWorld Bangkok, The Port@CentralFestival Samui, and The Blossom @ CentralFestival Chiangmai -- are expected to meet the needs of high-spending residents and visitors who love lifestyle dining and partying.

Wallaya Chirathivat, CPN’s senior executive VP for business development, design & project construction, says: “CPN sees the growing popularity of the global lifestyle dining trend. Consumers’ dining lifestyles are changing. They are getting more selective when choosing a place to dine after work, resulting in the introduction of hip spots in famous cities. CPN is thus developing three ‘Lifestyle Dining & Gastro Bar Landmarks’ to become dining places that respond to every need. The three projects will surely become the best places to hang out for trendsetters.”

The Groove @ CentralWorld will be developed under a budget of more than Bt600 million. and is expected to become a landmark place for nightlife. The Bt450-million Port @ CentralFestival Samui will become the first place where Thai and foreign tourists will think of when it comes to partying and nightlife on the island. The Bt370-miilion Blossom @ CentralFestival Chiangmai will become the first and only place for lifestyle dining and nightlife in Chiang Mai  215 MM

PAINTED IN THE TROPICS, THE UNTOLD STORY OF AN ARTIST

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF SWISS ARTIST THEO MEIER

PAINTED IN THE TROPICS The Life and Times of Swiss Artist Theo Meier

by Harold Stephens 305 pages with 83 photographs ISBN: 9780978695170 PUBLISHER: Wolfenden Publishers BINDING: Hard Cover with Dust Jacket LISTPRICE: 650 Thai Baht, US$21.95.

Order direct on-line from publisher http://wolfendenpublishing.com Those orders with Thailand mailing address will be shipped same day from Bangkok.

To say he was one of the flamboyant characters of Bangkok and Chiang Mai would be putting it mildly. He was more than life! He was a Swiss artist who had spent 22 years on Bali and the last 20 years of his life in Chiang Mail where he lived in a grand, traditional, old Thai house with his Thai wife, Yattlie. His passing cannot be forgotten; his paintings tell his story. How many times have you heard it said, or said it yourself––“I wish I would have known. I would have bought one.” Yes, you could have bought one for a pittance, and now his paintings sell for up to and over a hundred thousand dollars at Christies auction houses in Asia and Europe.

His name is Theo Meier.

Theo was one of the most remarkable men who had lived out his adult life in the Tahiti islands and Southeast Asia. We call him an artist, a painter, but he was more than that. He was a bon vivant, an epicure to the soul, who enjoyed life to its fullest and who made everyone around him feel the same. Put him in the dining car on the train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, and he soon took over the car, with conductors and waiters as well as passengers joining in the merry making. His shouts and cheers, with his glass of Mekong-and-soda held high, and his shouts “salute,” could be heard throughout all the cars. No one slept when Theo was aboard.

He was truly a man of the arts. When it came to cooking, he excelled; when it came to music, even complicated Balinese gamelan music, he knew it well and wrote a book about it; he knew his spices, herbs, medicine, and his women. Indeed his women. The paintings of his woman, mostly nudes, hang in art galleries and museums and in private collections around the world.

Theo lived high, with prince and princess of Thailand and heads-of-state of Indonesia, and at his parties you might find his tuktuk driver and a shopkeeper from Chiang Mai. Madam Banyen could have been one of them.

But there’s more. He was an adventurer. He lived on a remote island in the Tahitian group where Paul Gauguin lived––some say he followed in the footsteps of Gauguin but that is not so––and he walked across China with an easel strapped to his back. And he lived with cannibals in the New Hebrides. Real cannibals!

“Painted in the Tropics” is a story that has never been told in its fullest, and could never have been told while Theo was alive. The author goes into intimidate detail about the expat painters on Bali that Theo knew–– Walter Spies, Rudolf Bonnet, Miguel Covarrubias, Le Mayeur, Han Snel, Donald Friend, Mario Blanco, Willem Hofker, Arie Smit and many others.

Why was Walter Spies put in prison? And what happened when Han Snel kidnapped his 16-year old Balinese wife?

The author, Harold Stephens, knew Theo Meier for more than 30 years and he shared many experiences with him.

- Reviewed by David Tanner, Allied News Papers

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indulge & enjoy as highlight of the month. Enjoy with organic salad during the international buffet. Where: Windsor Suites Cafe, Windsor Suites & Convention Hotel-Sukhumvit 20 // Contact: 02-262-1234, ext. 1410

Food is Art Sunday Brunch on the River

Enjoy “Brunch on the River” at Flow, Millennium Hilton Bangkok with family and loved ones 11 a.m.- 4 p.m, starting with complimentary cocktails and canapés at ThreeSixty, 11 a.m. till noon. Then, between noon and 3 p.m. savor the International Brunch selection featuring items from signature restaurants, including Flow, Prime, Maya, and Yuan. The International Brunch selection is made all the more impressive with free access to the private Cheese Room - the first of its kind in Bangkok and considered to be one of the best in Asia. And that’s not all, 20 labels are available at the “Brunch on the River” and delicious smoothies, juices and quenchers await you too. Coffee, tea and juices are all included with the meal. The meal can be enjoyed for only Bt1,999 net per person and Bt2,999 net per person for Brunch on the River with free-flow wine and sparkling. Complimentary access to leisure facility, The Beach, is also part of this amazing Sunday experience. Where: Flow, Millennium Hilton Bangkok (free shuttle boat from Saphan Taksin Pier) // Contact: 02-442-2000

National Celebrations

Celebrate American Independence Day on July 4 with an all-you-can-eat feast of American favorites during the international buffet dinner at The Square. The price is Bt1,050++, including roast turkey, Tex-Mex beef tacos, chicken quesadillas, and smoked rib with BBQ sauce. Meanwhile on July 14, French nationals are invited to experience the culinary highlights of France during Bastille Day on buffet dinner at Bt950++. Where: The Square, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square Soi 6 (BTS: Siam) // Contact: 02-209-8888, ext. the Square

Kantoke Dinner

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin offers a traditional Thai Kantoke dining experience at Salathai restaurant, where guests are seated on cushions on the floor, with food served on a Kantoke table. The package includes the venue and a set Kantoke dinner for two, with a glass

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of sparkling wine per person and a photo souvenir. Price is just Bt3,400++ per couple.

Served daily throughout July from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Where: Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, Hua Hin // Contact: 032-512021/38, ext. 7

The popular ‘Food is Art’ presentation at Elements restaurant returns on July 18 with a special dinner that features four separate courses of Brittany Blues – succulent lobsters from the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean prized for their extra flavor. It is yet another masterful presentation from chef de cuisine Cyril Cocconi. This Brittany Blue Lobster ‘Food is Art’ dinner is priced at Bt2,800.

Where: Elements Restaurant, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Wireless Road (BTS: Ploenchit) // Contact: 02-687-9000

Authentic Italian

From July 17 to 21, Chef Igor Macchia of the Michelin one-star La Credenza Restaurant will be at Spasso to share his passion for cooking and his culinary skills so local food and wine connoisseurs can experience his authentic Italian cuisine. Now on a pan-Asian journey, Chef Igor will present his specially created menu in cooperation with Spasso’s resident Italian Chef, Loris Pistello.

The set dinner starts from Bt1,500++ for a two-course set and Bt1,800++ for a threecourse set. Where: Spasso, Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, Rajdamri Road (BTS: Chidlom) // Contact:

Foie Gras Promotion

Foie gras is a popular and wellknown delicacy in French cuisine loved by foodies around the world for its rich, buttery, and delicate flavor.

In July the chefs at Winsor Suites Café brings you their take on this delightful delicacy with “Seared Foie-gras and Bacon with Apple Compote”

Picnic Choices

This month, Sofitel So Bangkok introduces three picnic options for its guests. Picnics

Lookeast recommendations JULY Dining Specials

restaur cafe

bar/lou at the Solarium Oasis Lawn, on the hotel's 10th floor adjacent to the swimming pool, can be organized any time of the day. Guests can opt for a sun-kissed picnic in the late afternoon with occasional dips to cool off in the 33m-long infinity pool, or have a romantic nibble beneath the stars with the backdrop of the sparkling city nightscape. Alternatively, guests can order a basket-to-go, borrow a bicycle from the hotel, and enjoy the picnic spread under the shade of lush mature trees at the Lumpini Park, across the hotel.

Choices are for the delectable Asian Picnic, an Italian Picnic and a French Picnic. Where: Sofitel So Bangkok, Rama 4 Road corner Sathorn (MRT: Lumpini) // Contact: 02-6240000.

Abalone Highlights

Chef Leung and his team recommend abalone, the jewel of the ocean, throughout July. From just Bt1,680 per dish, enjoy both traditional and contemporary selections such as abalone fresh fish maw in brown sauce, braised whole abalone with oyster sauce and double boiled abalone with X.O. sauce.

Where: Lok Wah Hin Chinese Restaurant,

Sunday Lunch Buffet

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square Soi 6 (BTS: Siam) // Contact: 02-2098888, ext. Lok Wah Hin

Japanese Wine Dinner

From July 19 to 26, Chef Masami of Tahei Japanese Restaurant creates an exquisite 4-course progressive menu, which will be paired with some wonderful wines that best complement the subtlety of Japanese dishes.

Come and savor this delicate “marriage.”

Where: Tahei, 53rd-54th Floor, Banyan Tree Bangkok, Sathorn Road // Contact: 02-6791200

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Westin Grande Sukhumvit’s Sunday Lunch Buffet has a special “Come 4 Pay 2” offer for families until August. The whole family can choose from an array of delectable international food, including ‘a la minute’ cuisine prepared at live cooking stations and an Mediterranean cuisine such as fresh pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, and crisp salads, and tasty dishes the youngsters will love.

Price is just Bt2,190 net per adult Terms and conditions apply. Where: Westin Grande Sukhumvit Hotel, Sukhumvit 19 (BTS: Asoke) // Contact: 02-207-8000

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Brunch on the River 11.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m.

Enjoy our new face of Sunday Brunch, start your pre-drink at ThreeSixty before heading down to visit Flow for live cooking stations including signature items from PRIME steakhouse, Yuan Cantonese restaurant and Maya Thai dining theatre. Pairing wine & cheese in our unique Cheese Room and end your Brunch with an array of desserts and chocolate at The Lantern, chocolate gallery.

THB 1,999 nett: Sunday Brunch on the River THB 2,999 nett: Sunday Brunch on the River and free flow wines

Open Daily 6.00 a.m. - 11.00 p.m.

Lobby level, Millennium Hilton Bangkok 123 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan, Bangkok 10600 T: +66 (0) 2442 2000 E: bkkhi.informations@hilton.com hilton.com, hilton.co.th HiltonBangkok

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Nippon Specialties

Mighty tasty! That’s the usual verdict that lovers of “Don Buri” and “Buri Kama Yaki” say after tasting these wonderful Nippon specialties. And you’ll agree after tasting them at the Youzen Japanese Restaurant, one of Japanese restaurants that lovers of the cuisine should discover, Where: Youzen Japanese Restaurant, Windsor Suites & Convention HotelSukhumvit 20 // Contact: 02-262-1234, ext. 1410

Love this Snowfish

Lovers of snow fish should not miss this food promotion at The Golden Palace. Put your taste buds to the test with their chef’s unique rendition of “Deep-fried Snow Fish with Szechuan Sauce” this month. You’ll love this exotic dish. Where: The Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant, Windsor Suites & Convention Hotel-Sukhumvit 20 // Contact: 02-262-1234, ext. 1410

Indonesian Food Festival

On July 1-15, Flavors International Restaurant brings Indonesian cuisine to Bangkok with Guest Chef Aloysius Settawab from JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta. Chef Aloy presents the very best of his Indonesian creations including nasi goreng, gado-gado, soto ayam, pepes ikan, ketoprak, tongseng kambing, galai cumi isi, bolu kukus, dadar gulung and more.

The authentic Indonesian dinner buffet is available at the starting price of Bt1,390++ per person. Where: Flavors International Restaurant, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, Ploenchit (BTS: Chidlom) // Contact: 02-125-5010

Seafood Buffet

Pierre Andre Hauss, executive chef at Grand Millennium Bangkok, has added a value element to the popular promotion “King Crab & Seafood Buffet” promotion at the hotel’s Atelier Restaurant. Come for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays and enjoy a “Come 4, Pay 2” offer on the buffet spread, which also includes free-flowing house wines. The buffet is priced at Bt1,500++ per person. Where: Atelier Restaurant, Grand Millennium Sukhumvit, 30 Sukhumvit 21 (MRT: Sukhumvit/BTS: Asoke) // Contact: 02-204-4161

Sunday Smorgasbord

Enjoy a fabulous Sunday smorgasbord of international brunch favorites at Patummat International Buffet at The Sukosol Bangkok.

In addition to the regular breakfast classics, mouthwatering Thai, Japanese, and Chinese dishes, not to mention decadent desserts, the buffet has been enhanced with a live sushi/sashimi station, meatlovers grill, foei gras, French oysters, Alaskan king crab, and more, plus, free-flow red wine to celebrate the weekend in style. Price is Bt1,500 net (adults) and Bt750 net (kids under 12). Where: Patummat, The Sukosol Bangkok, 477 Si Ayutthaya Rd (BTS: Phaya Thai) // Contact: 02-247-0123, ext. 1810

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Asian-French Culinary Icon

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok presents one week of show-stopping cuisine by Celebrity Guest Chef Justin Quek at the Lord Jim’s Restaurant July 8–13. A well-known culinary icon, Justin has redefined modern cuisine with stellar restaurant successes spanning from his native Singapore to Shanghai and Taipei. Justin dominated fine dining in Singapore for 10 years with his haute cuisine at Les Amis, which he co-founded. Classically trained, Justin mastered his innovative art in France’s most acclaimed kitchens. Justin started his career at The Oriental Bangkok under the hotel’s veteran culinary director, Chef Norbert Kostner and this marks his return to his former “home” to showcase his sensational cuisine. Where: Lord Jim’s, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, 47 Oriental Ave, Bangrak // Contact: 02-659-9000, ext Lord Jim’s.

‘Come 4 Pay 3’ Buffet

From now until Aug. 15, Le Fenix Sukhumvit offers a special “Come 4 Pay 3 promotion” on the International Buffet Lunch at L3 Eatery Restaurant. The International Buffet Lunch is an extensive blend of international choices from variety of food around the world. Lunch buffet is priced at Bt229 net per adult (Come 4, Pay 3) not including beverage. Served from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays (Mon-Fri).

Where: L3 Eatery, Le Fenix Sukhumvit // Contact: 02-305-4000, ext. 1032

50% Off on Lunch Buffet

The “International Lunch Buffet The Square Restaurant, Novotel Bangkok Platinum, is now offered at Bt499++ which represent 50% discount from regular price (food only).

This promotion is valid until Aug. 31. Where: The Square Restaurant, Novotel Bangkok Platinum, Pratunam // Contact: 02-160-7100, ext. 8702

New Dinner Set Menu

D.B.Bradley Dining Room and Zheng HE Lounge are offering a new “Dinner Set Menu Promotion” this month. The “Dinner Set Menu” is priced at Bt1,270 ++ per adult and available daily for dinner. Where: D.B.Bradley Dining Room, and Zheng HE Lounge of The Eugenia Hotel & Spa, Bangkok // Contact: 02-259-9011

Kebab Night

Coco’s Café presents kebabs cooked to perfection by Chef Dhuruv and his team at Bt499 net per person for dinner at Coco’s

Café. Come and experience a wide array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian kebabs. There will be Indian music from the “Bollywood Grooves” band to entertain you throughout the evening. Available Thursday-Saturday throughout July. Where: Coco’s Café Bangkok Hotel Lotus Sukhumvit Managed by Accor, Sukhumvit 33 // Contact: 02-610-0111, ext. 4900

Ohmi Beef Promotion

For a limited time only, Chef Sawada of Shintaro Japanese Restaurant is bringing the best of Ohmi beef to Bangkok with highlight dishes include Tataki Salad (slow cooked beef, rocket salad with spicy cod roe and soy scallion vinaigrette), Nigiri Sushi (seared nigiri sushi with wasabi and radish and sweet soy glaze), Beef Katsu (fried beef with

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mustard, sesame katsu sauce and lemon) and many other delicious dishes. Price starts at Bt800 to Bt6,000. Enjoy this unforgettable experience of Ohmi wagyu beef July 9-18 for lunch and dinner. Where: Shintaro, Four Seasons Bangkok, Rajdamri (BTS: Rajdamri) // Contact: 02-126-8866

Tanabata Festival

Yamazato, the award-winning signature Japanese restaurant at The Okura Prestige Bangkok, is celebrating the popular “Tanabata Festival” with lunch and dinner menus created exclusively

by Master Chef Shigeru Hagiwara July 1-7.

Tanabata celebrates a Japanese love story about the weaving princess Orihime and her love for Hikoboshi. Legend states that Orihime and Hikoboshi could only meet once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. The seven-course Kaiseki dinner menu, priced at Bt3,300 is a traditional feast fit for any princess. The Gozen lunch menu, priced at Bt800, is perfect for social and business occasions. Where: Yamazato, The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Wireless Road (BTS: Ploenchit) // Contact: 02-687-9000 or fb@okurabangkok.com

Being on Top Menu

To celebrate Park Society's achievement of “Being on Top,” the rooftop restaurant and bar at Sofitel So Bangkok offers a special menu at the Chef's Table in partnership with Veuve Clicquot Champagne. Guests enjoy a special set menu at the Chef's Table and watching the show of the chefs in action. The four-course menu is at Bt4,900++ per person, available until July 31. Where: Park Society, Sofitel So Bangkok, Rama 4 Rd corner Sathorn (MRT: Lumpini) // Contact: 02-624-000

Cantonese Excellence

The “10 Years of Cantonese Excellence” promotion at Imperial China has been extended until July 31. The event, organized to mark Chef Chu Hoi Hong’s 10th year of service as executive chef of the restaurant, will feature Chef Chu’s special signature dishes and set menus. Price: Bt10,000/ table. Where: The Imperial China Restaurant, 4th fl., Imperial Club Tower, The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Sukhumvit 22 // Contact: 02-261-9000, ext. 5058, 5059

Seafood Buffet

Every Saturday night from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., Cuisine Unplugged at Pullman Bangkok King Power invites you and your friends to enjoy unlimited seafood buffet at only Bt1,430 net per adult. Enjoy a wide selection of seafood on ice such as French oysters, black mussels, Alaska king crabs, rock lobsters not to mention the live cooking station where you can cook your seafood in your own style.

30% discount for King Power members and Accor Advantage Plus members get per normal benefits. Where: Cuisine Unplugged at Pullman Bangkok King Power, Ragnam Road, Bangkok (BTS: Victory Monument) // Contact: 02-680-9999

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Fetzer Wine Dinner at Sheraton Pattaya Resort

Enjoy classic American dishes with a modern and exciting twist, along with eco-wines from Fetzer Vineyards of Mendocino County, California on July 5. Andres Ballesteros, who is representing Fetzer, will fly in especially for this occasion along with Ross Edward Marks from Central Food Retail Co. Sheraton Pattaya's Chef Spencer and his team will put together a mind-opening five-course menu to tantalize your taste buds in celebration of the American Independence Day. Price is Bt2,200++ per person. The event starts with canapés from 6:30 p.m.; and dinner starts at 7 p.m. Adance reservations are recommended. Where: Elements Restaurant, Sheraton Pattaya Resort, 437 Phratamnak Rd, Pattaya City // Contact: 038-259-888 or inbox us on www.facebook.com/ sheratonpattayaresort

Real Taste of Japan by Master Chef Kiyoshi Ogawa

Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok features Japanese cuisine by Master Guest Chef Kiyoshi Ogawa, who will delight guests at NEXT2 Café with his extensive international culinary experience from July 11 to 19. Chef Kiyoshi’s menu offers a wide range of dishes focusing on traditional cuisine that draws attention to the real taste of the ingredients, sure to delight guests. During the nine-day promotion, he will showcase his culinary skills representing the best of Japanese cuisine, from traditional kaiseki, the freshest sushi and sashimi, and signature hot pot dishes to exciting contemporary fusion dishes.

His creations are incorporated into NEXT2 Café’s extensive culinary delights, which vary from appetisers, soups and main dishes to desserts and drinks. Price is Bt1,750 net or Bt1,950 net with free-flowing sake, Asahi beer and more. Where: NEXT2 Cafe, Shangri-La Bangkok, Charoenkrung, Bangrak, Bangkok (BTS: Saphan Taksin) // Contact: 02- 2369952, and 02-236-7777, ext. 6205-6.

South American Wine Dinner

An exquisite one-night only food and wine pairing awaits aficionados on July 5, 7 p.m. at Panorama Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park. Have a pleasurable dining experience with Hugo Casanova wines from Chile paired with exquisite dishes from South America during the six-course wine dinner. adorian prune sauce with mushrooms and polenta. Price is Bt2,199++ per person. Also at Panorama this month, the restaurant is serving Australian Wagyu with marble grade 9 for a limited time only. Where: Panorama Restaurant, Level 23, Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park (Silom), Rama IV Road (BTS: Saladaeng) // Contact: 02-632- 9000 or visit www.crowneplazabkk. com.

All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum at Xin Tian DI

At Xin Tian Di, on Level 22 of Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, business colleagues and family can gather this month to enjoy “all-you-caneat” dim sum in authentic Chinese atmosphere. Prepared by Master Chef Lam Kok Weng, these exquisite delights are sure to bring you all closer together. The Chinese restaurant also has an "Oyster Promotion" featuring a selection of specialty oysters prepared the Chinese way, such as crisp fried oyster with spice salt, deep fried oyster with spring onion and garlic sauce, steamed oyster with choice of sauces (XO chili, garlic, black bean sauce, or spicy chili Lemon) are just among them. Where: Xin Tian Di, Level 22, Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park (Silom), Rama IV Road (BTS: Saladaeng) // Contact: 02-632- 9000 or visit www.crowneplazabkk.com.

14.6

Boutique Resort - Hua Hin

www.baan-talay-chine.com info@baan-talay-chine.com

Check website for latest promotions!

Designed in an oriental style and decorated with antique Chinese windows, doors and furniture. Offering private pool villas, studios, one and two bedroom suites with decks, some with sea views. Located in Hua Hin downtown next to the Klaikangwon Palace.

21.5cm

JuLY 2013 | 77

restau cafe

Wine & Dine

relax & unwind Jazz Night with Kerong Chok

Eric Piatti and Maneeporn Koatkhao, general manager and director of sales and marketing, respectively, of Swissotel Nai Lert Park, Bangkok recently welcomed a host of celebrities, media, and key partners to join the exclusive “Jazz Night With Kerong Chok” at the hotel’s Syn Bar. A familiar face on the New York and Singapore jazz scene, Kerong delivered an exquisite performance as expected. The exceptionally talented Narattha Kreephanich, founder of the Su Jazz Acapella, also performed with him. Photo shows, from left: Maneeporn Koatkhao, Narattha Kreephanich, Kerong Chok, and Eric Piatti.

Taste & Tipple Unique Vintage Cocktails

The Glaz Bar at Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien Hotel, presents Vintage Cocktails every Friday evening from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Bt666 net per person for four cocktails plus free-flow especially created tapas and Mövenpick Ice Cream.

The evening’s entertainment is enhanced by classic jazz performed by The Glaz Bar’s celebrated house pianist and singer who strike the right notes of nostalgia for the swinging 20s, 30s and 40s. Where: Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien Hotel, Wireless Road (BTS: Ploenchit) // Contact: 02650-8800 or e-mail fb.bangkok@ lemeridien.com

Sparkling Night with Free Flow Wine

Novotel Bangkok Platinum is serving wine selection from around the world with a special offer. Enjoy a night of fine dining and your favorite wine with a promotional “free flow” “Summerfield Chardonnay 2009” and “Summerfield Cabernet Sauvignon 2009” from California only at Bt500 net per person limited for two hours anytime from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Square Restaurant. Special for wine

78

Lookeast | Wine & Dine

lovers, order a bottle from the promotional wine list imported from Australia, Chile, South Africa and California at Bt1,200 net per bottle everyday from now until Sept. 30. For more information and reservations, contact 02-160-7100, ext. 8702 or e-mail H7272-FB4@accor. com

Tapas Flow

Tapas Y Vino at Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Hotel has a new “Tapas Flow Promotion.”

Savor a range of Spanish tapas from a la carte menu prepared

by Chef Joan Tanya Doti, the Spanish chef. The menu includes traditional Spanish omelet with potato and onions, chicken and Serrano ham croquette, Spanish chicken wing, and more – along with free-flowing house wine. Price is only Bt950++ per person. Where: Tapas Y Vino, Grand Millennium Sukhumvit, Sukhumvit 21 (MRT: Sukhumvit/ BTS: Asoke) // Contact: 02-2044158

Molecular Masters

Until the end of July, the talented bartenders of Zulu Bar at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya will be creating and mixing flavorful cocktails for you to enjoy. Following the current trend for molecular cocktails, the bartenders will present their interpretations with delights such as melon illusion, molecule of love and amazing flavors molecular. Price is at Bt220++. ‘Zulu’ is adjacent to the lobby of Centara Grand

Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, and opens daily from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. There are two fully soundproofed karaoke rooms and resident DJ’s serve you up with the coolest rhythms in Pattaya.

Where: Zulu Jungle Bar at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya // Contact: 038301-234, ext. 4283

Parties and Gigs Ladies Night Fiesta

Four Points Sukhumvit 15’s rooftop bar, amBar, is offering free Sangria for the ladies plus a “Buy One, Get One” free deal for the men all night. In addition, there is free paella for everyone. Every Thursday this special ladies night features free Sangria as well as complimentary paella 7- 9 p.m.

Bangkok’s darling, DJ Soma, will be spinning the cool tunes.

Where: amBar, Four Points by Sheraton, Sukhumvit 15 (BTS: Nana) // Contact: 02-309-3201 or visit www.facebook.com/ amBarBangkok for the latest update and specials.

Excuse to Party

ENTERTAINMENT/NIGHTILIFE Bar & CLUB specials

mall/s

boutiq Dream Jazz Duo at dusitD2 baraquda pattaya

After the big success of “Romance Jazz on the Roof” last season, dusitD2 baraquda pattaya, presents the “Dream Duo Jazz,” featuring Aht Gunlayanukupt, popularly known as Thailand’s Kenny G. on the saxophone, and French talent Jonathan Pierre Bruno Ayache, known as John the guitarist.

Together, they will create a fresh combination with all kinds of tunes from smooth jazz to modern days hits and new dance beats. The duo performs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8:30pm onwards. Call 038769-999 for more information.

Indian Nights...

On July 13, Rise Productions & Masala Magazine will put on a major event at Bed Supperclub.

This will be one of the last Indian Nights at this world famous venue before it shuts down on August 31. Admission to this 2-in-1 event includes two drinks. Bt600 in advance, and Bt900 at the entrance.

...and 'Bollywood Superstars' This July hang out with the Americans and celebrate Independence Day on the 4th of July, and experience French passion during the Bastille Day celebrations on July 14. Both parties kick off from 10 p.m. with free entrance for respective national citizens and heaps of special red, white and blue themed drink deals on offer.

Both nights, ticket is Bt250 net Where: Concept CM² of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square.

Contact: 02-209-8888, ext. CM2 or visit www.CM2bkk.com.

bar/lo

In the White Room: The most famous superstar Bollywood DJ from the Middle East (Dubai), DJ Zubair will be performing along with Bangkok's renowned DJ Xunny Dey In the Black Room: It's well known Belgian DJ Luck-E and & Bangkok's own DJ M.A.D.K. playing commercial house music throughout the night!/ Where: Bed Supperclub, Sukhumvit 11 // Contact: 083-815-2135 or info@ riseproductions.com

Editor’s Note: Send us your events for this section before the 15th of every month for the next month’s publication. First-come, first served basis. Just e-mail them to: editorlookeast@gmail.com or percy@lookeastmagazine.com

where

conta

travel

Directory

hotels & serviced apartments Bangkok AMARI ATRIUM 1880 New Petchburi Rd //

JW MARRIOTT BANGKOK 4 Sukhumvit

SHANGRI-LA BANGKOK, THE 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu (BTS: Saphan Taksin) // Tel: 02 236-7777 // www.shangri-la.com

DUSIT THANI PATTAYA 240/2 Pattaya Beach Rd // Tel: 038-425-611/7 // www.dusit.com

AMARI BOULEVARD 2 Soi 5 Sukhumvit Rd

KANTARY HOUSE HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENTS BANGKOK

SHERATON GRANDE SUKHUMVIT

Hilton Pattaya hotel 333/101 Moo 9

Tel: 02-718-2000, 02-718-2020 // www.amari.com/atrium

(BTS: Nana) // Tel: 02-255-2930 // www.amari. com/boulevard

AMARI DON MUANG AIRPORT 333 Chert Wudthakas Rd, Don Muang // Tel: 02-566-1020 // www.amari.com/donmuang AMARI WATERGATE 847 Petchburi Rd // Tel: 02-653-9000, 02-653-9101/8 // www.amari.com/watergate

ANANTARA BANGKOK RESORT & SPA

Soi 2 (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-656-7700 // www.marriot.com/bkkdt

14 Ramkamhaeng 42 Rd, Bangkapi // Tel: 02-374-5544 // www.kantarycollection.com/ kantaryhouse-bangkok

LANDMARK BANGKOK 138 Sukhumvit Rd

(BTS: Nana) // Tel: 02-254-0404 // www.landmarkbangkok.com

Le Fenix Sukhumvit by Accor 33/33

SOFITEL BANGKOK SUKHUMVIT

LEBUA AT STATE TOWER State Tower

SOFITEL SO BANGKOK

Sukhumvit 11 (BTS: Nana) // Tel: 02-305-4000 // www.lefenix-sukhumvit.com 1055 Silom Rd, Bangrak // Tel: 02-624-9999 // www.lebua.com/bangkok/

BANYAN TREE BANGKOK

MILLENNIUM HILTON BANGKOK

Centara Grand at CentralWorld 999/99 Rama 1 Rd

BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02 100-1234 // www.centralhotelresorts.com

SIAM HOTEL KEMPINSKI

991/9 Rama I Rd (BTS Siam) // Tel: 02-162-9000 // www. kempinski.com/

257 Charoennakorn Rd, Thonburi (BTS: Saphan Taksin to hotel ferry ) // Tel: 02-476-0022, www.bangkok-riverside.anantara.com

21/100 South Sathorn Rd (MRT: Lumpini Station) // Tel: 02 679-1200 // www.banyantree.com

250 Sukhumvit Rd (BTS: Asoke/MRT: Sukhumvit) // Tel: 02 649-8888 // www.starwoodhotels.com/bangkok

123 Charoennakorn Rd (boat shuttle from Saphan Taksin Pier) // Tel: 02-422-2000, 02442-2035 // www.bangkok.hilton.com

METROPOLITAN, THE 27 South Sathorn

Rd (MRT: Lumpini) // Tel: 02-625-3333 // www.metropolitan.com.bz

189 Sukhumvit Road Soi 13-15 (BTS: Nana) // Tel: 02-126-9999 2 North Sathorn Road (MRT: Lumpini) // Tel: 02-624-0000

SUKHOTHAI BANGKOK, THE 13/3 South Sathorn Rd (MRT: Lumpini) // Tel: 02-344-8888 // www.sukothai.com

SWISSOTEL NAI LERT PARK 2 Wireless

Rd, Pathumwan (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-253-0123 // www.bangkok-nailertpark. swisshotel.com

Nong Prue, Pattaya (Central Festival) // Tel: 038-253-000 // www.hilton.com

GARDEN CLIFF RESORT & SPA

220/2 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 16 Pattaya // Tel: 038-259-333 // www.gardencliffpattaya.com

HARD ROCK HOTEL PATTAYA 429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Rd // Tel: 038-428-755/9 // www.hardrockhotels.net

PATTAYA MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA

218/2-4 Pattaya Beach Rd // Tel: 038-412-120// www.marriottotels.com

ROYAL CLIFF HOTELS GROUP 353 Phra Tamnak Rd, Pattaya // Tel: 038-250-421 // www.royalcliff.com

SHERATON PATTAYA RESORT 37 Phra Tamnak Rd, Pattaya // Tel: 038-259-888 // www.sheraton.com/pattaya/com

THE ZIGN 555/65 Moo 5, 12 Naklua Rd //

Tel: 038-909-800-20 // www.thezignhotel.com

NOVOTEL BANGNA BANGKOK

SWISS LODGE 3 Convent Rd (BTS: Saladaeng) // Tel: 02-233-5345 // www.swisslodge.com

NORTH

NOVOTEL BANGKOK PLATINUM

220 Petchburi Rd, Ratchathevi, Bangkok // Tel: 02-160-7100

ST REGIS BANGKOK 159 Rajdamri Road, (BTS: Rajdamri) // Tel: 02-207-7777 // www.starwoodhotels.com

123-123/1 Charoen Prathet Road, T, Changklan, A. Muang, Chiang Mai // Tel: 053-253-333 // www.ghm.hotels.com

All Seasons Place, 87 Wireless Rd (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-690-9999 // www.conradhotel.com

NOVOTEL BANGKOK ON SIAM SQUARE

UNICO PREMIER METROLINK

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL CHIANG MAI

CROWNE PLAZA BANGKOK LUMPINI

NOVOTEL SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT 999 Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel, Moo 1 Nongprue Bang Phi Samutprakarn // Tel: 02-131-1111

UNICO EXPRESS

KANTARY HILLS HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENTS, CHIANG MAI 44,44/1-2 Nimmanhaemin Rd,

DAVIS BANGKOK, THE

88 Sukhumvit 24 (BTS: Phrom Phong) // Tel: 02-260-8000 // www.davisbangkok.net

ORIENTAL, THE MANDARIN 48 Oriental Ave. (BTS: Saphan Taksin to hotel ferry) // Tel: 02-659-9000 // www.mandarinoriental.com

VIE Hotel Bangkok 117/39-40 Phaya Thai Rd (BTS: Phayathai) // Tel: 02-309-3939 // www.viehotelbangkok.com

DREAM HOTEL 10 Sukhumvit Soi 15

OKURA PRESTIGE BANGKOK, THE

WESTIN GRANDE SUKHUMVIT

CENTARA GRAND @ CENTRAL PLAZA LADPRAO 1695 Phaholyothin Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand Phone: +66 (0) 2541 1234

CONRAD BANGKOK

PARK 952 Rama IV Rd (MRT: Saladaeng Stataion) // Tel: 02-632-9000 // www.crownplazabkkk.com

(BTS: Asoke) // Tel: 02-254-8500 // www.dreambkk.com

DUSIT THANI, THE 946 Rama IV Rd (BTS: Saladaeng) // Tel: 02 200-9000 // www.dusit.com Eugenia, THE 267 Soi Sukhumvit 3 //

Tel: 02-259-9011/7 // www.theeugenia.com

EASTIN GRAND HOTEL SATHORN

33/1 South Sathorn Road (BTS: Surasak) // Tel: 02-210-8100

FOUR SEASONS BANGKOK

155 Ratchadamri Rd (BTS: Rajdamri) // Tel: 02-126-8866 // www.fourseasons.com/bangkok

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON

Sukhumvit Soi 15 // Tel: 02-309-3000 // www.starwoodhotels.com

GRAND HYATT ERAWAN 494 Ratchadamri Rd (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-254-1234 // www.bangkok.grand.hyatt. com HOLIDAY INN BANGKOK 971 Ploenchit

Rd (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-656-1555

HOLIDAY INN SILOM 981 Silom Rd (BTS: Surasak) // Tel: 02-238-4300 // www.holidayinnsilom.com

HOTEL MUSE 55/555 Langsuan Rd,

Ploenchit Road (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-630-4000 // Fax: 02 630-4100

IMPERIAL QUEEN’S PARK 199 Sukhumvit

333 Srinakarin Rd // Tel: 02 366-0505 // www.novotelbangnabangkok.com

392/44 Siam Square Soi 6 Rama 1 Road (BTS Siam) //Tel: 02-209-8888 // www.novotelbkk.com

57 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand Tel: 02687 9000

PENINSULA BANGKOK 333 Charoennakorn

OUtSIDE BAnGKOK – EAST

Rd, Klongsan, (BTS Saphan Taksin to hotel ferry) tel. 02-861-2888 // www.bangkok.peninsula.com

PLAZA ATHENEE BANGKOK ROYAL MERIDIEN HOTEL 61 Wireless

Rd(Witthayu), (BTS Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-6508800 // www.hotel-plaza-athenee.com

PULLMAN BANGKOK HOTEL G 188 Silom Rd (BTS: Chong Nonsi) // Tel: 02 238-1991/99 //

RADISSON SUITES BANGKOK

SUKHUMVIT 23/2-3 Sukhumvit 13, Wattana (BTS Asok)Tel: 02 645-4999 // www.radisson.com/bangkokth_sukhumvit RAMADA PLAZA MENAM RIVERSIDE BANGKOK

8-10 Sukhumvit Soi 20 (BTS Asok) // Tel: 02-262-1234

AMARI EMERALD COVE RESORT KOH CHANG 88/8 Moo 4 T. Koh Chang, Trat // Tel: 039-552-000 // www.amari.com/emeraldcove

KOH CHANG CLIFF BEACH RESORT

2 Charoen Krung Soi 30, Siphya, Bangrak // Tel: 02 266-0123 // www.royalotchidsheraton.com

51/4 Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road Moo 1 T. Tasala A. Muang, Chiang Mai 50000 Tel: 053-888 888

RACHAMANKHA 6 Rachamankha 9, T Phra Singh Chiang Mai // Tel: 053-904-111, 053-814-521 // www.rachamankha RATILANNA RIVERSIDE SPA RESORT

33 Chang Klan Rd, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai // Tel: 053 999-333 // www.ratilnnachiangmai.com

Rd, Cha-Am, Petchaburi // Tel: 032-520-009 // www.dusit.com

8/15 Klong Prao Beach, Koh Chang, Trat // Tel: 039-551-290/6 //www.panviman.com

PATTAYA AMARI ORCHID PATTAYA Pattaya Beach

Road // Tel: 038-418-418 // www.amari.com

CENTARA GRAND RESIDENCE PATTAYA

ROYAL ORCHID SHERATON

MANDARIN ORIENTAL CHIANG MAI

PANVIMAN KOH CHANG RESORT

REMBRANDT HOTEL BANGKOK RENAISSANCE BANGKOK RATCHAPRASONG HOTEL

Soi 12, Suthep, Muang, Chiang Mai // Tel: 053-222-111, 053 400-877 // E-mail: reservations@kantaryhills-chiangmai.com // www.kantarycollection.com/kantaryhillschiangmai

HUA HIN

CENTARA GRAND MIRAGE BEACH RESORT PATTAYA 277 Moo 5, Naklua,

19 Sukhumvit Soi 18, Klong Toei (BTS Asok) // Tel: 02-261-7100 // www.rembrandtbkk.com

Mae Rim-Samoeng Old Road 50180 Mae Rim Chiang Mai Tel. 053 298-181

Tel: 039-557-034/5 // www.kohchangcliffbeach.com

2074 Charoenkrung Rd., Bangkorlaem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand.

Tel. 66(0)2 688 1000 Fax. 66(0) 2 291 9400 www.ramadaplazamenamriverside.com

INTERCONTINENTAL BANGKOK

Lookeast | DIRECTORY

259 Sukhumvit Rd (BTS: Asoke/ MRT: Sukhumvit) // Tel: 02-207-8000 // www.westin.com/bangkok

WINDSOR SUITES HOTEL BANGKOK

Phayathai Rd (BTS: National Stadium) // Tel: 02 216-3700 // www.dusit.com

518/8 Ploenchit Rd, Bangkok (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel:02-125-5000 // renhotels.com/bangkok

80

74 Sukhumvit Soi 3, (BTS Nana) TEL: 02-655-2790

PATHUMWAN PRINCESS MBK Center 444

22 (BTS: Phrom Phong) // Tel: 02 261-9000 // www.imperialhotels.com/queenspark

9743 Ploenchit Rd (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-656-0444 // www.intercontinental.com

57 Asoke-Dindaeng Rd, Makkasan (Airport Link) and (MRT:Petchburi) // Tel: 02-652-9000 // www.unicopremiermetrolink.com

CHEDI CHIANG MAI, THE

Banglamung,Pattaya // Tel: 038 301-234 // www. centarahotelsresorts.com

DUSIT THANI HUA HIN 1349 Petchkasem SHERATON HUA HIN RESORT & SPA 1573 Pechkasem Rd, Tumbol Cha-Am, Cha-Am // Tel: 032 708-000

CAPE NIDHRA HOTEL, HUA HIN

97/2 Petchkasem Rd, Hua Hin // Tel: 032-516-600 // www.capenidhra.com

KOH SAMUI AMARI PALM REEF RESORT

Chaweng Beach Road, Koh Samui // Tel: 077- 422-015/19 // www.amari.com

Soi Na Jomtien 6, Moo 1, Jomtien Beach, Chonburi // Tel: 038 706-407 // www.cgrpattaya. com

BEACH REPUBLIC

D2 BARAQUDA

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT SAMUI 38/2 Moo 3, Bophut, Chaweng Beach,

485/1 Moo.10 2 Road. Nongprue, Banglamung,, Pattaya, Chon Buri Tel: 038-769999

176/34 Moo 4, Tambon Maret, Koh Samui // Tel: 077-458-100

Koh Samui // Tel: 077-230-500 // www.centralhotelsresorts.com

Subscribe TO J U LY

TRAVEL

LIFEST YLE

HOTEL S

ISSN

DINING

0857

NIGHTL IFE SHOPP ING EVENT S PERSO NALITIE S ART CULTU RE SPAS

EST. 1971

EST. 1971

-1139

SANTIBURI RESORT

12/12 Moo 1, MaenNam, Koh Samui // Tel: 077-425-031/5

THE LIBRARY

14/1 Moo.2 Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 8// Tel. 077-422.767-8

TONGSAI BAY COTTAGES & HOTEL 84 Moo 5, Bophut Koh Samui // Tel: 077-245-480 // www.tongsaibay.co.th

PHUKET ANGSANA LAGUNA PHUKET 10 Moo 4 Srisoonthorn Road, Phuket // Tel: 076-324-101 // www.lagunaphuket.com AMARI CORAL BEACH PHUKET

2 Meun Ngern Road Patong Beach, Phuket // Tel: 076-340-106/14 // www.amari.com

AMANPURI PHUKET

118 Moo 3 Srissunthorn, Phuket // Tel: 076-324333

CAPE PANWA HOTEL PHUKET

27, 27/2, Mu 8, Sakdidej Road, Cape Panwa, Phuket // Tel: 076 391-123/5 // E-mail: reservations@capepanwa.com

DEEVANA PATONG RESORT & SPA

(MERCURE) 43/2 Rai-U-Thid 200 Pee Rd, Patong, Phuket // Tel: 076-341-414/5 // www.deevanaphuket.com DUSIT THANI LAGUNA PHUKET

390 Moo 1, Srisoontorn Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket //Tel: 076 362 999, ext.7156 // http://dusitthanilagunaphuket.dusit.com

JW MARRIOTT PHUKET RESORT & SPA 231 Moo 3, Mai Khao, Phuket // Tel: 076-338-000, ext. 35252 // www.marriott.com

Tambol Nongtalay, Krabi // Tel: 075-607-777 // www.amari.com/vogue

Aonang Ao Nang, Krabi // Tel: 075-661-027 // www.centralhoetlresorts.com

PHULAY BAY, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE

111 Moo 3 Nongthalay, Muang Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel: 075-628-111

SHERATON KRABI

155 Moo 2, Nong Thale Muang Krabi 81000 Thailand Tel: 075-628-000

SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT Klong Muang Beach, Tambon Nongtalay // Tel: 075-627-800, 075-627-899 // www.sofitel.com/6184

// serviced apartments

CENTRE POINT HOTEL SUKHUMVIT 10 39 Soi 10 Sukhumvit Rd // Tel: 02-653-1783 // www.centrepoint.com

CONRAD RESIDENCE

All Season Place, 87 Wireless Rd (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-690-9999 // www.conradresidence.com

EMPORIUM SUITES 622 Sukhumvit 24 Rd (BTS: Phrom Phong) // Tel: 02 664-9999 // www.emporiumsuites.com GRAND PRESIDENT 14-16 Sukhumvit 11 ( BTS: Nana) // Tel: 02-651-1200 // www.grandpresident.com

Langsuan (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-672-1234 // www.execapartments.com

Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-250-7000 // www.naturalville.com

OAKWOOD CITY RESIDENCE

LE MERIDIEN PHUKET BEACH RESORT 29 Soi Karon Nui, Karon, Phuket //

291 Soi Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra 24 // Tel: 02-672-0200 // www.oakwood.com/servicedapartments/furnished/th/bangkok/prop38

LE MÉRIDIEN KHAO LAK BEACH & SPA RESORT 9/9 Moo. 1 Tambol Kuk Kak,

APARTMENTS 95 Sukhumvit 24 // Tel: 02-661-1000 // www.presidentpark.com

SRI PANWA PHUKET

PRESIDENT PARK SERVICED PRESIDENT SOLITAIRE

Sukhumvit Soi 11 // Tel: 02-255-7200 // www.presidentsolitaire.com

Sri panwa, Phuket 88 moo 8, Sakdidej Road, Vichit, Muang, Phuket // Tel: 076-371-000

ROYAL PRESIDENT 43 Sukhumvit 15 //

THE KANTARY BAY HOTEL PHUKET

1 27 Soi Saladaeng 1, Silom Road, Bangrak (BTS Sala Daeng) // Tel: 02-266-2345 // www.sirisathorn.com

31/11 Moo 8, Sakdidej Rd., Cape Panwa Phuket // Tel: 076 391-514 // E-mail: reservations@kantarybay-phuket.com // www.kantarybay-phuket.com

THE NAKA ISLAND

32 Moo 5, Tambol Paklok, Amphur Thalang, Naka Yai Island Phuket // Tel: 076-371-400

www.lo okeast magaz ine.com

thb100

Thailand 12 issues 900 Baht Asia 12 issues 3,400 Baht Europe/Australia/Africa 12 issues 3,700 Baht North America/South America 12 issues 4,100 Baht first name: last name: Address:

CAPE HOUSE SERVICED

APARTMENTS 43 Soi Langsuan, Plonechit Road (BTS: Chidlom Station) // Tel: 02-658-7444 // www.capehouse.com

NATURAL VILLE 61 Langsuan Rd (BTS:

Amphur Takua Pa, Khao Lak // Tel: 076-427-500 // www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/

THE HOTTEST TRAVEL EVENTS, NEwS, DINING DEALS, & bAR OFFERS & THIS mONTH! SPECIALS, AND SPA

www.the-ascott.com

KANTARY BEACH HOTEL VILLAS AND SUITES, KHAO LAK

Tel: 076-370-100 // www.lemeridien.com

Busine Travel ss

+

THE ASCOTT BANGKOK

MAYFAIR MARRIOTT EXECUTIVE APARTMENTS 60 Soi

64, 65 Moo2, Kukkak, Takuapa, Phang Nga, 82190 // Tel. (66) 0-7658-4700 // www.kantarycollection.com/

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CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS KRABI Ao Nang, 420/22 Moo 2

JW MARRIOTT KHAO LAK RESORT & SPA 41/12 Moo 3, Khuk Khak · Takuapa, Phang Nga, Khao Lak // Tel: 076-584-888 // www.marriott.com

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42 NO .7

22/1 Moo5, Ban Tai, A Koh Phangan // Tel: 077-445-101/9, 077 445-220/4 // www.panviman.com

AMARI VOGUE RESORT 149 Moo 3

VOL.

PANVIMAN RESORT KOH PHANGAN

KRABI

2013

219 Moo 5, Angthong, Koh Samui, Surat Thani // Tel. 077-243-000

J U LY

FOUR SEASONS KOH SAMUI

JULY 2013

Tel: 02-253-9451 // www.royalpresident.com

SIRI SATHORN

CAPE HOUSE SERVICED APARTMENTS 43 Soi Langsuan (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-658-7444 // E-mail: sales@capehouse.com // www.capehouse.com

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Directory

dining AmericanA BOURBON ST. RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR Specializes in Louisiana

“Cajun/Creole” dishes and other “New Orleans” favorites. 9/39-40, Soi Tana Arcade, Sukhumvit 63, Ekamai // Tel: 02-381-6801/3 // Open: 7a.m.1 a.m. // www.bourbonstbkk.com

Henry J. Bean’s Tex-Mex food, beer and fun in an all-American style, complemented by drinks from a professional mixologist. A.m.ari Watergate Hotel, 847 Petchburi Rd // Tel: 02-653-9000 // Open: 5 p.m.- 1 a.m.

Hard Rock Café Another branch of the world-renowned, iconic Hard Rock restaurant chain known for authentic A.m.erican cuisine, live bands, and mementos. 424/3-6 Siam Square Soi 11 // Tel: 02-251-0792 // Open: 11 a.m.-1 a.m. daily; www.hardrockcafe.co.th

Hyde & Seek 65/1 Athenee Residence,

Soi Ruamrudee, Wireless Road, Ploenchit, Pathumwan, Bangkok // Tel: 02-168-5152

Smith Restaurant & Bar

1/8 Sukhumvith 49, Bangkok // Tel: 02-2610515/6

25 degreeS Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, lobby/G flr.188 Silom Rd, Suriyawongse, Bangrak Bangkok // Tel: 02-238-1991

Cafes

occasions. Conrad, 87 Wireless Rd, Bangkok // Tel: 02-690-9999 // Open: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and for dinner, 6-11:00 p.m.

Yuan

Specializes in Cantonese cuisine. A la carte and set menu available for lunch and dinner 2nd Level, Millennium Hilton Bangkok, Charoen Nakorn Road, (Free shuttle boat to River City and Sathorn Pier) // Tel: 02 442-2000 www.hilton.com

French 4 Garcons 113 Thonglor soi 13

Oakwood Residence Sukhumvit Thonglor Sukhumvit 55, Wattana, Bangkok // Tel: 02713-9547

Aubergine Great for a romantic evening,

iserves an eclectic menu from French and Italian cuisines. 71/1 Saladaeng Soi 1/1 // Tel: 02-2342226 // Open: 6 p.m.-11:30 p.m.

d’sens French haute cuisine with expansive

views over Lumpini Park. Dusit Thani Bangkok 946 Rama IV Rd // Tel: 02-200-9000, ext. 2449 // Open: 11.30 a.m.-2.30 p.m.; 6-10 p.m.

are larger than life. 16 Soi Sukhumvit 23 // Tel: 02-258-4321

Grossi Named after the top Australian celebrity chef famous for his Italian specialties.

Intercontinental Bangkok 973 Ploenchit Rd (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-656-0444

Fresh ingredients in their traditional and fusion Japanese food is always a draw for lunch and dinner. Setting is beautiful with seating in and out. 159/99 Rajdamri Rd, main entrance located beside St. Regis Hotel Bangkok (BTS: Rajdamri) // Tel: 02-252-4707

Jojo Traditional Italian cuisine with simplicity

Korean

at its finest, including a wide selection of imported delicacies exclusively available at Jojo.

St. Regis Bangkok, 159 Rajadamri Road (BTS: Rajdamri) // Tel: 02-207-7815

VIU For deliciously indulgent morning meals, lunch menu that includes exquisite dishes and by night, an internationally influenced menu and seductive ambiance that make it a favored dining destination, 12th floor next to the Sky Lobby, St. Regis Bangkok, 12th floor, 159 Rajadamri Rd (BTS: Rajdamri) // Tel: 02-2077815 La BoTtega DI LUCA Sukhumvit Soi 49, Building Terrace 49 // Tel: 02-204-1731

Medici Kitchen & Bar

L’Appart Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, 32nd floor 189 Sukhumvit Rd Soi 13-15, Bangkok (BTS: Nana Station) // Tel: 02-642-0000

Great Italian cuisine from traditional family recipes made with the highest quality ingredient.

Extensive wine list. Hotel Muse, Basement floor 55/555 Langsuan Rd,Bangkok (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-630-4000

Whale’s Belly 41, 39, Sukhumvit Soi 39,

Pizzeria Limoncello Friendly and relaxed

Thai culinay offerings featuring an international buffet. Don’t miss the sumptuos Sunday Brunch.

2nd Floor, Conrad Bangkok (BTS: Ploenchit Station) // Tel: 02-690-9299 // Open: 6 a.m.midnight // www.conradbangkok.com

German

restaurant offering truly Italian thin-crust pizzas using a traditional wood-fired oven. Sukhumvit Soi 11 // Tel: 02-651-0707 // Open: 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. & 6 p.m.-midnight (Tues-Sun)

Bei Otto Nice traditional German and good

zanotti Described as “an expression of the

Café Claire

INDIAN

finest Italian dining in Bangkok.” Specialty Italian cuisine and wines. 21/2 1st Floor, Colonnade Condominium Saladaeng // Tel: 02-636-0002 // Open: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 6-10:30 p.m. daily

HAZARA Best of Indian cuisine with an Afghan

Japanese

CAFE@2 All day dining brasserie. French and

Lobby Fl., Oriental Residence Bangkok 110 Wireless Road, Lumpini Pathumwan Bangkok 10330 Tel : 02-125-9080

COFFEE BEANS BY DAO Enjoy the best

of Thai dishes and desserts. Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok // Tel: 02 254 7117

KUPPA Stylish, modern industrial design with a relaxed and hip vibe. 39 Sukhumvit Soi 16 // Tel: 02-663-0450/1 // Open: 9:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Chinese BAI YUN One of the leading Chinese restaurants in the heart of Bangkok. 21/100 South Sathon Rd // Tel: 02-679-1200 // Open: 11: 30 a.m.-2:30 and 6-11 p.m.

CHINA HOUSE Represents the pinnacle of

Cantonese fine dining in Thailand since 1990.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Soi Oriental, Bangrak // Tel: 02-659-9000 // Open: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 6-11:30 p.m.

Din Tai Fung 7th floor, CentralWorld Zone : B | Beacon Tel : 02-646-1282

Fei Ya Open daily 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 6-11 p.m. 3rd Floor, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, 518/8 Ploenchit Road (BTS: Chidlom Station) // Tel: 02-125-5030 heichinrou Cantonese specialty restaurant serving an eclectic selection of new favorites and traditional delicacies. Amari Watergate Hotel, 847 Petchburi Rd // Tel: 02-653-9000 // Open: Daily 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 6-10:30 p.m.

LIU A gourmet Chinese restaurant offering

authentic delicacies creatively presented for contemporary diners. A must-try is the dim sum spread and Peking duck, while private dining rooms provide intimate settings for special

82

Lookeast | DIRECTORY

Sukhumvit Road Boulevard Tower A, Bangkok // Tel: 02-160-0333

beer. 1 Sukhumvit 20 // Tel: 02-260-0869 // Open: 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; www.beiotto.com

touch. 29 Sukhumvit Soi 38, Bangkok // Tel: 02713-6049 // Open: 5-11:30 p.m. daily

Indus “Best Indian Restaurant” winner from

multiple publications. A contemporary Kashmiriinspired Indian restaurant. Sukhumvit Soi 26 (BTS Phrom Phong) // Tel: 02-258-4900 // Open daily for lunch and dinner; www.indusbangkok.com

MASALA ART Serves cuisine that revolves

around Indian spices, imported whole, then ground and blended. 8 Thonglor, 88 Sukhumvit Soi 55 // Tel: 02 713 8357

RANG MAHAL Exquisite Indian cuisine in elegant setting, with great views of Bangkok.

Rembradnt Hotel, 19 Soi Phichit, Sukhumvit 18, Bangkok // Tel: 02-261-7100

ITALIAN La Tavola & Wine Bar Open: Tuesday – Sunday ,11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m; 6-11 p.m. 3rd Floor, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, 518/8 Ploenchit Road (BTS: Chidlom Station) // Tel: 02-125-5020 Angelini’s Award-winning Italian favorite in Bangkok.Shangri-la Hotel Bangkok, 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Road // Tel: 02-206-8677/8 Calderazzo Amazing food, great place, with fast, efficient and friendly service. 59 Soi Langsuan // Tel: 02-252-8108/9 // Open: 11 a.m.2 p.m.; 6-10:30 p.m. daily La Bottega Di Luca Terrace 49, Sukhumvit Soi 49, Klongtan, Wattana, Bangkok // Tel: 02-204-1731 Giusto Italian restaurant and glass wine bar

with clean, modern interior, elegant food, an art house cigar lounge and chef-owners that

ZUMA Contemporary Japanese Cuisine.

KiSara Representing the culinary spirit of Japan, the 110-seat restaurant features a sushi counter, sizzling Teppanyaki counter, and private rooms. Succulent meats and exquisite seafood are accompanied by an exclusive range of Japanese sake. Set Lunch starts fat Bt480+++ All you can eat Lunch weekday Bt1,000++ and weekend Bt1,480++. Conrad Bangkok, 3rd floor, All Seasons Place, 87/3 Wireless Road (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-690-9299, Email: reserve@ conradbangkok.com ISAO Famous for sublime fusion sushi -- sashimi and rolls -- with a Western flair.

Sukhumvit Soi 31// Tel: 02-258-0645

ARIRANG The restaurants always offers

quality food and service. Sukhumvit Plaza, Sukhumvit Soi 12 // Tel: 02-653-0111

Kongju Very popular with families. Dishes are prepared authentically, in big hearty servings. 2nd Flr, Pathumwan Princess Hotel, MBK Center 444 Phayathai Rd // Tel: 02-2163700 // Open:11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 6-10:30 p.m.

Mediterranean SIROCCO One of the most recommended restaurants in Bangkok. Great menu and equally great views of Bangkok and Chao Phraya River.

63rd Floor, lebua at State Tower, 1055 Silom Rd (BTS: Saphan Thaksin) // Tel: 02-624-9555 // Open: Daily 6 p.m – 1 a.m; www.thedomebkk. com/ Park Society Sofitel So Bangkok, 29th floor 2 North Sathorn Road Bangkok (MRT: Lumpini) // Tel: 02-642-0000 Vertigo For a romantic tête-à-tête, glamorous cocktail party, or fashion launch venue than this.

Fresh grilled seafood and premium steaks. Wide selection of cocktailsand drinks. 61st Flr, Banyan Tree Bangkok 21/100 South Sathorn Rd // Tel: 02- 679-1200 // Open: 5 p.m.-midnight daily; www. banyantree.com

Seafood Seafood Market One of the oldest

seafood restaurants in the city, popular with tourists. 89 Sukhumvit Soi 24 // Tel: 02-261-2071 // Open: 11:30 a.m.-midnight

Fifty Five Centara Grand CentralWorld,

54th floor 999/99 Rama 1 Road, Bangkok (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-100-1234

Spanish Rioja Known for imported fresh ingredients from Spain. Specializing in northern Spanish region. Ploenchit Road (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-251- 5761/2 // Open: 6-11 p.m.

Koi Excellent Japanese cuisine with a definitive Californian twist surrounded by chic decor. Sukhumvit Soi 20 (BTS: Asoke) // Tel: 02258-1590 // Open: 4 p.m.-midnight

Tapas Café The first authentic Spanish tapas bar in Bangkok. Not a Spanish theme bar but a modern innovative tapas bar serving both traditional and modern tapas dishes.1/25 Sukhumvit 11 // Tel: 02-651 -947 // Open: 11 a.m. –midnight daily; www.tapasiarestaurants. com

Mugendai

Steakhouses

7 th Floor, Grass Thorglor Tel: 02-726-9222 Business-like setting with the warm familiarity of a busy downtown Tokyo favorite. 971/973 President Tower Arcade, Ploenchit Road // Tel: 02-656-00378 // Open: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; 5-10 p.m.

ARTUR’S From the man behind many of Bangkok’s finest steakhouses comes his most personal project. Great martinis and steaks at lower than average prices. 9 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road // Tel: 02-658-6288 // Open: Daily 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. & 6-11:30 p.m.

SHINTARO Get the finest quality slabs of

FiFTY FIVE Bangkok’s highest steakhouse right

nippon tei Extensive menu for all occasions.

sashimi, artfully hand-rolled sushi, succulent foie gras rolls, or tasty soba noodles here. Four Seasons Bangkok, 155 Rajadamri Rd (BTS: Rajdamri)// Tel: 02-126-8866 // Open: Daily 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-10:30 p.m.

TENSUI Fish for sushi and sashimi freshly

imported from the markets of Japan; everything served is less than 48 hours old. 33 Sukhumvit Soi 16, Nana // Tel: 02-663-2281

in the center of town. 55th Floor Centara Grand at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama 1 Rd (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-100-1234 // Open: 1:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 6:30 - 11:30 p.m.

Madison Bangkok’s best charcoal grilled steaks. High-end steakhouse with the quality and creativity expected from Four Seasons. G/F, Four Seasons Bangkok, 155 Rajdamri Rd (BTS: Rajdamri) // Tel: 02-250-1000

New York SteakHouse New York

caliber steakhouse, with the food, service, and refinement expected from its namesake city. JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok 4 Sukhumvit Rd, Soi 2 // Tel: 02-656-7700

Prime Watch your steak smoulder in the wood fired oven or take in the fantastic Chao Praya river view as the sun goes down. Millennium Hilton Bangkok Hotel 123 Charoennakorn Rd // Tel: 02442-2000 // Open: Daily 6-11 p.m.

Pramuan Road, Silom (BTS: Surasak) // Tel: 02236-4361, Open: 11.30 a.m.–10 p.m. daily

Isaya Siamese Club

4 Soi Sri Aksorn, Chua Ploeng Road, Sathorn, Bangkok // Tel: 02-672-9040/1

Patara 375 Soi Thonglor 19 Sukhumvit 55, // Tel: 02-185-2960

NARZ Massive after-hours club for those

searching for a more sophisticated late-night club.

Something for everyone throughout the four floors and eight bars covering everything from house to trance to hip-hop nightly. 112 Sukumvit 23 (BTS: Asoke Station); Open daily: come late and stay later

Route 66 Long-time favorite for young farangs

Tea Rooms

Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor) // Tel: 085-9042691

and locals alike. Sprawling complex houses two separate areas featuring hip-hop and techno.

Some nights has farang upcharge. Royal City Avenue, RCA Open daily: 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

ERAWAN TEA ROOM Serves traditional Thai

Bo Lan 42 Sukhumvit 26 Soi Pichai

SPASSO An Italian restaurant by day; nightclub

cuisine complemented by refreshing beverages in a beautifully appointed semi-casual setting. 494 Ploenchit Rd (BTS: Childom) // Tel: 02-250-7777

Agalico 20 Sukhumvit 51 Rd, Bangkok //Tel: 02-662-5857

TWG Tea Salon & Boutique

Emporium G floor, 622 Sukhumvit (Sukhumvit Road), Bangkok

Thai The Anna Restaurant & Art Gallery

27 Soi Piphat (Sathorn 6), North Sathorn Road, Silom , Bangrak, Bangkok Tel.02-237-2788/9 Fax. 02-235-5341

BALEE LAOS Arguably the best of Laos

and Isaan food. Sukhumvit Soi 16 // Tel: 02663-1051

Baan Khanitha & Gallery Winner of

Soul Food Mahanakorn 56/10

Ronnarong Songkram // Tel: 02-260-2962

Naam Sathorn Tai // Tel: 02-625-3333 Thai on 4 Amari Watergate Bangkok, 4th floor, 847 Petchburi Rd, Bangkok // Tel: 02-653-9000

Su Tha Ros Hotel Muse, 19th floor

55/555 Langsuan Road Lumphini, Pathumwan Bangkok (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-630-4000

Bars Diplomat Bar In the afternoon, the cozy

lounge serves up a quintessential afternoon tea but when the sun goes down, it transforms into a classy vibe jaz bar featuring specialty cocktails, premier cognacs, and the finest champagnes and wines. Conrad Bangkok, 1st Floor All Seasons Place, 87/3 Wireless, Bangkok (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-690-9999

more than 10 ‘Bangkok’s Best Thai Restaurant’ awards. Serves high quality authentic Thai food in traditional atmosphere. 36/1 Sukhumvit 23 // Tel: 02-258-4128, 02-258-4181 // Open: 11 a.m.

-2 p.m.; 6-11 p.m. daily; www.baankanitha.com

Red Sky Centara Grand CentralWorld, 55th floor 999/99 Rama 1 Rd (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-100-1234

Blue Elephant Another great Thai

BED SUPPERCLUB The only club in

restaurant. Menu include classics and innovations for the future. Old World ambiance enhances the dining pleasure. 233 South Sathorn Rd (BTS: Surasak) // Tel: 02-673-9353/4 // Open: 6:30 -11:30 p.m.; www.blueelephant.com

Cabbages and Condoms Established in part to support the activities of PDA with several locations around Thailand, this restaurant offers a pleasant dining experience.

6 Soi 12, Sukhumvit Rd // Tel: 02-229-4611 // Open: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily; www. cabbagesandcondoms.co.th

Celadon A bit pricey but the menu

offers great selection, inventive without being ridiculous. The Sukhothai Hotel, 13/3 South Sathorn Rd // Tel: 02-344-8888 // Open daily; www.sukhothai.com

CURRIES AND MORE Best of curries brought to you by the Baan Khanita group. 31 Soi Sukhumvit 53 // Tel: 02-259-8530/6 // Open: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-11 p.m.

Mahanaga (THAI FUSION) High-end,

relaxed al fresco experience. Serves high quality classic Thai dishes with a subtle fusion twist. 2 Sukhumvit Soi 29 // Tel: 02-662-3060 // Open: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 3:30-11 p.m. daily

MAYA Authentic Thai menu -- 15 courses --

served tapas-style and show. Millennium Hilton Bangkok, 123 Charoennakorn Rd // Tel: 02-4422000 // Open: 7 p.m.- 1 a.m. (Mon – Sat)

THE ORIENT THAI Great Thai food, great a.m.bience and great prices. 27 Sukhumvit 49, Thonglor // Tel: 02-258-7908 Open: 11a.m. – 2p.m. Dinner: 5p.m. – 10p.m.

Thanying Royal Thai Cuisine, from palace

recipes. Thanying has been deligjhting food lovers with authentic dishes since 1985. 10

CLUBS Bangkok virtually guaranteed to be packed every night of the week. Luxurious dining on white coaches on one side, hot tracks on the other. Top international DJ’s on special nights.

26 Sukhumvit Soi 11 (BTS: Nana) // Tel: 02-6513537 Cover charge: Bt300-Bt800 w/1-2 dinks www.bedsupperclub.com

– with live band—by night. A favorite of older expats, tourists, and others who like a more mature night-out. Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Rajdamri Rd (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-254-1234 Open daily: 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

TAPAS One of Bangkok’s oldest club and it has lasted for a reason. Multi-storied club with different DJ’s playing on each floor. Also check out the Rooftop area. 114/17-18 Silom Soi 4 (BTS: Saladaeng) // Tel: 02-632-7883, 02-234-4737 Open daily: 8 p.m.-1 a.m. www.tapasroom.net Q BAR Once notorious for crowds but has

started to turn around its image and continues to bring in top flight DJ’s and after parties. BTS: Nana Station // Tel: 02-252-3274 Open daily: 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Cover charge: Bt500-Bt700 w/2 drinks www.qbarbangkok.com

Live Jazz BAMBOO BAR Home to some of the more refined jazz music in Bangkok. Oriental Bangkok 48 Oriental Ave Tel: 02-659-9000 Open daily: Mon-Fri, 11 p.m.-1 a.m. Sat-Sun, 11 p.m.-2 a.m. www.dininginthailand.com FAT GUTZ Innovative cocktails, chic decor, and surprisingly good fish and chips. 264 Thonglor soi 12 Sukhumvit 55 (BTS: Thonglor) // Tel: 02-7149832 Live music 9p.m. - 12 a.m.; www.fatgutz. com IRON FAIRIES Antique factory with live metalcrafting, wine bar and restaurant. 394 Thonglor Road Sukhumvit Soi 55 (BTS: Thonglor) // Tel: 084-425-8080; www.theironfairies.com

CONCEPT CM2 Long-running favorite in the Siam Square area, and dubbed by many as a top favorite nightspot. Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square Soi 6 (BTS: Siam Square) // Tel: 02-209-8888; Open daily: 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

LIVING ROOM Tasteful décor, a sweeping bar, and large selection of fine whiskies, cocktails, cognacs and Cubans make this a jazz club for the highbrow scene. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Rd (BTS: Asoke) // Tel: 02-6498641 Open daily: 9 p.m.- midnight

87 Plus Sip on your favorite drink, mingle with stylish club-goers, and dance the night away in this elegant entertainment venue. The club features exclusive DJs, nightly themes and a diverse selection of specialty beverages.

Conrad Bangkok, 1st Floor All Seasons Place, 87/3 Wireless, Bangkok (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02-690-9999

SAXOPHONE Bangkok’s most popular jazz

Demo Sparse exterior and pitch-black inside,

it’s the thumping tech house that packs in hiso Thais. An established club that feels like a wharehouse rave. Thonglor Soi 10 BTS: Thonglor Station Open daily: 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

The Speakeasy

Partake in Speakeasy’s varied collection venues and pursuits, from star gazing, smoking cigars to book browsing and board games. Hotel Muse, 55/555 Langsuan Rd, Bangkok (BTS: Chidlom) // Tel: 02-630-4000

MIXX Discotheque Bangkok All night dance lounge featuring house and hip hop rooms.

973 President Tower, Room B06-B10 in the basement of the Intercontinental Hotel (BTS: Chidlom); Open daily: 10 p.m. - late

club for years. Three sets a night, great food, and some of the freshest jazz talent Thailand has to offer. Come hang with Thailand’s artist scene. 3/8 Victory Monument Phayathai Rd, Bangkok (BTS: Victory Monument) // Tel: 02-246-5472 Open daily: 6 p.m.-2 a.m. www.saxophonepub.com

LOUNGES Blue Velvet Entrance is is a castle facade, and once inside you find yourself in a surprisngly stylish medieval dungeon. Quirky lounge for Thonglor’s younger crowd. Thonglor Soi 5, Sukhumvit 55 (BTS: Thonglor) // Tel: 02-3921769;Open daily: 6 p.m.- 1 a.m.

Diplomat Bar Jazz bar/lounge in the midst

-650-8800 Open daily: 6:00 p.m.-2 a.m. www.plazaatheneebangkok.com/theglazbar

Long Table Chic bar where Bangkok’s glamorous come to lounge on long sofas and look out over the city. 48 Column Building, Sukhumvit Soi 16 (BTS: Asoke) // Tel: 02-302-2557 // Open daily: 5 p.m.-2 a.m. www.longtablebangkok.com/ NEST Wonderful little rooftop bar on the top of

the @ Le Fenix Hotel. Situated in the midst of Suk 11, yet feels intimate and relaxed. 33/33 Sukhumvit Soi 11 (BTS: Nana) // Tel: 02-6546935 www.thenestbangkok.com/

Three Sixty One of the more stunning views Bangkok has to offer high up on the 32nd Floor of the Millennium Hilton Hotel with panormaic views of the Chao Praya River. 123 Charoennakorn Road Klongsan (Free shuttle rom BTS Saphan Taksin pier) Open daily: 5 p.m.-1 a.m.

PUBS Dubliner A favorite for it’s weekly quizes and

giant English breakfasts. 440 Sukhumvit Rd (BTS: Phrom Pong) // Tel: 02-204-1841-2 Open daily: 5 p.m.-2 a.m. www.thedublinerbangkok. com

THE LONDONER BREW PUB Two different pub-brewed beers, a pilsner and cream bitter, and satellite feed from around the world keep sports enthusiasts happy. Buy 1, get 1 promo on drinks all-night every Wed. 591 UBC II Bldg, Basement B 104, Sukhumvit 33 (BTS: Phrom Phong)// Tel: 02-261-0238/9 www.the-londoner.com Molly Malone’s Silom area pub with regular drink and food specials. Serves up a great Sunday Raost. 1/5-6 Soi Convent Silom (BTS: Silom) Open daily: 6 p.m.-2 a.m. www.mollymalonesbangkok.com

WINE BARS GLASS Stylish, contemporary wine bar space

at the back of Giusto and doubles as an art space for an eclectic range of art. 16 Soi Sukhumvit 23, Sukhumvit Road, (BTS: Asoke) // Tel: 02258-4321 Open daily: 6 p.m.-midnight. www. giustobangkok.com/glass.html

WINE PUB 2/F, Pullman Bangkok Kingpower, 8/2 Rangnam Rd (BTS: Victory Monument) // Open daily: 6 p.m.-2 a.m. www. pullmanbangkokkingpower.com Wine Republic

137 SoiThonglor 10, Bangkok Tel: 02-714-7599

Wine Connection 93,95, K-Village Room A116-118, Soi Aree (Sukhumvit 26), Sukhumvit Road // Tel: 02-234-0388

DECANTER Features a selection of vintage wines in a gentelmen’s club ambience with an oriental influence. Offers an extensive cellar from the world’s most celebrated vineyards with two private rooms for exclusive tastings or wine dinners. St. Regis, 12th floor,159 Rajadamri Road (BTS: Rajdamri) // Tel: 02-207-7829 SCARLETT Panoramic views of the Bangkok

skyline. Wine can be expertly paired with food or sipped by the glass. Sofitel Silom, 188 Silom Rd (BTS: Chong Nonsi) // Tel: 02-238-1991 Open daily: 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

of Bangkok’s diplomat district. A place for world changers, or those who consider themselves one, to chat over martinis. Conrad Hotel, 87-3 Wireless Rd (BTS: Ploenchit) // Open daily: 10 a.m.-2 a.m. www.conradhotels.com/bangkok

Glaz Bar Sit and sip a cocktail and also enjoy

the innovative Thai tapas on this posh Wireless Road watering hole. Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien Hotel, 10 Soi Ruam Rudee, Wittayu-Wireless Rd (BTS: Ploenchit) // Tel: 02

JUly 2013 | 83

where to

travel

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Viranat Silananda General Manager Amari Atrium Bangkok Tips to share fellow travelers going to Chiang Mai Must-Do: Fulfill your life by trying to become a mahout for a day and learning about the life of elephants: how they communicate, how they develop social bonds, as well as how they live and play.

Must-See: Walking Street Market, also known as “Sunday Market.”

'Chiang Mai: My Perfect Getaway’

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By Earth Saiswang

iranat Silananda says an ideal holiday destination is one where you relax, breathe a sigh of relief, and escape from the nagging routine of daily life. “It’s a place where you can enjoy together with your family and make little wishes come true,” says the 44-year-old general manager of Amari Atrium Bangkok.

In Thailand, the place that fits his criteria is Chiang Mai. “It’s my perfect getaway, a cultural and natural wonderland with ethnic diversity; a place with multitude of attractions and welcoming hospitality,” explains the GM who describes himself as a ‘modernist with a clear vision and structure for the future.’ “Most of all, I like the latter: genuine hospitality style of local people,” he adds.

While Viranat is Thai, he hasn't been to Chiang Mai more than five times. That was after he first came to Thailand five years ago. But he definitely loved it.

“Chiang Mai impressed me with its indigenous cultural identity, which includes diverse dialects, delectable cuisine, distinctive architecture, traditional values, lively festivals, numerous handicraft workshops, Northern style massage, and classical dances,” he adds.

He was just there recently – during the recent Thai “winter” -- but Viranat can’t wait to return to Chiang Mai and is already planning to return there with his family for the next long holiday. 

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Sleep at: Amari Angkhang Nature Resort. The mountainous location and the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside make it an ideal escape for nature lovers.

Eat at: Chiangmai's open markets (also called “Kaad-Kom”). You will see a sizeable market with gigantic, welllit signs in English. Many familiar food chains with local flair surrounds the place.

Foreign tourists are definitely welcomed here.

Drink at: Try some fresh drinks at Amari Angkhang Nature Resort. Its mountain location and the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside make it an ideal escape for nature lovers.

Bring: Casual clothes with lover sunglasses Don’t forget: Get around in the city by the red cars, also known as ‘rot daeng’ or ‘song thaew’ (meaning ‘two rows’) Others: Rent a motorbike. It’s so convenient to get about easily, and will help you experience every inch of Chiang Mai!

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