LOOKEAST February 2013 by Lookeast Magazine

LIFESTYLE

HOTELS

DINING NIGHTLIFE SHOPPING EVENTS PERSONALITIES ART CULTURE SPAS

EST. 1971

FEBRUARY ISSN 9857-113

TRAVEL

FEBRUARY 2013

Shining Moments

Gem that is Chanthaburi Novotel Bangkok Platinum GM Exploring Khao Sok Street of Gold Cheri By Maneemas Planets, Gems, & You Praya Palazzo Santiburi Samui Blue Harbour Apoteka Habesha Giorgo’s ฅฅ

FEBRUARY 2013 VOL. 42 NO.2

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

thb100 www.lookeastmagazine.com

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What's Inside

LIFESTYLE

travel OF GOLD// 18 STREET There are gold shops on just about any major

GEMS, AND YOU // 44 PLANETS, Before wearing a gem one should have

20 CHANTHABURI:

OPENING SALVO// 50 GRAND Siam Center ushers in a revolutionary retail

street in Bangkok, but there’s only one street that can really be called “Street of Gold” – Yaowarat

GEM OF A PROVINCE //

More than just a center of gemstones as well as the kingdom’s “fruit bowl,” Chanthaburi is a place of touristic discovery

KHAO SOK // 36 EXPLORING Experiences in nature are getting harder to come

their Vedic horoscope checked by an expert astrologer to determine which planets are well-placed, says an expert

concept: The Ideaopolis, with a glittering series of exciting grand opening activities

IN THAI ART// 52 INVESTING If you’re in Bangkok and looking to start

or build to your own collection, be sure to read our useful guide first

by in Thailand; fortunately, Khao Sok remains a top draw for both adventure and tranquility

HOTELS Laurence Civil; it doesn’t feel like you’re a guest in a hotel but rather in a very comfortable home of a benevolent gentleman

TO A TEE – IN LUXURY// 40 SAMUI Santiburi Beach Resort, Golf & Spa beckons as a year-round paradise for a stress-free, hasslefree Samui holiday for families and golfers

PERSONALITIES POSITIVE // 42 PLATINUM Sagar Naker, general manager of the one-

year-old Novotel Bangkok Platinum, says he is really positive not only about Novotel Bangkok Platinum but also about all of Bangkok

Lookeast | table of contents

COVER:

Blue Harbour, K Village, Sukhumvit 26

UNCOMPROMISING ON QUALITY//

Cheri by Maneemas believes in doing the best job for their customers, and using the best material to create something to be cherished for eternity

LIFESTYLE// 38 ITALIANATE Staying at the Praya Palazzo is very special, says

Santiburi Beach Resort, Golf & Spa

wine & dine TIME MEDICINE// 62 NIGHT Apoteka, the newest bar concept to open on

Sukhumvit 11, is vintage and modern all at the same time, with an open, industrial space themed after an old apothecary shop

64 ETHIOPIAN ANYONE?//

The food at Habesha is about as close to the real deal as you will find, and the helpful staff and owners will go out of their way to explain the various dishes to you

66 SICILIAN CONNECTION//

Giorgio’s, the Italian restaurant at Royal Orchid Sheraton, has a new Sicilian buffet that lovers of authentic Italian regional specialties should not miss

regulars 8 14 18 24 26 60 68 74 76 80

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

WORLD-CLASS LUXURY WITH OVER 100 BRANDS MORE THAN 500 FASHION SHOPS

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From the Editor

ebruary is “Time to Shine” for us at Lookeast Magazine. Thus this issue revolves mostly about jewelry, fashion, trends – or subjects appurtenant to them -- and we tried to remain on the theme while still covering the basics that make Lookeast the magazine that it has been for more than four decades now. We’re an insider travel/lifestyle magazine for inbound visitors to Thailand mostly, although we might be expanding that scope a bit soon. Thus in keeping with the theme, on our Culture section we are featuring “Street of Gold (Page 18),” that iconic Chinatown street Yaowarat, which is a great place to visit this month not only because of the thousands of gold shops lining its entirety but also because it’s Chinese New Year (Feb. 10) time and month of Valentine’s, too. Find out the mystique that embraces this street and pulls lots of visitors – local and foreign – to its pavements. Then, we essay a Mini Guide on “Chanthaburi (Page20),” the erstwhile gems center of Thailand. While the gems mines of rubies and sapphires are not as extensively used now as before, this province is still visited eagerly by those in the trade, although we think it should be promoted more for its other tourist attractions now because it is such a beautiful place, full of verdant mountains, lush forest greens, amazing waterfalls, and beaches. It’s a shining example of a totally underrated tourist destination, mind you. Elsewhere, to continue on the theme, we have a feature on Cheri by Maneemas – “Uncompromising on Quality (Page 54)” – a company borne out of love and passion, and what makes it favored by many jewelry buyers as told by Laurence Civil. We have also a piece on “Planet, Gems & You (Page 44), by a noted planetary gemologists Richard Brown, that you should definitely check out too! On the fashion side, we asked one of Thailand’s noted fashionista to give us her personal Fashion Forecast, and we hope you will enjoy her piece. Thailand’s fashion status in the world is changing and growing by the day, and this article should prove more than interesting whether you're a fashion enthusiast or not. As for trends, so much is happening on many fronts we have to give you a potpourri of sorts. A "trending" (in today's lingo) destination is Khao Sok – “Exploring Khao Sok (Page 36)” -- in the south of Thailand, and Dave Stamboulis’ article should help you find out why. In Bangkok, Laurence Civil again tells us Praya Palazzo – “Italianate Lifestyle (Page 38)” -- is proving that it had what it takes to become the trendy accommodation place to be these days, while Percy Roxas’ highlights why Santiburi Resort manages to remain a top trending resort on Samui after all these years. Trending restaurants are all over – and for this issue, we present a few: Apoteka on Suk 11 (by Paul Cypert), the Ethiopian sensation Habesha (By Dave S), and even Royal Orchid Sheraton’s Giorgo’s (by Percy R). The rest of the magazine contains our usual departments: the insightful columns and features of industry expert Imtiaz Muqbil, our personality interviews (it's the Novotel Bangkok Platinum GM this month), the “Unique Things to do in Bangkok,” and regular sections such as Travel News, Travel Deals, Bar Specials, and Spa Offers. Of course, Our Dining Specials are full of Valentine promotions and Chinese New Year deals to keep you on track for these two big holidays this month. So, read on. And here's hoping you enjoy this issue as much as we have enjoyed creating it for you. Whether you’re planning to cuddle up on your Heavenly Bed, Moet & Chandon in hand in your dream suite on Valentine’s Day, or just want to count footsteps in the sand hand-in-hand with your loved one under a crimson sunset on an isolated island during the Chinese New Year vacation -safe travels everyone.

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

Lookeast | from the editor

PUBLISHER: sid sehgal

sid@thesehgalgroup.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: percy roxas

percy@lookeastmagazine.com

SOCIAL EDITOR: earth saisawang art director: apichart boontid SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: JARMMAREE JANJATURONRASAMEE ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: acharin suthisawad ACCOUNTING: siriphan Duangdee Marketing Executive Ankita Malhotra CONTRIBUTORS: Dave Stamboulis Paul CYpert Voralak Suwanvanichkij Pashmina JHANGiANI Devi Bajaj Chris Dixon george saharat somapa SaiF ISmailji Atthasith Khupratakul ---------------------------------------------------------

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

is published monthly by:

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www.LOOKEASTonline.com | February 2013

Advertising & Media Consultants Co., Ltd. Richmond Office Building 18th Floor 75/65 Sukhumvit Soi 26, Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand. T. (662) 204.2449 F. (662) 204.2984 email. info@lookeastmagazine.com web. www.lookeastonline.com Views and opinions expressed in the articles herein by individual writers and contributors do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the editorial staff and management of either the Lookeast Magazine or the Advertising & Media Consultants Co., Ltd.

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calendar

february 13 National Festivals & Events 1-3 Chiang Mai Flower Festival'

27 St. Regis Charity Culinary Gala

For over a century, the St. Regis brand has been an advocate of philanthropy, a legacy that dates to when The Astors, founders of the St. Regis New York, would celebrate the spirit of the holiday season by engaging their friends and guests to join them in the practice of benevolence through charitable gala events. Today, The St. Regis Bangkok has chosen to embrace its heritage and continue in the tradition of giving back to society when it holds the inaugural “St. Regis Charity Culinary Gala” on Feb. 27, at the hotel’s Astor Ballroom. All proceeds from the evening will be in aid of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s SUPPORT Foundation (The Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques). Founded in 1976, and borne of the desire of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit to help the Thai people, SUPPORT Foundation aims to assist needy families by providing them with the means to earn a supplementary income through the revival and preservation of folk arts and crafts. This is in line with His Majesty the King’s royal initiative of a sufficiency economy, where all Thai citizens lead a life that is both self-reliant and sustainable. The event will showcase the legacy of the St. Regis – transporting guests through time, from 1904 when the first St. Regis opened in New York to today, with the arrival of the St. Regis in Bangkok. Lavish décor and an elegant setting will set the scene as guests are treated to a gourmet extravaganza from five outstanding St. Regis chefs, four of whom will be flown in from St. Regis Hotels in Singapore, Beijing, Bali, and Doha to join the culinary team of The St. Regis Bangkok to prepare an international gourmet extravaganza for the night. The event will also feature world-class entertainment by internationally renowned artists. Highlight of the evening will be a charity auction where guests will be able to bid for a variety of exclusive items with a minimum value of Bt1-million, from fine crafted jewelry and one-off art pieces to a luxury holiday in one of the world’s most celebrated destinations. The much anticipated white-tie event is priced at Bt500,000 per couple on the head table or Bt200,000 per table of 10. Sponsors include Diageo Moet Hennessy, Thai Airways, Lotus Arts de Vivre, Scavia, Audemars Piguet , and The Lanesborough, a St. Regis Hotel in London. Where: Astor Ballroom, The St., Regis Bangkok, Rajdamri Road (BTS: Rajdamri) // Contact: Supansa.Choompoo-in@stregis. com or call 02-207-7701

Lookeast | calendar

Northern Thailand is abundant with flowering plants, including more than 3,000 species of orchids, which burst into full bloom toward the end of the local "winter." This abundance is celebrated widely in the city of Chiang Mai, the kingdom’s second-largest city, which plays host to the annual “Chiang Mai Flower Festival” this month. The festival, as its name implies, is highlighted by parades that feature endless floral displays, local handicrafts sales, and beauty pageants. The festival attracts a big crowd from around the country and beyond. Where: Chiang Mai // Contact: TAT Chiang Mai

1-3 Pattaya Women’s Open

The “PTT Pattaya Women’s Open” is the professional tennis tournament for women, and one of the longest women tennis tournaments in the world. It was voted as “Tournament of the Year” in 2010 at the international series category. Many of the world's top female tennis players join this exciting tournament every year and helps attract more visitors to Thailand. But the tournament not only focuses on attracting the world’s top tennis stars but also supports local Thai tennis players by offering them wild cards into the qualifying rounds and the main draw of the PTT Pattaya Open. Where: Pattaya // Contact: TAT and

Pentangle Promotions at 02 3113414/5, 02-311-3497, 038-427667; and 038-428-750

1-28 Royal Flora Ratchaphruek

The last month of the annual horticultural showcase which started last year. Organizers decorated an entire park with a variety of winter plants and flowers including tulips, lilies, carnations, begonias, petunias, blue Hawaii, dahlias, geraniums, hydrangeas and more, all grown by the Royal Project Foundation. Event activities include special exhibitions about the royal duties of His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen, and also of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Thailand; various flower exhibitions; photographic opportunities; and a live concert, billed as “Music in the Garden” featuring popular Thai artists, hill tribe and local performers, shows from educational institutes, and special events on Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year’s Day. Where: Chiang Mai // Contact: TAT Chiang Mai at 053-248-604, 053-248-607, and 053-302-500

10 Phuket Chinese New Year

Throughout Phuket Town, during Chinese New Year you'll see Chinese houses with their living rooms decorated with vases of flowers, platters of oranges and tangerines and a tray with eight varieties of dried sweet fruit. Entrances of many shops and houses are festooned with red banners and decorations to encourage luck and happiness during the coming year. Annual celebrations are organized by The Tourism Authority of Thailand Phuket office (TAT) and Phuket City at the public park next to the TAT office on Phuket Road with colorful shows including a dragon dance from China. Where: Phuket Town Contact: TAT Phuket at 076212-213

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13-15 Phu Chi Fah Flowerfest

The event features art and cultural performances from local people, sports competition, Miss Dok Seaw contest, handicraft demonstrations, and more. Visitors will also experience a

1-28 Kirimaya Ballooning Adventure romantic atmosphere as the area is surrounded by fog and beautiful orchid trees that bloom abudantly in many areas. Where: Chiang Rai // Contact: TAT Chiang Rai at 053-717-433, 053744-674/5

21-23 Re-Earth Festival

Three-and-a half years after its launch, the “Re-Earth Project” now attracts participating artists from many different countries including Thailand, UK, Belgium, Australia, and Scandinavia. The festival starts with daytime activities in the beach area accompanied by chilled out sets played by our deejays. Each evening culminates in live acts performing and then the deejays will take over again to keep the crowds moving until the sun rises. The ultimate goal with the festival and its local partners is to make Koh Samui the “Green Island” of Southeast Asia and the "Re-earth" festival a sustainable long-term event on the island. Where: Koh Samui

February Phuket International Blues Rock Festival

The last year the "Phuket International Blues Rock Festival" was a great success and raised Bt101,000 for local charities; the Ban Bangtao School, and the Rotary Club of Patong Beach, mainly earmarked for the children's education fund. The 2013 event is expected to be even bigger. Many different international bands are flying in for the occasion to join Phuket’s very own house bands and artists in the concert. Where: Laguna Phuket, Bangtao Beach // Contact: Andy Anderson at 086-682-2639

February Wat Chalong Fair

"Wat Chalong (or Chalong Temple) Fair 2013" is probably the biggest of all temple fairs on

Lookeast | calendar

Dasada glasshouse has been transformed into an undersea world, featuring stunning floral arrangements of various kinds. Where: Dasada Flower Gallery, 179 M.12 T.Nurnhom, A.Meung, Prachinburi

the island. It was started in 1933 by local farmers who lived near and around Wat Chalong. After a long period of hard work and when the harvest was complete, they would get together and create a kind of fun fair on the temple’s grounds. In later years, they set up the fair during the Chinese New Year to make sure that Thais with Chinese heritage would join in, too. Location: Wat Chalong on Chaofa West Road, Phuket

Khao Yai is a two-hour drive north east of Bangkok and enjoys invigorating fresh cool, crisp mountain air all-year-round. Kirimaya – an idyllic 64-room resort that combines natural beauty with the chic elegance of contemporary living -- is set in this 800 acres of lush greenery bordering a UNESCO world heritage rainforest and majestic

mountains.This magical setting is perfect for an early morning hot air balloon flight – floating above the beautiful scenic area dotted with wineries. Each couple will be presented with a certificate souvenir of their balloon flight Price is 15,500 net per person. Package rates inclusive of luxurious accommodation, breakfast and complimentary Wifi are also available starting from Bt26,500 net for Plantation View. Where: Kirimaya Resort, Khao Yai // Contact: 02-257-0455/7 (Bangkok), 044-426-000 (Khao Yai); E-mail: reservation@ kirimaya.com;www.kirimaya.com

Arts & Culture 1-28 Poolside French Film Festival

After a highly successful "Rooftop Film Festival," dusitD2 baraquda pattaya is holding what is billed as the first poolside film festival in Thailand – the “Pattaya French Film festival 2013.” A wide range of French cinematic delights are to be shown at the chic and casual poolside of the hotel every Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. onwards throughout the month. Where: dusitD2 baraquda pattaya, Pattaya 2 Road, Pattaya // Contact: 038769-999 or e-mail: d2pa@dusit. com

March 'Blithe Spirit'

1-March 3 'Safe Place in the Future (?) Dystopia Now Utopia Never'

“Safe Place in the Future (?)” was first exhibited in 2009. The current version continues to coherently emphasize the artists’ interpretation of core issues about the concept of “Safe Place.” The event also includes a lecture series, discussions, and film events that are intended to broaden discussion and bridge dialogues between art and social issues. On view every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Jim Thompson Art Center, 6 Soi Kasemsan 2,, Rama 1 Rd.,, Wang Mai, Pathumwan, Bangkok // Contact: 02-612-6741

1-28 'Giving up is not an option'

Serindia Gallery presents this exhibition by German artist Ole Ukena during his time spent in Thailand. An eclectric mix of media ranging from sculpture, text, photography, drawing, collage and film. On view from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day, except Monday by appointment. Where: Serindia Gallery, OP Garden 4 , 6 Soi Charoen Krung 36 Unit 3101, 3201 Charoen Krung Road, Bangrak, Bangkok // Contact: 02-238-6410

1-5 'Spiral'

Steven Simon's series of works is based on research into the geometry in nature: structure, volume, space, etc. The very act of planting seeds, watching them grow into plants and observing how they develop. On views every day from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Where: Eat Me Restaurant, Soi Pipat 2 Convent Road, Bangkok // Contact: 02-630-4565

1-17 'Flower Festival'

Dasada Gallery in Prachinburi is putting on a 'Floral Coral' flower festival showcasing stunning flower sculptures. The huge

Bangkok Community Theatre has announced their March dinner theatre production of Noel Coward’s “Blithe Spirit.” Directed by Mark Sobels, and performed at The British Club for six evenings on March 14, 15, 16, and 21, 22, and 23, “Blithe Spirit” is a classic Coward comedy: while working on a novel about the occult, Charles Condomine decides to invite an eccentric medium, Madame Arcati, to hold a séance at his house. When the ghost of Charles' first wife, Elvira, is inadvertently summoned, Charles second wife, Ruth, is not well pleased. Magic and mayhem follow as Elvira makes herself at home! Tickets will be on sale late February at Bt1200 (including dinner). Seating is limited, so book early. Where: British Club Bangkok, Silom Road // Contact: 087-529-3188; Email: bct.th.org@gmail.com; www.bct-th.org

March 1-2 'The One Acts'

Tickets for the Pattaya Players’ first production in 2013, “The One Acts,” are now on sale. Ticket prices are Bt1,000 and include an all you can eat gourmet Indian buffet. There will be only two evenings of performances on March 1 and March 2 (dinner buffet opens at 6:30 p.m. and show begins at 7:30 p.m.) . The following three one act plays will be performed on the evening: "A Jolly Sinister Jape"directed By Wendy Khan; "Prince Charming’s Complaint," directed By Doug Heron,” and "Oprah Made Me Do It!," directed by Christopher T. Parsons. An online ticketing center has been set up at http:// pattayaplayers-theoneacts. bpt.me and tickets for the performances can be purchased with a major credit card or Paypal account. Tickets will also be available for purchase in person (cash only) through all Board and Cast Members and at Indian By Nature Restaurant. Where: Indian By Nature Restaurant, 306/64-68, Château Dale Plaza, Thappraya Road, Jomtien, Pattaya // Contact: www.pattayaplayers. org or e-mail pattayaplayers@ gmail.com.

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Trade Fairs & Shows 1-3 Thailand Baby & Kids Best Buy

The 14th year of the grand-scale fair, which embraces everything little angels and their mothers could possibly need and want. Where: Zone C-Grd, C-2, Queen Siriki National Convention Center, Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www. thailandbabybestbuy.com

1-3 Food Pack

The 2013 edition of the trade event showcasing food machinery, equipment, supplies, various kinds of packaging equipment, packaging tools, storage systems, and other related stuff. There will be many topics of food conference/ seminars, which visitors can not

1-3 Thailand Industrial Fair

A one-stop, one shop trade exhibition featuring a wide range of industrial products and service such as machinery, tools, material handling, pumps and valves, metal working, electrical equipment, etc. Visitors can expect a “Grand Sale Promotion from 30 to 70 percent of exhibited industrial products, better sourcing of new suppliers and join free conference and seminars by renowned experts and institutes to expand their business vision. Where: Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center, Bangna (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-9679999; www.thailandindustrialfair. com

universities,and colleges from all over India are participating. Where: Ballroom, Hall A, Queen Siriki National Convention Center, Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www. afairs.com

7-10 Thailand Mobile Expo

afford to miss for their technical and business knowledge. Where: Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center, Bangna (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-967-9999; www. thailandindustrialfair.com

The cutting-edge mobile phone trade fair offering the state-ofthe-art mobile phone innovations. Where: Plenary Hall 1-3, Zone C-2, Queen Siriki National Convention Center, Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.thailandmobileexpo.com

2-3 The Great India Education Fair

14-17 12th Thai International Travel Fair

The largest education fair on studying in India returns - again showcasing the strengths of the Indian education system. The finest boarding schools,

The fair aims is to promote the travel industry and give travelers a chance to get hands on high-quality tourism products at special prices. Where: All areas, Queen Siriki National Convention Center, Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.titfttaa.com

14-17 Thai Franchise & SME Expo

The 7th edition offers an opportunity for investors from throughout the country to meet with franchise owners in more than 10 categories to discuss business potentials. A not-to-be missed show to meet franchise owners at one time. Where: Hall 3-4, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-861-4013; E-mail: info@ kavinintertrade.co.th

14-17 Travel Thailand, Travel World

More than 250 hotels, resorts and tour operators from all regions of Thailand are participating in this event. Good opportunities for bargain travel lovers to shop packages of special prices. Thurs– Sun: 10:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. Where: Hall 3-4, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-8614013; www.thailandtravelshow. com

14-17 Thailand Bike and Vehicle

As Thailand’s first bicycle show, the event is the gathering of leading local and international brands of bicycles and accessories to cope with rising demands of newest technology of bicycles. Open Thursday thru Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Where: Hall 3-4, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-861-4013; www. thaibikeshow.com

21-24 27th Thai Tiew Thai

14-17 Thailand Coffee, Tea and Drink

26-March 2

51st Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair 2013

This premier gems and jewelry exhibition showcases exquisite gems and jewelry from all around the world, from handcrafted to contemporary, traditional to urban jewelry, and precious and semi-precious stones. Entrance is Bt100. Open Feb. 26-28 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; March 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for both trade and public visitors :Where: Challenger 1-3, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-630 1390/7; E-mail: info@ bangkokgemsfair.com; www.bangkokgemsfair.com/

Lookeast | calendar

Thailand’s No. 1 Coffee, Tea and Drinks show, now in its 7th year, brings together importers/ distributors/manufacturers of coffee, tea and drinks equipment and accessories from worldwide. Full range of products will be displayed, plus plentiful activities, including the 6th National Thailand Barista Championship and coffee workshops. Where: Hall 3-4, Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi // Contact: 02-8614013; www.thailandcoffee.net

The Thailand's biggest travel fair features a comprehensive array of tourism service provider. Where: Queen Siriki National Convention Center, Rachada Road (MRT: QSNCC) // Contact: www.pkexhibition.com

28-March 3 Amarin Baby & Kids Fair This year's ediition of the big sales event catering to babies and kids needs and wants. Where: Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center, Bangna (BTS: Bangna) // Contact: 02-422-9999, ext. 4790; www.amarinbabykidsfair. com

Travel

pack & bring BEACHREADS Few things are better than getting a tan with your favorite book in hand. Here are some of the books you may want to bring on your holidays. You can buy them at local bookstores. THE VERTICAL GARDEN: FROM NATURE TO THE CITY By BLANC, PATRICK Nobody is more familiar than Blanc with the secrets of the plants, from all over the world, that live on almost nothing, in the most unlikely situations, carpeting the forest understory in semidarkness or clinging to rocky cliff faces. From Paris to Bangkok, from New York to Singapore, Blanc invites nature to flourish on the walls of museums, shopping malls, private homes, big hotels, and skyscrapers. His works have brought a breath of fresh air to urban environments, changing our view of the cityscape, orchestrating and bringing art into the heart of the city, transforming concrete walls into refuges for biodiversity. Price: Bt1,975/US$64.60 // Available at Asia Books/Bookazine

THE CHANGE BOOK By KROGERUS & TSCHAPPELER From the creators of the bestselling “The Decision Book” come 52 surprisingly simple explanations of our seemingly inexplicable world. How do you make your way in a world that is changing at an unprecedented rate? Why do we have less and less time? Why are some people unfaithful? How can our government act against threats before they happen? This book is about change - from the small and seemingly insignificant transitions in our dayto-day lives, to the big and almost incomprehensible shifts in human history. Drawing on expert advice and often-complex theories, the authors of the bestselling “The Decision Book” present 52 simple and effective models to help us make sense of change in our world. Change is happening all around us, in every sphere from the personal and political to economics and the environment. In “The Change Book” you’ll find models explaining the financial crisis, why biotechnology is the industry of the future and why cities are the new nations. Whether you’re buying a new car, deciding who to vote for, or making an investment, this little black book will offer surprisingly simple explanations of our complicated world - and radically challenge some of your preconceived ideas. Price: Bt445/US$14.55 // Available at Asia Books/Bookazine

INTERIOR DESIGN’S THE BEST DESIGN IN HOSPITALITY: VOLUME 1 Published by PERSEUS DISTRIBUTION “Interior Design” magazine proudly presents “The Best of Hospitality Architecture and Design, “ a must-have for the design community immersed in the culture and those looking for a valuable resource on the best work in hospitality design today. The magazine, which is closely followed by the design community, has created this book as part of its book series. “The Best of Hospitality Architecture and Design” recognizes superior design in various segments of the market: resort hotel, hotel, bar/lounge, cafe, restaurant, and spa. This book celebrates and shares the best in interior design achievement with the world. Price: Bt.1,345/US$43.96 // Available at Asia Books/Bookazine

TRAVELGEAR

Functional, stylish travel gear are so easy to get these days, especially in cities like Bangkok, so get these cool stuff now:

Today’s cameras are getting better and better. And while the best photography still rests in the hands of their handlers – those of us who are into passionately taking pictures and lovers of advanced technology can only be glad about the amazing non-stop evolution of the modern camera. Take the new Nikon 1 J-series camera, which are refined for high-speed performance -- and in the world’s smallest body. The new Nikon 1 series boasts “intuitive operation” that makes for an even more enjoyable experience. The two new Nikon 1 advanced cameras just released propose new forms of imaging expression. The first is Nikon 1 J3, which represents a new branch in the J-series lineup and offers even faster performance in the world's smallest body. The second is Nikon 1 S1, which establishes a new line of Nikon 1 cameras with intuitive operation that makes using a digital camera with interchangeable lenses even more enjoyable. The Nikon 1 J3 is even faster than previous models, supporting high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 15 fps with AF tracking, all in the world's smallest body. Also added is the Slow View function, which enables capture of just the perfect moment, as well as Live Image Control, which allows users to preview the effects of settings in the camera monitor prior to shooting. In addition, the Smart Photo Selector and Motion Snapshot functions have been improved and the camera is equipped with Advanced Movie mode, which enables adjustment of settings (in P, S, A, and M exposure modes) for movie recording. What's more, the minimalistic design using metal on the front surface of the camera is available in five color options for a more elegant and precise exterior finish. The Nikon 1 S1 offers the same high-speed performance and a variety of functions that enable capture of the perfect moment as the other Nikon 1 cameras do. It is also equipped with a new GUI for even simpler, more intuitive operation. It is available in five colors, including khaki, to suit a wide variety of personalities and preferences. Both the Nikon 1 J3 and Nikon 1 S1 both support the Wireless Mobile Adapter WU-1b (sold separately), enabling users to not only transfer high-quality images captured with the camera to a smart device over a wireless connection, but also to use the display on a smart device in place of the camera monitor for remote shooting. And hey, in addition, a waterproof case compatible with these cameras will also be released soon. What does this mean? Greatly expanded photographic possibilities for those shooting underwater. -- By Percy Roxas

Lookeast | TRAVEL

travel

culture

Street of Gold There are gold shops on just about any major street in Bangkok, but there’s one street that can really be called “Street of Gold” here -- Yaowarat

By PerCY ROXAS

aowarat doesn't usually rank on top of the "mustvisit" list of most Bangkok visitors. But if you’re in the city to buy gold, there’s no better place to be. It's been said that there are more gold shops in this street than houses, although that's probably hyperbole. There’s a raw energy in its atmosphere day and night, which you can feel as you walk through the tiny alleys, or browse through the many “weird” products in its markets, or as you join the many locals in enjoying food you probably have never thought you’ll be eating before. Yaowarat Road is centered on Sampeng (Soi Wanit 1), which is famous for its Sampeng Market, in Bangkok’s Chinatown. Chinatown covers a large area around Yaowarat and Charoen Krung Road, and here are many small streets and alleys full of shops and vendors selling all types of goods. But back to buying gold, which the Thais are so enamored of; Thais sooo love to buy gold, indeed. And many buy it mainly at Yaowarat. Why? Because most shops are members of the Gold Merchants Association of Thailand, and their gold

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products here are generally of high standard and quality; many are hand-made and intricately beautiful. Those in the know say there used to be just four main gold shops on Yaowarat: Seng Heng Li, Hua Seng Heng, Tung Jin Aeng, and Tang To Kang, which foreigners will probably find hard to find these days as there are now more than 130 gold shops on both the sides of the road (and new gold stores coming up). In particular, two gold shops boast a sterling reputation: Hua Seng Heng and Tang To Kang. The latter is the oldest gold shop in Bangkok, founded by Tohkang Saetang, a Chinese immigrant, in the 1880s. This shop was said to be the only gold shop in the Sampeng areas to be granted a royal appointment to use the Garuda emblem in 1921 during the reign of Rama VI. Yaowarat has been the main center for trading by the Chinese community in Bangkok since they moved from their old site some 200 years ago. Chinatown is located in one of the oldest areas of Bangkok, representing the resettlement of Chinese on the western banks of Chao Phraya River, after Rama I moved the capital of the kingdom from Thonburi to Rattanakosin. Part of Yaowarat Road is said to resemble a dragon's curvy body, making it supposedly auspicious for business. Besides the many shops selling gold, Yaowarat is also popular for buying garments, textiles, stationery, souvenirs, second-hand parts and equipment, electric goods, computer parts, antiques, imported

musical instruments, and local delicacies. In a way, it offers a glimpse of a local lifestyle unique to Bangkokians. This is more evident when you visit in the evening as see the roads and alleys transformed into something that looks different during the night. In the evening as well, Yaowarat becomes a "food street," and it’s amazing to see how many people turn up in the area just to enjoy the exotic delicacies both on the street and inside the restaurants. Expectedly, some of the best Chinese restaurants in the city are said to be in this area, at Soi Texas. Like all Chinatowns elsewhere, Bangkok’s Yaowarat has that vibrant, chaotic, fun energy that gives it a zestful Oriental mystique that visitors will surely relish whether they are gold buyers or not. 

Getting there:

Take the MRT (subway) and get off at Hualampong Station. Then take a meter taxi to the main street. From there, you can walk your way through and back. There are public buses plying Yaowarat, but if you’re not familiar with the Thai public transportation system or don’t speak the local language, you are better off with a metered taxi. Warning though: during the rush hours it can be very difficult to flag down a metered taxi.

february 2013 | 19

travel

mini-guide Chanthaburi: Gem of a Province

nown as a center of gemstones as well as the kingdom’s “fruit bowl,” Chanthaburi is located in the east of Thailand, bordering Cambodia’s Battambang and Pailin districts and the Gulf of Thailand. Together with neighboring Trat, Chanthaburi is the center of gemstone mining, especially rubies and sapphires. Tropical fruits are also among its main products, and in 2000, the province produced nearly 380,000 tons of durian, which was 45.57% of Thailand's durian production and approximately 27% of the world's production. Obscured by eastern neighbors, such as Rayong, Trat, and Chonburi -- which are relatively more popular as tourism destinations -- Chanthaburi is actually a place of discovery, especially for those who have seen many of the country’s major destinations already. The French colonists occupied Chanthaburi in 1893, returning it only in 1905 when Thailand gave up ownership of western Cambodia. Also, a significant minority of its citizens here traces their roots to native Vietnamese, which makes its general atmosphere somewhat different from other Thai towns. Chanthaburi is also probably the most “Christianized” part of Thailand, but it still is very Asian, very Thai.

WHY GO Chantaburi’s melting pot of cultures has kept it distinct from many other Thai provinces. This uniqueness enhances a visitor’s experience, especially those keen to enjoy the local touch. Chanthaburi town has that quaint charm, which makes it appealing to those in search of something new and different in Thailand. Nature lovers will also have a heyday in the province as its geography has ensured it of mountainous terrains and verdant virgin forests, enclosed in a number of protected national parks; waterfalls, hot springs, rivers, beaches, and islands, that are less touristy that even those in Trat, Rayong, or Chonburi. There is even an area where prehistoric relics were excavated, for those interested. Gem mining is not extensive now as it used to be but Chanthaburi remains a

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major center for gem dealings with stones from neighboring countries and abroad being bought and sold. Of course, there are numerous Buddhist temples and shrines wherever you go, for those into religious tourism and study. WHAT TO SEE & DO Sights are a-plenty. Even if you skip the King Taksin the Great Shrine,the King Taksin the Great Monument, and the several wats (temples) there’s a variety of sights and activities to keep you busy. Boran Sathan Mueang Phaniat is one. It is assumed that this monument might be the original settlement of Chanthaburi City in an early age, about a thousand years ago. Nowadays, only a ruined sandstone wall and an unidentified earth mound with

a height of about 1-3 meters remains. The Catholic Church of Chanthaburi is a popular program. According to history, construction of this old, large, and beautiufl -- Gothic inspired -- Catholic Church took 275 years to complete. A visit to Si Chan Road, the commercial area and center of gem business, is a must. Archaeological wealth is evident in the visits to the King Taksin Shipyard where several rectangular dock-like areas were found along the shore as well as parts of an old ship believed to be a threemasted Chinese junk using a rudder and measuring 24mlong and 5m- wide, the Boran Sathan Khai Noen Wong where you can find a storage of artifacts and pottery taken from the Australian Tide Ship, which allegedly trespassed Thailand’s waters in the Gulf of Thailand to illegally

transport antiques out of the country, and the Panichnavee National Museum. But they are nothing compared to “Manut Boran” archaeological excavation site located 25km from Amphoe Pong Nam Ron. Prehistoric human skeletons, stone tools, artifacts, pottery and ornaments of some 4,000-yearsold, now removed from the pits, were unearthed. Treks to Khao Laem Sing Forest Park, which covers a total land and marine area of 9,500 rai, may be interesting to some. Khao Laem Sing is a small hill 172m above sea level, with a pile of rocks that look like a crouching lion at the front and that gave it its name, which means "hill of a lion cape." The park includes dry evergreen forest and beach forest, which are home to important flora and fauna.

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thailand map contact/ with pointer to the for upcountry dest

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Chanthaburi DEstinations to Discover

THAILAND

Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park, the headwater of Lam Nam Prasae–Rayong’s principal river, and others, are also special. A very interesting sight is the Tham Khao Wong, which is a habitat of Chan Pha (Dracaena loureiri Gagnep), an endangered species of wild animal. More than 80 caves have been discovered in this area with a complex of some 20 connected caves divided into 3 zones. Try also to visit the waterfalls (namtok), such as Namtok Krathing, a large 13-tiered waterfall originating from the Khitchakut Range. There are bamboo forests and various plant species along the way, with a blanket of moss and ferns on both sides; Khlong Chang Se with its circular nature trail; and Khlong Krasan, a large waterfall amid shady surroundings located near Safeguard Unit 2 (Khlong Phaibun) 8km from the national park’s headquarters. Hin Dat, the 12-tiered waterfall is surrounded by an intact evergreen forest. The 9th-12th tiers are especially breathtaking. Most visitors also go to the Chong Phakkat ThaiCambodian Border Market in Ban Khlong Yai, 30km from Pong Nam Ron District Office, 20km from Pailin and 68km from Preah Tabong in Cambodia; and the Ban Laem Thai-Cambodian Border Market before they leave. If you’re traveling with family and kids, make sure you drop by Oasis Sea World, a place where dolphins in Chanthaburi’s watercourses are conserved and reproduce. SLEEP Major international hotels have yet to invade Chantaburi but don’t worry

Bangkok

Chanthaburi

// how to get there:

because there are a couple of relatively outstanding locally run hotels to meet your requirements. Some world-class amenities may be lacking but the local Thai hospitality makes up for what they lack. Service is generally friendlier and more polite. Among them are Maneechan Resort (039343-777), Rachan Residence (039-327-102), K.P Grand Hotel Chanthaburi (039-323201); Eastern Hotel (039-311726); Caribou Highlands Hotel (039-321-584), and Chanthaburi Riverside (039323-201/13). Of course, there are others. EAT For quality and fresh local Thai food, try the Chanthorn Restaurant. The Pho So 2462 Restaurant is also noted for “Great food at an amazing location.” Try also the Krua Tah Luang, and Farm Pu Nim. Eating at local restaurants add to the overall experience, and I remember going to a crowded seafood restaurant, which name unforunately, I forgot. A must-try is the Sen Chan Noodle, a symbolic product of Chantaburi, favored for its soft and glutinous quality and available only here. As well, sample tropical fruits such as

By Car – You can take the Sukhumvit No. 3 Route -- BangkokChonburi-Pattaya-Ban ChangRayong-Chanthaburi (291km); or the Highway No. 36 Route: how Bangkok-Chonburi-Sriracha-RayongChanthaburi (254km), or the Highway No. 344 Route: Bangkokhow Chonburi-Klaeng- Chanthaburi (245km). By Bus -- Both air and non airhow conditioned buses leave from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) The rate for non air-conditioned buses is Bt93 only but may be a how bit inconvenient. Air-conditioned buses leave every hour, starting from 5 a.m. till midnight. The fare is Bt130 (Tel. 02-3912504, 391-8097); From the Morchit Bus Terminal, how air-conditioned buses from leave Bangkok at 7.30 a.m., 8.30 a.m., 2.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. One-way fare is Bt135. The trip takes about three hours and 10 minutes.

to go by bus

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to go by taxi

to go by train

to go by boat

how to go by airpla

rambutan, durian, mangosteen, Rakam and Sala varieties of zalacca, santol, and others, which are abundant during May-June. Longans are abundant too, particularly during April and May. Langsat Chamkho, sweet and not too large in size, grown in Tambon Chamkho, Amphoe Tha Mai, are in peak season May–September. BUY Gems are among the province’s renowned economic products and you will find lots of elaborately cut gemstones made by experienced craftsmen. Khlum Woven Products a crafted work promoted by the Chanthaburi Provincial Skill Development Center are great buys too; and so are Soi Dao

Paper, made from the pulp of weed that grow in abundance in Chanthaburi’s evergreen forests. If you want more handicrafts as souvenirs before you leave, drop by the Ban Samet Ngam Chanthabun Mat Weaving Center at Tambon Nong Bua, Amphoe Mueang; the Bang Sa Kao Mat Weaving Village at Tambon Bang Sa Kao, Amphoe Laem Sing; and the Ban Suan Som Furniture Market for its wooden furniture such as living room suite, wardrobe, dining table, wall clock, etc. Oh, maybe you could buy a pack of Preserved Durian, which is the province’s famous processed product with a mildly sweet taste and aroma typical to each of the durian varieties.  february 2013 | 21

travel

activities

Unique 'to-do' in Thailand

hailand’s worldwide reputation is as varied as its geography. The “Land of Smiles” is equally known for its nightlife, beaches, mountains, wildlife, and more. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s something unique to do in Thailand that either you’ll only find here, or will not be the same anywhere else. These experiences range from truly novel ways to spend to your vacation to some truly unordinary options.

Become a Monk for a Month

Those looking for something a bit deeper in their travels should look no further. Rather than coming to Thailand and quickly visiting a wat (temple) why not get a deeper, behind the scenes look at things? There are a few groups now offering monk packages of various lengths. You’ll live in the temple, practice guided meditation, and learn about the Eight Precepts all while soaking in authentic culture.

Volunteer

There is no shortage of organizations working to help the people of Thailand. Groups exist to help Thais from all walks of life -- from orphans to those at risk of trafficking, from prostitutes to indigenous groups, and more. There are even organizations that work to motivate Thai people to help their neighbors. While certainly you can help people anywhere in the world, Thailand has some truly innovative and groundbreaking programs such as the pioneering Rahab Ministries that helps women stuck in the entertainment lifestyle in Bangkok.

Care for and Ride an Elephant

If you really want a full elephant experience while also giving something back, visit the Thai Elephant Home just outside of Chiang Mai. Here you get the opportunity to not only ride them, but also truly learn about elephants and how they live. You’ll spend time cleaning the elephants and their homes, cut grass to feed the elephants, and hopefully make friends with one of the giants. The best part is that you are assigned an elephant for the day, rather than dealing with different ones through the day, increasing the likelihood of a bonding experience. The Thai Elephant Home is located at 50 Charoen Rd, Chiang Mai. Tel: 089 434-2047; e-mail: wanacharts@yahoo.com

Explore Deeper Bangkok via Long-tail Boat

Bangkok was once known as the “Venice of the East.” These days many of the klongs (canals) have been paved over to accommodate growing modernization and development. There is still, however, a handful of river networks snaking their way through the city. Check out Klong Saen Saep, accessible at the end of most major roads along Suhkumvit. To get to the riverboats you need to leave the comfort of the BTS line (skytrain) and head to the end of Thonglor, Ekkamai, Asoke, etc. From the BTS station, grab a motorcycle taxi driver and tell the driver to get to the docks. Take

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the boat to the end of the line near Khao Sarn and enjoy a backdoor view of Bangkok not seen by those sticking with modern modes of transport.

Catch a Live Muay Thai Match in the Upper Decks

Catch a “Muay Thai” match at either the Lumpini or Rajadamnern Muay Thai stadiums, but don’t spring the extra baht for ringside. Instead head to the upper levels with the locals and watch the fight through a chain link fence. Here’s where the real action takes place: gambling, shouting, and the passion of true fight fans. It might not be the most comfortable experience, but you’re guaranteed to walk out with a story.

Get a Bamboo Tattoo

Most people take home a plate, poster, post card, or some other knick-knack from their journeys. A traditional style bamboo tattoo is for those wanting something a bit more personal and permanent. Instead of the dull motorized drone of a modern tattoo, bamboo tattoos are done with a long bamboo “spear” with a metal tip at the end. Your skin will be pierced manually and ink applied. Check out Wat Bang Phra in Nakhon Chaisri. Nakhon Chaisri is to the west of Bangkok, just outside of Nakhon Pathom. Here you can find many locals and a few adventurous foreigners receiving a sacred tattoo unique and personal to each person receiving.

Chomp Down on Something with Chompers

Thailand has long been famous for its food, but none is more infamous and notorious than its insect cuisine. Long favored by rural Thais, insect eating has become a tourist rite of passage in Thailand. With just a little bit of searching around Nana or Soi Cowboy late at night in Bangkok you’ll easily find a vendor (just look for the foreigners snapping pictures in the street). The vendors will typically serve up silk worms (maybe not the Thai Silk souvenir you thought you’d take away), grasshoppers, bamboo worms, water beetles, and crickets. Most of the insects have been battered and fried and could pass for anything if it’s dark enough (or the diner is drunk enough). 

contemporary indian dining

#71, Sukhumvit Soi 26 BTS: Phrom Phong Tel: 02-258-4900 www.indusbangkok.com indus@indusbangkok.com For Taxi: รานอาหารอินดัส สุขุมวิท 26 ใกลโรงแรมโฟรวิงค ฝงพระราม 4

TRAVEL

travel deals Hot holiday offers this month Party package Pathumwan

Free Room Upgrade Offer At Oriental Residence Bkk

Oriental Residence Bangkok is offering a special package that promises to give its guests an experience of elegance and luxury from now until March 31. Book an Executive Deluxe Room for minimum of three nights and get free upgrade to the One Bedroom Suite “City View.”The luxury residences on Wireless Road is known for its contemporary interiors, bespoke amenities and exceptional, personalized services. Residents enjoy convenient access to the heart of Bangkok’s bustling central business district with a selection of prime shopping centers, and the BTS Ploenchit Station, which is close by. For more details and reservations, contact 02-125-9000, reservations@oriental-residence. com or visit www.oriental-residence.com

Bangkok Bt7,350++ Treat your loved ones to a romantic Valentine’s getaway in Bangkok with The Sukosol Hotel’s “Valentine’s Day Getaway” package, valid Feb. 8-17. Book the package, which includes a one-night stay in a luxurious Club Siam Deluxe for Bt7,350++ for two and enjoy a host of other benefits and privileges. For reservations, call 02-247-0123, ext. 11031108; e-mail: reservations@ sukosolhotels.com; Thai Residents Package

Dream Bangkok brings you what it calls an unrivalled “Thai Resident Package.” The package, designed for Thai residents and citizens, comes at special room rates starting from Bt2,300 net (Classic Room), Bt2, 950 net (Deluxe Room), and Bt3,950 net (Junior Suite), with daily buffet breakfast for two per room per night. Stay a minimum of three nights and get complimentary one category upgrade. Stay a minimum four nights to get complimentary 3-course Set Menu for two at Flava Restaurant & Bar. Promo runs until March 31. For more information or reservations, call 02-254-8500 or e-mail: reservations@dreambkk.com

From Bt9,300 up Until March 15, the Peninsula Bangkok offers the “Winter Moments” package, which includes a

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guaranteed upgrade to the next room category, daily buffet breakfast and Bt3,000 credit per stay for use at any of the hotel’s four award-winning restaurants and Peninsula Spa. Rates are Bt9,300-Bt15,200 (Superior Room), Bt9,300-Bt15,700 (Deluxe Room), Bt10,200Bt16,100 (Balcony Room), Bt10,600-Bt16,500 (Grand Balcony Room), and Bt17,000Bt23,000 (Deluxe Suite). For reservations, call 02 861-2388; e-mail: reservationpbkk@ peninsula.com

‘Complimentary Night’

Book a residential meeting of 15 room nights or more at Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square and receive one complimentary night at any one of the 12 Novotel hotels and resorts throughout Thailand. Located in downtown Bangkok the hotel is footsteps from the BTS Skytrain and is surrounded by a multitude of shopping malls and entertainment venues. Offer valid until March 31. For more details call 02-209-8888or visit www. novotelbkk.com.

25% off Available Rate Until Feb. 17 take Grand Millennium Sukhumvit and enjoy a fabulous 25% discount off their best available rate. What’s more indulge in their sumptuous buffet breakfasts at 50% off and enjoy free Internet. For reservations and more information, contact 02-204-4000 or e-mail: rsvn@ grandmillenniumskv.com

Princess Hotel offers a party package for all kinds of functions in February only. Choose your venue – Pool Terrace and Garden, Ballroom, or Executive Junction – with their “Festive Party package,” which includes your choice of Thai buffet at Bt99 net per person or Bt1,050 net per person for international buffet, each inclusive of free flow soft drinks, free corkage, party theme, visual equipment, etc. for groups between 50-150 persons. For more information, contact 02216-3700, ext sales & marketing dept.

Bt8,200++ The Sukosol Hotel

is offering a “Chinese New Year Package” Feb 1-15. Luxuriate in a spacious Deluxe Room for three days and two nights for only Bt8,200++ inclusive of unlimited Wi-Fi, a sumptuous breakfast, a delicious dim sum set lunch, a 60-minute spa treatment and more. For reservations, contact 02 2470123, ext. 1103-1108 or e-mail: reservations@sukosolhotels.com

Pattaya 10% off Room Rates

Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa offers a 10% discount on benchmark rates from now until March 31, with a 15-minute “Back & Shoulder Massage” at Royal Garden Spa; plus a complimentary room upgrade. Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa is so close to the center of the action, yet so far from the hustle and bustle. For reservations, contact 038-412120 or e-mail: pattayamarriott@ minornet.com

25% Off Stays Hilton

Pattaya, together with Hilton Worldwide’recently kicked off its holiday getaway offer “Any Weekend, Anywhere Sale with 25% Off Stays.” Available for booking until Feb. 14, guests can embark on their dream holidays over weekend stays in a

stylish environment and indulge themselves with contemporary dining options at Hilton Pattaya. Book by Feb. 14 and enjoy 25% off.* For reservations, contact 038-253-000 or visit pattaya. hilton.com

Chiang Mai

From Bt52,500 net Siripanna

Villa Resort & Spa Chiang Mai, is now offering a 3-day/2-night package stay in the grandest and most luxurious accommodations. Indulge in the Grand Royal Lanna Villa, featuring its very own outdoor bath and terrace, or experience the true spirit of Lanna culture in the unique Siripanna Grand Royal Lanna Suite, featuring a private living room and outdoor garden. Package rates for Grand Royal Lanna Villa: Bt52,500 net (until April 15 and from Dec. 1 to 31); and Bt45,290 net (from April 16Oct. 31) . For Siripanna Grand Royal Lanna Suite rates are Bt 62,130 net (now-April 15, Dec. 1-23) and t 53,050 net (April 16-Oct.31). For reservations, call 053-371-999; e-mail: info@ siripanna.com

From Bt4,000 Enjoy an

unforgettable experience and sample the unique Lanna culture with a relaxing stay at ShangriLa Chiang Mai from now until March 31. With rates starting from Bt4,000, take advantage of overnight accommodations, buffet breakfast at Kad Kafé, unlimited Wi-Fi, Health Club and pool access. Terms and conditions apply such as minimum two nights’ stay. For reservations or further inquiries, contact Tel: 053-253-888 or e-mail: reservations.slcm@ shangri-la.com

Phuket From Bt8,550 Regent Phuket Cape Panwa’s “Winter to Remember” promotional package runs until Feb. 28. At rates starting from Bt 8,550 per room per night, the package also enables guests who book

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travel/destination a stay to be entered in a draw to win a two-night stay at any Regent Hotel and Resort and get double miles for Regent’s partner frequent flyer members. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, complimentary use of iPad and Wi-Fi, complimentary local telephone calls, complimentary non-alcoholic mini-bar and four pieces of laundry or pressing daily, access to infinity-edge pool, private beach and Children's Club. A minimum of two nights stay is required. Reservations can be placed directly at 076200-822: e-mail: reservations. phuket@regenthotels.com // www. regenthotels.com/Phuket

From Bt6,495 Outrigger Hotels

and Resorts Asia-Pacific is now taking reservations for its new absolute beachfront property in Thailand, the Outrigger Phuket Beach resort. When it reopens on March 15, the family-friendly resort will offer guests a luxurious experience with accommodations ranging from spacious deluxe hotel rooms to a luxurious twobedroom villa. The rates with buffet breakfast are: Deluxe Room Bt6,495; Deluxe Sea View Bt7,295; Family Room Bt7,695; Club Studio Bt9,495; Club Studio Sea View Bt10,925; One Bedroom Suite Bt12,395; and Two Bedroom Villa Bt15,395. All rates are applicable for stays between March 15 and Oct. 31. To book or for more information, call 076318-230; e-mail: ying.kongpetch@ outrigger.com

Kanchanaburi Bt2,500 net U Kanchanaburi has a promotion to welcome the school and summer holidays. Valid from March 1 to May 31, the “Summer Getaway and School Holiday Package” is only Bt2,500 net including breakfast for two and 20% discount for dining at Peppers Restaurant. Show a student ID and get a special rate offer. For more information and reservations, call 034-521-584 or e-mail: reserve@ukanchanaburi. com

Da Nang, Vietnam

All the comforts

of home and more From US$68 A special package is now available at Sandy Beach Non Nuoc Resort Vietnam, Managed by Centara, from now until May 31. Rates begin at US$68 per night for a Garden View room, including breakfast for two persons. Room rates are subject to service charge and government tax, and vary according to room type, period of stay and high or low season. Sandy Beach Non Nuoc Resort Vietnam, Managed by Centara, is set on Non Nuoc Beach and has 42 acres of manicured gardens, with all guest rooms, bungalows and villas located a short stroll away from one of the two swimming pools. The resort is close to the heritage sites of Hoi An and Hue, the scenic beauties of Marble Mountain are within easy reach, and two championship golf courses are nearby. Da Nang Airport is just 20 minutes away. For more information and reservations, contact +662 101 1234 ext 1 or e-mail to cdv@chr.co.th or visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com/ cdv

Elsewhere Extra Day Offer Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific and MasterCard Worldwide has announced ‘Your Day,’ an exciting joint promotional campaign that rewards its Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG®) members and MasterCard cardholders an extra day to make it their own. Until March 31, SPG members and MasterCard cardholders who book a consecutive three-night stay at over 100 Starwood resorts across Asia Pacific via www.spg.com/ mastercardyourday will receive the third night free. For more information, terms and conditions and list of participating hotels and resorts, visit www.spg.com/ mastercardyourday

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

47 Sukhumvit Road, Sukhumvit 20, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 2 262 2400, Fax: +66 (0) 2 261 2018, E-mail: info@gm-servicedapartment.com www.gm-servicedapartment.com

TRAVEL

travel news InterContinental Samui unveils exclusive 3-bedroom guest residence

Centara launches new brand: COSI Hotels

Bangkok - Centara Hotels & Resorts has launched a new hotel brand, COSI Hotels, designed for cost-conscious travelers who mostly do all their own bookings on-line and who are searching for pocket-friendly accommodation prices. The first COSI Hotel is projected to open in 2015 and Centara plans to have at least 30 operational by 2020. Thirayuth Chirathivat, chief executive officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts, said that the COSI brand has been developed in response to rapid economic expansion within the Asia Pacific region, which is increasing the volume of both domestic and international journeys. “Centara Hotels & Resorts sees a great opportunity to develop a new brand to cover this economic segment, and we are now in the process of brand and product development for COSI Hotels.” COSI Hotels will focus on clearly identified products that include free Wi-Fi everywhere in the hotel, easy and convenient “grab-n-go” restaurants, seminar rooms for corporate guests, and an entertainment corner in the lobby area for movies and live sport. COSI will offer both twin and king beds for standard room types and specially designed rooms for families. In photo: Thirayuth Chirathivat (3rd from right), chief executive officer of Centara Hotels & Resorts leads the management team in launching the company’s sixth brand, COSI Hotels, at the press conference at M23, 23rd Floor, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld. Also in photo are (from left): Tim Hallett, brand director of Cosi Hotels; Dr Ronnachit Mahattanapreut, senior vice president for Finance & Administration of Centara Hotels & Resorts; Supatra Chirathivat, senior vice president-corporate affairs & social responsibilities of Centara Hotels & Resorts; -Thirayuth; Suparat Chirathivat Uahwatanasakul, vice president of Centara International Management; -Chris Bailey, senior vice president for Sales and Marketing of Centara Hotels & Resorts; and Thirakiati Chirathivat, vice president- procurement of Centara Hotels & Resorts

AHS announces 1st Eastin hotel in Pattaya Bangkok – Absolute Hotel Services Group CEO Jonathan Wigley has announced the opening of the first Eastin Hotel in Pattaya with the rebranding of already well-established properties, The Sunbeam Hotel Pattaya and neighboring Hotel Idyll. Both are going rebranding process and will be ready to be combined and re-launch as the ‘Eastin Hotel Pattaya’ on May 2013. The hotels are located between Beach

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Road and Pattaya 2nd Road, which is conveniently situated in the shopping and nightlife districts. The hotels comprise of a combined 268 beautifully decorated superior and deluxe rooms and suites. Every room features deluxe amenities. Facilities include an all-day dining restaurant, bakery, outdoor swimming pool, business center, fitness center, meeting and function rooms as well as all the signatures.” The properties, still operating as Sunbeam Hotel and Hotel Idyll, respectively, are currently going through soft refurbishment and employee training to meet with the Eastin Brand Standards. "This is exciting news as it will be our first Eastin Hotel in Pattaya and the fourth property under the Eastin Brand in Thailand with a total of close to 1000 rooms.” added Wigley.

Asia’s Top 20 Beach Hotels Awards for Cape Panwa Phuket

Koh Samui – Long stays with family, extended families or friends is a luxury travel trend projected for 2013. In keeping with both the trend and demand, InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort has announced its latest addition to its existing guest residences: The 3-bedroom Napa Reserve Villa. Located 110m-above sea level amid lush tropical landscape with panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, the 320sqmaccommodation offer expansive residential style space ideal for families or a small group of friends seeking the ultimate in exclusive getaway on the idyllic Thai Island of Koh Samui. Arnaud Girodon, general manager for InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort, said: “Many of our discerning guests are choosing to extend their length of stay with us, and want to ensure optimum comfort with luxury services and products to give a feeling of staying at a home-away-from-home. Our state-of-the-art Thai style Napa Reserve Villa, with a dedicated butler to provide the highest standard of personalized service can provide just that.”

Starwood growth momentum continues

Stamford, CT–Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced that, building on its 2012 momentum with the most hotel deals signed since before the global economic

Phuket Kasemkij Hotels’ Travel Industry Group Director Poomiphat Navanukroh (2nd left), receiving an Asia’s Top 20 Beach Hotels 2012 Awards for Cape Panwa Hotel, Phuket, from Now Travel Asia magazine Editor in Chief Kanapot Sitthiwong (3rd left); while Kasemkij Hotels Marketing Director Nick Laidlaw (left), and Now Travel Asia Marketing Executive Siremorn Mooham look on. The awards were the results of votes by the magazine’s worldwide readers and expert travelers, and the revierws of editorial team.

crisis, it anticipates a strong year of openings and new hotel agreements signings in 2013. Over the last five years, Starwood has cultivated a quality pipeline of new hotels with well-capitalized, experienced owners for continued growth around the globe. “Rising wealth, increasingly global businesses and a digitally connected world are creating unprecedented demand for travel and new travel patterns, and we continue to be as bullish as ever about our long-term growth,” said Frits van Paasschen, President and CEO. “Whether it’s manufacturing in Vietnam, mineral resources from Nigeria, or outbound tourism from Brazil, Russia, India or China, globalization is spurring economic development and creating many exciting expansion opportunities for our business.” In 2012, Starwood signed a total of 131 new hotel management and franchise agreements which represented an increase of 17 percent over

2011 signings levels, including 31 conversions, 12 of which opened during 2012.” Consistent with macroeconomic growth trends, nearly two –thirds of Starwood’s new hotels in 2013 will open in fast-growing markets. But Starwood executives say Asia remains a high priority market for Starwood, accounting for approximately one quarter of Starwood’s existing hotel rooms and over half of Starwood’s pipeline.

BLINK restores luster to Regent’s crown with 2 stunning resorts

Phuket - Hospitality aficionado BLINK Design Group is in the top seat again, creating two stunning new resorts on Asia's most renowned tropical islands that will herald the rebirth of Regent Hotels & Resorts. BLINK has created the new Regent Phuket and Regent Bali from the ground up, combining timeless tropical modern design

Royal Cliff Group welcomes Thai Bev president and CEO

ThaiBev’s President and CEO, Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi recently was at the multi awardwinning Royal Cliff Hotels Group for “ThaiBev Group Annual Conference 2013.” Royal Cliff Hotels Group’s vice president, Vathanai Vathanakul and Royal Cliff Hotels Group’s executive director, Vitanart Vathanaku gave him a warm welcome. The 4-day event was attended by 100 of ThaiBev’s Managers and Executives from Bangkok. The main objective of this conference was to discuss the 2013 business strategic planning. Thai Beverage Public Company Limited (“ThaiBev”) was established in 2003 with an aim to consolidate its leading spirits and beer businesses in Thailand. Its business consists of 4 segments i.e. spirits, beer, non-alcohol beverages and food.

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management positions at the Singapore office of the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, and at Kerzner International/One&Only Resorts’ Regional Sales office in the UK where she was responsible for selling their portfolio of resorts including One&Only Reethi Rah Maldives, Le Saint Geran Mauritius and Royal Mirage Dubai to key accounts in the UK market. Stirrup earned her bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management at Napier University, Edinburgh.

Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s “Chinese New Year Package”

Dusit Thani Hua Hin welcomes the Year of the Snake in luxury! Celebrate in style with their exclusive “Chinese New Year Package.” Enjoy 5-star Dusit Thani luxury at the multi-award winning beachside resort, including world class dining experiences in a choice of four international restaurants, a wide range of leisure and recreation activities, Deverana Spa and the personal attention of our famously friendly staff. The package includes: 10% discount off the Dusit Best Available Rates, inclusive of breakfast for two; a red fortune envelope containing a voucher for Bt1,000 per room per stay (including tax and service charge); and a special ‘Auspicious Platter’ of mandarin oranges and Chinese tea in room. Terms and conditions apply. For more details, contact: 032-520-296, ext. 2006; dusitthanihuahin.dusit. com inspired by a sense of place with subtle heritage and cultural accents. These twin gems in Regent's new crown will soon be joined by other sparkling jewels of luxury and individuality in Taipei, Indonesia and China that will also bear BLINK's hallmark of instinctive mind's eye design combined with exhaustive research into each destination's history, traditions, culture and people. Regent Phuket Cape Panwa, located on a private finger of Cape Panwa on the southeastern tip of the island, was launched in December. Regent Bali, which was launched January 2013, is located on the eastern part of the spectacular Bali coastline protected by a coral reef and in the exclusive Sanur District. "It's an exciting time for Regent. Both the Phuket and Bali properties will immediately become flagships for the Regent brand in these two absolutely crucial resort island markets in Asia," Ohletz said.

Sukhothai Bangkok in ‘ 500 World’s Best Hotels’ list

Bangkok - The Sukhothai Bangkok was honored in the 11th annual “T+L 500 Best Hotels in the World 2013” in Travel + Leisure magazine, a compendium of the highest-ranking hotels and resorts worldwide as voted by readers in the magazine’s World’s Best Awards survey. A resort-style sanctuary, the hotel is set amid six acres of greenery and lotus ponds in the heart of Bangkok, with

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the combination of traditional Thai refinement, immaculate contemporary style and personalized service, The Sukhothai Bangkok achieved an outstanding score of 90.35 among the top 12 hotels in Thailand and has received this prestigious award for four consecutive years. In addition, The Sukhothai Bangkok was also named as one of the “Top City Hotels in Asia” last August 2012 in the Travel + Leisure World’ Best Awards.

Appointments: Helen Stirrup appointed director of sales for Conrad Koh Samui

Koh Samui - Conrad Koh Samui has announced the appointment of Helen Stirrup as director of sales. Stirrup will be responsible for developing strategies to drive sales at the luxury resort. She will be based at Hilton Worldwide’s National Sales Office in Bangkok. Stirrup’s hospitality career includes more than 12 years sales experience. She joins Conrad Koh Samui from Four Seasons Resort Langkawi in Malaysia, where she held the position of associate director of sales. Prior to that, she held sales

The Peninsula Bangkok has new GM

Bangkok - The Peninsula Hotels has recetnly announced the appointment of Katja Henke as the new general manager of The Peninsula Bangkok. Ms Katja will take over fNicolas Béliard, who has been appointed general manager of The Peninsula Paris. Before joining The Peninsula Hotels in May 2011, Henke worked for hotels in Switzerland, France, and England. Henke has also worked as GM at Relais & Chateau, Four Seasons, Washington D.C., as well as Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills, California. “Ms Henke has a proven track record in managing luxury hotels, which is crucial to ensure the continued success of The Peninsula Bangkok. "I wish to congratulate her on her promotion,” said Clement K.M. Kwok, CEO of The Peninsula Hotels.

Four Seasons Bangkok Holds 6th ‘Cancer Care’ Charity Fun Run

Bangkok – The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is organizing the 6th ‘Cancer Care’ charity fun run, referred to as Terry Fox Run a few years ago, an Lumpini Park on Feb. 23, in association with the Thai Red Cross Society with the support of the Canadian Embassy as well as major sponsors such as B.Grimm, Ananda Development Public Co., Ltd., Boonrawd Brewery, and media partners such as Hello and Masala magazines. Proceeds from the run will go towards the research projects currently conducted by the ‘Hematological Cancer Research Centre’ at Chulalongkorn Hospital. Beginning and ending inside the Lumpini Park, the run promises to be a fun and enjoyable Saturday outing for families, joggers and health enthusiasts of all ages. All are invited to participate in the run with a minimum donation of Bt350 representing the cost of an official ‘Cancer Care’ t-shirt or Bt500 representing the cost of an official ‘Cancer Care’ polo shirt which also includes a breakfast box and the chance to win exciting prizes such as accommodation vouchers at various Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and many others. For the past 19 years, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok has committed to hold a charity run to raise funds for cancer research in conjunction with its

Centara Koh Chang Tropicana supports National Children’s Day

Jonas Sjostedt (center), general manager of Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort, shows the children of Wat Klong Prao how to make animals from balloons on the occasion of National Children’s Day. The kids enjoyed snacks and drinks as they made their own balloon animals. This activity was part of Centara’s corporate social responsibilities policy.

TAT Launches 2nd Edition of Wedding Book, “Wedding & Celebrations in Thailand.

New Delhi, India -- The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) launched its second edition of the Wedding book “Weddings & Celebrations in Thailand” at a gala evening held at The Leela Palace Hotel on Jan. 15. The first edition, “Fall in love in India & Get Married in Thailand” was so popular and extremely successful that a 2nd edition with more information has been produced. The book showcases the enormous range of facilities and services that Thailand has for hosting Indian weddings. "We are very pleased to circulate this informative book among our valuable partners: wedding planners, wedding organizers, media and to couples and their families," says Ms. Runjuan Tongrut, director TAT New Delhi Office. Thailand has firmly become established as a perfect venue for Indian weddings. In 2012, over a hundred couples from India celebrated their weddings in Thailand. The popular destinations for Indian weddings are Bangkok, Hua Hin, Phuket, Khao Lak, Pattaya, Kanchanaburi, and Chiang Mai. In a 2011 survey, Indians voted Thailand as “The World’s Best Wedding destination” survey done by Travel & Leisure magazine. And in November 2012 ,Thailand also received the “Best Wedding Destination” Award at the 8th Annual International Awards 2012 organized by Hospitality India and Explore the World. This resounding vote of confidence is sure to encourage more couples to plan their weddings in Thailand in the coming years. Also helping grow this market segment is the tireless effort in providing information and the ‘can do’ mindset of the Thai Hospitality industry. Thailand was the first NTO in India to promote the country as an ideal dream-wedding destination. The trend started about 10 years ago and it continues to grow very strongly. sister properties in Chiang Mai and Samui. Last year’s run with approximately 3,000 runners, raised successfully Bt3.7 million. For more information, contact Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok’s Concierge Counter, Health Club or Mocha and Muffins at Tel: 02-26 8-866 or Fax: 02-253-5390 or the Thai Red Cross Society at Tel: 02-251-1218 or 02-251-6964.

Starwood Resorts hosts ‘Wedding & Honeymoon Fair’

Bangkok – Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Thailand and Vietnam recently hosted a special Wedding & Honeymoon Fair in the Ballroom of the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. From a stylish wedding in Bangkok to a romantic beach wedding or honeymoon on a private island, the first Wedding & Honeymoon Fair by Starwood Hotels & Resorts will feature more than 20 Starwood properties in Thailand and Vietnam, with each offering attractive wedding and honeymoon promotions and packages. During the event, expert wedding planners will be on hand to answer questions and share their expertise to help plan the dream wedding. Brands under Starwood Hotels & Resorts include St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, Aloft®, and ElementSM. Sheraton Hanoi Hotel. For more details, please visit www.starwood-ap.com/ weddingandhoneymoonfair or e-mail charuni.tantidamrongkun@ starwoodhotels.com \

Conrad Koh Samui hosts familiaarization group from Hong Kong

Koh Samui –Conrad Koh Samui in collaboration with Tourism

Authority of Thailand (Hong Kong Office) and Bangkok Airways recently organized a familiarization trip for delegates from travel agencies in Hong Kong. The trip aimed to promote Koh Samui as a luxury resort destination to discerning travelers in Hong Kong and China who wish to travel to Thailand for a luxury holiday experience. Samui is well known as “the island of coconut plantations” so Conrad Koh Samui arranged the coconut planting activity for the group as a part of their “Go-Green Concept” during the excursion trip around the island. Commenting on the “Go-Green” welcoming concept, Helen Stirrup of Conrad Koh Samui said, “We were delighted to welcome our partners from Hong Kong to the resort and have them join us in the coconut planting activity as part of our Go Green Initiative. Hong Kong continues to be an extremely important market for us here at Conrad Koh Samui which has been re-enforced by the twice daily direct service with Bangkok Airways.” Those who joined the familiarization tour are: Nitikorn Komkris, sales manager-Hong Kong and China market of Bangkok Airways; Henory Y. P. Tsang, assistant manager – product development & operations FIT & Wholesale of EGL Tours; Warren Kong, marketing manager of TAT Hong Kong; Titiporn Manenate, director of TAT Hong Kong; Susanna Lau, general manager, marketing & product development of Travel Expert; Shirley Mak, operations manager, Corporate Travel of Westminster Travel; Charlie Wong, general manager of Zuji Hong Kong,; Jamie Lam, business development manager of Wincastle Travel Hong Kong; Danny Cheung, sales manager of Sun n Sea Holidays;

SCB Launches ‘Private Banking Club’ with THAI, King Power

Siam Commercial Bangkok (SCB) recently joined hands with Thai Airways International (THAI) and King Power to launch a new concept creating a brand new experience for its private banking clients. The bank launched the “SCB Private Banking Club,” billed as “the first time that a full range of “the best in exclusive lifestyles is being offered to meet the demand of high net-worth clients.” SCB has selected the best privileges from the two firms for its clients, including the most competitive rate for using SCB Private Rewards to earn Royal Orchid Plus mileage at Bt15.4 per mile, privileges to upgrade THAI air tickets to first-class, privileges to upgrade THAI’s Royal Orchid Plus status to Gold Card by traveling on two intercontinental flight roundtrips in first class, and privileges to use THAI’s Royal Orchid Plus /Royal Silk Lounge and special guest lounge at airports worldwide using Priority Pass. From King Power, privileges offered include discounts of up to 20%, a personal shopper to provide recommendations, and privileges to use special lounges located at the King Power Duty Free Downtown Complex, Rangnam Road and Suvarnabhumi Airport. They also include tee-off privileges at the renowned member-only The Royal gems Golf City, fitness privileges at leading hotels, as well as dining privileges at leading restaurants. The bank has partnered with Visa International to offer its credit card, VISA Infinite, to SCB Private Banking Club members. Yoi Phokasub, SCB senior executive vice president, said SCB is confident that the partnership with the two leading companies will ensure that SCB Private Banking Club members get only the best, tailor-made privileges in the market. “We hope that our offer will meet the satisfaction of our customers to the optimum,” he said. “These privileges belong to invited private banking customers only. “ february 2013 | 29

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tale of the tape Chiang Mai, North Thailand Set to Boom

By Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive Editor,

www.travel-impact- newswire.com

Tourism Industry Performance in Chiang Mai 2007 and 2011 Type of Data

2007

2011

Visitor

5,356,867

5,661,673

Thai

3,601,727

3,622,511

Foreigners

1,755,140

2,039,162

Average Length of Stay (Days)

3.13

3.19

Thai

2.95

3.24

Foreigners

3.42

3.13

Visitor

2,729.27

2,822.56

Thai

2,399.66

2,581.81

Foreigners

3,239.56

3,196.79

Visitor

38,894.25

43,070.23

Thai

20,777.66

23,973.93

Foreigners

18,116.59

19,096.30

Average Expenditure (Baht/Person/Day)

Revenue (Million Baht)

Source: Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports

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nown as the 'Rose of the North,' the city of Chiang Mai is hailed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand as “a cultural and natural wonderland with ethnic diversity, a multitude of attractions, and welcoming hospitality.” Dotted with spectacular Buddhist temples and stupas, the former capital of the Lanna kingdom has played second fiddle to Thailand’s beach resorts in terms of tourism popularity. Although it will probably never catch up, which may not necessarily be a bad thing, it is set to benefit big time as improved transportation infrastructure strengthens the connectivity between North Thailand and the entire Greater Mekong Subregion. The first chart below compares tourism performance figures between 2007 – 2011. While the figures show that growth over the span of five years has not been very significant, the next few years are set to produce a much rosier set of results with 2012 set to prove a game-changing year. Between 2007-2011, however, the following trends were apparent. (+) Foreign visitor arrivals grew far more than domestic visitor arrivals. (+) The average length of stay for Thais rose slightly but dropped for foreign visitors. (+) A similar trend could be observed for the average daily expenditure – up slightly for Thai visitors but down by foreign visitors. (+) Overall expenditure was up but perhaps not as much as it ought to have been over a five-year period (see chart on left)

AIR ARRIVALS ANALYSIS By far the vast majority of both Thai and foreign tourist arrivals to Chiang Mai is by bus, thanks to a world-class highway from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. A small percentage arrive by train. Arrivals by air are also a small percentage of the overall number but do help indicate trends. The Thai government’s policy to increase direct aviation access to Chiang Mai from overseas source-markets, especially within Asia, is producing results. The chart below shows arrivals by visitors who came directly to Chiang Mai from a foreign point, without transiting through Bangkok. The growth is quite significant all through 2012, especially in the months of January, September and November (see chart next page on top) The figures for December 2012 had not been published at the time of writing.

International Passenger Arrivals at Chiang Mai Airport 2011-2012 The chart on the rigth (center) shows domestic passenger arrivals at Chiang Mai airport. These would include a substantial number of foreign visitors, too; those who have spent a few days in Bangkok and then taken a domestic flight to Chiang Mai would be reported as “domestic arrivals.” However, the bulk of the stats would be local residents, including expatriates living in Thailand, as well as residents of Chiang Mai returning home. This variation in the profiles prevents the domestic passenger stats from providing a clear indication of visitor arrival trends. Suffice it to say that domestic visitors are predominantly during peak periods such as school holidays (mid-March to mid-May) and the Thai New Year period in Songkran (April). Other peak periods are during long weekend holidays. In the chart, the peak months are quite obvious, as are the growth levels between 2011-12. The figures for December 2012 had not been published at the time of writing. The chart on the follwong page shows passenger movements at Chiang Mai Airport by airlines in 2010-2011. NOTE: The figure is much higher than in the chart of passenger arrivals above because it includes both arriving and departing (embarking and disembarking) passengers. However, the purpose of this chart is to show the role of individual airlines in the passenger movements. Although national carrier Thai Airways International tops the chart, the increasing role of low-cost airlines such as Thai Air Asia and Nok Air is apparent. So is the role of regional airlines flying directly into Chiang Mai directly from China, Singapore and Korea. This is where most of the future growth will come from.

Y 2011 MONTH

Y 2012

Disembarked

JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC.

Disembarked

16,602 17,595 15,262 14,179 14,116 13,194 15,246 15,447 12,052 15,680 21,064 23,656

Total

(%) Change

26,922 23,572 20,461 18,486 16,650 17,282 21,196 22,611 19,113 22,368 26,272

194,093

62.16 33.97 34.06 30.38 17.95 30.98 39.03 46.38 58.59 42.65 24.72

234,933

21.04

Source : Air Transport Information Division, AOT.

DOMESTIC PASSENGER MOVEMENT ATat CHIANG MAIMai INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 2011-2012 Domestic Passenger Arrivals Chiang Airport 2011-2012 Y 2011

Y 2012

(%) Change

MONTH DisEmb.

JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. MAY. JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. Total Source : Air Transport Information Division, AOT.

DisEmb.

153,291 141,322 134,773 132,937 119,580 118,288 146,500 136,205 123,325 163,206 158,598 195,761 1,723,786

194,182 169,943 155,061 153,213 134,367 131,459 149,598 152,299 136,118 163,698 185,126

26.68 20.25 15.05 15.25 12.37 11.13 2.11 11.82 10.37 0.30 16.73

1,725,064

0.07

february 2013 | 31

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Thai Airways International Thai Air Asia Nok Air Bangkok Airways Orient Thai Airlines Air Asia Korean Air Silk Air China Airlines China Eastern Airlines Others Total Source: Airports of Thailand

Total Passenger Movements at Chiang Mai International Airport by Airlines 2010-2011 2010 2011 Disembarked + Embarked Disembarked + Embarked 1,340,505 1,382,400 658,384 969,445 343,189 545,224 250,296 374,654 280,188 270,432 101,346 104,111 43,460 60,513 42,858 42,220 37,646 29,283 3,275 19,635 80,179 100,312 3,171,051 3,878,614

% Change 3.13 47.25 58.88 49.68 -3.48 2.73 39.24 -1.49 -22.21 499.54 25.11 22.04

Finally, we have another critical industry “indicator” – growth in accommodation units. Here, too, the increase has been marginal. However, the interesting thing about Chiang Mai’s accommodation is that quantity is perhaps not as important as quality. As the North Thailand region is trying to position itself more as a cultural/environmental destination, it is witnessing the emergence of some spectacular spas and health and wellness retreats. Number of Accommodations & Rooms in Chiang Mai 2011-2012 Hotels

Resorts

Guest Houses 2012

Accom

2011 248

2012 249

2011 132

2012 136

2011 161

165

Room s

19,09 9

19,88 7

4,32 1

4,45 0

3,90 9

4,05 7

National Park Guest Houses

Youth Hostel

Bungalows

Service Apartments

201 1 2

201 2 2

201 1 15

201 2 15

201 1 5

201 2 5

201 1 14

201 2 17

201 1 1

201 2 1

201 1 5

201 2 5

201 1 -

201 2 1

201 1 13

201 2 13

2011 596

620

787

187

228

172

245

28,84 9

29,98 8

Rafts

Home Stay

VIP Guest Houses

Others

Total

2012

Remark: Not including Apartments/Mansion

Source: Ministry of Tourism & Sports

Conclusion Chiang Mai is not a “mass-market” tourism destination, not yet anyway. But with growing transportation links throughout the entire sub-region, it could quickly become one. The more roads and highways are built, the more real estate developers and travel industry executives add accommodation units. A new convention centre is also due to open in 2013, which will give Chiang Mai a major marketing fillip. In terms of quantity of visitor arrivals, the future is bright. However, as with many other parts of Thailand, it’s the quality that will matter. With Thailand having crossed the 21 million arrivals mark in 2012, and projecting more than 23 million in 2013, destinations such as Chiang Mai will prove be a lynchpin in the ongoing debate over the management of tourism growth. 

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insights Thailand Set to Cement Status as GMS Travel Hub By Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive Editor,

www.travel-impact- newswire.com

he 32nd ASEAN Tourism Forum held in Vientiane, Laos, between 1724 January will further boost travel & tourism to the Greater Mekong Subregion (comprising of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Yunnan Province of Southern China), one of the world’s most diverse and exotic destinations. At the same time, it will benefit travel to and through Thailand, especially the North and Northeast provinces which are culturally the richest parts of the kingdom but do not enjoy the same level of tourist popularity as the sun-and-sand beaches of South Thailand. Thailand’s geographical location at the doorstep of the GMS gives it an unbeatable advantage as a bridgehead for travel & tourism flows to the neighbouring countries of Laos, Cambodia and the rapidly opening Myanmar. Evolving transport networks such as the worldclass Asian Highway system are making it possible to drive from Singapore to Kunming, and from Yangon to Ho Chi Minh city, all via Thailand.

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If low-cost airlines have made it possible for “everyone to fly,” boosting road and rail transport through the ASEAN and GMS regions is making it possible for everyone to travel across an integrated, intermodal transport system. Tour operators have immense opportunities to open up new destinations and build unique combinations of fly, drive, air packages regionwide. A critical component of this highway network are the three bridges that link Thailand and Laos over the Mekong River. The first Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge over the Mekong linking the Thai province of Nong Khai and Lao PDR capital of Vientiane was opened in 1994. The second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge linking the Lao province of Savannakhet with northeastern Thailand's Mukdahan province was opened in 2006. The Third Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge, linking Nakhon Phanom province in Thailand with Thakhek, Khammouane in Laos was opened in November 2011.

In April 2013, the Fourth Thai - Lao Friendship Bridge is expected to open. The 480 m long bridge will link the Huayxai district in Laos' Bokeo province to Chiang Khong in northern Thailand's Chiang Rai province. The bridge is part of the GMS north-south economic corridor project, linking Chiang Rai province to Kunming, via Highway Number 3 in Laos. Positive results are emerging from this increased connectivity. One remarkable statistic is that visitors from Laos to Thailand crossed the 900,000-mark in 2012 and most probably will cross the one million mark this year. In addition to border-crossers, thousands of emerging middle-class Laotians are coming down to Bangkok for holiday, shopping and to attend conferences and trade exhibitions. One of the biggest regional developments is the opening up of Myanmar. Thailand will benefit from this, too. Bangkok is the nearest international aviation gateway, and the Myanmar tourism industry has always maintained that if it could get only 1% of Thailand’s tourism arrivals to also visit Myanmar, it would be more than happy. The Thai and Myanmar tourism sectors are working closely together to help this dream materialise. The completion of a vital missing link of the Asian Highway linking Thailand, Myanmar and India will cement this deal. The road will run from Mae Sot in Thailand to the Moreh in the Northeastern Indian state of Manipur via Myanmar. All three countries are helping to build various stages of the road, with India undertaking the task of repair/upgradation of 71 bridges. The entire road is expected to be

ready by 2016. Another major project being expedited is the deep-sea port of Dawei in Myanmar, which will also have a direct road link to Thailand. To the east, the conclusion of a singlevisa agreement between Thailand and Cambodia will also make it easier to go from Bangkok to the famous UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, near the Cambodian town of Siem Reap. Citizens of 35 countries will be eligible to apply for this visa which will allow them to stay up to 60 days in Thailand and 60 days in Cambodia. Tourists will be able to apply for the visa at embassies of either country. The agreement comes under the framework of the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS). By 2015, the ASEAN Economic Community, or AEC, will allow significant regional trade and services liberalisation to take effect. With the exception of Yunnan Province, the GMS countries are also members of ASEAN, which is gearing up to take advantage of the emerging opportunities and prepare for the emerging challenges. There will be plenty of both. As economic opportunities emerge regionwide, two major growth areas will be business travel and the so-called MICE sector (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions). To make it easier for tour operators to take advantage of these opportunities, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has designed a suggested itinerary of 4 days 3 nights cultural tour programs connecting Bangkok-Buriram-Surin-Siem Reap-Phnom Penh. It also has unveiled a travel brochure

named “ASEAN Routes” to promote Thailand and Beyond ASEAN. The brochure contains a number of suggested tour itineraries that will go a long way towards enhancing the appeal of visiting the GMS countries. The suggested tours are as follows: • 5 Days Thailand–Laos: The Historic Route (Vientiane – Luang Prabang) • 5 Days Thailand-Cambodia: Timeless Wonder (Siem Reap – Phnom Penh) • 4 Days Thailand-Myanmar: From Northern Thailand to Myanmar (Bangkok – Chiang Rai – Chiang Tung) • 7 Days Thailand-Vietnam: Destination North Vietnam (Hanoi – Halong – Sapa) The TAT also has launched a bilingual Thai-English website http:// th.aectourismthai.com to provide updates of ASEAN developments of relevance to travel & tourism. Travel industry executives wishing to take advantage of the emerging opportunities should attend the annual trade show, the ‘Thailand Travel Mart Plus Amazing Gateway to the Greater Mekong Subregion’ (TTM+), to be held 5-7 June 2013 at the Impact Muang Thong Thani Convention & Exhibition Centre in Bangkok. Further details: http://www. thailandtravelmartplus.com/. Another organisation that can help is the Pacific Asia Travel Association, which is based in Bangkok. This year, PATA will be holding its annual conference and associated events in Bangkok between April 26-30, 2013. Further details are being finalised at the time of writing. 

february 2013 | 35

travel

places to discover

Exploring Khao Sok

Experiences in nature are getting harder to come by in Thailand; fortunately, Khao Sok remains a top draw for both adventure and tranquility

Text and Photos by Dave Stamboulis

hao Sok National Park is one of Thailand’s lesser-known gems. Tucked away in a mountainous corner of Surat Thani Province, the park covers an area of over 700sqm; mostly spectacular limestone and jungle covered peaks, and is dotted with caves, rivers, and waterfalls. As much of the area is dense jungle, protected area, and difficult to access, it is a prime habitat for an abundant variety of large wildlife, such as gaur, sambar, mouse deer, bear, Malaysian tapir, macaques, gibbons, serow, wild dogs, and civet cats, to name but a few. The park also supports several of the huge rafflesia flowers and a number of very rare tree species. The name “Khao Sok” is derived from the words “ban sop,” which mean “house of dead bodies,” but this rather macabre moniker aside there is nothing frightening or uninviting about the park itself. Khao Sok is comprised of a large swath of land and water, both with access points that are miles apart. The majority of foreign visitors usually end up near the park headquarters, where a peaceful little village has sprung up with guesthouses and resorts snuggled into large cliffs and surrounded by the thick jungle. From this spot, one can easily access Khao Sok’s main trails, visiting waterfalls and pristine swimming holes on daytrips or hiking out to cave systems ripe for exploration or viewpoints in search of wildlife.

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At the right time of year, one might even come across a rafflesia or two. Rafflesia, famed for being the world’s largest flower, is actually a parasitic flowering plant with no roots or stem, which takes over a host vine and produces a flower that can weigh up to 10 kilograms! The rafflesia is also known as the corpse flower because of its rotting flesh smell, which serves to attract flies for pollination. Even more amazing is the fact that this beautiful bud, which takes up to a year to burst forth, only lives for four to five days once it appears, and is highly endangered. While the interior jungle part of Khao Sok is certainly lovely, many foreigners miss out on the park’s best piece of real estate, the beautiful Chao Larn Lake, home to jagged karst pinnacles and also to one of Thailand’s most unique accommodation options. The lake was formed during the flooding of the Ratchaprapa Dam, and is wildly photogenic in early morning and evening light, with the mountains lit up by sunrise and sunset colors, or else poking up out of the mists that often shroud the lake. Best of all, there are a series of floating raft houses that are operated by the national park, where one can sleep surrounded by water, canoe around the limestone, and take early morning boat trips to try and spot hornbills nesting in the cliffs. Accommodations here are a bit basic, but food is provided and the experience is well worth the simple sleep.

where to

contact/ Khao Sok National Park Destinations

Getting There:

Khao Sok is accessible by bus and minivan from Surat Thani, Phang Nga, and Phuket. The nearest airport is in Suratthani, about two to three-hour drive with public transport. Contact: Khao Sok National Park Phanum, Suratthani, 84250 // Tel: 077-395-155 // www.dnp.go.th National Park Office: National Park, Wildlife, and Conservation Department, 61 Phahonyothin Rd., Chatuchak, Bangkok, 10900 // Tel: 02-579-7223

For something a bit more elegant, a stay at the new Thanyamundra Organic Resort (102 Moo 6, T.Klong Sok, Panom, Suratthani // Tel: 077- 395-031/4 //www.thanyamundra.com/en/) is not to be missed. This intimate nine-suite boutique lodging is comprised of two traditional teak villas, which sit perched over an organic farm and surrounded by mountains and jungle. The beautiful eco-resort combines silence and solitude along with a 24-hour personal butler and some of the best food in the country (fresh from the farm), and is certainly one of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most idyllic and natural retreats. Thanyamundra has plenty of green touches, such as only using recyclable paper products, serving up fresh meals using their own organic produce, and even using rechargeable batteries to power the buggies used to shuttle visitors around the property, while guests can use the 50m-lap pool and be serenaded by birds and gibbons while swimming and sunning. Experiences in nature are getting harder to come by in Thailand, and fortunately, Khao Sok remains a top draw for both adventure and tranquility. While the park is at its best in January and February, when the rafflesia bloom and the sun shines out on the lake, it can also be rewarding to come just after the rainy season, when the waterfalls are gushing, and visitors a bit thinner. At any rate, other than trekking at the height of leech season (JulySeptember), it is hard to go wrong at this natural gem. ď Ž

Thanyamundra Organic Resort

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Hotels

hotels

Italianate Lifestyle

A stay at Praya Palazzo is very special; it doesn't feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a guest in a hotel but rather in a very comfortable home of a benevolent gentleman

By Laurence Civil

uring the reign of both King Rama V and his son King Rama VI, Italianate architecture was very fashionable for royal palaces, government buildings, and the mansions of wealthy merchants. They both hired European architects, mostly Italian. Even architect members of the Royal Family where building in the Italianate style. Exactly who designed Praya Palazzo remains a mystery but what is certain is that its DNA is Italian. The Praya Palazzo, a stunning Paladio-style built in1923 during the reign of King Vajiravudh (King Rama VI), stands majestically on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It was built by Col. Praya Chollabhumipanich, a Thai-Chinese nobleman and millionaire who collected taxes for the king and was responsible for the interior and foreign affairs (mostly with China, Cambodia, and Vietnam). His wife, Khunying Suan, had been raised in the inner court of the Grand Palace and was the favorite maid of honor to Queen Saovabha, the Queen of King Chulalongkorn. The mansion was originally known as Baan Bang Yee Khan, a name taken from the local surroundings.

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They raised 10 children and the family lived in the mansion until 1946 when they moved to the Sukhumvit area on the other side of the river. Ownership was then transferred to the Foundation for Muslim Community and subsequently, it was turned into Rachakarun School, replacing the original school, which was destroyed during World War II. It operated as such until 1978 when it closed down due to financial difficulties. Five years later, the building became the Indara Vocational School until 1996 when again the school closed down due to financial reasons. After that the mansion remained empty; neglected for over a decade, until it attracted the attention of Wichai Pitakvorrarat, assistant professor of Architecture at Rangsit University, who enjoyed looking at it while sitting at Santichaiprakarn Park in Bang Lamphu on the other side of the river. Wichai and his wife Preeyadhorn decided to restore the building back to life despite the costs. He was most insistent that the restoration should be as authentic as possible, which meant seeking out materials and the services of

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boutique Praya Palazzo CHECKING IN

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contact/ craftsmen whose skills were almost extinct. Three years later, after much hard work, the elegant mansion was brought back to its original glory. It was christened "Praya Palazzo," which means "Praya Chollabhumipanich's Mansion." This was Wichai's swan song; he passed away the same year. For the past three years, Praya Palazzo has been a boutique hotel that takes guests back to a time when the local people's lives were associated with river and Thailand was still known as Siam in the golden period of King Chulalongkorn's reign. But the lifestyle of the past has been combined with the conveniences of today such as LCD television with a choice of satellite and cable channels, CD/DVD players, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout. For the ultimate stay experience I checked into their Chao Phraya Suite, an epitome of early 1900s luxury. It was completely decorated in the style of the period. Behind the king-size bed is the smaller of the two bathrooms with a shower. There’s a lounge with a sofa armchair and writing desk. From here is an uninterrupted view over to the pool to the river and Pom Phra Sumen, one of 14 fortresses built during King Rama I’s reign to protect the capital. Leading off the lounge is the second bathroom with a standalone massive bathtub. This suite is an absolute haven of privacy, perfect for couples wishing to spend quality time with each other. Some say it’s on the wrong side of the river but that’s a matter of perspective. From downtown Bangkok, Praya Palazzo is just 30 minutes by Express Boat from Saphan Taksin to Phra Atit pier. Upon arrival, call the hotel for their ferryboat, which collects guests 24 hours a day. Likewise, the ferryboat takes guests back across the river to enjoy Khao San Road's vibrant nightlife or to explore the oldest parts of Bangkok a few stops down river such as The Grand Palace, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn). A delightful element of Praya Palazzo lifestyle is the Edwardian ritual of “Taking Afternoon Tea.” The food was a blend of Thai and Western, the service elegantly British, served on floral bone china, with matching three -tiered cake stand. On the lower tier, white and rye bread sandwiches with different filling and crusts removed. The middle tier offers a selection of pastries while on the top, freshly baked scones, homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream served on the terrace beside the pool looking out over the river.

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After dark the illuminated Rama VIII bridge is the jewel of the night reflecting in the calm of the river. Dinner was served either on the terrace or in the ground floor Praya Dining room. The menu is a choice of authentic Thai dishes made with recipes from the palace or European fine dining. Service in both locations was impeccable. A la carte breakfast is served in the dining room with tables available on the adjacent patio. The stay is very special; it doesn't feel like you’re in a hotel but rather as a guest in a very comfortable home of a benevolent gentleman.  Contact Details Praya Palazzo 757/1 Somdej Prapinklao Soi 2 Bangyeekhan, Bangkok Tel: 02-883-2998 E-mail: reservation@prayapalazzo.com

february 2013 | 39

Hotels

hotels

Samui to a Tee – in Luxury

Santiburi Beach Resort, Golf & Spa beckons as a year-round paradise for a stress-free, hassle-free Samui holiday for families and golfers By PerCY ROXAS

n the last few years, more and more high-end resorts and hotels have surfaced on Koh Samui, continuing the island’s march as a top luxury holiday destination, the new darling of many of the world’s high rollers. Today, almost all major luxury international hotel and resorts brand are represented in this small island about 700km south of Bangkok. But one pioneering resort has remained a top favorite of many luxury travelers, because, like fine vintage wine, they say, it has become better with the years. That "grand dame” of Samui resorts which continues to exceed expectations of both its guests and the industry is Santiburi Beach Resort, Golf & Spa, located on a private section of Mae Nam Beach, considered as the quietest beach on Koh Samui. Nestled amid 23 acres of exotic gardens, many guests compare the Santuburi to a theme park or complex of sorts. Indeed, it’s setting -within a large tropical park full of large palm trees and lush, fragrant

Lookeast | wine & dine

flowers with a small stream flowing through it -- makes it an oasis for those looking for a perfect getaway. If you’re a first timer in the resort, you will find it hard to believe that the property has been a Samui landmark for so many years now. Not a few guests realize that one of Willy Optekamp’s – who is running the hotel -- biggest challenges here is how to make the slightly dated feel in the resort with its luxury resort aspirations. But in fact, despite its age, there are very few obvious signs of how old it was. This is testimony to how the hotel management and team have been very successful in maintaining the resort, physically speaking and otherwise. Much of the credit goes to Optekamp, who has managed luxury hotels all over the world, has opened the world-famous Emirates Palace Hotel Abu Dhabi, and has been named “hotelier of the year” several times. It is said that the Thai owners deliberately engaged this top manager to maintain top standards in this complex as well as to introduce his

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boutique Santiburi Beach Resort, Golf & Spa CHECKING IN

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own ideas on keeping the relaxed vacation atmosphere in the resort while upping the operational luxury benchmark. Great thing is, Santiburi has always been well recognized for its generous and friendly services. Despite its size, visitors feel that they are fully cared for because while the staff are attentive, they are not intrusive. Even on the beach – which many guests seem to prefer to the pool -- there are enough beach lounges and hammocks for guests while still maintaining their privacy. There is even a unique butler service on the beach! The resort’s centerpiece is its swimming pool, which is one of the largest hotel pools in Asia that some guests call it a “lake.” Although most of the guests seem to prefer the beach – and why not:? It is also one of the few hotels in Asia – and the only one on Koh Samui – with a private 300m-long white sandy beach. The resort offers 59 luxurious villas and 12 Equatorial Duplex Suites, decorated in Thai-style. Among the most sought after is the one-bedroom Pool Villa, with its luxurious contemporary Thai architecture and modern interiors. These villas have a large veranda with private sun bathing area and living space adjacent to the bedroom. But most recommended are the eight Equatorial Duplex Suites, which are available as one- or two-bedroom units; both perfect for a stress-free, hassle-free stay. A wide range of dining options awaits, with three restaurants to keep guests satisfied: Sala Thai, which serves Royal Thai and international contemporary cuisine with a romantic view of the pool; Rim Talay, which serves cool drinks for your refreshment and small menu, a lounge, beach and pool bars. There are some guests who say that while the breakfast buffet was good, they weren’t up to the standards one might expect from a luxury resort. But then again many guests are probably expecting more now that Samui’s overall dining scene is getting to be more and more sophisticated. Truth be said, this doesn’t matter much to us, as Santiburi has really more to offer. The resort is called by some as "the best resort for family and golf in Samui by far." And that’s not surprising. Family holidaymakers are spoiled here as well. Assistance is provided to families with children and children from age 0 to 5 are completely free. Seven babysitters are available to take care of children in a protected section of the beach. The children’s entertainment center is packed with fun games and activities such as darts, billiards, petanque, ping-pong, golf putting green, kayaks, kayaks, windsurfing, sailing, etc. -- all activities with free trainer. Santiburi is also increasingly becoming famous as a paradise for honeymooners, and indeed they get extra pampering and service at the resort. As Samui positions itself as a top wedding and honeymoon

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destination, Santiburi has been throwing a wider net with its size, facilities, and professional team. Another key highlight of staying in Santiburi Resort -- one that no other island resort can lay claim to -- is the 18-hole PGA championship golf course at the Santiburi Samui Country Club. Considered to be among the most beautiful golf courses in Asia, the courses are a mere 5-minute drive from the resort and a free shuttle service can take you there in a breeze. No handicap is required to play this challenging course. Every hole poses a special challenge for golfers. And because it is in the mountains, there are steep slopes up and down the hillsides that create a “multi-level course,” and long, winding fairways, breathtaking gorges, and bunkers that spice up the golfing experience. Golfers also enjoy incomparable views down onto the coast, beach, isIands, and the shining, emerald blue sea. And for spa lovers, the Santiburi Spa – the first in Thailand to be awarded the Hygiene Seal -- beckons. Located in a quiet palm oasis, the hotel spa offers unusual wellness treatments and rituals of all kinds, also for couples – service that is also available in the open pavilion on the beach. Ladies can book massages at the spa almost everyday as they are very good value for money. Overall, the Santiburi Resort, Golf & Spa is a great resort to stay in, especially if you’re bringing your family or interested in playing golf during your holiday.  Contact Details Santiburi Beach Resort, Golf & Spa 12/12 Moo 1, Tambol Maenam, Amphur Koh Samui, Suratthani Tel: 077-425-031/8; www.santiburi.com february 2013 | 41

PERSONALITY

hotelier Platinum Positive

After an incredible first year, finishing with 80% occupancy, this GM looks to an even more tremendous year not only for Novotel Bangkok Platinum but also for the whole of Bangkok

By PerCY ROXAS

s a young man, Sagar Naker dreamed of being a stockbroker, at one time, and a rock star, at another. Instead, he became a hotelier. Music has remained an integral part of him (“A big part, after my children,” he says) and today, he still plays -- albeit occassionaly -- with the resident band at the hotel’s Platinum Lounge. Hotels are obviously his life now, and his track record proves that he is definitely one of Accor's best assets today. A 20-year hospitality veteran, Sagar has been with Accor for 12 years. He previously served as GM of Novotel London ExCeL, a multi-award winning hotel in the London Docklands, during which the hotel won numerous awards for Innovation, Quality Customer Service, and Best Employer. That he ended up in the hotel business wasn't suprising since Sagar practically grew up in the industry; his parents were both in the same business. But his career started at the bottom end, as a kitchen steward at Hilton Parklane London, then a breakfast waiter. But he always knew that there is more excitement to hotel life than just washing dishes although it took him five years to become a deputy general manager (GM). He was 27, when he became deputy GM of the 43-room Kensington London, which he describes as "a very small property...but really its about attention to details, and service delivery at the top end of boutique hotels." Eventually, armed with a degree in European Business and French and subsequently a masters in International Hotel Management, Sagar felt he needed to join a larger company and become a fullpledged GM. He joined Accor in January 2000 and never looked back since. In Thailand for just a little over a year and a half, Sagar brings his fun and warm personality to work to the delight of his co-workers. “The guy has an easy laugh and a great sense of humor," one staffmember says. "He lightens up the workplace even during the most stressful times,” says another, “It’s a pleasure working with him.” Sagar says he wants to put a smile on every one’s face every day. "My interaction with my team is always an important part of my day; like my guests, my team members are the very reason I love coming to work every day," he says. Sagar describes himself as a "jack of all trades, master of none," probably half in jest, but his pride shows when talking about his great team. "It’s a big plus to have a great team. I have specialists around me and I value their opinions," he says. "It is always our opinion. I may have an opinion but I always discuss them with my team. Nobody’s perfect, not even me – although I hope my team will say – that’s

Lookeast PERSONALITY

what’s great about him. What’s important is my team take the best of what I have: and openness, fairness, and humor are very important." Venturing in Asia, in his fourth Novotel, was something like a millennium change for Sagar, and he loved it. "Asia does hotels extremely well," he says, "and I’m very proud of this one. Every time Novotel opens a hotel the product gets better and better. With the opportunity given me by Accor, both in London and Asia, I couldn’t have asked for more. I think I will be working for the company (Accor) for a long time." In his 12 years with Accor, he held operations manager positions in two hotels and general manager in three. Sagar says he actually planned to come to Asia a long time ago, but so many things held him back, but when he finally made the move, he knew he made the right decision. He says: "I think I moved here at a perfect time; the timing couldn’t have been better. Bangkok has got great opportunies, and exciting thing are happening all around while bringing challenges at the same time," he says. "I think I’ll be here for a while; I have no plans to go back to Europe anytime soon," he says. He describes being in Bangkok as an interesting learning curve, and admits it’s been a true pleasure to open the Novotel Bangkok Platinum. As Novotel Bangkok Platinum GM, Sagar made the hotel a by-word right away among hotel aficionados. He opened the hotel at exactly the date it promised to open, marketed it as an attractive alternative to some of the city's fine hotels, and finished the first year with an 80 percent occupancy. He says of the feat, “In a competitive market where the average is about 68 percent, doing 80 percent is truly an achievement. If anyone complains about achieving 80 percent in their first year in Bangkok -- they must really have higher expectations." Of course, it helped that he opened a Novotel. "The beauty of a Novotel hotel is that wherever you go, you know what you’re gonna get. Novotels in Bangkok are all great products although we are separated by location and maybe, design. Even our room rates are very similar," he says. "It’s important to price yourself and Novotel is always very good value for money." Indeed 2012 was an incredible first year for the Novotel Bangkok Platinum and Sagar credits his entire team, especially his great sales team, for their tremendous performance. “A GM is only as good as his team,” he says. How did they do at Novotel Bangkok Platinum? "We did things differently," he says. "If you look outside our window, you’ll see that every other building in the area is a hotel. It’s a very tough market here indeed, so you have to make your own mark. You’ve got to set your unique benefits and unique points. Your pricing should be right but so should your key benefits as well. From the beginning we sent out the message that we want to be different. And the public

Sagar Naker General Manager, Novotel Bangkok Platinum responded." Of course, Novotel Bangkok Platinum is backed up by a great location in the heart of Pratunam, an area very popular to tourists from around the world. Also, the hotel sits right on top of a shopping mall, which they have direct access to, making it very attractive to the minions of shoppers who flock the area. Their main market right now consists of small independent buyers from around the region who visit Pratunam regularly and stay from three to four days in general. "We pushed elements from a leisure point of view," he continues. "And our targeted approach hit the right people. We knew that if we are to get the interest of potential guests quickly, we should go for the short-term market. So we focused on the short-haul, we looked at who are coming to shopping mall, and just kept our focus." Currently, Novotel Bangkok Platinum’s market can be classified as 70 percent leisure and 30 percent business, although Sagar adds that this will change over time. Even with their success, there are still areas that Sagar wanted to see improve operations-wise and business-wise. But all in all, he thinks the hotel is looking at another great year. "I am very positive not only for Novotel Bangkok Platinum but also for the whole of Bangkok this year," Sagar says, "The Bangkok market should remain very strong because it’s still great value for money, it still has a lot to offer. I’m really positive about Bangkok. I can see great opportunities coming up. " 

NOVOTEL PLATINUM BANGKOK In the hub of Bangkok's fashion center, Novotel Bangkok Platinum is located on top of Platinum mall, 10 minutes walk from Siam Square, Siam Paragon and BTS stations. Blending comfort and technology, the hotel is the perfect choice for your next holiday or business trip. Featuring 283 well-designed rooms, Novotel Bangkok Platinum offers two bars and one restaurant, three meeting rooms, free Wi-fi internet, LED flat screen TV, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and indoor car park. Contact Details: 220 Petchaburi Road, Ratchatevee, 10400 Bangkok Tel: 02-160-7100 e-mail: h7272@accor.com

february 2013 | 43

Lifestyle

jewelry Planets, Gems, and You

Before wearing a gem one should have their Vedic horoscope checked by an expert astrologer to determine which planets are well-placed

By Richard Shaw Brown Gemologist (GIA)

ccording to Vedic culture gems are believed to resonate with the same piezoelectric impulses as their ruling planets. Therefore we should only wear gems for planets which are well-placed or anukul in our Vedic horoscope. Anukula means a planet that is beneficially disposed either by being strong in own sign, good house, ruler of houses which will bring positive results, or otherwise not malefically disposed nor inclined to produce evil influence. A planet which is good for the chart either naturally or by house rulership, yet somewhat weakened by placement may be strengthened through the gem, or a planet which already is strong and giving benefic influence may be further strengthened for gains in particular areas of life by wearing the gem. Based on this simple premise we list below basic guidelines on how fine quality jyotish gems might influence us according to our horoscope.

1. Influence of Ruby/Red Spinel

2. Influence of (natural) Pearl/ Moonstone

3. Influence of Yellow Sapphire/Yellow Topaz

If Sun is well placed in the horoscope:

If Moon is well placed in the horoscope:

If Jupiter is well placed in the horoscope:

The influence will be toward nobility, dignity, power, leadership, and confidence. One will be well-read, pious, strong, compassionate, and untroubled.

The influence will be toward sensitivity, good habits, stability, and health. One will be wealthy, industrious, and respected.

The influence will be toward humanitarianism, spiritualism, optimism, faith, and good judgement. One will be powerful, respected, and a leader of men, although susceptible to anger.

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4. Influence of Hessonite/ Orange Zircon

5. Influence of Emerald/ Tsavorite

6. Influence of Diamond/ Colorless Quartz

If Rahu is well placed in the horoscope:

If Mercury is well placed in the horoscope:

If Venus is well placed in the horoscope:

The influence will be toward originality, inspiration, insight, and uniqueness. One will be exotic, wealthy and fortunate.

The influence will be toward rationality, wit, skilfulness, and dexterity. One will be educated, happy, fortunate, and highly respected.

The influence will be toward attractiveness, grace, elegance, and longevity. One will be refined, humanitarian, and possess many positive qualities.

7. Influence of Chrysoberyl Cat's Eye/Fibrolite Cat's Eye

8. Influence of Blue Sapphire/ Indicolite (Blue Tourmaline)

9. Influence of Red Coral/Red Carnelian

If Ketu is well placed in the horoscope:

If Saturn is well placed in the horoscope:

If Mars is well placed in the horoscope:

The influence will be toward spiritualism, intuition, universality, subtleness, and sensitivity. One will be wealthy and protected from evil.

The influence will be toward discipline, responsibility, realism, durability, and humility. One will be long-lived, charitable, proficient, and an affectionate mate.

The influence will be toward positive energy, strength, courage, passion, and aggression. One will be active, have great energy, be learned, well known and regal.

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note: Richard Shaw Brown was the lead singer and co-song writer of The Misunderstood, a rock music band originating from California in the mid-sixties. In 1966 the group moved to London and produced some records which are today considered classics. In 1967 Brown was initiated as Hrisikesh das by Srila Bhakti Vedanta Swami Prabhupada and he subsequently lived in Asia for 12 years. In 1983 Brown graduated from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Brown's book, Ancient Astrological Gemstones & Talismans, received the "1996 Benjamin Franklin Award" from the Publishers Marketing Association (PMA). Brown is currently a gemologist and jewelry designer in Bangkok, Thailand, where he founded the Planetary Gemologists Association and Astral Gemstone Talismans. For more information visit Astral Gemstone Talismans on line at http://www.agt-gems.com

So before wearing a gem one should have their Vedic horoscope checked by an expert astrologer to determine which planets are well-placed.

february 2013 | 45

Lifestyle

fashion

Chanel white suit with metallic boots

Dior's lustrous bustier dress

Dior: flower embellish detail on bolero jacket

Elie Saab: teal silk gown

Shining Style

Fashion tips for those who want to shine like a star wherever they go, day and night

By Kornkanok Yongsakul

ashion can be difficult to keep up with. In an industry where one color, fabric, or trend can be insanely “hot” one minute and then totally “out” the next second, there is no doubt that keeping up is not that easy. With the “Fashion Couture Week” kicking off the Spring/ Summer 2013 season many high-profile fashion houses, such as Christian Dior, Chanel, Giorgio Armani, and Ellie Saab, have been showing off their very feminine couture collections -- with touches of lustrous shinning fabric and details of pretty delicate embellishments to complete the look. This is what makes the fashion houses extraordinary and totally different from the ready-to-wear (RTW) collections. We must mention the house of Christian Dior with its new head designer Raf Simons who arrived after the disastrous John Galliano scandal. The Dior collections are beautiful creations of layers, bustier, with peplums and jacket on top of another in a lovely yet unconventional color palette of mint, burnt orange, and aubergine. There are ball gowns worn with white veiled faces and ballerina style headdresses. Dior makes beautiful embroidery details on silk bustier cocktail dresses in midnight blue and pale pink all embellished and inflated in proportion at the back to give off sparkle as the body moves around. These details make the dress formal but with a difference; classy and very feminine, and yet very contemporary. Another couture house worth mentioning is the house of Chanel, whose chief designer is Karl Lagerfeld. Chanel is well-known in the couture world with their unique, embroidered handmade fabric

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that is one-of-a-kind, made exclusively for them by the specialty lace/embroidery artisan ‘Lesage” in Paris. Their dresses are made with glass beads, rhinestones, crystal ornaments, sparkling sequins, and metallic threads. Chanel's new collection takes us back to the enchanting, magical days of “The Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Their collection consists of their signature tailored tweed suit, with matching skirt in a glittering embroidered white tweed, worn with silver leather and lace boots that either climb up the whole length of the leg or come down as short ankle boots. Their eveningwear is the showstopper, with toppling white feathers, and worn with black patent leather booties. There is also a set of 30s dresses in red and white sequins, which are particularly special, standing out radiantly under the spotlight as in a magical fairy tale. A couture house which is synonymous to modernity, with a touch of masculinity and striking shimmery, and with clothes that can be worn from day to night is that of Giorgio Armani Prive'. The designer himself is strongly passionate in creating clothes with specialized fabrics that give the most luster, from silk taffeta and layered chiffon to metallic lame, which is the signature of the brand. The Giorgio Armani Prive' collection can be likened to a magical carpet with thunder lights to keep your eyes wide open. Emphasis is on the trouser, another major signature of the brand. The trouser comes in cropped shape and slightly flared metallic variations under billowy dresses of jewel shades or little halter neck waistcoat, strung together with beading embellishment, and striking cylindrical shapes. Beading details are a major part for the shining looks from

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where to beading and bracelets rattling around waists and wrists in somber color palette such as grey and blue, and a touch of orange, red, and black for Swarovski sparkling column gowns at the end. But one couture house that we can never miss out on is Elie Saab. This is one of my most favorite Lebanese couture brands because it has its own dominant feminine and pretty look, which if you ask me is every woman’s dream. Saab gowns make the woman stand out and be the star of the night. With their excellent craftsmanship as can be seen on the intricate fine laces, hand-sewn embroidered and crystalized laminated silk, the clothes make their wearer always an eye-stopper, probably a reason why many film stars wear them on the red carpet. Saab’s collection is all about “shines, shimmers, and sparkles,” and striking silhouette. The clothes -- in midi-length -- are pretty with their flourish: embroideries and embellishments laid-out across fitted dresses of lavender and white, fuchsia, black, and baby blue. They are structured, with capes and shoulder details, and bustier constructions. Their ball gowns were made of crystals in "coralesque" formations: white lace flower strewn between iridescent silver, head-to-toe embellishment, and blowy circular skirts. Last but not least is a couture house that can be considered “the new kid on the fashion block” -- with designer Giambattista Valli. This couture house has officially been a part of the couture week shows only in the past three seasons. Designers typically get appellation only after they have done the show for five years but with the high standard of Valli’s creation, he became eligible for the honor and is now considered an official couturier. Valli is a master of beautiful fabrics, exquisite embroidery and details, and sculpted vase silhouettes, which have become his sartorial trademark. In his recent collection, he brings out not only the bright and shine of the fabrics but also the interesting shapes of modern-day

Anya Hingmarch glitter clutch A Aase Hopstock gold clutch

Charlotte Olympia jinger bell shoe

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Metallic pantsuit by Armani

Another Armani: See-though heels

clothing. He invented a new silhouette for the couture world, such as cigarette pants and a bodice top-up with a train cascading behind it. Aside from the sculpted contours and voluminous skirts, there are cape shoulders trailing short at the back in tea roses shades, cinched waists, and lots of embellishment that bloom in a new midilength. With understated style of hair and make-up, all the attention and focus of the audience remain on the shapes of the clothes; their embellishments giving them so much traditional luxury style and loads of ladylike elegance. ACCESSORIES Besides the sparkling, highly embellished couture clothing, accessories play an important role in having a great style. Who says wearing simple clothes without any accessories is “style”? Well, the idea is neither right nor wrong. Accessories help to build character. It enhances a woman's looks. As they say: “One woman can never have too many shoes.” Accessories, such as statement necklaces, metallic chain belts, and perfect heels, can be anything you can put on and have fun with it. They can totally change your look, from day to night, as the emerging Spring/Summer 2013 trend proves. We can spot the shining jewelry that comes in many different designs, variations, and materials. The new jewelry of the season is the ear cuff. For some time now, there has not been any new cult item in the jewelry world such as the ear-cuff. Ever since the Rodarte brand showed the ear cuff in their Spring/Summer 2013 catwalk, it has become the season’s “musthave” accessory for all. Ear cuffs are easy to wear and basically easy to match with outfits. Plus, ladies do not need a piercing. The ear cuffs are usually made from 18k gold, platinum, Swarovski crystal, or precious stones. It makes your face shine brightly and easily attracts eyes toward you. Now we go from playful jewelry to the traditional jeweler, Chopard. This is one of the most luxurious jewelers in the world, established in Geneva, Switzerland with its legacy and history dating many decades. They create the most precious, beautiful, fine jewelry. Chopard recently announced a new collaboration with the iconic London luxury store Harrods to create "Haute Joaillerie february 2013 | 47

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Marni gold bag

Swarvoski king cobra necklace Valli: flower metallic belt

Ca&Lou earcuff

Chopard cinderella earring

collection" inspired by Walt’s Disney princesses. This gives women, an opportunity to enjoy sparkling diamonds with the whimsical touch of a Disney childhood. Chopard has revealed that Disney’s characters have been the source of inspiration long before this collaboration. The collections features famous Disney characters such as Ariel, Belle, and Cinderella. In this collection are 10 design pieces, a selection of bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and hairpiece created and crafted from the briolette-cut paraibas tourmalines, platinum diamonds, emeralds, pearls, sapphires, and aquamarine. From the world-renowned high-end jeweler, we come to the equally world-famous, mainstream crystal jewelry brand, Swarovski. It is undeniable that rock crystal, which gives a most sparkling effect, has to be Swarovski. Crystal can be noticed easily even from a long-distance. Crystal jewelry is an easy piece that matches with almost any thing. We all know that Swarovski manufactures crystal materials not only as jewelry but also home décor items. With their latest collaboration for the special edition James Bond collection, one simply must own a piece. Swarovski has commissioned British jewelry designer, Stephen Webster, to create a collection inspired by the iconic James Bond film, and to be worn by the new "Bond Girl," Berenice Marlohe. The jewelry collections are made of black crystal stones and white crystal stones as in king cobra pendant necklaces, queen cobra earrings, bamboo bangles, and rings. The most important thing in the world of accessories is that they have to intensify the looks and bring out the best of their wearer. This is usually achieved by materials that give the most "shine" and “center-of-attention” effect. To achieve this effect, most designers use colors such as gold, rose-gold, silver, metallic hues, and pastels. Now, to the most common accessory that every girl should own: fabulous shoes and handbags. Just imagine wearing a simple

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Rose-bud dress by Valli

LBD (little black dress) with a pair of killer metallic-gold shoe, and a matching bag. This pairing can elevate a woman to her ultra glamorous in a second. Perhaps the “hottest” shoe designer at the moment is the amazing British designer Charlotte Olympia. This brand has been established only a few years but has already gained a big reputation worldwide. Olympia has a flamboyant kitschy style, and often uses surrealist- inspired motives as brand signature. The trademark of their high-heel shoes is the metallic gold platform that comes in every height and every material you can imagine. In their new collection, Olympia banks on playful design elements such as the kitty’s face, the all-glittering gold platform heels, and diamonds encrusted on the heels for evening wear. HANDBAGS For complete, shining head-to-toe looks, let’s take a look at the role of handbags. In itself, a woman’s handbag is a statement. It can bring up your mood and your confidence. It portrays who you are and reflects your personality. The best handbags are often made from eye stopping yet practical materials such as metallic leather, and they could be metal studded, PVC leather coated, or something else. Valentino has been making metal studded bags and putting silver chains on the leather handbag every season, and they are still doing this consistently. Their bags come in every shade and their metal details truly catch the light. Ralph Lauren’s patented leather doctor bag gives off shining effects throughout day and night. Their gold lame metal jewel box evening clutch is a magnificent piece; it can guarantee you that everyone will stop and stare. Marni gold lame PVC coated shopping bag works like a real mirror reflection. Nothing can beat these materials. Also, let me mention some high-street brands. Miss Selfridge uses rhinestones diamond embroidered on its clutch. Aase Hopstock has woven gold leather clutch and Anya Hindmarch, the glittery boxy evening clutch. It is worth emphasizing that the most important thing is our own identity. As I always say, we have to be truly confident about ourselves. Otherwise, no matter how bright and shiny what we wear are, they will not achieve the desired effects: to make us look beautiful, to make us feel beautiful – inside and out. To shine like a star, one has to feel and act like a star -- and that means having not only a keen awareness of fashion trends but also a well-developed taste in choosing what really makes one look good, fashionable and stylish, 

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Grand Opening Salvo

Siam Center ushers in a revolutionary retail concept: The Ideaopolis, with a glittering series of exciting grand opening activities By Percy ROXAS

angkok never ceases to amaze with its seemingly endless creative energy and imagination, and arguably, nothing in the city reflects this better than the major shopping malls, which have become veritable trendsetters in modern living, setting benchmark standards in our stylish urban lifestyle asprations. Take the grand opening last month of Siam Center, billed as “Asia’s most sensational event.” The shopping center reopened with a revolutionary retail concept that is expected to amaze and inspire. It has been renamed as Siam Center: The Ideaopolis – a transformation that does not only represent a new chapter in the mall’s name, image and history but also is expected to boost further Bangkok’s climb as the undisputed “Shopping Capital” of the region. Siam Center: The Ideaopolis represents a new concept in shopping landmarks in Bangkok indeed. It is more than just a lifestyle

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destination. It is a place, a center, a hub if you will, that espouses and encourages unlimited imagination, and houses creative initiatives in art, fashion, technology, and lifestyle. “We have invested over Bt200-million to make Siam Center’s grand opening the ultimate event of the year,” says Chadatip Chutrakul, CEO of Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., owners of Siam Center: The Ideaopolis. “An array of surprises were lined up to amaze every visitor and reflect succinctly the center's new cool vibe. Besides the completely new look and the outlets of famous brands (including those that have never had a presence anywhere else before), we have prepared a number of world-class highlights – the first of their kind in Thailand for Siam Center fans.” What was dubbed as "the coolest party of the year" started on The Preview Day, Jan. 9 – when the center’s business partners, owners of famous international brands and local brands, VIPs, celebrities

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where to Yan-ubol, founder of The Embassy of Design Territory. During the and Thailand’s industry leaders were given a chance of becoming unveiling, Idea Avenue carried the theme ‘Timeline Extendist’ using the first to witness "a major chapter of history being rewritten." The state-of-the-art technology to tell the story of Siam Center in three Preview Day was graced by Thailand’s hottest stars -- such as reddimensions of time. And with the Digital Mirror Room, visitors hot Ken Phupoom and Davika Hoorne -- as well as Hollywood and enjoyed globetrotting in just five minutes. international megastars such as Oscar winner Adrien Brody of ‘The One of the most special part of the grand opening program was Pianist’ and Kim Bum, one of Korea’s F4 idols. And in addition, the "Pop Culture Art Exhibition," which showcased masterpieces talented world-class R&B singer Keri Hilson and American rapper from American pop icon Andy Warhol. “We brought the real work Taboo, one of the members of the hip-hop group Black Eyed Peas, of the pop artist for Thai people to see up close and personal,” performed in a special concert. Chadatip said. Apart from Warhol’s master ouvre, genuine art pieces Indeed, every square meter of Siam Center was filled with fun by another pop art icon, Roy Lichtenstein, were also displayed. The and excitement on grand opening day. In the cool ambience of the pop culture exhibition, which was designed to be interactive, was a 4th Floor (with its high open ceiling and a transparent glass top loop new experience many visitors say they have never had before. and site of chic restaurants) first-rate DJs, headed by DJ Soulflower, Another big highlight is the "Fashion Exhibition," which the up-and-coming German-Filipino DJ known for her love of showcased collections by Yohji Yamamoto, different types of music kept the party alive.DJ Comme des Garçons, and Issey Miyake. The Onra, another big name with a special taste for “The grand opening collections were all of their ‘Archive’ level, Asian and hip hop music, joined the Europeof Siam Center was which means they are as close to the brand and Japan-veteran DJ. On Grand Opening Day itself – Jan. 11 – Siam certainly a big success, signature as possible and are kept as precious treasures by private collectors. The items were Center started to show off its new look from 6 p.m. onwards. Visitors were met by Leighton one that will create a new put on show alongside those by Thailand’s Meester and Ed Westwick, the American industry benchmark as leading designers such as Theatre, Playhound by Greyhound, and Wonder Anatomie. superstars of the international hit series ‘The a global phenomenon Red-hot stylist Suriya Krutphan Gossip Girl,” and Taio Cruz, the chart-topping created the fashion exhibition while famous British recording artist, singer and songwriter. to be remembered for fashion photographer Pansiri Sirivejapan shot They walked the red carpet alongside some of Thailand’s brightest stars, including Araya years. That’s more than a the trendy Black Garment collection. EditorsA. Hargate, Nadech Kugimiya, Urassaya fitting reward for all of us in-chief and fashion editors from top fashion magazines offered the exhibition their fashion Sperbund, Pakorn Chatborirak, Pimchanok Luevisadpaibul, Laknara Piatha, and many who worked very hard to insights. because Siam Center celebrating more. The two world-renowned DJs were make it Siam Piwat’s most its 40th And anniversary this year,an art design joined by a number of Thai DJs including Tul challenging masterpiece effort on the familiar “I Love Siam” mascot Waitunkiat and DJ Seed Norasate Mudkong. In was organized with several important people the DJ Party. Then, Piyanat Chotisathien played ever,” Chadatip said. from various circles joining in. The celebrities, guitar while Pisut Prateeppasen showed off his including ‘Bird’ Thongchai McIntyre and mastery of the saxophone. ML Piyapat Bhirom Bhakdi,were divided into three groups under An amazing highlight was the “The Illumination of Light” the theme “Be Amazed, Be Inspired, Be Revolutionary” and their created by an award-winning lighting designer, which provided an creations were put on public display. unforgettable ambience for those around Siam Center. The public On the 3rd floor of Siam Center , an area called Fashion Visionary was amazed by a show of mixed media full of light, color, and and housing the largest number of leading Thai designer brands in sound, created by Jiro Endo, Japan’s veteran lighting designer who the country, more than 80 models flaunted the latest haute couture in was behind many international art projects such as the SOI music a flash mob. The corridor was turned into a runway for the models project, Greyhound’s fashion show in the recent Fashion Week, as to walk down. The fashion flash mob, which took place every 15 well as the Big Mountain Music Festival. minutes, was a brainchild of Thailand’s leading stylist Araya Intra Endo made the atmosphere outside Siam Center’s building a true and Joy Ananda, a well-known stylist. spectacle by working with KOB of Team Kor Bor Wor, a talented All in all, it was a glittering spectacle, an experience that lived visual artist and motion graphic designer whose track record is up to its promise. The glitz and glamour were enhanced by the guaranteed by a world-class mapping design award at the “Visual attendance of celebrities, important guests, as well as representatives Jockey Contest 2011” in Switzerland. “The Illumination of Light of Thai and international media, including world-renowned fashion was complemented by the music of Tul Waitunkiat, music curator bloggers Bryan Boy and Lauren Kolodny, recognized by Fashion in charge of all the music in the Grand Opening. Bible and Women’s Wear Daily as one of the world’s 100 best stylists. From the first floor onwards, Siam Center was geared in a The event drew massive coverage from various media people who glittering mood. The entire lobby walkway and other main areas attended. such as Idea Avenue were set for top-tier and new generation artists “Siam Center's grand opening was certainly a big success, one from Thailand and elsewhere to exhibit without limit their ideas, that will create a new industry benchmark as a global phenomenon imagination, and talent, under the supervision of an honorary board to be remembered for years," says Chadatip. "That’s more than a of advisors comprised of Sombat Tirasaroj, one of the most soughtfitting reward for all of us who worked very hard to make it Siam after event organizers, Kittirat Kittipanich, Thailand Creative and Piwat’s most challenging masterpiece ever.”  Design Center (TCDC)’s Design advisory director, and Tassanai february 2013 | 51

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Investing in Thai Art

With stock markets remaining a worrying place to invest all your money, ‘investments of passion’ are on the rise. These alternative types of investment include collecting art – a hobby that provides you with far more than just valuable assets. If you’re in Bangkok and looking to start or build your own collection, be sure to read our useful guide here first

By Isabella Kallo

angkok’s art scene has been burgeoning of late, and although it still has a long way to go, new galleries are opening all the time. Each month, at least a dozen new exhibitions open, showcasing a variety of artworks by both new emerging local talents and established artists, be they Thai or international. As with all emerging art markets, the early days are often the most exciting; you can watch the progress happen and meet the artists in person. It’s essentially the calm before the storm. Of course, investing in emerging markets can also be more risky, particularly in the art sector, but as a result of this, it offers an unrivalled potential. For most investors this is the most appealing aspect, along with the privilege of being there from the beginning, and contributing to its success. Regardless of where one is buying art or what one is buying however, there are a series of rules that can be applied to the process to avoid disappointment down the line. The most important rule is to buy artwork you love. You must love it, not because of what people are saying about it, but because your mouth drops in awe when you see it. This doesn’t necessarily apply

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to all, but nonetheless it is important to let artworks ‘speak’ to you, to really look at the work in question and feel passionate about it. This applies just as much when work is being bought purely from an investment point of view, partly in case it fails in this regard, so you are at least left with something beautiful to hang on your wall. In addition the art world would be made redundant if those fuelling it were only interested in the potential financial benefits, as so often the most successful stories of art investment are the result of ardent gut instincts. Luckily there are more pragmatic and tangible tips worth following for securing successful art purchases. For example, once you have found an artwork you like, find out all you can about the artist. See as much of his other works as possible and be sure the piece you are buying represents the best of his work, or a particular phase of it. In addition, make sure you know the artwork’s provenance. One of the excitements of buying art in Bangkok is that many galleries will be selling works coming directly from artists’ studios, making you their first owners. However, if they have been owned by

Our top picks: 100 Tonson Gallery: Keen to capture the rapid development of Thai art, the gallery’s bimonthly shows are innovative and forward-thinking. H Gallery: A mixture of regional and international artists are exhibited in this gallery, which includes an experimental project space. An extensive inventory of works by previously exhibited artists is worth asking about.

File photos: Some artworks displayed in previous exhibitions at some of Bangkok's top galleries.

Koi Art Gallery: Aiming to give a fresh perspective on contemporary art, this is a good gallery for seeing challenging art by both emerging and established artists. Thavibu: One of the longest established private galleries in Bangkok, Thavibu has a great variety of works, making it a good place to get acquainted with different artists and styles. Sombatpermpoon Gallery: Named after its owner, this dedicated collector of Thai art, first opened a gallery in 1979. Now there are over 10,000 works by Thai artists, exhibited in a six-storey gallery.

others before you, or been part of important exhibitions for example, this can be telling of the work’s quality and make a difference to its value. Beginning to sound feasible but don’t know where to begin? If you’re new to the Bangkok art scene, one of the best places to start is the Bangkok Art and Culture Center. Although not a commercial gallery, it hosts a variety of fantastic exhibitions with a focus on contemporary Thai culture, making it the perfect first stop for anyone needing an initiation to the Thai art scene. Other non-commercial galleries include Bangkok’s National Art Museum, which provides an interesting opportunity to see a large selection of Thai art dating from the 17th Century onwards and showing its developments. Finally the Museum of Contemporary Art, which opened in March 2012, has an expansive collection of modern and contemporary art that shows the beginnings of a transition from very traditional and cultural themes to more controversial and universal issues. Perhaps the best way however, is to go straight into the galleries themselves. Majority of Bangkok’s galleries promote local Thai artists, whether they be emerging talents or established names, and so provide probably the best crash course on Thai art there is. Don’t be afraid to ask gallery owners lots of questions and if possible, even try to meet the artists for a deeper understanding of what you’re buying. Enjoy a day of gallery hopping, which is also a great way of seeing the city because they are spread all over town, and what is sure, is that you’ll struggle to leave empty handed. 

Galerie N: Seeking to promote talent and contemporary Thai art, Galerie N is an exciting place to visit and its artists range from the newly discovered to the long established. La Lanta: Functioning as a bridge between acclaimed international artists and emerging local artists as a means to increase dialogue and audiences, the art on show is always interesting. University Galleries: University galleries are a great place to see raw contemporary art in the making. The Bangkok University Art Gallery (BUG), the Silpakorn University Gallery and the Chulalongkorn Art Centre are all worth exploring. Ardel Gallery of Modern Art: Set up by artist Thavorn Ko-udomvit, this is one of three galleries, all showing contemporary Thai art, by artists ranging from those well-known to those still at university. Kathmandu Photo Gallery: Run by well-known Thai photograph Manit Sriwanichporn, this is a highly recommended stop for those interested in photography. Artery Gallery: Focuses mainly on emerging Thai art, but occasionally welcomes better known artists too.

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jewelry Uncompromising on Quality Cheri by Maneemas believes in doing the best job for their customers, and in using the best material to create something to be cherished for eternity By Laurence Civil

e have been in the business 20 years," says Somchai of Cheri by Maneemas, which specializes in customdesigned pieces of jewelry. “Our reputation comes from our non-negotiable resistance to compromise on quality. The process starts with the stones. It could be that the customer buys a box of matched stones or a piece of old jewelry they would like us to extract the gems from and redesign them into a new piece for them. " Somchai said two factors led to their getting in the jewelry business. “Firstly, my father was an importer of loose diamond and precious stones so we had a reliable supply of the raw materials,” he said. “Secondly, my wife – Onmanee -- loves to design. She studied colored stones at the Asian Institute of Gemological Studies (AIGS) at the Jewelry Trade Center on Silom Road. He said their business started very humbly. “We had our friends get interested in some of my father's loose stones," he says. “Having found those that they like, Onmanee would do a pencil sketch of how each of the stones could be set. Once they agreed to our proposed design we would make the exclusive piece for them. The creative process is virtually identical to going to the tailors to have a suit made.”

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contact/ Having established that there was a demand for handmade quality pieces of jewelry, they opened their first retail shop in 1992 at Fortune Tower on Ratchadapisek. Later they moved to their current location in Zone D on the ground floor of Central World at the Ratchprasong intersection of Rajdamri Road. “Sitting at the crossroad of Bangkok, most of our customers find this location very comfortable to get to whether by car or sky train,” Somchai says. How did Cheri by Maneemas carve a niche for themselves as one of the leading manufactures and retailers of handmade jewelry in Thailand? “It’s because we only use gemstones that are of the best color, cut, and clarity,” Somchai replies. “Customized jewelry represents 80% of our total business." Basically, this is how they do business. Once the customer has either bought the stones as a set or has brought in their own stones to be set, Cheri by Maneemas offer a complimentary design service. “Onmanee will make a pencil and colored crayon sketch outlining how she feels the stones should best be set. Once the customer is happy with the design concept, we then layout the stone using double sided adhesive tape to show how the piece will look,” Somchai says. At this stage, he continues, “we will estimate the cost to manufacture the piece within a tolerance of + or - 10%. A part payment is usually made at this time with the remainder when the piece is collected or dispatched overseas."

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Cheri by Maneemas has its own manufacturing workshop where the setting of 18-carat white gold and either 22- or 23-carat yellow gold are made using wax casts by their goldsmith. The components of the piece then pass through the hands of polishers or setters. “The only element of the manufacturing process we outsource is the rhodium plating because of the capital cost of the machinery involved,” he points out. “This process enhances the beauty of white gold and gives the piece a longer lasting more durable finish. The diamonds and colored stones are set to complete the manufacturing process and the piece is stamped with our logo of registered hallmark, which identifies it worldwide as having been made by us. “Should a customer bring in an old piece of jewelry that they no longer like, we remove the stones and their old gold is sold as scrap. We would never use it to make one of our pieces as we can't be hundred percent sure of it quality. The gemstones are then set in new gold by our goldsmith." “Our company name is made of two elements Manee, which means “gem” and “Mas,” which means gold,” says Somchai. “They are also the elements in both my wife and my daughter's name. The Cheri in our name comes from the French for “love,” because of our reputation for working with heart-shaped stones; the emotional factor of our design, and which are less expensive than round stones. We use most South Sea pearls from Australia and the South Pacific complimented with cultured Japanese and freshwater pearls.” It’s difficult to say exactly how many pieces Cheri by Maneemas make each year; it must be many hundred and could be close to a thousand. “Our style is most popular with Asian, Indian, and Middle East customers,” he says. “It's complicated and intricate; using different stones, which can be seen as tad too elaborate for European tastes. But using the best cut allows light to come into diamonds and send out a sparkling spectrum of the seven colors the rainbow, “What we call the fire in the stone,” says Somchai. More than 50% of their clients are regular customers, with the main customers being Thai and Chinese, with the Middle East being their major export market. Somchai says they are already serving some second-generation customers. “The strength of our business is built on the reputation of trust for high-quality, distinctive design, and competitive pricing,” he says. “An important factor is that the customer can trust us; we have built our reputation on this.” When you go to Cheri By Maneemas for your jewelry, you are sure to purchase on a shop that is uncompromising on quality. As Somchai assures: “We do the best job for our customers; using the best material to create something to be cherished for eternity."  february 2013 | 55

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Grooming the Gentleman Next time you feel like having a trim and grooming the old-fashioned way, Blue Harbour at K Village is the place to drop anchor By Laurence Civil

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Contact Details Blue Harbour K Village Shopping Mall Room A212 93-95 Sukhumvit 26 Tel 02-261-2901/2 Open: Monday to Sunday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

he relationship between a man and his barber is something that is fostered over many years. For the past 40 years Nithi Sthapitanonda, Thailand’s National Artist for Architecture -- who conceptualized CentralWorld and the King Power complex - and his son, Nithis -- ever since he was a boy -- have been loyal customers of Savad La-ad at Tony's Barbershop in Ekkamai Soi 21, where a gentleman's grooming is done the old-fashioned way with unique personal camaraderie. Imagine the panic attack when Savad announced he was leaving; if he couldn't cut their hair life just wouldn't be the same. Drastic action was needed. It also transpired that Khun Nithi had secretly been working on the idea of opening his own barbershop. The solution was to open Blue Harbour in K Village: an old fashioned barbershop to get a wet shave or have your beard or moustache trimmed the old way; stuff they don't do in the modern salons. Savad is the master barber of Bangkok. He snipped his first locks 40 years ago at the old Central Hotel on New Petchaburi Road. In those days many of his customers were American GI's in Bangkok for R & R from the Vietnam War. Unquestionably, he knew how to do a crew cut and scrape off the nape fringe. Hairstyles have moved on since then and today he does all the latest styles using the most up to date techniques. He can fix hair texture and color and lists Surakiat Sathirathai, Pol. Col. Kovit Sawaisaenyagara, and Kanin Boonsuwan, as three of his regulars. "This kind of shop with skilled barbers trimming beards, cleaning ears and cutting, coloring and perming hair is very hard to find these days," says Nithis. "We wanted a traditional place that was intimate, private, and comforting." "We went for a nautical theme," he says, "as our research showed that a lot of barbershops were at a port and sailors returning home from sea would drop by to smarten up before going home to be re-united with their family. We are also located close to the Port Authority of Thailand so it seemed kind of appropriate." Because of the confidential nature of the chat between barber and customer, there are four cubicles made with louvered rich teak wood walls from Chiang Mai closed by a curtain door. It feels like a confessional in a Catholic Church as what is said inside stays inside. Each of the four cubicles is decorated differently but with the nautical theme flowing through them all. Good lighting is essential for the perfect haircut. In the ceiling hung over the chair a square of

cool and daylight bulbs for use when cutting and trimming and softer more gentle lighting for other services and the customer may want to relax or maybe even go to sleep The stars of the shop are the four Takara Traditional barbershop chairs. They are made by a third generation Japanese family company who have been making barbers chairs since 1931. The model here is most probably the Apollo 2 designed in 1961 or possibly its look-alike predecessor, the "125." These chairs remain the leading workhorse in barbershops around the world. All four came from the same barbershop in Bangkok and have had the black leather upholstery fully restored. Hydraulically operated with 360-degree rotation, reclining backrest, adjustable and removable headrest and padded upholstered arms. Nithi found the hanging lamps in the Netherlands, and he spread his own model sailboats, seagulls, and lighthouses around the shop to make customers feel at home. He also designed the very unique wooden chairs himself. "In the beginning our target was the male customer," he says. "There is a market for gentleman who are appreciate and are prepared to pay for this level of care. We had ladies who come in just to have their ears cleaned. They liked the metro-sexual feel and feel and kept coming back for more services. We have foot and face massage because that what we like to enjoy. With traditional barbering, the hair is cut first as it has to be dry due to the use of electric clippers, “We don't want to electrocute the customer,” he says. Shaving is with an open blade razor, and barbers are trained to shave a balloon; only when they can shave without bursting them are they let loose on the customer. It’s very difficult, if not dangerous, to self-shave with an open blade razor. "Our target age group is from mid-20s upward," he says. "Due to our location and the unique service we offer a lot of metrosexual guys who come to K Village to dine, discover us and fall in love with the service. We now have a client range from teens to the very senior. Some come just to have a chat with their barber even when their hair doesn't need cutting, that’s how special the barber-customer relationship is." "We are planning to expand next door so that the current premises will be just the barber shop," Nithis concludes, so that massage, which really requires a quieter experience would be next door. Next time you feel like a trim here's the place to drop anchor.  february 2013 | 59

lifestyle

spa offers

Imperial Spa Buffet

Imperial Spa, on the 9th floor, Queen’s Park Tower, The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel (Sukhumvit 22) has a new spa offer until March -- The “Imperial Spa Buffet” -- to maximize benefits from your chosen treatments. Make your own selection from their spa treatments, from facial treatments to body massage, and relax in the tranquil ambiance of the Imperial Spa from Facial Treatment to Body Message: Prices are: Bt1,999 for two hours/Bt2,799 for three hours. For more information and reservations, call 02-2619000, ext. 5115, 5120

Strawberry in Love

At The Spa, on the 2nd floor of the Main Wing, Ambassador Hotel Bangkok (Sukhumvit 11), pamper yourself with the exclusive “Strawberry in Love” spa package from now until March 31. The 60-minute package includes a body scrub, aromatherapy massage, and a milk & strawberry body mask at only Bt 1,499 net per person or Bt2,599 net per couples. As additional offer enjoy a strawberry facial mask for only Bt299 net/person from the normal price Bt800 net. For more information, call 02-3540444, ext. 1254/5

Special for Two

Spa Botanica, The Sukhothai Bangkok, has a new “Special for Two” promotion until Feb. 28. Try one of their signature treatments and enjoy promotional rates for Massage Therapies and Spa for Men with the promotion, a special offer of pure indulgence and ultimate relaxation, when booking for two persons or for two visits at the same rate and same treatment duration. Terms and conditions apply. For more info and reservations, call 02-344-8900; email to spabotanica@sukhothai.com

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Apple Stem Cell Anti-Aging Facial Therapy

VIE SPA at VIE Hotel Bangkok and V Villas Hua Hin has launched its new and exclusive series of facial treatment “Apple Stem Cell Anti-Aging Facial Therapy” designed to restore youthful looking skin by infusing apple stem cells into the skin. Feel the instant difference of a healthier texture, deep lines reduction and skin brightening after only one course of treatments. VIE Spa’s Apple Stem Cell is an anti-aging concentrate made from natural products and is 100% Vegan and Gluten Free. Suits all skin types. The 60-min Apple Stem Cell Anti-Aging Facial Therapy starts with a relaxing cup of warm apple tea followed by Cell Cleansing and Toner, then a Cell Facial Scrub, Cell Facial Massage and Facial Mask to smoothen facial complexion, and finishes with a Cell Eye Serum that proves its “line cushion” benefit. Priced at Bt2,500++. A course package of three times for proven results is only Bt7,500++, including three sessions of relaxing Anti Cellulite Sugar Body Scrub (60-minute) to ensure that you will have a glowing face to match your body’s healthy skin. For more information or reservations, call Vie Spa at VIE Hotel Bangkok (02-309-3939), or at V Villas Hua Hin (032-616-039)

Free 1-Hour Treatment

Enjoy a free one-hour “KIN Celebration Body Scrub” or a one-hour “Celebration Soothing Hair Treatment” with your two-hour signature massage at any Oasis Spa. Select any twohour signature massage: King of Oasis, Queen of Oasis, or Oasis Four Hand to receive the free one-hour treatment of your choice. The Natural KIN Celebration Body Scrub treatments are valued at Bt1500++ and the Soothing Hair Spa Treatment is valued at Bt1800++. The is valid until end of this mo nth only so hurry to any Oasis Spa in Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. For reservations, contact Bangkok (02262-2122), Chiang Mai (053-920-111), Phuket (076-337-777), or Pattaya (038-364-070). Visit www.oasisspa.net for more details.

Neva Pampering Treat yourself to a fantastic spa program provided by professional massage therapists at Neva Spa. Relax your body completely and relieve all those aches and pains with customized courses. Make a reservation early and you may find yourself enjoying some extra benefits. Try getting some of your favorite treatments at this underrated hotel spa and you'll find yourself coming back for more. Where: Neva Spa, Windsor Suites Hotel Bangkok, SukhumvitSoi 20 // Contact: 02-262-1234

Indulgent Moments

In February, spa lovers can enjoy the “Tranquility Experience” for just Bt3,600++ at The Grande Spa of Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, considered as one of the finest spas n Bangkok. The package includes a 30-minute Anti-Aging Red Wine Scrub and 60-minute Warm Aromatic Thai Silk Cocoon Massage. Make a reservation from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday – Friday, and your massage will be extended to 90 minutes. Where: The Grande Spa, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit (BTS: Asoke) // Contact: 02-649-8121, e-mail grande. spa@luxurycollection.com

february 2013 | 61

wine & dine

review

Night Time Medicine

Apoteka, the newest bar concept to open its doors on Sukhumvit 11, is vintage and modern all in one with an open, industrial space themed after an old apothecary shop

Text & PHOTOS By Paul Cypert tand anywhere on Sukhumvit 11, throw a rock, and you're guaranteed to hit someplace selling drinks. A friend recently referred to the bustling soi as an upmarket Khao Sarn. There's certainly less backpackers and t-shirt stands. But if you're looking at the sheer volume of Westerners out for a drink, the comparison holds. While many areas around town will struggle from night to night to find their crowd, established clubs and bars along this relatively short soi will see full houses most nights of the week. So as we've said about previous new entrants to the soi, opening on this busy street can be both blessing and curse. It almost seems like you can print yourself money by opening on this energetic soi. Google new club and bar reviews on Sukhumvit 11, dig a few pages back, and you'll find a shocking list of failed "sure things." Nothing's certain on 11, and the survivors seem to have found the perfect balance of price, concept, and good timing.

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Hot Tables RESTAURANTS & BARS

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bar/loun Apoteka is the newest bar concept to open its doors on Sukhumvit 11. It's vintage and modern all in one with an open, industrial space themed after an old apothecary shop. The medicine peddled here is the favorite of Bangkok expats - booze. Sukhumvit 11 has its cheap beer bars, cheaper VW van street-side "bars," and inexpensive wine bars but up to now it has been lacking a concept bar pushing custom mixed drinks. Whether that's something Bangkok has wanted remains to be seen, but at least the bar seems to be working on the most common hurdle faced by mix drink bars in Thailand - the consistency of the mixes. There's a reason most people in Bangkok order Black Sodas, Vodka Red Bulls, or just plain old bottles of beer, they are foolproof, easyto-manage drinks. But order something like a Bloody Mary at most places and you'll be shocked at what comes out. That's why the drink menu here is currently so small, according to the manager of Apoteka. "We have more drinks we're experimenting with now, and hope to roll them out soon, but we want to make sure our entire staff is consistent and competent with the current menu before expanding." Wiser words are seldom uttered in Bangkok. For a signature cocktail bar, the menu is quite reserved. You can select from a couple handfuls of drinks covering everything from sweet to bitter and most in between. Our favorite of the night had to be the espresso cocktail, a solid shot of alcohol combined with freshly roasted espresso that's as energizing as it is tasty. They seem to be constantly tweaking and playing with drinks and even offered us a sneak peak of a tom yum infused shot that tasted like really damn good tom yum where the alcohol hits you as much as the spice. If you visit and they're still sampling, ask for a shot or two if you're feeling up for it. If you prefer less fancy drinks they offer the standard mixed drinks with premium spirits and a nice selection of micro brew beers. Sure the beers aren't to the level you'll find back stateside, but for Bangkok it's a huge start. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a low-alcohol raspberry beer for those looking to sip without regret and more potent IPAs for those who want a mouthful of hops. We'll reserve judgement on the food for now. At the time we stopped by the chef had literally just been poached up from Phuket and was in his infant stages of learning the lay of the land, the staff, the concept, etc. The menu was finger food; light-bite style eats with goat cheese and tomato bread topping everyone's favorite snack food of the night list. The burger was decent, but with Firehouse next door it's hard not to just recommend that. They're looking to offer up thin crust pizzas, small pasta dishes and more soon. I wouldn't make it a food destination for the moment, but there's more than enough to satisfy if a couple after work drinks turn into five or six and you need to get some food in your belly. The location is hard to describe and really needs to be seen to fully appreciate. What you see from the street is only half the story. There are literal hidden rooms and secret compartments behind two-way mirrors and tucked away to the side. You've got an open-air smoking lounge area that can get quite social as well as a deep red, sultry private area where you can whisper to your date rather than shout. If no one's booked it, ask to see the hidden entertainment room. Located behind the mirror immediately viewable when you enter the bar, this private room is the perfect place to have a poker night, bachelor party, hens night, or even just a solid drinking night with your friends when you'd kind of like to be left alone (or will be up to mischief you'd probably not like the rest of the bar to see).

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As far as we can tell the place has done everything right. They've got an experienced staff and they're focused on taking the time to train them right. The locations got style and you can tell there was a lot of thought and care put into the place. While I don't care for mixed drinks I enjoyed all that I tasted and would honestly return for the espresso drink in particular as a pick me up for a night on the soi. Only time will tell if the sometimes fickle and routine based Sukhumvit 11 expat will wander over from Cheap Charlies or Oskar to give this one a go. We'd recommend they do. ď Ž Contact Details: Apoteka Lounge Bar 33/28 Sukhumvit Soi 11, Bangkok (BTS: Nana) Tel: 090-626-7655

february 2013 | 63

wine & dine

restaurants

Ethiopian Anyone? Text & PHOTOS By Dave Stamboulis

thiopian food is certainly one of the more unique cuisines of the world, one that most folks have never even heard of. Yet it is often ranked up there with Thai, Japanese, and Indian as one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most pleasurable eating delights, and fortunately, Bangkok now has an Ethiopian restaurant to indulge the palate. Ethiopian cuisine is eaten without cutlery. The plate on which the food is served is made of injera, a fermented bread made from teff, a grain which grows only in the highlands of Ethiopia up over 2-3,000 meters. The teff is fermented like sourdough, and after some days, the flour is rolled out like a large pancake and baked. Injera has a spongy texture and is slightly sour, somewhat making it an acquired taste, but it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t strong, and is the perfect medium for soaking up the curries that go on top of it.

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Hot Tables dining trends

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The curries, known as wot, vary from chicken to lamb or beef, and are served along with pulses and vegetables on top of the injera. Lentils and split peas are common, along with chard, potatoes, and other vegetables. The curries are made with berbere, a combo of spices that include chilies, garlic, ginger, dried basil, korarima (a wild Ethiopian spice) and several others, giving them a bit of heat, but nowhere near Thai. One unusual dish on any Ethiopian menu is kitfo, which is raw beef that is marinated in spicy chili powder. Many foreign diners shy away from this one, fearing parasites or bacteria, but prepared properly, it is a real treat and one not to be missed. Just as wonderful as the food in Ethiopia is the coffee. Some of the best beans in the world are grown in the highlands, and a traditional coffee ceremony is not to be missed. First the beans are roasted in an open pan, and the aromatic smoke wafted around for everyone to inhale. Then they are pulverized in a mortar and boiled in a special urn called a jebena before being served, usually with sugar, strong and sweet like a Turkish or Greek coffee.

Here in Bangkok, this wonderful tradition is available at Habesha, a cozy Ethiopian cafĂŠ and bar which is situated on Sukhumvit Soi 3 just up the street from the Nana Mall past the tiny sub soi full of African bars, on the same side of the street as Bumrungrad Hospital. The food at Habesha is about as close to the real deal as you will find, and the helpful staff and owners will go out of their way to explain the various dishes and about Ethiopian food to you. If you are really in the know, see if you can get them to get you some tej, which is a homemade honey mead wine that is popular in Ethiopia, sweet, flavorful, with a nice kick to it, and a perfect end to a fine meal. ď Ž Contact Details: Habesha 1/26 Sukhumvit Soi 3 Nana 085 902 2241 http://ethiopianrestaurantbangkok.weebly.com/

february 2013 | 65

wine & dine

restaurant

Sicilian Connection

Giorgio’s, the Italian restaurant at Royal Orchid Sheraton, has a new Sicilian buffet that is touted to be authentic as can be

By PerCY ROXAS

here’s no dearth of Italian restaurants in Bangkok, and in fact, there seems to be one or more in every major corner of the city, with each region of Italy easily represented in their signature menus. And yet, Italian restaurants keep on mushrooming around as if we Bangkokians can never get enough of it. Truth is we really can’t. We are among the most voracious Italian food eaters this side of earth – and obviously many restaurant operators know this.

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And that is why more and more Italian eateries are popping up, and those existing ones are filling up their buffet spreads with more and more Italian favorites. The latest to succumb to our wishes is Giorgio’s, the Italian restaurant of Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers. This restaurant, not only one of the most established Italian restaurants but also the first Italian hotel restaurant in Bangkok, has just launched a Sicilian dinner buffet to satisfy our cravings.

Hot Tables dining trends

This is significant for various reasons, the foremost of which is that we seldom find a dedicated Sicilian spread in the City of Angels. Giorgio’s Sicilian dinner buffet offers authentic antipasto buffet of seafood, cold cuts and salads, coupled with a main course of your favorite pasta and grills, and capped with delightful Italian desserts – for what is probably the best value-for-money Italian buffet in Bangkok. Hey, it’s just Bt650 net per person, and you can eat all you want from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Now is this price enough for us to go to this hotel on the edge of Chao Phraya River to enjoy an Italian meal when we can easily drop by just about anywhere closer to where we stay? You bet. In fact, price is not even an issue here since Giorgo’s offers an overall package: ambience, service, and quality of food. Compared to some new, very chic Italian restaurants, Giorgio’s may seem a bit lackluster -- a matter of opinion, actually -but in fact, it has a character that enhances enjoyment of a meal. Its tasteful dark woods, playful bright murals, and glassware and unique lamp displays complement each other perfectly, making Giorgio’s one delightful restaurant. Its peaceful ambiance should work well for romantic dinners, as we tried once. For this buffet special, and the new menu, credit goes to Gaetano Palumbo, the 39-year-old executive sous chef, who hails from Sicily. A Bangkok resident since 2008, Gaetano says cooking in Sicily is central to family life. “Italians are passionate about good food and high quality produce. Living there, learning to cook is as important as enjoying the pleasures of eating fine food. Growing up surrounded by good food, the desire to cook was strong for me. It was a very natural process.” We say: put Chef Gaetano’s cooking to the test by visiting this Italian restaurant at Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers, if you still haven’t. Chances are, you’ll like it too,  Contact Details: Giorgio’s Italian Restaurant Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers 2 Charoen Krung Rd Soi 30 Capt. Bush Lane, Bangrak, Bangkok (Free boat shuttle service from BTS Saphan Taksin Pier every half hour) Tel: 02 256-9412

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Wine & Dine

indulge & enjoy Valentine Specials

VIE: Michelin Star Valentine

VIE Hotel Bangkok & V Villas Hua Hin supported by Kasikorn Bank (K Bank) and Advance Info Service Plc. (AIS) present the fascinating combination of Japanese simplicity applied to the divine taste and sophistication of French cuisine by Michelin Star chef Kei Kobayoshi. Kei’s cuisine is a fusion of savory French traditional with all of the exquisite simplicity of Japanese culinary art and can be described as a perfect balance of everything delicious. He will be at VIE Hotel Bangkok Feb. 14 (Bt6,000 net per person for food only; Bt7,500 net per person for food with wines pairing, including the special rose-cake-pops from VIE Hotel Bangkok) and at V Villas Hua Hin for an evening by the beach on Feb. 16 (Bt6,000 net per person for food only; and Bt7,500 net per person for food with wines pairing). Where: VIE Hotel Bangkok and V Villas Hua HIn // Contact: 02 309-3939, ext. 3781

Valentine's Day 'Mirage Beach BBQ'

Join “Mirage Beach BBQ” on the evening of Feb. 14 at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, and enjoy the resort’s natural setting by the sea while savoring tasty dishes and an array of fresh produce from the sea. Entertainment provided by musicians, Hawaiian dancers, and fire dance shows on the beach, 7-10 p.m. The Seafood BBQ is priced at Bt1,599 net (singles), Bt2,999 net (couples), including a glass of sparkling rose wine, a single red rose, and framed photograph. Where: Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, Wong Amat Beach, Pattaya // Contact: 038-301 234 ext.4397 or e-mail: irdcmbr@chr.co.th

Sheraton Pattaya: Beachfront Candlelight Dinner

Celebrate Valentine's Day at the Sheraton Pattaya Resort on Feb. 14, 6:30–10 p.m. – with a beachfront candlelight set dinner offering pre-cocktail canapés at Latitude Lounge followed by a 6-course set menu of temptations including lobster soup with aromatic herb cream and a choice between seared black cod and scallop with beetroot puree complemented by citrus salsa or roasted veal Rossini paired with risotto mash and baby spinach with a drizzle of truffle beef jus. Cap the romantic evening with strawberry cheese mousse with white and dark chocolate mousse, and vanilla ice cream. Price is Bt6,999 net per couple. Where: Sheraton Pattaya Resort, Pattaya // Contact: 038259-888 or check out: facebook.com/ sheratonpattayaresort

Conrad Bkk: Romance Under the Stars

Set the scene for irresistible romance, watching the moonlight shimmer over the water as you enjoy a 4-course dinner by the Conrad Bangkok poolside, with a complimentary glass of fine rosé sparkling wine at Bt2,900 per couple. Make the occasion even more memorable by adding Bt1,500 more for a bottle of sparkling wine to share. Where: City Terrace, 7th Floor, Conrad Bangkok, All Season Place, Wireless Rd // Contact: 02-690-9229

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The Square: Valentine's Day Buffet Bring your loved ones to The Square of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square on Feb.

14 and indulge in a sumptuous international buffet highlighting an array of delights from Europe and Asia, with a special Indian corner, live grill and Japanese sushi and sashimi bar; accompanied by imported cheese, delectable desserts, fresh coffee or tea, home-made ice cream, strawberry creations, crepe station and deluxe chocolate fountain. The Valentine’s Day Buffet Dinner is Bt2,400++ per couple inclusive of a glass of sparkling wine to toast the occasion. Where: The Square, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square Soi 6 (BTS: Siam) //Contact: 02-209-8888, ext. The Square or visit www. novotelbkk.com.

Latest Recipe Valentine

An unforgettable evening of romance and passion awaits you and your loved one at Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa, with candle-lit moods and attentive yet unobtrusive service creating an ambiance of intimacy and dining pleasure. Celebrate a special Valentine at the Latest Recipe restaurant, where you begin the night with champagne and delicious canapé, followed by 5-course menu at Bt3,000 net per person. Where: Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa, Samui // Contact: 077-960-888, e-mail: lemeridien.kohsamui@lemeridien.com

Flava's Flame of Love

Treat yourself and your loved one with a romantic 4-course “Valentine’s Candlelight” set menu at Flava Restaurant. Price is Bt3,900 net per couple, along with a complimentary bottle of Borgo Del Cal Alto Prosecco. The special set menu is also available for lunch and guest can also enjoy dishes from our extensive a la cart menu. There’s also a special room package (Bt3,800 net) for two in a deluxe room on the night of Feb. 14 inclusive of buffet breakfast. Where: Flava Restaurant, Dream Hotel Bangkok // Contact: 02-254-8500; e-mail: info@ dreambkk.com

Lookeast recommendations February Dining Specials

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Am's Valentine Exclusive

An exquisite Valentine’s set dinner featuring river prawn, ripe mango, fresh strawberry and cocktail sauce; tomato cream soup; orange sherbet with fresh strawberry; grilled lemon and olive oil marinated salmon fillet; sautéed spinach mashed potato and beetroot cream sauce; strawberry yoghurt mousse; and freshly brewed coffee or fine tea awaits at Am Café on the ground floor of the hotel. Price is Bt 1,999++ per couple. Or, go to Hong The Chinese Restaurant for a Valentine Chinese Set Dinner also at Bt1,990++ per couple. Where: Ambassador Hotel Bangkok, 171 Sukhumvit 11 (BTS: Nana) // Contact: 02254-0444, ext. 1582

Valentine Sensation

Exclusive chef Philippe creates a 5-course “Valentine Sensation” set menu featuring U.S. deep sea scallop, pan-fried foie gras, monk fish, Australian lamb loin or Aussie grain fed tenderloin, and Valentine’s macaronade with two glasses of Moët & Chandon @ Bt12,000 ++ per couple. Or enjoy a 3-course a la carte menu @ Bt3,900++ per person. Where: Rib Room and Bar, on the 31st floor of The Landmark Bangkok, Sukhumvit Road // Contact: 02-254-0404, ext 7777

Eastin Valentine

Attica Sky Lounge sets the stage for a memorable Valentine with an exclusive set menu offered at only Bt4,200 net per couple. The chef prepares a tantalizing 3-course set menu, starting with Indonesian tuna tartar cocktail paired with a glass of RosDella Casa, Vino Da Tavola, Rosato 2010 followed by his homemade watermelon soup with crab meat. A special highlight of the evening will be Serb & Turf; grilled Andaman Tiger Prawn and Australian beef tenderloin with passion fruit sauce served with mango, strawberry and avocado salad paired with a glass of Di Giorno

Garganega Chardonnay 2011 or Merlot Carvina Italy 2010. Every couple will receive a complimentary red rose for the lady. Where: Attica Sky Lounge, 23rd floor of Eastin Hotel Makkasan Bangkok, Makkasan Road (BTS: Surasak) // Contact: 02-651-7600

Height of Romance

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your special one at the world's highest al-fresco restaurant “Sirocco” on the 63rd floor and “Sky Bar” of Tower Club at lebua where treasures of love abound. The breathtaking restaurant and bar offer a feast for the senses on Valentine’s Day and an invitation to romance. An exquisite 8-course special dish will be served accompanied by the music of an internationally acclaimed live jazz band that will stimulate your senses and your heart. With the glittering city lights below while overlooking the River of Kings, a smile and a toast will say much more than words. The exclusive set dinner is Bt 21,999++ per couple with a complimentary rose. At Sky Bar, the multi-award winning sky high bar overlooking the city and the Chao Phraya River, the special treat is just Bt9,500++ per couple including a bottle of G.H Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne and a complimentary rose. Where: Sirocco and Sky Bar, Tower Club at lebua, Silom Road // Contact: 02249-555 or e-mail reservations@lebua.com

on Feb. 14. All couples will get a chocolate lipstick from The Chocolate Boutique as a special gift with our compliments. Guests can surprise their loved ones with an international buffet on the river while admiring the beauty of Bangkok by night at Bt2,588 net per person. NEXT2 Café offers an international buffet dinner from nine “live” cooking stations at Bt2,488 net per person. At Angelini, diners can treat someone special to a Valentine’s set dinner exclusively prepared by Chef Ugoletti. The menu with wine pairings is accompanied by the romantic rhythm of Lilibeth Antonio and her pianist. Price is Bt2,688 net per person. And at Salathip, guests can share their love with someone special with a Thai set dinner paired with sparkling wine by the Chao Phraya River accompanied with classical Thai dance performances at Bt2,288 net per person. All prices include sparkling wine pairings, a chocolate lipstick, and rose for the lady. Where: Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok, New Road, Bangrak (BTS: Saphan Taksin) // Contact: 02-236-9952, 02-236 7777, ext.205-6, e-mail: restaurants.slbk@shangrila.com

Valentine Dining Journeys

Romantic Dining Venues

Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok invites all couples to celebrate an unforgettable evening of romance aboard the hotel’s Horizon Cruise or at NEXT2 Café, Angelini, and Salathip

Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa presents five sensual dining experiences on Feb. 14. At Trader Vic's – the 5-course International Fine Dining Menu is Bt4,499++ per couple, including a bottle of sparkling wine and a rose for the lady. At Manohra Dining Cruise, dine on delicious regional specialties, enhanced by sought after imported meats and seafood at Bt4,499++ per couple, including a bottle of sparkling wine and a rose for the lady. The 5-course Italian Saint Valentine Set Menu Dinner at Brio features the finest imported ingredients to create the most sumptuous Mediterranean flavors at Bt3,499++ per couple. And at Riverside Terrace – Grand International Buffet Dinner -feast under the stars as Thai dancers perform on a flame lit stage, against a magical river backdrop of sparkling lights and scenic tranquility. Price is Bt1,999++ per person, including a glass of sparkling wine and a rose for the lady. Where: Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa, Charoen Nakorn Road (Free shuttle boat ride from Saphan Taksin Pier) // Contact: 02-476-0022, ext. 1416 or e-mail riversidedining@anantara.com february 2013 | 69

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Wine & Dine

indulge & enjoy of potato and leek soup or minestrone soup with pesto oil. Savor the finest main course of saddle of roast lamb served with cream of parsnip, sautéed Russell potatoes, glazed carrots and a thyme jus or grilled Australian grass fed Angus tenderloin with crispy beef ravioli, ratatouille, tomato confit, and truffle champignon sauce. Mauve’s ‘Be My Valentine’s’ 3-course set dinner includes one complimentary bottle of wine. Price is Bt3,200 (net) per couple. Where: Mauve Restaurant, Radisson Bangkok, Sukhumvit 13 // Contact: 02-6454999

So ‘Sweet Valentine’

Be My Valentine’s Dinner

At Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit’s Mauve Restaurant, try the full-course set dinner prepared by specialist chefs. Warm up with a great selection of appetizers including crab cakes with spicy mango sauce or New Zealand mussels baked with herbs and served with a garden salad followed by cream

On Feb. 14, lovers will have the chance to celebrate Valentine’s Day like nowhere else as Sofitel So Bangkok presents three tantalizing romantic set-menu dinners. First Valentine’s option is dinner at Park Society Restaurant; located on the 29th floor, where fine gastronomy meets spectacular views that captivate the senses as the array of surrounding city lights playfully converge on the chic setting. Guests will enjoy a 5-course set menu dinner, along with glasses of champagne and romantic rose for a lady. Priced is at Bt10,000++ per couple. The

BE MY VALENTINE Love is in the air, and Indus Indian Restaurant transforms into a perfect setting for irresistible romance on Valentine’s Day – with exquisite food, the finest wines, and conducive surroundings -- for the ultimate moments of love. Treat your special one to a sumptuous dinner on Feb. 14 at Indus on Sukhumvit 26. Whisper sweet nothings to each other as you savor Indus’ “Valentine Special,” a Four-Course Dinner Menu lavishly prepared especially for this day of love. Start your romantic rendezvous with some of the most exciting appetizers that are sure to tantalize your tastebuds before indulging in an exquisite choice of main courses, and then, cap the evening with a tempting choice of mouthwatering Indian desserts. Truly a dinner to remember for the night of romance, which you can enjoy either inside the exotic, magical candlelit atmosphere of the air-conditioned main dining room , or al fresco in the new manicured, landscaped garden made more enchanting by the star-lit sky. Only Bt2999++ for two persons, with a bottle of Spanish Sparkling Wine CAVA BOOK EARLY TO ENSURE YOUR TABLE!

contemporary indian dining #71 Sukhumvit Soi 26 BTS: Phrom Phong Tel: 02-258-4900 www.indusbangkok.com indus@indusbangkok.com

Lookeast | wine & dine

second Valentine’s option is dinner at the outdoor pool and party venue, Water Club. Located on the 10th floor, the ambience here is one of seduction under the stars in a relaxed setting by the pool with tables lit by the soft glow of candles. Guests will enjoy a 4-course set menu dinner, along with glasses of champagne a romantic rose for a lady. Priced is at Bt7,000++ per couple. The other Valentine’s offering is exclusive to just one couple: a 6-course dinner served at

The Box, starting with caviar, will be complemented by a bottle of Dom Perignon, red roses, great music and, naturally, a private butler. After dinner the couple will be hosted to a night’s stay in a So Suite Spa with spa treatment for two. This perfect night of love is priced at Bt50,000 net. Where: Sofitel SO Bangkok Hotel, Rama IV Road // Contact: 02-6240000; e-mail: H6835-FB3@sofitel.com, www.sofitel.com

Café@2 Valentine’s

Executive Sous Chef Boonserm has cooked up an array of dishes from all parts of the world so that guests and their loved ones can enjoy the finest things in life at Café@2 on Valentine’s Day. The menu includes Japanese with assorted sushi and sashimi, local Thai favorites from som tam (Thai spicy salad), larb pla chon tod grob (spicy and crispy fish with toast rice), Indian delights, European offerings from pasta and grill, to live cooking stations. Since it is a Valentine’s promotion, Café@2 has also prepared the fines Australian rib-eye, oven roasted leg of lamb, baked salmon fillet and much, much more all for only Bt1,450 per person or Bt2,900 per couple. Where: Café@2, 2nd Floor, Conrad Bangkok, All Seasons Place, Wireless Road // Contact: 02- 690-9211

Festival of Love

On Valentine’s Day, a 5-course dinner is carefully designed by resident Spanish chef Joan Tanya to honor and welcome the festival of love. The romantic evening will also feature flamenco guitarist, Vincent Chavez, from Spain. Price is Bt 1,999++ per person inclusive of a glass of sparkling wine and a complimentary hearted shape chocolate. Couples will also receive a bottle of red or white wine. Where: Tapas Y Vino, Grand Millennium Sukhumvit, Asoke (MRT: Sukhumvit) // Contact: 02204-4158 or e-mail fb@grandmillenniumskv.com

Lookeast recommendations February Dining Specials

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Chinese New Year Deals Prosperity, Wealth, and Happiness Menu

To usher the Chinese New Year, chefs at The Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant presents a celebratory dish, the rotisserie crispy chicken – a perfect savory special for those celebrating one of the most special occasions in the Asian calendar. Celebrate the auspicious event with festive treats on the “Prosperity, Wealth, and Happiness” menu set at Bt9,999 net per 10 persons. Special Offer: Come 4, Pay 3 All-you-can-eat for buffet during the entire February. Where: The Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant, Windsor Suites & Convention Hotel, Sukhumvit 20 // Contact: 02-262 1234, ext. 1410

8-Course set Menu

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Chinese New Year at Colonnade

Hong Teh Chinese Restaurant ushers in the Year of the Snake with a superb 8-course set menu, which features traditional Cantonese dishes such as shrimps cream salad and scallop wasabi mayonnaise salad; braised shark’s fin soup; crispy Peking duck; wokfried deer’s tender with abalone X.O sauce; steamed snow fish with ham and mushroom; fried egg noodles with crab meat; and sago dumpling with white fungus. Price is Bt 8,888++ per table for 10 persons or Bt888++ per person. Every diner gets a “Red Packet” and lucky oranges for good fortune. Where: Hong Teh Chinese Restaurant, 2nd floor of Tower Wing, The Ambassador Hotel Bangkok, 171 Sukhumvit 11 // Contact: 02254-0444, ext. 1562/3; e-mail : fbbkk@amtel. cot.h

Chinese Brunch

Novotel Bangkok Platinum invites you to welcome the “Year of Snake” & Celebrate Chinese New Year 2013 with a delicious Chinese Buffet Brunch at The Square Restaurant for the price of Bt888++ per person, on Sunday, Feb. 10 from 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. Make it a family day as children below 12 get 50% discount and kids below 5 will eat for free. The Chinese Buffet selection

Welcome the Year of the Snake in fine style with the legendary Sunday Brunch and a full range of regional and western specialties at The Sukhothai Bangkok’s Colonnade restaurant. Enjoy an amazing selection featuring imported oysters from the United States, Australia, France and Ireland; the finest and freshest Maine lobster, giant Alaskan King Crab and Mud Crab; New Age sushi; 30 kinds of farmhouse cheeses; all-time favorites in a tasty Chinese menu, including dim sum and congee, a live station, fish maw soup and longevity noodles; and delectable desserts such as 8 Treasures rice pudding, Persimmon tart, Earl Grey crème brûlée and more. Price is Bt3,000++ per person. Where: Colonnade Restaurant, The Sukhothai Bangkok, Sathorn Road // Contact: 02-344-8888 or e-mail: promotions@sukhothai.com

candy bar, black tea ice cream, warm sweet mash taro, golden bean cake and more. Price is Bt599++ per person for lunch buffet and Bt800++ per person for Sunday Brunch. Where: Le Meridien Bangkok, Suriwongse Road // Contact: 02-232-8888, e-mail fbadmin.lmbkk@lemeridien.com

Welcome the Year of the Snake

Hong Kong Chef Leung presents an array of traditional Chinese New Year dishes on a special set menu created to wish good luck for all diners at Lok Wah Hin Chinese Restaurant. Welcome new year with auspicious dishes such as hair seaweed dried oyster pan-fried fish meat in brown sauce, Hong Kong BBQ suckling pig, and hair seaweed braised with goose’s web in clay pot. The 8-course set menu is Bt14,500++ and includes an “Ang Pao.” Where: Lok Wah Hin, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, Siam Square Soi 6 (BTS: Siam) // Contact: 02-2098888, ext.. Lok Wah Hin or visit the website www.novotelbkk.com.

Bite of China

The journey of culinary discovery at Latest Recipe, Le Meridien Bangkok Patpong continues to entice diners with monthly specialties from around the world being offered. For February, and in celebration of the Chinese New Year, an array of delicious Chinese menu will be on offered for lunch buffet. Chef Attapol’s Chinese dish selection includes smoked duck with honey-hoisin sauce, Prawn golden parcel, Barbecue Peking duck, roasted suckling pig, Chinese noodle and much more. The tempting desserts contain assorted New Year Chinese february 2013 | 71

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indulge & enjoy Monthly Promotions

Youzen's Yakitori Set

For February, Youzen Japanese Restaurant highlights the “Yakitori Set’ and the “Yaki Pork Set” to indulge all lovers of Japanese cuisine. Don’t miss these creative renditions of beloved Japanese delicacies as only the chefs at Youzen can present. Special Offer: Come 4, Pay 3 All-you-can-eat for buffet in February 2013. Lunch a la carte menu available and Buffet Seafood Dinner at Bt699++ /person. Where: Youzen Japanese Restaurant, Windsor Suites & Convention Hotel, Sukhumvit 20 // Contact: 02-262 1234, ext. 1408

Chef Luke’s ‘Tuk-Tuk Tour’

Organic, Authentic Thai Cuisine at basil

Diners at basil can now enjoy award-winning Thai cuisine prepared by talented chefs using organic produce. basil is the first Thai restaurant in a luxury hotel to offer a 6-course set menu with organic ingredients in its authentic dishes. basil’s Chef Kesinee Wanta’s secret to ensuring diners enjoy an unforgettable experience is to create a feast for the eyes with contemporary presentation and excite the palate with authentic flavors. Now her awardwinning cuisine is further enhanced by premium quality organic produce from the Royal Mae Fah Luang Project in northern Thailand. Where: basil, Level 1, Sheraton Grande

Guests at InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort can join a culinary tour with Executive Chef Luke MacLeod, as he guides a personal tour of Koh Samui’s organic farms to cherry-pick the very best of fresh ingredients – on a tuk-tuk! The half-day experience includes visits to some of the resort’s leading purveyors on a traditional Thai “tuk-tuk” autorickshaw, followed by a specially prepared lunch by Chef Luke, using the freshly bought ingredients. Guests also have the opportunity to get behind the professional open-plan kitchen at the resort’s Amber restaurant for an exclusive cooking class with the chef followed by a sumptuous lunch to sample the fresh wholesome dishes, which is Chef Luke’s signature cooking style. The day starts with a consultation with the chef over coffee to discuss what the guests would like to see and cook. The organic tour begins right on the resort’s doorstep where they are shown around the organic herb and aromatics garden by the resort’s resident gardener, Khun Pravit. From here, guests board the customized tuk-tuk and are taken to Kasem organic chicken farm, located just 250m from the resort. Guests can select the fresh freerange eggs, and poultry also can be bought at the farm, depending on the chosen recipes. Other stops on the tour include roadside fruit supplier with fruits harvested from a local garden, an organic salad and herb farm, and a local gardener’s pick at a road verge, followed by a stop at Lipa Noi just 10 minutes from the resort for the fresh catch of the day. “Fresh and quality ingredients is fundamental to cooking. No matter how skilled of a chef you are, you simply have to work with good ingredients, using fresh local produce which are well-balanced and full of taste” said Chef Luke. “Anyone can fly ingredients half way across the world, to cook with ingredients they are used to and work within their comfort zone. But when you have such amazing local produce, it’s a crime not to make the most of it! I’m just happy to share my passion and experience in working with these wonderful ingredients and the amazing people who are behind them!” Chef Luke joined InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort’s kitchen in May 2012, following his tenure at renowned Michelin starred Chef, Pierre Gagnaire’s eponymous Pierre Restaurant at Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Hong Kong. Since joining the award-winning property, Chef Luke continues to elevate the resort’s culinary experience with its guests full of accolades for his clean-tasting and wholesome cuisine. “We continually strive to provide the highest quality gastronomic experience at the resort, and Chef Luke’s ‘Tuk-Tuk Tour’ provides us with an opportunity to share our passion with our guests. It allows us to showcase the importance of food provenance, highlights our commitment to sustainability whilst providing guests with a cultural and an epicurean experience!” said Arnaud Gordon, general manager of the resort. Chef Luke’s Organic Tuk Tuk Tour and Cooking Class is priced at Bt3900++ per person for a minimum number of two persons, and a maximum number of four persons for a halfday experience from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. inclusive of lunch.

Lookeast | wine & dine

Lookeast recommendations February Dining Specials

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Sukhumvi, Sukhumvit Road (BTS: Asoke) // Contact: 02-649-8366, dining.sgs@ luxurycollection.com

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Korean Set Lunch

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Experience a traditional Korean lunch throughout February at Kongju Korean Restaurant on the 2nd Floor of Pathumwan Princess Hotel for only Bt390 net. Each "Do Si Rok" set lunch highlights a selection of Korean appetizers, BBQ salmon, and a choice of BBQ beef, chicken or pork, steamed rice; and Doen Jaen soup plus a free-flow hot or iced green tea. Where: 2nd Floor, Pathumwan Princess Hotel, 444 MBK Center, Phyathai Road (BTS: National Stadium) // Contact: 02-216-3700, ext. 20230

Shellfish & Champagne, Martinis & Moongazing

InterContinental Hua Hin Resort will be delighting guests and visitors throughout February with a huge selection of upscale wining and dining deals and memorable culinary adventures for discerning diners to choose from. The Thai royal heritage resort's renowned seafood restaurant, Azure, will be celebrating the finesse of French dining, with a menu centred around the very best caviar from France and teaming it with the freshest seafood catches of local fishermen.Expect dishes such as caviar on Thai red snapper and gravlax imbued with orange and coriander marinade. Sundays will continue this illustrious showcase of indulgent dining with the fivestar resort's "Bubbly Brunch."Guests will be served carefully selected sparkling wines and champagnes alongside fresh oysters, sumptuous foie gras and premium Wagyu beef. Also available throughout the month will be a showcase of authentic and masterfully prepared Northern Thai food at the Pirom restaurant, as well as afternoons of international tea tasting surrounded by the impressive 1920s style architecture and colonial era jazz music of Lee La bar, where the evenings will see a selection of Martinis on offer, carefully crafted by expert mixologists. For a less formal yet equally indulgent dining experience, guests can enjoy a bountiful beachside barbecue every Saturday night, featuring the freshest and most succulent seafood the Gulf of Thailand has to offer alongside selected cuts of meat. On Valentine's Day, Executive Chef Patrick of Azure serving up a especially created 6-course seafood set menu complete with lavish caviar accompaniments and the finest Bollinger champagne, while romantic diners at Felicita can expect an evening of ambient al fresco dining featuring dishes such as oyster 'frappuccino' and duck liver flan. February's luxury dining experiences at InterCon Hua Hin will come to a crescendo on the Feb 25, with a sophisticated celebration of the full moon. Guests will enjoy Veuve Clicquot Champagne alongside a magnificent serving of foie gras, oysters and lobster whilst taking in the spectacular view of the moon from Azure or from a private cabana on the beachfront. Where: InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, Hua HIn // Contact: 02 656-0236 // www.intercontinental.com/huahin

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relax & unwind Buffet at Diplomat Bar on the evening of Valentine’s Day. Indulge in exquisite romance– themed creations especially prepared by executive pastry chef, Frederic Legras, which include fondue with skewers, Quetzalcoatl tart, fudge & caramel bonbons, and more. Package includes an avant-guard venture Tea Therapy, fusing of Siamese local and natural herbal teas. It is available at Bt690 per person and Bt1,300 per couple. Where: Diplomat Bar, Lobby Level of Conrad Bangkok, All Seasons Place, Wireless Road // Contact: 02-690-9244

Finale Celebration

Kiosk Cafe @ Emporium by Bundit Bosereewong and Jason Runholm recently played host to the “Finale Celebration Party” to thank all customers for their kind support and to announce their next project, "the Barkyard," which will be unveiled in March. Various celebrities and VIPs joined the event, also graced by distinguish artists and performances by the Italian Baroque music band directed by Jacopo Gianotto, the Japanese performance Butoh, and the fabulous Gene Kasidit.

A WHOLE NEW PARTY SCENE XANA presents top DJ line-up for 2013

Phuket – XANA a partnership with the successful Singaporebased nightclub group Attica, is bringing a whole new party scene to Phuket. The beach club features a 35m swim-up pool bar set on the sands of Bang Tao Bay, located within the fivestar resort of Angsana Laguna Phuket. Now dubbed as Phuket’s most stylish venue, XANA has announced an exciting line-up of top DJs for the high season including legendary DJ Paul Oakenfold who has sold over five million LPs and produced for Madonna, U2 and The Happy Mondays. DJ Frankie Knuckles, the Godfather of House music and inductee into the Dance Music Hall of Fame. 2013 kicked off with the Godfather of house music, DJ Frankie Knuckles, making his debut Jan. 5. Phenomenal nights continued with Asia No. 1 female DJ, Nakadia, becomes the hottest ticket in town on Jan. 12. More DJ line-ups continued for each week including Dennis Ferrer, the founder of the Objektivity record label, who prepared an afrocentric house line up at XANA, Jan. 31. Ibiza legend, Matt Caseli needs no introduction after 14 years residency at the world’s most famous and beautiful club Pacha. He is expected to light

Lookeast | Wine & Dine

up the night at XANA on Feb. 23. The coming April, the legend that is Paul Oakenfold will be given center stage to show off his tracks on April 28. After his work with Madonna and films scores in “The Bourne Identity,” “Californication,” and many others, Oakenfold is surely the name to watch out for this year. Adding to the flavor of the thrilling DJ lineup, the menu focuses on light meals, healthy food and tapas, with creative combinations of Mediterranean and Thai tastes in eye-catching presentations. XANA Chef Krisnamurti “Kiki” Damarjati takes his cuisine to the cutting edge of style and flavours. XANA’s Mediterranean-influenced lunch and dinner menus feature a variety of small plates drawing from the culinary heritage of Thailand and Europe. To end the XANA’s dining experience on a sweet note, the dessert menu including creamy berries Cheesecake and homemade speculos Tiramisu are not to be missed. XANA is open seven days per week for lunch and dinner; operating hours are from 10 a.m. till midnight. Food service is from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, contact Angsana Laguna Phuket via e-mail: reservations-lagunaphuket@ angsana.com or call: 076-324101.

Diplomat Bar: Chocolate Decadence Enjoy a luscious Chocolate

Day of Love at amBar rooftop

Whether it is love for your special one, family, friends, or merely for the food, celebrate the Day of Love under the stars at amBar, Four Points Sukhumvit 15’s al fresco rooftop venue with open space, deck area and poolside offers a unique dining atmosphere to your special day. Just Bt4,000 net per couple for an impressive seafood appetizer platter, a full buffet line which includes special strawberry collection desserts and chocolate fountain, with a complimentary bottle of wine. Live band to entertain throughout the night. Where: amBar, Four Points Sukhumvit 15, Bangkok // Contact: 02-309-3201

Renaissance Bangkok: ‘Twist of R Style”’ Package

From now until April 30, spiceup your events with banquets from Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel. From authentic Chinese set menus at Bt10,888++ per 10 persons to delectable international buffet at Bt888++ per person and get a complimentary celebrity chef live stations for every Bt100,000 net spent, there’s something wonderfully new to discover. Book now to get complimentary soft drinks or mixers. Where: Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel (BTS: Chidlom) // Contact: 02125-5222

ENTERTAINMENT/NIGHTILIFE Bar & CLUB specials

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Get down to Concept CM2 of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square as the beautiful ladies in red grace the stage and color the party red during the Chinese New Year Party on Feb. 10 to welcome the “Year of the Snake” and on Feb. 14 for the Romantic Valentine’s Day Party. Resident DJs spin the latest in dance, chart pop, R&B, and hiphop, while the “Crush Crew” International live band pumps it out loud on centerstage. Both parties kick off from 10 p.m. and tickets are only Bt650 net inclusive of two drinks. Where: Concept CM2 of Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square (BTS: Siam) // Contact: 02-209-8888, ext. CM2 or visit our website www.CM2bkk.com.

Sunset Happy Hour at XANA

It’s “Buy 1, Get 1 Free” at XANA, the beach club of Angsana Laguna Phuket from 5 to 6 p.m. daily. The islands hottest venue heads up the most stylish signature cocktail menu around, featuring the “Xanajito,” a clever blend of spice and exotic flavor and signature cocktail, “The Blue Attica Iced Tea,” a courageous take on the ever popular “Long Island Iced Tea” highlighting the ever adventurous yet ingenious cocktail menu. Where: XANA Beach Club, Angsana Laguna Phuket // Contact: 076-324-101

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

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