LIFESTYLE
HOTELS
DINING
NIGHTLIFE
SHOPPING
EVENTS
PERSONALITIES
ART
CULTURE
SPAS
Fashion
EST. 1971
APRIL ISSN 0857-1139
TRAVEL
APRIL 2014
CHIANG MAI Inside Out
LIVING
APRIL 2014 VOL.43 NO.4
Relocation, International Schools, Acquiring Property, Financial and Healthcare Advice, Networking, Decorating Your New Home in Thailand
Touring BALI SONGKRAN
www.lookeastmagazine.com
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Garuda Indonesia is getting more global. By teaming up with 19 other major airline members. Our passenger will be able to fly to an extensive network which spreads right across the globe and include 1064 unique destination in 178 countries, with up to 15700 daily flights and exclusive access to the “SkyTeam Lounge� available at more than 564 destinations serviced by the SkyTeam members.
WHAT'S INSIDE APRIL
APRIL 2014 CALENDAR
8 What’s On 42 Hotel Deals 60 Spa Offers 68 Dining Specials 72 Bar Specials
TRAVEL
18 Culture: Happy New … Splash! It’s Songkran Time Features: 14 Beating the Heat 20 Chiang Mai Inside Out 26 Mini Guide: Chiang Mai 32 Touring Bali Checking In: 34 The Samaya Bali: Sanctum of Wellbeing 38 My Favorite Place: The Jim Thompson House, by Jay Boccia 40 Travel News 44 Tours 74 Hotel Directory
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LIFESTYLE
46 Cover story: Living. Everything you need to know if you are planning to relocate or have just moved to Thailand. 58 Fashion: The Perfect City Look for Men
WINE&DINE
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Lookeast | WHAT'S INSIDE
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62 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants: Nahm Takes Top Honors 64 Living La Dolce Vita Along the BTS Line Restaurants: 66 Aston 31: Don’t Go Here If You Just Want Food Bars: 70 Bath Restaurant & Lounge Bar: Take a Friendly or Romantic Bath 71 The Oenophile: Where Should You Invest Your Money in 2014?
EDITOR'S LETTER EST. 1971
travel
Photographer: Alisa Hubert Apparel: Club 21/Calvin Klein Hair stylist and makeup artist: Usani Korsoongsak Lighting: Thanyarat Phumpaka
W
e are born into a culture, a society, a country, a city, a neighborhood, a family. That is the world we know until we start traveling and realize it is much bigger than we thought, and that there’s so much to see and experience. Some prefer to spend a three-week holiday a year at an overseas destination they fancy, while others decide to build their lives somewhere abroad, in a place they end up calling home. Having lived in America, Europe, and Asia, I know well that immersing oneself in a new culture and country is not easy, and neither is relocating.
In this “Living” issue of Lookeast, we will explore what it takes to be an expat, and we’ll give you the tools you need in case you’re considering a move to Thailand or if you’ve recently arrived here to stay. We will also dig deep into one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations, Chiang Mai, and into the iconic Indonesian island that captivates everyone from yogis to surfers, from divers to party people: Bali! As you probably know, in April Thailand celebrates Songkran (see our Culture section) and, just in case all that water isn’t enough to stay cool during the hot season, we will give you more tips on how to beat the heat throughout the Kingdom. While The Oenophile will tell you why you should invest in wine this year, in this issue we also unveil the perfect city look for men; highlight some of Bangkok’s must-see corners, such as Charoen Krung Road and the Jim Thompson House; and treat you to an Italian gastronomic ride through the BTS line, in La Dolce Vita style. Whether you are just visiting or you have embraced your friends here as family and made eating street food part of your culture, we invite you to enjoy the experience of being in Thailand with the same spirit and joy that you would say: Happy Thai new year!
Anita Zaror Editor-in-Chief
Publisher Sid Sehgal sid@thesehgalgroup.com Editor-in-Chief Anita Zaror editor@lookeastmagazine.com Editorial Assistant Coco Lavender edassistant@lookeastmagazine.com Editorial Consultant Melanie Blake Art Director Jarmmaree Janjaturonrasamee Photographer Alisa Hubert Production Director Apichart Boontid Marketing Executive Ankita Malhotra ankita@thesehgalgroup.com PR Consultant Earth Saisawang Executive Assistant to Chairman Acharin Suthisawad acharin@thesehgalgroup.com Executive Assistant to CEO Panitkan Apiratanapimonchai panitkan@thesehgalgroup.com President Ravi Sehgal Group Publishing Director Asha Narula Sehgal Executive Director Gaurav Sehgal
EST. 1971
Home Is Where You Are
is published monthly by: Advertising & Media Consultants Co., Ltd. Richmond Office Building 18th floor 75/65 Sukhumvit Soi 26, Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Tel: + 66 2 204 2449 Fax: + 66 2 204 2984 Email: info@lookeastmagazine.com Web: www.lookeastmagazine.com
FRONT COVER Four Seasons Chiang Mai
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Lookeast | EDITORIAL
Views and opinions expressed by individual writers and contributors in the articles herein, do not necessarily reflect those of Lookeast magazine or of Advertising Media Consultants Co., Ltd. All prices are correct at the time of going to press, but are subject to change. Reproduction in whole or part without written consent from Lookeast is strictly forbidden.
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EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Alisa Hubert Former model Alisa Hubert is arguably one of Thailand’s most well-known fashion photographers, today. She has collaborated with several publications, and her clients include some of the most renowned hotels, restaurants, and faces in Thailand.
ALISA HUBERT
DAVE STAMBOULIS
ANNA MONICHI
Dave Stamboulis A Greek-American travel writer and professional photographer based in Bangkok. His photos are represented by Getty Images and Alamy, and he is a writer for Fodor’s guidebook to Thailand and Laos, as well as for USA Today’s “Bangkok Expert” travel website.
JAY BOCCIA
Federico Brandi An international affairs specialist with focus on ASEAN countries, Federico fell in love with Thailand and lives in Bangkok after working in external affairs, policy analysis, and development projects in Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, Malaysia, and East Timor. Beatrice Martinet
FEDERICO BRANDI
LAURENCE CIVIL
Laurence Civil “Life is all about taste and style” are Laurence’s words to live by. Twentythree years working for a British airline gave him his passion for food, wine, and travel, and a visit to China in the ’80s inspired his earlier stories. His articles have been published in Dubai, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangkok since 1994.
LUDOVIC TENDRON
Other contributors
Special thanks to
● Anna Monichi, owner and CEO at Luxury Sight (Indonesia) ● Beatrice Martinet, owner at toineinbangkok (Decoration) ● Chas Begley, head of marketing at Infinity Financial Solutions (Financial services) ● Jay Boccia, writer/director, designer, and owner/manager at Bellino (My Favorite Place) ● Lucie Barke, foodie and blogger (Restaurants) ● Ludovic Tendron, chairman and co-founder at Vitisasia (Wine) ● Nicola Jones-Crossley, Bangkok branch director at Business in Heels (Networking) ● Sheetal Pritmani, creative director at Milk Shirts (Fashion) ● Sirichot Chaiyachot, Attorney at Law at Siam Legal (Property)
●Bumrungrad International Hospital ●Carolina Becerra ●Club 21 / Calvin Klein ●Emma Goligher ●Iryna Kuziv ●Larisa Aleksandrova ●Patana School
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Lookeast | EDITORIAL
WHAT'S ON APRIL
Sunday Brunch in Style
Make Your Birthday Wishes Come True
What: Receive a dining discount equivalent to your age when celebrating birthday dinner at Parkview Restaurant. When: Daily from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Where: The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel (●199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, Bangkok) How much: THB 1,600 net per person for food only; THB 150 net per person for free flow of fruit juices and soft drinks; THB 700 net per person for free flow of red/white/sparkling wine, draught beer, Mangin & Fils Champagne More info: 02 261 9000 ext. 5004, www.queensparkdining.com
Sofitel So Bangkok
What: Starting early afternoon and ending late night, Ocean Bangkok is hosting its popular Sunday BBQ Brunch. Relax by the pool while tasting chef Jacobo’s Gastro Tapas BBQ, and sipping on some sparkling wine. When: Every Sunday from 12 p.m. till late Where: Ocean Bangkok at Livingstones Urban Boutique Resort (●7 Sukhumvit Soi 33, Bangkok) How much: THB 1,400 for two people (food only) More info: 02 261 2800, www.oceanbangkok.com
Egg-static Easter Sunday
What: Celebrate and enjoy Easter with treats and goodies at Chocolab. When: From April 7 to April 20 Where: Chocolab (●Sofitel So Bangkok, 2 North Sathorn Road, Bangkok) How much: Box of five Easter eggs THB 200; big chocolate rabbit THB 400; little chick THB 180; big Easter egg THB 300; colorful Easter egg THB 150; box of six colorful Easter eggs THB 780. All prices are net. More info: 02 624 0000, h6835-fb8@sofitel.com
What: Omroom is offering a variety of sessions to be held by its in-house practitioners: tarot, yoga, Family Constellation (intuitive therapy), reiki, crystal healing, kids’ yoga, Healing Channels (energy healing), white light healing, qi gong, Light Ways (energy healing), meditation, and quantum chakra balancing. Simply book 24 hours in advance. When: Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Where: Omroom (●25 Soi Chidlom, Bangkok) How much: Varies More info: 081 4228171, www.omroom.net
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Lookeast | WHAT'S ON
W Bangkok
From Meditation to Qi Gong
W Songkran Pool Party
What: In collaboration with KOLOUR KREW, W Bangkok is all set for the hottest pool party of the year, “W Songkran Pool Party with Alex Face,” this Songkran 2014. When: April 14 Where: W Bangkok (●106 North Sathorn Road, Bangkok) How much: THB 700 net per person, including two complimentary drinks More info: 02 344 4000, bf.wbangkok@whotels.com
137 Pillars House
WHAT'S ON APRIL
GrabTaxi
Exhibition of Thai Watercolor Artist
Stay Dry and Sabai During Songkran
What: Thailand’s taxi app service, GrabTaxi, is offering discounts and giveaways to passengers who are heading home during the Thai New Year festival, Songkran. When: From April 10 to April 16 Where: Through the GrabTaxi app How much: THB 60 discount off the ride plus a free waterproof bag More info: www.grabtaxi.com
What: In “Relax with Watercolours,” Associate Professor Sugree Kesornkessara depicts the different moods as reflected by landscapes at different times of the day. When: From now until April 15, daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Where: 137 Pillars House (●2 Soi 1, Nawatgate Road, Chiang Mai) How much: Free More info: 053 247 788, www.137pillarshouse.com
Boys’ Festival at The Okura Prestige Bangkok
What: The ancient Japanese traditions associated with Tango-no-Sekku or Kodomonohi, also known as “Boys’ Festival,” will be celebrated at Yamazato. When: From April 27 to May 5 Where: Yamazato (●The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Road, Bangkok) How much: Set lunch THB 800++; Kaiseki set dinner THB 3,000++; children’s set menu THB 350++ More info: 02 687 9000, yamazato@ okurabangkok.com
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Lookeast | WHAT'S ON
What: Delectable sweets and savories, including free flow of tea and coffee. When: Daily from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Where: The Milestones Lounge (●Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, 33 Naresdamri Road, Hua Hin) How much: THB 450 net per couple More info: 032 538 999
Banyan Tree Gallery Introduces New and Exclusive Lotus Collection
What: Banyan Tree Gallery launches a new range of personal care products infused with lotus leaf and flower extracts: body lotion, body scrub, shower gel, and face mist. When: Ongoing Where: The Banyan Tree Gallery (●21/100 South Sathon Road, Bangkok; 33 Moo 4 Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Amphur Talang, Phuket) How much: Lotus shower gel THB 650; lotus body scrub THB 750; lotus body lotion THB 750; lotus face mist THB 440 More info: www.banyantreegallery.com
Banyan Tree Gallery
The Okura Prestige Bangkok
Delightful Afternoon Tea
WHAT'S ON APRIL
The Peninsula Bangkok
What: This is a special month for all chocolate addicts, because Le Concorde Deli is presenting a special menu made out of chocolates only. When: Daily during all of April, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Where: Swissôtel Le Concorde Bangkok (●204 Ratchadapisek Road, Bangkok) How much: Mayan dark chocolate cake THB 120; chocolate coffee mousseline cake THB 130; dark chocolate mousse cake with cherries THB 130, and more. More info: 02 694 2222 ext. 1550
Swissôtel Le Concorde Bangkok
Attention, Chocolate Addicts!
American Heritage Jazz Sundays
What: Revive the music of B.B. King, George Benson, Dizzy Gillespie, Wynton Marsalis, Louis Armstrong, and Duke Ellington to the rhythm of Pom Armstrong & Jazz Band at the American Heritage Jazz Sundays. When: From now until May 26, 2014, starting 6 p.m. till late Where: Roadhouse BBQ (●942/1-4 Rama 4 Road, Bangkok) How much: Varies More info: 02 236 8010, www.roadhousebarbecue.com
Peninsula Family Moments
What: Family Moments offers 50 percent off the cost of an adjoining room for children under 12 years old, who will also enjoy free dining from the kids’ menu or buffet, plus a range of amenities and programs, including The Peninsula Kids Academy’s collection of cultural and fun activities. When: From now until December 20 Where: The Peninsula Bangkok (●333 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan, Bangkok) How much: Varies More info: 02 861 2388, reservationpbk@peninsula.com
Wood Expressions Exhibition by Gilles Caffier
Sofitel So Bangkok
Aperol Evenings at Jojo
What: The exhibition features art pieces that reinterpret the silhouette of wood with mood installations in the water pond. When: From now until July 31 Where: Street Lobby, Sofitel So Bangkok (●2 North Sathorn Road, Bangkok) How much: Free More info: 02 624 0060, gcworld@gillescaffier.fr
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Lookeast | WHAT'S ON
What: Jojo is pleased to introduce Aperol and Italian tapas-style dishes on the terrace in the evenings. When: Daily from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., during all the summer Where: The St. Regis Bangkok (●159 Rajadamri Road, Bangkok) How much: Italian tapas start at THB 50++ per plate; Aperol spritz at THB 125++ per glass; evening package with free flow Aperol spritzes, Prosecco, beer, and selected cocktails at THB 495 ++ per person More info: 02 207 7777, fb.bangkok@stregis.com
TRAVEL FEATURE
BEATING THE HEAT Dave Stamboulis
Refreshing ideas to stay cool during the hot season by Dave Stamboulis Bodyboard the waves at Flow House
T
ne?
Cocktails by the pool, anyo
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Lookeast | TRAVEL
Dave Stamboulis
here is a good reason why Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival, is celebrated in April. Temperatures are hot enough to fry omelets on the pavement, and air conditioner maintenance service requires a long enough wait to contemplate getting a job in ice delivery. So other than forking out for flights to Antarctica, what’s a soul to do to get some relief?
Walk on Water
Doing a Moses imitation can be a very good thing at this time of year, and if you aren’t submerged, well, at least have the decency
to be on top of the cold liquid. While you might have to jump aboard a plane to find surf at this time of year, you can be just as cool without ever leaving town over at Flow House (●A Square, Sukhumvit Soi 26, 02 108 5210, www.flowhousebangkok. com), an urban beach club complete with a Flowrider wave generating machine that lets you pretend you are in Waikiki or Bondi Bay. The Flowrider machine creates a perpetual sheet wave perfect for surfing and body boarding, generating a thin wave that flows up over a soft plastic surface that is like a wrestling mat, soft enough to ensure that one too many margaritas
at the bar won’t result in a total wipeout. Up to 30,000 gallons of water a minute flow as fast as 32 kilometers an hour, and riders can slide down and ride up the wave surface, using body/boogie boards or else standing up on skateboard-like surfers. The Flow House also puts on extremely cool vibe urban parties with plenty of music, dancing, and cold drinks to help keep things watered down.
Swimming pool at Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
Enjoying the sea from an infinity edge pool
Dave Stamboulis
Aerial photo of Centara Grand Mirage, Pattaya
Dave Stamboulis
Nothing like a good
dive into the pool!
traditional Burmese stupa complex. If you think it is something right out of a fairly tale, remember that it only gets better: a traditional horse and carriage will cart you around the grounds, lest you risk breaking a sweat in the searing temperatures. While Pattaya’s Centara Grand Mirage (●277 Moo 5, Naklua, Pattaya, 038 301234, www.centarahotelsresorts.com/ centaragrand/cmbr) might not be quite as opulent, it gets absolute top marks for being a resort built around a mammoth water park that features swimming pools, waterfalls, water slides, and even a river flowing through it all. The Mirage features kids’ pools, adult pools, family pools, and poolside bars and restaurants. If that isn’t enough, the resort’s private beach is just another few meters away. There is even a “Lost World” water park in the middle of it all, complete with rope bridges, waterfalls, and a meandering river, where you can live out your cool-as-a-cucumber Indiana Jones fantasy. April 2014 | 15
Dave Stamboulis
Staying submerged is a great way to beat the summer sizzle, and you might as well find the biggest and baddest pools imaginable to do it in. Why not head up to Chiang Mai, which has the hottest Songkran party in the kingdom (see this month’s Mini Guide), and check into the Dhara Devi Chiang Mai (●51/4 Chiang Mai-Sankampaeng Road, 053 888 8888, www.dharadhevi.com), where the immense colonial pool fronts a spa and wellness center that is built to resemble a
Dave Stamboulis
Take a Plunge
TRAVEL FEATURE hit of the summer! You can cool off with a few glasses of these and some cool breezes on the terrace of Jojo at The St. Regis Bangkok (●159 Rajadamri Road, Bangkok, 02 207 7777, www. stregisbangkok.com), where the Aperol is paired up with Chef Carlo’s new tapas menu, perfect for a summer evening’s meal.
Aperol Evenings at Jojo from 6 p.m. at The Aperol Lounge
Refresh with an Aperol
While it may be 42 degrees Celsius outside, it’s guaranteed down jacket weather in the Minus 5 Ice Bar (●Jameson’s Bangkok, 981 Shop 6–13 Silom Road, 02 667 7035; Amari Nova Suites, 254 M. 9, Soi Petchtrakool, Pattaya, 038 052366). Yeah, it’s overpriced (THB 500 for about 20 to 30 minutes, which does include all the vodka you can drink), but you’re paying for—no, make that begging and pleading for—the frigid temperatures. There are several Minus 5 bars to choose from, including one in the Amari Nova Suites in Pattaya and another adjacent to Jameson’s Irish Pub in the Holiday Inn on Silom in Bangkok. Both establishments provide patrons with hats, gloves, and heavy jackets with which to withstand the cold, and plenty of Absolut vodka to keep you chilled, or at least under the illusion that summer no longer exists. So get your best bathing suit out of the closet and start marking your calendar, there are only 200-odd days until the cool season is upon us again!
The Aperol Spritz
The outdoor Aperol Lounge at Jojo, The St. Regis Bangkok
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Lookeast | TRAVEL
Beat the heat by going to an ice bar… but then don't complain it's tool cold!
Dave Stamboulis
The St. Regis Bangkok
A what? Yes, an Aperol Spritz, an amazingly refreshing concoction of Aperol, which is a Campari-like Italian aperitif, yet far less bitter and with much less alcohol, making it perfect for sipping in pairs on those warm evenings. Made popular after WWI, Aperol has had a grand resurgence in Italy, where it is seen as an icebreaker and a symbol of a lively atmosphere. The fashionable Spritz is made by combining Aperol with Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine, and promises to be the feel-good
The St. Regis Bangkok
Get Frozen at the Ice Bar
TRAVEL CULTURE
Happy New … Splash!
I
SONGKRAN, THAILAND’S TRADITIONAL NEW YEAR, EMBODIES NOT ONLY THE THAIS’ SANUK ATTITUDE, BUT ALSO THE ESSENTIAL CARING AND UNITY AT THE CORE OF THAI SOCIETY.
t’s April again, usually the hottest month in Thailand… and it’s again time for “Songkran”, the traditional Thai New Year. From April 9 to 22, a spirit of goodnatured fun will permeate around the kingdom. Across the country, it’s a time for laughter and entertainment; for religious ceremonies and merit-making; for families and friends and, of course, for splashing water – lots of it!
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Lookeast | TRAVEL
Songkran is a Sanskrit word meaning to “move into,” and refers to the orbit of the sun moving into Aries. It marks the end of a 12-month cycle and the beginning of a new solar year. This traditional Thai custom of merit-making is the kingdom’s most “sanuk” (fun-filled) festival, and it’s celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm nationwide. In most parts of the country, Songkran extends over a period of three days and, in some, as long as 10 days.
Songkran today is known the worldover for its characteristic tradition of water-throwing ranging from a courteous sprinkle or a polite splash, to harmless water pistols and showers from garden hoses to the well-aimed bucket or water cannon delivered in a festive spirit. Without doubt, on the practical side, Songkran is a refreshing solution to “beating the heat” in the hottest season of the year. There is, however, a much deeper
significance to Songkran. Apart from marking a new beginning, Songkran is also a time for thanksgiving. It is an important time for individuals to reflect upon the many acts of kindness and thoughtfulness each has personally experienced, and to remember how such acts of generosity and compassion bring peace, happiness, and wellbeing. Songkran is also the time for reunions and renewal of family ties. At the heart of each Thai custom and tradition, there is always a logical reason for its existence, and Songkran is no exception. The festive elements of the celebration, the cultural values, the social code of conduct, and individual belief and practices are intertwined. Songkran embodies the traditional Thai cultural values. The underlying significance of Songkran is the process of cleansing and purification — the purging of all ills, misfortune and evil, and starting the New Year afresh with all that is good and pure. Water is symbolic of the cleaning process and signifies purity. Today, there is no better fun festival in Thailand than this. Visitors love the celebrations, and don’t hesitate to join in the fervent water-throwing revelry that has made it famous the world over. This year, the Royal Thai government has announced April 13–15 as the Songkran holiday.
Bangkok ● Songkran Wisutkasat: Wisutkasat (Bang Khun Phrom intersection): April 13–15 ● Banglamphu (Suan Santi Chaiprakan, Phra Athit Road): April 13–15 ● Lan Khon Mueang (in front of Bangkok City Hall): April 13–15 North ● Songkran “Song Nam Oi Tan” in Sri Satchanalai, Sukhothai (Phraya Li Thai Monument and Si Satchanalai Historical Park): April 6–16 Center, East, and West ● Sand pagoda ceremony on Lai Day, Bang Saen District, Chon Buri (Bang Saen beach): April 16–17 ● Songkran in the ancient capital city, Ayutthaya (in front of TAT’s Ayutthaya office): April 13–15 ● Songkran in Sangkhlaburi, Kanchanaburi (Wat Wangwiwekaram): April 13–18 ● Songkran in Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan (in front of the Phra Pradaeng District Office): April 18–20 ● Songkran Splendours, Suphan Buri 2014 (in front of Suphan Buri Bus Station): April 12–14 Northeast ● Pleasant Songkran, Thai-Lao’ New Year, Nakhon Phanom (Kankrao Market): April 12–15 ● Songkran in Renu District, Nakhon Phanom: April 12–15 ● Thailand-Laos Friendship Songkran, Nong Khai (Wat Pho Chai, Nong Prachak Road): April 6–18 Lookeast's Archive
Lookeast's Archive
● Khao San Road, Bangkok: April 13–15 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. ● Silom Road, Bangkok: April 13–15 from 10 am till midnight ● Around the City Moat, Chiang Mai: April 12–16 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. ● Pattaya (North, Central and South Beach), Lan Bodhi Park Na Kluea, and Chon Buri: April 11–20 from 9 a.m. till midnight ● Khao Nieo Road, Khon Kaen: April 5–15 from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. ● Patong Beach, Phuket: April 12–13 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ● Hat Yai Midnight Songkran (at Nipat Uthit 3 Road, Sanehanusorn Road, and Wat Mahatta): April 11–15 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. ● Songkran Ko Samui (Chaweng Beach): April 13 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
South ● Songkran “Nang Dan” Parade, Nakhon Sri Thammarat (Suan Si Thammasokarat and Ho Phra Shiva): April 12–14 April 2014 | 19
TRAVEL FEATURE
CHIANG MAI INSIDE OUT Ask seven out of 10 Thailand visitors what their favorite destination in the kingdom is, and they will tell you without batting an eyelash: Chiang Mai. This province, part of the Lanna Kingdom that King Mengrai founded in the 13th century, has a gracious laidback character that makes even the most jaded traveler fall in love with it. Visitors go to Chiang Mai to experience its mountain scenery; to go trekking; to eat, drink, and party; to delve into history; and to seek out adventure. The quiet winding lanes of the old town, rustic old wooden guesthouses, lively riverside restaurants, colorful hill tribe folk, and the bustling Night Bazaar, all contribute to make Chiang Mai an unforgettable destination.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple
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Dave Stamboulis
All you need to know whether it’s your first time in Chiang Mai, or if you are recurring visitor.
TRAVEL FEATURE
Lookeast's Archive
Chiang Mai is the name for both the province and its capital, the largest, most culturally significant city in northern Thailand. It’s located 700 kilometers north of Bangkok, among the highest mountains in the country. Chiang Mai’s historic importance is derived from its strategic location on the Ping River—a major tributary of the Chao Phraya—and important trade routes. It has long been a major center for shopping Thai arts and crafts, in fact, it’s a shopping magnet. The many beautiful temples and chedis that still stand today are a legacy of Chiang Mai’s distinguished past, and a distinctive culture developed independently of the great kingdoms of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya that were to arise after the heyday of the Lanna kingdom. Founded by King Mengrai in 1296, Chiang Mai succeeded Chiang Rai as capital of the Lanna kingdom. It formally became part of Siam in 1774, after King Taksin helped drive out the Burmese. Chiang Mai then slowly grew in cultural, trading, and economic importance to its current status, as the unofficial capital of northern Thailand, only second in importance to Bangkok. Chiang Mai’s Lanna culture has survived intact to this day, and ancient traditions and skills have been passed down from generation to generation while blending seamlessly with other aspects of modernity. As a consequence, the city has emerged in recent decades as one of Asia’s most popular, best-value destinations.
Loy Krathong festival celebrated in Chiang Mai
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Lookeast | TRAVEL
Must-Sees
Chiang Mai is a destination you can’t possibly cover in a single trip. The walled city alone needs at least three days to absorb and, if you want to venture farther afield, you’ll definitely have to stay longer. This is a list of must-sees you might want to squeeze into your trip.
Chiang Mai Thailand
● Doi Suthep and other temples ● Go on elephant rides in the wilds and go hilltribe trekking ● Enjoy khantoke with enchanting Thai performances ● Drink Thai coffee at Bhubing Palace or a Singha beer while listening to live folk music by the Ping River ● Join in fun festivals such as Yi Peng or Borsang Festival ● Seek out adventures, like treetop hopping and white water rafting ● Haggle at the night markets ● Indulge in spa treatments
Khao soi kai, curried Shan noodles, a specialty of Chiang Mai
White water rafting in Chiang Mai
Dave Stamboulis
Once Upon A Time…
More than just shopping Stroll into a whole new world – and discover more than just shopping. A place where indoor meets outdoor. Where shopping meets entertainment. Where local meets international. A place called Promenada.
A perfect day together Discover fun ways to play and learn, with edutainment resources and games and toys for children of all ages. At Promenada, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
A breath of fresh air Promenada doesn’t just use nature as its backdrop – it embraces it, both indoors and out. A new way to shop Goal-driven shopping or leisurely allday browsing? Whether groceries, sporting goods, electronics, fashion or anything in between, Promenada has what you’re looking for in all the latest brands A world of excitement is always underway including special events, activities and performances in the amphitheatre, along with a full schedule of movies in the SF Cinema
Visit for more information at : www.promenadachiangmai.com www.facebook.com/promenadachiangmai
TRAVEL FEATURE
The majority of the travel agencies offer just the high points of Chiang Mai so that those with limited time can at least get a taste of its variety. However, if you’re planning to spend more time there, this list will be helpful: ● Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain peak in Thailand, is about 130 kilometers away ● Doi Ang Khang, the mountain where the renowned Thai coffee brand is planted and produced, is 157 kilometers way ● Mae Tang is great water rafting and other outdooes activities; it is located 40 kilometers away ● Chiang Mai Night Safari and Underworld are definitely most important to visit ● Hang Dong and Sankampaeng, the major handicraft districts, are 15 and 13 kilometers away, respectively ● Mae Rim, the main ecotourism and adventure area, is just 8 kilometers away
137 Pillars House
Off The Beaten Track
Now, if you already did all of the above and still want more of Chiang Mai, you might want to try these routes: ● Northern: Mae Rim, Mae Tang, Ciang Dao, Chai Prakan, Fang, Mae Ai, and Wang Haeng districts ● Western: Samoeng, Mae Wang, and Galyanivadhana districts ● Northeastern: Sam Sai, Doi Saket, and Phrao districts ● Southwestern: Hang Dong, Sanpatong, Doi Lo, Chom Thong, Mae Chaem, Hot, Doi Tao, and Omkoi districts
Manfred Ilg, GM of 137 Pillars House
Insider Tips
Dave Stamboulis
by Manfred Ilg, General Manager of 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai
Elephant statues at Wat Chedi Luang Temple
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● A few kilometers further up the road behind Doi Suthep is Phuphing Palace, a royal summer residence that is open to visitors when no member of the Royal Family is residing there. It boasts beautiful gardens with a large exhibition of roses. During the time of the cherry blossom, continue up the road and you will find Chiang Mai’s answer to the Japanese Sakura. ● Some of the handicraft villages for bargain shopping, namely Baan Tawai, famous for its wood works and Baan Borsai, known for its beautiful, hand-painted umbrella. I just got myself a beautifully crafted and painted umbrella for the breakfast table on my terrace – for less than USD 35, including the bamboo stand. ● The old town inside the moat is full of surprises. Leave any sort of transportation behind and walk the small roads and alleys. You (and your wallet) will be surprised of the variety of shops, cafes, massage places, and other curiosities at a bargain price.
137 Pillars House
Don’t Miss if You Have More Time
Dave Stamboulis
TRAVEL MINI GUIDE
Woman making bamboo umbrellas at the Bo Sang Umbrella Village, near Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Mini Guide A popular destination to spend Songkran in the cultural capital of the north of Thailand is a year-round favorite for both tourists and locals.
C
By Dave Stamboulis
hiang Mai is the cool, cultural capital of the north of Thailand, long famed for its lovely winter weather, surrounding mountain scenery, and thriving arts scene. Recent years have seen a renaissance of chic hit the city, in its bars, restaurants, shopping, and hangout spots, making the once sleepy town not only a base for the great outdoor attractions, but a long-stay destination in its own right. While the cool season climes are a top draw, Chiang Mai is a hit year round, as it hosts one of Thailand’s top Songkran water festival parties during the hot weather, with plenty of opportunities to cool down as the old city moat becomes one giant water party.
Why Go
Chiang Mai is renowned for its climate and natural attractions, not to mention the great culture within the old city. Festivals are a big draw in Chiang Mai, and if you are around for the Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November), the Flower Festival
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(February), or the aforementioned Songkran New Year (April), you are in for a treat. The beautiful national parks of Doi Inthanon, Huay Nam Daeng, and Chiang Dao are all within an hour of town, and if going high doesn’t strike your fancy, you can appreciate the mountains without much effort from a vantage point along the Ping River, which flows through Chiang Mai and the north.
What to See
Chiang Mai’s historical and atmospheric temples are a big draw. The top one is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, located right on top of Doi Suthep mountain, looking down on all Chiang Mai. Within the moat and old city walls, Wat Phra Singh is the city’s most visited, featuring the Phra Singh Buddha image. Nearby Wat Chedi Luang is home to the City Pillar and some magnificent Lanna temple architecture. The Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium (●100 Huay Kaew Road, 053 210 374, www.chiangmaizoo.com) is very popular, worth the long queues to spend some time
Soaring through the Thai rainforest
with the cute resident pandas. Chiang Mai’s Walking Street Sunday Night Market (●Ratchadamnoen Rd, Sundays 4–11 p.m.) is the top evening tourist attraction, and is a showcase for young artists and other entrepreneurs and a perfect place for souvenir shopping. One of Chiang Mai’s most authentic and colorful attractions is Bo Sang, a small village famed for its traditional umbrella-making techniques. The cottage industry is elaborate here, with almost all the family shops engaged in making parasols and umbrellas from silk, cotton, and mulberry paper. Bo Sang is just nine kilometers from downtown, and hosts a yearly festival with plenty of cultural performances that are well worth attending.
What to Do
Outdoor adventure is a big draw in Chiang Mai, but one city attraction not to be missed is the cutting-edge new Art in Paradise Gallery (●199/9 Changklan Road, 053 274 100), the biggest 3-D art gallery in the world, where visitors get the opportunity to interact with all of the paintings and displays, using their imaginations and creativity. Further afield, the Chiang Mai area is home to some of Thailand’s best whitewater rafting, with thrilling raft and kayak trips along the Mae Ting River. Siam Rivers (●089 515 1917, www.siamrivers.com) can outfit all your needs. Even more exciting, Flight of the Gibbon (●053 010 660, www.treetopasia. com) offers wild jungle zip line adventures featuring sky bridges, abseils, and more, high above the forest canopy near picturesque Mae Kampong village within an hour of Chiang Mai. To really chill out, pay a visit to the Sankamphaeng Hot
a r a k a N g n Pi
el & Spa t o H e u q i t u o B
I
n the early 1900s Chiang Mai was at the centre of a thriving teak industry. Foreign managers oversaw logging concessions throughout the forests of Northern Thailand. With the help of local labour and hardy elephants they performed their arduous and dangerous work, extracting teak logs and floating them downstream for grading and sale. Today the teak wallahs are gone. But the river and forestry station remain, and the relaxed ambiance of Chiang Mai city is just as enticing as ever. The Ping Nakara takes inspiration from these times past with an intimate hotel built in the elegant colonial style of the period.
Star rating: 5 Star Boutique Hotel Address: 135/9 Charoenprathet Road, T. Changklan, A. Muang, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand Hotel phone: +66 53 252 999 Hotel fax: +66 53 252 111 Website: www.pingnakara.com Contact e-mail: reservations@pingnakara.com, info@pingnakara.com
The hotel’s graceful gingerbread architecture is accented by hand-carved fretwork and creates a cool and restful environment. Throughout the nineteen rooms you’ll find thoughtful use of natural materials and a distinctive yet practical style. This sophisticated design is matched by relaxed yet professional service, providing a welcoming retreat for the traveler. So please visit us when you’re in Chiang Mai. Enjoy the serenity of the veranda next to the pool, curl up with a book in our library, or unwind with a drink in the rotunda. Whatever your preference, we’re sure you’ll enjoy this return to elegance.
TRAVEL MINI GUIDE
Dave Stamboulis
Art for sale at the night market on Walking Street
Entrance to Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
Springs (●Moo 7, Tambon Ban Sahakorn, 053 929077) in nearby Mae On, which feature 40-degree mineral pools to relax in.
Eating and Drinking
Northern cuisine is a specialty of Chiang Mai, with favorites like Burmese “haeng lay” curry done best at Huen Muan Jai (●Ratchapruek Road, Tel 053 404 998), run by a former sous chef who has competed on the prestigious “Iron Chef Thailand” show. Chiang Mai’s most famous dish, the curried noodles “khao soi,” can best be sampled at the long-running Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham (●352/22 Charoen Rat Road, Tel 053 243 519), which has done a thriving trade for more than 70 years. For a night in a Chiang Mai institution, The Riverside Bar and Grill (●9–11 Charoenrat Road, 053 243239, www.theriversidechiangmai.com) is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, excellent live tunes, and fantastic food and drink, all dished up in a gorgeous 80-year-old traditional Thai mansion that features two open-air decks with waterfalls and lush gardens. The Riverside’s floating
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Enjoy the art at the Art in Paradise gallery
boat offers nightly dinner cruises on the Ping as well, an excellent warm-up for the party-filled night ahead. For partying, the bohemian North Gate Jazz Coop (●95/1-2 Prapokklao Rd, Sriphum, 081 7655246, www.facebook.com/northgate. jazzcoop) is cheap, unpretentious, and has plenty of top-notch live jazz performances by both local and international artists.
Sleeping
The Dhara Devi Chiang Mai (●51/4 Sankampaeng Road Moo 1, 053 888 888, www.mandarinoriental.com/chiangmai) offers some of Thailand’s most pampering and novel lodging, with gorgeous luxury villas set in a 60-acre hideaway just minutes from downtown Chiang Mai, re-creating an entire ancient Lanna kingdom which ruled from the 13th to the 18th centuries, complete with Burmese chedis, teak villas, and an unprecedented amount of tropical greenery. Suites, plunge pools, luxurious swimming pools, and a magnificent spa are spread out among working rice paddies (including resident buffaloes!). Another gem worth the splurge
is the Ratchamankha (●6 Rachamankha 9, Phra Singh, 053 904 111, www. rachamankha.com), a Relais & Château property that has been voted Thailand’s best boutique hotel for its architecture and outstanding feeling of Lanna culture. The Tamarind Village (●50/1 Rajdamnoen Road, 053 418 896, www.tamarindvillage. com) is a great sanctuary, a charming boutique hotel set around gardens and courtyards. If you are a family or group, it’s highly worth it to rent out an entire Lanna-style restored house with swimming pool and garden at X2 Chiang Mai Villa (●1/10 Soi 2, Manee Nopparat Rd, Tel: 091 808 4257, www.X2LOBBY.com).
How to Get There
Chiang Mai can be reached by all of Thailand’s airlines, with plenty of daily departures. There is also day and overnight sleeper train service (around 10 hours) from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Station, as well as plenty of long-distance buses, the best of which is Nakhon Chai Air (●www.nca.co.th).
TRAVEL LOOKEAST’S PICKS OF THE MONTH
PLACES TO STAY IN CHIANG MAI Dusit D2 Chiang Mai (●http://dusitd2chiangmai.dusit.com) Main features: 131 rooms, moxie, mix bar, outdoor pool, spa, health club Located in the heart of the Night Bazaar and with entertainment at its doorstep. Known for its “gifts of heaven”—whether in the form of a flower, a fabric, or a smile—which are used in the hotel to create experience of heaven on Earth. Furama Chiang Mai (●www.furama.com) Main features: 295 rooms, three restaurants, one lounge, banquet and meeting facilities, swimming pools, gymnasium Located 15 minutes away from the airport, at the fringe of the CBD, north of Chiang Mai, it offers a panoramic view of Doi Suthep. Modern and contemporary interiors with Lanna-style touches in its rooms. Dhara Devi Chiang Mai (●www.dharadhevi.com) Main features: Spa, amphitheater, two swimming pools, seven restaurants and bars, cooking school, library, grand ballroom and function areas, shopping village, delicatessen shop Spread over 60 acres of natural landscapes, such as paddy fields and exotic plantations. Its 123 villas, colonial suites, and signature residences have been designed in traditional Lanna architectural style Le Meridien Chiang Mai (●www.lemeridien.com/chiangmai) Main features: 383 rooms, two restaurants, two bars, conference and banquet facilities, spa, fitness center Located seven kilometers from the airport, in the heart of the Night Bazaar area, with Doi Suthep as backdrop and walking distance to the Mae Ping river. The youngest convention hotel in Chiang Mai offers a 1,800 square meters of fully equipped meeting facilities.
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The Spa Resorts Chiang Mai (●165 M. 4, Hua Sai, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, 053 920 888, www.thesparesortchiangmai. com) Main features: Pool deluze rooms, villa suites, 2- and 3-bedroom residences, health retreats (detox, yoga, fitness, meditation), and health activities (spa, fasting, raw food classes, etc.) A nutrition-focused resort located with Lanna-style rooflines located in Mae Rim, a short drive from Chiang Mai. Spread over 80,000 square meters of hillsides with mango groves, rice paddies, exotic garden landscaping, and an organic farm. Tamarind Village Chiang Mai (●www.tamarindvillage.com) Main features: 42 guest rooms, three suites, spa, all-day dining, boutique, swimming pool Lanna-style boutique property nestled in the heart of historic Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient temples and shopping streets. Its rooms and suites are located around flower-filled courtyards. Simple yet elegant decoration.
Anantara Chiang Mai (●http://chiang-mai.anantara.com) Main features: 52 guest rooms and 32 suites with private balcony, spa, pool, fitness center, all-day dining, bar and cigar lounge, meeting space Hidden behind a wooden wall and opening onto the Mae Ping River, the hotel features contemporary style and traditional Thai and colonial elements. Shangri-La Chiang Mai (●www.shangri-la.com/chiangmai/ shangrila) Main features: 281 rooms, four restaurants/bars, banquet and conference rooms, business center, spa, swimming pools Located in the city center, and walking distance to the Night Bazaar, the rooms and suites combine distinctive Northern Thai décor with contemporary design.
Other Highlights of Chiang Mai
137 Pillars House (●www.137pillarshouse.com) Main features: 30 suites, three restaurants, one bar, one lounge, one wine cellar, spa, swimming pool, gym, group or individual yoga sessions on the The Lawn 137 Pillars House is a luxurious multiple award-winning hotel established around a colonial teak homestead built in the early 1880’s. It is located in a lush tropical residential enclave within walking distance to the historical Wat Gate Khar Rham Temple, Ping River, and trendy boutiques on Nimmanhaemin Road.
Health Lanna Spa (●www.healthlannaspa.com) Main features: 20 private treatment rooms, 37 treatment beds, 75 massage beds, Jacuzzi, steam room, male and female changing areas Authentic Thai spa infused with the ancient therapeutic traditions of the northern Thai culture (Lanna). Natural and healing therapies include massages and treatments. Decorated with touches of contemporary Lanna Thai art.
Four Seasons Chiang Mai (●www.fourseasons.com/chiangmai) Main features: 98 pavilions and luxury villas, two restaurants, two lounges, cooking school, pools, tennis, golf, fitness, shop, business services Spa techniques, traditional Thai cuisine,and the renowned Four Seasons standard to be enjoyed in spacious pavilions in the Mae Rim Valley of Chiang Mai.
Promenada Resort Mall Chiang Mai (●www.promenadachiangmai.com) Main features: Open-air tropical park, local arts, “garden of rice”, international and local lifestyle brands The first “resort”-style air-conditioned shopping mall in Thailand (opened in June 2013) is a THB 2.9 billion project located 150 meters from the Super Highway, and 15-minute drive from the airport and downtown Chiang Mai.
DETOXIFICATION | MEDITATION & PEACEFULNESS | NUTRITION AND RAW FOOD | EXERCISE | BREATHING
A PLACE YOU LEARN HOW TO...LOOK BETTER, FEEL STRONGER AND LIVE LONGER! THE FIRST DESTINATION HEALTH SPA IN THAILAND TOP 10 DETOX RESORT IN THE WORLD (FOX NEWS, 2012) | TOP 50 RESTAURANTS IN THE WORLD (RESTAURANT MAGAZINE) TOP 10 HEALTH RESORT DESTINATIONS IN ASIA (ASIA SPA MAGAZINE)
1 APRIL – 30 JUNE 2014 PROMOTIONS Book now till 30 April 2014 get additional 10% discount and one session of group yoga class!
LET’S ESCAPE (3 days / 2 nights)
CHIANG MAI EXPERIENCE (4 days / 3 nights)
- 2-night accommodation of Pool Deluxe Room - 1 session of 1-dish raw food class - 1 session of 60-minute Thai massage - 1 session of 90-minute group yoga class - 1 session of 30-minute Thai herbal steam or far infrared sauna
- 3-night accommodation of Pool Deluxe Room - 1 session of 2-dish raw food class - 1 session of 60-minute Thai massage - 1 session of 90-minute group yoga class - 2 sessions of 30-minute Thai herbal steam or far infrared sauna
Daily included: - 60-minute group meditation class
Daily included: - 60-minute group meditation class
Package rate for 2 persons : THB 20,400++
Package rate for 2 persons : THB 26,000++
HONEYMOON BOULEVARD (5 days / 4 nights) - 4-night accommodation of Pool Deluxe Room - 1 session of 2-dish raw food class - 2 sessions of 60-minute Thai massage - 2 sessions of 90-minute group yoga class - 2 sessions of 30-minute Thai herbal steam or far infrared sauna - 1 bottle of sparkling wine Daily included: - 60-minute group meditation class Package rate for 2 persons : THB 33,100++
Rooms and rates are subject to availability at the time of booking and subject to 10% service charge and applicable government tax
THE SPA RESORT CHIANG MAI
196 Huay Sai, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai 50180 THAILAND T: +66 53 920 888 | F: + 66 53 920 800 | E: rsvn@thesparesortchiangmai.com www.thesparesortchiangmai.com
TRAVEL FEATURE
TOURING BALI An insider’s look at the must-sees on the island that captivates surfers, divers, meditators, yogis, party people, and casual travelers alike
Larisa Aleksandrova
by Anna Monichi Founder and CEO at Luxury Sight
El Kabron Spanish Restaurant & Cliff Club has one of the best sunsets in Uluwatu
Diving Amed
Located about two hours from Sanur, south of Tulamben, Amed (and the road trip there) will captivate you. After you’ve passed in front of the Pura Goa Lawa, you’ll reach the famous Candidasa, a beach town that offers beautiful scenery, temples, spas, and small streets in the middle of rice fields and palm forests. An overnight stay in Candidasa is recommended before continuing the next day to Amed via Amlapura, where you can visit the gardens of the temple Tirta Ganga. Once in Amed you will enjoy a picturesque view along the road full of shops, diving centers, and resorts. The beach town is primarily a fishing village, and fishermen rent their boats (called “jukung”), after they’ve come back from fishing. Life in Amed is by the coast, nestled against the black sand beaches. Amed is also one of the best spots for diving in Bali. According to Breizh Bali Divers, you can’t miss the following sites: ● Jemeluk: The steep cliff and pyramids. A 10-minute jukung ride will take you
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to one of two dive sites that offer coral reefs and a multitude of reef fish. In the steep cliff, you will always encounter turtles, gray sharks or black- or whitetip shark, groupers, wrasses, and humpback parrotfish. ● Lipah Bay: The site is located three kilometers from Jemeluk. Located near the beach, it’s a shipwreck, which is ideal for snorkeling. This site will be the point of departure and return from your dive. The wreck of a Japanese vessel with a steel hull 20 meters long is beautiful as it is encrusted with gorgon, sponges, and black coral. This site is very rich, and you will see fish such as reef fish, ghost fish, juvenile fish, shrimp, and many crabs. After a day of diving, snorkeling, and admiring the underwater world, you can take a walk in the village of Bangli and see the magnificent sunset from Waeni’s Warung while enjoying a beer or a cocktail.
Rafting Ubud
Another beautiful experience not to miss in Bali is rafting through the rapids in Ubud.
Grab your oars and get ready to rage in an exhilarating adventure on the spectacular Ayung River. Water rafting in Bali ride is safe, fun, and a breathtaking experience to be enjoyed with family or friends. The action starts when you launch into a 9.6-kilometer river stretch, navigating rapids set to a backdrop of wild unspoiled rainforest, towering gorges, and magnificent rice paddy terraces. Professionally trained and experienced guides pilot safety-equipped rafts through the best river runs, through dramatic drops and past spectacular waterfalls to make your Bali rafting ride fun and awesome. The experience takes around two hours. If you prefer calmer holidays, Ubud also offers plenty of possibilities to practice yoga and meditation, and to eat healthy, a raw diet being very popular there. Ubud is also home to the yearly Bali Spirit Festival (●www.balispiritfestival.com), which gathers musicians, artists, and yoga practitioners and dancers from all around the world.
Practice yoga in Ubud or suf in Kuta Beach
Iryna Kuziv
Surfing the Bukit
Heading south is the energy peak of the island: the Bukit. Walk on white sand beaches with seaweed and fishing villages, and see how the reefs and cliffs at sunset are transformed into a harmony of colors. In Uluwatu you will find one of Bali’s most iconic temples, the stunning Pura Luhur Uluwatu, where you can attend a traditional Balinese performance at sunset or have dinner on the beach at the famous Jimbaran seafood restaurants. When the winds blow, a massive swell from the Pacific Ocean crashes onto the reefs surrounding the area, creating waves that attract surfers from around the world, as the breaks are rated to be the fifth best in the world. To truly experience the Bukit area, it’s necessary to stay there at least a week—although some people like it so much that they never leave. There are many places to discover: hidden beaches that are difficult to reach, such as Nyang Nyang; and Nusa Dua, an oasis that is home to the most luxurious hotels and infrastructure on the island, which enjoys a privileged location in front of one of Bali’s most popular beaches with white sand and crystal-clear water.
A typical view of Ubud
Anna Monichi
Partying in Seminyak
A visit to Bali is not complete without doing some shopping and attending a good party. To scope out the nightlife and shopping scene, head north from Uluwatu and make a stop on the east coast in Seminyak. Not to miss in this beach town that gathers fashionistas and party people: ● Massage at Body Works Bali. It’s the best mid-range spa in the area, but a bit of an institution, really. Try the exfoliation massage (Mandi Lulur) ● Sunset at Potato Head ● Dinner at La Casetta, in the middle of the rice fields ● Drink at La Favela, where every Friday night the most glamorous people on the island meet
● Royal Tunjung Bali (●Jl. Padma Utara, Legian, Kuta, Bali, +62 361 756 013, www.royaltunjungbali.com), located in Legian, Bali, is a luxurious hotel just 150 meters from the beach. Although the hotel is close to the bustling main street, its small number of villas and peaceful surroundings, with exotic gardens that imitate a tropical forest of large trees, wild orchids, and fish ponds, give the perfect sense of privacy. ● Luxury Sight (●www.luxurysight.com) offer stays in luxury eco-designed tents, in Ubud, where interiors and exteriors offer the unique experience of being in touch with nature without sacrificing comfort and the luxury of fine and sophisticated furnishings. Each luxury tent is nestled in a lush, private tropical garden, with a private infinity pool overlooking the forest of coconut palms. Luxury Sight offers a range of luxury villas with top-class service in different locations in Bali, including transportation by helicopter and the organization of private dinners and parties, weddings, and honeymoons.
Luxury Sight
Lookeast’s Picks
Eco-designed luxury tents in Ubud
April 2014 | 33
HOTELS CHECKING IN
Swimming pool at The Samaya Seminyak
Sanctum of Wellbeing The properties of The Samaya Bali are a haven of serenity immersed in two of Bali’s most popular touristic destinations: Seminyak and Ubud.
The Samaya Bali
by Laila Afridi
Private pool and outside jacuzzi at the Royal Pavilion, The Samaya Seminyak
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Breeze's beachfront table
The Samaya Bali
Bedroom at the Pool Villa, The Samaya Seminyak
“S
amaya” in Sanskrit refers to the inner sanctum of wellbeing, a reflection of peace and tranquility where one finds refuge. And the properties of The Samaya Bali (●www. thesamayabali.com) know how to convey this all the way.
West Coast Relaxed
The moment you enter the airy wooden pavilion lobby of The Samaya Seminyak, the friendly reception staff welcomes you with flower garlands, warm smiles, and the promise of ultimate relaxation. As you dab your neck with a refreshing cold towel and gaze through the glass windows to the lush garden and the Indian Ocean beyond, you feel your daily stress just melt away. You have found your refuge. Set on its own private sandy beach, with one of the finest views of the beach town’s sunset, The Samaya Seminyak is an intimate and luxurious property that perfectly embodies Balinese hospitality. Using local style and décor, but without
The Samaya Seminyak's restaurant, Brasserie
compromising on comfort and elegance, the villa property offers something for everyone, from couples looking for a romantic escape, to families or friends searching for a relaxing break. The lush beachfront grounds are dotted with 30 beautifully appointed pool villas, contemporary in design but meshing perfectly with the Balinese environment. Just across the street, there are an additional 22 spacious courtyard villas, each with a private pool and gazebo, arranged in the style of a Balinese village and linked by paths lined with bright red birds of paradise. Both properties are minutes away from the boutiques, galleries, “warungs” (restaurants), and bars of Seminyak, which can be reached on foot or via the regular shuttle provided by the hotel. The villas themselves evoke the feeling of a luxurious home away from home. Five-star amenities include a personal butler, a pillow menu, a large flat screen TV, and complimentary wireless. The spacious bathrooms each have a Jacuzzi
bath, double rain showers, and a flat screen TV. The garden area surrounding the private pool has comfy lounge chairs and a gazebo, which are perfect for relaxing. The staff is eager to please and has a genuine interest in ensuring that each guest’s needs are met. Adding to the theme of ultimate relaxation is the fact that breakfast can be ordered anytime, anywhere on the hotel property. A stay at The Samaya Seminyak would be incomplete without a visit to the “Spa at The Samaya.” Its rooms are located by the hotel’s large swimming pool and overlook the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean. The Balinese massage using locally sourced natural products is the perfect antidote to a day spent learning to surf or browsing the many boutiques and galleries nearby. The aptly named ocean-facing restaurant, Breeze, serves award-winning Euro-American and Balinese food as well as a sumptuous afternoon tea, against a backdrop of lanterns and palm trees swaying in the breeze.
April 2014 | 35
The Samaya Bali
HOTELS CHECKING IN
The Samaya Ubud
In the Meantime, in Ubud ...
A scenic 90-minute drive from Seminyak takes you to The Samaya Ubud, a haven of serenity, surrounded by the enchanting forests and rice fields of Ubud, the spiritual center of Bali. The resort is embedded into the hillside and stretches down to the holy Ayung River. A retreat in every sense of the word, each of the 19 lavishly appointed hillside villas has its own private garden and lap pool, representing the ultimate in comfort and luxury with cutting-edge design and a host of amenities. Once again, exceptional service abounds as each guest’s needs are dutifully catered to by the hotel staff. Steps away from the reception, at the top of the hill, is Scene restaurant: a perfect spot for breakfast or a sunset cocktail with a spectacular panoramic view of the vast landscape of rice terraces, forests, and mountains. The intensity of color and sound is all-encompassing as butterflies flutter past and guests are serenaded by the songs of birds and cicadas. A short buggy ride down the hill leads you to the dramatic setting of Swept Away restaurant. Located on the banks of the revered river, Swept
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Away offers creative fine dining using only the freshest local ingredients. “Eat, Sleep and Spa” is the mantra of Wayan Suambara, The Samaya Ubud’s friendly hotel manager. Here too, breakfast can be ordered anywhere, anytime, and the spa offers a plethora of indulgent treatments in a setting of peace and tranquility, as Bali’s largest river thunders past just outside the treatment rooms. The wellness center offers riverside sunrise yoga, and the beautiful traditional temples and colorful daily offerings scattered around the property serve as a happy reminder of the spiritual nature of this place. Beyond the hotel grounds, The Samaya Ubud provides guests with the unique opportunity to truly experience and connect with the local people and environment. Hiking or cycling trips through the rice terraces and the neighboring villages can be arranged and, for the more adventurous, a thrilling white-water rafting experience down the Ayung River is a must! For the foodies, a morning visit to Ubud spice market with the executive chef, followed by a private
cooking lesson is something that cannot be missed. Excursions to nearby temples and the many local art galleries and markets ensure that hotel guests leave having truly experienced the magic of this wonderful place. Together, the luxurious Samaya properties capture all that is best about Bali—from the beaches, shops, and nightlife of Seminyak, to the rice fields, forests, and temples of Ubud. In addition, the Samaya hotels contribute to the sustainable development of their local communities, having recently been awarded a Green Globe Certification for implementing a variety of green practices into their daily operations. They also support local institutions and community programs by providing them with living materials, resources, and food. As a guest of the Samaya, you will leave feeling refreshed and relaxed in body, mind, and soul; content in the knowledge that you have played a small part in giving back to the beautiful environment and people that make the Samaya experience one that is truly unforgettable.
The Samaya Bali
The Samaya Ubud is surrounded by forests and rice fields
Bathroom at one of The Samaya Ubud's villas
The Samaya Bali
Ayung Villa, The Samaya Ubud
Outdoor dining at The Samaya Ubud
April 2014 | 37
The house is now a museum, and it is one of the best examples of colonial-style living within a Thai Lanna-style house
THE JIM THOMPSON HOUSE
I
by Jay Boccia
heard about Jim Thompson on my first visit to Thailand in 1976. I had just completed my last year of high school at Harrow Country Grammar, and my father allowed me to go on my first unaccompanied holiday as a graduation gift. I chose Thailand because I had always been completely obsessed with the East. Thailand represented to me the most exotic place on earth … a position it still holds in my heart till today. I arrived in Bangkok in December 1976, and it took me two hours to get from the airport to my backpacker hotel in Khaosarn road. There was no Skytrain back then, and the traffic was insane. My seniors at school had come back from Thailand the previous term with stories of glorious long stretches of sandy beaches, cheap beer, and gorgeous women. I was hooked! However, I was totally unprepared for what followed. I made the mistake of booking my flight to Phuket for the very next day, thereby allowing myself only one day to explore Bangkok—such was my desire to get quickly horizontal on a sandy beach with a cold Singha in hand. So I stepped out of my dreadful non– air conditioned hole of a room and walked down the lazy street that was Khaosarn back then. Hippies and other world-weary travelers filled the soi, and I was eager to escape the familiar Western faces and find myself somewhere totally Thai. I asked the first tuk tuk driver I came
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across if he could recommend somewhere where I could see the “real Bangkok.” We whizzed through masses of steaming traffic until we turned off a huge road and drove down a very sleepy back soi. He stopped, smiled his big toothy grin, and pointed to a property at the water’s edge. Then he sat back and promptly fell asleep, leaning back on his seat as I went to discover this new place. I entered a compound that was made up of six traditional Thai houses, all joined together in a beautifully thought-out manner. The surrounding garden was lush with tropical plants, and the sounds of strange birds filled the air. I made my way through the grounds and was able to wander around for a full hour alone, before I was approached by a young Thai woman who explained to me in broken English that this was the house of Jim Thompson, and that it was closed. I was entranced. The lush grounds, the klong, the extraordinary teak wood used for construction … it was like I had discovered my own personal paradise that spoke to me is a way that made me suffocate with excitement. I returned to Thailand every two years or so and visited the house each time I came through Bangkok, watching as the house was transformed into the museum it is today, now offering tours in many languages. I think that as I get older, I can truly understand what drew me to that house in the first place and why it made such a
The Jim Thompson House
TRAVEL MY FAVORITE PLACE strong impression on me. I honestly saw so many similarities in the life of Jim Thompson to my own life and, as the years rolled on and my own experiences enriched my life, so my attachment to the Jim Thompson House and his legend grew. We were both from military family backgrounds. Thompson went to West Point; I spent several years in the army. I began designing clothing for my girlfriends, wrapping them in linens eerily similar to the silk that Thompson had created. I entertained continuously, throwing wonderful dinner parties and regaled my guests with long funny stories, food, and wine late into the night, much like Thompson apparently had done every night. In 1979 I moved into my first apartment in Oxford, where I unconsciously transformed my single studio room into a colonial-style living space designed around a large daybed and many cushions and plants. Each visit back to Thailand thereafter always started with a pilgrimage to the Jim Thompson House and a reconnection with a place that fired my early architectural yearnings. Today my old stone farmhouse in Capri has a pool house made with the panels from an old Thai house purchased back in the early 1980s and brought there to form my dream home, Thompson style, albeit a thousand miles from Bangkok. Today I live in modern Bangkok, and barely a month goes by that I don’t go visit the house. I love being there around 5 p.m., when the flow of visitors diminishes and the sun drops below the rooflines of the small houses at the other side of the klong. Today, there is even a café on the premises where one can stop and have a cup of tea whilst taking in the beauty that is this scared memory of my youth, and the motivation of my current status as designer, bon vivant, and explorer of mystic Thailand. Thank you, Jim Thompson, for creating a space that helped define the way I like to live. I will try to repay you for your contribution to my life when I direct my painfully researched—and, I hope, pure to the core—film about the legend you are. I toast to you Jim Thomson, the silk king who created my favorite place in Bangkok.
Amari Phuket
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Present “Twice as Nice” Promotion
20th Birthday Makeover for La Gritta Italian Restaurant
Starwood Hotels & Resorts announced an exclusive offer for members of its award-winning Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG®) loyalty program. SPG members residing in Thailand can now enjoy more benefits even when they are not traveling, by registering for SPG Twice as Nice, allowing them to receive double Starpoints when dining at any of the participating restaurants in Thailand. Registration until April 30.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts
TRAVEL NEWS
TAT Kicks Off “Thailand Extreme Makeover” Campaign to Promote Medical Tourism
One of Phuket’s most renowned Italian restaurants, La Gritta, now features an elegant new design and furnishing, as well as a sumptuous contemporary menu following Amari Phuket’s recent threemonth enhancement period to celebrate its 20th anniversary. La Gritta is open daily from 10 a.m. until midnight.
The Ascott Limited
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has kicked off its new digital marketing campaign, “Thailand Extreme Makeover,” to promote the kingdom as a center of medical tourism. Tourists from all over the world are invited to join a reality-type contest in which the selected contestants undergo makeovers including various cosmetic surgery procedures. There is USD 5,000 cash prize up for grabs as well as a chance to win luxury trips to Thai tourist destinations. More information at www.tatnews.org
Voted the “World’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand” at the World Travel Awards 2013, The Ascott Limited (Ascott) provides a home away from home for expatriates and travellers in 83 cities across 23 countries in Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Gulf region. CapitaLand’s whollyowned serviced residence unit continues to extend its global footprint as it kicks off its 30th anniversary celebrations with special promotions for its customers, that include discounted rates and free nights from now until December 31: ● Ascott’s online members enjoy at least 30 percent off the Best Flexible Rates, in over 30 cities ● Guests on long stays enjoy one free night for every 30 consecutive nights’ stay ● Refer friends and associates and be rewarded ● Ascott’s The Link Club members enjoy 30 percent off redemption points
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Hansar Pranburi
Ascott Celebrates 30 Years of Hospitality Excellence
Hansar Pranburi Held CSR Event With Local School for Beach Clean-Up
In preparation for the resort’s soft opening in late February, Hansar Pranburi—an intimate 17-room resort nestled on Nom Sao Beach—together with Hansar Bangkok joined with the local Ban Hua Than Taew elementary school to conduct a beach cleanup as their first CSR event. The Hansar team was joined by 128 children aged between four and 12 on Nom Sao Beach, to clear litter that had been washed in on the tide. Following the beach cleaning, nine monks from a local temple conducted a meritmaking ceremony to bless the hotel prior to its opening, and everybody enjoyed lunch and homemade desserts created by Executive Chef Charles Christiaens and his team. Hansar Pranburi will continue to work with the local schools to sponsor events and hold joint fun-filled activities. Hansar Pranburi is offering promotional rates during April starting at THB 6,000 per night plus taxes.
TRAVEL HOTEL DEALS
X2 Kui Buri and Away Hua “Urban Splash” and Hin-Pranburi “Summer Loving” at What: “Hello Kui Buri” package includes W Bangkok an accommodation in Deluxe Pool Villa
What: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, located on the banks of Chao Phraya River at the city’s cultural and historical hub, is now offering a special package for Thai Residents and expatriates who are working in Thailand, starting from THB 3,181++ per room per night, in the Grand Room-City View with balcony. When: From now until October 30 Where: Chatrium Hotel Riverside, Bangkok More info: www.chatrium.com
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Easter Package at Amari Phuket
What: Amari Phuket is launching a four-day, three-night Easter Package. The package is available for Superior Ocean Facing Rooms, Superior Ocean View Rooms and Deluxe Ocean View Rooms with an inclusive daily buffet breakfast. Moreover, the package also includes round-trip airport transfer, one free extra bed and breakfast, free in room Wi-Fi internet access, one international dining set menu and a 20% discount on food and beverage. The package starts from THB 13,548+++. When: April 18–22 Where: Amari, Phuket More info: www.amari.com/phuket
Easter Festivities at The Peninsula Bangkok
What: The Peninsula Bangkok invites families and friends who are looking for a short break to enjoy a riverside escape this Easter holiday. The Easter package is valid for booking from now until 18 April 2014, while the staying period is from 18 to 21 April 2014. Priced at THB 20,000++ for two people. When: From now until April 18, for stay from April 18 to 21 Where: The Peninsula Bangkok More info: 02 861 2388, reservationpbk@peninsula.com
Amari Phuket
Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
Thai Residents Special Package at Chatrium Hotel
What: Sala Khao Yai is making these special midweek offers. Pool Villa Midweek Special Offer Purchase: book one night in a sala pool villa or pool villa suite and receive a second night free. Deluxe Rooms Midweek Special Offer Purchase: book one night in a deluxe or deluxe balcony room and receive 50 percent discount on your second night. When: From now until September 30, for stays between Sunday and Friday, excluding national and substitute holidays Where: Sala Khao Yai More info: www.salakhaoyai.com
Amari Phuket
What: Make your summer time hotter with special rates at W Bangkok, starting at THB 5200++ per room per night. “Urban Splash” package: a confirmed room upgrade to Spectacular room and a ticket for “W Meets Alex Face” Songkran pool party at WET Deck (April 13) at THB 6555++/THB 7500++ (single/double) per room. “Summer Loving” room package: a more casual stay in Wonderful room with special rate starting from THB 5200++ per night. When: From now until April 12, for stays from April 7 to 18 Where: W Bangkok More info: www.whotels.com/bangkok, 02 344 4313
including daily Champagne Breakfast for two, one time set dinner at 4K Restaurant & Bar, round-trip transfer between Suvarnabhumi Airport and resort (alternatively, guests can opt for a THB 3,000 cash credit to spend at the resort’s spa and/or restaurant), a local train trip from resort to Prachuap Khirikhan city, a day activity including ATV, horse riding (additional expense) and feeding the dusky leaf monkey at Wing 5, Royal Thai Air Force base in Prachuap Khirikhan City. The rate starts from THB 5,947++ per night for two people per villa; the package requires three consecutive night stay. When: From now until October 31 Where: X2 Kui Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan More info: www.X2LOBBY.com
Buy One, Get One Free at Sala Khao Yai
Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket
Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket Splashes Joy this Songkran
Anantara
What: Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket launches its Dusit Songkran Splash promotion to celebrate the Thai Solar New Year! The promotion includes 15 percent discount off Dusit Best Available Rates, inclusive of complimentary breakfast for a minimum consecutive two nights' stay. Guests will also receive a Songkran Survival Kit to enjoy the festive spirit. When: During all of April Where: Dusit Thani Laguna, Phuket More info: www.dusit.com/dusit-thani/dusit-thani-lagunaphuket.html
Splash in the Thai New Year with Anantara Golden Triangle
What: The Songkran Festival, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, home to Asia’s premier Elephant Camp, invites you to celebrate Thailand’s most significant holiday with the lush jungle and hill tribe culture of northern Thailand, luxury accommodation that comes with all-inclusive benefits, full board gourmet dining, a daily choice of signature experiences as well as traditional festivities to wish family and friends “Sawasdee pee mai” (Happy New Year in Thai). Rates startat THB 35,000 per room per night. When: April 13–15 Where: Anantara Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai More info: www.goldentriangle.anantara.com
TRAVEL TOURS
ANTIQUE SHOPPING AT CHAROEN KRUNG ROAD DON’T MISS VISITING ONE OF THESE SHOPS IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO TAKE SOME UNIQUE PIECES BACK HOME Thai Home Industries (●35 Soi 40, Th Charoen Krung, Bangkok 02 234 1736) A former monks’ quarters, Thai Home Industries is a good place to buy cotton shirts, wooden model ships, handicrafts, pearlware, and tableware, among other souvenirs.
Art 328 (●1112–1122 Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok, 02 233 3238) This gallery carries Chinese antique furniture; some pieces are from the 18th century. They sell opium beds, marriage beds, medicine cabinets, wooden panels, and more.
O.P. Place (●30/1 Soi Charoen Krung 38, Charoenkrung Road, Bangkok, 02 266 0186) A boutique shopping arcade housed in a neo-classical building, with more than 50 retail shops selling everything from Asian antiques to handicrafts, and from home décor items to fine jewelry and art.
Lek Antique Gallery (●1277 Charoen Krung Road, Sathorn, Bangkok, 02 639 5870–1) Lek Gallery carries Burmese and Thai antiques, decorative items, and furniture.
P. Tendercool (●48–48 Soi 30 Charoenkrung Road, 02 266 4344) Their slogan says it all: “We make tables, and we make them well.” A favorite of many chefs, the Belgian-Thai-Italian team at P. Tendercool designs and crafts massive tables in bronze and reclaimed wood, using age-old techniques. Old Time (●42–45 Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok) Old Time carries a fair selection of antique Euro clocks.
O.P. Place
Table made in reclaimed wood by P. Tendercool
The boutique shopping arcade, O.P. Place
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Designs that mix the old and the new, from P. Tendercool
P. Tendercool
The Ashwood Gallery (●O.P. Place, 30/1 Soi Charoen Krung 38, Charoenkrung Road, Bangkok, 02 266 0187) Located in O.P. Place, The Ashwood Gallery features Asian art in the form of ancient Khmer stone images of Hindu deities and Buddhas, among other unique pieces at high prices.
LIFESTYLE COVER STORY
SAWASDEE TO YOUR NEW LIFE IN THAILAND! Everything you need to know if you are planning to relocate or have recently moved to the Land of Smiles.
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hat is it that keeps attracting foreigners who decide to live for years— sometimes decades—in or even to move permanently to the Land of Smiles? Is it the warmth of its people, the car drivers that don’t honk the horn even in the worst traffic jam, the pristine beaches, or the jungle adventures? The delicious mango sticky rice, somtam, or Isaan chicken? Or just the “mai pen rai” (no problem) attitude that rules life in the Kingdom? Regardless, according to Thailand’s Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, in the capital alone there are more than 65,000 expats with work permits. When you decide to relocate, you will have to pack up your house and find a new one in your destination city (should you buy it, rent it, and what type?). Find healthcare services that meet your standards (hospitals, insurance, etc.) Decide on which school to enroll your children in. And probably once you’ve sorted out all this, you’ll also start thinking about how to meet new people in town, where it is safe to invest your money, and where to find the trinkets that will slowly start making your house feel more like a home. We’ve gathered the opinions of experts to help you find solutions to each of these topics, and here they are.
Healthy Living in Bangkok Bangkok’s healthcare providers offer perhaps the best value in the world. The combination of expertise, modern facilities and technology, easy access and low costs, has turned this into the world’s most popular destination for “medical tourism.” Each year more than a million visitors come to Thailand for healthcare— everything from checkups to open heart surgery. They enjoy a quality of service that seems to take a little more interest in caring, and a little less interest in putting you on an assembly line in and out of the hospital. Most visitors say they would come back in a (healthy) heartbeat! Lucky you. You get to live here.
fruits and vegetables should be carefully washed and drained. Salads and other raw vegetables are best avoided in informal eating places. As delicious (“ah-roi”) as Thai fruits can be, don’t overindulge until your tummy is used to the new diet.
Water Bangkok tap water is safe for bathing, cooking, and washing. If small amounts are swallowed while brushing your teeth or in the shower, it should not be harmful to you or your children.
Common Illnesses The common medical problems for most expatriates will be the same ones you encounter at home. But a few health problems related to the local environment are worth considering. One good rule is to seek a doctor’s advice early rather than waiting as you may have done back home. Common illnesses are fungus infections, sore throats and colds, traveler’s diarrhea, and tropical fatigue. Serious diseases go from avian influenza A (H5N1)
Food Thai food is delicious, nutritious, and often spicy! It is best to use a little caution, at least until your digestive system becomes as acclimated as your taste buds. Raw
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Environment The tropical heat affects most of us. Unless you are arriving from another tropical posting, it will probably take some time for your body to adapt. A few changes in your lifestyle can help prevent sunshine, heat, and humidity from causing medical problems like heat exhaustion, tropical fatigue, and skin cancer.
Relocation Companies in Thailand
● Asian Tigers Mobility (●02 687 7888, www.asiantigers-thailand.com) is an international provider of relocation services with strong presence in Asia. ● Crown Relocations (●02 249 0219, http://web.crownrelo.com/thailand●) manages relocations programs and moving services worldwide. ● JVK International Movers (●02 379 4646, www.jvkmovers.com) provides a complete range of packing and moving services, locally and internationally. ● Pacific Orientation (●02 653 0805, www.pacificorientation.com) is a Bangkokbased company offering expatriate relocation and realtor services. ● Santa Fe (●02 742 9890–2, www. santaferelo.com/global-network/thailand) offers corporate and individual relocation services. ● AGS Four Winds (●02 662 78 80, www.agsmovers.com/branches/asia/ thailand) offers international and domestic removals, export packing, storage, and pet relocation.
to hepatitis A and B, and from malaria and dengue to HIV/AIDS, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, rabies, tetanus, tuberculosis, and typhoid fever. Paying for Healthcare in Thailand In Thailand, most hospitals require payment before discharge. Top hospitals accept major credit cards. If you have insurance the hospital might accept direct payment, but you should not assume so, as there are many types of coverage. While local hospitals can assist you with insurance claims and forms, you should study the specifics of your policy in advance. The information on “Healthy Living in Bangkok” is an excerpt of the booklet with the same name published by Bumrungrad International Hospital (●www.bumrungrad.com) to provide expats moving to Bangkok with updated health information such as the list of accredited hospitals, recommended vaccinations, and more. Visit the App Store to download the latest version for free.
With a perfect harmony of exquisite design and a sophisticated contemporary lifestyle alongside the magnificence of the Gulf of Thailand, our hotel stands out as a true personification of its name “Paix”, which means “Peace” in French. From the austere grandeur of the arrival to the disorienting glamor of the seemingly infinite reflection pool, you may choose to be a part of any of our 48 Horizon Studios, 24 Garden Terraces or 7 Pool Villas and submerge into this unsurpassed bliss. Once through the gate, you enter a labyrinth of tropical gardens, reflection pools, courtyards and terraces that offer intimate privacy. One may also entertain themselves with our “Spa Indochine”, which provides a menu of unique healing and nurturing treatments that blend ancient curative techniques and age-old natural beauty recipes. For the sizzling taste-buds, we offer “Motion Restaurant”, “Clouds Loft”, and “The Red Bar”- the resort’s signature restaurants that do not just serve sensational cuisine, but also spice it up with an interactive dining experience at the poolside or moonlight romance on the rooftop.
115 Moo 7 Tambol BAngkao Amphur Cha-Am Petchaburi 76120 Thailand l Tel: +66(0)32 709 555 l Fax: +66(0)32 473 190 Email: book@hoteldelapaixhh.com l Website: www.hoteldelapaixhh.com l Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hoteldelapaixhh
CHOOSING THE RIGHT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL IN THAILAND by the International Schools Association of Thailand
In terms of academic success, parents need to consider how their child learns best and assess which curriculum supports that type of learning. A good understanding of your child’s strengths and abilities makes finding the best curriculum to foster these skills easier. The majority of international schools will fall into four main curricula categories: ● American curriculum ● British curriculum ● International Baccalaureate curriculum ● Other national curricula (French, German, Japanese, Canadian, Australian, etc.) A decision on curriculum must also take into consideration the system you may return to following an overseas posting.
Extra-curricular activities
Another aspect to consider is the opportunity students have to take their learning out of the classroom. Study trips, extra-curricular activities, and opportunities for community work not only provide students with a way to explore their interests, but also allow them to apply skills and concepts from class in real-life settings.
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School and class size Bangkok Patana School
Curriculum
Check if the school employs only qualified and trained teachers, native or near native in the language that they teach in
Accreditation
Accreditation, or credential evaluation, ensures a basic level of quality in the education students receive from a school and parents should spend time researching the reputation of the accreditation institutions for their schools of choice.
Teachers
Parents may want to check if the school employs only qualified and trained teachers and whether or not the teachers are native or near native in the language that they teach in.
Location
Most families try to find the right balance of travelling time for each member of the family.
The size of the school, as well as the class size may also be factors contributing to your child’s wellbeing at school. Some children prefer bigger schools; others feel more comfortable in a smaller environment. If the school is smaller does it offer adequate facilities? If the school is bigger, how does it ensure children receive the individual care they require? The factors listed are only some of those that can be taken into account when choosing an international school. Other considerations could include university and careers counselling, learning support, English as an Additional Language, Gifted and Talented, Home Languages, competitive sports... these will depend on your child’s individual requirements and preferences. Once all factors have been weighed, parents usually make a short-list of schools and visit each of them. You can usually get a good “feel” for a school during a visit, and after considering all factors and making a final choice, your child will be well on the way to a fantastic international education. Check the full list of international schools in Thailand at www.isat.or.th/schools
Bangkok Patana School
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hoosing a school is an important decision all families face at some time or other. Whatever the reason may be, making the choice can be quite daunting. Parents who know and understand their child’s character and learning style will naturally make an informed choice based on the needs of their child, taking into account the compatibility of the overall school environment with their child’s personality and learning styles. Below are some factors to consider when choosing prospective international schools in Thailand.
LIFESTYLE COVER STORY
FINANCIAL SERVICES
A Land and House or a Condominium for Foreign Buyers? by Sirichot Chaiyachot Attorney at Law, Siam Legal
Thailand. Here’s the problem: non-Thai nationals are, by law, not permitted to hold the ownership of land in Thailand, regardless of their nationality. There are no treaties between Thailand and any other nation that give privileges to any foreign national to purchase land in Thailand as a freehold. Marrying a Thai national does not allow one to hold the ownership of the land as a freehold either, either jointly or solely, in the name of a non-Thai national party. A long-term lease agreement or mortgage agreement properly drafted and registered is one common way for foreign nationals to protect their investment in a property in Thailand. At present, Thai law only allows the registration of leases of up to 30 years for residential purposes. Any further extension is likely to be difficult to enforce. A foreign national may take control of the land through a company structure (i.e., a Thai limited company). However, in this case, a non-Thai national can hold only a limited number of shares of the company (i.e., 49 percent or less of the total shares of the company). In addition, there must be at least three shareholders in a Thai limited company, two of which must be Thai nationals, in the event the company holds the title to land. Please bear in mind that if your intention is not to operate a legitimate business in Thailand, this option is far from ideal. If such a company does not continuously engage in a business, is not active, and does not file its annual balance sheet and corporate income tax for a few consecutive years, it is likely that such a company will be struck off the register. The assets of the company will also have to be sold. In addition to these difficulties, issues with shareholder structures, signatory authority, registered capital, shareholders' votes, and work permits are all common problems. There will also be a lot of papers for you to sign and a lot of expenses to maintain the business.
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Sansiri
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hailand is a beautiful country. The cost of living is not too high, and Thai people are very friendly. For these reasons, you may be one among many who plan to have a second home—perhaps a dream home—in
There is good news, however: a non-Thai national can legally hold the freehold title of a condominium unit or units provided the following minimum requirements are met: 1. The total foreign ownership of the entire condominium building does not exceed 49 percent of the total saleable area of the condominium building. 2. The funds to be used to purchase the property come from overseas (in a foreign currency) and are transferred and converted into Thai baht by a local Thai bank. The bank will issue paperwork confirming this to the land office. 3. The land upon which the condominium building is located is freehold land. 4. The building is registered as a condominium. Please be advised that each agreement has its own pros and cons; therefore, seeking advice from a lawyer who is well versed in local property law is highly recommended prior to investing your money in a property in Thailand.
LIFESTYLE COVER STORY
FINANCIAL SERVICES
TEN QUESTIONS TO ASK POTENTIAL FINANCIAL ADVISERS
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elcome to life as an expat! The expatriate lifestyle has a lot to recommend it: exotic locations and new opportunities, a chance for self-discovery, broader horizons, travel, and adventure. It also provides expats in Asia with a genuine opportunity to get ahead financially while living abroad. The combination of higher disposable incomes and low tax investment and savings opportunities means that many expats will return home significantly wealthier. This sounds very attractive, but in order to benefit, most people need professional financial advice. Therein for many lies the problem. You do not have to be exposed to the expat scene for very long before you hear a horror story or two about people who ended up with bad financial advice and lost a significant sum of money. To avoid this situation, it is critical to choose wisely when selecting an advisor. However it is not easy: you will likely find yourself being bombarded with offers, bashed by extravagant boasts, and bamboozled by unfamiliar financial terms that often confuse and mislead rather than enlighten. In order to help in this decisionmaking process, we have put together the following list of 10 questions for you to ask to potential financial advisers in the hope that their answers will help you make an informed and intelligent choice.
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Park Ventures Ecoplex
by Chas Begley Head of Marketing at Infinity Financial Solutions
1. Do you work for a regulated financial company? Ensure any company you deal with is regulated and is legally obliged to follow strict rules and procedures. 2. Are you personally qualified to give financial advice? You wouldn’t let an unqualified doctor perform surgery, so don’t appoint an adviser without internationally recognized qualifications. 3. Are you independent? Many advisers are tied to particular product providers; this may lead to conflict of interest and will limit the choices open to their clients. 4. What are some of the financial product providers you recommend? While you may not have heard of all the companies that an adviser might recommend, there should always be some internationally trusted names you recognize on their partner list. 5. Will your company ever have direct access to my money? Financial advisers should do just that: advise. There is no need for them to be in a position to personally handle your money. Any claim to the contrary should set alarm bells ringing.
6. How will you assess my attitude to risk? Everyone is different: some people are cautious with investments, while others are prepared to be more adventurous in search of higher returns. Avoid any adviser who cannot explain the principle of risk and how they will assess which risk level is appropriate to you. 7. Who will choose and manage my investments? The management of savings and investments is highly specialized and not normally within the skill set of a financial planner. That means someone other than the adviser will be picking and managing investments. It is important you know who they are and what qualifications they have to do the job competently and effectively. 8. How long have you been advising clients on their personal finance? Longevity in the business is not always a recommendation but, in concert with other answers, deeper experience may be of value. 9. Can you provide me with client testimonials? Happy existing clients are always a positive indication of a good adviser. 10. Do you provide a written client engagement agreement? Ensure your potential financial adviser offers a formal, legally binding contract. Infinity Financial Solutions (â—?www.infinitysolutions.com, enquiries@infinitysolutions. com) specializes in providing personalized financial planning and investment solutions to clients across Asia and beyond. The company is regulated in Hong Kong and Malaysia.
“Business in Heels” THIS NETWORK FOR WOMEN, RECENTLY LAUNCHED IN BANGKOK, IS THE PERFECT SPACE FOR PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE NEW TO THE CITY AND WANT TO MAKE CONNECTIONS.
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by Nicola Jones-Crossley Bangkok Branch Director, Business in Heels
have found Bangkok to be an amazing city for women, professionally. Women from all backgrounds and professions come here and flourish. I’ve met successful entrepreneurs creating their own businesses; women who have climbed the corporate ladder and landed at the top, and consultants who work on bits and pieces here and there, who tailor their work to their lifestyle. But where can all these successful women meet and exchange ideas to keep the ball turning? In early 2012 Jac Bowie took the business networking industry by storm. A simple idea created Business in Heels (● www.businessinheels.com) and, within a few months, it became Australia’s fastest growing network of businesswomen. After three months it was on six continents, with 33 branches of licensees for a brand that believes in helping women every day not only in business, but also in health, relationships, wellbeing, and every other aspect of their lives. Business in Heels holds premier business networking events for sassy
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professional women. Its members—called “Business Babes”—are determined, confident women who appreciate a glass of bubbles, a good pot of moisturizer, and getting the most out of life. Business Babes are experts in their field: consultants, bloggers, entrepreneurs, CEOs, and they are all interested in connecting, sharing, and helping others. Business in Heels’ events give women a casual environment where they can talk business and meet others, as these events have taken the formal out of networking, removed the badges and long speeches, and put the fun back with champagne, canapés, gift bags, and killer lucky door prizes. These events are fabulous for professionals who are new to Bangkok and want to make connections, entrepreneurs looking to connect with like-minded women, and ladies simply seeking out new ideas and inspiration.
How It Works
● Go to www.businessinheels.com ● Register and create your profile
● Join the Facebook group also: www.facebook.com/groups/ businessinheelsbangkok ● Look for upcoming local events ● Find links for tickets, pay for event, attend, and take business cards ● Follow up with connections made during the night
How Will You Benefit?
Imagine an event that is social first, business second. The Business in Heels events are a great way for women to create new business connections in a relaxed, social environment. Attendees will benefit by meeting new people, forming business connections, listening to inspiring speakers, and walking away with a fabulous gift bag. As research has always suggested, and as Business in Heels truly believes: a simple “hello” could lead to many things. Business in Heels was officially launched in Bangkok on March 26, 2014. The next event will take place in May 2014. Stay tuned.
Business in Heels
LIFESTYLE COVER STORY
toineinbangkok
LIFESTYLE COVER STORY and mood you are comfortable with, and add a tweak of the local country. This will make the object or furniture unique and distinctive. Take your time to purchase, but when you have a crush on something, just buy it! You may never pass by the shop again— that’s almost a rule. For me, a mix of antique or vintage and modern pieces keeps a room full of charm and personality. Adding accent colors to one or a few walls makes nice backgrounds for some pieces of furniture.
Where to Shop
DECORATING YOUR NEW HOME IN THAILAND Don’t rush into decorating your home too quickly—get some inspiration from getting to know the city, and then innovate.
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by Beatrice Martinet Co-founder and owner at toineinbangkok
f you still haven’t chosen your future home, a few elements are very important: it should have maximum sunlight; inside, it shouldn’t be too busy as a background (it’s difficult to furnish when walls have excessive molding or are covered in busy patterns); air should circulate freely; and, of course, it should have pleasant and convenient surroundings. Once you’ve found the place you’ll call home, don’t rush into decorating it too quickly. First enjoy the city, walk, wander, and breathe it; look at people, colors, street movements, and landscapes; take photos of surprising situations, quirky circumstances—probably different from your home country’s—and all will become your source of inspiration.
How to Decorate Your New Home
My best tip on furnishing or decorating is to be singular, and not have what everybody has. Avoid common furniture;
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try to be surprising, and even surprise yourself; look at authenticity. Favor refined or unexpected materials, deep colors, subdued impressions, and charming shapes, even those that are odd or organic. Following all of these tenets will give character to your place, but remember to apply each judiciously; otherwise, it may kill the effect. Also remember that what you come up with may be relocated somewhere else one day, maybe to your home country. Don’t follow some fashion or decoration trend; just follow your emotions and your style. Or, if you dare, create your own trend and call it “your” style. Don’t buy too many touristy things when you arrive because, after a while, you will see them everywhere. Make your place memorable and charming: give privilege to softness and warmth. Don’t wish to make an ideal selection, but make your selection from things you are comfortable and happy with. Little by little, ideas will come to you. Likewise, don’t forget your roots, as you will be happy sometimes to remember them. This means you should keep the style
In Bangkok, Thonglor and Ekamai areas offer lots of big furniture and lighting showrooms and warehouses. Elsewhere in town, there are plenty of décor shops such as Casa Pagoda, Industique, Incredible, and Vinotto. In big shopping malls, mainly just before the top floor, you will find interesting items at affordable prices. At the top floor of The Emporium (●622 Sukhumvit Road) near the food market, the kitchenware section is very diverse and carries nice collections. The fifth floor of Central World (●4 Ratchadamri Road) offers a lot of variety, plenty of ideas, and nice leather furniture (at Sesia, for example). Crystal Design Center (● 1420/1 Pradist Manudham Road) remains the largest place to find everything, but it’s better to go there with some idea of what to purchase to avoid getting lost in the huge choice of boutiques. Of course, for a variety of goods at inexpensive prices, the best place to shop is Chatutchak Weekend Market (●BTS Mochit), especially nearby the JJ Plaza, where all the decoration items can be found. Also, don’t hesitate to check out antique shops that may have authentic pieces of furniture that will give charm to your place. At TUBA Design Furniture & Restaurant (●3 Soi Ekamai 34 Sukhumvit Soi 21) you will be able to find many pieces of furniture, including tables, chairs, artwork for the walls, etc. toineinbangkok (●10/4 Convent Road, Silom) is a boutique that offers a different approach to decorative items by creating and sourcing revisited Asian art, limited editions, and objects with a sense of humor.
LIFESTYLE FASHION
THE PERFECT CITY LOOK
Crisp, clean and cool, a white shirt is the holy grail of any chic man’s wardrobe. by Sheetal Pritmani Creative Director at Milk Shirts
The best shirts come with: Single needle stitching Pearl buttons (over the regular plastic buttons) ● Collars that have a soft feel to it ● The renowned removable collar stays to stop your collars from collapsing
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Milk Shirts
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rends may come and go, but nothing will ever beat the iconic white shirt. Historically underappreciated due to its simplicity, this classic garment has evolved into an essential fashion statement, with its varying details reflecting the various personas of today’s contemporary man. A white shirt is indispensable for its ability to go from power dressing in the office to seamlessly melding into the “off duty” casual wardrobe. Needless to say, there is no such thing as having too many. With nuances to cut and style changing the entire look of a white shirt, it is important to know what to look for in “the” staple white shirt in your collection of whites. Investing a little more in a good-quality white shirt will go a long way not only in looking better, but in making you feel better, too. The most important facet is the fabric. A “two-fold 100” is a mark of quality and has a longer life. Similarly to cotton bed sheets, a higher yarn count of the fabric, such as 100s, 120s, 140s, or 160s, indicates a smoother, silkier and hence more expensive fabric.
As a general rule of thumb, many menswear pundits will tell you that when selecting a collar shape, the shape should match your facial structure. ● Namely, portly men should look for pointed collars or button downs to deemphasize the roundness of the face, which also gives an appearance of a longer neck. ● Those with more of an angular face should balance it with wide or moderate spread collars to give the face a fuller look and wider jawline.
Also useful to keep in mind regarding collar shapes is that they form a spectrum of formality, so try to pair your clothing in that manner: ● Button-downs are usually more informal ● Straight collars are in between formal and informal ● Spread and cutaway collars are the most formal To nail a casual look, a sports coat would work well with a sweater over an oxford button-down shirt. Another detail to fuss over is shirt cuffs: ● Button cuffs make for a suitable choice for work and casual affairs ● The two-button cuff was, and still is, the most common choice among the famed Savile Row tailors in London’s West End ● French cuffs, on the other hand, are more ideal for important work meetings and formal events, though nowadays you’ll see them worn for a lot of occasions. These cuffs require cufflinks and the idea is to complement your attire. A well-chosen pair of cufflinks has the power to transform your look from standard and good to suave and debonair. Whils I do agree with this logic, rules can be broken once mastered. Therefore, go ahead and experiment with the numerous options available to add diversity to your wardrobe. It is all about trying new things and also having a bit of fun – but details do matter. After all, ask any gentleman who has signed an agreement: the devil is in the details.
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Milk Shirts
Milk Shirts (â—?www.milkshirts.com) can be purchased online, and the website offers free worldwide shipping. Made to measure service is also available.
LIFESTYLE SPA OFFERS
Mango Sticky Rice Body Scrub for Free
What: Experience the new mango sticky rice body scrub for free (one-hour long, worth THB 1,500++) with the purchase of any two-hour signature massage. Choose from King of Oasis, Queen of Oasis, twohour Oasis Four Hand Massage, three-hour Siamese Therapeutic Wisdom Treatment, or The Voyage of Golden Lanna Treatment. When: From now until May 31 Where: At every Oasis Spa (●www.oasisspa.net) How much: Varies More info: Bangkok 02 262 2122, Chiang Mai 053 920 111, Phuket 076 337 777, Pattaya 038 364 070
Mango Sticky Rice Body Scrub at Breeze Spa
What: Enjoy the mango sticky rice body scrub created from the famous Thai dessert at Breeze Spa, Amari Pattaya. The scrub is a combination of mango and sticky rice with a creamy coconut scent. The grains from the sticky rice will purify your skin, and the enzymes from the mango and rice bran oil will nourish and offer deep moisture to your skin. When: Ongoing Where: Breeze Spa (●Amari Pattaya, 240/2 Pattaya Beach Road, Pattaya) How much: THB 2,900 net for two hours, including the Coco Mango Sticky Rice Body Scrub, and a signature mood massage of your choice More info: 038 418 418 ext. 840
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30 Percent Off on A La Carte Treatments
What: Enjoy any a la carte treatment from The Grande Spa’s extensive menu and receive 30 percent off. Therapies include: Signature Grande Realignment Deep Pressure Massage, Grande Essence Facial. Spa lovers can also benefit from 20 percent off all spa packages. When: From now until the end of April, daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Where: The Grande Spa (●Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok) How much: Varies More info: 02 649 8121
Me-Time at Soneva Kiri
What: Soneva Kiri’s Six Senses Spa is offering a trio of holistic healing treatments. The Ayurvedic Wellness program is an organic, calorie-controlled Ayurvedic cuisine program including spa treatments, yoga, and meditation. The Sleep Well & De-Stress program involves organic menus, spa treatments, and personalized yoga and meditation sessions. The Weight Loss programs include Puriti detox treatments, Yogic intestinal cleanses, and expert consultations. When: From now until October 31 Where: Six Senses Spa (●Soneva Kiri, 110 Moo 4, Koh Kood, Trat) How much: Ayurvedic Wellness starts at USD 5,170; Sleep Well & De-Stress starts at USD 5,100; Weight Loss programs start at USD 7,530. Prices are based on single occupancy (check rates for double occupancy) and include domestic flights to the resort (from Bangkok), three meals a day, no alcohol, and multiple Six Senses Spa treatments. More info: 039 619 800, reservations-kiri@ soneva.com
Hilton Pattaya
What: Hilton Pattaya’s eforea: spa at Hilton presents its new face and body Sensation packages. There are two options to choose from: the two-hour Face or Body Sensation (choose from either a full body scrub or a facial treatment with organic botanicals with antioxidants and vitamins), or the three-hour Face and Body Sensation (body exfoliation therapy using a cleansing Thai tamarind scrub followed by the meditation massage and a signature customized cleansing facial treatment). When: Ongoing Where: eforea: spa at Hilton (●Hilton Pattaya, 333/101 Moo 9, Nong Prue, Pattaya) How much: Two-hour Face or Body Sensation THB 5,200 net per person per package, and THB 9,500 nett per couple per package; Three-hour Face and Body Sensation THB 6,400 net per person and THB 12,000 net per couple. More info: 038 253 000, pattaya.info@hilton.com, www.eforeaspa.com
Soneva Kiri
Oasis Spa
New Face and Body Sensation Packages at Hilton Pattaya
PHOTOGRAPHER : ALISA HUBERT MODEL : JONATAS EMIDIO
ALISA HUBERT PHOTOGRAPHY +66 878 088 829 WWW.ALISAHUBERT.COM ALISA.PARIS2010@GMAIL.COM
S. Pellegrino Asia’s Best Restaurant
WINE&DINE RESTAURANTS
NAHM TAKES TOP HONORS Now in its second year, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants announced the 2014 winners at an awards ceremony at Capella Hotel, Singapore.
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ahm in Bangkok secured the coveted No. 1 spot at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants (●www.theworlds50best.com/asia) awards in Singapore. As well as earning the title The S. Pellegrino Asia’s Best Restaurant, it is also named The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Thailand. At Nahm, Australian-born chef David Thompson celebrates the bold flavors of authentic Thai cuisine by reviving and reinterpreting centuries-old recipes of former Thai matriarchs. Ranked No. 3 at the inaugural Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards last year, the restaurant gained global attention when it first appeared on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2012 at No. 50, jumping to No. 32 a year later. Apart from Nahm, Thailand is also represented by returning Bangkok favorites Gaggan (No. 3, leaping seven places from 2013), Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin (No. 21), Bo.lan (No. 28) and Eat Me (No. 37). The 2014 list welcomes 10 new entries, including Issaya Siamese Club in Bangkok debuting at No. 31, and first-time representation from restaurants in Korea (Jungsik, No. 20), and Taiwan (Le Moût, No. 24). China leads Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2014 with 16 establishments ranked on the list, followed by Japan and Singapore landing 10 and eight restaurants respectively.
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How Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list is compiled
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list is created from The Diners Club World’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, an influential group of over 900 international leaders in the restaurant industry, each selected for their expert opinion of the international restaurant scene. The Academy comprises 26 separate regions around the world. Each region has its own panel of 36 members including a chairperson to head it up. The panel is made up of food critics, chefs, restaurateurs and highly regarded “foodies,” each of whom has seven votes. Of the seven votes, at least three must be used to recognize restaurants outside of each voter’s region. At least ten panelists from each region change each year. None of the employees of any of the sponsors associated with the awards, including the main sponsor, votes or has any influence over the results.
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2014 Results Rank
Restaurant
City, Country
2013 Rank
Change
Award
1
Nahm
Bangkok, Thailand
3
Up 2
The S. Pellegrino Asia’s Best Restaurant & The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Thailand
2
Narisawa
Tokyo, Japan
1
Down 1
The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Japan
3
Gaggan
Bangkok, Thailand
10
Up 7
Up 7
4
Amber
Hong Kong, China
4
No change
The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in China
5
Nihonryori RyuGin
Tokyo, Japan
2
Down 3
6
Restaurant André
Singapore
5
Down 1
7
Waku Ghin
Singapore
11
Up 4
8
Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet
Shanghai, China
8
No change
9
Lung King Heen
Hong Kong, China
13
Up 4
10
8 ½ Otto E Mezzo Bombana
Hong Kong, China
6
Down 4
11
Mr & Mrs Bund
Shanghai, China
7
Down 4
12
Iggy’s
Singapore
9
Down 3
13
Caprice
Hong Kong, China
12
Down 1
14
Les Amis
Singapore
14
No change
15
Bo Innovation
Hong Kong, China
15
No change
16
Kagurazaka Ishikawa
Tokyo, Japan
42
Up 26
17
Jaan
Singapore
22
Up 5
18
L'Atelier De Joel Robuchon
Hong Kong, China
23
Up 5
19
Fook Lam Moon
Hong Kong, China
48
Up 29
20
Jungsik
Seoul, Korea
New Entry
21
Sra Bua By Kiin Kiin
Bangkok, Thailand
29
Up 9
22
Quintessence
Tokyo, Japan
16
Down 6
23
Tippling Club
Singapore
New Entry
24
Le Mout
Taichung, Taiwan
New Entry
25
L'Effervescence
Tokyo, Japan
New Entry
26
Fu 1015
Shanghai, China
40
Up 14
27
Bukhara
New Delhi, India
26
Down 1
28
Bo Lan
Bangkok, Thailand
36
Up 8
29
Indian Accent, at The Manor
New Delhi, India
41
Up 12
30
Dum Pukht
New Delhi, India
17
Down 13
31
Issaya Siamese Club
Bangkok, Thailand
New Entry
32
Varq
New Delhi, India
30
Down 2
33
28 HuBin Road
Hangzhou, China
25
Down 8
34
Takazawa
Tokyo, Japan
31
Down 3
35
Shinji By Kanesaka
Singapore
32
Down 3
36
Wasabi by Morimoto
Bombay, India
20
Down 16
37
Eat Me
Bangkok, Thailand
19
Down 18
38
Sukiyabashi Jiro
Tokyo, Japan
New Entry
39
Robuchon au Dome
Macau, China
37
Down 2
40
Imperial Treasure Super Peking Duck
Singapore
49
Up 9
41
Sawada
Tokyo, Japan
New Entry
42
Hajime
Osaka, Japan
21
Down 21
43
Sushi Saito
Tokyo, Japan
39
Down 4
44
Nihonbashi
Colombo, Sri Lanka
38
Down 6
45
Yardbird
Hong Kong, China
46
Up 1
46
Family Li Imperial Cuisine
Shanghai, China
New Entry
47
Sarong
Bali, Indonesia
New Entry
48
Franck Bistro
Shanghai, China
34
Down 14
49
Karavalli
Bangalore, India
44
Down 5
50
Tenku RyuGin
Hong Kong, China
New Entry
The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Singapore
Highest Climber The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Korea & Highest New Entry
The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Taiwan
The S. Pellegrino Best Restaurant in India
The S.Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Sri Lanka
The S.Pellegrino Best Restaurant in Indonesia
One To Watch April 2014 | 63
WINE&DINE RESTAURANTS
LIVING LA DOLCE VITA ALONG THE BTS LINE If you are visiting Bangkok or are just in the mood for a truly unique Italian experience, you’ll love a romantic evening full of Italian colors and flavors at these restaurants near the skytrain. by Lucie Barke
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Road, 02 207 7777, www.stregisbangkok. com/fb_jojo). Carlo Valenziano, the chef at Jojo restaurant, will delight your taste buds as he transports you to the land of Michelangelo. The risotto acquarello al basilico (Italian basil risotto, braised squid heads, garlic, chili, and Parmesan) is so creamy and velvety, while the softest squid brings a different texture to the dish. Meat lovers will want to try the petto d’anatra (duck breast, chestnut ragout in red wine, glazed cherries, parsley bread, and port wine sauce), with the meat cooked to perfection and melting in the mouth. Chestnut ragout is not so common, but it’s a winner! And when in Italy, eat pasta! We cannot recommend the ravioli di agnello brasato enough (homemade ravioli, lamb confit filling, potato cream, gremolata, Pecorino dust): it’s an explosion of flavors and textures from the first bite to the last. These are three signature dishes, although they make up just a small part of a mouthwatering menu. Pair the dishes
Giorgio's offers both indoor and outdoor dining
with one of Jojo’s close to 100 Italian wine labels, and another 150 labels from around the world. A successful dinner always has to end with a sweet note. And we could not find a better setting to end the evening with style than at Giorgio’s at the Royal Orchid Sheraton (●2 Captain Bush Lane New Road, 02 266 0123, www. royalorchidsheraton.com/en/gallery/ giorgios), by the Chao Phraya. To get there, take the BTS Silom line again and get off at Saphan Thaksin station. Make your way to the pier, where there is a free shuttle boat service every half hour, which will delight you with romantic views of the river at night. The ricotta cherry tart with tiramisu ice cream on mixed berry coulis, although only available on their special menu, is a must-try that combines classic Italian notes with a splash of the East. Pair dessert with an icy glass of limoncello and toast to a fruitful Italo-Thai evening in Bangkok.
Royal Orchid Sheraton
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n Europe, particularly in the southern part of the continent, it is not uncommon to start an evening in a bar or restaurant to enjoy a drink and a light “amuse-bouche” before going to have dinner elsewhere, then concluding the evening with a digestif on a scenic patio. We wanted to test this concept in Bangkok and are certain that you will be as delighted as we were to know it is possible here, too. Ladies, don’t panic. We know Bangkok is a huge city and that you’d like to wear your favorite heels for the occasion—and you will, as all the restaurants we visited are located just a few steps away from a BTS Skytrain station. There are numerous Italian restaurants in the capital, but this is our handpicked selection to savor a gastronomically varied and refined Italian evening that takes inspiration from the adventures of Marcello Mastroianni and Anita Ekberg, stars of the glamorous film “La Dolce Vita” by Federico Fellini. A few meters from the Asoke BTS station (Sukhumvit line) you will find the BeerVault at the Four Points by Sheraton (●Ground floor, Sukhumvit Soi 15, 02 309 3255, www.beervaultbangkok. com/en), a veritable beer lover’s treasure trove that is usually the first to receive the newest international beers in the city. Start your evening with a well-chilled Italian lager and black sesame grissini rolled with smoked salmon and dill. It’s a perfect combination, with the crispness of the fresh grissini balanced by the soft and tasty smoked salmon. Or try the fritto misto, fresh assorted seafood fried in a light batter until it’s perfectly crunchy. Next, make your way to the BTS Silom line and stop at Ratchadamri station to continue your gastronomic adventure at The St. Regis Bangkok (●159 Rajadamri
The St. Regis Bangkok Royal Orchid Sheraton
Cold cuts at Giorgio's new buffet (THB 750)
High dining at Jojo
The ricotta cherry tart with tiramisu ice cream on mixed berry coulis is a favorite at Giorgio's
Start your evening with an Italian beer at BeerVault
Four Points by Sheraton
Royal Orchid Sheraton
The St. Regis Bangkok
Martini tiramisu at Jojo
April 2014 | 65
Aston 31
WINE&DINE RESTAURANTS
Salmon, egg salad, wild rice, caviar
Scallop, kohlrabi , yuzu kosho
DON’T GO HERE IF YOU JUST WANT FOOD Chef Zra Jiraratana reveals the basics of the unconventional dining experience offered by his latest restaurant, Aston 31.
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ston 31 (●66 Sukhumvit 31, Bangkok, 084 551 5559, www.astonbkk.com) is the second restaurant of the culinary rebel Zra Jiraratana, aka Chef Ton. Chef Ton was educated in the U.K., with a degree in computer science from Assumption University, and his family thought he would go into trade—but he had a very different and focused idea of his destiny. Driven by his passion for food, Chef Ton completed the diploma course at Le Cordon Bleu Dusit Culinary School. Having gained the theory, he honed his craft by working in the kitchen at Bonjour French restaurant. In 2010 he opened his own restaurant: The Aston Gastro Bar at Crystal Design Centre, the first step of defining his own style of cooking. And in September 2013 he opened Aston 31, the definition of the work of a flamboyant culinary artist who produces a unique style in his studio. The food is French style with a blend of Asia. “Simple flavors, honest, good produce,” says Chef Ton. “I don’t want to
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by Laurence Civil set expectations, it’s my style: reinventing and modernizing the classics.” It’s a handcrafted limited edition dining experience for a maximum of 32 diners a night, 28 seated around his studio kitchen and four on the deck outside. A typical degustation menu would start with fresh salmon and caviar, moving onto wild caught tiger prawns, roast quail and foie gras, and roast loin of Yarra Valley Lamb, finishing with a passion fruit dessert. Chef Ton wanted his restaurant to be on the second floor, to make the experience a journey that starts with Spanish-themed tapas on the ground floor. Guests then proceed upstairs—where the restaurant is dimmed like a theater—and sit round three sides of the open kitchen. Chef Ton in the middle, exposed, is the conductor of his own orchestra. It’s the ultimate interconnect between chef and diners: he has nowhere to hide, and neither do they, so both sides are interlocked as the food takes shape. “I want to interact with the customers. Cooking is emotional to me …
I want to connect” Chef Ton explains. “People need to be immersed; I want to create an unconventional experience,” he adds. He will provoke for sure—although maybe Aston 31 is not the place for everyone. But Chef Ton is uncompromising; he’s quite clear that if you just want a plate of food, whatever the quality, then there are many other places in Bangkok to choose from. Aston is more “theatre or show.” The building’s concept also fuses with the chef’s dreams. “There is beauty in the building, it’s inspirational,” he says. “The food processes synchronize with the building. But it’s more than just an experience; we create a happy work environment. It’s future architecture, we experiment with the food and the building.” This is the chance to taste the next generation of Thai culinary talent. Hours: Monday to Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Alex’s il Sarto Measures to Excellence Exquisitely tailored suits Exclusively for you
Tailoring for connoisseurs with taste. We create perfect apparel for gentlemen. In order to avoid disappointment, we ask you please note the following: Our house does not promise any cheap, unrealistic package deals. Only the best value for money. Dare to prove us wrong!
We are located directly across the Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok. Just ask the staff for directions. 117-121 New Rd., Bangrak 44 (Beside Shangri-La Hotel), Bangkok 10500, Thailand. Tel: +662 237 3229, +662 237 3216 Fax: +662 236 4459 Mobile: +668 1837 9807 E-mail: ts@alexsfashion.com/ alex@alexsfashion.com Visit us at http://www.alexsfasion.com
WINE&DINE DINING SPECIALS
H-BISTRO
Say Wine and Say Cheese!
What: As an extension of Sheraton Social Hour, enjoy an evening by the River of Kings in an evening full of gourmet cheeses coupled with Australian wines. When: Every third Friday of the month from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; next event on April 18 Where: Sambal Bar & Grill, Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and Towers (●2 Charoen Krung Road, Soi 30 (Captain Bush Lane), Siphya, Bangrak, Bangkok); complimentary shuttle boat service available from Saphan Taksin BTS station to the hotel every halfhour How much: THB 599++ per person, inclusive of free-flow of wines and a wide variety of cheeses More info: 02 266 9214, events.rosh@ sheraton.com
Hansar Samui’s New Seasonal Chef’s Table Menu
What: The Chef’s Table at Hansar Samui’s beachfront H-Bistro caters for eight to 20 diners. The latest seasonal menu of Canadian chef Stephen Jean Dion features seared French soulard foie gras, butterpoached Brittany lobster, Alaskan king crab ravioli, and other delicacies, made with fresh vegetables from the hotel’s own organic garden, as well as international wines and Champagne. When: From now until December 31 (reservations required) Where: H-Bistro (●Hansar Samui, 101/28 Moo 1 Bophut, Koh Samui) How much: Chef’s Table THB 3,555 plus tax; with wine pairing THB 5,555 plus tax More info: 077 245 511, reservation@ hansarsamui.com
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LE MACARON
Afternoon Tea at Le Macaron
What: Live the Parisian lifestyle and savor exquisite French pastries such as fresh fruit tarts, scones with jam and vanilla whipped cream, smoked salmon bagels, finger sandwiches, and much more, together with freshly brewed coffees and teas. When: Daily from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Le Macaron (●Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, 189 Sukhumvit Road Soi 13–15, Bangkok) How much: Afternoon Tea THB 950 net; Champagne Afternoon Tea THB 1,600 net; “Buy One Get One Free” offer, daily from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. More info: 02 126 9999, h5213-fb8@sofitel.com
THE OKURA PRESTIGE BANGKOK
Beat the heat with “Mango Festival”
What: Beat the heat and welcome the mango festival to juice up your summer. Dishes include chicken salad with mango and yoghurt dressing; pan-fried salmon filet with mashed potato and mango salsa; grilled duck breast with mango chutney; mango pudding; crepe mango with ice cream; Mango Punch, Mango Colada, and many more. When: Daily from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.. from now until April 30 Where: Two Forty Eight Café & Bar (●Northgate Ratchayothin, 248 Ratchadapisek Road, Ladyao, Chatuchak, Bangkok) How much: Starting price at THB 120++ More info: 02 939 7949, www.northgatebangkok.com
Sakura Season Celebrated in Style Special Thai New Year What: The Okura Prestige Bangkok is Songkran Dining celebrating Japan’s cherry blossom colors of spring with a Sakura Festival that Celebrations includes special lunch and dinner menus at Yamazato. The Okura High Tea and the weekend Okura High Tea Buffet also features new items finished in traditional Sakura colors. And the hotel’s bakery, La Pâtisserie, is offering a new range of Sakura-themed cakes. When: Lunch and dinner at Yamazato from now until April 30; Okura High Tea, ongoing on weekdays; Okura High Tea Buffet, ongoing on weekends Where: The Okura Prestige Bangkok (●Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Road, Bangkok) How much: Dishes at Yamazato THB 250++; Okura High Tea THB 780++ for two people; Okura High Tea Buffet THB 840++ per person More info: 02 687 9000, fb@ okurabangkok.com
What: Celebrate Songkran on April 13 at Trader Vic’s Sunday Splash Brunch, with a lavish international buffet and a variety of Thai specialties. Special drinks packages available. Continuing the celebrations, on April 13 and 14, Riverside Terrace will present an International BBQ Buffet with tables set out on the al fresco terrace, beside the River of Kings, while Thai musicians and dancers perform on a flamelit stage. When: Sunday Splash Brunch, April 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; International BBQ Buffet Dinner, April 13 and 14 from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Where: Trader Vic’s (●Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa, 257/1–3 Charoennakorn Road, Thonburi, Bangkok)
TRADER VIC’S
How much: Sunday Splash Brunch THB 1,699++ per person including free-flow soft drinks; THB 2,499++ per person including cocktails, draft beer, red, white, and sparkling wines; THB 3,999++ per person including open bar with Champagne. International BBQ Buffet THB 1,250++ per person with beverage package priced at an additional THB 799++, including freeflowing wine, sparkling wine, and beer. More info: 02 476 0022 ext. 1416, riversidedining@anantara.com, www.bangkokriverdining.com
Dinner Buffet at Orchid Café
What: Enjoy a feast of appetizers and desserts at Orchid Café’s new dinner buffet. When: Every evening from Sunday to Thursday Where: Orchid Café (●Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok) How much: Dinner buffet THB 750++ per person; main dish of the day for an additional THB 230++ More info: 02 649 8355, dining.sgs@luxurycollection.com
Saturday Seafood BBQ Night
What: Chill in style with extensive seafood choices, sushi selections, a BBQ station, homemade ice cream, and much more, at Dalah Restaurant’s seafood BBQ night. When: Every Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Where: Dalah Restaurant (●9/22 Moo 5 Paknampran, Pranburi) How much: THB 1,100 net per adult More info: 032 909 900 ext. 3214
LOK WAH HIN
New Fusion at Novotel Hua Hin
What: Novotel Hua Hin introduces Tai (“freedom” in Thai language). The restaurant offers dishes inspired on various Asian countries, with a dash of Western flair. Enjoy cocktails, a selection of authentic sakes, premium spirits, and more. When: Ongoing Where: Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort and Spa (●854/2, Burirom Road, Cha-am, Hua Hin) How much: Varies More info: 032 708 300, www.novotelhuahin.com
Best Dim Sum in Bangkok What: Lok Wah Hin Chinese restaurant promises to amaze you with a variety of over 30 dim sums prepared fresh every day. When: From now until the end of April Where: Lok Wah Hin (●Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square Soi 6, Pathumwan, Bangkok) How much: All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum Lunch THB 620 ++; special offer “Come 4 Pay 3” available More info: 02 209 8888, www.novotelbkk.com
Thai and Mediterranean Flavors at Edge Restaurant
What: The expanded buffet at Edge Restaurant offers Thai and Mediterranean flavors, as well as classic dishes from southern Europe, northern Africa, and parts of the Middle East. When: Every Sunday from noon till 3 p.m. Where: Level 14, Edge Restaurant (●Hilton Pattaya, 333/101 Moo 9, Nong Prue, Banglamung, Pattaya)
LOK WAH HIN
How much: THB 1,400 net per adult; wine buffet at an additional THB 1,100 net per person; children under 6 eat for free More info: 038 253 000
W Does Brunch
What: Enjoy “W Does Brunch” at The Kitchen Table with a sumptuous spread of culinary delights such as an air-dried counter with king crab leg, a station with roasted rib-eye beef, and more, together with a wide selection of drinks. When: Ongoing Where: W Bangkok (●106 North Sathorn Road, Silom, Bangkok) How much: THB 2,200++ per person for food and soft drinks; THB 2,800++ per person for food plus cocktails, wines, beers, and bubbles More info: 02 344 4313, www.whotels.com/bangkok
High Tea and Speakeasy Friday a Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok What: Delight in a delicious high tea in a stylish atmosphere at Mondo, with sweet and savory bites, and a choice between Illy coffee and Ronnefeldt tea for drinks. And head over to Mondo for Speakeasy Friday, where whisky lovers can choose from a fine selection of whiskies and whisky cocktails, plus a special selection of tapas. When: High tea, daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Speakeasy Friday, last Friday of every month Where: Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok (●18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 26, Bangkok) How much: High Tea at Mondo is THB 480++; Speakeasy Fridays is 250 THB net per glass More info: 02 620 6666
April 2014 | 69
Federico Brandi
WINE&DINE RESTAURANTS
White seabass and green curry
Bath Mermaid
TAKE A FRIENDLY OR ROMANTIC BATH Asok welcomes Bath Restaurant & Lounge Bar to the neighborhood by Federico Brandi
B
Lights over the pool at the dining area
70
Lookeast | wine & dine
Federico Brandi
angkok never ceases to surprise me. Even when I think I know a neighborhood well, suddenly a new restaurant or bar pops up. It happened again just a few weeks ago in Asok, a well-known junction in town, where a pleasant surprise was launched under the name of Bath Restaurant & Lounge Bar (●www. bathrestaurantbangkok.com). Inspired by the ancient tradition of common baths as
a place for leisure and conviviality, Bath joined the neighborhood in the form of a villa with a large façade composed of pillars and a gate that lead to a wide outdoor area. In the dining area, a long rectangular pool fills the center, while the tables are set along the walls. Few colors were used in the décor, which instead relies on the effect of the light from the chandeliers hanging low over the pool and the lampshades on the walls, close to the tables. The lights and the soft music in the background give the area a relaxed feeling. The menu is a combination of international and Thai dishes, with a strong emphasis on both traditional cooking techniques and more modern techniques used in molecular cuisine. The smoked salmon tom yum, for example, is an interesting variation on an iconic Thai dish. Behind the dining area is the bar. A square pool fills the center of the room, with several lamps hanging above it. It is surrounded by tables and sofas. All the furniture is sprinkled with customized scents to stimulate the senses. Live music is performed from the stage every Wednesday to Saturday. The bar area
is divided in two parts: the indoor area and an open-air garden, where shishas can be shared. When it comes to drinks, four cocktails stand out among the traditional offerings: Vodka Sunrise, Bath Mermaid, Bath Mojito and Tongue Twist. There is a cocktail to suit every taste, and they all tend to be smooth and easy to drink. The most interesting is the Bath Mojito, where the soda is replaced by carbonized guava juice. Cocktail prices range between THB 250 and THB 300. If you are not hungry enough to order a full meal, you can share with your friends a trio, which is Bath’s variation of Spanish tapas that comes with three servings. If you prefer seafood, the skewered prawns flavored with spring onion olive oil and langoustine cream sauce (THB 180++) are recommended. Bath is a pleasant and inviting addition to Bangkok’s dining and drinking landscape, as it combines many culinary choices together with a chill environment that adapts itself to both a relaxed evening with friends and a romantic one with your significant other.
WINE&DINE THE OENOPHILE
ALL THE REASONS WHY FINE WINES HAVE BECOME AN INCREASINGLY ATTRACTIVE ASSET
W
by Ludovic Tendron Chairman and Co-Founder of Vitisasia
here to invest one’s money is a difficult question that many individuals have to answer. Like corporates, they are sitting on record cash holdings, many still mistrustful of the banking system and its past excesses. Recent reforms in the banking sector have not been able to fully rebuild confidence, and concerns about the Chinese shadow banking system will probably not help, either. Today, with interest rates still low, cash strategies are likely to deliver returns below inflation, while central banks continue to inject liquidity into economies to address debt issues. What should be considered in this context is an asset “having strong long-term capital preservation qualities that will be insulated against both the potential ravages of the economy and, more specifically, against the attack on purchasing power arising from money printing,” as Joe Roseman stressed in his book “SWAG, Alternative Assets for the Next Decade.” Such an asset would also have to be tangible and not correlated to traditional markets such as stocks and bonds. Very few assets have these characteristics—and fine wines are one of them. Fine wines are a unique class of asset subject of an increasing demand, finite production, and limited supply. Those that are worth investing in are mostly from France, and production remains strictly regulated in that country. Winegrowers can plant new vines on the condition that they uproot the equivalent. Past vintages inevitably dwindle as bottles are uncorked; a bottle of fine wine from a certain vintage is unique and can never be replaced once opened. The value of fine wines can only be appreciated over time, provided they have been selected well and bought at the right
price. Global demand for fine wines is now driven by emerging markets, led by China, where wine consumption has increased substantially in the past few years. Indeed, China is now one of the top consumers of red wine in the world (a 136 percent increase in the past five years) and the biggest importer of Bordeaux wines. Hong Kong has turned itself into a wine hub since duties on wine were removed in 2008. However, China’s annual per capita consumption is only 0.8 liters, whereas neighbors such as Hong Kong and Japan are 4.3 and 2.4 liters, respectively. This low figure in China shows great potential for the coming years. The Russian wine market might not be as excited as China’s, but consumption is still set to rise almost 18 percent by 2016. India also has potential, with an expected increase in consumption of 17 percent by 2017. Some traditional markets such as the U.S. remain thirsty. Americans have now become the biggest consumers of wine—be it still or sparkling—in volume in the world, with more that 300 million liters per year, which is more than in France and Italy. But not everyone can afford to buy fine wines, which are seen as luxury products. It’s interesting to note that the countries experiencing the highest increase in wine consumption are also the ones experiencing the greatest increase in billionaires (China, India, Russia, Brazil, Hong Kong, etc.). Taking China as an example again, the number of centa-millionaires is predicted to increase by around 105 percent between 2011 and 2016, and China is on the track to become the world’s biggest luxury market, surpassing Japan and the U.S. China will also be contributing 40 percent of the luxury sector’s growth over the next 10 years. The potential of fine wines as an
investment is clearly there, and credit should be given to wine investment. Despite two recessions, a collapse in the banking system, and ongoing concern of sovereign default, fine wines have recorded steady returns over the past decade: 10 percent on average per annum, where bonds and stocks strove to reach five percent.
How Should One Invest in Fine Wines? Investors must pay a great attention to provenance and storage (including insurance). They should preferably invest in fine wines from excellent vintages that have been well rated by experts. Wine funds can provide an excellent platform for people wanting to make investments in fine wines without having to worry about questions like which wines to buy, where to store them, what price to pay, etc. Allocating 5 to 15 percent of a portfolio for fine wines in the coming decade could well be one of the soundest decisions to make in 2014. “In vino veritas” (in wine there is truth).
Vitisasia
Where Should You Invest Your Money in 2014?
Vitisasia (●www.vitisasia.com) offers a closed end fund structure with a single portfolio, with the objective of minimizing trading and management costs in wine investment. It also offers wine dinners with celebrity chefs and top wine producers to investors. April 2014 | 71
WINE&DINE BAR SPECIALS
Martinis with a Local Twist
What: Inspired by the classic martini, mixologists at The Living Room—one of Bangkok’s premier live jazz venues—have created exotic blends infused with Thai flavors, such as Jasmine Martini, Roselle Cosmo Martini, Thai Basil Colada Martini, Lychee Rose Martini, Banana Martini. When: Ongoing Where: The Living Room (●Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 240 Suhumvit Road, Bangkok) How much: THB 290++ per glass More info: 02 649 8353, dining.sgs@luxurycollection.com
Hi-So Ladies’ Night
What: Cheers to midweek with Ladies’ Night at HI-SO, every Wednesday. All ladies receive one free glass of Chandon to kick off the evening. Cocktails and bottles at special prices. When: Every Wednesday from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Where: Sofitel So Bangkok (●2 North Sathorn Road, Bangkok) How much: Varies More info: 02 624 0000, h6835-fb5@ sofitel.com
Jazz and Wine
What: Enjoy live jazz music at Aldo’s together with the bistro’s selected wine of the month, at a promotional price. When: Live jazz every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Where: Aldo’s Bistro (●Level 7, The Ascott Sathorn Bangkok 187 South Sathorn
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Lookeast | wine & dine
Rd, Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok) How much: Wine by the glass around THB 430; bottles around THB 1,900 net More info: 02 676 6969, www.aldosbistro.com
Ladies Night Free-Flow Wines at Cellar 11
What: Ladies, get your friends together and meet at Cellar 11 to enjoy European Bistro cuisine every Tuesday for Ladies Night, where you will be pampered with free-flow red and white wines. When: Every Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Where: Cellar 11 Wine Bar & Bistro (●71/1 Soi Sukhumvit 11, Bangkok) How much: Free-flow wine free for ladies More info: 02 255 5833–35, www.cellar11.com
What: Thursday night is ladies’ night at Ocean Bangkok. Go and pamper yourself not only with free-flow sangria and selected bites (pintxos), but also with special massages and accessories to make you even more beautiful! When: Every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Where: Ocean Bangkok, at Livingstones Urban Boutique Resort (●7 Sukhumvit Soi 33, Bangkok) How much: THB 100 drinks all night More info: 02 630 4000, www.oceanbangkok.com
Swissôtel Le Concorde
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit
Angel’s Ladies Night at Ocean Bangkok
Free Flow Wine & Cocktails, Mocktails, and Snacks
What: Start your evening with the cocktail or mocktail of the month, or with wine; pick three snack items from five choices including grilled pork neck with barbeque sauce; crispy rice sheet with shrimp, chicken, and plum sauce; fresh spring roll with roasted duck; assorted sushi ball; and spicy tuna and roasted ground rice salad with golden cup. When: Every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., from now until April 30 Where: Crossroads Bar (●Ground floor, Swissôtel Le Concorde, Bangkok 204 Ratchadapisek Road, Bangkok) How much: THB 599 net per person with a choice of three snack items per person More info: 02 694 2222 ext. 1520
travel
DIRECTORY HOTELS
Bangkok Amari Boulevard (●2 Soi 5 Sukhumvit Rd (Nana Bts), 02 255 2930, www.amari.com/ boulevard)
Hilton Sukhumvit (●11 Sukhumvit Soi 24 (Phrom Phong BTS), 02 620 6666, www.hilton.com)w
Radisson Suites (●23/2-3 Sukhumvit Soi 13 (Asok BTS), 02 645 4999, www.radisson. com/bangkokth_sukhumvit)
Amari Don Muang Airport (●333 Chert Wudthakas Rd, Don Muang, 02 566 1020, www.amari.com/donmuang)
Holiday Inn Silom (●981 Silom Rd (Surasak BTS), 02 238 4300, www. holidayinnsilom.com)
Rembrandt Hotel (●19 Sukhumvit Soi 18 (Asok BTS), 02 261 7100, www. rembrandtbkk.com)
Amari Watergate (●847 Petchburi Rd 02 653 9000, 02 653 9101/8, www.amari. com/watergate)
Muse Hotel (●55/555 Langsuan Rd (Ploenchit BTS), 02 630 4000, www. homusebangkok.com)
Renaissance Hotel (●518/8 Ploenchit Rd (Chidlom BTS), 02 125 5000, www.renhos. com/bangkok)
Anantara Bangkok Resort & Spa (●257 Charoennakorn Rd (Saphan Taksin BTS To ho’s ferry), 02 476 0022, www.bangkokriverside.anantara.com)
Imperial Queen’s Park (●199 sukhumvit Soi 22 (Phrom Phong BTS), 02 261 9000, www.imperialhos.com/queenspark)
Royal Orchid Sheraton (●2 Charoen Krung Soi 30, Siphya, 02 266 0123, www. royalotchidsheraton.com)
Intercontinental Bangkok (●9743 Ploenchit Rd (Chidlom BTS), 02 656 0444, www.intercontinental.com)
Shangri-La, The (●89 Charoen Krung Rd (Saphan Taksin BTS), 02 236 7777, www. shangri-la.com)
JW Marriott Bangkok (●4 Sukhumvit Soi 2 (Ploenchit BTs), 02 656 7700, www.marriot. com/bkkdt)
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit (●250 Sukhumvit Rd (Asoke BTS), 02 649 8888, www.starwoodhos.com/bangkok)
Landmark Bangkok (●138 Sukhumvit Rd (Nana BTS), 02 254 0404, www. landmarkbangkok.com)
Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok(●991/9 Rama I Rd (BTS Siam), 02 162 9000, www. kempinski.com)
Fenix, Le (●33/33 Sukhumvit Soi 11 (Nana BTS), 02 305 4000, www.lefenix-sukhumvit. com)
Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit (●189 Sukhumvit Rd Soi 13-15 (Nana BTS), 02 126 9999 www.sofi.com)
Lebua At State Tower 1 (●055 Silom Rd (Surasak BTS), 02 624 9999, www.lebua. com/bangkok/)
Sofitel So Bangkok (●2 North Sathorn Road (Lumpini MRT), 02 624 0000)
Atrium Bangkok Hotel (●1880 New Petchburi Rd, Bangkapi, Huay Kwang, 02 718 2000-1, www.atriumbangkok.com) Banyan Tree Bangkok (●21/100 South Sathorn Rd (Lumpini MRT), 02 679 1200, www.banyantree.com) Centara Grand At Centralworld (● 999/99 Rama 1 Rd (Chidlom BTS), 02 100 1234, www.centralhoresorts.com) Centara Grand At Central Plaza Ladprao (●1695 Phaholyothin Road, Chatuchak, 02 541 1234) Conrad Bangkok All Seasons Place (●87 Wireless Rd (Ploenchit BTS), 02 690 9999, www.conradho.com) Crowne Plaza Bangkok Lumpini Park (●952 Rama Iv Rd (Sala Daeng MRT), 02 632 9000, www.crownplazabkkk.com) Davis Bangkok, The (●88 Sukhumvit 24 (Phrom Phong BTS), 02 260 8000, www. davisbangkok.net) Dream Ho (●10 Sukhumvit Soi 15 (Asoke Sala Daeng Sala Daeng BTS), 02 254 8500, www.dreambkk.com) Dusit Thani, The (●946 Rama Iv Rd (Sala Daeng BTS), 02 200 9000, www.dusit.com)
Millennium Hilton (●123 Charoennakorn Rd (boat shuttle from Saphan Taksin BTS), 02 422 2000, www.bangkok.hilton.com) Metropolitan, The (●27 South Sathorn Rd (Lumpini MRT), 02 625 3333, www. metropolitan.com.bz) Novo (●392/44 Siam Square (Siam BTS) 02-209-8888, www.novobkk.com Oriental Mandarin, The (●48 Oriental Ave. (Saphan Taksin BTS to ho ferry), 02 659 9000, www.mandarinoriental.com)
Eugenia, The (●267 Sukhumvit Soi 3, 02 259 9011/7, www.theeugenia.com)
Okura Prestige, The (●57 Wireless Rd (Phloen Chit BTS), 02 687 9000, www. okurabangkok.com)
Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn (●33/1 South Sathorn Road (Surasak BTS), 02 210 8100, www.eastinbangkokho.com)
Pathumwan Princess (●444 Phayathai Rd (National Stadium BTS), 02 216 3700, www. dusit.com)
Four Seasons Bangkok (●155 Ratchadamri Rd (Rajdamri BTS), 02 126 8866, www. fourseasons.com/bangkok)
Peninsula Bangkok (●333 Charoennakorn Rd (Saphan Taksin BTS to ho ferry), 02 861 2888, www.bangkok.peninsula.com)
Four Points By Sheraton (●Sukhumvit Soi 15 (Nana BTS), 02 309 3000, www. starwoodhos.com)
Plaza Athenee Hotel (●61 Wireless Rd (Ploenchit BTS), 02 650 8800, www.hoplaza-athenee.com)
Grand Hyatt Erawan (●494 Ratchadamri Rd (Chidlom BTS), 02 254 1234, www.bangkok.grand.hyatt.com)
Pullman Silom Hotel G (●188 Silom Rd (Chong Nonsi BTS), 02 238 1991/99, www. pullmanbangkokhog.com)
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Lookeast | DIRECTORY
Sukhothai Bangkok, The (●13/3 South Sathorn Rd (Lumpini MRT), 02 344 8888, www.sukothai.com) Swiss Hotel (●2 Wireless Rd (Ploenchit BTS), 02 253 0123, www.bangkok-nailertpark.swissho.com) Swiss Lodge (●3 Convent Rd (Sala Daeng BTS), 02 233 5345, www.swisslodge.com) ST Regis Bangkok (●159 Rajdamri Rd (Rajdamri BTS), 02 207 7777, www. starwoodhos.com) Unico Premier Metrolink (●57 AsokeDindaeng Rd (Petchaburi MRT), 02 652 9000, www.unicopremiermetrolink.com) Vie Hotel Bangkok (●117/39-40 Phaya Thai Rd (Phayathai BTS), 02 309 3939, www. viehobangkok.com) Westin Grande Sukhumvit (●259 Sukhumvit Rd (Asok BTS), 02 207 8000, www.westin.com/bangkok) Windsor Suites Hotel (●8-10 Sukhumvit Soi 20 (Asok BTS), 02 262 1234, www. windsorsuitesho.com) Pattaya Amari Orchid (●Pattaya beach Rd, 038 418 418, www.amari.com)
Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya (●277 Moo 5, 038 301 234, www. centarahosresorts.com)
Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa (●135/9 Charoen Prathet Road, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50100, 053 252 999)
Centara Grand Residence Pattaya (● Soi Na Jomtien 6, Moo 1, Jomtien Beach, Chonburi, 038 706 407, www.cgrpattaya.com)
Rachamankha (●6 Rachamankha 9, T Phra Singh, 053 904 111, 053 814 521, www.rachamankha)
Cape Dara Resort (●256 Dara beach, Soi 20, Pattaya-Naklua Rd, 038 933 888)
Ratilanna Riverside Spa Resort (● 33 Chang Klan Rd, 053 999 333, www.ratilnnachiangmai.com)
Dusit Thani (●240/2 Pattaya beach Rd , 038 425 611/7, www.dusit.com) Garden Cliff Resort & Spa (●220/2 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 16, 038 259 333, www. gardencliffpattaya.com) Hilton Pattaya Hotel (●333/101 Moo 9, 038 253 000, www.hilton.com ) Hard Rock Hotel (●429 Moo 9, Pattaya beach Rd, 038 428 755/9, www.hardrockhos.net)
Angsana Laguna (●10 moo 4 Srisoonthorn Rd, 076 324 101, www.lagunaphuket.com) Deevana Patong Resort & Spa (●43/2 Rai-u-Thid 200 Pee Rd, 076 341 414/5, www.deevanaphuket.com) Dusit Thani Laguna (●390 Moo 1, Srisoontorn Rd, 076 362 999, dusitthanilagunaphuket.dusit.com
Royal Princess (● 112 Chang Klan Road Chiang Mai 50100, 053 253 900)
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa (●231 Moo 3, Mai Khao, 076 338 000 ext 35252, www.marriott.com)
Shangri-La (●89/8 Changklan Rd., Muang, Chiang Mai 50100, 053 253 888)
JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa (●41/12 Moo 3, Khuk Khak, 076 584 888, www.marriott.com)
Tamarind Village (●50/1 Rajdamnoen Road, Tambon Sri Pum Amphoe Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, 053 418 896)
Kantary Beach Hotel Villas And Suites (●64, 65 Moo2, Kukkak, 076 584 700, www.kantarycollection.com) Méridien Phuket Beach, Le (●29 Soi Karon Nui, 076 370 100, www.lemeridien.com)
Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa (●218/24 Pattaya beach Rd, 038 412 120, www. marriottos.com)
Hua Hin Cape Nidhra Hotel (●97/2 Petchkasem Rd, 032 516 600, www.capenidhra.com)
Royal Cliff Hotel (●353 Phra Tamnak Rd, Pattaya, 038 250 421, www.royalcliff.com)
Dusit Thani (●1349 Petchkasem Rd, 032 520 009, www.dusit.com
Méridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort, Le (●9/9 Moo 1 Tambol Kuk Kak, 076 427 500, www.starwoodhos.com/ lemeridien)
Sheraton Pattaya Resort (●37 Phra Tamnak Rd, 038 259 888, www.sheraton. com/pattaya/com)
Hotel De La Paix (●115 Moo 7, Tambol Bangkao, Amphur ChaAm, Phetburi 76120, 032 709 555)
Kantary Bay Ho, The (●31/11 Moo 8, Sakdidej Rd, 076 391 514, www.kantarybay-phuket.com)
Zign, The (●555/65 Moo 5, 12 Naklua Rd, 038 909 800/20, www.thezignho.com)
Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa (●1573 Petchkasem Rd, Cha-Am, Petchaburi, 032 708 000, www.starwoodhos.com/sheraton/ huahin)
Sri Panwa (●88 Moo 8, Sakdidej Rd., Tambon Vichit Muang, Panwa, Phuket 83000 076 371 000)
Chiang Mai 137 Pillars House 2 Soi 1 Nawatgate Road Chiang Mai 50000 053 247 788 Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa (●123-123/1 Charoen Prathet Rd, 053 253 333, www.ghm.hos.com)
Koh Samui Amari Palm Reef Resort (●Chaweng beach road, 077 422 015/19, www.amari.com) Centara Grand Beach Resort (●38/2 Moo 3, Bophut, Chaweng beach,077 230 500, www.centralhosresorts.com)
Dusit D2 (●100 Chang Klan Road Amphur Muang, 50100, 053 999 999)
Four Seasons Koh Samui (●219 Moo 5, Angthong, 077 243 000)
Four Seasons Ho Chiang Mai (●Mae Rim-Samoeng Old Road 50180, 053 298 181)
Santiburi Resort (●12/12 Moo 1, Maennam, 077 425 031/5, www.santiburi.com)
Furama (●54 Huay Keaw Road, Muang, Chiang Mai 50300, 053 415 222)
The Library (●14/1 Moo 2 Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut, 077 422 767-8)
Le Meridien (●108 Chang Klan Road, Tambol Chang Klan, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50100 053 253 666) Dhara Devi Chiang Mai (●51/4 Chiang Mai, Sankampaeng Road Moo 1 T. Tasala A. Muang, 053 888 888)
Tongsai Bay Cottages & Hotel (●84 Moo 5, Bophut, 077 245 480, www.tongsaibay.co.th) Phuket Amanpuri Phuket (●118 Moo 3 Srissunthorn, Phuket, 076 324 333) Amari Coral Beach (●2 Meun Ngern Rd, 076 340 106/14, www.amari.com )
The Naka Island (●32 Moo 5, Tambol Paklok, Amphur Thalang, Naka Yai Island, 076 371 400) Westin Hotel And Resorts (●21/4 Moo 1 T. Rasada A. Muang , 076 335 600) Krabi Amari Vogue Resort (●149 Moo 3 Tambol Nongtalay, 075 607 777, www.amari.com/vogue) Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas (●420/22 Moo 2 Aonang Ao Nang, 075 661 027, www.centralhoetlresorts.com) Sheraton Krabi (●155 Moo 2, Nong Thale, Muang, 075 628 000) Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort (●Klong Muang beach, 075 627 800, www.sofi.com/6184) Koh Chang Amari Emerald Cove Resort Koh Chang (●88/8 Moo 4, 039 552 000, www.amari.com/emeraldcove ) April 2014 | 75
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Name on card: Card number: Expiration date: Date of issue: CVV code: Please mail this form together with payment or transfer slip to: Richmond Office Building, 18th floor 75/65 Sukhumvit Soi 26, Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Or: Fax this form to +66 2 204 2984, attention Khun Thirapon Or: E-mail this information to subscription@adv-mediaconsults.com
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