VIVA Bangkok Issue 51

VIVA

Bangkok April 2nd 2014

Motor Show 2014

ONYX! RCA s New Nightspot

Playboy s 6oth

KISSO

Centara Phratamnak Resort

Your Fortnightly What s On Guide to Bangkok

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Contents

6

Welcome

12

32

COVER: ONYX Opening at RCA. Photo by Paul Hutton.

------------------------------------------Page 6 Playboy 60th Anniversary at KU DE TA.

Page 12 Motor Show at Impact Arena.

Page 32 Kisso Japanese Restaurant.

Page 38 Thailand W-I-D-E.

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42

Page 40 Marriott Bangkok Sukhumvit First Anniversary at Octave.

Page 42 Gourmandises Cafe at Swissotel Nai Lert Park Hotel.

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AS OUR NEXT ISSUE FALLS IN THE MIDDLE OF SONGKRAN WE WILL INSTEAD PUBLISH A WEEK LATER ON APRIL 23. HAPPY SONGKRAN!!

Daily Events 3D Zebra Art Exhibition Wine Pub in conjunction with Artist Bilou showcases an unusual bar promotion with a Creative 3D Acrylic Zebra Art Presentation.

Join Wine Pub to experience this stunning Zebra Series by Artist Bilou and take the opportunity to purchase these special acrylic artworks while dining on the new menu. The 3D Zebra Exhibition at Wine Pub is on display till the 31st May 2014.

Throughout April and May.

Feast of Fabulous Pho at Thien Duong Vietnamese Restaurant Dusit Thani Bangkok s exquisite Vietnamese restaurant Thien Duong is delighted to reveal an exciting new Feast of Fabulous Pho menu as they lift the lid on Vietnam s classic dish to discover which region produces the best. Vietnam s most iconic dish, the rice noodle dish varies geographically in terms of taste and ingredients. In the north of Vietnam, Pho from Hanoi uses a clear broth while Pho dishes produced in the south features a darker soup.

Until April 10th.

Award Winning Nagasaki Beef NAMI Teppanyaki Steakhouse presents the latest addition, Nagasaki Beef, the black-haired cattle raised in southern Japan. This premium grade A3 Japanese beef was home grown on green pastures in Nagasaki s peninsulas and islands where it is high in sea salt and mineral content due to salted winds. Because of this naturally enriched environment, you can expect nothing but a succulent juicy and tender wagyu melting in your mouth at JW Marriott Bangkok.

Throughout April.

Grab A Crab Silver Waves Restaurant of Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok is featuring a variety of crab dishes throughout April 2014. Daily crab specials are the order of the month as the Chinese Master Chef expertly prepares Crab balls salad with fruits, Wok-fried Blue crab with celery and preserved vegetables or Wok-fried Sea crab and Lychee with X.O. sauce, and many more crab creations Cantonese style. Savour these rich tastes to spice up your lunch or d inner at Silver Waves Restaurant.

Throughout April.

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Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers Wins Third Place in the 2014 BP World Ice Art Championships in Alaska

Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers is celebrating the third place award for the 2014 BP World Ice Art Championships, one of the largest ice sculpting competitions and exhibitions in the world. This year the event took place in the city of Fairbanks, Alaska.

More than 70 teams from all over the world participated in the competition amongst which chief artist Manu Songsri represented the Bangkok Hotel.

After six days of competition, Mr. Manu Songsri was awarded 3rd place in the "multi block classic" category. Mr. Manu and his team of two ice sculpture artists are the first Thai team to participate in this competition and were the only Thai team represented at the event.

The theme for their creation was Emotion , with their sculpture designed to show both God and Monster, thereby reflecting on how humankind has both good and bad sides.

Lights, Camera, Bunnies!

Welcome to the World of Playboy The iconic men s magazine Playboy has been celebrating the completion of six decades with celebrations around the world.

Playboy Thailand held a 60th Anniversary Gala VIP Ball at the swanky new KU DE TA at Sathorn Square in Bangkok, complete with free flow Moet, Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve and a song and dance show featuring the bunnies themselves.

In Los Angeles the magazine celebrated with an open top bus tour around the city featuring 60 bunnies.

The magazine was first published in December 1953, with Marilyn Monroe chosen to grace the cover. Since then a bevy of high class beauties from film and fashion have agreed to pose, with British model Kate Moss appearing on the anniversary issue cover, complete with bunny ears and tail.

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Babes on the Hood Bangkok International Motor Show 2014 The annual gathering of car lovers that is The Bangkok International Motor Show got under way at Impact Arena on March 26th. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the show, which gets bigger and better each year. New designs aplenty were unveiled, as always, to great fanfare.

Rolls-Royce presented its latest Limited Editon super-luxury car, the

Majestic Horse Collection, for the first time in South East Asia at the The 35th Bangkok International Motor Show.

The Majestic Horse Collection comprises a limited number of Bespoke Rolls-Royce Ghosts that take inspiration from classical interpretations of the horse in traditional Chinese art. The model has been released to

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Photos by Paul Hutton

coincide with the Chinese Zodiac Year of the Horse, which is being celebrated in 2014. In addition, Rolls-Royce exhibited Wraith, its most powerful and dynamic motor car yet, alongside a further two Phantoms on the four-car stand.

A two-door fastback with ample seating for four passengers, Wraith s twin-turbo V12 engine develops 624 BHP / 465kW, 800 Nm, powering the car to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds. The model is continuing to broaden the brand s customer base to a younger audience.

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This is the largest stand the brand has shown at BIMS, reflecting the growth of Rolls-Royce Bespoke in the market. Thailand experienced the highest growth in the Asia Pacific region outside of China during 2013, as well as a record sales year.

The new Range Rover Evoque for 2014 with the latest Zanzibar colour scheme was also officially unveiled for the first time in Thailand. The multi award-winning SUV car features a new 9-speed automatic gearbox, torque vectoring uses the electronic differential and the

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vehicle brakes to constantly balance the distribution of engine torque between the four wheels during cornering, resulting in improved grip and steering, and a reduced level of under steer. The Land Rover Defender now comes with special accessories, enhancing its fierce and powerful capability as a true British off-road vehicle; these include roof rack, air intake, rear bumper aluminium step, and headlight frame.

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Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts Announce Photography Contest Winners

To commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts in 2014, a worldwide photography competition showcasing vivid memories and experiences at Banyan Tree has culminated with over 3,000 photos being submitted by past guests.

Three winners were chosen by an expert judging panel, and these, along with 17 other short-listed photos, will join a global travelling photography exhibition. The travelling photography exhibition will navigate its way through 20 countries and 31 destinations during 2014, being showcased in many of the Groups properties as well as key road shows and conferences in Germany, Russia and the UK as well as Hong Kong, Tokyo and beyond.

Past and current guests of Banyan Tree and its sister brand, Angsana Hotels & Resorts, were invited to share their memories, portraying people and culture, natural landscapes or a spontaneous snapshot taken at one of the properties over the last 20 years.

Judged on creativity, photographic quality and authenticity, the top 20 photos chosen by the judges presented a range of experiences and memories across the portfolio of Banyan Tree and Angsana destinations worldwide.

The three winning photographs were taken by guests who stayed at Banyan Tree and Angsana resorts in China and the Maldives. Mr Bu En Sa, from Hangzhou in China submitted A Whole Week of Happiness from his stay at Banyan Tree Lijiang, Mr Yong Qin from Shanghai presented Late Autumn Ranch at Banyan Tree Ringha. while Mr Zen Tam from Australia s winning image Yoga on the Edge of the Infinity Pool was taken at Angsana Velavaru. Each of these winning photographers have been awarded a holiday in Thailand, including flights, staying at Banyan Tree s flagship resort, Banyan Tree Phuket for three nights.

Thursday April 3rd Silver Studio by Nico Sepe RMA Institute/Gallery Titled after the silver halides that make up a traditional black and white photograph, the concept of this exhibition is a simple walk into a traditional studio, a collection of pictures of man and his place , just part of socio-documentary photographer Nico Sepe s body of work put together over the past 30 years. This collection is also about preserving the silver gelatine print and the craft of traditional black and white film photography and the dark room process, and the interaction this entails. The collection of studio prints capture every day moments of people in their places, going about their living or simply enjoying themselves. Man s familiar places a promenade, barber shop, the local billiards hall, a park, a junk shop.

Opening is from 6.30pm until 10pm, and the exhibition runs until April 27th.

Rouge Session Featuring Wines & Cheeses Part Two Hansar Bangkok The wine and cheese event is back for part two! Join this special Rouge Session with DJ Monsieur Markus. From 7pm until 11pm.

Friday April 4th Bath Bangkok Grand Launch Opening Party Sukhumvit Soi 16 On the grand opening the venue will come alive with entertainment and music that ranges from exotic lounge to soulful house.

Water goddesses will complete the picture of ancient civilization, while food, (finger food and ancient BBQ) and drinks will flow in abundance.

Starts 8pm, with freeflow designated from 8pm until 10 pm.

1235 Mild Live in Concert Thunder Dome, Muangthong Thani All beautiful melodies are always promised from these well experienced and disciplined Thai stars. Drawing on all of their 10 years of existence the boys plan to perform songs from the very first studio album six years ago right up to their latest offering: Master Peace.

"This is our first big concert, and we intend to make it very special for our fans, especially as we will gather all the hits from the very first album up to the latest album such as Wan Yen, Rak Rao Mai Tao Kan, Poo Puay Kwam Jum Suem, Love Sick, Dao, Kam Tam Sanong and many more!": Mild

Saturday April 5th Mild

Angels & Demons Party Le Bar Come in your most angelic or devilish costume and have more chances to win Veuve Clicquot Champagne. Doors open at 8pm. Free flow until 9:30pm. Free tapas and free desserts. Entry: Girls 400 baht, Guys 700 baht. No Entrance Fee if you buy a bottle! Dress Code Colours: White, Black or Red. Thirty Seconds to Mars live in Bangkok Bitec Thirty Seconds to Mars have released four studio records, including 2013 s Love Lust Faith and Dreams. Among their radio hits have been the songs "The Kill", This Is War , Kings and Queens" and "City of Angels". The band has circled the globe in sold-out shows, playing over 300 shows in nearly 60 countries on six continents to three million people, thereby breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest-ever concert tour by a rock band.

Thirty Seconds to Mars has sold over five million albums worldwide and their music videos have received more than 300 million views on YouTube.

The group has received numerous awards worldwide, including a dozen MTV Awards, a Billboard Music Award and numerous other honours.

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Thirty Seconds to Mars

We Are Drum Nest Rooftop Welcoming back, for a new residency, the awesome duo One Touch direct from France alongside Evan Greenspan on sax performing a special blend of beats up on one of the hippest rooftops in Bangkok. One Touch are DJ Georges and Peter on live percussion. They began in 2009 in the West of France and quickly became residents at Moramora Café Beach Nightclub.

In 2012 they touched down for the first time in S.E. Asia to play their music. Their live concerts are well known, with mix videos and live percussion. Expect to hear beautiful voices, African Rhythms, Latin Melodies, Modern Beats and Good New Vibrations. Every Saturday. Special Drink Prices All Night. 9pm till late. Free Entry.

Reframed Whitespace Gallery Presenting the work of an extraordinary American designer, Dann De Witt, Reframed aims to reframe the conversation about design versus art, by presenting Mr. De Witt s work de-contextualised, stripped of the signifiers of its original design purpose, and presented in a way that allows the audience to experience and evaluate it purely as artistic expression. Whitespace plans to mount annual exhibitions exploring questions at the intersection of Art and Design, to promote discourse and inspiration within the creative community.

5th April 30th May.

Reframed

Sunday April 6th SSMS Orchestra Mahisorn Hall, SCB Park Conducted by Hikotaro Yazaki.

Programme: Richard Wagner: Prelude to Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, WWV 96 M.L.Usni Pramoj: Chakri Day Richard Strauss: Horn Concerto No.1 in E-flat Major, Op.11 Bedrich Smetana: The Moldau Richard Strauss: Till Eulenspiegel's Merry Pranks, Op.28

Monday April 7th

Hikotaro Yazaki

Open Mic Comedy With The Bangkok Comedy Collective The Londoner Brew Pub A two hour show for just 200 baht (with a free drink) and then 100 baht drink promotions all night, plus 30% off food! Come and watch Bangkok's finest and ever more seasoned comedians along with fresh talent just having a go. If you want to do stand up, improv, a skit, sing a song, mime or anything that relates to comedy, please email ComedyBKK@gmail.com, or simply turn up for a three minute slot. For all others, just come along to enjoy what aims to be a fun show, aiming to cultivate local Bangkok talent!

Tuesday April 8th Foster + Partners: The Art of Architecture Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) Foster + Partners, one of the most innovative architectural practices in the world today, led by Founder and Chairman Norman Foster, is based in London with project offices worldwide. Over the past four decades the practice has pioneered a sustainable approach to architecture and ecology through a strikingly wide range of work, from urban masterplans, public infrastructure, airports, civic and cultural buildings, offices and workplaces to private houses and product design. Arranged around the themes of infrastructure, high-rise, urban design, history and culture all within the context of a sustainable agenda the works on display highlight the incredible diversity of the practice s work.

Details of new projects underway in Asia will be revealed.

April 4th to June 9th.

Photos by Paul Hutton

Seasonal Treats at the New Kisso Acclaimed chef Shinsuke Yonekawa is giving a modern twist to the seasonal flavours of traditional Japanese cookery at the recently renovated Kisso at The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok.

For 20 years Kisso has been a favourite among Bangkok s Japanese expatriate community and all who appreciate the work of skilled chefs preparing a well-considered menu.

After thorough renovations, Kisso now begins its third decade in a stylish setting that s at once lively and discreet. Strikingly contemporary décor enhances every element, from the main dining area, to the sushi bar to private tatami rooms.

Chef Shinsuke Yonekawa upholds and expands the Kisso tradition by highlighting the seasonal flavours of Japanese cookery and by featuring ingredients imported fresh from Japan.

Kisso can accommodate up to 110 diners. The main dining area has seating for 66 guests who can choose to sit at western style tables or at the sushi bar (14 seats) where they can watch the chef making sushi and cooking on the charcoal grill.

Additionally, Kisso also has four private rooms: two of these are western style, with seating for 10 diners, while the other two

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feature tatami style seating for 12 diners in each.

For business meetings, four Botan meeting rooms provide seating for a maximum of 84 guests.

Much-travelled Chef Yonekawa honed his craft aboard a cruise ship, working in the kitchens of the MV Olivia Cruise Liner.

In Japan, Chef Shinsuke worked as a sushi and teppanyaki chef at the Hyatt Regency Osaka s prestigious Irodori-Kaiseki restaurant, a position he held for seven years. Here he perfected the demanding and precise skills required of a Japanese chef. Chef Shinsuke was also Sous Chef at Hal Yamashita, one of Tokyo s finest contemporary restaurants and where he learned to express himself through food in new and exciting ways.

Sea Bream Shabu-Shabu

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Fresh Sashimi Selection

Chef Shinsuke s creativity quickly gained him a following of loyal diners when he opened his own restaurant, Toki, in the Philippines and he soon won the Best Restaurant Award from Philippines Tatler Magazine.

His accolades also include a Gold Award in the USA Rice Federation Sushi Masters Awards.

To Bangkok he brings a keen understanding of seasonal variations in Japanese cuisine, which he incorporates in a continually changing menu.

The notion of modernised tradition no less informs Kisso s menu and Chef Shinsuke s careful rendition of every dish. Those who have visited Japan likely will know the importance given to seasons, on their turning and on the subtle gradations between them.

At Kisso that same seasonal variation is reflected in ever-changing menu highlights based on the availability of ingredients imported fresh from Japan.

Japanese Sea Bream and Firefly Squid

Above: Grilled Eel and Foie Gras Sushi Rolls.

Left: Wagyu Beef Shabu-Shabu Salad.

Below: One of the restaurant s two tatami style private dining rooms.

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Chiang Mai Fest 2014 Concludes Two Great Days of Music, Food and Festival Fun at Promenada

Promenada Resort Mall Chiang Mai, the first resort-style shopping mall in Thailand, brought to a close an exceptional couple of days of Chiang Mai s internationally known music festival, Chiang Mai Fest 2014.

Under the theme of an International Cultural & Musical Heritage the event presented a free-entry open-air musical celebration featuring artists such as Thai band Sound of Siam, boy band Take Two, South African songwriter Matthew Mole, Iyeoka, Hot Water from South Africa and Akasha, Asia s number one fusion band, plus many more supporting artists over the two festival days.

Featuring an amazing sound and light display, endless selections of food and drinks, Chiang Mai Fest 2014 was a resounding success for Promenada, the City of Chiang Mai and its surrounding province.

The festival was opened by a number of highly respected speakers, including Pensuda Prai-aram, the Chairman of the Board, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT); Charoenrit Sa-nguansat, the Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai and Robina Patricia Marks, the South African Ambassador to Thailand. The Chairman of the Board of TAT also invited Koh Mr. Saxman, Thailand s most prominent saxophone player, to the stage to perform the opening song, setting the mood nicely for the diverse range of musical acts that would follow.

Thailand

Pullman Pattay

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W - I - D - E

ya Hotel G Composite Photo by Paul Hutton

Happy Birthday Marriott!

Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit Celebrates First Anniversary with a Champagne Celebration in the Sky at the Rooftop Octave Restaurant and Bar

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Photos by Paul Hutton

Serving Up a Treat For Gourmands Gourmandises Cafe and Bakery Offers an Extensive Range The relaxed setting of the Gourmandises Café, Bakery, and Coffee Shop makes for a pleasant lunch, afternoon snack or mid morning break. With a dining room that offers giant picture windows and a view over the adjacent canal, the cafe is perfect for sitting back and watching the water taxis go by in laid back surroundings.

Sweet tooths are amply rewarded with a range of pastries and cakes, while more health conscious souls can make the most of hearty salads and a selection of sandwiches and rolls.

Gourmandises is located within the Swissotel Nai Lert Park Hotel at the top end of Wireless Road in Bangkok.

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Photos by Paul Hutton

The cake selection is a sweet lovers delight. Front: Opera Cake. Back left: Blueberry Cheesecake. Back right: Cherry Cheesecake.

Two of the cafe s healthy fruit smoothies.

Sandwiches, rolls and pastries galore.

Gourmandises is the sole distributor of jams from the Royal Kitchens of Her Majesty the Queen Mother of Bhutan.

Beat The Heat With New Summer Cocktails

Dream Concoctions Dream Hotel Bangkok, in Sukhumvit Soi 15, has launched refreshing summer drinks to help you keep cool and stay fresh through the heat. Try out a refreshing sip of herbal drink Lemongrass Cooler with its fragrance and added health benefits, perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day. Another tasty drink on the new cocktail list is Summer Heat Cocktail, specially made from Thai herbs like ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf and lime juice. You can chill out daily with the new drinks by the swimming pool at Flava Lite and at Flava Restaurant and Bar with prices starting at 95 baht net per glass.

Syn Bar and Pool Bar Refreshers The relaxed and stylish Syn Bar at Swissotel has created two brilliant new cocktails with which to toast the April celebrations. The expert mixologists at the centrally-located lounge bar overlooking the park have created a Martini and a Margarita at once tangy, fruity and intriguing.

Apple Pie Martini starts with a base of vodka, mixed with Socrates apple raisin cinnamon syrup, fresh apple and cinnamon powder. Lychee Ginger Margarita has premium tequila at its core, blended with Socrates lychee ginger syrup, fresh lime and Cointreau. Both are priced 325++ Baht.

Last but not least, Pool Bar at Swissotel, set amidst all the towering foliage, has created two new ways to chill out in style with a non-alcoholic Tropical Fruit Crush (fresh papaya, pineapple juice, grapefruit juice) for 210++ Baht and Kaffir Lime Cooler (vodka, coconut rum, apricot brandy, fresh lemon, kaffir lime leaves) priced at 300++ Baht.

Wednesday April 9th

Saturday April 12th

Monday April 14th

Rooftop Concert: Joey Boy Plus DJ Arnaud JstDaft

Super Splash

Trang Music Festival Songkran Party On The Beach

Catch Joey Boy on the 47th floor outlet Cloud47 starting at 8pm

Pool, Brunch, Party.

With Unlimited Cocktails: THB 599++ Pool Brunch: THB 599++ Date : 12-14 April 2014 Time : 11.30am till late.

Venue : H2O (Pool Bar) 37th floor, The Continent Hotel Bangkok

NARZ Songkran Foam Party 2014

Thursday April 10th DJ Yves V Levels presents the international superstar DJ Yves V. Prepare for for an eclectic mix of the best electro, groove & progressive sounds.

In Her Views Documentary Theatre directed

by Wichaya Artamat.

Democrazy Theatre Studio.

On April 10, the final show, all 15 actresses will perform Together, featuring monologue battles between the female performers.

The monologues have been provided by the director and prepared by the actresses prior to the show.

►Sat.12►Sun.13►Mon.14►Tue. 15 April.

From 5pm - 2am followed by After Party in four separate rooms of music. Get ready to party at the festiBiggest Songkran Concert in South val of fun. Twenty Thai DJs, Thailand is being held for the including Top 10 Female DJs. You very first time. can expect a wild party atmosphere!

Turn up the Songkran Heat with a Fun Foam Party before cooling down with A Romantic Sea View among the sweet music of PraewKanitkul & Whatcharawalee .

Plus: Musketeers, Room 39, Boom Boom Cash, Bedroom Audio, Sunday April 13th Scrubb and Moderndog will perform live.

Monday, April 14, 2014 Ratchamongkol Beach Pirate Invasion Songkran Parkmeng, Trang 25 Degrees brings you Gates Open: 01.00 pm. adventure and looting at your Show time: 05.00 pm. 02.00 am. very doorstep this Songkran Ticket Price: 1,000 baht from 13th to 15th April!

A special terrace set up with Tickets on sale:Thai Ticket Major a 25 Degrees booth will be (Thaiticketmajor.com) and available for those who wish www.facebook.com/ to grab a quick burger or hot trangmusicfestival dog before joining the Songkran party on Silom **Special Offer** Road! There will be DJ Free Entry Aquarium or Seal playing from 3 to 9PM and Show Ticket for First 2,000 who live entertainment as well as buy a ticket from many games & prizes to win!

Thai Ticket Major, 1,000 THB. Mini burgers & hot dogs @ THB 150! 3 Chang beers @ THB 100!

ONYX! Blue Carpet Celebrity Launch at RCA

ONYX: Music Odyssey aims to be the freshest and most dynamic clubbing experience in Thailand. The vibrant new nightspot landed with a boom in Bangkok with a lavish opening party featuring a blue celebrity carpet and free flow Ciroc Ultra Premium Vodka cocktails.

The nightclub is set to take Bangkok's famous party scene to the next level with its seductive mix of style and sophistication. Nestled in Royal City Avenue, Bangkok's most established nightclubbing district, ONYX heralds in a new era for the local party scene.

From its origins as a youthful hangout, RCA has evolved into a multi layered destination that caters to many demographics and lifestyles, and the savvy newcomer now spearheads this drive with its heightened facilities and international reach.

The new level of sophistication is celebrated in two designated VIP zones inside the club where discerning punters can enjoy a pulsing night out with a little extra luxury. Positioned perfectly to give full visual access to the surrounding club, the zones have been designed so that VIPs can invite friends both new and old

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to share the privilege in complete luxury.

To fulfill all the senses, a state-of-the art sound system, KUVO by Pioneer, takes centre stage in one of the world's most technologically advanced audio visual sound stages that incorporates a high-definition LED display with social media to create a clubbing experience like no other in the kingdom.

With a roster of world-class DJs from all corners of the globe due to throw down their best kept tracks, the PA is good enough to host even the most demanding audio technicians.

If music is your thing, then ONYX exists to ignite any night out.

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Photos by Paul Hutton

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GETAWAY

DINING WITH

SHARKS!

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Centara Grand Phratamnak Pattaya s Undersea World The brand new Centara Grand is located just a hop skip and jump from the peaceful Phratamnak Beach at the southern end of Pattaya.

But guests are surrounded by the ocean without even venturing outside the opulent building. The aptly named Oceana seafood restaurant even has an aquarium complete with sharks lining one wall.

Images of the deep continue throughout, with sea horses, jellyfish, coral reefs and sea shells used as the main decorative theme at every level.

The rooftop Italian themed Ruffino Restaurant and Lounge also has three circular aquariums, this time filled with languid jellyfish.

Outside Ruffino is the swimming pool and Jacuzzi with great ocean views; here you can unwind after a delicious three course meal by Executive Chef Luca Pulese and be soothed by the sounds of resident DJ Diva.

Chef Luca comes to Centara Grand via stints at Hotel Le Boulevard in Venice, Osteria Alle Testiere, Hilton Amsterdam, Hilton Resort and Spa Rangali Island, Maldives, Great Wall Sheraton Hotel in Beijing, Royal Orchid Sheraton Bangkok and Sheraton Dameisha Resort in China. He brings 20 years of culinary experience to the fore with great creations throughout the hotel s food and beverage outlets.

GETAWAY

Executive Chef Luca Pulese The marine theme begins as soon as you check in at Centara Grand. Italian furnishings mingle with manmade bubble tanks and atmospheric blue jellyfish lights that are suspended from the ceiling in one of Thailand s most imaginative hotel lobbies.

Featuring 165 exquisitely appointed guestrooms, suites and family residences, each including Smart TV, Nespresso machine and a large balcony or terrace, the five star hotel rounds off the luxury experience by providing deep piled rugs and delicate cotton bedsheets.

Other facilities include a ground floor bakery and a fitness centre.

Oceana opens bright and early for a hearty breakfast buffet and remains open throughout the day.

The hotel will also soon have its own Beach Club, plus a Spa Cenvaree and a Club Lounge, all due for completion within the next six months.

The Phratamnak Room will also soon provide a spacious function room with a maximum capacity of 80 persons seated theatre-style.

The Phratamnak Room will feature dimmable lighting, video conference facilities, large screens and complimentary Wi-Fi, and there will also be a courtyard to make a perfect setting for coffee breaks and small breakaway sessions.

There is a choice of accommodation options for families, with over a third of all rooms featuring two double beds and Deluxe Family Residences and Premium Deluxe Suites offering bunk beds in a separate area, with total living space of 88 square metres.

The Luxury Suites are perfect to entertain guests or relax with the family while the Ocean Vista rooms and suites lead to a furnished balcony giving superb views of the ocean.

Words and photos by Paul Hutton.

DJ Diva Page 54 www.bangkokscene.com

Photo Courtesy of Veranda Resort and Spa

Photo Courtesy of Veranda Resort and Spa

GETAWAY

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GETAWAY

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RACKS Concierge Opening Held in Conjunction With TGIW at Ocean Bangkok

Managing Director Emily Jenkins at RACKS Concierge RACKS Concierge aims to provide an exclusive and unique opportunity for Thailand s emerging designers to present themselves both in Thailand and within the global arena. Providing a platform to support and promote upcoming talent, RACKS is hoping to help designers break through global barriers by offering a wide range of services to inspire and cultivate connections between designers and the media in local, national, and international fashion. With a keen eye on future trends, they aim to bring the most audacious and salacious stories and designs to the fashion-hungry media.

Ocean Bangkok is holding a regular Wednesday poolside event just for the ladies, but lads are welcome to join in the fun too. TGIW (Thank God It s Wednesday) is held between 2pm and 9pm with free entry and drink promotions all the way through. Ladies get free drinks from 3pm until 6pm.

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Movie of the Week

Tube Gallery at Bangkok International Fashion Week 2013 at Siam Paragon. Movie by Paul Hutton, Bangkok Scene.

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