Fah Thai Magazine Jan-Feb 2018

JAN-FEB 2018 

HOTEL FUN AND LUXE 

WITH BILL BENSLEY 

SAMUI’S 

GREAT ESCAPES 

KNOW PHU QUOC 

FULL WELL 

CHINESE OPERA’S 

MOVING PERFORMANCE 

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT 

Welcome on board our Bangkok Airways flight. 

This auspicious year marks Bangkok Airways’ 50th Anniversary and with 

heartfelt gratitude, we offer our sincere thanks to all of you who have always put 

your trust in our airline. Our continued passion to deliver the best in service 

remains, along with our goal to be “the Leading Airline in Asia.” We also wish 

to stress our commitment to our passengers by offering the best in satisfaction. 

Throughout five decades of operations, Bangkok Airways has introduced 

new routes constantly, aiming to fulfil our passengers’ ideal of a complete travel 

experience by offering choices and convenience. 

We plan to commit the entire year of 2018 to well-thought out promotions and 

campaigns that not only give back to society, but also benefit our valuable customers. 

Last but not least, the Bangkok Airways crew and I wish you and your family 

a bright, healthy, prosperous and happiest time for the new year ahead and we 

look forward to welcoming you on Bangkok Airways in the future. 

Thank you. 

สวัสดีท่านผู้โดยสารทุกท่าน ขอต้อนรับสู่การบริการของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส 

ในโอกาสครบรอบ 50 ปีของสายการบินฯ ในปี 2561 ผมและพนักงานทุกคนขอขอบคุณท่านผู้โดยสาร 

ที่ไว้วางใจใช้บริการกับบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส เราจะพัฒนาการบริการให้ดียิ่งๆ ขึ้นไป เพื่อความพึงพอใจสูงสุด 

ของท่าน และเพื่อบรรลุเป้าหมายองค์กร “To be the Leading Airline in Asia” 

โดยตลอดระยะเวลาที่ผ่านมา เรามุ่งมั่นสร้างสรรค์การบริการ เปิดเส้นทางบินใหม่ๆ เพื่อให้ท่าน 

ผู้โดยสารได้รับประสบการณ์การท่องเที่ยวที่แสนพิเศษ 

และตลอดปี 2561 นี้ จะมีการจัดกิจกรรมเพื ่อสังคม กิจกรรมส่งเสริมการตลาด และโปรโมชั่น 

พิเศษต่างๆ เพื่อตอบแทนท่านผู้โดยสารที่ร่วมเดินทางเคียงข้างกับเรามาโดยตลอด 

ในโอกาสวันขึ้นปีใหม่นี้ ผมและพนักงานทุกคน ขออวยพรให้ท่านผู้โดยสารพบเจอแต่สิ่งดีๆ มีสุขภาพ 

ร่างกายแข็งแรง และมีความสุขตลอดปี 2561 และหวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งว่าจะได้พบท่านอีกบนเที่ยวบินของเรา 

ขอบคุณครับ 

กัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ 

Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth 

กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ | President, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited 

8

OVERTURES 

FEATURES 

18 CULTURAL WATCH 

Our A-list for regional 

events has the Bangkok Edge 

Festival, and former Oasis member 

Liam Gallagher in concert. 

22 NATURE’S GIFTING 

If skin perfection is a goal, the 

path to it is paved with natural 

ingredients. Try our list of new 

products on the market that’s meant 

to nurture and protect. 

24 GET YOUR KICKS 

From casual to cool, good footwear 

is crucial for the styling gent to look 

right for all occasions. 

25 CARRY ALL 

Our range of handbags can be 

part of any mood, with colours and 

styles that make the bag both your 

practical necessity and art piece. 

26 HAPPINESS IS… 

A history lesson in the open air 

museum of Sukhothai and a sunset 

to match. 

28 STEEPED IN GOODNESS 

With every taste of a butterfly pea 

flower, find out why it’s an advantage 

to have the colour purple. 

34 SOME RAYS AND 

A BITE 

Life’s a beach on most 

days in Phu Quoc, 

but this getaway’s also 

resplendent with 

farm and food attractions 

that deserve equal 

attention. 

42 OUTRE FITS 

THE BILL 

We meet exuberant hotel 

designer Bill Bensley 

whose design flair for 

dramatic and luxurious 

lodging offers intuitive 

comfort and protects the 

land it sits on. 

54 PHUKET’S 

PRESENT PAST 

Before it became a 

popular island getaway, 

a younger Phuket was 

equally cool in its cultural 

offerings. 

66 SAMUI ALL IN 

By land or by sea, 

the island resort engages 

all our senses with 

countless activities. 

78 CLASSIC, YET 

TEMPORARY 

Capture a day in the life of 

a Chinese opera travelling 

troupe as they perform 

under the stars of a 

Bangkok night. 

103 

A Circle of 

Light in 

Guangzhou 

10 

11

HAPPENINGS 

CORPORATE 

Catch up on the cultural conversations in the 

region with exciting events and venues. 

90 BANGKOK 

92 SAMUI 

94 PHUKET / 

KRABI 

98 CHIANG MAI 

100 PATTAYA / 

TRAT 

102 CHENGDU / 

CHONGQING / 

GUANGZHOU 

104 HONG KONG 

106 SINGAPORE 

107 KUALA 

LUMPUR 

108 SIEM REAP 

110 DANANG / 

PHU QUOC 

111 YANGON/ 

VIENTIANE 

112 MUMBAI / 

MALDIVES 

116 NEWS 

Bangkok Airways holds events to thank loyal 

customers and continue our social responsibility 

programmes. 

125 AIRCRAFT INFO 

126 ROUTE MAP 

128 AIRPORT MAP 

CHECKING OUT 

130 CHENGDU 

Tongue-numbing and Good 

This month’s 

cover: 

The Breathless 

Beauty 

of Ang Thong 

National 

Marine Park 

90 

Lhong Life 

A Creative Haven 

in Bangkok 

12

IS THE 

WINNER OF 

PEARL AWARD 

GOLD WINNER 

2017 

FOR BEST 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

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 Co., 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 

Passakorn Hongthong 

Phoowadon Duangmee 

Prachi Joshi 

Richard Augustin 

S.O. Knight 

Sarita Urupongsa 

Sirin P Wongpanit 

Veena Thoopkrajae 

Photo Editor Thewin Chanyawong 

Contributing Photographers 

Apichat Sukhunnee 

Dolnapa Ram-Indra 

Oliver Gane 

Permboon Wongpanit 

Pete Cloonie 

Suwit Kittitien 

Yvan Cohen 

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 Manager: Daruni Klaprapchon 

Marketing Manager: Reza Bizmark 

ADVERTISING HOTLINES 

Guitar +669 2270 9528 

Bob +668 2446 9192 

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 Co., 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 Co., Ltd. 

INVEST IN YOUR 

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ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS 

Enduring Edifice 

This awe-inspiring Dr. Bhau Daji 

Lad Museum stands as one of the 

oldest structures in Mumbai and the 

first colonial building built in 1857. 

A museum since its inception, the 

gorgeous interiors of famed Minton 

tile floors, gilded ceiling mouldings 

and ornate architecture add to its 

grand reputation. 

NEWS AND EVENTS 18 / BEAUTY AND HEALTH 22 / STYLE 24 / THAILAND TREASURES 26 / A TASTE OF THAILAND 28 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 30 

17

OVERTURES 

NEWS AND EVENTS 

-11 

NOW 

SINGAPORE 

MAR 

2018 

THE ART WITHIN 

Art-goers should head over to the National 

Gallery of Singapore from now until 11 March 

for the Century of Light exhibition. The artworks 

divide into two shows – Colours of Impressionism 

and Between Worlds – consisting of masterpieces 

from the Musée d’Orsay as well as the works of 

renowned Southeast Asian artists, Raden Saleh 

and Juan Luna. 

Colours of Impressionism will feature over 

60 works by the masters Monet, Renoir, Manet, 

Pissarro and Cézanne and will highlight the 

importance of colour to these Impressionist 

painters of the 19th century. For fans of 

Southeast Asian art, Between Worlds will see 

the works of Indonesian artist Raden Saleh and 

Filipino artist Juan Luna. The exhibit serves as 

the first major show of the artists and their work 

that achieved wide acclaim in Europe. 

nationalgallery.sg 

9 

JAN 

-27 

FEB 



BANGKOK 

KINO UNDER THE STARS 

Take an opportunity to bask in the cheery cool 

weather of Bangkok and head over to the 

Goethe-Institut. In a collaboration with the 

Switzerland and Austrian embassies, all film 

lovers should book seats for the anticipated 

“Open Air Kino 2018” every Tuesday evening – 

starting from 9 January 2018. 

Aiming to provide a deeper insight into 

the German film culture and current works of 

important directors, this year Open Air Kino 

has selected “Willkommen bei den Hartmanns 

(Welcome to Germany, 2016),” from German 

director Simon Verhoeven as the opening film 

at 7.30pm. 

Other film screenings include Jugend 

ohne Gott (Youth Without God, 2017) and 

new features and short films from Germany, 

Switzerland and Austria with Thai and English 

subtitles. Entrance to all film evenings is free of 

charge. 18/1 Soi Goethe, Sathorn Soi 1, Bangkok, 

T: +66 (0) 2108 8234, goethe.de/thailand 


12JAN 

BANGKOK 

LIAM LIVE 

Oasis may have disbanded in 2009 with a 

well-publicised row between the Gallagher 

brothers, but fans of the group will have 

a chance to get themselves ready for this 

highly-anticipated concert as Liam Gallagher 

continues on a comeback tour. He began his 

world tour last year to promote his latest solo 

album As You Were, extending it into 2018. 

His solo effort debuts the single, Wall of Glass, 

followed by Chinatown and For What It’s 

Worth. The album has reached number one 

on the iTunes chart in more than 10 countries, 

including Thailand. 

Liam Gallagher Live 

in Bangkok takes place 

at BITEC Bangna, Friday 

evening. If you’re wondering 

whether there’s a chance 

the ex-Oasis front man will 

perform acclaimed songs 

from Oasis like Wonderwall 

– the coy answer is a 

maybe! T: +66 (0) 2026 

3068 ticketmelon.com/ 

event/LiamGallagher, 

liamgallagher.com/tour 

17-31JAN 


HONG KONG 

SAILOR STOPOVER 

Hong Kong will be one of the key stopovers 

for the world’s toughest sailing race this 

January. After tackling the Southern Ocean 

from Cape Town to Melbourne and sailing 

nearly 6,000 miles, Hong Kong will provide a 

much needed reprieve for participants of the 

Volvo Ocean Race. 

As the yachts dock at the Royal Hong 

Kong Yacht Club, the festivities will kick off 

with entertainment and revelry at the Kai Tak 

Runway Park. From 17 to 31 January, the race 

festival will see the venue transformed into an 

entertainment hub with food stalls and bars with 

sailing races, live music by DJs and performances 

being held. The fest will culminate in the flag 

off for Leg 5 of the race as the sailors make 

their way towards Guangzhou on 1 February. 

volvooceanracehk.com 

20-21JAN 


BANGKOK 

ON THE EDGE ONCE MORE 

A cutting-edge festival is back for the second 

time in Bangkok with provocative talks, topnotch 

entertainment and food galore. Held in 

the very heart of Bangkok’s old town along the 

Chaophraya River, the Bangkok Edge festival 

will be packed with activities ranging from talks, 

workshops, concerts with the attendance of 

local favourites Hugo, Chanudom, Yellow Fang, 

Rasmee Isan Soul, and Siplor. Highlighting the 

event as well is of course, food, and an enticing 

Art and Crafts market for everyone to enjoy. 

Save the date for the third weekend of January 

for the event that’s meant to challenge and 

nurture you. You can capture the latest trends 

in Thai art and culture through Museum Siam, 

Chakrabongse Villas or be part of book launching 

events and talks by acclaimed international 

speakers such as Chris Baker, Julian Thomson, 

Christina Lamb, Marina Mahatir, Lawrence 

Osbourne, Medeliene Racknagel and Veeraporn 

Nitiprapha. 

For those who are interested, tickets for 

the Chill Pass that lets participants relax at 

Chakrabongse Villas and join in the house tour 

can contact chillpass@bangkokedge.com. 

T: +66 (0) 2622 1900, bangkokedge.com or 

facebook.com/bangkokedge 

26JAN 


INDIA 

STATE MATTERS 

India celebrates its 69th Republic Day on 26 

January. While the major celebratory parade 

takes place on Rajpath in New Delhi, Mumbai 

also hosts a smaller version at Shivaji Park. 

The parade is presided over by the state’s 

chief minister and involves great pomp and 

splendour. There’s a flag hoisting ceremony 

followed by military marches, traditional song 

and dance performances, and elaborate floats 

often depicting social messages. 

Abide With Me, a Christian hymn by 

Scottish Anglican Henry Francis Lyte, is 

always played during the Republic Day parade 

because it was one of Mahatma Gandhi’s 

favourite songs. 

Many family or community events also 

take place with parties and celebrations. Fairs 

and talent contests take place and throughout 

the day, patriotic songs are played through 

loud speakers. Republic Day is not merely a 

one-day celebration. Spreading over 3 days, 

crowds gather and cheer at the ending 

performance, the Beating Retreat, on January 29. 

incredibleindia.org 

18 19

OVERTURES 

Authentic Italian cuisine made with only the freshest ingredients available 

NEWS AND EVENTS 

2-4& 9-11 

FEB 2018 FEB 2018 

KUALA LUMPUR 

MPO BALLET FEST 

The Dewan Filharmonik Petronas hosts 

the visiting Ballet of Armenia for the third 

instalment of the MPO’s Ballet Festival. 

Performing at the grand hall, conductor Karen 

Durgaryan and the Ballet of Armenia troupe 

are set to enthral audiences with memorable 

performances from Tchaikovsky’s greatest 

ballet scores, Swan Lake and the Nutcracker 

for the opening weekend in February. Swan 

Lake, one of the most popular ballets in the 

world, tells the story of evil sorcerer Von 

Rothbart who turned Princess Odette into a 

swan. The ever popular Christmas Eve tale of 

Clara and the Nutcracker never fails to delight 

audiences of all ages. In the following week, 

they will perform Khachaturian’s two most 

well-known ballets, Gayané and Spartacus. 

mpo.com.my 

13-19FEB 


VIENTIANE 

SAYABOULY ELEPHANT FESTIVAL 

Laos, once known as “The Land of a Million 

Elephants”, will throw the country’s biggest party 

for a parade of elephants at the sleepy border 

town of Sayabouly Province, near Vientiane 

in mid-February. The annual Lao Elephant 

Festival often draws more than 80,000 local 

and international visitors who gather together 

to witness the procession of thousands of 

elephants. Before the start of festivities, the 

elephants undergo their own makeover – with 

extra pampering making them fresh and radiant 

as they parade pass the crowds. A blessing 

ceremony is also performed by monks for them. 

Equally special at the festival is the selection of 

the “Elephant of the Year” with more than 100 

pachyderm contestants. Highlighting that is the 

majestic procession complete with the elephants 

in decorative body paint as they march through 

the small town of Sayabouly. At the festival, 

colourful and energetic performances of both 

local and foreign artists entertain all, with 

traditional games played and night markets for 

strolling. tourismlaos.org 

16FEB 


HONG KONG 

A DOG HAS ITS DAY 

Rather, the astrological canine gets a whole 

year, as based on the Chinese zodiac sign. 

Fortune tellers advocate lifestyle changes for 

the Year of the Earth Dog 2018. In Hong Kong, 

households continue the flurry to prepare for 

the Lunar New Year, which begins on February 

16. This is a good time for major lifestyle 

changes: such as starting a new business, or 

moving to a new residence. If you’re a smoker 

– consider quitting, states the sage advice. 

Predictions also say that it’s a good time to 

bring on social change and the Chinese people 

believe that a dog is an auspicious animal. 

Meanwhile, the village of Lam Tsuen in 

Tai Po celebrates the Well-Wishing Festival 

with people travelling from all over to make 

wishes for the lunar new year. There are two 

conduits to ensure that wishes are heard: in 

the form of Wishing Trees or the Wishing 

Lanterns. The tradition calls for writing your 

wish on a piece of paper that’s tied to an 

orange fruit with a decent length of string 

attached. Aim well and throw your “wish” 

into the Wishing Tree. If it catches on the 

branches, your wish is said to come true. 

Another chance to make a wish follows 

after various ceremonies that are held 

throughout the festivities. This time, your wish 

is released with the Wishing Lanterns into the 

night sky. The all-day event at Lam Tsuen in 

Tai Po is easily accessible. Just take the MTR 

to Tai Po Station, exit the station and take the 

64K bus to Lam Tsuen. 

20

OVERTURES 

BEAUTY AND HEALTH 

SPOTLIGHT 

Nature’s Goods 

Make it a green revolution this year and switch 

over to an eco-friendly plan for your skin. For 

the best in organic products that use natural 

ingredients, here’s a roundup of good things that 

also make the world a better place. 

LEGENDARY 

THAI FLOWER 

COLLECTION, 

FRANGIPANI 

BODY LOTION, 

200ML FROM 

SATIRA (550 Baht) 

Frangipani’s rich, 

heady and exotic scent 

imparts depth and 

quality. It’s a fragrance 

that’s evocative of 

what’s sensual yet also 

has the influencing 

power to bring on inner 

peace and harmony. 

THE JOURNEY, 

ARGAN 

EXFOLIATOR FACE 

& BODY SCRUB 

150ML FROM 

OR’AGAN (630 Baht) 

Gentle and 

biodegradable scrub 

beads help exfoliate 

your skin until it’s 

smooth. With the 

presence of argan, the 

great reveal results in a 

radiance and brightness 

found in healthier skin. 

LEGENDARY 

FLOWER ORCHID 

GLYCERIN SOAP 

100G FROM 


This gentle formula 

gives a thorough 

cleansing while keeping 

the skin moisturised. 

The bonus? This 

luxurious and skinfriendly 

soap can be 

enjoyed for the face 

and body. 

ORGANIC BATH 

BODY AND 

MASSAGE OIL 

125ML FROM 


Its beneficial ingredients 

are like loving touches 

from nature. You’ll be 

more in love with this 

oil with its multitasking 

benefits that work 

beautifully as a daily 

moisturiser, a skin 

treatment, mending 

split ends, and softening 

nail cuticles. 

DAZZLING SPRING 

BODY OIL 100ML 

FROM ERB (890 Baht) 

Certified organic 

ingredients with 

softening, smoothening 

and nourishing abilities 

in an attractive 

retro-package. 

100% PURE ARGAN 

OIL 10ML FROM 


This fast-absorbing oil 

brings the essence of 

what is authentic and 

unique in argan oil, 

together with supreme 

qualities benefitting your 

whole body. 

WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTO APHICHAT SUKHUNNEE 

VITAMIN C SKIN 

BOOST 30ML 

FROM THE BODY 

SHOP (1,320 Baht) 

Give your skin a 

healthy-looking 

glow with the 

Vitamin C infused 

radiance booster. 

For maximum 

effectiveness, use it 

after moisturising. 

ALOE SOOTHING DAY CREAM 

50ML FROM THE BODY SHOP 

(820 Baht) 

Use this gentle moisturiser to help calm 

sensitive and dry skin. Formulated without 

any fragrance, colour, preservatives or 

alcohol, this is the perfect choice for 

sensitive skin. 

TEA TREE SKIN 

CLEARING BODY 

WASH 250ML FROM 

THE BODY SHOP 

(450 Baht) 

The Tea Tree body wash 

is ideal for targeting 

problem areas on your 

back and body where 

oily skin can result. 

The outcome is skin 

that feels clean, 

looks clear and 

is refreshed. 

GHASSOUL CLAY WITH 7 PLANTS 

150G FROM OR’AGAN 

(1,050 Baht) 

It has a unique ability to capture oil, dirt 

particles and toxins from your skin. With the 

addition of 7 nourishing plant extracts, your 

skin will be supple, with a glow from within. 

A Force 

of Nature 

Those who are busy, tired or sluggish among us 

will enjoy the divine smell of botanical products. 

Lather your face with a cleanser that’s fresh with 

the fragrance of eucalyptus or sink into a tub with 

a rose-scented bath oil. Cleansing, toning and 

moisturising with nature’s goods becomes a joy 

when you know it benefits your skin. 

SIAMESE JASMINE FLEURFUME 

HANDCREAM 25G FROM ERB 

(290 Baht) 

A sweet and fresh scent with gentle notes. 

A purely Thai aroma that blends effortlessly 

together, and a real remedy to relaxation. 

Tips 

GHASSOUL CLAY 

New to Ghassoul? It’s Moroccan natural 

clay sometimes referred to as Rhassoul. 

Rich in minerals, Ghassoul clay is ideal as a 

hair mask; use it on your skin for enhanced 

elasticity. 

INCA INCHI OIL 

Native to the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, 

the oil is pressed from the seeds, with 

higher fatty acids and Vitamin E content 

compared to rosehip. It’s not only good for 

your hair, but also promotes healthy skin 

with anti-aging qualities. 

JASMINE OIL 

Apart from the sweet and unique scent a 

jasmine flower imparts, the essential oil 

extracted can magically relieve depression, 

lift your energy, as well as bring on the 

mood for a romantic time! 

SNAIL 

COMPLEXION 

PERFECTOR BB 

CREAM 60G 

FROM SATIRA 

(1,390 Baht) 

The ultimate in 

multi-tasking 

treatments. This 

gentle botanical 

formula creates a 

lustrous, flawless 

finish as it 

hydrates, firms, 

and soothes 

the skin. 

EDEN BREEZE 

COLOUR 

TREATED 

HAIR 

CONDITIONER 

200G FROM 

THANN (500 Baht) 

Moisturises, 

strengthens and 

boosts shine to colour 

treated hair with 

organic shea butter, 

coconut and sweet 

almond oils. Organic 

inca inchi oil also nourishes 

and protects your hair from 

UV damage. 

AROMATIC WOOD 

AROMATHERAPY 

SHOWER GEL 

320ML FROM 

THANN (650 Baht) 

With wheat protein 

and plant essential 

oils to help optimise 

the skin’s natural 

moisture balance and 

a soothing aroma. 

JASMINE 

MASSAGE OIL 

100ML FROM 


A rich elegant blend 

of the finest natural 

moisturising oils, 

with a jasmine scent 

that brings on a 

euphoric reaction 

with aphrodisiac 

claims! Helps restore 

confidence and bring 

on optimism. 

STOCKISTS 

Erb 

5F Central Chidlom 

Tel: +66 (0) 2255 5872 

Or’agan 

www.theoragan.com 

Satira 

4F Siam Paragon 

Tel: +66 (0) 80 485 2767 

www.satirathai.com 

Thann 

4F Siam Paragon 

Tel: +66 (0) 2610 9324 

The Body Shop 

2F Central World 

Tel: +66 (0) 2251 2855 

22 

23

OVERTURES 

STYLE 

 

 

 

WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTOS APHICHAT SUKHUNNEE 

 

 

 

In His Shoes 

Shoes make the man, it’s been said. So 

step into the footwear game with our 

picks – from the sneaker-of-the-moment 

to the pair that goes with anything. 

FOR HIM 

BLUE AND 

BLACK NEOPRENE 

SNEAKERS 

WITH THE 

SIGNATURE 

KNOTTING 

DETAIL FROM 

GIVENCHY 

(29,000 Baht) 

➋ MULTI-COLOURED 

LEATHER COLOUR- 

BLOCK SNEAKERS 

WITH A ROUND TOE, 

LACE FASTENING. 

PANELLED COLOUR 

BLOCK DESIGN 

FROM GIVENCHY 

(23,000 Baht) 

➌ GOMMINO 

DRIVING SHOES IN 

VELVET SUEDE 

WITH EXPOSED 

HAND STITCHING, 

FRONT TIE AND 

ICONIC RUBBER 

FROM TOD’S 

(25,500 Baht) 

STOCKISTS 

Givenchy 

GF Central Embassy 

Tel: +66 (0) 2160 5895 

Tod’s 

MF Siam Paragon 

Tel: +66 (0) 2610 9999 

STOCKISTS 

Givenchy 

GF Central Embassy 

Tel: +66 (0) 2160 5895 

Prada 

MF Siam Paragon 

Tel: +66 (0) 2610 9800 

FOR HER 

MINI HORIZON BAG IN 

BRIGHT YELLOW GRAIN 

LEATHER WITH A WIDE 

BAND HORIZONTAL CLASP 

FROM GIVENCHY 

(85,000 Baht) 

➋ ETIQUETTE CALF 

LEATHER TOTE 

DOUBLE LEATHER 

HANDLE 

FROM PRADA 

(77,000 Baht) 

➌ SAFFIANO 

LEATHER DETACHABLE 

ADJUSTABLE LEATHER 

SHOULDER STRAP 

FROM PRADA 

(79,000 Baht) 

Bagging 

Rights 

Your bag does make a statement 

about your personality and present 

mood. For the best in bag styles, 

we’ve gathered a selection of 

gorgeous prints, innovative shapes, 

as well as some timeless classics. 

24 

25

OVERTURES 

THAILAND TREASURES 

When in 

Sukhothai... 

Sukhothai is a town known for its deep 

roots in historical significance. As the 

capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, the 

province located in the lower northern 

part of Thailand promises a wide 

array of mesmerising ancient sites 

to discover. However, other valuable 

discoveries this town has to offer go 

beyond its historical aspects. There are 

the genteel culture, a relaxed yet funloving 

lifestyle, and culinary marvels 

that leave a lasting impression. For a 

true Sukhothai experience, consider our 

must-dos while visiting the ancient capital. 

Above 

Phra Achana in the main hall of 

Si Chum Temple. The story goes 

that a “secret opening” enabled 

a person to speak without being 

seen. Innocent bystanders would 

think it was the voice of Buddha 

talking to them. 

A VISIT TO SI CHUM TEMPLE 

It is said that a person does not really 

make it to Sukhothai unless respects are 

paid to Phra Achana, the grand statue 

of Buddha whose seated image is in the 

“Subduing Mara” pose in the main hall of 

Si Chum Temple. 

PAYING RESPECT TO KING 

RAMKHAMHAENG THE GREAT 

King Ramkhamhaeng the Great ruled 

Sukhothai Kingdom, a valiant sovereign 

of the Kingdom of Thailand who was 

bestowed the title “The Great” for his 

abilities in war, politics, administration, 

and religion. He is also known for 

the Ramkhamhaeng Stele on which 

the first Thai alphabet was inscribed. 

His monument and statue is located 

inside the central zone of Sukhothai 

Historical Park. 

CYCLING IN THE 

HISTORICAL PARK 

Cyclists can enjoy biking around 

the Historical Park and noting the 

admirable and exquisite details 

of traditional architecture and art, 

as well as learning about history. 

Many forms of art and its disciplines 

originated in Sukhothai, including 

the fine arts in which the Kingdom’s 

Buddhist sculptures see interpretation 

in superb traditional aesthetics. 

Conceptualisation of systematic urban 

planning and the creation of the Thai 

alphabet also began here. 

JOIN A SANGKHALOK CERAMIC 

WORKSHOP 

Sangkhalok glazed ceramics are the 

province’s most famous products, with 

trademark features of scalloped rims 

and bluish-green patterns, including 

expressive figurines. Visitors can learn 

to create and paint a Sangkhalok ware 

of their own using unique colours, 

lines and patterns as done by longago 

potters. 

➎ PAYING HOMAGE TO THE 

STATUE OF “PHRA MAE YA” 

(GRANDMOTHER GODDESS) AT 

PHRA MAE YA SHRINE 

Formerly located on Phra Mae Ya 

Hill, the shrine has been re-located 

to the front of the Sukhothai town 

hall. The venue is believed to have 

been constructed during the reign 

of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great 

in dedication to his mother, Princess 

Sueang. The shrine is highly respected 

by the people of Sukhothai and an 

annual festival is held in her honour. 

➏ A SPREE AMONG ANCIENT 

SILVER AND GOLD AT 

SI SATCHANALAI 

When visiting Si Satchanalai, don’t miss 

browsing through the wide array of intricate 

works in gold and silver meticulously done 

in the carefully-crafted Sukhothai style. 

These elaborate masterpieces are created 

by local artisans who have retained 

the cherished styles that’s passed from 

generation to generation. 

➐ “KHAO PERB” TASTING 

“Khao Perb”, or steamed rice flat 

noodles with its assortment of fillings, 

is the local dish found at Na Ton Chan 

Village only. Khao Perb is made with 

ground rice grains which are filtered 

to create a thick, white rice cream. It 

is later steamed on a thin muslin cloth, 

resulting in a translucent skin which 

serves as a wrap for tasty stuffing. This 

cooking is done in the same manner 

as another Thai favourite, Khao Kreab 

Paak Mor. Assorted vegetables, like Kan 

Song, ivy gourd, and star gooseberries 

are then stuffed inside the rice flour 

before being steamed. Once it is ready, 

the rolls are served with hot broth and 

a steamed egg. 

➑ JUMP INTO A “KHOK MOO” 

(PIGSTY) PICK-UP TRUCK 

The colourful Khok Moo pick-up truck is 

a fun choice for travellers who want to 

experience the authentic lifestyle of the 

Sukhothai people – simple, traditional and 

gets you to the destination. 

Clockwise from 

Top Right 

King 

Ramkhamhaeng 

Statue. 

Intricate handiwork 

of the Sukhothaistyled 

jewellery. 

The exterior of 

Si Chum Temple. 

The sublime 

flavours of ‘Khao 

Perb,’ a specialty 

dish in Sukhothai. 

JOURNEY OF SWEETS AT 

BAAN GONG 

With 40 years in the business of sweets 

and desserts, “Khanom Phing Mae Tim” 

(Thai mini cookies by Mae Tim) is best 

known for the rich and delicious flavour 

of their cookies distinctive through its 

unique method of using a charcoal stove 

for baking. As Mae Tim’s Khanom Phing 

is a top-selling product, customers have 

to queue up to purchase it. The bakery 

also has the charming feature of being 

known as “Khanom Phing Ngaem Pratoo 

Khai” (mini cookies sold through the folding 

door). Its popularity and large number of 

customers result in the bakery minimising 

the door opening to sell their products and 

lessen crowding. 

SUNSET TIME 

A sunset at the Sukhothai Historical Park 

is mandatory. Never to be missed, it’s the 

gift of a lasting impression. A glimpse 

of inspiring history outlined against the 

coming of dusk envelopes spectators in 

serenity – and the best way to end a trip 

in Sukhothai. 

For more information, contact the Tourism 

Authority of Thailand, Sukhothai Office, at 

+66 (0) 55 616 0228-9. 

26 

27

OVERTURES 

A TASTE OF THAILAND 

Purple Magic 

Anything with a butterly pea flower is beautiful 

consumption with benefits. In Thailand, you’ll 

find it in vivid blue cocktails or as a deep purple 

beverage. It’s also what gives an enticing lavender 

shade to creative sticky rice that partners with 

mangoes on a dessert menu. 

Since the old days, the flower has been used 

widely for strengthening hair and eyebrows, as 

a natural colourant in food and desserts or as 

an edible accompaniment with Nam Prik (a chilli 

paste) meals. 

Considered an herb or flower – butterfly 

pea plants are attractive because of their vivid 

signature colour. It is originally a tropical plant 

but has been introduced to America, Australia, 

and Africa. They are very easy to find and grow, 

making the plant a common sight in one’s home 

garden in the tropics. The flower is known to 

come with abundant health benefits, with an 

important aspect as that of a potent antioxidant. 

There are many ways to enjoy the use of 

butterfly pea flowers, and one of the simplest 

things to do is turn the blue-and-purple 

flowers into a refreshing drink for everyone. 

Mild and light in taste, some people may add 

a bit of lime juice in their butterfly pea drink 

to make it even more unique and flavourful. 

As a magical treat, watch how drops of lime 

transform the natural blue colour into the 

pinkish-purple blue of a beach sunset. 

Ingredients 

• 100g of butterfly pea flowers 

• 2 cups of clean water 

• 4 tbsp syrup or 

• 2 tbsp honey 

Instructions 

Wash the butterfly pea flowers and boil them 

in clean water. With the lid on the pot, leave it for 

2 to 3 minutes to steep before taking the flowers 

out from the pot. 

Mix the butterfly pea flower tea with syrup or 

honey, adjusting preferred sweetness. To preserve 

all the nutrients, do drink it immediately. 

WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA 

28

OVERTURES 

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 

Your 2018 

Bucket List? 

See More Art 

Words Sarita Urupongsa 

There’s no denying a simple encounter with art adds 

the proverbial colour to life. Consider engaging in the 

creative spirit and the soothing ways of art appreciation. 

With the plethora of museums and galleries that makes 

it more accessible, mark this as a year that’s more 

art-filled. As we’re spoilt for choice – here’s a curated 

collection of some of the best places in Asia to satisfy 

your artistic yearnings. 

Bibo in Hong Kong 

Bibo is not your usual place for a spot of food. Yes, it’s fine dining for 

French gastronomy lovers and while it’s luxurious, the presence of 

contemporary art makes it beyond a gastronomy destination. Housed in 

the former Compagnie Générale Française de Tramways office, the place 

magically and stylishly morphed into a glamorous, yet boho-chic art and 

culinary destination. Bibo combines the finest of both worlds with indoor art 

and an enticing menu – all in one place. Diners can savour the finest seasonal 

French gastronomy while taking in the 1930s vibe and admiring artworks from 

renowned artists like Banksy, Damien Hirst, and Jeff Koons. bibo.hk 

OCK POP TOK IN LUANG PRABANG 

Ock Pop Tok or “East meets West” was founded in 2000 by Jo Smith and Veo 

Douangdala. Despite a difference in nationalities and talents, both hold the 

same commitment and connection of that of the artistic spirit. They established 

‘OPT’ to introduce the Lao heritage of beautiful textiles and offer economic 

opportunities for local artisans to continue the craft. In its early days, OPT was 

a small shop selling only a few designs. Now the business has expanded into 

two locations: one in the historic district of Luang Prabang and the other, the 

Living Crafts Centre (LCC), on the Mekong riverbank. Apart from the wide array 

of gorgeous hand-loomed textiles, visitors can immerse themselves in seeing 

instructional demos of silk and cotton weaving, dyeing, and Hmong batik. 

ockpoptok.com 

THEAM’S HOUSE IN SIEM REAP 

Theam’s House is a home-cum-atelier of artist and designer Lim Muy 

Theam. Passionate about Cambodia’s cultural heritage, Theam, upon 

returning to his homeland after 15 years in France, set off on the journey 

to bring back Khmer art and culture. The mission took him to marvellous 

discoveries of astonishing artefacts and splendid temples and pagodas. 

Aiming to blend Cambodia’s rich art and cultural aesthetics into modern 

surroundings, the designer launched Theam’s House as a showroom for 

local artisan products crafted from original techniques and materials 

favoured by people in the old days. The place also offers the opportunity 

for local artists and villagers to work there and hone their talents. 

theamshouse.com 

Redtory Art & 

Design Factory 

in Guangzhou 

THE LAND FOUNDATION IN CHIANG MAI 

Here’s a situation rarely visualised – that of rice fields and 

a creative space coming together. Two artists intentionally 

engaged in the use of anonymity to redefine the idea of 

land ownership and created the Land Foundation. Here, 

two concepts merge in an open space where agriculture 

and art come together in an artists’ residence in nature’s 

setting. Nestled in area that’s naturally serene and close to 

the San Pa Tong district in Chiang Mai, the lush land and 

its surrounding green environment now belongs to the 

Land Foundation who in turn cultivated a landscape that 

dedicated one fourth of its area to the concept of earth 

and three-fourths of it to water. The resulting terrain offers 

lucky folks a chance to dwell and experience living among 

agricultural communities and furthering the creative spirit. 

Working with nature up close, the Foundation aims to make 

it the core energy of all artistic endeavours for artists and to 

inspire art lovers. thelandfoundation.org 

Its significant beginning was that of a 

canned food factory, but this industrial 

space in Guangzhou now sees new life 

as Redtory, an artists’ village and art 

district that serves to inspire its creative 

and residential community. A major force 

since 2009, over 200 exhibitions, cultural 

events and lectures have been held with 

the goal of bringing art and modern design 

into ordinary people’s lives. In an area that 

spans 170,000 square metres, the Redtory 

industrial setting has been transformed into 

seven exhibition areas and over ten creative 

designations that include studios and art 

shops. In a big nod to its industrial heritage, 

Redtory embraces creative industries 

such as design and applied engineering to 

complement its contemporary art platform. 

redtory.com.cn 

30 

31

OVERTURES 

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 

Photos Dolnapa Ram-Indra 

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum 

in Mumbai 

Mumbai-based Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is where fine and decorative arts 

define the city’s cultural heritage. Apart from the splendid array of miniature 

clay models, dioramas, lithographs, and rare books – the museum has also 

formed an artistic partnership with other museums and cultural institutions 

around the world in bringing contemporary artists and international 

exhibitions to this already culturally rich city. The museum’s historic past 

merges splendidly with the design aspects of modern day when its Museum 

Restoration Project won the 2005 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award 

of Excellence for Conservation. This achievement was a collective effort of 

the public and private partnership between the Brihanmumbai Municipal 

Corporation, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), 

and the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation. bdlmuseum.org 

32

PHU QUOC 

Words S.O. Knight 

Photos Pete Cloonie 

If you’re looking to be spirited away to a pristine 

island and enjoy nature or just luxuriate in a 

resort, Phu Quoc is the latest travel gem with 

lots to offer. Rollicking expanse of beaches, 

indigenous farms tours and superb local seafood 

complete the picture. 

34 

35

PHU QUOC 

F 

rom the plane, the lush green 

of nature strikes you when 

descending into Phu Quoc – 

Vietnam’s largest island just off 

the Gulf of Thailand. A hotspot for beach 

and outdoor lovers, Phu Quoc races 

toward transformation with fast-paced 

and mega-infrastructure construction. 

Paved roads are being built to connect 

the entire island, and five-star resorts 

settle on many stretches of its beautiful 

beaches. But more than half of Phu Quoc’s 

unspoiled nature is strictly preserved as 

part of the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve 

and protected with a UNESCO designation. 

This is an island with two worlds: one 

existing in its original greenness, and the 

other one possessing world-class beachfront 

accommodations. 

Visitors can 

explore scenic 

farms with 

abundant 

pepper plants. 

Farm tours with 

friendly staffers 

educate visitors 

on understanding 

quality pepper. 

When the Vietnamese 

government listed Phu Quoc in 

its National Tourism Master Plan 

more than a dozen years ago, locals 

immediately felt the changes. Over 

the past five years, the island has 

changed very rapidly into quite a 

tourist destination. Most visitors 

to Vietnam need a visa to enter 

the country, but not if Phu Quoc is 

listed as one of the destinations. 

Huge investments are approved 

in a rapid manner to provide 

sound infrastructure on the island. 

Undersea high voltage 110kv cables 

have been laid to provide much- 

needed stability to the island’s once 

sporadic electricity supplies. The 

island’s water treatment plants - 

worth almost US$100 million – have 

been in the works. The new airport 

opened in 2012 and has already seen 

additional expansion. It will soon 

service larger aircrafts by the time 

the island expects to welcome as 

many as three million visitors per 

year by 2020. 

We drove by Phu Quoc’s old 

Duong Dong airport on our way to 

the famous pepper and bee farms 

up north. Construction has levelled 

out some areas into stretches of 

emptiness awaiting development, 

with roads leading to the airport 

used conveniently as shortcuts for 

locals going between the seaside 

and inland. The front end of the 

abandoned airstrip is now dotted 

with fruit trucks, mainly colourful 

6-wheelers and open-through beds 

piled high with local fruits. Among 

them are durians ferried over from 

the Mekong Delta. 

The newly-built roads mean 

easier passage from north to south 

of this big island of almost 600 

square kilometres. Phu Quoc’s 

developed centre is ‘Duong Dong’ 

which had early establishments of 

hotels, banks, and shops that used to 

cater backpackers. The river running 

through this area makes it a vibrant 

living port. Fishing has always 

been and still is Phu Quoc’s main 

industry. The island is famed for its 

naturally aromatic and high-protein 

fish sauce, still largely made from 

tons of anchovies steeped at least for 

two years in salt and water. Of the 

island’s many fish sauce factories, 

four cater to tours and tasting. Go 

to one of the local restaurants for 

Vietnamese spring rolls - fresh or 

deep-fried - and dip it into their 

famous fish sauce. 

Most locals you meet on Phu 

Quoc are descendants of fishermen 

on the island. Our chatty guide 

Danny could talk endlessly on how 

changes on the island in recent years 

dramatically impacted his family 

and day-to-day lifestyle, all said 

with an understandable mix of pride 

and dread. 

“I was still in the generation 

that had to travel to the mainland 

for a higher education,” said our 

local guide, who’s 25. “But now, 

Phu Quoc is seeing a new foreigninvested 

hospitality university and 

my younger brother who is now in 

a local high school can choose to 

get an education here, or venture 

onto the mainland like I did. Life 

should be easier for him with more 

education and jobs on the island in 

the near future. I got it a bit rough 

living away from family back then.” 

Adventurous Europeans first 

discovered Phu Quoc over 20 years 

ago. They were drawn to its remote, 

Clockwise from 

Top Right 

A real eating 

town, freshness 

guaranteed. 

Phu Quoc produces 

fish sauce prized 

by Vietnamese 

households. 

Visitors on ecotours 

learn about honey 

bee conservation at 

bee farms. 

Pearl farms show 

how oysters create 

these little ‘gems’. 

true far-away destination. Clear, 

unspoiled emerald-green beaches 

were a big magnet. Before direct 

flights from Bangkok became 

available, people who flew to Phu 

Quoc needed a full day’s journey that 

included a long layover in Ho Chi 

Minh City. Now, you can even fly in 

directly from Scandinavia countries 

and London. There are also daily 

ferries from Phu Quoc to seaport 

cities like Ha Tien and Rach Gia 

that are south of Vietnam. 

Long beach, not too far south 

from Duong Dong, caters to many 

tourists with its extensive stretch 

of beach – full of beachfront 

resorts, bars, and restaurants - 

both local favourites and ones 

catering to tourists. The island’s 

famed night market is also there, 

just under the main bridge and 

opposite the town’s main fresh 

market. It is quite easy to get 

around, with options of a metred 

taxi, a private tour or a scooter 

rental. And like other parts of 

Vietnam, ear-splitting honking is 

the roadside norm. 

The cacophony is enough 

to remind you of Phu Quoc’s 

rapid ascension on the hot list of 

getaways. Luckily, there’s also 

the option for a quiet escape to its 

protected nature. 

TO-DOS: 

Phu Quoc is also famed for ecotourism 

and tourists can roam 

around sampling away –from the 

fish sauce factories in Duong Dong 

area all the way to the north, which 

is abundant with pepper farms, bee 

farms and sim or rose myrtle wine 

factories. At Phu Quoc Countryside, 

the farm-stay pepper farm has 

good facilities - including their own 

restaurant and draft beer brewery. 

The sim plant is wild and abundant 

in Phu Quoc’s forests, and from that 

comes an island specialty. Sim wines 

– ranging from light enough to be 

36 37

PHU QUOC 

Right 

Breath-taking view 

from a balcony of 

JW Marriott Phu 

Quoc Emerald Bay 

Bottom to Right 

The largest 

Buddhist temple 

in Phu Quoc and 

a meditative place 

to see a sunset. 

Stroll through the 

night market for 

fresh seafood 

made to order. 

Ideal for sunset 

viewing is Choun 

Choun Sky Bar. 

Phu Quoc Prison, 

also called the 

Coconut Tree Prison, 

used to house 

prisoners of war. 

a ‘baby’ wine to one with a robust 

and mature body - are fragrant and 

cheerful for drinking. 

The Fisherman’s village of Ham 

Nihn is dotted with floating seafood 

restaurants for your choosing. Green 

chilli sauces are meant only for the 

squid dishes; while lime, salt and 

pepper are the condiments mixture 

for all others. The Night Market in 

Duong Dong is known for pricey 

seafood, but serves as a good place 

for tourists to wander. Drop by the 

nearby Ra Qhoi or 343 Restaurant 

for local munches, but for the treat 

of large seafood bowls Westernstyle, 

head to Crab House. When 

the weather permits, Choun Choun 

Sky Bar overlooking the riversplit 

and Duong Dong tributary 

is an excellent choice for sunsets. 

Another viewing is the Q Sky Bar 

on Tran Hung Dao Street. Café 

Sua Da next to the night market 

will get you a cooling drink or 

two, while Aroi Café opposite of 

Crab House offers equally thirstquenching 

options. 

For more hilltop sea views 

dotted with sights of gorgeous 

bonsai varieties, head to the newlybuilt 

Ho Quoc Pagoda that boasts 

Mahayana Buddhist architecture and 

beautifully adorned with exquisite 

potted plants. 

For a history stop, Phu Quoc 

Prison tells the story of Phu Quoc’s 

tragic past. Built in 1949-1950 

and renovated into a museum, 

showcased are prisoner cages 

and torture practises during the 

Indochina War when Phu Quoc 

became a P.O.W camp and detention 

of captured Viet Cong and North 

Vietnamese. A new jail museum is 

being built to house these unsettling 

exhibits with the government 

determined to “promote” this 

disturbing story of this island’s past. 

STAY: 

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald 

Bay opened about a year ago in 

the southern hub of An Thoi and 

immediately became the talk of 

the island. Designed by prolific 

hotel designer Bill Bensley - the 

resort’s design creation is based 

on a fantasy tale that borrows 

from Vietnam’s episode of 

French colonisation and warweary 

history. While fictitious 

yet convincing, the resulting 

story is that the property was 

built out of a deserted and 

ancient building – and converted 

into the structurally elaborate 

‘Lamarck University’ in the 

1920s. Thus the modern-day 

resort rises up from a madeup 

past. Rich in historical 

details, the resort is the place 

where you will spend your 

time browsing through their 

eclectic antique collection and 

enjoying the exuberant feel of 

the lobby. Guestrooms have 

high ceilings and universitythemed 

department names. 

Their beautiful ‘Spa Chanterelle’ 

provides a luxurious and 

relaxing escape. It’s a great 

choice for foodies too – with 

excellent comestibles, especially 

their mega-breakfast buffet with 

fabulous vegetarian choices, a 

delicious lunch consisting of 

Vietnamese traditional dishes, 

and beachfront seafood dinners. 

jwmarriottphuquoc.com 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

CMY 

K 

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 

38

PHU QUOC 

ซ้ายบน 

เรือประมงทาสีฟ้า 

ตัดเขียว พากัน 

ออกหาปลาทุกวี่วัน 

ขวาบน 

ชายหาดทอดแนวยาว 

กว้างไกลสุดลูกหูลูกตา 

เต็มไปด้วยรีสอร์ต 

และที่พักใกล้ชิด 

ท้องทะเลสีคราม 

ซ้ายล่าง 

ชายหาดบนเกาะฟู้โกว๊ก 

ยังคงความงามตาม 

วิถีธรรมชาติ 

ฟู้โกว๊ก เกาะที่ใหญ่ที่สุดในเวียดนามแห่งนี้ 

ห่างจากประเทศไทยไม่มากนัก เกาะแห่ง 

นี้กำลังเปลี่ยนแปลงอย่างรวดเร็วพร้อม 

กับโครงการก่อสร้างพื ้นฐาน โดยมีถนน 

ที่เชื่อมทั้งเกาะเข้าด้วยกัน และโปรเจ็คต์ 

โรงแรมระดับห้าดาวที่ผุดขึ้นบนหาดทราย 

ที่ทอดแนวยาวของฟู้โกว๊ก ในขณะเดียว 

กัน ยูเนสโกได้กำหนดเขตพื้นที่อนุรักษ์ 

ชีวมนฑลเกียนยาง เพื่อรักษาความ 

หลากหลายทางชีวภาพในพื้นที่เกินครึ่ง 

ของเกาะ เรียกได้ว่า ฟู้โกว๊กคือเกาะแห่ง 

โลกสองใบอย่างแท้จริง 

จากนโยบายการท่องเที่ยวของ 

รัฐบาล เกาะฟู้โกว๊กเปลี่ยนแปลงอย่าง 

ก้าวกระโดด นักท่องเที่ยวไม่จำเป็นต้อง 

มีวีซ่าเพื่อเข้าเวียดนาม หากหนึ่งใน 

สถานที่ท่องเที่ยวของคุณคือเกาะแห่งนี้ 

นี่ยังไม่รวมการลงทุนโครงสร้างพื้นฐาน 

สายไฟฟ้าแรงสูงใต้ทะเล โรงงานบำบัด 

น้ำเสียมูลค่ามหาศาล และสนามบินที่ได้ 

รับการขยายพื้นที่เพื่อรองรับนักท่องเที่ยว 

3 ล้านคนต่อปีในอีกสามปีข้างหน้า 

ถนนตัดใหม่ทำให้เดินทางได้สะดวก 

สบาย เริ่มต้นที่ ดวงดอง ‘Duong Dong’ 

ศูนย์กลางนักท่องเที่ยวสะพายเป้ ที่มีทั้ง 

โรงแรม ธนาคาร และร้านค้ามากมาย 

คุณจะได้เห็นแม่น้ำที่ชาวบ้านอาศัยเป็น 

แหล่งทำการประมงเป็นอาชีพหลัก เกาะ 

แห่งนี ้ยังมีชื่อเสียงด้านการทำน้ำปลา 

ผลิตจากปลากระตักที่หมักอย่างน้อย 

สองปี อย่าลืมลองชิมปอเปี๊ยะเวียดนาม 

ทอดจิ้มน ้ำปลาอันหอมหวน รสชาติ 

อร่อยล้ำอย่าบอกใครเชียว 

คนท้องถิ่นที่นี่ส่วนใหญ่ล้วนเป็นลูก 

หลานชาวประมง แดนนี่ ไกด์ของเราเล่า 

ให้ฟังว่า ความเป็นอยู่เปลี่ยนไปมาก จากที่ 

ต้องเดินทางไปเรียนที่แผ่นดินใหญ่ เดี๋ยวนี้ 

ใครๆ ก็สามารถเข้าเรียนมหาวิทยาลัยที่ 

ลงทุนโดยชาวต่างชาติบนเกาะฟู้โกว๊กได้ 

เลย รวมถึงน้องชายของเขาด้วย 

การเปลี่ยนแปลงครั้งใหญ่เริ่มเมื่อ 

นักสำรวจชาวยุโรปเดินทางมายังเกาะ 

ฟู้โกว๊กช่วง 20 ปีก่อน ความที่ฟู้โกว๊กห่างไกล 

จากทุกสิ่งบนโลก อีกทั้งทะเลยังเป็น 

สีเขียวมรกต สองเสน่ห์นี้เองที่ดึงดูด 

นักท่องเที่ยวจากทั่วทุกมุมโลกให้มาสัมผัส 

เกาะแห่งนี้ ในอดีต การเดินทางมายังเกาะ 

ฟู้โกว๊กต้องใช้เวลาเดินทางหนึ่งวันเต็มจาก 

โฮจิมินห์ แต่ปัจจุบันกลับสะดวกง่ายดาย 

เพราะสามารถบินตรงจากกรุงเทพฯ ได้เลย 

นักท่องเที่ยวส่วนใหญ่จะมาพักที่หาด 

ยาวทางใต้ของดวงดอง ที่เต็มไปด้วย 

รีสอร์ต บาร์ และร้านอาหาร ตกกลางคืนก็ 

เดินเที่ยวตลาดกลางคืนซึ่งอยู่ใต้สะพาน 

หลักตรงข้ามตลาดสด การเดินทางก็แสน 

สะดวก มีทั้งแท็กซี่มิเตอร์ ไกด์นำเที่ยวส่วน 

ตัว หรือรถมอเตอร์ไซค์เช่า คลอด้วยเสียง 

แตรอื้ออึงอันเป็นเอกลักษณ์ของเวียดนาม 

กิจกรรม: 

ฟู้โกว๊กโด่งดังเรื่องการท่องเที่ยวเชิงนิเวศ 

แวะไปลองชิมน้ำปลารสดีได้ที่ โรงงาน 

น้ำปลา ในย่านดวงดอง ทางตอนเหนือ 

มี ไร่พริกไทย ฟาร์มผึ ้ง และโรงงานไวน์ 

พร้อมกับทานอาหารพลางจิบเบียร์ 

ดราฟต์อันหอมหวานที่ ฟู้โกว๊ก 

คันทรีไซด์ 

หมู่บ้านชาวประมงในฮามนิง เต็มไปด้วย 

ร้านอาหารทะเลบนแพ อย่าลืมว่าน้ำจิ้ม 

พริกเขียวมีไว้สำหรับจิ้มปลาหมึกเท่านั้น 

ส่วนน้ำจิ้มซีฟู้ดคู่กับอาหารจานอื่นๆ 

ตลาดกลางคืนที่ดวงดองขายอาหาร 

ทะเลราคาสูง อย่าลืมแวะ Ra Qhoi 

หรือ ร้านอาหาร 343 ทานอาหาร 

ท้องถิ่นเด็ดๆ แล้วไปต่อที่ Crab House 

เพื่อทานอาหารทะเลจานใหญ่สไตล์ 

ตะวันตก พออากาศดีได้ที่ก็ไปต่อที่ 

Choun Choun Sky Bar หรือที่ 

Q Sky Bar เพื่อดื่มด่ำวิวตะวันตกดิน 

และแม่น้ำกลางดวงดอง คุณจะเข้าไป 

ลองจิบเครื่องดื่มเย็นๆ แบบชาวท้องถิ่น 

ที่ คาเฟ่ Sua Da ข้างตลาดกลางคืน 

หรือจะไปที่ Aroi Café ตรงข้าม 

Crab House ก็น่าสนใจ 

หากอยากชมวิวทะเลให้ได้ภาพจาก 

มุมสูง มุ่งหน้าไปที่ เจดีย์โฮโกว๊ก ชื่นชม 

สถาปัตยกรรมศิลปะมหายาน พร้อมกับ 

ต้นบอนไซอันงดงาม 

นอกจากนี้ ยังสามารถย้อนรอย 

อดีตอันเจ็บปวดที่ ทันฑสถานฟู้โกว๊ก 

ซึ่งมีการจัดแสดงห้องขังและเครื่องมือ 

ทรมานที่ใช้ในช่วงสงครามอินโดจีน 

เป็นสถานที่กุมขังเวียดกงและชาว 

เวียดนามเหนือ ปัจจุบันได้รับการบูรณะ 

เป็นพิพิธภัณฑ์ให้นักท่องเที่ยวได้สัมผัส 

และเรียนรู้ไปพร้อมกัน 

ที่พัก: 

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay 

Resort & Spa รีสอร์ตที่สะท้อน 

ประวัติศาสตร์ของเวียดนามและการ 

ครองอาณานิคมโดยฝรั่งเศส รีสอร์ต 

แห่งนี ้ออกแบบโดยนักออกแบบชื ่อดัง 

บิล เบนส์ลีย์ (อ่านบทสัมภาษณ์ได้ใน 

หน้า 42) คุณจะได้ชมความงามของ 

คอลเล็กชันของเก่าที่ได้รับการคัดสรร 

อย่างประณีต ล็อบบี้ที่ให้ความรู้สึกมี 

ชีวิตชีวาอบอวลไปด้วยประวัติศาสตร์ 

แห่งมหาวิทยาลัยลามาร์ก และไฮไลต์ 

อย่าง สปา Chanterelle เพื่อการผ่อน 

คลายอย่างมีระดับ 

40

BILL BENSLEY 

Out of This World 

Creative genius Bill Bensley lives one half of 

his life in imagination and the other in reality. 

‘Escapism’, his recent design tome, showcases 

bits of lifetime work; manifesting the fact that 

the hotel designer has no problem crossing the 

line between real life and colourful fantasies. 

Bensley flouts convention and inspires our writer. 

Her takeaway? Blue sky thinking. 

Photos Suwit Kittitien, Bensley Design Studio 

Words Sirin P Wongpanit 

42 

43

BILL BENSLEY 

If life is about setting records, Bill 

Bensley is certainly intent on breaking 

a good run with new ones. Known for 

his new explorations in resort designs, 

Bensley is easily one of the world’s most 

prolific hotel architects who has designed 

over 200 resorts in 30 countries. Among 

his long list of projects, many of which are 

located in pristine and remote areas, is a 

palace – a real one. He has two offices, one 

in Bangkok, the other in Bali. On average, 

he and his 200-manned dream team would 

work on about 45 different projects at the 

same time. When I met him the first time, 

Bensley was sitting in on five different 

meetings, his two dogs slumbering at his 

feet. It is a known fact that Bensley travels 

most of the time. His schedule is crazy, 

as his secretary will readily confirm. And 

when we talked for the second time for the 

interview, the seemingly indefatigable man 

had just unpacked from a month-long trip 

to Eastern Europe. 

“Now we have made it to 

92 countries,” says the largerthan-life 

architect on the number 

of countries he travelled. “My 

plan is when I turn 60, which is 

about one and half years from 

now, we will land on a new, 

uncharted country and make it 

our 100th.” 

His younger days meant 

numerous summertime road 

trips and camping and being very 

comfortable with trudging into 

lands unknown. Bensley recalls 

seeing new places with a fresh 

pair of eyes, a necessity to stay 

Opposite Page 

Suspended boats 

above playful jewel 

tones and plaid at 

the Royal Istana in 

Malaysia. 

Clockwise from Top 

Eclectic cool living 

in a transformed 

palace, the Royal 

Istana in Malaysia. 

on the alert and have fun. “I grew 

up travelling constantly. Every 

summer, we went on a big tour all 

over America, we went to Mexico, 

we went to Canada. And when I 

graduated from school, I went 

on for four months to Europe, 

using the money my sister gave 

me for my Harvard (class) ring 

to purchase the rail pass and 

took a detour to Europe before 

eventually landing in Asia.” The 

year was 1984, Bensley was 24 

years old, and the travel that 

originated from his home in 

Anaheim, California to Asia took 

four and a half months. 

Dubbed the ‘King of Exotic 

Luxury Resorts’ by Time magazine 

and the ‘craziest sane hotel designer 

Rich in details, yet 

Baan Bhirom Bhakdi 

in Bangkok exudes 

an unruffled and 

tranquil vibe. 

An homage to Bruce 

Lee manifests as 

a bronze Kung Fu 

rabbit at the Capella 

Golf Clubhouse, 

Foshan, China. 

in the world’ by Vanity Fair; 

Bensley – while still planning 

to traverse from one place to 

another – always picks up new 

ideas at every moment in his 

journeys. “It goes directly from 

vacation to designs,” he says. 

“In Krakow, Poland for example; 

I got excellent ideas for our 

villa project in Halong Bay. My 

memories are all photographed 

and some are translated into 

tiny details of whatever we 

are doing. When we were in 

Dubrovnik, Croatia, our room 

with the balcony overlooking the 

stone staircase where Game of 

Thrones’ Cersei walked in shame 

got me so inspired – and now we 

are making the sketch I did back 

44 45

BILL BENSLEY 

right then and there into a 6 by 

1.5 metre drawing, for the Four 

Seasons Chiang Mai renovation.” 

Global trips might have given 

Bensley aesthetic ideas, but it is 

his strong desire to dream, have 

fun and really immerse in novel 

and inner journeys that make him 

different, or ‘crazy and sane’ at 

the same time. Lately, Bensley’s 

resort blueprints create a new 

realm – that of another world 

or an “out of this world” kind of 

vacation. A real escapism, if you 

will, where guests are convinced 

they are in a certain time and 

place, yet everything has all 

been created and built. He and 

his team achieved that in grand 

orchestration and indicative of 

the high art of putting an entire 

wholesome project together. Every 

minute string of the story is tied 

together within the designs and 

with a strong and reality-based 

timeline. The experience is made 

real with facts complete with fine 

and minuscule details required 

to make everything flawlessly 

function so guests can really escape 

into this new world; a world 

according to Bill Bensley. 

But it is also the stark realities 

existing in life that drove him to 

sketch out a project closest to 

his heart. Concerns on poverty, 

the widespread encroachment 

of natural environments and 

uncontrolled wildlife poaching 

are addressed in his latest project 

Clockwise from Top 

Yessir, they’ve got 

lots of bananas at 

the InterContinental 

Danang Sun 

Peninsula Resort, 

Vietnam. 

Jazzed up bar at 

Deco Bar, The Siam 

Bangkok. 

An ode to Phuket’s 

yesteryears at 

The Slate Phuket. 

– one that is most important to 

him: the Shinta Mani Wild 

in Cambodia. 

“I bought a 99-year lease 

to log in this land, but with no 

intention to log,” explains the 

architect who is known for doing 

everything in his design to avoid 

cutting even one single tree. 

“Instead, we want this place to 

be a sanctuary for all animals, big 

and small, as well as the whole 

entire forest. It will also be the 

place where our guests can be 

in (a) totally different but real 

world; of the wild of Cambodia.” 

Shinta Mani Wild will be the 

fourth in the small cluster of 

Bensley-owned and operated 

hotels in Cambodia that generates 

income to support the work of the 

Shinta Mani Foundation, created 

on the idea of responsible tourism 

that benefits local communities. 

The Shinta Mani Wild, scheduled 

to launched in late 2018, will still 

provide an out-of-this-world 

experience to its guests and more 

along the lines of luxury camping. 

“I really like the outdoors, 

the camping and being in tune 

with nature, being exposed,” 

says Bensley. 

“So I would say that the Shinta 

Mani Wild is everything I want 

to see in a holiday. You can get 

more adventure there than you 

can imagine. Guests can go with 

rangers and catch poachers, 

do community work; or even 

foraging in the forest for food. 

We just found twelve new types 

of edible mushrooms there. They 

are delicious.” 

46

BILL BENSLEY 

Bulldoze first, build later is 

the convenient mantra of any 

development, and Bensley sees 

too many of that happening 

and vows that his properties 

are living proof that one can, in 

fact, easily build within nature. 

“It’s heartbreaking,” he says, 

referring to the destruction of 

some natural habitats. “Some 

of those places must have been 

there for thousands of years, 

untouched by mankind.” 

The Shinta Mani Wild sits in 

a pristine estuary surrounded by 

a rainforest-covered mountain 

range southwest of Cambodia. 

It is one of the few remaining 

habitats for wild species of 

Asian elephants, guar reptiles, 

the southern serow (a species 

of goat/antelope), hog deer, 

tigers, bears and much more. The 

tented accommodations there 

are placed 500 rais (80 hectares) 

apart from one another, and on 

stilts over (water) rapids,“to allow 

migration of smaller animals that 

can go underneath and keep the 

place safe from wild animals,” 

Bensley points out. The National 

Geographic Unique Lodges of 

the World (that only features 

a strictly curated collection 

of extremely environmentally 

sensitive and socially responsible 

Top 

Channeling the 

island of Bali at the 

Maia Luxury Resort 

and Spa, Seychelles. 

Right 

Colours of royalty 

for a room that’s 

more than fit for a 

king at The Royal 

Istana. 

Below Left & Right 

Mimicking an 

upside down 

Vietnamese cone 

hat, a dining 

table sits right 

at the edge, 

InterContinental 

Danang Sun 

Peninsula Resort, 

Vietnam. 

DC Beach House, 

Kamala Beach, 

Phuket - with a 

painting of Picasso’s 

famous subjects 

having fun on a 

Phuket beach. 

accommodations) is said to be 

interested in featuring the Shinta 

Mani Wild. 

“I really want to make this 

work,” says Bensley. “It’s about 

saving that huge chunk of jungle 

from the loggers and those animals 

from poachers while creating new 

and sustainable opportunities 

for local people through the 

management of the Shinta Mani 

Foundation. But this would never 

make up for the forests I have seen 

cleared, cut – for new construction. 

Nothing will ever make up for that.” 

48

BILL BENSLEY 

บิล เบนส์ลีย์ คือเจ้าของสถิติการออกแบบ 

รีสอร์ตล้ำยุคมากกว่า 200 แห่ง ใน 30 

ประเทศทั่วโลก โดยเฉลี่ยเขากับทีมงาน 

กว่า 200 คนจะทำโครงการราว 45 แห่ง 

ในเวลาเดียวกัน การเดินทางจึงเป็นสิ่งที่ 

หลีกเลี่ยงได้ยาก ฟ้าไทยมีโอกาสได้ 

สัมภาษณ์คุณเบนส์ลีย์หลังจากที่เขาเพิ่ง 

เดินทางกลับมาจากยุโรปตะวันออกมา 

หมาดๆ หลังจากต้องดูแลงานที่นั่นอยู่ 

นานเกือบหนึ่งเดือน 

นักออกแบบสุดล้ำอย่างเบนส์ลีย์ 

เล่าว่า ตอนนี้เขาสร้างโรงแรมมาแล้ว 

92 ประเทศ และวางแผนไว้ว่าจะต้องทำ 

สถิติแตะประเทศที่ 100 ก่อนอายุ 60 

ในอีกแค่ปีครึ่งหลังจากนี้ 

ตอนยังหนุ่ม เบนส์ลีย์มีโอกาสได้เดิน 

ทางไปสำรวจดินแดนแปลกใหม่ ตื่นตา 

ตื่นใจกับความสนุกที่ได้จากการท่องเที่ยว 

ไม่หยุดหย่อน หลังจากเรียนจบในวัย 24 ปี 

เขาใช้เงินที่พี่สาวมอบให้เดินทางจาก 

บ้านเกิดของเขาในเมืองแอนาไฮม์ 

แคลิฟอร์เนีย เพื่อไปท่องยุโรป จนสุดท้าย 

จบลงที่ทวีปเอเชีย! 

นิตยสารไทม์ขนานนามเขาว่าเป็น 

“ราชาแห่งรีสอร์ตหรูสุดแปลก” ในขณะที่ 

วานิตี้แฟร์เรียกเขาว่า “นักออกแบบ 

โรงแรมสติดีที่บ้าบิ่นที่สุดในโลก” เบนส์ลีย์ 

มักจะออกเดินทางเพื่อค้นหาแรงบันดาลใจ 

ใหม่ๆ เสมอ เช่น ระหว่างท่องเที่ยวใน 

โครเอเชีย เขารู้สึกซาบซึ้งในความงามของ 

ขั้นบันไดที่ตัวละครเซอร์ซีจากซีรีส์ 

เกมอ็อฟโธรนเดินตัวเปลือยเปล่าระหว่าง 

ถูกประณามโดยคนทั้งเมือง จนเป็นที่มา 

ของแนวคิดการปรับปรุงโรงแรม 

โฟร์ซีซันส์ เชียงใหม่ 

บรรยากาศของ จินตมณี 

ไวล์ด โครงการที่พัก 

กลางขุนเขาและลำน้ำใน 

กัมพูชาล่าสุดของ บิล 

เบนสลีย์ ที่เขาและทีมงาน 

ออกแบบให้สิ่งปลูกสร้าง 

และธรรมชาติอยู่ด้วยกัน 

ได้อย่างลงตัวโดยไม่ 

เบียดเบียนกันมากที่สุด 

ล่าสุด เบนส์ลีย์ได้ออกแบบรีสอร์ต 

ที่เป็นคำนิยามของคำว่า “หลุดโลก” 

อย่างแท้จริง แขกที่มาพำนักจะเชื่อว่า 

ตนเองอยู่ ณ สถานที่และห้วงเวลาหนึ ่ง 

ซึ่งแวดล้อมด้วยศิลปะชั้นสูง รายละเอียด 

ต่างๆ ที่ร้อยรัดเรื่องราวจนหาที่ติไม่ได้ 

นี่เองคือโลกในนิยามของเบนส์ลีย์ ที่ซึ่ง 

ผู้เข้าพำนักเร้นหลีกจากความเป็นจริงได้ 

อย่างสมบูรณ์แบบ 

ไม่เพียงเท่านั้น เขายังให้ความสำคัญ 

กับเรื่องปากท้อง การอนุรักษ์ธรรมชาติ 

และสิ่งแวดล้อม โครงการล่าสุด จินตมณี 

ไวล์ด ตั้งอยู่ในผืนป่าในประเทศกัมพูชา 

เบนส์ลีย์ตั้งใจจะรักษาต้นไม้ทุกต้นเพื่อให้ 

สถานที่แห่งนี้เป็นแหล่งอนุรักษ์พันธุ์สัตว์ 

ป่าทั้งใหญ่และเล็ก หลังเปิดตัวในช่วง 

ปลายปี 2561 รีสอร์ต จินตมณีไวล์ด จะ 

เป็นหนึ่งในสี่โครงการรีสอร์ตของบิล 

เบนสลีย์ ในกัมพูชา ที่มีส่วนสนับสนุน 

มูลนิธิจินตมณี เพื่อสร้างประโยชน์แก่ 

ชุมชนท้องถิ่นอีกด้วย 

สำหรับเบนส์ลีย์ การทำลายถิ่นที่อยู่ 

ตามธรรมชาติถือเป็นเรื่องน่าเศร้า เขาจึงตั้ง 

ปณิธานว่าสิ่งก่อสร้างที่อยู่ภายใต้ 

การดูแลของเขาจะต้องเป็นแบบอย่างของ 

การอยู่ร่วมกันระหว่างสิ่งก่อสร้างและ 

ธรรมชาติให้สมดุลที่สุด 

รีสอร์ต จินตมณีไวล์ด ตั้งอยู่ตามแนว 

เขาที่ปกคลุมด้วยผืนป่าฝนทางตะวันตก 

เฉียงใต้ของประเทศกัมพูชา ที่พักแต่ละหลัง 

จะตั้งห่างออกจากกันภายในพื้นที่ 500 ไร่ 

และอยู่เหนือลำน้ำเชี่ยวเพื่อให้สัตว์น้อย 

ใหญ่สามารถใช้เส้นทางและใช้ชีวิตได้อย่าง 

ปลอดภัย นิตยสารที่ตีพิมพ์เฉพาะที่พักซึ่ง 

ใส่ใจสิ่งแวดล้อมและสังคมอย่าง เนชันแนล 

จีโอกราฟฟิก มีแผนที่จะตีพิมพ์บทความ 

เผยแพร่แนวคิดของ จินตมณีไวล์ด ลงใน 

เว็บไซต์ ยูนีค ลอดจ์ อ็อฟ เดอะ เวิลด์ ของ 

นิตยสารอีกด้วย 

บิล เบนส์ลีย์ กล่าวว่า “ผมอยากทำ 

โครงการนี้ให้สำเร็จ เพื่อรักษาผืนป่าจาก 

ใครก็ตามที่ตัดไม้ทำลายป่า และปกป้อง 

สัตว์จากการค้าสัตว์ป่า สร้างโอกาสให้กับ 

ชาวบ้านได้อยู่ร่วมกันอย่างยั่งยืนผ่าน 

การจัดการมูลนิธิจินตมณี อย่างไรก็ตาม 

สิ่งเหล่านี้ไม่อาจทดแทนป่าไม้ที่ถูกแผ้วถาง 

ไปก่อนหน้านี้ และไม่มีอะไรสามารถทดแทน 

ธรรมชาติได้จริงๆ” 

50

PHUKET 

Photos Permboon Wongpanit 

Words Sirin P Wongpanit 

When Phuket’s sea and sun beckons, it’s hard to 

ignore the call. Yet the resort island’s fun alternative 

lies in its rich history. So get off the sand for a little 

bit and explore its other cultural cool. 

54 

55

PHUKET 

U 

ntil visions of beautiful beaches 

consumed its visitors, Phuket 

was known as the land rich with 

unique culture. As the trading 

and mining hub of the Malay Peninsula 

back at the turn of the twentieth century, 

Phuket was all things for cross-cultural 

settlements. If one wonderful thing about 

travelling is getting to know the destination 

well, these five magnificent places in 

Phuket will surely make you feel like you 

dug beneath the surface. 

ON ON HOTEL 

Once a dorm-style guesthouse 

for seafarers, On On (happiness 

of visitors in Chinese) Hotel 

was the first and the longestoperating 

hotel in Phuket. 

Standing on Phang Nga road in 

the middle of Phuket Old Town, 

it is hard to imagine that this 

inland spot was once very close 

to a main docking pier, set up on 

a small canal and branching out 

from a main tributary of the vast 

Andaman Sea. 

Built in 1929, the descendants 

of the original owners had kept 

the premises in its genuine 

condition as it evolved. Its dreary, 

haunting, and run-down state 

became famous when it was 

featured in the Hollywood film 

Above 

The oldest hotel 

still in operation in 

Phuket Old Town, 

On On Hotel’s 

renovation 

preserved its 

original design 

elements and guests 

can come stay and 

reminisce. 

This Page 

On On Hotel may 

have seen renovation 

but still retains its 

former charm and 

remnants of history. 

Before its major 

overhaul in 2012, the 

On On Hotel was in a 

dire state but it still 

attracted fans from 

around the world. 

‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo 

Di Caprio. 

Before its major overhaul in 

2012, the On On Hotel was in 

a dire state but still attracted 

fans from around the world. 

Fifty million baht and a full 

year closure later, the hotel 

reopened as ‘The Memory at On 

On Hotel’ with some remnants 

of its heyday – such as original 

walls, teak wood elements, and 

furniture. Dormitory rooms and 

the original setting of famous 

scenes in the movie are kept for 

visitors to relive the memory, 

now outfitted with the comfort 

of ensuite bathrooms and airconditioning. 

thememoryhotel.com 

56

PHUKET 

Baan Chinpracha 

is a mansion that 

has stood through 

the glory days and 

gloomy times of 

Phuket. 

Its preserved 

grandeur is one 

of the finest 

works of original 

Anglo-Chinese 

architectural 

design. 

CHINPRACHA HOUSE 

Among the best places to get a 

glimpse of Phuket’s glorious past is 

the 114-year-old ‘Baan Chinpracha,’ 

or Chinpracha Mansion, one of a 

few remaining ‘Anglo-Chinese’ 

style mansions. It was originally 

built at a time when Phuket enjoyed 

its commercial peak during the 

reign of King Rama V, just before 

World War II. 

History buffs will enjoy 

browsing the house’s eclectic 

personal collection of antique 

furniture, mostly exquisite 

Chinese-style mother of pearl 

sets built of intricate woodwork 

and still auspiciously exist as a 

set of two. 

Other details of the house, such 

as the beautiful ceramic floor tiles 

and decorative fences, were also 

brought in by trading ships from 

as far as Holland and Italy. Phuket 

was then a centre of trading in the 

region with ships coming from all 

over the world. 

Passed down to the sixth 

generation, the original owner 

Phra Pitak Chinpracha was a 

Fujian descendant who came to 

settle down in Phuket during the 

reign of King Rama IV. Chinpracha 

later became one of Phuket’s 

prominent figures in the tinmining 

industry. Visitors can 

reminisce about its storied past, 

and those wishing to hire the 

entire place for special occasions 

can do so with an advanced 

booking. Baan Chinpracha, 98 Krabi 

Road, Phuket, T: +66 (0) 76 211 281 

58

PHUKET 

KASET MARKET 

You can eat your way through 

Phuket by starting the day at the 

Kaset fresh market not too far from 

the old town area. Talad Kaset, 

operating at most hours of the 

day with different foods rotating 

on displays, serves as an excellent 

testament to Phuket people’s 

adoration of their food. 

Many locals wake up at dawn 

to shop for ‘khanom sod,’ or ‘fresh 

sweets,’ which include a wide variety 

of sweet breakfast foods. Many of 

them are inspired by Malaysian 

cuisine, but most are adapted with 

local ingredients like coconut, sticky 

rice, jackfruit, and seafood. You 

will find many similar shops selling 

these desserts. 

Recommended items include 

‘Giam Goi’ or steamed rice 

dumplings, served with dried 

shrimp, toasted shallots, spring 

onions and a sweet sauce called 

‘Pao Lang.’ Other can’t-miss bites 

include banana-wrapped sticky 

rice with savoury fillings, and 

‘Go Sui’ - rice flour cakes darkened 

with brown sugar and served with 

grated coconut. They’re all staples 

with coffee in the morning. 

Off to the side of the market, 

stalls sell black and white sticky 

rice with various toppings, 

including Thai egg custard, dried 

fish and candied coconut. They’re 

good for takeaway, or better yet 

– buy some and take a seat at the 

nearby stall selling coffee and 

accompany these sweet morning 

treats with a hot drink. 

Right 

A Hokkien holy 

place founded in 

1891, Saeng Tham 

Shrine is one of 

Phuket’s oldest. 

It is best enjoyed 

when the place 

has no ceremonies 

taking place and 

do not miss its 

well-preserved 

murals in the 

inner sanctum. 

Below 

Kaset Market, the 

main fresh market 

relied on by locals. 

SAENG THAM SHRINE 

A Hokkien holy place founded by 

a settling family in 1891 as a site 

of worship and fellowship for 

friends and family, Saeng Tham 

Shrine is Phuket’s oldest and 

best-kept religious treasure. Now 

this historic sanctuary represents 

one of the most beautiful original 

Chinese architecture in the city, 

with well-preserved adorning roof 

tiles, ceramic dragons and figurines 

representing auspicious elements in 

the Fujian holy books. 

Though small, it has meticulous 

and fully-preserved murals depicting 

the story of an ancient Chinese deity 

who spent a lifetime as an emperor. 

The main building is set back deep 

in the alley with the house of gods 

adorned with historic black-ink 

paintings. The Association of 

Siamese Architects back awarded the 

house its prestigious Architectural 

Conservation Award in 1997. 

Saeng Tham Shrine is still 

the place where Chinese families 

in Phuket gather for auspicious 

events, especially during the 

vegetarian festival in October when 

big celebrations take place and 

Chinese people adhere to strict 

vegetarian diets to pray to the Nine 

Emperor Gods. 

60

PHUKET 

A WINDMILL VIEWPOINT 

Ask any local where they go to 

watch the province’s magnificent 

sunset, and chances are they’ll say: 

‘anywhere but the tourist-flocked 

Laem Phromthep.’ 

But not too far from the famous 

viewpoint lies a high cliff near 

cosy Yanui Beach. Its height and 

sea-facing location became an 

ideal place to put wind turbines to 

generate clean energy for the island. 

The wind turbines operate only 

occasionally, and the whole area has 

been turned into a playground and 

ideal setting for those looking for a 

gorgeous sunset. 

Strong winds also mean windsurfers 

will get their thrills. Cloudless days 

see a lot of pre-wedding photo shoots. 

To pleasantly pass the day, bring a 

picnic blanket. At the small cliff, look 

for a one way alley that leads to the 

windmill station. You can park your 

car there, or yourself, for a restful treat. 

Above 

The Windmill 

viewpoint has 

become a peaceful 

respite for sunset 

watching. It’s also 

popular grounds for 

paragliders. 

62

PHUKET 

ใครๆ ก็รู้ว่าภูเก็ตเป็นเมืองท่องเที่ยวโด่งดัง 

ที่มีเอกลักษณ์วัฒนธรรมอันงดงามและ 

หลากหลาย เป็นศูนย์กลางการค้าและ 

การทำเหมืองแร่ของคาบสมุทรมาเลย์ 

ช่วงต้นศตวรรษที่ 20 ฟ้าไทยฉบับนี้ 

อาสาพาคุณไปทำความรู้จักกับภูเก็ตให้ 

ลึกซึ้งกว่าเดิม พร้อมแนะนำสถานที่ 5 แห่ง 

ที่ไม่อยากให้คุณพลาด 

โรงแรมออนออน ถือเป็นโรงแรมที่เก่า 

แก่ที่สุดในภูเก็ต เปิดให้นักท่องเที่ยวเข้าพัก 

ตั้งแต่ พ.ศ. 2472 โรงแรมประวัติศาสตร์ 

แห่งนี้ตั้งอยู่ใจกลางเมืองบนถนนพังงา 

หลายคนอาจไม่เชื่อว่าที่แห่งนี้เคยอยู่ใกล้ 

กับท่าเรือหลักที่หันหน้าออกสู่ทะเล 

อันดามันอันกว้างใหญ่ อาคารที่ดูทรุดโทรม 

และน่ากลัวนี้เป็นที่รู้จักหลังปรากฏใน 

ภาพยนตร์ฮอลลีวูดเรื่อง ‘เดอะ บีช’ 

นำแสดงโดยลีโอนาโด ดิ คาปริโอ ก่อน 

การปรับปรุงครั้งใหญ่ด้วยงบกว่า 50 

ล้านบาท ภายใต้ชื่อใหม่ “โรงแรมเมมโมรี 

แอท ออนออน” ดื่มด่ำกลิ่นอายของ 

โรงแรมในอดีตที่มีผนังดั้งเดิม เครื่องเรือน 

ไม้สัก และชมห้องที่ปรากฏในภาพยนตร์ 

เพื่อให้แฟนๆ ได้รื้อฟื้นความทรงจำสุด 

ประทับใจ thememoryhotel.com 

บ้านชินประชา บ้านพักอายุ 114 ปี 

เป็นอาคารสถาปัตยกรรมแองโกล-ไชนีส 

ที่เหลือเพียงไม่กี่แห่ง สร้างขึ้นในช่วงที่ 

ภูเก็ตรุ่งเรืองด้านการค้าสูงสุดในสมัย 

รัชกาลที่ 5 ก่อนหน้าสงครามโลกครั้งที่ 

สองไม่นาน คุณจะได้ยลโฉมเครื่องเรือน ชุด 

ของสะสม ไข่มุกประดับงานไม้ พื้นบ้าน 

เซรามิก และยังจัดแสดงเรือขนส่งสินค้า 

อันเป็นสัญลักษณ์ของเมืองภูเก็ตในฐานะ 

ศูนย์กลางการค้าของภูมิภาค 

บ้านหลังนี้สร้างโดยพระพิทักษ์ 

ชินประชา บุคคลสำคัญเชื้อสายฝูเจี้ยน 

ผู้บุกเบิกเหมืองดีบุกในภูเก็ต ปัจจุบัน 

ทายาทรุ่นที่หกเปิดบ้านต้อนรับผู้เยี่ยมชม 

จากทั่วทุกมุมโลกเพื่อย้อนกลับไปยังอดีต 

แถมยังสามารถจองช่างภาพล่วงหน้า 

เพื่อภาพถ่ายสุดพิเศษในบ้านชินประชา 

ได้อีกด้วย 

มาถึงสถานที่ลำดับที ่ 3 คงไม่มีอะไร 

เหมาะไปกว่าการลิ้มรสอาหารในตลาดสด 

ภูเก็ตที่ไม่ไกลจากย่านเมืองเก่านัก 

ตลาดเกษตร เปิดตลอดทั้งวันโดยมี 

อาหารหลากหลายหมุนเวียนเปลี่ยนไป 

ในแต่ละช่วงของวัน เริ่มต้นด้วย ‘ขนมสด’ 

ในช่วงเช้าตรู่ แม้จะเป็นอาหารเช้าแบบ 

มาเลเซีย แต่ก็ปรับใช้วัตถุดิบท้องถิ่น 

เช่น มะพร้าว ข้าวเหนียว ขนุน ส่วน 

‘เกี่ยมโก้ย’ แป้งข้าวเจ้านึ่ง ทานกับกุ้งแห้ง 

หอมแดงปิ้ง ต้นหอม และซอสหวาน 

ที่เรียกว่า ‘เป่าล้าง’ ที่พลาดไม่ได้คือ ข้าว 

เหนียวปิ้งไส้กล้วยรสกลมกล่อม และ ‘โกสุ้ย’ 

เค้กแป้งข้าวเจ้าโรยด้วยน้ำตาลแดงและ 

มะพร้าวขูด หรือจะลองรับประทานข้าว 

เหนียวขาวข้าวเหนียวดำหน้าสังขยา 

ปลาแห้ง หรือมะพร้าวเชื่อมก็ได้ 

ศาลเจ้าแสงธรรม ศาสนสถานฮกเกี้ยน 

เก่าแก่ เป็นแหล่งเก็บรักษาของล้ำค่าทาง 

ศาสนา สร้างขึ้นใน พ.ศ. 2434 ก่อสร้างใน 

รูปแบบสถาปัตยกรรมจีนแบบดั้งเดิม 

ประดับด้วยกระเบื้องหลังคา มังกรกระเบื้อง 

และรูปปั้นสัญลักษณ์ธาตุต่างๆ จาก 

คัมภีร์ศักดิ์สิทธิ์ของมณฑลฝูเจี้ยน 

ศาลเจ้าใหญ่แห่งนี้ตกแต่งด้วยภาพ 

วาดหมึกจีนสีดำ เล่าเรื่องราวของ 

เทพเจ้าที่จุติเป็นองค์จักรพรรดิ หลังการ 

บูรณะครั้งใหญ่ สถานที่แห่งนี้ยังคงเป็น 

จุดนัดพบของสมาชิกครอบครัวเชื้อสาย 

จีนที่ต่างมารวมตัวกันตามงานสำคัญๆ 

นอกจากนี้ยังมีเทศกาลกินเจทุกเดือน 

ตุลาคมเพื่อบูชาเทพจักรพรรดิทั้งเก้า 

ไม่ไกลจากแหลมพรหมเทพ คือจุด 

ชมพระอาทิตย์ตกดินอันโด่งดังอีกแห่งที่ 

เรียกว่า จุดชมวิวกังหันลม คุณจะพบกับ 

หน้าผาสูงใกล้หาดยะนุ้ย พร้อมกับ 

กังหันลมในโครงการผลิตพลังงาน 

ทดแทนเพื่อใช้บนเกาะ ในวันที่ลมแรงจะมี 

ผู้ที่มาตากลมชมวิวนับไม่ถ้วน แต่หาก 

วันไหนลมพัดเพียงเอื่อยๆ ก็อาจพบเจอ 

กองถ่ายภาพพรีเวดดิ้งให้คุณมองเพลินๆ 

อีกด้วย ถ้าจะชมพระอาทิตย์ตกดินให้ได้ 

แสงและสีสมบูรณ์แบบ ทางที่ดีควรมาถึง 

จุดชมวิวกังหันลมเวลาประมาณ 17.00 น. 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

CMY 

K 

64

SAMUI 

Samui Trippin’ 

Spread across the dazzling 

turquoise waters of Samui 

Island are splendid escapes 

and unknown activities 

that’s just a hop and a skip 

away. Once you get there, 

exploration may simply 

require some rowing. For 

outdoor explorers, it’s a 

virtual paradise of calm 

waters and cool breezes. Slip 

on a pair of spiffy sunglasses 

with polarised lens to 

protect against dazzling 

reflecting waters, and prep 

the sunblock for the ride to 

Samui enchantment. 

Words Sarita Urupongsa 

Photos Oliver Gane, Anutra U. 

66 

67

SAMUI 

ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE 

Within the protected archipelago 

of 42 karst islands lie beaches 

surrounded by exuberant greenery 

and coconut palms trees, saltwater 

lakes with deep blue hues, and 

amazing dive spots skittering with 

marine life, particularly at Ang 

Thong National Marine Park. Paving 

a clear path to these wonders are 

numerous travel agencies with 

various itineraries from Samui to 

Ang Thong islands. A Typical journey 

starts in the morning with Koh Mae 

Koh as a highlight stop. You’ll be 

mesmerised by a pristine emerald 

lake in the middle of a limestone 

mountain, forming a crater-like 

Right 

Daytrippers can 

easily rent a boat 

for the short trip 

to a quiet piece of 

paradise at Koh 

Mudsum. 

Below, Moving Right 

Aerial view shows 

inviting shorelines. 

Snorkellers view 

thriving marine 

life in crystalline 

waters. 

Pandanus seacones 

in green and red 

grow wild around 

Koh Mudsum. 

Constant calm seas 

ensure easy rowing 

for sea kayakers. 

lagoon resulting from rock erosion 

and a cavern collapse. Climbing 

up 500 metres will reward you 

with an unparalleled panoramic 

view in the Gulf of Thailand. An 

amazing experience kayaking 

and snorkelling around Koh Tai 

Plao and other bizarre-looking 

islets from the north to the south 

of the national park. Most day 

trips include lunch, soft drinks, 

snorkelling gear and life vests. 

45 minutes by speedboat from Nathon 

Pier to Ang Thong National Marine 

Park. More information at 

lomprayah.com; +66 (0) 77 420 121 

As a further treat, camping and 

staying overnight on Koh Wua Talap 

is an option. A tent, light torch, a 

sleeping bag and mosquito net are 

available for rent. In the morning, 

you’ll have sightings of black tip 

reef sharks and rays, with a small 

fishing village within view. 

Contact Ang Thong National Marine 

Park at +66 (0) 77 286 025 

BEACH DELIGHT 

Koh Mudsum, a hidden gem, 

displays itself out in a glorious 

43-rai cape. Private sunbathing 

and romantic moments serve 

their best purpose here. On the 

other side of the island, catch 

the sheen of granite pebbles 

that wash up on shore for more 

island ambience. 

Travel to Koh Taen around noon 

and find delight in the colourful 

fish and corals before trekking 

through the natural trails and 

mangrove forests, absorbing the 

cultures of the local islanders 

along the way. End your perfect 

night during sunset with savoury 

barbecue and dinner set menus. 

Take a speedboat (10 minutes) or 

long-tail boat (15 minutes) from 

Thong Krut pier to Koh Mudsum. 

Book the trip at Angthong Sea Tour; 

+66 (0) 77 960 665, 

+66 (0) 81 894 0581 or 

email: ang.thongseatour@hotmail.com 

68 69

SAMUI 

Top, Clockwise 

A compelling reason 

for spa therapy: an 

herbal steam cave. 

Mind and body 

connect through the 

gentle movements 

of aqua therapy. 

The scent of 

coconuts and their 

oils have become 

crucial to the spa 

experience. 

BE WELL 

Take a look into the wellness 

programme that pays homage 

to healing traditions in the 

region. The treasured art of Thai 

massage marries poetically with 

aqua therapy with its graceful 

dance movement. At Thai Aquatic 

Freedom, enjoy a transformative 

experience of weightlessness in 

the aqua therapy pool as your body 

is moved dynamically through 

the water to stretch the muscles, 

relieve stiff joints, and quiet the 

mind. Here’s a chance to really let 

go and relax the body and mind. 

A 15-minute drive from Samui 

International Airport to Spa Village 

Koh Samui. ritzcarlton.com/ 

kohsamui; +66 (0) 77 915 777 

For total wellness, spas are a necessity on 

vacation, with soothing treatments that 

address what ails us. Expect feel good results 

and a lightness of being. 

Bliss begins with just a glance 

at the aesthetic design of Tamarind 

Springs Forest Day Spa in Koh 

Samui. The highlight is a unique 

steam room whose combo of 

moderate heat, steam and aromatic 

herbs starts the relaxation process, 

followed by the cooling temperature 

of a natural rock pool which 

helps improve blood circulation. 

tamarindsprings.com, 

+66 (0) 85 926 4626 

If you’re in the mood to 

splurge, there’s always the Eranda 

Herbal Spa. A veteran in the business, 

their 15 years of services culminated 

in a literal Midas touch. Their ultimate 

facial treatment comes with the 

luxury of pure gold that’s 99.99% – 

just like what Cleopatra did way back 

then. Another exceptional treat is 

Eranda’s signature pearl soft mask to 

renew skin cells. erandaspa.com, 

+66 (0) 7730 0323, +66 (0) 7730 0321 

70

SAMUI 

Built into a steep hillside 

descending down to a small 

beach in Koh Samui, Kamalaya is 

another spa offering the luxury 

combination of oriental and 

western practices. The uplifting 

touches result in a body, mind and 

spirit immersed in well-being. If 

you have difficulty sleeping, this is 

your place to fix it. kamalaya.com, 

+66 (0) 7742 9800 

Sounding like the ultimate 

destination, it’s hard to resist 

The Source Samui. Their 3 detox 

programmes – Detox, Weight Loss 

& Ultimate Detox, are becoming 

popular among travellers with a 

determined goal to cleanse their 

system. If you’ve got the time, take 

advantage of their programmes 

which range from 7 up to 14 days. 

This is also an opportunity to learn 

about herbs, essential oils and how to 

mix tinctures and formulas to make 

on your own. thesourcesamui.com, 

+66 (0) 89 067 9856, 

At The Secret Garden Spa, 

you’ll get a chance to get up-close 

and personal with Koh Samui’s 

origins in the area of special herbs, 

plants and flowers. Absolutely 

try ‘The Tree of Life’ and ‘Earth 

to Sky’ programmes, with spa 

rituals using oils from fresh local 

coconuts. You’re at the beach – 

of course you need the heavenly 

smell of coconuts. Deep breaths, 

and revitalise. fourseasons.com/ 

kohsamui/spa, +66 (0) 77 243 000 

Top 

Hammocks on 

Samui beaches 

tempt relaxation. 

Bottom, from Left 

Soothing sunsets add 

to the calm within. 

Artful floral 

arrangements at 

spas add visual 

beauty to the 

experience. 

A wondrous Samui 

sight as a temple 

glints in response to 

the sunset. 

PEACE-SEEKING MISSION 

The beach is always an effective 

way to unwind, we can all attest 

to that. It’s conventional wisdom 

that beaches like those in Koh 

Samui create a calming influence 

as we gaze at the lapping water on 

the shore. But there’s a scientific 

basis, as psychologists say that 

the colour blue brings a sense of 

calm and peace. 

Staring off into the ocean 

waters alters our brain waves’ 

frequency and relaxes us into 

a mild meditative state. This 

is probably best done from a 

hammock or while relaxing on the 

side of a pool. In Chaweng beach, 

perhaps? And what happens as you 

. 

72

SAMUI 

listen to the rhythmic flow of the 

waves? It actually de-stimulates 

our brains. The sounds — coupled 

with the visuals — activate your 

parasympathetic nervous system 

and help to slow us down and give 

us a chance to relax. 

Besides the sounds and 

visuals, the smell of the ocean 

breeze plays a part to soothe us. 

That may have something to do 

with the negative ions in the air 

that you breathe in. The oxygen 

atoms have extra electrons, 

especially at waterfalls and the 

ocean. Na Mueang Waterfalls 

comes to mind, after you reach 

it from the walking path. A 

scientific paper had suggested 

that therapy from negative ions 

could be used to treat symptoms 

of seasonal affective disorder, in 

which the lack of sunlight creates 

a depressive state. Finally, to 

round out the senses, the simple 

To be sure, some beaches and destinations induce 

more relaxation and peacefulness than others. 

That’s where Samui comes in. The combination 

of visual beauty, warm sand, cool breeze, and 

shimmering blue-green tint of the water all add up 

to overall well-being. 

Top 

Find a spot among 

the intimate rock 

formations on 

Koh Samui and 

meditate. 

Left 

To feel like a whole 

person again, 

indulge in massage 

therapy. 

act of feeling the sand on your 

feet makes you relaxed. Consider 

a walk on Lamai beach, among 

Samui’s plethora of powdery 

sand offerings. 

But like much of science and 

medicine, it turns out there’s a 

bit of a placebo effect happening 

too. We’ve all been conditioned to 

equating a beach, or a vacation, 

with relaxation and peacefulness. 

When we arrive at our destination, 

our minds and bodies go into 

automatic relaxation mode. 

To be sure, some beaches 

and destinations induce more 

relaxation and peacefulness than 

others. That’s where a return 

trip to Samui comes in. The 

combination of visual beauty, 

warm sand, cool breeze, and 

shimmering blue-green tint of the 

water all add up to overall wellbeing. 

It may not be scientifically 

proven, but… 

Whether you’re hoping to 

take the perfect sunset photo, 

are planning island excursions, 

a twilight proposal, or want 

sunset restaurant reservations 

somewhere stunning, make sure 

you’re free by 6pm. You’re always 

guaranteed the best Samui sunset 

anywhere on the island. 

It’s the greatest hits of dazzling 

spots. So off you go to Samui, with 

its stunning scenery. It’s quiet 

amazement of the best kind. 

74

SAMUI 

หนาวนี้ ฟ้าไทยชวนคุณไปสำรวจสมุย 

และรอบๆ เกาะ สัมผัสท้องทะเลสีเขียว 

มรกตสงบนิ่งปะทะลมหนาวเบาๆ เตรียม 

แว่นและครีมกันแดดให้พร้อม แล้วออก 

เรือไปท่องอ่าวไทยกัน 

เริ่มต้นกันที่ อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะ 

อ่างทอง ท่องเรือชม 42 เกาะที่รายล้อมกัน 

อย่างน่าอัศจรรย์ ไฮไลต์ของทริปอยู่ที่เกาะ 

แม่เกาะ จุดที่ทะเลสีเขียวมรกตเข้มถูกโอบ 

ล้อมด้วยภูเขาหินปูนที่ยุบตัวลงบริเวณ 

กลางเกาะเกิดเป็นแอ่งน้ำสวยงาม หากไม่รู้ 

จะเริ่มตรงไหน ลองใช้บริการบริษัททัวร์ 

หลายแห่งที่จัดโปรแกรมน่าสนใจจาก 

เกาะสมุยสู่หมู่เกาะอ่างทอง โดยโปรแกรม 

จะเริ่มต้นราว 9 โมงเช้า ทัวร์ส่วนใหญ่จะนำ 

เที่ยวจากตอนบนของอุทยานฯ ไล่ลงมา 

เรื่อยผ่านเกาะน้อยใหญ่ต่างรูปร่าง ให้คุณ 

ได้พายเรือคายัคและดำน้ำตื้นผ่าน 

ช่องแคบและถ้ำ หรือหากต้องการนอนค้าง 

สักหนึ่งคืน เต้นท์และอุปกรณ์สำหรับค้าง 

คืนมีพร้อมให้เช่าที่เกาะวัวตาหลับ อันเป็น 

ที่ตั้งของที่ทำการอุทยานแห่งชาติ 

ต่อกันที่ เกาะมัดสุม หาดสวรรค์ 

สำหรับคนรักสงบ ณ แหลมที่ยื่นตัวออก 

ไปในทะเลบนพื้นที่เกาะกว่า 43 ไร่ คุณจะได้ 

ตามเข็มนาฬิกา 

จากขวาบน 

อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะ 

อ่างทองที่อุดมไปด้วยเกาะ 

เล็กเกาะน้อยน่าค้นหา 

ชายหาด เกาะวัวตาหลับ 

เกาะศูนย์กลางของ 

อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะ 

อ่างทอง มีหาดทรายขาว 

ละเอียด น้ำทะเลสีฟ้าใส 

ซ้ายบน 

ม่านหินย้อย 

ที่ถ้ำบัวโบก บริเวณอ่าวคา 

เกาะวัวตาหลับ 

ซ้ายล่าง 

เรือสปีดโบ๊ตที่กำลังมุ่ง 

หน้าไปยังเกาะมัดสุม 

นอนอาบแดดบนพื้นทรายทอดยาวแบบไร้ 

ผู้คนรอบกาย หากอยากปลีกวิเวกกว่านั้น 

ลองเดินบุกทางเดินเท้าที่ตัดผ่านทุ่งหญ้า 

สูงจากหน้าหาดทรายยาวไปยังอีกด้าน 

ของเกาะที่เต็มไปด้วยหินแกรนิตสวย 

กลมมนที่เกิดจากน้ำทะเลพัดเซาะและสุม 

ขึ้นมาบนหาดตลอดวัน 

เพียงไม่กี่นาทีจากเกาะมัดสุม เกาะแตน 

คือจุดที่ดีที่สุดสำหรับการดำน้ำตื้นชม 

ฝูงปลาและปะการังหลากสี ก่อนจะเดิน 

ศึกษาเส้นทางธรรมชาติ เรียนรู้ชุมชน 

ในอดีต และระบบนิเวศป่าชายเลน ปิด 

ท้ายด้วยมื้อเย็นที่มีให้เลือกทั้งบาร์บีคิว 

หรือจะเตรียมอาหารปิกนิก นั่งเอกเขนก 

รับประทานบนเบาะนุ่มสบาย พร้อมชม 

ภาพพระอาทิตย์ตกลงกลางท้องน้ำ 

การท่องเที่ยวทะเลและเกาะแก่งยังช่วย 

ชำระล้างจิตใจได้อีกทาง ดั่งเช่นที่นัก 

จิตวิทยาได้ให้ข้อมูลว่า สีฟ้าช่วยให้คนเรา 

เข้าถึงความสงบได้จริงๆ คุณสามารถมอง 

ออกไปกว้างไกลและดื่มด่ำกับทะเลสีคราม 

ได้จากเปลญวนหรือข้างสระน้ ำบน หาดเฉวง 

ฟังเสียงคลื่นกระทบฝั่ง ทั้งภาพและเสียงที่ 

คุณได้สัมผัสจากท้องทะเลจะกระตุ้นสมอง 

ให้สั่งเราเคลื่อนไหวและคิดช้าลง และนั่นเป็น 

โอกาสที่ดีที่เราจะได้ผ่อนคลายจากความ 

กังวลทั้งปวง 

นอกจากนี้ กลิ่นอายทะเลหรือน้ำจาก 

น้ำตก ยังช่วยสร้างความรู้สึกเบาสบายให้ 

เราได้อย่างไม่รู้ตัว คุณสามารถไปที่ 

น้ำตกหน้าเมือง เพื่อรับรู้ถึงความรู้สึกดีๆ 

เหล่านี้ได้บนเกาะสมุย 

จากรูป เสียง กลิ่น สิ่งสุดท้าย 

ซึ่งสำคัญสำหรับมนุษย์ก็คือ สัมผัส 

การท่องเที่ยวทะเลมอบทุกสิ่งที่ดีสำหรับ 

ชีวิต คุณจะรับรู้ได้ทันทีที่เท้าเปลือยเปล่า 

สัมผัสผิวทรายเม็ดละเอียดบน หาดละไม 

พร้อมกับพบว่าตัวเองมีความสุขแค่ไหน 

นั่นทำให้ใครหลายๆ คนต้องกลับมาเยือน 

เกาะสมุยอีกครั้ง และอีกครั้ง 

WINS BEST PHOTOGRAPHY 

AT RENOWNED PEARL AWARDS IN 

NEW YORK CITY 

WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE RECEIVED A PRESTIGIOUS 

GOLD AWARD FOR BEST PHOTOGRAPHY 

FROM THE CONTENT COUNCIL, THE PREMIER ORGANISATION BASED 

IN NEW YORK REPRESENTING CONTENT MARKETERS GLOBALLY 

The winners of the gold, silver and bronze awards were announced on December 7th 2017 in 

an awards ceremony in New York City. Find out more winners at 

www. thecontentcouncil.org/files/galleries/Pearl_Awards_2017_Winners.pdf 

Published by 

76 

Scan Me

GALLERY 

Ending 

On a 

High Note 

The tradition of Chinese opera performances is fading in Thailand as the 

descendants of Chinese immigrants, many of whom don’t speak Chinese, 

lose interest in this art form. Audiences are growing smaller and older 

but the shows remain as colourful and dramatic as ever. Photographer 

Yvan Cohen captures the detailed preparation behind the scenes of this 

temporary setting and relates the moving stories of the performers. 

Words & Photos Yvan Cohen 

The performers are like 

itinerant players from a 

medieval era – erecting 

temporary stages for a few days, 

then dismantling them and 

moving on,” explains Cohen. 

Chinese opera is performed in 

Thailand by travelling troupes 

of players, most of whom are 

from the northeastern region of 

Thailand known as Isaan. 

While some of the actors are 

ethnic Chinese, surprisingly 

many are rural Thais who 

do not speak the language 

and memorise their words 

phonetically to sing the operas. 

The images are part of a 

multi-year project that had the 

photographer covering many 

different troupes in different 

locations around Bangkok. 

Cohen explains that it’s a very 

photographic project, exploring 

the visual universe – which is so 

atmospheric of Chinese opera. 

“This is a parallel world 

where you can experience a 

Bangkok of yesteryear and you 

almost have the show to yourself. 

It’s just you and the ‘gods’ – 

partly because very few people 

understand what is being said.” 

It’s usually an outdoor stage, 

done in the cool of the evening in 

local Thai neighbourhoods. 

There’s a wonderful quote from 

one of the actors, Cohen points 

out as he recites the poignant 

statement: “We eat like pigs, sleep 

like dogs and dress like angels.” 

It’s a window into an art form 

that comes from way back but 

may not be around for much 

longer. “It’s a story about the 

shadow of a traditional culture 

that still lingers in the city despite 

rapid changes, but for how long?” 

A performer watches 

the ongoing stage action, 

awaiting his cue. 

78 

79

GALLERY 

TOP 

The facial makeup and 

exaggerated details on 

an opera performer’s 

face are painted with 

colours carrying 

different meanings. 

BOTTOM 

A Chinese opera 

performer goes 

through his 

makeup and stage 

paraphernalia 

while awaiting 

his stage turn. 

OPPOSITE PAGE, 

CLOCKWISE 

A performer dons 

comfortable clothes 

during a break. 

A close-up of the 

madeup face of 

a Chinese opera 

performer. 

Most of the 

performers put 

on their ‘look’ in 

makeshift and al 

fresco dressing areas. 

80 

81

GALLERY 

TOP 

These temporary ‘homes’ 

may have bi-level backstage nooks 

and crannies to create a cosy 

resting place. 

BOTTOM 

Makeup styles and colours signify 

specific roles in the opera. For 

example, the application of a red 

face denotes bravery and loyalty. 

TOP 

Chinese opera 

performers 

backstage as they 

prepare for a show. 

A performer looks 

on, waiting for the 

signal to get back 

on stage. 

82 

83

GALLERY 

OPPOSITE PAGE 

TOP & BOTTOM 

Chinese opera is 

characterised by its 

lavish costumes, 

the falsetto delivery 

of its actors and 

the highly stylised 

presentation of its 

set piece stories, 

which are drawn 

from Chinese 

folklore. 

The elaborate 

colours signify a 

character’s role, 

including their 

fate, together 

with illustrating 

the character’s 

emotional state. 

THIS PAGE 

TOP & BOTTOM 

A motion-blur 

image of a Chinese 

opera performer 

onstage during a 

performance in the 

Chinatown area of 

Bangkok. 

A Chinese opera 

performer rushes 

onto the stage 

during a show in 

the Thai capital. 

84 

85

GALLERY 

TOP AND BOTTOM 

Close-up of the dramatic slashes of 

makeup worn by a Chinese opera 

performer. 

To while away the time between 

acts, two Chinese opera performers 

chat back stage. 

OPPOSITE PAGE 

Modern day distractions for two 

young performers of an ancient art. 

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER 

Yvan Cohen’s career as a photojournalist 

spans more than three decades working 

across Asia from his base in Bangkok. 

Yvan’s work has been published in a 

wide array of international publications, 

including covers for Time Magazine 

and the New York Times for whom he 

worked regularly for many years. His 

work includes fashion, features and 

commissioned portraits. Yvan is also a 

co-founder of the LightRocket media 

management platform. www.lightrocket. 

com and www.lightrocketmedia.com 

For almost a decade, Yvan 

has been documenting Bangkok’s 

Chinatown community in one of 

the most well-preserved and 

atmospheric areas of Thailand’s 

rapidly modernising capital city. His 

images of Chinese Opera represent 

a significant part of this work, 

introducing viewers to a timeless 

universe that represents a direct 

line to an ancient theatrical art form 

that was transported to Thailand by 

Chinese migrants over a century ago. 

86 

87

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO 

Organically 

Delicious 

Vegetables now play a larger 

role in meals, with an artful 

preparation and taste that 

appeals to most diners. 

A culinary diversion in 

Koh Samui is Vikasa Life Café, 

whose eye-popping and 

colourful organic dishes 

taste as good as they look. 

BANGKOK 90 / SAMUI 92 / PHUKET & KRABI 94 / CHIANG MAI 98 / PATTAYA 100 / CHENGDU, CHONGQING & GUANGZHOU 102 / HONG KONG 104 / 

SINGAPORE 106 / KL 107 / SIEM REAP 108 / DANANG & PHU QUOC 110 / YANGON & VIENTIANE 111 / MUMBAI & MALDIVES 112 

89

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

BANGKOK 

of King Rama IV. Apart from the chill vibes felt 

when one is next to the iconic Chao Phraya River, 

there’s also a wide selection of eateries and design 

stores to enjoy. Lhong 1919 is also recognised for 

a renovation that preserved the original structure. 

Chinese mural paintings, for instance, were given 

the gradual touch-up with colours that were 

closest to the original shades. 248 Chiang Mai Road, 

Khlong San, facebook.com/LHONG 1919 

SPOTLIGHT 

Turf and Surf 

Treat 

After keeping Bangkok 

fidgeting in high anticipation 

for the opening of mega-treat 

dining, Burger & Lobster 

finally launched their first 

venture in Thailand on the 

ground floor of Gaysorn Village 

and its second branch in 

Southeast Asia. 

SPOTLIGHT 

Lhonging for the Past 

Since the old days, riverine 

areas have been hailed as the 

melting pot of trade, culture, 

and lifestyle. An appreciation 

for such unique features 

and the desire to preserve 

a glorious past inspired the 

creation of Lhong 1919. A pier 

and its riverside stretch along 

the 6-rai (2.3 acres) land has 

warehouses transformed into a 

mix-use project that retains its 

former structure’s aesthetics 

and details of ancient Chinese 

heritage. While the site holds 

a contemporary function, 

its history ties in with the 

prosperity enjoyed during the 

golden age of Thai-Chinese 

commerce during the reign 

From its modest beginning in a small 

Irish Pub in the affluent neighbourhood 

of Mayfair in London, the restaurant 

has made a delicious reputation with 

exceptionally made lobster rolls and 

more than pleasing burgers. Its Bangkok 

branch also boasts the special 

combo-sharing tower menu, which 

is exclusively catered to suit the Thai 

sharing culture. 

facebook.com/burgerandlobsterbkk, 

T: +66 (0) 2656 1111 

ALWAYS A CLASSIC 

TNOP is recognised as one of the 

world’s leading names in the graphic 

design scene. Inspired by culture 

and its contemporary existence, 

the brand has recently launched 

the collection of Siamese Girls 

Notebooks. At first glance, we 

may be transferred back to 

the old days of vintage 

images of Siamese girls 

in a bold, colourful background 

and retro font types. But looking 

closely, the cover designs of these 

notebooks combine Thai mainstream 

culture with the backdrop of 

traditional landmarks portrayed in a 

humorous and stylistic presentation. 

tnop.com 

A HIT AND HIP 

The word JUA comes from the Thai blackjack game that means, 

“hit me!” The name for this restaurant and bar is a playful 

reference to the establishment, a former gambling house that 

now houses the unpretentious restaurant and bar. It’s the latest 

addition to Charoen Krung, a popular hangout area now casually 

known as “the creative district.” JUA offers a place that serves 

an assortment of Japanese and Korean drinking food as well as 

a wide collection of craft beers, wine, cocktails, sake, and spirits. 

Apart from the keen ambience of social gatherings and friend 

get-togethers, JUA is noteworthy for its design aesthetics – an 

ode to a combination of Thai and 

Japanese modernist elements. 

facebook.com/juabangkok, 

T: +66 (0) 61 558 7689 

CULINARY SANCTUARY 

Among various Middle-Eastern dining 

establishments in Thailand, Al Saray 

stands out as the venue that whips up 

the marvel found together in Lebanese 

and Indian cuisines and interpreted into 

one fine dining restaurant. Striving to 

introduce sophisticated and tasty Lebanese 

and Indian dishes to the palate of Thai 

diners, Al Saray voiced a commitment 

to maintaining its authentic cuisine 

with quality ingredients that ensure all 

diners will be thrilled by the impressive 

experience to be had at Al Saray. One way 

to begin the culinary adventure is with 

hummus, which awakens the senses with 

its balance of garlic, acidity of fresh lime, 

and the drizzle of olive oil before indulging 

in the hearty and aromatic Grill Platter, or 

try their popular Indian signature dish of 

Butter Chicken and Naan. And to round off 

the meal, don’t forget to enjoy it with some 

Lebanese wine to complete the enjoyment 

of the inspiring menu. alsarayrestaurant.com, 

T: +66 (0) 2234 4988 DINE HIGH, REALLY HIGH 

In Bangkok’s mesmerising dining choices, here’s the latest 

addition that requires being strapped in. In what is a daredevil 

feat of a meal, Dinner in the Sky offers 22 thrill-seeking diners a 

chance to enjoy a meal close to the heavens. Dinner guests will 

be strapped to their seats around a dining table before being 

taken up in the air by a crane. Those who are not intimidated 

by the 50-metre height will be rewarded with the spectacular 

view of the Em District sparkling on Sukhumvit Road while 

enjoying a 4-course dinner created by Chef Gaetano Palumbo of 

the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. The meals cost 4,990THB for 

weekdays and 5,390THB for weekends. Dinners are scheduled 

for 6pm and 7.30pm daily and run until the end of February 2018. 

546 Sukhumvit Rd, dinnerinthesky.co.th 

90 91

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

SAMUI 

SPOTLIGHT 

Resort to 

Peace 

Serenely hidden among swaying 

coconut trees, The Ritz-Carlton, 

Koh Samui, is the latest resort 

added to the island’s dossier 

of gorgeous hideaways and 

wellness retreats. This getaway 

to sanctuary is being praised for 

the remarkable combination of 

The Ritz-Carlton’s signature 

of legendary hospitality and 

Koh Samui’s vibrant and inspiring vibe. 

Exquisitely designed suites and pool 

villas beckon guests, as well as their 

exceptional recreational programmes. 

Not to be missed and a highlight of this 

oceanfront resort is the Spa Village Koh 

Samui, the true gem among wellness 

retreats. It merges the island’s ambience 

of pampering with an approach of 

soothing Thai therapies. Spa Village 

strives at indulging the guests and their 

wellness needs with its 8 treatment suites, 

3 outdoor massage pavilions, including a 

yoga pavilion, a lap pool, cabanas to 

relax in and a health bar. 

ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui, +66 (0) 77 915 777 

SPOTLIGHT 

An Organic Affair 

Vikasa Life Café is simply breathtaking for its cuisine that is a 

masterpiece of natural ingredients at its peak quality. The result 

is delicious flavours without any additives and finished off with a 

delightful food plating and presentation. The featured menus are a 

collaboration of two highly-experienced chefs: namely, Boris Lauser, 

Europe’s best raw food chef award winner, and Cyril Schivo, who 

accumulated a culinary experience that spans many countries and 

prestigious establishments. At Vikasa Life Café, 

only locally-grown products are selected from 

reliable organic sources to ensure the freshness 

and the quality of its cuisine. Our picks from the 

menu marvel of Vikasa Life Café include the juicy 

Pink Burger, with a salmon patty in a wholegrain 

beetroot bun and vegetable pickles, and the 

savoury Mango magic; a mélange of avocado, 

mango carpaccio and local greens dressed in a juicy 

mango-tamarind dressing with spiced daikon. 

vikasalifecafe.com, +66 (0) 77 422 232 

FULL FLAVOURED 

Award-winning restaurant Full Moon 

defines the combination of a chargrill 

restaurant amidst the authentic Koh 

Samui aesthetics of seaside dining. The 

contemporary venue sits on a stylish 

alfresco deck which promises the 

stunning view of the Gulf of Thailand’s 

shoreline and the hotel infinity pool. The 

menu itself is a marvellous selection of 

what they call ‘land and ocean.’ Ranging 

from freshly-caught seafood to premium 

imported meat from notable sources, 

Full Moon’s cuisine team manages to 

transform all these finest ingredients 

into a well-crafted culinary experience. 

After having the restaurant’s highlights, 

namely Lao-Inspired Beef Tartar, Full 

Moon Signature Roast Spatchcock, 

top it off with a dessert of Belgium 

Chocolate Naked Crème Brûlée. They 

are certainly ways to satisfy your 

desire to savour good food, coupled 

with creating a memorable experience 

as part of your dream escape on this 

resort island. samui.anantara.com, 

+66 (0) 77 428 300 

A SPIRITED OCCASION 

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Tongsai Bay, the 

environmentally-conscious luxe hideaway has teamed up 

exclusively with the Bangkok-based gin distillery Iron Balls Gin 

in offering specially crafted cocktails featuring Iron Balls Gin 

to celebrate the event. The spirit itself is meticulously distilled 

from freshly cracked coconuts and pineapples with hints of 

juniper, hillside ginger and lemongrass. The craft spirit’s brand 

ambassador and mixologist Carson Quinn will be creating 3 

special gin-based cocktails at The Tongsai Bay’s beachfront 

Po-Lad Beach Bistro & Bar, which also features Fever Tree 

premium tonics and 2 fresh and new garden-inspired cocktails 

with infusions and distillations made from herbs and plants 

directly from the hotel’s homegrown organic garden. 

tongsaibay.co.th, +66 (0) 77 913 750 

WONDROUS WELLNESS 

Conrad Spa Koh Samui glows with the 

accolade of being named Asia’s Best 

Hideaway Spa 2017 from the Haute 

Grandeur Global Hotel and Spa Awards 

2017, recently held in Bangkok. A 

prestigious recognition in the world of 

spas and pampering hospitality, it reflects 

their commitment to providing the best 

in wellbeing and treatment for guests. 

It’s all made possible with their highlyskilled 

therapists who’ve been striving to 

elevate a guest experience from vacation 

retreat into magical bliss. Situated atop a 

hill, the Conrad Spa Koh Samui offers a 

panoramic view of the stunning azure sea. 

This blissful sight translates into an equally 

blissful mind during spa treatments that 

combine traditional and contemporary 

techniques where guests walk away from 

a most exceptional spa experience. 

conradhotels3.hilton.com, 

+66 (0) 77 915 888 

92 93

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PHUKET 

SPOTLIGHT 

Phuket’s Peranakan Museum 

The much-awaited opening of the 

Peranakan Museum in old town Phuket 

following its renovation now presents 

schedules of exhibits staged across 

multimedia platforms. Descendants of 

Chinese immigrants who came to the 

Malay Archipelago in the 15th to 17th 

century, the Peranakan groups, later 

settled in southern Thailand, Penang, 

Singapore and Malaysia, creating their own 

cliques and culture. In Phuket, Peranakan 

cuisine and elaborately-detailed costumes 

are reasons to celebrate in style. Housed 

in the century-old historic Standard 

Chartered Bank building, the museum 

showcases Phuket’s glorious past when 

trading and mining bestowed much 

prosperity during the reign of King Rama V. 

The governor ordered the construction of 

the town’s first-ever commercial bank, 

A long-standing Muslim restaurant where locals still go 

and enjoy the comforting menu, Arun Pochana serves from 

early morning on various kinds of curries – from chicken to 

beef or fish. If you happen to be there during weekends, do 

not miss their specialty of mutton curry, too. As a southern 

Thai restaurant, this place also serves ‘‘khanom cheen’ or 

fermented rice vermicelli complete with a basket full of fresh 

assorted local vegetables as well. 

Filling favourites include roti with fried eggs, so-called 

1+1, 2+1 or 3+1 – referring to the number of roti per egg. 

If you like some sweetness to start your day, choose from 

their toppings such as bananas, chocolate and eggs. Their 

house tea is fabulous: deeply fragrant and cleansing. It’s 

perfect to pair with this delicious meal. Arun Pochana: Thalang 

Road, Phuket Old Town, open daily 7am - 5pm (except during 

Ramadan), T: +66 (0) 76 212 187 

complete with a police station 

on an opposite site, to provide 

maximum security. Now the 

museum building has been fully 

restored to its past magnificence 

with details of Penang design and 

architecture, Chinese tile roofing, 

and elaborate wooden windowsills 

and frames. Located at the corner 

of Phang Nga and Phuket roads, 

the museum is open daily (except 

for Mondays) from 9.00am - 

4.30pm. T: +66 (0) 76 211 333 

A HEARTY ROTI BREAKFAST 

If you happen to be in Phuket Old Town and are craving something hearty and local, 

try the Muslim-style sustenance of roti that’s fresh off the griddle and curries at the 

famous Arun Pochana on Thalang Road. 

HOUSING A LIVING MUSEUM 

Take an opportunity to really see the historical Sino- 

Portuguese shophouses that have been around in Phuket 

Old Town for over a century. The i46 Old Town Café on 

Krabi Road houses a café, restaurant and tourist information 

centre. It’s also an actual living museum that serves as a 

private home to a fourth-generation of Phuket locals. Inside 

the i46 Old Town Café displays show 

how generations of Phuket locals lived 

under the same roof with multiple living 

spaces, a main communal area designed 

with a ‘Chim Chae,’ an open sun-roof 

that allows the light in, and a big well 

that accumulates water during the rains. 

This is a real home-style café with 

homemade Phuket signature dishes and 

hearty in nature dish, along with snacks 

– all created by the owners. Come in for 

a meal or wonderful drinks and snacks; 

friendly conversations also on offer. 

Open daily (except Saturdays), 8am - 4pm, 

T: +66 (0) 81 895 4795, facebook.com/ 

I46OldTown 

94

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PHUKET / KRABI 

SPOTLIGHT 

More Raw 

Phuket is known for its annual 

Vegetarian Festival, but for 

year-round meatless cuisine, the 

island comes up quite short with 

comparatively limited choices. 

Atsumi Raw Cuisine, part of the 

Atsumi Detox Center, has been 

serving Western-style raw and 

vegan dishes since 2013, partly 

in service to those following 

detox retreat programmes. But 

now that the trend of going 

vegan is expanding, the place is 

open to any walk-ins interested 

in recharging their bodies with the plantbased 

cuisine. 

Raw food is all vegan, but not all 

vegan foods are raw foods. Raw food, as 

its name implies, means the food is raw 

or not cooked above temperatures of 40- 

49 C or 104-120 F. After all, chefs who 

prepare such foods will need to make 

these dishes look and taste fantastic, 

while keeping its organic benefits 

mostly untouched. Open daily: 9am - 

8.30pm, 99/1 Moo 7, Wiset Road, Rawai 

District, Phuket, T: +66 (0) 76 623 828, 

atsumirawcafe.com 

ALL ABOUT THE FOOD 

The three-day Phuket Food and Wine Expo 

will premiere on Friday, 9 March and last until 

Sunday, 11 March 2018 at the Royal Phuket 

Marina in Phuket. This first-ever event plans 

to bring together suppliers and businesses 

that relate to the food and wine industries 

from leading companies around the world. 

Visitors and traders alike can browse through 

various selections including fresh produce, 

drinks, wines of all types. This extends to 

kitchen supplies and services as well as luxury 

lifestyle products. 

Hosted by the Royal Phuket Marina, 

the event also features informative 

conferences and seminars as well as live 

cooking demonstrations. A farmer’s market 

also showcases gourmet and local cuisine, 

finally ending with a charity gala dinner. The 

organiser of this event is the Talisman Media 

Group (TMG), known for their food and 

lifestyle publications including Bangkok101. 

Registration is now available online for buyers, 

traders and visitors. For more information, 

visit phuketfoodandwine.com. 

LANTA’S ORIGINAL COMMUNITIES 

On every habitable island first lived local 

communities before the appearance of boatloads 

and flocks of tourists. On Lanta island, off Krabi’s 

shores, local Muslim communities own a unique 

culture that curious outside minds can get to know. 

Unlike most of the available tour packages, this one 

is arranged and managed by local Lanta folks. Most 

of the gained income sees fair distribution among 

the locals and the community who in fact are the 

main reasons to visit. The half-day tour to ‘Baan Thung 

Yipheng’ on the east side of the island features 

a unique Muslim-Thai community still living their 

natural way of life. Rich mangrove forests 

provide a sanctuary for sea creatures and 

visitors can row serenely along in old-style 

wooden boats and quietly observe the 

surroundings. A home-made lunch or dinner 

will also be prepared for guests by the locals. 

For more information, visit localalike.com 

for available locally-run and managed tour 

packages in Phuket, Krabi and Trang. 

96

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

CHIANG MAI 

SPOTLIGHT 

Hippocampus Getaway 

Hippocampus is an escape from the 

chaotic city life for both the owners and 

their guests. The Thai couple fled their 

busy lives and settled on a beautiful 

piece of land in Chiang Dao – which 

offers a priceless mountain view. They 

first designed and built a comfortable 

abode and lived in the “Baan Noi (small 

house)” for a certain period. Now as 

proprietors, they offer a corner of their 

paradise to homestay guests. 

Hippocampus is a café, gallery (the 

male owner is an artist) and homestay 

rolled into one. The owners now stay 

in another house they have just built 

and the addition of another small 

house called “Baan Yung” has been 

added. Little in size yet comfortable, 

the wooden house was formerly a rice 

barn that has been renovated. Guests 

can come and share the beauty of 

nature with the two owners. It is highly 

recommended that you book in 

advance – for the reason that 

there are only two houses for 

rent but also because booking 

ahead allows one of them to 

prepare the ingredients for 

your meals. The food here is 

freshly cooked and freshly 

baked. Hippocampus serves 

a homemade breakfast and a 

nice gourmet coffee. Guests 

can stroll along the farm where 

people plant rice, mulberries, 

coffee and passion fruits, 

among others. There is no TV 

in the rooms so guests can 

enjoy what nature has to offer. 

At night, stargazers can marvel 

at the panoramic view of the 

sky – which sums up the very 

reason why the owners and 

their guests are there. 

334 Moo 12, Chiang Dao, 

Chiang Mai, facebook.com/ 

HippocampusChiangdao, 

open between Thursday and 

Monday from 9am - 6pm 

BOOKISH BUFFALO 

A relaxing shop with great coffee and second-hand English books for children and young 

adults, “Bookish Buffalo” just opened in October this year. The owners are book and coffee 

lovers so they have filled the place with a great selection of both. Firmly believing that all kids 

should be encouraged to read or have access to good books, the owners bought plenty of 

second-hand English books from the UK and sell them at very affordable prices. 

The shop has comfortable bean bags for kids to 

spend time reading or selecting books for as long as they 

wish. Outdoor tables let you enjoy the mountain views, 

while indoor ones allow parents to spend time with their 

children. Named after ‘Nong Khwai’, the sub-district where 

it is located, Bookish Buffalo is quite close to the Chiang 

Mai Night Safari intersection. Located on a large field 

where the owners plant organic vegetables for personal 

consumption, they are also happy to share produce with 

customers at reasonable prices. It opens from 8.30am to 6pm 

on weekdays, but closes every Wednesday, and from 9.30am 

to 5pm on weekends and public holidays. 

facebook.com/bookishbuffalo 

THE SWEETEST QUALITY 

What’s considered popular food in 

Chiang Mai isn’t just all about Northern 

specialties. One of the lesser-known gems 

in the city is a street food shop called “Tao 

Huay Savoey.” They sell Chinese desserts 

like “Tao Huay” (silken tofu in ginger tea) 

and “Bua Loy Nam Khing” (black sesame 

dumplings in ginger tea) with gingko as an 

add-on ingredient. Prices start at about 

50 cents (USD) for a basic bowl and about 

$2 for a bowl featuring a combination of 

everything in ginger tea. 

What makes this shop stand out is 

the sweet tea soup which gives a strong 

and refreshing taste of ginger, unlike a 

new generation of commercially-made 

“Tao Huay”. Another main difference is 

the thinner flour wrapping for the sesame 

dumpling, giving it a softer bite with an 

authentic burst of the stuffed sesame. It 

opens twice a day – in the morning from 

6am to 9am at No. 3 Soi Sirimangalajarn 

and in the evening from 5.30pm to 

9.30pm at the mouth of Soi Sirorot off 

Suthep street, not so far from the morning 

shop. In case you can’t find the shop, call 

+66 (0) 86 916 9856 or +66 (0) 53 894 103. 

98

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PATTAYA / TRAT 

SPOTLIGHT 

Float Through 

the Mangroves 

Travelling to an island doesn’t 

necessarily mean you have 

to stick to beach activities all 

the time. Here in Koh Chang, 

there’s another tranquil activity 

available when you feel like 

taking a short break from the 

sea and sand. One of the popular 

options to consider to taking 

a boat and rowing along the 

mangroves. The trees grow in 

abundance in Koh Chang around 

Salak Khok Bay. Along quiet 

waters, visitors will be able to 

explore mangroves up close 

SPOTLIGHT 

Glimpsing Van Gogh 

Imagine being able to view and 

admire world-class artworks of 

the masters in the busy city of 

Pattaya? Yes, you definitely can. 

The museum, Hello Van Gogh 

Pattaya, is the only one of its 

kind in Thailand that showcases 

the creations of Vincent Van 

Gogh in stunning technology. 

All masterpieces are presented 

as convergence art, projected 

onto large screens with highdefinition 

projectors. Step into 

the wonderful world of Vincent 

Van Gogh and get a retrospective glimpse 

into his incredible life before he became such 

a great artist. You can also admire works 

belonging to other Impressionist artists such 

as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, 

Paul Gauguin, and many more. High-quality 

prints of Van Gogh and Monet paintings are also 

available for sale at the gallery. If all sounds 

interesting enough, list this place as your next 

destination in Pattaya now. They say that art 

is a balm for the soul, so take a break from the 

hectic pace and engage in some art appreciation. 

hellovangoghpattaya.com 

by kayak or a traditional wooden boat. 

This eco tour is operated by Baan Salak 

Khok Community Tour Club who know 

the area best. Feel what it’s like to float 

along the endless rows of mangroves 

and experience the way of life among the 

fisherfolks. These excursions also help 

the community earn extra money apart 

from their main livelihood as fishermen. 

So take a boat ride, reconnect with nature, 

and enjoy the serenity and amazing views. 

facebook.com/SalakKhokKayakStation 

AUTHENTICALLY INDIAN 

Feel like taking a break from seafood? 

If yes, go for an option that defines 

sophisticated dining at the Maharani 

Indian Restaurant that’s in the Royal 

Cliff Beach Hotel. A meal there involves 

tasting the richness of incredible Indian 

specialties with the added bonus of 

spectacular views of the Gulf of Thailand. 

Maharani, which means “The Queen” in 

Hindi, offers up the perfect combination 

of rich savoury dishes, superb ambience 

and exceptional service. Such fine details 

make it a unique and authentic experience 

with Indian cuisine. If you have no idea 

what to start with, the delicious and 

popular dishes like that of the Maharani 

Lamb Chop, Prawn Till Tikka and Garlic 

Naan send you off in the right direction. 

Expect to feel truly special with their 

service and experience Indian food at its 

finest, in a regal and vibrant atmosphere, 

as the restaurant lives up to the name as 

the “Queen of Indian Flavours.” 

royalcliff.com/restaurants/maharani 

OF SOUND, MIND AND BODY 

A shout out to people living healthy lives as they remind us it’s a good 

idea to revitalise our minds and nurture our bodies as frequently as 

possible. The Spa Koh Chang is just the right immersion into a holiday 

that’s tranquil and healthy. A good variety of body detoxification 

options are for the choosing, with three main programmes offering 

3-7 days of detox retreats. Each is designed to meet personal health 

goals, remove toxins from the body as well as a chance to direct your 

mind into a relaxing state. A strong emphasis at the Spa involves 

cleansing and re-balancing your entire body system through healthy 

nutrition. Check out programmes that suit your interest and just enjoy 

a time of detoxification while relaxing on the beautiful beaches of 

Koh Chang. thespakohchang.com 

100

HAPPENINGS 

CHINA 

CHENGDU / CHONGQING / GUANGZHOU 

SHINE ON 

The Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival as it’s called in mainland China, is 

celebrated all over the country with the lighting of lanterns. Chengdu has 

been doing it since the year 711. While in other parts of the country the 

festivities last one day, in Chengdu lanterns are lit for a month for the festival. 

The tradition originated in the Tang Dynasty, and now can be seen at Culture 

Park and Qingyanggong Park. 

Also known as Shangyuan, the Spring Festival sees families gather to 

appreciate the full moon, eat Yuanxiao (glutinous rice balls) and admire 

the lantern displays. Other main traditions of the festival include guessing 

lantern-themed riddles, watching fireworks, dragon and lion dances and 

stilt walking acts. cometochengdu.com 

ART NOUVEAU IN GUANGDONG 

The Guangdong Museum is featuring one of the fathers of Art Nouveau, 

the Czech painter and decorative artist Alphonse Mucha. A leading figure 

of the Art Nouveau style, he not only produced paintings and artwork 

but also many commercially used illustrations, advertisements, postcards, 

and designs. The exhibition’s collection of Mucha’s finest works shows a 

variety of materials and forms including metal sculptures, furniture, and 

posters. He became an instant star with a commissioned lithographed 

advertising poster for a play featuring actress Sarah Bernhardt in 1894. 

Mucha’s works are on display until 25 March 2018, 9am - 5pm, 50RMB 

for adults, 30RMB for children. gdmuseum.com 

SPOTLIGHT 

Guangzhou Speakeasy 

While speakeasies pop up relentlessly 

in many urban areas, Hope and Sesame 

distinguishes its cocktails by using 

high quality spirits for their inventive 

cocktails, including infusions using a 

sous vide machine. 

True to some speakeasies’ attempt at 

being mysterious and exclusive, getting 

to it requires walking through an alley in 

Dongshankou, recognising the hidden 

door, and passing a brief “interrogation” 

on the intercom before entering. The 

establishment is actually “hidden” behind 

a traditional Cantonese Café. There is a 

separate room with live jazz every night, 

the menu changes every 4 months, and each 

drink has been specially created. A few of the 

most famous signature cocktails include the 

Earl Grey Dark & Stormy and Angostura and 

Chamomile Sour (using a black chamomile 

from the Tibet / Xingjian region). 

Beyond just making drinks, the 

establishment has a cocktail lab, the 

“Spirits Kitchen,” that conducts video 

master classes and a tasting of premium 

spirits in a test kitchen setting. Here’s 

where customers go beyond sipping and get 

a chance to educate themselves on various 

cutting-edge techniques used at Hope & 

Sesame to create their signature cocktails. 

48 Miaoqian Xijie, Yuexiu district, Guangzhou, 

+86 188 1935 3462 

SPOTLIGHT 

Bridges in Karst Country 

The wondrous karst landscape of 

Wulong National Geology Park 

features a range of stone bridges and 

deep mountain valleys in Chongqing 

municipality. A UNESCO World Heritage 

Site, the area is famous for the Three 

Natural Bridges as well, a naturally 

formed karst structure not found 

anywhere else in the world. A paved 

downhill path leads to the three stone 

archways and to the Tianlong Bridge, 

featured in the movie ‘Curse of the 

Golden Flower’ by Zhang Yimou. The 

best times to visit are in the spring, 

autumn and winter. Give yourself a day 

or two to fully explore the area and take 

in the natural scenery. cnto.org/ 

unesco-sites/south-china-karst 

CHENGDU MUSEUMS OFFER 

DISCOUNTED ADMISSION 

Chengdu wants to be well known not only for 

its food, but for its deep cultural heritage. Until 

6 March 2018, four museums in Chengdu are 

offering 50% off the admissions price. 

The four major museums offer varied takes 

on Chinese history and culture, and they all 

occupy scenic settings in Chengdu. The Wuhou 

Shrine Museum, itself a historical site, celebrates 

Chengdu’s influence during the Three Kingdoms 

period of the third century. 

Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage Museum pays 

homage to one of China’s most revered poets 

(712-770). Besides its large collection of Du Fu’s 

poems and other relics, the 24-acre site with 

green walking trails and ponds gives you a tranquil 

experience in honouring Chinese literature. 

For ancient Chinese history going back 3,000 

years, the Jinsha Site Museum, conveniently 

located in the centre of town, showcases 

troves of artefacts at an archaeological site 

unearthed only recently in 2001. The Yongling 

Museum, built around China’s only above-ground 

mausoleum of Sichuan ruler Wang Jian (847-918), 

commemorates the founding of Chengdu as 

Wang Jian’s capital during his dynastic reign. 

cometochengdu.com 

102 103

HAPPENINGS 

HONG KONG 

MELODIC MEOWSICAL 

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical, CATS, returns to Hong Kong once 

more. Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the show is 

widely praised for its incredible sets and entertaining characters. 

The musical first premiered in 1981 in London and then New York, 

and to date has gone on to enchant more than 81 million people in over 

300 cities. From 6 Jan to 4 Feb, the Jellicle Cats will make the Hong Kong 

Academy for Performing Arts, Lyric Theatre their home as they enthral 

audiences in Hong Kong once more. catsthemusical.com 

HORSING AROUND 

The world’s best show jumping riders will compete against each other at the 

World Asia Expo arena during the Hong Kong Masters 2018 from 9 to 11 

February. Considered one of the top equestrian events in Asia since the 2008 

Olympics, the event will not only deliver a sporting spectacle for fans but also 

strengthen Hong Kong’s position as the equestrian capital of the region. 

Now in its sixth edition, the Longines Masters of Hong Kong has become 

an integral part of the region’s social and cultural calendar, combining heartpounding 

competition by the world’s top show jumping riders and horses with 

world-class entertainment, fashion, art and gastronomy. longinesmasters.com 

SPOTLIGHT 

Chinese Fine Dining 

Considered one of Hong Kong’s best 

Chinese fine dining establishments, 

Golden Leaf has been continually 

recognised for its Cantonese cuisine 

as well as top-notch dim sum for 27 

years. Housed within the Conrad hotel, 

the restaurant has garnered numerous 

awards over the years and proudly 

claims a Michelin star under its belt. 

The décor of the outlet is your 

stereotypical high-end Chinese 

restaurant, adorned with lanterns, 

latticework screens and teak and 

rosewood furniture. In short, a typical 

place you’d find businessmen cutting 

deals as they dig into inventive dishes 

such as roasted suckling pig, prawns 

in Chinese wine and baked lobster 

with ginger. 

Although priding itself on 

Cantonese cuisine, the Golden Leaf is 

perhaps more famously known for its 

dim sum, a staple tradition in Hong 

Kong. The selections here are standard 

with siu mai, dumplings and barbequed 

meat, taking its place on the menu. 

Signature dishes include the shallowfried 

crispy chicken and fresh crab 

claw, which is served whole and on a 

bed of fresh steamed egg white. Open 

daily, 11.30am - 3pm; 6pm - 11pm, Lower 

Lobby Level, Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific 

Place, 88 Queensway, conraddining.com/ 

en/golden_leaf 

ELEVATED HOT POT 

The hot pot is part and parcel of Hong Kong’s 

culture. It is a staple offering that is enjoyed by 

both locals as well as visitors to the city. In fact, 

the sight of watching friends huddled together 

over a table with steaming pot of simmering soup, 

meticulously cooking a variety of ingredients is as 

common as the city’s notorious traffic jams. 

But for a true elevated experience, few 

hot pot establishments can match the prestige 

and excellent track record Megan’s Kitchen has 

managed to garner. Its seventh consecutive 

listing in the Hong Kong Michelin Guide is 

proof of that. Situated in busy Wan Chai, 

the outlet has single-handedly elevated the 

concept of the hot pot with its inventive soups, 

accompaniments and ingredients. 

The 16 creative soup bases range from tomato 

and crab to sea clam, along with a wide choice 

of premium ingredients. With creations like 

the rainbow cuttlefish balls and cheesy beef 

tongue dumplings, Megan’s is the definite 

place to get your hot pot fix in Hong Kong. 

Open daily, 12pm - 3pm; 6pm - 11.30pm, 

5/F Lucky Centre 165-171 Wanchai Road, 

meganskitchen.com 

104

HAPPENINGS 

SINGAPORE 

MALAYSIA 

KUALA LUMPUR 

SPOTLIGHT 

Sky High Dining 

1-Altitude has taken the concept of 

elevated dining to brave new heights. 

The 16,000 square-feet, multi-concept 

lifestyle destination is not only the 

first of its kind in Singapore - but 

one that is unmatched when it comes 

to offering breath-taking views of 

the city. 

With several restaurants and 

bars, this high-concept dining and 

meeting space, situated at the top of 

One Raffles Place, has been packing in 

visitors since 2010. Stellar is perhaps 

one of the most prominent outlets 

within this facility as it carries 

quintessential progressive Australian 

cuisine, prepared by award-winning 

Executive Chef Christopher Millar. 

As the highest restaurant in the 

city, Stellar aims to match the 

breath-taking view with delicious and 

contemporary meals for a heightened 

gastronomic experience that is 

currently unmatched and unchallenged. 

Open daily 6pm - 4am, 1 Raffles Place, 

Singapore, 1-altitude.com 

SPOTLIGHT 

KL’S Food Street 

Jalan Alor perhaps is the shortest answer 

locals will give to visitors, when it comes 

to the spot for tasting some of the city’s 

best street food. Although some scoff 

at the idea due to Jalan Alor being too 

touristy, there is no denying that this 

stretch of road in the heart of KL’s 

Golden Triangle is perhaps the best 

bet when it comes to experiencing the 

many flavours of Malaysia. 

Every evening from 5pm, vendors 

ply their trade here, dishing out 

signature favourites ranging from 

stir-fry dishes to Satay and Lok-Lok 

(skewers of meat dipped in hot broth). 

Choices are abundant but a safe bet is to 

always head for the stall or restaurant 

that has a queue outside of it. 

Of particular interest is Wong Ah 

Wah’s Chicken Wings, which serves 

delectable and sinfully sticky barbequed 

wings – arguably the one must-visit 

stop on this delicious stretch of tar in 

Kuala Lumpur. Jalan Alor, off Jalan Bukit 

Bintang, open daily after 5pm. 

UPFRONT WITH THE FLEET FOXES 

Grammy-nominated American indie-rock band, 

the Fleet Foxes are heading to KL for the very first 

time. The Seattle-based band first broke into the 

music scene in 2008 with their eponymous debut 

album and was hailed by Rolling Stone and Q as 

one of the best albums of the year. 

The Fleet Foxes sophomore effort, 

Helplessness Blues, was equally well-received 

– as was their recently released third album, 

Crack-Up, which broke into the top ten of the 

Billboard Charts in June 2017. The Fleet Foxes’ 

one-night only performance at the KL Live will 

see the band deliver their best songs from all 

three albums. 16 January, ticketpro.com.my 

WALK WITH ARTS 

Since its inaugural inception in 2005, the M1 Singapore Fringe Festival 

has been championing the field of arts in the Garden City. 

This year’s event themed Let’s Walk, inspired by Singaporean artist 

Amanda Heng’s street performance, will see the arts fest presenting a series 

of progressive, exciting works from artists. Their creative work will confront 

audiences with questions about the body, gender, beauty and equity. 

The 12-day programme this year will see a range of theatrical 

and visual arts being held, including the Asian premiere of Displaced, 

a performance by Canada’s Ground Cover Theatre that depicts the struggles 

of three female immigrants. 17-28 Jan, singaporefringe.com/fringe2018 

AMBASSADORS OF MUSIC 

For nearly five centuries, the Vienna Boys’ Choir has been a permanent fixture 

and an enduring icon of music in Austria. Many musicians have risen from its 

ranks over the years including Franz Schubert, the famous Austrian composer, 

who wrote his first compositions when he was with the court choir boys. 

The Vienna Boys’ Choir has been a fixed attraction in Austrian musical 

life, even performing on Sundays with members of the Vienna Philharmonic 

Orchestra and of the Vienna State Opera Chorus in Vienna’s Imperial Chapel. 

It’s a tradition kept since 1498. 

This January, Asian fans will not only get to experience the most 

beautiful and purest voices on earth but also engage with the world famous 

choir in various activities across Singapore. 11-15 January, svbc.sg 

106

HAPPENINGS 

CAMBODIA 

SIEM REAP 

SPOTLIGHT 

Meals that Make a Difference 

Siem Reap, like most Southeast Asian 

cities, is not short on delicious food. 

But Spoons Café, operated by the 

non-profit group EGBOK, is dishing 

out meals with a difference. The 

restaurant has been garnering rave 

reviews for its elevated Cambodian 

cuisine, which infuses local street 

food and home style dishes with 

western influences. 

But delicious meals aside, the 

organisers are also helping educate 

the Cambodian youth by 

providing them a training 

ground to help them gain 

hospitality experience. 

Everything about Spoons 

Café is holistic in nature, right 

from its structure made with 

sustainable bamboo to its 

locally sourced ingredients. 

Open Tuesdays to Sundays, 

11.30am to 10.oopm, 

egbokmission.org/spoons 

RUNNING ITS COURSE 

The Angkor City Night Music Run 2018 

once again invites runners to go on an 

epic race through historic Siem Reap. 

Following the success of last year’s 

inaugural event, the running route this 

year covers the length of 5km. The path 

snakes its way around town, passing 

landmark sights and places of interest. 

The ‘flag off’ begins at the Hard Rock 

Café, with a running path that follows 

the ancient stream of Stung Siem Reap 

in town. Its waters originate from Kulen 

Mountain, considered a sacred spot and 

ancient city belonging to the 9th century 

– in a time before Angkor Wat. 

Throughout the running course, 

there will be various party zones set 

up with music and entertainment, as 

well as interactive stations. The event 

ends in Pub Street in front of the main 

stage, with DJs delivering their pulsating 

beats until 10pm. Each finisher will get a 

medal for their effort and proceeds from 

the event benefit the Children’s Hospital 

in Cambodia. 28 January, cambodiaamazingevents.org 

CAFÉ’S GREAT STORY 

Genevieve’s is arguably one of Siem Reap’s most 

popular restaurants. Located near Pub Street and the 

Old Market, the outlet has been dishing out highquality, 

Khmer/Western cuisine since 2013. The quaint 

yet unassuming restaurant also holds a commitment to 

contributing meaningfully to the lives of young people 

in the community. 

Operated by Phil Rogers, the café encourages a 

training programme benefitting Cambodian youth, all of 

whom have little or no prior knowledge or experience 

in hospitality. It’s still the delicious food that keeps 

diners coming back, especially with an eclectic menu 

that offers a wide array of Cambodian cuisine, as well 

as popular dishes. All are made, naturally, with love 

from local hands. Open Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 

9.30am, facebook.com/GenevievesRestaurant 

“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. 

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. 

108 

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

HAPPENINGS 

VIETNAM 

DANANG / PHU QUOC 

MYANMAR / LAOS 

YANGON / VIENTIANE 

PHU QUOC PROMOS AND UPGRADES 

From now until 28 February 2018, book a flight to Phu Quoc with 

Bangkok Airways and receive a 20% discount on best available 

rate for the superlative rooms at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald 

Bay with breakfast for two. This special promotion also includes 

complimentary upgrade to the next room category, complimentary 

roundtrip airport transfer and 15% discount on food & beverage, 

spa and laundry service. Some basic conditions apply. 

For those staying somewhere else but fly to Phu Quoc 

on Bangkok Airways, upon presenting your boarding pass at 

the resort, you will get a complimentary entrance fee (value 

VND500,000) to experience this one-of-a-kind ‘Lamarck 

University’, complimentary welcome drink at Department of 

Chemistry, 15% discount on food and beverage and Chanterelle 

Spa by JW. jwmarriottphuquoc.com, T: +84 297 377 9999 

Photos @Congcaphe 

SPOTLIGHT 

Communist 

Themed 

and Hip 

Amid modern hotels, 

apartments, restaurants 

and the spectacular Dragon 

bridge, a glimpse of the 

communist past finds new 

life in a chic and stylish 

hangout along the Han 

waterfront. The moment 

you step into Công Caphe, a 

Communist-themed café and 

restaurant, you’re stunned 

by details of found objects 

and designs, as if it were a 

secret hideout. Founded by 

Vietnamese pop singer Linh 

Dung, the Communist kitsch 

décor and atmosphere are 

uniquely amazing and worth 

posting a holiday snapshot 

for your social media. Packed 

with young residents and 

tourists, this great little 

café serves up good coffee. 

It’s also worth making a 

beeline during Tet (the 

Vietnamese New Year) for 

a Coconut Coffee Smoothie, 

Yoghurt Coffee or Coffee with 

Coconut Milk. When your 

caffeine craving is satisfied 

later in the day, Công Caphe 

can be the best place to stay 

and watch the world go by 

with a beer or cocktail in 

hand in Vietnam’s fastest 

changing city. From the 2nd 

floor of the café, customers 

can see a fantastic view of the 

Han riverfront with boats 

commuting up and down the 

river. Come after the sun goes 

down, choose a seat, and 

spend the rest of your night 

peacefully. congcaphe.com, 

T: +84 91 181 11 66 

SPOTLIGHT 

The Charm of Puppets 

For lovers of culture who learn about 

Myanmar traditional puppetry, it’s only 

natural to have an enhanced enjoyment 

when it comes time for the next 

performance. Knowing how puppetry 

art requires the unique expertise 

of skilled hands results in a greater 

appreciation of the craft. Htwe Oo 

Myanmar Traditional Puppet Theatre, 

AFTERNOON TEA IN A 

COLONIAL ATMOSPHERE 

Not far from Inya Lake on Saya San road 

stands the famous white colonial-style 

tea salon “Acacia Tea Salon”; one of the 

must-visit places in Yangon for tourists, 

especially tea lovers. A beautiful colonial 

interior and relaxing atmosphere makes 

it perfect for informal business meetings 

for lunch or dinner. Acacia Tea Salon opens 

from 8am to 10pm and offers all-day dining, 

offering a light breakfast or full courses, 

delicious cakes and the best tea in Yangon, 

in a warm and cosy atmosphere. 

acaciateasalon.com, T: +95 9 731 13812 

Ext. 554739 

located at No. 12 Yama Street in Ahlone 

Township of Yangon is one of the 

notable and award-winning puppetry 

shows in Myanmar. Advanced booking 

is strongly recommended, especially 

large groups of more than 10 people. 

Luckily, showtimes can be chosen 

beforehand but an afternoon scheduling 

is suggested. Get to know more about 

TASTE OF SINGAPORE IN YANGON 

Located in the compound of the Union 

Business Center (UBC), in Yangon, the 

House of Singapura has become widely 

known. It’s a popular stop not only among 

business people to work or attend meetings 

at the UBC building, but also among 

tourists as its location is not far from 

Shwedagon Pagoda. Once you step into 

the House of Singapura, you will be greeted 

and attended to in efficient service. The 

restaurant serves Singaporean favourites 

such as bak kut teh, Hainanese chicken 

rice, char kway teow, satay and desserts 

like ice kacang, the shaved-ice dessert of 

sweet corn mixed with different flavours. 

T: +95 9 302 58388 

traditional art by checking out 

demonstrations on the puppetmaking 

process. Booking in 

advance ensures a spot for 

guests who’ll learn how to 

handle puppet movements at 

basic levels and potentially 

advance into professional 

levels. htweoomyanmar.com, 

T: +95 9 512 7271 

THE FRENCH CONNECTION 

The French might have left Laos more than half a century 

ago, but their legacy remains in the presence of Vientiane 

haute cuisine. A fascinating newcomer is the casual chic 

bistro L’Adresse de Tinay (behind the temple of Wat Ong 

Teu; 856-20-5691-3434), run by a Lao-French couple 

Tinay and Delphine Inthavong. Get acquainted with dishes 

done the French way or swap tastes with herbal and spicy 

Lao delicacies with the restaurant’s diverse selection. Their 

seasonal and promising menu might include goat cheese rolls 

with sun-dried tomatoes and cherry confiture or Grandma 

Lydie’s Special: duck confit with a white bean and sausage 

cassoulet. The two-storey colonial-designed house has a 

friendly and relaxed atmosphere with a staff eager to help, 

who can often take special requests. With the number of 

French guests and regulars, it is quickly noticeable that 

L’Adresse is a firm favourite amongst 

those who appreciate French cuisine. 

Open daily from 5pm - 10.30pm, 

T: +856 20 56 913 434 

110 

111

HAPPENINGS 

INDIA / MALDIVES 

MUMBAI / MALDIVES 

SPOTLIGHT 

Museum Magic 

Mumbai’s premier museum, 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu 

Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) is hosting a 

collaborative showcase of ‘India and 

the World: A History in Nine Stories’, 

in association with London’s British 

Museum and New Delhi’s National 

Museum. The exhibition covers two 

million years of history through more 

than 200 artefacts from the three 

museums. One hundred and twenty 

four iconic pieces from the British 

Museum are on display in Mumbai 

SPA UTOPIA 

A Maldivian approach to an ultimate experience 

happens at the One & Only Spa where treatments 

at this nature resort come with top notch aesthetics 

within its relaxing vibe. 

Here, the body and the mind can rejoice 

and be revitalised by heavenly pampering from 

the spa’s signature treatments, namely One & 

Only Reethi Sun Ritual Treatment (2 hours) for 

a healthy glow of your already sun-kissed skin, 

for the first time in this unique 

exhibition, including inscriptions, 

tools, paintings, sculptures, and more. 

The exhibition showcases the common 

threads of human history through 

evocative stories. It will be open till 

February 18, 2018. csmvs.in 

ART ATTACK 

What happens when 40 Indian and international 

artists are given free rein over the city’s fishing 

harbour? The historic Sassoon Docks has been 

revitalised into a new art precinct with the 

recently held St+Art Mumbai Urban Art Festival. 

Beautiful murals now grace its walls, many of 

them depicting Mumbai’s original inhabitants 

– the koli or fisherfolk – in a tribute to the life 

of Sassoon Docks. Once the festival ends, the 

vibrant murals remain to be enjoyed by all. The 

Yok & Sheryo’s Varuna Vessel mural connects 

the fishing culture with South Asian mythology 

while Fearless Collective transforms a brightly 

coloured golden wall into a backdrop for 

stories of koli women, and Guido Van Helten’s 

photorealistic murals adorn an entire façade of 

the docks. st-artindia.org 

ON YOUR PLATE 

Go on a journey on the Grand 

Trunk Road at Taftoon Bar & 

Kitchen, which recently opened 

at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), 

Mumbai’s corporate enclave. 

Named after the aromatic, saffron 

and cardamom infused Persian 

bread, Taftoon is an ode to the 

flavours of Asia’s oldest road. 

The cuisine covers everything 

from Kabul to Kolkata, with 

stopovers in Kashmir, Delhi, 

Lucknow, and Bihar. There are 

succulent kebabs, slow-cooked 

meats, pulaos, and regional 

vegetarian fare on offer. Another 

new BKC restaurant is the Goan- 

Portuguese inspired O Pedro, from 

the folks at The Bombay Canteen. 

Its vaulted ceiling, pale blue walls, 

and colonial Portuguese-style 

décor complement the fun Goa 

vibe perfectly. Try the coastal 

favourite Beryl’s Fish Curry 

with Sannas or the Seafood 

Cataplana (a Portuguese 

seafood stew). The warm poee 

(sourdough bread) with choriz 

butter is inspired, as is the Veal 

Tongue Prosciutto. Desserts 

range from the Goan Bebinca 

to the Portuguese Pastel de 

Nata (egg custard tarts). 

Taftoon Bar & Kitchen, Naman 

Centre, Unit No.2, C-31 & C-32, 

G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, 

Mumbai, +91 22 26530255, 

O Pedro, Unit No. 2, Plot No. C-68, 

Jet Airways-Godrej Building, Bandra 

Kurla Complex, Mumbai 

and there’s also a Pre and Post Natal Treatment 

(45 minutes) for the well-being of pregnant and 

nursing mothers. For the complete One & Only 

Spa experience, guests are recommended to 

arrive 45 minutes in advanced to indulge in the 

exclusive spa facilities ranging from the Vitality 

Pool, Crystal Steam Room, or the sauna sip their 

signature hot drinks. 

oneandonlyresorts.com 

112

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 116 / AIRCRAFT INFO 125 / ROUTE MAP 126 / AIRPORT MAP 128 

115

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 

INTRODUCING OUR 

NEWEST AIRLINE PARTNER, 

QATAR AIRWAYS 

Recently, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited 

is pleased to announce the launch of its frequent 

flyer programme collaboration with codeshare partner, 

Qatar Airways. Effective 1 November, 2017 FlyerBonus 

members can begin earning and redeeming 

FlyerBonus points on eligible Qatar Airways flights. 

Similarly, members of Qmiles, Qatar Airways’ 

Frequent Flyer Programme, can also start earning 

and redeeming their miles when travelling on 

Bangkok Airways flights to some of South East 

Asia’s most popular destinations including Samui, 

Krabi, Phuket, Luang Prabang, Danang and Phu 

Quoc via Bangkok. 

FlyerBonus, the Frequent Flyer Programme of 

Bangkok Airways, is all about easy earnings and fast 

rewards. Lifestyle and rewards go hand in hand; no 

matter whether you're flying, renting a car, shopping 

or staying at a hotel – FlyerBonus points can be 

earned. It translates into award flights, hotel stays 

and an array of exclusive programme partner deals 

instantly and conveniently. For more information, 

please visit www.flyerbonus.com 

1. Mr. Jirapon Hirunrat, Vice President – Fleet and Network Management , Bangkok 

Airways (3rd from Left) 2. Mr. Terence Yu, Country Manager – Thailand & Myanmar, 

Qatar Airways (2nd from Left) 

เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ 

จำกัด (มหาชน) หรือสายการบิน 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส และสายการบิน 

กาตาร์ แอร์เวย์ส ประกาศความ 

ร่วมมือด้านรายการสะสมไมล์ 

(Frequent Flyer Programme) 

โดยเริ่มตั้งแต่วันที่ 1 พฤศจิกายน 

2560 เป็นต้นไป สมาชิกรายการ 

สะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์โบนัสของ 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส จะได้รับคะแนน 

สะสมเมื่อเดินทางกับสายการบิน 

กาตาร์ แอร์เวย์ส 

ฟลายเออร์โบนัส คือ รายการสะสมคะแนน 

ของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส เพื่อมอบ 

สิทธิพิเศษและสิทธิประโยชน์ให้แก่สมาชิก 

มากมาย อาทิ สะสมคะแนนจากการบิน, 

บริการเช่ารถ, ช้อปปิ้ง หรือเข้าพักในโรงแรม 

ชั้นนำก็สามารถได้รับคะแนนสะสมเพื่อแลกของ 

รางวัล เช่น ตั๋วเครื่องบิน, โรงแรม และข้อเสนอ 

พิเศษจากพันธมิตรอีกมากมาย นอกจากนี้ 

การสมัครเป็นสมาชิกรายการสะสมคะแนน 

ฟลายเออร์โบนัสยังไม่เสียค่าใช้จ่ายใดๆ 

สามารถค้นหาข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมได้ที่ 

www.flyerbonus.com 

THANK YOU TO OUR 

FLYERBONUS 

HALF-MILLION MILER! 

CELEBRATING THE 1,000 TH 

FLIGHT OF A TRUE 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS 

FREQUENT FLYER 

A heartfelt event was recently held 

by the FlyerBonus programme of 

Bangkok Airways, led by Mr. Prote 

Setsuwan, Vice President for Marketing, 

along with the esteemed presence 

of Mrs. Darunee Debavalya, Senior 

Director – Customer Satisfaction 

and Relationship Management. The 

occasion acknowledged Mr. Perasit 

Charoanviriyapap, a FlyerBonus 

member who has flown one thousand 

flights, or more than half a million 

miles, since joining in 2006. To express 

gratitude, Bangkok Airways gave 

Mr. Peerasit a Business Traveller Set 

from famed Jim Thompson Fabrics 

(aka the King of Thai Silk.) The items 

were monogrammed for the 

honoured frequent flyer in the 

familiar blue colour representing 

the Bangkok Airways brand. 

เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส 

โดยคุณพรต เสตสุวรรณ รองกรรมการ 

ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ ฝ่ายการตลาด และ 

คุณดรุณี เทพวัลย์ ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโส 

ส่วนบริหารความพึงพอใจและความสัมพันธ์ 

ลูกค้า ร่วมแสดงความยินดีกับคุณพีรศิษฐ์ 

เจริญวิริยะภาพ สมาชิกฟลายเออร์โบนัส 

ที่เดินทางกับสายการบินฯ ครบ 1,000 

เที่ยวบิน หรือเป็นระยะทางรวมกว่า 

500,000 ไมล์ในพิธีมอบของที่ระลึกเพื่อ 

เป็นเกียรติแก่สมาชิกฯ 

สำหรับของที่ระลึก "Traveller Set" 

ประกอบด้วยของใช้ส่วนบุคคล 5 ชิ้น ซึ่ง 

ทีมงานสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สและ 

ทีมออกแบบของจิม ทอมป์สัน หรือที่รู้จัก 

กันในนาม “ราชาผ้าไหมไทย” ได้ร่วมมือ 

กันคัดสรรวัสดุที่ดีที่สุดมาผลิตด้วยขั้นตอน 

แบบ Hand Made โดยใช้โทนสีฟ้า ซึ่งเป็น 

สีของสายการบินฯ และเพิ่มความพิเศษคือ 

การปักชื ่อบนงานทุกชิ้นเพื่อสร้างความ 

ประทับใจให้แก่ผู้รับ 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS’ FLYERBONUS PROGRAMME ORGANISES 

AN EXCLUSIVE TRIP TO MUMBAI AND AURANGABAD 

FlyerBonus, Bangkok Airways’ Frequent Flyer programme, recently 

organised an exclusive trip for top-spending FlyerBonus Premier 

Members and their companions. Over the course of 5 days and 

3 nights, Premier Members experienced the vibrant charms and 

myriad styles of Indian culture, as well as the wonders of the 

Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The official presenter for Bangkok Airways, 

Ms. Urassaya Sperbund, also joined the trip. 

Enrol now to jumpstart your travel rewards with FlyerBonus 

Points and enjoy exclusive privileges at 

www.bangkokair.com/flyerbonus 

รายการสะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์โบนัส นำสมาชิก 

ฟลายเออร์โบนัสระดับพรีเมียร์ กลุ่ม Top Spender 

พร้อมผู้ติดตาม เดินทางแบบเอ็กซ์คลูซีฟ 5 วัน 3 คืน 

สู่มุมไบ-ออรังกาบัด สัมผัสกับเสน่ห์ทางวัฒนธรรม และ 

ความอลังการของพุทธสถานสำคัญอย่างถ้ำอชันต้า และ 

ถ้ำเอลโลร่า โดยมีญาญ่า อุรัสยา เสปอร์บันด์ พรีเซ็นเตอร์ 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ร่วมเดินทาง 

สมัครเป็นสมาชิกรายการสะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์ 

โบนัสเพื่อรับสิทธิประโยชน์ได้ที่เว็บไซต์ 

www.bangkokair.com/flyerbonus 

116 

117


“BANGKOK AIRWAYS LANNA MARATHON” 

– ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL RUN IN THE BANGKOK AIRWAYS 

BOUTIQUE SERIES 2017 

Recently, Bangkok Airways Public 

Company Limited organised the 

“Bangkok Airways Lanna Marathon,” 

whose starting point took place at 

the Chiang Mai International 

Exhibition and Convention Centre. 

The event was part of the Bangkok 

Airways Boutique Series 2017 

and attended by thousands of 

running enthusiasts. 

Mr. Kridhakorn Sirabhabhoj, 

Senior Director – Marketing 

Communication of Bangkok Airways 

stated that, “the Bangkok Airways 

Lanna Marathon is the fifth event 

in our Bangkok Airways Boutique 

Series 2017 programme and was 

organised to promote tourism 

and sporting events in Chiang 

Mai. Participating runners had a 

chance to experience the unique 

Lanna culture as the run took 

them around the outskirts of the 

city with a route designed to 

include both flat and cross-country 

segments, complemented with 

the Bangkok Airways’ signature 

boutique touches.” 

"The Bangkok Airways Lanna 

Marathon offered runners 4 

different categories: the Fun 

Run (5 kilometres), the Mini 

Marathon (10 kilometres), a Half 

Marathon (21.5 kilometres) 

and a Full Marathon (42.195 

kilometres), and attracted over 

4,800 runners from around 

the world," Mr. Kridhakorn 

indicated. 

Other marathon destinations 

in the Bangkok Airways Boutique 

Series 2017 include Trat (Koh Chang), 

Koh Samui, Phuket, Chiang Rai, 

Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. 

เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนายกฤตธกร 

สิรภาพจน์ ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโส ส่วนสื่อสารการตลาด จัดงาน 

“บางกอกแอร์เวย์สล้านนามาราธอน” หนึ่งในหกรายการวิ่งของ 

“บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส บูธีค ซีรีย์ 2017” ณ บริเวณศูนย์ประชุมและ 

แสดงสินค้านานาชาติ จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ โดยมีนายปวิณ 

ชํานิประศาสน์ ผู้ว่าราชการจังหวัดเชียงใหม่ เป็นประธานในพิธีเปิด 

พร้อมนักวิ่งทั้งชาวไทยและชาวต่างชาติกว่า 4,800 คน เข้าร่วมงาน 

นายกฤตธกร สิรภาพจน์ ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโส ส่วนสื่อสาร 

การตลาด สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส กล่าวว่า “งานบางกอก 

แอร์เวย์สล้านนามาราธอน เป็นรายการวิ่งรายการที่ 5 ของบางกอก 

แอร์เวย์ส บูธีค ซีรีย์ 2017 ที่จัดขึ้นเพื่อส่งเสริมการท่องเที่ยวและ 

การกีฬาในจังหวัดเชียงใหม่ โดยนักวิ่งจะได้สัมผัสกับอีกหนึ่งแง่มุม 

ของวัฒนธรรมล้านนา กับเส้นทางวิ่งนอกตัวเมืองเชียงใหม่ที่ได้ 

รับการออกแบบมาเป็นอย่างดี ระหว่างเส้นทางเรียบบนถนนและ 

การวิ่งครอสคันทรี พร้อมผสมผสานกับกลิ่นอายความเป็นบูธีค 

ในแบบฉบับของบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส” 

“สำหรับการแข่งขันรายการนี้แบ่งออกเป็น 4 ประเภท ได้แก่ 

แบบฟันรันและแบบมินิมาราธอน ระยะทาง 5 และ 10 กิโลเมตร 

แบบฮาล์ฟมาราธอน ระยะทาง 21 กิโลเมตร และแบบมาราธอน 

ระยะทาง 42 กิโลเมตร โดยมีนักวิ่งทั้งชาวไทยและชาวต่างชาติให้ 

ความสนใจเข้าร่วมงานกว่า 4,800 คน” นายกฤตธกร กล่าวเสริม 

รายการวิ่งบางกอกแอร์เวย์สล้านนามาราธอน ถือเป็น 

รายการที่ 5 จากทั้งหมด 6 รายการของ “บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส บูธีค 

ซีรีย์ 2017” ที่จัดขึ้นใน 6 จุดหมายปลายทางของสายการบินฯ 

ตลอดปี 2560 ได้แก่ ตราด (เกาะช้าง) เกาะสมุย ภูเก็ต เชียงราย 

เชียงใหม่ และแม่ฮ่องสอน 

118


JOINING THE 

“ENGLISH CLUB 

WITH BANGKOK 

AIRWAYS” 

ON KOH SAMUI 

Bangkok Airways, led by Mrs. 

Chanthip Thongkanya – Vice 

President, Office of the President, 

recently organised an “English 

Club with Bangkok Airways.” The 

educational activity was meant 

to inspire and encourage students 

on Koh Samui to practise English 

in their daily lives. Held at the 

grand ballroom of Samui Palm 

Beach Resort in Koh Samui, the 

event was attended by the airline’s 

official presenter and Thai 

actress Yaya Urassaya Sperbund, 

local government officials, Bangkok 

Airways representatives and 

more than 120 Samui students. 

Mrs. Chanthip Thongkanya, 

Vice-President, Office of the 

President of Bangkok Airways 

said that “Bangkok Airways, an 

organisation that uses English 

on a daily basis, understands the 

need for the Thai youth to learn 

how to effectively use the English 

language. Thus we organised this 

CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) 

activity, the ‘English Club with 

Bangkok Airways,’ to inspire 

and encourage students from 

schools around Samui Airport 

to take a greater interest in 

learning English through fun and 

engaging activities." 

The English Club with Bangkok 

Airways activity is one of the CSR 

1. Mr. Noppadol Khawmali, Permanent Secretary, Samui (5th from left) 2. Ms. Urassaya Sperbund, Actress 

(6th from left) 3. Mrs. Chanthip Thongkanya, Vice President - Office of the President (6th from right) 

4. Mrs. Nongyao Jirandorn, Director of the Samui Office, Tourism Authority of Thailand (5th from right) 

5. Mrs. Nutchayathorn Nutsudanijvipa, Director Samui Airport (4th from right) 

programmes by Bangkok Airways, 

allowing airline staff, partners, 

children and community members 

to come together for the 

betterment of society. “The activity 

has been held for two years now, 

previously taking place in the 

provinces of Sukhothai, Trat and 

Koh Samui (Surat Thani),” 

Mrs. Chanthip added. 

Students who participated in 

the English Club with Bangkok 

Airways come from Wat Plai 

Laem School, Wat Buntrikkaram 

School and Wat Bang Raksa 

School. The students described 

the event as an ‘amazing time 

learning English,’ with fun-filled 

activities including word games 

involving guessing, hinting and 

pairing – along with storytelling 

in English by Yaya Urassaya. 

เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนางจันทร์ทิพย์ 

ทองกันยา รองกรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ สำนักกรรมการ 

ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ จัดกิจกรรม “English Club with Bangkok 

Airways” เพื่อส่งเสริมและสร้างแรงบันดาลใจให้กับเยาวชนบน 

เกาะสมุยให้เห็นถึงความส ำคัญของการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษในชีวิตประจ ำวัน 

โดยมี ญาญ่า อุรัสยา เสปอร์บันด์ ตัวแทนจากหน่วยราชการท้องถิ่น 

ตัวแทนผู้บริหารและพนักงานของสายการบินฯ พร้อมนักเรียน 

จากโรงเรียนรอบสนามบินสมุยกว่า 120 คน เข้าร่วมกิจกรรม 

ณ ห้องประชุมใหญ่ โรงแรมสมุยปาล์มบีช เกาะสมุย 

นางจันทร์ทิพย์ ทองกันยา กล่าวว่า “บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ในฐานะ 

องค์กรต้นแบบที่มีการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อการสื่อสารในการปฏิบัติ 

งานและชีวิตประจำวัน เล็งเห็นถึงความสำคัญของการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษ 

ของเยาวชนรุ่นใหม่ที่กำลังจะก้าวขึ้นมาเป็นกำลังของชาติในอนาคต 

อันใกล้นี้ จึงจัดกิจกรรม ‘English Club with Bangkok Airways’ ขึ้น 

เพื่อสร้างแรงบันดาลใจและกระตุ้นให้เยาวชนที่อยู่ในพื้นที่รอบสนามบิน 

สมุยมีความสนใจในการเรียนรู้ภาษาอังกฤษผ่านทางกิจกรรมที่มี 

ความสนุกสนานและเข้าใจง่าย” 

“กิจกรรมนี้ถือเป็นหนึ่งในโครงการรับผิดชอบต่อสังคมของ 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สในการนำกลุ่มเยาวชน ชุมชน พนักงาน 

ผู้บริหารของบริษัท และภาคีเครือข่าย มารวมตัวกันเพื่อทำ 

กิจกรรมเพื่อสังคม โดยจัดขึ้นติดต่อกันเป็นปีที่ 2 แล้วในจังหวัด 

สุโขทัย ตราด และสุราษฎร์ธานี (เกาะสมุย) ซึ่งเป็นจังหวัดที่ทาง 

บริษัทฯ เข้าไปดำเนินกิจการสนามบินและมีเส้นทางบินตรงให้ 

บริการ” นางจันทร์ทิพย์ กล่าวเสริม 

กิจกรรมดังกล่าวได้รับความร่วมมือจากโรงเรียนวัดปลายแหลม 

โรงเรียนวัดบุณฑริการาม และโรงเรียนวัดบางรักษ์ ซึ่งเป็นโรงเรียน 

โดยรอบสนามบินสมุย โดยนักเรียนที่เข้าร่วมจะมีโอกาสได้เรียนรู้ 

และพัฒนาทักษะการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษผ่านกิจกรรมทายคำศัพท์ 

ใบ้คำศัพท์ เกมจับคู่คำศัพท์ พร้อมกิจกรรมเล่านิทานภาษา 

อังกฤษโดยญาญ่า อุรัสยา 

120

AIRCRAFT INFO 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS OPERATES FOUR TYPES OF AIRCRAFT 

AIRBUS A319 

NUMBER OF FLEET : 14 

NUMBER OF DUAL CLASS : 

4 (Business & Economy) 

NUMBER OF SINGLE CLASS : 

4/4 (Economy) 

LENGTH : 33.84 m 

WINGSPAN : 34.1 m 

HEIGHT : 12.17 m 

ENGINE : IAE V2500 

CRUISING SPEED : 920 km/h 

PASSENGER CAPACITY : 

12 seats & 108 seats 


138/144 seats 

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 

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 

125

126 127

AIRPORT MAP 

LEVEL 4 

DEPARTURES 

LEVEL 3 

TRANSFER COUNTER 

LEVEL 2 

ARRIVALS 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS AT SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT, BANGKOK 

CONGRATULATIONS TO 

BLAINE HARRINGTON III 

GRAND PRIZE WINNER 

FOR HIS PHOTO OF THE ZOJILA PASS, 

WORLD IN FOCUS PHOTO COMPETITION 

featured this photo in our article, 

“Dangerous Beauty” 

(May/June 2017 issue) 

Exposing the sheer beauty of the Zojila 

mountain pass and the risks it poses, the 

image is both captivating and dramatic. 

Look out for more eye-catching 

photography in , 

Bangkok Airways inflight magazine. 

Published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd. 

FOR ADVERTISEMENT: 

Ms. Daruni Klaprapchon (Guitar) 

087-929-6611 

Guitar@mpmith.com 

Mr. Reza Bizmark (Bob) 

082-446-9192 

Reza.bizmark@mpmith.com 

Scan Me 

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 

128

CHECKING OUT 

Real Hot 

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province 

in China, was the first Asian city that 

UNESCO bestowed the title of “City of 

Gastronomy.” It’s the birthplace of many 

culinary traditions and a major dining 

destination for prominently fiery foods 

like their hot pot or the global favourite 

– kung pao chicken. These dishes owe 

their popularity to a standout ingredient: 

that of the aromatic and intense Sichuan 

peppercorn that’s best sampled in its 

place of origin. 

We offer sincere 

apologies to our 

readers. Fah Thai’s 

November/December 

2017 issue mistakenly 

featured a photo of 

Angthong National 

Marine Park in our 

Checking Out page 

instead of Phu Quoc 

island in Vietnam. 

นิตยสารฟ้าไทยขออภัยท่านผู้อ่านอย่างสูง 

ต่อความผิดพลาดที่เกิดขึ้นในคอลัมน์ 

Checking Out ในหน้า 146 ประจำฉบับ 

เดือนพฤศจิกายน/ธันวาคม พ.ศ.2560 

ที่มีการตีพิมพ์รูปภาพหมู่เกาะอ่างทอง 

แทนภาพเกาะฟู้โกว๊ก ประเทศเวียดนาม 

จึงขออภัยมา ณ ที่นี้ 

130

Fah Thai Magazine Jan-Feb 2018

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