LOOKEAST 2017 March

LIFESTYLE

HOTELS

DINING

NIGHTLIFE

SHOPPING

EVENTS

PERSONALITIES

ART

CULTURE

SPAS

FASHION

EST. 1971

MARCH ISSN 0857-1139

TRAVEL

MARCH 2017

MARCH 2017 VOL.46 NO.3 WWW.LOOKEASTMAGAZINE.COM

THB100

WHAT'S INSIDE

MARCH 2017 REGULARS

6 What’s on 20 Travel News 38 Dining Promotions 34 Spa Offers 44 Airline Listings

TRAVEL

10 Destination – Phuket for the High-rollers 15 Checking in - Avani Khon Kaen 16 Destination: Go East 18 Culture – Bangkok: Over 300 years of History 24 Top Things to Do in Bangkok // Other Places of Interest 28 Shop Till You Drop

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ON THE COVER: Bangkok

WINE & DINE

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LOOKEAST | WHAT'S INSIDE

36 Feature – Gourmet Extravaganza: The Bangkok Gourmet Festival 35 Review/Bangkok – Heart & Soul of Real Italian Cuisine 41 Bars & Clubs – Bangkok Nightlife

contemporary indian dining

#71 Sukhumvit Soi 26. | Tel. 02-258-4900, 02-260-4790-1 | www.indusbangkok.com | indus@indusbangkok.com

TRAVEL

EDITOR'S ESSAY

Of Life And Travel

W

shutterstock

e in Thailand consider ourselves lucky, even blessed, to be living in such a wonderful, amazing place. I’m not saying it’s a perfect place, but if you are serious travel bug, being here makes a lot of sense and difference.

Consider how easy it is for us to go the paradisiacal islands and beaches that many people for foreign countries spend a lot of fortune to see. Consider how we can easily go on an exhilarating forest trek, a mountain climbing expedition, or

a zipline adventure even if we are living in local urban centers. Consider how we can explore the wealth and jewels of the emerald sea that surrounds our kingdom in a breeze. Consider how we can readily immerse ourselves – if we are willing and mindful -- in the priceless treasure trove of history, culture, and traditions available here almost without effort. And consider how accessible all those wonderful hospitality services and facilities that we can enjoy without putting a big hole in our pockets -- and provided with a genuine smile by gracious kindred folks.

These experiences we hope will make you consider Thailand as an ideal springboard to explore farther to other countries and destinations.

To help you in your exploration of Thailand, we have included more relevant sections in this issue, including Things to Do in Bangkok, Places of Interest, and Shopping listings.

Let us try to explore more places. Let us meet more people and discover what makes us all different, unique, and yet the same. Let us reconnect – as we should -- with the wonderful world we live in. Let us learn. Let us eat, drink, and play. Let us love. Let us live.

For as one popular song succinctly says it, “For all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.”

ON THE COVER Top Things to do in Bangkok

Percy Roxas Editor-in-Chief

OUR TEAM

Jarmmaree Janjaturonrasamee, Art Director

Percy Roxas Editor-in-Chief

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LOOKEAST | EDITORIAL

Panitkan Apiratanapimonchai,

Business Development Executive

Ankita Malhotra, Marketing Executive

Acharin Suthisawad, Executive Assistant to Chairman

a part of The Sehgal Group since 1971

Chairman Dato Satish Sehgal President Ravi Sehgal Group Publishing Director Asha Narula Sehgal Publisher Sid Sehgal Director Gaurav Sehgal Advisors Lalit Bakshi Earth Saiswang

Advertising & Media Consultants Co., Ltd. 18th floor Richmond Office Building 75/65 Sukhumvit Soi 26, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Tel: + 66 2 204 2982 Fax: + 66 2 204 2984 info@lookeastmagazine.com www.lookeastmagazine.com

WHAT'S ON CALENDAR

BANGKOK

national events & festivals

15-18

More info: Panada Lerthattasin at 02 254 6040-7 // email at info@ sombatpermpoongallery.com

Michelin-starred Chef at The District

French Michelin-starred Guest Chef Nicolas Isnard presents sumptuous flavors from Southern France during his short guest stint at The District Grill Room and Bar. Chef Nicolas co-owns the Auberge de la Charme Restaurant in Prenois, France, which earned him a Michelin star in 2009 within a year after he and three partners began operation. The restaurant also boasted four Gault & Millau toques.

Chef Nicolas’ Southern French cuisine combines tradition and innovation, and discipline and creativity with a mix of distinctive rustic flavors and provincial produce. For his four-day culinary extravaganza at The District Grill Room & Bar, Chef Nicolas will craft out an exclusive à la carte menu sourced by creative ingredients of the best quality, perfectly matched with a collection of finest wines in town.

Where: The District Grill Room & Bar, Bangkok Marriott Sukhumvit, Sukhumvit Road More info: 02 797 0400

1-8

Sebastião Salgado: The World Through His Eyes

Presented By The Royal Photographic Society of Thailand, the Bangkok Art and Cultural Center, and the Sundaram Tagore Gallery, this exhibition is a collection of more than 120 iconic black-and-white images. Entrance fee is THB 500 for association members and students, and THB 1,000 for the general public. Limited seating.

Where: Bangkok Art and Cultural Center, Rama I Road (BTS: National Stadium) More info: www.rpst.or.th or rpst.infor@ gmail.com

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LOOKEAST | WHAT'S ON

1-31

Color Identities

Esteemed artist, professor, and director Kittikong Tilokwattanothai reflects on the many hats he wears in his life, some of which he has chosen for himself, and others that have been bestowed upon him.

The artist undertakes many responsibilities and many roles to play. These many roles are the inspiration for ‘Color Identities,’ where the artist has chosen to express his experiences in playing the varied roles and responsibilities that constitute his life through the medium of colors and shape.

Where: Sombatpermpoon Gallery, 12 Sukhumvit Soi 1, Bangkok

1-31

Veronica Nunn Live

The Arkansas-born singer with a voice reminiscent of early Carmen McRae and Sarah Vaughan, and according t Jazz Times Magazine, “can make stale sound fresh, the familiar sound arresting.”

Veronica will perform with the sensational Randy Cannon Group. Renowned for his power-packed performances, Randy’s mesmerizing piano playing is complemented by the outstanding drums stylings of Willard Dyson and Thailand’s leading bass player Therdsak Wongvichien.

Until April 1.

Where: The Living Room, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit (BTS: Asoke) When: 9:15 p.m. onwards TuesdaysThursdays; and 8:45 p.m. onwards Friday and Saturday.

More info: 02 649 8353 or email dining. sgs@luxurycollection.com

9-12

2017 King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament

Now in its 15th year, the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament has become one of the biggest charitable events in Southeast Asia with over US$1.3 million (THB 46-million) raised and donated to projects that better the lives of Thailand’s wild and domesticated elephants. These include the world’s first Thai Elephant

Assisted Autistic Therapy Project; elephant training workshops; mahout community development initiatives, and wild elephant conservation. A total of 30 street elephants will take part in this year’s festival.

The 2017 event will have 10 teams encompassing over 40 players, including Thai celebrities, supermodels, professional horse polo players and New Zealand AllBlacks rugby players. The four-day festival will have something for everyone including an impressive opening parade, Children’s Educational Day, Ladies Day known as The “Bangkok Ascot,” and fun elephant related activities. For more information visit www. anantaraelephantpolo.com.

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Chick Corea Band Live

The world-class fusion jazz band will perform live for the first time in Thailand next month. The Bangkok jazz concert celebrates the 75th birthday of Chick Corea, the world’s legendary fusion jazz ensemble of the 80’s. The classic quintet owns 22 Grammy awards from 65 times of nominations. This is the first reunion in 12 years of the iconic jazz, rock, R&B funk of music lovers around the world. Music lovers should not miss as only 1,000 tickets

available for the single round on March 11.

Where: KBank Siam Pic-Ganesha Theatre, Siam Square One How much: Tickets at THB 4,500, 3,500, 2,500, and 1,800.

More info: www.facebook.com/ bccgoforwardmusic.com

10-12

Thailand International Furniture Fair 2017 (TIFF 2017)

A grand showcase of furniture from Thailand and abroad, organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion. The event actually opens on March 8 for trade visitors but will be open to the public March 11-12, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Where: Challenger 2-3, Impact Muang

16-19 Travel Thailand Travel World #17

A comprehensive travel show, now in its seventh edition, organized by the Diversified Communications Co., Ltd. (Thailand) When: 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Where: Hall 1-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi More info: 02 861 4013, ext. 122; 08 6332 3395; www.divcom.co.th, www.thailandtravelshow.com

Thong Thani, Nonthaburi More info: 02 507 8363, 02 507 8361, 02507 8364; www.thailandfurniturefair. com, www.thaitradefair.com

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The Wonderful World of Disney on Ice

Until April 2, enjoy a spectacular feel-good show featuring some of the best performing talents of the world.

Where: Arena, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi How much: Tickets at THB 2,500, THB 1,700, THB 1,500, THB 1,200, and THB 600 More info: BEC-Tero Entertainment PCL at 02 262 3456; www.thaiticketmajor.com

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The 2nd Garment & Textile Embroidery Expo

This event brings together operators in the fields of garment and textile manufacturing industry, embroidery, sewing machine, printing, screen, heat transfer, etc. The exhibition will provide operators with up-to-date information in their sectors, and how these can help them operate more efficiently. Event runs until April 3, from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Where: Hall 6, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi More info: 02 060 0795-6, 08 2455 9642, 09 1090 2467; www.gteexpo.com

MARCH 2017 | 7

WHAT'S ON CALENDAR

Roi Et

1-3

Bun Phawet Fair

“Bun Phawet,” or merit making of the 4th lunar month, is one of the most important long-standing traditions that showcase the identity and pride of the people of Loei. “Phawet (from “Phra Wes” or Phra Wessandon), is the name of the last reincarnation of the Lord Buddha before his birth as Prince Siddhartha. During the fair, the Lord Buddha’s sermon on Phra Wessandon of Thet Maha Chat (The Great Birth), which consists of 13 episodes that are to be completed within a day, are re-enacted. The event is based on a local belief and participants enjoy viewing the Phra Uppakhut procession, a parade of the 13 episodes of the great sermon Mahachat and enjoy free “khao poon,” a Northeastern dish, as well as a light-andsound presentation. More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Pattaya

1-3

Pattaya International Music Festival

The “Pattaya International Music Festival,” one of the biggest international beach music festivals in Asia and Thailand, brings together famous Asian artists to the beach resort with performances on stages along the beautiful beach. The three-day activities, held with a colorful theme every year, start from the early evening until midnight.

More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 038 428 750, 038 428 687

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LOOKEAST | WHAT'S ON

national events & festivals Phuket

3-5

Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival

The inaugural “Laguna Phuket Food & Music Festival” is a 3-day charity food festival with live music, entertainment and celebrity chefs and star appearances. The festival aims to heighten Phuket’s status as a “City of Gastronomy” as conferred recently

by UNESCO, and to raise funds for “Children First Fund” as well as to create yet another lifestyle destination event within Laguna Phuket resort complex in celebration of its 30th Anniversary this year. The festival’s highlight, a star-studded Charity Gala Dinner with auctions, will be held on March 4 at the resort’s grand Latitude Marquee with multiple celebrity stars’ appearance such as Black ‘n’ Blue band, Gam, Fivera, and Jazziam – to name only a few, priced at THB 3,000 per person or THB 28,000 for a table of 10. More info: www.lagunaphuket.com/foodandmusicfestival, or 076 362 300, ext. 1404

Laguna Phuket

UPCOUNTRY

Chanthaburi

Nong Khai

1-31

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This annual fair is held on top of Khao Khitchakut, Makham District, featuring an offering ceremony to guardian angels, the gilding of the Lord Buddha's footprint, and climbing Khao Khitchakut. The latter is a tradition that has been observed for generations out of the belief that whoever climbs the mountain highest will gain higher merit. Event runs until April 7.

More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Every year, in March, Ban Mo devotes their time to the Prap Ho activities. It is a fun-filled affair that shows, games, and sale of goods at reasonable prices. The fair, organized in Ban Mo, Si Chiang Mai, has become more popular in recent years.

More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Phra Phutthabat Phluang Homage-paying Fair

Prap Ho Monument Fair

Krabi

Ayutthaya

7-9

17

Laanta Lanta Festival

What: The old town of Koh Lanta dresses up every year to celebrate the “The LaantaLanta Festival” and give both locals and foreign visitors a chance to enjoy unique cultural facets that are remains prevalent on this unspoiled island. The three-day event features an abundant choice of local foods and snacks as well as exotic drinks over 50 food and beverage booths. The event is held at Koh Lanta, Krabi. More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Si Sa Ket

14-16

Si Sa Ket Dok Lam Duan Flower Festival

The intriguing cream-colored flowers of lumduan (White Cheesewood) trees come into bloom around March every year. Si Sa Ket is the only province in the kingdom where large clusters of up to 50,000 of these trees grow naturally in the Princess Mother Memorial Park in the Si Sa Ket provincial center. The Si Sa Ket’s Four Tribes Annual Cultural Festival include cultural performances depicting the culture and way of life of the ethnic Lao, Khmer, Kui or Suay, and Yoe (pronounced Yer) tribal peoples, a photo exhibition, drawings by local artists, a drawing contest, delicious som tam (papaya salad), kai yang (grilled chicken) and khaoniaow (sticky rice) – top favorite local delicacies served in the food plaza, a great variety of engaging live demonstrations, and sales of OTOP local village products from each of the sub-districts (tambon) of Si Sa Ket province promoted under the One Tambon One Product label. More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Thai Martial Arts Festival and Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony

Muay Thai boxers from around the world return to Ayutthaya to pay respect to their teachers, and to pay homage to the legendary Muay Thai folk hero, Nai Khanom Tom during this festival. Highlights include the ritual and opening ceremony, light and sound presentation, traditional Thai folk sports, demonstration, and exhibition.

More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Trat

23-27

Trat Independence Day

The event commemorates the return of the province from a French-occupied territory to Thai sovereignty. The event features

historical performances, local product sales, various exhibitions from state and private organizations, folk games and sport shows, and musical other entertainment. More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Nakhon Ratchasima

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Thao Suranari Memorial Fair

Until April 3, one of the biggest fairs in Nakhon Ratchasima is held – the Thao Sranari Memorial Fair. The annual event commemorates the victory of Thao Suranaree or Ya Mo, over the armies of Lao king Anouvong when he invaded Siam in 1826. The event typically includes a ceremonial lighting of an opening flame, firework displays, a Ya Mo sports competition, beauty and singing, silk making and drawing competitions, cat shows, and cultural performances, and exhibitions and concerts from well-known Thai artists. More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

Lampang

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Elephant Satoke Fair

Elephant shows, parades, and a decorating contest for the “satoke” (a large khantoke) all lead up to a feast of fruits and vegetables intended for the elephants at the Lampang Elephant Conservation Center, Lampang. More info: Tourism Authority of Thailand at 1672 or 02 250 5500

MARCH 2017 | 9

TRAVEL FEATURE

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LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

FOR THE HGHROLLERS Phuket continues to transform -- and fast -- into a real up-market tourism destination – a true-blue high-profile jetsetter’s paradise

P

huket continues to become a favorite of the world’s high-rollers and many world-famous international celebrities – despite efforts to make themselves as anonymous as can be – are seen around the island as they play in one of the island’s lovely beaches, eat in some of the destination’s gourmet restaurants, or cavort in some luxurious hotel swimming pools and yachts.

In fact, sightings of international celebrities are no longer big news among Phuket folks, and many luxury resorts, and especially the Royal Marina Phuket, have their own celebrity calendar. Many of the world’s rich and famous have become regular fixtures on Phuket hotels, raising the island’s profile further as the tropical playground to the world’s high rollers.

And why not? With experiences ranging from oceanic adventure to spiritual enlightenment that it offer, Phuket is the perfect destination for all types of travelers -- from the chilland thrill-seekers to the international jetsetters bored with their present playground.

Phuket really have what it takes to cater to and satisfy the world’s high rollers. Certainly, in the last few years, Phuket it has been transforming fast into a real up-market tourism destination – a true-blue high-profile jetsetter’s paradise.

Not more than about 25 years or so ago, Phuket was hardly on the

by Percy Roxas tourism map. Blessed with rich, natural beauty, the island had, at the time, rather rudimentary infrastructure, and there were only a handful of hotels, including the Pansea Hotel and the Phuket Yacht Club. It was, in general, more rural than urban, and even the main town was rustic.

As one local recalls, “If you crossed the road from Club Med then, you will find yourself standing in ricefields. Getting to Kamala Beach meant jolting along a rough track through rubber plantations. Patong was a quiet little village.” Indeed, going to any of the beaches in those days, felt like going to your own private strip of powdery white sand.

“When I first came to Phuket in the early 1970s,” added writer Harold Stevens, “Phuket town was like a hub which had roads, and very rough ones, radiating out to all the coves.

If you wanted to travel from Patong to Karon, no more than half a dozen kilometers, you had to go to Phuket Town first and travel from there to Karon.” Each of the many bays and coves that make up the island has become a resort area in recent years.

The turning point was 1987, when things began to change. After the Tourism Authority of Thailand launched the “Visit Thailand Year,” a growing number of tourists who visited Bangkok also went to Phuket. Phuket had become a major destination, firmly etched on the world’s tourist map. Since then, it has made a steady upward climb as one

of Thailand’s top tourist destinations, wavering only when the country stumbles into an economic crunch or political uncertainty, but consistently rising again like a Phoenix afterwards.

Today, general quality of life has arguably improved 100 percent.

Infrastructure development is booming. Shopping options have increased with the opening of the Phuket JungCeylon, Central Festival, Tesco-Lotus, Carrefour, Index, Makro, and other new shopping outlets. In 1994, one wouldn’t find a movie house in Phuket Town; today there’s a modern multiplex in Patong. Discos abound, and bars of all kinds are a-plenty. Dining choices have never been more varied either, with a score of top-shelf restaurants offering specialized cuisine from many countries easily within reach.

In fact Phuket has recently been conferred “City of Gastronomy” status

by UNESCO.

And more leisure activities, both land-and sea-based, are now available. Since the opening of the Royal Marina Phuket (076 379379) in December 2005, distinguished international visitors have become frequent Phuket visitors. Many come in their private jets. In 2006, reports said some 840 private jets landed at the Phuket International Airport. Today, the well-heeled crowd constitutes the a large part of the visitors in Phuket.

Where do they stay when in Phuket? There is no dearth of luxury resorts in the island nowadays, MARCH 2017 | 11

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LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

JW Marriott Resort & Spa Phuket

Trisara

consisting of really fabulous places, many with private pools, lush tropical gardens, magnificent sea views, and excellent services (including a private butler in most). The likes of Kylie Minogue and David Beckham stay at The Banyan Tree (076 324-374); because as the New York Times once puts it: it’s chic, it’s private, and it’s (supposed to be) paparazzi-proof. It appeals to celebs and jetsetters with a conscience.

Many enjoy the supremely luxurious Trisara (971 310-100), which is acknowledged as Southeast Asia’s most intimate and exclusive resort and spa, and it’s easy to see why. Others like the JW Marriott Resort & Spa Phuket (076 338-000), a distinctive haven set amid acres of spectacular gardens.

Then, there are those who prefer the Amanpuri (076 324-333), Anantara (076 336-100), The Racha (076 355-455), Dusit Laguna, Angsana Laguna, and Indigo Pearl, among others, also all epitomes of luxury and extravagant holidays.

Truth is, Phuket is now home to some of the most fabulous hotels and resorts in the region, if not the world, and strings of international awards bear this out. Also, Phuket continuously beefs up the range of holiday experience it offers. There’s always something new, something different to experience.

Presently, several tour operators and service providers are creating tailor-made specialty luxury holiday products to meet, and even exceed,

Angsana Laguna

TRAVEL FEATURE

their requirements: sea plane charters, personal chefs, masseuses, yoga instructors, limousine arrangements, island tours, private yacht rentals, sailing and fishing charters, helicopters, scuba diving, snorkeling trips, and more.

With these, those looking for luxury holidays are expected to find Phuket “Just perfect.” As Bill Gates, who was here a few years ago, said, "Phuket is one of the best holidays I’ve ever had.”

With Phuket becoming a center for luxury and extravagance, not to mention outstanding levels of customer service and architectural beauty, we might be seeing more and more of the world’s rich and famous making the island not only their playground, but also their second home.

Indeed, with a continuously growing portfolio of luxury resorts and property developments around the island, we can only wish they would come in droves continually.

The Chinese and Asean visitor arrivals have actually seen a dramatic rise. But, that is another story.

WHAT TO SEE

Phuket Town Phuket town is in the northwest of Mueang Phuket, the capital district of Phuket Province, which covers the southern part of the island. The western and southern coast consists of several from the northwest: Karon, Kata, Kata Noi, Nai Harn, Rawai and the Friendship Beach along Chalong Bay. The beaches are separated from each other by the rocky capes; most notably the Promthep Cape at the southernmost trip of the island.

The cape is popular because of its dramatic sunset views. The town proper is noted for its Sino-Portuguese buildings and houses and Old World charm.

Temples Wat Chalong is the most important of the 29 Buddhist temples in Phuket.

TRAVEL FEATURE It is dedicated to two highly venerable monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, who were noted in Thai history for their role in helping injured tin miners during a rebellion in 1876.

Chalong Bay Chalong Bay is a safe mooring place for many yachts and tour boats because it is protected from strong winds. Many daytrips to the nearby islands start here as well, so it can be crowded between sunrise and 9 a.m. when the boats leave and between 4 and 5 p.m. when they return. A vast parking area and a number of restaurants, shops, tourist information kiosks, and open-air waiting areas have been built to serve passing visitors. A number of quality restaurants, pubs, and bars have developed in the recent years.

Panwa Cape This cape is home to the Marine Biological Research Center and Phuket's Aquarium, where visitors may view several hundred exotic and colorful marine species found in the teeming waters of Phuket and elsewhere. There are a few accommodations developing in the area in the recent years, and some of the hotels also have an attractive beach often reserved only for their guests.

THE MAIN BEACHES

Patong Beach -- The beach features a massive number of restaurants catering to any taste and cuisine, pubs and bars, and tour and travel agencies. Patong also is noted for its night market, which pops up at sunset along the sidewalks of the beach road.

The opening of a lifestyle-shopping complex, Phuket JungCeylon, has just enhanced its reputation for shopping. Live music can be found in most pubs and bars, but nightlife is centered on Soi Bangla. During the daytime, Patong Beach is ideal for swimming and watersports.

Karon Beach -- The second largest of Phuket’s main tourist beaches, Karon hosts many large resort complexes lining the back road of

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LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

The Racha

HOW TO GET THERE

By Air – It takes approximately one hour or so to fly to Phuket. Several domestic flights operate daily from Bangkok at both regular (and a bit higher) price; and low-cost fares. For details, contact Thai Airways (02 628-2000, www. thaiairways.com), Bangkok Airways (02 265-5678, 02 265-5555, www. bangkokair.com); Thai Air Asia (02 5159999, www.airasia. com), and Nok Air (1318, www.nokair. com). Phuket also offer direct flights to international destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Penang, Singapore, Sydney, and even Europe (via Eurowings).

By Bus -- Buses (both air-conditioned and non-air) leave daily from Bangkok’s Southern Terminal Station to Phuket.

Travel time is approximately from 12 to 14 hours. For more info, call 02 435-1199, 02 4351200, 02 434-7192, 02 434-5557-8 or visit www.transport. co.th. Buses also leave Khao Sarn Road with probably slightly higher fares.

By Train -- If you’re taking the overnight train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station, get off at Suratthani, then to take a bus to Phuket. Pre-booking is advised. For schedule check with the State Railway of Thailand (Hua Lamphong) at 1690, 02 223-7010, 02 204-444, and 02 621-8701.

By Car – You can also drive Phuket. The total distance is 862km approximately 12 hours.

the beach. The beach here, often frequented by families and longstaying travelers, is never is too crowded.

Kata Beach -- Very popular with families, it is an all-around favorite, mainly because of its spectacular palm-lined beach, great restaurants, and lively, but not raucous, nightlife.

The clear water is perfect for swimming, and at the north end rests a coral reef teeming with colorful tropical fish and corals.

Kata Noi Beach -- Located south of Kata, this is a smaller beach with only a few hotels and other scattered developments. The beach is superb, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Swimming can be difficult, however.

Nai Harn Beach -- A wide variety of watersports can be enjoyed here but swimmers should be warned about dangerous currents from May to October. One can walk from here to nearby Promthep Cape to observe fiery, spectacular sunsets.

Mai Khao -- Mai Khao Beach, on the northwest coast of Phuket, stretches a bit over 10km, but it is still much less developed than other beaches on the island. Mai Khao is a very popular camping spot.

Layan Beach -- Many birds and other wildlife call this peaceful area home. You can reach the beach by walking pass the Laguna Phuket Resort or by following the highway and turning in to Nai Thon beach at the road sign, which can be accessed by a small road, passing close by the Banyan Tree Golf Club.

Bang Tao Beach -- Bang Tao is a large open bay featuring one of Phuket’s longest beaches. In the olden days, the whole area was used for tin mining, but had since been developed into a number of luxury resorts and apartments. During the dry season (Nov-April), swimming is excellent. During summer months, swimming is restricted due to strong currents.

Surin Beach -- Surin has seen a lot of mid- to upper market development in the recent years, and it is rapidly gaining in popularity for couples and families alike. Big waves make Surin a dangerous place to swim during the rainy season, but during the dry months, it is a perfect location to create holiday memories.

Kamala Beach -- The 2km beach is very beautiful. There are accommodations ranging from guesthouses to international class hotels to self-catering apartments, as well as a number of small Thai restaurants specializing in seafood for the tourist population.

Kalim Beach -- Despite the quieter edge to this beach, its proximity to Patong Beach makes it ideal for travelers who like to have a bit more quiet time while preserving easy access of the nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment.

Rawai Beach -- Rawai Beach is the site of the famous Chao Ley (Sea Gipsy) villages, as well as the very first tourist beach of the island.

Today, Rawai is more of a transit point for day boat excursions out to the numerous islands surrounding Phuket.

ADVERTORIAL

PERFECT FOR ALL KINDS OF EVENTS

All photos from AVANI Khon Kaen

CHECKING IN KHON KAEN

AVANI Khon Kaen, the premier destination for meetings, large conferences, and weddings in Northeastern Thailand, is your best bet for successful MICE events.

A

s the business travelers become more adventurous in their choices of MICE venues, other parts of the country – such as the Northeast of Thailand (Isan)—become even more appealing to organizers. In Khon Kaen, that means choosing AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel and Convention Center, a multipurpose conference hub that is considered the premier meeting destination in Isan.

AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel and Convention Centre puts you right in the main artery of Khon Kaen, the cultural hub of the Isan, a region that is famous for its food, for its traditional folk singers (Morlam), and for the Phuk Siew ritual, an ancient traditional Isan custom that sanctifies the friendship between friends, between businesses and in some cases, between countries.

The hotel features 196-guestrooms and suites, making it perfect for events with a big number of delegates and participants to your events. The hotel boasts cutting edge facilities including a 1,703sqm convention

center, the 538sqm-Prachasamosorn Ballroom, and 11 meeting rooms, for all kinds of conferences, meetings, and weddings.

The AVANI convention center is small enough to be intimate but can handle conferences for 2,000 delegates.

The center’s state-of-the art technological capabilities and proximity to the outdoor swimming pool, make it ideal not only for indoor conferences but also for outdoor receptions.

Prachasamosorn Ballroom can host 600 people for cocktails, 280 people banquetstyle, and 500 people theatre-style. An additional eight meeting rooms can host 60 to 120 people, providing an impressive venue for seminars, management meetings, training events and workshops.

Soundproofed interior partitioning allows for the convention spaces and the Prachasamosorn Ballroom to be divided into smaller rooms allowing for a variety of different seating configurations and seamlessly allowing for more than one event

to be staged at a time.

The hotel itself is a big draw in itself. With its stylish exterior that is complemented by contemporary and comfortable interiors, the hotel’s quality accommodation offers all the modern conveniences guests expect from a top-rated hotel that exceeds expectations and service requirements.

These include a range of restaurants that serve some of the region’s best cuisines: The Globe, which serves tasty Thai and international buffet dishes; Ju Fang, which service dim sum and tastes of Hong Kong; Wok & Grill’s open kitchen, which delivers hot and spicy Isan dishes; and London Inn, which hits the spot for traditional pub nosh.

And because AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre is one of the best located hotels in the city, just 15 minutes’ drive from the airport, and a short distance from Central Plaza, the biggest shopping and lifestyle complex in Khon Kaen – it simply is the perfect venue for any kind of functions for all occasions in Khon Kaen!

AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel and Convention Centre Website: www.avanihotels.com E-mail: khonkaen@avanihotels.com Facebook: AVANIKhonKaen Tel: 043 209 888 MARCH 2017 | 15

TRAVEL EASTERN SEABOARD

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LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

GO EAST! Some ‘Great Island Escapes’ just a short drive from your doorsteps in Bangkok!

I

f you don’t want to shell out for a plane ticket to the south of Thailand and you’ve got your own wheels, where can you go for a decent weekend retreat not too far from Bangkok? The Eastern Seaboard remains a popular option for Bangkokians, with masses heading down to Pattaya and Rayong for some R & R. Neither of these places have beaches as seductive as those on Samui or Phuket, but there are some excellent options without having to drive all night. Yes, the islands.

Koh Si Chang:

Sleepy Koh Si Chang gets bypassed in favor of the white sand on Koh Samet, but this is a great spot to see a real local slice of Thai life, and the small isle is steeped in local history. At the southern end of the island is the Phra Judhadhut Palace, the former summer home of King Rama V, surrounded with immaculate terraced gardens, streams, fountains, and ponds, and is a superb spot to while away the hour, picnic, and watch the goings on of the Thai fishing industry in the Bight of Bangkok. The palace that used to be here was relocated piece by piece to Bangkok where it is now the famed Vimanmek Mansion. The island also features some very colorful tem-ples, the best of which is Wat Tham Yai Prik, with its giant golden Buddha welcoming visitors, perched on the limestone cliffs above the sea. The temple is home to a series of cool meditation caves, and is inhabited by monks and nuns. The west coast has one small beach, Hat Tam Phang, which has clear waters for swimming.

Places to stay include Malee Blue, (www. maleeblue.com), which looks like a Moroccan palace, suitable for all your Arabian nights fantasies close to home. Koh Si Chang takes 45 minutes to reach by ferry from Sri Racha.

file photos

Koh Larn:

While only seven kilometers away from each other, Koh Larn and Pattaya feel like MARCH 2017 | 17

TRAVEL EASTERN SEABOARD

cen-turies apart. Pattaya is neon, nightlife, dirty water, and every inch of spare silty sand taken up by beach umbrellas and vendors. Koh Larn meanwhile, makes you feel like you are down in Phuket. The small island, reachable both by speedboat and ferry in less than an hour from Pattaya’s Bali Hai Pier, has excellent white sand beaches and turquoise water, more reminiscent of Koh Lanta or Phi Phi, and once the day trippers go home, if you stay overnight at the handful of THB 1200-bungalows that are available, you’ll have the island almost completely to yourself. Koh Larn is mostly mountainous jungle, and is extremely lush. There are several viewpoints from the top of the island that are well worth visiting, and the island’s narrow brick roadways make for some nice motorcycle or bicycle touring, although the grades in some areas are quite steep. The largest beach on Koh Larn is Tawaen, a beautiful crescent of white sand, which is packed with cafes, shops, and an abundance of watersports and

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other activities, including banana boats, jet skis, and parasailing.

Tawaen gets extremely crowded on weekends, but there are a few coves on either side of the bay that are a bit less hectic if the main beach is too busy.

For something a bit quieter, head to Samae Beach on the west side of the island, or the even qui-eter Hat Tien (Candle Beach), which is tucked into a beautiful bay ringed by verdant hills.

Koh Kham: Not to be confused

with the small sand strip off of Koh Mak by the same name, this small island is the one that many travelers see from the air after taking off from Bangkok, and wonder what island the beautiful white sand beaches are part of. Also known as Koh Kham Sattahip, this island is a marine park with a fragile ecosystem, and is managed by the Thai Navy (www.navy.mi.th/ coast_guard/under_sea_park_ kham_island/novels/), and is only open for eco-tourism, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

on Saturdays and Sundays and public holidays from November to April.

You’re not allowed to spend the night on Koh Kham, but you can take the Navy boat out in the morning and come back at either one or four in the afternoon. The island is very well-managed, with only 300 visitors allowed per day, and there are glass bottom boats to go out on to checkout the coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Koh Samet:

While this is the darling of many island lovers from Bangkok, with a selection of white sand beaches and a real Koh Phangan or Koh Tao vibe to it, you might want to save Samet for a weekday. It gets really packed on the weekends, not to mention that prices go up, but if you do come during the week, it really is an excellent spot. The oil spill here in 2015 did some major dam-age to the beautiful west coast beach of Ao Phrao, but the east coast beaches and water are un-scathed. Activities range from mountain biking, heading

down to the unspoiled southern tip of the island, where one can see some gorgeous sunsets (the island is much wider up north and it takes a bit to cross from east to west, whereas down south the land narrows to just a small strip), and just lazing on the beaches, which are the best you’ll find this close to Bangkok. Most of the east coast beaches have some nightlife, with excellent fire twirling shows taking place on Hat Sai Kaew, the island’s most happening beach hangout.

The best and most romantic resorts are over on Ao Phrao, with luxury hideaways such as Le Virmarn (levimarncottage.com) an excellent choice for those seeking intimacy and ambience, but again, the oil spill has minimized swimming and you may want to wait awhile. There are also some lovely national park islands off the coast of Samet, which can actually be reached by boat charter from Ban Phe in the mainland pier where boats to Samet leave every 30-45 minutes.

Koh Kudi, Koh Kruai, Koh Kham, Koh PlaTin, and Koh Thalu have no development on

them, and really are great spots for Robinson Crusoe escapes, but you will need to camp and check in with the national park because there is no accommodation other than tenting, and you’ll need to bring your own food.

If you want the whitest sand and a dose of full on island escape choices, you’ll need to go farther east, to Koh

Chang or Koh Mak, but both of these require a four to five hours drive from Bangkok, so it’s almost easier to fly to mainland Trat and go from there, and thus we didn’t include those islands here. At any rate, there aren’t too many capital cities in Asia like Bangkok, which boasts “Great Island Escapes“ just a short drive from one’s doorsteps.

MARCH 2017 | 19

TRAVEL NEWS

Amari Watergate Hotel

Bangkok – The Ascott Limited (Ascott) recently received top honors as the ‘Leading Serviced Apartment Brand’ in Asia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Vietnam during the prestigious 2016 World Travel Awards (WTA) ceremony for Asia & Australasia. WTA is widely hailed as the Oscars of the travel industry.

Ascott also clinched the coveted ‘Best Serviced Residence Group’ at Travel Weekly Asia’s 2016 Readers Choice Awards. The awards, presented to outstanding companies for their first-class products, excellent service and their achievements that have helped boost the travel industry, honor the finest in the travel industry.

“Being voted the number one serviced residence brand in Asia, and recently the leading brand in Europe and the Middle East, motivates us to further push the boundaries of excellence,” said Tony Soh, Ascott’s chief corporate officer. “We thank all our staff for their passion in caring for our guests, in making sure they enjoy an extraordinary experience, and for upholding Ascott’s reputation as a world class brand. We will continue to stay on top of industry trends, be it embracing technology, tailoring our customer experience and transforming our business model to place Ascott in an even stronger position for the years ahead.”

Ascott received accolades in the following categories at the 2016 WTA: Asia's Leading Serviced Apartment Brand (The Ascott Limited), Hong Kong's Leading Serviced Apartment Brand (The Ascott Limited), Indonesia's Leading Serviced Apartment Brand (The Ascott Limited), Vietnam’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand (Somerset Serviced Residence), Vietnam’s Leading Serviced Apartments (Somerset Grand Hanoi), and Thailand's Leading Serviced Apartments (Ascott Sathorn Bangkok). At the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, The Ascott Limited won as Best Serviced Residence Group.

Ascott also took home six accolades at the WTA ceremony for Europe including ‘Leading Serviced Apartment Brand’ in Europe, France and Germany. La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris was bestowed France's ‘Leading Serviced Apartments’ while Citadines Michel Hamburg and Citadines Sainte-Catherine Brussels were awarded ‘Leading Serviced Apartments’ in Germany and Belgium respectively.

Melbourne Cup Charity

Bangkok -- David Cumming, vice president & area general manager Bangkok of ONYX Hospitality Group, recently welcomed H.E. Paul Robilliard (third from right), Australian Ambassador to Thailand, and H.E. Benjamin King, ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand on their arrival to attend the “Melbourne Cup Charity Luncheon 2017” organized by the Australian-New Zealand Women's Group at Watergate Ballroom, Amari Watergate Bangkok. Photo shows (from left-right): Sarah-Jane Svensson, Australian-New Zealand Women's Group ‘s Charity Luncheon coordinator; Rebecca King, Australian-New Zealand Women's

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Group's Co-patron; Benjamin King, New Zeland ambassador to Thailand; David Cumming; Paul Robilliard, Australian Ambassador to Thailand; Hanan Robilliard, Australian-New Zealand Women's Group’s Co-patron; and Vesna Burgess, Australian-New Zealand Women's Group’s president.

Armarone Wine Journey

Bangkok -- Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn Bangkok in collaboration with G Four Fine Wines recently hosted an “Armarone Classico Journey” wine reception at the 33rd Floor Sky Lounge of the hotel.

Five distinctly different wines from the renowned Zenato estate: Lugana San Benedetto 2014, Cormi Corvina Merlot 2010, Bardolino Chiaretto 2014, Ripassa Valpolicella 2012 and Amarone Della Valpolicella 2011 were paired with authentic Veneto cuisine created by Executive Chef Stefan Nietsche and Chef Job, Chef de Cuisine at LUCE Italian Restaurant.

They featured smoked herring fillet, deep-fried soft-shelled crab, a selection of salami and cheeses from the Veneto region,

Ascott

Ascott continues winning streak as ‘Best in Asia’

homemade tagliatelle pasta tossed with traditional Venetian duck ragout, roasted pork belly with crispy skin, traditional risotto with Amarone wine and traditional giant pork sausage. Zenato’s brand ambassador, Francois Aviloff, was the guest speaker. He explained the subtleties of each wine while the Khun Jan jazz band entertained the guests throughout the evening.

U Nimman Chiang Mai introductory offers

Chiang Mai -- U Hotels and Resorts’ second hotel in Chiang Mai, U Nimman, opens its doors March 1. To celebrate the opening, the hotel has unveiled Special Opening Rates starting at THB 2,526+++, which will be available until Oct. 31, and includes daily breakfast buffet.

Located in a prime location on the fashion-forward Nimmanahaeminda Road, Chiang Mai’s trendiest neighbourhood, and just minutes away from the shopping and entertainment area, U Nimman Chiang Mai (052 005 111 or email reserve@ unimmanchiangmai.com) has a total of

Royal Wings Suites & Spa gets TripAdvisor win

the conference in full force. The EO (www.eonetwork. org), the world’s only peer-to-peer network exclusively for business owners, was founded in 1987 in the USA.

EO Thailand currently has over 100 members. Photo show some of the distinguished personalities who graced the conference (from left)” Fred Johnson, EO Utah & board director; Sanjay Wadhwa, EO Chennai & board director; Vijay K. Tirathrai, EO Global CEO; Sasamon Sanguansin, president of EO Thailand Chapter; Dr. Somnuek Sanguansin; Yoon Li Yong, EO Malaysia & board director; Grace Leung; and Suchin Ratanasiriwiilai, EO Thailand.

The gala dinner, which showcased a culinary feast and performances from the four regions of Thailand, was held at the Centara Grand at Central World Hotel.

Oriental Residence Bangkok marks 5th year

Sukamal Mondal (first from left), general manager of Oriental Residence Bangkok, recently hosted a gala dinner under the theme, “La Vie En Rose” at the Oriental Room to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the hotel. Celebrities and top management from ONYX Hospitality Group attended the event.

Royal Orchid Sheraton

Prem Calais (first left), general manager of the Royal Cliff Hotels Group; Vitanart Vathanakul (center), executive director of the Royal Cliff Hotels Group; and Thibault Sellier (first right), resident manager of the Royal Wing Suites and Spa; proudly show off the award that the Royal Wing Suites & Spa has won for the 5th year (2017 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award).

The five-star boutique hotel has once again been named the top luxury hotel in Thailand. Only an elite group of hotels, which accounts to 1% of all the venues listed on TripAdvisor, gets this prestigious award.

Winners are determined based on authentic and honest feedback from real travelers.

Oriental Residence Bangkok

Thailand hosts first EO Global Leadership Conference

Sasamon Sanguansin (4th from left), president of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Thailand Chapter, recently welcomed some 1,500 participants to the EO Global Leadership Conference - staged for the first time in Thailand recently coinciding with the celebration of the 20th anniversary of EO Thailand Chapter.

The four-day event featured 14 worldclass speakers and 40 activities including once-in-a-life-time experiences via an extravagant showcase of the pinnacle of Thai culture, cuisine, hospitality and tourism.

Presidents and board members from 158 EO chapters in over 50 countries (20,000 members worldwide) attended

Royal Wings Suites & Spa

EO Thailand

U Nimman Chiang Mai

147 rooms and suites, all fully equipped with deluxe U amenities.

Designed by Thailand’s National Artist the renowned Ong-art Satraphan, the hotel fuses the best of the region’s Lanna past with a Colonial charm and the topnotch facilities including the EAT@ Rincome, an all-day dining restaurant with terrace bar; a library, a spa with five treatment rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, a gym, and a large garden area. The hotel also provides 1,000sqm of banquet space to accommodate up to 600 guests for meetings and events.

Guests can experience U’s unique concept of service including a 24-hour room, which allows guests to enjoy their room for a full 24 hours from check-in as well as breakfast whenever/wherever during their stay, international and local calls at cost, pre-selected amenities such as pillows, teas and soaps which guests can select from the online “U Choose” program and much more.

ROSH wins big at World Luxury Hotel Awards

Bangkok - Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers adds another award to their impressive string of awards and recognition. Royal Orchid Sheraton (ROSH) was announced winner as the Regional Winner - Luxury Business Hotel 2016. Regina Wilson (5th from left), hotel manager, together with the associates of ROSH, celebrate the new honor with pride.

The award recognizes 33 years of expertise and world-class services the hotel have delivered to its valuable guests.

MARCH 2017 | 21

BANGKOK: Over 300 years of history

All photos by Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall

TRAVEL CULTURE

Want to better understand Bangkok and appreciate its colorful history?

Get a fun “crash course” at the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall!

by Percy Roxas

I

t’s been there for six years now, the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, retracing on a daily basis, the life and times of the royal city that we now call Bangkok. Located next to the Mahajesadabodintr Pavilion Court just a few steps from the Democracy Monument, the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall (100 Ratchadamneon Klang Rd // Tel: 02 621 0044) - also called “Nitas Rattanakosin” - is a new generation museum that uses cutting-edge multi-media technology in retelling

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Bangkok’s history which makes learning about it not only more compelling but also more fun.

As with other museums, it is predicated on guided tours. But unlike other museums where you are merely a passive observer, here you become more involved in the discovery. Most of the activities are interactive and this puts you in a self-learning mode.

The tour starts at the lobby where a huge LED canvas welcomes you with its changing lights and colors. But wait, stand in front of the LED a little longer, maybe wave your hand a bit, and you’ll see a flight of birds (or their shadows) fly through.

Our own journey started with a pretty guide, Beer, explaining to us what the hall is all about. “Krung Rattanakosin” was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam before the country was renamed to “Thailand” and the city was called “Bangkok,” she begins.

“It was a city of grandeur and glory,” Beer continues, as she takes us to a Timeline display that traces the chronological events starting from the founding of Rattanakosin by King

Rama 1 in 1782, and leading up to the present day. We have no doubt that that era was a great one indeed, and the display just whetted our interest even more. The Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall is divided into nine sections by the way.

Beer leads us to the room called “Grandeur Rattanakosin” where the story of Rattanakosin is related via four-dimensional multi-media spectacles. With the aid of audiovisuals, but also with much help from sensory elements (scent and touch), guests—mostly Thais that day—got into the proper mood for learning.

The show was engaging, and indeed, even before the 10-minute showcase was finished, we were already getting a bit nostalgic.

Then we exited through a door leading to the “Prestige of the Kingdom.” This section is really all about the Grand Palace, the enduring landmark that is usually the first in any Bangkok first-timer’s tour program. One might say that it's better to visit the real thing since it's really not far away from the museum, but I don’t think one can get a real up-close view of what made it such an amazing place as is possible from here. Beyond the replicas of important statues that one sees in the palace, one gets to inspect intrinsic details, such as the art that went into the buildings, and get a comparative look at the architectural styles prevalent in those days; a feast for the eyes, as well as for the artistic mind.

This showcase continued in the “Prestige of the Land” section, where the evolution of the Grand Palace was presented in audio-visual episodes that include an account of the Emerald Buddha’s journey from Vientiane to Bangkok, among other things.

Then, we were led to a section called “Remarkable Entertainments.”

Entering the door revealed a circular arena without seats, and as soon as we sat cross-legged in a corner, we were regaled by a display of the various Thai traditional entertainment forms from the era. Such a rich culture indeed, we whispered to ourselves as our eyes were transfixed on the visual retelling of how traditional Thai dance and performing arts developed into the nation’s pride and joy of today; and not just the “khon,” “lakorn” (play), or “hoon” (puppet), mind you. After the show, we had a DIY opportunity, and we mimicked “khon gestures, watched a special version of “Ramayana,” and even tried our hand operating royal-court puppet shows – with well-placed, user-friendly gadgets.

Now it’s time for the “Renowned Ceremonies.” The spotlight, as the section’s name implies, is on traditional ceremonies of the era, many of which are still practiced today, like the Rice Ploughing Ceremony in Sanam Luang.

Even if you know about these royal ceremonies beforehand, there are likely many other details that can be learnt during the tour.

At the “Graceful Architectures,” where the symbolic palaces, temples, and residences of Rattanakosin are displayed, we saw how Western styles were combined with homogenous styles to give them a unique look and feel. One realizes how indeed one culture can enrich the other and vice versa, to give this world a common heritage.

At the “Impressive Communities” section, we traveled back to the lost age of innocence, and it made us understand why there is such a massive retro revival movement these days. We were allowed to walk, at our own pace, and try first hand

“rarities” salvaged from the good old days: a jukebox, old magazine covers, a typical barbershop, beauty salons, a village store, etc. – which made us feel even more nostalgic.

At the “Sightseeing Highlights,” more places of interest were further revealed. The unexpected part was having our photo taken by a vintage camera, making us feel like Valentino or Chaplin, and then seeing ourselves “star” in a presentation in the next room afterwards.

But it wasn't over yet. At “The Colorful Thai Way of Living” section, we observe how the Thai lifestyle has changed from the early Rattanakosin era to the present. The folk wisdom, culture, tradition, and other factors and influences that have shaped the Thai people’s outlook and way of life are deconstructed for you in detail in an effort to give you a more coherent understanding of its whole. And with several entertaining touch-screen games we felt like we were riding a time machine: traversing the rivers and klongs; taking a tram along Charoen Krung Road --the first road n Bangkok where urban development and modernization began; dropping by the various shops along the road, and taking a picture to make a postcard to send back home as a souvenir, among other things. We felt like we were there in that very time and place indeed.

By the time we reached the “The Heart and Soul of The Nation” section, which delves into the important legacy, accomplishments, and contributions of the ruling Chakri Dynasty, we know we have to catch our breath for a while. There are still other interesting sections to explore, there are still so many things to learn, but it had been more than two hours already and our legs were already complaining from the non-stop walking.

We reckon that with all the contributions this ruling Royal Family has done for Thailand, it is but just and proper to devote more time to this section, and so we decided that we shall have to come back – if only for those.

As we climb up a few more

steps, we were thinking: Perhaps, the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall is not for every tourist. But if you want to understand more about Bangkok, and maybe appreciate it more, then it’s time you look at its glorious, checkered past. Nowhere is this past presented more extensively than at the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall.

Even if you’re not a history buff, there’s surely something to be learned here.

Oh, there’s an Observatory Point on the 4th floor where you can enjoy an almost 360-degree view of Ratchadamnoen Road and surrounds.

It’s a great place to rest after the long walking tour, and enjoy an afternoon cuppa served by True Coffee.

... unlike other museums where you are merely a passive observer, here you become more involved in the discovery.

The Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Entrance fee is THB 100 for both Thai and foreign visitors, free for children not taller than 120cm, For tourists especially, this experience could proved to be more than just a brush with local history!

MARCH 2017 | 23

TRAVEL THINGS TO DO

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File Photos

by Percy Roxas

THINGS TO DO

O ES T C A T PL VISI ES PL TEM

Attractions That Tourists Can Visit Everyday

1 The Royal Grand Palace

When King Rama 1 took the throne as the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty in 1781, he moved his capital from Thonburi to the other bank and ordered the construction of the Royal Grand Palace as the center of the new city.

Inside the Royal Grand Palace are the Maha Montien group of buildings, the Throne Halls, and other palaces and buildings. These have been renovated, refurbished, repaired, extended, and added to continually as appropriate to every reign since then.

Chakri Throne Hall, is a hybrid Thai-European architecture built in the reign of King Rama V with the throne hall itself in European style and the roof in a Thai throne hall style.

The Chakrapatpiman Throne Hall is the chief throne hall of the Monthien group and the early Chakri kings mostly stayed in this throne hall. The Dusit Throne Hall has a Throne decorated in pearl and a couch of King Rama I, Phratanratchabanjathorn.

Another highlight in the Palace is the Royal Decorations & Coins Division, which has 13 exhibition rooms.

Tel: (662) 224 3328, 264 0255 Open: daily, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Entrance Fee: 10 baht

2 Reclining Buddha

at Wat Pho

The celebrated Buddha image is noted for its craftsmanship. On the sides of the image’s feet are the 108 auspicious signs of the Buddha in mother-ofpearl inlay. In the reign of King Rama

II, the entire image was gilded with gold leaf. The Reclining Buddha is located at Wat Pho – considered s the most important of all the monasteries of the first-class royal temples because it was built beside the Royal Grand Palace.

It was originally an old temple from the Ayutthaya period named Wat Photaram, and people have always call it Wat Pho. We still do today.

Wat Pho is also home to the Wat Pho Traditional Thai Medical and Massage School (Tel: 02 221-2874, 225-4771). Enrolment daily between 8 am. And 5 p.m., and classes are held on Saturdays ad Sundays. Visitors can also just enjoy Thai massage here.

Location: 2 Sanamchai Road, Phra Borommaharakchawong Sub-district, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok Tel: (662) 225-5910, 226-2942 Opening Hours: daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (temple and ubosoth) Entrance Fee: 20 baht for foreigners

3 Wat Arun

The prang of Wat Arun (Wat Arunratchawararam Rachawooramahawihan). on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, is one of Bangkok’s world-famous landmarks.

The temple was said to have existed since Ayutthaya days. The temple was formerly known as Wat Makok, and when King Taksin built his palace, he ordered the temple to be annexed to it. The king restored it and renamaed it “Wat Jaeng.”

It was restored again by King Rama II, and renamed “Wat Arunchataram,” King Rama

IV later and changed it to “Wat Arunratchawararam.”

Location: 34 Arun Amarin Road, Wat Arun Sub-district, Bangkokyai District.

Open daily: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Entrance Fee: Ubosot, free admission but written request to the temple’s Abbot is required. Prang: 10 baht.

4 Wat Yannawa

Formerly called Wat Koh-kwai, this temple was built in the Ayutthaya period and a Greek cruciform ubosot added during the reign of King Rama 1. When the ubosot was restored again in the reign of King Rama III, the king supervised the building of a full-sized junk to form the base. The king then named the temple, “Wat Yannanwa” – literally, “the boat temple.”

Location: 1648 Charoenkrung Road, Yannawa Sub-District, Sathorn District, Bangkok Tel: (662) 211 9317, 675 7895 Opens: Temple is open daily, 5 a.m- 1 p.m.; Ubosot, daily 8-9 a.m. and 5-6 p.m.

Free Admission

OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST

1 Jim Thompson House

This house belongs to the late James H.W. Thompson, who came to Thailand as an officer in the US forces during World War II. When the war ended, he decided to settle in the kingdom. During his stay, Thompson became interested in traditional Thai textiles, and being trained as an MARCH 2017 | 25

TRAVEL THINGS TO DO

architect, he used his talents to create new designs and color schemes his textiles.

The name Jim Thompson became synonymous with Thai silk after he introduced the traditional silk to the international market. He had arranged for the dismantling of antique teakhouses from various places and reassembled them on the banks of Sansap Canal in Bangkok, today known as the Jim Thompson House.

He mysteriously disappeared during a visit to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia in 1967, leaving behind him this house of historical value as his memorabilia in Thailand.

Location: 6 Kasemsan 2 Lane, Rama 1 Road Tel: (662) 216 7368, 612 3744 Opening Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Admission Fee: Under 25 at 50 baht, adult, 100 baht

2 Queen Saowabha

Memorial Institute

In 1912, HRH Prince Dumrong proposed the establishment of an institute for the prevention of rabies in Thailand. King Rama V granted permission and gave a building on Bamrung Muang Road to be used for the purpose of producing and testing of rabies vaccines.

Later, the King proposed the smallpox vaccine lab to be moved from Nakhon Pathom province to the building and named the institute Pasteura Sabha or Pasteur Institute in honor of Louis Pasteur, who discovered the rabies vaccine.

The King later changed the name to Queen Saowabha Memorial Institute or Sathan Saowabha. The institute houses a Snake Farm, which has become a big attraction in itself aside from the significant work it is doing.

Location: 1871 Rama IV Road, Lumpini Sub-District, Pathumwan District, Bangkok Tel: (662) 252 0161-4

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Open: Office 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Mon-Fri; Snake farm, Mon-Fri-8:30 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Free admission for children under 10-years-old

3 Bangkok Dolls &

Museum

The award-winning producer of handmade dolls exhibits a vast collection of miniature creations crafted by its local artists. Dolls appear in a variety of sizes, shapes and styles, representing sophisticated Thai arts.

Location: 85 Soi Ratchataphan (Soi Mo Leng) off Ratchaprarop Road Tel: (662) 245 3008 Opening hours: 8 a.m.-5p.m. daily; Mon-Sat from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Free Admission

4 Suan Pakkad Palace

Suan Pakkad means 'cabbage patch' and the land where Suan Pakkad Palace stands today used to be nothing more than that.

Today, however, the palace has a well-tended tropical garden with serene ponds surrounding eight traditional Thai houses, each of which brims to overflowing with fine arts, antiques and oddities belonging to Prince and Princess Chumbhot. The private residence was converted into a museum back in 1952.

The architectural centerpiece at Suan Pakkad Palace encompasses four Thai teak houses nestled between the front of the palace and garden, a family heirloom dating from the 19th Century.

Each was transported here from its original location in Chiang

Mai and, like most traditional Thai houses, are two storeys high (each is interlinked by upstairs platforms, so you can walk sequentially between buildings without having to trudge up and down stairs).

Standing out among the buildings is the Lacquer Pavilion, which dates to the 17th Century and was originally located at a temple near Ayutthaya. Now fully restored, it's an exquisite example of Thai architecture, with richly carved gilded wood walls and an interior filled with lively Ramayana and Buddha mural paintings drawn in gold on black lacquer.

Next to this is a wooden barge Prince Paribatra used for King Rama V's royal processions.

Location: 352-354 Sri Ayudhya Road (five minutes walk from BTS Phaya Thai), near Pratunam Tel: (662) 245 4934 Opening Hours: 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Admission fee: 50 baht

5 Chinatown

The 1.43km street of Yaowarat where the Chinese community is located was built in the reign of King Rama V and has since been the center of both local and international businesses.

Known as the Chinatown of Thailand, Yaowarat Road consists of a crowded array of gold, hardware, food, and fabric shops as well as dozens of other small businesses.

Today, it is also Thailand’s best known and biggest gold trading center with 132 gold shops scattered along it.

The standard of gold and its daily rental price are set by the Gold Traders Association, an organization

O ES T C PLA ISIT V ES/ H C S UR CH SQUE MO

1 Church of the

Immaculate Conception

Bangkok’s Church of Immaculate Conception is the oldest Catholic church in Thailand. Its name Immaculate Conception comes from the Catholic belief that by the will of God the Virgin Mary was conceived free from original sin.

The church's history and construction is an example of the religious tolerance of the Thai people. In 1674, during the Ayuthaya era, King Narai the Great granted land in Bangkok to the Portuguese community to build the Church of Immaculate Conception.

The French had attempted under several expeditions to Thailand to try to convert King Narai to Catholicism, despite his refusal, he allowed both French and Portuguese missionaries to continue their work in spreading their faith.

During the building of the church the city of Ayuthaya was captured by the Burmese and this halted progression for a while however construction soon continued.

During the Bangkok era King

Rama I invited the Portuguese traders to return in order to stimulate the economy and the church was rebuilt in 1785.

The church was rebuilt on two other occasions in 1832 and 1847 by influential French missionary, Monsignor Pallegoix. The building from 1847 remains today.

Location: 167 SOi Mitrakham, Thanon Samsen, Wachira Phayaban, Dusit, Bangkok Tel: (662) 243 0064

2 Darulmuttageen

Mosque

The former Darulmuttageen Mosque on Surao Koo used for praying and teaching was built from wood gathered from the area and covered with a thatched roof. Later on, the villagers raised funds from Muslims living in the area and employed Chinese contractors to build a new mosque. The new mosque, which appears today was completed in 1893 over 100 years ago. Inside stands Mimbul, or pulpit, which is more than 100 years old.

Location: 18 Moo 1, Khu-Khwa Road, Khokad Sub-District, Nnchak District, Bangkok

Tel: (662) 543 1153, 543 2239 Opening Hours: Daily 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Free admission

3 The Holy Rosary Church

The Holy Rosary Church is a Roman Catholic located in Samphanthawong District, on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River. The history of the church dates to 1769, when a group of Portuguese Catholics resettled in the area after the fall of Ayutthaya; the current church building, in Gothic Revival style, was built in 1891–97 on the site of two previous structures.

When King Taksin established Thonburi as his capital following the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, the Portuguese communities of Ayutthaya resettled in two areas of present-day Bangkok. A church was first built at the site in 1787.

In 1838, a new church building, of wood on a masonry base, was built to replace the old damaged structure. 1890, the structure had fallen into disrepair, and the pastor, Father Desalles, arranged for the construction of a new building.

Construction took place from 1891 to 1897; the new church was consecrated in October 1897, and remains in operation. The current church was MARCH 2017 | 27

TRAVEL THINGS TO DO

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built in Gothic Revival style. he church employs Gothic-arched doors and windows throughout, and its stained glass work is among the most beautiful in Thailand.

Location: Soi Wanit 2, Khwaeng Talat Noi, Khet Samphanthawong, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100

noon-12:30 p.m.; 3-3:30 p.m.; 6-6:30 p.m., and 8-8:30 p.m.

Free admission

4 Bangluang Mosque

is a historic area in the Phra Nakhon District, bordered by the Chao Phraya River to the west and various canals to the east that were dug to serve

During King Taksin’s fight to liberate Thailand from the Burmese in 1767, some Thai Muslims were evacuated by raft down the Chao Phraya River to Thonburi. Some of them chose to live in Bangkokyai, others in Bangakoknoi.

Those living along the Bangluang Canal near Wat Werurashin are known today as the Kudi Khao Community. Their brick and stucco Thai-style mosque and the monks’ residence (kuti) were painted white (khao), which is why the area was called Kudi Khao.

It was in fact, a new mosque, built to replace the old one, which had been painted red (daeng) and was known as Kudi Daeng.

Location: Thetsaban Soi 3 Road, Wat Kanlaya Sub-District, Thonburi, Tel: (662) 466 6159 Opening hours: Daily, 5-5:30 a.m.; LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

CULTURAL

1 Rattanakosin Island

as moats for what was originally the fortified city center. The island is the site of the Grand Palace and Bangkok's City Pillar Shrine, among other places of historical significance.

King Phutthayotfa Chulalok (Rama I) founded the city as the capital of his new Rattanakosin Kingdom in 1782.

Before Bangkok became the capital of Thailand, the capital city was Thonburi. The old city straddled the Chao Phraya, but was mainly

settled on the western bank where the royal palace and other institutions were situated.

2 National Museum

The National Museum was originally the Personal Museum of King Rama IV, and features a collection of antiques and Royal Gifts. King Rama V subsequently opened the Sathathai Samakom Pavilion (Concordia Tower) in the Grand Palace grounds as a Public Museum. It was then moved to three palace buildings in the Front Palace (Wang Nai).

King Rama VII then gave over all buildings in the Front Palace to be the Bangkok Museum. Exhibition areas are split into three groups: The Gallery of Thai Nation, History of Art and Archaeology in Thailand, and Fine Arts & Ethnology. Another highlight is the Funeral Chariot Hall, which displays funeral carriages and other paraphernalia of Royal Cremations.

Tel: (662) 224-333 Open: 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. (Wed-Sun); Entrance Fee: Foreigners 100 baht, Thais 20 baht.

3 Thailand Cultural Center

The Thailand Cultural Center organizes both Thai and foreign cultural performances free to the public with prior reservation.

The program and schedule of performances can be checked from the Center’s newsletter. The Center has a Permanent Exhibition Hall: Open to Thais and foreigners, displays history, culture, and development of Thai people using modern technology such as slide multi-vision, etc. and a Youth Center, the purpose of which is to promote the creativity of children.

Location: Ratchadapisek Road, Huay Kwang-Sub-District, Bangkok Tel: (662) 247 0028, 245 7747 Opening Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Free Admission

4 Museum of

Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) contains more than

800 pieces of art; all collected by communications magnate Boonchai Bencharongkul, and showcase the development of Thai fine arts since the introduction of modern Western concepts in a five-storey building.

Entrance fee: 180 baht for the public, 80 baht for students, free for visitors over 60 or under 15.

5 Bangkok Art and Culture

Center

Right in the heart of Bangkok is an art and culture center that is an ideal one-stop shop for anyone who loves art and culture. The Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC), right on the intersection of Rama I and Ratchathevi/Phyathai houses practically all aspects of art forms in one roof. Regular art exhibitions are held here, as well as film showings, art lectures and workshops and more.

The building has become a magnet for all arty types in the city, whether they are looking to enjoy some great art shows, or are searching for some inspiration to do some creative work.

How to get there: Just take the BTS skytrain station and get off at National Stadium from where the BACC is juts a few steps away.

Tel: (662) 661 6470-77, 258 3491 Open: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Tues-Saturday // Kamthieng House opens from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat Free Admission

7 Cruising along the Chao

Phraya River

A great alternative way to experience Bangkok beyond the walls of the Grand Palace, the MBK shopping malls, the markets, and backpacker haven Khao San Road is to move out to the suburbs across the river. A long tail boat ride along the klongs of Nonthaburi slows down the Bangkok pace a little.

In the evening, dinner cruises are available on the river, especially from the River City Shopping Complex pier (Grand Pearl), and Chao Phaya Princess. Others are operataed by five-star hotels.

6 Siam Society

The society was founded in 1904 during the reign of King Rama V, with the aim of promoting the study of Thailand and neighboring countries in their artistic and scientific aspects.

Siam Society has its own library and museum and publishes journals and academic books.

It arranges lectures, seminars, field trips, meetings, and exhibitions as well as art, culture, research, and dissemination of information in numerous fields. The library is a treasure trove of original archive material on the anthropology, archeology, sociology, history, and natural environment of Thailand and its neighbors.

A highlight here is the Museum of Ethnology’s Kamthieng House, a northern Lanna style wooden house called Ruen Galae.

Location: 131 Sukhumvit 23 Rd

MARCH 2017 | 29

TRAVEL THINGS TO DO

Y

SHOP TILL YOU DROP!

ou can cover all the shopping destinations, from the world’s largest weekend market, Chatuchak (BTS Morchit stop) to King Power Duty Free Shop (BTS Victory Monument), to Siam Paragon and Siam Center (BTS Siam Square), MBK (BTS: National Stadium), and on to CentralWorld, Gaysorn, Erawan and Amarin shopping centers as well as a little farther off, Platinum Mall and Pratunam (BTS Chidlom), Terminal 21 (Asoke), EmQuartier and EmDistrict (BTS: Phrom Phong) and even up to the BITEC (BTS: Bangna), where regular shopping fairs are held. And that’s just one BTS line.

Many hotels are situated right to the shopping districts and they are great for shopaholics. The variety of items and products you can purchase is even more staggering, ranging from arts and antiques to international brand-name fashion apparels and accessories. Thai products – from jewelry and precious stones to Thai

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LOOKEAST | TRAVEL

silk – are popular splurging choices, of course as the international fashion world becomes more interested in the country’s high-quality gems and jewelry products, and Thai silk becomes favored by many international fashion designers, from Beijing to Paris, from New York to Milan, from Tokyo to London.

Chatuchak

The Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest market in Thailand. Also known as JJ Market, it has more than 8,000 stalls, divided into 27 sections.

The market, opened in 1982, remains a favorite of both Bangkok tourists and locals; and it is said that you can find everything that Thailand produces and more from here.

Location: 587/10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak

Pratunam

From rainy, cool to hot, the weather in Bangkok rarely ever falls below

the 20- degree mark; making it the best place to stroll around and take in the sights. If you’re looking or a steal, head on to the Pratunam Market (Ratchaparop and Petchburi roads), a 24-hour wholesale market is the best place to nab a bargain.

Bangkok shopping inevitably means more choices for clothing purchases and shoppers are spoilt for choice.

Be it chic ensembles from local designers, a tailor-made suit from bespoke tailors, or wholesale deals in Pratunam, Bangkok has you covered.

Weaving through narrow alleys, you’ll get to experience shopping, before air-con, personal shoppers or luxury brands. How to get there: The easiest way is to take the BTS skytrain from your destination and get off at Chidlom Station. From there, you can walk to Pratunam, or take a motorcycle or bus.

JJ Green Market

Right behind the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market (also called JJ

Market) is the JJ Green market, a popular vintage night market. JJ Green is a community mall during the day but when dusk falls especially during weekends, it transforms into a night market that locals call “Siam Gypsy Market.” The market selection includes a mix of clothes, crafts, accessories, retro collectables, antiques and second hand items, but there’s really all kinds of items available here. Of late, this night market has become filled with bars, live bands, vendors and street artists, adding a special flavor the any hangout time. How to get there: From BTS Morchit (or MRT Chatuchak), walk through Chatuchak Park to Kampaeng Phet 3, turn right and walk for about 200m until you see the big 'JJ Green' sign on the left hand side.

here. Foodies can enjoy at the restaurants and bars; and those looking for some entertainment can enjoy nightly shows such as the Calypso Cabaret, Thai puppets performance, and Muay Thai Live.

Location: Chareonkrung Soi 74-76

Pahurat

Opened since May 9, 2014, this giant futuristic building is home to eight floors of designer brands and unique boutiques as well as plenty of exclusive restaurants. Also attached is the six star Park Hyatt Hotel, which rises 37 floors above the city.

Entertainment comes in the form of the most exclusive cinema in the city.

All these delights are housed inside a brushed silver casing, the curved roof rising at one end to incorporate the hotel. Architecturally it stands out, more sci-fi than shopping, and adding another destination to the mile of Siam malls, which runs from MBK to here. Location: Ploenchit Road, Bangkok (BTS: Ploenchit)

Considered the cultural heart of the Indian diaspora in Thailand, Pahurat is the place to go for bolts of fabrics, some made in Thailand but most woven in India, as well as readyto-wear pieces and more notions than anyone could ever know what to do with. Pahurat is in Chinatown (Yaowarat).

MAJOR SHOPPING MALLS IN BANGKOK Amarin Plaza

The five-storey shopping plaza draws in a mixed crowd - from affluent Thais to expats and business travelers because of the diverse offerings it offers. Location: 496-502 Ploenchit Rd, Ratchaprasong Square (BTS: Chidlom)/ Tel: 02 256 9111

Asiatique The Riverfront

From a once-bustling international trade port, the area now known as Asiatique has been transformed into a combination of a mall and a night bazaar. With more than 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants housed under a huge replica warehouse complex, here is something everybody

Central Chidlom

A seven-storey department store with modern, friendly ambience.

Well-stocked, each floor has a straightforward layout dedicated to urban lifestyles, including beauty products, shoes, handbags, lady’s fashion, men’s fashion, home décor, travel, toys, electronic gadgets, books and more. Location: Corner of Ploenchit and Lang Suan roads (BTS: Chidlom)

Central Embassy

Central Rama 9

The seven-story shopping plaza houses some 300 shops, plus restaurants, cafés, SFX Cineplex, The Rink Ice Arena and anchor stores such as B2S, Power Buy, Uniqlo, and Robinson Department Store. Occupying a prime location at the intersection of Rama IX and Ratchadapisek Roads, Central Plaza Rama 9 has direct access to the MRT underground’s Rama IX Station at the basement level. Location: Corner of Rama IX and Ratchadapisek roads

Centralworld

A mega-shopping complex that offers one of the most exciting shopping experiences in Bangkok.

It has everything from brand name clothing boutiques, funky fashion, high-tech gadgets, bookshops and designer furniture to imported groceries, a lineup of banks, beauty salons, gourmet eateries and even an ice-skating rink. Location: Ratchaprasong Intersection, opposite Gaysorn and Erawan (BTS Chidlom)

Crystal Design Center (CDC)

CDC’s vast 100,000sqm area – the size of 14 standard football pitches – comprises eight buildings, set on a landscaped ground dubbed the ‘sculptural park’. As a one-stop shopping mall, it offers everything imaginable in the realm of product design, from lighting, fitting materials, tiles, windows, doorsto-furniture and home accessories.

Apart from iconic designer brands (e.g. Philippe Starck and the like) and imported collections, the CDC Weekend Market features locally designed items that cater to those with smaller wallets. Location: 1420/1 Praditmanutham Rd; Tel: 02 101 5999

Digital Gateway

A digital lifestyle center displaying the latest IT gadgets as well as hosting ITrelated events and activities. Contrary to other IT malls around Bangkok, Digital Gateway has no counterfeit products; so, don’t come looking for them here. Location: Ploenchit Road (between Siam Square Soi 3 and 4, with direct access from BTS Siam exit 2)

EmQuartier Bangkok

EmQuartier stands tall on the opposite side of Emporium Shopping Mall on Sukhumvit Road. Expect to find a long list of designer brands as well as a distinctly futuristic design with dozens of restaurants, offices, event halls and a cool atrium garden – complete with a waterfall. Location: 637 Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok (BTS Phrom Phong) MARCH 2017 | 31

TRAVEL THINGS TO DO

Emporium

Seven layers of shopper's paradise, with the first three floors dedicated solely to fashion. Exclusive worldclass brand names dominate the ground floor, hot international designer items, leather and jewelry the first floor, and glamorous garb for the young and trendy, the second.

Location: Sukhumvit Soi 24/26 (BTS: Phrom Phong)

Esplanade

The Esplanade is a seven-storey shopping and entertainment complex with an innovative ‘artetainment’ concept. Location: Ratchada Road (MRT Thailand Cultural Center)

restaurants, clothes stores, health and beauty shops, as well as an edutainment center, a large IT zone and a 24-hour supermarket.

Location: Sukhumvit, BTS Ekkamai

Erawan Bangkok

Gaysorn

A five-storey space covering about 13,000sqm, it's a boutique mall that offers a selection of only the most elegant lifestyle brands. Location: 494 Ploenchit Rd, Ratchaprasong Junction (BTS Chidlom)

Gateway Ekamai

This mall aims to offer an alternative shopping experience from the other cookie-cutter centers across Bangkok.

The mall is meant to epitomize the Japanese lifestyle that Thai people embrace readily with a mix of

A luxurious, upmarket white marble and gleaming chrome complex housing exclusively high-end luxury goods and designer labels, Haysorn boasts a contemporary design and an innovative retail concept. Location: 999 Ploenchit Rd, Ratchaprasong Junction Tel: +66 (0) 2656 1149

IKEA Bangkok

IKEA, the world-famous Swedish furniture brand, brings its sleek minimalist design to Thai homes. Its 43,000sqm warehouse and showroom space on Bangna-Trad Road displays more than 7,500 furniture and home décor accessories for bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens outdoors and much more. Location: Bangna-Trad Highway (km. 8)

next to Carrefour Rama IV (inside Sukhumvit Soi 26), K Village’s two open-air buildings house some 100 air-conditioned shops divided into five zones: Fashion & Accessories, Café & Restaurants, Health & Beauty, Lifestyle & Technology and Gourmet Market. A major highlight of K Village is its dining zone, and the place is usually packed with diners on weekend evenings. Location: Sukhumvit Soi 26 (BTS Phrom Phong)

MBK

The multi-storey MBK is probably Bangkok's most legendary shopping mall, popular with both tourists and locals. Eight floors packed with 2,000 shops that sell everything from clothing, fashion accessories, handbags, leather products and luggage to furniture, mobile phones, electric appliances, cameras, stationery and DVDs. Location: Pathumwan Intersection, diagonally opposite Siam Discovery Centre (BTS National Stadium)

King Power Duty Free Mall Mega Bangna Part of Pullman King Power Bangkok Hotel, this modern glassand-steel mall offers two floors of exclusive duty-free shopping. All purchased items can be picked up at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on departure date. Location: Soi Rang Nam near Victory Monument) (BTS Victory Monument)

K Village

Set on an expansive 24,000sqm area

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Located half way between Suvarnabhumi International Airport and the centre of Bangkok, Mega Bangna is a 35,000sqm low rise shopping mall is mainly known as the home of IKEA, attracting a huge crowd of 'Do It Yourself' home decorators. This is not a high-end shopping mall for tourists but a very convenient escape for locals and residents. Location: Bangna-Trad Road

Palladium World

Located on the corner of Petchaburi Road and Ratchaprarop, an area is already known for wholesale shopping at Platinum Fashion Mall, electronics Mecca Pantip Plaza and the frantic, all-day and all-night experience of Pratunam Market found just across the road. Location: Petchaburi Road, Pratunam

Paradise Park

Paradise Park brings high street shopping and contemporary lifestyle to eastern Bangkok. It has five floors, with over 700 retail shops, a Cineplex with digital and 3D screens as well as large floor spaces dedicated to modern Thai fashion, IT gadgets, food, banking, home décor and wellness. Location: Srinakarin Road

Golden Place Plaza

This exclusive center, catering mainly toward expats, moneyed Thais and business class travelers, exudes an air of old-world charm. Various leisurely eateries and cafes are scattered throughout. Location: Ratchadamri between Grand Hyatt Erawan and The Regent (BTS Ratchadamri)

Platinum Fashion Mall

Platinum Fashion Mall caters especially to wholesale clothing, selling a similar range of clothing to the Pratunam Market across the street, except in air-conditioned comfort. The mall has six floors which are filled with small outlets - most of them specializing in women's clothing and fashion accessories. Since this is a wholesale mall, you can get items at very reasonable prices - provided you buy larger quantities, usually three items and up. Location: Petchburi Road infront of Amari Watergate Hotel

Pratunam Center

Pratunam Centre is a four-storey shopping complex targeting the bargain-happy teenagers and young workers by offering cheaper

Chinese import product. Location: Intersection of Rajprarop and Petchburi roads

Rivercity

River City is a four-storey mall overlooking sweeping views of the Chao Phraya River. It specializes in antiques and collectibles, with monthly on-site and online auctions, although there’s also a good range of fashion and jewelry shops as well as riverside eateries with outdoor dining terraces. Location: Charoen Krung Soi 30 (next to the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel)

Seacon Square

Silom Complex

Owned by the Central Group, it is smaller than other shopping centers around Bangkok but still offers a nice variety of international and local boutiques as well as the multi-leveled Central Department Store.

Location: Silom (BTS Sala Daeng)

Terminal 21

Terminal 21 brings the dream of traveling the world to downtown Bangkok, with its cutting-edge concept that places several worldfamous cities under one roof.

Location: Sukhumvit Road between Soi 19 and 21 (MRT Sukhumvit/BTS Asok with direct access via skywalk.

Seacon Square, a 96 football-field sized entertainment center, is one of Southeast Asia’s biggest malls.

Location: Srinakarin Road (midway between On Nut Road and BangnaTrad Road) (BTS: Take a taxi from On Nut station)

Siam Center

Siam Center may have been around for over 40 years, but it is still enlightening and surprising its customers with cutting-edge, unusual fashion. Location: Siam (BTS Siam Square)

Siam Discovery

Siam Discovery offers the most pleasant and leisurely shopping experience of any of the major shopping malls in Bangkok thanks to its sophisticated concept of how it presents the items on display.

Location: Next to Siam Centre (BTS Siam)

Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon is an immensely popular shopping mall housing a host of international high-end fashion brands, Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium, a 16-screen Cineplex, and a comprehensive selection of world cuisine. It is considered by many tourists to be the center of Bangkok.

Location: Siam (BTS Station) MARCH 2017 | 33

LIFESTYLE SPA DEALS

Spa Cenvaree

Oasis Spa

King of Oasis Signature Massage, Buy 1, Get 1 at 50% off

What: The “King of Oasis,” a twohour signature massage takes your spa experience to the next level of release, relief and satisfaction by using an invigorating and unique combination of “East-MeetsWest” massage techniques.

Where: Oasis Spa branches all over Thailand When: Ongoing until end of December How much: 2 hours, THB 3,900++THB and get another one at a 50% off More info: 02 262 2122, email res@oasisspa. net. Book online at www.oasisspa.net

Sense of Wellness Packages

What: Banyan Tree Phuket Spa Sanctuary has unveiled a brand new selection of especially tailored hotel packages to provide guests with holistic

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LOOKEAST | LIFESTYLE

Nowhere is that better encapsulated than in this treatment, which begins with the gentle Sakura body scrub, and then a back, neck and shoulder massage using Sakura massage oil.

Where: Okura Spa, 25th Floor, The Okura Prestige Bangkok (BTS: Ploenchit) When: April 1- June 30 How much: THB 3,000++ per person More info: 02 687 9000 or email spa@ okurabangkok.com

Banyan Tree Phuket Spa Sanctuary

What: Designed to help couples connect and relax together, the new “RoseInfused Couple’s Ritual” is an incredible two-hour treatment that begins with a soothing foot cleansing, followed by an utterly relaxing body massage.

Faces are then treated to a signature organic facial for her and an invigorating ‘oriental’ scalp and foot experience for him. The treatment ends with a refreshing cup of tea and fresh fruit platter.

Where: Spa Cenvaree, 26th Floor, Central Grand at Centralworld Bangkok, Rajdamri Road (BTS: Chidlom), Bangkok When: Ongoing How much: THB 2,950++ per person or THB 5,500++ per couple set More info: 02 100 1234, ext. 6511, 6516 or email: spacgcw@chr.co.th

Okura Spa

Rose-Infused Couple’s Ritual

wellness experiences. Exclusively for guests staying in the Spa Sanctuary Pool Villas, these unique experiences are thoughtfully designed to combine luxurious accommodation, therapeutic spa treatments and engaging activities to renew and rejuvenate the body and mind.

Where: Banyan Tree Phuket Spa Sanctuary, Phuket When: Until Oct. 31 How much: THB 41,000 per night for 2 More info: 076 372 40, email at phuket@ banyantree.com

Miracle of Sakura

What: As the annual Sakura cherry blossom takes place in Japan you too can experience the wonders of this beautiful flower with the 75-minute Miracle of Sakura treatment at The Okura Spa. The Sakura flower is associated with the ephemeral or transient nature of life, reminding us to seize our opportunities and to enjoy what nature has to offer.

Siam Spa Experience

What: A unique spa treatment, the new “Luxury Siam Retreat Package” offers a lavish Thai-style relaxation regimen, featuring exotic local herbs and organic plant essences. The two-hour package consists of a 30-minute ‘Siam Classic’ astringent and smoothing citrus body exfoliation; a 60-minute relaxing hot oil massage; and the application of a soothing 30-minute Thai herbal poultice.

Where: Spa Cenvaree Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok (MRT: Phahonyothin) When: Throughout March and April How much: THB 2,800++ per person More info: 02 541 1234, ext. 4292 and 4567; email: spacenvareecglb@chr.co.th

Anti-Pollution Body Scrub

What: Give your body the detox it needs from the harsh mall lights and heavily jammed streets of Bangkok with Tammachart Spa’s new “Anti-Pollution” body scrub, which will revitalize and remove all the impurities from your skin.

Where: Tammachart Spa, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square, (BTS: Siam) When: Ongoing How much: THB 2,500 ++ for 60 minutes More info: 02 209 8888 ext. Tammachart Spa; or www.novotelbkk.com/well-being/ tammachart-day-spa/

ADVERTORIAL

HEART & SOUL OF REAL ITALIAN CUISINE Chef Roberto offers a meal experience that recreates a slice of the magical Mediterranean in the heart of busy Bangkok

B

angkokians love Italian cuisine, and the large number of Italian restaurants in the city is plenty testimony to that. With so many Italian food options to choose from, it is always easy to find just the right kind of Italian specialty to suit your palate at the moment.

But if you are truly looking for the heart and soul of real Italian cuisine, there is one restaurant that you should be visiting now: the Loop Restaurant, Terrace & Bar on the 8th floor of Pathumwan Princess Hotel.

Loop Restaurant, Terrace & Bar serves authentic dishes that represent the best of Italian cuisine. Using only the finest imported ingredients and produce, Loop places emphasis on pure, rustic food cooked from the heart and prepared with love – “just the way mama made it.”

Chef de cuisine Roberto Panariello’s authentic home-style creations are not only scrumptious and flavorsome, but they also blend effortlessly with the refreshing ambiance and relaxing location of the poolside where the restaurant is located. The

All photos from Pathumwan Princess Hotel

WINE&DINE RESTAURANT

result is a meal experience that recreates a slice of the magical Mediterranean in the heart of busy Bangkok.

The signature dishes are true Italian delights. A recommended course starts with Fantasy Salmon, a carpaccio of marinated salmon wrapped in smoked salmon; and Chef Roberto’s famous “Loop Pizza,” with its delicious topping of mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, Parma ham, wild rocket, radicchio, and sliced parmesan.

Dine on the succulent Filetto Di Manzo Alla Griglia, which is grilled Australian beef cooked to your taste, and served with mashed potato, grilled vegetables, smoked cheese, and fresh tomatoes; or if you are a seafood lover, try the enticing Del Pescatore, an exquisite treat of squid, muscles, scallops in a white wine and tomato sauce, topped with Pizza bread.

If you can manage it, finish your meal with Tarta Della Nona, a traditional apple cake made from Chef Roberto’s grandmother’s recipe.

Absolutely authentic, unmistakably modern yet romantically rustic, Loop’s

enticing menu pairs perfectly with an inspirational international wine list for the all-round Italian experience.

Mosey on over at Loop Restaurant, Terrace & Bar. It’s open daily from 6.30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. You will not be disappointed!

MARCH 2017 | 35

WINE&DINE BANGKOK GOURMET FESTIVAL

GOURMET EXTRAVAGANZA The “Bangkok Gourmet Festival 2017,” set for March 3-5 at the Royal Paragon Hall, aims to become the country’s biggest, grandest -- THE international food festival of the year, says its organizers

T

All photos from Bangkok Gourmet Festival 2017

he countdown is on. The “Bangkok Gourmet Festival 2017 (BGF),” is set to unfold this month with grander, bigger, and with more relevant activities that make it different from the usual gourmet events already being hosted in the kingdom.

The three-day event (March 3-5) provides a unique opportunity for all foodies to enjoy the best from a select gathering of Thai master chefs and international celebrity chefs, according to spokesperson from the True Group, the main sponsor represented by TrueVisions Group. The festival also aims to promote Thai food.

“People in Bangkok are now paying more attention to a variety of great-tasting cuisines and are looking forward to fine dining experiences provided by worldclass restaurants and Michelin-starred chefs," notes Ongard Prapakamol, director of the board, True Visions Group. “BGF 2017 intends to meet this. It aims to make Bangkok a fine dining hub. We look forward to growing into one of the best food festivals in Southeast Asia.”

Celebrity chefs from Asia, Europe, and North America -- a total of 10 Michelin stars -- will showcase their world-class skills and expertise during the event. The spacious Royal Paragon Hall will be transformed into

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LOOKEAST | WINE & DINE

by Percy Roxas

a veritable "paradise of fine food" where visitors can enjoy a variety of food items as well as witness innovations in modern food culture.

Participating restaurants include Iron Chef Table, Savelberg, Osha, Ginza Sushi Ichi, J'AIME by JeanMichel Lorain, Lenzi Tuscan Kitchen, Crostini Italian Restaurant, Honmono Sushi, Benjarong Thai Cuisine, The Reflexions, Lobster & Oyster, Cuisine de Garden, Upstairs Mikkeller, Saffron, Indus, and fine dining restaurants from The Sukhothai Bangkok.

Visitors can expect to enjoy masterful dishes from world-famous Michelin-starred chefs such as Hong Kong’s Alvin Leung of

Bo Innovation; and Curtis Duffy who will deliver menu from his three Michelin star restaurant, Grace, in Chicago. Top chef Guillaume Galliot, from The Tasting Room in Macau will also be participating. Master chefs in Thailand, such as Henk Savelberg (Savelberg); Amerigo Sesti (J’AIME by Jean-Michel Lorain), Boontham Parkpo (Honmono Sushi), Thananya Wilkinson & Prasopchoke Trakulpat (Iron Chef Table), Masakazu Ishibashi (Ginza Sushi Ichi), Francesco Lenzi (Lenzi), Roxanne Lange (The Reflexions ), and Purisa Theeraphong (Osha), complete the stellar line-up.

BGF 2017 takes place between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. Entrance fee is THB 200.

For more information, visit www. bangkokgourmetfestival.com.

MEET SOME OF THE CHEFS

Curtis Duffy

Purida Theeraphong

The first female chef to win the “Iron Chef Challenger (2012),” Purida “Chef Pu” Theeraphong has been instrumental in the success of many restaurants in Australia and Thailand prior to joining OSHA in Bangkok as executive chef. With her more than 18 years of experience as a chef, Purida thoroughly understands what it takes to make a restaurant a success. She has mastered various cuisines throughout her career but insists, “Thai cuisine is my forte.”

Guillaume Galliot

French chef de cuisine Guillaume Galliot is perfect for The Tasting Room in Macau where he and his team create truly European experience where the ingredients and their flavors are showcased in cleverly designed and lavish environment. He has a firm foundation in French cuisine but his cooking is also inspired by other European food culture. He delivers a great combination of traditional flavors and contemporary tastes.

Chef and owner of Grace Restaurant in Chicago, Curtis Duffy was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. Grace showcases Duffy's culinary style of elegant and graceful cuisine. He puts ingredients at the forefront and draws on his wealth of experience in a way that employs technique to enhance flavor. Duffy and the restaurant have been awarded many deserving awards and recognitions.

Amerigo Sesti

Italian-born Amerigo Sesti, head chef at J’AIME by Jean-Michel Lorain at U Sathorn began his career at worldrenowned restaurants and 5-star hotels.

After working in London, he joined the team of Michel Roux, the famous French Michelin-starred chef who was invited to cook at Le Normandie at The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok a few years ago. Later, he worked with Patrick O’Connell at the Michelin-starred The Inn at Little Washington, Virginia, U.S.A.

Henk Savelberg

Henk Savelberg, prominent Dutch chef with more than 25 years of experience, is a proud Michelin star winner for seven consecutive years in his four restaurants across the Netherlands. He is the only Dutch chef who has ever received a Michelin star. That distinction is obvious at Restaurant Savelberg Thailand in Bangkok, his first restaurant outside of his home country. The restaurant offers gourmet modern French cuisine with the Dutch touch and strives to perfection, of premium quality, and with opulent details.

Alvin Leung

Chef Alvin King Kong Leung has received three Michelin stars for his Hong Kong restaurant, Bo Innovation.

Leung gained the nickname “The Demon Chef” because of his adventurous style, which he labeled “X-Treme Chinese.” It is molecular gastronomy fused with Chinese cuisine.

Timothy Newton

With 15 years of experience in some of the world’s best restaurants, group head chef for Global Hospitality Asset Management (GHAM), and head chef for Bagatelle Dubai, Timothy Newton, began his career in 1998 at Stacy’s Restaurant, Oakland, California. In 2002, he moved to Northern England to take up position as chef at Wentworth Hotel before moving onto London’s Wolseley Restaurant, one of the top 30 best restaurants of the world by San Pellegrino. Then, Newton moved to St Alban to work under Francesco Mazzei, considered the best Italian chef in England, before moving to Sydney's Aria Restaurant.

In 2009, he moved back to London to help open Lutyens, and became chef under Ed Wilson at Terrior. By 2010, he was in Dubai as executive sous chef of Le Petite Maison, and three years later, joined the GHAM team.

MARCH 2017 | 37

WINE&DINE SPECIALS & PROMOTIONS

Loong Foong Chinese Restaurant

Baar (Switzerland) – Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has rolled out its new vanillainspired savory menu at properties globally following the concept’s overwhelming success in Europe.Discerning diners can sample the innovative ‘Vanille Salée’ promotion from Feb 21 to March 21.

Comprising six one-of-a-kind vanilla-enhanced dishes, the concept is now being made available at properties across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Traditionally used for desserts, vanilla produces exciting results when added to hearty savory dishes: its mild flavour harmonises to surprising perfection with white meats and fish.

Subtly reinforcing roasting aromas and herbal scents, vanilla also transforms tomatoes, beetroot and even onions with an unexpected touch of the exotic.

This exceptional taste experience has been encapsulated in six savoury vanilla creations, championing the queen of spices at Mövenpick hotels worldwide.

The tempting entrées include white onion velouté (soup), sashimi of tuna and salmon and goat cheese and figs salad, while the main course menu features pike perch filet and endive; veal tenderloin and garden vegetables; and guinea fowl breast melba.

“These culinary creations have been concocted by our talented director of Food & Beverage Europe, Thomas Hollenstein, who has set out to surprise our guests with this interesting mix of flavors,” said Olivier Chavy, president and CEO, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts. “‘Vanille Salée’ is a real palate pleaser and we hope food enthusiasts dining at all of our properties around Asia, Africa and Middle East enjoy this new gastronomic experience.”

Mövenpick

Mövenpick takes culinary expertise to new heights

What: A food festival for those who fresh and delicious conch dishes -- much like mussels with the texture of calamari – can be enjoyed marinated, stir-fried, or braised with aromatic Chinese herbs and spices.

Recommended specialties include stir-fried conch with sugar pea, braised conch with oyster sauce, stir-fried conch with X.O. sauce, braised conch and Chong Cao in clear soup, poached sliced sea conch with soya sauce, and deep-fried conch with spicy salt.

Where: Loong Foong Chinese Restaurant, 2nd floor of Swissotel Le Concorde Bangkok (MRT: Huay Kwang) When: Until March 31 How much: THB 680++ per dish More info: 02 694 2222, ext. 1540

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LOOKEAST | WINE & DINE

Panorama Restaurant

Conch Celebration

Crab and Mussels

What: Enjoy the natural flavor and mild sweetness of fresh Atlantic brown crab served with a variety of sauces and condiments alongside one full kilo of mussels in either classic French style with rich and flavorful white sauce, aromatic Spanish style with chorizo, or palatable Thai style brimming with herbs and spices. Further enhancing the meal is a selection of chef’s special dipping sauces each complimenting the soft and sweet taste of Atlantic deep-sea gems and smooth texture Australia’s world-famous produce.

When: Every Friday Where: 23rd floor, Panorama Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park (Rama IV Rd) How much: Starting at THB 1,499++ More info: 02 632 9000 or visit: bangkoklumpinipark.crowneplaza.com

J’Aime’s new menu

What: Head Chef Amerigo Tito Sesti and his team are introducing a brand-new new menu created from Michelin Star Chef Jean-Michel Lorain’s recipes. The menu exemplifies Jean-Michel’s passion and inspiration combining tropical vegetables, herbs and spices with leading ingredients from the four corners of the culinary world.

Highlights include creamy herb soup with yellow snails, musky green sponge cake, romaine and wasabi fondue; beef tartare with Mediterranean vegetables, herbs and marinated lemon; Brittany sardine terrine with marinated cucumber and miso gelée; heart of cod served with Yanagi Matsutake mushrooms, sea snails and pea hummus; and fine pike mousse with slow-cooked salsify, apple and fish jus. Delectable desserts include pear declination with almond Florentine; coconut bavarois and

exotic fruits salad; and strawberry and basil vacherin. Available à la carte, or as a 5-course, 7-course, and 10-course tasting menu.

Where: J’AIME, 2nd floor of U Sathorn Bangkok, Bangkok More info: 02 119 4899 or email: reserve@jaime-bangkok.com

Rock ‘n’ Roasts

What: Every Friday night, at The World Restaurant of Centara Grand at CentralWorld, a luxurious buffet is prepared featuring a unique “Rock & Roasts” dinner, made with a choice of the finest beef, pork, lamb or fish, all prepared the old-fashioned way and slowly roasted to perfection. Dishes will include roasted lamb leg, short ribs, strip loin and flank steaks with roasted red onion and red bell peppers; roasted whole sea bass with herb stuffing and grilled salmon with saffron cream sauce, paired perfectly with potatoes and pumpkin.

When: Ongoing How much: THB 1,890++ per person with rum cocktails.

More info: 02 100 6255 or email: diningcgcw@chr.co.th

Feast of Flavors

What: Orchid Café welcomes diners in March with new additions to the renowned buffet lunch and dinner. Featured highlights will include succulent 120-day grain-fed prime Australian beef from the carving station. There will also be a fabulous selection of seafood dishes such as squid ink cannelloni with crab meat and zucchini, crispy black cod fish with sun dried tomato sauce, braised tentacles of octopus with black olives and potatoes, as well as seafood on ice. And don’t miss the heavenly new desserts, pistachio white

Orchid Café

chocolate mousse and cannoli filled with ricotta cheese.

Where: Orchid Café, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok (BTS: Asoke) When: March How much: Lunch and Dinner Buffet, THB 1,200++ per adult and THB 850++ per child; Dinner Buffet at THB 1,600++ per adult and THB 1,100++ per child; Weekend Grande Seafood Dinner Buffet at THB 1,950++ per adult and THB 1,200++ per child More info: 02 649 8355, email dining. sgs@luxurycollection.com

The Square

What: Choose your favorite pizza set from three different styles, from among Hawaiian, veggie, spicy salami, bacon and sausage, and quattro cheese plus a variety of appetizers such as garlic bread, Caesar salad, chicken wings, pasta (spicy seafood spaghetti or spaghetti with ham and mushroom cream sauce), and potatoes wedge with cheese sauce.

Where: Giorgio’s, Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers Bangkok, Si Phaya Road When: Available daily for dinner 6- 10:30 p.m., until March 31 How much: A “Small Combo” of THB 499++ includes a pan of pizza + two appetizers, “Medium Combo” of THB 599++ includes a pan of pizza + three appetizers, and “Party Combo” of THB 799++ includes a choice of two pans of pizza + four appetizers.

More info: 02 266 9214, email: events. rosh@sheraton.com

J’AIME

Giorgio’s

Pizza Combo

Salmon & Seashell

What: Taste many delicious dishes with salmon and seashells as star ingredients, including mussels in white wine, pan-fried scallop with cheese, stir-fried salmon steak, fresh oyster, New Zealand mussel, and salmon sashimi! Along with all the salmon and seashells you can eat, a variety of cuisines from Japanese to French and Thai traditional offerings are on the spread, and a whole table is reserved for desserts.

When: Sunday to Thursday Where: The Square, Novotel Bangkok on Sian Square.

How much: THB 1,150 ++, 50% off when you book online More info: 02 209 8888, ext. The Square

MARCH 2017 | 39

Special Lobster Delight

What: Fans of lobster are in for a real treat as a new highlight to the popular Saturday Seafood Night is added, Phuket lobster, a famous Thailand delicacy. Savor the taste of Phuket lobster dishes as part of Panorama’s popular Saturday Seafood Night buffet along with a tremendous range of international cuisines, among them Thai, Western, Chinese, and Japanese from numerous interactive live cooking stations in addition to delicious desserts.

Where: Panorama Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, Rama IV Rd (BTS: Saladaeng) When: Every Saturday night throughout March How much: THB 1,899 net More information: 02 632 9000 ; bangkoklumpinipark.crowneplaza.com

Italian Cheese Menu

What: Treat your tastebuds with Italian cheese menu at La Tavola and Wine Bar. From Italian cheese platter with honey rosemary, grilled wagyu striploin with parmigiano reggiano mash and truffle sauce, sundried tomato risotto with stracciatella cheese and green beans, expect an intriguing yet monthwateringly good cheesy delights. Available for lunch and dinner.

Where: La Tavola, 3rd floor, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong, 518/8 Ploenchit Road When: Tuesday to Sunday How much: A la carte starts from THB 380++ More info: 02 125 5000; 02 125 5020

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LOOKEAST | WINE & DINE

Drunken Leprechan Happy Hour

What: Kick off the week at The Drunken Leprechaun where you can enjoy "Happy Hour" with complimentary Dip & Dash from 6-8 p.m., or grab a Pie & Beer just the way you like only THB 399 per set. Immerse yourself with weekly entertainment from 8 pm every day. Another promotion worth trying is the ‘Steak and Wings’ combo set at THB 1,000 baht. The set includes Sirloin Steak with a choice of side dish, 10 barbeque wings serving with a jug of beer.

Where: Drunken Leprechaun Irish Pub, Four Points by Sheraton, Sukhumvit 15 More info: 02 309 3255

LUCE

Panorama Restaurant

WINE&DINE SPECIALS & PROMOTIONS

Meaty Flavors at LUCE

What: Chow down on succulent beef and lamb of truly premium quality from select Australian farms. Pamper your palate and tantalize your taste buds with a selection of prime cuts such as lamb loin with herb crust, ravioli filled with soft tender 150-day grain-fed beef cheek and Luce’s finest grilled selection of beef and lamb. Available for lunch and dinner When: March to the end of April Where: LUCE Italian Restaurant at Eastin Grand Sathorn Hotel Bangkok (BTS: Surasak) More info: 02 210 8100 or e-mail: luce@ eastingrandsathorn.com

Exclusive Dinner with Chef Bruno Menard

What: Celebrity chef Bruno Menard is coming to town this month for the "Exclusive Dinners" at the Tables Grill if The Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel Bangkok. The world-famous French Michelin star chef returns to Thailand after 30 years to showcase his cuisine that combines French flair with Asian inspirations he has picked up through his long career, and paired with Bruno Paillard wines from the Champagne Reims of France. The event is organized

by Elegant Journeys, a new company specializing in tailor-made, luxurious lifestyle offerings for the modern food, fashion, and style aficionados.

When: March 14-16 only More info: 085 666 1616

File Photos

WINE&DINE BARS & NIGHTLIFE

BANGKOK BY NIGHT! From the depths of the basement, hipster dive joints, speakeasies, and corner bars to the dizzy-ing heights of some of this city’s swankiest rooftop establishments, Bangkok is a veritable altar to the goddess of the night. Each area has places worth seeing, drinks worth drinking, and some-thing worth enjoying

M

any recent Bangkok visitors are saying that its nightlife has become “tamer” than it was a few years back. That maybe so; but the “hot and exciting” Bangkok hasn’t totally lost its touch.

The early bar closing times may have limited the hours of fun somewhat, but there is still so much to enjoy as far as nightlife is concerned. The live bands, the world-renowned DJs, the mini-concerts, the open bars, the beer gardens, even the cabaret shows. The lights at the entertainment districts have hardly dimmed, in a manner of speaking, and the excitement and the thrills they offer are still ever-present.

One of the hottest entertainment districts in the heart of town is Sukhumvit 11 (Nana), where several bars, clubs and restaurants – Clouds, Above 11, Havana, Q Bar,

Oskar, etc.…operate for both locals and foreigners. Havana Social is the bar that just might re-invent Nana’s less than ko-sher image.

Located opposite Fraiser Suites, down a small alley, past several massage parlors, find-ing this place takes you on a treasure hunt. Once you step into their concealed phonebook and enter a unique entry code, you’ll be whisked off into pre-revolution Cuba.

Gimmicks and backstory aside, this place serves up some fantastic drinks.

Naturally you’ll try and love the Cuba Libre, a great blend of angostura, cola ice cubes and lime wedges, but branch out a little and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Other new places have been opening as of this writing.

On Sukhumvit 15, Four Points by Sheraton ups the entertainment ante not only with a reinvigorat-ed Ambar and Drunken Leprechaun but also by outsourcing a space to Hooters.

On the other side of the street is Barsu, at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit (BTS: Asoke), and Landmark Hotel’s Hunts-man Pub (BTS: Nana).

Soi Cowboy (Sukhumvit 23) is of course a favorite of those still looking for the red-light district atmosphere, albeit tamer, that Bangkok was famous for. Not far from here on Sukhumvit 21, is Q&A (235/13 Sukhumvit Soi 21) hidden, speak-easy style bar made the cut to World’s 50 Best Bars and still manages to keep its cool. With its looming, dark and polished interior, serious drinkers be warned - you will find it hard to drink anywhere else. For the rest of us novices, the barman offers up personalized drinks.

The long road of Sukhumvit is is another burgeoning entertainment center – stretching from the Siam Square area to upper Sukhumvit reaching Thonglor and Ekkamai. In

Above: Rooftop venues are proliferating in Bangkok, such as this one (Octave at Bangkok Marriott Sukhumvit) offering spectacular city views along with their delightful F&B offerings in-house.

MARCH 2017 | 41

WINE&DINE BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Top, Right: The Manohra cruise of Anantara Riverside Bangkok Hotel.

Below, Top: Asiatique, The Riverfront.

Bottom: Barsu, the elegant club at the ground floor of Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit.

Bottom, Right: Creative drink at Revolution Cocktail

42

the tourist belt (Raj-damri areas are nightlife mainstays such as Spasso at Grand Hyatt Erawan, and Mixx Disco, at the basement of Hotel InterContinental Bangkok (BTS: Chidlom).

Many new hotels have rooftop venues, such as The Rooftop (Siam@Siam Bangkok), Red Sky and CRU Champagne Bar (Centara Grand at CentralWorld); The Continent Hotel’ rooftop, Sky on 20 (Novotel Bangkok Sukhuvmit 20), Brewski, the only rooftop specializing on craft beer (Radisson Blu Bangkok); Vanilla Sky (Compass Skyview Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 24).

On the other side of town (Silom and Sathorn areas), there is lebua at State Tower, with several bars and restaurants to die for; Woo Bar (W Bangkok) and many others all promising a great night-out as well. Sathorn Soi 10 is an emerging foodie hub by the way, dubbed as the new Thonglor. Here, you must try Revolution Cocktail (50 Sathorn Soi 10). It is Cayote Ugly meet’s dive bar, meets your local bar, but you’d be hard-pressed to find faults in this place. There’s an endless array of

LOOKEAST | WINE & DINE

house DJ’s serving up club friendly sounds, a young and hip crowd and well made classic cocktails - what’s not to love? Saturday nights here can get pretty wild, so if you’re looking for tame, this isn’t it. Of course, Vertigo Too (Banyan Tree Bangkok) is another must-visit hotspot and in Ladprao, Blue Sky of Centara Grand at Central Ladprao.

In Silom Road are several interesting places too, but there’s a reason why Maggie Choo’s (Basement, Hotel Novotel Bangkok Fenix Silom, 320 Silom Rd) always reigns supreme. This dungeon-like, opium den with its hanging qipao clad models and looming steel doors, breathes 1950s Shanghai back to life with an interestingly dark twist.

Other several interesting chill-out places include such as those in Soi Convent and of course, the favorite of the young crowd, Silom Soi 4.

The crown of Silom Road though, as far as many tourists are concerned is still Patpong, which links Silom with Surawong Road. It is known around the world for its nightly market, music halls and bars, but it is by no means the only area with after dark attractions.

Thonglor and Ekkamai still reign supreme as the place to be for nightlife (and dining too by the way).

At the heart of this road, which is also known as Soi 55, is a long and winding street with all kinds of entertainment venues located on both sides. They

include restaurants, pubs, karaoke lounges and even a traditional Chinese teahouse. There are now several entertainment complex-es that draw fun-seekers in droves, including Seen Space. Thonglor is linked to Ekamai (Soi 63), which is also noted for its numerous small restaurants, nightclubs and pubs, including Y50, a mod-ern bar, and Barbaska, a restaurant-cum-bar. In between is Soi 53, a leafy residential lane and home to No. 53, a trendy bar/restaurant popular with young Thais.

Of course, we must mention how the major hotels are also cranking up notches as far as nightlife entertainment is concerned, with exclusive wine dinners, Michelin-

star guest chefs promotions, and other culinary events. Some new hotspots worth mentioning are Evil Man Blues (G/F, 72 Courtyard, 72 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor) with its cool sleek lines and shapes of the ubiquitous 1950s diner decor meets wood, brass, and marble to create something that is quite simply, beautiful; and Octave Rooftop Lounge, with 360-degree panoramic views of the city. While most of the other sky bars tend to be on the other side of town, cramped together and all competing for space, Octave stands alone.

Other entertainment district to experience is Khao San Road, which attracts young locals who enjoy its trendy outdoor restaurants and bars.

Other night entertainment options:

Asiatique, The Riverfront is the largest waterfront themed retail and new lifestyle night shopping place in Bangkok. It combines the elements of the Thai history and the modern lifestyle in the fab-ulous way, under the concept of Festival Market and Living Museum set across an area of over 12 acres adjacent to Chaopraya

River with the longest boardwalk over 300m. Asiatique is home to the famous Calypso Cabarets, and Thai Boxing shows, “Muay Thai Live.” The latter is a theatrical way of telling the narrative of Muay Thai, both historical and otherwise.

Siam Niramit (Huai Khwang, Bangkok; Tel: 02 649 9222) is one of the largest stage productions in the world, with over 100 performers and more than 500 costumes, and amazing special effects using the world’s most advanced technology.

The show is an excellent introduction to Thailand’s history and culture.

Baiyoke Tower (Pratunam), until recently the city’s tallest building, remains popular among tour-ists, who climb the topmost floor for a revolving view of the city and to hangout in the relatively low-profile nightclub just below it.

A night at the Chao Phraya River is another interesting program that every tourist must enjoy. There are several river cruises operating on a daily basis, both by the major fivestar hotels – such as the Manohra of Anantara Bangkok Riverside, the Apsara of the Banyan Tree Bangkok,

and Horizons of Shangri-La Bangkok; and stand-alone operators such as Chao Phaya Princess, and Grand Pearl dinner cruises.

There are also cruises that goes beyong the metropolis, such as Ayutthaya River Cruises.

And of course, almost all the five-star hotels by the river such as Millennum Hilton, Royal Orchid Sheraton, The Peninsula, Mandarin Oriental and others, have outstanding bars and clubs for those who enjoy the city's amazing nightlife.

Top: A scene from Mixx Disco, on the basement of Hotel InterContinental Bangkok.

Bottom: Grand Pearl operates several dinner cruises.

MARCH 2017 | 43

TRAVEL

DIRECTORY AIRLINES

AEROFLOT RUSSIAN AIRLINES (SU) www.aeroflot.ru Email: bkktosu@aeroflot.ru Sales/Ticket/Rsvn: 0-2134-2180

AIR ASIA (AK) (FD) (QZ) www.airasia.com (Don Meung Airport) Rsvn: 0-2515-9999 Call Center: 0-2515-9999 AIR ASTANA (KC) www.airastana.com Tel: 0-2367-5301, 0-2367-5314-17 AIR AUSTRAL (UU) www.air-austral.com Sales: 0-2235-8228-9 Airport: 0-2134-2673-5

AIR CHINA (CA) www.airchina.co.th Rsvn/Sales/Tktg: 0-2108-1888 Airport: 0-2134-2451-2 / 55 AIR FRANCE (AF) www.airfrance.co.th Tel: 0-2134-2188 Rsvn.Tktg.(Passenger): 0-2610-0808 or 001-800-441-0771 Trade Helpdesk (Agent only): 0-2610-0880, 001-800-441-5741 Group Helpdesk: 0-2680-0899 Lost & Found: 02-134-4357-58 Airport off: 02-131-0011 AIR INDIA (AI) www.sstravel.co.th Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2216-5691-5 Sales: 0-2216-5719 Airport: 0-2134-2634,1343121-2

AIR MACAU (NX) Email: bkktwn@airmacau.co.th Ticketing :0-2286-4288 Sales: 0-2286-7650-52 Airport: 0-2134-2650 AIR MADAGASCAR (MD) www.airmadagascar.com Airport: 0-2134-2671-3 Rsvn./Tktg: 0-2235-8226-7

AIR MANDALAY (6T) www.airmandalay.com Airport : 0-5381-8049, 0-5327-6844 (107) ALITALIA (AZ) www.alitalia.com Rsvn./Tktg: 0-2634-1800 ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS (NH) http://www.ana.co.jp/eng Rsvn: 0-2238-5121 Airport: 0-2134-2403-4 Tktg: 0-2238-5132 Ext.1 Sales: 0-2238-5132 Ext.2 ASIANA AIRLINES (OZ) http://us.flyasiana.com, www.asiana-gsa.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2016-6500 Airport: 0-2134-2895-8 Sales (Passenger): 0-2016-6501 Phuket office : 076-328-610

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LOOKEAST | DIRECTORY

AUSTRIAN AIRLINES (OS) www.austrian.com Call Center: 0-2654-6800 Airport: 0-2134-2850 Lost/Found: 0-2134-2214 Tktg A/P office: 0-2134-2213 BANGKOK AIRWAYS(PG) www.bangkokair.com Email: reservation@bangkokair.com Head Office: 0-2265-5678 Airport: 0-2134-3960 Rsvn: 0-2270-6699 ext. 43711-2 BIMAN BANGLADESH AIRLINES (BG) www.bimanbkk.com Rsvn./Tktg:0-2235-7643-4 Airport: 0-2134-2942-3 Sales: 0-2233-3898 BHUTAN AIRLINES (B3) www.omgexp.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2630-4600 Airport off: B3@omgexp.com BRITISH AIRWAYS (BA) www.ba.com Administration fax: 02784 8133 Tollfree: 0018004415906 Group rsvn (9 or more): Groupsales.bkk@ba.com Airport: 0-2134 2264 CAMBODIA ANGKOR AIR (K6) Tel: 0-2635-0999 CEBU PACIFIC AIR (5J) www.cebupacificair.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2693-7888 (AUTO)

CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS (CX) www.cathaypacific-air.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2787-3366 Fare Desk: 0-2263-0662 Sales/Rsvn: 0-2134-2790-1 Airport Off: 0-2134-2888

CHINA AIRLINES (CI) www.china-airlines.com/en/index.htm Airport: 0-2134-2037, 0-2134-2042, 0-2134-2047 Admin/Tktg: 0-2250-9898 Sales: 0-2250-9890-9 Rsvn: 0-2250-9888

CHINA EASTERN (MU) www.ce-air.com Traffic: 0-2134-2101 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2636-6980 Sales: 0-2266-6571-5

CHINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES (CZ) www.cs-air.com/en/ Rsvn/Tktg/Sale:0-2677-7388 Airport: 0-2134-2078-9

DELTA AIRLINES (DL) www.delta.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2660-6900 Sales: 0-2660-6999, 0-2660-6900 Airport: 0-2134-2573-6

DRUK AIR (KB) www.drukair.com.bt Airport: 0-2134-3040-1 Rsvn/Tktg/Cargo: 0-2237-9201-5 Bhutan Package Tour: 0-2631-2570 EGYPT AIR (MS) www.egyptair.com.eg Airport: 0-2134-2031-3

Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2231-0506

EL AL ISRAEL AIRLINES (LY) www.elal.co.il Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2671-6145-6 Airport: 0-2134-3528 0-2249-8818-9

EMIRATES (EK) www.emirates.com Airport: 0-2134-2917-18 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2664-1040 Accts/Sales/Admin: 0-2664-1045

ETIHAD AIRWAYS (EY) www.etihad.com Airport: 0-2134-7494-5 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2305-4800 Town Office: 0-2305-4800 Call center 24hrs(AUH): 0-2787-3377 ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES (ET) www.ethiopianairlines.com Airport: 0-2134-3061-5 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2653-4366-8 ext. 1, 2 Ticket Booth: 0-2134-3066 EUROWINGS (EW) Call Center: 0-2654-6800 Sales: 0-2264-2490 Airport Tktg: 0-2134-2213 Lost/Found: 0-2134-2214 EVA AIRWAYS CORPORATION (BR) Airport: 0-2134-2521-5 /27 Rsvn: 0-2269-6288 Tktg: 0-2269-6299 Sale/Admin: 0-2269-6300 FINNAIR (AY) www.finnair.com Airport: 0-2134-2431-2 Sales: 0-2266-3260-5

HAINAN AIRLINES (HU) Tel: 0-2679-5086-7

HONGKONG AIRLINES (HX) www.hongkongairlines.com Tel: 0-2160-5138-9 Sales: 0-2160-5138 Ticketing: 0-2160-5139 HONG KONG EXPRESS AIRWAYS(UO) Tel: 0-2634-2552

HUNNU AIR (MR) Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2652-6030 Airport: 092-342-2471 , 094-980-7574

INDIGO AIRLINES (6E) www.goindigo.in Tel: 0-2134-2960-1 JAPAN AIRLINES (JL) www.th.jal.com Rsvn. and JMB: 0-2131-3300 Ticketing: 0-2134-6710 Toll Free Japan: 001-800-811-0600 English: 001-800-852-5533

JEJU AIR (7C) www.jejuair.net Airport: 0-2134-7792 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2134-3020-22 JET AIRWAYS (9W) www.jetairways.com, Email: bkkreservations@jetairways.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2696-8980 Airport: 0-21342627-8 JETSTAR AIRWAYS (3K) (JQ) www.jetstar.com Free Call 24 Hours: 001-800-611-2957 Rsvn: 0-2267-5125

JINAIR(LJ) www.jinair.com Airport:0-2134-0761-2 Rsvn./Tktg.: 0-2168-7495-7

Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2634-0238-9

FIREFLY AIRLINE (FY) www.Fireflyz.com.my Tel: 0-7760-1400 Tel: 076351477 GARUDA INDONESIA (GA) www.garuda-indonesia.com Airport: 0-2134-3080 Sales &Rsvn: 0-2134-7156, 7158 ext. 101-105 Operation : 0-2134-7157 GULF AIR (GF) GSA : www.gulfair.com Tel: 0-2635-1417 (Auto) Airport Off Traffic: 0-2134-2349-52 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2635-1417

KLM ROYAL DUTCH AIRLINES (KL) www.klm.co.th Lost & Found: 0-2134-4357-58 Airport off: 0-2131-0011

KENYA AIRWAYS (KQ) www.kenya-airways.com Admin: 0-2630-4545-50 Tktg: 0-2134-6497 Airport sales desk: 0-2134-6497 Kenya Holidays: 0-2634-2207 KOREAN AIR (KE) Rsvn/Tktg: rsvn.bkksm@koreanair.com Airport: 0-2134-2267-70 Sales: 0-2620-6920-26 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2620-6900 Admin: 0-2620-6999

MARCH 2017 | 45

TRAVEL

DIRECTORY AIRLINES

KUWAIT AIRWAYS (KU) Airport: 0-2134-3151-3, Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2654-0545 0-2134-3157, 0-2134-3523

LAO AIRLINES (QV) Airport: 0-2134-2006-8 Rsvn: 0-2236-9822-3, 0-2237-8044 LUFTHANSA GERMAN AIRLINES (LH) www.lufthansa.com Call Center: 0-2654-6800 Sales: 0-2264-2490 Airport Tktg: 0-2134-2213 Experts: 0-2264-2494 Lost/Found: 0-2134-2214 MALAYSIA AIRLINES (MH) http://malaysia-airlines.com.my Airport: 0-2134-3184 Rsvn: 0-2250-6568-74 Tktg./Admin/Sales: 0-2250-6560-7 Airport Ticketing Booth: 0-2134-3180

MAHAN AIR (W5) Admin./Tktg: 0-2231-6961(auto) Airport: 0-2134-3170-1

MYANMAR AIRWAYS INT'L(8M) Airport: 0-2134-3190 Rsvn./Tktg.: 0-2261-5060 Sales&Marketing : 0-2261-5070 NEPAL AIRLINES (RA) www.royalnepal.com Airport: 0-2134-7940 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2266-7146-7 Dir.Line: 0-2266-7157-9

Rsvn/Tktg: 1318

NOK SCOOT (XW) www.nokscoot.co.th Call Center: 0-2021-0000 NORWEGIAN AIR (DY) Tel: +47-6759-3000

OMAN AIR (WY) www.omanair.com Airport: 0-2134-1114-6 Rsvn/Tktg.Sales: 0-2635-1222

ORIENT THAI AIRLINES (OX) www.flyorientthai.com Call Center: 1126 Oversea Call : 0-2229-4100-1 Head Office: 0-2229-4260

PAKISTAN AIRLINES (PK) www.piac.com.pk Airport: 0-2134-2756-9 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2234-2961-5

46

LOOKEAST | DIRECTORY

QANTAS AIRWAYS (QF) www.qantas.com.au Airport : 0-2134-1010 Rsvn./Tktg: 0-2632-6611 Sale : 0-2632-6618-20 Group Sale: 0-2632-6617

QATAR AIRWAYS (QR) www.qatarairways.com/th Airport : 0-2134-3517-8 Rsvn/Tktg.(Asoke): 0-2618-0400 Sales/Admin: 0-2618-0499 Group.Dept : 0-2259-3115

REGENT AIRWAYS (RX) Tel: 0-2634-1270-2 ROYAL BRUNEI AIRLINES (BI) Airport: 0-2134-2857-8 Rsvn/Tktg/Sales: 0-2638-3050 ROYAL JORDANIAN (RJ) www.rj.com Airport: 0-2134-3312-4 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2638-2960-5 SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES (SK) www.flysas.com/th Airport: 0-2134-2020 Rsvn/Tktg (Passenger): 0-2693-7888

SCOOT AIRLINES (TZ) www.flyscoot.com Rsvn./Tktg. :0-2021-0000 SHANGHAI AIRLINES (FM), CHINA EASTERN (MU) www.ce-air.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2636-6980

NEW GEN AIRWAYS(E3) Tel: 0-2159-0920-22 NOK AIR (DD) www.nokair.co.th Call Center: 0-2900-9955

PHILIPPINE AIRLINES (PR) www.philippineairlines.com, Airport: 0-2134-6830/33 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2633-5713-4 Tktg. Booth : 0-2134-6835

SIAM AIR (08) Tel: 0-2150-1371 SILK AIR (MI) www.silkair.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-5390-4985-7 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-7630-4018-20

SINGAPORE AIRLINES (SQ) www.singaporeair.com/th Airport: 0-2134-2680 Rsvn: 0-2353-6000 Ticketing: 0-2353-6030 Sales Passenger: 0-2353-6050

SPICEJET (SG) www.spicejet.com Tel: 0-2277-9000 SPRING AIRLINES (9C) Tel: 0-2245-6929-30 SRI LANKAN AIRLINES (UL) www.srilankan.com Airport: 0-2134-2081-2 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2236-8450 Sale : 0-2236-8451

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES LTD. (LX) www.swiss.com/TH Airport: 0-2134-2095-6 Call Center: 0-2654-6800 # 2 Sale/Account: 0-2204-7777

THAI AIR ASIA X (XJ) www.airasia.com (Don Meung Airport) Rsvn.: 0-2515-9999 Call Center: 0-2515-9999 THAI AIRWAYS INTERNATIONAL (TG) www.thaiairways.com Tel: 0-2545-1000 485 Tel: 0-2288-7000 Airport: 0-2134-5483-4 Rsvn (24 hours): 0-2356-1111 Tktg: 0-2288-7000 Tktg Agent: 0-2288-7246-9 Fare Agent: 0-2356-1122 THAI LION AIR (SL) , MALINDO AIR (OD) Call center: 0-2529-9999 THAI SMILE(WE) www.thaismileair.com www.Thaismileair.com Tel: 1181 , 0-2118-8888 TIGERAIR (TR), TIGERAIR TAIWAN (IT) Tel: 0-2530-7887 TURKISH AIRLINES (TK) www.thy.com Airport: 0-2134-2073-4 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2231-0300-7

DIRECTORY AIRLINES-CHARTERED XIAMEN AIRLINES (MF) Tel: 0-2237-1899 ASIA ATLANTIC AIRLINES (HQ) www.asiaatlanticairlines.com Tel: 0-2635-5888 BANGKOK AIRWAYS (PG) www.bangkokair.com Airport: 0-2134-3888-9 Head Office: 0-2265-5678 Rsvn: 0-2270-6699 CITY AIRWAYS (E8) www.cityairways.co.th Call Center: 02-996-8808 Group booking: 0-2645-3236 HAPPY AIR Tel: 0-2134-8000-1 Airport Office(HKT): 0-7635-1405 Rsvn:0-7632-7777-8 KAN AIRLINES (K8) www.kanairlines.com Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2551-6111 Airport Chiang Mai: 053-283311 Airport KhonKaen: 043-468345 Airport Mae Hong Son: 053-613188 Airport Pai: 053-699955 Airport Nan: 054-775299 Airport Phisanulok : 055-301522

TURKMENISTAN AIRLINES (T5) www.sunline.de Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2635-0603-4 T’WAY AIR (TW) www.twaygsa.com Airport: 0-2134-7140-1

Rsvn: 0-2653-2111

UKRAINE INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES ( PS ) Tel: 0-2652-6085,0-2652-6089 UNITED AIRLINES (UA) www.unitedairlines.co.th Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2634-1640-2 Sale: 0-2634-1644-2 UZBEKISTAN AIRWAYS (HY) www.uzbekistan-airways.com Airport: 0-2134-2466 Rsvn/Tktg: 0-2635-5400-2

VIETJET AIR (VJ), THAI VIETJET AIR(ZV) Hotline: 0-2277-7111 VIETNAM AIRLINES (VN) www.vietnamair.com.vn/vnhome.htm Airport/Cargo: 0-2134-2001-2 Rsvn: 0-2655-4137-40 VIRGIN AUSTRALIA (VA) www.virginaustralia.com Rsvn/Tktg/Sales :0-2236-9300 Phuket Tel: 0-76327432 MARCH 2017 | 47

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