Fah Thai Magazine Nov/Dec 2017

NOV-DEC 2017 

INDIA FULL 

SPECTRUM 

IN THAILAND 

I THEE WED 

PHNOM PENH 

CALLING 

SPACE 

REBORN 

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

ibis Styles Krabi Ao Nang 

CONTEMPORARY 

CONVENIENCE 

ibis Styles offers guests an energetic vibe, 

exceptional comfort, and the simplicity of allinclusive 

pricing with all-you-can-eat breakfast, 

broadband internet, and additional extras all part of 

the standard rate. Contemporary rooms feature all 

the essential amenities including working desks and 

safes, and available family rooms make it a joy to 

travel with children. With each hotel having a distinct 

personality that reflects the creativity found in its 

local community, ibis Styles delivers a refreshingly 

fun experience at a three-star price. 

Opening in December, ibis Styles Bangkok 

Sukhumvit Phra Khanong is the ideal base for 

exploring the galleries, markets, and eateries in this 

up-and-coming neighbourhood. With a free shuttle 

bus running to the BTS Skytrain station just 300 

metres away, it’s also easy to venture to other parts 

of Bangkok. Warm and welcoming rooms feature 40- 

inch televisions, thoughtful Thai design elements, and 

the signature Sweet Bed concept for a perfect night’s 

rest. Additional conveniences — including a kids’ club, 

fitness centre, restaurant, and outdoor swimming 

pool with poolside bar — deliver everything travellers 

need to enjoy a stress-free and rejuvenating stay in 

the Thai capital. 

Nestled in a lush tropical garden against a backdrop 

of breathtaking limestone cliffs, ibis Styles Krabi 

Ao Nang is perfect for travellers looking for high 

standards at a great value in one of Thailand’s 

most spectacular destinations. Whether enjoying 

a morning tea on the balcony or unwinding on sun 

loungers around the pool, guests are treated to 

postcard-perfect views of mountains and palm trees. 

The Cliff Cafe and Restaurant serves authentic Thai 

dishes and delicious international cuisine throughout 

the day, with drinks available at Koh Bar overlooking 

the pool. Rooms are stylish and comfortable and 

include free Wi-Fi and blackout curtains. And all of 

this is just five minutes from the beach with the hotel’s 

complimentary shuttle. 

Experience Bangkok’s vibrant sights without breaking 

the bank at the newly built ibis Styles Bangkok 

Sukhumvit 50. The city’s only international 3-star 

hotel chain offers everything needed for an enjoyable 

stay. The rooms are modern and the decor is decidedly 

cheerful, with each floor having its own whimsical 

motif. The playfulness continues at the airportthemed 

Terminal bistro, which serves excellent local 

cuisine and drinks. When it’s time to hit the town, a 

complimentary tuk-tuk service shuttles you to the 

SkyTrain station and from there you’re only minutes 

ibis Styles Bangkok Sukhumvit Phra Khanong from Bangkok’s wide range of cultural landmarks and 

entertainment venues. 

ibis Styles Bangkok Sukhumvit 50 

ibis Styles Phuket City 

Bursting with character, ibis Styles Phuket City is the 

hip place to discover historic Phuket Town. Immerse 

yourself in the local lifestyle with an impressive 

number of heritage sites, outdoor markets, parks 

and art galleries all within walking distance. And that 

same local character is found inside the hotel as well, 

with every floor featuring colourful, modern designs 

inspired by the Sino-Portuguese architecture of Old 

Town Phuket. With a focus on comfort, convenience 

and outstanding value, ibis Styles Phuket Phokeethra 

delivers a truly unique experience, while still only 

being a few minutes drive from the island’s beautiful 

beaches. 

For more information, 

visit ibis.com or accorhotels.com.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT 

Welcome aboard our Bangkok Airways flight. Over the past years, we have 

selected and offered you our best service as we transport you to new destinations. 

We do this with pleasure in our quest to offer everyone great service and 

memorable journeys. Recently, we launched our Bangkok-Phu Quoc flights in 

Vietnam. This new route is available four times a week – every Tuesday, 

Thursday, Friday and Sunday. 

Phu Quoc Island is famously known for its natural beauty and also referred 

to as “Pearl Island” of South Vietnam. We believe this new destination is going 

to have its place in your heart. 

On another note, we are pleased to let you know that last month, Bangkok 

Airways was awarded the “Best Regional Airline”, by TTG Travel Awards 2017, 

an event held annually. It recognises and honours individuals and organisations 

in the tourism industry in the Asia-Pacific region for outstanding performance in 

various categories. 

My staff and I wish all of you the utmost enjoyment in your travels and that you 

avail yourselves of our personal service every time you fly with us on Bangkok 

Airways – Asia’s Boutique Airline. 

Thank You. 

สวัสดีครับท่านผู้โดยสาร ขอต้อนรับผู้โดยสารทุกท่านสู่บริการของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส 

ตลอดระยะเวลาที่ผ่านมา เราได้เลือกสรรการบริการและจุดหมายปลายทางใหม่ๆ ให้กับท่านผู้โดยสาร 

เพื่อให้ท่านได้สัมผัสการบริการและประสบการณ์การท่องเที่ยวที่แตกต่างออกไป โดยเมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ เราได้ 

เปิดเส้นทางบินใหม่ กรุงเทพ-เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก ประเทศสาธารณรัฐสังคมนิยมเวียดนาม ให้บริการสัปดาห์ 

ละ 4 เที่ยวบิน ทุกวันอังคาร พฤหัส ศุกร์ และอาทิตย์ 

เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก เป็นเกาะซึ่งยังคงมีความงดงามทางธรรมชาติ ถึงขนาดได้รับสมญานามว่า “ไข่มุกแห่ง 

เวียดนามใต้” เราเชื่อว่าจุดหมายปลายทางนี้ จะเป็นอีกหนึ่งในจุดหมายปลายทางที่จะอยู่ในใจ 

ผู้โดยสารทุกท่านอย่างแน่นอน 

เมื่อเดือนที่ผ่านมา เป็นอีกครั้งที ่สายการบินฯ ได้รับรางวัล “Best Regional Airline” จากการ 

ประกาศผลของ TTG Travel Awards 2017 โดยรางวัลนี้จัดขึ้นเป็นประจำทุกปี เพื่อเป็นเกียรติแก่ 

บุคคลและองค์กร ในอุตสาหกรรมท่องเที่ยวที่มีความโดดเด่นในประเภทต่างๆ ของภูมิภาคเอเชียแปซิฟิก 

ผมและพนักงานทุกคนขอขอบคุณทุกท่านที่ไว้วางใจและโหวตให้กับสายการบินของเรา ทำให้เราได้รับ 

รางวัลจาก TTG Travel Awards อีกครั้งในปีนี้ ซึ่งเราจะรักษามาตรฐาน และพัฒนาการบริการ 

ของเราให้ดียิ่งๆ ขึ้นไป 

เราหวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งให้ผู้โดยสารทุกท่านได้สัมผัสประสบการณ์ที่ประทับใจเมื่อเดินทางไปพร้อม 

กับเรา “บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส เอเชียบูทีคแอร์ไลน์” 

ขอบคุณครับ 

กัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ 

Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth 

กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ | President, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited 

8

OVERTURES 

FEATURES 

18 BRAVO BANGKOK 

The votes are in with kudos to the 

City of Angels. Read more in our 

round-up of events that’s happening 

around the regional corner of Asia. 

23 SCENTS OF STYLE 

Make your fragrance the added 

touch of confidence before heading 

out the door. Sniff out our list of 

green and clean to sultry and 

come-hither scents. 

24 PERFECT TIMING 

A good watch may not be about 

price but rather about the 

impression it makes. See what 

head-turning timepieces will keep 

you in step. 

25 PUTTING ON THE BLING 

Let your hands do the talking with 

the perfect cocktail ring. Create 

a little drama with bigger and 

ostentatious – a fun rule when it 

comes to such rings. 

26 NOT YOUR AVERAGE 

CHICKEN SOUP 

With mild-mannered looks, the popular 

Tom Kha Gai, or chicken coconut soup 

packs a punch with its flavours. 

28 TROPICAL FLAVOUR 

It’s hard to resist the exceptional 

goodness and vibrant taste of a 

good pineapple. At times tart, but 

mostly sweet – this popular fruit 

shows up in the best way: fresh, 

baked, cooked or in cocktails. 

34 PHNOM PENH 

A weekend trip to 

Phnom Penh sees legacy 

architecture that still 

stands and heritage spaces 

that have been converted 

into cool dining and 

cultural destinations. 

46 COSTUME FIT 

Behind every star who 

looks sartorially good in 

a film is a good costume 

designer. From dressing 

Keira Knightly to Sarah 

Jessica Parker, Arjun 

Bhasin lets us in what 

inspires his design 

ensembles. 

56 ON BENDED KNEE 

With postcard beaches 

and genuine hospitality, 

the Land of Smiles is 

primed with the very best 

in services to cater to 

lovebirds from all over the 

world who want to get 

married in Thailand. 

70 INDUSTRIAL 

PRESENT 

The popular concept 

of upcycling continues 

as warehouses and 

factories undergo megaconversions. 

Independent 

designers and food 

enterpreneurs come 

together in Bangkok’s 

latest creative spaces. 

82 COLOUR BURST 

India’s colours are endless 

in their manifestations. 

Photographer Dinesh 

Khanna captures moments 

in the vast landscape, 

from subdued moods to 

bolder hues of life. 

56 

A Million 

Lotuses 

Bloom 

Photo: Udon Thani, Thailand, Tourism Authority of Thailand 

10 

11

HAPPENINGS 

CORPORATE 

No cinema, no worry. Luang Prabang may not 

have its own movie theatre – but that won’t 

stop them from holding an international film 

festival in the cool outdoors. See listings for 

such events at various cultural capitals. 

92 BANGKOK 

96 CHIANG MAI / 

CHIANG RAI 

100 SAMUI 

104 PHUKET / 

KRABI / TRANG 

108 PATTAYA 

110 HONG KONG 

114 SINGAPORE 

118 KUALA LUMPUR 

120 BAGAN / 

MANDALAY / 

YANGON 

124 LUANG 

PRABANG / 

DANANG / 

HOI AN / 

HO CHI MINH 

126 MUMBAI 

128 MALDIVES 

34 

Phnom Penh’s 

Art Deco 

Market 

132 NEWS 

From awards to youth camps, get the latest on 

Bangkok Airways activities. 

140 ROUTE MAP 

142 AIRCRAFT INFO 

144 AIRPORT MAP 

CHECKING OUT 

146 PHU QUOC 

Often described as exotic and dreamy, 

our spotlight shines on Phu Quoc and what 

give the island such qualities. 

This month’s 

cover: 

Dressed in 

the amazing 

technicolours 

of India’s Holi 

Festival. 

12

BANGKOK AIRWAYS PUBLIC 

COMPANY LIMITED 

99 Mu 14, Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, 

Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok 

10900, Thailand 

www.bangkokair.com 

ADVISORY BOARD 

Mr. Prote Setsuwan 

Vice President - Marketing 

Ms. Sumalee Chaitientong 

Vice President - Ancillary Revenues 

Mr. Kridhakorn Sirabhabhoj 

Director - Advertising and Creative 

Mr. Benjamin Sirirat 

Manager - Branding and Creative 

Mrs. Rattanaporn Sa-Nguanjangwong 

Business Services - Ancillary Revenues 

PUBLISHER 

MPMI Group Ltd. 

1 Soi Lasalle 23/2, 

Bangna, Bangkok 10260, Thailand 

Tel. +66 2744 4975 

Fax. +66 2744 5271 

Managing Director 

Chaovanee Ajanant 

Email: chaovanee@mpmith.com 

EDITORIAL 

Email: editorial@fahthaimag.com 

Editorial Director Somtawin Chanyawong 

Editor-in-Chief Anutra Ungsuprasert 

Senior Editor Nawa Acosta Wright 

Deputy Editor Sarita Urupongsa 

Contributors 

Bussara Boonboot 

Chalotorn Payomyol 

Chusri Ngamprasert 

Kay Choomongkol 

Korakot Nym Punlopruksa 

Marion Bravo 

Passakorn Hongthong 

Phoowadon Duangmee 

Prachi Joshi 

Richard Augustin 

Sarita Urupongsa 

Sirin P Wongpanit 

Veena Thoopkrajae 

Photo Editor Thewin Chanyawong 

Contributing Photographers 

Apichat Sukhunnee 

Dinesh Khanna 

Dolnapa Ram-Indra 

Permboon Wongpanit 

ART 

Creative Director JyeShen Koo 

Graphic Designer Pongtorn Khaoplag 

Contributing Stylist Saranya Ariyakul 

PRODUCTION 

Colour Separation: Soontorn Film 

Printer: WPS (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 

ADVERTISING 

advertising@fahthaimag.com 

Media Director: Pradub Prasertsri 

Media Manager: Daruni Klaprapchon 

Marketing Manager: Reza Bizmark 

ADVERTISING HOTLINES 

Bangkok: Guitar +669 2270 9528 

Bob +668 2446 9192 

Samui: Penzy +668 7055 7048 

OVERSEAS ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES 

AUSTRALIA 

THE MEDIA COMPANY 

Leanne Richardson 

Tel: +612 9909 5800 

leanne@themediaco.com.au 

CAMBODIA, LAOS, 

MYANMAR 

Kittikun Adunsirisaward 

Tel: +668 9468 2440 

kittikun@bangkokair.com 

Hathaiwan Chieochankitjakan 

Tel: +668 6900 5278 

hathaiwan@bangkokair.com 

CHINA, HONG KONG, 

MACAU, TAIWAN 

CHINA MEDIA OPTIONS 

CO., LTD. 

Rebecca Tsang-Pereira 

Tel: +852 2321 9788 

rebeccaCMOsupport@gmail.com 

FRANCE, GERMANY, 

SWITZERLAND 

INFOPAC MEDIA HOUSE 

Jean Charles Abeille. 

Tel: +331 4643 0066 

jcabeille@infopac.fr 

INDIA, MALDIVES 

RMA MEDIA 

Faredoon Kuka 

Tel: +9122 2925 3735 

kuka@rmamedia.com 

KOREA 

MEDIREP CO. 

Soohoon Oh 

Tel: +822 734 0786 

soohoonoh@medireponline.com 

JAPAN 

PUBLICITAS JAPAN K.K. 

Hiroko Minato 

Tel: +8150 8882 3456 

hiroko.minato@publicitas.com 

MALAYSIA 

MPMI SDN BHD 

Alvin Tan 

Tel: +603 7880 2185 

mpmimy@gmail.com 

SINGAPORE, INDONESIA 

MPMI PTE LTD 

S. S. Hoo 

Tel: +65 6464 6261 

mpmisg@gmail.com 

UNITED KINGDOM 

MAJOR MEDIA LTD. 

David Hammond 

Tel: +44(0) 20 8467 8884 

david@majormedia.co.uk 

USA 

THE MULTIMEDIA INC. 

Fernando Mariano 

Tel: +14 0790 3500 

fmar@multimediausa.com 

“FAH THAI” is the in-flight magazine of Bangkok Airways Public Company 

Limited and is edited and published by MPMI Group Ltd. All articles and 

photographs published herein are created by the authors and photographers 

at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of the 

airline. Bangkok Airways holds no responsibility or liability arising out of the 

publication of such articles and photographs. 

All information correct at press time. All rights reserved. No part of this 

magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in 

any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Bangkok 

Airways Public Company Limited and MPMI Group Ltd. 

14

ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS 

Bright Lights, Big City 

Bangkok’s abuzz with the holiday 

spirit and glowing brightly from 

constant recognition as being one of 

the best destinations in the world. For 

architecture buffs, include a pit stop 

at Hua Lamphong Railway Station and 

appreciate the neo-renaissance style 

by architect Mario Tamagno. 

NEWS AND EVENTS 18 / BEAUTY AND HEALTH 22 / STYLE 24 / ON THE MENU 26 / FRUITFUL FINDS 28 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 30 

17

OVERTURES 

NEWS AND EVENTS 

24 

CHIANG RAI 

RUNNING UP NORTH 

Avid runners showed up in full force for the Chiang Rai Marathon, with 

SEP 2017 the event kicked off by Mr. Kridhakorn Sirabhabhoj, Senior Director for 

26 

Market Communications at Bangkok Airways. The Chiang Rai Marathon SEP 2017 

was the 4th event out of the 6 running programmes under Bangkok Airways 

Boutique Series 2017; organised in six of the airline’s destinations in 

Thailand, which are Trat (Koh Chang), Koh Samui, Phuket, Chiang Rai, 

Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. The series is divided into 2 categories 

with 4 marathons and 2 trail programmes. 

The starting point for the race began at Chiang Rai city hall with 

Mr. Boonwate Sipuangchai, the Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai, presiding 

as chairman for the opening ceremony. Four thousand local and foreign 

runners did their personal best on their way to marathon victory. 

If you’re interested in joining the other two remaining marathons at 

Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, please contact Teelakow Co., Ltd. at 

www.teelakow.com, T: +66 (0) 95 736 3066 or email: info@teelakow.com. 

THAILAND 

BANGKOK WORLD’S MOST POPULAR 

CITY 2 YEARS IN A ROW 

Congratulations to Bangkok once again! The 

City of Angels is the pride of the nation as the 

Mastercard 2017 Global Destination Cities 

Index survey recently announced that the capital 

of Thailand took the No.1 spot, winning as the 

most popular destination among travellers from 

across the globe. Even more exhilarating is the 

fact that this is the second year that vibrant 

Bangkok or Krungthep Mahanakhon, has won 

over 132 top destination cities – such as London 

which ranked second, followed by Paris, Dubai, 

Singapore, New York, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur and 

Tokyo, respectively. According to the index, 

Bangkok is projected to welcome nearly 20 

million overnight visitors this year. 

8-10 

DEC 2017 

PHUKET 

SPOTLIGHT 

Sail Away 

in Paradise 

December marks the yachting season in Phuket 

– Southeast Asia’s leading luxury location and 

superyacht hot spot – as various yachts and 

superyacht go on show on the island during this 

period. Among the events, Kata Rocks Superyacht 

Rendezvous (KRSR) 2017 takes place featuring 

the yachting and the luxury lifestyle with the 

gorgeous idyllic backdrop of Phuket. The first 

class three-day programme is open to both 

sailing and motor yachts measuring over 24 

metres in length, whether they visit or are based 

in Phuket. Signaling the opening of Phuket’s 

luxurious charter season, KRSR offers superyacht 

owners a prime-time opportunity to showcase 

their flagship vessels. Participants include 

world-renowned yacht builders, including the 

famed Dutch superyacht builder Feadship, built 

by Benetti from Italy, and Vista Jet, one of the 

world’s most innovative private jet companies. 

Other partners returning for KRSR 2017 include 

Burgess, Azimut Yachts, Hemisphere Monaco, 

Northrop and Johnson, Bristol Charter, Princess 

Yachts, 77 Design, Lee Marine, Sea-Doo, Seal 

Superyachts and The Surin Phuket. katarocks.com 

16-20 

NOV 2017 

BANGKOK 

SPOTLIGHT 

Floral 

Extravaganza 

It’s time to celebrate and yes, it’s also time to 

be surrounded by large and stunning flower 

displays in the heart of Bangkok. Thailand’s 

oldest department store, Central is celebrating 

its 70th Anniversary this year with a super fresh 

idea that’s equally fragrant. Around this time 

of year, the retail branches of Central Chidlom 

and Central Embassy will be converted into a 

magnificent garden of splendour, with fresh 

floral arrangements masterfully created by 

Thailand’s notable designers. After long hours 

of shopping and exploring Bangkok, refresh 

your day and wander around the 7 floors of 

fragrant, colourful and beautiful displays, with 

rare blooms from around the world and an 

intricate wall of roses at the stores. Check this 

out whether you love floral arrangements or 

simply want to take time to smell the roses. 

central.co.th 

2-15 

NOV 2017 APR 2018 

PHUKET 

CHARMS OF THE ANDAMAN 

It’s a new chapter for Rosewood Hotels & 

Resorts as the new property of Rosewood 

Phuket unveils at the beginning of this month. 

Nestled along an idyllic 600-metre beachfront 

at Emerald Bay in southwestern Phuket, the 

resort is offering guests the brand-new package 

of the “Charms of the Andaman” which includes 

a 2-hour Asaya wellness therapy session, a class 

on how to blend essential oils with ingredients 

picked fresh from the herb garden, or be part of 

a culinary journey at Ta Khai seafood restaurant 

and many more. For details, contact 

T: +66 (0) 76 356 888, or rosewoodhotels.com 

NOW-3 


VIENTIANE 

SHOW MASKS GO ON 

Vientiane, Laos’ capital, plays host to the 2017 IMACO 

international conference until November 3. Organised by the 

International Mask Culture & Arts Organization (IMACO). 

The biennale mask conference aims to promote intercultural 

exchanges in the world of mask art, ensuring stronger 

cooperation in their performance art and culture. Putting on 

a mask is a transformative experience and we have witnessed 

and learned from different forms of performance such as: 

the carnival in Venice, Guy Fawkes, Tibetan ritual masks, or 

the Lao ancestor masks. The city of Vientiane expects 100 

international participants from over 30 countries involved in 

the world of mask arts, including mask artists and performers. 

worldmask.org 

18 19

OVERTURES 

NEWS AND EVENTS 

12-2 

NOV 2017 JAN 2018 

SPOTLIGHT 

SINGAPORE 

Xmas Tunes on 

an Iconic Road 

Singapore celebrates the holidays in a major way along its 

famous shopping street. Around 30 malls and department 

stores make up this retail wonderland that offers more 

than 5,000 brands. 

Don’t miss a chance to mingle with the crowds at the 

most wonderful time of the year if you are in Singapore 

during their 6 week celebration of Christmas and New 

Year. The seemingly endless 2.88km long Orchard Road 

will be thoroughly illuminated with extremely enchanting 

light installations. From Tanglin Mall to Plaza Singapura, 

Christmas tunes serenade everyone and spread yuletide 

cheer, while fantastic lighting at Orchard Road together 

with super fun games from booths along the road 

welcome visitors of all ages. More than that, a whole 

series of larger-than-life installations will be there for 

you to share Instagram shots with everyone. 

visitsingapore.com 

1-23 


ASIA 

ED SHEERAN’S ASIAN TOUR TAKES A TURN 

1-31 

NOV 2017 MAR 2018 

KUALA LUMPUR 

KL’S FIRST BIENNALE 

Kuala Lumpur is ready for its Biennale. The debut art festival is set for the 

theme of “BELAS or Be Loved” that recognises, embraces and echoes societal 

values and categorised into 5 types of belas (love.) They are Love for Nature 

(Belas Alam), Love of Heritage (Belas Warisan), Love for Humanity (Belas Insan), 

Love for Animals (Belas Haiwan) and Love for Legendary Icons (Belasungkawa). 

The event features an extensive line-up of artists from Southeast Asia, China, 

South Korea, Japan and India together with Malaysia’s top 3 artists; Loo Foh 

Sang, Long Thien Shih and Wong Hoy Cheong through an exhibition of modern 

and contemporary art. The chosen works depict their perspective of a civilised 

world that’s inspired by compassion and empathy to ensure the well-being of 

mankind. The mega-scale international contemporary art programme will be 

shown at the National Art Gallery of Malaysia and various venues. 

artgallery.gov.my 

Mega-star Ed Sheeran’s World Tour 

2017 is one of the most anticipated 

this year in Asia. However, at press 

time, the British artist suffered 

a broken arm from a bicycling 

accident, which could affect 

performances in countries starting 

from Taipei, Osaka, Seoul and Tokyo 

at the beginning of November, and 

gigs in cities like Hong Kong, Manila, 

Jakarta, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, 

Bangkok, Mumbai and Dubai, 

respectively. As a consummate 

professional, Sheeran made light 

of it – so look for updates on 

performance dates. The 26-yearold 

singer/songwriter began his 

career in 2011 and skyrocketed 

to international popularity a year 

later. In January 2017, he launched 

his third album “Divide”, kicking-off 

the biggest musical comeback in 

his dual singles “Shape of You” and 

“Castle on the Hill”, hitting the No.1 

and No.2 spots across the charts 

worldwide while seeing the Suffolk 

native break a magnitude of records 

along the way. If all goes according 

to plan, expect indie singer/ 

songwriter Lauv as guest artist. 

Check out schedules and concert 

venues at edsheeran.com. 

20

OVERTURES 

BEAUTY AND HEALTH 

SPOTLIGHT 

Secret Seduction 

Heading out to party? Then it’s the perfect time 

for you to experiment with the proper fragrance 

as part of a multi-step strategy to fun. The right 

mood needs the right touch of a scent that’s 

delicious against your skin as party season begins. 

Whatever the occasion, here’s the best fragrance 

to go with it. 

SOLE DI POSITANO 

EAU DE PARFUM 

50ML FROM TOM 

FORD (8,800 Baht) 

Fresh Citrus & Fruits. 

Reflects the vibrancy of 

sunlight and the image 

of a coastal paradise. 

BLEU DE CHANEL 

EAU DE PARFUM 

100ML FROM 

CHANEL 

(5,000 Baht) 

Infused with crisp 

citrus notes, it offers an 

intense concentration 

of scents that are fresh, 

clean and vibrant. 

Unexpected and 

undeniably bold. 

In the Mood for 

Glitter Rouge 

Rouge and glitter can come together as a perfect pair – especially in the holiday 

season when you’re dressed your best to go out and celebrate. Glitter on your eyes, 

lips and nails easily makes you shine brighter than anyone. 

LE VERNIS 604 SCENARIO 

LONGWEAR NAIL COLOUR 0.4 OZ 

FROM CHANEL (990 Baht) 

Not only a colour that’s super-red, but also 

formulated with bioceramics and ceramides 

that are sure to improve your nail quality. 

MAKE BELIEVE IN 

YOURSELF EYE & CHEEK 

PALETTE (LIMITED 

EDITION) 10 X 1.1G/1 X 3G 

FROM TARTE (1,850 Baht) 

Bring your fairy tale wishes to life. 

The highly pigmented hues can be 

layered, mixed, or worn alone for a range of 

magical looks. 

BURBERRY 

KISSES SHEER 2G 

FROM BURBERRY 

(1,250 Baht) 

Features a balm-like 

gel texture that leaves 

your lips with a sheer, 

glossy veil of colour in 

just one swipe. 

SHIMMER DUST 1G FROM 

BURBERRY (1,000 Baht) 

Gild your look with metallic shine by dotting 

shimmer dust beneath the lash line, and finish 

off your look with a skin highlighting pen. 

UOMO 

CASUAL LIFE 

EAU DE TOILETTE 

100ML FROM 

SALVATORE 

FERRAGAMO 

(4,300 Baht) 

Where fresh green 

notes interplay with the 

powerful woody and 

invigorating scents that 

shout out dynamism. 

WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTO APHICHAT SUKHUNNEE 

➋ JOUES 

CONTRASTE 380 SO 

CLOSE POWDER 

BRUSH 0.21 OZ 

FROM CHANEL 

(2,000 Baht) 

Remarkably silky texture 

for easy application 

and subtle shading. 

Accentuate cheekbones 

for a youthful look. 

➌ ROUGE ALLURE 

LUMINOUS 

INTENSE LIP 

COLOUR 667 NO.4 

0.12 OZ FROM 

CHANEL (1,450 Baht) 

Dresses your lips up with 

unmistakable attitude. It 

leaves your lips supple 

and protected with lasting 

comfort. 

➍ CRÉATION 

EXCLUSIVE 

700 TRAIT DE 

CARACTERE 

EYESHADOW FROM 

CHANEL (2,750 Baht) 

Eyes in particular become 

more captivating with the 

exclusive creation of this 

palette of five – all to play a 

range of tones for your look. 

➎ STYLO YEUX 

857 LEGENDARY 

WATERPROOF 

LONG-LASTING 

EYELINER 0.01 OZ 

FROM CHANEL 

(1,050 Baht) 

The gentle, siliconeenriched 

formula delivers 

smooth and even lining 

for your eyes. 

LOVE LIGHT 

HIGHLIGHTER 

9G FROM TOO 

FACED 

(1,590 Baht) 

Turn on your love 

light! This combines 

the best of powder, 

liquid, baked and 

cream formulas for an 

unparallelled radiance. 

Universal shades light you 

up all day and night. 

KA-BROW! CREAM GEL 

EYEBROW COLOUR 

WITH BRUSH FROM 

BENEFIT (1,000 Baht) 

A waterproof cream-gel brow 

colour that easily builds 

natural-looking to dramatic 

brows. 

STOCKISTS 

SEPHORA 

Level1 Siam Center 

Tel +66 (0) 2658 1612, 

+66 (0) 2658 1616 

GF Emquartier 

Tel +66 (0) 2003 6400, 

+66 (0) 2003 6403 

22 

23

OVERTURES 

STYLE 

 

 

 

 

 

WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTOS APHICHAT SUKHUNNEE 

 

 

 

 

 

 

➑ 

It’s Show Time 

Like many elements of style, it’s the small 

details that make a difference. In the case 

of the perfect watch, important facets are 

almost unnoticeable…just almost. A few 

complementary touches are enough to 

bring attention to the subtlety, and is 

never a distraction. An eye-catching 

timepiece speaks of preparation, 

confidence, and accomplishment. 

FOR HIM 

STAINLESS 

STEEL WITH GOLD 

IP TREATMENT 

AND BLACK 

CROCO-PRINT 

CALF WITH 

CONTRASTING 

STITCHING FROM 

FERRAGAMO 

(60,000 Baht) 

➋ STAINLESS STEEL 

CASE WITH 

BLACK RUBBER 

AND ANTI- 

REFLECTIVE 

SAPPHIRE FROM 

CHARRIOL 

(100,900 Baht) 

➌ MOVEMENT 

QUARTZ CASE 

MATERIAL 

STEEL WITH 

SAPPHIRE GLASS 

AND BRACELET 

MATERIAL 

STEEL FROM 

CHARRIOL 

(119,000 Baht) 

➍ YELLOW 

GOLD-TONE 

STAINLESS STEEL 

CASE AND 

STRAP, GRACE 

PATTERN AND 

GOURMETTE 

CHAIN TO 

TOP RING, 

LARGE MEDUSA 

HEAD TO CENTRE, 

SWISS QUARTZ 

MOVEMENT 

FROM VERSACE 

(74,600 Baht) 

STOCKISTS 

Central Department Stores 

Tel: +66 (0) 2730 7777 

Emporium 

Tel: +66 (0) 2269 1000 

STOCKISTS 

Gems Pavillion 

1st FL Siam Paragon 

Tel +66 (0) 2129 4400 

Main FL Emporium 

Tel +66 (0) 2664 8606 

FOR HER 

18K WHITE GOLD, 

SET WITH A SOUTH SEA 

PEARL AND 1.8 CARATS 

DIAMONDS FROM GEMS 

PAVILION (246,000 Baht) 

➋ 18K WHITE GOLD, 

SET WITH 14.93 CARATS 

EMERALD AND 10.85 

CARATS DIAMONDS FROM 

GEMS PAVILION 

(7,750,000 Baht) 

➌ 18K WHITE GOLD, SET 

WITH 6.02 CARATS OF 

FANCY BROWN DIAMOND 

AND 0.69 CARATS 


PAVILION (1,990,000 Baht) 

➍ 18K WHITE GOLD, SET 


BLUE SAPPHIRE AND 4.65 

CARATS DIAMONDS FROM 

GEMS PAVILION 

(5,990,000 Baht) 

➎ 18K WHITE GOLD, SET 

WITH 2.2 CARATS IN AN 

OVAL SHAPE DIAMOND 

AND 160 BRILLIANT-CUT 

DIAMONDS TOTALING 

0.57 CARATS FROM GEMS 


➏ 18K WHITE GOLD, SET 


BLUE SAPPHIRE AND 8.04 

CARATS OF ASSCHER-CUT 

AND 106 BRILLIANT-CUT 

DIAMONDS TOTALING 

1.24 CARATS FROM 

GEMS PAVILION 

(15,500,000 Baht) 

➐ 18K WHITE GOLD, SET 

WITH 3 CARATS OF PEAR 

SHAPE YELLOW DIAMOND 

AND 0.68 CARATS OF 

WHITE AND YELLOW 


PAVILION (895,000 Baht) 

➑ 18K WHITE GOLD, SET 


EMERALD AND 1.64 CARATS 

OF DIAMONDS GEMS 


A Cocktail 

in Hand 

Cocktail rings are particularly 

awesome for parties with their 

glamorous appearance. Make 

it a majestic and bold ornate 

ring with an interesting history 

behind it. Bold, oversized, 

and colourful, it’s the modern 

masterpiece for the hand, and 

guaranteed to be a statement 

in any soiree. 

24 

25

OVERTURES 

ON THE MENU 

Feasting on a 

Flavourful Soup 

This light and lovely dish holds much depth 

in its creamy appearance. A well-loved dish, 

Tom Kha Gai is treasured for its smoothness 

and lively flavours. 

Words Sarita Urupongsa 

Tom Kha Gai or Chicken Coconut 

Soup is another local favourite 

among Thais and foreigners alike 

– a rich soup with coconut milk 

that’s infused with the aromatic 

essences of galangal, lemongrass, 

and kaffir lime leaves. 

Best served with steamed 

rice, one bowl may never be 

enough as the soup comes with 

the perfect combination of sour, 

salty, and sweet flavours without 

the usually bold spicy profile of 

Thai dishes that can surprise 

the palate. Coconut milk, its 

quintessential ingredient, plays 

a big part in creating the richer 

texture of the creamy white soup. 

Tom Kha Gai will never be 

complete without authentic Thai 

herbs that spices up its flavour 

profile to make the creamy soup 

stand out. The combination of 

key ingredients like galangal, 

lemongrass, kaffir lime and, shallots 

plays a big part in bringing out the 

taste of Tom Kha Gai. Tom Kha 

Gai’s mild yet complex broth is also 

an ideal base for customisation of 

preferred chicken cuts and types of 

mushrooms. Now one of the most 

asked for dish in Thai restaurants, 

some places may modify the 

Photos Dolnapa Ram-Indra 

recipe by changing from chicken to 

shrimp, striped snakefish, or even 

just mushrooms. 

When talking about Bangkok’s 

most-loved restaurants, the name 

of Krua Apsorn on Sukhumvit 26 

in Bangkok fondly comes up. It’s 

known to locals for almost 40 

years and legendary for their 

classic Thai menus. From its first 

branch on Samsen Road close to 

Tha Wasukri pier, the restaurant 

now operates more than 10 

branches nationwide. The place is 

best recognised for its homemade 

authentic Thai dishes with recipes 

that cater to everyone’s palate. 

Apart from Krua Apsorn’s signature 

recipes that balances tastiness 

and rich flavours, the restaurant 

uses fresh ingredients procured 

by a dedicated team with visits 

to several markets to ensure only 

quality ones in Krua Apsorn’s 

dishes; along with its commitment 

not to add monosodium glutamate 

and other additives. Krua Apsorn’s 

most well-known dishes include 

Tom Kha Gai with banana blossom 

and free-range chicken cuts, and 

other menu items like Chicken 

Green Curry and Sour Curry with 

climbing wattles and shrimp. 

Ingredients 

• 200g chicken breasts, cut into bite size 

• 50g water 

• 150g thick coconut milk 

• ½ cup oyster mushrooms or any 

mushroom type of one’s choice 

• 5 slices young galangal 

• 5 pieces of lemongrass, sliced 

• 3 shallots, cut and diced 

• 3 kaffir lime leaves, torn 

• 2 dill leaves 

• 4 cherry tomatoes 

• 3 bird’s eye chillies, slightly ground 

• Coriander and dried chillies for garnish 

Seasoning 

• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice 

• 1½ tbsp fish sauce 

• 1½ tbsp sugar 

A Modern Take on 

Tom Kha Gai 

TOM KHA GAI AT 

QUAINT BANGKOK 

This fusion restaurant is known for its 

meticulous take on Thai cuisine with a creative 

and interesting twist. Modern in appearance 

and ingredients, its dishes are rich in taste and 

cooked with authentic Thai pastes. Quaint 

Bangkok’s Tom Kha Gai is praised by diners for 

its deliberate choice of a whole chicken leg, as 

this part is tender with the right amount of fat. 

Here, the chicken is sprinkled with sea salt on 

both sides, and the leg is then seared until it 

becomes crispy and is later stewed in chicken 

stock with herbs for quite some time, at 90 

minutes. The tender and juicy chicken, with 

its full herbal aroma, is then roasted further to 

finish and served atop the soup. 

23 Sukhumvit 61, +66 (0) 2714 1998, 

+66 (0) 94 495 6949 

Cooking Instructions 

Boil water and add lemongrass, kaffir lime, 

and shallots before adding chicken meat 

and leaving all to cook. Lemongrass, kaffir 

lime, and shallots will reduce the smell of 

fresh chicken meat. 

Pour finished stock into a new saucepan. 

Add the thick coconut milk and simmer. Be 

careful with the heat: if it’s too hot, the oil from 

the coconut milk will separate and float up, and 

be unappetising. When the water is boiling, 

add all the ingredients in (except the seasoning) 

and simmer in medium heat. 

Stir all the ingredients, including remaining 

ones together, and wait until the vegetables 

change in colour, around 5-7 minutes. Turn 

the stove off immediately. 

Season with lime juice, fish sauce, and 

sugar. Serve the soup in a bowl and garnish 

it with coriander and dried chillies. 

Tip 

For delicious Tom Kha Gai, select young galangal for better flavour. Older and hard ones 

will only bring out the spiciness and won’t balance the taste of the soup. 

26 

27

OVERTURES 

ON THE MENU / FRUITFUL FINDS 

WORDS & PHOTO KAY CHOOMONGKOL 

Tropical 

Love 

The loveable pineapple 

has a prickly exterior 

yet hides a sweet 

juiciness inside. 

The taste shouts of 

summer, and the fruit 

has inspired motifs of 

pineapple prints on 

plenty of shirts and 

shorts. 

Thorny spikes known as ‘eyes’ cover its pinecone-shape and the 

pineapple’s green spiky leaves need careful handling, yet a bite 

of this tropical fruit magically cools you. Sip any tangy fruit drink 

with pineapple and it gives you a taste of paradise. 

Thought to have originated in South America, the pineapple 

was first discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493 on the 

Caribbean island of Guadeloupe. The fruit travelled to Europe 

to be cultivated, but it was better suited to a tropical climate. 

By the end of the 16th century, many European colonies with 

warmer climes began growing them. 

It also made its way to Thailand around the same time 

and thrived. The sweetest and most popular pineapple is the 

Batavia or Si Racha pineapple grown in Chon Buri, Phetchaburi 

and Prachuap Khiri Khan. With a juicy yellow interior and bigger 

in size, it tastes sweeter than the Phuket pineapple, so named 

after its place of origin. The Phuket pineapple shares the same 

characteristics with the petite Phu Lae pineapple. Both are pale 

yellow, not too juicy but sweet and brittle with a bite. The other 

two types are the heirloom Intharachit, found in Cha Choeng Sao 

province, and Nang Lae, nurtured in Nang Lae sub-district of 

Chiang Rai. Although not that juicy, the latter has a unique 

honey scent and tastes very sweet. 

The pineapple with its juice that’s sweet and tart is 

adored around the world. It can be eaten fresh, juiced, 

cooked or preserved, and crucial to a piña colada cocktail! 

The fruit serves as a surprising ingredient in some Thai 

savoury recipes such as Pineapple Curry with mussels or as 

small bites in the royal cuisine inspired Thai canapés called 

‘Maa Hor,’ with steamed mince pork on pieces of pineapple. 

Try not to overindulge in its sweetness – too much 

of the fruit and its enzymes can cause lips and tongue 

to experience some sensitivity. Luckily, the delicious 

fruit benefits the immune system, aids in digestion and 

reduces inflammation. 

28

OVERTURES 

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 

Bang Lamphu 

Revisited 

Housed in a historic 

building that used to 

be the Wat Sangwet 

Printing School, 

neighbourhood museum 

Pipit Banglamphu 

continues telling the 

history and lifestyle 

of the Bang Lamphu 

community in Bangkok. 

The area is best known 

for its commerce 

and local lifestyle 

Photos Dolnapa Ram-Indra 

Words Sarita Urupongsa 

and the place where 

backpacker mecca Khao 

Sarn Road thrives. 

The landmark space 

created some years back 

remains rich in cultural 

history, and should be 

a consideration on a 

Bangkok itinerary as 

visitors get stories that 

offer a glimpse into the 

ever-popular area. It 

can now be said that 

the Pipit Banglamphu 

compound is the biggest 

resource on the old 

Bang Lamphu district in 

Thailand. Alternately, it 

serves as a green space 

and recreational area for 

residents and visitors 

interested in learning 

about old Bangkok. 

The second floor of 

the teakwood building 

houses the permanent 

exhibition of the Bang 

Lamphu community. 

Stories date back to 

the old days when 

the canals of Bangkok 

were dug and people 

started to move into 

the area. In the reign 

of King Rama V, streets 

were constructed, 

bringing changes to 

the lifestyle of Bang 

Lamphu residents. The 

exhibition also features 

a zone for “Phra 

Nakhon Center” where 

highlights showcase 

specialty commerce 

that existed on little 

streets and back alleys 

from Bangkok’s golden 

era, including Nopparat 

Tailor, Thailand’s first 

shirt-making shop. 

Exploration of Bang 

Lamphu wouldn’t 

be complete without 

catching sight of the 

first Lamphu (cork) 

tree in this area, shown 

in the last room of the 

building. It has been 

re-planted from the 

remaining section of the 

original tree that was 

partially destroyed after 

the great flood in 2011. 

Committed to 

delivering a fun and 

learning experience, 

Pipit Banglamphu 

carries information in 

the Braille alphabet 

for visually-impaired 

visitors, as well as audio 

guides in 7 languages for 

foreign tourists. Guided 

tours are also available 

every 30 minutes 

between the hours 

of 10am – 4pm. (The 

museum opens from 

Tuesday – Sunday from 

10am - 6pm) 

facebook.com/ 

pipitbanglamphu, 

T: +66 (0) 2281 9828 

FOLLOW THE SCENT OF TEA 

Located opposite Pipit Banglamphu is Mitramit Teahouse, where fragrant teas 

rich with the flavours from Taiwan is served in a charming setting of old-style 

architecture. Here, tea lovers can enjoy many choices and Thai desserts crafted 

from traditional recipes that are not so easy to find these days. Tea sets are 

enticingly presented and Mitramit Teahouse also donates all of its profits to 

Mayarith Theatre, a theatre and performance space for families and children. 

32 Phra Sumen Road, facebook.com/mitramitteahouse 

30 

31

OVERTURES 

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 

Giving Back with Art 

One should get to know Pairoj 

Pichetmetakul, a Thai artist with 

a standout reputation, whose 

type of work has garnered unique 

recognition. Pairoj’s name is 

widely known as a young street 

artist whose focus champions 

the homeless in places like San 

Francisco and New York. It all began 

when he pursued a master’s degree 

in California. One late night, while 

passing a secluded alley on the way 

home, he witnessed a homeless 

man being attacked. He walked 

away in fear and helplessness but 

the incident never left his memory. 

Be it guilt, or whatever else one 

wants to call it, that night became 

Pairoj’s defining moment. The 

artist started approaching homeless 

folks, chatting with them, and ended 

up painting their portraits to bring 

attention to their situation. He used 

these portraits as a way for passers-by 

to develop awareness, resulting in 

money donations or needed items 

for the homeless. From painting one 

person, then ten more, and up to 

a hundred people later, Pairoj has 

provided assistance to the homeless 

on a regular basis. We do a Q&A to 

learn more. 

Photos Jittarat Jintasirikul 

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE 

INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR 

ART PROJECT “THE POSITIVITY 

SCROLLS?” 

“My idea is to search for interesting 

aspects that somehow are overlooked. 

They can create inspiration, hope, and 

a positive attitude as well as illustrate 

stories of people and things. “The 

Positivity Scrolls” is inspired from my 

work during the first phase in which 

I drew homeless people and beggars 

from various places. I befriended them 

and talked to them before asking them 

to model for my paintings. Getting to 

talk with them allows me a glimpse into 

their life. I then know who they used 

to be, and what made them live the life 

they are living. Those conversations 

morphed into paintings. I only want 

to use my creativity to get attention 

for such people, and any assistance 

(received), I contribute it to them. When 

the paintings increased in number, I 

came up with the project “The Positivity 

Scrolls” in the fall of 2013. It featured 

about 400 portraits of the homeless 

on big scrolls of paper.” 

HOW DO YOU FEEL WHEN 

PEOPLE REGARD YOUR WORK 

AS SOMETHING IMPORTANT 

AND CHANGE MAKING? 

“I don’t think my art could be that 

big to change the world. I only hope 

that it will bring on a perspective or 

positive attitude to a small group of 

people or anyone. When someone is 

touched by the work, it brings me joy 

and I feel encouraged to continue. 

I will be even happier if those who 

cherish my work adjust ideas to what 

they are doing, regardless of which 

aspect (of life) they are in.” 

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE 

ART HANGOUT IN THAILAND? 

“I love the Ratchada Train Market. I like 

going there for a meal of spicy papaya 

salad and grilled fish while sipping my 

beer, watching people, and enjoying 

the ambience.” 

WHAT IS YOUR VIEW 

REGARDING THE ART SCENE 

IN THAILAND? 

“I feel that the art scene in Thailand 

awakened recently, especially in Charoen 

Krung where there are new galleries 

featuring works of aspiring young artists, 

as well as (the presence of ) Bukruk 

Urban Arts Festival from last year.” 

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO 

YOUNG THAI ARTISTS? 

“Be yourself as much as you can, and 

work hard everyday.” 

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM 

OR PROJECT? 

“I want to be the artist who enjoys 

what he’s doing. I also want to share 

my knowledge and experience with a 

young generation who are committed 

to art and are following their dreams.” 

Apart from the art project that 

gives urbanites a different view of the 

homeless, Pairoj also does paintings 

of people he meets on the streets or 

those whose lifestyle inspires him. The 

‘models’ come from all walks of life – 

from street vendors, hippies, punks, to 

street musicians. He started teaching 

at Pratt Institute in New York where 

he proposed a personal methodology 

in creative work. Pairoj usually shows 

art videos whose focus on creativity 

gives everyone inspiration to come up 

with their own inspired projects. 

32

PHNOM PENH 

Once a city interrupted, Phnom Penh now shines with fastexpanding 

urbanisation and style. In a 3-day weekend, the keen 

eyes of a writer note major and dramatic transitions in captivating 

traditional sights and a plugged-in culture. 

Words Sirin P Wongpanit 

Photos Permboon Wongpanit 

34 

35

PHNOM PENH 

Cool cafés numbering in the many 

can define today’s Phnom Penh. 

Appealing restaurants run by some 

of the best chefs in the world are 

equally represented. Signs of “hipping it 

up” are everywhere. Diaspora Cambodians 

are moving back into town, creating their 

own specialised trendy microcosm while 

expatriates loving it here settle down, 

creating new leading trends. Phnom Penh 

remains on the move, but its finest moments 

point to the steady strength and charm of 

the local Cambodian people that make this 

city uniquely special. 

FRIDAY 

FIRST, A MEAL 

It is best to get settled into the city 

with good, hearty food. Start your 

trip with lunch at Phnom Penh’s 

historic Chinese House, a building 

that’s now a very chic bistro, bar 

and restaurant. The epitome of 

Phnom Penh’s glorious past, 

Chinese House is part of the city’s 

history when the first concrete 

houses were built back during the 

1800s for Chinese traders. Now 

owned by the granddaughter of 

the original owner, the Chinese 

House has magnificent details only 

a charmed age can confer: faded 

French villa-style arched facades, 

a traditional Chinese-tiled roof, 

original patchwork and hand-hewn 

hardwood floor. restaurantphnompenh.com 

Clockwise from Top 

Phnom Penh 

converts a colonial 

mansion into an 

uber-trendy and 

chic restaurant; 

Closer encounters 

with Khmer 

architecture can 

be had by signing 

up with a tour 

outfit that provides 

comprehensive city 

walkabouts; Visitors 

can learn more 

about Cambodian 

history at the 

Bophana Center; 

Phnom Penh now 

offers a variety 

of sophisticated 

cuisines. 

TOURING KHMER ICONS 

Phnom Penh was on the verge 

of splendid urbanisation right 

after Cambodia’s independence 

back in 1953. A sudden burst then 

of ‘New Khmer Architecture’ was a 

movement of inspired Cambodian 

architects led by the most prolific 

and avant-garde Vann Molyvann, 

who recently passed, whose projects 

gained support from the late King 

Norodom Sihanouk. Some of those 

glorious buildings still thankfully stand, 

and tours range from architecture, 

cultural walking or cycling tours that’s 

organised by Khmer Architecture 

Tours. Downloads of their free 

maps are available to do your own 

sightseeing. ka-tours.org 

Equally and incredibly valuable 

are the audio-visual historical 

archives at the Bophana Center. 

As any local would tell you, most 

of Cambodian history was lost and 

only just orally recorded. Bophana 

Center, named after a Khmer Rouge 

victim, was founded in late 2006 by 

Rithy Panh – an Oscar-nominated 

Cambodian auteur whose passion 

for filmmaking is deeply intertwined 

with his country’s untold stories. 

The place is open to the public 

and has regular arts and culture 

programmes. bophana.org 

SIGHTINGS AND TRADITIONAL 

PROTEIN 

Be a connoisseur of various libations 

and take your drinks at the superlative 

Elephant Bar. Try to spot the hidden 

monkey in the ceiling murals while 

sipping their famous ‘Femme Fatale’ 

cocktail, first made for Jacqueline 

Kennedy in 1967. If you’re feeling 

even bolder, munch on local protein. 

Make these a Phnom Penh rite of 

passage for real street food: crispy 

fried crickets, bloody cockles and 

dried beef sausages. raffles.com/ 

phnom-penh/dining/elephant-bar 

Omakase-inspired with a series 

of tasting menus, Le Broken Plate can 

easily be the hottest table in town. 

Chef owner Narith Plong, who’s 

Cambodian with restaurant stints in 

Canada, creates an inventive cuisine 

inspired by fresh local produce and 

flavours of the hometown. Choose 

from USD$30, $40 or $50 per person 

for multi-course meals. Reservation 

is essential. 

facebook.com/lebrokenplate 

Top Left 

It may be full of history but modern 

dining has made its foray with welldesigned 

space. 

Top Right 

A modern and trendy restaurant design 

puts Phnom Penh on par with other 

world-class cities and their dining 

concepts. 

Bottom Left 

The dining scene in in this rapidlychanging 

city introduces new looks 

and new dishes with a menu of fusion 

Asian food. 

Bottom Right 

Japanese-influenced dishes make this 

restaurant a destination in Phnom 

Penh and one of the many fine dining 

establishments. 

36 

37

PHNOM PENH 

SATURDAY 

THE LOCAL MOTION 

Distinctively big and yellow, the 

large dome with four outstretched 

architectural arms like a spider 

marks Phnom Penh’s Central 

Market (Phsar Thmei), yet another 

symbol of the city’s past grand 

places. Built in 1937, the market is 

steadfastly familiar in sight and a 

routine spot for its retail offerings 

and flavours for local people. Walk 

through lines of souvenir shops 

towards the back of the market and 

choose from the myriad food stalls 

and treat yourself to a substantial 

local breakfast. 

A ROYAL VISIT 

Since the year 1865, the Royal 

Palace in Phnom Penh served 

as residence to the monarchs 

of Cambodia, except during the 

known periods of turmoil. Now the 

premises, except for the Khemarin 

Palace where the current king 

actually lives, is open to the public. 

A personal guided tour for an 

additional US$10 is actually worth 

it, especially for the personal 

historical titbits from a local guide. 

A respectful dress code applies. 

Top Left 

Ornate temples and 

the presence of the 

Silver Pagoda are 

sights to behold with 

a visit to the Royal 

Palace. 

Top Right 

The Central Market 

takes it design from 

art deco. 

Bottom Right 

The late architect 

Vann Molyvann 

designed the 

National Sports 

Complex, which was 

completed in 1964. 

ONE FINE MEAL 

Expect to have a fine dining 

treatment in Phnom Penh as it 

joins the international ranks of 

high-end meals. At the Tiger’s Eye, 

the bistro-style restaurant run by 

veteran South African chef Timothy 

Bruyns, the impeccably prepared 

food is Instragram-worthy, and also 

indicates that behind the scenes 

there’s hard work and almost 

everything served is made from 

scratch or by hand such as sourdough 

breads, smoked butter, preserves 

that change daily, egg noodles, and 

even miso and tofu. Indulge in his 

degustation menus, or simply tuck 

into delicious grilled chicken baos. 

thetigerseye.online 

A NATIONAL SPORTS COMPLEX 

Among Vann Molyvann’s remaining 

masterpieces is the National Olympic 

Stadium built during Cambodia’s 

heyday in 1964. Inspired by Le 

Corbusier’s austere modernism, 

the stadium, along with its 60,000- 

seat arena, is now the venue where 

anyone can still feel the energy of 

great modern Khmer architecture. 

Join the locals on their evening 

aerobic sessions, livened up with 

different blasting disco tunes. Or just 

be there – before it gets razed and 

disappears – and simply soak in the 

awesome sight of stark roofs whose 

lines create either a zigzag or straight 

pattern. Train your sights also on the 

eye-catching cantilevered VIP box. 

SA SA BASSAC 

Another private effort to revive the 

Khmer arts scene and strengthen 

it is Sa Sa Bassac – an art gallery 

and study room. Tucked away on 

the upper floors of a nondescript 

building, it’s not too far away from 

the tourist-dense riverfront and 

the Royal Palace areas. Founded in 

2011 by curator Erin Gleeson and 

the Stiev Selapak artist collective, 

Sa Sa Bassac has slowly become 

the place for a local art scene with 

a broad and international reach. 

sasabassac.com. 

38

PHNOM PENH 

Hansar Moment of Happiness 

A sleepy town no more, 

Phnom Penh catches up to 

other urban cities with trendy 

hang out spaces. 

DID + BASSAC LANE + DIM SUM FOR SUPPER 

Nightlife in Phnom Penh varies greatly. If you are 

up for a challenging gourmet experience, try the 

pitch-black Dine in the Dark dinner where role 

reversal happens between you and visually impaired 

guides. With their assistance, surprise meals are 

served without being able to see the food and makes 

diners more appreciative of the senses usually 

taken for granted. Here, what you eat relies on 

the skills of guides that excel in the dining space. 

didexperience.com 

Bassac Lane started off as a small, tuckedaway 

speakeasy (Bar.Sito) and now has become a 

nightlife destination in a strip lined with strings of 

bars, pubs and restaurants. A nearby pizzeria is also 

known to have particularly crispy crusts. Don’t be 

surprised if your local tuk tuk does not know where 

it is, just tell him to go to Malis Restaurant on 

Street 308. facebook.com/bassaclanephnompenh 

Feeling like having chicken feet after midnight? 

Phnom Penh’s own 24/7 diner Sam Doo Cantonese 

restaurant is where late night partygoers crawl 

in for steaming hot dim sum, congee or wonton 

noodle soup before tucking themselves into 

bed. samtoorestaurant.com 

82 40 

Clockwise from Left 

The night life and 

bar scene here is 

on par with other 

Asian cities; one 

can expect the 

same favourite 

cuisines using 

the same grade 

ingredients and 

quality. 

Right 

Dining in the 

Dark offers a 

unique experience 

where your senses 

heighten and 

guide you through 

the meal. 

Samui, Bangkok, Pranburi, Khao Yai, Cha Am 

www.hansarhotels.com

PHNOM PENH 

Top Left 

A temple visit is 

always worth the 

tranquility it brings. 

But at Wat Phnom, 

be on the lookout for 

naughty monkeys 

that may disrupt 

your reveries. 

Top and 

Bottom Right 

The grand buildings 

of the Raffles Hotel 

Le Royal offer 

a lesson in Khmer 

architecture. 

The premier 

building was 

established 

in 1929, with an 

interior outfitted 

with Cambodian 

objet d’art style 

furnishings. 

SUNDAY 

BACK TO ITS ORIGINS 

Built in 1372, Wat Phnom – named 

after the city’s founder Lady Phen 

– are both reasons behind the 

origin of Phnom Penh’s name and 

the city’s central point. Perched 

on a 27-metre man-made leafy 

hill, the highly-revered temple 

is a centre of celebration during 

the Khmer New Year and religious 

holidays. Don’t miss paying a visit 

to the small Lady Phen shrine in 

the back of the temple. 

PHNOM PENH RAILWAY STATION 

If you are into the nostalgic feel 

a train station can give, drop by 

Phnom Penh’s French-built train 

station, with a history harking 

back since the early 1930s. The 

place had been deeply associated 

with Cambodian political changes 

as several political meetings 

were secretly held here from the 

1960s to 1975. Now, with limited 

freight and passenger trains to 

Sihanoukville back in service, 

one can roam about the working 

station and take a quick look 

into its white arched beams and 

memorabilia. Notice the décor in 

this old-timer of a train station, 

with its wooden double benches 

and old school French-made 

bridge, a ‘bascule automatique,’ 

installed at the platform. 

WEEKEND INDULGENCE 

Restaurant Le Royal is Phnom 

Penh’s icon space for its neoclassic 

and opulent dining hall; 

yet its weekend brunch from noon 

until 3pm fits trendy and 

contemporary gourmands. After 

a huge and assorted smorgasbord 

that includes seafood and a la 

table cooking of scallops, river 

prawns, lamb shank, quail and a 

lot more, guests can swim in the 

hotel’s signature pools the whole 

afternoon. Prices start at US$58++ 

for food only up to US$78++ with 

free flow champagne and wines. 

raffles.com/phnom-penh/dining 

STAY 

RAFFLES HOTEL LE ROYAL 

Phnom Penh’s one and only 

heritage hotel, Raffles Hotel Le 

Royal is a true sanctuary in the 

heart of the city. Built in 1929, 

the hotel was once the tallest 

building in Phnom Penh. Through 

wars and the Khmer Rouge period, 

Raffles Hotel has been restored 

and expanded with a design that 

reminisces Phnom Penh’s glorious 

past. Impeccable services. Good for 

both business and leisure crowds. 

raffles.com/phnom-penh 

82 42

PHNOM PENH 

ในช่วงวันหยุดยาวสามวัน ฟ้าไทยชวนคุณไป 

ดื่มด่ำกับสถานที่ท่องเที่ยวประวัติศาสตร์ 

คาเฟ่สุดชิค ร้านอาหารของเชฟระดับโลก และ 

มนต์เสน่ห์ของชาวกัมพูชาที่ทำให้กรุงพนมเปญ 

พิเศษอย่างมีเอกลักษณ์ 

วันศุกร์ เริ่มทริปด้วยอาหารกลางวันที่ 

ร้านเก่าแก่ของกรุงพนมเปญอย่าง Chinese 

House อาคารคอนกรีตหลังแรกของเมือง 

พร้อมรายละเอียดอันงดงามที่มาพร้อมกับ 

กาลเวลา ด้านหน้าอาคารสไตล์วิลล่าฝรั่งเศส 

หลังคากระเบื้องจีน และพื้นไม้เนื้อแข็งสุด 

ประณีต ก่อนจะเดินเที่ยวชม ‘สถาปัตยกรรม 

เขมรใหม่’ ที่เกิดขึ้นหลังปี 1953 นำโดย Vann 

Molyvann ผู้จัดทำโครงการที่ได้รับการ 

สนับสนุนจากพระบาทสมเด็จพระนโรดม สีหนุ 

ลองค้นหาข้อมูลแผนที่เดินหรือปั่นจักรยาน 

เที่ยวชมได้ที่ ka-tours.org 

ชมสื่อโสตทัศน์ประวัติศาสตร์กัมพูชาที่ 

ศูนย์ศิลปะและวัฒนธรรม Bophana Center 

ก่อนจะผ่อนคลายด้วยค็อกเทลอันโด่งดังอย่าง 

‘Femme Fatale’ ซึ่งคิดค้นขึ้นเพื่อแจ็กเกอลีน 

เคนเนดี ในปี 1967 ที่ Elephant Bar ณ 

โรงแรมราฟเฟิลส์ เลอ รอยัล แต่หากใครชื่น 

ชอบอาหารสไตล์โอมากาเสะ ให้ตรงไปที่ 

Le Broken Plate พบเมนูอาหารแปลกใหม่ 

จากวัตถุดิบและรสชาติท้องถิ่นกัมพูชาแท้ๆ 

วันเสาร์ ไปเยี่ยมชมสัญลักษณ์ของพระบรม 

มหาราชวังเดิมในพนมเปญที่ ตลาดพซาร์ ทเมยร์ 

ซึ่งปัจจุบันเป็นแห่งค้าปลีก จำหน่ายตั้งแต่ของ 

ฝากไปจนถึงอาหารรูปลักษณ์หลากหลาย 

จากนั้นไปยลโฉมพระราชวังหลวงที่เปิดให้ 

เยี่ยมชมได้ทั้งหมดยกเว้นพระมหาปราสาท 

เขมรินทร์อันเป็นเขตพระราชฐาน 

82 44 

ขวาบน 

ภาพจิตรกรรมฝาผนัง 

ในพระราชวังหลวง 

กลางซ้าย 

กล้องวิดีโอโบราณที่ 

ศูนย์ศิลปะและวัฒนธรรม 

Bophana Center 

กลางซ้าย 

‘Femme Fatale’ 

ซิกเนเจอร์ค็อกเทลของ 

The Elephant Bar 

ซ้ายล่าง 

กงฟี แซลมอน กับ 

โฮมเมดมิโสะ 

และแตงกวาดอง 

ที่ร้าน Tiger’s Eye. 

พักทานอาหารคุณภาพระดับนานาชาติที่ 

Tiger’s Eye ร้านอาหารบิสโตรซึ่งเสิร์ฟ 

อาหารที่สุดพิถีพิถันอย่างขนมปังเปรี้ยว มิโสะ 

เต้าหู้ และเมนูเด็ดอย่างเบาไก่ย่าง ก่อนจะไป 

เยี่ยมชมผลงานชิ้นเอกของ Vann Molyvann 

ที่ยังหลงเหลืออยู่ที่ National Olympic 

Stadium จากนั้นหาโอกาสร่วมเต้นแอโรบิกไป 

พร้อมกับชาวเมืองพนมเปญ ณ อัฒจันทร์ที่ 

ผสมผสานศิลปะเขมรได้อย่างลงตัวและจุผู้ชม 

ได้มากถึง 60,000 ที่นั่ง 

ใช้เวลายามค่ำคืนอย่างท้าทายที่ Dine in 

the Dark คุณจะได้สัมผัสประสบการณ์รับ 

ประทานทานอาหารแบบมองไม่เห็น เพลินไป 

กับต่อมรับรสชาติที่คุณอาจมองข้าม โดยมี 

ผู้พิการทางสายตาคอยช่วยเหลือ 

ก่อนกลับที่พัก ไปเดินเล่นต่ออีกสัก 

หน่อยที่ตรอกบาสัก ตรอกเล็กๆ ที ่กลายเป็น 

สถานที่ท่องเที่ยวยามค่ำคืนที่ไม่ไปไม่ได้ และ 

หากเกิดท้องร้องขึ้นมาตอนเที่ยงคืน ลองแวะ 

ไปที่ร้าน Sam Doo Cantonese รองท้อง 

ด้วยติ่มซำ โจ๊กคองกี หรือบะหมี่เกี๊ยวน้ำ 

ร้อนๆ ก่อนนอน 

วันอาทิตย์ ได้เวลาเยี่ยมชมจุดศูนย์กลาง 

ของเมืองที่ วัดพนม ศูนย์กลางของการเฉลิม 

ฉลองวันขึ้นปีใหม่และวันสำคัญทางศาสนาของ 

กัมพูชา ซึ่งตั้งอยู่บนภูเขาเขียวขจีที่มนุษย์ 

สร้างขึ้น 

พักกายให้หายเหนื่อยที่โรงแรมประวัติ- 

ศาสตร์แห่งเดียวของพนมเปญ อย่างโรงแรม 

Raffles Hotel Le Royal สร้างเมื่อ ค.ศ. 

1929 โรงแรมแห่งนี้เคยเป็นอาคารที่สูงที่สุด 

ในเมืองหลวง หลังสงครามและช่วงเขมรแดง 

โรงแรมได้รับการบูรณะและขยายต่อเติมเพื่อ 

สะท้อนอดีตอันรุ่งโรจน์แห่งกรุงพนมเปญ 

อย่าลืม ตบท้ายทริปนี้ให้สมบูรณ์แบบ 

ด้วยการแวะไปที่ร้านอาหารสถาปัตยกรรม 

สไตล์นีโอคลาสสิก Le Royal ที่เสิร์ฟบรั้นช์ 

ทุกสุดสัปดาห์ตั้งแต่เที่ยงจนถึงบ่ายสามโมง 

“Getaways for kids of all ages” at Raffles Cambodia 

Immerse yourselves in the culture and history of the Kingdom of Wonder while taking in the heritage of 

Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap. 

ซ้าย 

ตลาดกลาง ณ 

กรุงพนมเปญ 

ขวา 

ขอบฟ้าเมื่อพระอาทิตย์ 

ทาบทาเมืองหลวงของ 

กัมพูชา 

Create unforgettable memories for the whole family (two, three, four, or more), enjoying Cambodia’s finest swimming pools along with 

our fabulous Raffles Spa and lavish Raffles Afternoon Tea - a tasty treat for all. 

The grown-ups can also enjoy their favourite pre-dinner cocktails in the hotels’ iconic Elephant Bars, dining in style with the uniquely offered 

Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1967 menu in Phnom Penh and the Royal Dynasty Recipe menu in Siem Reap. 

Both of our landmark addresses finding the perfect balance of then and now, while delivering a fabulous getaway experience 

for colleagues, couples, and families - including Christmas and New Year (with fireworks in Siem Reap) celebrations. 

raffles.com/phnom-penh Reservations: T +855 23 981 888 E: bookus.phnompenh@raffles com 

raffles.com/siem-reap Reservations: T +855 63 963 888 E: bookus.siemreap@raffles.com

ARJUN BHASIN 

DRESSING 

THE 

PART 

An international costume designer lets us 

in on his world of dressing the stars with 

India as the guiding light for inspiration – 

from outfitting the cast of a new Broadway 

production in New York to muppets in a 

crime comedy. 

Photos Courtesy of Arjun Bhasin 

Words Marion Bravo 

46 

47

ARJUN BHASIN 

India continues to be a never-ending 

assault on the senses and as a designoriented 

person, it’s unmatched in 

its level of inspiration,” points out 

Costume Designer Arjun Bhasin. “I’ve lived 

in and out of India throughout my career 

and I still find it an explosion of sensory 

overload every time I return. Colours 

vibrate and come together in never seen 

before combinations, textures, tones and 

patterns. Inspiration is everywhere: in the 

people, food, clothing and architecture.” 

While he spends a lot of time in Mumbai, 

Bhasin goes where the work takes him, 

which is anywhere in the world. 

Bottom Left 

An intricately carved 

doorway, Mehrangarh 

Fort, Jodhpur that Bhasin 

captured on his travels. 

Opposite Left 

‘Monsoon Wedding’ the 

film brought to the stage 

at the Berkeley Repertory 

Theatre. 

Top 

One of the largest forts in 

India, Mehrangarh Fort 

sits overlooking Jodhpur 

city and is a magnificent 

and inspiring gem of 

Indian architecture. 

Photo by Arjun Bhasin 

Bottom Right 

Bhasin in his Mumbai 

flat. 

By this time, Bhasin is in Los 

Angeles, where he is currently 

working on The Happytime 

Murders by Brian Henson, a crime 

comedy film whose characters 

he dresses are humans and 

muppets with Melissa McCarthy 

in a leading role. He’s also on 

hiatus from his work with Sarah 

Jessica Parker on HBO’s Divorce. 

He once said that his vision was 

to dress the actress with an 

“elegance, a certain femininity,” 

thus vintage styles pointed to the 

nostalgia he was aiming for 

– something like Grace Kelly or 

Katharine Hepburn styles so the 

wardrobe for Parker may consist 

of pleated trousers and miniskirts 

and Seventies boots. 

Affable and with a relaxed 

demeanour, he chatted about 

how the sartorial roads often 

lead back to India and how the 

sensorial experience and design 

inspiration emanates. “Memory 

and words seem to fail when 

trying to reproduce the India 

sensory experience from overseas. 

I find that I have to fall back on 

the surroundings for example, 

for ‘Life of Pi’, and the play 

‘Monsoon Wedding,’ I actually 

did most of my sourcing in Mumbai 

from fabrics, embroideries, and 

jewellery to accessories, despite 

the fact that so much can now 

be found overseas. Costume 

design is such a tactile art 

that nothing can replace the 

physicality of being present in the 

creative process,” he says. 

It’s a crucial connection as 

he recently completed work on 

“Monsoon Wedding,” the play 

that recently had its Berkeley 

Repertory Theatre run in May 

before moving to Broadway 

next year. Bhasin knew that he 

would only be able to draw out 

the nuances and authenticity 

director Mira Nair was seeking 

by going to India to source and 

prep for the stage production. A 

frequent collaborator with Nair 

(The Namesake, The Reluctant 

Fundamentalist) and having 

worked with Nair on the original 

movie on which the play is based 

on back in 2001, Bhasin was 

very familiar with the storyline 

and characters but he had the 

challenge to reinterpret it for 

a new very different medium, 

audience and world. Of course, 

he too, was a very different 

person, having come so far in 

his 20 years since graduating 

in film studies from New York 

University’s Tisch School of Arts 

and having discovered costume 

design as a career in his first 

undergraduate internship. 

The innate knowledge of 

growing up surrounded by 

intricate textiles and gorgeous 

hand-woven fabrics is naturally 

ideal training ground for a 

costume designer. Bhasin recalls 

that while working on “Life of 

Pi” with director Ang Lee, a great 

detail of importance was placed 

on finding the appropriate colour, 

weight and texture of the kurta 

(or shirt) that Pi wore during the 

entire film. “For Pi’s character 

alone we had over 200 kurtas that 

were aged and used during the 

filming each with its nuanced feel 

and look necessary to span the 

film’s timeframe. It’s that level of 

detail and dedication that brings 

characters to life so believably.” 

Conversely, after a stay in 

India for sourcing, or if he has 

been working on a Bollywood 

film (past work includes Dil 

Chahta Hai, Zindagi Na Milegi 

Dobara and Baar Baar Dekho), 

Bhasin draws inspiration 

effortlessly from his experiences 

and influences overseas. In fact, 

he made his mark in Bollywood 

with Dil Chahta Hai by bringing a 

With almost 20 years experience in the 

industry, Bhasin has cultivated lasting 

relationships with tailors, embroiderers 

and other highly-skilled artisans in India. 

young, relaxed but contemporary 

look to the Indian screen like 

dressing the characters in hip 

t-shirts, fitted suits along with 

traditional clothing to reflect a 

more modern India. The crosspollination 

of influences and 

inspirations is something Bhasin 

is always looking to explore and 

draw-upon for each new project. 

Bhasin sites Mangaldas 

Market, the overwhelming 

wholesale fabric maze, in 

south Mumbai as the nucleus 

of most costume ideas. Bales of 

cotton, fields of chiffon, walls 

of embroideries and piles of 

neatly folded linen are packed 

into 9 narrow lanes. With almost 

20 years experience in the 

industry, Bhasin has cultivated 

lasting relationships with 

tailors, embroiderers and other 

highly-skilled artisans in India. 

“I always look forward to that 

creative process that can only 

occur when I have a true give and 

take in the relationship. These 

artisans are so experienced and 

when I can present some crazy 

idea or pattern I may have seen 

on some young kids in Berlin or 

the Lower Eastside of New York, 

they are open and excited to push 

48 49

ARJUN BHASIN 

Top 

Wedding scene, 

‘Monsoon Wedding’ 

by director 

Mira Nair. 

Right 

Bhasin, sitting in 

one of Delhi’s best 

preserved baolis 

or step-wells of 

the centuries-old 

Agrasen Ki Baoli. 

their skills and make something 

special and unique. It’s incredibly 

satisfying and fun.” 

And not forgetting the other 

senses, our conversation shifts 

to food, “Of course, while at 

Mangaldas I always make time 

to either eat at Rajasthani Thali 

which has the most amazing 

Gujarati food, or the treasure 

that is Britannia & Co for some 

delicious Parsi cuisine such as 

dhansak (a lentil, vegetable and 

meat curry drawing inspiration 

from Persia and Gujarat). After 

the market and lunch something 

less hectic is probably in order 

so I might also stop by some of 

the contemporary shops in the 

area such as Bungalow 8. Mumbai 

can be exhausting since it’s so 

full on but I find that especially 

after spending time out of the 

country, nothing awakens the 

senses like India. It almost 

makes everywhere else seem 

monochromatic!” 

That cross-pollination of 

worlds and design is the life 

Bhasin knows so well. A world 

traveller either for work or play, 

or challenging himself with 

different visual mediums from 

stage to screen big and small, 

Bhasin is a thriving example 

of how a life lived in design 

flourishes by fully stimulating all 

the senses. 

50

ARJUN BHASIN 

อาร์จัน บาซิน คือนักออกแบบเครื่อง 

แต่งกายระดับสากล ผู้ค้นหาแรงบันดาลใจ 

ในการออกแบบจากประเทศบ้านเกิด 

สำหรับเขา อินเดียเต็มไปด้วยสิ่งที ่คาด 

ไม่ถึง สีสันฉูดฉาด รวมถึงการผสมผสาน 

ที่ไม่น่าจะเข้ากันได้ สิ่งเหล่านี้ทำให้ 

อินเดียเป็นดั่งศูนย์รวมแรงบันดาลใจ 

ชั ้นเลิศของโลก 

อาร์จัน บาซิน ทำงานในวงการ 

ออกแบบเสื้อผ้ามาเป็นเวลากว่า 20 ปี 

ตั้งแต่เริ่มเป็นเด็กฝึกงานหลังจากจบ 

การศึกษาจาก Tisch School of Arts 

แห่งมหาวิทยาลัยนิวยอร์ก ปัจจุบันเขา 

ออกแบบเครื่องแต่งกายให้กับภาพยนตร์ 

คอมเมดี้ฆาตกรรมเรื่อง The Happytime 

Murders โดย ไบร์อัน เฮนสัน และซีรีส์ 

Divorce ทางช่อง HBO เขาเล่าให้ฟังว่า 

แรงบันดาลใจในการออกแบบเสื้อผ้าของ 

เขาอยู่ที่ประเทศอินเดีย ที่สุดแล้วเขาจำเป็น 

ต้องกลับมาสัมผัสความซับซ้อนของเนื้อ 

ผ้า งานปัก และเครื่องประดับด้วยตัวเองที่ 

มุมไบเท่านั้น 

อาร์จันสั่งสมความรู้เรื่องผ้าทอมือ 

อันมีที่มาซับซ้อนมาตลอดชีวิตของเขา 

ช่วงที่ทำงานร่วมกับผู้กำกับระดับโลก 

อย่างอั้ง ลี่ ในภาพยนตร์เรื่อง Life of Pi 

เขาใส่ใจทุกรายละเอียดด้วยการนำ 

ศิลปะการแต่งกายของอินเดียมาเผย 

แพร่ให้ชาวโลกได้รับรู้ผ่านเสื้อกูร์ตาที่ 

ตัวละครเอกอย่างพายสวมใส่มากกว่า 

200 ตัว 

ขณะเดียวกันเขาได้สร้างมิติใหม่ให้ 

กับวงการภาพยนตร์บอลลีวู้ด ด้วย 

การให้ตัวละครในภาพยนตร์สวมใส่ 

เสื้อยืดสุดฮิปและชุดสูทเนี้ยบควบคู่ไป 

กับเสื้อผ้าอินเดียขนานแท้เพื่อสะท้อน 

ความทันสมัยสไตล์ภารตะ 

ณ ตลาดแมงกัลดัสทางตอนใต้ 

ของมุมไบที่คลาคล่ำไปด้วยมัดฝ้าย 

ผ้าชีฟอง ผ้าปักแขวนเต็มผนัง และ 

ผ้าลินินพับพาดเรียงรายเต็มสอง 

ข้างทาง อาร์จันเล่าว่า ช่างฝีมือที่นี่ 

มากด้วยประสบการณ์และพร้อมเปิด 

ใจรับความคิดแปลกประหลาดของเขา 

เสมอ จนสามารถรังสรรค์ออกมา 

เป็นชิ้นงานพิเศษและมีเอกลักษณ์ 

อย่างเหลือเชื่อ 

แน่นอนว่าไม่อาจหลีกเลี่ยงเรื่อง 

อาหารการกินพ้น อาร์จันมักหาเวลา 

แวะทานอาหารที่ร้านราชาสถานธาลี 

ที่ๆ เสิร์ฟอาหารคุชราตเลิศรส ส่วน 

ร้านโปรดอีกแห่งที่เขาจะพลาดไม่ได้ 

คือร้าน Britannia & Co สำหรับลิ้ม 

รสอาหารปาร์ซีอันโอชะ จากนั้นแวะ 

ร้านร่วมสมัยอย่าง Bungalow 8 เพื่อ 

ผ่อนคลายตัวเองหลังจากเมืองมุมไบได้ 

ดูดพลังเขาไปอย่างมหาศาล อาร์จัน 

ยอมรับว่ายังไม่ชินกับการใช้ชีวิตที่นี่นัก 

เนื่องจากเขาย้ายไปอาศัยอยู่ต่างแดน 

เป็นเวลานาน อย่างไรก็ตาม เขาไม่อาจ 

ปฏิเสธได้เลยว่า อินเดียคือดินแดน 

ที่สามารถเปิดประสาทสัมผัสทั้ง 

ร่างกายและจิตวิญญาณของเขาได้ 

อย่างแท้จริง 

อาร์จัน บาซิน เป็นนักเดินทางที่เต็มที่ 

กับงาน การใช้ชีวิต เขามักท้าทายความ 

สามารถของตัวเองเสมอ ไม่ว่าจะเป็น 

งานคอสตูมในละครเวทีและภาพยนตร์ 

จอเงิน ไม่เกี่ยงว่าจะเป็นสเกลเล็กหรือใหญ่ 

เขาคือตัวอย่างของนักใช้ชีวิตท่ามกลาง 

การออกแบบที่อาศัยประสาทสัมผัส 

อันซับซ้อนได้อย่างเต็มอิ่มและเปี่ยม 

ประสิทธิภาพ 

ขวาบน 

คอสตูมที่อาร์จัน บาซิน 

ออกแบบให้กับละครเวที 

เรื่อง มอนซูน เวดดิ้ง โดย 

ผู้กำกับ ไมรา แนร์ 

ขวาล่าง 

ภาพสเก็ตช์เสื้อผ้า 

สำหรับตัวละคร 

ชาย-หญิงใน 

มอนซูน เวดดิ้ง 

ซ้ายบน 

วันสบายๆ ของอาร์จัน 

บาซิน นักออกแบบ 

คอสตูมชื่อดังชาวอินเดีย 

ซ้ายล่าง 

รายละเอียดเนื้อผ้าที่เขา 

ใช้กับผลงานดีไซน์เสื้อผ้า 

52

HOLISTIC TREATMENT 

NEW HOPE FOR SPINE PATIENTS 

Back pain, neck pain, shoulder 

pain or pain in any part of the 

body may not be as insignificant 

an issue as people might think, 

especially for patients who normally 

buy medicine independently, or 

just go to their local reflexology/ 

massage studio for the treatment 

of such pain. When the pain 

becomes more severe and 

ultimately chronic, patients may 

end up having to undergo surgery. 

With a commitment to giving 

patients options, the Bangkok 

Spine Academy at Bangkok 

Hospital offers a range 

of diagnostic procedures 

recommended by an experienced 

multidisciplinary team to identify 

the source of the pain and ensure 

a more effective treatment. 

“Patients will come to the hospital only 

when their symptoms are severe,” says 

Dr. Sarij Srisuparp, Director of the 

Bangkok Spine Academy at Bangkok 

Hospital. “Backache ruins daily routines. 

For example, sitting in an office for an 

hour or so is no longer possible for 

patients – after sitting for only 30 minutes, 

they need to get up and stretch their 

bodies. Within the first 1-2 days after 

experiencing such pain, patients tend 

to take painkillers. The pain may then 

subside because most of it comes 

from muscle problems. However, if 

the back pain occurs deeper than the 

muscle layer and it involves nerves, 

painkillers may not offer much relief. 

Taking painkillers for a long time also 

results in bad health,” he says. 

Dr. Sarij continues: “The use of 

painkillers will relieve the symptoms, 

but the cause of the pain remains. In 

addition, the nature of the pain depends 

on how the patient describes it, such 

as pain that feels like ants crawling on 

you, pain that feels like ice touching your 

skin, or pain like being hit by nails. The 

physician must pay attention to and 

process such information for accurate 

diagnosis in each patient.” 

For this reason, the Bangkok Spine 

Academy at Bangkok Hospital offers 

patients a holistic treatment by its multidisciplinary 

health care team. Dr. Marvin 

Thepsoparn (Pain Intervention 

Specialist) adds: “Doctors will investigate 

the cause of the pain by asking for the 

patient’s history, and conducting a physical 

examination including a chest X-ray or 

MRI scan for additional data to determine 

several possible pain intervention 

approaches such as taking symptom- 

specific medication, resting, taking an 

anti-inflammatory medication injection 

guided by X-rays and ultrasound 

waves, or radiofrequency ablation.” 

In the old days, after a patient was 

treated according to the level of pain, 

his or her symptoms could return. This 

would be because the patient could 

not change a daily routine or because 

of aging. The last treatment step was 

usually surgery. Due to the limitations 

of medical technology in the past, 

which did not always facilitate the 

best treatment and did not incorporate 

the most up-to-date knowledge, some 

patients were not completely cured and 

their physical and mental condition 

actually deteriorated. To fix this problem, 

the Bangkok Spine Academy at 

Bangkok Hospital, which adheres to 

the international standards established 

by Joint Commission International (JCI) 

in the United States, is strongly 

committed to finding the real source of 

a patient’s pain. In doing this, the surgeon 

can learn more about the specific area 

targeted for surgery and will not 

operate beyond the necessary areas. 

“With modern techniques in spinal 

surgery, using tools such as highmagnification 

microscopes, doctors 

are able to see the nerves and pathology 

that need to be corrected. A small 

incision can be performed safely, using 

the Stealth Navigation System, which 

precisely positions and tracks the 

location of surgical instruments 

throughout a procedure, and also 

Intraoperative Monitoring (IOM), 

a tool for monitoring the nervous 

system during surgery that warns the 

doctor if a nerve is touched during 

the procedure, enabling more efficient 

surgery, says Dr. Sarij. 

Dr. Marvin also adds that “The 

synergy between physicians who are 

specialised in each relevant area enables 

the diagnosis to be more specific. After 

they have had surgery, we as pain 

interventionists have another primary 

mission: to get the patient back to 

normal life as quickly as possible.” 

‘การรักษาแบบองค์รวม’ 

ความหวังใหม่ของคนไข้โรคกระดูกสันหลัง 

อาการปวดหลัง ปวดคอบ่าไหล่ตามจุดต่างๆ 

อาจไม่ใช่เรื่องเล็กอย่างที่คิด โดยเฉพาะผู้ป่วยที่ 

นิยมการซื้อยาทานเองหรือไปนวดกดจุด 

สุดท้ายเมื่ออาการปวดเรื้อรังและรุนแรงมากขึ้น 

หลายรายอาจต้องลงเอยการรักษาด้วยการ 

ผ่าตัด ด้วยความมุ่งมั่น สถาบันโรคกระดูกสันหลัง 

กรุงเทพ โรงพยาบาลกรุงเทพจึงนำเสนอวิธี 

การรักษาที่ใช้การประมวลคำวินิจฉัยของแพทย์ 

ผู้เชี่ยวชาญหลากหลายสาขา เพื่อสืบหาสาเหตุ 

และระบุแหล่งกำเนิดของอาการปวดเพื่อการ 

รักษาที่มีประสิทธิผลมากขึ้น 

“คนไข้จะมาโรงพยาบาลก็ต่อเมื่ออาการค่อน 

ข้างหนักแล้ว” นพ.สาริจฉ์ ศรีสุภาพ ผู้อำนวยการ 

สถาบันโรคกระดูกสันหลังกรุงเทพ โรงพยาบาล 

กรุงเทพ “ระยะแรกคนไข้มักกินยาแก้ปวดแล้วอาจ 

ทุเลาลงเพราะส่วนใหญ่เกิดปัญหาที่กล้ามเนื้อ แต่ 

หากการปวดหลังที่ลึกกว่าชั้นกล้ามเนื้อและ 

เกี่ยวข้องกับเส้นประสาท ยาแก้ปวดอาจช่วย 

บรรเทาไม่ได้ และส่งผลเสียต่อสุขภาพ ฉะนั้น 

แพทย์ต้องวินิจฉัยต้นเหตุของความปวดให้ได้” 

ด้วยเหตุนี้ สถาบันโรคกระดูกสันหลัง 

กรุงเทพ โรงพยาบาลกรุงเทพจึงรักษาผู้ป่วย 

แบบองค์รวม ด้วยการทำงานร่วมกันเป็นทีมของ 

แพทย์ผู้เชี่ยวชาญหลากหลายสาขา นพ. มาร์วิน 

เทพโสพรรณ แพทย์ผู้เชี่ยวชาญในการรักษา 

อาการปวด อธิบายเพิ่มเติมว่า “แพทย์จะซัก 

ประวัติ ตรวจร่างกาย ส่งเอกซเรย์หรือสแกน 

เอ็มอาร์ไอคนไข้เพื่อนำข้อมูลมาประมวลหาวิธี 

ระงับความปวด ซึ่งคนไข้อาจไม่จำเป็นต้องเข้า 

รับการผ่าตัดตามวิธีดั้งเดิม” 

BANGKOK SPINE ACADEMY 

ด้วยข้อจำกัดทางเทคโนโลยีการแพทย์ใน 

สมัยก่อน ในหลายกรณีคนไข้จึงยังไม่หายขาดจาก 

อาการปวดหลัง เพื่อแก้ไขปัญหานี้ สถาบันโรค 

กระดูกสันหลังกรุงเทพ โรงพยาบาลกรุงเทพ ซึ่ง 

ยึดมาตรฐานสากลในการรักษาเฉพาะทางด้าน 

โรคปวดหลังจาก JCI สหรัฐอเมริกา จึงให้ความ 

สำคัญกับการค้นหาจุดเจ็บที่แท้จริง ด้วยวิธี 

Pain Intervention เพื่อหาเส้นประสาทที่มี 

ปัญหา แล้วจึงเริ่มต้นการรักษา 

แม้ว่าสุดท้ายแล้วคนไข้จำเป็นต้องได้รับการ 

ผ่าตัด ผลการรักษาก็น่าพอใจมากขึ้น “ด้วยความ 

ทันสมัยของกล้อง Microscope และระบบนำวิถี 

Stealth Navigation System ที่บอกตำแหน่งขณะ 

กำลังผ่าตัดจริงได้แม่นยำขึ้น รวมทั้งมีเครื่องมือ 

ติดตามการทำงานของระบบประสาทขณะผ่าตัด 

ช่วยให้แผลผ่าตัดเล็ก ใช้เวลาสั้นลง เสียเลือดน้อยลง 

การฟื้นตัวจึงเร็วขึ้นไปด้วย” นพ.สาริจฉ์กล่าว 

นพ. มาร์วิน กล่าวทิ้งท้ายว่า “การประสานงาน 

ของแพทย์ผู้เชี่ยวชาญเฉพาะทางในแต่ละด้าน 

ช่วยให้การวินิจฉัยได้ผลจำเพาะเจาะจงมากขึ้น 

คนไข้มีทางเลือกในการรักษามากขึ้น เพราะหาก 

รักษาไม่ถูกจุดหรือผ่าตัดเร็วหรือช้าเกินไป 

นอกจากอาการปวดจะไม่บรรเทาแล้ว ยังอาจได้ 

รับผลเสียมากกว่าที่ควร ในฐานะแพทย์ เรา 

ตระหนักเสมอว่าหน้าที่ของเราคือทำให้คนไข้ 

กลับไปใช้ชีวิตตามปกติให้เร็วที่สุด” 

www.bangkokhospital.com 

Tel. 1719 

BANGKOK HOSPITAL 

Soi Soonvijai 7, New Petchburi Road 

54 55

DESTINATION WEDDING SPECIAL 

Wedding 

Wanderlust 

Couples are opting to break from tradition 

and marry far from home, bringing friends 

and family to exotic locales for memorable 

nuptials. We take our readers on the romance 

with practical tips required and a passport for a 

destination wedding. 

Photos Tourism Authority of Thailand 

Words Chusri Ngamprasert 

T 

hanks to social media, the 

world gets smaller and 

distances shrink. Postings 

from friends, families and 

celebrities show dream weddings in 

scenic locations far from home – 

brought even closer via Instagram, 

Twitter or Facebook. 

My first destination wedding was 

when my best friend arranged her 

wedding in a traditional Thai teak 

house in Ayutthaya instead of a fancy 

hotel in Bangkok a decade ago. The 

bride looked graceful and stunning 

in her traditional Thai-style wedding 

outfit while her French groom looked 

exotic and elegant. With a casual 

and traditional Thai wedding theme, 

guests wore colourful Thai ensembles 

that kept them cool in Thailand’s hot 

and humid weather. Happy smiles 

and joyous laughter from friends 

and families of a cosy wedding 

surrounded by nostalgic ambience 

remains beautifully engraved in 

memory. 

56 

57


Top 

Fairytale weddings in 

Thailand are made up 

of the vivid colours of 

the tropics. Couples 

can create special 

memories in scenic 

island settings or 

any other romantic 

background as 

Thailand has them all. 

Bottom 

A wedding getaway 

lets couples engage 

in any fantasy 

or indulgence they 

have for their big day. 

Planning a wedding is a task 

not for the faint of heart and for 

a destination wedding; the bride 

and groom would have to plan it 

well to make it happen smoothly. 

“Isn’t it easier to have a wedding 

close to home? Isn’t it cheaper 

and more convenient for guests 

if you wed in the hotel or a fancy 

restaurant in your neighbourhood? 

Why don’t you pick the closest 

venue that can accommodate 

hundreds of our families’ guests?” 

Loads of questions abound from 

friends and family and leads to 

the one big option: ‘Why not a 

destination wedding?’ 

Kevin Lee, founder of Kevin Lee 

Productions, who’s one of the top 

wedding planners in the United 

States says that “a lot of people 

would like to go to a destination 

wedding. Why? Let’s say you live 

in Bangkok - you have been to 

20 different Bangkok weddings. 

They are all pretty much alike. 

Every wedding tends to be the 

same. That’s why you want to 

marry somewhere like Chiang Mai 

or Phuket or different islands, 

different cities. You would like (the 

wedding) to feel different.” Lee has 

designed weddings and events for 

A-list celebrities and seen them 

attended by the likes of Bill Clinton, 

Barack Obama, Brad Pitt, Oprah 

Winfrey, Tom Cruise and many 

other Hollywood stars. 

“That’s why there are so many 

times young people look for a 

destination wedding – because 

they are bored with the same old 

thing that happens over and over. 

They are bored with the same 

environment so they are looking 

for a destination location. At the 

same time, when you invite all 

your friends, you would like to 

have the best time with your 

friends,” says Lee, whose exuberant 

personality creates equally vibrant 

events. “Once your mind is set for a 

destination wedding, there are a lot 

of things to consider because it is 

rather more overwhelming than a 

traditional wedding close to home, 

especially when you’re organising 

and arranging so many details 

from afar. 

At the same time, the farther the 

venue is, the costlier it obviously 

is when considering the price of 

flight tickets and accommodation. 

If you just want to get away from 

your humdrum environment, going 

local is not a bad idea. Sumant 

Jayakrishnan, owner of Scenografia 

Sumant in Delhi shares tips for 

choosing a venue for a destination 

wedding. “You are looking for a 

place where you don’t have to travel 

too much - is it one stop or two 

stops? Too much travel and the 

guests may not come. The place 

should also have the ability to have 

“Every wedding tends to be the same. That’s why you 

want to marry somewhere like Chiang Mai or Phuket 

or different islands, different cities.” 

flexibility. It is not good for a place 

to be too isolated. The place should 

have a vibe and energy of its own. It 

has to be exotic, that not everyone 

has travelled to.” Jayakrishnan is 

an expert on such logistics since 

the profession of a scenographer 

involves stage design on a TV or 

movie set or any event that calls 

for space design. “A particular 

generation of young people would 

like going to places where they 

can also party. After the (wedding) 

party, they can go to the club.” 

So it’s easy to conclude after 

talking to the experts that decisions 

should be made on the type of 

ceremony you want: a small cosy 

wedding party with close family 

and friends or a big major party 

with everyone you’ve known since 

primary school. These details 

would eventually determine the 

kind of stylised theme for your 

wedding and also the style of your 

wedding outfit. 

“An Indian destination wedding 

is usually big – it is not small. 

European destination weddings 

involve a small group of people. 

Some of the Indian weddings I 

have worked on have had six, 

seven or eight hundred people for 

a destination. For some people – 

which is very few – less is more. 

For most Indian clients, more is 

more,” says Jayakrishnan with a 

smile, who designed one of the 

grandest destination wedding for 

the daughter of London-based 

billionaires Bina and Pramod 

Agarwal in Venice with over 

800 guests. 

“For the wedding day, there 

are a lot of things that you have 

to think about: the food, the 

services, the waiters, the drinks, 

the lights, the music, the locations, 

the weather. The components; 

everything has to (come) together,” 

says Lee. 

To avoid a destination wedding 

nightmare, the bride and groom 

have to prepare early, at least 

one year before the wedding date. 

You have to investigate potential 

venues and it is best to visit the 

venues at least twice before making 

a decision. Check out whether 

the venues on your list have onsite 

wedding coordinators or a 

trustworthy wedding planner. 

Top 

Fields of blooming 

red lotus flowers 

and other exuberant 

places in nature 

provide the perfect 

romantic backdrop 

that can only be 

found in Thailand. 

Left 

There’s a reason 

why so many 

lovebirds 

choose islands 

as a wedding 

destination. 

Stunning views are 

endless possibilities 

for creating the 

perfect photograph. 

58 59


How to Get 

If they do, your destination 

wedding would be less stressful to 

plan. It is a good idea to check out 

reviews from other couples using 

their services. 

You should learn about the price, 

transportation, accommodation and 

facilities for you and your guests. 

Find out whether any of your guests 

need special help or requirements 

like a wheelchair or an infant crib. 

Things like these can be arranged 

with the hotel in advance. It is also 

a nice gesture to investigate activity 

options to please a wide range of 

ages and interests for your guests. 

You should also find out what 

paperwork you'll need to bring to 

process your marriage license and 

how you could obtain it. 

Send out save-the-date cards 

at least four to six months before the 

wedding day, so your guests could 

make a decision whether to join 

or not. It’s a good idea to set up a 

wedding website or Facebook page 

to keep guests informed of details like 

flight and hotel special rates, how to 

book, what to pack and the itinerary 

of the event. If you plan to wed in a 

foreign land, add information about 

the local culture, passport and visa 

enquiries, and so on. 

Also, plan a follow-up reception 

when you arrive home so your 

friends and relatives who couldn’t 

manage the trip would not feel left 

out. Invite them for a sit-down 

dinner at a nice local restaurant or 

a small party at your place. Simply 

prepare wedding photos and videos 

to share with them so they feel as if 

they were there. 

Top 

Couples find 

adventure when 

they have a 

destination 

wedding. Together, 

they leave the 

comfort of home 

and embark on an 

new exploration as 

a united couple. 

Left 

Ideal spots like 

this colourful pond 

provide endless 

possibilities to 

create romantic 

memories. 

Why Getting Married in 

Thailand is Unforgettable 

Anuja Jaggi and Vaibhav Varma 

Originally from India, the couple from Dubai wedded at Anantara Riverside, Bangkok 

“Why chose Thailand? We really wanted a destination wedding. Thailand 

was a perfect fit because it has good (transport) connectivity for guests 

coming from all over. In addition, Thailand offered the best of both worlds. 

We could pull off a traditional wedding while offering guests something 

new. We got a great variety of food (Indian and international), décor, 

entertainment and venues that made Thailand our prime choice.” 

Anzhelika Timanina and Ivan Vasilenkov 

Anzhelika, an Olympic champion and synchronised swimmer 

from Russia and her husband, Ivan 

“Ivan and I love this country. And I love to travel so my dream was to have 

a wedding in a place (that’s) a paradise. Koh Samui is the best place for it. 

Thai people are very friendly and smiley. They took care of everything 

just straight after we got off the plane. We had two different weddings, 

European style and Thai. The first one was held in the hall of the W hotel 

with an amazing view, flowers, our favourite music and the presence of our 

friends. The Thai ceremony was held in the hotel Santhiya on Koh Phangan. 

We decided one day to go back to Koh Phangan. After our Thai ceremony, 

we planted a tree in the garden of the hotel. We wanted to see how it’s 

growing. This is very romantic. 

Ultimate Destination 

What is the best time of the 

year for the wedding ceremony 

in Thailand? 

With its versatile climate, 

Thailand has multiple 

destinations for a wedding at 

almost anytime of the year. 

Phuket offers some amazing 

weather during November till 

March, while Koh Samui, just 

some 300km away, has its best 

season from March to August. 

The northern gem of 

Chiang Mai has lovely cool 

seasons from December 

to February with beautiful 

evening breezes and mild 

temperatures during the day. 

In short, any time of the 

year is great as long as you find 

your perfect dream location. 

What is so special about 

having a wedding in Thailand? 

It’s easy to say everything 

is special with a destination 

in Thailand: the charm of 

the culture, the warmth 

of people and hospitality, 

Wedding 

Wedding Bliss Thailand, one of the top destination wedding planners 

in Thailand, offers some tips for lovebirds wishing to have their 

dream wedding in a tropical paradise. 

some of the best food in the 

world, breath-taking views 

and 5-star locations. Since 

the majority of weddings 

in Thailand are destination 

weddings, it’s also an amazing 

way to combine a holiday 

with your friends or maybe your 

honeymoon with your wedding, 

which creates a truly unique 

experience for couples. 

How to pick the venue? 

Picking the venue is one of 

the fun parts of wedding 

planning, and it all boils down 

to what resonates with the 

couple’s personalities. There 

are 2 major general types 

of wedding venues: hotels 

and private villas. Luxury 

hotels offer opportunities 

of gathering a big party of 

people staying together 

and the perks of being based 

in a 24/7 service facilities 

with impeccable service. 

Private villas, at the same time, 

offer more flexibility with 

timings, vendor choices and, 

naturally, more privacy for 

your special day. 

What can one expect for a 

destination wedding? 

Definitely expect lots of 

fun! You can think outside 

the wedding day and have 

a weekend full of pre- or postwedding 

activities – with 

yacht trips, area exploration, 

cooking classes or spa days. 

We even had couples organising 

week-long adventure games 

for all their friends! 

On a more practical note: 

be prepared for warm weather: 

think light fabrics for your 

gowns and suits, make sure to 

order enough refreshments, 

and have places for your guests 

to chill. 

How should couples 

communicate with the 

wedding planner to get a 

dream wedding? 

Be honest with your wishes, 

but be open to suggestions. 

You have dreams that your 

wedding planner turns into a 

vision, and later into reality, 

so have trust and faith in the 

team you chose! 

Best way to communicate 

your ideas is through visuals, 

so gather all the things you 

love on your Pinterest board. 

They don’t have to be all 

wedding-related: textures, 

colours, shapes, mood, food, 

- whatever you feel like 

resonates with your idea of the 

day, and watch the way it all 

comes to life! 

How does the bride deal with 

the wedding dress and the 

makeup? 

For your destination wedding 

in Thailand, choose light 

and breathable fabrics: 

natural materials are always 

the best. Flowy and elegant 

silhouettes look more organic 

with beach or tropical views, 

rather than princess-style 

gowns. Whenever possible, do 

a make-up and hair trial of 

your wedding look to ensure 

you’re totally happy with 

it before the wedding day. 

Foundation on your face is 

of paramount importance, 

it needs to feel light, yet be 

very long-lasting to be safe in 

tropical heat. 

60 

61


ตามเข็มนาฬิกา 

จากขวาบน 

ไม่ว่าชาติไหนก็สามารถ 

จดทะเบียนสมรสอย่าง 

ถูกต้องตามกฎหมาย 

สากลได้ในประเทศไทย 

อาหารสำรับไทยตกแต่ง 

อย่างประณีตสำหรับ 

งานเลี้ยงรับรอง 

ภาพสุดโรแมนติก คู่รัก 

กับฉากหลังยามอาทิตย์ 

อัสดงริมชายหาด 

ท้องทะเลไทย 

ทุ่งนาสีเขียวสดกับเซ็ตติ้ง 

งานแต่งที่เข้าถึงวิถีไทยแท้ 

“ทำไมต้องจัดงานแต่งงานนอกสถานที ่ จัดที่ 

โรงแรมไม่สะดวกกว่าเหรอ หาที่ใกล้ๆ น่าจะดี 

กว่า” คำถามร้อยแปดผุดขึ้นมา พร้อมกับอีก 

คำถามที่ว่า “แล้วทำไมจะจัดงานแต่งงานนอก 

สถานที่ไม่ได้” เควิน ลี นักวางแผนจัดงาน 

แต่งงานระดับโลก ผู้เคยสร้างสรรค์เวทีออสการ์ 

และจัดงานแต่งให้กับบรรดาลูกค้าระดับ 

เอ-ลิสต์ ของโลก อาทิ บารัค โอบามา แบรด 

พิตต์ ทอม ครูซ และอีกมากมาย กล่าวว่า คน 

รุ่นใหม่ต้องการงานแต่งงานที่รู้สึกแตกต่าง 

เพื่อใช้เวลาร่วมกับเพื่อนๆ ให้คุ้มค่ามากที่สุด 

แต่การจัดงานแต่งงานนอกสถานที่ก็มีราย 

ละเอียดให้จัดการมากกว่า ยิ่งสถานที่ไกลมาก 

เท่าไหร่ ค่าเดินทางและค่าที่พักก็สูงขึ้นเป็นเงา 

ตามตัว สุมันต์ จายากริชนัน เจ้าของ 

Scenografia Sumant บริษัทออร์แกไนเซอร์ 

จัดงานในนิวเดลี ประเทศอินเดีย ให้ข้อคิดว่า 

สถานที่ควรมีความยืดหยุ่น ไม่ตัดขาดจากโลก 

ภายนอกมากเกินไป แต่ต้องไม่ค่อยมีคนไป 

เที่ยวชมเท่าไรนัก ดังนั้นเจ้าของงานต้องระบุ 

ลักษณะงานแต่งงานให้ชัด เพื่อที่จะได้เลือก 

สถานที่และรายละเอียดลำดับต่อไปให้เหมาะสม 

มีหลายสิ่งที่คู่บ่าวสาวต้องคำนึงถึงในวัน 

แต่งงาน ทั้งเรื่องอาหาร การบริการ เครื่อง 

ดื่ม สถานที่ และสภาพอากาศ บ่าวสาวจึง 

ควรเตรียมการล่วงหน้าอย่างน้อยหนึ่งปี ถ้า 

สถานที่จัดงานมีผู้ประสานงานที่เชื่อถือได้ 

งานก็จะง่ายขึ้นมาก นอกจากนี ้ยังต้องหา 

ข้อมูลเรื่องราคา การเดินทาง ที่พัก และสิ่ง 

อำนวยความสะดวกอื่นๆ ประกอบด้วย 

อนุจา จักกี และ วัยบัฟ วาร์มา เจ้าบ่าว 

และเจ้าสาวจากดูไบเลือกจัดงานแต่งงานที่ 

อนันตราริเวอร์ไซด์ กรุงเทพมหานคร ด้วย 

เหตุผลที่ว่า ประเทศไทยมีการเชื่อมต่อการ 

เดินทางที่สามารถรองรับผู้ร่วมงานจากทั่ว 

โลกได้ ทั้งคู่สามารถจัดงานแต่งตาม 

ประเพณีดั้งเดิม พร้อมกับให้ความรู้สึก 

แปลกใหม่แก่ผู้ที่มาร่วมงานไปพร้อมๆ กัน 

ประเทศไทยถือเป็นตัวเลือกอันดับแรกๆ 

ของคู่แต่งงานจำนวนมากเลยก็ว่าได้ 

เนื่องจากบ้านเรามีอาหารให้เลือกหลาก 

หลาย การออกแบบตกแต่งที่สวยงาม 

นอกจากนี้ยังเต็มไปด้วยความบันเทิง และ 

สถานที่ที่เหมาะสม 

สถานที่จัดงานแต่งงานในประเทศไทยมี 

ให้เลือกหลากหลายไม่ว่าจะจัดขึ้นในช่วงไหน 

ของปี มนต์เสน่ห์แห่งวัฒนธรรม ความ 

อบอุ่นของผู้คน อาหารที่เรียกได้เต็มปากว่า 

ดีที่สุดในโลก ทิวทัศน์ที่สะกดทุกลมหายใจ 

และสถานที่จัดงานระดับห้าดาว แค่คิดก็สนุก 

แล้ว เมื่อนึกถึงภาพกิจกรรมวันหยุดทั้งก่อน 

และหลังวันแต่งงาน 

ด้วยรางวัลการันตีคุณภาพอย่างรางวัล 

ผู้วางแผนจัดงานแต่งงานนอกสถานที่ดีเด่น 

จาก Asia and Australia Luxury Travel 

Award 2017 เดอะ เวดดิ้ง บลิส ไทยแลนด์ 

นับเป็นมืออาชีพด้านการจัดงานแต่งงานนอก 

สถานที ่ ที่ใส่ใจทุกรายละเอียดพร้อมสไตล์ 

ระดับเวิร์ลคลาส เพียงบอกความต้องการ 

ผู้เชี่ยวชาญก็จะสร้างสรรค์งานแต่งงานสุด 

พิเศษขึ้นมา พร้อมกับดูแลตั้งแต่กระบวนการ 

แรกเริ่มจนเสร็จสิ้นงานมงคลสมรส ด้วย 

ความเชื่อที ่ว่าการแต่งงานไม่ใช่งานเลี้ยง 

ธรรมดา ทว่าเป็นเรื่องราวแห่งความรักที่คน 

สองคนจะจดจำไปตราบนานเท่านาน 

Planning a Perfect 

Destination Wedding in Thailand 

THE WEDDING BLISS THAILAND 

Once-in-a-lifetime event, a 

wedding needs an attentive 

and caring eye looking after 

it, that’s why a wedding 

planner role is so important. 

The Wedding Bliss Thailand 

has everything you can look 

for: style, class, an eye for 

details, and world-class 

© darinimages 

professionalism. Clients 

from all over the world trust 

their expertise, and Lesley, 

a beautiful bride who chose 

Thailand for her destination 

wedding, was one of them. 

She quickly understood the 

full advantage of having a 

wedding planner, and couldn’t 

be happier with The Wedding 

Bliss Thailand: “Recognise that 

you can’t do everything! I’m 

a control freak and wanted to 

do everything but I realised I 

couldn’t. Have faith in your 

planners and your bridal party 

– they are your best friends 

for a reason.” 

After all, the wedding is all 

about you and your love. Your 

ability to relax and immerse 

yourself in this atmosphere of 

joy, happiness and celebration 

is incredibly valuable. “During 

the wedding weekend or day, 

take quiet moments away for 

yourself and your partner to 

really enjoy it all,” says Lesley 

and we can’t but agree! 

With their unceasing 

passion, The Wedding Bliss 

Thailand conceptualise unique 

ideas, attend to the smallest 

details and oversee wedding 

planning process from the 

beginning to the end. A part 

of exclusive Destination 

Wedding Planner Congress 

community and Winners of 

Asia and Australia Luxury 

Travel Award 2017 as Best 

Destination Wedding Planner, 

they understand that weddings 

are not just an event, but a 

part of a unique and beautiful 

love story, one that will be 

cherished in a family history 

for years to come and deserves 

this extra special touch they’re 

always ready to offer. 

© darinimages 

© Madiow Photography 

62 

Destination Wedding Planner 

THAILAND & BEYOND 

jess@theweddingblissthiland.com 

www.theweddingblissthailand.com 

+66 (0) 94 364 6642


Dreamy Island 

Landscapes and An 

Unforgettable “I Do” 

Where Should You 

Get Married? 

From warm, sandy beaches to astoundingly blue to green waters, check out our 

list of the best locales in Thailand to say ‘I do.’ We include everything you need 

to know about the best resorts for your needs, to the heaven-sent coordinators 

that do all the legwork to make your destination wedding less stressful, 

including all the unique and possible ways to exchange your wedding vows. 

ANANTARA MAI KHAO 

Beach weddings are the 

ultimate experience to 

remember forever. At the 

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket 

Villas, saying “I do” means 

being surrounded by blue 

skies and cerulean waters in 

lush island landscapes. The 

property sits on the longest 

stretch of beach on the island, 

called Mai Khao. Given its 

advantageous location, the 

white sand’s infinite view 

creates a dreamy landscape. 

It is bordered by the verdant 

green of Sirinath National 

Park, adding further to the 

ambiance of full romance and 

the feel of a private hideaway. 

Exchange vows on the beach, 

in the gardens or at one of 

many indoor venues for a 

true Phuket wedding, as the 

Anantara promises the perfect 

intimate setting. Whether it’s 

a Thai or Western ceremony, 

experienced coordinators 

and staff are on hand to 

help plan every memorable 

step. Wedding couples 

can have their nuptials in 

an elegantly familiar way 

that’s meaningful or choose 

to declare vows in the 

Thai traditional way with 

ceremonies that symbolically 

bind two people together, 

complete with the pouring 

of scented water in the 

resort setting that’s also 

reminiscent of a traditional 

Thai village. With such 

unforgettable settings at 

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket 

Villas, dreams can come true 

and be brought to life. 

BREATH-TAKING CHOICES AT ANANTARA LAWANA 

With a range of magnificent wedding venues available at Anantara Lawana 

Koh Samui Resort, you can marry on the beach, on the Grand Sea View Terrace, 

or on the Rooftop with its breath-taking views. Being in the great outdoors, 

the gentle fragrance of garlands and flowers add to the ambiance of the day. 

Following your marriage ceremony, sip on refreshing cocktails whilst 

sharing everlasting moments with either your partner or with family and 

friends, and finally ending the evening with a romantic dinner for two or 

making it an unforgettable gala dinner. To find out more, contact a dedicated 

wedding consultant on T: +66 (0) 77 960 333 or Email: wedding@anantara.com 

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. 

wedding@anantara.com 

www.phuket.anantara.com 

+66 (0) 76 336 100 

YOUR DAY, YOUR WAY AT CELES 

Having your special occasion simply requires taking a walk of 

a few seconds that take you to a white sand beach with its row 

upon row of coconut trees. The multi-purpose venue at Celes has 

modern and stylish furnishings to make the event memorable. 

The setting is just right whether you are planning an anniversary 

celebration, a wedding, or a gathering of friends. Celes also 

provides extensive technical equipment that guarantees the best 

in audio and visual entertainment. A dedicated team is available 

to provide support for an event to run smoothly and ensure it’s a 

success from start to finish. T: +66 (0) 77 900 999, 

Email: info@celesresorts.com 

EXCHANGE VOWS HIGH ABOVE THE RESORT 

AT CONRAD KOH SAMUI 

What distinguishes the Conrad Koh Samui? It’s not just the 

idyllic setting but also the presence of different facilities that 

are available for special events. The picturesque beachfront is 

especially inviting with the soft white sand dotted with coconut 

trees. But it’s the spectacular transparent stage over the sound 

of lapping water that makes the location particularly dreamy. 

The resort offers another scenic option that includes a ceremony 

high above the resort, guaranteeing that your first kiss will be 

accompanied by stunning views of the azure sea, dazzling white 

beaches, and lush jungles of Koh Samui. T: +66 (0) 77 915 888, 

Email: conrad_koh_samui@conradhotels.com 

65


FLOAT ABOVE THE WATER AT LE MÉRIDIEN 

KOH SAMUI RESORT & SPA 

Say “I do” in style with an inspiring backdrop literally 

floating over the ocean. A wedding at Le Méridien Koh Samui 

Resort & Spa unveils the perfect venue to transform a dream 

wedding into reality. The resort’s Ocean Pier floating 120 

metres over the Gulf of Thailand makes for a memorable 

day; the unique setting is a spectacular option for couples 

to indulge in romantic private dinners, celebratory sunset 

cocktails and intimate wedding ceremonies. A professional 

and friendly team is provided, and will cater to every bride’s 

needs to ensure that the wedding day is flawless from start 

to finish. To create these moments, contact T: +66 (0) 77 960 888, 

Email: sales.kohsamui@lemeridien.com 

THE COLOURS OF PARADISE AT NIKKI BEACH 

Nikki Beach Koh Samui has the picture-perfect sunset 

overlooking the surrounding the islands that not only attracts 

guests seeking a serene setting, but also those embarking on 

a memorable occasion to carry with them for the rest of their lives. 

The chance to be married on the spectacular sandy beaches 

overlooking the clear blue seas of Thailand is eagerly made 

available by resort staff. Couples will be glad to know that events 

can be hosted from 20 to 2,000 people. 

Ease the stress by working with a wedding planner who’ll 

take care of everything such as the flowers, cakes, menu creation, 

table linen and décor, spa and beauty services, entertainment, 

all the way up to transportation for guests. T: +66 (0) 77 914 500, 

Email: enquiry@nikkibeachthailand.com 

A ROYAL TREATMENT AT HANSAR 

From themed weddings to traditional Thai ceremonies, a Hansar 

Samui Resort wedding planner can help cater all your wedding 

needs. They’ll offer plenty of options that are considerate of 

your budget while ensuring a creative and romantic style like 

all brides desire. The Hansar Samui resort offers one of the 

best wedding locations along with their team of professionals 

who have handled the highest level in guest services. The name 

Hansar means happiness and joy in Sanskrit, and the hotel 

does their best to ensure that the wedding couple and guests 

experience both. T: +66 (0) 77 245 511, reservation@hansarsamui.com 

A THAI LANNA WEDDING AT THE 

FOUR SEASONS RESORT CHIANG MAI 

The Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai eases the worry of wedding 

planning with specially conceived wedding packages for 

couples. Alternatively, if you wish to custom-design your occasion, 

Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai event coordinators are ready to 

offer expert assistance. Whether you dream of a grand gala or an 

intimate gathering, they’ll work with you to provide detailed 

ideas to spark your imagination. The result is a wedding that’s 

an unforgettably unique event with chance for a Thai Lanna 

wedding procession with traditional Thai Lanna music, a blessing 

by the Village Elders, a flower bouquet for the bride, and corsages 

for the groom and the parents of the bride and groom. A ceremonial 

set-up with fresh floral decorations comes complete with a bottle 

of champagne for the toast and a 3-tiered wedding cake. 

T: +66 (0) 53 298 181, Email: contactus.chiangmai@fourseasons.com 

STUNNING BLUE AND LUSH 

GREENERY AT THE NAKA 

PHUKET 

Create your memorable 

wedding in paradise when 

you choose the romance of 

the beach or the welcoming 

scenery of a verdant lawn. 

The Naka Phuket is the perfect 

location for or intimate 

wedding ceremonies that 

accommodates up to 300 

of your friends and family. 

A variety of exotic locations 

are available from a white 

sandy beach to that of a lush 

green lawn. Its romance and 

uniqueness can be defined 

by the fact that it is the only 

resort of the island to offer 

two natural settings where an 

exclusive beach meets with an 

unspoiled hillside. 

To make sure that the day 

runs smoothly, a professional 

team of coordinators will be at 

the service of the bride while 

celebrations and dining can be 

tailored to suit all requirements. 

T: +66 (0) 76 337 999, 

Email: dos@thenakaphuket.com 

MAXIMUM ROMANCE AT 

THE LIBRARY 

Nestled amidst a minimalist 

hotel hideaway accented by 

a scarlet-red swimming pool 

and the deep blue of the sea 

beyond, it is nothing short of 

breath-taking to arrange a 

once-in-a lifetime wedding 

at The Library. With a team 

of wedding advisors to assist 

with every aspect of the big 

day, couples can relax in the 

knowledge that all important 

details have been well taken 

care of. From exquisite 

flowers and sumptuous 

menus to tailor-made 

decorations and ultra-chic 

accommodations, the Library 

will provide ongoing support. 

T: +66 (0) 77 422 767-8, 

rsvn@thelibrarysamui.com 

LOVE CHIC AT PULLMAN PHUKET ARCADIA 

A wedding in the modern style property pinpoints the local 

beauty of Naithon beach together with a landscape that 

offers panoramic views of the ocean. A Phuket wedding here 

means an absolute treat for the senses at the resort and 

on the beach. The inspiring scenery at this award-winning 

Phuket resort is the ideal romantic setting for blissful 

nuptials. The Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach offers 

various outdoor and indoor venues of different sizes and 

ambiance, with fully customised packages for the bride’s 

special day. 

Further information on wedding packages are available 

here T: +66 (0) 76 303 299, pullmanphuketarcadia.com/ 

wedding-in-phuket/phuket-wedding-packages 

66 

67


Creating the Dream 

island wedding 

UNFORGETTABLE NUPTIALS AT SANTIBURI 

Santiburi Samui offers unmatched romantic beach wedding 

packages complemented by personalised services, world-class 

accommodation, and delicious cuisine on stunning Koh Samui. 

Vows are exchanged with a breath-taking tropical backdrop 

to a soundtrack of lapping waves on the champagne shores of 

a peaceful bay. Choose a western-style ceremony, or a Thaiinfluenced 

blessing. T: +66 (0) 77 425 031, Email: weddings@ 

santiburi-samui-resort.com 

AN ULTIMATE BEACH WEDDING AT THE SHERATON 

Celebrate the most romantic day of your life surrounded by the 

paradise setting of Sheraton Samui Resort. You’ll feel the love 

as you exchange vows on the soft sands of Chaweng Noi beach, 

surrounded by swaying palm trees and stunning views of the Gulf of 

Siam. The resort plans a seamless experience for family and friends 

with comfortable and spacious guest rooms within easy reach of the 

island’s airport and cultural attractions. Whether you prefer a Western 

or Thai ceremony, a dedicated team of wedding planners will go above 

and beyond to ensure that your big day runs smoothly. Wedding 

packages at Sheraton Samui Resort start from THB 78,000++. 

T: +66 (0) 77 422 020, Email: reservations.kohsamui@sheraton.com 

ROMANCE IS IN THE STARS AT VANA BELLE 

Unforgettable romantic moments can be spent in a serene cove 

on the soft sands of Chaweng Noi beach, one of Koh Samui’s 

most sought-after locations. The suites and villas all feature 

private pools and contemporary styling that pays homage to 

indigenous culture. A couple’s stroll along the serene beach will 

see stars reflected on the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Siam. 

The property also offers dining that captures the senses with 

an authentic menu of local and international flavours. Highly 

creative Thai and Western wedding celebrations are options to 

create unforgettable memories. T: +66 (0) 77 915 555, 

Email: luxurycollection.vanabelle@luxurycollection.com 

THE BLISS OF LUSH GREENERY AND 

BLUE WATERS OF TONGSAI BAY 

A wedding is one of the most auspicious 

days in your life and Tongsai Bay is making 

it their job to provide the bridal couple and 

their party with the most incredible and 

memorable day. They’ll work with the bridal 

couple to determine the best ceremony 

that befits your personality and style for 

the blessed union. Tongsai Bay’s many 

options are available to make the perfect 

day and promising the bride that they will 

be there at every step. T: +66 (0) 77 913 750, 

Email: weddings@tongsaibay.co.th 

THE SIGNATURE WEDDINGS 

At Signature Weddings, we cater 

for luxury, the unique and the 

personal. Our portfolio features 

five-star villas that grace the 

shores of Koh Samui and Phuket, 

offering the best in villa private 

wedding venues on both islands. 

We take all of the wedding 

stresses away, putting the bride 

in touch with the best contacts we 

have painstakingly found. If you 

© Julian Wainwright 

need an amazing photographer, 

we have a varied selection for you 

to choose. For the best florists, we 

know them all. 

We have our own in-house 

chefs working in our villas 

with top-notch experiences to 

create everything and anything 

that may be required – from 

a lavish seafood barbecue to a 

Thai style family dinner. Any 

kind of dining preparation can 

be accomplished. In addition 

to barbecues, we cater after 

parties, recovery brunches, 

welcome cocktails, boat trips 

and many more. 

Our Events Planner and 

the Signature Weddings team 

are there in every step of the 

planning process for a dream 

wedding in the tropical island 

settings of Koh Samui and 

Phuket; from the initial enquiry 

right up to the wedding day. 

Our wedding planner will 

be your contact person for the 

wedding ceremony, reception, 

rehearsal dinner, and related 

activities. With someone taking 

care of you through the various 

stages of wedding planning 

and helping achieve the perfect 

wedding, you can just relax and 

enjoy being a bride. 

All your wedding information 

will be created in a reference file 

and follow-ups will be made by 

the Signature Weddings team 

to make sure that you and your 

party have everything needed 

for the ceremony. 

If you are interested in having 

your wedding ceremony in one of 

© Julian Wainwright 

our stunningly beautiful villas, we 

can guide you step by step through 

the process of having a tropical 

wedding in Thailand. 

STIMULATING EXPERIENCES 

AT SIX SENSES 

Can there be a more perfect way 

to wed in paradise? The setting 

of Six Senses Samui, with the 

stunning Gulf of Thailand 

wrapping around as a splendid 

backdrop to a special wedding 

day. Unique wedding locations 

include the panoramic decks of 

the resort's signature restaurant 

“Dining on the Rocks”, choose the 

beach, or enjoy moments by the 

infinity pool. T: +66 (0) 77 245 678, 

Email: pagm-samui@sixsenses.com 

BAREFOOT ON THE BEACH AT THE W 

Here’s a place that’s picture-perfect to say “I do.” The ultimate 

destination celebration is defined by a barefoot beachside wedding 

ceremony where the first kiss as a wedded couple happens 

overlooking a sparkling expanse of ocean in Koh Samui. At 

W Beach, beachfront ceremonies at the “Tip of SIP” (the outer tip 

of the island) are the best way to exchange vows. Expert wedding 

coordinators do the ceremony set-up that includes a wedding 

arch, flower petals, a stage and chairs for the comfort of guests. 

T: +66 (0) 77 915 999, Email: thanapon.tripataraporn@whotels.com 

© Koh Samui Photography 

68 

The Signature Weddings 

UNIQUE VILLA EVENTS 

events@thesignatureweddings.com 

www.signatureweddingsthailand.com 

+66 (0) 81 270 0788

BANGKOK SPACES 

Fast-evolving Bangkok transforms from the 

run down into the up and coming. Recently, 

a creative facelift in neglected neighbourhood 

spots means a chance to be more community 

in feel and artisan in movement. 

From Industrial to Hip: 

WAREHOUSES 

SHED THEIR 

FORMER IMAGE 

Photos & Words: 

Korakot Nym Punlopruksa 

70 

71


HOW TO FIND THEM 

T 

he BTS skytrain from the east side at 

Bang Chak station to the city centre 

stop at Siam Square is over too 

quickly. With its super efficiency, 

there’s no point to open a book and read – or 

even post something on social media. Such is 

Bangkok’s modernised transportation that’s 

changed life and timetables and made the 

once impossible possible. Zipping along on 

the rails allows the duration of journeys to 

be bearably shorter, with more time each day 

to work, run errands, or tour the city more 

effectively and beyond. More than that, it 

opens travellers to the energy of forgotten 

neighbourhoods. 

Top Left to Top Right 

Merchandise 

displays and art 

benefit from 

large wall spaces 

in warehouse 

architecture. Little 

work has been done 

to tamper with the 

As a fan of public transportation, 

my daily life constantly takes me 

on journeys to discover Bangkok. In 

addition to the skytrain, the Khlong 

(canal) Saen Saeb boats and the 

Chao Phraya River express boats are 

favourite modes of transport. They 

take me to experience Bangkok’s 

constant boom in creativity in very 

unique ways, by chance and by choice. 

original steel 

features and 

framework. These 

buildings may be 

converted, but the 

design concepts pay 

homage to their 

industrial heritage. 

Right 

Prepared on the 

spot, the food 

at both modern 

warehouse 

spaces is a sure 

palate-pleaser 

in freshness and 

presentation. 

This time, the boats plied a 

path straight to Warehouse 30 and 

Yelo House, Bangkok’s newest 

creative projects. Both underwent 

similar renovation bound by a 

concept and desire to rescue and 

revive old warehouses, turning 

them into modern stimulating 

spaces that respect and preserve 

the architectural wonders in the old 

neighbourhoods. Warehouse 30 

greets all those who visit on 

Charoen Krung Soi 30, close to 

the Chao Phraya River while Yelo 

House brings something new that’s 

opposite the National Stadium and 

close to Khlong Saen Saeb. 

MODERN CULTURE RISES 

BY THE RIVER 

Over the past 5 years, I have been 

going to the river area around 

Khlong San pier and Si Phraya pier 

for a fix of the arts in all its forms. 

Things started out with The Space, 

located on the second floor of the 

low-rise building next to the pier 

overlooking the Chao Phraya River. 

The Space was the first creative 

venue along the river, initiated 

and supported by world-renowned 

photographer James Nachtwey, 

where any form of creation had 

a ‘space’ in which to happen: 

photography exhibitions, miniconcerts, 

performances, pop-up 

dinners, workshops and more. Then 

came (and still is) the next-door 

compound of The Jam Factory, run 

by Duangrit Bunnag, a top-tier 

Thai architect who revived a set of 

dilapidated old warehouses into a 

chic space that’s home to a café, 

restaurant, showroom, event space, 

and his architecture firm. 

A similar approach was applied 

to his newest project across the 

river, adding more hues to Charoen 

Krung’s already colourful and 

vibrant art scene. The Warehouse 

30 complex is a stunning compound 

of World War II-era warehouses 

that have been resuscitated into 

concept stores with local designer 

clothing brand Lonely Two-Legged 

Creature, the floral shop Wallflower, 

handsomely-made furniture maker 

P. Tendercool, as well as purveyors 

of collectable vinyls, vintage 

cameras, photography books, 

and more. 

The former editor of Thailand’s 

Elle Decoration magazine, Rungsima 

Kasikranund, joined Duangrit in 

sourcing the desired objets d’art 

alongside offerings for wellbeing 

such as the juice bar Raw & Real. 

One of the warehouses is a hall of 

food and drink, home to The Fox 

and The Moon, serving delicious 

light salads and soups, and fresh 

brews of coffee can be sipped at 

A Coffee Roaster by LI-BRA-RY. 

Events that give you real food for 

thought can be found in the same 

warehouse at the Doc Club Theater 

with top documentaries from around 

the world being shown with guest 

speaker talks and seminars. With all 

that, an old storage facility becomes 

an integrated, modern culture haven. 

A bonus is the presence of 

delicious Muslim restaurants and 

community nearby where I stop in 

for some mouth-watering Thai- 

Muslim food before heading to the 

Thailand Creative & Design Center 

(TCDC), which is less than a 5 

minute walk from there. 

HANDIWORK BY THE KHLONG 

Soi Kasemsan 1 has never been 

known for anything beyond its 

budget hotels or convenience to a 

skytrain stop, a Khlong Saen Saeb 

boat stop, and the Jim Thompson 

House and Museum in the next 

soi (street) over. Then this past 

August, Yelo House launched yet 

another innovative space in an 

unexpected spot. 

Unusual in its location and 

unmatched in its offerings, Yelo 

House is tucked inside the end of the 

soi, away from the ever-busy traffic 

and mobs of people at the shopping 

Above 

Original exposed 

beams at 

Warehouse 30 

provide an airy area 

to leisurely shop in 

comfort for clothing 

from independent 

designers. 

WAREHOUSE 30 

52-60 Charoen Krung Rd, 

Bang Rak, Bangkok. 

map 

YELO HOUSE 

20/2 Soi Kasemsan 1 (Opposite 

MBK shopping mall) on Rama 1 

Road, Bangkok. 

72 73


malls of the Siam Square area. Yelo 

House is situated in an impressive 

and surprising warehouse that had 

been left abandoned for years. One 

of the four artistic partners, Oh 

Singhasuvich, fell in love with the 

charm of the eroding warehouse and 

teamed up his friends, Hans-Werner 

Muller, Suwanee Suwansaengroj, 

and Sulyawate Prasertwitayakarn 

to revolutionise the space. This 

480-square metre framework 

remains a mix of the original and 

additional space under one roof. 

Walking in, I feel as if I’m entering 

into an artist’s studio. Streams of 

light penetrate through the glass 

walls and overhead skylights. 

The surrounding natural light 

encourages a laid-back connection 

between Yelo House and its 

callers. Besides the colour from 

the painting exhibition hanging 

on the mezzanine floor to my left, 

I also notice the striking yellowcab 

colours of steel columns. Oh 

tells me it’s meant to celebrate 

the original existing space of the 

warehouse, contrasted by the black 

columns to my right and indicating 

to more planned work for a new 

expansion. This section will be a 

co-working space and seminar 

rooms, surrounded by art pieces in 

the exhibition area. 

We continue walking the length 

of the ground floor together. I look 

left and right into each room that 

is for now being arranged as a 

Stylist Market where Thai designers 

bring their collections of clothing 

fashion, home decoration, and 

Top 

Retail shopping 

in converted 

warehouses usually 

guarantees original 

concepts from 

emerging designers. 

Items are made in 

fewer numbers, 

giving a shopper 

near exclusivity in 

the purchase. 

Left and Right 

One can shop, work, 

eat and spend 

all day in much 

productivity in such 

creative spaces. 

Neighbourhood 

locations offer 

accessibility and 

easy directions. 

Streams of light penetrate through the glass 

walls and overhead skylights. 

The surrounding natural light encourages a 

laid-back connection… 

crafts for sale. Both the downstairs 

space and the art exhibition floor 

are changeable to adapt to various 

creative themes. What is permanent 

here is a little restaurant called 

Hungry Me on the top level and a 

coffee corner named Thirsty You; 

both look out to the Khlong Saen Saeb 

canal with its daily boat traffic and 

over to the Baan Krua community on 

the other side of the water. 

After spending time in such a 

cleverly done space, I then follow the 

connecting path along the khlong 

that leads to the world-famous 

silk house and museum of Jim 

Thompson, arriving within 1 minute! 

I wonder what’s new and wander 

further beyond the museum and 

cross the slender arching bridge to 

Baan Krua community to visit the last 

families who are still weaving silk all 

these decades later. 

The similarities between these 

two creative spaces, Warehouse 30 

and Yelo House, are the magic keys 

that opened doors to neglected 

places where the present world 

connects to the overlooked past 

of Bangkok. By using the old 

– namely the warehouses, and 

adding an infusion of inventiveness 

– a new way to rediscover Bangkok 

is born. 

74


GETTING AROUND ON WATER 

If you’ve been curious about taking 

the boat taxis along the canals, 

here’s an opportunity to do so as you 

visit Warehouse 30 and Yelo House. 

Khlong Saen Saeb boats are 

lifesavers for Bangkokians who 

commute to points east and west 

in the city. Consider this practical 

option that’s straightforward in its 

routes along the khlong (canal) and 

packs in many scenic points as a 

major bonus. From the east side of 

Bangkok, the Khlong Saen Saeb boat 

runs parallel with Ramkhamhaeng 

Road, Phetchaburi Road, and ends 

the first section at Pratunam where 

the megamalls are located, the likes 

of Central World and Platinum. 

It’s still the same khlong but 

passengers need to switch to the 

smaller boats because the bridges 

along the way here are lower. They 

run until Saphan Phanfa, right next 

to the Golden Mount (Wat Saket) 

near Democracy Monument, in 

the east of Bangkok all the way 

to the west in the Bang Kapi area 

at Wat Siboonruang, near the 

National Institute of Development 

Administration (NIDA). Incredibly 

cheap, water taxis are a very fast 

alternative to road taxis in Bangkok, 

whose rides are anywhere from 11 to 

20 baht, offering trips from 5:30am 

– 8:30pm. 

Clockwise from Top 

Catching a Bangkok 

water taxi is just 

like catching any 

form of public 

transport. You’ll 

just literally have 

to be quick on your 

feet and jump into 

one for a thrill ride. 

Bangkok’s major 

attractions like the 

Golden Mount (Wat 

Saket) and nearby 

heritage buildings 

can be enjoyed 

while cruising on a 

boat taxi. 

Boats can be packed 

in the morning 

during rush hour. 

For more fun, take 

it when the crowds 

are fewer and you’ll 

wont’ be craning 

your neck to catch 

the sights. 

Fun and fear in riding these 

boats go hand in hand – it requires 

a quick and steady step in and out 

of the boat. Once on the boat, the 

journey of an undiscovered Bangkok 

unfolds. Enjoy the city skyline and 

clear skies from your vantage point 

but also know that you’ll experience 

the artificial blue of plastic as a 

flapping sheet is your best shield 

against splashing water. 

Yelo House and the Jim Thompson 

House are located in the second 

section of the route. If you come from 

the old town, it’s a straight short hop 

to Hua Chang pier. But from the 

east part of town, you will change 

boats at Pratunam pier and get off 

again at Hua Chang pier at the next 

stop. Then it’s a short walk on the 

footbridge along the canal. 

CHAO PHRAYA EXPRESS BOAT 

Travelling on the river in Bangkok 

can easily become one of the 

favourite ways to get around 

the city and comes with a 

romance. It’s fast, cooling yet 

calming and it will make you fall 

in love with Bangkok again. Chao 

Phraya River, a main artery in 

Bangkok snakes along the City of 

Angels from north to south. Flags 

of yellow, orange, and green mark 

the stops. 

From the BTS train at Saphan 

Taksin stop, you can switch to a 

boat journey at the pier below, to 

take the one that comes from the 

left; make sure it goes in the right 

direction as you face the river. 

Departing from the Old Town, 

you head straight to the city where 

tall buildings, all aligned on the left 

side, greet you. The faster boats 

cost more with fewer stops. Just 

make sure you get off at Si Phraya 

pier. Walk to the main street and 

turn right for 200 metres, and 

you will see the Warehouse 30 

compound on the right side. 

76


ตามเข็มนาฬิกา 

จากซ้ายบน 

โซฟาสำหรับ 

นั่งชมสารดคีที่ 

Doc Club Theater 

ข้าวของทั้งแฮนด์เมด 

และกล้องวินเทจ 

น่าเป็นเจ้าของ 

ร้านดอกไม้ 

Wallflower และสแน็ก 

ผลไม้อบแห้งกรุบกรอบ 

ทั้งหมดนี้หาได้ที่ 

โกดังของ Warehouse 30 

รถไฟฟ้าบีทีเอสเปลี่ยนแปลงตารางเวลา 

และวิถีชีวิตของคนเมือง ทำให้นักท่องเที่ยว 

ได้ยลโฉมย่านต่างๆ ในกรุงเทพและได้ 

พบเห็นความคิดสร้างสรรค์ที่ผลิบานใน 

เมืองกรุง ไม่เว้นแม้แต่ซอกหลืบเล็กๆ ที่ 

สถานที่น่าสนใจเหล่านั้นซุกซ่อนอยู่ 

วันนี้เรือคลองแสนแสบและเรือด่วน 

เจ้าพระยาพาเราไปยังโครงการใหม่ 

ล่าสุด Warehouse 30 ที่ก่อตั้งขึ้นเพื่อ 

ฟื้นคืนชีพโกดังเก่า รักษาความมหัศจรรย์ 

ทางสถาปัตยกรรมและเปลี่ยนให้โกดัง 

เหล่านี้เป็นพื้นที่ใช้สอยสมัยใหม่บนถนน 

เจริญกรุงซอย 30 ใกล้กับแม่น้ำเจ้าพระยา 

และ Yelo House ซึ่งตั้งอยู่ตรงข้าม 

สนามกีฬาแห่งชาติ ใกล้กับคลองแสนแสบ 

ตลอดห้าปีที่ผ่านมา ผู้เขียนสังเกต 

เห็นงานศิลปะรูปแบบต่างๆ ใกล้กับ 

ท่าเรือคลองสานและสี่พระยา ไล่มา 

ตั้งแต่ The Space ที่ก่อตั้งและสนับสนุน 

โดยช่างภาพระดับโลก คุณเจมส์ แนทช์เวย์ 

เพื่อใช้เป็นพื้นที่สำหรับนิทรรศการ 

ภาพถ่าย มินิคอนเสิร์ต และกิจกรรม 

มากมาย รวมถึงคุณดวงฤทธิ์ บุนนาค 

สถาปนิกอันดับต้นๆ ของไทยที่ได้ 

เปลี่ยนโกดังเก่าให้เป็นพื้นที่สุดเก๋ 

สำหรับร้านอาหาร ห้องจัดแสดงงาน 

ศิลปะ และพื้นที่จัดกิจกรรม ภายใต้ชื่อ 

The Jam Factory 

ด้วยแนวคิดที่คล้ายคลึงกัน 

Warehouse 30 ได้รับการแปลงโฉมเป็น 

พื้นที่สำหรับร้านค้าที่ผสมผสานแนวคิด 

สร้างสรรค์อย่าง ร้านเสื้อผ้าแบรนด์ 

Lonely Two-Legged Creature ร้าน 

ดอกไม้ Wallflower ร้านเฟอร์นิเจอร์ 

P. Tendercool ร้านขายไวนิลสำหรับ 

สะสม และร้านหนังสือภาพถ่าย นอกจาก 

นี้ยังมีโกดังหนึ่งหลังสำหรับร้านอาหาร 

โดยเฉพาะ หรือจะรับอาหารสมองจาก 

Doc Club Theater ที่เสิร์ฟภาพยนตร์ 

สารคดีจากทั่วโลก ทั้งมีงานสัมมนา และ 

นักพูดรับเชิญมากมายมารวมตัวกันที่นี่ 

ใครๆ อาจรู้จักซอยเกษมสันต์ 1 ใน 

ฐานะเป็นที่ตั้งของโรงแรมราคาถูกใกล้ 

สถานีรถไฟฟ้า ท่าเรือคลองแสนแสบ 

และบ้านจิม ทอมป์สัน แต่ใครจะรู้ว่าเมื ่อ 

เดือนสิงหาคมที่ผ่านมา มีการเปิดตัว 

Yelo House ในโกดังบริเวณท้ายซอยที่ 

ถูกทิ้งร้างมาหลายปี บนพื้นที่ 480 

ตารางเมตรผสมผสานพื้นที่เดิมและส่วน 

ต่อเติมใหม่ใต้หลังคาโปร่งแสงเดียวกัน 

พร้อมแผนการขยายพื้นที่ออกไปเป็น 

co-working space ห้องสัมมนา ที่ราย 

ล้อมด้วยงานศิลปะและนิทรรศการ 

พื ้นที่ชั้นล่างจัดเป็น Stylist Market 

ที่นักออกแบบชาวไทยจะนำเสื้อผ้า 

ของตกแต่งบ้าน งานฝีมือที่ออกแบบเอง 

มาจำหน่าย พื้นที่ทั้งสองส่วนสามารถ 

ปรับเปลี่ยนได้ตามโอกาส แต่สิ่งที่อยู่ 

ถาวรคือร้านอาหาร Hungry Me และ 

ร้านกาแฟ Thirsty You ที่หันหน้าเข้าหา 

คลองแสนแสบ ให้คุณได้ลอบมองเรือ 

สัญจรและชุมชนบ้านครัวฝั่งตรงข้ามได้ 

อย่างไม่รู้เบื่อ ทั้งหมดนี้อยู่ห่างจากบ้าน 

จิม ทอมป์สันเพียงหนึ่งนาทีเท่านั้น 

Warehouse 30 และ Yelo House 

คล้ายคลึงกันในแง่ที่เป็นกุญแจสู่สถานที่ 

ที่ถูกลืม เป็นโกดังเก่าที่รังสรรค์ให้เป็น 

สถานที่แห่งใหม่ และนั่นทำให้เราได้ค้นพบ 

กรุงเทพฯ ในมุมมองที่ไม่มีใครเคยพบเห็น 

มาก่อน 

78

GALLERY 

Colourful Expressions: 

India’s Classic Looks 

Primal colours in India’s quotidian 

life hold a mesmerising joyfulness in 

their vibrancy. Photographer Dinesh 

Khanna captures the enterprising 

hues of vendors and their tantalising 

goods and other ‘windows’ of 

opportunity to colourful street life. 

Words & Photos Dinesh Khanna 

Doors, windows and 

walls are like the facial 

features of a home and 

as expressive for me as are 

the eyes, mouth and skin of a 

human face. I respond to these 

instinctively and photograph 

them constantly even if I may 

be working on another project. 

I am attracted by the 

colours, the forms and the 

materials used for doors and 

windows and what strikes me 

is the diversity across regions, 

whether in India or even abroad. 

Yes, colours and forms are 

definitely different in different 

regions and tend to have a 

distinctive traditional style in a 

particular area. This, of course, 

is true of heritage towns. Modern 

areas and colonies tend to be 

disparate and their doors and 

windows don’t ‘talk’ to me in 

the same way as the ones in the 

old towns do. 

The earthy colours of 

Ladakh have a spiritual 

depth and texture that mix 

together effortlessly. 

82 

83

GALLERY 

TOP 

Street food, to my mind, 

shows both the culinary diversity 

and richness of any society. 

BOTTOM 

Any nation which has diverse and widely 

available street food can pride itself for 

being supportive of its entrepreneurs. 

After all, that’s what street vendors are. 

India, most definitely, is a rich and 

egalitarian place by this measure. 

Here, I capture a morning to night journey 

of street food around the country. 

BOTTOM RIGHT 

Early on a winter morning, steam rises 

from a pot that has seen many winters 

as tea is prepared on a charcoal fire for 

pilgrims and local residents. 

OPPOSITE PAGE 

Modern areas and colonies tend to be 

disparate and their doors and windows 

don’t ‘talk’ to me in the same way as the 

ones in the old towns do. 

84 

85

GALLERY 

The narrow lanes of Varanasi 

have these unexpected but 

charming sights you suddenly 

come across as you turn the 

corner. Here a family, which 

lives within the house, has 

set up a vegetable shop with 

a really attractive display just 

outside their main door. 

86 

87

GALLERY 

“… I must say that the original art 

is that of the inhabitants of the 

houses, which have these features 

{of diversity and colours} and 

I feel I create these images in 

‘collaboration’ with them, even 

though they are not aware of it.” 

BOTTOM AND RIGHT 

The deep colours of Ladakh contrast 

wildly with other parts of the 

country. The architecture in areas 

around India display their own 

brand of fresh brightness. 

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER 

In the early years of his career, Dinesh 

sold calculators in Chawri Bazaar in 

India; quality checked garments in a 

Faridabad factory and cleared tables as 

a busboy in an Upper Eastside bar in 

New York. This rather chequered career 

path was due to his teenage belief that 

if he followed in his photographer 

father’s footsteps, he would be yet 

another victim of the Indian caste 

system. This rebellion further led him 

to a 12-year-long career as a Client 

Servicing Executive in Advertising 

where he finally achieved ‘burn-out’ 

at the ripe old age of 33 years and 

which left him with a burning desire to 

become a professional photographer. 

Twenty-six years into the journey, 

photography is not just a profession 

and a passion but his means of 

understanding and feeling the world 

and life around him. 

Dinesh is also a Co-Founder and 

Managing Trustee of Nazar Foundation, 

which has been set up to promote 

photography as an art form. You can 

check out his work at portfolio at 

dineshkhanna.com. 

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO 

Mid-way through November, 

on the full moon of the 

twelfth lunar month, the 

Thai rivers are full and the 

moon shines at its brightest. 

Celebrations for Loy Krathong 

begin as floats made of 

banana leaves and lanterns 

get released during the night 

sky, carrying wishes for good 

fortune in the new year. 

BANGKOK 92 / CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI 96 / SAMUI 100 / PHUKET, KRABI & TRANG 104 / PATTAYA 108 / HONG KONG 110 / SINGAPORE 114 / KL 118 / 

BAGAN, MANDALAY & YANGON 120 / PHNOM PENH 122 / LUANG PRABANG, DANANG, HO CHI MINH & HOI AN 124 / MUMBAI 126 / MALDIVES 128 

91

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

BANGKOK 

SPOTLIGHT 

Nature in a Culinary Hideaway 

As nature continues to entice in its 

myriad ways, this time its magic has 

inspired the team behind Cuisine de 

Garden, a Chiang Mai-based dining 

destination. Finally opening in the 

Thai capital with its concept of 

Cuisine de Garden Bkk, the design 

team reiterates the nature-inspired 

concept with a dining experience 

that’s a combination of food, design, 

and philosophy. Chef Leelawat 

“Nan” Mankongtiphan marks her 

own culinary moment with a menu 

that showcases a delightful cuisine 

crafted from the finest ingredients 

and giving it a modern twist. The 

serene space unveils itself in a 

bustling Bangkok in the quiet alley 

of Ekamai Soi 2. Recipes correspond 

to a restaurant concept that promises 

to indulge the palate while enjoying 

its imaginative and tranquil space. 

cuisinedegarden.com, 

+66 (0) 61 626 2816 

EMBRACE THE NOSTALGIA 

Tucked in the historic area of Lan Luang, 

Bangkok Publishing Residence (BPR) provides 

new boutique-style accommodations in 

a converted old publishing house where 

legendary Bangkok Magazine was created. 

Uniquely-renovated, the former shophouse 

offers 8 tastefully-decorated rooms and 

hardwood furnishings whose luxurious bed 

linens guarantee a good night’s sleep amidst 

the nostalgic elegance. A stunning rooftop 

garden and outdoor jacuzzi makes them the 

perfect space to sit back and unwind from the 

stress of an urban life. Apart from a memorable 

stay and closeness to the past, the Bangkok 

Publishing Residence is just a short distance 

from city attractions and its current offerings. 

facebook.com/bangkokpublishingresidence, 

+66 (0) 2282 0288 

92

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

BANGKOK 

SPOTLIGHT 

Haute French and 

High Heels 

The latest mouth-watering addition 

in Bangkok’s international culinary 

scene is Brasserie Cordonnier, an 

authentic Parisian restaurant in the 

heart of the city at Sukhumvit 11. 

French for ‘cobbler,’ the brasserie 

offers a mixed concept of food and 

fashion also inspired by Christian 

Louboutin heels; with executive chef 

Clement Hernandez’s skills widely 

recognised since his days at J’aime 

by Jean Michel Lorain. The current 

repertoire gives food lovers pleasing 

French cuisine along with vibrant 

cocktails from the creation of 

renowned mixologist Davide Sambo. 

With its extensive menus of original 

French delicacies, unique dishes, 

and fine wines and spirits, Brasserie 

Cordonnier certainly has something 

for everyone in search of culinary 

refinement. cordonnierbkk.com, 

+66 (0) 2045 4343 

CITY OF ARTS 

Following close on the heels of various biennale art festivals 

in cities of urban cool around the world, the Bangkok Art 

Biennale is set to debut. The premiere fest begins in 2018 

showcasing public art displays from more than 70 Thai and 

international artists under the theme of “Beyond Bliss” from 

November 2018 to February 2019. Works from different 

aspects of the arts, architecture, cinematography, music, and 

performing arts will certainly spark off creativity in the City 

of Angels and shine the spotlight on Bangkok as a major art 

destination. bkkartbiennale.com 

MORE SAVOURY NOODLES 

Nai Soie is a household name among 

Thais and foreigners when it comes 

to succulent beef and pork noodles. 

From generous bowls of broth stewed 

from beef bones and Chinese herbs, 

the place has been serving countless 

simple noodle soups and other 

delicious choices to satisfy the hungry 

stomachs of diners. From its humble 

establishment on the side of Phra 

Athit Road, Nai Soie Beef Noodle 

has unveiled its 2nd branch at Fueang 

Nakhon intersection under the name 

of 26 Braised Beef. Apart from its 

established menus, the new branch 

offers the latest addition of hotpots in 

either pork or beef as well as Kobe beef 

stew in a claypot. 

facebook.com/26Braisedbeef, 

+66 (0) 81 562 5425 

94

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

CHIANG MAI / CHIANG RAI 

Considered one of Thailand’s 

most picturesque and atmospheric 

festivals, “Loy Krathong” comes 

along annually in the evening 

of the full moon and in the 12th 

month of the lunar calendar. 

This year, it falls on November 4. 

People release the “krathong 

(floats creatively made from 

banana trunk and banana leaves 

and flowers) into rivers, canal 

and lakes to pay respect to the 

Goddess of the River. 

In Chiang Mai, the festival 

has an extra dimension with 

Yi Peng, the Northern Thai 

festival of sky lanterns. Together, 

both festivals result in an 

impressively glittering night 

scene, with breath-taking 

sights of the candle-lit krathong 

gliding on the rivers while 

the Yi Peng floats along in the 

night sky. 

SPOTLIGHT 

Loy Krathong 

at the 

Four Seasons 

For those looking for an ideal 

celebration in Chiang Mai, an exclusive 

Loy Krathong night at the Four Seasons 

Resort Chiang Mai is an all-encompassing 

experience. To make it memorable, plan 

a stay at the hotel, enjoy a traditional 

Lanna-style dinner for two and join in 

festival lantern and krathong making 

workshops, culminating into the release 

of the krathong and wishing lanterns 

known as khom loy. 

On Loy Krathong Day itself, ride 

into town for the Krathong Parade 

and witness the delightful sight of 

glowing lights in the sky. You’ll also get 

the best vantage point by the river to 

release lanterns for blessings and good 

fortune. The special package covers 

accommodations, daily breakfast and 

roundtrip airport transfers. fourseasons. 

com/chiangmai/offers/loykrathongfestival-of-lights, 

+66 (0) 53 298 181 

SUSTAINING ECOTEXTILES 

For people with a preference for ecological textiles and use of natural dyes, 

including handweaving processes or the artisan skills of handicrafts – it’s worth 

sparing half a day or even a full day checking out Studio Naenna in Chiang Mai. 

Founded by a former UN official Patricia Cheesman, the studio is managed by her 

daughter Morna who also designs clothing, while she focuses on textile design. 

Their mission is to preserve and revitalise traditional Thai and Lao textiles and 

promote eco-textiles. The work is carried out in collaboration with local weavers 

and the practice of fair trade. 

Booking ahead is recommended for those wanting to learn details about 

the treasures available there. Opening hours: 9am - 5pm, 38/8 Soi Chang Khian, 

Huay Kaew Road, Tambon Chang Phueak, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Mai, 

+66 (0) 53 266 042 

96

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

CHIANG MAI / CHIANG RAI 

THE WHITE TEMPLE 

Anyone who visits “The Black House” should not miss a trip to nearby “Wat 

Rong Khun”, commonly known as “The White Temple”. The contemporary and 

unconventionally-styled temple is the private property owned by national artist 

Chalermchai Kositpipat, a younger contemporary of the late artist Tawan Duchanee. 

These two prominent destinations in Chiang Rai are brainchild projects of the artists 

who are from the same art school in Thailand. Chalermchai himself designed and 

constructed the temple. It’s been said that Tawan’s work represents hell and for 

Chalermchai, it’s heaven. T: +66 (0) 53 673 579, (0) 53 673 967, (0) 53 673 539 

THE BLACK HOUSE 

An extraordinary place for every visitor to Chiang Rai is Baandam 

Museum, commonly known among visitors as “The Black House”. 

True to its name, black is the dominant colour of the museum. 

Home to the late national artist Thawan Duchanee who was born 

in the province, the museum best explains the artist’s lifetime 

of artworks displayed in aged teak wood buildings, sculptures, 

installations and poetry. Most buildings showcase cow and buffalo 

skulls and horns as decorative items. Tables and chairs clad in 

leopard or bear pelts are also part of the aesthetic at the museum 

from his personal stash of collectibles. 414 Moo 13 Nang Lae, 

Mueang, Chiang Rai, T: +66 (0) 53 705 834, (0) 53 776 333, 

(0) 81 673 1155 

C 

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SPOTLIGHT 

A Parade 

of Elephants 

At the beginning of this year, 

almost 100 funky and colourful 

life-size elephant statues 

were seen over Chiang Mai to 

celebrate the 10th anniversary 

of “The Elephant Parade.” 

Marc and Mike Spits initiated 

the project in 2006, moved 

by the story of pachyderm 

landmine victim Mosha at 

the elephant hospital in 

Chiang Mai. Since then, the 

project has raised millions in 

donations to elephant care. 

The exhibition itself delighted 

spectators in Italy, England, 

Amsterdam, California, 

Singapore and Denmark. 

The art concept has made an 

impact and gained momentum 

and now has its own museum 

called “The Elephant Parade 

Land” in the city where it 

all started. An ideal place 

for the family, the museum 

offers education, information, 

shopping and other activities 

where visitors can paint their 

own elephant replicas. Take 

a tour to learn about artists 

and celebrities who have 

“designed” their elephants 

as well, including American 

superstar singer Katy Perry. 

The museum is packed with 

fun facts about these large 

mammals. Shop for cool 

merchandise – you might 

as well take home pieces 

of exquisite work from 

artists such as Paul Smith 

or Virgin Air’s Sir Richard 

Branson. Taking photos with 

exhibited pachyderms is also 

an enjoyable experience. 

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm, 

180/9 Moo. 7, Tambon San 

Phisuea, Amphoe Mueang, 

Chiang Mai, 

+66 (0) 62 918 9621 

MY 

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INTRODUCING THE MOST STYLISH 

SUNDAY BRUNCH ON THE ISLAND 

Enjoy live jazz, free-flowing beverages and savour a fine selection of international cuisine. 

Indulge in a spa experience* or relax on the beach* while your children have fun learning 

at the kids club. Our Brunch is just one of the unique dining experiences to be 

discovered at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. 

Find out more at: 

fourseasons.com/kohsamui 

*additional charge 

98

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

SAMUI 

SPOTLIGHT 

Everyday I Juggle 

Idyllic Samui has gotten more playful 

as the circus comes to town. This 

one’s a unique and exciting addition 

to the island that’s already vibrant 

with recreational offerings. Learn a 

different kind of performance art with 

Samui Circus Studio – a contemporary 

school for fire shows and circus 

performance. Founded by well-known 

performer and juggler Poppy Sanman, 

holiday-goers who would love to try 

their hand at performing or get as 

close to a circus experience as possible 

can sign up for courses. The place also 

offers tailored classes and services 

with choices of activities ranging from 

learning circus, dance, and fire show 

routines to martial arts. Whether 

you’re a first-timer or looking for 

engaging activity during a family 

holiday – the school with its certified 

reputation and professional team of 

entertainment experts will teach you a 

trick or two! samuicircus.com 

RIDE LIKE THE WIND 

Fly high with the unforgettable experience 

of indoor skydiving. EasyFly Koh Samui, 

Thailand’s popular operator of fast ride 

EasyKart has opened a sister branch 

to offer a different kind of action. The 

recreational activity involves a wild ride 

into a wind tunnel and gets you floating 

high. There’s no airplane jump and no 

parachute needed, all it takes is for 

thrill seekers to join in the fun at 

EasyFly’s facility in Chaweng Lake. 

Prepare to experience a real free fall 

sensation within a vertical wind tunnel, 

where the air moves upwards at 

approximately 200km/h. 

easykart.net/koh-samui/easyfly 

NATURE’S TOUCH 

Nestled among the pristine nature of Samui, the Tamarind 

Springs Forest Spa is known for its dedicated day spa. With 

a debut in 1997, the spa is now recognised worldwide for 

superb pampering spa programmes and a method to channel 

the peaceful rhythm of nature. Their unique treatment 

and holistic approach aims at de-stressing the body and 

rejuvenation that’s in tune with the serenity that nature 

brings. Some of Tamarind Springs Forest Spa’s acclaimed 

programmes include the Forest Spa Herbal Steam Saunas 

with a unique sauna room built into a natural rock cave, 

together with the refreshing presence of rock plunge pools. 

Tamarind Springs Forest Spa also offers accommodations 

equally relaxing with their tropical-style villas, healthy 

restaurant with a spectacular view, and yoga classes and 

retreats. tamarindsprings.com, +66 (0) 80 569 6654 

100

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

SAMUI 

SPOTLIGHT 

Sanctuary of the Mind 

Ranging from well-being options 

like yoga, detox guidance, holistic 

healing to fitness, the Orion Retreat 

Centre’s wellness programmes are 

noteworthy for its personal approach. 

With regimens available year-round 

and seasonless in activities, guests can 

enjoy physical and spiritual fulfilment 

anytime. Orion Retreat Centre offers 

wellness programmes that are catered 

to fit the needs of guests from around 

the world, with full understanding 

that everyone has different 

goals and expectations when 

it comes to wellbeing. Their 

attentive care involves a 

friendly and professional team 

of nutritionists, therapists, 

healers, teachers, and skilled 

chefs. With the journey at Orion 

Retreat Centre, the end result 

should be a balanced body and 

mind. orionretreat.com, 

+66 (0) 93 620 8066 

A NEW YEAR AT THE CLIFF 

Since its debut on Samui in 2004, 

The Cliff Bar & Grill has been one of 

the major destinations for savoury 

pleasures. The restaurant has garnered 

Thailand Tatler’s Thailand’s Best Restaurants 

list (2017). Blessed with an unobstructed 

view of the serene Gulf of Thailand, 

the restaurant offers all-day sophisticated 

dining led by executive chef Sergio 

Martelli, with an extensive menu 

of fabulous tapas and noteworthy 

Mediterranean bites. 

For this upcoming New Year’s, 

the Cliff Bar & Grill is offering the 

exclusive New Year’s Eve dinner of a 

sumptuous 5-course menu created 

from excellent ingredients. The two 

seatings for the New Year’s Eve dinner 

are at 6-9pm and 9pm until closing. 

Complimentary glasses of champagne 

accompany the dinner. 

thecliffsamui.com, +66 (0) 77 448 508 

102

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PHUKET / KRABI / TRANG 

SPOTLIGHT 

Popping on Phuket Layan 

From December 15, 2017 through to March 15, 2018, fans 

of contemporary Japanese food can enjoy the creative 

twists of Zuma, a pop-up restaurant on the beach of 

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort. Inspired by informal izakaya 

Japanese dining, Zuma’s pop-up at Sala Layan, the resort’s 

beachfront restaurant offers dishes to be shared and 

savoured. Popular choices that made Zuma an international 

favourite with their award-winning menu include spicy 

beef tenderloin with sesame, yellowtail slices with green 

chillies and miso-marinated black cod. Diners can also enjoy 

dishes from the robata grill alongside the freshest sushi and 

sashimi. phuket-layan.anantara.com, +66 (0) 76 317 200 

GET YOUR COLOURS GOING 

A Phuket destination exemplifying whole body fitness and strength, the Thanyapura Health 

and Sports Resort is organising a ‘Colour Fun Run 2017’ December 9, 2017 at the Saphan 

Hin area of Phuket town. With distances of 2km, 5km, and 10km, this family event is open to 

people of all age groups and limited to 1,000 runners. Tickets now available (starting at Bt350 

for the 1K distance for early birds) with complimentary T-shirt, colour powders and sunglasses. 

All runners who finish will be given a medal for their achievement. The resort will also host an 

after-run party. On a similar fitness note, Thanyapura is also collaborating with Phukethon 2017 

on several running evens taking place December 8-10, 2017 also at the Saphan Hin area, with 

distances of 10km, half marathon (21.1km), and marathon (42.2km). The three-day event is 

now open for online registration at http://event.runlah.com/events/c/pkt17. thanyapura.com, 

+66 (0) 76 336 000 

104

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PHUKET / KRABI / TRANG 

SPOTLIGHT 

By the Seas of Sikao 

Sikao, the northwest district of 

Trang province boasts of gorgeous 

seashores and a national park. 

It’s the go-to beach destination for 

locals, and Sikao serves as the spot 

where most visitors come as a 

hop-off point to Trang or nearby 

islands at the main piers of Pak 

Meng. But the main treat is also the 

pristine Haad Chao Mai National Park 

that covers the entire shoreline area 

of more than 144,000 rai (or 57,000 

acres). The long stretch of white 

beaches are open to the public and 

as an unexpected sight, see content 

cattle as they graze. Make plans to 

spend the day at the national park 

and bring your own picnic basket 

and enjoy the beach. Also nearby is 

Kantang - the former main district of 

Trang where most of the province’s 

trading and commerce happened, 

thanks to its seaport. Now Kantang 

is a popular one-day trip for those 

interested in seeing the glorious past 

of the old port and its gorgeous and 

historic train station. When it’s time 

to dine, sample the district’s famous 

eateries. These seafood restaurants 

have been dishing up meals to diners 

for the longest time and is worth a visit. 

C 

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KRABI WELCOMING STRIPES 

Throughout the month of November, 

Krabi province welcomes the start of 

this year’s tourism season, following the 

end of the monsoon rains. Traditional 

boats locally known as “Hua Tong 

(high bow)” gets adorned with stripes 

of colourful jersey fabrics. This longstanding 

fishermen tradition marks an 

HISTORIC HERBAL SHOP 

In Phuket Old Town, the main street of Thalang is still the place 

that’s best to observe Phuket’s rich legacy in action. Many 

descendants of settled Phuket families still live here, hence the 

street is dubbed as a living museum. At Nguan Choon Tong, one 

can see the original centuries-old Chinese herbal medicine shop 

still selling an array of traditional Chinese prescribed cures and 

more. Entering into the shop, one is met with the perfume of 

aromatic herbs. Open daily (except Sundays): 8am - 5pm 

T: +66 (0) 76 215 901 

MY 

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auspicious moment for these handcrafted 

wood boats commonly used 

by local seamen to transfer tourists in 

and out of the shores as they explore 

Krabi’s magnificent islands. The unique 

shape and uplifted bow design on the 

hua thong boat lets it withstand the 

high waves of the Andaman Sea. Be 

on the lookout for the boat, as it’s a 

common sight around Krabi, Trang and 

Phuket. Krabi alone has about 3,000 

of the distinctive high-bowed boats 

in operation. Anyone interested in 

immersing in the local boating tradition 

can choose to hire a hua thong next time 

a venture to island hop comes to mind. 

tourismthailand.org 

106

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PATTAYA 

INNOVATIVE THEATRE 

Your imagination becomes reality in a new 

phenomenal entertainment for everyone at Singha 

D’Luck Cinematic Theatre. Engaging in this new 

cinematic theatre experience in Pattaya actualises a 

‘Levitating Theatre’ and is equipped with Asia’s latest 

projection system and state of the art technology, 

giving you the best theatre experience with seats 

that offer maximum comfort. The theatre has four 

seating zones with a seating capacity of 1,400 

people. At the moment, a “KAAN” show by Singha 

Corporation is now at the theatre, with a live 

performance that offers an audience the spectacular 

theatrical experiences and world of imagination 

inspired by classical Thai literature. If you’ve no plans 

for the weekend yet, a visit to a new kind of theatre 

might just do it. d-luck.com 

SPOTLIGHT 

Big Fresh 

Finding seafood in Pattaya isn’t difficult, 

but if you’re seeking the ultimate dining 

experience in a perfect atmosphere – not 

to mention good music – then it’s Big Fish 

you’re after. The restaurant located in the 

Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya just 

enhanced its seafood buffet with more 

premium catches for a quality seafood 

BBQ buffet at its best value with free-flow 

wine; amid the sea-inspired artworks in a 

floor-to-ceiling space spanning 2 floors. 

The interior will make you go wow with the 

idiosyncratic blend of industrial design and 

immersive oceanic colours. Adding a special 

touch to the dining experience is superb live 

music with performances from well-known 

local artists. Fresh seafood, live music and 

the company of loved ones will make you feel 

indeed like the big fish. 

siamatpattaya.com/gastronomy/big-fish 

INDOOR FUN OF THE BIGGEST KIND 

Remake quality time with the family with 

fun time at the playground of Harbor 

Pattaya; just the right choice for groups to 

experience the largest indoor playground 

in Asia. As a new and exceptional 

entertainment in Pattaya, the concept of 

“The Family Paradise” lets everyone enjoy 

themselves in various group activities. 

This biggest family entertainment centre 

in ASEAN is divided into many different 

zones including the Trampoline Park, the 

Wall Climbing Gym, SnowLand, RollerLand, 

the Laser Battle, the Rink, AdventureLand 

and HarborLand. A highlight of Harbor 

Pattaya, HarborLand is the largest indoor 

playground in Asia whose world-class 

standard offers endless fun for kids and a 

full family experience. harbor.co.th 

108

HAPPENINGS 

HONG KONG 

SPOTLIGHT 

Clockenflap Returns 

Hong Kong’s premiere music and 

arts festival returns once again to 

enthral fans. Clockenflap 2017, which 

is celebrating its tenth anniversary, 

promises to put on a show like 

no other at Hong Kong’s Central 

Harbourfront. 

Music though remains at the 

cornerstone of this music fest and 

the organisers this year have spared 

no expense to ensure that Clockenflap 

delivers what fans have come to expect. 

And judging by the eclectic mix of 

talents that appeared in previous 

events, this year’s festival will not be 

short on big names in music. 

In addition to headlining musical 

talents the likes of Prodigy, Massive 

Attack and Feist, Cockenflap 2017 will 

also set the stage for Asian musical 

talent to shine. Scheduled to perform 

during the two-day event this year 

are rising Korean R&B artist Dean, 

Chinese rap group Higher Brothers and 

Taiwanese alternative band Hello Nico, 

to name a few. Rock on from 17-19 

November. clockenflap.com 

POSITIVE CHARGE 

The fourth season of the Formula E 

championship kicks off in Hong Kong 

with an exclusive double header. Hong 

Kong will be the battleground for both 

opening rounds of the 2017-2018 

season, as the world’s best drivers arrive 

to compete for honours. 

With this year’s championship 

expanded to 14 rounds, it’s anybody’s 

guess who will capture the chequered 

flag at the world’s premier all-electric 

open-wheel racing series. But if last year’s 

debut event in Hong Kong is anything to 

go by, fans will definitely be treated to a 

grand time. 

Not only will motorsport fans get to 

see the fastest electric cars lay rubber 

on the purpose-built urban track at the 

Central Harbourfront against a stunning 

city skyline, but they’re also get to enjoy 

off-track activities as well at the E-Village. 

So just strap in and enjoy the ride. 2-3 

December, hkformulae.com 

110

HAPPENINGS 

HONG KONG 

BEST FOOT FORWARD 

Covering a distance of 100km, 

Trailwalker is arguably the region’s 

toughest hiking event in the region. 

But challenging athletes is just one 

small part of this signature Hong Kong 

event as Trailwalker also helps raise 

awareness and funds for good causes. 

Organised by Oxfam, Trailwalker 

stands as one of the largest fundraising 

sporting events in Hong Kong. But 

lacing up for this hiking trail is no 

mean feat as participants are required 

to tackle the tough MacLehose Trail 

and other trails in Sai Kung within the 

span of 48 hours. 

To date, close to 100,000 

participants have participated in the 

event, raising over HK$538 million. 

oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk 

AWARD-WINNING NOODLES 

The Michelin Star has continuously 

been the gold standard when it 

comes to rating eateries. And when 

it comes to top honours for ramen, 

only one name truly stands out – 

Tsuta. The Tokyo eatery claimed the 

distinction of winning a Michelin Star 

in 2015, the first ramen restaurant in 

the world to do so. 

Now, armed with the highest 

culinary accolade, Tsuta is setting up 

outlets across the globe, beginning in 

Singapore and now Hong Kong. For 

ramen fans in Asia’s World City, that’s 

certainly good news as they only 

need to venture to Causeway Bay to 

savour this delectable noodles. The 

bad news is there’s an omnipresent 

queue to get by first. 

Granted, the wait isn’t as long 

as the original Tsuta in Tokyo but 

the outlet does limit its signature 

offerings to just 400 bowls per day. 

Open 11.30am to 8pm daily, Hong 

Kong, Causeway Bay, Tang Lung St, 

+852 3188 2639 

SPOTLIGHT 

Not Your Regular 

Take-Out 

Hong Kong’s already popular 

street food scene is set to gain 

more prominence with the arrival 

of HAWKR, a grab-and-go dining 

concept that delivers the best of the 

region. Taking inspiration from the 

best hawker centres from Southeast 

Asia, this newly-opened eatery 

located on the ground floor of Hoi 

Kwong Street in Quarry Bay serves 

up an impressive array of signature 

favourites from the region. 

The brainchild of seasoned 

restaurateurs, HAWKR prides 

itself on serving fresh, healthy and 

hearty dishes to its diners. For Asian 

travellers who had their fill of Dim 

Sum and Roasted Goose, HAWKR is 

perfect to pop in to savour something 

familiar. And to ensure that its 

clientele are duly satisfied, the eatery 

is certainly not short on signature 

Southeast Asian goodies. 

The impressive spread includes 

soup noodles from Malaysia and 

Thailand, along with Indonesian 

Rendang and Vietnamese Baguette 

Sandwiches. Salads and wraps are a 

key feature in HAWKR, all naturally 

made with an Asian spin, of course. 

For those looking to dine in, the outlet 

houses a small bar counter with views 

of the busy street outside. Open daily, 

36 Hoi Kwong Street, +852 2994 9033 

112

HAPPENINGS 

SINGAPORE 

SPOTLIGHT 

Party of the Year! 

When it comes to parties, few hold a candle to ZoukOut. 

And come December, Southeast Asia’s longest running 

annual dance music festival returns to get partygoers in 

a frenzy with pulsating lights, heart-pumping beats and 

booming sets delivered by the best DJs in the world. 

This year’s edition will arguably be the biggest yet in 

the festival’s 17 year history with a 12-hour dusk-tilldawn 

party held at Siloso Beach, Sentosa. To ensure that 

the expected crowd of 45,000 fans will be kept happy, the 

organisers have already begun assembling an impressive 

list of performers to man the decks at this massive 

outdoor party. 

Already scheduled to perform are the likes of Techno 

House maestro Claptone and Electronic Dance producer 

and DJ, Marshmello. Also announced to appear are 

Flume, Guiboratto and Robin Schulz, with more acts and 

artists to be named soon. 

8-9 December, zoukout.com/2017 

MEET THE FAMILY 

After touring the UK, the Addams Family musical comedy will 

land at the MES Theatre at Mediacorp, Singapore for a limited 

run. Featuring the iconic characters of the TV series and motion 

picture, the new stage musical puts this kooky family front 

and centre of a brand new adventure. The Addams Family 

will feature in an all new original 

story with Gomez Addams, 

the patriarch of the family, 

having to face his worst 

nightmare – the new (and 

normal) boyfriend of his 

daughter, Wednesday. 

15 November 

to 3 December, 

theaddamsfamily.co.uk 

BEST FOR BRUNCH 

The owners at PS.Cafe claim that 

the restaurant is a “refuge for social 

gathering”. And judging by the long 

lines waiting to get into the venue at 

Harding Road each weekend, there’s 

definitely truth to their claim. 

A hotspot for the Singaporean brunch 

crowd, PS.Cafe prides itself on its hearty 

offerings of savoury and sweet classics 

that occupy space on its menu. Signature 

specials include PS.Cafe’s sinfully-yetdelightful 

truffle shoestring fries, as well as 

its impressive array of cakes, puddings and 

tarts. Open daily 8am-11pm, 28b Harding 

Road, pscafe.com 

114

HAPPENINGS 

SINGAPORE 

CELEBRATING INDIAN ARTS 

For the 16th year running, the best Indian artists and performers in Singapore and the 

region will gather on stage to perform at the Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts. 

Held at the Esplanade, the festival coincides with the annual Deepavali celebrations 

also known as the Festival of Lights. 

Despite its humble beginnings in 2002, the Kalaa Utsavam has expanded 

beyond its three-day festival format and now takes place across ten days. Designed 

and curated to showcase the best of Indian arts, the event presents an extensive 

programme made up of classical as well as contemporary performances across 

theatre, music and dance. 

Scheduled to perform this year include Apsaras Arts, Sharul Channa, Raka Maitra 

and Mohamed Noor from Singapore who will be joined by renowned Indian artists 

such as Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Daya Shankar, as well as new upcoming artists like 

flautist B Vijayagopal and progressive rock band Agam. 17-26 November. 

facebook.com/kalaautsavam 

SPOTLIGHT 

Vintage Diner 

With a range of classic rides of both 

the two and four-wheeled variety, 

Kombi Rocks in Serangoon has been 

a gathering space for motorheads 

and fans of classic automobiles in 

Singapore. The quirky and throwback 

feel of the place is indeed charming, 

which is why it’s growing as a 

prominent venue for both events 

as well as weddings. 

The diner preserves the cuisine that 

was served in the original restaurant 

which occupied the premises in the 

1970s. As such the menu boasts a 

number of Teochew-Thai fusion dishes 

alongside hearty American desserts. 

Complimenting their F&B offerings 

is also an extensive merchandise area 

with model cars as well as an in-house 

barbershop, aptly named Autocutt. 

Nevertheless, it is still the cars 

that are the stars here, especially the 

vintage Volkswagen Kombi van, which 

the outlet is named after. Popular with 

the Instagram crowd, Kombi Rocks 

also rents out their vintage collection 

of cars and bikes for events and for 

outdoor catering as well. For a true 

experience, opt for the Ride n Dine, 

which consists of a chauffeur-driven 

joyride in 1960s Kombi and a delectable 

4-course meal at the restaurant. Open 

daily, 11am-12pm, 66 Yio Chu Kang Rd., 

kombirocks.com 

116

HAPPENINGS 

MALAYSIA 

KUALA LUMPUR / BENTONG 

SPOTLIGHT 

Creative Space 

From the 1960s to the mid-80s, the 

Art Printing Works (APW) carved a 

reputation of being one of the most 

recognised printers in the greater 

Kuala Lumpur area. As businesses 

ventured toward the digital era, the 

once prominent print factory slowly 

disappeared into obscurity. 

However, in 2013, APW caught 

a second wind, after its owners 

repurposed it into a creative space. 

Now four years on, the area is not 

only a prominent dining destination 

for KL-ites but also a highly-coveted 

space for events for corporations, 

small businesses as well as individuals. 

The original Printing Factory is 

still retained within the confines of 

the premises but the appeal of APW 

is largely down to its collaborative 

workspaces and meeting spaces that 

are offered. The facility is also a 

popular hangout for foodies with a 

wide variety of cuisine on offer with 

outlets such as Proof+, dishing out 

fresh oven-baked pizzas and Kaiju, 

serving creative Thai-Japanese fusion 

dishes, also occupying space within APW. 

Weekends are when the area truly 

comes alive as APW has become a 

prominent brunch destination, thanks 

to the inventive chefs at the Breakfast 

Thieves and well-trained Baristas 

at Pulp, a hip and happening coffee 

roaster that has made APW their base 

of operations. 

Open daily, 29 Jalan Riong, Bangsar, 

apw.my 

SPOTLIGHT 

Best of Malaysia 

Under One Roof 

Nestled within the lush and vibrant 

Lake Gardens, surrounded by expansive 

trees is this unassuming, yet highlypopular 

Malay Restaurant. Situated 

on the top floor of a multi-storey car 

park, Restoran Rebung could be a hard 

find for first-timers, but local diners 

continuously make a beeline for this 

eatery when the hunger pangs strike 

for authentic Malay cuisine. 

Owned and operated by local Chef 

Ismail, a familiar name in the culinary 

circle in the country, Rebung dishes 

out a wide array of local delights and 

specialities. Do not allow the simple 

décor of the restaurant to fool you as 

an impressive spread of dishes await 

the moment you pass through the 

entrance way. For small eaters, there is 

a downside as there is no a la carte menu 

here as the restaurant caters exclusively 

for buffets, but the good news is Rebung 

is not short on classic Malay dishes. 

Regulars can attest to that Rebung 

delivers the best of Malaysia under 

one roof, including some hard to find 

Malay fare, which can only be found 

upon venturing out to the outskirts of 

the city. Best of all, they’re all laid out 

across an impressive spread for diners 

to savour to their hearts content. Just 

be prepared to bring an appetite and 

you’ll be duly rewarded. 

Open 9am to 10pm, Level 5 of 

Bukit Aman Multi-Storey Carpark, 

restoranrebungdatochefismail.com 

RELIVE THE MAGIC 

The fantastical world of Harry Potter 

comes to life once again with a new 

concert series. Harry Potter & the 

Philosopher’s Stone in concert will see the 

beloved film screened on a large highdefinition 

screen whilst accompanied by 

live music performed by a full orchestra. 

The concert series has already made 

its way around the world with sold-out 

performances in major cities across the 

globe. In November, Malaysia hosts this 

exclusive event, which will be performed 

by the National Symphonic Orchestra 

at the Plenary Hall at the Kuala Lumpur 

Convention Centre. 

Audiences will not only get to relive 

the magic of the film, which kick-started 

the highly-popular franchise, but also hear 

the mastery of John Williams’ unforgettable 

film score performed note for note as the 

magic unfolds on screen. 4-5 November, 

harrypotterinconcert.com 

CHRISTMAS WITH KITARO 

Grammy-award winning artiste Kitaro will be entertaining 

audiences on Christmas Eve at Resorts World Genting 

Highlands. The Japanese supreme instrumentalist, famous for 

his brand of contemplative, highly melodic synthesizer music, 

will showcase his renowned talents with a latest creative 

effort, Kojiki and the Universe. 

An experiment in merging music with the movies of the 

universe, Kitaro will perform his signature music – which 

will be accompanied by dynamic images of the universe that 

were provided by both the Kyoto University as well as NASA. 

By merging his melodic sounds along with actual time-lapse 

images of the cosmos, audiences and fans will undoubtedly be 

treated to a multi-sensory feast of the 

senses provided by one of music’s true 

masters. 24 December, rwgenting.com 

118

HAPPENINGS 

MYANMAR 

BAGAN / MANDALAY / YANGON 

SPOTLIGHT 

Ayeyarwady 

Journey 

Feel the first winter breeze greet 

your face on the MGRG Express, 

the popular express boat that’s 

been gliding on the Ayeyarwady 

River since 2001. The company that 

created the cruise has launched a 

new MGRG Express which brings 

passengers back and forth between 

Mandalay and Bagan. Outfitted 

with a new attractive design, a 

focus has been given to passenger 

safety and comfort along the trip. 

Promising a pleasant journey, this 

scenic river trip passes pagodas 

and Buddhist temples on both 

sides of the riverbanks. Just sit 

back and seek out sights of serene 

river life. The one-day trip departs 

Mandalay at around 7am and 

arrives Bagan in the evening. 

mgrgexpress.com, 

+95 2 66204, +95 11 202734 

BIKING IN AND AROUND YANGON 

Warm up in the cooler season with 

a bike ride around Yangon. Apart 

from roaming around the city to 

see popular tourist attractions, you 

can also enjoy seeing Yangon in 

a more intimate way. Bike World 

Explores Myanmar (BWEM) offers 

a Friday night ride in downtown 

Yangon or a Sunday morning bike 

ride outside of Yangon. The night 

ride ambles through the downtown 

area with stops at various spots 

for drinks and to regroup, with a 

return to the starting point around 

midnight. You can also enjoy an 

entire day cycling on Sunday as the 

trip departs at 6.30am. Cyclists are 

taken by vehicle to a destination 

30 miles north of Yangon where 

the off-road ride commences. The 

activity ends with a vehicle trip 

back to Yangon, arriving about 

3pm. cyclingmyanmar.com, 

+95 1 527 636 

TO MARKET, TO MARKET 

Visiting a local food market is one way to observe a bit of local 

charm and see artisanal products invitingly displayed. Around 

16 kilometres south of downtown Yangon, the town of Thanlyin 

formerly known as Syriam, served as a port during the late 

1500s and early 1600s. Now it is the well-known site for the 

covered area of Thanlyin market. Even though it is situated 

close to the country’s new Special Economic Zone, Thanlyin 

market is still able to keep its original ambiance. The market 

offers fresh seafood at reasonable prices, fresh fruits and 

vegetables and local cooking ingredients. Even if you don’t buy 

anything, the market is still worth the visit. 

Open daily, 16 kilometres south of Yangon 

120

HAPPENINGS 

CAMBODIA 

PHNOM PENH 

SPOTLIGHT 

The 240 by Maads 

For more contemporary fashion 

and designs in Phnom Penh, The 

240 by Maads offers colourful 

selections of designed products by 

both local Cambodian, regional and 

international artists. The result is a 

wide choice of fashion, accessories, 

and home decorations that serve 

as ideal souvenirs. The bright 

yellow concept store is adjacent 

to a café, also run by Maads, one 

of Cambodia’s leading hospitality 

groups with a repertoire of 

hotels and restaurants. The 

café serves light meals, coffees 

and a myriad of drinks. The 240 

Starting off as an NGO-based entity back in 1955, Rajana Crafts 

was founded to revive the Cambodian arts and design grandeur that 

existed from the 9th to 14th century, with an emphasis on resurrecting 

the creative talents of the local people. By offering Cambodian people 

a sustainable income through their crafts, the organisation has also 

offered people a chance to work from home while caring for their 

family. Now an independent Cambodian-run nonprofit and social 

enterprise, Rajana has two shops in Phnom Penh, one on Street 240 

and the other on Street 450. facebook.com/rajanacrafts 

features sustainable craft products from 

Pomelo for Myanmar, a non-profit craft 

shop that supports the livelihoods of 30 

disadvantaged group and artisans, as well 

as Laurent Villate’s collection of paintings 

with the “Views of Phnom Penh,” series. 

Vibrant patterned jackets by designer 

Anna Lou and a handcrafted map by 

Travel Roll from Raphael Seyfried are 

among the striking pieces. Eclectic pieces 

of furniture are potential buys to surely 

change the design mood of your abode 

back home. facebook.com/The240pp 

GOOD THINGS 

On the leafy street of 240 in Phnom Penh sits a special shopping 

destination for memorable Cambodian souvenirs. Rajana Crafts dedicates 

its inventory to showcasing and selling handcrafted items made and 

designed by Cambodian villagers and craftspeople. In one of its stores 

on a hip street in Phnom Penh, products range from Khmer-art inspired 

jewellery, pottery, clothing, and accessories to Cambodian’s signature 

shawls and scarves. 

A POOLSIDE CINEMA PARADISO 

Enjoy movie classics under the nostalgic 

Cambodian sky. From November until 

December 20, 2017, the Raffles Hotel 

Le Royal in Phnom Penh is organising 

their annual ritual of ‘Cinema Paradiso’, 

showcasing film classics by the pool. 

The screening schedules beckon movie 

buffs with a classic selection, ranging 

from Amadeus (1984) on November 15 

and Les Demoiselles de Rochefort (1967) 

on November 22, to Jackie (2016) on 

November 29 and Raiders of the Lost Ark 

(1990) on December 6 and Home Alone 

(1981) on December 20. 

Seating for the feature starts at 

6.30pm, while the movie comes on at 

7.00pm. Held every year at Raffles Hotel 

Le Royal, guests and non-guests alike can 

enjoy the hotel’s iconic pool garden. Price 

is US$23 per person, inclusive of half a 

bottle of wine, finger foods and canapés 

or US$35 for half a bottle of Cava. So, 

bring a friend, order a whole bottle 

and indulge in an evening in the hotel’s 

elegant surroundings and its atmospheric 

past of the Cambodian capital. 

122

HAPPENINGS 

LAOS / VIETNAM 

LUANG PRABANG / DANANG / HO CHI MINH / HOI AN 

ROMAN HOLIDAY IN HO CHI MINH CITY 

SPOTLIGHT 

3D Art 

Following its success in Thailand, 

“Art in Paradise” – the world’s 

biggest 3D Art museum – finally 

makes it to Vietnam’s booming 

resort town of Danang. Its popularity 

may transcend that of other cultural 

spots like museums as the largescale 

three-dimensional art pieces 

try to tempt visitors with its brand 

of humour and entertainment. Art 

in Paradise Danang showcases a 

collection of more than 130 unique 

and extraordinary three-dimensional 

art pieces. 

With ‘Art in Paradise Danang’, 

you enter a modern white building at 

C2 Block at 10 Tran Nhan Tong Street 

with anticipation. Then, shoes are 

requested to be taken off. Next is a 

surprising sight and a mind-blowing 

look at 3D art collections like that of 

a dark creepy tower, the Smurfs and 

a Flying Carpet. They look real, 

if startling, in all dimensions. 

Distributed in several large rooms, 

the artwork done by South Korean 

artists is impressive in scale and 

dimension. People will try to strike 

the silliest pose and before you know 

it, you’ll want to do the same, like 

trying to tame a lion. Open daily from 

9am to 10pm, facebook.com/aipdanang, 

+84 91 159 11 00 

FULL MOON IN HOI AN 

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 45 minutes south of 

Danang, will turn off city lights and let moonlight transform 

the ancient port town into a magical night; complemented 

with flickering light from candles and silk lanterns. The 

riverside town, with its mix of eras and styles that range from 

wooden Chinese shophouses and temples to colourful French 

colonial buildings and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, 

celebrates the Hoi An Lantern Festival every full moon night, 

and November and December are the best times to enjoy the 

fresh air and enjoy the atmospheric town lit up. The two last 

full moons of the year are on November 2 and December 1. 

vietnamtourism.gov.vn 

Known as the capital of motorcycles, Ho 

Chi Minh City has more than four million 

bikes and another 1,500 are added each 

year. The Vietnamese believe their scooters 

and mopeds can carry anyone – including 

the tourists – to anywhere, anytime. 

Like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck 

did in “Roman Holiday”, visitors can enjoy 

a larger dose of adventure on a vintage 

Vespa in Ho Chi Minh City. Tours offered 

by Vietnam Vespa Adventures transport 

visitors to the city’s lesser-know areas on 

beautifully restored vintage scooters. 

A well-versed local guide leads halfday 

options like the “Insider’s Saigon”, 

traversing through the streets for views of 

city life including local stops past temples 

smoky with incense sticks in the old 

Cholon nieghbourhood, or places where 

bird owners gather on weekend mornings 

as they take their tweeting pets out for 

the day. Significant places in history, like 

the spot where the Buddhist monk Thich 

Quang Duc burned himself to death, are 

covered in the tour. 

Snarling traffic and negotiating through 

historic street blocks and alleys make 

motorcycles the obvious vehicle of choice. 

When cars and buses stop at red lights, 

scooters fill the gaps and try to stay at 

the front row. Before traffic lights turn 

green, tourists exchange greetings with 

local riders and riders themselves flirt with 

drivers. Yet the romance is fleeting. As 

soon as the lights change, scooters dash 

away on their journey. vespaadventures.com 

ALFRESCO FILM FEST 

The annual Luang Prabang Film Festival (LPFF) returns to the 

ancient Lao capital on December 8-13, transforming the fabled 

riverside town into an open-air cinema. The festival showcases 

a range of feature film screenings, short film programmes, panel 

discussions, and events. This year, LPFF audiences and visitors alike 

can look forward to a continuation of the SPOTLIGHT programme 

with a new focus on Thailand, led by Bangkok Post writer Kong 

Rithdee. With a current Thai film industry flourishing across many 

genres, this year’s SPOTLIGHT on Thai films should be fascinating 

for festivalgoers. One of Asia’s most ambitious cinematic events, 

LPFF might be the world’s only film festival held in a location 

without a single movie theatre. The festival has become known as 

an unmissable event for filmmakers from across the region, with 

plenty of networking opportunities with professionals from the 

ever-expanding Southeast Asian film industry. LPFF also stands 

apart from other film festivals in that it gives audience members 

intimate access to filmmakers, whether it be after their screenings, 

at public discussions, or at festival events. lpfilmfest.org 

124

HAPPENINGS 

INDIA 

MUMBAI 

SPOTLIGHT 

Eat Street 

Mumbai’s dining scene has seen 

resurgence lately and whether you’re 

looking for global cuisine or Indian 

food, the city will not disappoint. For 

an innovative take on regional Indian 

food, head to The Bombay Canteen. 

Feast on the must-have Kejriwal 

Toast, a crunchy housemade pao 

(bread) topped with creamy egg, and 

laced with spicy coriander and chilli 

chutney. If you’re dining in a group, 

pre-order their succulent Milkbraised 

Kashmiri Raan (roast leg of 

lamb) served with a fragrant Yakhni 

Pulao (rice dish). For an updated 

take on the city’s beloved Irani cafés, 

check out SodaBottleOpenerWala’s 

range of Parsi dishes, from Chicken 

Baida Roti (a wrap) and Berry Pulao to 

Dhansak (mix of lentils, vegetables, 

and meat) and Lagan nu Custard 

(baked caramel custard). If you’re 

looking for a swinging time, there 

are several new watering holes worth 

visiting. Toast & Tonic serves up 

some excellent gin cocktails. Try 

The Herbalist, a generous splash 

of gin with basil and orange tonic, 

which pairs splendidly with any of 

their small plates – we are partial 

to the Bajra (millet) and Ricotta 

Gnudi, and the Andouille Sausage 

(...continued from the front flap) 

on Sourdough Toast. 

In this explosive 

Across 

book, bestselling author Shashi 

town, at 

Tharoor reveals with acuity, impeccable research, and 

trademark wit, just how disastrous British rule was for 

Kode, partake of some India. Besides examining innovative the many ways which the and 

colonizers exploited India, ranging from the drain of 

national resources to Britain, the destruction of the 

Indian textile, steel-making and shipping industries, and 

theatrical ‘three-course’ the negative transformation of cocktails 

agriculture, he demolishes 

the arguments of Western and Indian apologists 

for Empire on supposed benefits of British rule, 

– we recommend 

including 

their 

democracy and 

take 

political freedom, 

on 

the rule of 

law, and the railways. The few unarguable benefits—the 

English language, tea, and cricket—were never actually 

intended for the benefit of the colonized but introduced 

the Bloody Mary, which to serve the interests of the is colonizers. served 

Brilliantly 

narrated and passionately argued, An Era of Darkness 

will serve to correct many misconceptions about one of 

the most contested periods of Indian history. 

with frozen lime foam and vodka 

Q 

SHASHI THAROOR is the bestselling author of fifteen 

macaron. The Bombay previous books, Canteen, both fiction and non-fiction, Unit besides 1, 

being a noted critic and columnist. His books include 

the path-breaking satire The Great Indian Novel (1989), 

the classic India: From Midnight to the Millennium 

Process House, Kamala Mills, Lower Parel; 

(1997), and most recently, India Shastra: Reflections 

on the Nation in Our Time (2015). He was a former 

Under Secretary-General of the United Nations and 

SodaBottleOpenerWala, a former Minister 02, of State Ground for Human Resource Floor, 

Development and Minister of State for External Affairs 

in the Government of India. He is a two-time member 

of the Lok Sabha from Thiruvananthapuram chairs 

The Capital Building, G Block, Bandra Kurla 

Parliament’s External Affairs Committee. He has won 

numerous literary awards, including a Commonwealth 

Writers’ Prize, and was honoured as New Age Politician 

Complex; Toast & Tonic, of the Year Unit (2010) by NDTV. 1, He was Ground awarded the Floor, 

Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, India’s highest honour for 

overseas Indians. [For more on Shashi Tharoor, please 

see www.shashitharoor.in. Follow him on Twitter 

Jet Airways-Godrej BKC @ShashiTharoor Building, and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ Bandra 

ShashiTharoor]. 

Cover painting: OFFICER OF 16TH LANCERS, India, 1846 

Kurla Complex; Kode, © MarkChurms.com Unit 11, 1994. All Rights Oasis Reserved City, Gate 

Cover design: Bena Sareen 

No. 4, Kamala Mills, Lower Parel 

`699 

ALEPH BOOK COMPANY 

An independent publishing firm 

promoted by Rupa Publications India 

non-fiction 

www.alephbookcompany.com 

AN ERA OF SHASHI 

DARKNESS THAROOR 

STAGE CALL 

The city’s theatre season comes alive now, with both the premier 

venues in the city putting up a scintillating calendar of plays and events. 

Whether you choose to head to South Mumbai at the venerable NCPA 

(ncpamumbai.com) at Nariman Point, or to the suburban gem of Prithvi 

Theatre (prithvitheatre.org) in Bandra, you will be spoilt for choice. And 

since last year, a new icon has been added to the city’s theatre scene 

– the 100-year-old Royal Opera House recently reopened following 

an extensive renovation programme. The plush, three-tier auditorium 

has been restored to its Baroque glory, complete with gilded ceilings, 

decorated domes, elaborate chandeliers, stately balconies, and deep red 

upholstery. It’s quite an experience catching a performance in its regal 

ambience. The opera house currently hosts plays and events, though it 

did host the Italian opera Il Matrimonio Segreto in July. Check out the 

schedule at the three venues for the days of your visit, and book your 

tickets online at bookmyshow.com. 

‘Rare indeed is it to come across... 

history that is so readable and 

so persuasive.’—AmitAv Ghosh 

BOOK CLUB 

n 1930, the American historian and philosopher 

IWill Durant wrote that Britain’s ‘conscious and 

deliberate This bleeding is of India… also [was the] the greatest crime time when the literati 

in all history’. He was not the only one to denounce the 

rapacity and cruelty of British rule, and his assessment 

was descend not exaggerated. Almost thirty-five upon million Indians the city with not one 

died because of acts of commission and omission by 

the British—in famines, epidemics, communal riots and 

wholesale but slaughter two like the reprisal literature killings after the festivals in the 

1857 War of Independence and the Amritsar massacre 

of 1919. Besides the deaths of Indians, British rule 

impoverished offing. India a Tata manner that beggars Lit belief. Live! (litlive.in) kicks 

When the East India Company took control of the 

country, the chaos that ensued after the collapse of 

the things Mughal empire, India’s off share in of world November GDP was with four days 

23 per cent. When the British left it was just above 

3 per cent. 

of author discussions, book launches, 

The British empire in India began with the East India 

Company, incorporated in 1600, by royal charter of 

Her workshops, Majesty Queen Elizabeth I, to trade writing in silk, spices contests and 

and other profitable Indian commodities. Within 

a century and a half, the Company had become a 

power more. to reckon with The in India. In 1757, festival under the will be held from 

command of Robert Clive, Company forces defeated 

the ruling Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula of Bengal at Plassey, 

through 16-19 a combination of November superior artillery and even this year at NCPA 

more superior chicanery. A few years later, the young 

and weakened Mughal emperor, Shah Alam II, was 

browbeaten and into Prithvi issuing an edict that Theatre. replaced his own Come December, 

revenue officials with the Company’s representatives. 

Over the next several decades, the East India Company, 

backed Times by the British government, Litfest extended (timeslitfest.com) its control 

takes 

over most of India, ruling with a combination of 

extortion, double-dealing, and outright corruption 

backed things by violence and superior force. a notch This state of with literature 

affairs continued until 1857, when large numbers of the 

Company’s Indian soldiers spearheaded the first major 

rebellion events against colonial interspersed rule. After the rebels were with music and 

defeated, the British Crown took over power and 

ruled the country ostensibly more benignly until 1947, 

when entertainment. India won independence. Catch the action 

(continued on the back flap...) 

from 15-17 December at Mehboob 

Studios in Bandra. 

126

HAPPENINGS 

MALDIVES 

If you’ve got time in Malé before 

heading out to your atoll of choice, 

consider a tour in the capital city. 

A street grid plan makes directions 

easy, stroll are easily accomplished in 

a few hours, or join a guided tour with 

information that can be provided at 

your guesthouse or hotel. 

Wander around the friendly town 

and take in sights like Sultan Park, 

which now sits on former palace 

grounds in the 16th century and the 

President’s palace, Mulee Aage, in 

a colonial-style bungalow design. 

There’s the National Museum and the 

golden-domed Grand Friday Mosque, 

SPOTLIGHT 

A Malé Kind of Day 

ULTIMATE BEST 

Being praised as Asia’s 

Best Airport Hotel by the 

International Hotel Awards 

three years in a row is of 

high accolade. Ticking off 

all the right boxes for views 

and service and beyond 

has propelled the Hulhule 

Island Hotel to international 

recognition. 

Located on the other side 

of the Maldivian capital Malé, 

a stay at one of the hotel’s 

136 luxurious guest rooms 

promises unobstructed views 

of the magnificent blue sea 

and pristine private beach. It’s 

among one the top choices 

of superstars and VIPs as 

the place to recharge before 

embarking on their journey 

to the islands. To unwind, 

there’s the spa’s traditional 

Balinese massage for starters, 

or a variety of sports such as 

golf, beach volleyball, tennis 

and basketball as other leisure 

time options. If there’s a desire 

to visit the capital of Malé, a 

shuttle boat service is at the 

ready. hih.com.mv 

and the historic, 17th century Hukuru 

Miskiiy (Old Friday Mosque), often 

described as looking like a wedding 

cake. Check beforehand to see which 

buildings allow drop-in visitors. The 

main market offers a local spectrum 

of fresh seafood, enticing fruits and 

vegetables, including fabrics and 

items every household needs in 

colourful displays. At the Malé main 

waterfront esplanade and boat 

harbour, village ferries and resort 

launches run along the strikingly 

blue waters to several points in 

North Malé Atoll’s numerous islands. 

visitmaldives.com 

SAVING A NATURAL BEAUTY 

Consisting of 26 atolls, all 1,190 islands of the Maldives are inhabited – but not with humans as the 

majority. With a total area of about 90,000 square kilometres, the Maldives has a long history as rich as 

other places on earth. Once seized by Portugal and later a part of Ceylon before Great Britain, Maldivian 

independence came in 1953, followed by a series of reforms and development. 

Now, some hotel properties are working hard to ensure that this tropical getaway maintains 

its beauty. The blue atolls with their extensive coral islands, and corals are vulnerable to strong waves, 

winds, currents and rising temperatures that can wreck or uproot them. They are addressing the issue 

of coral bleaching, as the coral is described as being deprived of the algae that provides 80 per cent of its 

nutrients. The Centara Ras Fushi, as part of their CSR activity with hotel guests, organises regular 

re-planting events and nurseries for such corals. Guests are invited to join their coral recovery programme 

in which Best Dives offers educational activities with trained divers who provide guidance through proper 

replanting procedures. Two types of corals – hard and soft – are maintained and replanted at the ridges 

around the resort, a popular snorkelling spot. centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/crf, +960 664 3880 

128

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 132 / ROUTE MAP 140 / AIRCRAFT INFO 142 / AIRPORT MAP 144 

131

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 

10 LUCKY WINNERS 

FROM THE CUSTOMER 

SATISFACTION 

SURVEY 

Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited 

led by Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, 

President (3rd from Left) together with 

Mr. Prote Setsuwan, Vice President 

– Marketing (4th from Left) and Mrs. 

Darunee Debavalya, Senior Director – 

Customer Satisfaction and Relationship 

Management (2nd from Left) had the 

pleasure of selecting 10 lucky winners. 

This resulted from the Bangkok 

Airways Customer Satisfaction Survey 

1/2017. The ceremony was held at 

Bangkok Airways Ticketing Office on 

Vibhavadi Rangsit Road. 

บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ จำกัด (มหาชน) หรือ 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส นำโดยนายพุฒิพงศ์ 

ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ 

(กลาง) พร้อมด้วย คุณพรต เสตสุวรรณ 

รองกรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ ฝ่ายการตลาด 

(ที่ 4 จากซ้าย) และคุณดรุณี เทพวัลย์ 

ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโสส่วนบริหารความพึงพอใจและ 

ความสัมพันธ์ลูกค้า (ที่ 2 จากซ้าย) เป็นประธาน 

จับรางวัลผู้โชคดี 10 ท่าน จากการสำรวจความ 

พึงพอใจของผู้โดยสาร ครั้งที่ 1 ประจำปี พ.ศ. 

2560 ณ สำนักงานออกบัตรโดยสาร สายการบิน 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ถนนวิภาวดีรังสิต 

1. Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, President of Bangkok Airways (Middle) 2. Mr. Michael Chow, Group Publisher – Travel group of TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd. 

(2nd from left) 3. Mr. Pierre Quek, Online Publisher, of TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd. (2nd from right) 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS VOTED BEST REGIONAL AIRLINE 2017 BY TTG ASIA 

Recently, Bangkok Airways 

Public Company Limited, led 

by President Mr. Puttipong 

Prasarttong-Osoth, received 

the “Best Regional Airline 

2017 Award.” Mr. Michael 

Chow, Group Publisher of 

the travel group TTG Asia 

Media, presented the award 

at the 28th Annual TTG Travel 

Awards 2017 Ceremony 

and Gala Dinner, held at the 

World Ballroom of Centara 

Grand at Central World. 

Mr. Puttipong said, “On 

behalf of everyone at Bangkok 

Airways, I am proud to receive 

the TTG Travel Awards as Best 

Regional Airline this year. With 

our years of experience, we 

recognise this esteemed award 

and our airline is honoured to 

be acknowledged. I would like 

to extend our thanks to all the 

readers of TTG Asia, TTG China, 

TTG India, TTG Mice, TTG BT Mice 

China, other TTG Associations 

and TTG Asia Luxury for 

casting their votes for us. This 

achievement not only reflects 

our internationally recognised 

level of service and safety 

standards, it also strengthens 

our commitment to delivering 

excellent services and products 

for our passengers and making 

Bangkok Airways “Asia’s Boutique 

Airline”. 

Organised annually by 

TTG Asia, the TTG Asia Travel 

Awards honours the best of 

the best in the Asia-Pacific 

travel trade. This prestigious 

travel industry event marks 

a time for the industry 

to recognise exemplary 

organisations that raise the 

bar of excellence. 

เมื่อเร็วนี้ๆ บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ จำกัด (มหาชน) หรือ สายการบิน 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ได้รับรางวัลสายการบินระดับภูมิภาค 

ยอดเยี่ยมประจำปี 2560 จากการประกาศรางวัล ทีทีจี ทราเวล 

อวอร์ดส์ ครั้งที่ 28 โดยมีนายพุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ 

กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ เข้ารับมอบรางวัล ณ ห้องเวิลด์ 

บอลรูม โรงแรมเซ็นทารา แกรนด์ แอท เซ็นทรัลเวิลด์ 

นายพุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส กล่าวว่า “ผมในฐานะตัวแทนของ 

ผู้บริหารและพนักงานบางกอกแอร์เวย์สทุกคนรู้สึกยินดีและเป็น 

เกียรติอย่างยิ่งที่ได้รับรางวัลสายการบินระดับภูมิภาคยอดเยี่ยมใน 

ปีนี ้ ผมขอแสดงความขอบคุณต่อผู้อ่านนิตยสาร ทีทีจี เอเชีย (TTG 

Asia) ทีทีจี ไชน่า (TTG China) ทีทีจี อินเดีย (TTG India) ทีทีจี ไมซ์ 

(TTG Mice) ทีทีจี บีทีไมซ์ ไชน่า (TTG BT Mice China) สมาคมใน 

กลุ่มทีทีจี (TTG Associations) และ ทีทีจี เอเชีย ลักชัวรี่ (TTG 

Asia Luxury) ทุกท่านที่ลงคะแนนโหวตให้เรา ความสำเร็จในครั้งนี้ 

นอกจากจะสะท้อนให้เห็นถึงคุณภาพการบริการและมาตรฐาน 

ความปลอดภัยของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สซึ่งเป็นที่ยอมรับ 

ในระดับสากลแล้ว ยังแสดงให้เห็นถึงความตั้งใจของสายการบินฯ ที่ 

มุ่งมั่นสร้างสรรค์และส่งมอบผลิตภัณฑ์และการบริการที่เป็นเลิศ 

เพื่อความประทับใจสูงสุดของผู้โดยสารภายใต้สโลแกน 'Asia's 

Boutique Airline' อีกด้วย” 

รางวัลทีทีจี ทราเวล อวอร์ดส์ จัดขึ้นเป็นประจำทุกปี เพื่อเป็น 

เกียรติแก่บุคคลและองค์กรในอุตสาหกรรมท่องเที่ยวที่มีความ 

โดดเด่นในประเภทต่างๆ ของภูมิภาคเอเชียแปซิฟิก 

SMOOTH TRAVELS FOR SAMUI 

Congratulations were given for the 

signing of the Memorandum of 

Agreement (MOU) between Universal 

Aviation Thailand, a global network of 

private aviation services and Bangkok 

Airways Ground Services, Ltd. (PGGS), 

the dedicated ground handler for Samui 

International Airport (VTSM). 

In the joint cooperation called ‘The 

Gem,’ the signed memorandum involves 

the exclusive ground handling of private 

jets, ensuring exceptional operational 

expertise to maximise the VIP experience 

for the passengers and crew. For both 

business or leisure travellers, hassle-free 

travel arrangements ensure more time 

and enjoyment on Koh Samui. 

A cocktail party took place on 

September 12, 2017 at Celes Beachfront 

Resort, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, following 

the announcement. 

ขอแสดงความยินดีกับการร่วมกันเป็นพันธมิตร 

ทางธุรกิจระหว่าง Universal Aviation Thailand 

บริษัทที่ดำเนินธุรกิจการบินเอกชน และบริษัท 

การบินกรุงเทพบริการภาคพื้น จำกัด (PGGS) 

ในฐานะผู้ให้บริการการจัดการภาคพื้นดิน 

พิเศษสำหรับเที่ยวบินเอกชนและเที่ยวบินเช่าเหมา 

ลำที่สนามบินนานาชาติเกาะสมุย (VTSM) ภายใต้ 

ชื ่อ “The Gem” โดยในการร่วมมือทางธุรกิจนี ้จะ 

ให้บริการพิเศษแก่ลูกค้าวีไอพีและลูกเรือจาก 

เที่ยวบินเอกชนต่างๆ ที่เดินทางมาเยือนเกาะสมุย 

ได้รับความสะดวกสบายและประทับใจที่สุดไม่ว่า 

จะเป็นการเดินทางมาเพื่อทำธุรกิจหรือเพื่อการ 

พักผ่อน โดยงานสังสรรค์ พบปะเพื่อแลกเปลี่ยน 

มุมมองทางธุรกิจนี้จัดขึ้นมื่อวันที่ 12 กันยายน 

2560 ที่ผ่านมา ณ โรงแรมเซเลส บีชฟร้อนท์ 

อ.เกาะสมุย จ. สุราษฎร์ธานี 

132 

133


FLYERBONUS 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS TO LAUNCH THE NEW 

DIRECT ROUTE BETWEEN 

BANGKOK AND PHU QUOC (VIETNAM) 

Bangkok Airways led by President 

Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth 

organised a press briefing event to 

announce its direct flight between 

Bangkok–Phu Quoc (Vietnam) as well 

as the photo exhibition “Phu Quoc… 

Pearl of Southern Vietnam.” The event 

was held at the Blue Ribbon Club Lounge 

of Bangkok Airways, Suvarnabhumi Airport 

and attended by many distinguished 

guests including H.E. Mr. Nguyen Hai Ban, 

Ambassador of Vietnam to the Kingdom 

of Thailand. 

Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth 

said, “Located in the Gulf of Thailand, 

the beautiful Phu Quoc – known as 

Pearl Island, is Vietnam’s largest island. 

Phu Quoc has recently been appointed 

as a Special Economic Zone by the 

Vietnamese government with the 

expected annual economic growth up to 

25-30%. According to the latest statistics, 

in 2016 Phu Quoc has attracted over 

1.45 million tourists from all over the world. 

With the 30-day visa free policy for 

foreigners, Phu Quoc now is one of the 

most popular tourism destinations in 

Southeast Asia for European travellers, 

especially Germany, England, France, 

Switzerland and Russia.” 

“This new service is considered 

another milestone for us as this makes 

Bangkok Airways the only scheduled 

airline to fly to Phu Quoc from Thailand. 

This new launch is not only to enhance 

Bangkok Airways’ network to cover the 

Indochina region, but also to provide 

better flight connections for European, 

Thai and Vietnamese customers as well 

as offering regional connecting routes 

to Phu Quoc Island for its long-haul 

codeshare partners. Moreover, it is 

easier for our passengers to connect to 

Phu Quoc and other major gateways of 

Vietnam such as Danang, Hanoi and 

Ho Chi Minh City.” 

Bangkok Airways’ direct flights 

between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and 

Phu Quoc International Airport started 

from 29 October 2017 onwards. The 

airline will offer four flights weekly 

(Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday). 

For reservations, please contact the 

Bangkok Airways 24 hrs Call Centre 

at 1771 or www.bangkokair.com for 

more information. 

บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ จำกัด (มหาชน) หรือ 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส จัดงาน Press 

Briefing เปิดเส้นทางบินใหม่ กรุงเทพฯ-เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก 

(เวียดนาม) พร้อมเปิดงานนิทรรศการภาพถ่าย 

“เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก... ไข่มุกแห่งเวียดนามตอนใต้” 

โดยมี นายพุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการ 

ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส 

เป็นประธานร่วมกับ มร. เหงียน ไฮ บัง เอกอัครราชทูต 

เวียดนามประจำประเทศไทย ณ ห้องรับรอง 

ผู้โดยสารภายในประเทศของสายการบินบางกอก 

แอร์เวย์ส ท่าอากาศยานสุวรรณภูมิ 

นายพุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการ 

ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส 

กล่าวว่า “เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก เป็นเกาะที่ใหญ่ที่สุดของ 

ประเทศเวียดนาม มีความงดงามทางธรรมชาติ 

จนได้รับการขนานนามว่าเป็นไข่มุกแห่งเวียดนาม 

ตอนใต้ และเป็นจุดหมายปลายทางที ่ได้รับ 

ความนิยมอย่างมากจากนักท่องเที่ยวทั่วโลก 

เนื่องจากมีแหล่งท่องเที่ยวทางธรรมชาติที่ 

อุดมสมบูรณ์และแหล่งท่องเที่ยวเชิงวัฒนธรรม 

ที่หลากหลาย รวมทั้งเกาะฟู้โกว๊กยังได้รับการ 

พัฒนาจากรัฐบาลเวียดนามให้เป็นแหล่ง 

ท่องเที่ยวสำหรับตลาดไฮเอนด์ บางกอกแอร์ 

เวย์สเล็งเห็นศักยภาพและเชื่อมั่นว่าเกาะฟู้โกว๊ก 

จะกลายเป็นแหล่งท่องเที่ยวที่ได้รับความนิยม 

มากอีกแห่งหนึ่งของภูมิภาคฯ จึงเปิดให้บริการ 

เส้นทางบินตรงระหว่าง กรุงเทพฯ-เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก 

ตั้งแต่ปลายเดือนตุลาคมที่ผ่านมา เพื่อรองรับ 

ตลาดนักท่องเที่ยวจากยุโรปที่เดินทางมาพักผ่อน 

ยังเกาะแห่งนี้เป็นประจำ” 

“การเปิดเส้นทางบินตรงครั้งนี้ถือเป็น 

หนึ่งในกลยุทธ์การขยายเครือข่ายเส้นทางบิน 

ของบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ให้ครอบคลุมประเทศใน 

กลุ่ม CLMV (กัมพูชา ลาว เมียนมาร์ เวียดนาม) 

เพื่ออำนวยความสะดวกให้แก่ผู้โดยสารที่ 

เดินทางผ่านเที่ยวบินร่วมของสายการบิน 

พันธมิตร (codeshare partners) ในการเดินทาง 

เชื่อมต่อจากกรุงเทพฯ (สนามบินสุวรรณภูมิ) 

ไปยังเมืองสำคัญและแหล่งท่องเที่ยวในภูมิภาคฯ 

อาทิ พนมเปญ เสียมราฐ เวียงจันทน์ หลวงพระบาง 

ย่างกุ้ง มัณฑะเลย์ เนปิดอว์ ดานัง และล่าสุด 

เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก ประเทศเวียดนาม สายการบินฯ 

หวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งว่าเส้นทางบินใหม่นี้จะได้รับ 

ความนิยมจากนักท่องเที่ยวชาวไทย ชาวเวียดนาม 

และชาวต่างชาติ โดยรัฐบาลเวียดนามอนุญาต 

ให้ชาวต่างชาติเดินทางเข้าสู่เกาะฟู้โกว๊กโดย 

ไม่ต้องขอวีซ่าได้นานถึง 30 วัน ซึ่งถือเป็นการ 

อำนวยความสะดวกและดึงดูดให้นักท่องเที่ยว 

เดินทางมายังเกาะฟู้โกว๊กมากขึ้น” นายพุฒิพงศ์ 

กล่าวเสริม 

เส้นทางบินกรุงเทพฯ-เกาะฟู้โกว๊ก ให้บริการ 

สัปดาห์ละ 4 เที่ยวบิน (อังคาร พฤหัสบดี ศุกร์ 

และอาทิตย์) 

ผู้โดยสารที่สนใจสามารถสำรองที่นั่งได้ที่ 

คอลเซ็นเตอร์ โทร. 1771 ตลอด 24 ชั่วโมง 

ADD FLYERBONUS TO YOUR 

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you’ll be fast on your way to earning FlyerBonus points from 

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ก้าวสู่ยุคดิจิทัลกับฟลายเออร์โบนัส 

นับเป็นปีแห่งการก้าวกระโดดของการปรับตัวไปสู่ยุคดิจิทัลอย่าง 

เต็มรูปแบบสำหรับการดำรงชีวิตประจำวันในปัจจุบัน ฟลายเออร์โบนัส 

ได้เล็งเห็นถึงความสะดวกสบายและใกล้ชิดกับผู้โดยสารได้มากขึ้น 

ให้คุณได้สะสมคะแนนโดยแสดงบัตรแบบดิจิทัลที่ง่ายเพียงนิ้วสัมผัส และ 

ยังสามารถพกพาเพื่อสะสมคะแนนกับสายการบินและธุรกิจพันธมิตร 

หรือแสดงบัตรเพื่อรับส่วนลดราคาพิเศษจากโครงการ BeyondFlying 

ไม่ว่าจะเป็น ร้านอาหารชื่อดัง โรงแรม สปา และบริการอื่นๆ อีกมากมาย 

ที่ร่วมรายการ อัพเดตข่าวสารและอ่านข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมได้ที่ 

flyerbonus.com 

ใกล้ชิดคุณมากกว่าที่คุณคิด 

134 

135


“LOVE EARTH SAVE EARTH” YOUTH CONSERVATION CAMP 

The CSR Department of Bangkok Airways in 

cooperation with Sukhothai Airport, joined in the “Love 

Earth Save Earth” campaign at the youth conservation 

camp. Held on September 7-9 at Ramkamhaeng 

National Park in Kirimas district in Sukhothai, the 

ecological event included 70 secondary school 

students, teachers and youth role models from five 

schools participating in the event. These included 

Nong Pla Mo Wittayakhom, Swan Anan Wittaya, 

Sukhothai Wittayakhom, Udom Darunee and 

Si Samrong Chanupatham schools. 

The youth conservation camp aimed to educate 

and bring awareness among them about local 

environment conservation, especially in their local 

communities. The activities included educational 

walking tours through the park trails to experience 

the richness of the forest ecosystem, brainstorming 

local natural and environmental conservation 

projects, and presenting preservation guidelines 

for Thailand’s wildlife that are near extinction. The 

last activity is in accordance with the “United for 

Wildlife” project, with Bangkok Airways signing on 

to cooperate in wildlife preservation and protect 

near-extinct animals. The youth camp also aims 

to help cultivate a conscientious awareness in the 

younger generation and encourage them to pay 

better attention to protect their environment. 

เมื่อวันที่ 7-9 กันยายน 2560 ส่วนรับผิดชอบต่อสังคม (CSR) ร่วม 

กับสนามบินสุโขทัย จัดกิจกรรม “ค่ายเยาวชนรักษ์บ้านเกิด” ณ 

อุทยานแห่งชาติรามคำแหง อำเภอคีรีมาศ จังหวัดสุโขทัย โดยมี 

นักเรียนระดับชั้นมัธยมศึกษา คณะครู และกลุ่มเยาวชนต้นแบบ 

จังหวัดสุโขทัยจาก 5 โรงเรียน ได้แก่ โรงเรียนหนองปลาหมอ 

วิทยาคม โรงเรียนสวรรค์อนันต์วิทยา โรงเรียนสุโขทัยวิทยาคม 

โรงเรียนอุดมดรุณี และโรงเรียนศรีสำโรงชนูปถัมภ์ จำนวนรวม 70 

คนเข้าร่วมกิจกรรม 

วัตถุประสงค์ของการจัดค่ายฯ คือเพื่อให้เยาวชนได้เรียนรู้และ 

ตระหนักถึงการอนุรักษ์สิ่งแวดล้อมในท้องถิ่นและชุมชนที่ตนเอง 

อาศัยอยู่ ประกอบด้วยกิจกรรมเดินป่าในเส้นทางศึกษาธรรมชาติ 

ของอุทยานฯ เพื่อสัมผัสกับความอุดมสมบูรณ์ของระบบนิเวศป่าไม้ 

การระดมความคิดโครงการอนุรักษ์ธรรมชาติและสิ่งแวดล้อมใน 

ท้องถิ่น รวมถึงการนำเสนอแนวทางการอนุรักษ์สัตว์ป่าสงวนของ 

ไทยที่ใกล้สูญพันธุ์ ซึ่งสอดคล้องกับโครงการ United for Wildlife 

ที่บริษัทฯ ได้ลงนามเพื่อร่วมกันต่อต้านการค้าสัตว์ป่าและสัตว์ใกล้ 

สูญพันธุ์ ถือเป็นการปลูกจิตสำนึกที่ดีให้กับเยาวชนคนรุ่นใหม่ให้ 

หันมาใส่ใจและร่วมกันอนุรักษ์สิ่งแวดล้อมอย่างยั่งยืนต่อไป 

เยาวชน 70 คนร่วม 

เดินป่าในเส้นทางศึกษา 

ธรรมชาติ ณ อุทยาน 

แห่งชาติรามคำแหง 

จังหวัดสุโขทัย ใน 

กิจกรรม “ค่ายเยาวชน 

รักษ์บ้านเกิด” ที่จัดขึ้น 

โดยสายการบินบางกอก 

แอร์เวย์สและสนามบิน 

สุโขทัย เพื่อเรียนรู้และ 

ตระหนักถึงความสำคัญ 

ของการอนุรักษ์ 

ธรรมชาติ 

136

Dubai 

140 141

AIRCRAFT INFO 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS OPERATES FOUR TYPES OF AIRCRAFT 

AIRBUS A319 

NUMBER OF FLEET : 14 

NUMBER OF DUAL CLASS : 

4 (Business & Economy) 

PASSENGER CAPACITY : 

12 seats & 108 seats 

NUMBER OF SINGLE CLASS : 

4/4 (Economy) 

ENGINE : IAE V2500 


138/144 seats 

LENGTH : 33.84 m 

WINGSPAN : 34.1 m 

HEIGHT : 12.17 m 

CRUISING SPEED : 920 km/h 

MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE : 

39,800 ft 

AIRBUS A320 





ENGINE : IAE V2500 

CRUISING SPEED : 

870 km/h 


39,800 ft 


162 seats 

••••• 

ATR 72-500 





ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp 

Pratt & Whitney 

Canada PW127F 


509 km/h 


25,000 ft 


70 seats 

ATR 72-600 


LENGTH : 27.166 m 



ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp 

Pratt & Whitney 

Canada PW127M 


509 km/h 


25,000 ft 


70 seats 

OUR SCHEDULE FLIGHTS AND FREQUENCY 

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS 

Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai : 

Numerous flights every day from a variety of destinations 

Chiang Mai : 1 flight per day from Phuket ; 

1 flight per day from Koh Samui 

Chiang Rai : 3 flights per day from Bangkok 

Hat Yai : 

1 flight per day from Phuket 

Koh Chang/Trat : 3 flights per day from Bangkok 

Krabi : 4 flights per day from Bangkok ; 


Lampang : 3 flights per day from Bangkok 

Mae Hong Son : 2 flights per day from Chiang Mai 

Pattaya : 1 flight per day from Phuket ; 


Sukhothai : 3 flights per day from Bangkok 

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS 

Chengdu : 4 flights per week from Koh Samui 

Chongqing : 3 flights per week from Koh Samui 

Danang : 1 flight per day from Bangkok 

Dhaka : 

1 flight per day from Bangkok 

Guangzhou : 1 flight per day from Koh Samui 

Hong Kong : 2 flights per day from Koh Samui 

Kuala Lumpur : 1 flight per day from Koh Samui 

Luang Prabang : 2 flights per day from Bangkok 

Malé : 

1 flight per day from Bangkok 

Mandalay : 1 flight per day from Bangkok ; 

1 flight per day from Chiang Mai 

Mumbai : 1 flight per day from Bangkok 

Nay Pyi Taw : 6 flights per week from Bangkok 

Phnom Penh : 6 flights per day from Bangkok 

Phu Quoc : 4 flights per week from Bangkok 

Siem Reap : 5 flights per day from Bangkok 

Singapore : 2 flights per day from Koh Samui 

Vientiane : 1 flight per day from Bangkok 

Yangon : 4 flights per day from Bangkok ; 

1 flight per day from Chiang Mai 

142

AIRPORT MAP 

LEVEL 4 

DEPARTURE 

ชั้น 4 ผู้โดยสารขาออก 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS AT SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT, BANGKOK 

TAKE ME 

HOME 

Fah Thai is the inflight magazine 

of Bangkok Airways. It is YOUR 

MAGAZINE. It is distributed with our 

compliments on all Bangkok Airways 

flights. We hope you enjoy it . 

READ 

TOO MUCH BAGGAGE? 

ONLINE! 

LEVEL 3 

INTERNATIONAL BOARDING 

We also come in a digital format. You can read us at: 

FAHTHAIMAG.COM 

And feel free to send us your feedback. 

Your voice is our inspiration! 

LEVEL 2 

DOMESTIC AND ALL ARRIVALS 

ชั้น 2 ภายในประเทศ 

Domestic Baggage Claim 

Customs 

Oversize Baggage Claim 

Security Screening 

Departures 

International Baggage Claim 

Meeting Point 

Left Baggage 

Waiting Area 

Airport Information 

Toilet 

Immigration 

Airline Lounge 

144

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket 

A world of distinctive experiences awaits 

Gracious hospitality inspired by authentic Thai values enriches every stay at 

Dusit Hotels & Resorts worldwide. Immerse yourself in luxury and experience artfully delivered, 

personalised service in China, Kenya, Maldives, Philippines, Thailand, U.A.E., U.S.A., and more 

prestigious destinations. With four distinctive hotel brands to choose from, catering perfectly to 

business and leisure, no detail goes unnoticed in our pursuit of hospitality perfection. 

Destinations: China • Egypt • Kenya • Maldives • Philippines • Thailand • U.A.E. • U.S.A.

Fah Thai Magazine Nov/Dec 2017

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