VIVA Bangkok Issue 64

VIVA

May 2015

Bangkok

Chef Dayna’s Modern Mexican

McLaren Emquartier Motor Show Indigo Hotel Holiday Inn Pattaya

Your Lifestyle Guide to Bangkok and Beyond

Highlights

4

Contents

10

COVER: Chef Dayna at Mejico.

Photo by Paul Hutton.

22

---------------------------------------------Page 4 McLaren Showroom Launch

Page 10 Emquartier Opens in Phrom Phong

Page 22 Tiger Kingdom in Phuket

30

46

Page 26 Thailand W-I-D-E

Page 30 Babette’s The Steakhouse Opens

Page 34 Hotel Indigo in Wireless Road

Page 46 Bangkok International Motor Show

34 Page 2

Page 70 Getaway: Holiday Inn Pattaya www.bangkokscene.com

Daily Events

Pho Favorites at Thien Duong Restaurant, Dusit Thani Bangkok Sample the subtle varieties of this outstanding, complex and delicious Vietnamese dish throughout May and June. Choose from Rice Noodles in Yellow Curry Soup with Shrimps and Tofu, Dried Jade Noodles with Crispy Soft Shell Crab and Rice Noodle Soup with Vegetarian Vietnamese Sausage. Prices start from THB 240++ per dish.

Throughout May and June.

Chef Recommendations at Flava Restaurant at Dream Bangkok Executive Chef Booncherd is presenting his personal unique recommendations within the vibrantly coloured walls of Flava Restaurant through April and May. Choose either a four course set menu of Thai or Western delights at THB 700++ / set menu. Try Chef Booncherd’s recommended Western set menu, including Seared Scallop with Squid Ink Sauce and Sautéed Sweet Peas for starter, followed by Blue Crab with Brandy Soup, delectable main course of Pan-Seared Snow Fish with Spinach, Potato, and Passion Fruit Sauce and end with a tempting dessert like Apple Strudel. Alternative unique authentic Thai tastes include Jumbo White Prawn Salad with Thai Herbs followed

by Chicken and Galangal with Young Coconut Milk Soup followed by the main dish, Mussaman Curry with Lamb Shanks and Steamed Rice, and dessert, Pumpkin Custard.

Until May 31st.

Traditional Thai Treats at Flavors, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel This April, kick-off Thai New Year with a month-long tribute to the country’s diverse cuisines. Flavors will featured an aromatic Sunday brunch buffet with signature Thai dishes from four regions.

Price is at THB. 1,688++ per person.

Until April 30th

Yamazato Celebrates Japan’s Historic Boys’ Festival at Okura Prestige Hotel Boys’ Festival, or Tango-no-Sekku, is a major event in the Japanese calendar when families decorate samurai dolls to ensure good health for their boys and they fly carp-shaped streamers from flag poles to symbolise success. Yamazato, the award-winning signature Japanese restaurant at The Okura Prestige Bangkok, celebrates Tango-no-Sekku with Gozen set lunch and Kaiseki set dinner menus from 25 April to 5 May 2015. The Gozen lunch, priced at Baht 850++ per set, includes grilled snowfish with miso; a simmered comprising eggplant, potato, pumpkin, carrot and Sakura shrimp with a creamy sauce and tofu skin.

April 25th - May 5th

British Super Car’s New Bangkok Home Revealed Brand Expands Network with the Grand Opening of McLaren Bangkok The much anticipated opening of McLaren Bangkok represents a significant milestone in McLaren’s successful retail network expansion in Asia. McLaren Bangkok is the 20th location in the region and will be operated by Niche Cars Co. Limited. Located on Motor Way Km.1 within a brand new state-of-the-art showroom complex, McLaren Bangkok will offer the full range of high performance super cars and

sports cars from the acclaimed Brititsh marquee. Joining the official launch ceremony from the McLaren Asia Pacific headquarters were Regional Director David McIntyre, and Head of Sales and Operations George Biggs. Representing the new retailer, were Chairman Seree Rakvit and Vittawat Chinabarramee, Managing Director of Niche Cars Co., Ltd.

Reflecting on this special occasion, Mr. Vittawat Chinabarramee declared: “We are proud to celebrate our new role as the first exclusive McLaren retailer in Bangkok. Through our world-class service and commitment to excellence, we are committed to offering the exact same exclusive luxury customer experience that McLaren Automotive is now offering around the world. Opening the McLaren Bangkok showroom is a significant step in meeting the growing needs of our supercar customers in Thailand.”

David McIntyre, McLaren Asia Pacific Regional Director, added: “The Asia Pacific market is key to the growth of the McLaren brand as we continue to strengthen the network, and this is shown by the opening of our first McLaren showroom in Bangkok. This year is shaping as a key year with the launch of the much anticipated all-new Sports Series and we promise many exciting highlights for our customers in Thailand.

We are thrilled to make our range of groundbreaking super cars and sports cars available to enthusiasts in this region.”

McLaren Bangkok joins the McLaren retailer network following the global debut of the stunning new limited edition McLaren 675LT at the Geneva Motor Show, then the all-new Sports Series McLaren 570S at the New York Motor Show on 1 April 2015. The highly anticipated Sports Series range will see another new model, the McLaren 540C, unveiled at the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show on 20 April 2015.

The McLaren Sports Series is the most attainable McLaren sports car yet, bringing McLaren credentials and exclusivity to the sportscar segment for the first time.

The McLaren Sports Series will be a pure McLaren, building on the credentials of the McLaren P1™ and 650S, bringing Formula 1™ technologies and know-how to a new segment for the brand.

Photos by Paul Hutton.

Photos Courtesy of McLaren

The EmQuartier Debuts

Photos by Paul Hutton

Fashion Destination in the Heart of Sukhumvit Bangkok’s latest extravagant shopping experience was nveiled last month when The EmQuartier became the next operational phase of EM District.

The new development sits opposite the recently refurbished and redesigned The Emporium at Phrom Phong Skytrain Station.

Fashion Extraordinaire was held under the Fashion Invasion concept with a Fashion Troop consisting of more than 200 models and live performances at Quartier Gallery, M floor, The EmQuartier. The Mall Group and The Emporium Group management team led by Supaluck Umpujh, Krissana Umpujh, Paibul Kanokwattanawan and Kriengsak Tantiphipop celebrated the launch with business partners, retailers, business owners, executive-level managers, and socialites including Chali Sophonpanich, Dr Prasarn Bhiraj Buri, Prapee Buri, Hathaithep Theerathada, Phutharit Phrombandan, Vivat Suthipongchai, Jittima Wattanasin, Janista Liewchalermwong, Bhutrat Charoonsmith, Prinya and Ploenchan Ruenprapan, Suriyon and Chitradee Poolvoralaks, Sara Lamsam, Mega and Suriyon Sriorathaikul and Nalinee Worawongwasu.

Supaluck Umpujh, Vice Chairwoman of The Mall Group Co., Ltd. and Chairwoman of The Emporium Group Co., Ltd. said that The EM District opening is a celebration that the world would be amazed by, as a budget of

500 million baht was allocated to the four-month-long festivities held from 27 March to 31 July 2015.

There are three phases of the celebration under three concepts: Fashion Extraordinaire, Dining Extraordinaire and World Extraordinaire.

The first of three, Fashion Extraordinaire is a collaboration of more than 400 super brands, leading international brands and Thai designer brands including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, Prada, Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, Celine, Fendi, Gucci, Valentino, Chloe, Loewe, Miu Miu, Salvatore Ferragamo, Burberry, Emporio Armani and Club 21.

The EmQuartier is also home to a variety of world-class international and Thai fashion brands. Q Stadium for example is an urban concept store featuring more than 50 brands of clothing and accessories. Qurator houses more than 60 Thai designer brands and showcases collections by established and up-and-coming designers.

The Atelier on G floor, Emporium Department Store brings together over 70 unique fashion brands from all corners of the world, 40 of which are exclusive to The Emporium. ANOTHER STORY is a concept store with products by designers from around the world. The products from over 160 brands are special and reasonably priced.

with Fashion Extraordinaire

The EmQuartier also offers a stunning range of food, including ingredients, ready-to-go meals and restaurants.

Gourmet Market supermarket is considered a world-class gourmet destination with more than 40,000 products.

Quartier Food Hall at The EmQuartier offers Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Singaporean, Taiwanese, Australian, American and New Zealand dishes.

The ultimate, redefined shopping experience at The EM District, consisting of The Emporium and The EmQuartier is open daily from 10.00 to 22.00 hours.

Highlights of the retail complex are a five storey waterfall, an open air garden and six stories of dining terraces.

The buildings are inter-connected via walkways and foot bridges and a large pedestrian area allows shoppers to easily walk between all buildings in the Emporium and EmQuartier complex.

The cinema complex will feature eight screens including an IMAX theatre. Two stories of underground parking are provided and there is a large new supermarket on the basement level featuring a range of gourmet items, along with an already highly popular food court.

Page 18

www.bangkokscene.com

OPENING NIGHT GALA PARTY

Cool For Cats

Wild life in captivity in Thailand has become something of a hot topic in recent times, but the tigers at Tiger Kingdom in Phuket didn’t seem to have a care in the world as they cavorted in the tiger pool during VIVA Bangkok’s recent visit to the island.

Sitting right next to the Go-Kart track at the foot of Patong Hill, Tiger Kingdom allows visitors to get up close and personal with hand reared tigers of varying ages and sizes. Opening time is 9am and the venture has a café and restaurant on site. Guests can enter the cages and have their very own souvenir photo taken by members of staff.

Page 22

www.bangkokscene.com

Photos by Paul Hutton

Copy-Paste at Sombat Permpoon Gallery Examines the Thai Education System Sombat Permpoon Gallery currently features an exhibition by seven local artists titled “Copy-Paste”. The art exhibition explores the problems in Thailand’s education system, through the expressions of the artists who have all experienced the education system in roles as both students and teachers.

The exhibition will run until May 9th at the lower Sukhumvit premises.

“Copy-Paste” refers to the Thai education culture where learning is centred on memorising from text books and following instructions from teachers. Students are not encouraged to be independent and creative, and critical thinking while discovering one’s individual strengths are not commonly promoted.

Page 24

www.bangkokscene.com

Through the exhibition, the seven artists use art to relay their experiences in Thai schools and create a dialogue with their audiences about whether they experienced the same thing.

The Artists featured are: Chonlawit Rodjaturakun, Monchai Pitayawaraporn, Powarong Boonchoui, Rukkit Kuanhawate, Saranyu Koontanakulvong, Suebsang Sangwachirapiban and Sujin Wattanawongchai.

The artists have been led to question the critical issues of thought processes found in the greater realms of Thai society. By using their art to create a dialogue, they hope these questions will lead to positive change and developments in the future.

Photos by Paul Hutton

Thailand

Bangkok City Skyline at Dusk fro

W-I-D-E

om Hotel Indigo on Wireless Road Composite Photo by Paul Hutton

2015 Bangkok Chefs Charity Gala Dinner

The city of angels will once again witness, for the seventh consecutive year, a gathering of Executive Chefs from 20 of Thailand’s most prestigious five-star hotels and Thai Airways International, who will cook up yet another grand feast at the “2015 Bangkok Chefs Charity Gala Dinner”, scheduled for Monday, 29 June 2015; to be presided over once again by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in the Royal Ballroom of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

Part of the proceeds this year will again benefit Border Patrol Police Schools under the Patronage of Her Royal Highness; and the remaining funds to go towards improvements in the livelihood and education of underprivileged children in the remote Omkoy district in Chiang Mai. Tickets are priced at Baht 12,500 per seat (for tables of 10).

The annual talk-of-the-town, gastronomic fete was initiated in 2009 by General Managers Nuntiya and Patcharin Hame-ung-gull of Gourmet One, importer and supplier of fine foods. Taking advantage of their contacts and connections, the two sisters came up with this fundraiser idea to give back to society and at the same time to showcase the quality, creativity and distinct style of Bangkok’s foremost food & beverage professionals.

The inaugural edition of “Bangkok Chefs Charity” was launched in 2009 in the gracious presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, with all proceeds collected going towards Her Royal Highness’s Sai Jai Thai Foundation and needy children and schools in Northern Thailand.

Over five million baht, raised from auctions and ticket sales at the 2010 charity gala, benefitted the Border Patrol Police Schools under Her Royal Highness’s Patronage and went towards scholarships, educational equipment, food, and children’s playgrounds at schools in Ubon Ratchani province. In 2011, the culinary fundraising dinner and auction collected more than 12 million baht.

Her Royal Highness was presented with a cheque for 10 million baht to benefit Border Patrol Police Schools under Her Patronage; and the remaining funds were used to purchase educational equipment for children at Baan Daan Ngo School, Amphur Kaeng Krachang, Petchburi province; Wat Sangvorn School; and handicapped school children at Baan Nonthaphoom, Amphur Pakkret, Nonthaburi Province.

In 2012, the benefit gala dinner collected a total of Baht 12 million – with Baht 10 million presented to Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn; and the remaining towards repairing of underprivileged school in Omkoy district in Chiang Mai. In 2013, the charity gala dinner successfully pledged a grand total of Baht 17 million, the highest ever since its inception, nevertheless, 2014 was yet again another unforgettable year. During the height of the evening, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously demonstrated to all dining guests the preparation of Som Tam. The Royal culinary delicacies were given to the event’s top bidders before the night came to a happy end amidst thundering applause, with a total of Baht 14.5 million raised.

Every year, the highest bidder for the Grand Auction will enjoy all or any preferred number of chefs to cook a gourmet repast at any venue of choice and will be invited to present the donation cheque to Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn at an appropriate date and time following the charity gala.

This year 20 culinary extraordinaires will pair up to create the finest signature dishes with the visual infusion of ‘purple’ elements to commemorate the 60th Birthday Anniversary of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

Page 28

www.bangkokscene.com

A Fantastic new Arrival on the Krabi Scene: The Centara Pelican Bay Residence & Suites Krabi.

Centara’s latest family-friendly resort has it’s soft opening in April 2015. Centara Pelican Bay Residence & Suites Krabi takes full advantage of its stunning location, right across the road from Klong Muang beach. Found to the north of Ao Nang, the beach provides spectacular views over the Andaman Sea, as well as the closest coastal access to the Ko Hong island group, an untouched marine sanctuary. Three beaches are found here: southerly Ao Siew; Klong Muang, which has two sides – a wide sandy stretch to the south, and a narrow strip of sand curving round to the north, and the wildly beautiful Tupkaek Beach.

The Residence itself has been designed as a cluster of low-rise buildings surrounding a swimming pool, with the area’s characteristically lush green tropical forest rising up around it. The residence offers a choice of modern apartments and pool suites with one, two or three bedrooms. Many of the suites come complete with their own outdoor plunge pool featuring either an ocean or pool view, or a garden terrace. Every room style features spacious living areas ranging from 81 to 190 square metres, made up of both indoor and outdoor areas, and all suites come with a large furnished terrace or balcony. All rooms and suites have a kitchenette, along with a full suite of modern amenities including complimentary wireless internet access Centara Pelican Bay Residence & Suites Krabi also ensures that guests will be fully provided for when they’re not relaxing in the privacy of their own rooms. The Resort is home to an expansive swimming pool, which includes a child-friendly shallow end; a fully-equipped fitness centre and a ‘chilling lounge’ complete with internet stations, plus water sports, snorkelling and PADI diving which can all be easily arranged.

The Resort’s relaxed all-day Globe restaurant is located poolside, serving up Thai and international dishes, while ‘The Nest’ is a beachside restaurant, perched three stories up, where drinks and light meals look their best against stunning Andaman Sea views.

Babette’s The Steakhouse An Intimate 1920’s Style Restaurant Opens with a “Chicago” Theme Party

Page 30

www.bangkokscene.com

Chef Michael Owens A glamorous new dining experience awaits at Hotel Muse in Bangkok with the opening last month of Babette’s The Steakhouse.

The venue provides elegant décor from another era, compete with plush leather armchairs, set against a modern glittering city backdrop.

Promising an intoxicating atmosphere with live jazz and blues performances, Babette’s has lined up a menu that features freshly imported produce cooked up by New Zealand chef Michael Owens.

Meats from Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the USA are supplied, along with Norwegian salmon, Canadian lobster, French oysters, and local tiger prawn and sea bass.

An extensive walk-in cellar provides a range of New World wines or diners can choose Hotel Muse’s exclusive champagne label from the Médot family vineyards of Montagne de Reims.

Signature dishes include succulent pan-seared scallops on a bed of cauliflower purée with caviar and pancetta, a five-grain salad of fresh berries with dukkha and cucumber yoghurt, and the sweet “Textures of Meringue” with summer berries, offered as one of the dessert tray selections.

Page 32

www.bangkokscene.com

Austrian Embassy to Organise Vienna Ball Bangkok For more than two centuries, Vienna has been the uncontested ball capital of the world. Each year the city hosts around 450 ball events, which are a unique blend of age-old Austrian traditions, magnificent court ceremonies and the trademark Viennese waltz. The Austrian Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Enno Drofenik and Madame Juri Sekiguchi-Drofenik will now bring the traditional Viennese Ball to Bangkok.

The Austrian Embassy will organize a Vienna Ball Bangkok on 8 May 2015 at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok. There will be a grand opening with high-profile debutantes from Thailand, supported by waltzing couples from Vienna, followed by performances of ballet and opera performances from renowned Austrian artists. The Bangkok Symphonic Orchestra under the guidance of a noted Austrian conductor will provide classic ballroom tunes. Authentic Austrian food, wines and pastries will be served, complementing this truly unique experience.

Before the ball, all guests attending the Vienna Ball Bangkok will be offered a series of complimentary ballroom dance classes by Austria's most prestigious dancing school "Elmayer".

Piyarat Kaljaruek, Holly Amranand, Burin Wongsanguan, Poruethai Narongdej, His Excellency Enno Drofenik, Madame Juri Sekiguchi-Drofenik, Goanpot Asvinvichit, M.R. Sorut Visuddhi (from left)

His Excellency Enno Drofenik, Austrian Ambassador to Thailand says, "We are delighted to bring Vienna's ballroom culture to Bangkok.

The Vienna Ball Bangkok should not only be a prominent social event, it should bring our friends from Thailand closer to the waltz and ballroom dancing. I am proud that we were able to bring an instructor of Vienna's dancing school "Elmayer" to Bangkok for complimentary waltz lessons before the event. I am even more proud that the ball proves to be a success even before it has started thanks to the major contributors by Swarovski and Siam Winery, and the support of all of our sponsors. This ensures we will be able to donate the entire proceeds of the ticket sales to the Anti Human Trafficking and Child Abuse Center in Pattaya and to the Royal Project "Kamlangjai" under patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha. I would like to express my kind thanks to all of our sponsors and supporters."

The Vienna Ball 2015 will be held at Chadra Ballroom, Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok on May 8, 2015, from 19:30 hrs onwards.

Main sponsors of the event are Swarovski and Siam Winery. Moreover, the Vienna Ball Bangkok is supported by the following sponsors: Airport Vienna, City of Vienna, Vivaldi Integrated Public Relations, Austrian Airlines, Siam Kempinski Bangkok, Bangkok Symphonic Orchestra, Elmayer Dancing School, Thailand Tatler, Dance Synergy, TKI Perpetual and Divana Spa. Tickets are priced at 6,000 Baht each and are exclusively available through the Austrian Embassy. For ticket reservation or further information, please contact the Austrian Embassy Bangkok (e-mail: Bangkok-ob@bmeia.gv.at; phone: 02 105 6700 ext 34).

The proceeds from ticket sales will go - in full - to the child shelter ATCC in Pattaya and to the Royal Charity "Kamlangjai".

HOTEL INDIGO

The façade of Bangkok’s newest hotel may have a contemporary shine, but a stroll around the interior of the building reveals intricate details that are steeped in the past.

Hotel Indigo may have only opened in Wireless Road in January this year, but designers have doffed their hats to the history of the Lumpini Park area in which the building sits, in line with the policy of Indigo Hotels worldwide.

Page 34

The mix of modern meets bygone is fascinating, with every corned turned revealing another intricate detail. This means that early wireless sets jostle for space with bubble gum machines, turn of the century looms and well utilised rickshaws.

Even the lifts are a mix of contemporary meets antiquity, lush shiny leather wall coverings reflecting light fittings of a bygone age.

www.bangkokscene.com

Murals and paintings throughout Hotel Indigo depict scenes from the regions past, when Wireless Road was home to Bangkok’s embassy and consular quarter. These days the region has become a fashionable and very cosmopolitan shopping district, with brand new mega malls jostling for space with busy street markets.

Each of the 192 rooms is ultra-modern, however, with spa-inspired

bathrooms, high speed Wi-Fi and luxurious bedding providing a comforting retreat after a day spent investigating downtown Bangkok from the nearby Skytrain.

An infinity pool gives a stunning eye line filling view of the modern high-rises of the city for guests who just wish to laze beside the water and drink in the atmosphere.

Page 36

www.bangkokscene.com

Great wining and dining experiences are also on hand, with the 22 Steps Bar providing designer cocktails and fine cigars just 22 steps from the lobby, and Metro on Wireless giving diners a choice of timeless Thai classics or international haute cuisine.

This is the first Hotel Indigo to open in South East Asia, but the concept is well proven around the world, with several similarly branded boutique outlets firmly entrenched throughout the USA, London, Hong Kong and China.

Words and photos by Paul Hutton

Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel Launch Party The luxury property, which is located on Rajadamri Road in the centre of Bangkok, is owned by Minor Hotel Group, Anantara’s parent company.

From 1 March 2015, Minor re-flagged the hotel as the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel & Spa, and a rebranding party was held to celebrate the occasion.

The hotel is now managed by Khun Titiya Chooto, who transfers to Bangkok from the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. She is no stranger to the property, having previously served as hotel manager when it was Four Seasons Bangkok.

Minor said the rebranding of the hotel marks the culmination of a life-long dream of the company’s chairman William E. Heinecke, to operate a flagship Anantara property in the centre of the Thai capital. “Owning this prestigious hotel in the heart of Bangkok and working with the fantastic team during its time as Four Seasons Bangkok has been an amazing journey. I am looking forward to continuing the journey in the next stage of this property’s life as Anantara Siam,” Heinecke said.

Built in 1978, the property launched as a Peninsula before being sold to Regent Hotels in 1982. Four Seasons assumed management of the property following its acquisition of Regent in 1992. Minor then acquired the hotel, named the Regent Bangkok, in 2001, and it has been operating as a Four Seasons since 2003.

Now rebranded, Anantara Siam Bangkok becomes the brand’s fourth hotel in the Thai capital following the Anantara Baan Rajprasong, Anantara Bangkok Riverside and Anantara Bangkok Sathorn.

Boasting one of the Thai capital’s most prestigious addresses, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel offers a sophisticated retreat for guests who appreciate life’s finer pleasures and the intrigue of original experiences.

Redefining luxury, traditional Thai architecture and glorious gardens exude elegant simplicity and create a sense of serene exclusivity that feels far removed from the bustling city, matched by the convenience of being well connected to everything Bangkok has to offer.

Strategically located in the heart of central Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong district, opposite the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and right next to a sky train station, Anantara Siam Bangkok is within close proximity to the main business, nightlife and shopping districts, Lumphini Park, and many of the city’s key cultural attractions, providing the ideal base for the business or leisure traveller.

Luxury accommodation comprises 354 rooms and suites designed in traditional Thai and contemporary style with authentic Thai artifacts, teak furnishings and silk fabrics, overlooking tropical gardens, the pool, prestigious neighbourhood streets or the Royal Bangkok Sports Club.

Four room types each offer 42 square metres of beautifully appointed space, a marble bathroom with a deep tub and separate shower, and some also a private entrance graced with white columns and Thai statues, as well as a dining patio amidst landscaped gardens overlooking the pool and an exotic lotus pond.

ASTON MARTIN AND SRIRITA

Bangkok International Motor Sho Page 46

www.bangkokscene.com

TA JENSEN STEAL THE SHOW

ow 2015 Draws Huge Crowds

Art of Auto The 36th Bangkok International Motor Show was once again held at Challenger Hall at Impact, Muang Thong Thani, between March 25th and April 5th, 2015.

Leading car and motorcycle makers from around the world were all in attendance, as were top accessory companies. It is believed that overall the automotive industry in Thailand will grow to approach 20 billion Baht annually and organisers are confident that the show is now listed among the top five world’s best automotive shows.

Page 48

Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Grand Prix International Public Company Limited and the President of the 36th BIMS revealed “It is such an honour and I am proud to see that the Bangkok International Motor Show has been greatly recognised worldwide and is said to be the iconic symbol of the Thailand automotive industry. This year’s event marks the 36th time we have held the show, and it also completes three cycles of the Chinese zodiac calendar. “ “This year the show was developed under the concept “Art Of Auto”. The concept reflects the art in the world of automobiles, where such development has no boundary and endless creativity exists for exterior and interior design, body lines, engine performance and suspension systems. “

www.bangkokscene.com

Page 50

www.bangkokscene.com

When we integrate all compositions into one, the outcome is an amazing masterpiece with its own fascination and identity.” More than 30 car companies, nine motorcycle companies, famous car audio brands and more than 170 auto accessory booths joined together to exhibit their latest products in an area of over 140,000 square metres.

New models on display included the Toyota Camry, New Ford Ranger and New Ford Everest, Mazda 2, Mitsubishi ‘Attrage’ and ‘Delica D5’ and ‘All New Triton’. Chevrolet brought along the New Colorado High Country while Ssangyong introduced the ‘Actyon Sports’. Gaining a lot of interest was the new Rolls Royce Bluebird, which has been designed using the same colours of the famous British land speed and water speed record breakers that will forever feature in the annals of automotive history.

Aston Martin Unveils Vanquish and DB9 in Carb Aston Martin Bangkok, Heritage Motor Sales and Services (Thailand) Co.,Ltd. impressed fans with the launch of its Vanquish (pictured on the opening page, with Sririta Jensen) and DB9 (above) in Carbon Edition for the first time in Southeast Asia at the much-awaited 36th Bangkok International Motor Show 2015.

Page 52

The Aston Martin Vanquish Carbon Edition is the ultimate grand tourer, featuring unleashed soaring performance, startling dynamics and deeply indulgent luxury combined to create an extraordinary GT car - the ultimate expression of Aston Martin. The special edition delves deep into its character and subtly but unmistakably accentuates its innate dynamism.

www.bangkokscene.com

bon Edition for the First Time in Southeast Asia Sculpted from carbon fibre, the Vanquish Carbon celebrates the incredible material and its inherent engineering and aesthetic beauty. The deep front carbon fibre splitter, side strakes, mirror caps and roof are complemented by black grille, bonnet and side strake meshes, black trim around the side windows, zircotec exhaust tailpipes and gloss black forged 10-spoke

20-inch alloy wheels. It is available in Vanquish Carbon White and Vanquish Carbon Black. The other timeless elegance to be showcased was the Aston Martin DB9 Carbon Edition. This exclusive special edition sees minimal adornment achieve maximum impact, fusing simplicity, discretion and drama in a unique dark theme.

Page 54

www.bangkokscene.com

Page 56

www.bangkokscene.com

MONDO T Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok Hotel hosted grand celebrations on March 19th for the opening of the new terrace at Mondo, their renowned ground floor lunch, afternoon tea and dinner venue. Hotel General Manager David Ecija welcomed guests alongside Khun Pornseak Pharksuwan, Diageo Reserve Channel Director, and Khun Chennarong Bhumichitr, Diageo Reserve Senior Brand Ambassador.

TERRACE Over 300 guests attended the launch party, sponsored by Diageo, which featured stunning cocktails made by world-class mixologists. The company organises the annual Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year competition.

Photos by Paul Hutton and courtesy of Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok.

DOWN MEJICO WAY Modern Mexican Cuisine Comes to Bangkok

Mejico sits on the first floor of the trendy food and beverage zone Groove at Central World.

The décor is as varied as the modern Mexican menu, with subtle hints of the country represented through wall designs rather than gaudy bric-a-brac at every turn.

Seating is also diverse, with long wooden tables for six taking centre stage while more intimate settings are provided in quiet corners.

There is also al fresco dining available on the restaurant’s private veranda.

Dishes are served on dark stoneware plates that help to bring out the vibrant colours of the food.

VIVA Bangkok sampled Salmon Ceviche (with coconut, lime, onion, orange, fresh chilli, cilantro, and taro chips), Chargrilled Vegetable Soft Tacos (with asparagus, capsicum, pumpkin, mushrooms and roasted salsa) and Pork Nachos (with avocado, diced vegetables and melted cheese), all pictured left.

Other notable dishes include: Mushroom With Cheese Fundido (195 baht); Achiote Chicken (285 baht) Yucatan style, seared in a ginger, honey and lemon achiote, with mango salsa, cous cous and candied almonds; Beef Short Rib (695 baht) which is braised for six hours, and served with a smoky chipotle BBQ sauce and pickled onion; Mustard Seed Crusted Salmon (375 baht) with Japanese pumpkin puree, balsamic brown-butter emulsion, green beans and corn.

With tequila barrels decorating the walls, it is no surprise to find that the restaurant features a vast array of tequilas on the drinks list, and a dedicated tequila bar is planned to open in the coming months, with a selection of over 150 types currently being imported.

Words and photos by Paul Hutton.

Chef Dayna Head Chef Dayna Valtierra is a native of Mexico City, where she accumulated a wealth of experience cooking up a multi-cultural mix of cuisines while working for many of the city’s embassies. Dayna is a culinary expert in Spanish, Lebanese and Japanese cooking amongst others, and she has honed the art of Modern Mexican cuisine to a fine art.

Heavily influenced by her mother in the early stages of her career, her insistence on only using the freshest ingredients soon became of paramount importance. Then, while drawing from Mexico's own diverse and vast recipe book, Dayna developed her own interpretation of international cuisine.

She began crafting Mexican menus that blend the best of both worlds, and now brings her creative fusion to Bangkok. The result is that Bangkok diners can now embark on an interesting gastronomic journey as diverse as the country of Mexico itself.

Connectivity Art Exhibition by Sarawut Yasamut

Everything is changing in this modern society; technology is impacting on our life, it connects us with others much easier and information can be communicable now no matter who you are or where you are.

On the other hand, this massive digital trend that has been flooding into our life means that we share our emotions in an unreal world, not with the real people surrounding us like before.

"Connectivity" is an exhibition expressing how the digital has world changed our real life too much, highlighting the link between online society and the real world and pondering over the use of social media regarding the needs of modern man.

Here Sarawut presents his vision of people in the new digital world; he transmits through part abstractionism a story that satirises present society in a fascinating way.

Until April 28th at HOF Art Space, W District

Page 66

www.bangkokscene.com

My Companions 2 Art Exhibition by Jekky

Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre at Central World is to host "My Companions 2" by Jekky (Suraporn Lertwongpaitoon) at Sky Lobby, 23rd floor of the hotel from 14 May to 14 July 2015. 10.00 hrs. – 20.00 hrs. every day.

A part of the total revenues gained will be donated to The Voice Foundation.

This exhibition presents artwork inspired by friendship, love and relationships between friends, telling the story via a dog as "Dog is man's best friend".

For more information or a catalogue, please contact 02 100 1234 extension 6753-56

A New Lunch Menu Experience at VIU Lunch With A View VIU at The St. Regis Bangkok has just introduced a brand new ‘Lunch with a View’ menu. Continuing to pioneer the art of the lunch experience, VIU will be featuring an interactive dining concept with eight live cooking stations.

Inspired by the ‘Food from the Heart’ philosophy, the hotel’s new Executive Chef Matthew Woolford explained that the new lunch menu captures the true essence of each dish through the textures and tastes of the finest ingredients.

Based on the concept of the interactive cooking stations bringing the culinary theatre to life, guests are most welcome to ask the chefs for details on the food preparation and are able to enjoy the live process where the dishes are put together a la minute.

For certain cooking stations, guests are also welcome to inform the chefs on how to tweak the dishes according to their taste preference.

You can start with a healthy salad, cold cuts and freshly baked breads before indulging in a main course from the daily selection of Western and Thai specials, accompanied by a fresh selection of pasta, and finally end the meal with mouthwatering desserts.

At THB795++ including coffee and tea per person, the ‘Lunch with a View’ menu is served from Mondays through Fridays, complete with a landmark view of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and beyond.

The eight stations dedicated to preparing glorious new dishes include: Fresh from the Oven Selection of freshly baked warm breads straight from the wood fired oven House made soups, rich broths and smooth bisques served daily.

Composed Salad Fresh garden green leaves and marinated vegetables to be tossed to order with a variety of dressings. Try a classic signature salad or create one with the chef.

Cured, Iced and Sliced Sample cured hams and spiced salamis to go with your tapas and freshly baked bread along with Sushi and fresh cut Sashimi.

Pasta Try the specialty pasta corner with tortellini, rigatoni and fettuccini prepared with your choice of homemade sauces and accompaniments.

Carved and Perfect Pairings Roasted for lunch everyday beautiful whole roasted chickens, lamb legs or beef striploins paired with potatoes and daily roasted vegetables.

The Business Grill Three grilled to order items such as fresh seafood and imported meats with a selection of condiments, dips and sauces.

Local Journey through the Region Not forgetting a local experience with a daily crafted curry, wok fried dish and staples from noodles to rice.

Sweet Endings At the end of the journey experience with various cakes, tortes and flans plus silky mousses and fresh local fruit from the Kingdom of Thailand.

VIU is located on the 12th floor, next to the Sky Lounge.

Photos by Paul Hutton.

GETAWAY

Panoramic Oc Holiday Inn Pattaya’s Two Towers Feature Great Vistas from all 567 Guest Rooms and Suites Holiday Inn Hotel has long dominated the Pattaya skyline, but the addition of another tower, the Executive Tower, has recently given the establishment a whole new dimension.

The almost twin towers (there are a lot of similarities but significant differences between each building) have virtually doubled the available rooms for rent, and new attractions, like the rooftop Executive Club have given the hotel an added swank factor; there can be few better venues than this to chill out with a cool cocktail and watch the sun dip down over Pattaya Bay (the above photo was taken at dusk from the Executive Club). Delicious canapé creations are also to be savoured, and are sure to delay your descent to the bright lights.

The Executive Club can accommodate 80 guests, is open for breakfast as well as evenings, and features air-conditioned relaxation alongside the open air terrace views.

The original Bay Tower sits 26 storeys high right alongside the world famous Pattaya beachfront, and boasts fabulous ocean views from each balcony of the 367 rooms and suites. The adjacent 25 storey Executive Tower adds a further 200 rooms and suites for hotel accommodation that now totals 567.

Additional hotel facilities and amenities now include infinity and children’s swimming pools, a well-equipped fitness centre and a kids’ club.

ceanside Views

GETAWAY

Pattamaporn Singkananon serves cocktails on the Executive Club Terrace

Bar and Restaurant Choices Galore An innovative Workshop meeting and event concept features advanced technologies and highly configurable spaces, including Pattaya’s first auditorium facility within a hotel.

Guests are also now able to choose from a far greater range of food and beverage outlets. The original Bay Tower is perhaps most well-known for Havana, the sprawling ground floor retro Cuba-inspired bar complete with well-stocked cigar display, and its neighbouring al fresco Terrazzo Restaurant.

Havana and Terrazzo are perhaps most renowned for their pizza menu, but they also provide special theme nights (seven days seven surprises promotion). VIVA Bangkok sampled the Friday ‘Fristto Misto’ night, featuring a basket of deep fried seafood and vegetables served with a glass of draft beer for 420 baht.

Other theme nights include Pizza Tuesdays, Mojito Saturdays and Pasta Thursdays.

The new tower now adds the Executive Club, open for breakfast as well as for evening drinks and snacks, to the range of food and beverage outlets, along with East Coast Kitchen, which serves international favourites during buffet breakfast and à la carte lunch, with live cooking stations and a wide range of Asian and Western cuisines provided during the evening, when the restaurant transforms into a bustling market-style venue.

There is also a charming coffee shop, Flow, in the bright and airy lobby, providing not only a great choice in freshly brewed coffee and tea, but also enormous freshly baked cookies and cakes.

A similar coffee shop concept can be found in the lobby of the Bay Tower, with a more deli conscious range of snacks and savoury pies on offer.

Workshop, the Holiday Inn Executive Tower’s meeting and function facility, features an industrial setting containing all tools needed for serious work with the imagination-firing ambience of an artist’s studio. The space includes Pattaya’s first auditorium facility within a hotel, a 115-square-metre theatre-style venue with a capacity of up to 60 persons for presentations, lectures and similar events.

The Workshop’s Media Hub ensures quick communication by laptop and phone as part of a fully integrated pre-function area, which likewise includes large open-air terrace ideal for cocktail receptions of up to 80 guests.

Three meeting rooms, enhanced by natural daylight, are highly configurable and can be arranged for classrooms, theatre, banquet or cocktail functions accommodating 18 to 195 people. A boardroom facility is also available.

The entire Workshop space functions as a main coffee break and snack area for all meeting facilities.

Holiday Inn Pattaya is also well known for being family friendly: families find not only a pleasant welcome but accommodation, facilities and activities specifically designed to guarantee a genuinely fun family holiday. Features include special family suites, a kids’ club, a kids-eat-free programme and a family swimming pool complimenting the hotel’s two adult pools.

Total relaxation is further assured within the hotel’s own Tea Tree Spa, while weight conscious guests can stay in shape and keep energy levels high at the hotel’s well-equipped fitness centre.

Photos by Paul Hutton

Culinary Panel Nipa Somsri at Flow Express in the Executive Tower Holiday Inn Pattaya has introduced an exciting selection of new recipes to its menu at East Coast Kitchen and CafĂŠ G. The signature dishes were created by the Chef Ian Kittichai an Ambassador on IHG's new Culinary Panel.

Five celebrated international chefs have been appointed IHG Culinary Ambassadors to develop a repertoire of unique signature dishes for guests dining in IHG’s hotels across the Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) region.

The five IHG Culinary Panel Ambassadors, who are all awardwinning chefs, represent a diverse range of cuisines: Italian by Theo Randall, Thai by Ian Kittichai, Chinese

by Sam Leong, Modern Australian by Ross Lusted and Bakery and Pastry by Dean Brettschneider.

GETAWAY

Clockwise from top left: The lobby in the Executive Tower Workshop features an industrial setting The auditorium at Workshop Khun Charupha on duty in the spa The business centre at Workshop Mutita Tansiri and Daranee Patjaikhotha, receptionists in the Executive Tower One of Holiday Inn Pattaya’s many rooms, all with sea views

Page 74

www.bangkokscene.com

Clockwise from top left: Sukanya Promla serves up Quattro Stagione pizza in Havana Cocktail creations at dusk on the terrace at the Executive Club: Mai Tai, Mojito and Cosmopolitan Spicy Thai Pork Meatballs Smoked Salmon Vietnamese Spring Rolls Fristto Misto, the Friday night promotion at Havana and Terrazzo Vegetable Yellow Curry Avocado and Tomato Bruschetta Havana Surinan Lahpa on duty in the Executive Club

Chefs Join Celebrities During the Songkran Celebrations Poolside at Holiday Inn

Local luminaries and guests from many parts of the world gathered recently for a “Songkran BBQ Pool Party” at Charm Thai Restaurant, Holiday Inn Bangkok.

Hotel general manager Kirati Saingam and leading Thai celebrities joined in celebrations for the New Year holiday. The event highlighted traditional Songkran practices and observances. For example, ML Poonyanuch Kashemsanta Dulyachinda introduced and explained for guests the rite of pouring water on hands of elders and asking for their blessing.

Chitra Konantakiat then presented a history of the Songkran festival, which included debut of her new music video, “Songkran Hai , a traditional Chok Dee” (Well Wishes for Songkran). Food was of course another highlight during the event, notably Songkran dish. There were tasty Thai desserts as well prepared by Chef Seksan of Charm Thai. The party setting was not only indoors but poolside too, and guests enjoyed superb Arabic appetizers right by the swimming pool.

Pictured from left: 1. Boonyada Krittiyachotikul 2. Suriyon Sriorathaikul 3. Simon J. Hall, Area Director of Sales and Marketing – Thailand 4. Kirati Saingam, General Manager of Holiday Inn Bangkok 5. Chitra Konantakiat 6. ML Poonyanuch Kashemsanta Dulyachinda 7. Suraspan Dulyachinda 8. Runcha Boribalburibhand

Movie of the Week

Bangkok Celebrity Fashion Show: Mai Mudmee The Masterpiece of Khon Kaen. Movie by Paul Hutton, Bangkok Scene.

VIVA Bangkok Views: Current Total: 3,419,550

VIEW The 2014 Media Kit

VIEW all VIVA Bangkok Issues Here

We strive to make all information accurate, but event details can change at short notice.

Please check with the organisers that the event is still happening as scheduled before making travel arrangements.

You Tube Site

Follow us on Pinterest

Visit our website

Follow us on Google Plus

Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter

Page 80

VIVA www.bangkokscene.com

Bangkok