Lookeast May 2013 by Lookeast Magazine

LIFESTYLE

HOTELS

DINING NIGHTLIFE SHOPPING EVENTS PERSONALITIES ART CULTURE SPAS

EST. 1971

M AY I S S N 0 8 5 7 - 1 1 3 9

TRAVEL

MAY 2013

Oriental Residence Bkk GM Novotel Bangkok Siam GM Mandarin Oriental Bkk Hotel Manager Luxury Pool Villas Chic Urban Living Crowne Plaza Bkk Lumpini Park Visiting Phetchaburi Khao Sam Roi Yod City’s Changing Art Scene Zuma Bangkok Ciao, Mandarin Oriental Four Seasons Thonglor Hemingway’s Escapades

M AY 2 0 1 3 V O L . 4 2 N O . 5

In the Lap of Luxury

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

thb100 www.lookeastmagazine.com

PASSION FOR WEDDING PERFECTION

It’s the little things. The heartfelt welcome for you and your guests, the attention to detail ensuring everyone is happy, the fresh bridal bouquet, the splendour of the multi-tiered cake, the impeccable service. It’s the big things too. The room, the banquet, the photographs, the presentation. And the biggest thing of all - your happy memories. Find out how passionate we can be. Visit us at The Wedding Fair 2013, Queen Sirikit Centre, Stand P34 13 – 16 June, 11 AM to 9 PM Khun Amornthip Khun Phatsita

081-625-3221 089-444-4419 T: 02 541 1234 E: cglb@chr.co.th www.centarahotelsresorts.com

IT’S OUR PASSION

What's Inside

Phulay Bay Krabi

Bucha // 14 Visakha Thailand celebrates ‘Visakha Bucha,’ this

LIFESTYLE

travel

Urban Living // 48 Chic High-rise condominiums, executive

month

serviced apartments, and other luxury property constructions continue to mushroom around Bangkok, reflecting the growing sophistication of the city and its residents

Sam Roi Yod // 18 Khao Khao Sam Roi Yod is so close to Bangkok, but it remains relatively pristine and unexplored

20 Mini Guide: Phetchaburi //

Changing Landscape of 50 The Bangkok’s Art Scene //

PERSONALITIES

Designers, Fresh Ideas // 52 Top Siam Center’s groundbreaking fashion

Discover how this province keep intact the intrinsic qualities that make Thailand a delightful holiday destination

About Guest Service // 34 All Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is looking at

improving standards despite the hotel’s 137 year heritage, reputation, and numerous awards, says its hotel manager

the Boat Steady // 36 Keeping New GM of Novotel Bangkok on Siam

Square sees his current job role as helping develop skills, working out what makes the hotel so successful, and looking at what new he can bring to the table without rocking the boat

a New Benchmark // 38 Setting Veteran hotelier Alexander Blair leaves his

“Things aren’t changing, they’re happening” – this perfectly illustrates the energy that characterizes the art scene in Bangkok today event showcases the emerging fashion vision of the country’s hottest fashion designers – both established and upcoming

wine & dine Dining Destination To Be // 60 Top Word-of mouth is spreading: Crowne

Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park’s F&B outlets are sizzling with innovative dining concepts, great value promotions, not to mention classy ambiance and genuinely hospitable service

Flavors to Please // 62 New Zuma Bangkok introduces a range of new

dishes designed to appeal not only to aficionados of the Japanese izayaka dining style but also other foodies

Maldives position to set new standards in luxury accommodation in Bangkok with the Oriental Residence team

HOTELs the Lap of Luxury // 42 In Ask many discerning travelers: Luxury

pools villas are on top of the list for accommodation arrangements. Here’s why

Comfortable Retreat // 46 Chic, Value-for-money quality of B&Bs combined

the individual flair associated with boutique properties -- at La Villeta Chiang Mai

Lookeast | table of contents

Ciao Now //

More than a relaxed evening venue in a magnificent yet informal setting beside the river, Ciao is also expected to become a new benchmark for fine Italian dining

66 Reliving the Good Old Days // A restaurant named after Ernest Hemingway relives the glory of the ‘Roaring 20s’

68 Paradise for Diners //

Authentic Chinese food comes to Thonglor via London with The Four Seasons Restaurant

COVER: Oriental Residence Bangkok Lobby

regulars 6 18 16 24 26 57 70 74 76 80

Calendar of events film: in theatres now Culture Fix Travel Deals Travel news spa offers Dining Specials Bar Specials Lisitngs/Directory My Favorite Place

WORLD-CLASS LUXURY

100 BRANDS MORE THAN 500 FASHION SHOPS WITH OVER

UNIQLO

From the Editor

www.LOOKEASTonline.com | MAY 2013

he merry month of May – who hasn’t heard of this phrase; so common it is almost a worn-out cliché. And yet, what better way to spend the month than this? Especially in the travel and tourism industry where the main goals of stakeholders – including travel magazines like us – is to make the public merry? Thus this month, Lookeast Magazine essays another edition that reflects the joyful things (ah, merriment and more) that can be derived from the month of May. We believe that staying positive is a great antidote to the unavoidable difficulties that this life brings us all to bear – just read the daily news! – and travel -- holiday, vacation, journey, adventure, escape; whatever we choose to call it -- is supposed to be an enjoyable pursuit. Indeed. Merriment, enjoyment, fun – these synonyms form the underlying theme behind our stories this month, from David Stamboulis’ day trip to Khao Sam Roi Yod (Paradise Sans the Crowds, page 20), which revealed how this beautiful place not so far from chaotic Bangkok has remained relatively unexplored, quiet, and pristine, to Laurence Civil’s review of 137 Pillars Chiang Mai hotel (Home-style Lanna Concept, page 47), to Isabelle Kallo’s piece on (The Changing Landscape of the Bangkok Art Scene, page 50), to my Fashion Visionary take (Top designers, Fresh Ideas, page 52) and article on Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park (Top Dining Destination to Be, page 60), to John Howe’s enviable food tasting at the Four Seasons Thonglor (A Paradise for Diners, page 68). Even a cursory glance at these articles show how passionate our writers are in what they do. You can easily see the same passion – albeit unraveled in a rather different style – in the columns of Imtiaz Muqbil, which have now become integral to our monthly editorial budget, to use common journo lingo. Imtiaz’ informative and insightful trade columns (pages 30-33) sort of balance the seeming “frivolity (sic)” of things that some travel lifestyle features suggest. But enjoying the best of life’s moments is part and parcel of why we all love to travel, as our related articles on luxury pool villas (In the Lap of Luxury, page 42), La Villeta Chiang Mai (Chic, Comfy Retreat, page 46), and top tables (Zuma, page 62; Ciao, page 64, Hemingway’s, page 6, and Escapades, page 67) clearly underlines, and we’re just happy help all of you do that. Oh, by the way, don’t forget to check out our Personality profiles this month. We have interviewed the hotel manager of Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (All About Guest Service, page 34), and the general managers of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square (Keeping the Boat Steady, page 36) and Oriental Residence Bangkok (Setting a New Benchmark, page 38), to give you a more personal view of the hotel industry from the eyes of insiders. I trust that with the range and variety of interesting contents we have made available for you this month, you will be encouraged to explore more of this amazing kingdom, and that your entire experience will be a most enjoyable one. And that’s our basic goal – the merry month of May or not. Safe travels everyone! Sawasdee Krub!

PUBLISHER: sid sehgal

sid@thesehgalgroup.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: percy roxas

percy@lookeastmagazine.com

SOCIAL EDITOR: earth saisawang art director: apichart boontid SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: JARMMAREE JANJATURONRASAMEE ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: acharin suthisawad acharin@thesehgalgroup.com

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CONTRIBUTORS: Lauurence Civil Paul CYpert Atthasith Khupratakul John Howe Lekha J Shankar george saharat somapa Dave Stamboulis intern loic brand-srinaka ---------------------------------------------------------

DIRECTOR: gaurav sehgal GROUP PUBLISHING DIRECTOR: asha narula sehgal PRESIDENT: ravi sehgal CHAIRMAN: dato satish sehgal

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calendar

what's up in may 5

Coronation Day

Commemorates the coronation of the present monarch, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the longest reigning living monarch in the world today. Because the holiday occurs on a Sunday, the following day is a holiday. Where: Nationwide // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672

water for the coming rice growing season. Where: Sanam Luang, Bangkok // Contact: 02-2505500, TAT Contact Center: 1672

24 Visaka Bucha

National Events and Festivals May Inthakin City Pillar Festival

The “Inthakin City Pillar Festival” takes place over the course of six days each year in Chiang Mai. The final date for the 2013 event has yet to be given as of this writing but it usually occurs at some point around the waning of moon of the sixth lunar month (May). Where: Chiang Mai // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672

3-7 Top of the Gulf Regatta 2013

4-13 World Durian Festival

The fair features contests of fruit decorated floats, beauty queens, famous fruits such as rambutan, durian, mangosteen, Rakam and Sala zalaccas, varieties of santol and Thai ridgeback dog, as well as booth displays of gems and jewelry and other farmer housewife groups. Where: The Triangular Na Choei Ground, Pattaya

4-13 Chanthaburi Fruit Festival (4 May 2013 - 13 May 2013) The Chanthaburi fruit festival takes place at a time of the year

and the fruit that has been grown in the “fruit bowl of Thailand.” Where: Chantaburi

10-12 Isan Rocket Festival

Ban Bung Fai – the Isan Rocket Festival -- is celebrated in a

number of locations in Northeast Thailand (isan) and especially in Yasothon, where it is held with incomparable festivities. Where: Yasothon and other Isan provinces // Contact: 02-2505500, TAT Contact Center: 1672

11 Royal Ploughing

After a very successful and record-breaking “8th Top of the Gulf Regatta,” organizers are looking forward to a bigger and better raceweek this year. Last year, the regatta "exploded" with very competitive 40 footers that provided a breathtaking race. Where: Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Pattaya// Contact: www. topofthegulfregatta.com/

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when the abundent fruit crops are at their best. Chanthaburi offers a fantastic selection of fruits to try, including sweet rambutans, pomelos and the unusual durian fruit. There are prizes during the festival for such things as the best fruit display and the best tasting fruit and there is a full entertainment program on offer too. Visitors can enjoy the festival

The most important of all the Buddhist festivals in Thailand, “Visaka Bucha Day” takes place on the full moon of the sixth lunar month. It commemorates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death. Where: Nationwide // Contact: 02-250-5500, TAT Contact Center: 1672

24- June 4 SailQuest Samui Regatta Participants can choose to join the SailQuest yacht for the 210 nautical mile voyage from our SailQuest Ocean Marina (Pattaya) location to the Samui based event or you can make your own way to Koh Samui and join the SailQuest team for the regatta event (May 27 - June 1). The Samui Regatta event combines water racing with some amazing onshore parties and prize giving ceremonies. Where: Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui // Contact: www.samuiregatta.com

Arts & Culture 1-3 The Garden If Mine

Large-scale paintings by Nat Posila, including gigantic flowers, butterflies, and more, will be on display. On view from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd, Bangkok //

1-5 Possession Ceremony

An annual ceremony held to predict the abundance of food production and average supply of

This art show features 19 artists whose works give a sense of immersion into the visual culture, engaging with the pervasive influence of Internet culture and contemporary visual

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self-taught European female painter who expresses emotion through the visuals of femininity. By juxtaposing their artworks,

The Wonders of China

A collection of more than 80 photos of China’s natural wonders -- including the magnificent Forbidden City, the Potala Palace in Tibet, and the

reproduction. Where: Bangkok Art & Culture Center, Wang Mai, Pathumwan, Bangkok // Contact: 02-214-663

1-9 Parallel

Painting exhibition featuring two of the most recognized names in the local arts community: Elizabeth Romhild and Sumet Jumsai na Ayudhya. The exhibition juxtaposes the unique self-expression styles of two artists: one an academically trained Asian male architect whose take in art is structural and masculine, the other, a

the exhibition explores the trait differences of their creators but also embraces the common features apparent in their works. On view from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Where: La Lanta Fine Art, 245/14 Sukhumvit Soi 31 // Contact: 02-204-0583 or 02260-5381; e-mail: info@lalanta. com

1-20

Himalaya Mountains – is on display at the outdoor arena. Admission is free. Where: Central World, 999/9 Rama 1 Rd (BTS: Chidlom) //

7- June 2 Phantom of the Opera

The longest running Broadway show in history, having completed 25 years and 10,400

shows this year is presented by BEC Tero and Scenario, the top Thai musical theatre company. Based on a story ‘Le Fantome De L’Opera” by French writer Gaston Leroux, ‘Phantom’ was first made into a silent film in 1925 but hit the world headlines as a stage-musical in 1986, with outstanding music by Andrew Lloyd Webber; and Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman playing the lead-roles. The Times called it ‘God’s Gift to Musical Theatre.’ The present production is on a world-tour of several countries, including

7 7th Siam Paragon Bangkok Royal Orchid Paradise

Inspired by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s speech about Thai orchids and elephant conservation, Siam Paragon is organizing the “7th Siam Paragon Bangkok Royal Orchid Paradise 2013.” The event takes place June 6 -12 at the Siam Paragon (BTS Siam Square). This year marks the 7th anniversary of the event, dubbed as the largest orchid exhibition in Thailand, which Siam Paragon hosts in collaboration with public and private organizations. It features a special orchid arrangement in the theme of “The Miracle of Orchid: Conserve Orchid, Preserve Elephant” -- a giant elephant made from Rhynchostylis orchids. The floral statue's grand pieces of armor will be on display at the botanical space on the mall's M floor.

The event will also feature orchid competitions with over 120 species of orchids competing for the HRH Princess Sirindhorn Cup. A certificate will be awarded to the most beautiful orchid. There will also be exhibitions of award-winning orchids and other orchid-arranging activities. Orchids and gardening toolswill be on sale. A must attend event of the year for orchid lovers, “7th Siam Paragon Bangkok Royal Orchid Paradise 2013” is opened to all. Admission is free. Where: Siam Paragon (BTS: Siam Square)

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Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Taiwan in Asia. Where: Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre, Bangkok // Contact:

Until June 2 Tim Hetherington: Infidel This photo and video exhibition by Tim Hetherington (1970-2011) features some of the artist’s best work including photographs taken in Afghanistan, those published in the book, “Infidel,” and those featured in two films. Open: 4-10 p.m., TuesSun. Where: WTF Cafe & Gallery, #7, Sukhumvit Soi 51 (BTS: Thonglor)// Tel: 02-6626246; e-mail: somrak@ wtfbangkok. com

Every 2nd Tuesday of the Month German Film Series 2013

Goethe Institute Thailand presents some of the best German movies in this film series, scheduled every second Tuesday of the month from 6 p.m. onwards. Film showings in English subtitles. Where: Bangkok Art & Cultural Center, Rachathevi Road (BTS: National Stadium) //

Trade Fairs & Shows 1-6 Power Buy Expo 2013

The last week to enjoy the grand showcase of state-of-the-art electronic appliances and IT products to complement the modern, trendy lifestyle. Get more special privileges, plus discount and promotion from over 200 leading brands. Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-9042000: www.powerbuy.co.th

2-5 International Innovative Crafts Fairs (IICF 2013) The International Innovative Crafts Fairs spotlights materials from every part of Thailand,

Lookeast | calendar

which can be adapted into a craft. IICF also provides a seminar with foreign experts to help event visitors gain more related knowledge. Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 036-7054050; www.sacict.net

2-5 Bangkok Bike 2013 The Tourism Authority of

9-12 House and Condo Show #28

A house condo festival organized by The Thai Real Estate Association, in conjunction with the Housing Business Association and the Thai Condominium Association, the most comprehensive residential property fair. Where: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.housecondoshow.com

16-19 Thailand Travel and Dive Expo 2013

Thailand (TAT) and the NCC Exhibition Organizers (NEO), is organizing the “Bangkok Bike 2013,” the exhibition of its kind in the country, it is designed to promote the use of bicycles for both recreational and regular use and enhance the popularity of cycling tours for both local and foreign visitors. Some 170,000 people are expected to attend the four-day event. There will be displays and sale of bicycles, bike parts, and accessories of all kinds, demonstrations of Biker Style (fashion, clothing, and accessories for cyclists); gadgets and cameras for cyclists as well as introduction of Bike Trips (hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafés, tourist attractions, and groups of cyclists). Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Where: Exhibition Hall 4, Impact Muang Thong Thani // Contact: www. bangkokbikeexpo.net

9-11 Horti ASIA 2013

This international tradeshow focusing on the horticultural and floricultural production and processing technology industry is organized by VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific Open to trade May 9-19 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and public on May 11 (10 a.m-4 p.m.). Where: Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna-Trad Road (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-6700900; e-mail: hortiasia@ vnuexhibitionsap

22-26 THAIFEXWorld of Food Asia 2013

A grand exhibition for the Asian food industry, THAIFEX 2013 features Halal Food, Food Technology, Food Catering, and Hospitality Services and Retail and Franchise. Also a chance to get in touch with exhibitors: local and overseas manufacturers, exporters, importers, agents, distributor and service providers; and visitors: food importers, wholesalers, distributors, food manufacturers and processors, supermarkets, department stores, grocery stores; fast-food, hotel and restaurant chains, and many related industries from around the world. Open to trade: May 22-24 (10 a.m.–6 p.m.) and the public on May 25-25 (10 a.m.-8 p.m.). Where: IMPACT, Nonthaburi // Contact: www. thailandfoodfair.com

23-26 Shopping Paradise Fair 2013 Exhibition that aims to support and promote all aspects of Thai tourism and will offer a vast array of tour packages, accommodations as well as golf & diving products and services. Where: Plenary Hall 1-3, Meeting Room 1-2, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www. thailanddiveexpo.com

If you are interested in fashion and leathers, beauty and health, gift and decorative items, gadgets, house ware, electronics, and related products, this one is for you. Where: Zone C Ground Level, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.macexhibition.com

INDIAN FILM-RELEASES SCHEDULED FOR MAY SHOOT-OUT AT WADALA, Directed by Sanjay Gupta, May 3 -- An action-packed crime drama, which is a sequel to the muchtalked-about gangster film of 2007, "Shootout at Lokhandwala," and is based on the book Dongri to Dubai by Hussain Zaidi. Like the earlier film, this story is also based on the real-life encounter between Mumbai’s police force and its notorious mafia. Stars John Abraham and Kangana Ranaut www.youtube.com/watch?v=PG0NeRQext4 AURANGZEB, Directed by Atul Sabharwal, May 17 -- A classic Bollywood story of crime, action, songs ,and the old formula of double-roles. It centers around Yashvardhan,a real estate agent known for his illegal works, and his handy-man Ajay. Talented actor Arjun Kapoor (son of famous producer-director Boney Kapoor) plays the double-role of Ajay and Vishal, while the superstar of the Southern Malayalam cinema Prithviraj, plays the lead. www.youtube. com/watch?v=80vj5eWL_-A YEH JAAWANI HAI DEEWANI, Directed by Ayan Mukerji, May 31 -- This is the ultimate Bollywood song-dance-romance extravaganza ,which is one of the most looked- forward- to films of the year, as it stars the super-star pair of Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone,who were once a real-life ‘couple’. They play the romantic lead in a film that was lavishly shot in Kashmir, Paris and other places. The song-dance sequences are one of the highlights of the film, including a special number created by Bollywood’s best-known chorographer Farah Khan, with the lead-actor, and the Bollywood dance-queen of yesteryear, Madhuri Dixit. www.youtube. com/watch?v=9o1rWMtfPsc The Indian films will play, for a limited run, at Major Cineplex Ekamai, and Major Cineplex, Rama 3 . For details, check - www.majorcineplex.com/indianmovie

TRADE WITH THAILAND BEGINS AT THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE PROMOTION

Tap into Endless Opportunities In ASEAN with DITP

Why Thailand, you may ask? Well, why not? While global economic trends are increasingly focused on Asia, Thailand – strategically located at the very heart of mainland Southeast Asia – has clearly gained more advantages, highlighting its role as a center of trade, investment and tourism. What’s more, with the economic integration into regional trade blocs, from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations to ASEAN Plus Three (China, South Korea and Japan) and further with our additional Dialogue Partners in the Asia-Pacific region (India, Australia and New Zealand), the Thai Government is all set to embrace the endless opportunities coming our way, through clear policies that facilitate foreign investors in their business ventures in these countries. Asia’s emerging markets, especially in once slumbering China and India, present a whole new profitable perspective for international investors. We at the DITP are well-positioned to gain you entry into these markets, especially in regard to ASEAN and the above-mentioned six countries with which Thailand already has free trade agreements. At the DITP you will be tapping into a fountainhead of professional experience to secure unbeatable trade opportunities throughout all of Asia and the Pacific region, as well as anywhere else in the world.

Take Advantage of Thai Creativity Thailand enjoys a long history of culture and tradition, which have magically woven their exquisite charms into a number of products and services that are now in great demand around the world. Such ancient cultural wisdom and techniques provide a veritable smorgasbord for investors. The skills and creativity of Thai professionals are well known and highly respected worldwide. Thailand is therefore a great place for you to expand, with our assistance, your existing business ties while forging newer and more profitable engagements. The DITP is ready to match you with qualified Thai partners in assuring the development of first-rate products and services, all at very reasonable outlays. You will enjoy working with Thai professionals in fields as diverse as industrial design and high fashion, architecture, graphic design, animation and more. In a nutshell, when it comes to creative design and manufacturing. Thailand has never disappointed. At the DITP, your every need and requirement is earnestly anticipated.

DITP…Your Vital Link To the World’s Top Suppliers

industries such as air-conditioning and refrigeration, computer parts and accessories electric and electronics, automobile assembly, auto parts components and accessories etc. Also to be found here are lifestyle goods and specialized services, such as designer jewelry, silks and fabrics, ceramics and handicrafts, computer graphics and animation, health and hospitality industries. With our vast and efficient network, the DITP can connect you with the perfect suppliers in the blink of an eye.

Assurance of World-Class Quality We are a great deal about making sure that our global consumers are satisfied with our services. In order to achieve this, we insist on strict measures that Thai exporters must live up to. For those who exceed expectations, we recognize them with well-deserved honors:

When working with the DITP, you will find the answer to each and every question about trading with Thailand and its ASEAN partners. Furthermore, as a government entity, the DITP can always offer you the right connection in every facet and area of trade, investment and entrepreneurship. Simply stated, the DITP offers you a one-stop service for the right kind of information and contacts you will need for a successful business deal or venture in Thailand; connecting you to the rich pool of natural and quality human resources while matching you with strategic partners for possible collaboration in trading, investment, sourcing, subcontracting, etc. To link you with in world’s top suppliers, the DITP will navigate you along a direct route to the country’s abundant food and agricultural sector, which has earned the country a reputation as “The Kitchen of the World”. Much in the same way, the DITP will guide you to the hub of specialized

www.thaitrade.com DITP call center 1169 (only Thailand)

The Prime Minister’s Export Award The country’s highest recognition, given annually to Thai companies which have excelled in their respective fields. Thailand Trust Mark The country’s new mark of quality assurance for Thai-made products which have followed a strict regimen of production and environmental standards. Thai Select This logo is a mark of certification that guarantees the authenticity of Thai restaurant and Thai food products that have been prepared with proper ingredients and spices in the traditional Thai style of cooking. Demark The country’s Design Excellence Award given to honor products with good design.

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

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

travel

culture Thailand observes 'Visakha Bucha'

On May 24, Thailand joins the rest of the Buddhist world in celebrating ‘Visakha Bucha’ one of the most important holy days of the religion By Atthasith Khupratakul

uddhism arrived in Thailand over 2,200 years ago, when the Indian emperor Ashoke (or Asoka) sent missionaries to spread the religion in Southeast Asia. Ashoke was a warrior, and was determined to spread the religion of his empire even by force, if necessary. Buddhism, based on a philosophy of seeking happiness within oneself, was actively spread throughout the kingdom. The first records of Buddhism in Thailand were from Nakhon Pathom, west of Bangkok, near the great Chao Phraya River. When the Thai people from the North migrated much later, Buddhism became the faith of the newly born kingdoms, and eventually of the Kingdom of Siam. The three holiest days of the year for Thai Buddhists all include the word “Bucha (or Puja),” which means to pay respect. “Asaraha Bucha” commemorates the day the Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. “Makha Bucha” marks both the occasion when 1,350 of the Buddha’s 146 disciples gathered without prior notice and listened to some of his most important teachings in a sermon as well as the day he foresaw his own death and achievement of nirvana. The most important day of the three holy days is “Visakha Bucha.” “Visakhabucha” stands for “Visakapoonnameebucha,” which means the worship of his Lord Buddha. Buddhists regard this day as the Buddha’s recalling Day. Three significant incidents related to his Lord Buddha’s life occurred on Visakhabucha: the Lord Buddha’s birthday in 80 B.C., the enlightenment day in 35 B.C., and Nirvana day in 1 B.C. The first Visakha Bucha ceremony in Thailand was recorded during the Sukhothai period. No evidence of the activity was

Lookeast | travel

found during Thonburi and early Rattanakosin period but in the reign of King Rama II, the ceremony was “re-arranged” and held again. Since then, the Thai people have been commemorating this significant day. Common activities during Visakha Bucha Day focus on merit making: offering food to priests in the morning, and behaving according to Buddhism’s Five Precepts: abstaining from taking life; from taking what is not given; from sexual misconduct; from false speech; and from fermented drink that causes heedlessness. During the holy day, people display religious flags outside their houses. They visit temples to listen to sermons about Dharma (Buddha's teaching). They bring flowers, candles and incense to pay respects to the Triple Gems: Buddha (the Great Teacher), the Dhamma (the truth) and the Sangha (the community of the followers). Some attend meditation practices while others set birds or fish free to rid of bad karma. After sunset, believers take part in candlelit processions carrying flowers, three incense sticks and a lighted candle. They walk clockwise around the main chapel of the temple three times. The biggest, most famous, and grandest Visakha Bucha ceremony is held at Phuttha Monthon in Nakhon Pathom, where the statue of the Walking Buddha is located, and where the candlelit procession is usually led by a member of the royal family. But you don’t have to go to Nakhon Pathom for this religious ceremony because all temples around Thailand will have their own separate ceremonies. 

10th Anniversary Celebration of the United Nations Day of Vesak Theme: Education and Global Citizenship: A Buddhist Perspective Venue: UN Convention Center Bangkok, Thailand Monday, 20 May Arrival of participants, Airport Reception Registration at hotel lobby All Day 7 p.m. Dinner at the hotel Tuesday, 21 May 8 a.m. Arrival of participants at UNCC Buddhist leaders enter the Conference Hall 8:30 a.m. 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Arrival of His Holiness Somdet Phra Maharatchamangkalacharn His Holiness is attended and escorted by the Organizing Committee His Holiness leads congregation in Paying Homage to the Triple Gem Report by The Most Ven. Prof. Dr. Phra Brahmapundit, Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University and Supreme Sangha Council Member of the · Speech by His Holiness 9:30 – 10 a.m. Welcome Address by The Most Ven. Prof. Dr. Phra Brahmapundit, Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University and President of the International Council for Day of Vesak (ICDV) 10 – 10:45 a.m. Keynote Speech: Education and Global Citizenship: A Buddhist Perspective by Deputy Prime Minister and Ministry of Education of Thailand 10:45 – 11 a.m. Messages from Supreme Patriarch and Buddhist Leaders from different traditions 11 – non Luncheon 2- 3 p.m. Arrival of HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn · HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn is attended and escorted by Deputy Prime Minister and organizing Committee · HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn pays Homage to the Triple Gem · Report by Deputy Prime Minister · Inauguration speech by HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn · HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn departs Messages from Supreme Patriarch and Buddhist Leaders from different traditions 3-3:30 p.m. 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Panel Discussion on the Main Theme: Education and Global Citizenship: A Buddhist Perspective Group Photo 5:30 – 6 p.m. 6 p.m. Back to Hotel 7 p.m. Dinner at Hotel Wednesday, 22 May Arrival of participants at UNCC Conference Hall 8 a.m. 8:30 a.m. Buddhist leaders enter the Conference Hall 8:30 a.m. Chanting for world peace 9 –10 a.m. · Message by Mrs. Noeleen Heyzer, Executive Secretary of the UN ESCAP · Message from H.E. Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary-General · Message from H.E. Irina Bokova, Director-General, UNESCO · Address by H.E. Prime Minister of Thailand 10–11 a.m. 11 a.m.- noon 1– 3 p.m. Thailand:

Messages from Political Leaders Luncheon Celebration of the 100th Birthday Anniversary of His Holiness Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara, Supreme Patriarch of

3-4 p.m.

·Announcement of the “2013 Bangkok Declaration” followed by chanting for world peace ·Closing ceremony presided over by H.H. Somdet Phra Buddhacharn

· Video Presentation on His Holiness Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara, Supreme Patriarch of Thailand · Panel Discussion on the Theme: Contribution of Buddhist Sangha to Promote Education and Humanity

4 p.m. Proceed to Buddhamonthon for candle-lit procession Srisakyadasapalanyana Buddha Statute’s compound, Buddhamonthon, Nakhornpathom 6 p.m. Dinner at the hotel Thursday, 23 May All Day All participants check-out from hotel and depart

may 2013 | 15

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Some interesting books for your reading time during your Thailand holiday:

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TROPICAL ARTS AND CRAFTS: THE HOUSES OF GUZ WILKINSON By PATRICK BINGHAM-HALL Synopsis: Embracing the landscape and climate of Singapore, the houses of Guz Wilkinson revel in their settings, and reveal a passionate and inventive architectural imagination, liberated by the possibilities of designing in the tropics. Wilkinson perceives the landscape of Singapore for the lush fertile rainforest that it is: a vast Henri Rousseau painting in which he can build. In his houses, the boundaries between inside and outside are blurred, a reciprocal relationship with the landscape is established, and a tropical ideal has been created. The architecture is always expressive and each of Wilkinson’s houses is defined by a set of formal gestures that are both playful and practical: a tactile indulgence is always underpinned by a commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment. Landscaping, planting and the use of water are crucial to these houses, which draw upon the whimsy and decorative detailing of Arts and Crafts architecture, and the spatial freedom of such architects as Schindler and Wright. This monograph feature twenty-one of Wilkinson’s houses, built over the last decade. Each project is illustrated by extensive color photography, and is documented with formal drawings, concept sketches and project descriptions. An introductory essay examines the architecture in the context of 21st century Singapore, and documents Wilkinson’s background, influences and design philosophy. Price: Bt1,075 (US$36.51) // Available in Asia Books THE ICONIC INTERIOR: 1900 TO THE PRESENT By DOMINIC BRADBURY Synopsis: This substantial book features one hundred of the most spectacular interiors across the world, spanning the entire 20th century to the present day. It includes interiors assembled by artists and fashion designers, architects, interior and set-designers, bringing together diverse design talents from Piero Fornasetti and Coco Chanel to Alvar Aalto, Marc Newson and Matthew Williamson. Twenty short profiles are presented in the introduction, with a single iconic photograph and a concise, informative text; eighty are profiled at length, in chronological order, with superb colour photography and texts recounting the stories of these remarkable designs. Representing every style from minimalism, "Art Nouveau" and Neo-traditional to Gesamtkunstwerk creations that defy definition, these iconic interiors are elegant compositions that endure as lasting creations. Price: Bt.1,665 (US$56.54) // Available in Asia Books HOUSES DESIGNSOURCE BY LOFT PUBLICATIONS Synopsis: Filled cover-to-cover with gorgeous full-color photographs of inspirational home ideas from around the world, Houses DesignSource showcases myriad examples of wonderful design solutions. This beautiful volume considers the many factors, which impact the design of a home, including location, climate, and space. Also featured are green homes, prefab houses, renovated residences, and more. Houses DesignSource is an astounding source of ideas for architects, as well as homeowners wishing to create or enhance their daily environments. Price: Bt.521 (US$17.69) // Available in Asia Books SALENTO STYLE BY FIORELLA CONGEDO Synopsis: Salento is located in the southeastern extremity of Italy - located in the 'heel' of the Italian 'boot'. This book captures, in glorious photographs, the incredible interior design style of the region. Slowly becoming internationally recognized - just as 'Tuscan Style' before it - Salento Style encompasses an eclectic mix of fashions: at once simple, but sophisticated, rural and aristocratic, antique and contemporary. Price: Bt.1,087| travel (US$36.91) // Available in Asia Books 16 Lookeast

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MOVIES TO WATCH SHOWING IN May

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Iron Man 3

Star Trek Into Darkness

Storyline: In Marvel's “Iron Man 3,” Tony Stark/Iron Man finds his world reduced to rubble by a malevolent enemy and must use his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him as he seeks to destroy the enemy and his cohorts. Marvel Studios’ Iron Man 3 pits brash-butbrilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy's hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him: does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man? Director: Shane Black Cast: Robert Downey Jr, Don Cheadle, Ben Kingsley, Gwyneth Paltrow, Ashley Hamilton, and James Badge Dale

Storyline: When the crew of the Enterprise is called back home, they find an unstoppable force of terror from within their own organization has detonated the fleet and everything it stands for, leaving our world in a state of crisis. With a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one-man weapon of mass destruction. As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew. Director: J.J. Abrams Cast: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Karl Urban, Zoe Saldana, Anton Yelchin, and Simon Pegg

Midnight's Children Storyline: At the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, as India proclaims independence from Great Britain, two newborn babies are switched by a nurse in a Bombay hospital. Saleem Sinai, the illegitimate son of a poor woman; and Shiva, the offspring of a wealthy couple; are fated to live the destiny meant for each other. Their lives become mysteriously intertwined and are inextricably linked to India's whirlwind journey of triumphs and disasters. Director: Deepa Mehta Cast: Shabana Azmi, Satya Bhabha, Shahana Goswami, Rajat Kapoor. Seema Biswas, and Shriya Saran

The Hangover: Part III Storyline: This time, there's no wedding. No bachelor party. What could go wrong, right? But when the Wolfpack hits the road, all bets are off. A Los Angeles-based story that will deviate from the forgotten-debauchery formula of the first two films. It's safe to say a reunion between Stu and Jade is on the itinerary. Director: Todd Phillips Cast: Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, Ed Helms, Mike Tyson, Ken Jeong, and Mike Epps

Lookeast | in theatres now

mall/sho

The Great Gatsby Storyline: The Great Gatsby follows would-be writer Nick Carraway as he leaves the Midwest and comes to New York City in the spring of 1922, an era of loosening morals, glittering jazz and bootleg kings. Chasing his own American Dream, Nick lands next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire, Jay Gatsby, and across the bay from his cousin, Daisy, and her philandering, blue-blooded husband, Tom Buchanan. It is thus that Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super-rich, their illusions, loves and deceits. As Nick bears witness, within and without the world he inhabits, he pens a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, and holds a mirror to our own modern times and struggles. Director: Baz Luhrmann Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Isla Fisher, Elizabeth Debicki, and Joel Edgerton

Fast and Furious 6 Storyline: Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel), Brian O’Connor (Paul Walker) and the crew find themselves on the wrong side of the law once again as they try to pull off a highoctane heist on the streets of Europe – with federal agent Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) hot on their tails. Director: Justin Lin Cast: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Gina Carano, Luke Evans, Owen Shaw, and Michelle Rodriguez

// Paragon Imax Theatre 5F-6F Siam Paragon (BTS: Siam Square) Contact: 02 515-5555 // SF World Cinema 7th Floor Central World Plaza (BTS: Chidlom) Contact: 02 268-8888 // SFX Cinema Emporium 6th Floor, Emporium (BTS: Phrom Phong) Contact: 02 268-8888 // Major Sukhumvit 1221/39 Sukhumvit 63, (BTS: Ekkamai) Contact: 02 381-4855 To find the theatre nearest you, log on to www.movieseer.com

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Paradise Without the Crowds

Khao Sam Roi Yod is close to Bangkok, but it remains relatively pristine and unexplored TEXT and Photos by Dave Stamboulis

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ith the hot season upon us, everyone is looking for a rejuvenating weekend escape from Bangkok, which usually means to the closest beach destinations of Pattaya, Cha Am, or Hua Hin. Of course, since everyone has the same idea, unfortunately it isn’t much of an escape. And then there is Khao Sam Roi Yod. Khao Sam Roi Yod, Thailand’s first coastal national park, is located near Pranburi, just south of Hua Hin. Despite

its proximity to Bangkok, it remains relatively unknown, quiet, and pristine; and offers a variety of attractions: from sandy beaches to mountain trails, abundant birdlife, and perhaps the most fascinating cave in Thailand. The name Sam Roi Yod means “mountains with 300 peaks,” which appropriately describes the rugged limestone karst peaks that dot the landscape, rising out of the Gulf of Thailand and above the coastal marshland. The park is famed among ornithologists due to its position on an East Asian-

Australian flyway for migrating birds; between November and March, over 300 species of birds, many of them migrating from Siberia and Europe, stopover in the mudflats and marshes of Sam Roi Yod. Other wildlife can also be spotted in the park. There are serow (a type of goat-antelope) up on the limestone crags, and plenty of dusky langurs and long tailed macaques, which roam about in the forest and around the park headquarters and campsites. Additionally, Irrawaddy dolphins can occasionally be seen off the coast. For the ambitious, there are several walking trails, from nature trails through the mangroves to more strenuous

jaunts up into the limestone, the most spectacular being the trek up to the Khao Daeng mountain viewpoint, from where a stunning panorama of the surrounding peaks and sea views can be seen. From this section of the park there are also boat trips up the Khao Daeng Canal, which has excellent birdwatching opportunities. If breaking a sweat is not your forte, the park has two white sand beaches, Sam Phraya and Laem Sala. Laem Sala has bungalows and tents for camping along with a restaurant. Due to its location around a rocky headland, the only way the beach can be reached is via longtail boat or a 20-minute climb over a rocky trail, and other than daytrippers coming to visit the

Phraya Nakhon Cave or a handful of the local fishermen who come out with their nets early in the morning, you are likely to have the place to yourself. There are several caves to explore, but the Phraya Nakhon Cave -- probably the most photographed cave in Thailand -- is the most special. Getting to the cave involves a 20-minute climb up over a mountain from where one descends into a huge cavern. The cave is actually composed of two large sinkholes whose roofs have collapsed, and in the early morning, light filters in from the openings and creates a dramatic and surreal effect on the surroundings. The cave was named after its discoverer; a lord from Nakhon Sri Thammarat (Phraya Nakhon), who wandered into it some 200 years ago after being shipwrecked in a violent storm. What makes the cave so interesting is that there is a giant throne pavilion with a four gabled roof sitting in the middle of it, which is also illuminated by the fantastic light. The pavilion was constructed for the visit of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in 1890, and has since been visited by numerous dignitaries, including twice by King Bhumibol. But Khao Sam Roi Yod has very poor public transportation options, perhaps one reason why the park remains so quiet. Additionally, as the park is so spread out, it makes sense to have one’s own transport when visiting the different areas. Those without wheels shouldn’t be put off though. You can take a minvan from Victory Monument to Pranburi, and then hire a motorcycle or other vehicle to take you to the park for around Bt300. From the little village near Laem Sala Beach, transport back into town is also available, along with motorcycle rentals for exploring the park. There are some very nice and affordable lodges on the beach just 10 minutes drive from the park on its northern end, especially the Dolphin Bay Resort (www. dolphinbayresort.com), but it might be far more enjoyable to rough it a bit and stay inside the park itself, either on the beach or near the mountains. The park service (www.dnp.go.th/parkreserve/nationalpark. asp?lg=2) does have a few basic bungalows mostly meant for groups, and also have tents for hire. It is a rather bizarre yet cherished feeling to be this close to Bangkok and yet feel like 1,000km away in a romantic and unexplored hideaway.  may 2013 | 21

travel

mini-guide Visiting Phetchaburi

This province located just about 120km or so from Bangkok have kept the many intrinsic qualities that make Thailand such a delightful holiday destination intact By Percy Roxas

ot too many foreign visitors to Thailand think of Phetchaburi when planning their trip. In fact when they go to Cha-am, the twin-sister of the popular beach destination of Hua Hin, they are technically in Phetchaburi. Cha-am is under the direct administration of Phetchaburi Province. But Cha-Am is not the only attraction that the province can be justifiably proud of. The entire province, sandwiched between the Gulf of Thailand to the east and the Tanaosi mountain range forming the boundary to Myanmar, is full of both natural and manmade attractions that should have made it a major tourist destination. The capital, Phetchaburi, is an old royal city dating to the 8th century. The relics of its rich and checkered past, such as the Khmer-styled prangs of Wat Kamphaeng Laeng and the place built by King Rama IV in 1860, the Khao Wang (or officially, Phra Naklhon Khiri) and the royal temple Wat Phra Kaeo, clearly reflect its importance to the kingdom.

WHY GO Eco-tourists will be glad to know that Phetchaburi is home to Thailand’s largest national park, the 3,000sqmKaeng Krachan National Park, which covers nearly half the province. This park protects mostly rainforests in the mountains and the Kaeng Krachan reservoir. There are several caves to explore here; most notably the Khao Luang caves, where Buddha statues are illumanted by a hole in the roof. Beachcombers will enjoy Cha-am Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the country favored by Thais. This beach area is one of the remaining real Thai-style resort, although modernization is advancing fast and more and more tourist facilities are

Lookeast | travel

beginning to mushroom. Still, for the most part Cha-am is a relatively quieter than other major Thai beach destinations and therefore, a great relaxing place to be. Culture lovers will find the many temples most interesting, such as Wat Tham Klaep, which has a very large hall and chapel with beautifully carved door panels, Wat Mahathat Worawihan with its five-topped pagoda constructed in accordance with the Mahayana concept, Wat Yai Suwannaram, which contains 300-year-old mural paintings of mythical angels and houses a preaching throne with intricate woodcarvings and gold gilt works of Bangkok design, Wat Kamphaeng Laeng, originally a Khmer place of worship, attested

by its sandstone walls and four Khmer style pagodas; Wat Khao Takhrao and Wat Kuti, which has a ceremonial hall made entirely of carved teakwood. Those searching for more of the essential local touch, Phetchaburi seems to have successfully retained the many intrinsic Thai qualities that make the country such a delightful holiday destination. Immerse yourself in a place where ever-hospitable locals who know how to laugh and have fun reside. It’s always great to be with people who seem to be attuned with their surroundings. MORE TO SEE & DO Beyond Cha-am Beach, which is considered by many tourists – rather mistakenly -- as a

separate unit, Phetchaburi City probably attracts more visitors than the rest of the province. Here is located the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, a beachside wooden palace formerly used as a royal summer residence by King Rama VI in the 1920s, but is now open to the public. The palace faces the open sea and a day spent there will make one understand why it is referred

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Phetchaburi DEstinations to Discover

thailand map with pointer to the for upcountry dest

to as “the palace of love and hope.” The Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park covers a hilly area with an old palace and historical temples. It consists of royal halls, temples and groups of buildings, constructed in splendidly harmonious Thai, Western neoclassic and Chinese architectural styles. Just two kilometers south of Khao Wang is Khao Bandai It, site of an ancient temple (Ayutthaya Period) and several caves. Phra Ram Ratchaniwet, a palace in European architectural style was built as a rainy season palace by King Rama V in 1916, and was used to welcome state visitors during the reign of King Rama VI. And yes, there are other beaches: Hat Chao Samran, Hat Puek Tian, and Hat Laem Luang, which stretches with two kilometres of white sand. We mentioned the Kaeng Krachan National Park, which is still largely unexplored. You might also want to see the 760m-long and 58m-high Kaeng Krachan Dam, which provides a beautiful scenery of the reservoir and its islands. Other “must-see” sightseeing options are the Lao Song or Thai Song Dam Tribal Villages and the Huai Sai Wildlife Breeding Center, just 14km south of Cha-am, a conservation area for wild animals. Oh, if you have the time, don’t miss the exciting rafting adventure along the Phetchaburi River. If you’re coming around February, time your visit with the Phra Nakhon Khiri Fair at Khao Wang Compound. The five-day fair presents a

parade of people enacting the procession of monarchs who ruled Phetchaburi during the Dvaravati and Srivijaya Periods. Apart from that, there are exhibitions on Phetchaburi’s history and archaeological objects. Cooking demonstrations on the province’s famous dishes and sweetmeats are among the main attractions of the fair. Also featured are various kinds of entertainment and contests. In April, they also have the Thai Song Dam Festival, an event that includes a merit-making ceremony, folk plays, and grand displays of authentic Thai Song Dam village cuisine for all to enjoy. EAT Eating out should not be a problem as there are hundreds of restaurants and cafes serving almost every variety of Thai food except there is almost no English translation (from the name of the place to the menu) except maybe in Cha-am; but that can become part of the adventure. If you don’t have a Thai guide or you are not that knowledgeable in the local language, this could pose a dilemma. However, rest assured that whichever place you stop by to eat, you’ll be served with wholesome Thai dishes at very low prices. If you want to be safe, better stick to hotel restaurants close by. Or otherwise, be content with Western-style franchises such as KFC, Chester Grills or McDonald’s. Besides a few Chinese restaurants, fast food franchises and pizza parlors, it is almost impossible to find

THAILAND Bangkok Phetchaburi

// how to get there: Being close to Bangkok, you can reach Phetchaburi via land trasportation (private car, van, or bus) . You can rent a car and follow the two major routes: Via the Nakhon Pathom-RatchaburiPhetchaburi route, taking the how Phetkasem Road, Highway No.4 (Total distance from Bangkok to Phetchaburi town is 166 km) how or via the Samut Sakhon-Samut Songkhram-Phetchaburi route. Use Rama 2 Road, Highway No.35 (Total distance from Bangkok to how Phetchaburi town is 121km).

anything other than Thai food in the city. SLEEP In Phetchaburi town, many tourists have randomly tried and enjoyed their experiences at Datofarm (087-116-4504), a four-room guesthouse; also organizing exciting tours by car or boat to major attractions in the area; 2N Guesthouse (081-8171134), which offers a nice standard of accommodation with breakfast; and Royal Diamond, (near the by-pass) although it is not especially convenient because it is not close to the market area (but close to Khao Wang). There are some interesting hotels in the market area too,

to go by bus

to go by car

to go by taxi

how to go by train mostly old converted shophouses. In Cha-am, a wide range of accommodation is now available. You can how to go by boat/ choose to stay in inexpensive

guesthouses and hostels, new intimate boutique properties, or something like the Marriott Cha-am or Holiday Inn Chahow to go by airpla Am, among many others. BUY Before you return to Bangkok make sure you buy some local products. Phetchaburi is famous for its sweets, especially the one made with palm sugar local dish (which is cooling and very popular during the summer season). Khanomchin Thotman (rice noodles with fishcakes) is also popular, not to mention fruits. May 2013 | 23

TRAVEL

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From Bt2,950 As the temperature rises in

sunny Bangkok why not enjoy the scorching hot deals on offer at Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn, Bangkok. Extremely attractive room rates are being offered exclusively for Thai residents. From May 1 to 31, the Superior Room will be available at a special rate of Bt2,950 net and only Bt3,150 net from June 1 to Sept. 30. The above rates are inclusive of international buffet breakfast for two. Exclusive monthly stay rates are also available. Please contact the Reservations Department for more details. For more details or to make a reservation contact 02-210-8100 or e-mail: rsvn@eastingrandsathorn.com

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From Bt2,449 net Windsor Suites Hotel is

out to beat not only the summer heat but also the spiraling hotel room rates in Bangkok! With our “Value Plus Package,” you can enjoy a most memorable stay at the heart of the city, close to touristic activities, entertainment, business, and shopping landmarks, in spacious, well-appointed rooms equipped with the all the amenities to ensure you a comfortable, satisfying stay. The Counselor Suites Room is offered at a daily rate of Bt2,449 net (single) and Bt2,749 (twin), while the Executive Suite is offered at just Bt2,999 net (single) and Bt3,299 net (twin). Offer includes special benefits such as breakfast at Executive Lounge, Happy Hours (5:30 - 7 p.m.), free use of meeting room for two hours and more. Terms and conditions apply. For more information or reservations, contact Sales & Marketing Department at 02-2621234, ext. 1207

Eastin Hotel Makkasan Bangkok is offering unbeatable room rates starting at Bt1,999 net per room per night for a Superior Room or starting from Bt2,299 net inclusive of international buffet breakfast for two and complimentary Internet during your stay as well as other benefits. For more information and reservations, call 02-651-7600 or e-mail: rsvn@eastinhotelmakkasan.com

Phuket From Bt1,999++ To celebrate its launch,

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From Bt4,695 Outrigger Laguna Phuket

Resort offers with special introductory prices for its target family, couples, and leisure segments. Room prices, including breakfast, range from Bt4,695+++* for a Deluxe Lagoon to Bt7,195+++ for the Club Lagoon, Bt8,195+++ for Club Sea View, up to Bt23,195+++ for the Two Bedroom Villa. The resort has 11 room categories in all. Bookings and further information are available at www.outriggerthailand.com; e-mail: dosm. phuketbeach@outrigger.co.th. Tel: 076-324352

Chiang Mai Bt19,888 The Peninsula Bangkok (with its Thai Country Club) is offering an exclusive golf experience from May 1 to Aug. 31. The “Suite and Green” package is priced at Bt19,888 includes one-night accommodation in a Deluxe Suite, daily buffet breakfast for two, green fees for two, roundtrip van transfer from/to Thai Country Club; and late checkout at 6 p.m. For more information, contact the reservations department at 02-861-2388; e-mail: reservations at peninsula.com

Bt4,200 net Enjoying a great location in a tranquil setting but also within easy reach of transportation and tourist attractions, La Villetta is a boutique bed & breakfast establishment that offers visitors to Chiang Mai the perfect combination of chic and comfortable accommodation, modern amenities and friendly service. Experience the resort’s “Summer Holiday Package” from now until Aug. 31 at only Bt4,200 net per package, which includes: three nights accommodation in a Deluxe Room (single or double occupancy), daily breakfast for

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one or two persons, roundtrip airport transfer, and late checkout until 6 p.m. (subject to availability). Terms and conditions apply. For more information or to make a reservation, call 053-141-887, e-mail info@lavilletta-chiangmai. com or visit www.lavilletta-chiangmai.com

longest golf course in Thailand, the Kabinburi Sport Club, and the Hillside Country Home Golf and Resort with its beautiful mountainous scenery. Price is Bt2,000 per person (Monday-Thursday) or Bt2,700 per person (weekends and public holidays), inclusive of accommodation for one night with breakfast and green fees for two rounds are included. This package is available until Dec. 31. For more information or reservations, contact the Kantary Hotel Kabinburi at Tel: 037-282-699 or 037-203-193 or e-mail: reservations@ kantaryhotel-kabinburi.com or visit www. kantarycollection.com

sold. Now you can bring the Westin Heavenly Bed® home and recreate the Westin sleep experience night after night in your bedroom. The Westin Heavenly Bed® offers layers of comfort and relaxation, worlds apart from other beds. Every detail of the Westin Heavenly Bed® is designed for a superior slumber – from crisp, white 250–thread count sheets to a custom mattress topped with a plush down comforter and five pillows. Purchase from the renowned Westin Heavenly Bed® range (minimum spending of Bt30,000) before May 31 and receive complimentary two nights stay at The Westin Siray Bay Resort. To view the entire exclusive home collection, visit the Heavenly showcase at the Business Center on the 8th floor, Westin Grande Sukhumvit. For more information, contact: 02 207 8000 or e-mail bangkok@westin.com Visit: www. westingrandesukhumvit.com

From Bt5,610++ From now until Oct. 31,

U Chiang Mai offers two wonderful getaway packages with either inspiring activities or ultimate pampering exclusively for you. Embark on a journey of discovery by exploring the famous Chiang Mai culture and history with “U Discovery Package” as their knowledgeable host brings you unique experiences including participating in local community activities and guided walks. Or spoil yourself with the U Spa Package, where you choose from a Royal Siam massage or Classical Swedish massage to improve circulation and promote an all-round sense of wellbeing. The packages starts from Bt5,610+++ per night per package for a Superior Room and Bt6,610+++ per night per package for a Deluxe Room including breakfast whenever/wherever for two and other benefits. For more information and reservations, call 053-327-000 or e-mail: reserve@uchiangmai.com. Visit our website www.uchiangmai.com

Bt2,000 The Kantary Hotel Kabinburi invites

you to experience a special golf package at only Bt2,000 per person. Enjoy playing at two of the area’s best golf courses, including the

Bt2,500 net U Inchantree Kanchanaburi

Westin Heavenly Bed Westin Hotels & Resorts sparked a hotel bedding revolution when it introduced the Heavenly Bed®; an icon that has since inspired countless imitators. Over a decade since, more than 75 million guests have tucked themselves into Heavenly Beds at Westin hotels around the world, including U.S. presidents, Hollywood royalty, and professional athletes; and more than 30,000 beds and 100,000 pillows have been

now offers Thai residents an unbeatable package from now until June 30. Enjoy superb accommodation and relax in the picturesque surroundings with a beautiful sunset vista at the edge of the River Kwai. Thai residents can take advantage of a very special rate at Bt2,500 net per Superior Room per night including breakfast for two persons and also receive 20% discount for dining at the everpopular Peppers Restaurant, surrounded by landscaped gardens and spectacular views. For more information or reservations, call 034521-584 or e-mail reserve@ukanchanaburi. com or visit www.ukanchanaburi.com

Looking for the best travel deals? For bookings and reservations, contact: LOOKEAST TRAVELS 18th Fl. Richmond Office Building #75/65 Sukhumvit Soi 26, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Tel. 02-204-2449; Fax. 02-204-2984 www.lookeasttravels.com

May 2013 | 25

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W Retreat Koh Samui Relaunches WOOBA® Samui -- W Retreat Koh Samui recently relaunched its iconic WOOBA® by hosting an exclusive evening like no other ever seen on Koh Samui. Recent initiatives to inject W Hotels’ signature New York energy into Samui covered everything from a stunning new “floating” DJ booth to graffiti walls by international street artist, Alec Monopoly, and custom-made lighting and furniture coordinated by Thailand design company P49 Deesign. "We wanted to bring a distinct energy to the WOOBA® that capitalizes on its unique setting and views of the sea, " said Carl Almeida, Partner at P49 Deesign. To celebrate the relaunch, W Retreat Koh Samui invited guests to an evening fusing “What’s New/Next” in fashion, music, and design in true W Hotels style. With the sun setting over the Gulf of Thailand as an incredible backdrop, a floating 50m-runway was created to showcase the latest designs from Rubin Singer, who is known as international designer to the stars. He was most recently noted for having done Beyonce’s spectacular bodysuit for the recent Super Bowl. The fashion show preceded a party with French guest DJ Xeum spinning vibrant music late into the night as the skies exploded with a fireworks display seen for miles around. “W Retreat Koh Samui is the only resort at our level, which creates an atmosphere welcoming guests to experience Koh Samui in such a unique fashion,” says the resort general manager Nicholas Downing. “With the relaunch of WOOBA®, we have now set the standard as the most exclusive entertainment venue for W guests and savvy island locals. Featuring creative cocktails, sought-after DJ’s, and space for mixing, mingling, and chilling out."

PATA Youth Forum tackles ‘Future of Tourism’

Bangkok -- Next Gen travel industry professionals already holding down senior positions of responsibility shared their forthright views with travel industry students at the PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) Youth Forum held recently in Bangkok. The forum focused on how new generations of consumers are finding, searching and connecting to travel, now and in the future. The Forum, with its theme, “Search, Connect, Experience – The Future of Tourism,” aimed at attracting hundreds of young professionals and students from overseas and Thailand. It started one day prior to the 2013 PATA Annual Summit, hosted by the College of Innovation at Thammasat University in Bangkok. Among the key speakers were: Siradej Donavanik, manager-operations and profit improvement, Dusit International, Arrut Navaraj, managing Director, Sampran Riverside, Thailand, and Peter Jordan, international relations officer, the World Youth, Student & Educational Travel Confederation. Other speakers who addressed the PATA Youth Forum included Prof Dr Somkit

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Lertpaithoon, Thammasat University rector; Martin J Craigs, PATA CEO; Dr Glenn McCartney, University of Macau; Dr JS Perry Hobson, Taylor's University, Malaysia; Chittimas Ketvoravit, managing director, Universal Hospitality, Thailand; and Ariya Banomyong, country manager, Google Thailand.

Tourist Police Promise Better Protection for Visitors

Bangkok -- Thailand’s Tourist Police have embarked on a major campaign to improve their image and their services for tourists by launching one of the country’s most innovative virtual applications. The “Tourist Buddy” initiative will ensure 24-hour assistance for its users along with

a better standard of help for those in need. The “Tourist Buddy Virtual Assistant” was launched last month at an “i-Exhibition” within Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, which also included trial and download points for the Tourist Buddy Application and features a dedicated Songkran Festival board to coincide with nation-wide festivities for Thailand’s famous New Year water festival. Pol.Maj.Gen Roy Inkapairoj said he created this application so tourists can freely and instantly download the new Tourist Buddy Application in their own smartphones and devices to enable access to assistance from the Tourist Police 24 hours a day. “The Tourist Buddy Application will provide a new method for tourists to get assistance, anytime,” he said. “It is also expected to go a long way in supporting promotion for the nation’s tourism, culture, traditions and festivals. The program can specify the exact location of the requested place for assistance, thus allowing the Tourist Police to intervene promptly. It also includes information on all Tourist Police branches throughout the country, emergency numbers and other news updates. Immediate

calls can be made to the 1155 Hotline from the application.

Ramada Khao Lak launches New Business Tourism Package

Khao Lak -- Ramada Khao Lak Resort is unveiling its “Boardroom Talks and Jungle Walks” package, offering its stylish and luxurious interiors to business tourism planners as part of a perfect getaway with unrivalled experiences trekking through Khao Sok National Park and diving the waters around the Similan Islands. Groups will enjoy a full day's use of the resort's fully serviced meeting rooms including an authentic and traditional Thai private lunch and gala dinner on Ramada's extensive lawn area by the beachfront, two nights' accommodation in the resort's opulent Deluxe Oasis rooms and a choice of a thrilling safari into Thailand's oldest and most wild national park or a day spent basking on the Similan Islands' best-kept secret, Koh Tachai. In addition, the resort is able to convert its beach restaurant into a stylish and invigorating meeting space with uninterrupted seaview and plenty of natural light, ideal for smaller business groups and incentives.

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travel/de "Whether as a reward for outstanding performance, a bonding exercise to promote teambuilding, or just a great day out, our unique day trips around Khao Lak offer individuals and businesses a great way to mix business and pleasure," said Ramada Khao Lak Resort general manager, Michael Vorderleitner. In addition to the perks of the resort's stunning location, guests staying as part of a business group will enjoy a 20% discount on spa treatments and a 10% discount on any additional food and beverage consumption.

and exercise sessions, and instruction on how to design meal plans and adjust lifestyles at home. Away Suansawan Chiang Mai, Centara Boutique Collection, saw the inaugural session, with others now being planned at this and other Centara Hotels & Resorts. The partnership offers guests the dynamics of luxury and travel to destinations both within Thailand and internationally while at the same time reaping the rewards of a solid and structured educational program.

New Fitness Program at Away Suansawan

Chiang Mai -- Lose weight, improve fitness and stay in luxurious surroundings while being guided by experts in healthy living is the concept being offered by Centara Hotels & Resorts in conjunction with Luxury Health Retreats, a division of Fitcorp Asia. The partnership offers a range of inspiring educational and recreational retreats for those wanting to combine a health program with an enjoyable getaway break or holiday experience. The programs include daily seminars delivered by motivational wellness specialists along with structured movement

Novotel Ploenchit holds charity party

goes from strength to strength,” said Outrigger Enterprises Group President and CEO, David Carey. “Early indications are that our new property will do very well in the family, couples, and active lifestyle segments of the global holiday market." Darren Edmonstone, managing director of Asia-Pacific for Outrigger Enterprises Group, told the media that the property had unique features which distinguish it from its competitors and make it a world-class product. "We are particularly proud of our five innovative food and beverage outlets," he said, "Especially Locavore, which will set new

benchmarks in ethical dining by sourcing the freshest locallyproduced food from farmers and fishermen in the Phuket area. Locavore aims to emphasize seasonality, sustainability and traceability through education and a close relationship with local farmers, fishermen and suppliers. Carbon emissions getting the food to the table will be minimized as well. Other dining options are available. The Phuket property is the fourth property of Outrigger, a privately held Hawaii based company with over 65 years of hotel management experience, in Asia.

Outrigger Laguna Phuket Opens with Grand Party

Phuket -- Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort officially opened last month with a grand beachside party. “The opening of the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort gives us a wonderful and iconic resort property in Phuket, a remarkable holiday destination that

Bangkok -Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit Sukhumvit recently organized a charity party concert billed as “99 Night Out Party” to raise donations for “Yim Kids Thailand Foundation”- Accor Thailand’s official social organization to promote better lives and bring smiles to needy children in remote provinces across Thailand through quality education and living perspectives. The party earned a total donation of Bt34,941 from every 99 baht entrance ticket sale and other donations made by the event attendees. Held at its fashionable alfresco hang out spot Dee Lounge’s Beer Garden, the super fun-packed party concert was highlighted by live performance from Accor’s official music band “N.T.T. – Not That Tambourine,” Photo shows the N.T.T. band members from left, Bertrand Dugast, operations director of Pullman Bangkok King Power; Paul Stevens, director of Operations – Accor Thailand; William Pang, regional manager for Risk, Safety, Security & Crisis Management and Regional Operations Support Manager Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & the Philippines; Rod Munro, general manager of Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit Sukhumvit, and Sagar Naker, general manager of Novotel Bangkok Platinum.

First guests at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives Ulrich Hoffgen (center), general manager of Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives welcomes Joseph William (left) and Catherine Kyne (right), upon their arrival at the resort to stay as first guests. Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives is Centara’s second resort to open in the Maldives.

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square ‘Cares from the Heart’ The management of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square donated some financial help to a hotel staff whose house was burned down in a recent fire. The donation is is indicative of the hotel’s support and caring nature toward its staff. Money was raised from a large garage sale; in addition to direct financial donations from staff and management and a considerable personal contribution from the hotel owners. The activity raised more than Bt200,000.

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Around the Region ‘Star’ is Born at Shangri-la’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa

Hong Kong -- Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa recently unveiled its Star marina, a new 2,787sqm facility built on the resort’s 25-acre grounds, and adjacent to a 60-metre-long private jetty at the water’s edge. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the facility can organize water activities, dive certification courses, and speedboat transfers to the neighboring islands. For more information, visit the hotel’s pressroom.

Le Meriden Bali Jimbaran: Elevated Wedding Experience

Bali -- Set to grand-open this month, Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran is unveiling an “Elevated Sunset Wedding” package. Whether it’s a declaration of love in front of family and friends at the resort’s signature Elevated Celebration Pavilion overlooking Jimbaran Bay or an intimate ceremony for two on the Aqua Pool Sky Penthouse, announcing ‘I do’ at Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime journey. The limited time wedding package has been enhanced to include guaranteed suite upgrade for the bride and groom, US$200 resort credit and luxurious transfers, to name a few. Package must be booked before July 31 along with two additional room nights in a Lagoon View Room and wedding needs to take place before Sept. 30.

Bragging Rights Hansar Bangkok Gets Rakuten Award

Bangkok -- Hansar Bangkok, a sanctuary of elegance, sophistication and exceptional comfort in the heart of the city, has just received the Rakuten Entertainment award. The award is given to the hotel that has created thoughtful and creative accommodation plans to cater toward customers’ needs, in other words to “entertain” Rakuten customers.”.Hotels that receive this award are the most favorable

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hotels chosen by Rakuten guests. Rakuten Travel announced the results of the Rakuten Travel Award 2012 for highly achieving hotels and other accommodation providers in Thailand. The award is an important guide for Japanese travelers booking through the Rakuten Travel website and many past award-winning providers have seen their business grow.

Rakuten Travel Bares Winning Accommodation Providers

Bangkok -- Rakuten Travel announced the results of the Rakuten Travel Award 2012 for “highly achieving hotels and other accommodation providers” in Thailand during the Rakuten Travel Conference 2013 held in Thailand recently. The award is an important guide for Japanese travelers booking through the Rakuten Travel website and many past awardwinning providers have seen their business grow. This year, the Jasmine Executive Suites Hotel in Bangkok won the top Diamond Prize. In June 2008, Rakuten Travel chose Thailand as the site of its first office in the Southeast Asian region. Since then, Rakuten Travel has capitalized on its deep bench of Internet travel consultants (ITCs) with superb local knowledge to build relationships with Thai accommodation providers. As a result, Rakuten Travel enjoyed growth in its gross merchandise sales of 44.9% in the Thai region last year. Rakuten Travel is now looking for more growth from the Japanese business market.

HolidayCheck Award for Cape Nidhra

Hua Hin -- Cape Nidhra Hotel, Hua Hin, part of the prestigious Cape Hotel Collection, has won the individual TopHotel category of the 2013 HolidayCheck Awards. The award, was presented during a ceremony at ITB (Internationale Tourismus-Börse) in Berlin, Germany recently. HolidayCheck operates the largest German language ratings portal for the travel and holiday sector on the Internet. The HolidayCheck TopHotel awards are based on reviews submitted by travelers who have stayed in the hotel. The awards recognize the excellence of hotels worldwide. The highest ranked hotels, which account for 10 percent of all reviews within a region, are awarded with the HolidayCheck TopHotel award.

Showcase. CBRE and Amari Residences Phuket are working together to cater to a growing segment of lifestyle buyers and investors in Hong Kong and Mainland China who seek affordable branded residences, which offer comfort and luxury without the burden and expense of owning an individual resort home. When completed at the end of next year, Amari Residences Phuket will comprise of 148 residences and 12 pool villas situated on a prime coastal site above Patong Bay - Phuket’s most expensive location where land prices average HK$20,000 per square meter. Amari Residences Phuket is operated by Amari Hotels Resorts and Spas, Thailand.

professional with 25 years of experience in high-profile, 5-star international hotels, Glen spent more 13 years with The Landmark London, prior to his present post. He has worked in various capacities and was a former banqueting manager with The Lancaster London. He has also worked with The London Hilton Park Lane, The Hyatt Carlton Tower London, and The Grosvenor House Hotel, London. Landmark Lancaster Hotel Group owns and operates hotels of the same names, including the K West brand in both London and Bangkok.

Movements Douglas Glen, Landmark Lancaster

Douglas Glen has been appointed hotel manager for The Landmark Bangkok and area director of F&B for the Landmark Lancaster Hotel Group, Thailand. A veteran

Amari Residences Phuket’s Sales Preview A Resounding Success Hong Kong -- Amari Estates, the real estate arm of Italthai Group, Thailand’s leading conglomerate, enjoyed a hugely successful sales preview last weekend in Hong Kong for its latest project, Amari Residences Phuket, totaling a sale of 16% of its phase one units. According to CBRE, recently appointed sole agent for Amari Residences Phuket, sales exceeded the initial target. The preview welcomed over 130 visitors throughout the two day

Panus Jureeratana, Centara Grand Modus Pattaya

Panus “Alex” Jureeratana, has been appointed general manager of Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa Pattaya. A Thai national with 30 years of experience in international hotel management, Panus is a graduate of the University of North Texas. He has held senior management positions in several leading hotels in America. He has also worked in China, and prior to this was hotel manager for Soneva Koh Kood.

Tulip Group Thailand signs accord with illy Coffee

Tulip Group has come to an agreement with Gruppo illy to provide their world class coffee products in their soon to be opened super luxury hotel Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya. Illy is known as being one of the world’s best coffee providers. Tulip Group’s CEO Kobi Elbaz is known to be a bit of a coffee connoisseur, so it was only natural that the hotel would carry these products, “it’s a great coffee and not normally found in Centara Hotels, but with everything in this hotel we are trying to offer only the very best, we are investing a lot of money to give our guests the ultimate experience” The coffee will be available in every room and served in all F&B outlets. Centara Grand Phratamnak resort Pattaya is expected to have a soft opening in August this year, with opening of building A. Building B will open nearer the end of the year, and will be Tulip Groups first hotel open in their ever growing portfolio Mr. Dominique Ronge (right), General Manager and Khun Pisutwat Donsuea (left), Food and Beverage Manager of Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya visited Mr. Andrea Casali (centre), Key Accounts Manager (Bangkok) for Gruppo illy products at Italasia Trading (Thailand) Company

Oman Air Receives Unique Honor At ‘Travelplus Airline Amenity Bag Awards’

Hamburg -- Oman Air recently received a unique award in recognition of the outstanding quality of its First Class and Business Class amenity kits. At the “TravelPlus Airline Amenity Bag Awards 2013” held in Hamburg, Germany, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, was presented with the TravelPlus Readers Award for the “Most Enduring Amenity Bags” by the leading online magazine’s editor, Simon Ward. The commendation comes in the wake of Oman Air’s success in the TravelPlus awards over the last two years. In January 2012, it won both the “Best First Class Female Amenity Bag” and the “Best Business Class Unisex Amenity Bag” categories, and also received a “Highly Commended in the Best First Class Male Amenity Bag” category. In 2011, the airline received the “Best First Class Female Amenity Bag” award and came second in the “Best First Class Male Amenity Bag” category. In the same year, Oman Air also won the “Best Onboard Amenity” category in recognition of its pioneering introduction of both mobile phone and Wi-Fi connectivity on its Airbus A330 fleet. This year’s awards were held at the Radisson Blue Hotel, Hamburg, coinciding with the ‘World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo.’ The awards, which are designed to recognize those airlines that go the extra mile for their customers, attracted a large number of entries from airlines and suppliers, and competition was fierce. Wayne Pearce, Oman Air CEO, said: “On behalf of all the staff at Oman Air, I am delighted to receive this unique award in recognition of our efforts to offer the very highest quality of on-board products and services. Year after year, our amenity bags have been recognized by the TravelPlus awards and we are very grateful for their support.” Oman Air’s sumptuous amenity bags offer first and business class travelers a taste of Omani luxury and are filled with a selection of top-of-the-range skin care products from the world-renowned Omani perfumery, Amouage, together with a number of essential toiletries and personal grooming items. Oman Air’s latest success continues its run of key industry award wins in recognition of the airline’s many recent developments, including the introduction of new airbus A330 aircraft to its fleet, the inauguration of a range of exciting new destinations, the unveiling of spacious and luxurious aircraft interiors – including its A330 business class seat, named as the World’s Best at the Skytrax 2012 World Airline Awards - and the launch of state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems.

David Guetta set to rock Bangkok in May

Bangkok -- The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is extending public relations support to Retox Sessions of Bangkok for the show of renowned music producer and DJ David Guetta in May. He’s the biggest DJ and producer in the world right now and he’s performing in Thailand with his full production show. Retox Sessions, Bangkok’s foremost promoter of electronic music, is organizing the debut performance of Guetta in Thailand. The French house DJ needs no introduction. Guetta blew up the international scene in 2009 with his third studio album, "One Love," which sold over three million copies worldwide. His name had since become synonymous with infectious tracks and catchy beats. The most popular recording artists in dance music have lined up to work with him, from Rihanna to LMFAO and Akon. Guetta’s latest album, "Nothing but the Beat," features the smash hits, “Without You” (featuring Usher and “Turn Me On” with Nicki Minaj). In 2011, Guetta was voted the No. 1 DJ by fans in DJmag’s Top 100 DJs poll. He’s also recently been decorated with the “Vevo Certification” award for having six of his YouTube videos reach over 100 million views. Guetta is the man that all the crowds want, and his performance in Bangkok is sure to be an evening of non-stop partying and dancing. TAT and Retox Sessions are putting Bangkok on the map as a nightlife destination both in Southeast Asia and across the world. Tickets -- at Bt1,400 (early birds), Bt1,600, and Bt2,200 (VIP) -- can be purchased at Amiando (www.amiando.com) and Thai Ticket Major (www.thaiticketmajor.com). "David Guetta Live in Bangkok" takes place on May 9 at Hall 106, Bangkok International Trade and Convention Center, Bangna. Door opens at 8 p.m. For more information of locations, call 02-2623456. For updates, visit www.retoxsessions.com www.facebook.com/ retoxsessions

Kingdom Property Sells Suites Tower at Southpoint Pattaya Project

Bangkok – Thai real estate developer Kingdom Property has sold its entire The Suites Tower in its twin-tower Southpoint Pattaya project to a local Thai investor who will develop the 224-unit building into internationally managed serviced residences. The purchase represents approximately 30 percent of the saleable area of the 672-condominium project and is something of a coup for the rapidly growing developer, which has amassed a project pipeline valued at Bt10 billion in Pattaya. senior management positions at several of the leading hotels in America, including The Mansion on Turtle Creek Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Bel Air Los Angeles, MGM Grand Las Vegas, MGM Grand Sanya Yalong Bay Hotel, China and Soneva Kiri by Six Senses at Koh Kood, where he was hotel manager prior to joining Centara Grand Modus Resort & Spa Pattaya. Interest in Southpoint has been strong since its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval in November last year and ahead of the opening of its Sales Gallery and Show Suites in April with top buyers coming from Thailand, Japan, China, and Russia. The sale was indicative not only of the strength of the destination with the booming Eastern Seaboard manufacturing zones nearby, but also of a healthy Pattaya tourism industry. Over eight million hotel guests were registered in Pattaya last year. "Pattaya has very strong fundamentals as a destination offering an attractive investment proposition, superb access and infrastructure as well as an enviable lifestyle with sailing, golf, waterparks, shopping, and dining as key draw cards," said Kingdom Property CEO Nigel Cornick. "We are delighted with this transaction as it is not only a good sale for us, but it will add greater value to those seeking units in The Residences Tower - or those who have already made a purchase - and further compliment the Pratumnak area where we are located, which is a peaceful and green area while still being very close to town, so ideal for residential living." Southpoint Pattaya is located a short distance south of Bali Hai in Pattaya City, on an elevated site on Pratumnak Hill, offering extensive sea views and within walking distance of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club. The Bt2.5 billion-valued development, scheduled to be completed in 2015, is on a four-rai freehold plot.

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tale of the tape Japanese Market Rebounds After Four-year Slump By Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive Editor,

www.travel-impact- newswire.com

apanese visitor arrivals to Thailand have bounced back after four consecutive years of decline caused by the economic slump in Japan and the aftermath of various political and environmental problems in Thailand itself. Japan was once Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second largest source of visitor arrivals after Malaysia. It has now fallen to third place, mainly due to the surge in Chinese visitor arrivals, which have overtaken both the Japanese and Malaysians and shot up to Number One status. Japan and Thailand have very close and historic relations at the Royal Family level, government level and people-to-people level. Japan is also one of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest trading partners. In addition to its massive private sector investments, Japan has also provided extensive financial support for development of Thai airports, highways, ports, museums and national parks. In 2012, Japanese arrivals to Thailand totalled 1,371,253, up 21.58%. This growth has continued in 2013; between January-February 2013, Thailand attracted 274,398 Japanese visitors, up 25.73% over the same period of 2012. This is a welcome turnaround from the 2007-10 period when Japanese visitor arrivals slumped annually. In 2010, Japanese visitors to Thailand fell 1.07 percent over 2009 due to the domestic political disturbances in Thailand as well as the downturn in the Japanese economy.

Japanese Visitor Arrivals Thailand 2006-2013 Year 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 (Jan-Feb)

Arrivals (by nationality) 1,311,987 1,277,638 1,153,868 1,004,453 993,674 1,127,893 1,371,253 274,398

% Change 9.64 -2.62 -9.69 -12.95 -1.07 13.51 21.58 25.73

Source: Immigration Bureau, Police Department.

The rebound began in 2011, when Thailand recorded 1.12 million visitors from Japan, up 13.34%. This was quite a remarkable result, achieved in spite of the fact that overall Japanese outbound was affected by the March 11, 2011 tsunami/nuclear crisis in Fukushima and the October-November 2011 floods in Central Thailand. The floods had a bigger impact than the tsunami. Although Japanese travel agents suspended package tours, Thailand was able to retain market share especially among repeat travellers, who comprise roughly 60% of arrivals from Japan. Top five Thai destinations for Japanese visitors are Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Bangsaen.

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Per Capita Spending Length of Stay (Days) Baht/Day US$/Day 2008 7.13 4,521.11 135.73 2009 6.69 4,397.03 128.23 2010 7.22 4,417.07 139.38 2011 7.65 4,472.44 146.69 2012 (Jan-Jun) 8.24 4,555.54 146.25 Source: Ministry of Tourism and Sports Note: 2008: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 31.31 Baht 2009: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 34.29 Baht 2010: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 31.69 Baht 2011: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 30.49 Baht 2012: Exchange rate 1 US$ = 31.15 Baht Year

2. Tourism Revenue in 2012 Japanese visitors stayed an average of 8.24 days and spent an average of 4,556 baht person per day (or US$146.26) during JanuaryJune 2012. This contributed a total of 22.8 billion baht (US$731 million) tourism foreign exchange revenue to the Thai economy.

Profile

2011

% Change

Tourism Receipts Mil. Baht Mil. US$ 35,804.94 1,074.90 28,904.51 842.94 31,266.86 986.65 37,740.70 1,237.81 22,800.48 731.96

% Share

Profile

Sex

Group Tour

205,741

+ 0.30

18.65

Non Group Tour

897,332

+ 15.74

81.35

The profile of Japanese visitors to Thailand in 2011 (the last year for which figures have been tabulated) shows some interesting trends: • Female Japanese visitors were up by 27.05% to 291,299 while Male visitors were up by 8.07% to 811,774. • 76% of Japanese arrivals were repeat travellers. This segment showed a growth of 9.93%, while first-time visitors were up by 21.38% to 268,077. • 81% were FIT and up by 15.74%, while visitors travelling by group tour were up by 0.3% to 205,741. • In terms of age groups, young people aged under 25 were up by 50.83%. Overall, Japanese visitors to Thailand were aged mainly between 35-44 and 45-54, up respectively by 19.11% and 10.97%. Senior citizens aged over 65 declined by 8.14%. • By purpose of visit, 43.82% were holiday visitors, 19.72% were convention delegates, 14.46% (meeting), 13.76% (incentive), 0.84% (exhibitions) and 7.41% (others).

Holiday

483,317

+ 55.85

43.82

Aviation Linkages

Meeting

159,468

- 21.61

14.46

Incentive

151,794

- 9.68

13.76

Convention

217,480

- 2.64

19.72

9,241

- 9.91

0.84

81,773

+ 25.45

7.41

Male

811,774

+ 8.07

73.59

Female

291,299

+ 27.05

26.41

Age Under 25

95,215

+ 50.83

8.63

25 - 34

191,354

+ 15.84

17.35

35 - 44

289,230

+ 19.11

26.22

45 - 54

267,006

+ 10.97

24.21

55 and over

260,268

- 3.13

23.59

First visit

268,077

+ 21.38

24.30

Revisit

834,996

+ 9.93

75.70

Frequency of Visit

Travel Arrangement

Purpose of Visit

Exhibition Others

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

Routes Fukuoka – Bangkok Nagoya – Bangkok Osaka – Bangkok

Sapporo – Bangkok Tokyo – Bangkok

There is no shortage of flights linking Thailand and Japan. In April 2013, there were 124 direct scheduled flights between Thailand – Japan, operated by 5 airlines including Thai Airways International (TG), Japan Airlines (JL), All Nippon Airways (NH), United Airlines (UA) and Delta Airlines (DL). Thai Airways International has increased flights on the Nagoya - Bangkok from 10 to 11 per week and Sapporo - Bangkok from 3 to 4 per week. Many airlines such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) have also reduced fuel surcharge fee from 16,500 yen to 15,000 yen on routes to Thailand, Singapore, and Myanmar.

Airlines & No. of flights per week TG/JL (7) TG/JL (7) TG (5) TG (28) JL (21) NH/TG (14) UA (7) DL (7) TG (4) TG (10) TG/JL (7) JL/TG (7) Total

Total flights/ weeks 7 7 5 28 21 14 7 7 4 10 7 7 124

Conclusion If the world remains at peace, free of any serious dislocation, Japanese visitor arrivals to Thailand will continue to boom. For 2013, TAT has set a target of 1.4 million Japanese visitors, up 6% over 2012. Japanese enjoy such popular pastimes as golf and marine sports. Thailand has also proved to be popular for Japanese weddings & honeymoons. Ecotourism, especially activities such as trekking and bird-watching in Thai national parks, is also growing. Business travel has also returned to normal levels. 

Source: Air-Sea Guide, April 2013

May 2013 | 31

travel

insights Promoting Sustainable Tourism Via 'Designated Areas' in Thailand

With more than 22 million visitors to Thailand, the era of attracting numbers is over. The next generation will focus on sustainability and preservation of environment, culture and heritage By Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive Editor,

www.travel-impact- newswire.com

n June 2003, Thailand saw the launch of a public organization known as the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) specifically to formulate policies and administrative plans for the sustainable development of tourism in specific areas nationwide. This requires it to coordinate with government agencies nationwide and the civil sector and strike a balance between the economic, social and environmental impact of tourism development, while retaining the natural beauty of the places, as well as their local culture and traditions. Six sites were designated but many more have been added since:

also reflects the core philosophy of the organisation's work ethic:

1. Chang Islands and their vicinity in the Eastern provinces 2. Historical parks of Sukhothai, Sri Satchanalai, Kamphaeng Phet. 3. Loei Province 4. Nan Old Town 5. Uthong Ancient City.

A = Audience: To reach out to the community, listening to both positive and negative views, with respect for different opinions.

The sixth site, Pattaya City and its vicinity, is already gets more than its fair share of visitors. The first five are well worth visiting. Information about them available on the www.tourismthailand.org website. According to Dr. Nalikatibhag Sangsnit, Director-General of DASTA, the acronym

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D = Determination: To work with patience, enthusiasm, and full determination and professionalism as true experts in tourism; A = Alliance: To work in an integrated manner with communities and all related allies in tourism development; S = Service Mind: To work with volunteer spirit, and serve willingly and sincerely; T = Teamwork: To coordinate efficiently, taking in diverse views with understanding and mutual respect;

Dr Nalikatibhag, a former Vice Minister for Information and Communication Technology and former Commissioner, Port Authority of Thailand, says that global warming, greenhouse gas emissions and climate change are having a dramatic impact on natural resources and local livelihoods. "How can we meet these social and economic challenges? Are our planning instruments sufficient to minimize impacts?

Which market mechanisms are capable to influence decisions for emission mitigation and impact control?â&#x20AC;? According to Dr Nalikatibhag, "Tourism plays a major role for the Thai economy. Many of the tourism activities are closely linked to natural attractions like national parks, coral reefs or pristine beaches. Their conservation is of major importance to keep tourists visiting Thailand." He adds, "The tourism sector has great potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy-efficiency and alternative energy, for example in hotels and the transportation sector. Hence, the consideration of climate change issues in the planning and implementation of tourism development is of great importance to protect the tourism sector from negative impacts." Between 2011-12, DASTA focussed on the development of destinations on islands in the waters off Trat Province as Low Carbon Destinations. Moreover, DASTA also extended the eco-friendly tourism to other designated areas such as the development of DASTA Low Carbon Route in Designated Area of Loei, and the Green Historical Town development in the Designated Areas of Sukhothai-Si Satchanalai - Kamphaeng Phet Historical Parks. The concept of Creative Tourism is being invoked, to emphasise value creation for tourism resources on the basis of "Thainess,"

such as lifestyle, local wisdom, art, culture and history. An agreement on cooperation in sustainable tourism development was signed with Thammasat University in developing a model of creative tourism in Sukhothai – Si Satchanalai – Kamphaeng Phet Historical Parks, and the Designated Area of Loei. To ensure clear and tangible results, DASTA has defined measurement indicators, such as, tourism income of communities in designated areas, the amount of allowable carbon emission for establishments, and the setting of standards for certification of community tourism destinations. One of its prime projects was cooperation with the Royal Thai Navy to sink a decommissioned navy ship off Chang island so that it can become a breeding ground for corals and become a scuba-diving site covering an area of 4,280sqkm off Chang Islands, Mak Islands, and Kut Islands. The ship, too, was known as the HTMS Chang. Said Dr Nalikatibhag, "DASTA is seeking to divert tourists keen on diving, especially scuba diving, to sites other than existing ones, which have become congested with impacts on undersea ecosystem. HTMS Chang’s special feature is that the prow is meant to accommodate tank transportation through an opening of 110m in length, 15m in width, and 26m in height, with numerous chambers within the ship, suitable to be a home for fish.” In June 2012, DASTA held a community tourism festival at the Designated Area of Chiang Mai Night Safari office in Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province, to provide a forum for exchange of experiences among community tourism leaders in the designated areas, leaders of local administrative organization, and qualified resource persons. The event attracted a total of 430 participants from seven designated areas.

The highlight was a special lecture by Professor Dr.Prawase Wasi, a wellknown Thai academic and social scientist, on the topic of “Tourism Community in Sufficiency Way.” Dr Prawase said that community tourism can be a useful tool to promote the concept of "full-cycle development." He said, "If we make tourism system full cycle, covering economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects, including local reconciliation. Any place, Suvarnabhumi, ASEAN or Angkor Wat would benefit, with the eradication of ethnic dissent or even conflicts with neighbors. All these can be healed by tourism." He added, “Cultural economy means the strengthening of the community by creating the body of knowledge for people in the community to learn from direct experiences in the locality. It is an economic system that reflects the process of combining culture, economy, and technology together and in harmony with local environment. “That knowledge does not come from rote learning alone, but from real experiences in natural resource

conservation. There are more than 80,000 villages in communities across Thailand. Each community represents a wellbalanced lifestyle, with human to human relations and human to environment relations co-existing peacefully as a culture. “As trees stand on strong roots, so a society exists, to be exact, on cultural roots. The basic unit of a society is a community. Just like building a pagoda, one must start from a firm foundation,” Dr Prawase said. In 2014, Dr Nalikatibhag says, DASTA will persistently push for balance under the framework of Co – Creation, Low Carbon Tourism and Creative Tourism. The goal for success will be the upgrading of indices for operation success, based on the “Index of Happiness” for community members in designated areas, such as income, quality of life, society and culture, as well as environmental condition of destinations. Further info on DASTA and its activities is available at www.dasta.or.th in both Thai and English.  May 2013 | 33

Personality

hotelier All About Guest Service Mandarin Oriental Bangkok’s hotel manager says to bring in new little details and sparks of innovation show that they are looking at improving standards despite the hotel’s 137 year heritage, reputation, and numerous awards

By Laurence Civil

t’s as if Marcus Bauder has gone full circle from his apprenticeship at Breidenbacher Hof on the Königsallee in Düsseldorf, the city's ultimate address in luxury and hospitality to his current position as hotel manger at the legendry Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, which is still referred to by many as “The Oriental.” He may have completed one circle of his career but he has many more ahead of him. "My first job overseas was in Dubai," says Marcus, "first with Jebel Ali Hotel and then to Burj Al Arab. That was a strange experience. All the guests were there for the first time; we had coach loads of visitors who bought tickets to come into the hotel; the value of which could be spent in our outlets just for a photo opportunity. I was working in F&B, and it was an interesting yet bizarre experience. “ "A former boss then persuaded me to join him for the opening of Corinthia Bab Africa Hotel," he says. "A Maltese-based hotel group wanted to open a 5-star hotel in Libya when the country was closed to the rest of the world because of international sanctions. Everyone said it was 'Mission Impossible', but I agreed to go for eight months for the opening. “When I arrived in Tripoli, I was collected by the GM who welcomed me by announcing he was leaving. There was no infrastructure, we had to pick up supplies rather than have them delivered. Opening a hotel is an experience; to do it in Libya was something else. We did it with 70 percent Libyan staff, the rest from neighboring North African countries. I used a closed restaurant in the container compound I was staying as a training school. This was a defining experience in my hospitality career.” From Tripoli, Marcus moved within the same group to Prague as executive assistant manager of a 550-room hotel. From there he moved to the 420-room Shangri-la Far Eastern Plaza Taipei as F&B director. "I had always wanted to work in Asia," he says. "The attraction is the service mind. I am convinced that I got the job because my experience in Tripoli showed I could adapt to almost any situation and deal with it. When the GM moved to the 200-room Shangri-la Tokyo, I went as his resident manager." After that he went to Beijing as hotel manager. "Here there was a lot of banqueting," he recalls. "I enjoyed working in Beijing although it’s not a city I would choose to rush back to. My experience in

Lookeast | Personality

Taiwan was invaluable in teaching me how to work with the Chinese.” To most young hoteliers becoming a GM is the urgent goal come what may. Marcus was about to make that move when he was asked through a contact if he was interested in joining Mandarin Oriental. "To me the choice was obvious," he reveals, "Not only is the Mandarin Oriental the jewel of the hotel companies with an unrivalled attention to guest service but my Japanese wife and I also realized that the destinations in which Mandarin Oriental operates suit best our personal preferences. Having shown my interest I had a phone conversation with Jan Goessing, the then GM of Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, who was about to move to become area vice president (North America) and GM of Mandarin Oriental New York. He in turn introduced me to his replacement Amanda Hyndman who hired me. "The name has changed but we should never forget the heritage." he says of the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, "I do understand why our guests regard this hotel the way they do. There is something magical about walking into this hotel where some of the staff have worked for decades." "The hotel is all about guest service," he says, "for either our GM or myself to be in the lobby to greet every arrival is so important that it should never change. Guests sometimes ask if I am waiting for a VIP arrival but I am just there watching our team in action and greeting people as they arrive. I can always make time for admin but making the guest happy is what counts, it is looking after the front door rather than the back door. Being visible gives the guest a better sense of value." "Managing succession is important," he says, "Chef Norbert Kostner has been our executive chef for 39 years. He has spent the last three grooming his successor Chef Stefan Treep to take over the reins. This transition allows Chef Norbert to take on the position of Culinary Director driving innovation and creativity." "Despite our 137-year heritage and numerous awards," he concludes, "we are competing on a global level. To bring in new little details, sparks of innovation shows that we are looking at improving standards. It's important not only to meet but to far exceed guest expectation." 

Marcus Bauder Hotel Manager Mandarin Oriental Bangkok May 2013 | 35

Personality

hotelier David Baldwin General Manager Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square

Lookeast | Personality

Keeping the Boat Steady

New GM of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square says his current job role is different: more to help develop skills and work out what makes the hotel so successful, and looking at what new he can bring to the table without rocking the boat

By LAURENCE CIVIL

avid got his first taste of the hospitality industry working as a busboy while still in high school: "I was just given 10 minutes instruction on how to set up a table and clearin," says David. "I loved the job, and at the end of the night, the waiters shared their tips with me.” While Europe may have the best hospitality schools, the language requirements put it out of the reach of most American students no matter how talented they are. "Cornell is the most prestigious hospitality school in the United States," he says, "but Las Vegas -with the benefits of the casino community -- had the most modern facility, which made it a desirable place to be. So I enrolled in hotel administration at the University of Nevada (UNLV). "While there I was lucky to do a Culinary Summer Program at Lausanne: three days a week of study and four days of travel to document our experiences. It was a wonderful experience, a chance to see the traditional side of hospitality and to broaden my horizons." "The year that I graduated from UNLV, Four Seasons Hotels visited just three universities, hiring only nine students nationwide," he says, "Luckily I was among the nine. They hired me in housekeeping at the Clift, a renowned, classic hotel in San Francisco; and then moved me to Newport Beach, which was opening. Both gave me a great foundation, stressing an eye for detail and sense of urgency." New York was the city calling David. His next move, described as a gamble, took him to the Big Apple to work with Ian Strager of the infamous Studio 54 fame. Strager opened a series of very chic hideaways for exclusive clients; he changed hospitality, pioneering in "lobby socializing" and introducing the concept of "cheap chic" -- affordable luxury in a stylish sophisticated environment. He then went to Lancaster Hotels, a small collection of boutique hotels with a strong F&B reputation. Here, he had a more traditional role for another five years. "New York has played an important role in my life not just as a hotelier," David continues, "but also in spending my free time helping out in the kitchen of my good friend, 'Iron Chef America' Mario Batali, who started with a 34-seat restaurant in the West Village and is now well-established in New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Singapore, and Hong Kong. "It was then that I learned the difference between a cook and a chef: inspiration. I was proud to be at the opening of Osteria Mozza at Marina Bay Sands, which was recently awarded 35th place in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants." David's first posting in Asia was as resident manager of Mandarin

Oriental Manila. It came to an end with 9/11, which caused the world to stop traveling for a couple of years. After postings in Mexico and a brief period at the opening of the largest hotel in China, he joined Accor in Shanghai (at the Sofitel) – at an exciting period when the brand was re-positioning upward and defining its core values. "Thailand was high on my list for my next move," he says. "Bangkok is the hospitality capital of Asia, inspired by the reputation of The Oriental. I was delighted to be posted here for the opening of Novotel Bangkok Impact. We were lucky to host a wide variety of local and regional conferences and exhibitons but what is needed (for all of Bangkok) is more international conferences. But that business wasn’t instant; those conferences are booked a year or two in advance. Now Thailand has settled into a period of stability. We can get that business. But who gets it is going to be tested with so many new hotels in the market.” By his own admission a city boy, David says it was a great opportunity for him to move from the city's newest Novotel to its oldest and most established Novotel. “We do have good occupancy but compared with other Asian cities such as Hong Kong and Singapore, we are underpriced for the great value we offer.” "At Novotel Bangkok Impact, my role as general manager was to teach hospitality skills to new entrants into the industry," he says. “But here at Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square I have joined a great team, with a high proportion of the staff having 15 or 20 years service, and enjoying a low staff turnover. Here, the job role is different: more to help develop skills and work out what makes this hotel so successful, and looking at what new I can bring to the table without rocking the boat." Because of their location, 80-85 percent of guests at Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square were leisure guests. David says he would like to have a larger share of corporate guests. In the meantime, efforts to make the hotel even better continues, emphasizing the importance of being responsible to the environment. The hotel now leases 130sqm of previously unused roof space EnerGaia to grow more than two tons of Spirulina, a nutritious vegetarian protein utilizing ambient urban carbon dioxide. "This is part of being an environmentally responsible operator and to show that economic and sustainable goals can work hand in hand,” he says. “We are experimenting on how to use it in healthy recipes, including smoothies.” Any Bangkok wish list? “For lower wine taxes: to improve the overall guest dining experience; and for taxi drivers who always use their meter and are not allowed to decline a fare.  May 2013 | 37

Personality

hotelier Setting A New Benchmark

Veteran hotelier Alexander Blair leaves his Maldives position to set new standards in luxury accommodation in Bangkok with the Oriental Residence Bangkok team

By Percy Roxas

he call, to put it in showbiz lingo, is 2 p.m. The setting is Oriental Residence Bangkok, that luxury accommodation property on Wireless Road which is already forecasting a hundred percent increase in revenue growth this year following just a full 12 months of operation. The purpose is to meet Alexander Blair, the new general manager of the property that is now arguably setting new standards in the city’s luxury service residence segment. Originally from Scotland, Blair seems to be in his best element at the Oriental Residence Bangkok. A 22-year hospitality veteran who boasts an outstanding career track record via a number of prestigious roles with many leading hotel companies, including Rosewood Hotels and Resorts and Six Senses, he has worked in many different destinations around the world. He spent the last two years at Maldives, where he worked as resort manager for Gill Lankafushi, enjoying “a fantastic stint in a resort environment; running mostly barefoot around the beautiful island.” In fact, Blair said he did not hesitate to move to Bangkok for his current role. “At the end of the day, it’s very simple,” he says. “Running a luxury property is running a luxury property anywhere. It is all about anticipatory service and hospitality. Taking care of the guests and providing a luxury level of service for them has always been part of what I do. And we have an absolutely fantastic product and a great team who have been already been recognized internationally for the service they provide.” Blair boasts an outstanding record of successfully developing and managing operations; building excellent guest relations; and improving the market profile, reputation, and profit of world-class ultra-luxury resorts. During his tenure at Gili Lankanfushi, the resort was recognized by awards such as Condé Nast Gold List 2012 and the World Travel Awards 2012 -- making him just the right man as Oriental Residence Bangkok furthers its already skyrocketing profile. And no doubt about it, he’s ready to face the challenges. “We see overall occupancy going up by 13%,” says Blair when asked about his specific targets for the property. “We will double the revenues now that we have a full range of facilities onboard. We had a fantastic start in January and February so we’ll just build upon that momentum and keep going.” Indeed, Blair joins a very optimistic team at Oriental Residence Bangkok. “The outlook for the year is very positive, " he shares. "The Oriental Residence Bangkok is tremendously popular among Asian

Lookeast | Personality

guests, who, according to 2012 figures, contribute some 60 percent of the guest mix, ahead of Europeans (14 percent) and Americans (12 percent)." Even on the F&B side, Blair is happy to note the growing stature and recognition their chic, innovative dining venues are getting. Café Claire has already established a strong reputation in Bangkok with its discerning menu and intimate setting. It's contemporary Chinese restaurant Mandopop, meanwhile, has become the venue of the moment in Bangkok, providing an eating and drinking hub for the city’s hip crowd. In March, Mandopop started offering a Sunday lunch promotion, at prices starting from Bt1,188++ per person. Free flow beverage packages were also launched (for an additional Bt688 per person). In April, Mandopop introduces a happy hour option, available from Monday to Friday. In addition to the regular "2 for 1" cocktail. They have also unveiled the special Taittinger promotion during happy hour for all champagne aficionados at just Bt388++ per glass. “Café Claire and Mandopop are definitely making their mark and we plan to continue building on their present success,” he says. “And watch out for more surprises coming in the F&B area.” Since opening, Oriental Residence Bangkok has received a number of awards and accolades, including becoming the “Overall winner for Bangkok in the luxury hotel and top hotel category” by TripAdvisor 2013 Travelers’ Choice® awards; Tatler Travel Guide 2013- “World’s Best 101 Hotels”; and the “Best Restaurant Award" for Mandopop given by Thailand Tatler. “Again, we’re quite fortunate to have a fantastic building; a stylish property that has become very popular for product launches and press events," Blair reiterates. "Our 145 lavishly appointed serviced residences are ideal for extended stays, although the top 10 floors are for private ownership. A sense of understated elegance premeates them and they benefit from imported furnishings and fixtures with expansive vistas of the city that enhance the prestige of the luxurious facilities.” Blair's love affair with Thailand started on his first visit as a tourist. Even then, he said, the Thai brand of hospitality and genuineness, and the food have always stood out. They are part of the reason he's happy to live and work here. “I’ve been coming here at least twice a year in the last 10 years and I absolutely love Thailand,” he says.“Plus, I have a fantastic team who are very supportive of me. I think I’m very fortunate to be in this position.” 

Alexander Blair General Manager Oriental Residence Bangkok May 2013 | 39

Personality

bangkok visitor Homeopathic Healer

Dr. Rajan Sankaran, one of the world’s topmost homeopathic doctors,will be in Bangkok on May 24-29, and will be available for consultations

Lookeast | Personality

omeopathy, a holistic form of alternative and complimentary medicine, has been gaining popularity all around the world. This month, on May 24-29, one of the world’s topmost homeopathic doctors, Dr. Rajan Sankaran (MD Hom, FSHom), will be in Bangkok and will be available for consulations. Dr. Sankaran is an internationally renowned thinker, teacher, and writer of the homoeopathic system of medicine. Described as a clear and original thinker, he is best known for his pathbreaking concepts in homoeopathy. “Homeopathic treatment intends to treat the whole person rather than just the symptoms, and works on the idea that the body and mind are so solidly connected that long-term treatment needs an understanding of the patient’s disposition and constitution,” says Dr. Sankaran in his Bangkok talks last year. “While modern medicine has made tremendous strides in the management of symptoms and organ pathology, alternative and complimentary medicine such as homoeopathy offers a holistic view and treatment of the patient. These two streams of medicine can complement each other, provided each one is fully aware of what the other has to offer.” With more than 30 years of experience in practice and teaching, Dr. Sankaran has contributed to the evolution of the practice of homoeopathy while maintaining the foundational grounds. He shook the medical world with his first book, ‘The Spirit of Homoeopathy,” where he presented the concept that disease originates from a false perception of reality (delusion). This book had since been translated into 15 languages. Then, he categorized the different perceptions of reality into plant, animal, and mineral types, in another book, ‘The Substance of Homeopathy.” Later he discovered that our experience can exist on one of seven levels, beginning with the name and facts of a phenomenon and culminating in its sensory and energy experience. His book, ‘The Sensation in Homoeopathy,’ describes the process of case-taking by following the energetic lead of the patient

to increasingly deeper levels of experience to uncover the underlying sensory one, which is the basis of the patient’s individuality and self- expression. This method has revolutionized the practice of homoeopathy and is considered cuttingedge in the field. Dr. Sankaran and his colleagues soon realized the ideas that they use in their practice are not restricted to homoeopathy but are in fact universal in application. This led him to write his latest book, ‘The Other Song – Discovering Your Parallel Self,” where he shares his findings with the world outside of homoeopathy. Dr.Sankaran lives and practices in the Juhu area of Mumbai, India, but his lucid style and simplicity has made him very popular as a teacher among homoeopaths worldwide. His seminars, workshops and teaching courses have been widely attended in India and abroad. Since 1986, he has been giving lectures in several countries, including Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Slovakia, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Switzerland, and U.S.A. Last year he gave a series of talks in Bangkok. He counts among his students some of the wellknown teachers of homeopathy and heads of several homeopathic schools and colleges, and his books are included in the syllabii and recommended reading in several colleges and courses. Along with his colleagues he founded The Homoeopathic Research and Charities, which is involved in various teaching courses. He has been awarded a Fellowship of the Society of Homeopaths (U.K.). (For more details on Dr. Sankaran and his homeopathy practice, visit www. rajansankaran.com; www.sankaransclinic.com, www.onlinehmp.com) Dr. Sankaran will be accompanied in his Bangkok trip by his colleague, Dr. Sudhir Baldota. Those requiring appointments must book immediately as there are just a few slots left. For more information or appointments they can call Asha Sehgal at 081-837-6179 or Premrattana Srichawla at 081-843-3032. 

Hotels

luxury pool villas In the Lap of Luxury

For accommodation that allow discerning travelers to enjoy some of the best holiday moments in posh style, luxury pools villas are on top of our list. Here are just some leading examples in Thailand:

By Percy Roxas

f you’re a frequent Thailand traveler, you probably know that the concept of the pool villa has not only taken off phenomenally here. It has become almost a basic requirement for a major luxury holiday experience anywhere in the kingdom. Indeed, the country boasts some amazingly stunning pool villas that, besides allowing us to take a dip in stylish privacy and offering some unbelievable views, create a truly indulgent atmosphere that make our stay more memorable and priceless. Our own experiences in Thailand have taken us to several luxury pool villas around the country, which we really enjoyed. Let us share some, just some, of them with you. Making an ultimate list is rather difficult given the choices available, so this is just a personal and random sampler of the range of luxury pool villas you can enjoy for your own kind of holiday retreat in Thailand.

Conrad Koh Samui --

Conrad is a hotel where you enjoy "the luxury of being yourself," to borrow their slogan, and their Koh Samui sibling offers no differently. One of the relative five-star newcomers in Samui, Conrad Koh Samui offers stunning pool villas that look out to the Gulf of Thailand. Their Ocean View Pool Villa makes you realize how the best of life’s luxuries can be fitted in just 96sqm of living space and a 10m-private infinity plunge pool. Floor-toceiling windows, tropical hardwood flooring, and sensuous Thai silk furnishings add to the delight of this pool villa.

Outrigger Laguna Phuket –

Four Seasons Chiang Mai --

One of the most delightful rooms I have ever had the fortune to stay is the one-bedroom Pool Villa of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. This villa provides maximum privacy while allowing easy access to all the resort's facilities, not to mention a view of Doi Suthep and tropical gardens. More like a private home than a guestroom, the luxury villa offers 77sqm of indoor living space and 282sqm of outdoor living space – giving me so much space to do what I want when I want it but hardly diminishes the feeling of total intimacy we often desire. Needless to say, the furnishings are all top of the line, and the full amenities available ensure that you have everything you need all by yourself. A feeling of absolute privacy is assured as soon as you enter the antique wooden door that seems to separate you from the rest of the world. Of course, the 24sqm-private pool and sundeck lounge outside are all yours to enjoy anytime.

Lookeast | Hotels

Located in Bang Tao, this resort – the newest addition to Phuket’s continuously growing list of luxury accommodations – offers 68 new elegant pool villas that range from 229 to 604sqm in size. As can be expected, the well-appointed interiors are great -- design and décor reflect traditional Thai ambience but embraced by a modern aesthetic; furnishings are lavish, and the overall atmosphere allows that kind easy luxury many of us yearn for. We expect this resort to grow in stature among lovers of the ultimate luxury pool villa experience soon.

Trisara Phuket --

Another of Phuket’s many delightful resorts and hotels, the award-winning Trisara -- with its 39 suites and pool villas -- have become one of the world’s favorite romantic getaways. Guest in all villas – in fact all rooms and suites – benefit from the lovely private pools and breathtaking ocean views not to mention wonderful guest service. Great choice for a holiday accommodation, indeed.

mall/sho

boutique Luxury Pool Villas Checking In

where to

contact/

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X2 Samui Villas By Design --

X2 Samui Villas By Design, which is now under the Centara Boutique Collection on Hua Tanon Beach, has 27 villas -- each with their own private pool or garden areas -- set in five acres of mature gardens with direct access to the beach. Geared for the independent-minded traveler, the resort offers entry-level Garden Villas with an area of 85sqm, making them suitable for a couple of adults or a small family. However the majority of the units are Deluxe Pool Villas, with 162sqm of area and each featuring their own pool -- which we love. The largest accommodation is the 230sqm-Royal Villa that includes two king-bed rooms and a living room.

V Villas Hua Hin --

Phulay Bay Krabi --

This Ritz Carlton Reserve, the first such brand in fact, is the very epitome of a truly romantic accommodation. If romance is escape, then this resort is your passport to another world almost too good to be true. With designer pool villas set within a spellbinding landscape that become more romantic as you stay longer, I would love to rush back here anytime. The entire villa reeks of sheer luxury, and the view of the outlying islands across the infinity pool of your villa spells pure romance.

If there is one place to go in Thailand for small luxury hotels, it’s probably Hua Hin. This charming beach destination approximately three hours away from Bangkok boasts some of the best pool villas in the kingdom – great intimate that offer that “home-awayfrom-home” warmth and convenience but at the same time provides the luxury and sophistication that transforms an ordinary vacation into a truly exceptional holiday. V Villas Hua Hin, an intimate resort of 13 exclusive pool villas, is just one of these hotels. Their pool villas are so spacious –really meant to accommodate groups and families – but even for those who are up for some alone time with themselves, V Villas resort pool villas lend themselves to whatever your reason is for a breakaway.

Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin --

One of the classic hotels of the East, the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin was constructed in 1923 and has fully retained its old-world charm. The Centara group acquired the lovely old property in 1985, and with every sensitivity toward its original elegance has extended and upgraded the hotel, which stands on 16 hectares of beachfront land among topiary gardens that are one of the great local landmarks. Their well-appointed private pool villas – stand-alone white houses built with distinctive modern-Thai architecture located on the street opposite the main hotel, make them perfect for honeymoon and for couples out for a romantic rendezvous in Hua Hin. May 2013 | 43

Hotels

Rayavadee Krabi --

Rayavadee Resort, in the heart of the Phranang Peninsula on the edge of the Krabi maritime National Park, is nestled in a stunning secluded environment complemented by equally stunning facilities and services. A stay at any of the resort’s stylish and sophisticated Phranang Villas, which are secluded three-bedroom villas, featuring a private pool and deep circular baths, is an experience much sought-after by well-heeled travelers. The fabulous villas overlook the breathtaking Phranang Bay, a fitting reward for those looking for a private, luxurious holiday in a romantic, dreamy destination such as Krabi.

Casa de La Flora Khao Lak -Aleenta Pranburi --

Boutique luxury at its best, somewhere really away from it all -- this is Aleenta Resort & Spa, a beachfront haven in Pranburi, which is intimate and private, certainly perfect for a romantic getaway -- as Beyonce and Jay-Z was said to have done once. Their pool villas are located on a private beach where you can take long walks all by yourself or with your loved ones under the moonlit night. It is not a flashy resort, but if you’re after something intimate such as wanting to take some time off with your loved one in a place where there’s only the two of you, what could be more perfect?

The Pavilions Phuket --

On a hillside overlooking Bang Tao and Layan beaches, this is a chic, boutique resort has brand new collection of 25 villas perfect for that luxurious, exclusive holiday time. The spacious, private, luxury pool villas, all with private spa room complement the resort’s fabulous existing 21 ocean-view pool villas. This resort – with its location, facilities, and services, explains why luxury pool villas have become such a popular trend among Asian honeymooners, sparking their proliferation in the popular tourist destination.

Lookeast | Hotels

One of the best new hotels by Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2012 and Travelers’ Choice 2013 winner, Casa de la Flora is one of latest discoveries. Located directly on the beautiful, palm-fringed beach of Khao Lak, just onehour drive by car from Phuket International Airport, the resort with stunning Andaman views and friendly service is the first modernist hideaway in Khao Lak, presented in cutting-edge architecture and unique design amid tropical nature. There are several pool villa choices – all with panoramic ocean views and luxurious facilities and amenities – wonderfully designed for those in search of something different in Khao Lak.

Soneva Kiri Koh Kood --

Luxury pool villas have certainly invaded the small Thai island paradises, and Soneva Kiri Koh Kood’s are considered as among the best of the bests in the country. The collection includes the Private Cliff Villa Suite with its private 172sqm half-moon pool overlooking a sea view that really enthralls. If luxury pool villas are desired for because they prove a feeling of total intimacy and exclusivity – it’s hard to beat this one!

The Siam Bangkok –

Perhaps the only hotel with resort-style luxury pool villas in the capital, The Siam – one of Bangkok’s newest urban retreats – offers absolute privacy that many would think impossible for a big metropolis like Bangkok. The touch of Bill Bensley, combined with the rich Thai creative spirit courtesy of Noi Sukosol, is evident in this amazing high-end hotel with just 39 suites and pool villas. The entire city resort is an artwork in itself, and being in one of their indulgent pool villas, with their plush furnishing and ultra-luxury amenities is truly an experience to savor. And these are just some. Again, from Chiang Mai to Krabi, from Hua Hin to Samui, from Pattaya to Phang Nga and Phuket – luxury pool villas have become a major trend that there is now a luxury pool villa available for any kind of inclination; much more than we were able to mention in this edition. So let’s just say: Looking for a luxury pool villa in Thailand to ensure total enjoyment of your well-earned holiday time? The ball is in your court!

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boutique La Villetta Boutique Bed & Breakfast Hotels

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Chic, Comfy Chiang Mai Retreat La Villeta Chiang Mai combines the value-formoney quality of B&Bs with the individual flair associated with boutique properties

By Percy Roxas

ed & breakfast (B&B) hotels have come a long way indeed. Since the 80s, the term “B&B” has been expanding beyond the usual definition of small lodging for overnight stay with breakfast. Now it can even be combined with “boutique,” which was originally used to describe stylish, intimate hotels with luxury facilities and/or full service – such as in this new hotel called La Viletta Chiang Mai. An intimate property with just 14 rooms, La Villeta Chiang Mai Boutique Bed & Breakfast combines the value-for-money quality of B&B establishments with the individualistic flair of boutique properties in providing a truly guest-centric, experience-driven service so expected from today's accommodation properties. La Villeta's accommodation is subtly chic, cozy, and comfortable; amenities are definitely modern, and service is friendly, with a welcoming “home-away-from-home” charm enhanced by the gracious Lanna character that makes Chiang Mai such a delightful place to visit. Every room -- there are 10 Deluxe and four Grand Deluxe rooms -- has its own private balcony and spacious en-suite bathroom (featuring a rainshower, plenty of mirror space, and amenities). Set within a stylish three-storey complex, the hotel is a delightful blend of comfort, contemporary tropical décor and modern convenience. True to its modern boutique B&B character, some rooms are perfect for long stays (the Grand Deluxe Rooms). Breakfast is included in the nightly rate -- and guests can enjoy them in the comfort of their room or outdoors in the lovely tropical garden amid the palm trees. Given its delightful rooms and friendly service, guests cannot be blamed for choosing to just stay and enjoy all that the hotel offers. But guests are happily encouraged to explore all the local attractions to further enhance their holiday experience; among other forms of assistance, the staff can provide information on sightseeing tours and activities as well as arrange airport transfers. Tucked on a secluded street in Chiang Mai within a quiet residential area, La Villeta can surely satisfy those in search of peace and privacy during their holiday. It is amazing how the hotel can offer this “away from it all” feeling when it is really just about 10-minute drive from the international airport, the railway station, downtown Chiang Mai, and famous attractions such as the Night Bazaar -- but it does. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Chiang Mai sans the homogeneity of large hotels and which offers value-for-money besides clean, comfortable accommodation, modern amenities, and friendly service, try La Villeta Chiang Mai. It's a reasonably priced, chic retreat with that unflashy elan that can be quite comforting. 

Lookeast | Hotels

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Contact Details: La Villetta Boutique Bed & Breakfast 544/1 Koh Klang Road Soi 1, Nonghoi, Muang Chiang Mai Tel: 053 141-887, 089 854-7778 E-mail: info@lavilletta-chiangmai.com www.lavilletta-chiangmai.com

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boutique 137 Pillars House Hotels

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Lanna Home-style Concept

137 Pillars House offers a unique stay experience, not so much in the conventional hotel way but rather as an ultimate home-style residential concept

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By Laurence Civil

Pillars House in Chiang Mai has its own vocabulary. The accommodation is referred in a Victorian-almost-military-style as “quarters.” They start with the 70sqm, oneking bedroom 20 Rajah Brooke Suites. An element shared by all 30 suites is the vintage-tiled veranda overlooking tropical gardens with cane shades for privacy, rattan planters' chair, and plush daybed. Likewise, in essence, the bathrooms are variations on the same theme: with spacious closet, the en-suite bathroom with dual washbasin, a sunlit WC stall, an indulgent free-standing Victorian bath, and separate indoor and outdoor garden showers. Butler service, free Wi-Fi, iPod dock, and Cremesso makers by Bon Cafe enrich the stay. They become more spacious with similarly laid-out 75sqm- East Borneo Suites. Overlooking the historic pillars house, two-William Bains Terrace Suite sit on the upper floor spread over 100sqm, where one-king bedroom suites extend to a generous living room. The variation comes in the bathroom with a sunken bath facing tropical foliage and separate indoor and outdoor showers The ultimate are the two ground floor, 135sqm-Louis Leonowens Pool Suites with a generous living room and super king bedroom, a user-friendly layout with access to the outdoor garden shower from both the sunlight WC, and the indoor shower. The private 5.5 x 2.5m-swimming pool has access (while dry) from the lounge with access back to the suite (while wet after a swim) through the bathroom suites’ French doors. Wining and dining is in the old teak mansion. Walk across the lawn, climb either of the pair of teak staircases, and cross the family style drawing room. The room on the right is the Dining Room, home to their signature restaurant, Palette. Consultant chef Tammasak Chootong, owner of Suay Restaurant in Phuket, created its Western-style menu. "I wanted to create healthy dishes that are light and colorful, and with an Asian touch,” says Chef Tammasak adding that 90 percent of the vegetables they use are sourced from farms working under the Royal Projects. “We are creating culinary art and there has to be harmony; the colors and the taste of the food must match.” If you are looking for an accommodation in Chiang Mai with that understated elegant Lanna-style, check in at 137 Pillars House.  Contact Details: 137 Pillars House 2 Soi 1, Nawatgate Rd, Chiang Mai www.137pillarshouse.com

May 2013 | 47

Lifestyle

property

Chic Urban Living

High-rise condominiums, executive serviced apartments, and other luxury property constructions continue to mushroom around Bangkok, reflecting the growing sophistication of the city and its residents. While the properties may vary in size, location, and price, almost all are decidedly lavish and opulent, and offers a full range of facilities meant for the ultimate in city living. Here are some luxury establishments – either recently opened or currently under construction – that aims to fulfill the desires of urban dwellers who want the most of the good life: By THE Lookeast Team

The River

Perhaps the most ambitious of all the riverside condominium projects is The River by Raimonland. Located at the foot of Saphan Taksin Bridge on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya, it fronts a 120m section of the river. The imposing 72-storey structure provides spectacular views of not only the Chao Phraya, but also of the entire city. The project consists of two towers with 650 units, ranging from one-bedroom to five-bedroom residences, and a variety of facilities. Opened in 2011, The River provides the best of luxury living in what is arguably one of the most scenic and interesting areas of Bangkok.

The Park Chidlom

Oriental Residences

Perhaps it was inevitable, but Italthai -- owners of the famed Oriental Bangkok -- have created luxury residences on Wireless Road on a prime piece of property between the Dutch and American Embassies. To ensure both luxury and privacy, the 44 residential units in the 32-storey building are located on the 22nd to 31st floors. The units include 13 one-bedroom (56-67sqm); 27 two-bedroom (81-128sqm) and 1 three-bedroom (190sqm) residences. There are also three sumptuous three to four bedroom penthouses ranging in size from 201 296sqm. The remainder of the building is devoted to serviced apartments. This is a great condominium for those who enjoy the services of a five-star hotel and the privacy of a personal residence.

Located in a green area with 300 trees, plants and shrubs, The Park Chidlom overlooks the British Embassy and the Swissotel Nailert Park Hotel from its vantage point just off Soi Chidlom. There are two towers, each with an art deco cap reminiscent of fine residences overlooking Central Park in New York City; one is 28-storeys high and with 116 units; the other, 102 units in a separate 35-storey building. Residences range in size from two-bedroom units to six-bedroom penthouses. Units are outfitted with the high quality fittings, including fully equipped kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and composite wood floors. The windows are ‘ultra-thick’ and keep out unwanted noise and ultraviolet rays. But what really sets this condominium apart is its resort-like atmosphere despite its inner city location. The Park Chidlom is ideal for families and those who want to escape the hectic atmosphere of big city life.

Lookeast | Hotels

Ideo Mobi Sukhumvit 81

Scheduled for completion in 2014, this condominium is conveniently located next to BTS or MRT at four prime locations including Phyathai, Sathorn, Sukhumvit and Rama 9. The latest in the series of Ideo Mobi condos springing in major districts of the city, Ideo Mobi 81 also follows the same concept of empowering urban dwellers that have made its predecessors a big success with property investors and homeowners.

Sukhothai Residences

The Sukhothai Residences is another new multi-storey condominium. The 196-unit is located next to The Sukhothai Hotel on Sathorn Road. The 41-storey condominium offers 1-4 bedrooms with premium designs and fittings. The project features a distinctive 100m-pool complex comprising of two swimming pools, a floating pavilion in the feature pond with gym, pilates and yoga studio, steam, sauna, children's play room, tennis court, a fascinating sky club, Nim Marn lounge, plus all the fabulous facilities and services of The Sukhothai Hotel.

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Millennium Residences

Millennium Residence@Sukhumvit -- in the heart of the city -was envisioned to dramatically change the skyline of Bangkok, aside from of course, make it a prime urban residential address. Completed in 2009, the luxury comprises four high-rise towers, each with 53 storeys and a total of 604 condominium units. The condominiums range from 1-bedroom to 3-bedroom units, as well as luxury penthouses. The specification is world-class, including 3m-high ceilings, solid timber flooring, luxury bathrooms and wardrobes. The property also benefits from great access to the city’s main transportation systems.

Ashton Morph 38

Ashton Morph 38 is the fine piece of condominium residence that risen amid serene, exclusive surroundings. The property has 199 residential units on 32 floors. A Lobby Lounge and garden occupies the ground floor while the 2nd to 7th floors are reserved for shops and car park. Eight floors consist of residential units with pools and garden, while on the 10th, 14th, 18th, 22nd, 26th, and 30th floors are residential units and the Sky Garden. There are additional facilities on the 32nd floor. The lavish experience is enhanced by a full concierge service that starts from the very first step of your arrival. The property is also close to the BTS Thonglor skytrain station.

the met

Located near the Singapore Embassy on South Sathorn Road, the met is an award-winning architectural design – a rarity in Bangkok. The impressive 69-storey building consists of six towers containing a total of 370 condominium units that are connected by a series of skybridges. A unique feature of the met is that many of its appeals are found high in the air. A jogging track and a 50m-pool nestle on the 9th floor while traffic jams and the helter skelter of life in Bangkok take place below; secluded ‘sky terraces’ with magical gardens are found on the 28th and 47th floors. The units include two, three and four bedroom residences along with penthouses in each of the towers. The imaginative design and array of facilities make this condominium one of the most compelling in Bangkok.

Centara Grand Residence Pattaya -- Located

on 20 rai of much-sought after beachfront plot of land, Centara Grand Residence Pattaya is the latest project of The Tulip Group, a leading hotel, resort, and residence developer in Thailand. The new 5-star hotel-cum-residential development will consist of three towers, one of which would contain the 250-room Centara Grand Hotel. The two other towers have been branded as Centara Grand Residence, and will contain 283 luxurious apartment units. The project offers 20,000sqm of landscaping and public areas for buyers to enjoy. The developers say this is the first time in Pattaya that investors have the opportunity to own luxurious condominiums enriched with 5-star hotel facilities and services. The project is set for completion in 2015.

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HOW TO BUY A CONDO IN BANGKOK

The only type of property that foreigners can legally purchase in Thailand is the condominium; the only restriction being that a foreigner can normally acquire up to, but not exceeding, 49% of a condo property. However, to qualify for ownership or to buy a condo unit in Thailand, foreigners must meet any of the five criteria put forward by the Condominium Act B.E 2535 (1992), to wit, that they: should possess a residence permit; are permitted to stay in Thailand according to the Investment Promotion Law; should be able to bring in the country the entire money to buy the condo unit in foreign currency; are foreign juristic entities with BOI privileges in the country; or are foreign juristic persons possessing some rights as stated in the Land Code. They must also have a bank account in Thailand, and must show a copy of their passport proving that they are in the country at the time of the condominium’s purchase. SOME MORE KEY POINTS TO CONSIDER:

LOCATION -- Choose it wisely. Is the condo close

to convenient transportation such as the BTS (skytrain) or MRT (subway), the central business district, your workplace, and shopping and fun areas? Do you have a good view? Could your view be blocked after suffering a year or two of construction noise as a 30-storey apartment building rises from nowhere? Some of the preferred locations for buying a condo are the areas of Silom- Sathorn, Sukhumvit, Central Lumpini, and near the riverside.

THE BUILDING -- Take a good look at the building. How do you like the architecture? The facilities? Are they within your taste? How about the common areas? Consider your privacy and your lifestyle, too. Dwell on safety and security issues (are fire escapes clear and exit doors unlocked?). Check on the cleanliness of the surroundings, your neighbors, even the management policies perhaps.

PRICES -- Are they within your budget? Do they have a high resale value? Can you fetch a good income from renting them? Are there hidden costs such as sinking funds and maintenance charges? PAPERWORK -- Who will do the paperwork? Where

will you get your property lawyers? How about financing? Fortunately, most of the better property consultancies offer this service. For example, Tisco Finance Plc’s website (www.tiscogroup.com) gives details for foreigners wanting to take out mortgages, and has a handy mortgage calculator so you can work out your monthly repayments over a given period. With the right credentials and a pay packet, finding an institution willing to front expatriate residents with a mortgage is not impossible. May 2013 | 49

Lifestyle

art scene

Recent opening at Tonson

The Changing Landscape of Bangkok’s Art Scene “Things aren’t changing, they’re happening” – this perfectly illustrates the energy that characterizes the art scene in Bangkok today By Isabelle Kallo

Lookeast | Lifestyle

ntil recently, Bangkok’s art scene consisted of a cluster of short-lived art galleries and a few museums. This by no means meant that the art scene didn’t exist, merely that it was hard to identify and had little to offer to a potentially engaged audience. Today this is no longer the case, but for those who have somehow failed to notice all the change, Lookeast Magazine provides a summary Of course art and craftsmanship have long been present in Thailand and they have played important roles in its society but the nature of these roles is changing, simultaneously transforming the landscape of the local art scene. Leaving behind the traditional Buddhist representations of various kingdoms gone, Thai art today is exploring the issues of a fast developing contemporary society, providing fresh perspectives on questions that concern us all. With neighboring countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong becoming frenzied regional art hubs, Bangkok is taking advantage of the fervent focus on Asia to further ground itself. It may still

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have a long way to go before it can compete, but Brian Curtin, Bangkok-based curator and writer, says that he has seen the “earlier dominance of a handful of artists, galleries and curators superseded by a relatively plural and idiosyncratic art scene” over the last decade. Indeed Bangkok is now home to a host of established art galleries, the Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC), and art fairs among others, and it is doing its best to become an artistic and cultural center in its own right. There is now a cluster of Bangkok galleries that have managed to stand the test of time. One such gallery is 100 Tonson Gallery, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and also set to be the first Thai gallery to show at Art Basel Hong Kong (previously Art HK). Interviewed recently about why so few Thai galleries participate in international fairs, the gallery’s founder Aey Phanachet said that Thai artists are “still undervalued, under recognized and under exposed” making it difficult for galleries to sustain the costs of going to international fairs. However, Phanachet insists that they “deserve a wider audience” and understands the importance of them receiving increased exposure. Not everyone would say that the problem is profitability though, but more a lack of this very understanding about the importance of being exposed on a global platform. Here is one of the most crucial changes happening – attitude. Keep your eyes open, as you may well be seeing more Thai galleries breaking onto the international scene at art fairs across the globe soon. Closer to home though -- at home in fact -- was another art fair, the Hotel Art Fair No 1, held at Bangkok’s Maduzi boutique hotel in February. Albeit 30 years later, it follows the hotel art fair model first introduced in New York, and has added a new and exciting dimension to the local art market. The 12 galleries exhibiting reported positively on this new experience saying that it had provided a good opportunity to widen their audience and hoped that it would be a lasting precedent for such events in the future. When we visited, the hotel was busy with a constant crowd of intrigued visitors and keen-to-engage gallery owners welcoming us in every room, exemplifying another important change: the desire to teach and learn. Back to the aforementioned BACC; it is slowly gaining pace. The reviews of its shows are improving and more importantly it is “run by people who are committed to moving forward,” says Curtin. A recent visit saw the works of three Belgian artists on display in the balconies surrounding the open atrium, as well as that by 20 international artists in the exhibition titled, “Possession

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Maduzi

BACC

(1),” co-curated by Curtin, who added that the art scene is now “more receptive to the input BACC of foreigners and I believe this marks the significance of the current period.” It also shows another of the changes apparent in the current art scene, a new openness. However, the changes are not confined to the above. An alert eye will notice that the change is taking place everywhere. From the graffiti art, which recently recovered Siam Square and the walls of the Saen Saep canal as part of the “Bukruk Street Art Festival,” to the recently opened DCA Art Consultant in the St. Regis Hotel, new developments keep happening. In fact, when asked about the changes in the current Bangkok art scene, DCA director, MaxOle Casdorff, exclaimed simply, “things aren’t changing, they’re happening,” perfectly illustrating the energy that characterizes the art scene in Bangkok today: it is understandably appealing to a new and larger mixture of spectators. Join them, we have!  May 2013 | 51

Lifestyle

fashion

Lookeast | Lifestyle

Painkiller Archetype

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Top Designers, Fresh Ideas

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Siam Center’s groundbreaking fashion event showcased the emerging fashion vision of the country’s hottest fashion designers – both established and upcoming

By PerCY ROXAS

iam Center continues to delight fashionistas and style enthusiasts of all ages with its groundbreaking events and activities. Just recently the trendsetting “ideaopolis” organized what it dubbed as the fashion event of the year: “Siam Center Fashion Visionary,” featuring very special fashion collections under the “Fashion Weekend” concept. The event gave the public a glimpse of what’s new and what’s to come in the world of Bangkok fashion as seen from the eyes of today’s hottest designers – both established and upcoming, related industry insiders, and fashionistas from different persuasions and temperaments.

AB-Normal

Singha presents Fash by Srinakharinwirot University, and Synthesis by The Selected x The Wonder Room

Friday27Nov Delighting by Canon

The show featured names and brands who have headlined some of the most talk-about fashion shows in the city in recent years, including: Friday27Nov Delighting by Canon, AB-Normal, Painkiller Archetype, Wonder Anatomie, Singha presents Fash by Srinakharinwirot University, and Synthesis by The Selected x The Wonder Room. Not surprisingly, iconic consumer brands such as Canon Marketing (Thailand), Comfort Care Wash by Unilever Thai Trading Co., Singha Corporation, Lola Cosmetics, Samsung Galaxy, and Chalachol Academy sponsored the fashion showcases. “‘Siam Center Fashion Visionary’ actually celebrates the third floor of Siam Center, which embodies our unique identity of being a center for leading Thai designers; an identity that have been kept intact despite several renovations,” said Mayuree Chaipromprasith, senior executive vice president of Siam Piwat Co., Ltd. “Siam Center has been contributing immensely in the development of the Thai fashion industry through the years. We want to help propel Thai fashion further into a truly world-class status as recognized in the international stage. We want to create an unrivalled channel for Thai designers to express their imagination, spirit, and cutting-edge vision.” The series of fashion shows opened with Friday 27 Nov. by Chanachai Jareeyathana. Billed as “Friday 27 Nov. delighting by Canon,” the show had models sashaying down the runway wearing clothes made under the concept “Summer Time Sadness.” Simply put, the concept was based on the idea that people go to the beach whether they are happy or sad. The designer played with the idea of sadness and loneliness in summer, and expressed it with the use of different materials. It was amazing to see how materials such as May 2013 | 53

Lifestyle

The Selected x The Wonder Room

Painkiller Archetype designer Siriorn Teankaprasith’s new summer collection, “King of The Jungle,” was next on stage, praised by many as a work full of “artistic sophistication.” Inspired by Rudyard Kipling's “The Jungle Book,” the collection embraced “The Jungle Mix” style. The designer combined various prints to create its desired effect. From floral to animal, to metallic shades within a palette of green and brown on various textures of fabrics – that drew ooohs and aaahs. True to its goal of giving more exposure to aspiring young designers who want to showcase their creative work, “Siam Center Fashion Visionary” reserved a special showcase for them. “Singha presents Fash by Srinakharinwirot University” featured talented young fashion designers under the theme, “Fash Heritage.” The designers reinterpreted the gems of ancient Thai wisdom into wearable contemporary fashion. An interesting segment of the show was the display of accessories and jewelry inspired by the diverse culture of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). This segment aptly displayed the range and diversity of the ASEAN countries. The fashion showcase closed with a rookie, Chalermkiat Khatikasemlert (Wonder Anatomie), whose fresh, novel take on fashion has wowed and won so many hearts of many fashionistas. The collection, titled “Wonder Day in The Museum,” drew from the child-like wonder and experience we get from visiting museums, and combined them with key inspiration from human anatomy and other living components. His print techniques and the use of embroidery to create 3D illusion on a 2D object is nothing short of astounding.

Wonder Anatomie

cotton, silk, and organza -- used with creative cutouts, embroidery, and print techniques on simple silhouettes on a palette of white, beige, and navy blue – can effectively convey the idea. The clothes were characterized by vibrant summer shades that have become the brand’s signature style. Another interesting collection was mounted by The Selected and The Wonder Room – the latest multi-brand store and concept store managed by Charnchai C. Wongthanakorn, a joint effort that displayed the trend-setting talents and versatility by both the hottest newcomers and major established talents handpicked by Siam Piwat. The first showcase, called “Synthesis” by The Selected x The Wonder Room, was awesomely inspiring to say the least. Models did their thing on a platform revolving around a prism of colors enhancing the telling of a modern fashion story in an arresting style. AB-Normal, a brand that suggests edgy simplicity in street wear, was another awesome work. Inspired by sculpture, and billed as “Wear White,” it was a testament to designer Thaweesak Samanmit’s talent in interpreting solid, strong sculptural lines and giving them a feeling of tenderness. Using techniques that involves lines and polka dots, achieved through tucking and studs, the collection came in an organic palette: the colors of soil, stone, cement, and sand, with white serving as a basic staple alongside beige, grey, and black – the clothes are obviously geared for those who want their unique character standing out. But the silhouettes, albeit smart, remained simple -- which is AB-Normal’s signature, the “Simple Chic” style.

Lookeast | Lifestyle

AB-Normal

Painkiller Archetype

Apart from the latest designs, the fashion event also featured various activities on the 3rd floor of Siam Center. “Break The Closet,” a new promotion offering up to 50% discount for buyers of the latest collection by Thai designers, was launched. The “Snap and Shared” promotion allowed buyers to transform themselves into models. A stylist and leading photographer are on standby at a photo booth to take photographs of buyers and print the photos in an instant. Of course, no Bangkok event is complete without a party and so after the fashion shows, Siam Center threw a big party with some of the country’s hottest bands entertaining visitors. Hosts such as Apasiri Nitipon and Punika Yokakul – not to mention super stylist Araya Indra – made sure the public had the fun of their life all-day and all-night. Indeed, “Siam Center Fashion Visionary” was a more than just a groundbreaking fashion event to beat in Bangkok – and we’re looking forward to seeing more of it! 

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Lifestyle

health & beauty Secrets of Holistic Beauty How Dr. Orawan Anti-Aging Institute helps people feel healthy and look beautiful from the inside out By Percy Roxas

n four months, Dr Orawan Holistic Anti-Aging Institute (DOHAI) – currently located at the Major Rachayothin complex -- is moving back to the heart of the city, on Sukhumvit 49, in a building all their own no less. This is good news for their growing legion of patients and clients from around the world who have been patronizing the widely popular holistic health and beauty institute since it opened in 1988. The multi-award winning center – originally set up by the internationally recognized Dr. Orawan Kitchawengkul as Dr. Orawan Holistic Institute -- has come a long way since the days when they mostly concentrate on beauty and laser care (during their first 10 years). Not only has the company grown -- they now have four branches around Thailand; two in Bangkok and two in Phuket -- but also the services offered have expanded, currently running the gamut from topnotch cosmetic dermatology and holistic care to anti-aging medicine and anti-cancer treatment. Of course, they still do premium skin care. “Our holistic beauty treatments combine Western and Eastern therapies meant not only help people feel and look beautiful on

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the outside but also make them feel better from within,” says Dr. Orawan. For the doctor, “holistic” is taking care of the whole human being: mental, physical, spiritual, and social. “We combine the high-tech and the modern with traditional methods to achieve a natural way of healing from the outside and within because I believe that if you treat patients just from the outside, healing cannot be sustainable. To make the beauty sustainable it has to be done the holistic way, we have to consider mind and spirit too,” she says. Indeed today, DOHAI attracts patients not only desiring perfect looking faces or the best possible sculpted bodies, but also those suffering from illnesses, ranging from hypertension and joint pains to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Its patients are as varied as its services. For example, many Vietnamese clients come to DOHAI for facelifting, allergy problems, or acupuncture treatments. Most clients from Bahrain come to find cure for liver cancer or hepatitis. Not a few Australians come for botox and other beauty procedures. A number of Russians come for laser beauty treatments as well, including revitalization with PRP and stem cell therapy. Along the way, as its many awards prove, DOHAI has been helping Thailand establish itself as one of the world’s premiere health and beauty destinations. In fact, the soon-to-open center in Sukhumvit 49 will also have facilities for patients who require sustained treatments and need longer stays. That’s because while DOHAI continues to attract a lot of clients for beauty solutions alone, it has began to emphasize the health aspects of its services more. Dr. Orawan was quick to point out that everything they do is tangible and scientifically approved. “We’ve been here for more than 26 years and we’re a leader in the field,” says Dr. Orawan. Perhaps reflecting her new-found passion for homeopathy – she has had five years training in homeopathy already and plans to continue training -- Dr. Orawan says the job of a real doctor is to help cure his or her patients not only from one disease or one organ but to treat “the whole person.” “Of course, it all depends on whether clients want us to be involved in their problems or not,” she adds. “If they only want beauty solutions, we give them those because it’s their right. If they want the entire holistic approach, then we’d be happy to help them as well.” She can tell you lots of examples how homeopathy has been helping her heal patients these days. “To heal people -- that’s my life,” says Dr. Orawan. “People rely on us to help them not only with their beauty problems but also in healing their entire being because if the inside is sick, it shows in the outside too. If you are sad, depressed, or sick on the inside, how can you have a completely radiant and glowing skin?“ For more details about Dr. Orawan and DOHAI, visit www.drorawan. com 

lifestyle

spa offers Thai Body Balance Spa Cenvaree at Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Center at CentralWorld offers the “Thai Body Balance” spa package to relax your mind and refresh your body from top to toe. The package is priced at only Bt2,380++ per person for a two-and-a-half-hour treatment and is available from May 1 to 31. The treatment starts with a neem and citrus foot ritual to eradicate negative energies, which will loosen and warm up the energy points on the feet. This is followed by a hot freshly steamed pouch filled with seven different types of grains such as wheat germ, barley, soybeans, cornmeal, oatmeal, millet and red rice are applied to exfoliate your skin and un-tighten the muscles, resulting in radiant and smooth skin. Next, the soothing sensations from the cascading Vichy shower rain massage stimulate the chakra points while rejuvenating the entire body. A traditional Thai massage follows, with a hot-oil aromatherapy massage offered as an alternative choice. The spa journey is completed with a face massage with yoghurt a steamed herbal pouch filled with black sesame and botanical oils applied gently to your face to moisturize and reduce puffiness. A cup of detoxifying herbal tea to re-hydrate the body completes the session. For more information or reservation, contact Spa Cenvaree: 02-100-1234 ext 6511, 6516 or e-mail: spacgcw@chr.co.th

Renew & Restore The Peninsula Spa at The Peninsula Bangkok offers a “Renew & Restore” treatment program Mondays thru Thursday from now until May 31 only. The treatment is a one-hour and-3minute program that includes a facial and herbal poultice facial massage with a unique mineralrich conditioning mud mask that leaves hair soft and smooth. The package is priced at Bt4,000++ per person. For more information and reservations, call 02 626-1946, or e-mail: spapbk@peninsula.com

Blissful Moroccan Summer Until May 31, Sherazade Hammam & Spa at Villa Maroc Resort invites you to beat the summer heat by rejuvenating your body and skin with their “Moroccan Blissful Summer” spa package. Get a special 20% discount (or Bt2,200 net) per person. This 80-minute spa package starts with the Moroccan “Hammam” bath and scrub with Moroccan black soap, and then a relaxing and invigorating Thai Massage. Villa Maroc Resort is in Pranburi; the spa opens daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information or reservation, call 032-630-771 or e-mail spa@ villamarocresort.com

Blissful Marriage Retreat Tea Tree Spa at Holiday Inn Pattaya invites you to beat the summer heat by rejuvenating your body with “Blissful Marriage Retreat,” an exclusive romantic package for a couple. Pamper yourself with a four-hour spa treatment starting with signature “Tea Tree Himalaya Hot Stone,” and Tea Tree’s classic facial and foot reflexology while sipping a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine. Price is Bt 8,888 net per couple. Tea Tree Spa is on 5th floor, Holiday Inn Pattaya. Advance reservation is required. For more information and reservation, call 038-725-555 ext. 3902.

Four Elements Treat yourself to a fantastic program, the “Four Elements” spa package at Neva Spa of Windsor Suites and Convention Hotel Bangkok. Let professional massage therapists help relax your entire body and relieve your aches and pains with this customized course designed according to your birth month. The treatment lasts for one hour plus 30 minute extra at only Bt1,699 (normal price Bt3,060). Plus as a special bonus, you can enjoy “Aromatic Facial” treatment on the same day for only Bt1,000 (normal price Bt2,590). Make a reservation two hours in advance for both treatments at only Bt2,699 and receive a free extra 30-minute Body Exfoliating (valued at Bt1,400). For more information and reservation, contact 02-262 1234

Himalayan and Moor Mud Promotion The Imperial Spa -- on the 9th floor, Queen’s Park Tower, The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Sukhumvit 22 – has just launched a new promotion valid until July 31. Enjoy a state of true mental relaxation with Himalayan and Moor Mud; a strong natural detoxifier that also promotes circulation, stimulates the immune system. Then, experience Imperial Massage, which works on deeper tissues to speed up detoxification and rid the body of pollutants, increase flexibility and circulation; and enhance the body’s natural recovery process. Follow by foot reflexology, which is the effective ways to unwind and reduce stress. Or choose from other packages. For more information and reservations, call 02-261-9000 ext. 5115, 5120 or r-mail: spa@ imperialqueenspark.com

Summer Indulgence Antidote Spa of Grand Millennium Sukhumvit offers three-style “Summer Indulgence” services: the 90-minute Summer Refresh, a body scrub treatment to deliver silky soft skin and body oil massage at Bt3,500++; the 90-minute Summer Delight, an herbal compress combined with aromatic oil massage at Bt2,990++; and Summer Retreat, which is a treatment that starts with hot foot scrub followed by a relaxing massage at Bt2,990++ for 90 minutes. Offer good until June only. For more information, call 02-204-4144 or e-mail: antidote @ grandmillenniumsukhumvit.com

Discover Online Booking Oasis Spas and Save Oasis Spas are offering a limited-time discount -until Aug. 31, to anyyone who books their spa visits online. A 30 percent discount is given to ‘early birds’ who schedule morning appointments (10 am – 12:30 pm) online for any treatment or package at any Oasis Spa; and 15 percent when you book an afternoon appointment (after 12:30 pm). It’s easy as 1-2-3: (1) go to www.oasisspa.net to find the Oasis Spa near you and choose the date and time of your appointment, (2) select your spa package or treatments (get immediate confirmation), (3) make a secure online purchase of your treatment. Like purchasing an airline ticket online, it is fast and secure Contact Reservation Center for more information at +66 (2) 26 2 2 122. May 2013 | 57

wine & dine

f&b trends

Chicken Fajitas

Top Dining Destination To Be Word-of mouth is spreading: Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park’s F&B outlets are sizzling with innovative dining concepts, great value promotions, not to mention classy ambiance and genuinely hospitable service By Percy Roxas

Lookeast | wine & dine

Ceviche

xcitement is in the air these days at Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park, especially in the F&B department, where a youthful F&B manager is spreading his passion for great food, fine wines, and living it up in the most stylish of hotel lifestyles. Mexican-born and Swiss-educated Bernardo dela Garza – just six months at the hotel – lends his own personal excitement and passion to making Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park the dining destination to beat in the city. Easier said than done, of course, but this early, Bernardo is already proving that he can do the walk as much as the talk, so to speak. Lookeast Magazine caught up with him recently to experience the seeming metamorphosis – F&B-wise – that the fivestar luxury hotel has been undergoing lately. “Yes, I’m the one in charge,” says Bernardo referring to all areas of food and beverage in the hotel. “I’ve been here for just six months, but it’s been exciting so far. With the many projects we plan to do, with the many promotions we want to launch – you can say we want to deliver a new style of F&B in Bangkok. Opening a new outlet; getting everything done from zero all the way to seeing it open and running takes a bit of time to get done but its very exciting at the end of the day. “

Restaurants & Bars F&B Trends

restaura cafe

bar/loun In fact, it should not come as a surprise to find Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park among the top favorites of discerning foodies in the city soon. While the hotel has three restaurants only – Panorama Restaurant on Level 23, the Chinese restaurant Xin Tian Di on Level 22, and Short Cuts on the ground floor – a cursory visit at them can easily convert first-timers into loyal guests. For example, the all-day dining venue Panorama -- which offers panoramic views of Bangkok – is a delight to the senses with its classy contemporary but still laidback ambiance, its innovative dining concepts, and a service that is characteristically Crowne Plaza. The restaurant was given an edgy twist last January when Bernardo and his team introduced a new Latin concept to help the place sizzle during dinnertime. The restaurant – besides preparing the best of Thai, Asia, and International cuisine with the freshest products in an open kitchen environment – can now make those people yearning for food favorites from Mexico, Peru, Cuba, Argentina, Brazil, and other South American countries happy. A totally new vibe has infused Panorama, with the well known Latino passion and love for life – music, atmosphere, and all. And the great thing is they have kept the prices very affordable for all even to the wine list. Bernardo’s personal goal was to see Panorama really sizzle (read: busy) at night. “I would like to see lots of people in the restaurant enjoying wines, which we now serve at prices starting at Bt98 a glass; probably the most affordable wine in the market for their quality. And of course our outstanding food offerings.” Panorama’s lunch buffet has a little section on Latin food, but it’s at dinner that it really comes to life. Panorama also offers many different promotions that value-seeking guests should find very attractive, such as the “Ladies Nights” every Wednesday when for every four ladies that come in get a free bottle of wine, and the “Mojitos Thursday” when you can sample lots of mojitos with different food combinations for only Bt600 (or Bt150 per individual mojito). Another project Bernardo is excited about is the transformation of The Finishing Post, their cigar and whiskey bar. “We’re about to launch a range of whiskies to add to our very big collection and we’re working things out with several companies. We will probably have around 70 to 85 different kind of whiskies in The Finishing Post. We’re also working on bringing in a larger amount of cigars and looking at the at regulations to see what can be done to have it completely a smoking venue because it’s a beautiful place for cigar smoking, but these things are still in the pipeline. We want to focus on whiskies and cigars but obviously if a guest wants to order something else, we’ll be able to do it as always. The Finishing Post will be different than other similar places in that you don’t need to be a member to avail of the facility. “The Finishing Post is geared for the high-end market, but it offers free access to anybody,” he says. The hotel also just opened the Short Cut’s Deck (which serves dinner and perfect for afterwork hours’ relaxation) at the outside terrace of the main entrance, and the Short Cuts deli on the ground floor, which serves breakfast and lunch. “Short Cuts is an ideal place for informal meetings, quick lunch, or just plain relaxation with friends,” says Bernardo. “It also offers take away options for the busy businessmen.” Bernardo says other F&B enhancing projects are also in the pipeline, all geared to make people give the hotel’s F&B outlets a second look,

come, and return. “We have just launched a new Sunday Brunch as well, with a new live band -- among other things. And there’s a long line-up of activities we’ll be doing until the end of the year, so watch out for them.” “We’re now working harder to try to get more people to come through some special promotions, and other areas to drive revenues, without compromising guest experiences,” he says. “I think we have some of the most underrated restaurants in Bangkok, especially Panorama, and it may take some time before we really see the fruits of our current labors here, but with distinctive culinary concepts, an informal yet sleek setting, and our ‘always there for you’ service, I think we will make it.” Make it what? “To make Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park a true dining destination,” he says. “Again, we have great F&B outlets, even if it’s me saying it, but not too many people know about them or that we serve good quality food and deliver such good quality service. My end result would be to see the hotel become a place where people love to come to enjoy a couple of wine glasses, savor the excellent food, and experience a totally grand time, alone or with a company. “It’s very challenging in Bangkok with so many hotels and so may fantastic restaurants – so you have to be more innovative, you have to be a bit different, and more unique than the next place -- but we’re actually doing very well in the F&B.” “I am inviting people to come down to really see and experience for themselves the best of what Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park has to offer. They will be surprised at what we do here. I can guarantee they will not be disappointed.” 

Bernardo de la Garza F&B Manager Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park Bernardo dela Garza says he fell in love with hotels when he was 13. “My family moved from Mexico to Indonesia, and I remember the hotel we stayed there for two weeks,” he recalls. “I got to play around in the hotel, tried the kitchens, met the chefs, saw the rooms -- I was everywhere. That really opened my eyes to this career. “ After getting his bachelor’s degree from the Glion Hotel School, he started doing internships, including one at the InterContinental Hotel Bangkok. But his career really started with the Hyatt as a management trainee in 2008 before becoming an assistant restaurant manager at InterContinetnal Hotel Doha (Qatar) before his eventual promotion as acting outlets manager. Then he joined the Six Senses and was at Six Senses Phuket although he also went to Vietnam and Oman to help out with the opening of a hotels and support operations. Later, he joined Hotel Muse Bangkok “and then I decided to explore new possibilities and then I came here at Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park.”

May 2013 | 61

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wine & dine

New Flavors to Please

Zuma Bangkok introduces a range of new dishes designed to appeal not only to aficionados of the Japanese izayaka dining style By Percy Roxas

angkokians are notorious for being fickle-minded, especially when it comes to dining places. With more and more dining places in the city opening by the day -- and seemingly each getting better than ever too -- who can blame them? There are just so many options available to Bangkok foodies these days. Not surprisingly Bangkok restaurants are trying to outdo one another in providing what they feel will transform even their most fickle-minded guest into a loyal regular fan. Even Zuma Restaurant, that award-winning interpretation of the Japanese izakaya style of informal eating and drinking, cannot standstill in the thick of this competition and mindset. Beef tartar with crispy nori toast, fresh shiso, and garlic chips

Cold crab somen noodle salad with spicy lemon dressing

Zuma Restaurant recently introduced some new dishes designed to complement its existing attractions such as the thinly sliced sea bass with yuzu, truffle oil, and salmon roe; spicy beef tenderloin with sesame, red chili, and sweet soy; dynamite spider maki roll; and baby chicken marinated in barley miso. We were recently invited to sample Zumaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new dishes -- and what a food tasting it turned out to be. Our group was served several amazing dishes, which we savored with much gusto amid an atmosphere of utter conviviality. Presented in a casual fun way for all members of the group to share, the new dishes included spicy crab miso soup, which is a delightful modern take on the traditional Japanese soup staple, with its exquisite crab taste lingering to the soupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very last drop. Truly, this miso soup puts other miso soups in the city to shame. Rockshrimp tempura, chilli mayo, and fresh lime

Lookeast | wine & dine

Contact Details: Zuma Bangkok The St. Regis Hotel, Rajdamri Road (BTS: Rajdamri) Tel: 02-252-4707 E-mail: reservations@ zumarestaurant.co.th

Barbequed pork ribs with spicy cashew nuts and spring onions

Another one is the pork belly salad, served with cabbage and sesame ponzu dressing, which is really a thin slice of succulent, nottoo-fatty pork wrapped around a bunch of crunchy greens balanced by a creamy, limey ponzu dressing. Pork belly dishes like this are now a trend in Bangkok, but few can equal the savory edge this one brings to the table. This, you’ll relish to the last bite. Then, there is the rock shrimp tempura, which we didn’t try much because we are really trying to shy away from too much fried food. But in fact, this one doesn’t look frighteningly oily at all; probably because -- as the chef points out -- they use light airy batter to deepfry them. Indeed, they look absolutely appetizing with their crispy, crunchy appearance; the flavor made more zesty yummy by chili mayo and fresh lime. But on top of our instant favorites was the beef tartar with crispy nori toast, fresh shiso and garlic chips with Oscietra caviar. It’s another wonderful blending of East-West inspiration in modern cuisine. Served in a small bowl, the well-seasoned raw meat is so flavorful, with an exotic tang that is probably the result of combining wasabi, avocado, and caviar. Shamelessly, I took advantage of the fact that some members of the group don’t eat beef; I kept digging into it until the bowl was empty. A dish that can definitely set the hungry heart warm is the cold crab somen noodle salad with spicy lemon dressing. Don’t underrate this one. It’s a refreshing, light dish, with a taste that could have come from the delicate notes of a sensual symphony (see its effect on me?). The amazing blend of flavors are revealed after you hold the food in your mouth for a few seconds. But the one that really made our jaw drop was the barbequed pork rib with spicy cashew nuts and spring onions. In presentation and taste, this is a clear-cut winner. The char-grilled ribs were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside – so tender, in fact, that they automatically fall off the bone as you pick them up. Delicious, meltin-the-mouth, this one is a real must-try whether you’re a Zuma firsttimer or not.

Pork belly salad with cabbage and sesame ponzu dressing

And we haven’t told you about the tiger prawn skewers with sour shiso dip, which I must say, simply tantalizes. The highlight of our food tasting was the two new desserts: passion fruit and chocolate cake with tonka bean ice cream and jasmine cream, genmai cha biscuit, sake poached apple and jasmine ice cream – each of which makes for a perfect highlight to a perfect fun meal. Now, like Zuma’s other specialties, these new dishes are designed for sharing. That’s the basic idea of eating at Zuma. The dishes come from three different kitchens; the main kitchen, robata counter, and sushi bar. The combination of the three different cooking styles results in a mixture of tastes, temperatures, and textures that create an exciting and fun dining experience. Those who have been to Zuma are also all-praise for the use of organic textured materials and traditional textiles that helped the restaruant create the perfect environment in which to enjoy its awardwinning cuisine. As Zuma’s founder Chef Rainer Becker said: “Zuma is a modern Japanese restaurant, yet it respects tradition not only in the food but also in the design and approach.” Indeed, Zuma’s overall energy very much complements the lively cosmopolitan yet traditional character of Bangkok. Conclusion: While some new Bangkok restaurants may come and go with the fleeting trend, we think Zuma most likely will stay. Definitely, it has got what it takes to be a lasting favorite. 

May 2013 | 63

wine & dine

Ciao Now

Being positioned as a relaxed evening venue where people can dine or unwind over quality tapas and drinks in a magnificent yet informal setting beside the river, Ciao also offers a Chef’s Table that is expected to become a new benchmark for fine Italian dining

By Laurence Civil

iao has sat for a quarter of a century on the bank of the Chao Phraya River set against the historic facade of the Author's Wing of Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. Always an al fresco seasonal terrace restaurant opening just for the dry high season, Ciao -- with its recent radical transformation -- gives a fresh look to the Grand Dame. No longer just a place for grandmothers to sip tea, it is now attracting their grandchildren to come out to play. They have dared to do what they wouldn't have done before: to appeal to the next generation. It's the private enclosure to the right of the walkway leading from the shuttle boat. The feel is more terrace lounge with armchairs and sofas in the striking signature black white and red. No cloth on the table but rather individual place mats, the look is cool and chilled but there has been no compromise to the service. Michelin-star trained Chef Luca from Florence has formed an inspired partnership with Mandarin Oriental Bangkok’s culinary

Lookeast | wine & dine

director, Chef Norbert Kostner, to create the culinary offerings. Dining at Ciao will be complemented by some of the finest wines in town with emphasis on Piedmont wines and a especially selected choice of sparkling prosecco and signature cocktails. “We’re positioning Ciao as a relaxed evening venue where people can dine or unwind over quality tapas and drinks in a magnificent yet informal setting beside the river,” said Ittipol Witjitsomboon, food and beverage director. “At the same time, we believe the Chef’s Table will also become a new benchmark in Bangkok for fine Italian dining.” In winter mode there are three dining options: an a la carte restaurant, a bar serving Spuntino (Italian-style tapas), and the Chef’s Table, housed in an air-conditioned space where a set menu with wine pairings is cooked and served by Ciao’s own Chef Luca Casini. For the Chef’s Table, advance reservation is required - for a maximum of eight seats per night. Inclement weather in the summer causes the

suspension of dining under the stars scaling the service down to a more exclusive bar and chef's table "Italian food is basically simple," says Chef Luca, "our main menu is traditional Italian with a balance of classical and modern dishes. At the Chef’s Table, I serve an exclusive eight-course menu, which I change every 10 days to two weeks in the summer and weekly in the winter. Here I can play with more Mediterranean flavors. “Since the relaunch of Ciao, there has been a good response for main restaurant. I make carbonara the way it should be: with eggs, cheese Peccoroni Romano, or Parmigiano-Reggiano. guanciale, pig’s cheek, bacon, and black pepper. The Guanciale is pan-fried, the hot pasta is combined with a mixture of stock, raw eggs, and cheese. The eggs should create a creamy sauce. It's important to cook carefully, too long -- and its scrambled eggs. There is no cream added to an authentic carbonara. It is different to what is served elsewhere in Bangkok but our waiters clearly explain what we are doing and why." Our evening started with Sputino small bites while we sipped on their signature Ciao Phraya lychee-based cocktail. Bruschetta of fresh Stracchino cheese, olive oil, and black pepper; tuna belly with pine nuts, salt flakes, and black pepper; and prawns with herbs, shell fish, and olive oil emulsion. For the fish course we had perfectly seared tuna with a piquant cracked black pepper dressing, and tartare of salmon trout from the Royal projects with rock-salt baked beetroot carpaccio and sour cream, a subtle explosion of flavors. For our pasta course we were served spaghetti chitarra, a typical fresh pasta dish from Abruuzesse. A sheet of freshly rolled pasta dough is laid over a harp shaped box strung with 72 razor-sharp wires. Pushing a rolling pin over the dough cuts it into a thick spaghetti served with clams. There was a rustic wholesome chew to the spaghetti that is only found when made fresh. Our second pasta dish oversized tortelli filled with pumpkin and amaretti again perfectly cooked. "People often associate pigeon with French cuisine," he says, "but it's also very much Italian. In fact, we eat every type of bird back home." His pigeon was served as a pan-fried breast and as a stuffed legs stuffed with a rich coffee sauce. His second main course was grilled tiger prawns with garlic emulsion, chili-scented shell fish sauce and crispy parsley." The must have dessert has to be trio of panna cotta, interesting marriages of herbal and sweet flavors, basil with strawberry, rosemary with honey and a classic caramel with the lightest imaginable custard. Executive Pastry Chef reveals the secret, keeping the gelatin to a minimum. Ciao represents the new generation of Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, fit for the purpose in 2013. 

Contact Details: Ciao Italian Restaurant 48 Oriental Avenue, Bangkok Tel: 02-659-9000, ext. 7640 Opening Hours: 6pm-11pm daily (Dinner) 5pm-1am daily (Bar) www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok/fine-dining/ciao/ May 2013 | 65

wine & dine

Reliving the Good Old Days Ernest Hemingway lived large during the 'Roaring 20s', precisely when the gorgeous house that Hemingway’s Restaurant is now located in was built Text & Photos by Dave Stamboulis

t’s not often in Bangkok that one comes across a restaurant providing a nice ambience, a bit of nostalgia, and some smashingly good food, but Hemingway’s covers all bases. Tucked into a leafy garden just off Sukhumvit on Soi 14, the restaurant pays tribute to a golden age and its most famous denizen, Ernest Hemingway, while dishing out some excellent food and drink to go with the surroundings. While Ernest never made it to Bangkok, he is at least now celebrated in legend. He lived large during the 'Roaring 20s', precisely when the gorgeous house that Hemingway’s Restaurant is now located in was built. The home, built in 1926, is a beautiful teak mansion, former home to the French ambassador. It has been renovated and restored and now pays homage to the 1920s' legend along with the food and drink he loved. Hemingway was famed for his travels, and the restaurant is themed to show this. Downstairs is the Key West dining room, and alongside it the Havana Bar, where you can indulge in Papa’s favorite daiquiri or mojito. The cucumber daiquiris, especially on sultry summer evenings, are sublime. Upstairs you can continue to follow the author’s wanderings with a drink in the African Safari bar, themed with animal skin covered bar stools and a giant wall image of the Serengetti, Hemingway’s top hunting spot. Next to this is the period piece Hideaway, resembling the Parisian apartment where "Papa" spent time writing, complete with a gramophone, antique armchairs, and a fireplace. The entire place is done up in atmospheric soft yellow ambient lighting, befitting it more to the era it seeks to recreate than the gaudy neon we are assaulted with in most places these days. But it is not just the ambience that brings visitors here, as the food is superb. The charred hanger steak (often called the “butcher’s cut as it is not meant to be sold) is thinly sliced strips of Australian beef served as a Spanish tapas and delightfully mouthwatering. Another top meat selection is the crispy confit duck served with caramelized witlof, and is just as tasty as it looks. The Hokkaido scallops are divine, served with apple rémoulade and cauliflower puree, and the beef carpaccio with rocket salad and wasabi mayonnaise is another top notch entrée. For those craving something a bit simpler, Hemingway’s also dishes out some great pizza. There are some super value lunch specials on tap as well, such as a full pizza and glass of wine for Bt250 or a choice of starters, an entrée, and a glass of wine or pint of beer for Bt375. And if the food and ambience of Hemingway’s doesn’t charm you, well, you can always wander through the dining room and read each of the individual place mats, which have different quotes from our man in Havana. There is pretty much something for everyone at this unique new spot.  Contact Details: Hemingway’s Bangkok 1 Sukhumvit Soi 14 Tel: 02-653-3900 Open daily from 11:30 p.m. till late www.hemingwaysbangkok.com/

Lookeast | wine & dine

The Bar and Burger Meisters Escapades, a true hole-in-the wall bar and eatery on Phra Athit Road has an alternative feel about it, and you feel more like sitting at a friend’s home than dining out Text & Photos By Dave Stamboulis

t’s hard to find a decent hamburger in Bangkok, and equally as tough to find a truly well-mixed drink. However, thanks to a couple of maverick young Thais, this has slightly changed. Escapades, a true hole-in-the wall bar and eatery tucked into Phra Athit Road, may not look like much from appearances, but a seat at the bar soon reveals one of Bangkok’s best kept secrets. Master chef Chalermpon Rohitratana, better known as Chef Van, and his good buddy, award winning mixologist Karn Liangsrisuk decided to go after a dream of having a small place making well crafted meals and drinks and they settled on a burger bar. As Van noted, “there were no burger joints in the area other than McDonalds, and as every other Thai seems to be opening a cute or fashionable café; we wanted to be different.” Van is indeed different, sporting a goatee, shaved head, and lots of body art, but it is his cooking that really sets him apart. In addition to doing a different “menu of the day” (based on what is available at the market and how he feels that day), he whips up burgers that have people driving across town to eat. Diners can choose between a lamb burger served on a dark chocolate bun, a Double Cow two patty Angus beef burger served with cheddar cheese and truffle sauce, the triple patty version of this known as the Half Cow, or for the strong of heart, the 3D Pig. Sometimes Chef Van just creates spontaneously with what is in the kitchen, such as making a plate of grilled mushrooms mixed with gorgonzola, cumquat juice, and bone marrow for me, which had me salivating for more. The bar side of Escapades is just as equal to the task. Karn came in second in the "Thai Best Bartending" competition and the man is an absolute encyclopedia of knowledge when it comes to alcohol, tropical fruit, syrup, infusions, and the way to mix them all into perfection. There is no drink menu at Escapades. You just tell Karn what kind of alcohol you like, what you tend to normally drink, and how strong you like it, and he will create something sublime for you. This has to be the only bar in Bangkok serving customized drinks of which two are never alike. The place has an alternative feel about it, local art adorns the walls and rock music blasts out from the kitchen, and you feel more like sitting at a friend’s home than dining out. When I asked Chef Van about making gourmet hamburgers he said to me, “if a cow is going to die for a burger, I figure I might as well give it as much honor as I can,” and indeed, the food and drink speak for themselves at Escapades. 

Contact Details: Escapades Burgers and Shakes 112 Phra Athit Road 081-406-3773 www.facebook.com/Escapadeburgersandshakes may 2013 | 67

wine & dine

Paradise for Chinese foodlovers Authentic Chinese food comes to Thonglor via London with The Four Seasons Restaurant

By John Howe

t was frustrating getting to the Four Seasons Restaurant because I had arrived at the wrong branch. Mistakenly I thought that I was to eat at the Four Seasons in Siam Paragon, but introducing myself to the confused staff it became obvious that I had made a mistake. A quick phone call established that I should have been at the Four Seasons in Thonglor 10. Jumping on the first motorcycle taxi, I demanded to be taken to Thonglor 10, pronto. The race through downtown Bangkok’s crowded streets seemed like a car chase through 1970s New York from the movie “French Connection.” By the time we got to the restaurant my nerves were as frayed as a pair of distressed Levi’s. But walking into the restaurant soon calmed my mood and nerves; it is a large space but cleverly designed to seem intimate and cozy; my stress disappeared upon entering. The décor is typically Chinese. Richly decorated golden designs bedecked the walls and a short avenue of golden pillars led the eye to the back of the restaurant. I relaxed into a comfortable chair and took a few minutes to listen to the traditional Chinese violin music. Shark’s fin soup is on offer but I remembered my Mom’s advice that chicken soup calms the most ruffled of breasts. The shredded chicken soup did the trick, pieces of meat floated in a thick steaming broth (Bt140). It was a perfect start to any meal. London’s Four Seasons Restaurant is famed for its crispy duck (Bt 450) and I am a great fan of the dish. The duck’s skin was a deep glossy caramel the flesh tender and juicy. Laid before me the waiter expertly constructed the pancake rolls, smearing first with the most exquisite, sweet, and fruity plum sauce. The whole is an epicurean dream, the moist flesh absorbed the mouthwatering sauce, and six rolls later I was satiated but could have gone on for more. Next I sampled what my host, Edward, called the “three combination dish” (Bt350): roast pork, duck, and belly pork in combination bathed in a light sauce. This was an unusual combination but the ingredients were on handshaking terms. The belly pork was crisped to perfection and accompanied by an English mustard sauce was tangily moreish. The vegetable was an earthy Chinese broccoli, tasting as if it had been just pulled from the soil. A simple vegetable that was fresh and true to Mother Nature’s desire for authentic tastes. Another of my favorite Chinese food found its way to the table: prawns in Szechuan sauce. This was both a visual and culinary elation, shiny pink prawns; backs covered in the tart sauce lay temptingly before me. The fleshy prawns were large and briny-fresh the sauce bit back at my palate to remind me of its rural Chinese roots. I decanted prawns and abundant sauce to a bed of Thai jasmine rice so fluffy that each grain could have floated skywards and off to form puffs of rice clouds. The flavor was delicate and enticing to the tastebuds. I finished off this memorable meal with toffee banana and vanilla ice cream. The banana was fried in a sesame seeded caramel sphere; the hot banana and vanilla ice cream was a good combination of textures and flavors. I will return to the Four Seasons Thonglor and if you have not eaten at this new Thonglor branch then you are missing a treat. 

Lookeast | wine & dine

Contact Details: Four Seasons Chinese Restaurant Thonglor 10 (Sukhumvit 55) – the restaurant is a 15-minute walk from the BTS Thonglor skytrain station (Exit 2). Tel: 02-392-6212

WINE & DINE

indulge & enjoy lemon comfit, salmon roe, Grilled white asparagus, lobster ravioli, porcini sauce and White asparagus risotto, burrata cheese, pistachio. Price starts at Bt 490++. Where: La Tavola & Wine Bar (Italian Restaurant), Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel (BTS: Chidlom) // Contact: 02-125-5020 or 02-125-5000, ext. 8300

Bento at Great Value

2 Michelin-star Chef Brings Superlative Cuisine to Lord Jim’s

Lord Jim’s at The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok welcomes Thierry Marx, arguably the world’s leading exponent of “planetary cooking” as guest chef until May 4. One of the most innovative experimentalist chefs in France, the two-starred Michelin chef is the founder of Sur Mesure Restaurant at Mandarin Oriental, Paris. With his “modern alchemist” approach to innovative cooking, Thierry draws deep inspiration from France and Asia. A Buddhist, a black-belt Judo teacher, and Jujitsu aficionado, he has attained cult status as a pioneer of molecular gastronomy. He describes Japanese cuisine as “real philosophy, not just cooking.” Experiments with cryonics, freeze-drying and more have seen him push the boundaries of his art form while creating wondrous dishes across Europe, Asia, and Australia. Expect avantgarde textures and flavors for which Thierry is renowned at Lord Jim’s. Prices are: Bt4,943 net ( 5-course) for dinner and Bt7,279 net (7-course) for a special Wine Dinner featuring the best wine California has to offer on May 4. A few signature dishes are available for a la carte. For more information and reservation, contact 02-659-9000, ext. Lord Jim’s.

his imported produce from the best locations in Japan. The freshest high quality sushi and sashimi, served in sets and paired with tasty sakes, guarantee an awesome cherry blossom feast. Sushi and Sashimi Sets will be offered as follows: The Sakura Set is Bt2,500++ (sushi) or Bt2,800++ (sashimi); The Momo Set is Bt1,700++ (sushi) or Bt1,900++ (sashimi); and the Ume Set is Bt1,200++ (sushi) or Bt1,500++ (sashimi). If you’re in the mood for even more variety, an array of fabulous and delicious original YTSB cocktails will also be paired with different kinds of sushi rolls served in five pieces starting from Bt500++. YTSB is on the 3rd and 4th floors of the VIE 39 building in front of the hotel with a choice of indoor seating and outdoor terrace. For reservations and more information, call 02-309-3939, e-mail info@viehotelbangkok.com, or click on www. facebook.com/viebangkok

White Asparagus Promo Cherry Blossom Festival

As spring comes to Japan, a traditional pastime is enjoying a drink outside while watching the beautiful Sakura cherry blossoms, a pleasure known as hanami, or “flower watching.” The new gourmet Japanese restaurant at VIE Hotel Bangkok, YTSB (Yellow Tail Sushi Bar), specializes in premium fresh rare sushi and hard to find sakes—and this year, from now until June, YTSB celebrates as well. Japanese Master Chef Yoji Kitayama has specially planned

LOOKEAST | WINE & DINE

From May 8-31, Executive Sous Chef Fabio of La Tavola invites you to experience the sweet nutty flavors of white asparagus. Enjoy sautéed white asparagus, pan fried scallop, aromatic salad, potato hazelnut cream, White asparagus soup, crab meat,

In May, enjoy the best of “Bento,” a traditional Japanese variation of healthy food choices in a box carefully prepared by the creative chefs at Youzen Japanese restaurant, located in Windsor Suites Hotel Bangkok. Highly recommended May specials include “Salmon Teri Bento Set” and the “Chicken Teri Bento Set”, or indulge yourself in the Come 4, Pay for 3 All-you-can-eat buffet priced at Bt 699++ per person. Where: Youzen Japanese Restaurant, Windsor Suites Hotel // Contact: 02-262-1234 Ext. 1408

Traditional Italian Dishes

Chef Charles Christeans of Loop Italian Restaurant and Terrace, on the 8th floor of Pathumwan Princess Hotel, presents a special menu of traditional Italian dishes highlighting regional seasonal ingredients throughout May. They include Mediterranean mussels sautéed in white wine, monkfish rolled in pancetta and Australian wagyu beef with porcini mushrooms. For more details and booking, call 02-216-3700, ext. 20818

Crab Dinner Buffet

Back by popular demand, the “Crab Dinner Buffet” returns at The Glass House of Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn. Available until Aug. 31, the buffet promises guests a chance to indulge in a selection of imported crab in dishes that are sure to please even the most discerning of crustacean connoisseurs. The buffet is available every Friday and Saturday evening at Bt1,599++ per person including the international buffet selection. For more information and reservations, call 02 2108100.

Lookeast recommendations May dining speciaLs

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Master Cheese Maker @ Millennium Hilton Bangkok

Seafood Freshness

Every weekend until May 31, Chinese Executive Chef Leung Shing Hoi invites you to dive into an ocean of flavors at Fei Ya, with ingredients from the flavors of Tiger Garoupa, Boston Lobster and Crab. Among the creative seafood dishes are Poached Tiger Garoupa, Deep fried Tofu in fish stock served with pan seared Tiger Garoupa head, Steamed Boston Lobster with glass noodles and roasted garlic, Braised Crab in the Chef’s special sour chili sauce, served with Chinese buns. Experience the wonders of the sea with prices starting at THB. 1,800++. Where: Fei Ya Restaurant, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel // Contact: 02-125-5030

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Master Cheese maker Claude Lauxerois, one of the most renowned maitre fromager in France, will be in Bangkok May 15-19 to delight lovers and fans of cheese. For the whole week at the Flow Restaurant of Millennium Hilton, Lauxerois will delight cheese lovers with unique dinners and tasting sessions, accompanied by wines that he insists must be produced locally. “My rule is,” the cheese maker says, “that everywhere I go my cheese must only be sampled with local wines. Thailand has some amazing wines of its own now, making this a most exciting prospect.” The dinner, with a focus on delicious cheese offerings, will be held from May 16 to May 18, along with Lauxerois unique tasting sessions, while a special Sunday Brunch on the River will be held on May 19. For more details and reservations, call 02-442-2081

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French Cheese Master @ Flow 15-19 May 2013

Bangkok’s biggest Cheese Room is welcoming Cheese Master Claude Lauxerrois, one of the most renowned Maître Fromager in France for a 5-days Cheese celebration featuring tasting sessions, unique cheese dinners and a special Sunday Brunch. • • • • •

Deauvillais Camembert Abbaye Reblochon Livarot Mont d’Or Brie de Meaux Langres Munster Maconnais Boulonnais Ste. Maure

Wine by the glass starting at THB 99 nett per glass Cheese sample plates starting from THB 499 nett (incl. 1 glass of wine) Cheese Room unlimited access THB 999 nett Buffet + Cheese Room unlimited access THB 1,800 nett Brunch on the River THB 1,999 nett

Flow Opens Daily 6.00 a.m. - 11.00 p.m. Millennium Hilton Bangkok, 123 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan, Bangkok 10600 T: +66 (0) 2442 2000 E: bkkhi.informations@hilton.com, hilton.com hiltonbangkok

WINE & DINE

indulge & enjoy FBAT Dinner at The Reflexions

The Reflexions, Plaza Athenee Bangkok’s awardwinning contemporary French restaurant, recently hosted the first Food & Beverage Association of Thailand (FBAT) dinner for 2013. FBAT president, Sanjog Modgil, organized the event while Martin Faist, a distinguished former chef de cuisine at The Reflexions, stepped up as director of cuisine & service. Among those who joined the dinner were Thomas Deledalle, FBAT Food & Beverage manager, and Earth Saiawang, president of the Hotel Public Relations Association of Thailand.

New York Sirloin

True connoisseurs of steaks will love the “New York Sirloin Steak with Peppercorn Sauce” that is our food of the month at Windsor Suites Café of Windsor Suites Hotel and Convention Center Bangkok in May. On top of one of the best-valued buffets in town – both in price and variety – this is something steak lovers everywhere should not fail to try! Amazingly good indeed! Where: Windsor Cafe, Windsor Suites Hotel // Contact: 02262-1234 Ext. 1408

Labor Day Buffet

The Square of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square offers a special "Come 4, Pay 2" offer on their expansive International Buffet Dinner from Labor Day until May 6 (offer is not valid on Thursday and Friday nights) at the regular price of Bt950 ++ per person. For those whose work can be left behind during that week, Lok Wah Hin offers a Come 4, Pay 3 promotion on the weekday. All You Can Eat Dim Sum Buffet Lunch (Bt620++/ person). Where: The Square, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square Soi 6 (BTS: Siam Square) // Contact: 02-209-8888 or visit www.novotelbkk.com

Golden Palace Seafood Special

Come and experience our special food promotion “Immortal Over the Ocean,” featuring some of the most exquisite and exotic flavors in Chinese cuisine. Don’t miss the eternal menu special: “Peking Duck at only Bt699, accompanied by live band “Ko-Cheng,” Or, you can spoil yourself with their Dim Sum buffet available for both lunch and dinner at Bt499++ and Bt699++ (with shark’s fin soup) respectively. Where: Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant, Windsor Suites Hotel Bangkok // Contact: 02-262-1234 Ext. 1410

LOOKEAST | WINE & DINE

Sukhothai Signature Cake

The Sukhothai Bangkok introduces the Sukhothai Signature Cake, which allows guests to take a piece of the precious culinary memory of The Sukhothai Bangkok back home. Executive Pastry Chef Laurent Ganguillet, a Swiss chocolatier with more than 25 years of experience created the signature cake, inspired by the all-time favorite ginger chocolate truffle. Chef Laurent combines its special composition to create this delightful masterpiece cake. The Sukhothai Signature Cake is available at Thimian Gourmet Shop & Café in one, two or three pound sizes at Bt780, Bt1,500, and Bt2,400 respectively. For more information or to make an order, call 02-344-8888 or e-mail to promotions@sukhothai.com.

All You Can Eat Sushi

Until June 30, Hiragi Japanese Restaurant at Novotel Bangkok Bangna offers an excellent selection of “All You Can Eat Sushi.” Prices

Indus Gets 'Thailand Best Restaurant' Award

Indus again joined an elite group of the best restaurants in the country; it has been selected one of the winners in the “2013 Thailand’s Best Restaurants” awards. The Contemporary Indian Dining Restaurant on Sukhumvit 26 was acclaimed as a “Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant for its exceptional cuisine and service” during ceremonies helde in Bangkok. Sid Sehgal, owner of Indus Restaurant, received the award from Naphalai Areesorn, editor of Thailand Tatler Magazine. The award is the latest in the long list of accolades that the Indian restaurant has been receiving from organizations both here and abroad.

are at Bt750 net per person, inclusive of a free flow of draught beer. There are also three private rooms for private parties. This exceptional value-for-money buffet is available for both lunch and dinner. Where: Hiragi Japanese Restaurant at Novotel Bangkok Bangna, Srinakarin Road // Contact: 02-366-0505, ext. 1470

Lunchtime Treats

At Zest Bar & Terrace, the chef has created special a la carte selections to fit in with your busy schedule. Lunchtime diners can choose from tasty and satisfying dishes for just Bt290 net including one soft drink and coffee or tea. The menu features delights such as a crisp Caesar salad with bacon lardons, aged Parmesan cheese and garlic croûtons. There is also spaghetti Napolitano, classic Italian pasta dressed in rich and flavoursome tomato sauce, and Thai favorites such as gai satay, char-grilled marinated chicken skewers served with peanut and cucumber sauce, and a spicy tom yam soup with prawns, mushrooms accompanied by steamed rice, and more. Where: Zest Bar & Terrace, Westin Grande Sukhumvit (BTS: Nana) // Contact: 02-207-8000 or e-mail fb.bangkok@ westin.com

Hong Kong Dim Sum Festival

From May 1 to 31, Flavors, International Restaurant of Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel welcomes Guest Chefs Ng Shiu Wa and Fung Tat Fai from the award-winning Marriott Café Restaurant of JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong. The two bring more than 25 years of culinary experience on dim sum creation, for you to sample innovative and exciting varieties of dim sum Hong Kong style. Enjoy all you can eat dim sum for dinner at the starting price of only Bt1,390++. For more details and reservations, call 02-125-5010

Lookeast recommendations may Dining Specials

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Thai Street Food in Style Patisserie Masatomi’s Strawberry Shortcake

Patisserie Masatomi, the pastry shop featuring an array of mouthwatering delectable pastries and sweets that combine French culinary heritage with Japanese aesthetics and style, presents its own strawberry shortcake guaranteed to freshen you up during this steamy hot summer! The classic pastry, prepared with passion and served with pride, using only dairy fresh cream products, best quality strawberries available, and milky light sponge to make this light delicious confection a match to the best found in Japan. This light and refreshing textured cake is a true delight for people of all ages. You can find Patisserie Masatomi at the 3rd floor of The Portico Langsuan. For more information, call 02-6521977 or e-mail: info@masatomi.org

Durian Cake

In May, lovers of pastries and other baked goodies should try the “Durian Cake,” an exotic pastry take on the King of Fruits by the pastry chef of Windsor Bakery Shop of Windsor Suites Hotels and Convention Center, Sukhumvit 20. Also, don’t miss their daily special of 40% discount after 4 p.m. For more information and orders, call 02-262-1234, ext. 1411

Conrad Bangkok is delighted to bring Bangkok’s famous hawkers direct from China Town to Café@2 for dinner. Enjoy famous Moo Satay (Thai style pork steak) from Jae Aeng, Khamoo (Marinated pork stew) from Toaksung, and noodle soup from Lim Low Ngow on Thursday through Saturday nights. Price is Bt1,400 net for May and June. Prices for the buffet are Bt900 net (lunch); Bt1,400 net (dinner), and Bt1750 net (Sunday Brunch with non-alcoholic beverages) and Bt2200 net (inclusive of freeflow wines). For more information or advanced reservation, call 02-690-9211 or e-mail: reserve@ conradbangkok.com

Aphrodisiac Affairs

Grey Goose's "Aphrodisiac Affairs" is on at Diplomat Bar, Conrad Bangkok, on May 23. Grey Goose guest mixologist will be serving up Grey Goose’s best blends. Must-try Grey Goose cocktails include Summer Jardin, Parisian Passion, Mediterranean Siesta, and Grey Goose Le Fizz. Cocktails start from Bt250 net and bottles at Bt4,200 net. Enjoy a selection of oyster buffet at Bt1,500. For more information, call 02-690-9244 or e-mail: reserve@conradbangkok.com

Healthy Cuisine by Celebrity Guest Chef Chalida

Miss Thailand 1998, Chalida Thaochalee Tantiphipop, now a recognized healthy-

eating expert and renowned celebrity chef, will share her diet secret recipes at Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok in May. Diners can join her for the live cooking demonstration for dinner at Salathip on May 10 and 11, and Sunday Brunch at NEXT2 Café on May 12. Ms. Chalida’s menu offers a selection of lifestyle healthy and low-calories dishes in modern presentation, varying from appetizer, salads, soup, to main dishes and dessert. For more information and to make a reservation, call t02-236-9952, ext. 6205-6; or e-mail restaurants.slbk@shangri-la.com

Special Teppanyaki Set

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From May 6 to 19, Conrad Bangkok presetns a special teppanyaki promotion featuring a three- and a six-course teppanyaki set menu by Master Chef Kenji Shindo of KiSara. which includes sake, teppanyaki pirikara misoPrices start from Bt1,500 net to Bt3,000 net. For more information or advanced reservation, call 02690- 9233 or e-mail: reserve@conradbangkok. com

'Traversing the Orient'

Join a prestigious evening of fine dining with the House of Walker at Liu, Conrad BEangkok on May 31. Enjoy an authentic six-course Chinese menu prepared by Chinese Chef Raymond and paired with a free flow of Johnnie Walker’s finest collection. Guests with reservation will receive a complimentary 750ml bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label with a signature Riedel Crystal Whisky glass presented in a luxurious leather gift set, for Bt6,999++ per person. For advanced reservation, call 02-690-9255

Mandarin Oriental Chef 'Knighted' by Italian President

Upon the recommendation of H.E. Michelangelo Pipan, Italy ambassador to Thailand, Italian President Giorgio Napolitano recently conferred the ''Cavaliere dell’ Ordine della Stella d’ Italia'' decoration to Norbert Kostner, executive chef of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok for the past 38 years. The award of “Cavaliere” (meaning Knight) was conferred to Kostner, now culinary director of Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, during a private ceremony at the ambassador’s residence recently. The award recognizes Chef Norbert’s contribution to the promotion of Italy and the fostering of excellent relations between the Italian and Thai people through his work.

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Wine & Dine

relax & unwind Primal Scream Live in Bangkok

On May 10, at CentralWorld, experience “Primal Scream Live in Bangkok.” Primal Scream is one the legendary music bands, which has inspired various bands in their 20 years of existence. The rock band from Scotland was formed by Bobby Gillespie, exmember of Jesus and Mary Chain, Gillespie began his band with garage rock and later he combined double acid house into rock, creating the biggest turning point in U.K. music industry from their “Screamadelica, the best single in the 90s, as well as Mercury Music Prize winner in 1991. Later, even though with some members have changed, Primal Scream still released albums and made regular tours. In May 2013, they are to release their latest album “More Light.” In this Thailand visit, expect them to rock you to as you will never forget. With special guests: Agrikulture (Indonesia) and Getsunova (Thailand). Tickets at Bt1,500 and Bt1,800, Show starts at 8 p.m. For more information: www.godung.com / www. facebook.com/godungmusic

Parties & Gigs Girl’s Night Out

selection of wines that pair perfectly with dishes highlighted on the international buffet. Red or White, New World or Old, prices start at just Bt899 per bottle or an amazing Bt550 net per person for a free-flow of selected wines when enjoying the international buffet dinner. For more information, call 02209-8888, ext. The Square or visit www.novotelbkk.com

The best “Ladies’ Night” in Bangkok is at Concept CM² of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square with exclusive privileges and free entrance all night long every Monday for all ladies. CM² boasts resident DJs spinning the beats and baselines, and international band, Crush Crew, ensuring a night of pop, R&B, hip-hop, and dance. To find out more, contact Concept CM2 on 02-209-8888, ext. CM2 or visit www.CM2bkk.com

Hip Herbs

Block Party Wednesdays

Very Happy Hours

Every Wednesday, Q Bar on Sukhumvit 11 presents DJ Octo and Sum-1 for a night of hip-hop, R&B, rock, house, disco, and breaks. Q Bar is open from 8 p.m. onwards, but you need to be at least 20-years-old to enter the bar (ID required). For more details, call 02-252-3274

Drink Specials Handpicked Wines

Throughout May, the professional sommelier at The Square, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, offers his handpicked

Lookeast | Wine & Dine

Studio Bar on the ground floor of Pathumwan Princess Hotel invites you to experience something different as its team of talented mixologists shake, blend, and stir-up Thai herb sensations this month. Recommended drinks include Ginger Mojito, PP Daiquiri, and Frozen Lemongrass – available at prices starting at Bt250 per glass. For more information, contact, 02-216-3700, ext. 20133

A “Very Happy Hour” promotion is currently ongoing at the Swizzles Bar and Lounge. Drop by the bar from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday thru Friday and enjoy all drinks at 50 percent off. Swizzles has a relaxing ambiance that is perfect for unwinding with your favorite imported beer, spirit, and wine; a perfectly prepared cocktail, mocktail, or smoothie; or even with just a freshly squeezed fruit juice. For more information and reservations, call 02-210-8100; e-mail: fbadmin@ eastingrandsathorn.com

ENTERTAINMENT/NIGHTILIFE Bar & CLUB specials

Pattaya Nightout Weekend BBQ

Enjoy the opulent Weekend BBQ every Friday and Saturday evenings at the Beach Club Restaurant of Pullman Pattaya Hotel G. It's definitely the place to check out for a party in Pattaya today. Both the Friday Meat Lovers BBQ and Saturday Seafood BBQ, offer seafood grilled to perfection in both Asian and European styles. The BBQs start at 6:30 p.m. at only Bt990 (food only); Bt 1,690 including free flow wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks. The Beach Club Restaurant opens every day from 6 to 10 p.m. For more information or reservations, contact 038-411-940-8 or e-mail: info@pullmanpattayahotelG.com

Sandrone Wine Dinner

Mantra Restaurant & Bar, in collaboration with Vanichwathana (Bangkok) Co., Ltd recently held a fantastic 'Italian Sandrone Wine Dinner” with guests experiencing the best of Italian wine and gastronomy. Photo shows (from left): Piyawan Niruntraporn, specialist from Vanichwathana (Bangkok); Dr. Cristian Maddalena, export manager of Sandrone Lusiano; Richard Margo, resident manager of Amari Orchid Pattaya; and Supparatch Piyawatcharapun, social director of Mantra Restaurant & Bar.

What’s up at The Continent

We Love After Work: Enjoy 'Buy 1, Get 1 Free' all weekdays from 6 to 9 p.m. Come every Thursday, during the 'Ladies Nights' when ladies get two free drinks + canapé’. Every Saturday and Sunday, satisfy your thirst with unlimited cocktails and food for only Bt999++ with the 'H2O Unlimited.' Also, bring your friends to the 38th floor and enjoy the Afternoon Tea along with great company and stunning view. Axis & Spin serves Afternoon Tea from noon till 6 p.m. DJs perform at the SkyBar Tuesdays-Saturdays. For reservation, call 02-686-7055. Every Friday and Saturday, Jazz duo Ath & Paul entertain dinner guests at Medinii with their incredible tunes.For reservation, call 02-686-7000 or e-mail rsvns@thecontinenthotel.com

Exclusive Chateau Musar Wine Dinner at Lord Jim’s

Winemaker Ralph Hochar of Chateau Musar, in collaboration with fin Wines (Thailand), treated selected wine aficionados with a special six-course wine dinner at the Lord Kim’s of Mandarin Oriental Bangkok recently. The Lebanese winemaker presented wines such as 2004 Chateau Musar Blanc, 2008 Château Musar Rosé, 2004 Chateau Musar Rouge MAGNUM, 1997 Chateau Musar Rouge MAGNUM, and 1991 Chateau Musar Rouge, from Gaston Hochar, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon while the hotel’s top chef presented exquisite dishes to match the fabulous wines for a thoroughly perfect evening of fabulous food, fine wine and wonderful camaraderie. Editor’s Note: Send us your events for this section before the 15th of every month for the next month’s publication. First-come, first served basis. Just e-mail them to: editorlookeast@gmail.com or percy@lookeastmagazine.com

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