Fah Thai Magazine Jan-Feb 2018
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JAN-FEB <strong>2018</strong><br />
HOTEL FUN AND LUXE<br />
WITH BILL BENSLEY<br />
SAMUI’S<br />
GREAT ESCAPES<br />
KNOW PHU QUOC<br />
FULL WELL<br />
CHINESE OPERA’S<br />
MOVING PERFORMANCE<br />
COMPLIMENTARY COPY
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT<br />
Welcome on board our Bangkok Airways flight.<br />
This auspicious year marks Bangkok Airways’ 50th Anniversary and with<br />
heartfelt gratitude, we offer our sincere thanks to all of you who have always put<br />
your trust in our airline. Our continued passion to deliver the best in service<br />
remains, along with our goal to be “the Leading Airline in Asia.” We also wish<br />
to stress our commitment to our passengers by offering the best in satisfaction.<br />
Throughout five decades of operations, Bangkok Airways has introduced<br />
new routes constantly, aiming to fulfil our passengers’ ideal of a complete travel<br />
experience by offering choices and convenience.<br />
We plan to commit the entire year of <strong>2018</strong> to well-thought out promotions and<br />
campaigns that not only give back to society, but also benefit our valuable customers.<br />
Last but not least, the Bangkok Airways crew and I wish you and your family<br />
a bright, healthy, prosperous and happiest time for the new year ahead and we<br />
look forward to welcoming you on Bangkok Airways in the future.<br />
Thank you.<br />
สวัสดีท่านผู้โดยสารทุกท่าน ขอต้อนรับสู่การบริการของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส<br />
ในโอกาสครบรอบ 50 ปีของสายการบินฯ ในปี 2561 ผมและพนักงานทุกคนขอขอบคุณท่านผู้โดยสาร<br />
ที่ไว้วางใจใช้บริการกับบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส เราจะพัฒนาการบริการให้ดียิ่งๆ ขึ้นไป เพื่อความพึงพอใจสูงสุด<br />
ของท่าน และเพื่อบรรลุเป้าหมายองค์กร “To be the Leading Airline in Asia”<br />
โดยตลอดระยะเวลาที่ผ่านมา เรามุ่งมั่นสร้างสรรค์การบริการ เปิดเส้นทางบินใหม่ๆ เพื่อให้ท่าน<br />
ผู้โดยสารได้รับประสบการณ์การท่องเที่ยวที่แสนพิเศษ<br />
และตลอดปี 2561 นี้ จะมีการจัดกิจกรรมเพื ่อสังคม กิจกรรมส่งเสริมการตลาด และโปรโมชั่น<br />
พิเศษต่างๆ เพื่อตอบแทนท่านผู้โดยสารที่ร่วมเดินทางเคียงข้างกับเรามาโดยตลอด<br />
ในโอกาสวันขึ้นปีใหม่นี้ ผมและพนักงานทุกคน ขออวยพรให้ท่านผู้โดยสารพบเจอแต่สิ่งดีๆ มีสุขภาพ<br />
ร่างกายแข็งแรง และมีความสุขตลอดปี 2561 และหวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งว่าจะได้พบท่านอีกบนเที่ยวบินของเรา<br />
ขอบคุณครับ<br />
กัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ<br />
Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth<br />
กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ | President, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited<br />
8
OVERTURES<br />
FEATURES<br />
18 CULTURAL WATCH<br />
Our A-list for regional<br />
events has the Bangkok Edge<br />
Festival, and former Oasis member<br />
Liam Gallagher in concert.<br />
22 NATURE’S GIFTING<br />
If skin perfection is a goal, the<br />
path to it is paved with natural<br />
ingredients. Try our list of new<br />
products on the market that’s meant<br />
to nurture and protect.<br />
24 GET YOUR KICKS<br />
From casual to cool, good footwear<br />
is crucial for the styling gent to look<br />
right for all occasions.<br />
25 CARRY ALL<br />
Our range of handbags can be<br />
part of any mood, with colours and<br />
styles that make the bag both your<br />
practical necessity and art piece.<br />
26 HAPPINESS IS…<br />
A history lesson in the open air<br />
museum of Sukhothai and a sunset<br />
to match.<br />
28 STEEPED IN GOODNESS<br />
With every taste of a butterfly pea<br />
flower, find out why it’s an advantage<br />
to have the colour purple.<br />
34 SOME RAYS AND<br />
A BITE<br />
Life’s a beach on most<br />
days in Phu Quoc,<br />
but this getaway’s also<br />
resplendent with<br />
farm and food attractions<br />
that deserve equal<br />
attention.<br />
42 OUTRE FITS<br />
THE BILL<br />
We meet exuberant hotel<br />
designer Bill Bensley<br />
whose design flair for<br />
dramatic and luxurious<br />
lodging offers intuitive<br />
comfort and protects the<br />
land it sits on.<br />
54 PHUKET’S<br />
PRESENT PAST<br />
Before it became a<br />
popular island getaway,<br />
a younger Phuket was<br />
equally cool in its cultural<br />
offerings.<br />
66 SAMUI ALL IN<br />
By land or by sea,<br />
the island resort engages<br />
all our senses with<br />
countless activities.<br />
78 CLASSIC, YET<br />
TEMPORARY<br />
Capture a day in the life of<br />
a Chinese opera travelling<br />
troupe as they perform<br />
under the stars of a<br />
Bangkok night.<br />
103<br />
A Circle of<br />
Light in<br />
Guangzhou<br />
10<br />
11
HAPPENINGS<br />
CORPORATE<br />
Catch up on the cultural conversations in the<br />
region with exciting events and venues.<br />
90 BANGKOK<br />
92 SAMUI<br />
94 PHUKET /<br />
KRABI<br />
98 CHIANG MAI<br />
100 PATTAYA /<br />
TRAT<br />
102 CHENGDU /<br />
CHONGQING /<br />
GUANGZHOU<br />
104 HONG KONG<br />
106 SINGAPORE<br />
107 KUALA<br />
LUMPUR<br />
108 SIEM REAP<br />
110 DANANG /<br />
PHU QUOC<br />
111 YANGON/<br />
VIENTIANE<br />
112 MUMBAI /<br />
MALDIVES<br />
116 NEWS<br />
Bangkok Airways holds events to thank loyal<br />
customers and continue our social responsibility<br />
programmes.<br />
125 AIRCRAFT INFO<br />
126 ROUTE MAP<br />
128 AIRPORT MAP<br />
CHECKING OUT<br />
130 CHENGDU<br />
Tongue-numbing and Good<br />
This month’s<br />
cover:<br />
The Breathless<br />
Beauty<br />
of Ang Thong<br />
National<br />
Marine Park<br />
90<br />
Lhong Life<br />
A Creative Haven<br />
in Bangkok<br />
12
IS THE<br />
WINNER OF<br />
PEARL AWARD<br />
GOLD WINNER<br />
2017<br />
FOR BEST<br />
PHOTOGRAPHY<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS PUBLIC<br />
COMPANY LIMITED<br />
99 Mu 14, Vibhavadi Rangsit Road,<br />
Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok<br />
10900, <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
www.bangkokair.com<br />
ADVISORY BOARD<br />
Mr. Prote Setsuwan<br />
Vice President - Marketing<br />
Ms. Sumalee Chaitientong<br />
Vice President - Ancillary Revenues<br />
Mr. Kridhakorn Sirabhabhoj<br />
Director - Advertising and Creative<br />
Mr. Benjamin Sirirat<br />
Manager - Branding and Creative<br />
Mrs. Rattanaporn Sa-Nguanjangwong<br />
Business Services - Ancillary Revenues<br />
PUBLISHER<br />
MPMI Group Co., Ltd.<br />
1 Soi Lasalle 23/2,<br />
Bangna, Bangkok 10260, <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
Tel. +66 2744 4975<br />
Fax. +66 2744 5271<br />
Managing Director<br />
Chaovanee Ajanant<br />
Email: chaovanee@mpmith.com<br />
EDITORIAL<br />
Email: editorial@fahthaimag.com<br />
Editorial Director Somtawin Chanyawong<br />
Editor-in-Chief Anutra Ungsuprasert<br />
Senior Editor Nawa Acosta Wright<br />
Deputy Editor Sarita Urupongsa<br />
Contributors<br />
Bussara Boonboot<br />
Chalotorn Payomyol<br />
Passakorn Hongthong<br />
Phoowadon Duangmee<br />
Prachi Joshi<br />
Richard Augustin<br />
S.O. Knight<br />
Sarita Urupongsa<br />
Sirin P Wongpanit<br />
Veena Thoopkrajae<br />
Photo Editor Thewin Chanyawong<br />
Contributing Photographers<br />
Apichat Sukhunnee<br />
Dolnapa Ram-Indra<br />
Oliver Gane<br />
Permboon Wongpanit<br />
Pete Cloonie<br />
Suwit Kittitien<br />
Yvan Cohen<br />
ART<br />
Creative Director JyeShen Koo<br />
Graphic Designer Pongtorn Khaoplag<br />
Contributing Stylist Saranya Ariyakul<br />
PRODUCTION<br />
Colour Separation: Soontorn Film<br />
Printer: WPS (<strong>Thai</strong>land) Co., Ltd.<br />
ADVERTISING<br />
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“FAH THAI” is the in-flight magazine of Bangkok Airways Public Company<br />
Limited and is edited and published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd. All articles and<br />
photographs published herein are created by the authors and photographers<br />
at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of the<br />
airline. Bangkok Airways holds no responsibility or liability arising out of the<br />
publication of such articles and photographs.<br />
All information correct at press time. All rights reserved. No part of this<br />
magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in<br />
any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Bangkok<br />
Airways Public Company Limited and MPMI Group Co., Ltd.<br />
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ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS<br />
Enduring Edifice<br />
This awe-inspiring Dr. Bhau Daji<br />
Lad Museum stands as one of the<br />
oldest structures in Mumbai and the<br />
first colonial building built in 1857.<br />
A museum since its inception, the<br />
gorgeous interiors of famed Minton<br />
tile floors, gilded ceiling mouldings<br />
and ornate architecture add to its<br />
grand reputation.<br />
NEWS AND EVENTS 18 / BEAUTY AND HEALTH 22 / STYLE 24 / THAILAND TREASURES 26 / A TASTE OF THAILAND 28 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 30<br />
17
OVERTURES<br />
NEWS AND EVENTS<br />
-11<br />
NOW<br />
SINGAPORE<br />
MAR<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
THE ART WITHIN<br />
Art-goers should head over to the National<br />
Gallery of Singapore from now until 11 March<br />
for the Century of Light exhibition. The artworks<br />
divide into two shows – Colours of Impressionism<br />
and Between Worlds – consisting of masterpieces<br />
from the Musée d’Orsay as well as the works of<br />
renowned Southeast Asian artists, Raden Saleh<br />
and Juan Luna.<br />
Colours of Impressionism will feature over<br />
60 works by the masters Monet, Renoir, Manet,<br />
Pissarro and Cézanne and will highlight the<br />
importance of colour to these Impressionist<br />
painters of the 19th century. For fans of<br />
Southeast Asian art, Between Worlds will see<br />
the works of Indonesian artist Raden Saleh and<br />
Filipino artist Juan Luna. The exhibit serves as<br />
the first major show of the artists and their work<br />
that achieved wide acclaim in Europe.<br />
nationalgallery.sg<br />
9<br />
JAN<br />
-27<br />
FEB<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
BANGKOK<br />
KINO UNDER THE STARS<br />
Take an opportunity to bask in the cheery cool<br />
weather of Bangkok and head over to the<br />
Goethe-Institut. In a collaboration with the<br />
Switzerland and Austrian embassies, all film<br />
lovers should book seats for the anticipated<br />
“Open Air Kino <strong>2018</strong>” every Tuesday evening –<br />
starting from 9 <strong>Jan</strong>uary <strong>2018</strong>.<br />
Aiming to provide a deeper insight into<br />
the German film culture and current works of<br />
important directors, this year Open Air Kino<br />
has selected “Willkommen bei den Hartmanns<br />
(Welcome to Germany, 2016),” from German<br />
director Simon Verhoeven as the opening film<br />
at 7.30pm.<br />
Other film screenings include Jugend<br />
ohne Gott (Youth Without God, 2017) and<br />
new features and short films from Germany,<br />
Switzerland and Austria with <strong>Thai</strong> and English<br />
subtitles. Entrance to all film evenings is free of<br />
charge. 18/1 Soi Goethe, Sathorn Soi 1, Bangkok,<br />
T: +66 (0) 2108 8234, goethe.de/thailand<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
12JAN<br />
BANGKOK<br />
LIAM LIVE<br />
Oasis may have disbanded in 2009 with a<br />
well-publicised row between the Gallagher<br />
brothers, but fans of the group will have<br />
a chance to get themselves ready for this<br />
highly-anticipated concert as Liam Gallagher<br />
continues on a comeback tour. He began his<br />
world tour last year to promote his latest solo<br />
album As You Were, extending it into <strong>2018</strong>.<br />
His solo effort debuts the single, Wall of Glass,<br />
followed by Chinatown and For What It’s<br />
Worth. The album has reached number one<br />
on the iTunes chart in more than 10 countries,<br />
including <strong>Thai</strong>land.<br />
Liam Gallagher Live<br />
in Bangkok takes place<br />
at BITEC Bangna, Friday<br />
evening. If you’re wondering<br />
whether there’s a chance<br />
the ex-Oasis front man will<br />
perform acclaimed songs<br />
from Oasis like Wonderwall<br />
– the coy answer is a<br />
maybe! T: +66 (0) 2026<br />
3068 ticketmelon.com/<br />
event/LiamGallagher,<br />
liamgallagher.com/tour<br />
17-31JAN<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
HONG KONG<br />
SAILOR STOPOVER<br />
Hong Kong will be one of the key stopovers<br />
for the world’s toughest sailing race this<br />
<strong>Jan</strong>uary. After tackling the Southern Ocean<br />
from Cape Town to Melbourne and sailing<br />
nearly 6,000 miles, Hong Kong will provide a<br />
much needed reprieve for participants of the<br />
Volvo Ocean Race.<br />
As the yachts dock at the Royal Hong<br />
Kong Yacht Club, the festivities will kick off<br />
with entertainment and revelry at the Kai Tak<br />
Runway Park. From 17 to 31 <strong>Jan</strong>uary, the race<br />
festival will see the venue transformed into an<br />
entertainment hub with food stalls and bars with<br />
sailing races, live music by DJs and performances<br />
being held. The fest will culminate in the flag<br />
off for Leg 5 of the race as the sailors make<br />
their way towards Guangzhou on 1 <strong>Feb</strong>ruary.<br />
volvooceanracehk.com<br />
20-21JAN<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
BANGKOK<br />
ON THE EDGE ONCE MORE<br />
A cutting-edge festival is back for the second<br />
time in Bangkok with provocative talks, topnotch<br />
entertainment and food galore. Held in<br />
the very heart of Bangkok’s old town along the<br />
Chaophraya River, the Bangkok Edge festival<br />
will be packed with activities ranging from talks,<br />
workshops, concerts with the attendance of<br />
local favourites Hugo, Chanudom, Yellow Fang,<br />
Rasmee Isan Soul, and Siplor. Highlighting the<br />
event as well is of course, food, and an enticing<br />
Art and Crafts market for everyone to enjoy.<br />
Save the date for the third weekend of <strong>Jan</strong>uary<br />
for the event that’s meant to challenge and<br />
nurture you. You can capture the latest trends<br />
in <strong>Thai</strong> art and culture through Museum Siam,<br />
Chakrabongse Villas or be part of book launching<br />
events and talks by acclaimed international<br />
speakers such as Chris Baker, Julian Thomson,<br />
Christina Lamb, Marina Mahatir, Lawrence<br />
Osbourne, Medeliene Racknagel and Veeraporn<br />
Nitiprapha.<br />
For those who are interested, tickets for<br />
the Chill Pass that lets participants relax at<br />
Chakrabongse Villas and join in the house tour<br />
can contact chillpass@bangkokedge.com.<br />
T: +66 (0) 2622 1900, bangkokedge.com or<br />
facebook.com/bangkokedge<br />
26JAN<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
INDIA<br />
STATE MATTERS<br />
India celebrates its 69th Republic Day on 26<br />
<strong>Jan</strong>uary. While the major celebratory parade<br />
takes place on Rajpath in New Delhi, Mumbai<br />
also hosts a smaller version at Shivaji Park.<br />
The parade is presided over by the state’s<br />
chief minister and involves great pomp and<br />
splendour. There’s a flag hoisting ceremony<br />
followed by military marches, traditional song<br />
and dance performances, and elaborate floats<br />
often depicting social messages.<br />
Abide With Me, a Christian hymn by<br />
Scottish Anglican Henry Francis Lyte, is<br />
always played during the Republic Day parade<br />
because it was one of Mahatma Gandhi’s<br />
favourite songs.<br />
Many family or community events also<br />
take place with parties and celebrations. Fairs<br />
and talent contests take place and throughout<br />
the day, patriotic songs are played through<br />
loud speakers. Republic Day is not merely a<br />
one-day celebration. Spreading over 3 days,<br />
crowds gather and cheer at the ending<br />
performance, the Beating Retreat, on <strong>Jan</strong>uary 29.<br />
incredibleindia.org<br />
18 19
OVERTURES<br />
Authentic Italian cuisine made with only the freshest ingredients available<br />
NEWS AND EVENTS<br />
2-4& 9-11<br />
FEB <strong>2018</strong> FEB <strong>2018</strong><br />
KUALA LUMPUR<br />
MPO BALLET FEST<br />
The Dewan Filharmonik Petronas hosts<br />
the visiting Ballet of Armenia for the third<br />
instalment of the MPO’s Ballet Festival.<br />
Performing at the grand hall, conductor Karen<br />
Durgaryan and the Ballet of Armenia troupe<br />
are set to enthral audiences with memorable<br />
performances from Tchaikovsky’s greatest<br />
ballet scores, Swan Lake and the Nutcracker<br />
for the opening weekend in <strong>Feb</strong>ruary. Swan<br />
Lake, one of the most popular ballets in the<br />
world, tells the story of evil sorcerer Von<br />
Rothbart who turned Princess Odette into a<br />
swan. The ever popular Christmas Eve tale of<br />
Clara and the Nutcracker never fails to delight<br />
audiences of all ages. In the following week,<br />
they will perform Khachaturian’s two most<br />
well-known ballets, Gayané and Spartacus.<br />
mpo.com.my<br />
13-19FEB<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
VIENTIANE<br />
SAYABOULY ELEPHANT FESTIVAL<br />
Laos, once known as “The Land of a Million<br />
Elephants”, will throw the country’s biggest party<br />
for a parade of elephants at the sleepy border<br />
town of Sayabouly Province, near Vientiane<br />
in mid-<strong>Feb</strong>ruary. The annual Lao Elephant<br />
Festival often draws more than 80,000 local<br />
and international visitors who gather together<br />
to witness the procession of thousands of<br />
elephants. Before the start of festivities, the<br />
elephants undergo their own makeover – with<br />
extra pampering making them fresh and radiant<br />
as they parade pass the crowds. A blessing<br />
ceremony is also performed by monks for them.<br />
Equally special at the festival is the selection of<br />
the “Elephant of the Year” with more than 100<br />
pachyderm contestants. Highlighting that is the<br />
majestic procession complete with the elephants<br />
in decorative body paint as they march through<br />
the small town of Sayabouly. At the festival,<br />
colourful and energetic performances of both<br />
local and foreign artists entertain all, with<br />
traditional games played and night markets for<br />
strolling. tourismlaos.org<br />
16FEB<br />
<strong>2018</strong><br />
HONG KONG<br />
A DOG HAS ITS DAY<br />
Rather, the astrological canine gets a whole<br />
year, as based on the Chinese zodiac sign.<br />
Fortune tellers advocate lifestyle changes for<br />
the Year of the Earth Dog <strong>2018</strong>. In Hong Kong,<br />
households continue the flurry to prepare for<br />
the Lunar New Year, which begins on <strong>Feb</strong>ruary<br />
16. This is a good time for major lifestyle<br />
changes: such as starting a new business, or<br />
moving to a new residence. If you’re a smoker<br />
– consider quitting, states the sage advice.<br />
Predictions also say that it’s a good time to<br />
bring on social change and the Chinese people<br />
believe that a dog is an auspicious animal.<br />
Meanwhile, the village of Lam Tsuen in<br />
Tai Po celebrates the Well-Wishing Festival<br />
with people travelling from all over to make<br />
wishes for the lunar new year. There are two<br />
conduits to ensure that wishes are heard: in<br />
the form of Wishing Trees or the Wishing<br />
Lanterns. The tradition calls for writing your<br />
wish on a piece of paper that’s tied to an<br />
orange fruit with a decent length of string<br />
attached. Aim well and throw your “wish”<br />
into the Wishing Tree. If it catches on the<br />
branches, your wish is said to come true.<br />
Another chance to make a wish follows<br />
after various ceremonies that are held<br />
throughout the festivities. This time, your wish<br />
is released with the Wishing Lanterns into the<br />
night sky. The all-day event at Lam Tsuen in<br />
Tai Po is easily accessible. Just take the MTR<br />
to Tai Po Station, exit the station and take the<br />
64K bus to Lam Tsuen.<br />
20
OVERTURES<br />
BEAUTY AND HEALTH<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Nature’s Goods<br />
Make it a green revolution this year and switch<br />
over to an eco-friendly plan for your skin. For<br />
the best in organic products that use natural<br />
ingredients, here’s a roundup of good things that<br />
also make the world a better place.<br />
LEGENDARY<br />
THAI FLOWER<br />
COLLECTION,<br />
FRANGIPANI<br />
BODY LOTION,<br />
200ML FROM<br />
SATIRA (550 Baht)<br />
Frangipani’s rich,<br />
heady and exotic scent<br />
imparts depth and<br />
quality. It’s a fragrance<br />
that’s evocative of<br />
what’s sensual yet also<br />
has the influencing<br />
power to bring on inner<br />
peace and harmony.<br />
THE JOURNEY,<br />
ARGAN<br />
EXFOLIATOR FACE<br />
& BODY SCRUB<br />
150ML FROM<br />
OR’AGAN (630 Baht)<br />
Gentle and<br />
biodegradable scrub<br />
beads help exfoliate<br />
your skin until it’s<br />
smooth. With the<br />
presence of argan, the<br />
great reveal results in a<br />
radiance and brightness<br />
found in healthier skin.<br />
LEGENDARY<br />
FLOWER ORCHID<br />
GLYCERIN SOAP<br />
100G FROM<br />
SATIRA (230 Baht)<br />
This gentle formula<br />
gives a thorough<br />
cleansing while keeping<br />
the skin moisturised.<br />
The bonus? This<br />
luxurious and skinfriendly<br />
soap can be<br />
enjoyed for the face<br />
and body.<br />
ORGANIC BATH<br />
BODY AND<br />
MASSAGE OIL<br />
125ML FROM<br />
OR’AGAN (650 Baht)<br />
Its beneficial ingredients<br />
are like loving touches<br />
from nature. You’ll be<br />
more in love with this<br />
oil with its multitasking<br />
benefits that work<br />
beautifully as a daily<br />
moisturiser, a skin<br />
treatment, mending<br />
split ends, and softening<br />
nail cuticles.<br />
DAZZLING SPRING<br />
BODY OIL 100ML<br />
FROM ERB (890 Baht)<br />
Certified organic<br />
ingredients with<br />
softening, smoothening<br />
and nourishing abilities<br />
in an attractive<br />
retro-package.<br />
100% PURE ARGAN<br />
OIL 10ML FROM<br />
OR’AGAN (700 Baht)<br />
This fast-absorbing oil<br />
brings the essence of<br />
what is authentic and<br />
unique in argan oil,<br />
together with supreme<br />
qualities benefitting your<br />
whole body.<br />
WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTO APHICHAT SUKHUNNEE<br />
VITAMIN C SKIN<br />
BOOST 30ML<br />
FROM THE BODY<br />
SHOP (1,320 Baht)<br />
Give your skin a<br />
healthy-looking<br />
glow with the<br />
Vitamin C infused<br />
radiance booster.<br />
For maximum<br />
effectiveness, use it<br />
after moisturising.<br />
ALOE SOOTHING DAY CREAM<br />
50ML FROM THE BODY SHOP<br />
(820 Baht)<br />
Use this gentle moisturiser to help calm<br />
sensitive and dry skin. Formulated without<br />
any fragrance, colour, preservatives or<br />
alcohol, this is the perfect choice for<br />
sensitive skin.<br />
TEA TREE SKIN<br />
CLEARING BODY<br />
WASH 250ML FROM<br />
THE BODY SHOP<br />
(450 Baht)<br />
The Tea Tree body wash<br />
is ideal for targeting<br />
problem areas on your<br />
back and body where<br />
oily skin can result.<br />
The outcome is skin<br />
that feels clean,<br />
looks clear and<br />
is refreshed.<br />
GHASSOUL CLAY WITH 7 PLANTS<br />
150G FROM OR’AGAN<br />
(1,050 Baht)<br />
It has a unique ability to capture oil, dirt<br />
particles and toxins from your skin. With the<br />
addition of 7 nourishing plant extracts, your<br />
skin will be supple, with a glow from within.<br />
A Force<br />
of Nature<br />
Those who are busy, tired or sluggish among us<br />
will enjoy the divine smell of botanical products.<br />
Lather your face with a cleanser that’s fresh with<br />
the fragrance of eucalyptus or sink into a tub with<br />
a rose-scented bath oil. Cleansing, toning and<br />
moisturising with nature’s goods becomes a joy<br />
when you know it benefits your skin.<br />
SIAMESE JASMINE FLEURFUME<br />
HANDCREAM 25G FROM ERB<br />
(290 Baht)<br />
A sweet and fresh scent with gentle notes.<br />
A purely <strong>Thai</strong> aroma that blends effortlessly<br />
together, and a real remedy to relaxation.<br />
Tips<br />
GHASSOUL CLAY<br />
New to Ghassoul? It’s Moroccan natural<br />
clay sometimes referred to as Rhassoul.<br />
Rich in minerals, Ghassoul clay is ideal as a<br />
hair mask; use it on your skin for enhanced<br />
elasticity.<br />
INCA INCHI OIL<br />
Native to the Peruvian Amazon rainforest,<br />
the oil is pressed from the seeds, with<br />
higher fatty acids and Vitamin E content<br />
compared to rosehip. It’s not only good for<br />
your hair, but also promotes healthy skin<br />
with anti-aging qualities.<br />
JASMINE OIL<br />
Apart from the sweet and unique scent a<br />
jasmine flower imparts, the essential oil<br />
extracted can magically relieve depression,<br />
lift your energy, as well as bring on the<br />
mood for a romantic time!<br />
SNAIL<br />
COMPLEXION<br />
PERFECTOR BB<br />
CREAM 60G<br />
FROM SATIRA<br />
(1,390 Baht)<br />
The ultimate in<br />
multi-tasking<br />
treatments. This<br />
gentle botanical<br />
formula creates a<br />
lustrous, flawless<br />
finish as it<br />
hydrates, firms,<br />
and soothes<br />
the skin.<br />
EDEN BREEZE<br />
COLOUR<br />
TREATED<br />
HAIR<br />
CONDITIONER<br />
200G FROM<br />
THANN (500 Baht)<br />
Moisturises,<br />
strengthens and<br />
boosts shine to colour<br />
treated hair with<br />
organic shea butter,<br />
coconut and sweet<br />
almond oils. Organic<br />
inca inchi oil also nourishes<br />
and protects your hair from<br />
UV damage.<br />
AROMATIC WOOD<br />
AROMATHERAPY<br />
SHOWER GEL<br />
320ML FROM<br />
THANN (650 Baht)<br />
With wheat protein<br />
and plant essential<br />
oils to help optimise<br />
the skin’s natural<br />
moisture balance and<br />
a soothing aroma.<br />
JASMINE<br />
MASSAGE OIL<br />
100ML FROM<br />
SATIRA (600 Baht)<br />
A rich elegant blend<br />
of the finest natural<br />
moisturising oils,<br />
with a jasmine scent<br />
that brings on a<br />
euphoric reaction<br />
with aphrodisiac<br />
claims! Helps restore<br />
confidence and bring<br />
on optimism.<br />
STOCKISTS<br />
Erb<br />
5F Central Chidlom<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 2255 5872<br />
Or’agan<br />
www.theoragan.com<br />
Satira<br />
4F Siam Paragon<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 80 485 2767<br />
www.satirathai.com<br />
Thann<br />
4F Siam Paragon<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 2610 9324<br />
The Body Shop<br />
2F Central World<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 2251 2855<br />
22<br />
23
OVERTURES<br />
STYLE<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTOS APHICHAT SUKHUNNEE<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In His Shoes<br />
Shoes make the man, it’s been said. So<br />
step into the footwear game with our<br />
picks – from the sneaker-of-the-moment<br />
to the pair that goes with anything.<br />
FOR HIM<br />
BLUE AND<br />
BLACK NEOPRENE<br />
SNEAKERS<br />
WITH THE<br />
SIGNATURE<br />
KNOTTING<br />
DETAIL FROM<br />
GIVENCHY<br />
(29,000 Baht)<br />
➋ MULTI-COLOURED<br />
LEATHER COLOUR-<br />
BLOCK SNEAKERS<br />
WITH A ROUND TOE,<br />
LACE FASTENING.<br />
PANELLED COLOUR<br />
BLOCK DESIGN<br />
FROM GIVENCHY<br />
(23,000 Baht)<br />
➌ GOMMINO<br />
DRIVING SHOES IN<br />
VELVET SUEDE<br />
WITH EXPOSED<br />
HAND STITCHING,<br />
FRONT TIE AND<br />
ICONIC RUBBER<br />
FROM TOD’S<br />
(25,500 Baht)<br />
STOCKISTS<br />
Givenchy<br />
GF Central Embassy<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 2160 5895<br />
Tod’s<br />
MF Siam Paragon<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 2610 9999<br />
STOCKISTS<br />
Givenchy<br />
GF Central Embassy<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 2160 5895<br />
Prada<br />
MF Siam Paragon<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 2610 9800<br />
FOR HER<br />
MINI HORIZON BAG IN<br />
BRIGHT YELLOW GRAIN<br />
LEATHER WITH A WIDE<br />
BAND HORIZONTAL CLASP<br />
FROM GIVENCHY<br />
(85,000 Baht)<br />
➋ ETIQUETTE CALF<br />
LEATHER TOTE<br />
DOUBLE LEATHER<br />
HANDLE<br />
FROM PRADA<br />
(77,000 Baht)<br />
➌ SAFFIANO<br />
LEATHER DETACHABLE<br />
ADJUSTABLE LEATHER<br />
SHOULDER STRAP<br />
FROM PRADA<br />
(79,000 Baht)<br />
Bagging<br />
Rights<br />
Your bag does make a statement<br />
about your personality and present<br />
mood. For the best in bag styles,<br />
we’ve gathered a selection of<br />
gorgeous prints, innovative shapes,<br />
as well as some timeless classics.<br />
24<br />
25
OVERTURES<br />
THAILAND TREASURES<br />
When in<br />
Sukhothai...<br />
Sukhothai is a town known for its deep<br />
roots in historical significance. As the<br />
capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, the<br />
province located in the lower northern<br />
part of <strong>Thai</strong>land promises a wide<br />
array of mesmerising ancient sites<br />
to discover. However, other valuable<br />
discoveries this town has to offer go<br />
beyond its historical aspects. There are<br />
the genteel culture, a relaxed yet funloving<br />
lifestyle, and culinary marvels<br />
that leave a lasting impression. For a<br />
true Sukhothai experience, consider our<br />
must-dos while visiting the ancient capital.<br />
Above<br />
Phra Achana in the main hall of<br />
Si Chum Temple. The story goes<br />
that a “secret opening” enabled<br />
a person to speak without being<br />
seen. Innocent bystanders would<br />
think it was the voice of Buddha<br />
talking to them.<br />
A VISIT TO SI CHUM TEMPLE<br />
It is said that a person does not really<br />
make it to Sukhothai unless respects are<br />
paid to Phra Achana, the grand statue<br />
of Buddha whose seated image is in the<br />
“Subduing Mara” pose in the main hall of<br />
Si Chum Temple.<br />
PAYING RESPECT TO KING<br />
RAMKHAMHAENG THE GREAT<br />
King Ramkhamhaeng the Great ruled<br />
Sukhothai Kingdom, a valiant sovereign<br />
of the Kingdom of <strong>Thai</strong>land who was<br />
bestowed the title “The Great” for his<br />
abilities in war, politics, administration,<br />
and religion. He is also known for<br />
the Ramkhamhaeng Stele on which<br />
the first <strong>Thai</strong> alphabet was inscribed.<br />
His monument and statue is located<br />
inside the central zone of Sukhothai<br />
Historical Park.<br />
CYCLING IN THE<br />
HISTORICAL PARK<br />
Cyclists can enjoy biking around<br />
the Historical Park and noting the<br />
admirable and exquisite details<br />
of traditional architecture and art,<br />
as well as learning about history.<br />
Many forms of art and its disciplines<br />
originated in Sukhothai, including<br />
the fine arts in which the Kingdom’s<br />
Buddhist sculptures see interpretation<br />
in superb traditional aesthetics.<br />
Conceptualisation of systematic urban<br />
planning and the creation of the <strong>Thai</strong><br />
alphabet also began here.<br />
JOIN A SANGKHALOK CERAMIC<br />
WORKSHOP<br />
Sangkhalok glazed ceramics are the<br />
province’s most famous products, with<br />
trademark features of scalloped rims<br />
and bluish-green patterns, including<br />
expressive figurines. Visitors can learn<br />
to create and paint a Sangkhalok ware<br />
of their own using unique colours,<br />
lines and patterns as done by longago<br />
potters.<br />
➎ PAYING HOMAGE TO THE<br />
STATUE OF “PHRA MAE YA”<br />
(GRANDMOTHER GODDESS) AT<br />
PHRA MAE YA SHRINE<br />
Formerly located on Phra Mae Ya<br />
Hill, the shrine has been re-located<br />
to the front of the Sukhothai town<br />
hall. The venue is believed to have<br />
been constructed during the reign<br />
of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great<br />
in dedication to his mother, Princess<br />
Sueang. The shrine is highly respected<br />
by the people of Sukhothai and an<br />
annual festival is held in her honour.<br />
➏ A SPREE AMONG ANCIENT<br />
SILVER AND GOLD AT<br />
SI SATCHANALAI<br />
When visiting Si Satchanalai, don’t miss<br />
browsing through the wide array of intricate<br />
works in gold and silver meticulously done<br />
in the carefully-crafted Sukhothai style.<br />
These elaborate masterpieces are created<br />
by local artisans who have retained<br />
the cherished styles that’s passed from<br />
generation to generation.<br />
➐ “KHAO PERB” TASTING<br />
“Khao Perb”, or steamed rice flat<br />
noodles with its assortment of fillings,<br />
is the local dish found at Na Ton Chan<br />
Village only. Khao Perb is made with<br />
ground rice grains which are filtered<br />
to create a thick, white rice cream. It<br />
is later steamed on a thin muslin cloth,<br />
resulting in a translucent skin which<br />
serves as a wrap for tasty stuffing. This<br />
cooking is done in the same manner<br />
as another <strong>Thai</strong> favourite, Khao Kreab<br />
Paak Mor. Assorted vegetables, like Kan<br />
Song, ivy gourd, and star gooseberries<br />
are then stuffed inside the rice flour<br />
before being steamed. Once it is ready,<br />
the rolls are served with hot broth and<br />
a steamed egg.<br />
➑ JUMP INTO A “KHOK MOO”<br />
(PIGSTY) PICK-UP TRUCK<br />
The colourful Khok Moo pick-up truck is<br />
a fun choice for travellers who want to<br />
experience the authentic lifestyle of the<br />
Sukhothai people – simple, traditional and<br />
gets you to the destination.<br />
Clockwise from<br />
Top Right<br />
King<br />
Ramkhamhaeng<br />
Statue.<br />
Intricate handiwork<br />
of the Sukhothaistyled<br />
jewellery.<br />
The exterior of<br />
Si Chum Temple.<br />
The sublime<br />
flavours of ‘Khao<br />
Perb,’ a specialty<br />
dish in Sukhothai.<br />
JOURNEY OF SWEETS AT<br />
BAAN GONG<br />
With 40 years in the business of sweets<br />
and desserts, “Khanom Phing Mae Tim”<br />
(<strong>Thai</strong> mini cookies by Mae Tim) is best<br />
known for the rich and delicious flavour<br />
of their cookies distinctive through its<br />
unique method of using a charcoal stove<br />
for baking. As Mae Tim’s Khanom Phing<br />
is a top-selling product, customers have<br />
to queue up to purchase it. The bakery<br />
also has the charming feature of being<br />
known as “Khanom Phing Ngaem Pratoo<br />
Khai” (mini cookies sold through the folding<br />
door). Its popularity and large number of<br />
customers result in the bakery minimising<br />
the door opening to sell their products and<br />
lessen crowding.<br />
SUNSET TIME<br />
A sunset at the Sukhothai Historical Park<br />
is mandatory. Never to be missed, it’s the<br />
gift of a lasting impression. A glimpse<br />
of inspiring history outlined against the<br />
coming of dusk envelopes spectators in<br />
serenity – and the best way to end a trip<br />
in Sukhothai.<br />
For more information, contact the Tourism<br />
Authority of <strong>Thai</strong>land, Sukhothai Office, at<br />
+66 (0) 55 616 0228-9.<br />
26<br />
27
OVERTURES<br />
A TASTE OF THAILAND<br />
Purple Magic<br />
Anything with a butterly pea flower is beautiful<br />
consumption with benefits. In <strong>Thai</strong>land, you’ll<br />
find it in vivid blue cocktails or as a deep purple<br />
beverage. It’s also what gives an enticing lavender<br />
shade to creative sticky rice that partners with<br />
mangoes on a dessert menu.<br />
Since the old days, the flower has been used<br />
widely for strengthening hair and eyebrows, as<br />
a natural colourant in food and desserts or as<br />
an edible accompaniment with Nam Prik (a chilli<br />
paste) meals.<br />
Considered an herb or flower – butterfly<br />
pea plants are attractive because of their vivid<br />
signature colour. It is originally a tropical plant<br />
but has been introduced to America, Australia,<br />
and Africa. They are very easy to find and grow,<br />
making the plant a common sight in one’s home<br />
garden in the tropics. The flower is known to<br />
come with abundant health benefits, with an<br />
important aspect as that of a potent antioxidant.<br />
There are many ways to enjoy the use of<br />
butterfly pea flowers, and one of the simplest<br />
things to do is turn the blue-and-purple<br />
flowers into a refreshing drink for everyone.<br />
Mild and light in taste, some people may add<br />
a bit of lime juice in their butterfly pea drink<br />
to make it even more unique and flavourful.<br />
As a magical treat, watch how drops of lime<br />
transform the natural blue colour into the<br />
pinkish-purple blue of a beach sunset.<br />
Ingredients<br />
• 100g of butterfly pea flowers<br />
• 2 cups of clean water<br />
• 4 tbsp syrup or<br />
• 2 tbsp honey<br />
Instructions<br />
Wash the butterfly pea flowers and boil them<br />
in clean water. With the lid on the pot, leave it for<br />
2 to 3 minutes to steep before taking the flowers<br />
out from the pot.<br />
Mix the butterfly pea flower tea with syrup or<br />
honey, adjusting preferred sweetness. To preserve<br />
all the nutrients, do drink it immediately.<br />
WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA<br />
28
OVERTURES<br />
ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS<br />
Your <strong>2018</strong><br />
Bucket List?<br />
See More Art<br />
Words Sarita Urupongsa<br />
There’s no denying a simple encounter with art adds<br />
the proverbial colour to life. Consider engaging in the<br />
creative spirit and the soothing ways of art appreciation.<br />
With the plethora of museums and galleries that makes<br />
it more accessible, mark this as a year that’s more<br />
art-filled. As we’re spoilt for choice – here’s a curated<br />
collection of some of the best places in Asia to satisfy<br />
your artistic yearnings.<br />
Bibo in Hong Kong<br />
Bibo is not your usual place for a spot of food. Yes, it’s fine dining for<br />
French gastronomy lovers and while it’s luxurious, the presence of<br />
contemporary art makes it beyond a gastronomy destination. Housed in<br />
the former Compagnie Générale Française de Tramways office, the place<br />
magically and stylishly morphed into a glamorous, yet boho-chic art and<br />
culinary destination. Bibo combines the finest of both worlds with indoor art<br />
and an enticing menu – all in one place. Diners can savour the finest seasonal<br />
French gastronomy while taking in the 1930s vibe and admiring artworks from<br />
renowned artists like Banksy, Damien Hirst, and Jeff Koons. bibo.hk<br />
OCK POP TOK IN LUANG PRABANG<br />
Ock Pop Tok or “East meets West” was founded in 2000 by Jo Smith and Veo<br />
Douangdala. Despite a difference in nationalities and talents, both hold the<br />
same commitment and connection of that of the artistic spirit. They established<br />
‘OPT’ to introduce the Lao heritage of beautiful textiles and offer economic<br />
opportunities for local artisans to continue the craft. In its early days, OPT was<br />
a small shop selling only a few designs. Now the business has expanded into<br />
two locations: one in the historic district of Luang Prabang and the other, the<br />
Living Crafts Centre (LCC), on the Mekong riverbank. Apart from the wide array<br />
of gorgeous hand-loomed textiles, visitors can immerse themselves in seeing<br />
instructional demos of silk and cotton weaving, dyeing, and Hmong batik.<br />
ockpoptok.com<br />
THEAM’S HOUSE IN SIEM REAP<br />
Theam’s House is a home-cum-atelier of artist and designer Lim Muy<br />
Theam. Passionate about Cambodia’s cultural heritage, Theam, upon<br />
returning to his homeland after 15 years in France, set off on the journey<br />
to bring back Khmer art and culture. The mission took him to marvellous<br />
discoveries of astonishing artefacts and splendid temples and pagodas.<br />
Aiming to blend Cambodia’s rich art and cultural aesthetics into modern<br />
surroundings, the designer launched Theam’s House as a showroom for<br />
local artisan products crafted from original techniques and materials<br />
favoured by people in the old days. The place also offers the opportunity<br />
for local artists and villagers to work there and hone their talents.<br />
theamshouse.com<br />
Redtory Art &<br />
Design Factory<br />
in Guangzhou<br />
THE LAND FOUNDATION IN CHIANG MAI<br />
Here’s a situation rarely visualised – that of rice fields and<br />
a creative space coming together. Two artists intentionally<br />
engaged in the use of anonymity to redefine the idea of<br />
land ownership and created the Land Foundation. Here,<br />
two concepts merge in an open space where agriculture<br />
and art come together in an artists’ residence in nature’s<br />
setting. Nestled in area that’s naturally serene and close to<br />
the San Pa Tong district in Chiang Mai, the lush land and<br />
its surrounding green environment now belongs to the<br />
Land Foundation who in turn cultivated a landscape that<br />
dedicated one fourth of its area to the concept of earth<br />
and three-fourths of it to water. The resulting terrain offers<br />
lucky folks a chance to dwell and experience living among<br />
agricultural communities and furthering the creative spirit.<br />
Working with nature up close, the Foundation aims to make<br />
it the core energy of all artistic endeavours for artists and to<br />
inspire art lovers. thelandfoundation.org<br />
Its significant beginning was that of a<br />
canned food factory, but this industrial<br />
space in Guangzhou now sees new life<br />
as Redtory, an artists’ village and art<br />
district that serves to inspire its creative<br />
and residential community. A major force<br />
since 2009, over 200 exhibitions, cultural<br />
events and lectures have been held with<br />
the goal of bringing art and modern design<br />
into ordinary people’s lives. In an area that<br />
spans 170,000 square metres, the Redtory<br />
industrial setting has been transformed into<br />
seven exhibition areas and over ten creative<br />
designations that include studios and art<br />
shops. In a big nod to its industrial heritage,<br />
Redtory embraces creative industries<br />
such as design and applied engineering to<br />
complement its contemporary art platform.<br />
redtory.com.cn<br />
30<br />
31
OVERTURES<br />
ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS<br />
Photos Dolnapa Ram-Indra<br />
Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum<br />
in Mumbai<br />
Mumbai-based Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is where fine and decorative arts<br />
define the city’s cultural heritage. Apart from the splendid array of miniature<br />
clay models, dioramas, lithographs, and rare books – the museum has also<br />
formed an artistic partnership with other museums and cultural institutions<br />
around the world in bringing contemporary artists and international<br />
exhibitions to this already culturally rich city. The museum’s historic past<br />
merges splendidly with the design aspects of modern day when its Museum<br />
Restoration Project won the 2005 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award<br />
of Excellence for Conservation. This achievement was a collective effort of<br />
the public and private partnership between the Brihanmumbai Municipal<br />
Corporation, the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH),<br />
and the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation. bdlmuseum.org<br />
32
PHU QUOC<br />
Words S.O. Knight<br />
Photos Pete Cloonie<br />
If you’re looking to be spirited away to a pristine<br />
island and enjoy nature or just luxuriate in a<br />
resort, Phu Quoc is the latest travel gem with<br />
lots to offer. Rollicking expanse of beaches,<br />
indigenous farms tours and superb local seafood<br />
complete the picture.<br />
34<br />
35
PHU QUOC<br />
F<br />
rom the plane, the lush green<br />
of nature strikes you when<br />
descending into Phu Quoc –<br />
Vietnam’s largest island just off<br />
the Gulf of <strong>Thai</strong>land. A hotspot for beach<br />
and outdoor lovers, Phu Quoc races<br />
toward transformation with fast-paced<br />
and mega-infrastructure construction.<br />
Paved roads are being built to connect<br />
the entire island, and five-star resorts<br />
settle on many stretches of its beautiful<br />
beaches. But more than half of Phu Quoc’s<br />
unspoiled nature is strictly preserved as<br />
part of the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve<br />
and protected with a UNESCO designation.<br />
This is an island with two worlds: one<br />
existing in its original greenness, and the<br />
other one possessing world-class beachfront<br />
accommodations.<br />
Visitors can<br />
explore scenic<br />
farms with<br />
abundant<br />
pepper plants.<br />
Farm tours with<br />
friendly staffers<br />
educate visitors<br />
on understanding<br />
quality pepper.<br />
When the Vietnamese<br />
government listed Phu Quoc in<br />
its National Tourism Master Plan<br />
more than a dozen years ago, locals<br />
immediately felt the changes. Over<br />
the past five years, the island has<br />
changed very rapidly into quite a<br />
tourist destination. Most visitors<br />
to Vietnam need a visa to enter<br />
the country, but not if Phu Quoc is<br />
listed as one of the destinations.<br />
Huge investments are approved<br />
in a rapid manner to provide<br />
sound infrastructure on the island.<br />
Undersea high voltage 110kv cables<br />
have been laid to provide much-<br />
needed stability to the island’s once<br />
sporadic electricity supplies. The<br />
island’s water treatment plants -<br />
worth almost US$100 million – have<br />
been in the works. The new airport<br />
opened in 2012 and has already seen<br />
additional expansion. It will soon<br />
service larger aircrafts by the time<br />
the island expects to welcome as<br />
many as three million visitors per<br />
year by 2020.<br />
We drove by Phu Quoc’s old<br />
Duong Dong airport on our way to<br />
the famous pepper and bee farms<br />
up north. Construction has levelled<br />
out some areas into stretches of<br />
emptiness awaiting development,<br />
with roads leading to the airport<br />
used conveniently as shortcuts for<br />
locals going between the seaside<br />
and inland. The front end of the<br />
abandoned airstrip is now dotted<br />
with fruit trucks, mainly colourful<br />
6-wheelers and open-through beds<br />
piled high with local fruits. Among<br />
them are durians ferried over from<br />
the Mekong Delta.<br />
The newly-built roads mean<br />
easier passage from north to south<br />
of this big island of almost 600<br />
square kilometres. Phu Quoc’s<br />
developed centre is ‘Duong Dong’<br />
which had early establishments of<br />
hotels, banks, and shops that used to<br />
cater backpackers. The river running<br />
through this area makes it a vibrant<br />
living port. Fishing has always<br />
been and still is Phu Quoc’s main<br />
industry. The island is famed for its<br />
naturally aromatic and high-protein<br />
fish sauce, still largely made from<br />
tons of anchovies steeped at least for<br />
two years in salt and water. Of the<br />
island’s many fish sauce factories,<br />
four cater to tours and tasting. Go<br />
to one of the local restaurants for<br />
Vietnamese spring rolls - fresh or<br />
deep-fried - and dip it into their<br />
famous fish sauce.<br />
Most locals you meet on Phu<br />
Quoc are descendants of fishermen<br />
on the island. Our chatty guide<br />
Danny could talk endlessly on how<br />
changes on the island in recent years<br />
dramatically impacted his family<br />
and day-to-day lifestyle, all said<br />
with an understandable mix of pride<br />
and dread.<br />
“I was still in the generation<br />
that had to travel to the mainland<br />
for a higher education,” said our<br />
local guide, who’s 25. “But now,<br />
Phu Quoc is seeing a new foreigninvested<br />
hospitality university and<br />
my younger brother who is now in<br />
a local high school can choose to<br />
get an education here, or venture<br />
onto the mainland like I did. Life<br />
should be easier for him with more<br />
education and jobs on the island in<br />
the near future. I got it a bit rough<br />
living away from family back then.”<br />
Adventurous Europeans first<br />
discovered Phu Quoc over 20 years<br />
ago. They were drawn to its remote,<br />
Clockwise from<br />
Top Right<br />
A real eating<br />
town, freshness<br />
guaranteed.<br />
Phu Quoc produces<br />
fish sauce prized<br />
by Vietnamese<br />
households.<br />
Visitors on ecotours<br />
learn about honey<br />
bee conservation at<br />
bee farms.<br />
Pearl farms show<br />
how oysters create<br />
these little ‘gems’.<br />
true far-away destination. Clear,<br />
unspoiled emerald-green beaches<br />
were a big magnet. Before direct<br />
flights from Bangkok became<br />
available, people who flew to Phu<br />
Quoc needed a full day’s journey that<br />
included a long layover in Ho Chi<br />
Minh City. Now, you can even fly in<br />
directly from Scandinavia countries<br />
and London. There are also daily<br />
ferries from Phu Quoc to seaport<br />
cities like Ha Tien and Rach Gia<br />
that are south of Vietnam.<br />
Long beach, not too far south<br />
from Duong Dong, caters to many<br />
tourists with its extensive stretch<br />
of beach – full of beachfront<br />
resorts, bars, and restaurants -<br />
both local favourites and ones<br />
catering to tourists. The island’s<br />
famed night market is also there,<br />
just under the main bridge and<br />
opposite the town’s main fresh<br />
market. It is quite easy to get<br />
around, with options of a metred<br />
taxi, a private tour or a scooter<br />
rental. And like other parts of<br />
Vietnam, ear-splitting honking is<br />
the roadside norm.<br />
The cacophony is enough<br />
to remind you of Phu Quoc’s<br />
rapid ascension on the hot list of<br />
getaways. Luckily, there’s also<br />
the option for a quiet escape to its<br />
protected nature.<br />
TO-DOS:<br />
Phu Quoc is also famed for ecotourism<br />
and tourists can roam<br />
around sampling away –from the<br />
fish sauce factories in Duong Dong<br />
area all the way to the north, which<br />
is abundant with pepper farms, bee<br />
farms and sim or rose myrtle wine<br />
factories. At Phu Quoc Countryside,<br />
the farm-stay pepper farm has<br />
good facilities - including their own<br />
restaurant and draft beer brewery.<br />
The sim plant is wild and abundant<br />
in Phu Quoc’s forests, and from that<br />
comes an island specialty. Sim wines<br />
– ranging from light enough to be<br />
36 37
PHU QUOC<br />
Right<br />
Breath-taking view<br />
from a balcony of<br />
JW Marriott Phu<br />
Quoc Emerald Bay<br />
Bottom to Right<br />
The largest<br />
Buddhist temple<br />
in Phu Quoc and<br />
a meditative place<br />
to see a sunset.<br />
Stroll through the<br />
night market for<br />
fresh seafood<br />
made to order.<br />
Ideal for sunset<br />
viewing is Choun<br />
Choun Sky Bar.<br />
Phu Quoc Prison,<br />
also called the<br />
Coconut Tree Prison,<br />
used to house<br />
prisoners of war.<br />
a ‘baby’ wine to one with a robust<br />
and mature body - are fragrant and<br />
cheerful for drinking.<br />
The Fisherman’s village of Ham<br />
Nihn is dotted with floating seafood<br />
restaurants for your choosing. Green<br />
chilli sauces are meant only for the<br />
squid dishes; while lime, salt and<br />
pepper are the condiments mixture<br />
for all others. The Night Market in<br />
Duong Dong is known for pricey<br />
seafood, but serves as a good place<br />
for tourists to wander. Drop by the<br />
nearby Ra Qhoi or 343 Restaurant<br />
for local munches, but for the treat<br />
of large seafood bowls Westernstyle,<br />
head to Crab House. When<br />
the weather permits, Choun Choun<br />
Sky Bar overlooking the riversplit<br />
and Duong Dong tributary<br />
is an excellent choice for sunsets.<br />
Another viewing is the Q Sky Bar<br />
on Tran Hung Dao Street. Café<br />
Sua Da next to the night market<br />
will get you a cooling drink or<br />
two, while Aroi Café opposite of<br />
Crab House offers equally thirstquenching<br />
options.<br />
For more hilltop sea views<br />
dotted with sights of gorgeous<br />
bonsai varieties, head to the newlybuilt<br />
Ho Quoc Pagoda that boasts<br />
Mahayana Buddhist architecture and<br />
beautifully adorned with exquisite<br />
potted plants.<br />
For a history stop, Phu Quoc<br />
Prison tells the story of Phu Quoc’s<br />
tragic past. Built in 1949-1950<br />
and renovated into a museum,<br />
showcased are prisoner cages<br />
and torture practises during the<br />
Indochina War when Phu Quoc<br />
became a P.O.W camp and detention<br />
of captured Viet Cong and North<br />
Vietnamese. A new jail museum is<br />
being built to house these unsettling<br />
exhibits with the government<br />
determined to “promote” this<br />
disturbing story of this island’s past.<br />
STAY:<br />
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald<br />
Bay opened about a year ago in<br />
the southern hub of An Thoi and<br />
immediately became the talk of<br />
the island. Designed by prolific<br />
hotel designer Bill Bensley - the<br />
resort’s design creation is based<br />
on a fantasy tale that borrows<br />
from Vietnam’s episode of<br />
French colonisation and warweary<br />
history. While fictitious<br />
yet convincing, the resulting<br />
story is that the property was<br />
built out of a deserted and<br />
ancient building – and converted<br />
into the structurally elaborate<br />
‘Lamarck University’ in the<br />
1920s. Thus the modern-day<br />
resort rises up from a madeup<br />
past. Rich in historical<br />
details, the resort is the place<br />
where you will spend your<br />
time browsing through their<br />
eclectic antique collection and<br />
enjoying the exuberant feel of<br />
the lobby. Guestrooms have<br />
high ceilings and universitythemed<br />
department names.<br />
Their beautiful ‘Spa Chanterelle’<br />
provides a luxurious and<br />
relaxing escape. It’s a great<br />
choice for foodies too – with<br />
excellent comestibles, especially<br />
their mega-breakfast buffet with<br />
fabulous vegetarian choices, a<br />
delicious lunch consisting of<br />
Vietnamese traditional dishes,<br />
and beachfront seafood dinners.<br />
jwmarriottphuquoc.com<br />
C<br />
M<br />
Y<br />
CM<br />
MY<br />
CY<br />
CMY<br />
K<br />
INTRODUCING THE MOST STYLISH<br />
SUNDAY BRUNCH ON THE ISLAND<br />
Enjoy live jazz, free-flowing beverages and savour a fine selection of international cuisine.<br />
Indulge in a spa experience* or relax on the beach* while your children have fun learning<br />
at the kids club. Our Brunch is just one of the unique dining experiences to be<br />
discovered at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.<br />
Find out more at:<br />
fourseasons.com/kohsamui<br />
*additional charge<br />
38
PHU QUOC<br />
ซ้ายบน<br />
เรือประมงทาสีฟ้า<br />
ตัดเขียว พากัน<br />
ออกหาปลาทุกวี่วัน<br />
ขวาบน<br />
ชายหาดทอดแนวยาว<br />
กว้างไกลสุดลูกหูลูกตา<br />
เต็มไปด้วยรีสอร์ต<br />
และที่พักใกล้ชิด<br />
ท้องทะเลสีคราม<br />
ซ้ายล่าง<br />
ชายหาดบนเกาะฟู้โกว๊ก<br />
ยังคงความงามตาม<br />
วิถีธรรมชาติ<br />
ฟู้โกว๊ก เกาะที่ใหญ่ที่สุดในเวียดนามแห่งนี้<br />
ห่างจากประเทศไทยไม่มากนัก เกาะแห่ง<br />
นี้กำลังเปลี่ยนแปลงอย่างรวดเร็วพร้อม<br />
กับโครงการก่อสร้างพื ้นฐาน โดยมีถนน<br />
ที่เชื่อมทั้งเกาะเข้าด้วยกัน และโปรเจ็คต์<br />
โรงแรมระดับห้าดาวที่ผุดขึ้นบนหาดทราย<br />
ที่ทอดแนวยาวของฟู้โกว๊ก ในขณะเดียว<br />
กัน ยูเนสโกได้กำหนดเขตพื้นที่อนุรักษ์<br />
ชีวมนฑลเกียนยาง เพื่อรักษาความ<br />
หลากหลายทางชีวภาพในพื้นที่เกินครึ่ง<br />
ของเกาะ เรียกได้ว่า ฟู้โกว๊กคือเกาะแห่ง<br />
โลกสองใบอย่างแท้จริง<br />
จากนโยบายการท่องเที่ยวของ<br />
รัฐบาล เกาะฟู้โกว๊กเปลี่ยนแปลงอย่าง<br />
ก้าวกระโดด นักท่องเที่ยวไม่จำเป็นต้อง<br />
มีวีซ่าเพื่อเข้าเวียดนาม หากหนึ่งใน<br />
สถานที่ท่องเที่ยวของคุณคือเกาะแห่งนี้<br />
นี่ยังไม่รวมการลงทุนโครงสร้างพื้นฐาน<br />
สายไฟฟ้าแรงสูงใต้ทะเล โรงงานบำบัด<br />
น้ำเสียมูลค่ามหาศาล และสนามบินที่ได้<br />
รับการขยายพื้นที่เพื่อรองรับนักท่องเที่ยว<br />
3 ล้านคนต่อปีในอีกสามปีข้างหน้า<br />
ถนนตัดใหม่ทำให้เดินทางได้สะดวก<br />
สบาย เริ่มต้นที่ ดวงดอง ‘Duong Dong’<br />
ศูนย์กลางนักท่องเที่ยวสะพายเป้ ที่มีทั้ง<br />
โรงแรม ธนาคาร และร้านค้ามากมาย<br />
คุณจะได้เห็นแม่น้ำที่ชาวบ้านอาศัยเป็น<br />
แหล่งทำการประมงเป็นอาชีพหลัก เกาะ<br />
แห่งนี ้ยังมีชื่อเสียงด้านการทำน้ำปลา<br />
ผลิตจากปลากระตักที่หมักอย่างน้อย<br />
สองปี อย่าลืมลองชิมปอเปี๊ยะเวียดนาม<br />
ทอดจิ้มน ้ำปลาอันหอมหวน รสชาติ<br />
อร่อยล้ำอย่าบอกใครเชียว<br />
คนท้องถิ่นที่นี่ส่วนใหญ่ล้วนเป็นลูก<br />
หลานชาวประมง แดนนี่ ไกด์ของเราเล่า<br />
ให้ฟังว่า ความเป็นอยู่เปลี่ยนไปมาก จากที่<br />
ต้องเดินทางไปเรียนที่แผ่นดินใหญ่ เดี๋ยวนี้<br />
ใครๆ ก็สามารถเข้าเรียนมหาวิทยาลัยที่<br />
ลงทุนโดยชาวต่างชาติบนเกาะฟู้โกว๊กได้<br />
เลย รวมถึงน้องชายของเขาด้วย<br />
การเปลี่ยนแปลงครั้งใหญ่เริ่มเมื่อ<br />
นักสำรวจชาวยุโรปเดินทางมายังเกาะ<br />
ฟู้โกว๊กช่วง 20 ปีก่อน ความที่ฟู้โกว๊กห่างไกล<br />
จากทุกสิ่งบนโลก อีกทั้งทะเลยังเป็น<br />
สีเขียวมรกต สองเสน่ห์นี้เองที่ดึงดูด<br />
นักท่องเที่ยวจากทั่วทุกมุมโลกให้มาสัมผัส<br />
เกาะแห่งนี้ ในอดีต การเดินทางมายังเกาะ<br />
ฟู้โกว๊กต้องใช้เวลาเดินทางหนึ่งวันเต็มจาก<br />
โฮจิมินห์ แต่ปัจจุบันกลับสะดวกง่ายดาย<br />
เพราะสามารถบินตรงจากกรุงเทพฯ ได้เลย<br />
นักท่องเที่ยวส่วนใหญ่จะมาพักที่หาด<br />
ยาวทางใต้ของดวงดอง ที่เต็มไปด้วย<br />
รีสอร์ต บาร์ และร้านอาหาร ตกกลางคืนก็<br />
เดินเที่ยวตลาดกลางคืนซึ่งอยู่ใต้สะพาน<br />
หลักตรงข้ามตลาดสด การเดินทางก็แสน<br />
สะดวก มีทั้งแท็กซี่มิเตอร์ ไกด์นำเที่ยวส่วน<br />
ตัว หรือรถมอเตอร์ไซค์เช่า คลอด้วยเสียง<br />
แตรอื้ออึงอันเป็นเอกลักษณ์ของเวียดนาม<br />
กิจกรรม:<br />
ฟู้โกว๊กโด่งดังเรื่องการท่องเที่ยวเชิงนิเวศ<br />
แวะไปลองชิมน้ำปลารสดีได้ที่ โรงงาน<br />
น้ำปลา ในย่านดวงดอง ทางตอนเหนือ<br />
มี ไร่พริกไทย ฟาร์มผึ ้ง และโรงงานไวน์<br />
พร้อมกับทานอาหารพลางจิบเบียร์<br />
ดราฟต์อันหอมหวานที่ ฟู้โกว๊ก<br />
คันทรีไซด์<br />
หมู่บ้านชาวประมงในฮามนิง เต็มไปด้วย<br />
ร้านอาหารทะเลบนแพ อย่าลืมว่าน้ำจิ้ม<br />
พริกเขียวมีไว้สำหรับจิ้มปลาหมึกเท่านั้น<br />
ส่วนน้ำจิ้มซีฟู้ดคู่กับอาหารจานอื่นๆ<br />
ตลาดกลางคืนที่ดวงดองขายอาหาร<br />
ทะเลราคาสูง อย่าลืมแวะ Ra Qhoi<br />
หรือ ร้านอาหาร 343 ทานอาหาร<br />
ท้องถิ่นเด็ดๆ แล้วไปต่อที่ Crab House<br />
เพื่อทานอาหารทะเลจานใหญ่สไตล์<br />
ตะวันตก พออากาศดีได้ที่ก็ไปต่อที่<br />
Choun Choun Sky Bar หรือที่<br />
Q Sky Bar เพื่อดื่มด่ำวิวตะวันตกดิน<br />
และแม่น้ำกลางดวงดอง คุณจะเข้าไป<br />
ลองจิบเครื่องดื่มเย็นๆ แบบชาวท้องถิ่น<br />
ที่ คาเฟ่ Sua Da ข้างตลาดกลางคืน<br />
หรือจะไปที่ Aroi Café ตรงข้าม<br />
Crab House ก็น่าสนใจ<br />
หากอยากชมวิวทะเลให้ได้ภาพจาก<br />
มุมสูง มุ่งหน้าไปที่ เจดีย์โฮโกว๊ก ชื่นชม<br />
สถาปัตยกรรมศิลปะมหายาน พร้อมกับ<br />
ต้นบอนไซอันงดงาม<br />
นอกจากนี้ ยังสามารถย้อนรอย<br />
อดีตอันเจ็บปวดที่ ทันฑสถานฟู้โกว๊ก<br />
ซึ่งมีการจัดแสดงห้องขังและเครื่องมือ<br />
ทรมานที่ใช้ในช่วงสงครามอินโดจีน<br />
เป็นสถานที่กุมขังเวียดกงและชาว<br />
เวียดนามเหนือ ปัจจุบันได้รับการบูรณะ<br />
เป็นพิพิธภัณฑ์ให้นักท่องเที่ยวได้สัมผัส<br />
และเรียนรู้ไปพร้อมกัน<br />
ที่พัก:<br />
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay<br />
Resort & Spa รีสอร์ตที่สะท้อน<br />
ประวัติศาสตร์ของเวียดนามและการ<br />
ครองอาณานิคมโดยฝรั่งเศส รีสอร์ต<br />
แห่งนี ้ออกแบบโดยนักออกแบบชื ่อดัง<br />
บิล เบนส์ลีย์ (อ่านบทสัมภาษณ์ได้ใน<br />
หน้า 42) คุณจะได้ชมความงามของ<br />
คอลเล็กชันของเก่าที่ได้รับการคัดสรร<br />
อย่างประณีต ล็อบบี้ที่ให้ความรู้สึกมี<br />
ชีวิตชีวาอบอวลไปด้วยประวัติศาสตร์<br />
แห่งมหาวิทยาลัยลามาร์ก และไฮไลต์<br />
อย่าง สปา Chanterelle เพื่อการผ่อน<br />
คลายอย่างมีระดับ<br />
40
BILL BENSLEY<br />
Out of This World<br />
Creative genius Bill Bensley lives one half of<br />
his life in imagination and the other in reality.<br />
‘Escapism’, his recent design tome, showcases<br />
bits of lifetime work; manifesting the fact that<br />
the hotel designer has no problem crossing the<br />
line between real life and colourful fantasies.<br />
Bensley flouts convention and inspires our writer.<br />
Her takeaway? Blue sky thinking.<br />
Photos Suwit Kittitien, Bensley Design Studio<br />
Words Sirin P Wongpanit<br />
42<br />
43
BILL BENSLEY<br />
If life is about setting records, Bill<br />
Bensley is certainly intent on breaking<br />
a good run with new ones. Known for<br />
his new explorations in resort designs,<br />
Bensley is easily one of the world’s most<br />
prolific hotel architects who has designed<br />
over 200 resorts in 30 countries. Among<br />
his long list of projects, many of which are<br />
located in pristine and remote areas, is a<br />
palace – a real one. He has two offices, one<br />
in Bangkok, the other in Bali. On average,<br />
he and his 200-manned dream team would<br />
work on about 45 different projects at the<br />
same time. When I met him the first time,<br />
Bensley was sitting in on five different<br />
meetings, his two dogs slumbering at his<br />
feet. It is a known fact that Bensley travels<br />
most of the time. His schedule is crazy,<br />
as his secretary will readily confirm. And<br />
when we talked for the second time for the<br />
interview, the seemingly indefatigable man<br />
had just unpacked from a month-long trip<br />
to Eastern Europe.<br />
“Now we have made it to<br />
92 countries,” says the largerthan-life<br />
architect on the number<br />
of countries he travelled. “My<br />
plan is when I turn 60, which is<br />
about one and half years from<br />
now, we will land on a new,<br />
uncharted country and make it<br />
our 100th.”<br />
His younger days meant<br />
numerous summertime road<br />
trips and camping and being very<br />
comfortable with trudging into<br />
lands unknown. Bensley recalls<br />
seeing new places with a fresh<br />
pair of eyes, a necessity to stay<br />
Opposite Page<br />
Suspended boats<br />
above playful jewel<br />
tones and plaid at<br />
the Royal Istana in<br />
Malaysia.<br />
Clockwise from Top<br />
Eclectic cool living<br />
in a transformed<br />
palace, the Royal<br />
Istana in Malaysia.<br />
on the alert and have fun. “I grew<br />
up travelling constantly. Every<br />
summer, we went on a big tour all<br />
over America, we went to Mexico,<br />
we went to Canada. And when I<br />
graduated from school, I went<br />
on for four months to Europe,<br />
using the money my sister gave<br />
me for my Harvard (class) ring<br />
to purchase the rail pass and<br />
took a detour to Europe before<br />
eventually landing in Asia.” The<br />
year was 1984, Bensley was 24<br />
years old, and the travel that<br />
originated from his home in<br />
Anaheim, California to Asia took<br />
four and a half months.<br />
Dubbed the ‘King of Exotic<br />
Luxury Resorts’ by Time magazine<br />
and the ‘craziest sane hotel designer<br />
Rich in details, yet<br />
Baan Bhirom Bhakdi<br />
in Bangkok exudes<br />
an unruffled and<br />
tranquil vibe.<br />
An homage to Bruce<br />
Lee manifests as<br />
a bronze Kung Fu<br />
rabbit at the Capella<br />
Golf Clubhouse,<br />
Foshan, China.<br />
in the world’ by Vanity Fair;<br />
Bensley – while still planning<br />
to traverse from one place to<br />
another – always picks up new<br />
ideas at every moment in his<br />
journeys. “It goes directly from<br />
vacation to designs,” he says.<br />
“In Krakow, Poland for example;<br />
I got excellent ideas for our<br />
villa project in Halong Bay. My<br />
memories are all photographed<br />
and some are translated into<br />
tiny details of whatever we<br />
are doing. When we were in<br />
Dubrovnik, Croatia, our room<br />
with the balcony overlooking the<br />
stone staircase where Game of<br />
Thrones’ Cersei walked in shame<br />
got me so inspired – and now we<br />
are making the sketch I did back<br />
44 45
BILL BENSLEY<br />
right then and there into a 6 by<br />
1.5 metre drawing, for the Four<br />
Seasons Chiang Mai renovation.”<br />
Global trips might have given<br />
Bensley aesthetic ideas, but it is<br />
his strong desire to dream, have<br />
fun and really immerse in novel<br />
and inner journeys that make him<br />
different, or ‘crazy and sane’ at<br />
the same time. Lately, Bensley’s<br />
resort blueprints create a new<br />
realm – that of another world<br />
or an “out of this world” kind of<br />
vacation. A real escapism, if you<br />
will, where guests are convinced<br />
they are in a certain time and<br />
place, yet everything has all<br />
been created and built. He and<br />
his team achieved that in grand<br />
orchestration and indicative of<br />
the high art of putting an entire<br />
wholesome project together. Every<br />
minute string of the story is tied<br />
together within the designs and<br />
with a strong and reality-based<br />
timeline. The experience is made<br />
real with facts complete with fine<br />
and minuscule details required<br />
to make everything flawlessly<br />
function so guests can really escape<br />
into this new world; a world<br />
according to Bill Bensley.<br />
But it is also the stark realities<br />
existing in life that drove him to<br />
sketch out a project closest to<br />
his heart. Concerns on poverty,<br />
the widespread encroachment<br />
of natural environments and<br />
uncontrolled wildlife poaching<br />
are addressed in his latest project<br />
Clockwise from Top<br />
Yessir, they’ve got<br />
lots of bananas at<br />
the InterContinental<br />
Danang Sun<br />
Peninsula Resort,<br />
Vietnam.<br />
Jazzed up bar at<br />
Deco Bar, The Siam<br />
Bangkok.<br />
An ode to Phuket’s<br />
yesteryears at<br />
The Slate Phuket.<br />
– one that is most important to<br />
him: the Shinta Mani Wild<br />
in Cambodia.<br />
“I bought a 99-year lease<br />
to log in this land, but with no<br />
intention to log,” explains the<br />
architect who is known for doing<br />
everything in his design to avoid<br />
cutting even one single tree.<br />
“Instead, we want this place to<br />
be a sanctuary for all animals, big<br />
and small, as well as the whole<br />
entire forest. It will also be the<br />
place where our guests can be<br />
in (a) totally different but real<br />
world; of the wild of Cambodia.”<br />
Shinta Mani Wild will be the<br />
fourth in the small cluster of<br />
Bensley-owned and operated<br />
hotels in Cambodia that generates<br />
income to support the work of the<br />
Shinta Mani Foundation, created<br />
on the idea of responsible tourism<br />
that benefits local communities.<br />
The Shinta Mani Wild, scheduled<br />
to launched in late <strong>2018</strong>, will still<br />
provide an out-of-this-world<br />
experience to its guests and more<br />
along the lines of luxury camping.<br />
“I really like the outdoors,<br />
the camping and being in tune<br />
with nature, being exposed,”<br />
says Bensley.<br />
“So I would say that the Shinta<br />
Mani Wild is everything I want<br />
to see in a holiday. You can get<br />
more adventure there than you<br />
can imagine. Guests can go with<br />
rangers and catch poachers,<br />
do community work; or even<br />
foraging in the forest for food.<br />
We just found twelve new types<br />
of edible mushrooms there. They<br />
are delicious.”<br />
46
BILL BENSLEY<br />
Bulldoze first, build later is<br />
the convenient mantra of any<br />
development, and Bensley sees<br />
too many of that happening<br />
and vows that his properties<br />
are living proof that one can, in<br />
fact, easily build within nature.<br />
“It’s heartbreaking,” he says,<br />
referring to the destruction of<br />
some natural habitats. “Some<br />
of those places must have been<br />
there for thousands of years,<br />
untouched by mankind.”<br />
The Shinta Mani Wild sits in<br />
a pristine estuary surrounded by<br />
a rainforest-covered mountain<br />
range southwest of Cambodia.<br />
It is one of the few remaining<br />
habitats for wild species of<br />
Asian elephants, guar reptiles,<br />
the southern serow (a species<br />
of goat/antelope), hog deer,<br />
tigers, bears and much more. The<br />
tented accommodations there<br />
are placed 500 rais (80 hectares)<br />
apart from one another, and on<br />
stilts over (water) rapids,“to allow<br />
migration of smaller animals that<br />
can go underneath and keep the<br />
place safe from wild animals,”<br />
Bensley points out. The National<br />
Geographic Unique Lodges of<br />
the World (that only features<br />
a strictly curated collection<br />
of extremely environmentally<br />
sensitive and socially responsible<br />
Top<br />
Channeling the<br />
island of Bali at the<br />
Maia Luxury Resort<br />
and Spa, Seychelles.<br />
Right<br />
Colours of royalty<br />
for a room that’s<br />
more than fit for a<br />
king at The Royal<br />
Istana.<br />
Below Left & Right<br />
Mimicking an<br />
upside down<br />
Vietnamese cone<br />
hat, a dining<br />
table sits right<br />
at the edge,<br />
InterContinental<br />
Danang Sun<br />
Peninsula Resort,<br />
Vietnam.<br />
DC Beach House,<br />
Kamala Beach,<br />
Phuket - with a<br />
painting of Picasso’s<br />
famous subjects<br />
having fun on a<br />
Phuket beach.<br />
accommodations) is said to be<br />
interested in featuring the Shinta<br />
Mani Wild.<br />
“I really want to make this<br />
work,” says Bensley. “It’s about<br />
saving that huge chunk of jungle<br />
from the loggers and those animals<br />
from poachers while creating new<br />
and sustainable opportunities<br />
for local people through the<br />
management of the Shinta Mani<br />
Foundation. But this would never<br />
make up for the forests I have seen<br />
cleared, cut – for new construction.<br />
Nothing will ever make up for that.”<br />
48
BILL BENSLEY<br />
บิล เบนส์ลีย์ คือเจ้าของสถิติการออกแบบ<br />
รีสอร์ตล้ำยุคมากกว่า 200 แห่ง ใน 30<br />
ประเทศทั่วโลก โดยเฉลี่ยเขากับทีมงาน<br />
กว่า 200 คนจะทำโครงการราว 45 แห่ง<br />
ในเวลาเดียวกัน การเดินทางจึงเป็นสิ่งที่<br />
หลีกเลี่ยงได้ยาก ฟ้าไทยมีโอกาสได้<br />
สัมภาษณ์คุณเบนส์ลีย์หลังจากที่เขาเพิ่ง<br />
เดินทางกลับมาจากยุโรปตะวันออกมา<br />
หมาดๆ หลังจากต้องดูแลงานที่นั่นอยู่<br />
นานเกือบหนึ่งเดือน<br />
นักออกแบบสุดล้ำอย่างเบนส์ลีย์<br />
เล่าว่า ตอนนี้เขาสร้างโรงแรมมาแล้ว<br />
92 ประเทศ และวางแผนไว้ว่าจะต้องทำ<br />
สถิติแตะประเทศที่ 100 ก่อนอายุ 60<br />
ในอีกแค่ปีครึ่งหลังจากนี้<br />
ตอนยังหนุ่ม เบนส์ลีย์มีโอกาสได้เดิน<br />
ทางไปสำรวจดินแดนแปลกใหม่ ตื่นตา<br />
ตื่นใจกับความสนุกที่ได้จากการท่องเที่ยว<br />
ไม่หยุดหย่อน หลังจากเรียนจบในวัย 24 ปี<br />
เขาใช้เงินที่พี่สาวมอบให้เดินทางจาก<br />
บ้านเกิดของเขาในเมืองแอนาไฮม์<br />
แคลิฟอร์เนีย เพื่อไปท่องยุโรป จนสุดท้าย<br />
จบลงที่ทวีปเอเชีย!<br />
นิตยสารไทม์ขนานนามเขาว่าเป็น<br />
“ราชาแห่งรีสอร์ตหรูสุดแปลก” ในขณะที่<br />
วานิตี้แฟร์เรียกเขาว่า “นักออกแบบ<br />
โรงแรมสติดีที่บ้าบิ่นที่สุดในโลก” เบนส์ลีย์<br />
มักจะออกเดินทางเพื่อค้นหาแรงบันดาลใจ<br />
ใหม่ๆ เสมอ เช่น ระหว่างท่องเที่ยวใน<br />
โครเอเชีย เขารู้สึกซาบซึ้งในความงามของ<br />
ขั้นบันไดที่ตัวละครเซอร์ซีจากซีรีส์<br />
เกมอ็อฟโธรนเดินตัวเปลือยเปล่าระหว่าง<br />
ถูกประณามโดยคนทั้งเมือง จนเป็นที่มา<br />
ของแนวคิดการปรับปรุงโรงแรม<br />
โฟร์ซีซันส์ เชียงใหม่<br />
บรรยากาศของ จินตมณี<br />
ไวล์ด โครงการที่พัก<br />
กลางขุนเขาและลำน้ำใน<br />
กัมพูชาล่าสุดของ บิล<br />
เบนสลีย์ ที่เขาและทีมงาน<br />
ออกแบบให้สิ่งปลูกสร้าง<br />
และธรรมชาติอยู่ด้วยกัน<br />
ได้อย่างลงตัวโดยไม่<br />
เบียดเบียนกันมากที่สุด<br />
ล่าสุด เบนส์ลีย์ได้ออกแบบรีสอร์ต<br />
ที่เป็นคำนิยามของคำว่า “หลุดโลก”<br />
อย่างแท้จริง แขกที่มาพำนักจะเชื่อว่า<br />
ตนเองอยู่ ณ สถานที่และห้วงเวลาหนึ ่ง<br />
ซึ่งแวดล้อมด้วยศิลปะชั้นสูง รายละเอียด<br />
ต่างๆ ที่ร้อยรัดเรื่องราวจนหาที่ติไม่ได้<br />
นี่เองคือโลกในนิยามของเบนส์ลีย์ ที่ซึ่ง<br />
ผู้เข้าพำนักเร้นหลีกจากความเป็นจริงได้<br />
อย่างสมบูรณ์แบบ<br />
ไม่เพียงเท่านั้น เขายังให้ความสำคัญ<br />
กับเรื่องปากท้อง การอนุรักษ์ธรรมชาติ<br />
และสิ่งแวดล้อม โครงการล่าสุด จินตมณี<br />
ไวล์ด ตั้งอยู่ในผืนป่าในประเทศกัมพูชา<br />
เบนส์ลีย์ตั้งใจจะรักษาต้นไม้ทุกต้นเพื่อให้<br />
สถานที่แห่งนี้เป็นแหล่งอนุรักษ์พันธุ์สัตว์<br />
ป่าทั้งใหญ่และเล็ก หลังเปิดตัวในช่วง<br />
ปลายปี 2561 รีสอร์ต จินตมณีไวล์ด จะ<br />
เป็นหนึ่งในสี่โครงการรีสอร์ตของบิล<br />
เบนสลีย์ ในกัมพูชา ที่มีส่วนสนับสนุน<br />
มูลนิธิจินตมณี เพื่อสร้างประโยชน์แก่<br />
ชุมชนท้องถิ่นอีกด้วย<br />
สำหรับเบนส์ลีย์ การทำลายถิ่นที่อยู่<br />
ตามธรรมชาติถือเป็นเรื่องน่าเศร้า เขาจึงตั้ง<br />
ปณิธานว่าสิ่งก่อสร้างที่อยู่ภายใต้<br />
การดูแลของเขาจะต้องเป็นแบบอย่างของ<br />
การอยู่ร่วมกันระหว่างสิ่งก่อสร้างและ<br />
ธรรมชาติให้สมดุลที่สุด<br />
รีสอร์ต จินตมณีไวล์ด ตั้งอยู่ตามแนว<br />
เขาที่ปกคลุมด้วยผืนป่าฝนทางตะวันตก<br />
เฉียงใต้ของประเทศกัมพูชา ที่พักแต่ละหลัง<br />
จะตั้งห่างออกจากกันภายในพื้นที่ 500 ไร่<br />
และอยู่เหนือลำน้ำเชี่ยวเพื่อให้สัตว์น้อย<br />
ใหญ่สามารถใช้เส้นทางและใช้ชีวิตได้อย่าง<br />
ปลอดภัย นิตยสารที่ตีพิมพ์เฉพาะที่พักซึ่ง<br />
ใส่ใจสิ่งแวดล้อมและสังคมอย่าง เนชันแนล<br />
จีโอกราฟฟิก มีแผนที่จะตีพิมพ์บทความ<br />
เผยแพร่แนวคิดของ จินตมณีไวล์ด ลงใน<br />
เว็บไซต์ ยูนีค ลอดจ์ อ็อฟ เดอะ เวิลด์ ของ<br />
นิตยสารอีกด้วย<br />
บิล เบนส์ลีย์ กล่าวว่า “ผมอยากทำ<br />
โครงการนี้ให้สำเร็จ เพื่อรักษาผืนป่าจาก<br />
ใครก็ตามที่ตัดไม้ทำลายป่า และปกป้อง<br />
สัตว์จากการค้าสัตว์ป่า สร้างโอกาสให้กับ<br />
ชาวบ้านได้อยู่ร่วมกันอย่างยั่งยืนผ่าน<br />
การจัดการมูลนิธิจินตมณี อย่างไรก็ตาม<br />
สิ่งเหล่านี้ไม่อาจทดแทนป่าไม้ที่ถูกแผ้วถาง<br />
ไปก่อนหน้านี้ และไม่มีอะไรสามารถทดแทน<br />
ธรรมชาติได้จริงๆ”<br />
50
PHUKET<br />
Photos Permboon Wongpanit<br />
Words Sirin P Wongpanit<br />
When Phuket’s sea and sun beckons, it’s hard to<br />
ignore the call. Yet the resort island’s fun alternative<br />
lies in its rich history. So get off the sand for a little<br />
bit and explore its other cultural cool.<br />
54<br />
55
PHUKET<br />
U<br />
ntil visions of beautiful beaches<br />
consumed its visitors, Phuket<br />
was known as the land rich with<br />
unique culture. As the trading<br />
and mining hub of the Malay Peninsula<br />
back at the turn of the twentieth century,<br />
Phuket was all things for cross-cultural<br />
settlements. If one wonderful thing about<br />
travelling is getting to know the destination<br />
well, these five magnificent places in<br />
Phuket will surely make you feel like you<br />
dug beneath the surface.<br />
ON ON HOTEL<br />
Once a dorm-style guesthouse<br />
for seafarers, On On (happiness<br />
of visitors in Chinese) Hotel<br />
was the first and the longestoperating<br />
hotel in Phuket.<br />
Standing on Phang Nga road in<br />
the middle of Phuket Old Town,<br />
it is hard to imagine that this<br />
inland spot was once very close<br />
to a main docking pier, set up on<br />
a small canal and branching out<br />
from a main tributary of the vast<br />
Andaman Sea.<br />
Built in 1929, the descendants<br />
of the original owners had kept<br />
the premises in its genuine<br />
condition as it evolved. Its dreary,<br />
haunting, and run-down state<br />
became famous when it was<br />
featured in the Hollywood film<br />
Above<br />
The oldest hotel<br />
still in operation in<br />
Phuket Old Town,<br />
On On Hotel’s<br />
renovation<br />
preserved its<br />
original design<br />
elements and guests<br />
can come stay and<br />
reminisce.<br />
This Page<br />
On On Hotel may<br />
have seen renovation<br />
but still retains its<br />
former charm and<br />
remnants of history.<br />
Before its major<br />
overhaul in 2012, the<br />
On On Hotel was in a<br />
dire state but it still<br />
attracted fans from<br />
around the world.<br />
‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo<br />
Di Caprio.<br />
Before its major overhaul in<br />
2012, the On On Hotel was in<br />
a dire state but still attracted<br />
fans from around the world.<br />
Fifty million baht and a full<br />
year closure later, the hotel<br />
reopened as ‘The Memory at On<br />
On Hotel’ with some remnants<br />
of its heyday – such as original<br />
walls, teak wood elements, and<br />
furniture. Dormitory rooms and<br />
the original setting of famous<br />
scenes in the movie are kept for<br />
visitors to relive the memory,<br />
now outfitted with the comfort<br />
of ensuite bathrooms and airconditioning.<br />
thememoryhotel.com<br />
56
PHUKET<br />
Baan Chinpracha<br />
is a mansion that<br />
has stood through<br />
the glory days and<br />
gloomy times of<br />
Phuket.<br />
Its preserved<br />
grandeur is one<br />
of the finest<br />
works of original<br />
Anglo-Chinese<br />
architectural<br />
design.<br />
CHINPRACHA HOUSE<br />
Among the best places to get a<br />
glimpse of Phuket’s glorious past is<br />
the 114-year-old ‘Baan Chinpracha,’<br />
or Chinpracha Mansion, one of a<br />
few remaining ‘Anglo-Chinese’<br />
style mansions. It was originally<br />
built at a time when Phuket enjoyed<br />
its commercial peak during the<br />
reign of King Rama V, just before<br />
World War II.<br />
History buffs will enjoy<br />
browsing the house’s eclectic<br />
personal collection of antique<br />
furniture, mostly exquisite<br />
Chinese-style mother of pearl<br />
sets built of intricate woodwork<br />
and still auspiciously exist as a<br />
set of two.<br />
Other details of the house, such<br />
as the beautiful ceramic floor tiles<br />
and decorative fences, were also<br />
brought in by trading ships from<br />
as far as Holland and Italy. Phuket<br />
was then a centre of trading in the<br />
region with ships coming from all<br />
over the world.<br />
Passed down to the sixth<br />
generation, the original owner<br />
Phra Pitak Chinpracha was a<br />
Fujian descendant who came to<br />
settle down in Phuket during the<br />
reign of King Rama IV. Chinpracha<br />
later became one of Phuket’s<br />
prominent figures in the tinmining<br />
industry. Visitors can<br />
reminisce about its storied past,<br />
and those wishing to hire the<br />
entire place for special occasions<br />
can do so with an advanced<br />
booking. Baan Chinpracha, 98 Krabi<br />
Road, Phuket, T: +66 (0) 76 211 281<br />
58
PHUKET<br />
KASET MARKET<br />
You can eat your way through<br />
Phuket by starting the day at the<br />
Kaset fresh market not too far from<br />
the old town area. Talad Kaset,<br />
operating at most hours of the<br />
day with different foods rotating<br />
on displays, serves as an excellent<br />
testament to Phuket people’s<br />
adoration of their food.<br />
Many locals wake up at dawn<br />
to shop for ‘khanom sod,’ or ‘fresh<br />
sweets,’ which include a wide variety<br />
of sweet breakfast foods. Many of<br />
them are inspired by Malaysian<br />
cuisine, but most are adapted with<br />
local ingredients like coconut, sticky<br />
rice, jackfruit, and seafood. You<br />
will find many similar shops selling<br />
these desserts.<br />
Recommended items include<br />
‘Giam Goi’ or steamed rice<br />
dumplings, served with dried<br />
shrimp, toasted shallots, spring<br />
onions and a sweet sauce called<br />
‘Pao Lang.’ Other can’t-miss bites<br />
include banana-wrapped sticky<br />
rice with savoury fillings, and<br />
‘Go Sui’ - rice flour cakes darkened<br />
with brown sugar and served with<br />
grated coconut. They’re all staples<br />
with coffee in the morning.<br />
Off to the side of the market,<br />
stalls sell black and white sticky<br />
rice with various toppings,<br />
including <strong>Thai</strong> egg custard, dried<br />
fish and candied coconut. They’re<br />
good for takeaway, or better yet<br />
– buy some and take a seat at the<br />
nearby stall selling coffee and<br />
accompany these sweet morning<br />
treats with a hot drink.<br />
Right<br />
A Hokkien holy<br />
place founded in<br />
1891, Saeng Tham<br />
Shrine is one of<br />
Phuket’s oldest.<br />
It is best enjoyed<br />
when the place<br />
has no ceremonies<br />
taking place and<br />
do not miss its<br />
well-preserved<br />
murals in the<br />
inner sanctum.<br />
Below<br />
Kaset Market, the<br />
main fresh market<br />
relied on by locals.<br />
SAENG THAM SHRINE<br />
A Hokkien holy place founded by<br />
a settling family in 1891 as a site<br />
of worship and fellowship for<br />
friends and family, Saeng Tham<br />
Shrine is Phuket’s oldest and<br />
best-kept religious treasure. Now<br />
this historic sanctuary represents<br />
one of the most beautiful original<br />
Chinese architecture in the city,<br />
with well-preserved adorning roof<br />
tiles, ceramic dragons and figurines<br />
representing auspicious elements in<br />
the Fujian holy books.<br />
Though small, it has meticulous<br />
and fully-preserved murals depicting<br />
the story of an ancient Chinese deity<br />
who spent a lifetime as an emperor.<br />
The main building is set back deep<br />
in the alley with the house of gods<br />
adorned with historic black-ink<br />
paintings. The Association of<br />
Siamese Architects back awarded the<br />
house its prestigious Architectural<br />
Conservation Award in 1997.<br />
Saeng Tham Shrine is still<br />
the place where Chinese families<br />
in Phuket gather for auspicious<br />
events, especially during the<br />
vegetarian festival in October when<br />
big celebrations take place and<br />
Chinese people adhere to strict<br />
vegetarian diets to pray to the Nine<br />
Emperor Gods.<br />
60
PHUKET<br />
A WINDMILL VIEWPOINT<br />
Ask any local where they go to<br />
watch the province’s magnificent<br />
sunset, and chances are they’ll say:<br />
‘anywhere but the tourist-flocked<br />
Laem Phromthep.’<br />
But not too far from the famous<br />
viewpoint lies a high cliff near<br />
cosy Yanui Beach. Its height and<br />
sea-facing location became an<br />
ideal place to put wind turbines to<br />
generate clean energy for the island.<br />
The wind turbines operate only<br />
occasionally, and the whole area has<br />
been turned into a playground and<br />
ideal setting for those looking for a<br />
gorgeous sunset.<br />
Strong winds also mean windsurfers<br />
will get their thrills. Cloudless days<br />
see a lot of pre-wedding photo shoots.<br />
To pleasantly pass the day, bring a<br />
picnic blanket. At the small cliff, look<br />
for a one way alley that leads to the<br />
windmill station. You can park your<br />
car there, or yourself, for a restful treat.<br />
Above<br />
The Windmill<br />
viewpoint has<br />
become a peaceful<br />
respite for sunset<br />
watching. It’s also<br />
popular grounds for<br />
paragliders.<br />
62
PHUKET<br />
ใครๆ ก็รู้ว่าภูเก็ตเป็นเมืองท่องเที่ยวโด่งดัง<br />
ที่มีเอกลักษณ์วัฒนธรรมอันงดงามและ<br />
หลากหลาย เป็นศูนย์กลางการค้าและ<br />
การทำเหมืองแร่ของคาบสมุทรมาเลย์<br />
ช่วงต้นศตวรรษที่ 20 ฟ้าไทยฉบับนี้<br />
อาสาพาคุณไปทำความรู้จักกับภูเก็ตให้<br />
ลึกซึ้งกว่าเดิม พร้อมแนะนำสถานที่ 5 แห่ง<br />
ที่ไม่อยากให้คุณพลาด<br />
โรงแรมออนออน ถือเป็นโรงแรมที่เก่า<br />
แก่ที่สุดในภูเก็ต เปิดให้นักท่องเที่ยวเข้าพัก<br />
ตั้งแต่ พ.ศ. 2472 โรงแรมประวัติศาสตร์<br />
แห่งนี้ตั้งอยู่ใจกลางเมืองบนถนนพังงา<br />
หลายคนอาจไม่เชื่อว่าที่แห่งนี้เคยอยู่ใกล้<br />
กับท่าเรือหลักที่หันหน้าออกสู่ทะเล<br />
อันดามันอันกว้างใหญ่ อาคารที่ดูทรุดโทรม<br />
และน่ากลัวนี้เป็นที่รู้จักหลังปรากฏใน<br />
ภาพยนตร์ฮอลลีวูดเรื่อง ‘เดอะ บีช’<br />
นำแสดงโดยลีโอนาโด ดิ คาปริโอ ก่อน<br />
การปรับปรุงครั้งใหญ่ด้วยงบกว่า 50<br />
ล้านบาท ภายใต้ชื่อใหม่ “โรงแรมเมมโมรี<br />
แอท ออนออน” ดื่มด่ำกลิ่นอายของ<br />
โรงแรมในอดีตที่มีผนังดั้งเดิม เครื่องเรือน<br />
ไม้สัก และชมห้องที่ปรากฏในภาพยนตร์<br />
เพื่อให้แฟนๆ ได้รื้อฟื้นความทรงจำสุด<br />
ประทับใจ thememoryhotel.com<br />
บ้านชินประชา บ้านพักอายุ 114 ปี<br />
เป็นอาคารสถาปัตยกรรมแองโกล-ไชนีส<br />
ที่เหลือเพียงไม่กี่แห่ง สร้างขึ้นในช่วงที่<br />
ภูเก็ตรุ่งเรืองด้านการค้าสูงสุดในสมัย<br />
รัชกาลที่ 5 ก่อนหน้าสงครามโลกครั้งที่<br />
สองไม่นาน คุณจะได้ยลโฉมเครื่องเรือน ชุด<br />
ของสะสม ไข่มุกประดับงานไม้ พื้นบ้าน<br />
เซรามิก และยังจัดแสดงเรือขนส่งสินค้า<br />
อันเป็นสัญลักษณ์ของเมืองภูเก็ตในฐานะ<br />
ศูนย์กลางการค้าของภูมิภาค<br />
บ้านหลังนี้สร้างโดยพระพิทักษ์<br />
ชินประชา บุคคลสำคัญเชื้อสายฝูเจี้ยน<br />
ผู้บุกเบิกเหมืองดีบุกในภูเก็ต ปัจจุบัน<br />
ทายาทรุ่นที่หกเปิดบ้านต้อนรับผู้เยี่ยมชม<br />
จากทั่วทุกมุมโลกเพื่อย้อนกลับไปยังอดีต<br />
แถมยังสามารถจองช่างภาพล่วงหน้า<br />
เพื่อภาพถ่ายสุดพิเศษในบ้านชินประชา<br />
ได้อีกด้วย<br />
มาถึงสถานที่ลำดับที ่ 3 คงไม่มีอะไร<br />
เหมาะไปกว่าการลิ้มรสอาหารในตลาดสด<br />
ภูเก็ตที่ไม่ไกลจากย่านเมืองเก่านัก<br />
ตลาดเกษตร เปิดตลอดทั้งวันโดยมี<br />
อาหารหลากหลายหมุนเวียนเปลี่ยนไป<br />
ในแต่ละช่วงของวัน เริ่มต้นด้วย ‘ขนมสด’<br />
ในช่วงเช้าตรู่ แม้จะเป็นอาหารเช้าแบบ<br />
มาเลเซีย แต่ก็ปรับใช้วัตถุดิบท้องถิ่น<br />
เช่น มะพร้าว ข้าวเหนียว ขนุน ส่วน<br />
‘เกี่ยมโก้ย’ แป้งข้าวเจ้านึ่ง ทานกับกุ้งแห้ง<br />
หอมแดงปิ้ง ต้นหอม และซอสหวาน<br />
ที่เรียกว่า ‘เป่าล้าง’ ที่พลาดไม่ได้คือ ข้าว<br />
เหนียวปิ้งไส้กล้วยรสกลมกล่อม และ ‘โกสุ้ย’<br />
เค้กแป้งข้าวเจ้าโรยด้วยน้ำตาลแดงและ<br />
มะพร้าวขูด หรือจะลองรับประทานข้าว<br />
เหนียวขาวข้าวเหนียวดำหน้าสังขยา<br />
ปลาแห้ง หรือมะพร้าวเชื่อมก็ได้<br />
ศาลเจ้าแสงธรรม ศาสนสถานฮกเกี้ยน<br />
เก่าแก่ เป็นแหล่งเก็บรักษาของล้ำค่าทาง<br />
ศาสนา สร้างขึ้นใน พ.ศ. 2434 ก่อสร้างใน<br />
รูปแบบสถาปัตยกรรมจีนแบบดั้งเดิม<br />
ประดับด้วยกระเบื้องหลังคา มังกรกระเบื้อง<br />
และรูปปั้นสัญลักษณ์ธาตุต่างๆ จาก<br />
คัมภีร์ศักดิ์สิทธิ์ของมณฑลฝูเจี้ยน<br />
ศาลเจ้าใหญ่แห่งนี้ตกแต่งด้วยภาพ<br />
วาดหมึกจีนสีดำ เล่าเรื่องราวของ<br />
เทพเจ้าที่จุติเป็นองค์จักรพรรดิ หลังการ<br />
บูรณะครั้งใหญ่ สถานที่แห่งนี้ยังคงเป็น<br />
จุดนัดพบของสมาชิกครอบครัวเชื้อสาย<br />
จีนที่ต่างมารวมตัวกันตามงานสำคัญๆ<br />
นอกจากนี้ยังมีเทศกาลกินเจทุกเดือน<br />
ตุลาคมเพื่อบูชาเทพจักรพรรดิทั้งเก้า<br />
ไม่ไกลจากแหลมพรหมเทพ คือจุด<br />
ชมพระอาทิตย์ตกดินอันโด่งดังอีกแห่งที่<br />
เรียกว่า จุดชมวิวกังหันลม คุณจะพบกับ<br />
หน้าผาสูงใกล้หาดยะนุ้ย พร้อมกับ<br />
กังหันลมในโครงการผลิตพลังงาน<br />
ทดแทนเพื่อใช้บนเกาะ ในวันที่ลมแรงจะมี<br />
ผู้ที่มาตากลมชมวิวนับไม่ถ้วน แต่หาก<br />
วันไหนลมพัดเพียงเอื่อยๆ ก็อาจพบเจอ<br />
กองถ่ายภาพพรีเวดดิ้งให้คุณมองเพลินๆ<br />
อีกด้วย ถ้าจะชมพระอาทิตย์ตกดินให้ได้<br />
แสงและสีสมบูรณ์แบบ ทางที่ดีควรมาถึง<br />
จุดชมวิวกังหันลมเวลาประมาณ 17.00 น.<br />
C<br />
M<br />
Y<br />
CM<br />
MY<br />
CY<br />
CMY<br />
K<br />
64
SAMUI<br />
Samui Trippin’<br />
Spread across the dazzling<br />
turquoise waters of Samui<br />
Island are splendid escapes<br />
and unknown activities<br />
that’s just a hop and a skip<br />
away. Once you get there,<br />
exploration may simply<br />
require some rowing. For<br />
outdoor explorers, it’s a<br />
virtual paradise of calm<br />
waters and cool breezes. Slip<br />
on a pair of spiffy sunglasses<br />
with polarised lens to<br />
protect against dazzling<br />
reflecting waters, and prep<br />
the sunblock for the ride to<br />
Samui enchantment.<br />
Words Sarita Urupongsa<br />
Photos Oliver Gane, Anutra U.<br />
66<br />
67
SAMUI<br />
ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE<br />
Within the protected archipelago<br />
of 42 karst islands lie beaches<br />
surrounded by exuberant greenery<br />
and coconut palms trees, saltwater<br />
lakes with deep blue hues, and<br />
amazing dive spots skittering with<br />
marine life, particularly at Ang<br />
Thong National Marine Park. Paving<br />
a clear path to these wonders are<br />
numerous travel agencies with<br />
various itineraries from Samui to<br />
Ang Thong islands. A Typical journey<br />
starts in the morning with Koh Mae<br />
Koh as a highlight stop. You’ll be<br />
mesmerised by a pristine emerald<br />
lake in the middle of a limestone<br />
mountain, forming a crater-like<br />
Right<br />
Daytrippers can<br />
easily rent a boat<br />
for the short trip<br />
to a quiet piece of<br />
paradise at Koh<br />
Mudsum.<br />
Below, Moving Right<br />
Aerial view shows<br />
inviting shorelines.<br />
Snorkellers view<br />
thriving marine<br />
life in crystalline<br />
waters.<br />
Pandanus seacones<br />
in green and red<br />
grow wild around<br />
Koh Mudsum.<br />
Constant calm seas<br />
ensure easy rowing<br />
for sea kayakers.<br />
lagoon resulting from rock erosion<br />
and a cavern collapse. Climbing<br />
up 500 metres will reward you<br />
with an unparalleled panoramic<br />
view in the Gulf of <strong>Thai</strong>land. An<br />
amazing experience kayaking<br />
and snorkelling around Koh Tai<br />
Plao and other bizarre-looking<br />
islets from the north to the south<br />
of the national park. Most day<br />
trips include lunch, soft drinks,<br />
snorkelling gear and life vests.<br />
45 minutes by speedboat from Nathon<br />
Pier to Ang Thong National Marine<br />
Park. More information at<br />
lomprayah.com; +66 (0) 77 420 121<br />
As a further treat, camping and<br />
staying overnight on Koh Wua Talap<br />
is an option. A tent, light torch, a<br />
sleeping bag and mosquito net are<br />
available for rent. In the morning,<br />
you’ll have sightings of black tip<br />
reef sharks and rays, with a small<br />
fishing village within view.<br />
Contact Ang Thong National Marine<br />
Park at +66 (0) 77 286 025<br />
BEACH DELIGHT<br />
Koh Mudsum, a hidden gem,<br />
displays itself out in a glorious<br />
43-rai cape. Private sunbathing<br />
and romantic moments serve<br />
their best purpose here. On the<br />
other side of the island, catch<br />
the sheen of granite pebbles<br />
that wash up on shore for more<br />
island ambience.<br />
Travel to Koh Taen around noon<br />
and find delight in the colourful<br />
fish and corals before trekking<br />
through the natural trails and<br />
mangrove forests, absorbing the<br />
cultures of the local islanders<br />
along the way. End your perfect<br />
night during sunset with savoury<br />
barbecue and dinner set menus.<br />
Take a speedboat (10 minutes) or<br />
long-tail boat (15 minutes) from<br />
Thong Krut pier to Koh Mudsum.<br />
Book the trip at Angthong Sea Tour;<br />
+66 (0) 77 960 665,<br />
+66 (0) 81 894 0581 or<br />
email: ang.thongseatour@hotmail.com<br />
68 69
SAMUI<br />
Top, Clockwise<br />
A compelling reason<br />
for spa therapy: an<br />
herbal steam cave.<br />
Mind and body<br />
connect through the<br />
gentle movements<br />
of aqua therapy.<br />
The scent of<br />
coconuts and their<br />
oils have become<br />
crucial to the spa<br />
experience.<br />
BE WELL<br />
Take a look into the wellness<br />
programme that pays homage<br />
to healing traditions in the<br />
region. The treasured art of <strong>Thai</strong><br />
massage marries poetically with<br />
aqua therapy with its graceful<br />
dance movement. At <strong>Thai</strong> Aquatic<br />
Freedom, enjoy a transformative<br />
experience of weightlessness in<br />
the aqua therapy pool as your body<br />
is moved dynamically through<br />
the water to stretch the muscles,<br />
relieve stiff joints, and quiet the<br />
mind. Here’s a chance to really let<br />
go and relax the body and mind.<br />
A 15-minute drive from Samui<br />
International Airport to Spa Village<br />
Koh Samui. ritzcarlton.com/<br />
kohsamui; +66 (0) 77 915 777<br />
For total wellness, spas are a necessity on<br />
vacation, with soothing treatments that<br />
address what ails us. Expect feel good results<br />
and a lightness of being.<br />
Bliss begins with just a glance<br />
at the aesthetic design of Tamarind<br />
Springs Forest Day Spa in Koh<br />
Samui. The highlight is a unique<br />
steam room whose combo of<br />
moderate heat, steam and aromatic<br />
herbs starts the relaxation process,<br />
followed by the cooling temperature<br />
of a natural rock pool which<br />
helps improve blood circulation.<br />
tamarindsprings.com,<br />
+66 (0) 85 926 4626<br />
If you’re in the mood to<br />
splurge, there’s always the Eranda<br />
Herbal Spa. A veteran in the business,<br />
their 15 years of services culminated<br />
in a literal Midas touch. Their ultimate<br />
facial treatment comes with the<br />
luxury of pure gold that’s 99.99% –<br />
just like what Cleopatra did way back<br />
then. Another exceptional treat is<br />
Eranda’s signature pearl soft mask to<br />
renew skin cells. erandaspa.com,<br />
+66 (0) 7730 0323, +66 (0) 7730 0321<br />
70
SAMUI<br />
Built into a steep hillside<br />
descending down to a small<br />
beach in Koh Samui, Kamalaya is<br />
another spa offering the luxury<br />
combination of oriental and<br />
western practices. The uplifting<br />
touches result in a body, mind and<br />
spirit immersed in well-being. If<br />
you have difficulty sleeping, this is<br />
your place to fix it. kamalaya.com,<br />
+66 (0) 7742 9800<br />
Sounding like the ultimate<br />
destination, it’s hard to resist<br />
The Source Samui. Their 3 detox<br />
programmes – Detox, Weight Loss<br />
& Ultimate Detox, are becoming<br />
popular among travellers with a<br />
determined goal to cleanse their<br />
system. If you’ve got the time, take<br />
advantage of their programmes<br />
which range from 7 up to 14 days.<br />
This is also an opportunity to learn<br />
about herbs, essential oils and how to<br />
mix tinctures and formulas to make<br />
on your own. thesourcesamui.com,<br />
+66 (0) 89 067 9856,<br />
At The Secret Garden Spa,<br />
you’ll get a chance to get up-close<br />
and personal with Koh Samui’s<br />
origins in the area of special herbs,<br />
plants and flowers. Absolutely<br />
try ‘The Tree of Life’ and ‘Earth<br />
to Sky’ programmes, with spa<br />
rituals using oils from fresh local<br />
coconuts. You’re at the beach –<br />
of course you need the heavenly<br />
smell of coconuts. Deep breaths,<br />
and revitalise. fourseasons.com/<br />
kohsamui/spa, +66 (0) 77 243 000<br />
Top<br />
Hammocks on<br />
Samui beaches<br />
tempt relaxation.<br />
Bottom, from Left<br />
Soothing sunsets add<br />
to the calm within.<br />
Artful floral<br />
arrangements at<br />
spas add visual<br />
beauty to the<br />
experience.<br />
A wondrous Samui<br />
sight as a temple<br />
glints in response to<br />
the sunset.<br />
PEACE-SEEKING MISSION<br />
The beach is always an effective<br />
way to unwind, we can all attest<br />
to that. It’s conventional wisdom<br />
that beaches like those in Koh<br />
Samui create a calming influence<br />
as we gaze at the lapping water on<br />
the shore. But there’s a scientific<br />
basis, as psychologists say that<br />
the colour blue brings a sense of<br />
calm and peace.<br />
Staring off into the ocean<br />
waters alters our brain waves’<br />
frequency and relaxes us into<br />
a mild meditative state. This<br />
is probably best done from a<br />
hammock or while relaxing on the<br />
side of a pool. In Chaweng beach,<br />
perhaps? And what happens as you<br />
.<br />
72
SAMUI<br />
listen to the rhythmic flow of the<br />
waves? It actually de-stimulates<br />
our brains. The sounds — coupled<br />
with the visuals — activate your<br />
parasympathetic nervous system<br />
and help to slow us down and give<br />
us a chance to relax.<br />
Besides the sounds and<br />
visuals, the smell of the ocean<br />
breeze plays a part to soothe us.<br />
That may have something to do<br />
with the negative ions in the air<br />
that you breathe in. The oxygen<br />
atoms have extra electrons,<br />
especially at waterfalls and the<br />
ocean. Na Mueang Waterfalls<br />
comes to mind, after you reach<br />
it from the walking path. A<br />
scientific paper had suggested<br />
that therapy from negative ions<br />
could be used to treat symptoms<br />
of seasonal affective disorder, in<br />
which the lack of sunlight creates<br />
a depressive state. Finally, to<br />
round out the senses, the simple<br />
To be sure, some beaches and destinations induce<br />
more relaxation and peacefulness than others.<br />
That’s where Samui comes in. The combination<br />
of visual beauty, warm sand, cool breeze, and<br />
shimmering blue-green tint of the water all add up<br />
to overall well-being.<br />
Top<br />
Find a spot among<br />
the intimate rock<br />
formations on<br />
Koh Samui and<br />
meditate.<br />
Left<br />
To feel like a whole<br />
person again,<br />
indulge in massage<br />
therapy.<br />
act of feeling the sand on your<br />
feet makes you relaxed. Consider<br />
a walk on Lamai beach, among<br />
Samui’s plethora of powdery<br />
sand offerings.<br />
But like much of science and<br />
medicine, it turns out there’s a<br />
bit of a placebo effect happening<br />
too. We’ve all been conditioned to<br />
equating a beach, or a vacation,<br />
with relaxation and peacefulness.<br />
When we arrive at our destination,<br />
our minds and bodies go into<br />
automatic relaxation mode.<br />
To be sure, some beaches<br />
and destinations induce more<br />
relaxation and peacefulness than<br />
others. That’s where a return<br />
trip to Samui comes in. The<br />
combination of visual beauty,<br />
warm sand, cool breeze, and<br />
shimmering blue-green tint of the<br />
water all add up to overall wellbeing.<br />
It may not be scientifically<br />
proven, but…<br />
Whether you’re hoping to<br />
take the perfect sunset photo,<br />
are planning island excursions,<br />
a twilight proposal, or want<br />
sunset restaurant reservations<br />
somewhere stunning, make sure<br />
you’re free by 6pm. You’re always<br />
guaranteed the best Samui sunset<br />
anywhere on the island.<br />
It’s the greatest hits of dazzling<br />
spots. So off you go to Samui, with<br />
its stunning scenery. It’s quiet<br />
amazement of the best kind.<br />
74
SAMUI<br />
หนาวนี้ ฟ้าไทยชวนคุณไปสำรวจสมุย<br />
และรอบๆ เกาะ สัมผัสท้องทะเลสีเขียว<br />
มรกตสงบนิ่งปะทะลมหนาวเบาๆ เตรียม<br />
แว่นและครีมกันแดดให้พร้อม แล้วออก<br />
เรือไปท่องอ่าวไทยกัน<br />
เริ่มต้นกันที่ อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะ<br />
อ่างทอง ท่องเรือชม 42 เกาะที่รายล้อมกัน<br />
อย่างน่าอัศจรรย์ ไฮไลต์ของทริปอยู่ที่เกาะ<br />
แม่เกาะ จุดที่ทะเลสีเขียวมรกตเข้มถูกโอบ<br />
ล้อมด้วยภูเขาหินปูนที่ยุบตัวลงบริเวณ<br />
กลางเกาะเกิดเป็นแอ่งน้ำสวยงาม หากไม่รู้<br />
จะเริ่มตรงไหน ลองใช้บริการบริษัททัวร์<br />
หลายแห่งที่จัดโปรแกรมน่าสนใจจาก<br />
เกาะสมุยสู่หมู่เกาะอ่างทอง โดยโปรแกรม<br />
จะเริ่มต้นราว 9 โมงเช้า ทัวร์ส่วนใหญ่จะนำ<br />
เที่ยวจากตอนบนของอุทยานฯ ไล่ลงมา<br />
เรื่อยผ่านเกาะน้อยใหญ่ต่างรูปร่าง ให้คุณ<br />
ได้พายเรือคายัคและดำน้ำตื้นผ่าน<br />
ช่องแคบและถ้ำ หรือหากต้องการนอนค้าง<br />
สักหนึ่งคืน เต้นท์และอุปกรณ์สำหรับค้าง<br />
คืนมีพร้อมให้เช่าที่เกาะวัวตาหลับ อันเป็น<br />
ที่ตั้งของที่ทำการอุทยานแห่งชาติ<br />
ต่อกันที่ เกาะมัดสุม หาดสวรรค์<br />
สำหรับคนรักสงบ ณ แหลมที่ยื่นตัวออก<br />
ไปในทะเลบนพื้นที่เกาะกว่า 43 ไร่ คุณจะได้<br />
ตามเข็มนาฬิกา<br />
จากขวาบน<br />
อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะ<br />
อ่างทองที่อุดมไปด้วยเกาะ<br />
เล็กเกาะน้อยน่าค้นหา<br />
ชายหาด เกาะวัวตาหลับ<br />
เกาะศูนย์กลางของ<br />
อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะ<br />
อ่างทอง มีหาดทรายขาว<br />
ละเอียด น้ำทะเลสีฟ้าใส<br />
ซ้ายบน<br />
ม่านหินย้อย<br />
ที่ถ้ำบัวโบก บริเวณอ่าวคา<br />
เกาะวัวตาหลับ<br />
ซ้ายล่าง<br />
เรือสปีดโบ๊ตที่กำลังมุ่ง<br />
หน้าไปยังเกาะมัดสุม<br />
นอนอาบแดดบนพื้นทรายทอดยาวแบบไร้<br />
ผู้คนรอบกาย หากอยากปลีกวิเวกกว่านั้น<br />
ลองเดินบุกทางเดินเท้าที่ตัดผ่านทุ่งหญ้า<br />
สูงจากหน้าหาดทรายยาวไปยังอีกด้าน<br />
ของเกาะที่เต็มไปด้วยหินแกรนิตสวย<br />
กลมมนที่เกิดจากน้ำทะเลพัดเซาะและสุม<br />
ขึ้นมาบนหาดตลอดวัน<br />
เพียงไม่กี่นาทีจากเกาะมัดสุม เกาะแตน<br />
คือจุดที่ดีที่สุดสำหรับการดำน้ำตื้นชม<br />
ฝูงปลาและปะการังหลากสี ก่อนจะเดิน<br />
ศึกษาเส้นทางธรรมชาติ เรียนรู้ชุมชน<br />
ในอดีต และระบบนิเวศป่าชายเลน ปิด<br />
ท้ายด้วยมื้อเย็นที่มีให้เลือกทั้งบาร์บีคิว<br />
หรือจะเตรียมอาหารปิกนิก นั่งเอกเขนก<br />
รับประทานบนเบาะนุ่มสบาย พร้อมชม<br />
ภาพพระอาทิตย์ตกลงกลางท้องน้ำ<br />
การท่องเที่ยวทะเลและเกาะแก่งยังช่วย<br />
ชำระล้างจิตใจได้อีกทาง ดั่งเช่นที่นัก<br />
จิตวิทยาได้ให้ข้อมูลว่า สีฟ้าช่วยให้คนเรา<br />
เข้าถึงความสงบได้จริงๆ คุณสามารถมอง<br />
ออกไปกว้างไกลและดื่มด่ำกับทะเลสีคราม<br />
ได้จากเปลญวนหรือข้างสระน้ ำบน หาดเฉวง<br />
ฟังเสียงคลื่นกระทบฝั่ง ทั้งภาพและเสียงที่<br />
คุณได้สัมผัสจากท้องทะเลจะกระตุ้นสมอง<br />
ให้สั่งเราเคลื่อนไหวและคิดช้าลง และนั่นเป็น<br />
โอกาสที่ดีที่เราจะได้ผ่อนคลายจากความ<br />
กังวลทั้งปวง<br />
นอกจากนี้ กลิ่นอายทะเลหรือน้ำจาก<br />
น้ำตก ยังช่วยสร้างความรู้สึกเบาสบายให้<br />
เราได้อย่างไม่รู้ตัว คุณสามารถไปที่<br />
น้ำตกหน้าเมือง เพื่อรับรู้ถึงความรู้สึกดีๆ<br />
เหล่านี้ได้บนเกาะสมุย<br />
จากรูป เสียง กลิ่น สิ่งสุดท้าย<br />
ซึ่งสำคัญสำหรับมนุษย์ก็คือ สัมผัส<br />
การท่องเที่ยวทะเลมอบทุกสิ่งที่ดีสำหรับ<br />
ชีวิต คุณจะรับรู้ได้ทันทีที่เท้าเปลือยเปล่า<br />
สัมผัสผิวทรายเม็ดละเอียดบน หาดละไม<br />
พร้อมกับพบว่าตัวเองมีความสุขแค่ไหน<br />
นั่นทำให้ใครหลายๆ คนต้องกลับมาเยือน<br />
เกาะสมุยอีกครั้ง และอีกครั้ง<br />
WINS BEST PHOTOGRAPHY<br />
AT RENOWNED PEARL AWARDS IN<br />
NEW YORK CITY<br />
WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE RECEIVED A PRESTIGIOUS<br />
GOLD AWARD FOR BEST PHOTOGRAPHY<br />
FROM THE CONTENT COUNCIL, THE PREMIER ORGANISATION BASED<br />
IN NEW YORK REPRESENTING CONTENT MARKETERS GLOBALLY<br />
The winners of the gold, silver and bronze awards were announced on December 7th 2017 in<br />
an awards ceremony in New York City. Find out more winners at<br />
www. thecontentcouncil.org/files/galleries/Pearl_Awards_2017_Winners.pdf<br />
Published by<br />
76<br />
Scan Me
GALLERY<br />
Ending<br />
On a<br />
High Note<br />
The tradition of Chinese opera performances is fading in <strong>Thai</strong>land as the<br />
descendants of Chinese immigrants, many of whom don’t speak Chinese,<br />
lose interest in this art form. Audiences are growing smaller and older<br />
but the shows remain as colourful and dramatic as ever. Photographer<br />
Yvan Cohen captures the detailed preparation behind the scenes of this<br />
temporary setting and relates the moving stories of the performers.<br />
Words & Photos Yvan Cohen<br />
The performers are like<br />
itinerant players from a<br />
medieval era – erecting<br />
temporary stages for a few days,<br />
then dismantling them and<br />
moving on,” explains Cohen.<br />
Chinese opera is performed in<br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land by travelling troupes<br />
of players, most of whom are<br />
from the northeastern region of<br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land known as Isaan.<br />
While some of the actors are<br />
ethnic Chinese, surprisingly<br />
many are rural <strong>Thai</strong>s who<br />
do not speak the language<br />
and memorise their words<br />
phonetically to sing the operas.<br />
The images are part of a<br />
multi-year project that had the<br />
photographer covering many<br />
different troupes in different<br />
locations around Bangkok.<br />
Cohen explains that it’s a very<br />
photographic project, exploring<br />
the visual universe – which is so<br />
atmospheric of Chinese opera.<br />
“This is a parallel world<br />
where you can experience a<br />
Bangkok of yesteryear and you<br />
almost have the show to yourself.<br />
It’s just you and the ‘gods’ –<br />
partly because very few people<br />
understand what is being said.”<br />
It’s usually an outdoor stage,<br />
done in the cool of the evening in<br />
local <strong>Thai</strong> neighbourhoods.<br />
There’s a wonderful quote from<br />
one of the actors, Cohen points<br />
out as he recites the poignant<br />
statement: “We eat like pigs, sleep<br />
like dogs and dress like angels.”<br />
It’s a window into an art form<br />
that comes from way back but<br />
may not be around for much<br />
longer. “It’s a story about the<br />
shadow of a traditional culture<br />
that still lingers in the city despite<br />
rapid changes, but for how long?”<br />
A performer watches<br />
the ongoing stage action,<br />
awaiting his cue.<br />
78<br />
79
GALLERY<br />
TOP<br />
The facial makeup and<br />
exaggerated details on<br />
an opera performer’s<br />
face are painted with<br />
colours carrying<br />
different meanings.<br />
BOTTOM<br />
A Chinese opera<br />
performer goes<br />
through his<br />
makeup and stage<br />
paraphernalia<br />
while awaiting<br />
his stage turn.<br />
OPPOSITE PAGE,<br />
CLOCKWISE<br />
A performer dons<br />
comfortable clothes<br />
during a break.<br />
A close-up of the<br />
madeup face of<br />
a Chinese opera<br />
performer.<br />
Most of the<br />
performers put<br />
on their ‘look’ in<br />
makeshift and al<br />
fresco dressing areas.<br />
80<br />
81
GALLERY<br />
TOP<br />
These temporary ‘homes’<br />
may have bi-level backstage nooks<br />
and crannies to create a cosy<br />
resting place.<br />
BOTTOM<br />
Makeup styles and colours signify<br />
specific roles in the opera. For<br />
example, the application of a red<br />
face denotes bravery and loyalty.<br />
TOP<br />
Chinese opera<br />
performers<br />
backstage as they<br />
prepare for a show.<br />
A performer looks<br />
on, waiting for the<br />
signal to get back<br />
on stage.<br />
82<br />
83
GALLERY<br />
OPPOSITE PAGE<br />
TOP & BOTTOM<br />
Chinese opera is<br />
characterised by its<br />
lavish costumes,<br />
the falsetto delivery<br />
of its actors and<br />
the highly stylised<br />
presentation of its<br />
set piece stories,<br />
which are drawn<br />
from Chinese<br />
folklore.<br />
The elaborate<br />
colours signify a<br />
character’s role,<br />
including their<br />
fate, together<br />
with illustrating<br />
the character’s<br />
emotional state.<br />
THIS PAGE<br />
TOP & BOTTOM<br />
A motion-blur<br />
image of a Chinese<br />
opera performer<br />
onstage during a<br />
performance in the<br />
Chinatown area of<br />
Bangkok.<br />
A Chinese opera<br />
performer rushes<br />
onto the stage<br />
during a show in<br />
the <strong>Thai</strong> capital.<br />
84<br />
85
GALLERY<br />
TOP AND BOTTOM<br />
Close-up of the dramatic slashes of<br />
makeup worn by a Chinese opera<br />
performer.<br />
To while away the time between<br />
acts, two Chinese opera performers<br />
chat back stage.<br />
OPPOSITE PAGE<br />
Modern day distractions for two<br />
young performers of an ancient art.<br />
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER<br />
Yvan Cohen’s career as a photojournalist<br />
spans more than three decades working<br />
across Asia from his base in Bangkok.<br />
Yvan’s work has been published in a<br />
wide array of international publications,<br />
including covers for Time <strong>Magazine</strong><br />
and the New York Times for whom he<br />
worked regularly for many years. His<br />
work includes fashion, features and<br />
commissioned portraits. Yvan is also a<br />
co-founder of the LightRocket media<br />
management platform. www.lightrocket.<br />
com and www.lightrocketmedia.com<br />
For almost a decade, Yvan<br />
has been documenting Bangkok’s<br />
Chinatown community in one of<br />
the most well-preserved and<br />
atmospheric areas of <strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
rapidly modernising capital city. His<br />
images of Chinese Opera represent<br />
a significant part of this work,<br />
introducing viewers to a timeless<br />
universe that represents a direct<br />
line to an ancient theatrical art form<br />
that was transported to <strong>Thai</strong>land by<br />
Chinese migrants over a century ago.<br />
86<br />
87
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO<br />
Organically<br />
Delicious<br />
Vegetables now play a larger<br />
role in meals, with an artful<br />
preparation and taste that<br />
appeals to most diners.<br />
A culinary diversion in<br />
Koh Samui is Vikasa Life Café,<br />
whose eye-popping and<br />
colourful organic dishes<br />
taste as good as they look.<br />
BANGKOK 90 / SAMUI 92 / PHUKET & KRABI 94 / CHIANG MAI 98 / PATTAYA 100 / CHENGDU, CHONGQING & GUANGZHOU 102 / HONG KONG 104 /<br />
SINGAPORE 106 / KL 107 / SIEM REAP 108 / DANANG & PHU QUOC 110 / YANGON & VIENTIANE 111 / MUMBAI & MALDIVES 112<br />
89
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
BANGKOK<br />
of King Rama IV. Apart from the chill vibes felt<br />
when one is next to the iconic Chao Phraya River,<br />
there’s also a wide selection of eateries and design<br />
stores to enjoy. Lhong 1919 is also recognised for<br />
a renovation that preserved the original structure.<br />
Chinese mural paintings, for instance, were given<br />
the gradual touch-up with colours that were<br />
closest to the original shades. 248 Chiang Mai Road,<br />
Khlong San, facebook.com/LHONG 1919<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Turf and Surf<br />
Treat<br />
After keeping Bangkok<br />
fidgeting in high anticipation<br />
for the opening of mega-treat<br />
dining, Burger & Lobster<br />
finally launched their first<br />
venture in <strong>Thai</strong>land on the<br />
ground floor of Gaysorn Village<br />
and its second branch in<br />
Southeast Asia.<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Lhonging for the Past<br />
Since the old days, riverine<br />
areas have been hailed as the<br />
melting pot of trade, culture,<br />
and lifestyle. An appreciation<br />
for such unique features<br />
and the desire to preserve<br />
a glorious past inspired the<br />
creation of Lhong 1919. A pier<br />
and its riverside stretch along<br />
the 6-rai (2.3 acres) land has<br />
warehouses transformed into a<br />
mix-use project that retains its<br />
former structure’s aesthetics<br />
and details of ancient Chinese<br />
heritage. While the site holds<br />
a contemporary function,<br />
its history ties in with the<br />
prosperity enjoyed during the<br />
golden age of <strong>Thai</strong>-Chinese<br />
commerce during the reign<br />
From its modest beginning in a small<br />
Irish Pub in the affluent neighbourhood<br />
of Mayfair in London, the restaurant<br />
has made a delicious reputation with<br />
exceptionally made lobster rolls and<br />
more than pleasing burgers. Its Bangkok<br />
branch also boasts the special<br />
combo-sharing tower menu, which<br />
is exclusively catered to suit the <strong>Thai</strong><br />
sharing culture.<br />
facebook.com/burgerandlobsterbkk,<br />
T: +66 (0) 2656 1111<br />
ALWAYS A CLASSIC<br />
TNOP is recognised as one of the<br />
world’s leading names in the graphic<br />
design scene. Inspired by culture<br />
and its contemporary existence,<br />
the brand has recently launched<br />
the collection of Siamese Girls<br />
Notebooks. At first glance, we<br />
may be transferred back to<br />
the old days of vintage<br />
images of Siamese girls<br />
in a bold, colourful background<br />
and retro font types. But looking<br />
closely, the cover designs of these<br />
notebooks combine <strong>Thai</strong> mainstream<br />
culture with the backdrop of<br />
traditional landmarks portrayed in a<br />
humorous and stylistic presentation.<br />
tnop.com<br />
A HIT AND HIP<br />
The word JUA comes from the <strong>Thai</strong> blackjack game that means,<br />
“hit me!” The name for this restaurant and bar is a playful<br />
reference to the establishment, a former gambling house that<br />
now houses the unpretentious restaurant and bar. It’s the latest<br />
addition to Charoen Krung, a popular hangout area now casually<br />
known as “the creative district.” JUA offers a place that serves<br />
an assortment of Japanese and Korean drinking food as well as<br />
a wide collection of craft beers, wine, cocktails, sake, and spirits.<br />
Apart from the keen ambience of social gatherings and friend<br />
get-togethers, JUA is noteworthy for its design aesthetics – an<br />
ode to a combination of <strong>Thai</strong> and<br />
Japanese modernist elements.<br />
facebook.com/juabangkok,<br />
T: +66 (0) 61 558 7689<br />
CULINARY SANCTUARY<br />
Among various Middle-Eastern dining<br />
establishments in <strong>Thai</strong>land, Al Saray<br />
stands out as the venue that whips up<br />
the marvel found together in Lebanese<br />
and Indian cuisines and interpreted into<br />
one fine dining restaurant. Striving to<br />
introduce sophisticated and tasty Lebanese<br />
and Indian dishes to the palate of <strong>Thai</strong><br />
diners, Al Saray voiced a commitment<br />
to maintaining its authentic cuisine<br />
with quality ingredients that ensure all<br />
diners will be thrilled by the impressive<br />
experience to be had at Al Saray. One way<br />
to begin the culinary adventure is with<br />
hummus, which awakens the senses with<br />
its balance of garlic, acidity of fresh lime,<br />
and the drizzle of olive oil before indulging<br />
in the hearty and aromatic Grill Platter, or<br />
try their popular Indian signature dish of<br />
Butter Chicken and Naan. And to round off<br />
the meal, don’t forget to enjoy it with some<br />
Lebanese wine to complete the enjoyment<br />
of the inspiring menu. alsarayrestaurant.com,<br />
T: +66 (0) 2234 4988 DINE HIGH, REALLY HIGH<br />
In Bangkok’s mesmerising dining choices, here’s the latest<br />
addition that requires being strapped in. In what is a daredevil<br />
feat of a meal, Dinner in the Sky offers 22 thrill-seeking diners a<br />
chance to enjoy a meal close to the heavens. Dinner guests will<br />
be strapped to their seats around a dining table before being<br />
taken up in the air by a crane. Those who are not intimidated<br />
by the 50-metre height will be rewarded with the spectacular<br />
view of the Em District sparkling on Sukhumvit Road while<br />
enjoying a 4-course dinner created by Chef Gaetano Palumbo of<br />
the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. The meals cost 4,990THB for<br />
weekdays and 5,390THB for weekends. Dinners are scheduled<br />
for 6pm and 7.30pm daily and run until the end of <strong>Feb</strong>ruary <strong>2018</strong>.<br />
546 Sukhumvit Rd, dinnerinthesky.co.th<br />
90 91
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
SAMUI<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Resort to<br />
Peace<br />
Serenely hidden among swaying<br />
coconut trees, The Ritz-Carlton,<br />
Koh Samui, is the latest resort<br />
added to the island’s dossier<br />
of gorgeous hideaways and<br />
wellness retreats. This getaway<br />
to sanctuary is being praised for<br />
the remarkable combination of<br />
The Ritz-Carlton’s signature<br />
of legendary hospitality and<br />
Koh Samui’s vibrant and inspiring vibe.<br />
Exquisitely designed suites and pool<br />
villas beckon guests, as well as their<br />
exceptional recreational programmes.<br />
Not to be missed and a highlight of this<br />
oceanfront resort is the Spa Village Koh<br />
Samui, the true gem among wellness<br />
retreats. It merges the island’s ambience<br />
of pampering with an approach of<br />
soothing <strong>Thai</strong> therapies. Spa Village<br />
strives at indulging the guests and their<br />
wellness needs with its 8 treatment suites,<br />
3 outdoor massage pavilions, including a<br />
yoga pavilion, a lap pool, cabanas to<br />
relax in and a health bar.<br />
ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui, +66 (0) 77 915 777<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
An Organic Affair<br />
Vikasa Life Café is simply breathtaking for its cuisine that is a<br />
masterpiece of natural ingredients at its peak quality. The result<br />
is delicious flavours without any additives and finished off with a<br />
delightful food plating and presentation. The featured menus are a<br />
collaboration of two highly-experienced chefs: namely, Boris Lauser,<br />
Europe’s best raw food chef award winner, and Cyril Schivo, who<br />
accumulated a culinary experience that spans many countries and<br />
prestigious establishments. At Vikasa Life Café,<br />
only locally-grown products are selected from<br />
reliable organic sources to ensure the freshness<br />
and the quality of its cuisine. Our picks from the<br />
menu marvel of Vikasa Life Café include the juicy<br />
Pink Burger, with a salmon patty in a wholegrain<br />
beetroot bun and vegetable pickles, and the<br />
savoury Mango magic; a mélange of avocado,<br />
mango carpaccio and local greens dressed in a juicy<br />
mango-tamarind dressing with spiced daikon.<br />
vikasalifecafe.com, +66 (0) 77 422 232<br />
FULL FLAVOURED<br />
Award-winning restaurant Full Moon<br />
defines the combination of a chargrill<br />
restaurant amidst the authentic Koh<br />
Samui aesthetics of seaside dining. The<br />
contemporary venue sits on a stylish<br />
alfresco deck which promises the<br />
stunning view of the Gulf of <strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
shoreline and the hotel infinity pool. The<br />
menu itself is a marvellous selection of<br />
what they call ‘land and ocean.’ Ranging<br />
from freshly-caught seafood to premium<br />
imported meat from notable sources,<br />
Full Moon’s cuisine team manages to<br />
transform all these finest ingredients<br />
into a well-crafted culinary experience.<br />
After having the restaurant’s highlights,<br />
namely Lao-Inspired Beef Tartar, Full<br />
Moon Signature Roast Spatchcock,<br />
top it off with a dessert of Belgium<br />
Chocolate Naked Crème Brûlée. They<br />
are certainly ways to satisfy your<br />
desire to savour good food, coupled<br />
with creating a memorable experience<br />
as part of your dream escape on this<br />
resort island. samui.anantara.com,<br />
+66 (0) 77 428 300<br />
A SPIRITED OCCASION<br />
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Tongsai Bay, the<br />
environmentally-conscious luxe hideaway has teamed up<br />
exclusively with the Bangkok-based gin distillery Iron Balls Gin<br />
in offering specially crafted cocktails featuring Iron Balls Gin<br />
to celebrate the event. The spirit itself is meticulously distilled<br />
from freshly cracked coconuts and pineapples with hints of<br />
juniper, hillside ginger and lemongrass. The craft spirit’s brand<br />
ambassador and mixologist Carson Quinn will be creating 3<br />
special gin-based cocktails at The Tongsai Bay’s beachfront<br />
Po-Lad Beach Bistro & Bar, which also features Fever Tree<br />
premium tonics and 2 fresh and new garden-inspired cocktails<br />
with infusions and distillations made from herbs and plants<br />
directly from the hotel’s homegrown organic garden.<br />
tongsaibay.co.th, +66 (0) 77 913 750<br />
WONDROUS WELLNESS<br />
Conrad Spa Koh Samui glows with the<br />
accolade of being named Asia’s Best<br />
Hideaway Spa 2017 from the Haute<br />
Grandeur Global Hotel and Spa Awards<br />
2017, recently held in Bangkok. A<br />
prestigious recognition in the world of<br />
spas and pampering hospitality, it reflects<br />
their commitment to providing the best<br />
in wellbeing and treatment for guests.<br />
It’s all made possible with their highlyskilled<br />
therapists who’ve been striving to<br />
elevate a guest experience from vacation<br />
retreat into magical bliss. Situated atop a<br />
hill, the Conrad Spa Koh Samui offers a<br />
panoramic view of the stunning azure sea.<br />
This blissful sight translates into an equally<br />
blissful mind during spa treatments that<br />
combine traditional and contemporary<br />
techniques where guests walk away from<br />
a most exceptional spa experience.<br />
conradhotels3.hilton.com,<br />
+66 (0) 77 915 888<br />
92 93
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
PHUKET<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Phuket’s Peranakan Museum<br />
The much-awaited opening of the<br />
Peranakan Museum in old town Phuket<br />
following its renovation now presents<br />
schedules of exhibits staged across<br />
multimedia platforms. Descendants of<br />
Chinese immigrants who came to the<br />
Malay Archipelago in the 15th to 17th<br />
century, the Peranakan groups, later<br />
settled in southern <strong>Thai</strong>land, Penang,<br />
Singapore and Malaysia, creating their own<br />
cliques and culture. In Phuket, Peranakan<br />
cuisine and elaborately-detailed costumes<br />
are reasons to celebrate in style. Housed<br />
in the century-old historic Standard<br />
Chartered Bank building, the museum<br />
showcases Phuket’s glorious past when<br />
trading and mining bestowed much<br />
prosperity during the reign of King Rama V.<br />
The governor ordered the construction of<br />
the town’s first-ever commercial bank,<br />
A long-standing Muslim restaurant where locals still go<br />
and enjoy the comforting menu, Arun Pochana serves from<br />
early morning on various kinds of curries – from chicken to<br />
beef or fish. If you happen to be there during weekends, do<br />
not miss their specialty of mutton curry, too. As a southern<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> restaurant, this place also serves ‘‘khanom cheen’ or<br />
fermented rice vermicelli complete with a basket full of fresh<br />
assorted local vegetables as well.<br />
Filling favourites include roti with fried eggs, so-called<br />
1+1, 2+1 or 3+1 – referring to the number of roti per egg.<br />
If you like some sweetness to start your day, choose from<br />
their toppings such as bananas, chocolate and eggs. Their<br />
house tea is fabulous: deeply fragrant and cleansing. It’s<br />
perfect to pair with this delicious meal. Arun Pochana: Thalang<br />
Road, Phuket Old Town, open daily 7am - 5pm (except during<br />
Ramadan), T: +66 (0) 76 212 187<br />
complete with a police station<br />
on an opposite site, to provide<br />
maximum security. Now the<br />
museum building has been fully<br />
restored to its past magnificence<br />
with details of Penang design and<br />
architecture, Chinese tile roofing,<br />
and elaborate wooden windowsills<br />
and frames. Located at the corner<br />
of Phang Nga and Phuket roads,<br />
the museum is open daily (except<br />
for Mondays) from 9.00am -<br />
4.30pm. T: +66 (0) 76 211 333<br />
A HEARTY ROTI BREAKFAST<br />
If you happen to be in Phuket Old Town and are craving something hearty and local,<br />
try the Muslim-style sustenance of roti that’s fresh off the griddle and curries at the<br />
famous Arun Pochana on Thalang Road.<br />
HOUSING A LIVING MUSEUM<br />
Take an opportunity to really see the historical Sino-<br />
Portuguese shophouses that have been around in Phuket<br />
Old Town for over a century. The i46 Old Town Café on<br />
Krabi Road houses a café, restaurant and tourist information<br />
centre. It’s also an actual living museum that serves as a<br />
private home to a fourth-generation of Phuket locals. Inside<br />
the i46 Old Town Café displays show<br />
how generations of Phuket locals lived<br />
under the same roof with multiple living<br />
spaces, a main communal area designed<br />
with a ‘Chim Chae,’ an open sun-roof<br />
that allows the light in, and a big well<br />
that accumulates water during the rains.<br />
This is a real home-style café with<br />
homemade Phuket signature dishes and<br />
hearty in nature dish, along with snacks<br />
– all created by the owners. Come in for<br />
a meal or wonderful drinks and snacks;<br />
friendly conversations also on offer.<br />
Open daily (except Saturdays), 8am - 4pm,<br />
T: +66 (0) 81 895 4795, facebook.com/<br />
I46OldTown<br />
94
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
PHUKET / KRABI<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
More Raw<br />
Phuket is known for its annual<br />
Vegetarian Festival, but for<br />
year-round meatless cuisine, the<br />
island comes up quite short with<br />
comparatively limited choices.<br />
Atsumi Raw Cuisine, part of the<br />
Atsumi Detox Center, has been<br />
serving Western-style raw and<br />
vegan dishes since 2013, partly<br />
in service to those following<br />
detox retreat programmes. But<br />
now that the trend of going<br />
vegan is expanding, the place is<br />
open to any walk-ins interested<br />
in recharging their bodies with the plantbased<br />
cuisine.<br />
Raw food is all vegan, but not all<br />
vegan foods are raw foods. Raw food, as<br />
its name implies, means the food is raw<br />
or not cooked above temperatures of 40-<br />
49 C or 104-120 F. After all, chefs who<br />
prepare such foods will need to make<br />
these dishes look and taste fantastic,<br />
while keeping its organic benefits<br />
mostly untouched. Open daily: 9am -<br />
8.30pm, 99/1 Moo 7, Wiset Road, Rawai<br />
District, Phuket, T: +66 (0) 76 623 828,<br />
atsumirawcafe.com<br />
ALL ABOUT THE FOOD<br />
The three-day Phuket Food and Wine Expo<br />
will premiere on Friday, 9 March and last until<br />
Sunday, 11 March <strong>2018</strong> at the Royal Phuket<br />
Marina in Phuket. This first-ever event plans<br />
to bring together suppliers and businesses<br />
that relate to the food and wine industries<br />
from leading companies around the world.<br />
Visitors and traders alike can browse through<br />
various selections including fresh produce,<br />
drinks, wines of all types. This extends to<br />
kitchen supplies and services as well as luxury<br />
lifestyle products.<br />
Hosted by the Royal Phuket Marina,<br />
the event also features informative<br />
conferences and seminars as well as live<br />
cooking demonstrations. A farmer’s market<br />
also showcases gourmet and local cuisine,<br />
finally ending with a charity gala dinner. The<br />
organiser of this event is the Talisman Media<br />
Group (TMG), known for their food and<br />
lifestyle publications including Bangkok101.<br />
Registration is now available online for buyers,<br />
traders and visitors. For more information,<br />
visit phuketfoodandwine.com.<br />
LANTA’S ORIGINAL COMMUNITIES<br />
On every habitable island first lived local<br />
communities before the appearance of boatloads<br />
and flocks of tourists. On Lanta island, off Krabi’s<br />
shores, local Muslim communities own a unique<br />
culture that curious outside minds can get to know.<br />
Unlike most of the available tour packages, this one<br />
is arranged and managed by local Lanta folks. Most<br />
of the gained income sees fair distribution among<br />
the locals and the community who in fact are the<br />
main reasons to visit. The half-day tour to ‘Baan Thung<br />
Yipheng’ on the east side of the island features<br />
a unique Muslim-<strong>Thai</strong> community still living their<br />
natural way of life. Rich mangrove forests<br />
provide a sanctuary for sea creatures and<br />
visitors can row serenely along in old-style<br />
wooden boats and quietly observe the<br />
surroundings. A home-made lunch or dinner<br />
will also be prepared for guests by the locals.<br />
For more information, visit localalike.com<br />
for available locally-run and managed tour<br />
packages in Phuket, Krabi and Trang.<br />
96
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
CHIANG MAI<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Hippocampus Getaway<br />
Hippocampus is an escape from the<br />
chaotic city life for both the owners and<br />
their guests. The <strong>Thai</strong> couple fled their<br />
busy lives and settled on a beautiful<br />
piece of land in Chiang Dao – which<br />
offers a priceless mountain view. They<br />
first designed and built a comfortable<br />
abode and lived in the “Baan Noi (small<br />
house)” for a certain period. Now as<br />
proprietors, they offer a corner of their<br />
paradise to homestay guests.<br />
Hippocampus is a café, gallery (the<br />
male owner is an artist) and homestay<br />
rolled into one. The owners now stay<br />
in another house they have just built<br />
and the addition of another small<br />
house called “Baan Yung” has been<br />
added. Little in size yet comfortable,<br />
the wooden house was formerly a rice<br />
barn that has been renovated. Guests<br />
can come and share the beauty of<br />
nature with the two owners. It is highly<br />
recommended that you book in<br />
advance – for the reason that<br />
there are only two houses for<br />
rent but also because booking<br />
ahead allows one of them to<br />
prepare the ingredients for<br />
your meals. The food here is<br />
freshly cooked and freshly<br />
baked. Hippocampus serves<br />
a homemade breakfast and a<br />
nice gourmet coffee. Guests<br />
can stroll along the farm where<br />
people plant rice, mulberries,<br />
coffee and passion fruits,<br />
among others. There is no TV<br />
in the rooms so guests can<br />
enjoy what nature has to offer.<br />
At night, stargazers can marvel<br />
at the panoramic view of the<br />
sky – which sums up the very<br />
reason why the owners and<br />
their guests are there.<br />
334 Moo 12, Chiang Dao,<br />
Chiang Mai, facebook.com/<br />
HippocampusChiangdao,<br />
open between Thursday and<br />
Monday from 9am - 6pm<br />
BOOKISH BUFFALO<br />
A relaxing shop with great coffee and second-hand English books for children and young<br />
adults, “Bookish Buffalo” just opened in October this year. The owners are book and coffee<br />
lovers so they have filled the place with a great selection of both. Firmly believing that all kids<br />
should be encouraged to read or have access to good books, the owners bought plenty of<br />
second-hand English books from the UK and sell them at very affordable prices.<br />
The shop has comfortable bean bags for kids to<br />
spend time reading or selecting books for as long as they<br />
wish. Outdoor tables let you enjoy the mountain views,<br />
while indoor ones allow parents to spend time with their<br />
children. Named after ‘Nong Khwai’, the sub-district where<br />
it is located, Bookish Buffalo is quite close to the Chiang<br />
Mai Night Safari intersection. Located on a large field<br />
where the owners plant organic vegetables for personal<br />
consumption, they are also happy to share produce with<br />
customers at reasonable prices. It opens from 8.30am to 6pm<br />
on weekdays, but closes every Wednesday, and from 9.30am<br />
to 5pm on weekends and public holidays.<br />
facebook.com/bookishbuffalo<br />
THE SWEETEST QUALITY<br />
What’s considered popular food in<br />
Chiang Mai isn’t just all about Northern<br />
specialties. One of the lesser-known gems<br />
in the city is a street food shop called “Tao<br />
Huay Savoey.” They sell Chinese desserts<br />
like “Tao Huay” (silken tofu in ginger tea)<br />
and “Bua Loy Nam Khing” (black sesame<br />
dumplings in ginger tea) with gingko as an<br />
add-on ingredient. Prices start at about<br />
50 cents (USD) for a basic bowl and about<br />
$2 for a bowl featuring a combination of<br />
everything in ginger tea.<br />
What makes this shop stand out is<br />
the sweet tea soup which gives a strong<br />
and refreshing taste of ginger, unlike a<br />
new generation of commercially-made<br />
“Tao Huay”. Another main difference is<br />
the thinner flour wrapping for the sesame<br />
dumpling, giving it a softer bite with an<br />
authentic burst of the stuffed sesame. It<br />
opens twice a day – in the morning from<br />
6am to 9am at No. 3 Soi Sirimangalajarn<br />
and in the evening from 5.30pm to<br />
9.30pm at the mouth of Soi Sirorot off<br />
Suthep street, not so far from the morning<br />
shop. In case you can’t find the shop, call<br />
+66 (0) 86 916 9856 or +66 (0) 53 894 103.<br />
98
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
PATTAYA / TRAT<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Float Through<br />
the Mangroves<br />
Travelling to an island doesn’t<br />
necessarily mean you have<br />
to stick to beach activities all<br />
the time. Here in Koh Chang,<br />
there’s another tranquil activity<br />
available when you feel like<br />
taking a short break from the<br />
sea and sand. One of the popular<br />
options to consider to taking<br />
a boat and rowing along the<br />
mangroves. The trees grow in<br />
abundance in Koh Chang around<br />
Salak Khok Bay. Along quiet<br />
waters, visitors will be able to<br />
explore mangroves up close<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Glimpsing Van Gogh<br />
Imagine being able to view and<br />
admire world-class artworks of<br />
the masters in the busy city of<br />
Pattaya? Yes, you definitely can.<br />
The museum, Hello Van Gogh<br />
Pattaya, is the only one of its<br />
kind in <strong>Thai</strong>land that showcases<br />
the creations of Vincent Van<br />
Gogh in stunning technology.<br />
All masterpieces are presented<br />
as convergence art, projected<br />
onto large screens with highdefinition<br />
projectors. Step into<br />
the wonderful world of Vincent<br />
Van Gogh and get a retrospective glimpse<br />
into his incredible life before he became such<br />
a great artist. You can also admire works<br />
belonging to other Impressionist artists such<br />
as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne,<br />
Paul Gauguin, and many more. High-quality<br />
prints of Van Gogh and Monet paintings are also<br />
available for sale at the gallery. If all sounds<br />
interesting enough, list this place as your next<br />
destination in Pattaya now. They say that art<br />
is a balm for the soul, so take a break from the<br />
hectic pace and engage in some art appreciation.<br />
hellovangoghpattaya.com<br />
by kayak or a traditional wooden boat.<br />
This eco tour is operated by Baan Salak<br />
Khok Community Tour Club who know<br />
the area best. Feel what it’s like to float<br />
along the endless rows of mangroves<br />
and experience the way of life among the<br />
fisherfolks. These excursions also help<br />
the community earn extra money apart<br />
from their main livelihood as fishermen.<br />
So take a boat ride, reconnect with nature,<br />
and enjoy the serenity and amazing views.<br />
facebook.com/SalakKhokKayakStation<br />
AUTHENTICALLY INDIAN<br />
Feel like taking a break from seafood?<br />
If yes, go for an option that defines<br />
sophisticated dining at the Maharani<br />
Indian Restaurant that’s in the Royal<br />
Cliff Beach Hotel. A meal there involves<br />
tasting the richness of incredible Indian<br />
specialties with the added bonus of<br />
spectacular views of the Gulf of <strong>Thai</strong>land.<br />
Maharani, which means “The Queen” in<br />
Hindi, offers up the perfect combination<br />
of rich savoury dishes, superb ambience<br />
and exceptional service. Such fine details<br />
make it a unique and authentic experience<br />
with Indian cuisine. If you have no idea<br />
what to start with, the delicious and<br />
popular dishes like that of the Maharani<br />
Lamb Chop, Prawn Till Tikka and Garlic<br />
Naan send you off in the right direction.<br />
Expect to feel truly special with their<br />
service and experience Indian food at its<br />
finest, in a regal and vibrant atmosphere,<br />
as the restaurant lives up to the name as<br />
the “Queen of Indian Flavours.”<br />
royalcliff.com/restaurants/maharani<br />
OF SOUND, MIND AND BODY<br />
A shout out to people living healthy lives as they remind us it’s a good<br />
idea to revitalise our minds and nurture our bodies as frequently as<br />
possible. The Spa Koh Chang is just the right immersion into a holiday<br />
that’s tranquil and healthy. A good variety of body detoxification<br />
options are for the choosing, with three main programmes offering<br />
3-7 days of detox retreats. Each is designed to meet personal health<br />
goals, remove toxins from the body as well as a chance to direct your<br />
mind into a relaxing state. A strong emphasis at the Spa involves<br />
cleansing and re-balancing your entire body system through healthy<br />
nutrition. Check out programmes that suit your interest and just enjoy<br />
a time of detoxification while relaxing on the beautiful beaches of<br />
Koh Chang. thespakohchang.com<br />
100
HAPPENINGS<br />
CHINA<br />
CHENGDU / CHONGQING / GUANGZHOU<br />
SHINE ON<br />
The Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival as it’s called in mainland China, is<br />
celebrated all over the country with the lighting of lanterns. Chengdu has<br />
been doing it since the year 711. While in other parts of the country the<br />
festivities last one day, in Chengdu lanterns are lit for a month for the festival.<br />
The tradition originated in the Tang Dynasty, and now can be seen at Culture<br />
Park and Qingyanggong Park.<br />
Also known as Shangyuan, the Spring Festival sees families gather to<br />
appreciate the full moon, eat Yuanxiao (glutinous rice balls) and admire<br />
the lantern displays. Other main traditions of the festival include guessing<br />
lantern-themed riddles, watching fireworks, dragon and lion dances and<br />
stilt walking acts. cometochengdu.com<br />
ART NOUVEAU IN GUANGDONG<br />
The Guangdong Museum is featuring one of the fathers of Art Nouveau,<br />
the Czech painter and decorative artist Alphonse Mucha. A leading figure<br />
of the Art Nouveau style, he not only produced paintings and artwork<br />
but also many commercially used illustrations, advertisements, postcards,<br />
and designs. The exhibition’s collection of Mucha’s finest works shows a<br />
variety of materials and forms including metal sculptures, furniture, and<br />
posters. He became an instant star with a commissioned lithographed<br />
advertising poster for a play featuring actress Sarah Bernhardt in 1894.<br />
Mucha’s works are on display until 25 March <strong>2018</strong>, 9am - 5pm, 50RMB<br />
for adults, 30RMB for children. gdmuseum.com<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Guangzhou Speakeasy<br />
While speakeasies pop up relentlessly<br />
in many urban areas, Hope and Sesame<br />
distinguishes its cocktails by using<br />
high quality spirits for their inventive<br />
cocktails, including infusions using a<br />
sous vide machine.<br />
True to some speakeasies’ attempt at<br />
being mysterious and exclusive, getting<br />
to it requires walking through an alley in<br />
Dongshankou, recognising the hidden<br />
door, and passing a brief “interrogation”<br />
on the intercom before entering. The<br />
establishment is actually “hidden” behind<br />
a traditional Cantonese Café. There is a<br />
separate room with live jazz every night,<br />
the menu changes every 4 months, and each<br />
drink has been specially created. A few of the<br />
most famous signature cocktails include the<br />
Earl Grey Dark & Stormy and Angostura and<br />
Chamomile Sour (using a black chamomile<br />
from the Tibet / Xingjian region).<br />
Beyond just making drinks, the<br />
establishment has a cocktail lab, the<br />
“Spirits Kitchen,” that conducts video<br />
master classes and a tasting of premium<br />
spirits in a test kitchen setting. Here’s<br />
where customers go beyond sipping and get<br />
a chance to educate themselves on various<br />
cutting-edge techniques used at Hope &<br />
Sesame to create their signature cocktails.<br />
48 Miaoqian Xijie, Yuexiu district, Guangzhou,<br />
+86 188 1935 3462<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Bridges in Karst Country<br />
The wondrous karst landscape of<br />
Wulong National Geology Park<br />
features a range of stone bridges and<br />
deep mountain valleys in Chongqing<br />
municipality. A UNESCO World Heritage<br />
Site, the area is famous for the Three<br />
Natural Bridges as well, a naturally<br />
formed karst structure not found<br />
anywhere else in the world. A paved<br />
downhill path leads to the three stone<br />
archways and to the Tianlong Bridge,<br />
featured in the movie ‘Curse of the<br />
Golden Flower’ by Zhang Yimou. The<br />
best times to visit are in the spring,<br />
autumn and winter. Give yourself a day<br />
or two to fully explore the area and take<br />
in the natural scenery. cnto.org/<br />
unesco-sites/south-china-karst<br />
CHENGDU MUSEUMS OFFER<br />
DISCOUNTED ADMISSION<br />
Chengdu wants to be well known not only for<br />
its food, but for its deep cultural heritage. Until<br />
6 March <strong>2018</strong>, four museums in Chengdu are<br />
offering 50% off the admissions price.<br />
The four major museums offer varied takes<br />
on Chinese history and culture, and they all<br />
occupy scenic settings in Chengdu. The Wuhou<br />
Shrine Museum, itself a historical site, celebrates<br />
Chengdu’s influence during the Three Kingdoms<br />
period of the third century.<br />
Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage Museum pays<br />
homage to one of China’s most revered poets<br />
(712-770). Besides its large collection of Du Fu’s<br />
poems and other relics, the 24-acre site with<br />
green walking trails and ponds gives you a tranquil<br />
experience in honouring Chinese literature.<br />
For ancient Chinese history going back 3,000<br />
years, the Jinsha Site Museum, conveniently<br />
located in the centre of town, showcases<br />
troves of artefacts at an archaeological site<br />
unearthed only recently in 2001. The Yongling<br />
Museum, built around China’s only above-ground<br />
mausoleum of Sichuan ruler Wang Jian (847-918),<br />
commemorates the founding of Chengdu as<br />
Wang Jian’s capital during his dynastic reign.<br />
cometochengdu.com<br />
102 103
HAPPENINGS<br />
HONG KONG<br />
MELODIC MEOWSICAL<br />
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical, CATS, returns to Hong Kong once<br />
more. Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the show is<br />
widely praised for its incredible sets and entertaining characters.<br />
The musical first premiered in 1981 in London and then New York,<br />
and to date has gone on to enchant more than 81 million people in over<br />
300 cities. From 6 <strong>Jan</strong> to 4 <strong>Feb</strong>, the Jellicle Cats will make the Hong Kong<br />
Academy for Performing Arts, Lyric Theatre their home as they enthral<br />
audiences in Hong Kong once more. catsthemusical.com<br />
HORSING AROUND<br />
The world’s best show jumping riders will compete against each other at the<br />
World Asia Expo arena during the Hong Kong Masters <strong>2018</strong> from 9 to 11<br />
<strong>Feb</strong>ruary. Considered one of the top equestrian events in Asia since the 2008<br />
Olympics, the event will not only deliver a sporting spectacle for fans but also<br />
strengthen Hong Kong’s position as the equestrian capital of the region.<br />
Now in its sixth edition, the Longines Masters of Hong Kong has become<br />
an integral part of the region’s social and cultural calendar, combining heartpounding<br />
competition by the world’s top show jumping riders and horses with<br />
world-class entertainment, fashion, art and gastronomy. longinesmasters.com<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Chinese Fine Dining<br />
Considered one of Hong Kong’s best<br />
Chinese fine dining establishments,<br />
Golden Leaf has been continually<br />
recognised for its Cantonese cuisine<br />
as well as top-notch dim sum for 27<br />
years. Housed within the Conrad hotel,<br />
the restaurant has garnered numerous<br />
awards over the years and proudly<br />
claims a Michelin star under its belt.<br />
The décor of the outlet is your<br />
stereotypical high-end Chinese<br />
restaurant, adorned with lanterns,<br />
latticework screens and teak and<br />
rosewood furniture. In short, a typical<br />
place you’d find businessmen cutting<br />
deals as they dig into inventive dishes<br />
such as roasted suckling pig, prawns<br />
in Chinese wine and baked lobster<br />
with ginger.<br />
Although priding itself on<br />
Cantonese cuisine, the Golden Leaf is<br />
perhaps more famously known for its<br />
dim sum, a staple tradition in Hong<br />
Kong. The selections here are standard<br />
with siu mai, dumplings and barbequed<br />
meat, taking its place on the menu.<br />
Signature dishes include the shallowfried<br />
crispy chicken and fresh crab<br />
claw, which is served whole and on a<br />
bed of fresh steamed egg white. Open<br />
daily, 11.30am - 3pm; 6pm - 11pm, Lower<br />
Lobby Level, Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific<br />
Place, 88 Queensway, conraddining.com/<br />
en/golden_leaf<br />
ELEVATED HOT POT<br />
The hot pot is part and parcel of Hong Kong’s<br />
culture. It is a staple offering that is enjoyed by<br />
both locals as well as visitors to the city. In fact,<br />
the sight of watching friends huddled together<br />
over a table with steaming pot of simmering soup,<br />
meticulously cooking a variety of ingredients is as<br />
common as the city’s notorious traffic jams.<br />
But for a true elevated experience, few<br />
hot pot establishments can match the prestige<br />
and excellent track record Megan’s Kitchen has<br />
managed to garner. Its seventh consecutive<br />
listing in the Hong Kong Michelin Guide is<br />
proof of that. Situated in busy Wan Chai,<br />
the outlet has single-handedly elevated the<br />
concept of the hot pot with its inventive soups,<br />
accompaniments and ingredients.<br />
The 16 creative soup bases range from tomato<br />
and crab to sea clam, along with a wide choice<br />
of premium ingredients. With creations like<br />
the rainbow cuttlefish balls and cheesy beef<br />
tongue dumplings, Megan’s is the definite<br />
place to get your hot pot fix in Hong Kong.<br />
Open daily, 12pm - 3pm; 6pm - 11.30pm,<br />
5/F Lucky Centre 165-171 Wanchai Road,<br />
meganskitchen.com<br />
104
HAPPENINGS<br />
SINGAPORE<br />
MALAYSIA<br />
KUALA LUMPUR<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Sky High Dining<br />
1-Altitude has taken the concept of<br />
elevated dining to brave new heights.<br />
The 16,000 square-feet, multi-concept<br />
lifestyle destination is not only the<br />
first of its kind in Singapore - but<br />
one that is unmatched when it comes<br />
to offering breath-taking views of<br />
the city.<br />
With several restaurants and<br />
bars, this high-concept dining and<br />
meeting space, situated at the top of<br />
One Raffles Place, has been packing in<br />
visitors since 2010. Stellar is perhaps<br />
one of the most prominent outlets<br />
within this facility as it carries<br />
quintessential progressive Australian<br />
cuisine, prepared by award-winning<br />
Executive Chef Christopher Millar.<br />
As the highest restaurant in the<br />
city, Stellar aims to match the<br />
breath-taking view with delicious and<br />
contemporary meals for a heightened<br />
gastronomic experience that is<br />
currently unmatched and unchallenged.<br />
Open daily 6pm - 4am, 1 Raffles Place,<br />
Singapore, 1-altitude.com<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
KL’S Food Street<br />
Jalan Alor perhaps is the shortest answer<br />
locals will give to visitors, when it comes<br />
to the spot for tasting some of the city’s<br />
best street food. Although some scoff<br />
at the idea due to Jalan Alor being too<br />
touristy, there is no denying that this<br />
stretch of road in the heart of KL’s<br />
Golden Triangle is perhaps the best<br />
bet when it comes to experiencing the<br />
many flavours of Malaysia.<br />
Every evening from 5pm, vendors<br />
ply their trade here, dishing out<br />
signature favourites ranging from<br />
stir-fry dishes to Satay and Lok-Lok<br />
(skewers of meat dipped in hot broth).<br />
Choices are abundant but a safe bet is to<br />
always head for the stall or restaurant<br />
that has a queue outside of it.<br />
Of particular interest is Wong Ah<br />
Wah’s Chicken Wings, which serves<br />
delectable and sinfully sticky barbequed<br />
wings – arguably the one must-visit<br />
stop on this delicious stretch of tar in<br />
Kuala Lumpur. Jalan Alor, off Jalan Bukit<br />
Bintang, open daily after 5pm.<br />
UPFRONT WITH THE FLEET FOXES<br />
Grammy-nominated American indie-rock band,<br />
the Fleet Foxes are heading to KL for the very first<br />
time. The Seattle-based band first broke into the<br />
music scene in 2008 with their eponymous debut<br />
album and was hailed by Rolling Stone and Q as<br />
one of the best albums of the year.<br />
The Fleet Foxes sophomore effort,<br />
Helplessness Blues, was equally well-received<br />
– as was their recently released third album,<br />
Crack-Up, which broke into the top ten of the<br />
Billboard Charts in June 2017. The Fleet Foxes’<br />
one-night only performance at the KL Live will<br />
see the band deliver their best songs from all<br />
three albums. 16 <strong>Jan</strong>uary, ticketpro.com.my<br />
WALK WITH ARTS<br />
Since its inaugural inception in 2005, the M1 Singapore Fringe Festival<br />
has been championing the field of arts in the Garden City.<br />
This year’s event themed Let’s Walk, inspired by Singaporean artist<br />
Amanda Heng’s street performance, will see the arts fest presenting a series<br />
of progressive, exciting works from artists. Their creative work will confront<br />
audiences with questions about the body, gender, beauty and equity.<br />
The 12-day programme this year will see a range of theatrical<br />
and visual arts being held, including the Asian premiere of Displaced,<br />
a performance by Canada’s Ground Cover Theatre that depicts the struggles<br />
of three female immigrants. 17-28 <strong>Jan</strong>, singaporefringe.com/fringe<strong>2018</strong><br />
AMBASSADORS OF MUSIC<br />
For nearly five centuries, the Vienna Boys’ Choir has been a permanent fixture<br />
and an enduring icon of music in Austria. Many musicians have risen from its<br />
ranks over the years including Franz Schubert, the famous Austrian composer,<br />
who wrote his first compositions when he was with the court choir boys.<br />
The Vienna Boys’ Choir has been a fixed attraction in Austrian musical<br />
life, even performing on Sundays with members of the Vienna Philharmonic<br />
Orchestra and of the Vienna State Opera Chorus in Vienna’s Imperial Chapel.<br />
It’s a tradition kept since 1498.<br />
This <strong>Jan</strong>uary, Asian fans will not only get to experience the most<br />
beautiful and purest voices on earth but also engage with the world famous<br />
choir in various activities across Singapore. 11-15 <strong>Jan</strong>uary, svbc.sg<br />
106
HAPPENINGS<br />
CAMBODIA<br />
SIEM REAP<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Meals that Make a Difference<br />
Siem Reap, like most Southeast Asian<br />
cities, is not short on delicious food.<br />
But Spoons Café, operated by the<br />
non-profit group EGBOK, is dishing<br />
out meals with a difference. The<br />
restaurant has been garnering rave<br />
reviews for its elevated Cambodian<br />
cuisine, which infuses local street<br />
food and home style dishes with<br />
western influences.<br />
But delicious meals aside, the<br />
organisers are also helping educate<br />
the Cambodian youth by<br />
providing them a training<br />
ground to help them gain<br />
hospitality experience.<br />
Everything about Spoons<br />
Café is holistic in nature, right<br />
from its structure made with<br />
sustainable bamboo to its<br />
locally sourced ingredients.<br />
Open Tuesdays to Sundays,<br />
11.30am to 10.oopm,<br />
egbokmission.org/spoons<br />
RUNNING ITS COURSE<br />
The Angkor City Night Music Run <strong>2018</strong><br />
once again invites runners to go on an<br />
epic race through historic Siem Reap.<br />
Following the success of last year’s<br />
inaugural event, the running route this<br />
year covers the length of 5km. The path<br />
snakes its way around town, passing<br />
landmark sights and places of interest.<br />
The ‘flag off’ begins at the Hard Rock<br />
Café, with a running path that follows<br />
the ancient stream of Stung Siem Reap<br />
in town. Its waters originate from Kulen<br />
Mountain, considered a sacred spot and<br />
ancient city belonging to the 9th century<br />
– in a time before Angkor Wat.<br />
Throughout the running course,<br />
there will be various party zones set<br />
up with music and entertainment, as<br />
well as interactive stations. The event<br />
ends in Pub Street in front of the main<br />
stage, with DJs delivering their pulsating<br />
beats until 10pm. Each finisher will get a<br />
medal for their effort and proceeds from<br />
the event benefit the Children’s Hospital<br />
in Cambodia. 28 <strong>Jan</strong>uary, cambodiaamazingevents.org<br />
CAFÉ’S GREAT STORY<br />
Genevieve’s is arguably one of Siem Reap’s most<br />
popular restaurants. Located near Pub Street and the<br />
Old Market, the outlet has been dishing out highquality,<br />
Khmer/Western cuisine since 2013. The quaint<br />
yet unassuming restaurant also holds a commitment to<br />
contributing meaningfully to the lives of young people<br />
in the community.<br />
Operated by Phil Rogers, the café encourages a<br />
training programme benefitting Cambodian youth, all of<br />
whom have little or no prior knowledge or experience<br />
in hospitality. It’s still the delicious food that keeps<br />
diners coming back, especially with an eclectic menu<br />
that offers a wide array of Cambodian cuisine, as well<br />
as popular dishes. All are made, naturally, with love<br />
from local hands. Open Monday to Saturday, 12pm to<br />
9.30am, facebook.com/GenevievesRestaurant<br />
“Getaways for kids of all ages” at Raffles Cambodia<br />
Immerse yourselves in the culture and history of the Kingdom of Wonder while taking in the heritage of<br />
Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap.<br />
Create unforgettable memories for the whole family (two, three, four, or more), enjoying Cambodia’s finest swimming pools along with<br />
our fabulous Raffles Spa and lavish Raffles Afternoon Tea - a tasty treat for all.<br />
The grown-ups can also enjoy their favourite pre-dinner cocktails in the hotels’ iconic Elephant Bars, dining in style with the uniquely offered<br />
Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1967 menu in Phnom Penh and the Royal Dynasty Recipe menu in Siem Reap.<br />
Both of our landmark addresses finding the perfect balance of then and now, while delivering a fabulous getaway experience<br />
for colleagues, couples, and families - including Christmas and New Year (with fireworks in Siem Reap) celebrations.<br />
108<br />
raffles.com/phnom-penh Reservations: T +855 23 981 888 E: bookus.phnompenh@raffles com<br />
raffles.com/siem-reap Reservations: T +855 63 963 888 E: bookus.siemreap@raffles.com
HAPPENINGS<br />
VIETNAM<br />
DANANG / PHU QUOC<br />
MYANMAR / LAOS<br />
YANGON / VIENTIANE<br />
PHU QUOC PROMOS AND UPGRADES<br />
From now until 28 <strong>Feb</strong>ruary <strong>2018</strong>, book a flight to Phu Quoc with<br />
Bangkok Airways and receive a 20% discount on best available<br />
rate for the superlative rooms at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald<br />
Bay with breakfast for two. This special promotion also includes<br />
complimentary upgrade to the next room category, complimentary<br />
roundtrip airport transfer and 15% discount on food & beverage,<br />
spa and laundry service. Some basic conditions apply.<br />
For those staying somewhere else but fly to Phu Quoc<br />
on Bangkok Airways, upon presenting your boarding pass at<br />
the resort, you will get a complimentary entrance fee (value<br />
VND500,000) to experience this one-of-a-kind ‘Lamarck<br />
University’, complimentary welcome drink at Department of<br />
Chemistry, 15% discount on food and beverage and Chanterelle<br />
Spa by JW. jwmarriottphuquoc.com, T: +84 297 377 9999<br />
Photos @Congcaphe<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Communist<br />
Themed<br />
and Hip<br />
Amid modern hotels,<br />
apartments, restaurants<br />
and the spectacular Dragon<br />
bridge, a glimpse of the<br />
communist past finds new<br />
life in a chic and stylish<br />
hangout along the Han<br />
waterfront. The moment<br />
you step into Công Caphe, a<br />
Communist-themed café and<br />
restaurant, you’re stunned<br />
by details of found objects<br />
and designs, as if it were a<br />
secret hideout. Founded by<br />
Vietnamese pop singer Linh<br />
Dung, the Communist kitsch<br />
décor and atmosphere are<br />
uniquely amazing and worth<br />
posting a holiday snapshot<br />
for your social media. Packed<br />
with young residents and<br />
tourists, this great little<br />
café serves up good coffee.<br />
It’s also worth making a<br />
beeline during Tet (the<br />
Vietnamese New Year) for<br />
a Coconut Coffee Smoothie,<br />
Yoghurt Coffee or Coffee with<br />
Coconut Milk. When your<br />
caffeine craving is satisfied<br />
later in the day, Công Caphe<br />
can be the best place to stay<br />
and watch the world go by<br />
with a beer or cocktail in<br />
hand in Vietnam’s fastest<br />
changing city. From the 2nd<br />
floor of the café, customers<br />
can see a fantastic view of the<br />
Han riverfront with boats<br />
commuting up and down the<br />
river. Come after the sun goes<br />
down, choose a seat, and<br />
spend the rest of your night<br />
peacefully. congcaphe.com,<br />
T: +84 91 181 11 66<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
The Charm of Puppets<br />
For lovers of culture who learn about<br />
Myanmar traditional puppetry, it’s only<br />
natural to have an enhanced enjoyment<br />
when it comes time for the next<br />
performance. Knowing how puppetry<br />
art requires the unique expertise<br />
of skilled hands results in a greater<br />
appreciation of the craft. Htwe Oo<br />
Myanmar Traditional Puppet Theatre,<br />
AFTERNOON TEA IN A<br />
COLONIAL ATMOSPHERE<br />
Not far from Inya Lake on Saya San road<br />
stands the famous white colonial-style<br />
tea salon “Acacia Tea Salon”; one of the<br />
must-visit places in Yangon for tourists,<br />
especially tea lovers. A beautiful colonial<br />
interior and relaxing atmosphere makes<br />
it perfect for informal business meetings<br />
for lunch or dinner. Acacia Tea Salon opens<br />
from 8am to 10pm and offers all-day dining,<br />
offering a light breakfast or full courses,<br />
delicious cakes and the best tea in Yangon,<br />
in a warm and cosy atmosphere.<br />
acaciateasalon.com, T: +95 9 731 13812<br />
Ext. 554739<br />
located at No. 12 Yama Street in Ahlone<br />
Township of Yangon is one of the<br />
notable and award-winning puppetry<br />
shows in Myanmar. Advanced booking<br />
is strongly recommended, especially<br />
large groups of more than 10 people.<br />
Luckily, showtimes can be chosen<br />
beforehand but an afternoon scheduling<br />
is suggested. Get to know more about<br />
TASTE OF SINGAPORE IN YANGON<br />
Located in the compound of the Union<br />
Business Center (UBC), in Yangon, the<br />
House of Singapura has become widely<br />
known. It’s a popular stop not only among<br />
business people to work or attend meetings<br />
at the UBC building, but also among<br />
tourists as its location is not far from<br />
Shwedagon Pagoda. Once you step into<br />
the House of Singapura, you will be greeted<br />
and attended to in efficient service. The<br />
restaurant serves Singaporean favourites<br />
such as bak kut teh, Hainanese chicken<br />
rice, char kway teow, satay and desserts<br />
like ice kacang, the shaved-ice dessert of<br />
sweet corn mixed with different flavours.<br />
T: +95 9 302 58388<br />
traditional art by checking out<br />
demonstrations on the puppetmaking<br />
process. Booking in<br />
advance ensures a spot for<br />
guests who’ll learn how to<br />
handle puppet movements at<br />
basic levels and potentially<br />
advance into professional<br />
levels. htweoomyanmar.com,<br />
T: +95 9 512 7271<br />
THE FRENCH CONNECTION<br />
The French might have left Laos more than half a century<br />
ago, but their legacy remains in the presence of Vientiane<br />
haute cuisine. A fascinating newcomer is the casual chic<br />
bistro L’Adresse de Tinay (behind the temple of Wat Ong<br />
Teu; 856-20-5691-3434), run by a Lao-French couple<br />
Tinay and Delphine Inthavong. Get acquainted with dishes<br />
done the French way or swap tastes with herbal and spicy<br />
Lao delicacies with the restaurant’s diverse selection. Their<br />
seasonal and promising menu might include goat cheese rolls<br />
with sun-dried tomatoes and cherry confiture or Grandma<br />
Lydie’s Special: duck confit with a white bean and sausage<br />
cassoulet. The two-storey colonial-designed house has a<br />
friendly and relaxed atmosphere with a staff eager to help,<br />
who can often take special requests. With the number of<br />
French guests and regulars, it is quickly noticeable that<br />
L’Adresse is a firm favourite amongst<br />
those who appreciate French cuisine.<br />
Open daily from 5pm - 10.30pm,<br />
T: +856 20 56 913 434<br />
110<br />
111
HAPPENINGS<br />
INDIA / MALDIVES<br />
MUMBAI / MALDIVES<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Museum Magic<br />
Mumbai’s premier museum,<br />
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu<br />
Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) is hosting a<br />
collaborative showcase of ‘India and<br />
the World: A History in Nine Stories’,<br />
in association with London’s British<br />
Museum and New Delhi’s National<br />
Museum. The exhibition covers two<br />
million years of history through more<br />
than 200 artefacts from the three<br />
museums. One hundred and twenty<br />
four iconic pieces from the British<br />
Museum are on display in Mumbai<br />
SPA UTOPIA<br />
A Maldivian approach to an ultimate experience<br />
happens at the One & Only Spa where treatments<br />
at this nature resort come with top notch aesthetics<br />
within its relaxing vibe.<br />
Here, the body and the mind can rejoice<br />
and be revitalised by heavenly pampering from<br />
the spa’s signature treatments, namely One &<br />
Only Reethi Sun Ritual Treatment (2 hours) for<br />
a healthy glow of your already sun-kissed skin,<br />
for the first time in this unique<br />
exhibition, including inscriptions,<br />
tools, paintings, sculptures, and more.<br />
The exhibition showcases the common<br />
threads of human history through<br />
evocative stories. It will be open till<br />
<strong>Feb</strong>ruary 18, <strong>2018</strong>. csmvs.in<br />
ART ATTACK<br />
What happens when 40 Indian and international<br />
artists are given free rein over the city’s fishing<br />
harbour? The historic Sassoon Docks has been<br />
revitalised into a new art precinct with the<br />
recently held St+Art Mumbai Urban Art Festival.<br />
Beautiful murals now grace its walls, many of<br />
them depicting Mumbai’s original inhabitants<br />
– the koli or fisherfolk – in a tribute to the life<br />
of Sassoon Docks. Once the festival ends, the<br />
vibrant murals remain to be enjoyed by all. The<br />
Yok & Sheryo’s Varuna Vessel mural connects<br />
the fishing culture with South Asian mythology<br />
while Fearless Collective transforms a brightly<br />
coloured golden wall into a backdrop for<br />
stories of koli women, and Guido Van Helten’s<br />
photorealistic murals adorn an entire façade of<br />
the docks. st-artindia.org<br />
ON YOUR PLATE<br />
Go on a journey on the Grand<br />
Trunk Road at Taftoon Bar &<br />
Kitchen, which recently opened<br />
at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC),<br />
Mumbai’s corporate enclave.<br />
Named after the aromatic, saffron<br />
and cardamom infused Persian<br />
bread, Taftoon is an ode to the<br />
flavours of Asia’s oldest road.<br />
The cuisine covers everything<br />
from Kabul to Kolkata, with<br />
stopovers in Kashmir, Delhi,<br />
Lucknow, and Bihar. There are<br />
succulent kebabs, slow-cooked<br />
meats, pulaos, and regional<br />
vegetarian fare on offer. Another<br />
new BKC restaurant is the Goan-<br />
Portuguese inspired O Pedro, from<br />
the folks at The Bombay Canteen.<br />
Its vaulted ceiling, pale blue walls,<br />
and colonial Portuguese-style<br />
décor complement the fun Goa<br />
vibe perfectly. Try the coastal<br />
favourite Beryl’s Fish Curry<br />
with Sannas or the Seafood<br />
Cataplana (a Portuguese<br />
seafood stew). The warm poee<br />
(sourdough bread) with choriz<br />
butter is inspired, as is the Veal<br />
Tongue Prosciutto. Desserts<br />
range from the Goan Bebinca<br />
to the Portuguese Pastel de<br />
Nata (egg custard tarts).<br />
Taftoon Bar & Kitchen, Naman<br />
Centre, Unit No.2, C-31 & C-32,<br />
G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex,<br />
Mumbai, +91 22 26530255,<br />
O Pedro, Unit No. 2, Plot No. C-68,<br />
Jet Airways-Godrej Building, Bandra<br />
Kurla Complex, Mumbai<br />
and there’s also a Pre and Post Natal Treatment<br />
(45 minutes) for the well-being of pregnant and<br />
nursing mothers. For the complete One & Only<br />
Spa experience, guests are recommended to<br />
arrive 45 minutes in advanced to indulge in the<br />
exclusive spa facilities ranging from the Vitality<br />
Pool, Crystal Steam Room, or the sauna sip their<br />
signature hot drinks.<br />
oneandonlyresorts.com<br />
112
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 116 / AIRCRAFT INFO 125 / ROUTE MAP 126 / AIRPORT MAP 128<br />
115
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS<br />
INTRODUCING OUR<br />
NEWEST AIRLINE PARTNER,<br />
QATAR AIRWAYS<br />
Recently, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited<br />
is pleased to announce the launch of its frequent<br />
flyer programme collaboration with codeshare partner,<br />
Qatar Airways. Effective 1 November, 2017 FlyerBonus<br />
members can begin earning and redeeming<br />
FlyerBonus points on eligible Qatar Airways flights.<br />
Similarly, members of Qmiles, Qatar Airways’<br />
Frequent Flyer Programme, can also start earning<br />
and redeeming their miles when travelling on<br />
Bangkok Airways flights to some of South East<br />
Asia’s most popular destinations including Samui,<br />
Krabi, Phuket, Luang Prabang, Danang and Phu<br />
Quoc via Bangkok.<br />
FlyerBonus, the Frequent Flyer Programme of<br />
Bangkok Airways, is all about easy earnings and fast<br />
rewards. Lifestyle and rewards go hand in hand; no<br />
matter whether you're flying, renting a car, shopping<br />
or staying at a hotel – FlyerBonus points can be<br />
earned. It translates into award flights, hotel stays<br />
and an array of exclusive programme partner deals<br />
instantly and conveniently. For more information,<br />
please visit www.flyerbonus.com<br />
1. Mr. Jirapon Hirunrat, Vice President – Fleet and Network Management , Bangkok<br />
Airways (3rd from Left) 2. Mr. Terence Yu, Country Manager – <strong>Thai</strong>land & Myanmar,<br />
Qatar Airways (2nd from Left)<br />
เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ<br />
จำกัด (มหาชน) หรือสายการบิน<br />
บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส และสายการบิน<br />
กาตาร์ แอร์เวย์ส ประกาศความ<br />
ร่วมมือด้านรายการสะสมไมล์<br />
(Frequent Flyer Programme)<br />
โดยเริ่มตั้งแต่วันที่ 1 พฤศจิกายน<br />
2560 เป็นต้นไป สมาชิกรายการ<br />
สะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์โบนัสของ<br />
บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส จะได้รับคะแนน<br />
สะสมเมื่อเดินทางกับสายการบิน<br />
กาตาร์ แอร์เวย์ส<br />
ฟลายเออร์โบนัส คือ รายการสะสมคะแนน<br />
ของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส เพื่อมอบ<br />
สิทธิพิเศษและสิทธิประโยชน์ให้แก่สมาชิก<br />
มากมาย อาทิ สะสมคะแนนจากการบิน,<br />
บริการเช่ารถ, ช้อปปิ้ง หรือเข้าพักในโรงแรม<br />
ชั้นนำก็สามารถได้รับคะแนนสะสมเพื่อแลกของ<br />
รางวัล เช่น ตั๋วเครื่องบิน, โรงแรม และข้อเสนอ<br />
พิเศษจากพันธมิตรอีกมากมาย นอกจากนี้<br />
การสมัครเป็นสมาชิกรายการสะสมคะแนน<br />
ฟลายเออร์โบนัสยังไม่เสียค่าใช้จ่ายใดๆ<br />
สามารถค้นหาข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมได้ที่<br />
www.flyerbonus.com<br />
THANK YOU TO OUR<br />
FLYERBONUS<br />
HALF-MILLION MILER!<br />
CELEBRATING THE 1,000 TH<br />
FLIGHT OF A TRUE<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS<br />
FREQUENT FLYER<br />
A heartfelt event was recently held<br />
by the FlyerBonus programme of<br />
Bangkok Airways, led by Mr. Prote<br />
Setsuwan, Vice President for Marketing,<br />
along with the esteemed presence<br />
of Mrs. Darunee Debavalya, Senior<br />
Director – Customer Satisfaction<br />
and Relationship Management. The<br />
occasion acknowledged Mr. Perasit<br />
Charoanviriyapap, a FlyerBonus<br />
member who has flown one thousand<br />
flights, or more than half a million<br />
miles, since joining in 2006. To express<br />
gratitude, Bangkok Airways gave<br />
Mr. Peerasit a Business Traveller Set<br />
from famed Jim Thompson Fabrics<br />
(aka the King of <strong>Thai</strong> Silk.) The items<br />
were monogrammed for the<br />
honoured frequent flyer in the<br />
familiar blue colour representing<br />
the Bangkok Airways brand.<br />
เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส<br />
โดยคุณพรต เสตสุวรรณ รองกรรมการ<br />
ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ ฝ่ายการตลาด และ<br />
คุณดรุณี เทพวัลย์ ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโส<br />
ส่วนบริหารความพึงพอใจและความสัมพันธ์<br />
ลูกค้า ร่วมแสดงความยินดีกับคุณพีรศิษฐ์<br />
เจริญวิริยะภาพ สมาชิกฟลายเออร์โบนัส<br />
ที่เดินทางกับสายการบินฯ ครบ 1,000<br />
เที่ยวบิน หรือเป็นระยะทางรวมกว่า<br />
500,000 ไมล์ในพิธีมอบของที่ระลึกเพื่อ<br />
เป็นเกียรติแก่สมาชิกฯ<br />
สำหรับของที่ระลึก "Traveller Set"<br />
ประกอบด้วยของใช้ส่วนบุคคล 5 ชิ้น ซึ่ง<br />
ทีมงานสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สและ<br />
ทีมออกแบบของจิม ทอมป์สัน หรือที่รู้จัก<br />
กันในนาม “ราชาผ้าไหมไทย” ได้ร่วมมือ<br />
กันคัดสรรวัสดุที่ดีที่สุดมาผลิตด้วยขั้นตอน<br />
แบบ Hand Made โดยใช้โทนสีฟ้า ซึ่งเป็น<br />
สีของสายการบินฯ และเพิ่มความพิเศษคือ<br />
การปักชื ่อบนงานทุกชิ้นเพื่อสร้างความ<br />
ประทับใจให้แก่ผู้รับ<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS’ FLYERBONUS PROGRAMME ORGANISES<br />
AN EXCLUSIVE TRIP TO MUMBAI AND AURANGABAD<br />
FlyerBonus, Bangkok Airways’ Frequent Flyer programme, recently<br />
organised an exclusive trip for top-spending FlyerBonus Premier<br />
Members and their companions. Over the course of 5 days and<br />
3 nights, Premier Members experienced the vibrant charms and<br />
myriad styles of Indian culture, as well as the wonders of the<br />
Ajanta and Ellora Caves. The official presenter for Bangkok Airways,<br />
Ms. Urassaya Sperbund, also joined the trip.<br />
Enrol now to jumpstart your travel rewards with FlyerBonus<br />
Points and enjoy exclusive privileges at<br />
www.bangkokair.com/flyerbonus<br />
รายการสะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์โบนัส นำสมาชิก<br />
ฟลายเออร์โบนัสระดับพรีเมียร์ กลุ่ม Top Spender<br />
พร้อมผู้ติดตาม เดินทางแบบเอ็กซ์คลูซีฟ 5 วัน 3 คืน<br />
สู่มุมไบ-ออรังกาบัด สัมผัสกับเสน่ห์ทางวัฒนธรรม และ<br />
ความอลังการของพุทธสถานสำคัญอย่างถ้ำอชันต้า และ<br />
ถ้ำเอลโลร่า โดยมีญาญ่า อุรัสยา เสปอร์บันด์ พรีเซ็นเตอร์<br />
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ร่วมเดินทาง<br />
สมัครเป็นสมาชิกรายการสะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์<br />
โบนัสเพื่อรับสิทธิประโยชน์ได้ที่เว็บไซต์<br />
www.bangkokair.com/flyerbonus<br />
116<br />
117
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS<br />
“BANGKOK AIRWAYS LANNA MARATHON”<br />
– ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL RUN IN THE BANGKOK AIRWAYS<br />
BOUTIQUE SERIES 2017<br />
Recently, Bangkok Airways Public<br />
Company Limited organised the<br />
“Bangkok Airways Lanna Marathon,”<br />
whose starting point took place at<br />
the Chiang Mai International<br />
Exhibition and Convention Centre.<br />
The event was part of the Bangkok<br />
Airways Boutique Series 2017<br />
and attended by thousands of<br />
running enthusiasts.<br />
Mr. Kridhakorn Sirabhabhoj,<br />
Senior Director – Marketing<br />
Communication of Bangkok Airways<br />
stated that, “the Bangkok Airways<br />
Lanna Marathon is the fifth event<br />
in our Bangkok Airways Boutique<br />
Series 2017 programme and was<br />
organised to promote tourism<br />
and sporting events in Chiang<br />
Mai. Participating runners had a<br />
chance to experience the unique<br />
Lanna culture as the run took<br />
them around the outskirts of the<br />
city with a route designed to<br />
include both flat and cross-country<br />
segments, complemented with<br />
the Bangkok Airways’ signature<br />
boutique touches.”<br />
"The Bangkok Airways Lanna<br />
Marathon offered runners 4<br />
different categories: the Fun<br />
Run (5 kilometres), the Mini<br />
Marathon (10 kilometres), a Half<br />
Marathon (21.5 kilometres)<br />
and a Full Marathon (42.195<br />
kilometres), and attracted over<br />
4,800 runners from around<br />
the world," Mr. Kridhakorn<br />
indicated.<br />
Other marathon destinations<br />
in the Bangkok Airways Boutique<br />
Series 2017 include Trat (Koh Chang),<br />
Koh Samui, Phuket, Chiang Rai,<br />
Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son.<br />
เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนายกฤตธกร<br />
สิรภาพจน์ ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโส ส่วนสื่อสารการตลาด จัดงาน<br />
“บางกอกแอร์เวย์สล้านนามาราธอน” หนึ่งในหกรายการวิ่งของ<br />
“บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส บูธีค ซีรีย์ 2017” ณ บริเวณศูนย์ประชุมและ<br />
แสดงสินค้านานาชาติ จังหวัดเชียงใหม่ โดยมีนายปวิณ<br />
ชํานิประศาสน์ ผู้ว่าราชการจังหวัดเชียงใหม่ เป็นประธานในพิธีเปิด<br />
พร้อมนักวิ่งทั้งชาวไทยและชาวต่างชาติกว่า 4,800 คน เข้าร่วมงาน<br />
นายกฤตธกร สิรภาพจน์ ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโส ส่วนสื่อสาร<br />
การตลาด สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส กล่าวว่า “งานบางกอก<br />
แอร์เวย์สล้านนามาราธอน เป็นรายการวิ่งรายการที่ 5 ของบางกอก<br />
แอร์เวย์ส บูธีค ซีรีย์ 2017 ที่จัดขึ้นเพื่อส่งเสริมการท่องเที่ยวและ<br />
การกีฬาในจังหวัดเชียงใหม่ โดยนักวิ่งจะได้สัมผัสกับอีกหนึ่งแง่มุม<br />
ของวัฒนธรรมล้านนา กับเส้นทางวิ่งนอกตัวเมืองเชียงใหม่ที่ได้<br />
รับการออกแบบมาเป็นอย่างดี ระหว่างเส้นทางเรียบบนถนนและ<br />
การวิ่งครอสคันทรี พร้อมผสมผสานกับกลิ่นอายความเป็นบูธีค<br />
ในแบบฉบับของบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส”<br />
“สำหรับการแข่งขันรายการนี้แบ่งออกเป็น 4 ประเภท ได้แก่<br />
แบบฟันรันและแบบมินิมาราธอน ระยะทาง 5 และ 10 กิโลเมตร<br />
แบบฮาล์ฟมาราธอน ระยะทาง 21 กิโลเมตร และแบบมาราธอน<br />
ระยะทาง 42 กิโลเมตร โดยมีนักวิ่งทั้งชาวไทยและชาวต่างชาติให้<br />
ความสนใจเข้าร่วมงานกว่า 4,800 คน” นายกฤตธกร กล่าวเสริม<br />
รายการวิ่งบางกอกแอร์เวย์สล้านนามาราธอน ถือเป็น<br />
รายการที่ 5 จากทั้งหมด 6 รายการของ “บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส บูธีค<br />
ซีรีย์ 2017” ที่จัดขึ้นใน 6 จุดหมายปลายทางของสายการบินฯ<br />
ตลอดปี 2560 ได้แก่ ตราด (เกาะช้าง) เกาะสมุย ภูเก็ต เชียงราย<br />
เชียงใหม่ และแม่ฮ่องสอน<br />
118
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS<br />
JOINING THE<br />
“ENGLISH CLUB<br />
WITH BANGKOK<br />
AIRWAYS”<br />
ON KOH SAMUI<br />
Bangkok Airways, led by Mrs.<br />
Chanthip Thongkanya – Vice<br />
President, Office of the President,<br />
recently organised an “English<br />
Club with Bangkok Airways.” The<br />
educational activity was meant<br />
to inspire and encourage students<br />
on Koh Samui to practise English<br />
in their daily lives. Held at the<br />
grand ballroom of Samui Palm<br />
Beach Resort in Koh Samui, the<br />
event was attended by the airline’s<br />
official presenter and <strong>Thai</strong><br />
actress Yaya Urassaya Sperbund,<br />
local government officials, Bangkok<br />
Airways representatives and<br />
more than 120 Samui students.<br />
Mrs. Chanthip Thongkanya,<br />
Vice-President, Office of the<br />
President of Bangkok Airways<br />
said that “Bangkok Airways, an<br />
organisation that uses English<br />
on a daily basis, understands the<br />
need for the <strong>Thai</strong> youth to learn<br />
how to effectively use the English<br />
language. Thus we organised this<br />
CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility)<br />
activity, the ‘English Club with<br />
Bangkok Airways,’ to inspire<br />
and encourage students from<br />
schools around Samui Airport<br />
to take a greater interest in<br />
learning English through fun and<br />
engaging activities."<br />
The English Club with Bangkok<br />
Airways activity is one of the CSR<br />
1. Mr. Noppadol Khawmali, Permanent Secretary, Samui (5th from left) 2. Ms. Urassaya Sperbund, Actress<br />
(6th from left) 3. Mrs. Chanthip Thongkanya, Vice President - Office of the President (6th from right)<br />
4. Mrs. Nongyao Jirandorn, Director of the Samui Office, Tourism Authority of <strong>Thai</strong>land (5th from right)<br />
5. Mrs. Nutchayathorn Nutsudanijvipa, Director Samui Airport (4th from right)<br />
programmes by Bangkok Airways,<br />
allowing airline staff, partners,<br />
children and community members<br />
to come together for the<br />
betterment of society. “The activity<br />
has been held for two years now,<br />
previously taking place in the<br />
provinces of Sukhothai, Trat and<br />
Koh Samui (Surat Thani),”<br />
Mrs. Chanthip added.<br />
Students who participated in<br />
the English Club with Bangkok<br />
Airways come from Wat Plai<br />
Laem School, Wat Buntrikkaram<br />
School and Wat Bang Raksa<br />
School. The students described<br />
the event as an ‘amazing time<br />
learning English,’ with fun-filled<br />
activities including word games<br />
involving guessing, hinting and<br />
pairing – along with storytelling<br />
in English by Yaya Urassaya.<br />
เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนางจันทร์ทิพย์<br />
ทองกันยา รองกรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ สำนักกรรมการ<br />
ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ จัดกิจกรรม “English Club with Bangkok<br />
Airways” เพื่อส่งเสริมและสร้างแรงบันดาลใจให้กับเยาวชนบน<br />
เกาะสมุยให้เห็นถึงความส ำคัญของการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษในชีวิตประจ ำวัน<br />
โดยมี ญาญ่า อุรัสยา เสปอร์บันด์ ตัวแทนจากหน่วยราชการท้องถิ่น<br />
ตัวแทนผู้บริหารและพนักงานของสายการบินฯ พร้อมนักเรียน<br />
จากโรงเรียนรอบสนามบินสมุยกว่า 120 คน เข้าร่วมกิจกรรม<br />
ณ ห้องประชุมใหญ่ โรงแรมสมุยปาล์มบีช เกาะสมุย<br />
นางจันทร์ทิพย์ ทองกันยา กล่าวว่า “บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ในฐานะ<br />
องค์กรต้นแบบที่มีการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษเพื่อการสื่อสารในการปฏิบัติ<br />
งานและชีวิตประจำวัน เล็งเห็นถึงความสำคัญของการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษ<br />
ของเยาวชนรุ่นใหม่ที่กำลังจะก้าวขึ้นมาเป็นกำลังของชาติในอนาคต<br />
อันใกล้นี้ จึงจัดกิจกรรม ‘English Club with Bangkok Airways’ ขึ้น<br />
เพื่อสร้างแรงบันดาลใจและกระตุ้นให้เยาวชนที่อยู่ในพื้นที่รอบสนามบิน<br />
สมุยมีความสนใจในการเรียนรู้ภาษาอังกฤษผ่านทางกิจกรรมที่มี<br />
ความสนุกสนานและเข้าใจง่าย”<br />
“กิจกรรมนี้ถือเป็นหนึ่งในโครงการรับผิดชอบต่อสังคมของ<br />
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สในการนำกลุ่มเยาวชน ชุมชน พนักงาน<br />
ผู้บริหารของบริษัท และภาคีเครือข่าย มารวมตัวกันเพื่อทำ<br />
กิจกรรมเพื่อสังคม โดยจัดขึ้นติดต่อกันเป็นปีที่ 2 แล้วในจังหวัด<br />
สุโขทัย ตราด และสุราษฎร์ธานี (เกาะสมุย) ซึ่งเป็นจังหวัดที่ทาง<br />
บริษัทฯ เข้าไปดำเนินกิจการสนามบินและมีเส้นทางบินตรงให้<br />
บริการ” นางจันทร์ทิพย์ กล่าวเสริม<br />
กิจกรรมดังกล่าวได้รับความร่วมมือจากโรงเรียนวัดปลายแหลม<br />
โรงเรียนวัดบุณฑริการาม และโรงเรียนวัดบางรักษ์ ซึ่งเป็นโรงเรียน<br />
โดยรอบสนามบินสมุย โดยนักเรียนที่เข้าร่วมจะมีโอกาสได้เรียนรู้<br />
และพัฒนาทักษะการใช้ภาษาอังกฤษผ่านกิจกรรมทายคำศัพท์<br />
ใบ้คำศัพท์ เกมจับคู่คำศัพท์ พร้อมกิจกรรมเล่านิทานภาษา<br />
อังกฤษโดยญาญ่า อุรัสยา<br />
120
AIRCRAFT INFO<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS OPERATES FOUR TYPES OF AIRCRAFT<br />
AIRBUS A319<br />
NUMBER OF FLEET : 14<br />
NUMBER OF DUAL CLASS :<br />
4 (Business & Economy)<br />
NUMBER OF SINGLE CLASS :<br />
4/4 (Economy)<br />
LENGTH : 33.84 m<br />
WINGSPAN : 34.1 m<br />
HEIGHT : 12.17 m<br />
ENGINE : IAE V2500<br />
CRUISING SPEED : 920 km/h<br />
PASSENGER CAPACITY :<br />
12 seats & 108 seats<br />
PASSENGER CAPACITY :<br />
138/144 seats<br />
MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :<br />
39,800 ft<br />
AIRBUS A320<br />
NUMBER OF FLEET : 9<br />
LENGTH : 37.57 m<br />
WINGSPAN : 34.1 m<br />
HEIGHT : 12.17 m<br />
ENGINE : IAE V2500<br />
CRUISING SPEED :<br />
870 km/h<br />
MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :<br />
39,800 ft<br />
PASSENGER CAPACITY :<br />
162 seats<br />
•••••<br />
ATR 72-500<br />
NUMBER OF FLEET : 6<br />
LENGTH : 27.17 m<br />
WINGSPAN : 27.06 m<br />
HEIGHT : 7.65 m<br />
ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp<br />
Pratt & Whitney<br />
Canada PW127F<br />
CRUISING SPEED :<br />
509 km/h<br />
MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :<br />
25,000 ft<br />
PASSENGER CAPACITY :<br />
70 seats<br />
ATR 72-600<br />
NUMBER OF FLEET : 9<br />
LENGTH : 27.166 m<br />
WINGSPAN : 27.050 m<br />
HEIGHT : 7.72 m<br />
ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp<br />
Pratt & Whitney<br />
Canada PW127M<br />
CRUISING SPEED :<br />
509 km/h<br />
MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :<br />
25,000 ft<br />
PASSENGER CAPACITY :<br />
70 seats<br />
OUR SCHEDULE FLIGHTS AND FREQUENCY<br />
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS<br />
Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai :<br />
Numerous flights every day from a variety of destinations<br />
Chiang Mai : 1 flight per day from Phuket ;<br />
1 flight per day from Koh Samui<br />
Chiang Rai : 3 flights per day from Bangkok<br />
Hat Yai :<br />
1 flight per day from Phuket<br />
Koh Chang/Trat : 3 flights per day from Bangkok<br />
Krabi : 4 flights per day from Bangkok ;<br />
1 flight per day from Koh Samui<br />
Lampang : 3 flights per day from Bangkok<br />
Mae Hong Son : 2 flights per day from Chiang Mai<br />
Pattaya : 1 flight per day from Phuket ;<br />
1 flight per day from Koh Samui<br />
Sukhothai : 3 flights per day from Bangkok<br />
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS<br />
Chengdu : 4 flights per week from Koh Samui<br />
Chongqing : 3 flights per week from Koh Samui<br />
Danang : 1 flight per day from Bangkok<br />
Guangzhou : 1 flight per day from Koh Samui<br />
Hong Kong : 2 flights per day from Koh Samui<br />
Kuala Lumpur : 1 flight per day from Koh Samui<br />
Luang Prabang : 2 flights per day from Bangkok<br />
Malé :<br />
1 flight per day from Bangkok<br />
Mandalay : 1 flight per day from Bangkok ;<br />
1 flight per day from Chiang Mai<br />
Mumbai : 1 flight per day from Bangkok<br />
Nay Pyi Taw : 6 flights per week from Bangkok<br />
Phnom Penh : 6 flights per day from Bangkok<br />
Phu Quoc : 4 flights per week from Bangkok<br />
Siem Reap : 5 flights per day from Bangkok<br />
Singapore : 2 flights per day from Koh Samui<br />
Vientiane : 1 flight per day from Bangkok<br />
Yangon : 4 flights per day from Bangkok ;<br />
1 flight per day from Chiang Mai<br />
125
126 127
AIRPORT MAP<br />
LEVEL 4<br />
DEPARTURES<br />
LEVEL 3<br />
TRANSFER COUNTER<br />
LEVEL 2<br />
ARRIVALS<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS AT SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT, BANGKOK<br />
CONGRATULATIONS TO<br />
BLAINE HARRINGTON III<br />
GRAND PRIZE WINNER<br />
FOR HIS PHOTO OF THE ZOJILA PASS,<br />
WORLD IN FOCUS PHOTO COMPETITION<br />
featured this photo in our article,<br />
“Dangerous Beauty”<br />
(May/June 2017 issue)<br />
Exposing the sheer beauty of the Zojila<br />
mountain pass and the risks it poses, the<br />
image is both captivating and dramatic.<br />
Look out for more eye-catching<br />
photography in ,<br />
Bangkok Airways inflight magazine.<br />
Published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd.<br />
FOR ADVERTISEMENT:<br />
Ms. Daruni Klaprapchon (Guitar)<br />
087-929-6611<br />
Guitar@mpmith.com<br />
Mr. Reza Bizmark (Bob)<br />
082-446-9192<br />
Reza.bizmark@mpmith.com<br />
Scan Me<br />
Domestic Baggage Claim<br />
Customs<br />
Oversize Baggage Claim<br />
Security Screening<br />
Departures<br />
International Baggage Claim<br />
Meeting Point<br />
Left Baggage<br />
Waiting Area<br />
Airport Information<br />
Toilet<br />
Immigration<br />
Airline Lounge<br />
128
CHECKING OUT<br />
Real Hot<br />
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province<br />
in China, was the first Asian city that<br />
UNESCO bestowed the title of “City of<br />
Gastronomy.” It’s the birthplace of many<br />
culinary traditions and a major dining<br />
destination for prominently fiery foods<br />
like their hot pot or the global favourite<br />
– kung pao chicken. These dishes owe<br />
their popularity to a standout ingredient:<br />
that of the aromatic and intense Sichuan<br />
peppercorn that’s best sampled in its<br />
place of origin.<br />
We offer sincere<br />
apologies to our<br />
readers. <strong>Fah</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>’s<br />
November/December<br />
2017 issue mistakenly<br />
featured a photo of<br />
Angthong National<br />
Marine Park in our<br />
Checking Out page<br />
instead of Phu Quoc<br />
island in Vietnam.<br />
นิตยสารฟ้าไทยขออภัยท่านผู้อ่านอย่างสูง<br />
ต่อความผิดพลาดที่เกิดขึ้นในคอลัมน์<br />
Checking Out ในหน้า 146 ประจำฉบับ<br />
เดือนพฤศจิกายน/ธันวาคม พ.ศ.2560<br />
ที่มีการตีพิมพ์รูปภาพหมู่เกาะอ่างทอง<br />
แทนภาพเกาะฟู้โกว๊ก ประเทศเวียดนาม<br />
จึงขออภัยมา ณ ที่นี้<br />
130