Fah Thai Magazine May June 2018
Read FAH THAI MAGAZINE Online! Fah Thai is the inflight magazine of Bangkok Airways. We also come in a digital format. You can read us at Fahthaimag.com
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MAY- JUN 2018
IN A SHAN STATE OF
COFFEE
BANGKOK ART WORLD’S
NIGHTS OUT
SAMUI’S GOOD
DEEDS
VANN MOLYVANN:
PROLIFIC AND PROMINENT
COMPLIMENTARY COPY
OVERTURES
FEATURES
16 WHAT’S UP
Raise your hands up in the air for
Dua Lipa’s Asian tour. In Cambodia,
raise your eyes to the sky for the
Rocket Festival, among the many
regional events.
20 YOUTHFUL BEAUTY
Armed with the right rejuvenating
products, keep everyone guessing
your real age. Our beauty experts
share their list.
22 TIED TO STYLE
Polka dots or stripes? There’s no
need to get tied up in knots in the
search for the right tie to match the
outfit and the occasion.
24 GIVE CHIANG RAI A TRY
Seek out a gleaming white temple,
climb scenic hills and know more
about the wicked history of the
opium trade in this northern town.
28 TO YOUR HEALTH
Make roselle your drink of choice
as the myriad benefits of this plant
include anti-oxidant and freeradical
properties.
32 DEALS ON WHEELS
Thailand’s street carts remain a
reliable source of nourishment and
snacks. With no two carts alike, we
show you the differences.
44 PARADISE
GAINED
Lovers of Samui are not
just visitors but local
residents who make sure it
stays a paradise.
50 ANTHROMORPHIC
TALES
In a commissioned work
for Gucci, a Thai illustrator
takes to flights of fancy
with animal characters.
60 FOR THE LOVE OF
ARCHITECTURE
We seek out Phnom Penh’s
heritage architecture and
modernistic buildings
designed by the late
visionary Vann Molyvann.
70 MYANMAR BEAN
TOWN
Pyin Oo Lwin in Myanmar,
while known for its
colonial past, creates
contemporary history as a
coffee-producing area.
78 NIGHTS IN ART
It’s an active year in art for
Bangkok as the city preps for
major art shows, including
the debut of two biennales.
Roving photographer Jesper
Haynes is out on the town
capturing the art crowd.
60
Vann
Molyvann’s
Legacy of
Landmarks
6
7
HAPPENINGS
CORPORATE
A selection of relevant events around Asia.
90 BANGKOK
92 SAMUI
96 KRABI / PHUKET
100 CHIANG MAI /
CHIANG RAI
101 PATTAYA /
KOH CHANG
102 CHINA
104 HONG KONG
106 SINGAPORE
107 KUALA LUMPUR
108 BATTAMBANG /
PHNOM PENH /
SIEM REAP
110 DANANG /
HANOI /
PHU QUOC
112 LUANG
PRABANG /
YANGON
114 MALDIVES /
MUMBAI
118 NEWS
Bangkok Airways announces collaborations
and winners.
127 AIRCRAFT INFO
128 ROUTE MAP
CHECKING OUT
130 YANGON
The city’s strong spiritual flow lives
alongside its modern city feel.
This month’s cover:
Illustrator
Phannapast
Taychamaythakool
features her
signature work of
whimsical animals
drawn in vivid and
elaborate detail.
78
Bangkok’s
Artful
Statements
8
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Welcome on board our Bangkok Airways flight.
Currently, the world faces unpredictable weather
conditions – from seasonal changes to severe climate
changes. Because of this, I believe it’s crucial for all of
us to make our health a priority. For that reason, we’d
like to introduce and encourage everyone to engage
in sporting activities, such as the “Bangkok Airways
Boutique Series 2018” marathon running series,
held throughout the year of 2018 in seven different
Bangkok Airways destinations. Furthering our health
and sports initiative is our latest cooperation with
Borussia Dortmund, one of the most successful
football clubs in Europe, which allows us to leverage
our branding cooperation and tap into the larger market
in Asia. With this partnership, we see the benefits
of education and the creation of opportunities; so
together with Borussia Dortmund, Bangkok Airways
is planning to organise a special football coaching
programme for our Thai youth. Other collaborations
extend to many educational institutions such as
Bangkok University and Mae Fah Luang University
with the launch of “Bangkok Airways Open House,” a
campaign that reaches out to interested youth with
career goals in the hospitality or aviation industry.
Another important milestone for us includes
expanding the airline networking partnership. Recently,
Bangkok Airways announced a codeshare partnership
with three leading airlines, namely EL AL Israel Airlines,
Lao Airlines and Oman Air, to strengthen networks and
provide passengers more convenient and seamless
access to popular travel destinations both in Thailand
and neighbouring countries.
On behalf of Bangkok Airways, I would like to
give sincere thanks to all passengers flying with us.
We truly hope you receive an experience you’ll find
impressive and convenient wherever the travel may
be. We are determined to delivering better service,
and ultimately the best, for our passengers again in
the future. Thank you.
ยินดีต้อนรับผู้โดยสารทุกท่านสู่การบริการของ
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส
ช่วงนี้อากาศเปลี่ยนแปลงบ่อย ไม่ว่าจะเป็นผลมา
จากภาวะโลกร้อนหรือเป็นเพราะการเปลี่ยนแปลงตาม
ฤดูกาลก็ตาม ผมคิดว่าการรักษาสุขภาพให้ดีเป็น
สิ่งสำคัญ เราจึงมุ่งส่งเสริมกิจกรรมด้านการกีฬาอย่าง
ต่อเนื่อง เพื่อให้ทุกท่านมีสุขภาพร่างกายที่แข็งแรง อาทิเช่น
การจัดแข่งขันวิ่งมาราธอน “บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส บูทีค ซีรีย์
2018” ที่จัดขึ้นใน 7 จุดหมายปลายทางของสายการบินฯ
ตลอดปี 2561 และล่าสุด ได้มีการประกาศความร่วม
มือเป็นพันธมิตรกับ สโมสรโบรุสเซียดอร์ทมุนด์ หนึ่งใน
สโมสรฟุตบอลที่ประสบความสำเร็จมากที่สุดในยุโรป
นอกจากความร่วมมือทางการตลาดแล้ว เรายังมองเห็น
ถึงความสำคัญของการสร้างโอกาสและสนับสนุน
องค์ความรู้ทางด้านกีฬาให้แก่เยาวชนและผู้ที่สนใจ
ซึ่งถือเป็นหนึ่งในกิจกรรมเพื่อสังคมที่เราให้ความส ำคัญ
ตลอดมา โดยได้จัดกิจกรรมฝึกทักษะกีฬาฟุตบอล
ให้กับเยาวชนร่วมกับทางสโมสรฯ อีกทั้งยังมีโครงการ
“เปิดบ้านสอนน้อง” ที่เปิดโอกาสให้กับเยาวชนที่มี
ความสนใจ และมีเป้าหมายที่จะทำงานในธุรกิจการ
บริการ และการบิน โดยเราได้มีการลงนามบันทึก
ความร่วมมือทางการศึกษาและพัฒนาบุคลากรกับ
หลายสถาบัน อาทิ มหาวิทยาลัยกรุงเทพ มหาวิทยาลัย
แม่ฟ้าหลวง ฯลฯ
อีกหนึ่งก้าวสำคัญของบางกอกแอร์เวย์สคือ
การขยายเครือข่ายพันธมิตรสายการบิน โดยล่าสุด
เราได้มีการลงนามข้อตกลงในการให้บริการเที่ยวบิน
ร่วมกับอีก 3 สายการบินชั้นนำ ได้แก่ สายการบิน
แอล อัล อิสราเอลแอร์ไลน์ ลาวแอร์ไลน์ และ
โอมานแอร์ เพื่อเป็นการสร้างเครือข่ายความร่วมมือ
ทางการบินให้มีความแข็งแกร่งยิ่งขึ้น อีกทั้งยัง
อำนวยความสะดวกให้กับผู้โดยสารในการเดินทาง
เชื่อมต่อไปยังแหล่งท่องเที่ยวที่มีชื่อเสียงทั้งใน
ประเทศไทยและประเทศเพื่อนบ้านอีกด้วย
ผม ในนามของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส
ขอขอบคุณผู้โดยสารทุกท่านที่เดินทางกับเรา และ
หวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งว่าท่านจะได้รับความสะดวกสบาย
และประทับใจในการบริการของเรา เราจะยังคงมุ่งมั่น
พัฒนาการบริการให้ดียิ่งๆ ขึ้นต่อไป ขอบคุณครับ
กัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ
Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth
กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ | President, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited
10
IS THE
GOLD WINNER
PEARL AWARD
2017
BEST PHOTOGRAPHY
BANGKOK AIRWAYS PUBLIC
COMPANY LIMITED
99 Mu 14, Vibhavadi Rangsit Road,
Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok
10900, Thailand
www.bangkokair.com
ADVISORY BOARD
Mr. Prote Setsuwan
Vice President - Marketing
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Vice President - Ancillary Revenues
Mr. Kridhakorn Sirabhabhoj
Director - Advertising and Creative
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Manager - Branding and Creative
Mrs. Rattanaporn Sa-Nguanjangwong
Business Services - Ancillary Revenues
PUBLISHER
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Bangna, Bangkok 10260, Thailand
Tel. +66 2744 4975
Fax. +66 2744 5271
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Chaovanee Ajanant
Email: chaovanee@mpmith.com
EDITORIAL
Email: editorial@fahthaimag.com
Editorial Director Somtawin Chanyawong
Editor-in-Chief Anutra Ungsuprasert
Senior Editor Nawa Acosta Wright
Deputy Editor Sarita Urupongsa
Contributors
Chalotorn Payomyol
Chusri Ngamprasert
Jeremie Schatz
Nawarat A Wright
Nicola Hil
Passakorn Hongthong
Phoowadon Duangmee
Prachi Joshi
Richard Augustin
Ron Emmons
Sarita Urupongsa
Sirin P Wongpanit
Sophia Natasia Powell-Schaffer
Susan Field
Thawat Tangtienchai
Photo Editor Thewin Chanyawong
Contributing Photographers
Jesper Haynes
Kay Choomongkol
Lesley Fisher
Permboon Wongpanit
Ron Emmons
Sang-arun Champawan
Thawat Tangtienchai
Wichit Kongsiangsung
ART
Creative Director JyeShen Koo
Graphic Designer Pongtorn Khaoplag
Contributing Stylist Saranya Ariyakul
Contributing Illustrator Arthit Limpong
PRODUCTION
Colour Separation: Soontorn Film
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Tel: +14 0790 3500
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“FAH THAI” is the in-flight magazine of Bangkok Airways Public Company
Limited and is edited and published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd. All articles and
photographs published herein are created by the authors and photographers
at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of the
airline. Bangkok Airways holds no responsibility or liability arising out of the
publication of such articles and photographs.
All information correct at press time. All rights reserved. No part of this
magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in
any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Bangkok
Airways Public Company Limited and MPMI Group Co., Ltd.
Cover Illustration: Courtesy of Phannapast Taychamaythakool
12
ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS
Crafting Coffee
As a beloved Thai beverage,
coffee always had its own
artisanal movement. Street
carts keep the tradition alive,
with minimal equipment to
produce that caffeine kick.
NEWS AND EVENTS 16 / BEAUTY AND HEALTH 20 / STYLE 22 / THAILAND TREASURES 24 / A TASTE OF THAILAND 28 /
FRUITFUL FINDS 30 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 32 / CHECKED IN 36
15
OVERTURES
NEWS AND EVENTS
1-8MAY
2018
ASIA
DUA LIPA ‘THE SELF-TITLED TOUR’
British songstress Dua Lipa made quite an
impact during her debut performance in Asia
back in 2017. This month, the singer/model
returns to enthral her fans with a solo show
with major performances in several Asian cities
including Hong Kong (1 May), Kuala Lumpur
(3 May), Singapore (4 May), Seoul (6 May) and
Tokyo (8 May).
Dua Lipa’s ‘The Self-Titled Tour’ will see the
artiste perform her hit singles that made her
one of the most exciting and most streamed
British female artist in recent history proven by
her five 2018 Brit Award Nominations.
Dua Lipa exploded on the scene last
year with her hit song, “New Rules”, which
topped the charts in the UK. Riding the wave
of popularity, she followed-up with several
popular singles such as “IDGAF”, “Scared to
be Lonely” and “Blow Your Mind (Mwah)”.
dualipa.com
4-8MAY
2018
LAOS & ISAAN, THAILAND
ROCKETS FOR RAIN
In Laos and the northeastern provinces
of Thailand like Yasothon and Roi Et, no
aerospace engineer is needed to make rockets
fly. Spectators will gather to see the master
creators of rockets, typically monks with skilled
knowledge of gunpowder and a good sense of
motion in space that’s more than enough to
send the rockets hurling upwards to the skies.
Now the much-loved rocket festival or
“Boun Bang Fai” returns to the Lao paddy fields
– where home-made rockets will be launched.
For visitors travelling to Laos in May and June,
there’s a good chance you may happen upon
the festive and colourful rocket processions.
The festival marks the annual growing
season in Laos, as the monsoon season is
expected in June. Ahead of the ploughing
period, the farmers send up the rockets
skywards to please and remind the God of Rain
to send enough to nourish the paddy fields.
Lao folks leave their routine work a few
days before the launch day. Then led by local
monks, who are counted on for genius rocket
engineering, gunpowder gets put inside a long
pipe before firing them in the empty field.
The smaller rockets are fancier in the way
they shoot up into the heavens while the
large ones don’t even look like they’re capable
of flight. The higher the rockets go, say the
locals, the more rain will come down. But it’s
no guarantee every rocket shoots upward
as the God of Rain may have the last word.
tourismlaos.org, tourismthailand.org
2018
12MAY
HO CHI MINH
RUNNING HAPPY WITH COLOURS
Think of India’s Holi festival, a 5k fun run and
dance party mixed into one day for a “messy
weekend” in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. La
Vie Color Me Run is uncompetitive fun, and
a most colourful running race. Runners start
the event in white clothing, but by the end of
it become a kaleidoscope of colours having
run, danced and walked through different
zones where they’re pelted with vivid corn
starch-based powders. There will be no hard
feelings of being a loser mingling in the air. The
unclocked run has no winners or prizes, but
runners are showered with coloured powder at
stations along the way. At the ‘finish line,’ the
runners become party-goers and are rewarded
with a DJ-anchored dance. colormerun.vn,
runsociety.com
MID-MAY
2018
KRABI
CHAO LAY BOAT FESTIVAL
Lanta island in Krabi is the place where you
can observe an ancient sea ritual still carried
out by Urak Lawoi natives of the island. The
Aboriginal Malay people of Urak Lawoi has
been living in the islands of Phuket and Krabi,
and for centuries they have maintained their
lives circling around the seas with open ocean
fishing. It is not then a surprise that they
would carry on colourful rites and celebrations
at the beginning of each year’s fishing season.
Loi Ruea (Floating Boats) festival takes place
twice a year during the 13th to 15th day after
the full moon of the sixth month or middle of
May this year. In this elaborate event where
visitors can witness heavily decorated fishing
boats — real ones and models — that fishermen
make especially for this celebration meant to
ward off all the bad spirits that might affect
their fishing efforts and work throughout the
year. These ‘floating boats’ can also be seen
as a smart solution for fishermen to test the
conditions of the waters. The event brings
back family members that might have moved
further out and here they’ll gather, even for a
few days during the celebration, as a way to
catch up and strengthen rare clan ties.
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Krabi,
T: +66 (0) 89 201 7985, tourismthailand.org
26-27 MAY
2018
&
2-3 JUN
2018
SINGAPORE
WATER DRAGONS
The sport of Dragon Boat racing dates back
to ancient China. Today, it is a sporting race
widely practised in Asia and renowned for
instilling teamwork, dedication and team
coordination. Singapore, in owing to its large
Chinese community, will once again celebrate
this grand sport with the Dragon Boat Festival,
which takes place at several venues across the
island nation.
Bedok Reservoir and Kallang River will
host several races in May and June but most
eyes will be fixed on DBS Marina Regatta.
Held against the backdrop of the Gardens
by the Bay, the DBS Marina Regatta, which
is backed by the Singapore Dragon Boat
Association (SDBA), will serve up a carnivallike
atmosphere as teams take to the water
to compete for honour and glory. Marina Bay,
Singapore, sdba.org.sg
1-7JUN
2018
CHIANG MAI
INTAKHIN CITY PILLAR FESTIVAL
Inthakin is a Chiang Mai city pillar believed
to be first erected by King Mangrai when the
city was founded in 1296. The sacred pillar
was moved from its original place at Wat
Inthakin to Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai’s
city centre in the 1800s. Each year, Chiang
Mai celebrates the incoming rainy season by
worshipping this sacred monument. After
a period of droughts and dry spells, locals
welcome the lusher climes with colourful
celebrations and major merit-making at the
temple. Wishes for a good year ahead abound
as the rains approach, meaning a bountiful
rice crop and healthy harvest. The best spot
to witness this long-time tradition is at Wat
Chedi Luang where hundreds of people will
attend the event either in a formal procession
or as families and individuals. This Brahman
tradition usually last seven days beginning
with ‘Tam Bun Khan Dok’ or flower-blessing
rituals to be followed by dancing, music
performance, carnival games and street fairs.
Wat Chedi Luang, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai,
Tourist Hotline 1672, tatcontactcenter.com/en
16 17
OVERTURES
NEWS AND EVENTS
NOW
GUANGZHOU
NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL
Guangzhou’s Baiyun International Airport
plans to open its new terminal by May 2018.
At a cost of $2.7 billion US Dollars, the new
terminal supports Guangzhou’s goal to rival
Hong Kong as an international air hub and
economic centre in the Guangdong region. The
new terminal is projected to handle around 45
million passengers annually by 2020 and 100
million by 2025. Growth trends suggest that
the airport, now ranked 13th internationally
for airport size, will soon overtake Hong Kong,
currently in the 8th spot. baiyunairport.com,
+86 20 3606 6999
9-11
MAY
2018
HONG KONG
FINE DINING SHOWCASE
Foodies and gourmands will want to pay a
visit to the inaugural Gourmet Asia 2018. Part
tradeshow and exhibition, the event will serve
up a delicious array of high-end speciality food,
drink as well as hospitality equipment. Although
Gourmet Asia’s main intention is to deliver a
platform for the F&B industry to show off their
latest ingredients, products and technologies,
the event also provides visitors and culinarians
an opportunity to sample exclusive food
products and items.
One of the main highlights of the event will
be the Gourmet Tasting Restaurant, which will
showcase a mixture of local chefs, talents and
international award winners. The pop-up styled
eatery will serve a speciality menu prepared
exclusively by award-winning talents from the
culinary field for a truly extraordinary gourmet
tasting experience. Hong Kong Convention and
Exhibition Centre, gourmetasia.com
2018
29MAY
CAMBODIA
VISAK BOCHEA DAY
The end of May sees Cambodians and many
people in Southeast Asia celebrating one
of the most important days of the Buddhist
Calendar – Visak Bochea in Khmer or Visakha
Bucha Day in Thai.
Commemorating the birth, enlightenment
and death of Buddha, Visak Bochea Day will
see temples across the country come alive with
candle processions and people offering food,
alms and flowers in order to make merit.
A national holiday, the festivities begin in
the early hours of the morning in temples and
pagodas with prayer as well as the offering
of food and sweets to monks. The grandest
celebration of Visak Bochea Day takes place
in Oudong Mountain, located some 40km
away from Phnom Penh, where a golden urn
containing the relics of Buddha is kept. For visitors,
this celebration offers a unique opportunity to
experience the culture and people of Cambodia
up close. tourismcambodia.com, tourismthailand.org,
Tourist Hotline 1672
18
OVERTURES
BEAUTY AND HEALTH
SPOTLIGHT
Tricks and Treats
If there’s ever been a moment
or two when you wish to hide
something, go ahead. Make-up
tricks and rejuvenating colours
can bring on a more youthful
look, and our tips below
are yours to learn. All you
beauties out there can use
concealing techniques that
hide evidence of less sleep the
night before.
Here are some new tools
for your makeup kit plus goto
tips when you want that
ageless glow. So yes, turn the
clock back a bit!
STOCKISTS
Benefit
MF Siam Paragon
Tel +66 (0) 2610 7773
Bobbi Brown
GF Zen
Tel +66 (0) 2613 1462
Chanel
MF Siam Paragon
Tel +66 (0) 2610 7685
BOI-ING
HYDRATING
CONCEALER 3.5G
FROM BENEFIT
(900 Baht)
This concealer stick is
infused with vitamin E
and apple seed extract
to keep your skin
hydrated for up to six
hours while leaving a
natural-looking sheer
finish.
GALIFORNIA BRUSH 5.0G FROM
BENEFIT (1,250 Baht)
A sunny, golden pink blush that blends a
bright shade of pink with shimmering gold,
for a sun-kissed glow; complementing all
skin tones.
NAIL POLISH 11ML
FROM BOBBI
BROWN
(650 Baht)
A long-lasting nail
colour with a high-shine
gloss. This polish dries
to a hard finish and
stays put.
LE VERNIS NEON
NAIL COLOUR
13ML FROM
CHANEL (1,050 Baht)
A long-wearing nail
polish bursting with
intense, vibrant colours
and a neon finish. With
its extra fine, ultra
shiny formula, each coat
offers an even, smooth
and lacquered result.
PUNCH POP
LIQUID LIP
COLOUR 7ML
FROM BENEFIT
(800 Baht)
This liquid lip colour
combines vibrant hues
with a shiny finish to
create the perfect blend
for lip colours that pop.
It glides on smoothly and
contains vitamin E that is
known for softening lips.
WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTO SANG-ARUN CHAMPAWAN
Candy Crush
Tired of the usual when it comes to your
everyday makeup? When you have a
strong desire to break the monotony of
dark colours and banish the boredom of an
unexciting pallette of pale faces, be bold
and give these soft and lively colours a try.
VELVET MATTE LIP PENCIL
2.4G FROM NARS
(1,050 Baht)
Every colour virtually works on
everyone. Paired with soft eye
colours, even the darkest or
brightest shade of on your lips
create a striking makeup look
on its own.
MARIMEKKO X CLINIQUE
POP LIP COLOUR +
PRIMER 3.8G FROM
CLINIQUE (850 Baht)
From design house, Marimekko,
vibrant patterns and cheery hues
on offer for a limited time only
and colour stays true,
making your lips feel
moisturised for up to
8 hours.
PURE COLOR ENVY LIP
PALETTE 1.5G/EACH FROM
ESTEE LAUDER (1,900 Baht)
Sculpt your lips with moisturising
colour and transform your look with 6
sweet shades from provocative plum
to powerful pink and subtle rose.
SKIN VEIL BASE DOT CUSHION
SPF 14 PA++ 15G FROM LANEIGE
(1,200 Baht)
The Cushion now comes with
ingredients from the
Waterbank Essence
acting as natural
moisturising agents
that maintains
the optimum
moisture balance in
your skin.
METAL CRUSH EYESHADOW
2.8G FROM KAT VON D (900 Baht)
Glides smoothly across the lids,
saturating them with beautiful
metallic pigments to bring a shock of
metallic colour to your eyes.
MARIMEKKO X
CLINIQUE POP
SPLASH LIP GLOSS
4.3ML FROM
CLINIQUE
(850 Baht)
Smile brightly with
this collection of next
generation glosses
that combine a pop of
colour with a splash of
hydration, providing
exceptional moisturise
for all-day comfort.
PATENT SHINE 10X NAIL
LACQUER VERNIS 11ML FROM
BUTTER LONDON (730 Baht)
The innovative formula is loaded
with ingredients proven to promote
brighter, stronger and healthier nails
for the best-dressed look.
SWEET GLAMOUR
EYESHADOW PALETTE
0.5OZ FROM ZOEVA
(1,109 Baht)
A mix of matte and
shimmering for dreamy
daytime looks. Playful yet
glamorous, this poetic
palette offers a romantic
array of pastel shades as
light as thistledown.
Tips
NAKED SKIN COLOR
CORRECTING FLUID
6.2G FROM URBAN
DECAY (1,200 Baht)
Correct imperfections and
play up your best features
– all without having to lug
around a whole contour kit.
Go easy – If you have dark circles or some
sun spots, dot a tiny bit of concealer on the
inner corners of your eyes or on those spots,
not just random places on your face. The more
skin you can leave alone, the better.
Lighten up – Tinted moisturisers with
luminescent particles or lightweight liquid
foundations are best for lined skin.
Open your eyes – Curling your eyelashes and
adding a little glimmery shadow as a highlighter
are the easiest things you can do to make your eyes
look bigger and best of all, younger-looking.
Warm it up – A neutral rose colour applied
to the lips and the apples of the cheeks flatters
all skin tones and really brightens it up.
Nail it well – This is one of the classic
shades that we could never get enough and
considered to be the best anti-aging colour.
That’s the ever-so-popular red! Let the bright
shade take attention away from skin blemishes,
putting the focus instead on your shiny, bright
manicure.
STOCKIST
Sephora 2F Central Embassy, Tel +66 (0) 2160 5817-8
20
21
OVERTURES
STYLE
WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLE SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTOS SANG-SRUN CHAMPAWAN
Tie It On
The key to looking dapper in men’s ties lies in
deliberate choices, like hand selecting a pattern
to complement the outfit. Choosing a tie with
care, especially one that goes with an existing
wardrobe, will be easier in establishing that
sharp-edged, selected look. Prints and polka dots
look livelier and possess a more unique touch
compared to solid colours, yet remain appropriate
for most business occasions.
FOR HIM
POLKA
DOT SILK TIE
WITH WOVEN
TEXTURE FROM
MASSIMO
DUTTI
(2,550 Baht)
STOCKISTS
➋ FLORAL
PRINTS SILK/
COTTON TIE
FROM MASSIMO
DUTTI
(2,550 Baht)
Massimo Dutti
Central World, 1F, Tel +66 (0) 2646 1465
➌ RAINBOW
BIRD PRINTS
SILK TIE FROM
PAUL SMITH
(6,500 Baht)
➍ BLUE OCEAN
PRINTS SILK
TIE FROM PAUL
SMITH
(5,900 Baht)
➎ BEACH
COCONUT
TREE PRINTS
SILK TIE FROM
PAUL SMITH
(6,500 Baht)
Paul Smith
Siam Paragon, MF, Tel +66 (0) 2610 9770-1
FOR HER
WALLET WITH
DURABLE COTTON
CANVAS AND
LEATHER TRIM
FROM MCM
(10,900 Baht)
STOCKISTS
➋ PINK VELVET
HEELS WITH GREY
SATIN AND ROCK-
COLOUR ELAPHE
FROM FENDI
(37,000 Baht)
Fendi
Siam Paragon, MF, Tel +66 (0) 2610 9287
➌ TEEN WITCHES
CHARM WITH
MINK FROM
FENDI
(29,500 Baht)
➍ CAN EYE
METAL OVERSIZE
SUNGLASSES
SQUARE SHAPE
WITH WHITE
STUDS FROM
FENDI (20,300 Baht)
MCM
Emquartier, GF, Tel +66 (0) 2003 6016
➎ CROSSBODY
BAG WITH FINEST
SPANISH LEATHER
AND ICONIC LOCK
FROM MCM
(18,900 Baht)
A Colourful
Touch
Adding a pop of colour can bring on
life and the magic touch to complete
your look. Enhancing colours found
in accessories or the latest heels can
be eye-catching, definitely drawing
attention so you can be fearless in the
pursuit of colour.
22
23
OVERTURES
THAILAND TREASURES
Translation Chusri Ngamprasert Photos Courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand
Chiang Rai:
The Destination
for All Seasons
Many people tend to
think of Chiang Rai as
a winter haven. In fact,
the northern province of
Chiang Rai is a destination
for all seasons. Here is a
noteworthy list for a trip
that’s good all year round.
Witness the unique beauty of Thai
architecture at Wat Rong Khun.
Decorated with silver-coloured-glass,
you’ll see the fascinating all-white temple
as designed by a Thai artist. Take time
to see the display of elaborate murals and a
separate art gallery with a showcase of fine
paintings. The temple and the art gallery are
open daily from 8am to 5pm.
If you’re someone who loves the active
participation of agro-tourism and adventure
travel, add Singha Park to your itinerary.
Boasting various floras spanning over 8,000
rai (2,300 acres) of land, Singha Park offers
numerous beautiful sceneries and a wide variety
of activities. Enjoy farm tours, biking or get up
close to the animals from the African continent,
such as giraffes, zebras, and Watusi cows.
Venture high up on the mountain of
picturesque Doi Tung, where three must-visit
places include the royal villa, Phra That Doi
Tung and Mae Fah Luang Garden. For the
coffee aficionado, Café Doi Tung is the place
to test the body and aroma of highland
Arabica coffee cultivated in Chiang Rai.
Drop by the Doi Tung Lifestyle Shop, with
their varieties of products, made by ethnic
minorities and people working in the Doi
Tung Development Project. These include
hand-woven products such as apparel,
accessories, and home décor, ceramics and
mulberry paper products.
On the cliff of Phu Chi Fa, the spectacular
views of the valley and sea of mist at sunrise
are mesmerising. Phu Chi Fa Forest Park
is about 1,200–1,628 metres above sea
level, so the weather is mild all year round.
During wintertime, visitors and campers flock
there to enjoy the winter retreat, the sea of
Opposite Page, Left
and Above
The beautiful
all-white creation
of Wat Rong Khun’s
exterior and interior
designed by a Thai
artist, Chalermchai
Kositpipat.
Opposite Page,
Bottom Left
Up close with
the animals at
Singha Park
Left
Spectacular flora at
Mae Fah Luang
Garden, Doi Tung
24
25
OVERTURES
THAILAND TREASURES
Photo Nophadol Kanbua
clouds at sunrise and the white beauty
of wildflowers (the orchid tree) in full
bloom around the peak of Phu Chi Fa.
A camping ground is available – in town
and very close to the summit.
Chiang Rai’s wealth of scenery is
endless. From the vantage point of Sop
Ruak, at the confluence of the Ruak
and the Mekong Rivers, you can see
the Golden Triangle where the borders
of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos meet.
Consider a boat trip, it’s an enjoyable way
to appreciate the scenery of the Mekong
River and the infamous Golden Triangle.
Souvenir shops along the walkway
offer up clothing, accessories and other
keepsakes. The Golden Triangle gained
Top
On clear days,
visitors are
rewarded with
spectacular views
of mountains
shrouded in mist.
Bottom Left and Right
At Sop Ruak, you can
see the countries of
Laos and Myanmar
while standing
on the Thailand
side, visible at the
confluence of the
Mekong and
Ruak Rivers.
Tranquil spots
and less populated
areas invite
exploration at the
Golden Triangle area.
notoriety for being an opium-producing
area. Here, you’ll learn more about the
opium’s history; its origins, the Opium
Wars, as well as see opium smoking kits
and instruments used in the opium trade
from around the world.
Chiang Rai and the rest of Thailand
offer plenty of places to explore. Please
don’t let weather be a deterrent. Come
rain or shine; well-prepared travellers will
surely have a blast.
For more information, contact Tourism
Authority of Thailand (TAT) Chiang Rai
Office, Tel: +66 (0) 53 717 433,
+66 (0) 53 744 674-5
26
OVERTURES
A TASTE OF THAILAND
Red Positive
When wandering the streets in Thailand, you’ll encounter street vendors with
pushcarts of colourful herbal drinks. The bright red roselle juice is sure to be one
of the choices. This drink, with a sweet and sour flavour, is the best option when it
comes to replenishing one’s body from thirst and fatigue. Resourceful vendors mix
roselle juice together with the jujube fruit for an even better taste and additional
health benefits.
The traditional Thai herbal drink boasts a great number of healthful advantages,
namely its high content of vitamin C, a natural anti-oxidant known to help with
improving blood quality, an ability to reduce cholesterol levels, as well as lowering the
risk of diabetes. Importantly, a roselle drink contains anthocyanins and polyphenols,
with the former possessing high levels in its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory
properties. Studies claim that the anthocyanin levels can stop irregular cancer
cells from expanding. For women, the drink is interesting knowledge as it can fight
against free radicals and slow down the aging process, thanks to the presence of
polyphenols. However, be careful not to drink too many glasses as roselle works a bit
like a laxative!
The whole plant itself can be used for further medicinal purposes,
contributing to greater benefits. The calyx – which forms around the seedpod –
when consumed can reduce fatty deposits in arteries while the young leaves
are favoured by local Thai people as vegetable side dish. The stem also serves as a
utilitarian purpose; it can be turned into fibre to make rope.
Ingredients
• 150g. of roselle
(fresh or dried ones)
• 4 cups of water
• ½tbs, refined salt
• 1 cup of sugar
• Small ice cubes
• Roselle calyxes
(to decorate)
Instructions
WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA
Wash the roselle with water, avoid
removing the calyxes. Put the roselle into
an empty pot.
Pour water in the pot over the plant,
leaving it at a medium flame until it boils.
Lower the heat and continue simmering
for 15 to 20 minutes. The roselle drink,
with its beautiful red colour forming,
is almost ready.
With its lowered temperature on
the stove, add sugar and salt. Continue
simmering the liquid a bit so that the salt
and sugar melts and produces a wellbalanced
flavour.
Once done, filter only the liquid. Keep
the pot partly covered with the lid as you
drain. Set aside the rest of the roselle in a
bowl as it is edible.
Let the drink cool down a bit, add ice
cubes, and top the glass with the calyxes.
28 29
OVERTURES
FRUITFUL FINDS
A Gem
Among Fruits
The papaya, with its deep and rich colour,
holds many benefits. Easy enjoyment of its
smooth and butter-like interior just requires
a smooth slice.
WORDS CHUSRI NGAMPRASERT PHOTO KAY CHOOMONGKOL
With its vivid orangeness, a ripe
papaya fruit is a real gem of the
tropics. Even Christopher Columbus
called it the “fruit of the angels”.
Served chilled with yoghurt, or a
simple slice and just a squeeze of
lime are some of the best ways to
enjoy its refreshing perks.
Papaya, known as Pawpaw in
Australia and New Zealand, is ubiquitous
in Thailand. Also native to southern
Mexico and Central America, the
Spaniards centuries ago took the papaya
seeds from the coasts beyond Panama
to Manila and then Malacca. Today it is
cultivated throughout the tropics.
Papaya is an excellent source
of vitamin C, folate, potassium, dietary
fibre, vitamins A, E and K and papain,
an enzyme which helps digest
proteins. In the ancient Mayan
civilisation, the people honoured the
papaya tree and called it the “Tree of
Life”. The Mayans eat papaya to help
with digestion and use it as a paste to
heal a skin rash or other skin problems.
Hawaiian and Mexican are two
popular varieties of the papaya
fruit. Both are pear-shaped, but
the Hawaiian papaya tends to be
smaller, sweeter and easier to harvest.
Traditionally, papayas are grown from
seeds, so the plants are not always
true to their parents. In Thailand,
the fruits have been evolving, and
the four most popular varieties are
Khaek Dum (green and crisp when
unripe, yet red when ripe), Khaek
Nuan (a hybrid from Khaek Dum,
crunchy when green and sweet
when ripe with an orange-red flesh),
Holland (also known as Red Maladol
from the Mexican variety, crisp
and sweet when ripe) and Sai Nam
Phueng (extremely sweet when ripe
but tends to be mushy).
While many parts of the world
don’t consume raw green papaya,
Thais enjoy it as much as when it’s
ripe. The famed Som Tam, a salad
made from unripe papaya combines
the primary tastes of the local
cuisine: sour, spicy hot, savoury salty
and subtle sweetness.
Papaya seeds are also edible:
the taste is a cross between mustard
and black peppercorns and can be
grounded like black pepper. In India,
the leaves of the papaya are often
prepared like spinach recipes, and
the papaya leaf extract is used to
fight dengue and malaria. It’s not just
the apple a day that keeps the doctor
away – so does a papaya.
30
OVERTURES
ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS
SOM TAM OR PAPAYA SALAD CARTS
Many people can’t do without the
ubiquitous som tam or papaya salad
carts. Prepped, sliced and chopped in
a rich display are shredded papaya,
yardlong beans, cherry tomatoes, and
Thai eggplants. They find company
with glass jars containing flavourings of
dried shrimp, peanuts, and palm sugar.
Some carts assemble a minimalist
setup of trays for all the ingredients
with the key tool: a pestle and mortar,
and base flavourings of Thai anchovy
or fish sauce, managing to draw in the
crowds. The spicy papaya salad carts
usually come attached with a barbecue
grill for cooking chicken, catfish, and
cuts of pork. Another essential feature
of this type of cart is a large bucket
where packs of steamed sticky rice
keep warm.
OLD-STYLE COFFEE CARTS
The classic brewing method of traditional Thai coffee begins
with a large kettle of boiling water, cloth filter bags that strain
the brewed liquid, and a metal canister to hold the drink. With
this setup, ground coffee gets pressed into a filter bag attached
Words Sarita Urupongsa
Illustrations Arthit Limpong
It’s not a street food
scene in Thailand
without the iconic
presence of food carts!
From the early hours
of dawn to late night,
vendors attach these
wheeled workhorses to
motorbikes or bicycles,
planting themselves
at any convenient
location: sidewalks,
main streets, and small
alleys. When hunger
pangs or cravings hit,
our primer shows you
how to spot the right
set of wheels.
NOODLE CARTS
One thing all noodle carts share in common is the round
pit of a steaming cauldron where sumptuous broths,
stocks and water settle in an eternal rolling boil to
blanch noodles, vegetables, and meats. Usually a clear
glass box sits atop the side of the cart. Here is your
open glass menu, with a bi-level mouth-watering display
inside the box. The upper layer is usually reserved for
assorted proteins, like beef and pork cuts, BBQ meats,
assorted meatballs, fishballs, and wontons. The lower
shelf gathers different noodle types: thin rice vermicelli
BARBECUE CARTS
For office staffers to
construction workers –
skewered snacks serve as
comfort food. Pork, chicken,
giblets, or Northern-style
sausages to grilled bananas
or corn are their best friends
as immediate stomach fillers.
The smoke from the grills is
absorbed by an embedded
exhaust hood, which later
spreads the tantalising smell
further afield.
to wide ones, egg noodles, bean sheet noodles and
even instant noodles within easy reach. Some vendors
take pride in the already rich, flavourful taste of their
broth while other places season for you. Not to worry
though, as every noodle cart comes with its own set of
seasonings and condiments to cater the dish to your
own taste. There’s always a seat for you as most places
provide foldable tables and bright plastic chairs for their
customers to enjoy
the vibe of
street-side dining.
HAWKERS
Our special mention includes hawkers on foot who offer
a form of commerce long familiar in Thai society. The
authentic tradition has sellers carrying a woven basket that
perches on both ends of a slim wood plank and balanced
on a shoulder. In the baskets are usually ready-made
snacks which customers can grab easily for easy
consumption on the sidewalk or for takeaway.
Popular items include sticky rice with sweetened
pork or shredded pork, a spicy fermented pork
salad, cooked eggs, steamed peanuts, and
Thai desserts packed in bags or banana leaves
of local delicacies from different parts of the
country. Some hawkers even include handmade
products crafted from local natural materials; such
as wicker and other wood products.
to an aluminium loop with handle. With a firm grip, the vendor
pours boiling water on coffee grounds and waits for it to filter
all the way through. To sweeten the rich, dark coffee – sugar,
condensed milk, and evaporated milk serve as key options
for both hot and iced old school coffee. This type of cart not
only offers the aromatic traditional coffee and tea, but also
other choices such as an iced pink milk for sweet enjoyment or
Nom Yen (sala syrup mixed with condensed milk), or the more
familiar cocoa drink or lime soda. Some vendors have modern
equipment for espresso drinks thereby providing a longer drink
menu. Expect your drink to be served classic style: in plastic
tumblers encased in a bag with a handle for sipping enjoyment
while commuting. At breakfast time, some places even offer
warm toast with butter and sprinkled sugar in addition to coffee.
32
33
OVERTURES
ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS
FRUIT CARTS
On every busy street, fresh fruit
carts are assuredly a common
sight. Easily spotted, thanks to the
bright colours of assorted fruits
neatly sitting on ice blocks, check
out a vendor’s knife skills of swift
peel-and-slash. The enticing display
of sliced tropical fruits include a
selection of mango, guava, papaya,
rose apple, pineapple, cantaloupe to
the refreshing coconut. These fruits
reach another level of tastiness with
unique condiments. Fruits get dipped
in regular combinations of salt
and chilli while some carts
offer more sophisticated
dipping options such as a
sweet shrimp paste, sweet
fish sauce, or a salt blend with chilli
and dried plum.
COCONUT ICE CREAM CARTS
Coconut ice cream carts consist strawberry, and vanilla. You
of round or square ice cream know the drill: pick your flavour,
tubs surrounded by colourful choose your vessel and select
and chewy toppings in clear toppings ranging from attap
containers. Customers can fruits, sweetened pumpkins,
choose to have their ice cream corn, jackfruit bits, sticky rice and
served in a cone, cup, bread, or roasted peanuts. Evaporated milk
even in a coconut shell. Apart and chocolate sauce add the rich
from coconut, sellers offer other tastiness to the ice cream as a
flavours such as chocolate, final touch.
ASSORTED SNACK CARTS
This type of cart usually features a sizzling round stove to cook snacks
and Thai pancakes galore. From rolled pancakes with fillings, crispy mini
pancakes, pancakes made of glutinous rice flour and shredded coconut to
Thai crêpes, the list goes on. Some places feature items such as fried dough
balls of sweet potato, banana fritters, or snacks requiring a unique cooking
equipment and stools of coconut rice pancakes or steamed tapioca balls
with pork fillings. All of these snacks are best sellers when urbanites get
hungry and crave a light snack before dinnertime.
34
OVERTURES
CHECKED IN: PHUKET
Island
Spotlights
We continue our series with first-hand
accounts on the latest discoveries that
appeal to the senses.
Photos Jeremie Schatz
STAYED: THE NAKA PHUKET
In the ocean of accommodations in
Phuket, there are many fishes in the sea.
They come in all shapes and sizes: from
petite and humble to expansive and
opulent. The Naka Phuket has settled
in nicely to its own niche in the market,
appealing to guests who prefer peace,
privacy and tastefully minimalist design.
Naturally, this exclusive resort has
all of the amenities one would expect –
outstanding service, a pampering spa, wellequipped
gym, Olympic-size infinity pool,
a tantalising international dining menu,
boutique shop, shuttle to nearby Patong,
baby-sitting service, big fluffy pillows and
all the rest. They even provide you with a
complimentary smartphone to use during
Above Left
and Right
Balance: the
minimalist villas
strike a tasteful
equilibrium with
the surrounding
environment.
your stay with free local and international
calls, maps and city guide, and internet.
However, it’s the architectural style that
lends to its uniqueness and gives the Naka
Phuket its soul.
At the end of a steep meandering
mountain road, the Naka Phuket’s 95 pool
villas don’t dominate the landscape, but
instead compliment the topography of
the scooped out, steep beachside valley.
Many of the window-wrapped villas take
advantage of the geography by being
cantilevered out over the hillside. Slide
open the blackout curtains or settle onto
the balcony and you’re met with an aweinspiring
feeling of space.
Commanding views
of Patong Bay at the
rooftop bar – an
ideal sunset spot.
Below Left
and Right
Even the room
numbers pay
homage to the
mountainside which
the Naka calls home.
Architect Duangrit
Bunnag’s unique
cantilevered design
has led the Naka
to be included as
a member of the
Design Hotel Group.
36
OVERTURES
CHECKED IN: PHUKET
Clockwise from Top
The Naka’s
glass-wrapped pool
villas offer privacy
while maintaining a
feeling of openness.
The airy Wiwa
Restaurant has
nothing lying
between it and
the beach except
an Olympic-size
infinity pool.
A true hideaway:
so close, yet feels
so far away.
The Meka Sky
Lounge serves up a
delicious view and
a menu to match.
Well-known Thai designer Duangrit
Bunnag threw intricacies out the window.
However, this is not a barren design but
one where the less-is-more approach
found an authentic triumph. The villas are
primarily concrete, steel and glass with a
peppering of wood accents and teak floors
for good measure. A feature that really
resonates is Bunnag’s decision to work his
design around established trees thereby
introducing an organic element.
The Naka will have a strong appeal
to those who relish a private hideaway
feel and find solace in luxurious simplicity
without distractions. As General Manager
Sawai Sombat likes to say while gesturing
skyward at night, “some resorts have five
stars, we have thousands.”
The Naka Phuket is a member of the
Design Hotel group of properties whose
mission is to “create an unrivalled global
community for design, architecture, culture
and become the definite source of original
hospitality experiences”.
1/18, 1/20 Moo 6 Kamala, Kathu,
Phuket 83150
+66 (0) 76 337 999
thenakaphuket.com
Squid ink pasta
with roe and garlic
cream sauce.
38
OVERTURES
CHECKED IN: PHUKET
Clockwise from
Above Left
The gambas pil
pil combines fresh
shrimp and ample
garlic in a rich chilli
oil and butter sauce.
Seafood lovers will
rejoice over
the tender, Spanishstyle
grilled octopus.
Stay a while:
Catch’s beachfront
pool looks out
over stunning
Bang Tao Beach.
The beach club’s
regulars and return
visitors will be
delighted to discover
new menu items
every month.
Although not the
only beach club
in Phuket, Catch
has set the bar for
what a beach club
should be.
TASTED: CATCH BEACH CLUB
Although probably not the first to
import the beach club concept to
Phuket, Catch Beach Club is largely
considered the island’s quintessential
elite beach party spot. After enjoying
several luscious years in Surin Beach,
the fashionable club hasn’t missed
a beat since moving to their new
expansive Bang Tao Beach location.
Renowned for hosting big-name
contemporary DJs and champagnepopping
glitzy parties, Catch has
another more subdued, yet just as
glamorous side – in the kitchen.
With 20+ years of experience
behind him, Chef Anan has spent
seven of those masterminding the
eclectic menu at Catch. Several new,
thematically-inspired dishes get
concocted every month to keep the
popular club at the culinary cutting edge.
So what medley of Chef Anan’s
taste-bud-tingling creations might one
discover? How about grilled Spanishstyle
octopus in a chili and garlic butter
sauce. Not overpoweringly buttery,
with some magical herb mix sprinkled
on top, this fresh mollusc is cooked to
40
OVERTURES
CHECKED IN: PHUKET
precise consistency. Coaxing octopus
to just the right texture is a skill that
separates the cooks from the chefs.
Another Spanish tapas-derived
crowd-pleaser is the gambas pil pil.
Although these fresh shrimp are
served bathing in a chilli oil and
butter sauce similar to the octopus,
the pungent flavours are simplified. A
fresh baked baguette from the woodfired
oven soaks up every drop of
garlicky goodness.
The codfish à la nage, however,
has no disguise and is an honest-togoodness
soup. À la nage translates to
“in the swim” referring to the way the
imported Australian cod is poached
alongside vongole (clams) in a savoury
broth. The sweet cherry tomatoes and
tarragon pesto fill out the light flavours
of this afternoon favourite.
Chef Anan’s vision led him to tap into
the culinary traditions of coastal Spain
where they have found a home in Phuket.
Where will Chef Anan lead us next?
202/88 Moo 2, Cherngtalay, Thalang,
Phuket T: +66 (0) 65 348 2017,
book@catchbeachclub.com
Left
Chef Anan’s
extensive
experience with
Japanese cuisine
shines through in
Catch’s sashimi
offerings.
Top, Middle to Right
Any self-respecting
beach club would
serve up a mean
mojito, and Catch is
no exception.
With its tarragon
pesto, sweet cherry
tomatoes, and fresh
clams, the codfish à la
nage makes an ideal
beachside lunch.
Below
Having spent nearly
half his life in the
kitchen, Chef Anan’s
experience is reflected
in the well-thought
-out menu.
42
SAMUI’S GOOD JOBS
It’s easy to visit Koh Samui and have our days in the sun.
But behind the scenes of waving palm trees and beckoning
waters, dedicated locals make their paradise a true haven.
Making Good
on the
Island
Words Susan Field
Photos Lesley Fisher
On the first visit to Koh Samui in
1986, my mother and I arrived by
ferry. I promptly fell in love with this
idyllic island with its azure waters,
soft white sand beaches, gently swaying palm
trees, fantastic food and friendly people.
The love affair continued over
the years and in 2004, I commissioned
my first villa which rented out
successfully for the next ten years,
giving plenty of excuses to spend
more time in Samui. And with each
visit, I became more enchanted!
In 2015, after selling my busy PR
company, it was time to leave the
hustle and bustle of Hong Kong after
thirty fun, hectic years and settle in
Samui. With hourly connections to
Bangkok as well as two direct daily
flights to Hong Kong and Singapore,
it made travelling to other places in
the world very easy.
While still idyllic, Samui has
changed and developed so much.
Those of us who want development
to be more ecologically and ethically
sustainable are doing our part.
Koh Samui has a number of
active organisations that work
tirelessly for the greater good,
care of animals and preservation of
the island.
44
45
SAMUI’S GOOD JOBS
Top
This Page
The Samui Elephant
Sanctuary gained
inspiration from
the Save Elephant
Foundation, whose
founder Sangduean
“Lek” Chailert, is
known for being
at the forefront for
elephant welfare
and ethical tourism.
From a previous
life of hard labour,
the elephants now
thrive in a caring
environment.
SAMUI ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
An experience not to be missed is
Samui Elephant Sanctuary which
opened in January this year and
already has five adorable elephants
in residence. Getting up close to the
elephants is a memory you can never
forget! According to the founder
Khun Pao, “Here at the Samui
Sanctuary, we treat our elephants
with the dignity and respect they
deserve. We do not allow riding or
any type of performance; instead we
work with our herd through positive
reinforcement via food! Our tours
follow a very relaxed programme
which starts with an introduction
to our work, followed by feeding
the elephants. Then (it’s) a leisurely
stroll through the sanctuary –
accompanied by other elephants!”
There are two tours each day,
from 9am-12pm, 2-5pm.
samuielephantsanctuary.org,
Tel: +66 95 269 8343,
email: info@samuielephantsanctuary.org
SOI DOG FOUNDATION
Founded in Phuket in 2003, Soi
Dog (which means Street Dog)
has an excellent animal welfare
programme, having efficiently spayed
and neutered more than 200,000
dogs since opening its doors. They
also work tirelessly providing
medical treatment, sheltering,
adoption opportunities and
sponsorship of dogs.
Funded entirely by donations,
Soi Dog currently has a mobile
sterilisation unit in Koh Samui
which neuters many dogs and cats
every month. To find out more or to
donate, please visit soidog.org.
SISTERS ON SAMUI (SOS)
Every month, around 50 ladies
gather for an informal lunch at one
of Samui’s excellent restaurants.
Aside from a fun social event, SOS
supports local charities and has been
the driving force behind several
important causes.
Its current focus is on raising
funds to renovate the Children’s
Ward at the government-run
Nathon Hospital. In addition to
the refurbishment programme,
SOS is looking for sponsors and
donations to provide new pyjamas
for the children and to install bright
new cheerfully coloured curtains.
Details of the work by Sisters on
Samui can be found at facebook.com/
kohsamuicharity.
SAMUI CLEAN & TRASH HERO
And where there are humans, there
is invariably garbage and Samui is
no exception. Visitors and locals
to the island can see an increasing
number of large bins on the beaches
that encourage disposal of trash
responsibly and help keep the
beaches in pristine condition.
Decorated with the message
Respect Our Beaches and bright sea
images, they are the brainchild of
local artist Idania Lucia Reiss, who
creates the captivating artwork
together with other artists. The
bins are then distributed by Brent
Jones, founder of non-profit
organisation, Samui Clean and
Samui Bins.
Samui Clean, together with
another group, Trash Hero,
organises beach cleaning sessions
every Sunday afternoon at 3pm.
They welcome visitors to join
them. Samui Clean accepts
donations, however small, to
finance the bins and the materials
needed for the artwork.
Details can be found on
facebook/samuiclean.
DOING MY PART
Two years ago, I co-founded
Impact Samui with my partners
Rodney Waller (an established,
award-winning developer on the
island), and financial and project
manager David Birchall.
With a clear focus on
responsible development, we do
new building projects and we
also carve a niche through our
restoration of existing, rundown
buildings. Rather than
demolishing them and adding more
development to the island, older
buildings get beautified and new
life breathed into them. Whenever
possible, usable materials get
recycled before donating the
remainder to various causes on
the island – in particular, children
and animals. Sometimes our
company sells such materials
and makes cash donations to
worthwhile causes. With our first
project, Lavaliere, we sold all sorts
of items, and made a donation
towards the redevelopment of the
Children’s Ward at Nathon Hospital
on the island.
If you’re just visiting,
consider a bit of volunteer or
responsible tourism by visiting
the organisations or sending a
donation. It’s what keeps Samui
beautiful.
Top
Above
Respect Our Beaches’
Idiana Lucia Reiss,
an artist who paints
the cans and Brent
Jones of Samui Clean
and Trash Hero
work tirelessly to
keep Samui shores
pristine.
Left
Volunteers for
Trash Hero may
also be non-Samui
residents. Jones says
that many tourists
ask to help with
beach cleaning who
directly contact the
organisation.
46
47
SAMUI’S GOOD JOBS
น้ำทะเลสีคราม หาดทรายขาวนุ่ม ใบปาล์ม
พลิ้วไหวตามแรงลม อาหารเลิศรส และ
ผู้คนที่เป็นมิตร ทั้งหมดคือความทรงจำ
ครั้งแรกของฉันที่เกาะสมุยในปี 1986
ฉันเปิดวิลล่าให้เช่าในช่วงสิบปีหลังจากนั้น
เลยพลอยให้ได้มาเยือนที่แห่งนี้บ่อยครั้งขึ้น
จนกระทั่งในปี 2005 ฉันขายบริษัทพีอาร์
หนีความวุ่นวายจากฮ่องกงมาอยู่ที่เกาะสมุย
เต็มตัว จนได้เห็นว่าสมุยเปลี่ยนแปลง
ไปมาก ทว่าเราก็ได้พัฒนาสมุยอย่างยั่งยืน
มารู้จักองค์กรจำนวนมากบนเกาะสมุย
ที่ดำเนินการอย่างไม่เหน็ดเหนื่อยเพื่อสังคม
คอยดูแลสัตว์และอนุรักษ์เกาะแห่งนี้
Samui Elephant Sanctuary
เพิ่งเปิดทำการตั้งแต่เดือนมกราคมที่
ผ่านมา แต่ตอนนี้มีช้างถึงห้าเชือก
เปิดโอกาสให้คุณได้ใกล้ชิดและสัมผัส
ประสบการณ์ที่จะจดจำไปตลอดกาล
คุณเปา ผู้ก่อตั้งกล่าวว่า “เราให้
เกียรติและเคารพช้างอย่างที่ควรจะเป็น
เราไม่อนุญาตให้ขี่ช้างหรือให้ช้างแสดง
ความสามารถใดๆ ตารางกิจกรรมของ
เราไม่เร่งรีบ เริ่มจากให้ข้อมูลเกี่ยวกับ
งานที่เราทำ ต่อด้วยการให้อาหารช้าง
แล้วเดินเล่นทั่วเขตอนุรักษ์แห่งนี้พร้อมกับ
ช้าง มีอาหารกลางวันและอาหารเย็นจัด
ไว้ให้ทุกท่าน
เปิดให้เข้าร่วมกิจกรรมสองรอบต่อวัน
9.00-12.00 น. และ 14.00-17.00 น.
จอง/สอบถามข้อมูลได้ที่เว็บไซต์
samuielephantsanctuary.org,
โทร: +66 (0) 95 269 8343
ที่ใดมีมนุษย์ ที่นั่นมีขยะ สมุยก็เช่นกัน
— อิดาเนีย ลูเซีย ไรส์ และศิลปินอีกหลาย
คนจึงได้คิดสร้างงานศิลปะพร้อมข้อความ
“Samui Clean and Samui Bins”
พร้อมกับถังขยะที่จัดหาโดย เบรนต์ โจนส์
ผู้ก่อตั้งองค์กรไม่แสวงหาผลกำไร
Samui Clean and Samui Bins
กลุ่ม Samui Clean และ Trash
Hero ยังจัดกิจกรรมทำความสะอาด
สมุยทุกวันอาทิตย์ เวลา 13.00 น. เปิด
โอกาสให้ทุกคนเข้าร่วม และรับบริจาค
เพื่อซื้อถังขยะและอุปกรณ์สำหรับงาน
ศิลปะ, facebook.com/samuiclean
มูลนิธิเพื่อสุนัขในซอย (Soi Dog
Foundation) ก่อตั้งในปี 2003 จัด
โครงการดูแลความเป็นอยู่ของสัตว์ และ
ได้ทำหมันสุนัขมากกว่า 200,000 ตั้งแต่
เปิดทำการ เพื่อป้องกันการเกิดใหม่ของ
สุนัขที่ไม่เป็นที่ต้องการ อีกทั้งยังรักษา
ให้ที่พักพิง และดำเนินการขอรับอุปการะ
Sisters on Samui (SOS) สุภาพ
สตรีกว่า 50 ท่านมารวมตัวกันเพื่อทาน
อาหารกลางวันเดือนละครั้ง นอกจากเพื่อ
พบปะสังสรรค์แล้ว SOS ยังสนับสนุน
บน, ขวาล่าง
ชายหาดและธรรมชาติ
บนเกาะสมุยจะสวยงาม
และสะอาดหมดจด
เหมือนเดิมไม่ได้
หากผู้คนละเลยหน้าที่
ซ้ายล่าง
กลุ่มอาสาสมัคร
ทั้งจาก Samui Clean
และ Trash Hero
ร่วมแรงร่วมใจกันจัดการ
ขยะบนเกาะสมุย
งานการกุศลในท้องถิ่น และเป็นแรงขับ
เคลื่อนกิจกรรมสำคัญต่างๆ อีกด้วย
ตอนนี้สมาชิกของกลุ่มมุ่งระดมทุน
เพื่อปรับปรุงแผนกผู้ป่วยเด็ก โรงพยาบาล
หน้าทอน SOS สนับสนุนโครงการก่อสร้าง
และหาผู้สนับสนุนเงินทุนเพื่อซื้อชุดนอน
สำหรับเด็ก และติดตั้งผ้ าม่านสีสันสดใส,
facebook.com/kohsamuicharity
ร่วมช่วยด้วยมือเรา เมื่อสองปีก่อน
ฉันได้ร่วมก่อตั้ง Impact Samui กับ
รอดนีย์ วอลเลอร์ (นักพัฒนามือรางวัลที่
ได้รับการยอมรับอย่างกว้างขวาง) และผู้
จัดการโครงการและการเงิน เดวิด เบอร์ชอล
เราได้ทำโครงการก่อสร้างใหม่ และ
บูรณะอาคารที่ทรุดโทรมเพื่อให้อาคาร
เหล่านั้นกลับมามีชีวิตอีกครั้งหนึ่ง โดยมี
เป้าหมายเพื่อการพัฒนาอย่างมีความ
รับผิดชอบ
เมื่อมีโอกาส เรานำสิ่งของที่ใช้แล้วมา
รีไซเคิล แล้วบริจาคส่วนที่เหลือเพื่อประโยชน์
ของเกาะสมุย บางครั้งบริษัทของเราก็ขาย
วัสดุที่ใช้แล้วเพื่อสมทบทุนกับกิจกรรม
สาธารณะประโยชน์ต่างๆ Lavaliere เป็น
โครงการแรกที่เราขายสิ่งของต่างๆ เพื่อ
บริจาครายได้แก่โครงการปรับปรุงแผนก
ผู้ป่วยเด็ก โรงพยาบาลหน้าทอนเกาะสมุย
หากคุณมีโอกาสมาเยี่ยมเยียนเกาะสมุย
ลองมาเป็นอาสาสมัคร หรือท่องเที่ยว
เชิงอนุรักษ์กับองค์กรเหล่านี้ หรือร่วม
สมทบทุนเพื่อให้สมุยเป็นเกาะสวรรค์ที่
คงความงดงามเช่นนี้ต่อไป
SAMUJANA’s name comes from the blend of Koh ‘Samui’ and the word ‘Jana’, meaning coral in Moroccan, due to its
stunning hillside location overlooking a coral cove, with private beach access and uninterrupted views of Samui.
Samujana’s def inition is very simple – 24 charming villas from 1 to 8 bedrooms, all with oversized private inf inity pools,
modern Thai architecture and breath-taking views, 5-star hotel services and details that make a world of difference –
the perfect place for friends and family to gather and have a great time.
48
Tel: +66 (0) 7742 3465
Email: reservations@samujana.com
www.samujana.com
FASHIONED FANTASIES
Haute
Drawings
Words Phoowadon Duangmee
Photos Phannapast Taychamaythakool
for Gucci & Wichit Kongsiangsung
High Fantasy
Infused with a sense of fantasy, urban legends
and popular culture, Thai artist and fashion
designer Phannapast Taychamaythakool has
created a unique collection of illustrations for a
global high house of fashion.
50 51
FASHIONED FANTASIES
Last summer, Phannapast left her
creative stamp when Gucci unveiled
their “Le Marché des Merveilles”
jewellery line. The collaboration
with the Italian high fashion brand also
came with a fairytale installation of animal
portraits at their New York Fifth Avenue
and Beverly Hills stores.
In the series of fantastical
portrayals, an elephant appears
in an enormous red hat and blue
dress with floral motifs. Then there
is one of a loved up couple, a dolphin
and a panther, in colourful dresses
with tongues wagging in euphoria.
These animals stand proud and
confident in their finery. Odd
yet magical – the entire set of
illustrations burst at the seams with
floral details and patterns, sending
art and fashion aficionados to
fantasy land where beauty and the
beast manages to find a comfortable
marriage, and wild animals have
access to high fashion or in this case,
Gucci’s latest collection.
In the historic neighbourhood of
Bangkok’s Chinatown, Phannapast
shows up at Starbucks Wang Burapha
on a sunny afternoon with her
drawing markers and drawing
logbooks for a private interview with
Fah Thai magazine.
Right
An imaginative
rendering of
an unlikely yet
passionate affair
between a dolphin
and black panther
by Phannapast.
Bottom
Armed with
a degree in
fashion design,
the illustrator’s
personal expression
is as colourful as
her work.
“I come to Starbucks often to
do some sketching and drawing.
The daylight is about right to do
hand drawing,” says the 31-year-old
Thai illustrator.
The up-and-coming artist
appeared in a loose blue shirt,
super long and over blue jeans and
sneakers. Her face stands out with
the distinctive “Beatle moptop”
haircut and a pair of round, supersized
hippy sunglasses – like John
Lennon’s look from the 1960s to
70s. A prominent mole – similar
to Cindy Crawford’s signature
one – occasionally draws attention
with the people she talks to. Unlike
her vibrant and quirky works,
Phannapast’s voice is surprisingly
gentle and conversations are carried
out politely like with most Thai
women, ending every sentence with
the particle ‘kha.’
“Your work is oversaturated with
a bright palette – pink, red, blue and
yellow – so vibrant. Do you keep any
black clothing in your wardrobe?”
I asked the young fashion designer
this as many fashion designers wear
all black. Yohji Yamamoto, Vera Wang,
Riccardo Tisci, Karl Lagerfeld – to
name a few.
“No, I don’t like black,” says
Phannapast. “I keep a few black
pieces, but I don’t really put them
on.” Behind the pair of large hippy
shades, I could sense some degree
of shyness. After a few sips of hot
Cappuccino, an ice breaker moment
happens. The conversation becomes
more sensational, with voices rising
in a series of higher pitches.
“When I was very young,
I avoided looking at myself in
the mirror,” says Phannapast.
“Something wasn’t right in there.
The reflection of a schoolboy
in a typical and traditional crewcut
was like a stranger to me, and that
made me feel uncomfortable. There
was conflict and disgrace. I didn’t
even glance at my reflection,”
confesses Phannapast, who is male
and dresses as a woman.
Nothing unlocked the conflict
in her mind except art. It built up
self-esteem and brought her out
of a protected shell to eventually
shine. Phannapast studied fashion
design at Chulalongkorn University,
Bangkok, and became a creative
director of the local clothing brand
“Kloset”. Being a freelance illustrator,
she posts her work on Instagram
occasionally.
“In my young age when I started
drawing, no one told me such things
about creativity. Form and function
52
FASHIONED FANTASIES
Right
The commissioned
work from Gucci
resulted in a set
of illustrations
featuring the
‘Wonder Factory’
where gems are
fashioned.
Bottom
In Phannapast’s
vision, the factory
is run by all kinds
of fanciful and
endearing creatures
behind ‘Le Marché
des Merveilles’
jewels and charms.
were very conventional. Leaves had
to be green, and the branches of
the tree had a certain form,” says
Phannapast.
In art school, Phannapast had
access to many artistic concepts,
ideas and inspiration, and found out
that beauty, indeed, has different
faces and forms. She started to take
a hard, long look in the mirror to
find out her talents.
“People have been living in a
conventional world way too long,
and are way too comfortable to
recognise the beauty of being
different,” says Phannapast.
“When we find something or
someone unconventional, we keep
asking too many questions. We tend
to think that they are misfits and
alienated. We believe that they need
to be fixed.
“In fact, we don’t have to look,
think, feel or act like our peers.
Beauty lies in being different – be
it difference in sexual identity or
appearance.” In her work for Gucci,
Phannapast tries to convince people
of this philosophy.
In art school, Phannapast had access to
many artistic concepts, ideas and inspiration
and found out that beauty, indeed, has
different faces and forms.
She also illustrated a book of
imaginative fairy tales written
by a friend, Aracha Cholitgul,
inspired by stories of a personal
past, and brought into an artistic
visualisation. The tales in three
chapters revolve around
a “Wonder Factory”
where animals create
jewellery.
In the first
chapter, “A Present
from the Sky” tells
a tale of the kitten
who wears a mask to
cover up a facial mole.
One day the little cat
decides to take off
the mask when
it learned that beauty and a feelgood
experience do not come from
appearance alone.
The second chapter, “The Very
Big New Friend”, Erawan is a large
elephant having a hard time trying
to get a job in the factory.
She is large in size with
legs as large as the oldest
trees in the forest.
Her body is even
bigger than the factory
itself and when her
ears flap, they create a
small whirlwind. After
Erawan has been in
the factory for a while,
she learns that she
is a misfit. Every
54
FASHIONED FANTASIES
time the hapless pachyderm tries to
help, everything she touches breaks.
In these stories, both artists create
an unforeseen relationship that
challenges people’s attitudes.
In the third chapter, “To Our
Beloved Siranee from the Wonder
Factory”, a dolphin has fallen in love
with the stone statue of a panther
who guards the jewellery factory.
These fantastical animal
stories and Phannapast’s eccentric
illustrations blend fantasy and very
human emotions, enhancing these
stories on self-identify, conflict,
and love.
“People are too curious about
everything, anything. People ask
too many questions and don’t even
bother about what they really need
from the answer – or where the
answer will take them to,” says the
artist. “Perhaps they want an answer
to satisfy their curiosity – or simply
keep asking just for fun.”
“In ‘Wonder Factory’, the
animals don’t ask why or how
the dolphin could develop such
a romance with a statue – but
they help make magic happen by
appeasing the ‘Lioness Goddess.’
For this set of stories, every
chapter ends like a Han Christian
Andersen book. It’s so sweet
that you might need a lemon (to
counteract it). The stone statue
of a panther springs to life,
thanks to the Lioness Goddess
who gives him a heart and our
creature takes the dolphin’s hand
to a romantic, tantric cloud nine.
Apart from the fantasy story, what
makes eyebrows raise higher is
the eccentric illustrations full of
vibrant colours.
Drawn with great details,
Phannapast’s signature touches
are of animals wearing luxurious
clothing and posing as humans.
Influenced by the Chinese shrines
Top
“A Present from
the Sky”
Right
A whimsical
drawing from
the Thai illustrator
has unleashed
creative power.
she often visits and the tribal art
patterns that she is fond of, the
artist creates a mysterious beauty
in these illustrations.
“I like drawing animals and
making them like humans,” the
Thai artist puts it. “There is some
degree of animal in a human being.
When we are mad, sometimes we
turn into a wild beast.”
56
FASHIONED FANTASIES
หน้าร้อนที่ผ่านมา แฟชั่นเฮ้าส์อิตาเลียน
ชั ้นสูงอย่างกุชชี่ ได้เปิดตัวคอลเลกชัน
เครื่องประดับ “Le Marché des Merveilles”
ที่ผสมผสานกลิ่นอายความอัศจรรย์
ตำนาน และป๊อปคัลเจอร์ ออกแบบโดย
ศิลปินและนักออกแบบแฟชั ่นชาวไทย
ปัณพัท เตชเมธากุล
สิงสาราสัตว์นานาชนิด ช้างสวม
หมวกสีแดง ใส่ชุดสีน้ำเงิน ประดับด้วย
ลวดลายแมกไม้ หรือจะเป็นคู่รักปลา
โลมากับเสือดำในชุดสีสันสดใส เปล่ง
ประกายความสุขล้นบนผืนภูษา เป็นงาน
ออกแบบที่แปลกใหม่และมีมนต์ขลัง
นำวงการแฟชั่นเข้าสู่ดินแดนมหัศจรรย์
แห่งใหม่ ความมหัศจรรย์แห่งกุชชี่
ฟ้าไทยมีโอกาสสัมภาษณ์นักวาด
ภาพประกอบสุดชิคผู้นี้ที่ย่านเยาวราช
ด้วยเสียงอันนุ่มนวล ขัดกับการแต่งตัว
ที่โดดเด่นและดึงดูดทุกสายตาที่มองมา
ปัณพัทกล่าวว่า เธอชอบมานั่งวาดรูปที่
สตาร์บัคส์แห่งนี้เพราะแสงที่นี่เหมาะกับ
การสร้างสรรค์งานใหม่
เพราะงานออกแบบของเธอมีสีสัน
ฉูดฉาด เราจึงอดสงสัยไม่ได้ว่า ศิลปินผู้นี้
จะมีเสื้อผ้าสีกลางๆ อย่างสีดำบ้างหรือ
เปล่า...คำตอบคือมีอยู่ไม่กี่ชิ้น มีไว้
อย่างนั ้นแหละ เธอไม่ชอบ และไม่คิดจะ
หยิบขึ้นมาใส่
เธอเล่าให้ฟังอีกว่า ตอนเด็กๆ เธอ
ไม่อยากส่องกระจก ไม่อยากมองเห็น
ภาพตัวเองในชุดนักเรียนตัดผมเกรียน
ขัดกับตัวตนที่อยู่ภายใน แต่ศิลปะนี่แหละ
ที่ทำลายกำแพงหนาที่ปัณพัทก่อขึ้น
รอบตัวเอง แล้วเจิดจรัสขึ ้นมาอีกครั้ง
ด้วยความมั่นใจ
ปัณพัทเรียนจบสาขาออกแบบแฟชั่น
ที่จุฬาลงกรณ์มหาวิทยาลัย ทำงานเป็น
ผู้อำนวยการฝ่ายสร้างสรรค์ให้กับ
แบรนด์เสื้อผ้า Kloset พร้อมกับเป็นนัก
วาดภาพประกอบอิสระ โดยโพสต์งานของ
ตัวเองลงอินสตาแกรมเป็นครั้งคราว
เธอเล่าต่อว่า ศิลปะที่เรียนมานั้น
อยู่ในกรอบที่ไม่เอื้อต่อการคิดสร้างสรรค์
ใบไม้ต้องเป็นสีเขียว กิ่งก้านต้นไม้ต้องเป็น
รูปแบบตามที่เป็น พอคนเห็นอะไรที่แปลกไป
จากเดิมก็ตั ้งคำถาม และคิดไปเองว่า
สิ่งแปลกปลอมนั้นต้องได้รับการแก้ไข
แต่นี่แหละคือความงดงาม ความ
แตกต่างคือความงดงาม อัตลักษณ์ทาง
เพศและการแสดงออกก็เช่นกัน
นักออกแบบมากพรสวรรค์อย่าง
เธอได้ร่วมวาดภาพประกอบนิทาน
“Wonder Factory” ที่เขียนโดย อรช โชลิตกุล
ประกอบด้วยนิทานสามเรื่อง เล่าเรื่องราว
ของสัตว์ที่ร่วมกันสร้างชุดเครื่องประดับขึ้น
บทแรก “A Present from the Sky”
เล่าเรื่องแมวที่ปกปิดใบหน้าเพราะมีไฝ
แมวตัวนั้นตัดสินใจถอดหน้ากากออกแล้ว
พบว่า ความงามและประสบการณ์สุดพิเศษ
ไม่ได้มาจากรูปลักษณ์ภายนอกเท่านั้น
บทที่สอง “The Very Big New Friend”
ช้างชื่อเอราวัณพยายามที่จะเข้าทำงาน
ในโรงงานแห่งหนึ่ง เธอตัวใหญ่มาก
ปัณพัท เตชเมธากุล
ศิลปินนักวาดภาพ
ประกอบและผู้อำนวยการ
ฝ่ายสร้างสรรค์ของ
แบรนด์เสื้อผ้า Kloset
ผลงานซิกเนเจอร์ของ
เธอล้วนได้รับแรง
บันดาลใจจาก
สิงสาราสัตว์ แฟชั่น
กรุยกราย ลวดลายจีน
สุดวิจิตร และเรื่องราว
ที่เสมือนหลุดมาจาก
โลกแฟนตาซี
ใหญ่กว่าโรงงานเสียอีก หลังจากที่
ทำงานได้สักพัก เธอเริ่มตระหนักว่าเธอ
ไม่เหมาะกับโรงงานแห่งนี้ เพราะเมื่อเธอ
แตะอะไร สิ่งนั้นก็พังพินาศไปหมด
และบทที่สาม “To Our Beloved
Siranee from the Wonder Factory”
เป็นเรื่องราวของปลาโลมาผู้หลงรักรูปปั้น
เสือดำที่ทำหน้าที่คุ้มครองโรงงานแห่งนี้
ปัณพัทกล่าวว่า ทุกคนสงสัยทุกเรื่อง
ตั้งคำถามมากเกินไป ทั้งๆ ที่ไม่รู้ว่า
ต้องการอะไรจากคำตอบที่ได้ หลายๆ
ครั้งก็ถามเพื่อความสนุกเท่านั้น
ใน “Wonder Factory” สัตว์แต่ละตัว
ไม่ถามเลยสักคำว่าปลาโลมาตกหลุมรัก
รูปปั้นได้อย่างไร ทุกคนต่างช่วยกัน
อ้อนวอนขอพรจากเทพสิงโตจนท้าย
ที่สุด นิทานก็จบลงด้วยความสุขสมหวัง
ของคู่รักต่างสายพันธุ์
นิทานว่าแปลกแล้ว ภาพประกอบ
ยิ่งแปลกกว่านั้นอีก สีสันสดใส
ฉูดฉาด รายละเอียดของภาพ
ล้ำลึก สะท้อนเอกลักษณ์งานของ
ปัณพัทที่มีสัตว์สวมเสื้อผ้าหรูหรา
ผสมผสานศิลปะจีน และลวดลาย
ชนเผ่า สร้างสรรค์เป็นความงามที่
ลึกลับน่าค้นหา เธอทิ้งท้ายว่า เธอชอบ
วาดภาพสัตว์ให้มีรูปลักษณ์เป็นคน
เพราะมนุษย์ก็มีลักษณะเหมือน
กับสัตว์ บางครั้งยามที่เรา
โกรธ เราก็กลายร่าง
เป็นอสูรกายได้
เฉกเช่นเดียวกัน
A CHINESE GUIDE TO THAILAND
Tai Guo Zhi Nan or Thailand Guide is a
custom-made guidebook designed for Chinese
visitors to Thailand. Packed with insights and
recommendations, the guidebook is a colourful
presentation of Thailand focusing on Bangkok,
Samui and Phuket.
Tai Guo Zhi Nan is curated and edited by some
of the most experienced and talented native
speakers and multi-award magazine designers.
The image-driven contents open with an overview
of Thailand followed by events and festivals,
recommendations to the best places to
Eat, Shop & Play and close with tips tailored for
Chinese visitors. The guidebook is divided into
distinct sections highlighted by bright bold colours
and section openers.
Distributed by Bangkok Airways at airports and
travel agents in China, the guidebook is also
available at select hotels and resorts in Bangkok,
Samui and Phuket and at Bangkok Airways
lounges. The Guidebook also comes in a digital
format via its website taiguoguidebook.com or
scan the QR code on the cover.
Published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd.
Read Me
Scan Me
58
KHMER MODERNISM
Phnom Penh’s glorious past can
be seen through some of the still
functioning buildings designed
by the late Cambodian architect
Vann Molyvann. If things had gone
according to the original plans
from decades ago, his influential
urban designs would have defined
Cambodia’s architectural destiny.
Words Sirin P Wongpanit
Photos Permboon Wongpanit
60
61
KHMER MODERNISM
The sun is coming down and the indoor stadium
of the National Sports Complex in Phnom Penh
is the best spot to watch the evening’s gorgeous
amber lights. Completed back in 1964, when
Cambodia was pitching to host the Southeast Asian
Peninsular Games, the Olympic Stadium, as it was once
called, possesses clean and crisp lines of aluminium panels
that run in parallel with the main balusters. While the
original function of this fluting façade is to provide the
needed cross-ventilation to the typically stuffy spaces in
this stadium, these breathable walls also create stunning
effervescent screen patterns that play along with the
glimmering sunlight. I was told that the architect Vann
Molyvann based the idea of this building on a mushroom
– with a big core at the centre supporting the entire
cantilevered structure – all symmetrical and with a stark
modernist approach.
Above
The indoor stadium at
the National Sports Complex with its
‘breathable’ interior.
Below
Shimmering light passes
through the indoor stadium of
the sports complex.
Opposite Page
Top Left
Inspired by a moat, the outdoor
stadium drew its plan from the
ancient Angkor Wat complex.
Top Right
The stadium showcases
a design befitting the Khmer
climate and lifestyles.
Not too long ago on a
dusty tuk-tuk ride in and
about Phnom Penh, I found
myself inadvertently gawking
at the beautiful landmark of
Chaktomuk Conference Hall
on the busy riverside strip,
not too far from the Royal
Palace. Vann Molyvann, as I
learned again, designed this
magnificent Phnom Penh
icon, along with almost a
hundred other public buildings
back in the 1960s that could
have shaped Cambodia into a
stunning metropolis, if not for
the tragic interruption by the
Khmer Rouge that practically
erased everything.
Some people told me I should
not focus on the sad parts of
Cambodia. Phnom Penh as we
now know is a capital in big
transition. Money is flowing in,
with mega-constructions aplenty
everywhere in the city. Snarling
traffic with urban expansions
are a big part of life here. Office
workers and urban dwellers don
to-go gourmet coffee cups as a
daytime accessory. Those who
visited Phnom Penh just decades
ago would never recognise the
city now. Its dust, prominent in
memories, is almost completely
gone. Roads are paved, buildings
are getting higher, megamalls
and condominium complexes are
being built quite rapidly.
Phnom Penh is letting
bygones be bygones. But
then again, there are these
gorgeous buildings of the
1960s – collectively referred
to as ‘New Khmer Architecture’
– the ones that constructed
Cambodian’s Golden Age, that
took place not too long ago.
At the Institute of Foreign
Languages (IFL), another of
Vann Molyvann’s public
building that is still standing
and being used, students are
reading with some of them
engrossed in group studies.
All of them are in oblivion to
the great architect. Out of
personal curiosity, I tried to
quiz some of them, to see
whether they know of my
admired architect. Sadly, none
had heard of his name, except
for one geek whose job was to
keep guard of the library – the
round-shaped ‘bibliothèque
– whose iconic avant-garde
design was based on Cambodian
farmers’ straw hats.
62 63
KHMER MODERNISM
For enthusiasts who love to
scout for awesome buildings, the
IFL buildings are magnificent
examples of how the architect
achieved his own personal
directives. Vann Molyvann was
known for his modern designs
that fit well in the tropical heat.
Small precise structures, raised
platforms, cross-ventilation,
aesthetic “claustra” and “brisesoleil”
screens are heavily
featured. In the middle of the
plaza at the IFL complex is a giant
banyan tree under which you
might want to sit down and soak
in the unique 1960s atmosphere.
But the highlight from Vann
Molyvann’s playful mind is in the
main building’s staircase. Leading
from the first to the fourth floor,
the simple and open staircases
seamlessly form an infinite
juxtaposition. A flow of pedestrian
traffic going up and down creates
Above, Left and
Right
The shape of a fan
provided design
inspiration for
the Chaktomuk
Conference Hall,
accentuated by
traditional Khmer
elements.
Vann Molyvann
began work on the
conference hall, his
first building, upon
his appointment as
chief architect in
the 1950s.
Vann Molyvann was known for his modern
designs that fit well in the tropical heat.
ever-changing and fluid human
patterns. It is something genius in
my opinion – and you have to be
there to understand it.
The ‘Golden Age’ of Cambodia
took place between the 1950s to
1960s when the country celebrated
its full independence for the first
time after almost a century as
a French protectorate. The then
King Norodom Sihanouk had a
great vision to wholesomely uplift
his country through education,
arts and culture. Vann Molyvann,
the Kampot province native, was
coming back from his years on
scholarship studying architecture
in Paris. Heavily influenced by
Le Corbusier and the like; he was
appointed the State Architect and
Head of Public Works. Unlike other
prestigious architectural projects
where people would need to pay
to be able to enjoy the building
facilities, Vann Molyvann’s
landmarks were all public projects,
hence creating a greater impact
for everyday people. Doing the
research for this architectural trip
to Phnom Penh, we wish we could
have seen the gorgeous 1962 Preah
Suramarit National Theatre – an
icon in the cultural landscape of
Phnom Penh and the host to the
National Conservatory of the Arts.
The building had been torn down in
2008 after a fire severely damaged
its structure.
New Khmer Architecture
in Phnom Penh has become an
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64
Scan Me
KHMER MODERNISM
Above
A flow of pedestrian
traffic going up and
down creates
ever-changing,
fluid human
patterns.
Right
A classroom at the
Institute of Foreign
Language, with
its gradient and
sloped seatings.
Below
The circular pattern
of the library at the
IFL, intimate and
book-reading cosy.
interest among foreign visitors
and professional architects
during the past decades. In 2013,
the Nikkei Asia Prize awarded
Vann Molyvann in the culture
category for his significant social
contribution in Asia. The foreign
recognition helped perpetuate his
remaining works too. The Vann
Molyvann Project, a pro bono
effort of an international team of
architects, architectural students
and researchers, did a great job
archiving the architect’s precious
plans and stories. As anyone would
tell you about the modern history
of Cambodia, they are mostly oral.
And Vann Molyvann’s records are
pretty much the same.
Then again, one could not
curb the curiosity of the younger
generation. Subdued despite obvious
glories, Vann Molyvann’s works
are now drawing attention among
young and aspiring Cambodian
architects and architectural students.
His works are not taught in schools,
yet a lot of people are studying it.
Special projects and architectural
tours of the city provide good
resources for those interested to
learn more about this historical slice
of Phnom Penh.
For me, the students at the IFL
are the lucky ones. They may not
know it, but they are spending
CONGRATULATIONS TO
BLAINE HARRINGTON III
GRAND PRIZE WINNER
FOR HIS PHOTO OF THE ZOJILA PASS,
WORLD IN FOCUS PHOTO COMPETITION
featured this photo in our article,
“Dangerous Beauty”
(May/June 2017 issue)
Exposing the sheer beauty of the Zojila
mountain pass and the risks it poses, the
image is both captivating and dramatic.
Look out for more eye-catching
photography in ,
Bangkok Airways inflight magazine.
Published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd.
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Scan Me
66
KHMER MODERNISM
Above
Surrounded by
pillars and
protruding rain
gutters, the exterior
of the International
Foreign Institute’s
library becomes
a spectacular sight
when it rains.
New Khmer Architecture in Phnom Penh
has become an interest among foreign
visitors and professional architects during
the past decades.
time in one of the greatest buildings
on earth. I sneaked into their
iconic auditorium-style classroom,
taking my time sitting on the
raised platform that from the
outside looks like a giant box on
a pair of lady stilettos. The wall
of the hallway that connects all
these classrooms is a perforated
claustra wall that breathes and
allows sunlight to create beautiful
patterns that change with the
hours of the day.
There are also the active
teams of aunties and uncles
who, in colourful and stretchy
spandex, arrive in droves for
the evening’s aerobics on
the raised outdoor arena of
the National Sports Complex.
Even now that the area is
being encroached by mega
construction, the magnificent
allure of the whole place
remains. A landmark of the
great late architect who just
passed away late last year at
the age of 91, this complex as
well is evidence of the glorious
past – still perpetuated
through its actual use by the
people of Phnom Penh.
For more information about Vann Molyvann and the Golden Age of Khmer
Architecture, visit vannmolyvannproject.org. For those interested in the tours
of Khmer Architecture Tours, browse through ka-tours.org.
พระอาทิตย์กำลังจะลับขอบฟ้า คงไม่มีจุด
ชมแสงอาทิตย์อัสดงที่งดงามเทียบเท่า
สนามกีฬาในร่มที่ศูนย์กีฬาแห่งชาติกรุง
พนมเปญอีกแล้ว แสงอาทิตย์ระยิบลอด
ผ่านช่องผนังที่แต่เดิมออกแบบมาเพื่อ
ระบายอากาศ ดังที่สถาปนิก วัน โมลีวาน
ออกแบบและสร้างแล้วเสร็จในปี 1964
ระหว่างที่นั่งรถตุ๊กตุ๊กเลียบฝั่งแม่น้ำ
รอบเมืองพนมเปญ ไม่ไกลจากพระบรม
มหาราชวัง สายตาของคุณไม่อาจพลาด
หอประชุมจักโตมุขแน่นอน ไม่น่าแปลกใจที่
หอประชุมแห่งนี้ก็ออกแบบโดย วัน มาลีวาน
เช่นเดียวกันกับอาคารของรัฐอีกกว่าร้อย
แห่ง กัมพูชาอาจกลายเป็นเมืองหลวงอัน
ตระการตา ถ้าไม่ถูกขัดขวางโดยการ
เคลื่อนไหวของเขมรแดงเสียก่อน
ถึงกระนั้น กัมพูชาก็ยังเป็นเมืองหลวง
ที่กำลังเปลี่ยนผ่านและขยายตัวอย่าง
รวดเร็ว เม็ดเงินไหลบ่าสู่โครงการก่อสร้าง
ขนาดยักษ์ ผู้ที ่เคยมายังเมืองหลวงแห่งนี้
เมื่อไม่กี่สิบปีก่อนคงแปลกใจที่ได้เห็นร้าน
กาแฟสุดฮิป ห้างสรรพสินค้า ตึกสูง
เสียดฟ้า และวิถีชีวิตคนเมืองอย่างเต็ม
รูปแบบ แต่พนมเปญก็ไม่ลืมรักษารากเหง้า
ของตัวเองเอาไว้ด้วยอาคาร “สถาปัตยกรรม
เขมรสมัยใหม่” ที่สร้างในช่วงปี 1960
สถาบันภาษาต่างประเทศ อาคารรูป
วงกลมแบบอาว็อง-การ์ดเป็นอาคารของ
รัฐอีกแห่งหนึ่งที่ปัจจุบันยังใช้ในการเรียน
การสอน แต่ถ้าถามนักเรียนที่นั่นว่ารู้จัก
สถาปนิกผู้ออกแบบอาคารหลังนี้หรือไม่
น้อยคนนักที่รู้จัก วัน โมลีวาน
สำหรับผู้ที่คลั่งไคล้สถาปัตยกรรม
จะไม่ผิดหวังเมื่อได้ยลโฉมอาคารแห่งนี้ซึ่ง
ออกแบบมาให้เหมาะกับภูมิอากาศเขตร้อน
โครงสร้างขนาดเล็ก พื้นยกสูง ระบบระบาย
อากาศแบบไขว้ ผนังฉลุลายงดงาม ตัว
อาคารโอบล้อมต้นไทรที่เติบใหญ่ตรงจุด
ศูนย์กลาง บันไดที่เชื่อมตั้งแต่ชั้น 1ถึงชั้น 4
ไขว้ขนานกัน เผยให้เห็นคลื่นมนุษย์เคลื่อนตัว
ขึ้นลงเป็นสาย
กัมพูชาเจริญก้าวหน้าสูงสุดในยุค
ทองหลังจากประกาศอิสรภาพจาก
ฝรั่งเศส พระบาทสมเด็จพระนโรดม สีหนุ
ทรงพัฒนาประเทศผ่านการศึกษา ศิลปะ
และวัฒนธรรม พระราชทานทุนการศึกษา
แก่ วัน โมลีวาน ให้เรียนสถาปัตยกรรมศาสตร์
ที่กรุงปารีส แล้วกลับมารับตำแหน่ง
สถาปนิกแห่งรัฐ และหัวหน้ากิจการรัฐ
รังสรรค์อาคารทรงเอกลักษณ์ และ
สร้างแรงกระเพื่อมแก่ชีวิตประจำวันของ
ผู้คนกัมพูชาโดยทั่ว
ปัจจุบันสถาปัตยกรรมของ วัน โมลีวาน
เป็นที่รู้จักอย่างกว้างขวางทั้งในและต่าง
ประเทศ คนรุ่นใหม่ให้ความสนใจมากขึ้น
บน
ช่องกำแพงโปร่ง
ที่สถาบันภาษา
ต่างประเทศ
กรุงพนมเปญ
ฝีมือออกแบบของ
วัน โมลีวาน มีลวดลาย
แปลกตา สวยงาม
ยามแสงแดดลอดผ่าน
ล่าง
ห้องเรียนของสถาบัน
ภาษาต่างประเทศ
รูปทรงแปลกตา ได้รับ
การออกแบบมาอย่าง
มีเอกลักษณ์
มีการจัดโปรแกรมเที่ยวชมสถาปัตยกรรม
เพื่อเรียนรู้ประวัติศาสตร์ของกรุงพนมเปญ
อีกด้วย
นักเรียนที่สถาบันภาษาต่างประเทศ
ดูเหมือนจะเป็นกลุ่มคนที่โชคดีที่สุดที่ได้ใช้
เวลาอยู่ในอาคารที่ยิ่งใหญ่ที่สุดแห่งหนึ่ง
ของโลก แสงอาทิตย์ที่ลอดผ่านช่องฉลุ
ยังความงดงามให้แก่ภายในของตัว
อาคารจะเปลี่ยนแปลงแตกต่างออกไป
ตามแต่ละช่วงเวลาของวัน
หากมองไปรอบๆ ศูนย์กีฬาแห่งชาติ
ในปัจจุบัน จะเห็นภาพผู้คนจำนวนมาก
พากันมาออกกำลังกาย คุณลุงคุณป้า
ออกท่าทางเต้นแอโรบิกอย่างสนุกสนาน
ท่ามกลางตึกขนาดมหึมาที่ห้อมล้อมอาคาร
ตระหง่านแห่งนี้อยู่ทุกเมื่อเชื่อวัน จึงเรียก
ได้ว่า อาคารแห่งนี้เป็นตัวแทนความรุ่งเรือง
ด้านสถาปัตยกรรมที่ วัน โมลีวาน ทิ้งไว้
ให้ประชาชนชาวพนมเปญทุกหมู่เหล่าได้
เชยชมอย่างแท้จริง
68 69
BURMA BREWS
Colonial
Vestiges y
A former British hill station in
Myanmar provides the ideal setting
for coffee to thrive.
Words & Photos Ron Emmons
70
71
BURMA BREWS
When British colonials established Maymyo (literally ‘May’s
Town’, after Colonel May) in the early 20th century, they
were desperate to escape the sweltering heat of Mandalay
in the hot season. At 3,538 feet (just over 1,000 metres)
of elevation, Maymyo offered a cool retreat, and soon the town had a
familiar feel to its new inhabitants, with its clock tower, governor’s house
and botanical gardens. These days Maymyo is known as Pyin Oo Lwin,
and though the Brits are long gone, their legacy lingers on and attracts
a steady stream of visitors from Mandalay, just 70km to the west.
Yet alongside these tourist
attractions, Pyin Oo Lwin is
also making a name for itself as
a producer of fine coffee. Several
small plantations in the region
are united under the umbrella
organisation of the Myanmar
Coffee Association, and some
of them, such as Ngu Shwe Lee
Coffee and Lone Star Coffee,
welcome visitors to look around
their estates to see all the
stages in the preparation of this
popular beverage.
I began my exploration of
Pyin Oo Lwin at the former
Governor’s House, which is now
on the grounds of the Aureum
Palace Hotel. Being a Brit myself,
I was curious to see how my
compatriots had lived during
the colonial era. As I entered
the grand building, which
was surrounded by manicured
gardens, I stopped in my tracks.
Top Right
Young coffee plants
at the ‘butterfly
stage’, with just two
leaves.
Bottom Right
Raspberry latte
coffee served at café
in Pyin Oo Lwin,
Myanmar.
Bottom Left
Old photograph of
residents and staff
at the Governor’s
House, Maymyo
(now Pyin Oo Lwin),
Myanmar.
Opposite
The Purcell Clock
Tower in the centre
of Pyin Oo Lwin,
erected.
Sitting and standing around the
entrance hall were models of
soldiers and other colonial types
that were so lifelike, I expected
them to step forward and shake
my hand. Once I had got over
this shock, I looked around the
mansion’s many rooms, one
of which included an indoor
swimming pool, and imagined
how my compatriots lived at
the time.
My next stop was the
Kandawgyi National Gardens,
which was based on England’s
famous Kew Gardens, and I
was instantly impressed by the
meticulous order that had been
established in the midst of a
tropical jungle. Walkways led
through colourful flowerbeds,
past a collection of petrified
wood, along a raised boardwalk
over a swamp, through massive
stands of bamboo, and around
an elevated timber walkway
bordered by massive, tropical
trees. After a couple of hours
meandering round the lakes
and pathways, I felt uplifted by
nature’s beauty and eager to see
more of this quirky town.
In the town centre, I smiled
to see the Purcell Tower, a clock
tower that would not have been
out of place in any English town.
Another throwback to the colonial
era were horse-drawn carriages
waiting patiently for passengers
on street corners; they might
have been lifted straight out of
Victorian London. Clearly the
intention of the colonials was one
of stamping their own culture
on the local scene rather than
adapting to Burmese ways. As
I wandered around, I realised
that this place didn’t feel like
Myanmar at all, as the faces
were predominantly of people
with Nepali or Indian descent.
72
73
BURMA BREWS
Clockwise from
Top Right
Grading beans at
coffee factory.
Local brands of
Myanmar coffee.
Coffee beans
ripening on
the bush.
I presumed that many of those
who worked for the colonials had
stayed on after the Brits had left
and put down roots here. Even in
the town’s main market, which
was a riot of noise, colour and
unusual smells, most of the stall
vendors seemed to be Nepali
or Indian.
I settled into a café to reflect
on these rich experiences, and
was delighted to find a fantastic
range of coffees to choose from.
I ordered a latte, and while I was
enjoying it, I got talking to a
man called Samuel. “Do you like
our local coffee?” he asked, and
when I expressed surprise that
the beans came from the area,
he explained that the soil and
climate in the hills around Pyin
Oo Lwin make it ideal for growing
coffee. It turned out that there are
many small coffee plantations in
the region, all of which are part of
the Myanmar Coffee Association
and produce top-grade varieties,
such as S795, which is much
sought after by coffee buyers.
“So how come you know so
much about coffee?” I asked
Samuel. “Well, it just so happens
that I was a manager of one
of the local plantations for a
decade,” he answered with a
grin. “Would you like to take a
look around one tomorrow? I’ll
be showing a small group around
a couple of plantations and a
processing plant.” I jumped at the
opportunity; after all, I had drunk
coffee every day for countless
years without much idea of how
the brew was made.
Samuel picked me up the next
morning and we drove with his
small group a few kilometres out
of town to a coffee estate run by
a friend of his. The welcoming
owner, U Kyaw Sein, immediately
poured us a cup of coffee from
his farm and cracked open some
macadamia nuts to nibble as we
drank. Samuel explained that
the macadamia tree provides
excellent shade, which coffee
bushes need, and the crop of nuts
(around 12 tons a year) provided
valuable extra income.
We hopped into a pick-up
truck and bounced along dirt
tracks that led through the
estate, stopping here and there
for U Kyaw Sein to show off the
waxy-leaved coffee bushes laden
with green berries. He explained
Somehow the experience of watching
the process of coffee production all the
way from seed to cup had given me a new
appreciation of just how much knowledge
and hard work goes into producing the
drink that kick-starts my days.
that with careful maintenance, a
coffee bush can keep producing
beans for up to 80 years, but it
was evident that this is a labourintensive
business. As we drove
around, we passed small groups
of workers pruning the bushes,
weeding the area around them
and adding fertiliser to the earth.
Apart from coffee, which yields
about 15 tons of green beans a
year from around 200 acres, the
estate also grows dragon fruit and
avocados. The avocado is another
tree that doubles as a shade tree
for coffee and brings an extra
source of income.
Samuel then took us to the
Mandalay Coffee Group processing
plant on the outskirts of Pyin
Oo Lwin to see what happens to
the beans once they have been
harvested. I was shocked to see
all kinds of elaborate machinery
used to soak the beans, throw
out the bad ones, take off the
skins and then roast them so that
they are ready for consumption.
In one corner of the processing
plant, a small army of women sat
grading berries one by one, a job
that would drive me mad with its
repetitive nature.
We couldn’t leave without
sampling the finished product,
and I smacked my lips as I supped
a cup of S795 Arabica special.
Somehow the experience of
watching the process of coffee
production all the way from
seed to cup had given me a new
appreciation of just how much
knowledge and hard work goes
into producing the drink that
kick-starts my days. I thanked
Samuel for allowing me to see
an aspect of this former colonial
town that I never knew existed,
one that complements a colourful
past with the hope for a bountiful
future. He smiled and presented
me with a small packet of Arabica
to take home as a souvenir, telling
me that it was his pleasure to
share the secrets of his home
town’s rich culture with a
stranger from far away.
Clockwise from
Top Left
Burmese worker
roasting coffee
beans.
Ex-coffee
plantation manager
Samuel pointing out
features of healthy
coffee bush.
Coffee beans
being processed at
processing plant,
Pyin Oo Lwin,
Myanmar.
74
75
BURMA BREWS
TAKE ME
HOME
Fah Thai is the inflight magazine
of Bangkok Airways. It is YOUR
MAGAZINE. It is distributed with our
compliments on all Bangkok Airways
flights. We hope you enjoy it .
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แต่เดิม พินอูลวิน เป็นเพียงเมืองเล็กๆ
อากาศเย็นสบาย ที่ทหารอาณานิคม
บริติชมักหนีร้อนมาพักจากเมืองเมเมียว
จากศตวรรษที่ 20 จนถึงบัดนี้ มรดกที่
ตกทอดจากทหารกลุ่มนั้นได้สร้างเสน่ห์
ดึงดูดนักท่องเที่ยวให้มาเยี่ยมชม ไม่ว่าจะ
เป็นหอนาฬิกา บ้านพักเจ้าครองเมือง
สวนพฤกษศาสตร์ หรือบรรยากาศ
สบายๆ ของพินอูลวิน ซึ่งห่างจากมัณฑะเลย์
ของพม่าไปทางตะวันออกเฉียงเหนือเพียง
60 กิโลเมตรเท่านั้น
ไร่กาแฟเล็กๆ ในเมืองนี้ก็มีชื่อเสียง
เลื่องลือไม่แพ้กัน พินอูลวินผลิตเมล็ด
กาแฟชั้นเลิศ อีกทั้งยังเปิดให้นักท่องเที่ยว
ชมไร่กาแฟและสัมผัสกรรมวิธีการผลิต
ต้นแต่ต้นจนจบก่อนจะมาเป็นกาแฟหอมกรุ่น
หนึ่งถ้วยให้เราได้จิบยามเช้า
เราเริ่มทริปที ่บ้านพักอดีตผู้ครอง
เมืองในพินอูลวิน ซึ่งปัจจุบันตั้งอยู่บน
พื้นที่ของโรงแรมออเรียมพาเลซ เราย่าง
ก้าวเข้าไปในอาคารอันโอ่อ่า ประตูทาง
เข้ามีรูปปั้นทหารเหมือนจริง ด้านในมี
ห้องจำนวนมาก หนึ่งในนั้นคือ สระว่ายน้ำ
ในร่ม ในสมัยนั้นชีวิตของผู้ครองอาณานิคม
คงจะสุขสบายมิใช่น้อย
แล้วไปต่อที่สวนพฤกษศาสตร์แห่งชาติ
กันดอว์จี ผู้ที่มายังสวนแห่งนี้ต้องประทับใจ
การจัดวางสถานที่ท่ามกลางป่าฝนเขตร้อน
ทางเดินทอดยาวสู่แปลงดอกไม้หลากสี
ข้ามหนองน้ำเงียบสงบ ทิวไผ่พลิ้วไหวตาม
สายลม และต้นไม้เขตร้อนสูงใหญ่โดยรอบ
ทุกอย่างที่นี่ล้วนเชื้อเชิญให้เราอยากรู้จัก
เมืองเล็กๆ เมืองนี้ยิ่งขึ้นไปอีก
ตัวเมืองพินอูลวินส่งกลิ่นอายอาณานิคม
อย่างชัดเจน หอนาฬิกาแบบอังกฤษตั้ง
ตระหง่านอยู่กลางเมือง มีรถม้าที่เหมือน
เดินทางข้ามเวลามาจากสมัยวิกตอเรีย
ทุกอย่างดูไม่เข้ากันเมื่อเราตระหนักว่า
ตอนนี้เรากำลังอยู่ในเมียนมา แม้แต่ผู้คน
ตามเข็มนาฬิกา
จากซ้ายบน
ทางเดินบนสะพานไม้
สำหรับเยี่ยมชม
ความงดงามใน
สวนพฤกษศาสตร์
แห่งชาติกันดอว์จี
ชาวอินเดียและเนปาล
พากันมาสักการะ
สิ่งศักดิ์สิทธิ์ที่วัดฮินดู
แม่ชีน้อยๆ เทินถาด
บนศีรษะ เดินเรียงเป็นแถว
กลางเมืองพินอูลวิน
รถม้ารอให้
นักท่องเที่ยวจับจอง
เพื่อพาชมรอบเมือง
ที่นี่ก็ดูเหมือนจะเป็นชาวเนปาลหรืออินเดีย
เป็นส่วนใหญ่ คาดว่าบรรพบุรุษของ
ชาวเมืองน่าจะเป็นคนงานที่ชาวอังกฤษพา
มาด้วยในยุคอาณานิคม จากนั้นก็ตั้งรกราก
ที่นี่ แล้วอยู่อาศัยเรื่อยมาจนถึงปัจจุบัน
นั่งพักจิบกาแฟสักเล็กน้อย จากรายการ
กาแฟที่มีให้เลือกสรรหลากหลายรายการ
ทั้งหมดล้วนแล้วแต่ผลิตในชุมชนแห่งนี้
ทั้งสิ้น ชาวเมืองคนหนึ่งเล่าให้ฟังว่า
พินอูลวินมีดินและอากาศเหมาะแก่การ
ปลูกกาแฟ ไร่กาแฟเล็กๆ จำนวนมากเป็น
ส่วนหนึ่งของสมาคมกาแฟแห่งเมียนมา
ซึ่งสามารถผลิตเมล็ดกาแฟคุณภาพสูง
อันเป็นที่ต้องการของตลาด
เราได้พบกับชาวเมืองคนหนึ่งชื่อว่า
ซามูเอล ซึ่งเคยเป็นผู้จัดการไร่กาแฟแห่งหนึ่ง
ที่มีประสบการณ์กว่าสิบปี เขาพาเรามาชม
ไร่กาแฟพร้อมอธิบายว่า ต้นแมคคาเดเมีย
แก้วมังกร และอโวคาโดปลูกไว้ในไร่เพื่อให้
ร่มเงาแก่ต้นกาแฟ ส่วนเมล็ดและผลที่
เก็บเกี่ยวได้ถือเป็นรายได้เสริมอีกทาง
เรานั่งรถกระบะไปตามถนนดิน
ต้นกาแฟใบเงางามเป็นพุ่ม ผลกาแฟเขียว
เต็มต้น เมื่อได้รับการบำรุงและดูแลอย่างดี
ต้นกาแฟเหล่านี้สามารถให้ผลได้ถึง 80 ปี
เลยทีเดียว หากแต่ต้องใช้แรงงานและเวลา
คนงานค้องคอยตัดกิ่ง ถอนวัชพืช และใส่
ปุ๋ยคอกให้กับต้นกาแฟทีละต้นๆ
เมื่อเก็บเกี่ยวมาเรียบร้อยแล้ว เมล็ด
กาแฟจะต้องผ่านกรรมวิธีในโรงงานที่ตั้ง
อยู่นอกเมืองพินอูลวิน เมล็ดกาแฟแต่ละ
เมล็ดนำจะต้องบรรจุเข้าในเครื่องจักร
ขนาดใหญ่เพื่อแช่น้ำ คัดเมล็ดเสียทิ้งไป
ปอกเปลือก แล้วคั่วให้หอมพร้อมชงเป็น
กาแฟในถ้วย แต่ในอีกมุมหนึ่งของโรงงานก็
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76
GALLERY
It’s a constant busy in the
city’s indie art world, with
momentum picking up
for an inaugural biennale.
Photographer Jesper Haynes
makes the rounds on the
opening day circuit.
Words & Photos Jesper Haynes
Ifell in love with Bangkok’s art scene
back in early 2000, a time when About
Café was an active experimental
gallery, with always something fun going
on. Another place called Gig Groceries
inspired me to make the book GIG, which
is a tribute to Bangkok’s indie music and
art world.
The continuing energy and passion of
artistic creations in this city endured. Ten
years later, my first solo show was at No
Space gallery in (nightlife destination) RCA.
At the time it was one of the most fun art
galleries around. Run by musician Bank and
photographer Yoko, this followed with
more of my works exhibited at burgeoning
art spaces such the Space, Soy Sauce Factory,
Speedy Grandma and finally, at Jam factory
last year. So here we are, with an established
Bangkok scene bursting with artistic
expressions that can be avant-garde, offbeat
but always personal.
I have really high hopes for Bangkok
becoming a mini Berlin. It has all the right
ingredients, one of the most important
being low rent and secondly, lots of big
available spaces that could easily be
converted into galleries.
Many poor artists would probably
argue we’re not there yet but I do have
a sense the Bangkok [art] world is still
evolving. In the last four or five years,
so many new interesting venues have
appeared, and there are now many areas
where clusters of galleries form small
communities where artists support each
other, a sweetness that is often missing in
bigger markets.
Bangkok’s Chinatown has independent
galleries like Cho Why, around the corner
from the original About Café that started it
all back in the 80’s.
78
79
GALLERY
TOP
Artist Apiwat Banler
often puts himself in
his large paintings: this
is from the exhibition
“Maybe Tomorrow” at
Cho Why Art Space.
Cho Why (on Soi Nana
in Chinatown), run by
David Fernandez and
Victor Hierro, is one of
those really cool spaces,
a converted Chinese shop
house where anything
art-related is encouraged.
BOTTOM
Justin Mills explains his
work to a visitor in his
studio on Soi Nana in
Chinatown.
OPPOSITE TOP
Bangkok-based
Douglas Diaz’s exhibit
at Woof Pack Gallery.
The current work
of drawings and
illustrations explore
his personal definition
of “Love.”
OPPOSITE, BOTTOM
Looking out from the
entrance to Gallery
Speedy Grandma, a very
hip and cool gallery run
by Lee Anantawat.
80 81
GALLERY
RIGHT
Artist Taweewit
Kijtanasoonthorn at
Bangkok Screening
Room, Woofpack Building,
that also champions the
artistic community. He
stands in front of his work,
“Up Side Down Town.”
BELOW
Miti Ruangkritya’s
installation at WTF Café
& Gallery, “Two men look
out through the same
bars: one sees the mud,
and one the stars”.
ABOVE
Alex Face, an influential graffiti artist
whose work is always familiar, even
outside of Thailand. The work is from the
group exhibit, SOS-Souled Out at Bangkok
CityCity Gallery, now one of the leading art
spaces in Bangkok.
BOTTOM LEFT
Street art has enabled a larger community
to connect to public art and acquaint
themselves with the creative process of
an artist.
BOTTOM RIGHT
Kittitorn Kasemkitwatana’s
“Impermanence” at Project Room by
Gallery Ver. The gallery is founded by artist
Rirkrit Tiravanija.
82
83
GALLERY
ABOVE
Japanese artist Wakabuko puts the last few brush strokes on his
painting at Jam Factory Gallery, another great spot and all around
interesting place to visit along the Chao Phraya river on the
Thonburi side.
BELOW
Graffiti has been part of Bangkok’s street scene for many years.
This is on the khlong (canal) next to the Jim Thompson house
near the Ratchathewi BTS station and a nice way to see Bangkok’s
waterways.
ABOVE
Jeff Gompertz’s space keeps the experimental part of the Bangkok art
world alive, here with a video installation titled “Public RelationS”.
BELOW
An incubating project for Young Artists at BACC (Bangkok Art and
Culture Centre). This installation is by Kanich Khajohnsri.
84
85
CLOCKWISE, FROM
TOP LEFT
Bangkok CityCity Gallery
is a hip young space
founded in 2015, this is
from the exhibition SOS-
Souled Out Studios.
Artist and curator
Angkrit Ajchariyasophon.
He supports young Thai
artists by introducing
their work at Angkrit
Gallery.
Tew Maneesutham’s
To Reminisce, at CASE
Space Revolution,
located on the second
floor of vegan restaurant
Broccoli Revolution, on
Sukhumvit 49.
OPPOSITE PAGE
Works by British artists
Lucas Price and Mau Mau
at Bangkok CityCity
Gallery.
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER
American/Swedish photographer
Jesper Haynes was born in Edinburgh,
Scotland in 1962. When he was 16
years old, he met Andy Warhol in
Stockholm who encouraged him to
come and live in New York. Once in
the Big Apple, he started working for
Ralph Gibson printing in the darkroom
for five years. Days were spent in the
darkroom and nights at club Area
while living in American film director
and photographer Larry Clark’s
apartment on Hudson and Canal –
“I never saw daylight.” Jesper has
since established himself as an artist
documenting his unique lifestyle
through photography.
His photographs are part of the
permanent collection at the Museum
of Modern Art in Stockholm, Sweden. He
shares his time between New York (where
he is based), Bangkok, Paris and Tokyo.
86
87
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Urban farms continue to
proliferate, and in Bangkok
diners now can eat within
plucking distance of their
greens. Inventive dishes
and a farm tour are yours
just a few steps away.
BANGKOK 90 / SAMUI 92 / KRABI & PHUKET 96 / CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI 100 / PATTAYA & TRAT 101 /
CHENGDU, CHONGQING & GUANGZHOU 102 / HONG KONG 104 / SINGAPORE 106 / KL 107 / BATTAMBANG, PHNOM PENH & SIEM REAP 108 /
DANANG, HANOI & PHU QUOC 110 / LUANG PRABANG 112 / YANGON 113 / MALDIVES & MUMBAI 114
89
HAPPENINGS
THAILAND
BANGKOK
SPOTLIGHT
A Heartfelt Royal
Exhibit
The exquisite Phya Thai Palace
now opens to the public at the
main Phiman Chakri Hall, also the
site of the ‘Forever in Our Hearts’
exhibition. Poignant and informative,
it comprises an extensive collection of
the life story of the late and beloved
King Bhumibol Adulyadej. It was
part of the multi-faceted series of
exhibitions of the Royal Cremation
Ceremony last year. Now, those who
missed this invaluable presentation
can visit Phya Thai Palace and walk
through the comprehensive series
packed with information about the
King’s lifetime of comprehensive
works and showcase of ancient
Thai traditions.
Phya Thai Palace itself is a very
beautiful historical complex in
architecture and historical value.
Once a personal experimental
farming plot of King Rama V, the
space was later turned into the
palace for King Rama VI. Towards
the end of his reign, King Rama VI
turned his palace into a luxurious
MASTER PIECES
You can find classic pieces from Danish designer Arne Jacobsen to those of German
conceptual artist Ottmar Hörl in this “boutique of timeless objects” at The Object Room,
opening at K Village. Enjoy browsing through a wide array of lifestyle products and
accessories selected for their well-crafted quality and timeless charm from all over the world
hotel. When Thailand went through
the 1932 constitutional changes,
the palace was used by the Bangkok
military medical division and later
became King Mongkut Memorial
Hospital. Phya Thai Palace Conservation
Foundation, Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok,
phyathaipalace.org, +66 (0) 2354 7987,
(0) 2354 7732
RICE AND SHINE
After 35 years in Thai cuisine,
Chef Vichit Mukura has unveiled
his marvellous menu in a more
contemporary setting in the heart of
the bustling street of Ekamai. The
renowned chef aims at crafting what
he has gathered and mastered over
the years into perfect Thai dishes
accompanied by the magic of rice, an
everyday staple, hence the name of
the restaurant Khao (rice in Thai).
SPOTLIGHT
Next Level
Green Dining
Vegetables get their own
gastronomic treatment at
Haoma. The combination
may not seem so out of
the ordinary, but with
executive chef Deepanker
‘DK’ Khosla’s culinary
skills and finesse at Haoma
(pronounced ha-o-ma),
the vegetables excel. Green
produce and local organic
All dishes are wonderfully created
using premium ingredients from Or Tor
Kor, the Chef’s favourite market and
venue for high-quality fresh products.
Enlivened with blond wood and natural
light, the space offers traditional à la
carte Thai dishes, along with Chef’s
Table options ranging from six, eight, to
ten-course menus. Advanced booking is
highly recommended. 15 Ekamai Soi 10,
khaogroup.com, +66 (0) 2381 2575
ALL THE SAKURA YOU CAN DRINK
Inspired by Japan’s Sakura cherry trees, Up & Above Bar is
introducing cocktails and mocktails to celebrate the beauty
of cherry blossoms. The delicately-crafted selection includes
favourites like the floral champagne cocktail Sakura Royale, and a
Sakura Martini which fuses sake, cherry liqueur, and gin together
for a delightful twist. New selections include the Sakura 75, an
alluring combination of champagne, gin, Sakura syrup, and lemon
juice, and the Sakura Oriental Tonic that tweaks the classic
Gin Tonic with a Japanese botanical touch. For mocktails, the
bubbly Simply Sakura is the true manifestation of cherry purée,
yuzu juice, and soda water, while the Blossoms offers a more
adventurous experience with cherry purée, black pepper-infused
syrup, cream and lime juice. Up & Above Bar at The Okura Prestige
Bangkok, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Road, okurabangkok.
com, +66 (0) 2687 9000
and in Thailand. Originally from Auckland, New Zealand
and founded in 2011, the multi-brand design store
understands the desire to combine cutting-edge
aesthetics with an everyday functional purpose.
K Village, 93, 95 Sukhumvit 26, +66 (0) 2007 0767,
facebook.com/theobjectroom
ingredients create a progressive
dining experience in line with
the restaurant’s environmental
approach. Nestled serenely in
the corner of Sukhumvit 31,
the restaurant’s two-storey
glasshouse embraces the lush
greenery of the surrounding
area. Complete with its own
organic garden, it perfectly sums up the concept
of an urban farm with the mission to cook only
what they grow and reap. Also, Haoma has
drinks crafted by Bacardi’s brand ambassador
mixologist Mitchell Kai Lum. His creations, in line
with Haoma’s sustainable approach, feature an
innovative way of interpreting spirits, fruits and
vegetables. 231/3 Sukhumvit Rd, haoma.dk,
+66 (0) 2258 4744
90
91
HAPPENINGS
THAILAND
SAMUI
SPOTLIGHT
The Tongsai Bay Exclusive
Adding to Koh Samui’s repertoire
of sophisticated dining options
is the newly opened Butler’s at
The Tongsai Bay.
With the intention of adding
an exclusive take on dining,
Butler’s opens its doors only on
Wednesday and Friday evenings
from 7pm with a maximum of 20
guests per evening. Aiming for an
intimate dining experience, the
overall setting is informal yet cosy.
The tempting menu features
a selection of Pan-Asian and
Mediterranean-inspired dishes
from skilfully-trained Chef Eak,
who attentively curates a menu that changes
weekly yet maintains a consistency and theme.
The intimate setting is one not to be missed for
food lovers visiting the island. Interested guests are
urged to pre-book to enjoy this tantalising dining
experience. 84 Moo 5, Bo Phut, tongsaibay.co.th,
+66 (0) 77 913 750
BRIDGING COFFEE, HIDDEN NATURE
Just hidden in the jungle amongst the rolling hills of
Maenam sits one of Koh Samui’s most unique and
new hotspots. Opened just a year ago, Tree Bridge
Coffee is already establishing itself as a ‘must see’
on this side of paradise. The attraction begins with
a wooden bridge whose beautiful design leads out
to a tree house café. Exposing jungle and ocean
views, the worthwhile visit becomes an unbeatable
choice for an afternoon trip. Continuing
a short 200 metres from the café and
right into the jungle, patrons will find
themselves toe to toe with a 20-metre
high waterfall and the soothing sounds
of nature. In addition to expanding its
already impressive offerings, Tree House
recently started a 400-metre zip line.
Here’s a chance to sail over the top
of a dense Samui jungle after having
sipped a coffee in the treehouse for
great views all around. Maenam Soi 5,
samuitreebridgetour.com/en,
+66 (0) 77 901 175
COCKTAIL X PIZZA
CoCo Tam’s, a popular haunt at vibrant
Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, is famous
for its oversized cocktails, weekly fire
dance shows on the beach, swing
seats, and chill beach bar vibe. With
the opening of CoCo Tam’s x Peppina
this past November, this collaboration
merges expertly-made drinks and
expertly-made pizza. With several
branches in Bangkok already, Peppina’s
beach location still means wood-fired
pizza skilfully served up: this time from
a beautiful two-story brick building
expertly decorated for a Bali-esque feel.
A variety of lounging option comes in
the form of CoCo Tam beanbag chairs,
rattan seating, or any number of beachchic
seats. If beautiful views of boats
bobbing on the deep blues of the Gulf
aren’t enough, Peppina’s game room is
also well stocked with your favourite
board games to help pass the time.
facebook.com/cocotamsxpeppina,
+66 (0) 77 945 269
THE GREAT WATER ESCAPE
For adventure seekers looking to take a break from the
beach but still beat the heat, High Park Samui is the
island’s hippest new place to do so. It’s hard to resist
spending a day swooshing from the 15-metre-high
water slides while enjoying beats from a live DJ, casual
bites, and perfectly priced drinks. You can switch gears
by going from the intense thrill of the water slides to a
more relaxed dip in High Park’s infinity pool overlooking
picturesque Chaweng and the mountains. After all that
high, catch the sun as it goes down, as the sky bursts into
its beautiful array of colours to provide a dreamy scene to
end the day. highparksamui.com, +66 (0) 77 961 484
92
HAPPENINGS
THAILAND
SAMUI
SPOTLIGHT
The Island Godfather
of Italian Restaurants
Koh Samui’s first introduction
to authentic Italian cuisine
came from the long established
island favourite, Prego
restaurant. Though many
Italian restaurants now grace
the shores of Koh Samui, Prego
holds its place as the best one to
visit for that taste from the old
country. Chef Marco’s precise
ability to transport the flavour
of Italy straight to Thailand
draws in long-time islanders as
well as a wealth of new visitors.
Pasta dishes are good choices in
the extensive menu given that it
is hand made with real semolina
flour. Their pizza menu is a
crowd favourite as well, with the
pies themselves done in a wood
fire oven. Located along lively
Chaweng beach road opposite
Amari resort, Prego continues to
offers complex Italian flavours
and a wide selection of drinks in
an unwavering commitment to
quality dining in Samui. Chaweng
Beach Road, prego-samui.com,
+66 (0) 77 300 317
(QUAD)RUPLE THE FUN
What could be a more perfect way to enjoy Samui’s exciting terrain
and lush nature by way of a quad bike? The multi-national team at
X-Quad possess sure knowledge of the island’s best spots, creating
customised nature trails for holiday-goers to fulfil their adventurous
spirit. Quad bike excursions boast picturesque scenery from Samui’s
highest hill, the feel of a real jungle, and a mesmerising hidden
waterfall, with maximum safety provided. No experience is needed,
just the craving for an adrenaline rush and the usual island gear
(swimwear, sunscreen, etc) and all is set for the ride. This one-day trip
of magnificent views, with lunch and beverages, can also be done
as a private tour provided by X-Quad, depending on the season.
Maenam Soi 5, xquad-samui.com, +66 (0) 90 980 5401
IN DEMAND BRUNCH
If you are looking for a leisurely
Sunday brunch, look no further than
Nikki Beach Resort Koh Samui, where
entertainment, luxury, and gastronomy
all fuse into one memorable experience.
Starting from 11am to 4pm, the beach
club’s Amazing Sundays Brunch offers a
wide array of gastronomic Western and
Thai cuisine in a gorgeous setting on
Lipa Noi Beach. As the restaurant is one
of the most sought-after brunch spots
thanks to its pleasing cuisine and four
different dining/lounging areas, guests
are recommended to make a reservation
in advance. Also, mark June 24 as they
are hosting the Burning Man-inspired
event “Wild and Free,” an expression
of art, love, music, and spirituality.
Combined with entertainment and music,
the free-spirited event will be another
lasting memory complemented by the
spectacular seascape. 96/3 Moo 2,
Lipa Noi, Samui, +66 (0) 77 914 500,
nikkibeach.com
SAMUI’S ITALIAN
Less than a year into its debut, Two Fishes Italian
Restaurant has become the talk of Samui town for its
noteworthy Italian cuisine. Helmed by chef Leandro
Panza with 25 years of experience in the kitchen, the
restaurant uses imported Italian ingredients along
with fresh local produce. Two Fishes offers a sleek,
modernist vibe along with mouth-watering Italian
dishes with highlights such as Black Grouper All’Agro
Dolce – a crispy black grouper fish served in a sweet
and sour sauce with onions – and the classic Vitello
Tonnato, a slow-roasted veal fillet with a tuna and
caper sauce. 79/5 Bophut, 2fishessamui.com
94
HAPPENINGS
THAILAND
PHUKET
SPOTLIGHT
Charm of a Restaurant
UNESCO’s recognition of
Phuket as a City of Gastronomy
recently spurred increased
interest among the local and
international crowd for the
city’s local cuisines, especially
Peranakan food. The latest
addition to an already vibrant
and varied food scene is
‘The Charm,’ a traditional
restaurant in Phuket Old Town
that features rarely found
homemade Peranakan recipes.
These have been gathered by
the owner’s family by watching
and learning over time in
their ancestors’ kitchens.
The traditional fusion
cuisine itself has a long
heritage that traces
back to early Chinese
migrants who settled in
Malaysia, Singapore and
Indonesia. Distinctively
influenced and tasty
dishes once exclusively
prepared in the homes
of Phuket natives are now
served to diners to satisfy
inquisitive palates. Gaeng Tu
Mee or Muslim-inspired fish
curry, the unfamiliar delicacy
of Gaeng Plaa Ama (Ama’s
style fish curry) requiring a
good quality sesame oil, or the
Hainanese-style pork steak that
used to be a favourite among
Western engineers working
Phuket’s mines back in the day;
all are usually hard to find in a
restaurant. Diners should not
miss the signature dessert of
Koi Taa Lam, a Phuket delicacy
of pandanus-infused custard
served in a modern style. Open
Tuesday - Sunday: 11am - 10pm,
93 Deebuk Road, Amphur Muang,
Phuket, +66 (0) 96 998 9244
WORKING THE LAND IN PHUKET
If you’re looking for a change from
Phuket’s beaches, just a few kilometres
north of Phuket Old Town sits Vanich
Farm where you can learn about the
farming life. Gain insight on how rice is
grown, cook Thai dishes and even get up
close and personal with water buffalos,
the farmer’s trusty companion in the rice
paddy. While Vanich farm dedicates a
large part of the land to growing sweet
corn, their rice paddy complete with
tractors and farm animals sets this place
apart from other destinations in Phuket.
Visitors can come in and take a stroll
before retreating to a farm-to-table
meal at Barn Café where recommended
dishes include a Mulberry Salad and of course, corn soup. Those
determined to know more can sign up for packaged tours with
offers of educational experiences, like the hands-on planting of
rice seedlings in the comfortable outfit of a farmer’s ‘morhom’
shirt, cropped pants and protective straw hat. Workshops on how
to make salted eggs, and how to maintain a worm farm are also
interesting choices. Open daily: 10am - 6pm, 19/540 Rassada Road,
Amphur Muang, Phuket, +66 (0) 98 671 2168, vanichfarm.com
KNOWING MEE
Phuket always has its own local
interpretation of staple foods. An
example is the ubiquitous rice
vermicelli known as ‘sen mee’ in
other parts of Thailand but in Phuket,
it’s known as ‘mee hun’. Enjoying this
thinner strand of rice noodle requires
a quick trip to Talad Lor Rong food
court a few kilometres away from
Phuket Town. Expect mee hun noodles
in Phuket to be served with crabmeat
curry or stir-fried and served with pork
rib soup. When ordering mee hun,
this widely-used name brings to mind
that the beloved noodle should be
blanched until perfectly al dente and
served with myriad dishes.
Mee hun is cooked up differently
and also has the novelty of being
called a ‘mee Thai.’ Although a lesser
known name of the rice noodle, mee
Thai is great for those who love a
meatless dish. The noodle strands
get stir-fried with coconut cream
until fragrant, served with crunchy
beansprouts, julienned cucumber
and chopped chives with super
delicious results. Staple condiments
include toasted dried chillies and
maybe a spoonful of sugar. It’s a
great afternoon munch. Talad Lor
Rong is also the place you can find
other indigenous Phuket snacks, such
as their famous spring rolls and rice
pancakes called ‘A Pong.’ Ranong Road,
Amphur Muang, Phuket, open daily
(except Tuesdays): 11am - 3pm,
+66 (0) 86 814 9772
96
HAPPENINGS
THAILAND
KRABI / PHUKET
SPOTLIGHT
Super Bowls
Lion & Shark, a healthful and veganfriendly
hub of food and lifestyle in
scenic Ao Nang is best-known for
their signature tropical smoothie
bowls whose unique superfood tastes
and impressive sizes can easily fill
up one’s appetite for the entire
day. The eye-catching bowls are
named after Krabi’s scenic beaches,
namely Lanta Bowl (Mango and
Passionfruit), Railay Bowl (Coconut
and Pineapple), Poda Bowl (Peach
and Mango), and Tonsai Bowl
(Spinach and Kiwi). Apart from their
offerings, Lion & Shark cares for
the Krabi environment by arranging
activities for the public to engage
in, such as “Ao Nang Trash Hero”,
“No Straw Movement”, “A Bucket of
Beach Trash for a Coffee” and much
more. 247/3 Moo 2, Ao Nang, Krabi,
facebook.com/LionandShark,
+66 (0) 87 681 9008
A 24 YEAR LOVE
In a town where the main food culture is mostly
influenced by Chinese and Muslim dishes, Je
t’aime, Phuket’s longest-standing Vietnamese
restaurant, has ample reasons to celebrate its
24th anniversary. They’re the first restaurant
to break the mould of typical eating out habits
in Phuket by bringing in Vietnamese and Thai
selections to their menu. Their popular dishes
include Naem Nueang, or grilled pork sausages,
whose do-it-yourself wrapped rolls come with
a tray of assorted herbs and vegetables. Also
popular is Chạo Tôm or grilled shrimp wrapped
around a sugar cane eaten with a sweet and
tangy sauce and rice vermicelli. If you’re looking
for something warm and hearty, there is always
a good bowl of Bánh Canh, a thicker type of
Vietnamese noodle served with choices of
meats – typically pork spare ribs. Open daily:
11am - 10.30pm, 183/93 Phang Nga Road,
Amphur Muang, +66 (0) 76 219 103,
facebook.com/jetaimevietnamese
LAGUNA PHUKET INTERNATIONAL MARATHON
The ‘Laguna Phuket International Marathon’ from all over the world. The event offers a
takes place this year from 8 to 10 June at the selection of different races that’s open to people
Laguna Phuket resort complex in the Cherngtalay of all ages. Kids can join the 2km run, while
area that’s located north of the island. Held for adults can choose from 5km, 10.5km or half
13 consecutive years, the event expects to draw marathon (21km), a marathon relay (42km) and
more than 7,000 runners and enthusiasts full marathon (42km). The races start and finish at
Laguna Phuket. Runners follow the course out of
the resort and head north through local villages,
with pineapple and rubber plantations en route.
The proceeds of this marathon go to the Laguna
Phuket Foundation, established back in 2009, to
support education and social development in the
Phuket area. phuketmarathon.com
PERANAKAN FOR THE DAY
A theme museum where visitors can immerse in the vibrant
lives of Phuket’s Peranakan clans, the Peranakan Phuket
Museum showcases the vast and private collection of Phuket
families in colourful portrayal. From depicting their deep roots
in the jewellery trade of Phuket to featuring toy size models
the likes of a traditional Phuket Anglo-Chinese shop house
adorned with fine details – the exhibit illustrates life as it
was back when Phuket was the main mining hub of the Thai
South. Since jewellery plays a big part in the Peranakan tradition
and spans centuries, stories of these
precious objects and their creation see
heavy representation alongside displays
of traditional clothing like the exquisite
kebaya, batik sarong, embroidered
slippers and everyday accessories. The
entrance ticket comes with guided
tours available in English, Chinese,
Korean and German (advance booking
recommended.) A portrait studio and
traditional apparel are also available
for rent. Drop by ‘Ya Ya Kitchen’, a
restaurant where you can try a Phuket
-style delicious Peranakan meal, or
the lovely Piñana Café for coffee and
sweet treats. Open daily: 9am - 6pm,
124/1 Moo 1, Thepkasattri Road, Tambol
Si Sunthon, Amphur Muang, Phuket,
+66 (0) 76 313 556, (0) 92 224 4574,
peranakanphuketmuseum.com
98
HAPPENINGS
THAILAND
CHIANG MAI / CHIANG RAI
THAILAND
PATTAYA / KOH CHANG
SPOTLIGHT
Soy Milk Heaven
With a menu dedicated to soy milk – ‘slow coffee’
bar Yellow Crafts Café – opted out of using a high-tech
espresso machine and instead makes each shot by
hand, using the likes of an Aeropress. Expect an
Americano to be done with the hand-drip method,
thereby producing a cup of aromatic coffee per
order. Their cold brew requires an overnight drip
process that slowly extracts the coffee with cold
water. Run by soy milk enthusiasts whose soybeans
are supplied from a trusted farm in Chiang Mai, this
small café serves vegan-friendly caffeine drinks and
more. Their signature ‘soy milk coffee’ uses their
blend of beans especially selected and roasted to
SAY CHEESE IN CHIANG RAI
The sleepy town of Chiang Rai has
become a food destination of late
with the number of high-profile
chefs and food establishments
drawing visitors from everywhere.
Now it’s time for the spotlight to
be on creamy cheeses. Made by
artisan producers Chiang Rai
Cheese, the cheeses
rely on the milk of
cows and goats
from the area
and provided by the Chiang Rai
Dairy Cooperative. The cheese
makers themselves produce
original varieties such as ‘Chiang
Rai Cremoso,’ and ‘Chiang Rai
Blanco’ which is a blend of
goat’s milk and cow’s milk, as
well as ‘Chiang Rai Halloumi,’
blue cheeses and much more.
On site is their factory outlet
called ‘Baan Cheese’ retailing
their cheese selections with
tasting samples. Those looking
for a new place to have a bit of
a cool down can also drop by for
coffee. T: +66 (0) 64 005 2405,
chiangraicheese.com
withstand soy milk’s natural
coagulation keeping the drink
smooth; there’s also a ‘soy
milk chocolate’ and a pure
homemade soy milk available
hot or cold and served with
their own soy cookies. Dairy
is also available as an option
and can be found in the many
baked items available, such as
brownies and biscotti. The place
is decked out with cheerful spots
for photo opportunities, hence
it’s a hangout for selfie-crazed
teens in the area.
Open daily: 7am - 7pm, Moo Ban
Dao Dung Soi 2, Chiang Mai,
T: +66 (0) 53 278 757
STITCHED ARTS OF BLACK LAHU
Bold and spunky abstracts best describes the stitching patterns and signature
of ‘Cha Arnon Phahompok’ apparel. Handmade by the Black Lahu people,
find these collections at Cha Arnon café and boutique at Doi Pha Hom Pok
National Park in Amphur Fang. With a modest start of sourcing hand-woven
and sometimes raw cotton from the local villages, café owner Cha Arnon
created designs that the Black Lahu people stitched into life, putting their own
personalities and style into one-of-a-kind fashion in jackets, dresses, shirts, or
a super-sized satchel. 8am - 5pm daily, Pha Hom Pok National Park, Amphur Fang,
Chiang Mai, T: +66 (0) 91 139 5170
SPOTLIGHT
A Special Time at Level 34
If it’s a grand night you’re after,
consider going high. Special events
can easily happen at the Horizon
Rooftop Restaurant and Bar located
on level 34 of Hilton Pattaya. The
rooftop restaurant and bar is the
only place in town with stunning
panoramic views of the city in
a stylish setting. The restaurant
features both indoor and outdoor
spaces which include private dining
rooms with floor-to-ceiling glass
panels to fully appreciate views of
the city and bay as far as the eye
can see. Signature dishes of Miso
Glazed Snowfish, a 48-Hour Lamb
Shank, followed by a Baked Alaska
dessert round out a fine meal. Their
signature cocktail, Horizon 8 Shot
Tower makes a further impression.
Bookings for that special night are
recommended for the best spot in
the house, guarantee to be a hit
with your loved ones. 333/101 Moo 9
Hilton Pattaya, 34th Floor, Pattaya,
+66 (0) 38 253 000, facebook.com/
Horizonrooftoprestaurantandbar
AWAKEN YOUR SENSE OF ADVENTURE
Koh Chang as an island destination for everyone
means you’ll never run out of things to do.
Perhaps you’ve already chilled at the beach,
gone diving, or have swum in the waterfalls. If a
little more adventure is on the list, there’s Tree
Top Adventure Park. Daredevil fun comes in the
form of trying out rope bridges, air bikes, tight
rope walks, Tarzan swings, a flying skateboard
and expansive zip line courses with the
abundance of nature. With a constant eye on
safety, the Park offers packages for both adults
and children at 1,250 baht. Located beside
Bailan Bay in the lush forest, it’s the ideal group
excursion with friends or family for a memorable
Koh Chang day. 115 Moo 1, Koh Chang, Trat,
+66 (0) 84 310 7600, treetopadventurepark.com
BIKINIS ON THE RUN
History tells us that bikinis are an ancient
invention first worn by Roman gymnasts. Pattaya
Beach will also see a sporting event in the
two-piece swimsuit at the Central Festival Bikini
Beach Race 2018.
The event plans to bring sexy back in
cheeky fun on 19 May 2018 by encouraging
runners to join and wear their best bikinis to run
for their health and keep fit. All fitness levels are
welcomed to join the race – fees are 700 baht
for the 9km run and 600 baht for 3km. To make
the event more entertaining, special prizes will
be given for best outfit, best body and more.
Summer temperatures are just right to don a
bikini for a fun run. If running’s not your thing,
the event is still a spectator-friendly experience.
facebook.com/CentralfestivalBikiniBeachRace
100
101
HAPPENINGS
CHINA
CHENGDU / CHONGQING / GUANGZHOU
SPOTLIGHT
Stilt Standing
Complex
JINSHA SITE TREASURES
In 2001, archaeologists discovered remnants of the ancient capital of the
Shu Kingdom that existed 3,000 years ago. In total, the Jinsha site has 6,000
relics, 63 sacrificial areas, 3 burial grounds, and more than 70 building sites.
It also contains the largest concentration of ancient ivory and jade from that
period. Visitors can explore the Site’s Exhibition Hall, Relics Hall, Ecological
Garden, and Centre for Cultural Heritage Protection. The Exhibition Hall
has realistic displays on Shu life and compares the Shu Kingdom to the
contemporary Mayan, Mesopotamian, and Ancient Indian civilisations.
Take Metro Line 7 to exit C, Jinsha Site Museum, Chengdu. Open daily 8am-8pm,
May-October. jinshasitemuseum.com
YOUNG ARTISTS EXHIBIT
AT REDTORY
In 2009, the founders of the
Redtory repurposed the Sovietstyle
Yingjingqian Canned Good
Factory and turned it into an art
centre focused on local revitalisation
and artistic innovation. Along with
exploring the factory buildings turned
galleries, visitors can enjoy three large
exhibition halls, working studios,
book and gift shops, and a variety of
restaurants and small coffee shops.
Through May 7, 2018, the Redtory
features Future Life Handbook,
the first exhibition in its Young
Artists Program. Curated by Rachel
Rits-Volloch, the exhibition features
the artwork of six young artists in
residence in Berlin and China.
No. 128, Yuancun Si Heng Rd,
Guangzhou. Open Tuesday-Sunday,
10.30am-9.00pm redtory.com.cn
With unique stilt house
architecture and views
over the intersection of the
Yangtze and Jialing Rivers,
Hongyadong is a scenic spot
to enjoy historic Chongqing.
Converted into a recreational
and cultural attraction,
Hongyadong showcases local
cuisine, folk art, and culture.
A must-see sight is the
impressive 11-story wooden
stilt house that is spectacular
day or night. Sample
delicacies like spicy hot pot,
burning noodles, and fried
silkworm chrysalis before heading
up to the stilt house’s top floor
viewing deck that looks out over
the waterfront. Free admission;
open day and night. No. 88, Jiabing
Road, Yuzhong District.
LOTUS HILL VISTAS
Located 12.5 miles southeast of Guangzhou’s city
centre, Lotus Hill is a huge park with many points
of interest. It is famously known as the ancient
quarry that supplied stone for the two thousand
year old tomb of the Nan Yue King. King Zhao
Mo ruled from 137 BC to 122 BC over the Nam
Viet Kingdom, an empire that stretched from
South China’s Guangdong and Guangxi provinces
to Northern Vietnam. Today, the remaining
stone cliff walls rise up imposingly above thick
forest, tunnels, grottoes, and pools. The park also
contains a large statue of the Goddess of Mercy,
Guan Yin, a nine-story pagoda, and a sprawling
orchard of peach trees. Line 4 to Shiqi, then bus 92
or 93 to the park.
DIM SUM IN THE PARK
Built in 1958, Guangzhou’s tranquil Li Wan Lake Park is an oasis of calm in
Guangzhou’s historic Lychee Bay. Antique shops along Wenjing Antique Street
are a picturesque place to find hidden treasures.
After a stroll around Li Wan Park and nearby antique shops, consider stopping
at the famous Pan Xi Restaurant for some dim sum. One of China’s largest
lakefront restaurants, a dazzling array of dining rooms awaits groups of any size.
Pan Xi, 151 Longjin West Road.
GET LOCAL WITH LOST PLATE
With food tours in Beijing, Xian,
and Chengdu, Lost Plate’s goal is to
“change the way foreigners eat in
China by breaking down language
barriers and taking them off the
beaten path to eat where the locals
eat.” Tours are small at no more
than 10 people each to give the
group an intimate connection with
their guide. All restaurants are local,
family-run, and in places tourists
would never find on their own.
In Chengdu, guests can choose
from two tours: the 6.30pm
“Evening Food Tour” filled with
street snacks, Sichuan dumplings,
chuan chuan hot pot, and noodles;
or the 4pm “Hotpot, Tea, and Market
Tour” featuring traditional tea and
snacks, a visit to a local market, and
Sichuan hotpot. Both tours end at a
boutique bar for local wine or beer in
a relaxed atmosphere. Tours are allinclusive
with unlimited food, drinks,
guide, and transportation and are
highly rated as one of the top food
tours in China. lostplate.com
VISIT THE CITY OF GHOSTS
Known to locals as the “Ghost City,” Fengdu on
Ming Mountain is a treasure trove of Confucian,
Taoist, and Buddhist shrines and temples
spanning two thousands years. Classical Chinese
works like Apotheosis of Heroes, Journey to the
West, and Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio
all mention this eerie place.
According to legend, during the Eastern Han
Dynasty imperial officials Yin Changsheng and
Wang Fangpin came to Fengdu to practise
Taoism and through their study became
immortal. Their names combined to “Yinwang,”
meaning King of Hell, giving rise to Fengdu’s
ghostly reputation. Within the park is a route
depicting the Chinese vision of the dead’s
transition into the afterlife, including, the Bridge
of Helplessness, the Torturing Pass, and Tianzi
Palace. While walking this route, visitors can
explore intricate depictions of the underworld.
Admission 80RMB; open 9am - 5pm daily.
About two hours from Chongqing, accessible by
Yangtze cruise or by car.
102 103
HAPPENINGS
HONG KONG
A SHOWCASE OF PERSIAN ART
The Liang Yi Museum in Hong Kong will be showcasing
prime examples of Persian art, some of which are sourced
from the Ashmolean Museum, the Victoria and Albert
Museum and the David Collection. The showcase titled,
The Blue Road: Mastercrafts from Persia, will be held at
this private museum until 24 June.
The exhibition stands as one of the most dedicated
and comprehensive exhibitions surveying different
aspects of the colour blue in Persian art and history in
Hong Kong. With materials and categories ranging from
glass, ceramic, textiles, painting and manuscripts, this
showcase of carefully selected artefacts illuminates the
significant role of blue in the visual and material culture
of Iran and the impact it made on shaping of other
artistic traditions in Asia and beyond. 181-199 Hollywood
Road, Sheung Wan, liangyimuseum.com
SPOTLIGHT
A Spicy Affair
Asians have always had a penchant for spicy food but
Chilli Fagara has taken that concept up by several
notches. A haven for those with a spicy palate, the
outlet boasts an eclectic modern and traditional
Chinese-inspired décor, and dishes out authentic and
notoriously fiery Sichuan cuisine.
Established in 2005, Chilli Fagara embraces the
Ma La Tang concept for numbing (ma), burning (la)
and neutral (tang) tastes of Sichuan food. Chillies and
peppers are the main ingredients at this restaurant,
which should bode well for diners who require a little
more ‘kick’ to their dishes.
For those who aren’t daring enough, Chilli Fagara
does carry ample delicately flavoured dishes that
won’t have you breaking a sweat.
Open daily, 11.30am-3pm; 5-11.30pm, 7 Old Bailey Street,
Soho, Central, chillifagara.com
SPOTLIGHT
A Taste of Britannia
One only needs to venture out to
popular Gough Street in Hong Kong
to savour authentic British cuisine.
Renowned for its style, craftsmanship,
hospitality and charm, Gough’s on
Gough has been attracting diners ever
since its doors opened in July 2017.
Offering a menu that revisits
classic British-styled dishes, the
restaurant injects a modern and
sophisticated take on these staple
favourites. Executive Chef Arron
Rhodes has applied his creative
approach and philosophy on the
outlet’s menu, utilising only the
freshest of ingredients and best in
season produce.
Gough’s on Gough not only boasts
a generously appointed dining room
but a raw bar as well with fresh British
seafood, and a selection of bespoke
crafted cocktails, fine champagnes and
wines for guests to savour. Open daily,
12-2.30pm; 6.30pm till late, 15 Gough
Street, Central, goughsongough.com
PASSION AND OPERA
The Opera Hong Kong will host one
of the world’s most beloved operas
this May with the staging of Georges
Bizet’s ‘Carmen’ at the Grand Theatre.
A story of passion, destiny, freedom
and liberty, Carmen tells the timeless
tale of Don José, a soldier who
forsakes his career, honour and family
for a doomed love affair with the
gypsy Carmen.
Combining Spanish passion with
French lyricism, Opera Hong Kong
will inject an air of modernity into
this classic opera with an innovative
nested rotating set design. Bringing
Carmen to life on stage are Jean-
François Borras, Giancarlo Monsalve,
Varduhi Abrahamyan, Marie Karall,
Vittorio Vitelli and Jean-Kristof Bouton,
six versatile and experienced artists
who have performed at leading opera
houses around the globe. 16-20 May,
Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural
Centre, operahongkong.org
104
HAPPENINGS
SINGAPORE
MALAYSIA
KUALA LUMPUR
RAMADHAN NIGHT MARKETS
The holy month of Ramadhan from 15 May to
14 June will see numerous streets around Kuala
Lumpur come alive with evening markets selling
signature Buka Puasa (Iftar or breaking of fast)
chows and delicacies. If you’re in the capital
city of Kuala Lumpur during the holy month of
Ramadhan, then this would be the best time to
savour some of the best Malaysian street food
and local dishes.
There are many Ramadhan bazaars to choose
from during the month, but ask any KL-ite where
SPOTLIGHT
Moving to the Music
The Ultra Music Festival stands as one
of the world’s most highly-anticipated
electronic festivals. For two decades,
UMF has grown to become a global
phenomenon with up to 45 events
held internationally. Singapore
remains one of the stopovers for the
electronic music festival and this
June, the Garden City is set to put on
another epic showcase.
Ultra Singapore, which is now in
its fourth year, will see an eclectic
line-up of DJs take to the stage
throughout the two-day event.
Artists such as Tiesto, Dash Berlin
and Steve Aoki have graced previous
year’s events. Expect similar big
name stars to get the crowd rocking
and pumping this year as well.
June 15-16, Ultra Park, 1 Bayfront
Avenue, Singapore, ultrasingapore.com
their favourite go-to places are and Taman Tun,
Kampung Baru and Bangsar will surely be on their
list. All three venues and numerous others provide
the usual array of favourites such as apam balik
(turnover pancake stuffed with crushed peanuts),
bubur lambuk (savoury porridge) and ayam percik
(barbequed chicken).
For sheer variety, Kampung Baru should prove
ideal to whet your appetite, and while you’re in
there, stroll around the neighbourhood to get a
slice of the kampung (village) life within a bustling
metropolis. Bazaar Ramadan Kampung, Jalan Raja
Alang, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, open 3-7pm
SPOTLIGHT
Foodie Hangout
NEOCLASSIC SETTING,
CONTEMPORARY CUISINE
Chef Robert Chan went on a
mission to strip back the fine dining
experience and highlight what
was most important to him – the
food. The result of this ideology is
Tablescape, Singapore’s newest and
hottest F&B establishment.
Housed within the luxurious
Grand Park City Hall, Tablescape
is a contemporary restaurant and
bar, focusing on delivering hearty,
comforting favourites that can be
paired with artisanal cocktails, and
extensive premium wine and craft beer.
Desserts are provided off the trolley
with an indulgent array of house-made
sweets. 12-2.30pm and 6-10.30pm
daily, Level 3, 10 Coleman Street,
Grand Park City Hall, parkhotelgroup.
com/en/cityhall/tablescape
HAIL CAESAR!
Fort Canning Park will be transformed
into a stage for the Singapore Repertory
Theatre (SRT) as they present this year’s
edition of Shakespeare in the Park. This
year’s performance of Julius Caesar will be
directed by London-based theatre director
Guy Unsworth, who has assembled an
impressive cast of talents from the region.
SRT will tap into modern-day
international relations and global current
affairs in order to deliver a contemporary
spin to Shakespeare’s renowned political
thriller. With an engaging storyline
presented on a beautiful set under a
blanket of stars, Shakespeare in the Park
- Julius Caesar will surely deliver a theatre
experience like none other. May 2-27,
7.30pm, Fort Canning Park, srt.com.sg/
show/juliuscaesar
The row of shop houses in Plaza
Batai, on Jalan Damansara,
which once housed old
bookshops, florists, coffee
shops and a market, has now
caught a second wind as a hip
and happening neighbourhood
hangout. Food choices here
are abundant and so is the
variety, thanks to inventive
and passionate cooks who took
advantage of the redevelopment
to set up shop here.
Eateries such as Yellow
Brick Road and Beauty and
the Beast live up to their
name with creative and
whimsical creations ranging
from pancakes to burgers and
sandwiches to entice diners.
International cuisine offerings
include Torii, which specialises
in Japanese Yakitori and Sitka,
a modern Asian restaurant and
wine bar and Ekkamai, which
serves contemporary Thai.
The biggest footprint is occupied by Ben’s
Independent Grocer, which also houses a small
number of eateries within the supermarket but
regulars however have a soft-spot for Restoran
Shangri-La. The outlet maintains a selection of
food stalls, peddling hawker fare, which adds a
dash of nostalgia for diners who used to frequent
Batai all those years ago. Jalan Batai, Bukit
Damansara, opens daily 7am to 11pm.
106 107
HAPPENINGS
CAMBODIA
BATTAMBANG / PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP
SPOTLIGHT
Classically French
For the past two decades, Topaz
has cooked its way into the hearts
of diners in Cambodia. A landmark
destination for fine French dining,
the restaurant located in the heart
of Phnom Penh celebrates timehonoured
traditions and cutting-edge
gastronomy in a stylish surrounding.
Even the most sophisticated taste
buds will appreciate the extensive
menu available at Topaz, especially
its signature and hearty favourites.
French staples such as Tartare de
Filet De Saumon (Salmon Tartare),
Soupe Élysée Au Truffes (Truffle Soup)
and Entrecote de Boeuf Black Angus
(Grilled Black Angus Ribeye) are just
some of this restaurant’s highlights.
Diners are guaranteed a complete
dining experience at Topaz, with the
best ingredients sourced from leading
producers and suppliers, ending with
sublime service. There’s also a wellstocked
bar on site, complete with
an extensive and impressive wine
list to complement each meal. Open
daily, 11.30am-2pm; 6pm-10.30pm,
162 Preah Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh,
topaz-restaurant.com
SPOTLIGHT
Gateway to Khmer Cuisine
You’re always spoilt for
choice when it comes to
dining options in Siem
Reap but the Embassy
Restaurant is arguably your
best bet to experiencing
authentic Khmer cuisine
in a fine dining setting.
Kimsan Pol and Kimsan
Sok, better known as the
‘Kimsan Twins’ are the
creative culinary force
behind this establishment,
which elevates Cambodian
cuisine to new heights.
The restaurant with
its tastefully decorated
dining room and indoor
terraces that overlooks
the King’s Road complex
serves an impressive array
of gourmet-styled Khmer
dishes. The twins make it
a point to regularly change
the menu to showcase a
wide variety of flavours so
no visit to the Embassy is
ever the same.
The outlet’s ‘active
menu’ is changed on a
monthly basis and there’s
also a seasonal multiplecourse
set menu paired with
matching wines as well.
Open daily 6pm-11pm,
King’s Road Angkor Village,
Siem Reap, embassyrestaurant.com
ROYAL PLOUGHING CEREMONY
Every year in May, Cambodians celebrate the
Royal Ploughing Ceremony or ‘Bon Chroat Preah
Nongkoal’, which signifies the beginning of the
sowing and planting season. One of Cambodia’s
most important royal ceremonies, the main
celebration takes place at the park in front of the
National Museum just next to the Royal Palace.
According to tradition the King, or a chosen
representative, will till a plot of land with a plough
pulled by bulls. This customary act signals the
start of the farming season throughout the
country. After three rounds with the plough, the
bulls are allowed to feed on rice, corn, seeds,
grass, water and wine. It is a belief that the foods
the bulls have chosen will ultimately decide a
good harvest for that crop. The Royal Ploughing
Ceremony also sees local men and women
wearing brightly coloured traditional Khmer
costumes to commemorate the event. 3 May,
National Museum, Preah Ang Eng St. (13),
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
A GALLERY OF PORTRAITS
Humanitarian photographer Joseba Etxebarria
has amassed an incredible collection of photos
from his travels around the globe. Now his vast
and impressive collection can be savoured to its
fullest at his very own gallery in Cambodia.
The HUMAN Gallery – Joseba Etxebarria
Photography brings together some of the best
portraits of the photographer has taken. The
gallery located in the city of Battambang, roughly
three hours away by road from Siem Reap, is
situated in a century-old house, which offers a
relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy.
Monday to Friday, 10am-2pm; 4pm-8pm, Street 1.5,
No.49, Battambang, josebaetxebarria.com
108
HAPPENINGS
VIETNAM
DANANG / HANOI / PHU QUOC
THE WORLD’S LONGEST CABLE CAR
Phu Quoc has the longest non-stop cable car in the world, as confirmed by the
Guiness Book of Records. For riders, this means a breath-taking scenic journey
over the sea and islands with a 360-degree view on board. The Hon Thom 3S
Gondola Lift, also simply referred to as the Phu Quoc cable car, glides between
Phu Quoc island and the smaller and greener Hon Thom sland. With a debut in
February during Tet (the Vietnamese lunar new year), the Phu Quoc cable car
promises riders a thrill and beauty from high up. With a panorama encompassing
small islands, an emerald-coloured sea and coral reefs during high noon – the 15
minute ride in nearly 8 kilometres will feel barely long enough.
phuquocislandguide.com
THINK PINK
Travel along Danang’s long strip of beaches in this evolving coastal city from the
convenience and flexible itinerary of Coco Bus – a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing
bus. Visitors can choose a one-day ticket (250,000 VND/person/route) and
enjoy 29 tour stops that are available along Beach Route – or the generous
choice of 55 stops on the City Route. Passengers can hop on and off on the
bright pink bus along the routes to discover Danang’s best attractions and
landmarks in order to sight-see at their own pace, or stay on the bus for the full
duration of the tour. Coco Bus takes passengers to hotspots like the Museum
of Cham Sculpture, the Dragon Bridge, May Ann Beach, Han Market, Danang
Cathedral and Le Duan Shopping Street. +84 236 3954 666, cococitytour.vn
A GO-TO WATERING HOLE
If you’re after a well-crafted cocktail or beer and
interesting conversation, Tadioto Bar is one of the
coolest places for a nightcap plus a hangout that
keeps the party going in the Vietnam capital.
While there may be iconic spots like the
Sofitel Metropole Legend Hotel, Opera House,
National Museum of Vietnamese History, and
other establishments in the French Quarter, it
can be said that Tadioto Bar has its own cultural
relevance to make it a destination in its own right.
Nguyen Qui Duc, a Vietnamese-American
journalist and former radio commentator who
relocated to Hanoi, established what is now
the go-to watering hole. Its roots go way back
to 2006 in a former artsy location where local
artists and the creative crowd converged,
staging poetry readings and other artistic
performances.
Like Duc himself, Tadioto has moved
from place to place following the government
shutdown of a street where creative types
used to hang out. People have lost count of how
many times Tadioto relocated before re-planting
itself in the city’s French quarter. Duc himself is a
painter and patron of Hanoi’s art scene. Tadioto
is a small enough bar to mingle with the local
crowd. Now you can pop in during the day for a
quiet coffee and snack or drop in for a drink at
night and check out what’s happening with the
local scene. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner,
24 Tong Dan Street, Hanoi, +84 24 6680 9124,
facebook.com/tadiototongdan
SPOTLIGHT
Under the Danang Sky
A growing city like Danang is best
seen when you’re perched at Sky
36 Bar observing the skyline. As the
name suggests, Sky 36 is Vietnam’s
highest rooftop bar with amazing
views over the city. Situated on the
35th and 36th floor of the Novotel
Danang Premier Han River, the bar
fills up nightly with beautiful people.
Swanky interiors showcase curved
booths with glass and suede while
a DJ rocks the tunes. Outside on the
roof deck, it’s all about the neon
lights, dancing and the irresistible
glittering views. Drinks at Sky
36 run the gamut from imported
beers to premium spirits, as well
as a selection of wines by the glass.
Cocktails range from classics like a
margarita or mojito to contemporary
ones like ‘Death in the Afternoon.’
Try a Vietnamese Sangria with fresh
fruits. Once fuelled up with music
and drinks, views of the Han River
amidst the backdrop of modern
architecture give you a sense of
Danang’s future. 6pm to 2am, 36 Bach
Dang Street, Danang, facebook.com/
sky36bar
110
HAPPENINGS
LAOS
LUANG PRABANG
MYANMAR
YANGON
SPOTLIGHT
Heritage Luxe
Located in the heart of Luang Prabang,
brand new hotel AVANI+ Luang Prabang
sits within walking distance to the
banks of the Mekong River while being
strategically close to the Royal Palace,
Night Market and beautiful temples.
AVANI+, in a town that’s earmarked
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
raises the bar on contemporary French
neo-classical architecture. Blending
into the historic neighbourhood, the
French colonial-inspired interiors blend
with modern elegance in its 53 rooms
and suites. An intimate, open-plan feel
with louvre wooden doors open to a
balcony or terrace overlooking either
the pool or a private courtyard. For
guests, AVANI+ offers a stunningly
contemporary property set within the
historic riverside zone, and conceived
for a demanding new breed of traveller.
After a day spent exploring temples
or an adventure boat trip to Kuang
Si Waterfalls or Pak Ou Caves, the
hotel offers a retreat to AVANISPA for
rejuvenation before enjoying a dinner
cruise down the Mekong. Setthathirath
Road, Hua Xieng Village, Luang Prabang,
+856 71 262 333, minorhotels.com/en/
avani/luang-prabang
GOOD MORNING, YANGON
Motivated by fitness, health, and the enjoyment of a morning calm, a mix
of pro and amateur runners recently got together to share their love for the
activity and are encouraging those who happen to be in Yangon join them.
Started by a group of Thai expats, the group meets at 6am near Kandawgyi
Lake. As a bonus, Yangon’s many angles get discovered in the early morning
hours while roads are still quiet with a wonderfully agreeable weather.
The 10km route takes the group downtown and over the Pansodan
bridge with the beautiful Yangon Central railway station within view. More
historical and iconic British Colonial buildings mark the route, with
many of them still in use. This running tour also goes past a local
wet market and the large People’s Park near
Shwedagon Pagoda, followed by breakfast.
BEST BITE OF PIZZA
Calling themselves Yangon’s
homegrown slices, Parami
Pizza serves excellent and
authentic pizza baked in a
wood-fired oven. If your
cravings go beyond that, the
menu of fine Italian dishes
tempt children and adults alike
in a relaxed ambience. Menu
highlights include authentic
Neapolitan pizza, antipasti like
Hokkaido Octopus Carpaccio
using fresh ingredients of
pomelo and citrus-chilli
dressing, homemade Tagliatelle
with Venetian Duck Ragu of
slow braised duck, eggplant,
olives, peppers, and must-have
desserts like the classic Tiramisu
and Nutella Pizzette.
The place is typically busy
in the evening after work
hours with its prime location
on the main road of Parami, so
advanced bookings are ideal to
avoid the wait. Open late until
11pm. 11/C, Corner of Malikha
Road and Parami Road, 7th
Quarter, Mayangone Township,
Yangon, +95 9 261767616,
paramipizza.com
NO MORE FOREIGN FOODS FOR MORNING ALMS
Everyday in the early calm in Luang Prabang, hundreds of monks make their
way through the streets for morning alms. Recently however, throngs of
tourists have disrupted the ritual. In the enthusiastic need to participate,
inappropriate foods have been given. With cameras and smartphones, they
also clamour for ‘exotic’ photos of monks. Hawkers laden with baskets of
sticky rice bags also run to tourists to sell their wares. Oftentimes a frenzied
atmosphere ensues, and morning alms now sometimes give way to camera
flashes and yelling, with inappropriate food offerings consisting of lollipops
and ‘khao larm (sticky rice char-cooked in a bamboo tube.) To return peace
and the true meaning of alms offering, Luang Prabang now puts a ban on
foreign foods. With local tourism authorities providing guidelines, khao larm
is forbidden, including pre-packaged offering sets that get inserted with
imported snacks. The tourism organisation stresses that sticky rice – a staple
food in Laos – sold during morning alms must be of good quality and freshly
steamed. More can be learned at tourismluangprabang.org
112
HAPPENINGS
MALDIVES / INDIA
MALDIVES / MUMBAI
SPOTLIGHT
Maldivian
Blue and White
It’s not surprising that couples
and seekers of glamorous tropical
getaways have long had the
Maldives at the very top of their
wish lists. Imagine the visual
impact of islands encircled by a
lagoon shimmering with crystal
clear waters and protected by a
reef structure where spectacular
underwater life dwells.
The Maldives prides itself on
26 natural atolls with 1,190 islands
formed in unique and circular
shapes. The word “atoll” comes
from the Dhivehi language,
“atholhu.” Ring-shaped reefs
developed after volcanoes
subsided and the sea level rose.
Every resort is on its own island.
One of the biggest groupings
of islands is Baa Atoll, consisting
of 3 separate atolls of 75 islands
and a protected UNESCO biosphere
reserve. Several well-known
5-star resorts operate here.
While most of the Maldives has great
snorkelling and diving, the Baa Atoll offers
outstanding experiences that include
incredible gatherings of manta rays and
whale sharks. On clear days of snorkelling
or diving, you might get lucky in spotting
marine turtles with at least five species out
of seven in the world swimming by: the
green turtle, hawksbill turtle, olive ridley
turtle, loggerhead turtle and leatherback
turtle. Frequently sighted on the atoll are
hawksbill turtles.
The Baa Atoll can be reached by a
domestic flight or seaplane direct to
your island resort. The best time to go
depends on your budget and timing. It’s
low season between May and November,
when storms occur but usually won’t
disrupt a week-long stay.
DESIGN & DÉCOR
The quaint by-lanes of Kala Ghoda,
Mumbai’s cultural precinct, saw another
store opening recently. Translate is
a concept store that celebrates the
traditional handloom weaving and dyeing
style of Pochampally Ikat. The brand
sources directly form regional Ikat artists
and transforms the material into
contemporary, everyday apparel and home
design. Choose tops and tunics in a range
of classy colours, from aubergines and
olives to midnight blue and ruby. Home
décor includes cushion covers, table
runners, bed sheets, and more. Translate,
18 Commerce House, Opp. Kala Ghoda Café,
Fort +917700077338
114
115
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 118 / FLYERBONUS 122 / AIRCRAFT INFO 127 / ROUTE MAP 128
117
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS
BANGKOK AIRWAYS
ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION
WITH EXPEDIA GROUP
Bangkok Airways recently
announced a new collaboration
with Expedia group, the world’s
largest online travel company, to
add a new distribution channel
and incorporate a marketing
campaign globally. The airline
sees a boost in ticket sales through
various sales channels of Expedia
and its subsidiaries especially in
North America, Europe and
Australasia. Starting today,
passengers can make reservations
for all Bangkok Airways flights
via different Expedia channels
such as www.expedia.com
(locally in Thailand through
www.expedia.co.th,) Expedia’s
mobile application on both iOS
and Android or at any Expedia
customer service centres worldwide.
Varong Israsena Na Ayudhya,
Vice President — Sales, Bangkok
Airways Public Company Limited
said, “It’s another significant
milestone for Bangkok Airways
to collaborate with the Expedia
group, one of the world’s leading
online travel companies. The new
collaboration will enable us to offer
passengers a broader choice of
booking channels via Expedia’s
extensive platforms. Bangkok
Airways strives to improve
service provided to our passengers
to enhance their travel experience
as well as emphasise our position as
"Asia's Boutique Airline."
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนายวรงค์ อิศรเสนา ณ อยุธยา
รองกรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ฝ่ายขาย ลงนามสัญญาความ
สัมพันธ์ทางธุรกิจกับ บริษัท เอ็กซ์พีเดีย อิงค์ (Expedia Inc.) โดย
นายซานดีป ชาร์มาร์ ผู้อำนวยการฝ่ายคมนาคมและการท่องเที่ยว
เอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้ และอินเดีย เพื่อสนับสนุนการขายและร่วม
ส่งเสริมการตลาด กระตุ้นยอดจำหน่ายบัตรโดยสาร ตลอดจน
เพิ่มความสะดวกสบายในการสำรองบัตรโดยสารให้กับผู้โดยสาร
ของสายการบินฯ ผ่านช่องทางต่างๆ ของเอ็กซ์พีเดีย และกลุ่ม
บริษัทในเครือต่างๆ ที่มีสาขามากมายอยู่ทั่วโลก โดยเฉพาะใน
ภูมิภาคอเมริกาเหนือ ยุโรป และออสตราเลเชีย โดยผู้โดยสารฯ
สามารถทำการสำรองบัตรโดยสารของบางกอกแอร์เวย์สได้ใน
ทุกเส้นทางบินผ่านเว็บไซต์ www.expedia.com โมบายแอพพลิเคชั่น
Expedia บนสมาร์ทโฟนทั้งระบบ iOS และ Android และศูนย์บริการ
ลูกค้าเอ็กซ์พีเดียทั่วโลก ตั้งแต่วันนี้เป็นต้นไป
นายวรงค์ อิศรเสนา ณ อยุธยา รองกรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่
ฝ่ายขาย บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส กล่าวว่า "ความร่วมมือดังกล่าว
ถือเป็นอีกก้าวสำคัญของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สในการ
ร่วมมือกับเครือเอ็กซ์พีเดีย ซึ ่งถือเป็นหนึ่งในบริษัทท่องเที่ยว
ออนไลน์ชั้นนำของโลก โดยความร่วมมือในครั้งนี้จะช่วยให้เรา
สามารถเสนอช่องทางในการจองบัตรโดยสารได้หลากหลาย
มากขึ้นผ่านทางแพลตฟอร์มของเอ็กซ์พีเดีย ซึ่งสายการบิน
บางกอกแอร์เวย์สมุ่งมั่นที่จะพัฒนาการบริการของเราให้ดียิ่งขึ้น
เพื่อมอบประสบการณ์พิเศษในทุกการเดินทางดั่งสโลแกน
Asia's Boutique Airline หรือ ความประทับใจแห่งเอเชีย"
A NEW CODESHARE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN PG AND EL AL
Bangkok Airways and EL AL Israel Airlines (LY) have announced
a new codeshare partnership to strengthen their respective
route networks.
This new codeshare partnership with EL AL Israel
Airlines is yet another important milestone and significant
development in the continued growth of Bangkok
Airways. Passengers can now receive convenient and
seamless access to well-known destinations in Thailand
and neighbouring countries. Moreover, EL AL's passengers
travelling on Bangkok Airways will enjoy the boutique
airline’s unparalleled services, in areas such as lounge
access and in-flight meals.
This codeshare agreement will cover 9 routes on
both domestic and international categories. Codeshare
flights operated by Bangkok Airways include roundtrip
routes on Bangkok-Samui, Bangkok-Chiang Rai, Bangkok-
Chiang Mai, Bangkok-Lampang, Bangkok-Trat, Bangkok-
Sukhothai, Bangkok-Danang, Bangkok-Phnom Penh and
Bangkok-Siem Reap.
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส (PG) และ
สายการบินแอล อัล อิสราเอลแอร์ไลน์
(LY) ของประเทศอิสราเอล ประกาศ
ลงนามข้อตกลงในการให้บริการเที่ยวบิน
ร่วม เพื่อสร้างความแข็งแกร่งให้กับ
เส้นทางบินระหว่างสองประเทศ
การลงนามข้อตกลงในการให้
บริการเที่ยวบินร่วมกับสายการบิน
แอล อัล อิสราเอลแอร์ไลน์ ในครั้งนี้
ถือเป็นอีกหนึ่งก้าวสำคัญของ
บางกอกแอร์เวย์สในการสร้างเครือข่าย
พันธมิตรการบินให้มีความแข็งแกร่งยิ่งขึ้น
อีกทั้งยังเป็นการอำนวยความสะดวก
ให้กับผู้โดยสารของแอล อัล อิสราเอล
แอร์ไลน์ ในการเดินทางเชื่อมต่อไปยัง
แหล่งท่องเที่ยวชื่อดังทั้งในประเทศไทยและ
ประเทศเพื่อนบ้าน ซึ่งผู้โดยสารของ
แอล อัล อิสราเอลแอร์ไลน์ จะได้รับ
ความสะดวกสบายและการบริการ
เหนือระดับเมื่อเดินทางกับบางกอก
แอร์เวย์ส ไม่ว่าจะเป็นสิทธิพิเศษในการ
เข้าใช้บริการห้องรับรองผู้โดยสาร
ของบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส และการบริการ
อาหารบนทุกเที่ยวบิน
สำหรับข้อตกลงในการทำเที่ยวบิน
ร่วมในครั้งนี้จะช่วยอำนวยความ
สะดวกให้แก่ผู้โดยสารของแอล อัล
อิสราเอลแอร์ไลน์ ในการเดินทางเชื่อมต่อ
จากกรุงเทพฯ ไปยังเมืองท่องเที่ยวยอด
นิยมทั้งในประเทศไทยและต่างประเทศ
โดยสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สจะให้
บริการทั้งหมด 9 เส้นทางบิน ได้แก่
กรุงเทพฯ-เกาะสมุย กรุงเทพฯ-เชียงราย
กรุงเทพฯ-เชียงใหม่ กรุงเทพฯ-ลำปาง
กรุงเทพฯ-ตราด กรุงเทพฯ-สุโขทัย
กรุงเทพฯ-ดานัง (เวียดนาม) กรุงเทพฯ-
พนมเปญ (กัมพูชา) และกรุงเทพฯ-
เสียมราฐ (กัมพูชา)
118
119
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS
BANGKOK AIRWAYS SIGNS PARTNERSHIP
DEAL WITH BORUSSIA DORTMUND
Bangkok Airways and German football
club Borussia Dortmund recently
announced a partnership deal at Signal
Iduna Park in Dortmund, Germany to
collaborate on branding opportunities
and extend market reach by tapping into
the large Asian market.
Borussia Dortmund is one of Europe’s
most successful football clubs with a
traditionally strong fan base in Asia and
the world and Bangkok Airways is proud
to announce itself as a ‘regional partner’
of Borussia Dortmund. The collaboration
includes a variety of advertising and
promotional components in co-branding
campaigns in Thailand, other Southeast
Asian countries, China, Hong Kong, India
and Bangladesh thereby enhancing the
airline’s brand recognition across the regions.
Bangkok Airways’ President,
Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth said,
“We are proud and excited to partner
with Borussia Dortmund, who are
eight-time German champions. With
Borussia Dortmund’s strong global
brand presence and huge fan base,
we believe it will strengthen Bangkok
Airways’ brand image as Asia’s Boutique
Airline. This will make the airline better
known across Asia and Europe – our main
customer bases."
"Highlighting this is the BVB Evonik
Football School for children. It is our way of
giving back to the community and part of
our business roadmap for many years. We
will work with our dedicated CSR team to
make this sponsorship activation a tangible
reality,” added Mr. Puttipong.
Mr. Carsten Cramer, Chief Marketing
Officer of Borussia Dortmund also stated,
“We are excited to partner with Bangkok
Airways who has strengthened their
award-winning position over the last couple
of years in Asia. Both of us are ambitious
and aspiring brands and are looking forward
to announcing our cooperation across
Bangkok Airways’ key markets.”
Bangkok Airways, together with Borussia
Dortmund, are also in talks with the Sports
Authority of Thailand (SAT) and the Thai
FA for the possibility of initiating a special
coaching programme that implements
Dortmund's coaching expertise for
Thailand's national youth teams.
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนายพุฒิพงศ์
ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่
และสโมสรฟุตบอลโบรุสเซียดอร์ทมุนด์จาก
ประเทศเยอรมนี ประกาศเป็นพันธมิตรร่วมกัน
ณ สนามซิกนัลอิดูนาพาร์ค เมืองดอร์ทมุนด์
ประเทศเยอรมนี ซึ่งเป็นการยกระดับความ
ร่วมมือในการสร้างแบรนด์ของทั้งสองบริษัทฯ
ในการขยายตลาดสู่ระดับสากลมากยิ่งขึ้น
บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ประกาศร่วมมือเป็น
พันธมิตรกับสโมสรฟุตบอลโบรุสเซียดอร์ทมุนด์
อย่างเป็นทางการ ซึ่งเป็นหนึ่งในสโมสรฟุตบอล
ที่ประสบความสำเร็จมากที่สุดในยุโรป และมี
ฐานแฟนบอลทั้งในทวีปเอเชียและทั่วโลก ส ำหรับ
ความร่วมมือในครั้งนี้มีการร่วมทำโฆษณาและ
ส่งเสริมแคมเปญพิเศษต่างๆ ทั้งในประเทศไทย
ในภูมิภาคเอเชียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้ จีน ฮ่องกง
อินเดีย และบังคลาเทศ ซึ่งถือเป็นการเพิ่มโอกาส
ในการสร้างการจดจำแบรนด์ให้กับสายการบินฯ
ในระดับภูมิภาคมากยิ่งขึ้น
นายพุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ เผยว่า
“ในโอกาสที่ปีนี้บริษัทฯ ครบรอบ 50 ปี จึงน ำ
แบรนด์ก้าวเข้าสู่สากลโดยการจับมือกับสโมสร
ฟุตบอลโบรุสเซียดอร์ทมุนด์ และถือเป็นความ
ภาคภูมิใจที่ได้ร่วมเป็นพันธมิตรกับทีมฟุตบอล
ที่มีฐานแฟนบอลทั่วโลก รวมทั้งชนะการแข่งขัน
ในลีกเยอรมนีถึง 8 ปีซ้อน เราเชื่อว่าการร่วมมือ
ครั้งนี้จะช่วยตอกย้ำความเป็นเอกลักษณ์
เฉพาะตัวในแบบเอเชียบูทีคแอร์ไลน์ของ
สายการบินฯ และทำให้เป็นที่รู้จักมากยิ่งขึ้น ทั้ง
ในเอเชียและยุโรปซึ่งเป็นฐานลูกค้าหลักของเรา”
"ความพิเศษอีกอย่างก็คือ การมอบโอกาส
ในการฝึกทักษะกีฬาฟุตบอลให้กับเยาวชน
โดยสโมสรฟุตบอลโบรุสเซียดอร์ทมุนด์ ซึ่ง
กิจกรรมเพื่อสังคมถือเป็นส่วนหนึ่งในแผน
ธุรกิจของบางกอกแอร์เวย์สที่เราให้ความ
สำคัญและทำมาอย่างต่อเนื่อง”
นายคาร์สเทน คราเม่อ ประธานเจ้าหน้าที่
การตลาดของสโมสรโบรุสเซียดอร์ทมุนด์
กล่าวว่า “ทางสโมสรรู้สึกตื่นเต้นที่ได้เป็นพันธมิตร
ร่วมกับสายการบินที่แข็งแกร่งและได้รับรางวัล
ต่อเนื่องมากมายอย่างบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ทั้งสอง
บริษัทฯมีความตั้งใจที่จะน ำเสนอความร่วมมือนี้
เพื่อให้เข้าถึงกลุ่มลูกค้าหลักของสายการบิน
บางกอกแอร์เวย์สมากยิ่งขึ้น”
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สร่วมกับ
สโมสรโบรุสเซียดอร์ทมุนด์ อยู่ระหว่างการ
เจรจากับการกีฬาแห่งประเทศไทยและ
สมาคมกีฬาฟุตบอลแห่งประเทศไทยถึง
ความเป็นไปได้สำหรับโครงการพิเศษที่จัดขึ้น
เพื่อพัฒนาทักษะกีฬาฟุตบอลให้กับทีม
ฟุตบอลเยาวชนแห่งประเทศไทยอีกด้วย
“JUNIOR RUNNING CLINIC” ACTIVITY
Bangkok Airways, led by the
Corporate Social Responsibility
Department, organised a “Junior
Running Clinic.” This event brought
50 students from Wat Salak Phet
School to join Bangkok Airways'
"Ultra Trail Unseen Koh Chang,"
which was the first of its planned
7 running events in the Boutique
Series 2018 programme. This
activity aims to provide local kids
an opportunity to learn how to
run in a professional race and to
inspire them to see the importance
of exercise.
BANGKOK AIRWAYS
OPEN HOUSE 2018
Bangkok Airways led by Mr. Tortakul
Samakul, Regional Director – Sales,
organised the “Bangkok Airways Open
House” campaign at Bangkok Airways
Operations Center (BAOC), Suvarnabhumi
airport. In addition to that, the airline
also organised a pioneer visitation trip
to Siem Reap, Cambodia during 21-23
February 2018 for professors from
leading universities in Thailand.
The Bangkok Airways Open House
is organised to disseminate knowledge
regarding the operation of Bangkok Airways.
The campaign aims to improve the quality
of learning, increase comprehension skills,
and exchange knowledge.
Bangkok Airways has also added
a further initiative to the running
series, with their “Shoes For Kids”
campaign. It provides the opportunity
for runners to take part, by donating
a pair of shoes to kids living in the
provinces where the running races
take place. Donations are made
simple via www.teelakow.com.
Selected students at 7 destinations
of the Bangkok Airways Boutique
Series 2018 will get a chance to
learn some running techniques
and receive donated running shoes
from registered runners.
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนายต่อตระกูล
สมากุล ผู้อำนวยการส่วนขาย ประจำประเทศไทย
จัดโครงการ "เปิดบ้านสอนน้อง" ประจำปี 2561 ซึ่งจัด
ต่อเนื่องติดกันมาเป็นปีที่ 3 ณ อาคารทับสุวรรณ
(BAOC) สนามบินสุวรรณภูมิ พร้อมจัดทริปนำร่อง
นำคณะอาจารย์จากมหาวิทยาลัยชื่อดังร่วมเดินทาง
ไปยังเมืองเสียมราฐ ประเทศกัมพูชา เพื่อศึกษาดูงาน
ในส่วนของธุรกิจนำเที่ยว ระหว่างวันที่ 21-23
กุมภาพันธ์ 2561
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยส่วนรับผิดชอบต่อสังคม ได้นำ
คณะเยาวชนจำนวน 50 คน จากโรงเรียนวัดสลักเพชร มาร่วมทำ
กิจกรรม “จูเนียร์ รันนิ่ง คลินิค” ภายใต้โครงการ “รองเท้าผ้าใบให้
น้อง” ในรายการแข่งขันวิ่ง “บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส อัลตร้า เทรล อันซีน
เกาะช้าง” ณ อำเภอเกาะช้าง จังหวัดตราด
กิจกรรม “จูเนียร์ รันนิ่ง คลินิค” เป็นหนึ่งกิจกรรมที่อยู่ภายใต้
โครงการรับผิดชอบต่อสังคมของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส
ที่จัดอบรมให้เยาวชนท้องถิ่นได้เรียนรู้เทคนิคการวิ่งที่ถูกต้องทั้ง
ภาคทฤษฎีและภาคปฏิบัติจากนักวิ่งที่มีประสบการณ์ เพื่อให้สามารถ
นำมาปรับใช้ในการวิ่งหรือการออกกำลังกายด้านอื่นๆ ได้อย่าง
ถูกวิธี โดยคัดเลือกเยาวชนระดับชั้นประถมและมัธยมศึกษาจาก
โรงเรียนที่อยู่รอบพื้นที่เส้นทางวิ่งของรายการแข่งขันวิ่ง “บางกอก
แอร์เวย์ส บูทีค ซีรีย์ 2018”
“บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส บูทีค ซีรีย์ 2018” เป็นรายการแข่งขันวิ่งที่
จัดขึ้นใน 7 จุดหมายปลายทางของสายการบินฯ ตลอดปี 2561
ได้แก่ ตราด กระบี่ เกาะสมุย ลำปาง ภูเก็ต เชียงราย และเชียงใหม่
โดยแบ่งเป็นรายการวิ่งเทรล 1 รายการ วิ่งฮาล์ฟมาราธอน 5
รายการ และรายการวิ่งมาราธอน 1 รายการ ซึ่งกิจกรรม “จูเนียร์
รันนิ่ง คลินิค” จะจัดขึ้นควบคู่ไปกับรายการแข่งขันวิ่งที่จะเกิดขึ้น
ตลอดทั้งปี
โครงการ "เปิดบ้านสอนน้อง" เป็นโครงการของ
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ที่จัดขึ้นเพื่อเปิด
โอกาสให้อาจารย์และนักศึกษาในสาขาวิชา
อุตสาหกรรมการท่องเที่ยว โรงแรม และสายการบิน
ได้แลกเปลี่ยนความรู้และประสบการณ์ทางสายงาน
ธุรกิจการบินและการท่องเที่ยว และมีโอกาสร่วมเดิน
ทางกับสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สเพื่อศึกษาดูงาน
จากการปฏิบัติงานนอกสถานที่ อีกทั้งได้รับฟัง
การบรรยายเพื่อเพิ่มความรู้และประสบการณ์อีกด้วย
120
121
FLYERBONUS
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at one of our exotic gems
destination or waiting for
your flight in one of our
customised airports, Bangkok
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members with an exclusive,
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We’ve now come closer to
knowing your needs and
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Before your flight, simply
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ไม่ว่าจะพักผ่อนริมทะเลอยู่จุดหมาย
ปลายทางที่แสนพิเศษของเราหรือ
รอขึ้นเครื่องสำหรับทริปธุรกิจ
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เติมเต็มความสุขคุ้มค่าให้กับการ
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ความรวดเร็วและความสะดวกสบาย
ในการสะสมคะแนนและการใช้สิทธิ
ประโยชน์แก่คุณ ผ่าน FlyerBonus
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FlyerBonus Wallet Card ผ่าน
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ลงชื่อเข้าระบบสมาชิก คลิกแสดง
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ของคุณเพื่อใช้แสดงที่เคาน์เตอร์
เช็คอิน เท่านี้คุณก็พร้อมจะเดินทาง
เปิดประสบการณ์ใหม่ๆ ตามความฝัน
ไม่ว่าจะแสงแดด ทะเล และหาดทราย
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flyerbonus.bangkokair.com
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เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ รายการสะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์โบนัส โดยนายพรต เสตสุวรรณ
รองกรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ ฝ่ายการตลาด และนางดรุณี เทพวัลย์
ผู้อำนวยการอาวุโส ส่วนบริหารความพึงพอใจและความสัมพันธ์ลูกค้า จัดพิธี
จับรางวัล และมอบรางวัลบัตรโดยสารชั้นประหยัด ไป-กลับ กรุงเทพ-มาเล่
(มัลดีฟส์) 2 ที่นั่ง พร้อมบัตรที่พัก 3 วัน 2 คืนที่ ดุสิตธานี มัลดีฟส์ พร้อม
อาหารแบบ Full Board สำหรับ 2 ท่าน มูลค่า 209,100 บาท จาก 2
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122 123
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS
AIRCRAFT INFO
BANGKOK AIRWAYS OPERATES FOUR TYPES OF AIRCRAFT
AIRBUS A319
NUMBER OF FLEET : 14
LENGTH : 33.84 m
WINGSPAN : 34.1 m
HEIGHT : 12.17 m
ENGINE : IAE V2500
CRUISING SPEED :
920 km/h
MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :
39,800 ft
PASSENGER CAPACITY :
12 seats & 108 seats / 144 seats / 138 seats
AIRBUS A320
NUMBER OF FLEET : 9
LENGTH : 37.57 m
WINGSPAN : 34.1 m
HEIGHT : 12.17 m
ENGINE : IAE V2500
CRUISING SPEED :
870 km/h
MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :
39,800 ft
PASSENGER CAPACITY :
162 seats
•••••
ATR 72-500
NUMBER OF FLEET : 6
LENGTH : 27.17 m
WINGSPAN : 27.06 m
HEIGHT : 7.65 m
ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp
Pratt & Whitney
Canada PW127F
CRUISING SPEED :
509 km/h
MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :
25,000 ft
PASSENGER CAPACITY :
70 seats
ATR 72-600
PG DIRECT SERVICE FROM CHIANG MAI
TO HANOI
On 25 March 2018, Bangkok (Noi Bai International Airport)
Airways Public Company Limited at 12.00 hrs. The inbound flight
led by Mr. Varong Israsena Na Ayudhya, PG996 departs Hanoi (Noi Bai
Vice President – Sales and Mrs. International Airport) at 12.45 hrs
Chanthip Thongkanya, Vice President and arrives Chiang Mai International
– Office of the President, joined in Airport at 14.50 hrs.
the launch of the inaugural flight Hanoi is the third destination
from Chiang Mai to Hanoi. The in Vietnam for the airline, adding
event was held at Noi Bai International to Bangkok Airways’ route network
Airport in the capital city of Hanoi, after successful runs on the
with a warm welcome from local Bangkok-Danang and Bangkokauthorities
in Vietnam.
Phu Quoc flight routes launched
Bangkok Airways’ new service earlier in May 2016 and October
offers daily flights between Chiang 2017, respectively. Bangkok
Mai and Hanoi with a 70-seater Airways is a full-service regional
ATR72-500/600 aircraft. The airline that provides the best
outbound flight PG995 departs personalised service to passengers,
Chiang Mai International Airport under the slogan of “Asia’s
at 09.55 hrs and arrives Hanoi Boutique Airline”.
เมื่อวันที่ 25 มีนาคม ที่ผ่านมา สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส
นำโดย นายวรงค์ อิศรเสนา ณ อยุธยา รองกรรมการ
ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ ส่วนขาย และนางจันทร์ทิพย์ ทองกันยา
รองกรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ สำนักกรรมการผู้อำนวย
การใหญ่ ร่วมเปิดเที่ยวบินปฐมฤกษ์เส้นทางเชียงใหม่-ฮานอย
(ประเทศเวียดนาม) โดยมีเจ้าหน้าที่ของทางเวียดนามให้การ
ต้อนรับอย่างอบอุ่น ณ ท่าอากาศยานนานาชาตินอยไบ
ประเทศเวียดนาม
สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ให้บริการเส้นทางบิน
ตรงระหว่าง เชียงใหม่และฮานอย (เวียดนาม) ทุกวัน วันละ 1
เที่ยวบิน ด้วยเครื่องบินแบบเอทีอาร์ 72-500/600 ขนาด
70 ที่นั่ง โดยเที่ยวบินขาไป PG995 ออกจากเชียงใหม่
(สนามบินนานาชาติเชียงใหม่) เวลา 09:55 น. ถึงฮานอย
(สนามบินนานาชาตินอยไบ) เวลา 12:00 น. และเที่ยวบิน
ขากลับ PG996 ออกจากฮานอย (สนามบินนานาชาติ
นอยไบ) เวลา 12.45 น. ถึงเชียงใหม่ (สนามบินนานาชาติ
เชียงใหม่) เวลา 14:50 น.
เมืองฮานอยถือเป็นเส้นทางบินที่ 3 ในประเทศเวียดนาม
ในเครือข่ายเส้นทางบินของบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส หลังจาก
ประสบความสำเร็จอย่างสูงในเส้นทาง กรุงเทพ-ดานัง ซึ่ง
เปิดให้บริการในปี 2559 และเส้นทางบินกรุงเทพ-เกาะ
ฟู้โกว๊ก ซึ่งเปิดให้บริการในปี 2560
NUMBER OF FLEET : 9 CRUISING SPEED :
LENGTH : 27.166 m
509 km/h
WINGSPAN : 27.050 m MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :
HEIGHT : 7.72 m
25,000 ft
ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp PASSENGER CAPACITY :
Pratt & Whitney
70 seats
Canada PW127M
OUR SCHEDULE FLIGHTS AND FREQUENCY
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai :
Numerous flights every day from a variety of destinations
Chiang Mai : 1 flight per day from Phuket ;
1 flight per day from Koh Samui
Chiang Rai : 3 flights per day from Bangkok
Hat Yai :
1 flight per day from Phuket
Koh Chang/Trat : 3 flights per day from Bangkok
Krabi : 3 flights per day from Bangkok ;
1 flight per day from Koh Samui
Lampang : 3 flights per day from Bangkok
Mae Hong Son : 1 flight per day from Chiang Mai
Pattaya : 1 flight per day from Phuket ;
1 flight per day from Koh Samui
Sukhothai : 2 flights per day from Bangkok
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Chengdu : 4 flights per week from Koh Samui
Chongqing : 3 flights per week from Koh Samui
Danang : 1 flight per day from Bangkok
Guangzhou : 1 flight per day from Koh Samui
Hanoi :
1 flight per day from Chiang Mai
Hong Kong : 2 flights per day from Koh Samui
Kuala Lumpur : 1 flight per day from Koh Samui
Luang Prabang : 2 flights per day from Bangkok
Malé :
1 flight per day from Bangkok
Mandalay : 1 flight per day from Bangkok ;
1 flight per day from Chiang Mai
Mumbai : 1 flight per day from Bangkok
Nay Pyi Taw : 6 flights per week from Bangkok
Phnom Penh : 6 flights per day from Bangkok
Phu Quoc : 4 flights per week from Bangkok
Siem Reap : 5 flights per day from Bangkok
Singapore : 2 flights per day from Koh Samui
Vientiane : 2 flights per day from Bangkok
Yangon : 4 flights per day from Bangkok ;
1 flight per day from Chiang Mai
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CHECKING OUT
Modern In Its
Own Way
Myanmar’s capital Yangon
moves forward at an even
pace, making sure its
traditions remain intact.
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