FREE COPY TIMEOUT.COM/BANGKOK NO.093 21 March-5 April 2020
What will you eat in the rest of 2020?
Hello, Bangkok @timeoutbangkok
WE LOVE THIS city as much as you do. We’ve always been—and will always be—obsessed with helping you discover the very best aspects of this melting pot, finding cool ways to enjoy the Bangkok that we call home. And in these trying times, our love for this city has not changed. As you all know, from March 18, the government ordered a shutdown on all entertainment, education and sports venues—bars, clubs, concert halls, movie theaters, schools, universities, gyms, sports stadiums—for at least 14 days for strict sanitation procedures. By all means, it’s the most advanced measure ever announced since the onset of the coronavirus or COVID-19 outbreak. As much as we want to say everything is fine, our guts—my guts—say it’s not. So in the next few weeks or months, or for however long it takes to contain this virus, we won’t always be your Time Out; sometimes, we will be your Time In—just like our Time Out friends at other cities around the world.
We will still tell you about the coolest exhibitions (those that remain open), the local restaurants you should visit, and things to do around the city. But we will also suggest ideas on what you can do when you’re stuck inside, on self-quarantine or working from home. These include awesome tools that help make working remotely a lot easier, plus lists of the best food outlets that do deliveries, irresistible shopping sites, Netflix movies and series to binge on, and workout routines to keep yourself fit and healthy. We won’t force you to stay in because that would kill the city’s entire economy and affect local businesses. But, when you do go out, use common sense and listen to your gut feeling. Avoid mass gatherings and crowded places. Wear masks in public. Practice social distancing. Adopt recommended precautionary measures. Just make sure you do everything to ensure you’re safe and healthy. And please, do your part in supporting local ventures. In the end, life will go on. Bangkok has been through many challenges, and we will get through this, too. Together.
Take care, Top Koaysomboon Editor-in-Chief of Time Out Bangkok
DO THESE
A few things to keep in mind to protect yourself from COVID-19
Do the waii instead Instead of shaking hands, try adopting the local waii. Practiced in Thailand for centuries, it’s a way to extend a greeting or show respect without touching other people. Social distancing is key. Physically distancing yourself from others can help stop the spread of the virus. Authorities suggest keeping a length of at least two meters between yourself and the next person. During this outbreak, you’re also advised to refrain from shaking hands, hugging and kissing. Eating alone is also advised. (Sorry, mate!) Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
Wash your hands often The COVID-19 virus is covered in a fat-based bubble. Washing your hands—and wrists—with simple soap for at least 20 seconds helps destroy this fatty bubble, leaving the virus to die. (It’s easier than you think.)
Never share a glass, cup, spoon and dish with others. There are times when you have to partake in a Thai sumrub (sharing) meal. Make sure you use a serving spoon or serving chopsticks, and share your tableware with no one. Seriously.
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Wear masks in packed public spaces Wearing a mask in public has become a common practice in most Asian nations. It helps the spread of the virus by preventing you from touching your nose and mouth, especially when you’re commuting on Bangkok’s public trains and buses, which can sometimes be pretty jammed.
City life
30/2 Soi Sukhumvit 36 (Naphasap Soi 1), Klongtan, Klongtoey, Bangkok, 10110 Thailand Editorial 0909077455 Advertising 0918083619 E-mail editorial@timeoutbangkok.com
Editor-in-Chief Top Koaysomboon Art Director Narin Machaiya Features Editor Phavitch Theeraphong Digital Content Manager Onsiri Jirawuttipod Senior Writer Suriyan Panomai Junior Writers Khemjira Prompan, Kenika Ruaytanapanich
Bangkok Shut Down
After the government announced the temporary closure of bars, pubs and entertainment venues in Bangkok for at least, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has recently proclaimed that shopping malls, markets and restaurants will also be asked to close from 22 March until at least 12 April to fight to accelerating growth of covid-19 infection in Thailand. Bangkok governor Assawin Kwanmuang said that shopping malls will be shut down except the supermarket, while restaurants can still offer food delivery and takeaway service. Market vendors can still sell foods and groceries only for at-home consumption, while eateries in market can only provide takeout meals. Also closing are barber and hair salons, amusement parks, internet cafĂŠs, golf courses, swimming pools and tattoo shops. All venues, including those told to close during the first phase, will be shut down at least until12 April. â–
Photographers Sereechai Puttes Tanisorn Vongsoontorn Video creator Arunrote Auefue Contributing Sub-editor Ana Kalaw Contributor Etrin Basa Advertising Director Walaiporn Tantisak Account Executive Sasitorn Sengmoon
Event Sales Director Pavin Asavavichairoj Event Sales Executive Orachaporn Premrudeesanit Marketing Manager Kunlatida Chawengwan Marketing Executives Patcharat Ruenrutaikul Thanyaluck Komutrattananon Kanyapat Saengbuakaew Publishers Dujduan Hetrakul, Pongsiri Hetrakul
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Chairman Prida Hetrakul Director/Vice president Finance Mhienjun Hetrakul Time Out Group Founder Tony Elliott Group chief Exeutive officer Julio Bruno Global Creative Director Tom Hislop Head of Global Content Alex Plim
Cover Design Narin Machaiya Cover Photography Sereechai Puttes Special thanks Vespiario (Thailand)
Time Out Bangkok is edited by Phongsathorn Koaysomboon for Maeban Publishing Company Limited, 30/2 Soi Sukhumvit 36 (Naphasap 1), Klongton, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand. Color separated by 48 Film Process Co., Ltd. 66 Soi Ladprao 58/1, Ladprao Road, Wangtonglang, Bangkok 10240. Printed by Maeban Publishing Co., Ltd. 30/2 Soi Sukhumvit 36 (Naphasap 1), Klongton, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand.
21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
City life
Virus-free certification The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand is mandating all international passengers flying into Thailand to present medical certificates showing that they are fit to fly and not infected with the novel coronavirus or COVID-19, as well as a medical insurance that covers the disease up to a minimum of USD100,000. The announcement has inconvenienced many incoming travelers because to get hold of a medical certification in some countries is nearly impossible during this crisis.
STRIVING FOR SURVIVAL
RESTAURANTS ARE ONE of the
hardest-hit businesses during this global novel coronavirus pandemic. Empty dining rooms are not an unusual sight as people are preferring to stay in rather than eat out. Many restaurants have started offering delivery services to make sure their kitchen staff and service crew are financially supported during the crisis. Le Du is now pushing one of their signature dishes khao khluk kapi (stir-fried rice with shrimp paste) with giant river prawns for takeaway and delivery, while Thai restaurant Charmgang and Bo.lan are packaging their Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
sophisticated Thai meal for diners to enjoy at home. To entice visitors, Foodie Collection, the group behind Vesper, il Fumo, La Dotta, 80/20 and 1919 Italian Bar & Restaurant, is now selling gift vouchers with extra credits (For instance, B2,000 vouchers gets you an extra B500) for dining at any of their restaurants and bars. We can expect many more restaurants to follow suit with similar marketing stunts. Though we should take extra precautions, we should also be mindful of supporting local business during these tough times so we can maintain the glorious food scene we once knew once the situation subsides.
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Feeder service commences
Feeders or shuttle bus services that conveniently take passengers from one transport hub to another, have been introduced in Bangkok. The first service runs from Southern Bus Terminal in Pinklao to Bang Wa BTS Station, and is free of charge for the first six months. Looking to open within this month are two other routes, from Din Daeng to Sanam Pao BTS station, and from Kheha Romklao to Lat Krabang Airport Rail Link. â–
TO
BOOK
Andy Warhol Pop Art
One hundred twenty-eight original works by legendary pop art icon Andy Warhol will be showcased at River City Bangkok’s RCB Gallery for the first time in Thailand. All the pieces in this collection, all of which were created in the 1960s, give new perspectives of the artist and reveal a side that was influenced by his European roots. (His parents were from a small town in what is now Slovakia.) Andy Warhol was a leading figure in the pop art scene, and is best known for silkscreened paintings Campbell’s Soup Cans (1962) and Marilyn Diptych (1962). This exhibition will show his works in four categories: portraits, magazines, celebrities and silk printing. Talks and workshops will also be offered.
DON’T MISS
Moonchild
Alt-R&B/neo-soul band Moonchild, comprised of Amber Navran, Max Bryk and Andris Mattson, is coming to Bangkok in May. Known for their “spaced-out tunes,” the Los Angeles-based trio of multi-instrumentalists is known for hit tracks “The List” and “Back to Me.” Their latest album Little Ghost was released in 2019. ■
à 1 May-16 August at RCB Galleria, River City Bangkok, Soi Charoen Krung 24. Tickets priced at B400 (adults) and B300 (seniors/ students), via ticketmelon.com
à 30 May at Lido Connect, 256 Rama I Road. Tickets priced at B1,300 (early bird) and B1,500 (regular), via ticketmelon.com
SAKURA AFTERNOON TEA SPRINGTIME DELIGHTS
AT THE OKURA PRESTIGE BANGKOK 1 April - 30 June 2020 | Daily 14:00 - 17:00
Celebrate the annual Sakura bloom in Japan with the pleasures of our seasonal tea for two at Up & Above Bar. While away the afternoon enjoying Sakura chocolate pralines, Hokkaido milk strawberry roulade and cherry blossom macarons with a choice of fresh-brewed coffee, tea or a glass of something chilled and sparkling. Price: From Baht 1,400 with illy coffee, Mariage Frères or Saro tea for 2 persons. For more information and reservations, please contact 02 687 9000 Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax. Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand T. 02 687 9000 F. 02 687 9001 E. info@okurabangkok.com okurabangkok.com
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21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Advertorial
Extended Celebrations Chang’s 25th anniversary feasts combining sumptuous Thai fare and delicately crafted Cold Brew Lager continue at selected restaurants until the end of March
Local beer purveyor Chang successfully broke the rules of fine-dining by pairing sumptuous and finely crafted Thai fare with its newly released Chang 25th Anniversary Cold Brew Lager at weekly culinary events in acclaimed restaurants such as Baan Suriyasai, Chim by Siam Wisdom and Royal Osha. These exclusive dinners have been lavishly praised by top media professionals, beloved local bloggers and epicurean diners. Those who missed out on these dining events still have the chance to experience an amazing beer-pairing culinary treat. Participating Thai restaurants Chim by Siam Wisdom, Royal Osha and Saffron are offering co-promotional set dinners until 31 March (B2,500 per person inclusive of Chang 25th Anniversary Cold Brew Lager.) Meanwhile, casual eatery Wander BKK and Cafe Chilli Issan Rustic are also churning out special set dinners to be served with Chang’s newly released lager for B999 and B2,000 respectively.
Saffron
100 Mahaseth
Royal Osha
Chim By Siam Wisdom
Wander BKK
The frothy fun does not stop there. You can also try Chang’s delicately flavored 25th Anniversary Cold Brew Lager at modern Isaan haunt 100 Mahaseth, acclaimed Southern Thai restaurant Klangsuan and royal Thai venue Baan Suriyasai. Each of these dining rooms are offering a “signature” dish—oxtail tacos with cassia leaf curry, stirfried pork with spicy kua kling (stir-fried pork with curry paste) and ma hor (shrimp relish served with local citrus), respectively—to pair with the special-edition beer. ■
Klung Suan
àFind out how Chang 25th Anniversary Cold Brew Lager enhances the diverse flavors of Thai cuisine by booking your seats
Cafe Chili Issan Rustic
Time Out Bangkok 6 - 20 March 2020
Baan SuriyaSai
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The dining trends that we will see in 2020. By Time Out Bangkok editorial BANGKOKIANS TAKE EATING quite seriously—our home, after all, is a known food capital. Each year brings about new food trends, new drool-worthy dishes and new customer preferences. Some trends come and go, some last many years, and a few have become mainstays, changing the food scene in ways both subtle and dramatic, and continuously transforming the way we eat. Time Out Bangkok examines the city’s vibrant gastronomy scene to come up with a list of what gastrophiles should be expecting this year.
Hotel food delivery
Plant-based meat
Casual eateries by gourmet chefs
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21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Eat on
Hotels doing delivery As the threat of coronavirus hangs over Bangkok, diners have chosen to stay indoors and away from the crowd. But that hasn’t prevented the city’s gourmands from wanting to savor fine food. In response, a few five-star hotels have jumped into the food delivery scene. Centara Grand at Central World, for one, has kickstarted a partnership with Grab Food, offering dishes from three of its dining outlets—Spanish and Mediterranean eatery Uno Mas, European steakhouse Red Sky and pastry shop Zing Bakery—for delivery. Similarly, edgy hotel W Bangkok offers fare from The Kitchen Table on Food Panda and Lineman. Fans of the restaurant’s international fare will get to savor many of its popular dishes— from Thai salads and curries to pizza and sandwiches—in the comfort of their own homes. Luxury hotel Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit has also joined the delivery club, but has taken things a step further. Instead of just sending gourmet food to your doorstep, the hotel will “deliver” their chefs! Their Grab a Chef program allows you to hire the culinary masterminds behind the hotel’s many famed restaurants— from Italian institution Rossini’s to Thai diner Basil—to cook for you at home. Prices start from B35,000.
W Bangkok
The emergence of ghost restaurants Food delivery apps have reshaped the F&B industry, allowing customers to conveniently have food from their favorite eateries delivered to their doorsteps—way before coronavirus hit. The popularity of these apps has contributed to the emergence of one big food trend: ghost restaurants. We’re talking food outlets that are delivery-only and rely heavily on food delivery apps: no storefronts, no dining rooms. Some of our favorites include Urban Pizza, The Pizza Company’s spin-off brand that churns out New York-style pies—thin crust and gigantic— through Food Panda, Grab or GET. There’s also Paleo Robbie, which creates meals-for-delivery following the paleo diet philosophy, (i.e., lots of lean protein and organic veggies, and without refined sugar, dairy, MSG and meat raised using artificial growth hormones or unnecessary antibiotics). For vegans, check out Vegan Crush, a vegan delivery-only restaurant that sends out 100-percent plant-based meals every Monday. Their food is low in sodium and oil, and is created with unprocessed natural ingredients. Pranaa is also another option. The health food provider prepares wholesome international fare that are free from oil, sugar and refined carbs.
Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
Paleo Robbie
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Eat on
WE’VE HAD ENOUGH OF THESE...
Beast and Butter
More plant-based options Meat alternatives are nothing new. But it wasn’t until last year that what we now call “plant-based meat” started making waves—big ones—in the local restaurant scene. New players like Beyond Meat, Impossible and OmniMeat have injected scientific innovation into non-meat products, taking them to a new level, to the point that even carnivores are finding them irresistible. Chain restaurants like Sizzler started putting plant-based meat on its menu since the vegetarian festival last year, while vegan eateries
Overpriced rooftop bars
like Bare Food, Vistro, Veganerie and Broccoli Revolution offer their own creative plant-based takes on dishes that are traditionally made with meat. But for those who want to try cooking meatless fare at home, upscale supermarkets like Villa Market carry Beyond Meat burger patties and Beyond Meat beef-free crumbles. For something a little more gourmet, check out Chiangmaiborn Beast and Butter or famous burger place 25 Degrees where they make their veggie burgers in-house from scratch.
Gourmet chefs opening up casual joints Bangkok has become a playground for highprofile chefs to showcase their sophisticated cuisine at fine-dining restaurants. But towards the end of 2019, we started seeing Michelinaccredited chefs taking food back to its humble roots at more casual establishments. Chef Napol Jantraget and Saki Hoshino of 80/20 have started churning out their own versions of nam prik (chili relish) at Krok, reinventing the ubiquitous condiment in funkier ways, and serving them with hearty proteins, vegetables and rice at affordable prices. Meanwhile, Chef Thitid Tassanakajohn of Le Du re-imagines pad thai at his new venture May Rai. Chef Ton’s version of the beloved street food is served alongside a well-selected list of natural and organic wines. Supanniga Eating Room has also launched Sood Kua on Lineman, which serves stir-fried proteins of your choice, such as minced pork and crab roe, with rice, salt and chili.
Please, nobody these days wants to dole out excessive amounts of cash while sipping expensive cocktails, especially if they come with a generous serving of polluted air.
Secret bars
Calling your establishment a “secret bar” while posting Facebook ads that tell everyone how to find it is completely missing the point.
Bubble tea
There are enough people with diabetes in Thailand.
May Rai
Faux omakase restaurant
We don’t need another sushi place that brands itself as an omakase restaurant but serves up cheap, low-quality cuts. Krok
Sood Kua
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21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Eat on
More global culinary legends coming to our shores Bangkok’s appetite for fare delivered by worldrenowned, Michelin star-decorated chefs is insatiable. And we expect the demand to increase in 2020. Two more famous chefs are making their debuts in the city, joining big names like Martin Blunos, Hank Savelberg, Jean-Michel Lorain and Alain Ducasse (who just recently opened Blue by Alain Ducasse at Iconsiam). These are Chef Andreas Caminada of three-Michelin-starred Schloss Schauenstein in Fürstenau in Switzerland, who is launching IGNIV, a “sharing concept” restaurant, at The St. Regis Bangkok (scheduled to open in May 2020); and Chef Mauro Colagreco, frontman of three-Michelin-starred Mirazur in Menton, who is bringing Cote by Mauro Colagreco, a Mediterranean restaurant, at the soon-to-open Capella Bangkok. In addition, Alain Ducasse ’s chocolate salon Le Chocolat Alain Ducasse will debut in Bangkok at Chidlom’s Athena 23 mall.
Le Chocolat Alain Ducasse
IGNIV
Mauro Colagreco
The appearance of unfamiliar cuisines
Bangkokians have been developing a taste for unfamiliar international fare over the last few years. Taking advantage of the city’s rapidly evolving palate are modern Latvian restaurant Baltic Blunos in Sukhumvit and Yangon-born Burmese restaurant Feel in Pratunam. This year, more restaurants are giving us a taste of more exotic cuisines. Lola’s Kitchen, located in close proximity to the Philippine Embassy on Sukhumvit, is a worthy addition to the very few Filipino restaurants in Bangkok—the menu allows locals to savor Pinoy dishes like chicken adobo and bulalo (beef shank soup). Over at Soi Sukhumvit 33/1, you have Sabor Brazil, a restaurant that specializes in grilled dishes from the South American country.
Chicken adobo
Sabor Brazil
Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
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Lola's Kitchen
Eat on
What else we want to see in Bangkok
Sustainable packaging
Drop by Dough
Food bloggers becoming restaurateurs
A few of your favorite food bloggers, after years of treating their fans to updates on the most happening food joints in town, are themselves subject to the call of critics now that they’ve put up their own food outlets. YouTuber Mark Wien has teamed up with food blogger iTan (Kittidech Vimolratana), Chef Gigg Kamol and actor Pongtap Arutan to open a restaurant called Phed Mark, which serves pad kaprow (stir-fried dishes with basil) at affordable prices. Then you have Fashion on Food vlogger Kanokwan “Ching” Asawanuchit, who took a quick break from her khao gaeng restaurant to start Yum Sane, another food venture that doles out yum (spicy salad) at the food courts of Emporium, Emquartier and The Mall Bangkhae. Lifestyle blogger duo Oats x Somewhere have taken the sweet path with a donut shop in Udomsuk called Drop by Dough, while the peeps behind the vlog Bearhug have set up a bubble tea shop called Bearhouse.
It would be better if food delivery providers like Grab, GET and Food Panda can come up with more sustainable packaging to help reduce the amount of trash left after every delivery meal. We suggest using reusable food boxes made of durable material that can be dropped off at designated stations and sterilizing stations to make sure the containers are clean.
Produce sourced locally or from nearby areas Many restaurants have done their part in reducing food waste, either by using all parts of an ingredient or creating compost out of leftovers. But what we want to see more of are “carbon-neutral” restaurants that limit the distance their ingredients travel to reduce the use of fuel and carbon emissions.
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Phed Mark
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21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Eat on
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Jaew Jim Thompson
THAI FINE-DINING STEPS UP ITS GAME Sophisticated Thai cuisine wants to make its presence felt in 2020. First in the line-up is Jaew Jim Thompson, which is reinventing Thai cuisine through the vision of Canadian chef Andrew Martin. David Thompson, formerly of Nahm fame, steps back into the scene with an elegant new restaurant called Mahanathi at new luxury hotel Orient Express Mahanakhon Bangkok. Waldorf Astoria is adding more big guns to the city’s fine-dining scene as it unveils a new Thai restaurant to take over the space vacated by Nordic-Thai venue Front Room.
Dining alone is suddenly de rigueur
The food courts at Emporium and Emquartier have introducing new seating arrangements designed for solo eaters. Each seat faces the wall and comes with electric outlets to charge your electronic devices—every lonely diner’s best friend. Popular hotpot chain MK has also dedicated a corner in some of its restaurants for one-diner tables. And with authorities encouraging social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we’re pretty sure more restaurants would make adjustments for eating by your lonesome.
Food court at Emporium
The restaurant scene heats up by the river
Dining by the Chao Phraya has become even more exciting. Last year, we beheld the unveiling of Blue by Alain Ducasse at Iconsiam and the reopening of the revamped Lord Jim’s at Mandarin Oriental. Later in the year, Capella Bangkok’s Mediterranean restaurant Cote by Mauro Colagreco and Thai establishment Phra Nakhon are expected to provide steep competition. The same can be said for Yu Tian Guan, a destination for Cantonese delicacies, as well as Italian dining room Riva del Fume, both at the the soon-to-open Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River.■
Blue by Alain Ducasse
Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
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The best dating apps Tools helping you find love during this hopeless moment by Khemjira Prompan
Tastebuds
Whether you’re looking for that perfect someone or just need a concert buddy, you should download Tastebuds. The app scans your music library or lets you manually add your favorite bands to your profile to turn up matches who dig the same kind of tunes. Best for: If having similar taste in music is your priority Works with: iOS
TIME OUT ’ S FAV
Happn
Happn lets you find that cutie you’ve just crossed paths with— and possibly meet him or her— using geolocation technology, which pinpoints the real-time location of other users who are within 250 meters of your location. Best for: Those who don't want to approach people in real life Works with: iOS, Android
OkCupid
If you’re up for something casual or looking solely for a hookup, then OkCupid’s got you covered. It works like a typical dating app by asking endless questions about your personal interests to find you potential matches, but you can also just select “hookup” to cut to the chase. Best for: Finding potential matches Works with: iOS, Android
Tinder Coffee Meets Bagel á
If you value quality over quantity, then you need to download Coffee Meets Bagel. CMB serves you only a few quality matches each day at noon based on filters like lifestyle and religion. Matches disappear in eight days so you have to come up with your opening line quick. Best for: Finding quality matches Works with: iOS, Android
ONLINE DATING HAS become essential for modern-day lovers and loners. The matchmaking app industry is still raking in business left and right, despite complaints of countless cringe-worthy profiles, creepy users and inevitable ghosting. We list down the best dating apps in Bangkok. You’ll find there’s something for everyone and that Tinder is no longer the only viable option.
Bumble
If you’re a brave woman, check out Bumble, a dating app that requires female swipers to make the first move. This prevents girls from getting that first creepy text or inappropriate pics from pervs. But you’ve got only 24 hours to start the conversation, to which they should then respond within 24 hours. If time runs out at either end, the match expires. Best for: Women who fed up with that first creepy text from pervs Works with: iOS, Android
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Despite the sheer number of shirtless dudes flexing their biceps or the possibility of receiving creepy, cringe-worthy messages, Tinder is still one of the most widely used apps. It’s easy to use, and lets you swipe, swipe and swipe away until you find a sleeping buddy or, for the rare lucky ones, a partner down the aisle. Works with: iOS, Android Best for: Finding from an FWB to an LTR
Bristlr
Like dudes with beards? Download Bristlr, an app that matches the bewhiskered to those with a facial fuzz fetish. You can only chat after you both heart each other. ■ Best for: Someone with a facial hair fetish Works with: iOS, Android
21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Shopping & Style SPOTLIGHT ON
A cheaper Leaf
If you’ve been thinking of owning a fully-electric car, the time to purchase one is now. Nissan Thailand has released a new price for the Nissan Leaf at only B1,490,000—that’s B500,000 cheaper than the first listed price. The Leaf, which is now in its second generation, is one of the world’s best-selling electric cars, with more than 400,000 units sold worldwide since 2010. But due to Thailand’s customs tax, Nissan was forced to retail the car at nearly B2,000,000—a price that did not really appeal to too many people (in addition to the limited charging stations in Thailand). This special price, which includes an eight-year warranty on the battery, will only be available until 5 April.
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àThe Leaf is available only at selected Nissan showrooms. Visit www. nissan.co.th for more information. Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
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The Mazda CX30 is rocking Bangkok roads
Japanese automobile giant Mazda has launched its new subcompact SUV, the CX30, which sits somewhere between the smaller CX3 and the souped-up CX5. The CX30 is a true head-turner at first glance, thanks to a sleek aerodynamic exterior that reflects Mazda’s kodo philosophy of “breathing life into a car.” Inside, you have refined aesthetics similar to those of European cars: tasteful design, modest color schemes and more automated comfort facilities, including an electronic sunroof and a lift-gate opener. The CX30, which is powered by a Skyactive-G 2.0-liter engine, is available in three types, and is priced from B989,000 to B1,199,000. We’re betting it’ll give the Toyota CH-R and Honda HR-V a run for their money. à Book a test drive at a Mazda showroom near you. www.mazda.co.th
Finding OPPO
Chinese smartphone brand OPPO has dropped its new high-end smartphones, and they do not come cheap: OPPO Find X2 5G at B33,990 and OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G at B40,990. But you do get what you’re paying for. Both models come with a sleek anti-fingerprint body, a high-end 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 3,168 x 1,440 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, and professional-quality cameras co-created with Sony that shoot RAW files, among many other desirable qualities. Is your screen time at an all-time high? No worries. The Find X2 comes with OPPO’s signature 65W SuperVOOC 2.0 Flash Charge, which juices up your smartphone in only 38 minutes. And did we mention that it comes with pre-equipped 5G capability?
Live a life
Hola, H&M
àGrab your free copy at selected Uniqlo stores across Thailand.
àThe new collection is available at selected H&M stores nationwide and online via www.th.hm.com.
Uniqlo launched the first issue of its Lifewear Magazine, under the direction of ex-Popeye editor Takahiro Kinoshita, last season. The follow-up issue is here and it focuses on the world’s most “livable cities”—Tokyo, Kyoto, New York and Copenhagen—and how they all embody the Uniqlo philosophy of making things for real people. It also features interviews with designer Jonathan Anderson and artist Daniel Arsham, a Havana travel story, and a Tokyo city guide powered by Monocle.
H&M has introduced its new collaboration with Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz. Taking inspiration from her hometown of Cali (also known as Colombia’s salsa capital), Ortiz has created a capsule line of feminine dresses, ruffled skirts and asymmetric swimwear boasting elegant prints inspired by nature. Loose silhouettes, lightweight fabric and classy prints— these are exactly what you would want in your wardrobe this summer. ■ Top Koaysomboon
àGet your hands on the Find X2 5G and Find X2 Pro 56 at OPPO outlets near you.
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21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Eat & Drink TIME OUT MEETS
Andrew Martin The head chef at Jim Thompson’s new Thai restaurant is in a committed relationship with Thai fare
ANDREW MARTIN FIRST came into the spotlight
at 80/20, where the Canadian chef debuted unforgettable progressive Thai creations with great enthusiasm. Andrew, also an alum of Nahm and Bo.Lan, soon left the fusion restaurant to take over executive chef duties at famed dining room Issaya. Now, he’s moved on to a new role, steering the kitchen at Jaew Jim Thompson, the recently launched restaurant by the renowned Thai silk brand. At his new outpost, Chef Andrew hopes to use his unique vision for Thai cuisine to tantalize more taste buds. Time Out catches up with the adventurous chef, and finds out how he fell in love with Thai cuisine, how his travels have influenced his cooking and his plans for Jaew.
How did you discover Thai cuisine?
My ex-girlfriend wanted to go to Thailand from watching The Beach. I didn’t know much about Thailand so I started looking into it. I started to go to Thai restaurants in Canada and became interested in Thai cuisine. However, we broke up so I went to Thailand by myself. I traveled around the country and had an amazing time. I never forget the first time I had yum naem [fermented meat salad]. I’ve been obsessed with Thai food ever since. I went back to Canada and worked for a place called Mae Nam. The owner hooked me up with Dylan from Bo.lan and I [went back to Thailand] to work with him and he hooked me up with Nahm. I planned to go back to Canada to start my own bar. But I met Joe [of 80/20] and we became buddies, and he asked if I wanted to join their team. We had a really fun time there.
What happened next?
You know they wanted to do their own thing. Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
We split up so I went to Issaya. But I didn’t get to be who I wanted to be. There wasn’t any opportunity to do any cooking and be myself. I was more of managing the restaurant. It’s not my style but I got to learn a lot about how to be a businessman. And I never had that before. So that was extremely beneficial. When Sanya [Souvanna Phouma, creative force behind Jaew] asked if I wanted to do this, I was in a good place. I felt like a well-rounded chef because I got to be chef, businessman, manager. You don’t just cook. You have to do numbers, inventory, stocks. I felt that I was ready to cook
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again. He was incredibly creative and put this whole project together.
You’re known for your adventurous take on Thai food. How do you come up with your ideas?
It’s really nice of you to say that. You just have to be yourself. I am an adventurer. I like to do things that scare me and I feel uncomfortable with. That’s when you find something really exciting. You just have to trust yourself. I think it’s just inspiration from my travels. I don’t like to try too hard. All the food I cook is just inspired by Thailand. I don’t want to change
WHAT IT IS... Siam Kempinski’s new Mediterranean restaurant WHY COME... Greek, Italian, French and Middle Eastern fare in a luxurious ambiance
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what Thai food is because it’s my favorite thing in the whole world. There are sayings like “Never force love” or “don’t force a relationship.” If you’re with someone, it shouldn’t be hard. And food should be the same.
What has been your most memorable trip in Thailand?
I went to Hin Lad Nai [village] in Chiang Rai. It was a pretty eye-opening experience. It was a journey for wild honey with Chef Van [of Dag]. That was amazing. We got to stay in the village. The elders were so generous and they shared with us their food. We went out and watched the leaders of the tribe harvest the honey, sticking his hands to get honey without protection. I grew up between the city and outside the city in Canada. So I love being out in nature, and to do that in Thailand is really special.
How have you changed as a chef from your 80/20 days?
I was a much different person then. I am much more mature now. I am still a kid at heart; I still like to have fun, but I’ve grown up a lot, too. Working with [80/20] helped me learn about Thai ingredients and it opened up my world. Then, in-between at Issaya, I learned a lot about business. It’s good but I felt like I needed to express myself. I think now I am much more grown up as a human being. I still like to have fun and be experimental as when I was at 80/20, but I think the food I cook now is more Thai. I understand the flavors more.
How does Jaew Jim Thompson stand out from other Thai restaurants in the market?
I guess every restaurant is doing their own thing, and I am doing my own thing. I am just inspired by what I love about Thailand and twist them up a little bit. But I am not doing a new green curry or som tum. It would be the biggest honor for me, as an outsider, if Thai guests come in and enjoy my food. At the end of the day, I just want to make people happy, no matter where you come from.
Do you see yourself opening a Thai restaurant in Canada in the future?
I didn’t have any plan of staying in Thailand [back in the beginning]. But there’s a sense of time and a sense of place. Again, I love Thai food, and I love cooking with Thai ingredients. And if I am in Canada, I would be cooking [Thai food]. But the thing is I wanna cook with [Thai] ingredients, and the best place to cook with them is here. And the best place to learn and get inspired is from here. No one knows what’s going to happen tomorrow, we just have to do the best we can day by day.■ Phavitch Theeraphong
Alati G/F Siam Kempinski, Rama 1 Road, 0 2162 9900. BTS Siam. Open daily 12:00-22:30
SIAM KEMPINSKI IS taking diners to the rocky
beaches of Mykonos and the exotic souks of Lebanon with Alati, a new dining outlet that specializes in olive oil-drenched, spice-filled fare. Alati, a name derived from the Greek term for salt, takes over the space vacated by Brasserie Europa. The dining room’s elegant dark wood details, marbled surfaces and black paneling remain untouched, but is now enlivened by bright blue leather seats and a patterned carpet—additions that inject a fresher, younger vibe to the space. Culinary options span Southern French favorites, delicacies from the Italian coast and Middle Eastern fare. The muhammara (B380), a Turkish and Lebanese spread made with roasted capsicum and walnut, is served with creamy burrata, while the hummus (B290) is indulgently nutty, its flavors enhanced by rich chicken liver
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and pomegranate. Seafood lovers will find the seared tuna (B520) exceptionally delightful, served with beetroot, shallots and orange, while the steamed halibut (B780) finds a perfect pairing with Sicilian caponata (eggplant salad) and pistachio pesto. The cauliflower tajine (B450) is slow-cooked in a clay pot, and benefits from the fragrant combination of saffron, apricot, almond and orange. The desserts don’t disappoint, either. Try the Lebanese rice pudding (B260) with orange blossom syrup and apricot, or go for the indulgent chocolate choux (B260) made with 70-percent dark chocolate, and topped with chocolate crumble and ice cream. Meals don’t have to end with just dessert and coffee. Every Thursday evening, Mahmet, a Turkish fortune teller, divines your future by reading coffee grounds.■ Phavitch Theeraphong 21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Eat & Drink
TIME OUT HOT SPOTS
Paak 126 Soi Saladaeng 1, Silom, 08 9152 2677. Open daily 10:00-21:00
SET IN THE recently opened
The Commons Saladaeng, Paak (taken from the Thai word for “vegetables”), transforms fresh healthy greens into drool-worthy snacks and drinks for healthconscious diners. Smoothies are made with fresh fruits and vegetables, as in Hail Caesar, which has cos lettuce, avocado, yogurt and parmesan—the combination is meant to be the liquid version of the Caesar salad. Cero Green is for veg lovers, and has a healthy mix of celery, cucumber, broccoli and baby spinach. Wholesome dishes like baby spinach salad with chicken, and crispy vegetable with tom yum dip are also served, as well fun cocktails with a generous injection of fruits, herbs and greens.
Atomic Pills 71 Rachakru Medical Center, Soi Phaholyothin 5, 09 2448 8269. BTS Ari. Open Mon-Fri 7:00-19:00, SatSun 8:00-20:00
THREE DOCTOR FRIENDS , one of whom was a finalist in Masterchef Thailand, has put up a dessert café that prove sweet treats don’t have to be detrimental to your health. Atomic Pills uses health-friendly ingredients such as stevia, honey, almond-flour, fruits and seeds to create desserts that are less guilty, more pleasure. Try the Banana & Grain, a banana cake made with superfood like sunflower seeds, chia seeds and flaxseed, as well as dark chocolate and ground hazelnut. Drinks options include espresso variations and fruit smoothies made with low-sugar house-made jam.
TIME OUT TRIES...
Andrew Martin, who heads the kitchen of Jaew Jim Thompson, takes inspiration from a dish that he encountered during a visit to the northeastern part of Thailand to recreate this smoky beef tartare. The Canadian chef deep-fried betel nut until crispy and used it to flavor a smoked beef tartare along with coconut, lemongrass and tua neow (fermented soy bean). The whole combination is a mouthful of tastes and textures that are familiar yet still exotic. ■
Nua Dip Lhong Krung At Jaew Jim Thompson
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Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
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Eat & Drink
Philtration 2 Soi Kasemsan 3, 09 2282 9005. BTS National Stadium. Open TueSun 19:00-2:00
IN A SHOPPING destination like Siam, where
drinking options usually point to rooftop bars or terrace restaurants, Philtration is quite the unexpected, though welcome, addition. For one, this new cocktail bar will require you to descend into the basement of a historic neo-Renaissance mansion that belongs to Moh Mee, the famous century-old medicine brand that’s long been peddling herbal medicines such as Moh Mee U-thai Refreshment Drops and Ya Nutt Moh Mee snuff. The structure is now a restaurant that also houses a museum displaying an impressive array of antiques, including a medicine cabinet that acts like a gateway into the underground passage that leads to Philtration. The dungeonlike space used to be an apothecary, where Moh Mee’s herbal potions and tinctures were created; now it’s a stylishly dressed venue that welcomes Pathum Wan tipplers. Philtration’s drinks menu consists of 25 signature cocktails, each one created by the bar team led by Shavinraj Gopinath. Different medicinal herbs and spices go into these modern-day mixtures, which themselves have cheeky health claims. Start off the night with Opium Den (B400), a mild and refreshing sipper with hints of blue lotus, grapes and cha plu leaves, or Sam Kok (B380), a rum-based drink with a touch of apricot and black tea rose. For a stiff sip, go for the Philsper Martini (B420), an Iron Balls Gin and vodka blend with the slightest hint of jasmine. Moh Meetini (B400) recalls the venue’s storied past; the pungent, botanicaldriven concoction mixes Moh Mee U-thai Refreshment Drops with cumin, lemongrass, fennel, black pepper and makrut (makrut lime). The Antique Cup of Tea (B420) is a drinkable cocktail that can be enjoyed by many. The light drink mixes Roku Gin, Oolong tea, elderflower syrup and Benedictine D.O.M. The bar also has punch bowls for bigger parties. For visitors with an appetite, Philtration has an casual set of bar chow, which includes banana chips, and homemade pâté with breadsticks and toasted bread. The bar promises more food options in the future. ■ Etrin Basa
WHAT IT IS... A cocktail bar set within a centuryold erstwhile apothecary. WHY COME... Drinks with cheeky health claims
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21 March - 5 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok
Drink
SPOTLIGHT ON
Insects in cocktail Liberation launches a new cocktail menu inspired by insects
WHAT IT IS... Cocktails incorporating insects WHY COME... Where else in town you could enjoy creepy-crawly in cocktails
Waterbugs
LIBERATION DOESN’T SEEM to be slowing down.
Shortly after celebrating its first anniversary in February, the experimental cocktail bar revamped its menu to include a set of drinks inspired by entomology. Yes, you read that right. Insects play a leading role in the new cocktail program (named Entœmology), one that we’re sure will create a buzz. In this new menu, bartender owners Kitibordee “Gov” Chortubtim and Krit “Joey” Prakobdee look into the idea of entomophagy as the diet of the future, and explore other ways to prepare and consume protein-rich insects aside from your usual deep-fried option. Using various methods, the bartending duo have extracted “underrepresented” flavors from these insects, and are mixing these into their new cocktails, most of which showcase influence of classic concoctions. Liberation’s Silk Stalking is based on the Silk Stocking cocktail, and combines a silkworm and almond cream mix with Don Julio Blanco tequila, raspberry syrup (instead of grenadine), Creme de Cacao White and lactic acid. To finish off the presentation, nutmeg, tonka beans and black pepper are sprinkled on top. The drink is a bit creamy with a mild sweet-and-sour aftertaste. A silkworm garnish on the side adds some crunch and a savory taste to the the drink. Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
Weevil Rock You is a clarified milk punch that’s similar to a piña colada. The light and refreshing cocktail combines Phraya Rum with red palm weevil (a beetle that lives in palm trees), coconut water, thyme and lemon. Take a bite of the toasted coconut slice that’s offered with the drink to enhance the weevil’s earthy and creamy taste. And An Ant is a variation of Dirty Martini but with Don Julio Reposado tequila and Liberation’s very own queen ant vermouth. Each sip reveals how they’ve skillfully combined olive brine with the vermouth made with queen ant. Garnishes of dehydrated chamuang leaves and queen ants enhance the drink’s flavors even
Silk Stalking
more. Previous visitors to Liberation may have tried its Waterbugs cocktail, which was created in collaboration with Nammon Tonic Water. A newly adjusted version is slightly lighter, and boasts a blend of Lanna Thai Spirit, essence of distilled waterbugs, and Nammon tonic. Referred tones the bar’s version of a G&T, it is the best way to either start or finish off your night. Each cocktail in the Entœmology menu is priced at B440. This is only a quick glimpse of how Liberation would like to work with insects as ingredients. There are more creations waiting to be revealed. We’re getting antsy at the thought.■ Etrin Basa
An Ant
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WHAT’S ON
The Invisible Man Elisabeth Moss battles toxic masculinity in a none-more-timely reimagining of HG Wells’s sci-fi yarn.
A #METOO horror film that couldn’t be any more timely if it shuffled into a courtroom with a Zimmer frame, The Invisible Man retools HG Wells’s seminal sci-fi novel into a tart statement on toxic men and their gas lighting ways. It’s not flawless —the supporting characters are thinly sketched and intrepid plotholers will have a field day—but it’s surprisingly smart and, crucially, it has Elisabeth Moss to cover the bits that aren’t. Moss can pull off Joan Crawford brittle and Sigourney Weaver badass, and she holds it all together as Cecilia, an architect traumatized by her abusive tech entrepreneur husband, Adrian Griffin (Oliver Jackson-Cohen). Within the opening moments, she’s drugged him, scaled the Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
walls of their modernist seaside slab and legged it. Soon, Griffin is reported dead by suicide. But is he? And why have things started going bump in the night? Is there a Hubbadook at large, tormenting her from beyond the grave? Aussie writer-director Leigh Whannell (Saw), doubling Sydney for San Francisco, is a natural fit for the material. The Invisible Man is respectful to the classic Universal monster movie with which it shares its name (look out for a cameo from those trademark bandages), but this is no reverential retread. It has ideas of its own, specifically around the way an abusive relationship can turn a life into a prison. Its greatest coup, though, is in gas lighting the
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entire audience. You’ll find yourself scouring the frame for this malign force in the tiniest refraction of light. Whannell knows you’re doing it, too, and lets scenes go on so long, you start to doubt your own eyes. There shouldn’t be any doubting the magnetic Moss, though: she’s the real deal. ■ Phil De Semlyen à The Invisible Man is now in cinema
Art
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SPOTLIGHT ON Vanishing Bangkok: The Changing Face of the City ß
See a side of Bangkok that you’ve probably never seen before at this exhibition by British photographer and writer Ben Davies. The series looks at the city’s rich heritage and fading charm through black and white images shot over the past five years with a large-format Linhof film camera. àUntil 30 Apr at RCB Photographers’ Gallery, River City Bangkok. Free entry
The Sea Remembers Us
Thai artist Niam Mawornkanong, who’s known for his hypnotic art, is back at it with his seventh solo exhibition, where he uses the vast blue ocean as the focal point in his paintings. àUntil 10 May at S.A.C. Subhashok The Arts Centre, Sri Sukhumvit 39
D17/20 -- Design in South East Asia
Admire over 100 eclectic pieces of craftwork created by 43 designers from France, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam. àUntil 31 May at Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC). Free entry
Panoramic
This exhibition by Thai singer and songwriter Apichai Tragoolpadetgrai, better known as Lek Greasy Cafe, allows you to discover how sound can alter visuals and vice versa. à29 Mar-26 Apr at Seenspace Soi Thonglor 13
The Art of Tasting
YELO Cafe joins up with The Breakfast Club to host "The Art of Tasting,” an exhibition where you can literally taste what’s on display. Guests get to try dishes inspired by the artwork created by The Breakfast Club’s chefs. ■ Khemjira Prompan àUntil 14 May at YELO House, 20/2 Soi Kasemsan 1
Time Out Bangkok 21 March - 5 April 2020
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SPOTLIGHT ON
Travel
Discover domestic
4 local destinations you can visit when going abroad is out of the question. By Kenika Ruaytanapanich and Phavicth Theeraphong IN THESE RISKY COVID-19 times, traveling abroad, especially to high-risk countries, is strongly prohibited (unless you don’t mind self-isolating for at least two weeks or possibly being denied entry at your port of arrival). So if you still feel the itch to get out, why not consider traveling within the country? Here are some off-the- beaten-track local destinations that allow you to get away from the crowd, enjoy a bit of serenity, but also discover something new.
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Naan
This hidden gem in Northern Thailand, once a part of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, is where regional charm and natural beauty converge. Get close to Mother Nature at Doi Samer Dao where each sunrise is a spectacle and oceans of constellations reward campers once the sun sets. Or drive down Thanon Loy Fah, a series of scenic highways flanked by trees and green pastures. Make a stop at Bo Klua where villagers produce highquality salt using traditional ways.
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Khon Kaen
One of the biggest cites in Northeastern Thailand is known for its prehistoric attractions. The Pho Wiang National Park offers hikes through archeological sites that have unearthed fossils of dinosaurs that lived 100 million years ago, while the complementary Dinosaur Museum features the dinosaur bones themselves. For prehistoric thrills of a different kind, you have Dinosaur Water Park, the region’s biggest aquatic theme park. Design buffs should find some time to visit the province’s own Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC)— it has a special exhibition that showcases materials and textiles unique to Northeastern Thailand.
Nakhon Panom
Said to be the most scenic Thai city by the Mekong River, Nakhon Panom boasts beautiful religious sites, such as Pratat Renu Temple, a striking pink, uniquely shaped pagoda, and Saint Anna’s Church Nong Saeng, a whitewashed spired structure built in the 1920s. Other points of interest include Ban Na Chok, the former residence of Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh. Apart from taking a lazy boat ride down Southeast Asia’s longest waterway, going for an evening stroll down the Third Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge is one of the most scenic ways to see the Mekong.
Trang
It’s overshadowed by more popular Southern Thai resort cities like Krabi and Phuket—and that’s a good thing. Trang offers quieter vacations at a tropical destination boasting more than 40 islands, including Koh Kradan and Koh Hong, where white sandy beaches and turquoise waters are not unfamiliar sights; and Koh Libong, which is best for dugong sightings. The island is also home to a famous stone bridge, which is at its most photogenic during sunset. ■
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21 March - 6 April 2020 Time Out Bangkok