Fah Thai Magazine Nov-Dec 2018

NOV-DEC 2018 

CAPTIVATING 

CHAM LEGACY 

GET AWAY 

TO PHUKET 

CLAIM YOUR 

ISLAND DREAM 

TOUCHING 

EMBROIDERED TALES 

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT 

Greetings from Bangkok Airways, 

Time flies and we find ourselves at 

the end of the year again. Meanwhile, 

our airline keeps moving forward as 

we continue to engage and stay in full 

gear with our determination to make 

us ‘your chosen airline’. 

We take pride in the recent award 

received last September from TTG 

Travel Award, declaring Bangkok 

Airways as the “Best Boutique 

Airline” for 2018. The award ceremony 

occurs annually to honour distinctive 

individuals and organisations in 

various sectors of the travel industry 

in the Asia Pacific region. As a result, 

this prestigious award validates our 

commitment and efforts into making 

our airline be the best as “Asia’s 

Boutique Airline”. 

Besides focusing on our excellent 

services, Bangkok Airways has been 

involved in the area of social responsibility, 

and we have encouraged several 

projects along the way. Knowing 

that our youth serve as crucial core 

resources for the nation, we initiated 

the “Youth Education Camp,” where 

we capitalise on our strength in aviation 

so that our youth gain knowledge and 

inspiration for future aviation careers 

– especially among the popular 

professions of pilot or flight attendant. 

Within 2018, we plan to welcome 

2 brand-new ATR72-600 aircraft 

with a 70-seat capacity to join the 

fleet, for a total of 15 with our 

ATR72-500/600, together with 24 

for the Airbus A319 and A320. 

Lastly, on behalf of everyone 

at Bangkok Airways, we wish you a 

delightful journey with us. 

Thank you! 

สวัสดีครับท่านผู้โดยสาร ขอต้อนรับ 

ผู้โดยสารทุกท่านสู่บริการของสายการบิน 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส 

อีกไม่นานก็จะถึงสิ้นปีแล้วนะครับ เวลา 

เดินไปข้างหน้าอย่างต่อเนื่อง สายการบินของ 

เราก็เช่นกัน เรายังคงมุ่งมั่น ตั้งใจพัฒนา 

การบริการอย่างต่อเนื่อง เพื่อให้เราเป็น 

สายการบินในใจของผู้โดยสารทุกท่าน 

เมื่อเดือนกันยายนที่ผ่านมา สายการบินฯ 

ได้รับรางวัล “Best Boutique Airline” ใน 

งานประกาศรางวัล TTG Travel Award 

2018 ซึ่งงานนี้จัดขึ้นเป็นประจำทุกปี เพื่อเป็น 

เกียรติแก่บุคคลและองค์กรในอุตสาหกรรม 

ท่องเที่ยวที่มีความโดดเด่นในประเภทต่างๆ 

ของภูมิภาคเอเชียแปซิฟิก รางวัลนี้เป็นอีก 

รางวัลหนึ่งที่เราได้รับในปีนี้ ซึ่งแสดงให้เห็นถึง 

ความตั้งใจในการบริการของพนักงานทุกคน 

ให้สมกับสโลแกน “เอเชีย บูทีค แอร์ไลน์” 

นอกจากสายการบินฯ จะมุ่งเน้นเรื่อง 

การบริการแล้ว เรายังมีการทำโครงการ 

เพื่อสังคมอย่างต่อเนื่องอีกด้วย เพราะเรา 

เล็งเห็นว่าการที่ประเทศชาติจะมั่นคงได้ ต้อง 

มีรากฐานที่มั่นคง และเยาวชนก็คือรากฐาน 

สำคัญของประเทศชาติ ซึ่งโครงการ “ติดปีก 

เติมฝัน ปันความรู้ สู่อาชีพการบิน” นี้ เป็น 

โครงการที่มุ่งให้ความรู้และสร้างแรงบันดาลใจ 

แก่เยาวชน เพื่อให้เข้าถึงอาชีพในสายงาน 

ของธุรกิจการบิน ซึ่งอาชีพที ่เยาวชนให้ 

ความสนใจเป็นอย่างมาก คือ นักบินและ 

พนักงานต้อนรับบนเครื่องบิน 

สำหรับฝูงบินของสายการบินบางกอก 

แอร์เวย์ส ภายในสิ้นปีนี้ สายการบินฯ มีแผน 

จะรับมอบเครื่องบินใหม่ป้ายแดงจากโรงงาน 

เข้าร่วมฝูงบินอีก 2 ลำ เป็นเครื่องบินแบบ 

ATR72-600 ความจุ 70 ที่นั่ง ซึ่งจะทำให้ 

ฝูงบินของเราประกอบไปด้วย เครื่องบินแบบ 

ATR72-500 และ 600 จำนวน 15 ลำและ 

เครื่องบินแบบแอร์บัส A319 และ A320 

จำนวน 24 ลำ 

สุดท้ายนี้ ในนามของสายการบินบางกอก 

แอร์เวย์ส ผมและพนักงานทุกคนหวังว่าท่าน 

ผู้โดยสารจะได้รับความประทับใจตลอดการ 

เดินทางเมื่อเดินทางไปพร้อมกับเรา 

ขอบคุณครับ 

กัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ 

Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth 

กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ | President, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited 

8

OVERTURES 

FEATURES 

18 IN THIS LIFETIME 

Check our calendar and practise 

your lyrics for the Guns N' Roses 

concert in Hong Kong, celebrate 

Wonderfruit’s music and the arts 

and much more. 

22 SAGE HERBS 

Our elders knew best how to fix 

whatever ills or discomfort befall us. 

See a rundown of balms and creams 

from old world blends and rub away. 

24 FIGHTING STYLE 

Now you can 'muay Thai' and 

show your love for the sport 

outside the ring in clothing and 

accessories. Kick back in style 

with the boxing athleisure look. 

25 SENTIMENTAL LADY 

Stock up on all the retro trends for 

women, from tiffin containers to 

upcycled bags with their classic logos 

that still serve their practical purpose. 

34 PERFUMED FRUIT 

The lychee fruit possesses a taste 

and fragrance potent enough to woo 

a woman centuries ago. Today, it’s 

still eaten with the same fervour. 

36 NEW LINE 

Bangkok’s metro system unveils 

its new line soon, transporting 

commuters to their designation 

and letting imaginations take flight 

with their inspired interiors. 

50 EPIC HOLIDAY 

From beach clubs to 

hidden beaches, Phuket 

is the place to be to 

have a blast or take a 

well-deserved break. 

With our list, go beyond 

the basic itinerary. Get 

on a yacht, seek out a 

quiet beach, or get your 

high with a spiritual visit. 

58 LITERARY ART 

Embroidery brings 

together our wordsmith 

and a circle of needle 

workers to produce a 

striking book. Using 

needle and thread for 

a beckoning cover, a 

Thai publisher weaves 

a colourful story in 

children’s literature. 

66 MIGHT OF 

THE CHAMS 

In their heyday, the 

Cham people wielded 

major influence across 

Asia. Now only a 

small population of 

descendants and 

temples give testament 

to their legacy. 

76 BUYING THE 

FANTASY 

Live the dream life 

with a special feature 

on the hows and 

whys of real estate 

in Thailand. With 

the right real estate 

connection, have 

an island home in 

your future. 

90 FLOAT A 

FESTIVE BOAT 

We tell a picture story 

of a practice that began 

centuries ago on a full 

moon night to connect 

with the water goddess. 

A ‘krathong’ boat becomes 

a colourful link for 

wishes to be heard. 

20 

Under the 

Pattaya Sky 

10 

11

HAPPENINGS 

CORPORATE 

The latest must-dos and must-knows around the 

region as we enter into an eventful new season. 

100 BANGKOK 

106 SAMUI 

110 PHUKET 

114 CHIANG MAI 

115 KOH CHANG 

116 GUANGZHOU 

/ CHENGDU / 

CHONGQING 

118 HONG KONG 

120 SINGAPORE 

121 KUALA LUMPUR 

122 PHNOM PENH/ 

SIEM REAP/ 

SONG SAA 

124 HANOI 

126 YANGON 

128 LUANG 

PRABANG 

130 MUMBAI 

131 MALDIVES 

134 NEWS 

Bangkok Airways announces collaborations 

and winners. 

142 ROUTE MAP 

144 AIRCRAFT INFO 

CHECKING OUT 

146 PESCETARIANS 

Get up close with the whales 

in Phetchaburi during their gorge 

fest of local fishes. 

This month’s cover: 

Despite an everchanging 

world, 

the centuries-old 

tradition of 

Loy Krathong 

comes to life annually 

in Sukhothai. 

66 

Knowing 

the Chams of 

Vietnam 

12

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 

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Vice President - Marketing 

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Vice President - Sales 

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Senior Director - Marketing 

Communications 

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Regional Sales Director - South & South 

East Asia and Middle East 

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Manager - Branding and Creative 

EDITORIAL 

Email: editorial@fahthaimag.com 

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Email: chaovanee@mpmith.com 

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Contributors 

Brian Parker 

Chalotorn Payomyol 

Chusri Ngamprasert 

Jeremie Schatz 

Marisa Marchitelli 

Matthew Carmilleri 

Nguyen Qui Duc 

Pallavi Mehra 

Passakorn Hongthong 

Phoowadon Duangmee 

Prachi Joshi 

Richard Augustin 

Ron Emmons 

Sugato Mukherjee 

Sophia Natasia Powell-Schaffer 

Photo Editor Thewin Chanyawong 

Contributing Photographers 

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Chakkaphong Sukkasame 

Dolnapa Ram-Indra 

Jeremie Schatz 

Kay Choomongkol 

Marisa Marchitelli 

Pangchanak Pangviphas 

Ron Emmons 

Santipong Choocharoen 

Sugato Mukherjgee 

Thewin Chanyawong 

Wichit Kongsiangsung 

ART 

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Contributing Stylist Saranya Ariyakul 

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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 Photography: Copyright of the Tourism Authority of Thailand 

14

ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS 

Oh, Wondrous Night 

Wonderfruit’s days of music, 

artistic performances, 

art installations, celebration 

of ideas and partying ends in a 

touching moment with nature. 

This year, the event moves 

to a new venue at The Fields 

at Siam Country Club, 

outside Pattaya in Chon Buri 

Province, Thailand. 

NEWS AND EVENTS 18 / BEAUTY AND HEALTH 22 / STYLE 24 / THAILAND TREASURES 26 / A TASTE OF THAILAND 32 / 

FRUITFUL FINDS 34 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 36 / CHECKED IN 40 

17

OVERTURES 

NEWS AND EVENTS 

NOW- 

26FEB 

2019 

27SEP 

2018 

BANGKOK 

WORLD-CLASS MEGA-ARENAS 

FOR BKK 

It’s a thrill indeed, as two premium arenas in 

Bangkok – EM LIVE and The Bangkok Arena 

– are set to debut, serving as mega stadiums 

for entertainment, sports and events that 

can host anywhere from 6,000 to 16,000 

people. Both are expected to open in 2022 

and 2023 respectively. 

Behind the projects is The Mall Group, 

one of Thailand’s leading mall operators, 

already known for retail and lifestyle 

complexes like The Mall, Siam Paragon, 

The Emporium and The EmQuartier. They 

recently announced their partnership 

with the globally-known sports and live 

entertainment group, AEG. This is the first 

major investment in Southeast Asia, and 

hosting of large-scale business, retail and 

entertainment events, including the 

category of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, 

Conferences and Exhibitions) and new lifestyle 

experiences. The two new entertainment 

districts position the city as a premier retail 

and entertainment destination in Southeast 

Asia. EM LIVE will be located at EmSphere, 

a luxury & lifestyle retail and entertainment 

district in the heart of the trendy Sukhumvit 

area while The Bangkok Arena marks its presence 

at Bangkok Mall, Bangna. themallgroup.com 


NOW- 18NOV 

SINGAPORE 

ROLL UP TO THE BIG TOP 

After a decade, the stars of the Great Moscow 

Circus make their long-awaited return to 

Singapore. Recognised as one of the best 

touring circuses in the world, this time around 

over 45 performers are due to entertain under 

the big top, including acrobats, clowns, jugglers 

as well as daredevils. 

Renowned for their theatrical flair and 

breath-taking performances, the Great Moscow 

Circus is set to showcase several 

death-defying acts including 

the Wheel of Death and 

the Motorbike Sphere of 

Fear. But there will be no 

shortage of laughs 

and guffaws as well, 

making it a fun-filled 

destination for the 

whole family. The action 

will take place under a 

specially constructed big 

top that, adjacent to the 

picturesque Singapore 

Bayfront, which will be 

home to these circus 

superstars throughout 

their Singapore stint. 

Bayfront Avenue, greatmoscow-circus.com 

NOW- 25DEC 


BANGKOK 

JOURNEY OF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENTS 

A Rattanakosin skilled master, National Artist 

Chakrabhand Posayakrit is showcasing his 

masterpieces for the first time in 15 years. 

The Thai legendary artist’s collections include 

drawings, sculptures as well as a highlight 

collection of traditional Thai puppets which 

he has spent time and effort collecting and 

preserving. His first generation of puppetry 

Phra Aphai Mani along with latter ones like 

Sam Kok (Three Kingdoms) and Taleng Phai 

will also be featured in the exhibition. Due 

to limited space and large scope of the 

exhibit, audiences are requested to submit 

a request to schedule a visit in advanced. 

The Chakrabhand Posayakrit Exhibition will 

rotate every 4 months until 25 December 

2018. Opens daily from 1-4.30pm, Chakrabhand 

Posayakrit Foundation, Sukhumvit 63, Bangkok 

HONG KONG 

INK AND WOOD 

Two distinct Chinese art disciplines are on 

show at the Liang Yi Museum in a special 

exhibition titled, “Ink and Wood: Modern 

Chinese Paintings in the Scholar’s Studio.” 

The exhibit will bring together 24 exquisite 

modern Chinese paintings from a private 

collection, as well as a total of 240 objects 

from Liang Yi Museum’s classical Ming and 

Qing dynasties antique collection. 

The exhibited artefacts in Ink and Wood: 

Modern Chinese Paintings in the Scholar’s 

Studio are rendered as both mutually exclusive 

and as interconnected components spanning 

Chinese art history. This inter-disciplinary 

exhibition not only juxtaposes classical 

Chinese furniture alongside modern Chinese 

paintings with references to history, but it 

also provides visitors a chance to explore 

the artistic traditions of furniture making 

and ink painting. 181-199 Hollywood Road, 

Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, opening hours 

Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-6pm (by appointment 

only), liangyimuseum.com 


14NOV 

KUALA LUMPUR 

ROCK TO GUNS N’ ROSES 

Legendary rockers Guns N’ Roses are making 

their return to the capital city of Malaysia for a 

one-night only gig as part of their ‘Not In This 

Lifetime Tour’. This time around though, the 

band will boast the classic line-up of Axl Rose, 

Slash and Duff McKagan, who last performed 

together during the band’s ‘Use Your Illusion 

Tour’ way back in 1993. 

The prospect of seeing these legendary 

rockers reuniting on stage in Kuala Lumpur will 

indeed be special as Guns N’ Roses will only 

make stopovers in selected Asian cities. The 

‘Not In This Lifetime Tour’ has already garnered 

rave reviews from The Washington Times and 

Rolling Stone, who proclaimed the concert tour 

as “a triumphant return of one of the most 

important bands of rock music history.” 

Surf Beach, Sunway Lagoon, galaxy.com.my 

21-23NOV 


CAMBODIA 

WATER FESTIVAL 

At the end of November, Cambodians across 

the country celebrate Bon Om Touk, which 

marks the end of the rainy season. Held on the 

full moon of the Buddhist month of Kadeuk, 

the celebration is one of the most important 

on the Cambodian calendar.As such, people 

across the country come together to partake 

in the festivities that take place for three 

straight days. 

Across the nation, Cambodians celebrate 

Bon Om Touk with musical and dance 

performances as well as boat races and 

parades. The festival also sees local festive 

treats being prepared, most notably, Ak Ambok, 

which consists of ground rice, banana and 

coconut. As evening falls, illuminated boats 

take to the rivers lending a colourful motif to 

the celebration with some major towns also 

lighting up their skies with fireworks displays. 

tourismcambodia.com 

18 19

OVERTURES 

NEWS AND EVENTS 


23NOV 

VIENTIANE 

THAT LUANG FESTIVAL 

To the Lao people, That Luang Festival (or 

Boun That Luang) is a home-coming festival. 

Visitors to Vientiane, the Lao capital, can 

experience this festive event that could last 

for a week, offering the best time to mingle 

and experience local culture and hospitality. 

Standing 148 feet tall in the centre of 

Vientiane will be the enormous pagoda 

of That Luang, a most respected national 

monument. Legend has it that Ashokan 

missionaries from India built a pagoda there 

to house a piece of Lord Buddha’s breastbone 

in the third century BC. With the full moon 

in November every year, the Lao people 

gather to celebrate the religious ceremony 

for three days. This year, the full moon will 

be on November 23, with the festival starting 

with a colourful candlelight and ‘wax castle’ 

procession at Wat Si Meuang and ending at 

the pagoda. Thousands of monks and tens 

of thousands of religious pilgrims come 

from all over the country and even from 

Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam to attend 

the festival. Buddhist devotees carry large 

arrangements of marigold flowers to the 

pagoda and also food offerings to That Luang 

early in the morning before doing the same 

for Buddhist monks. One week before the 

religious festival, a huge fair features goods 

and exhibitions from all over the world. 

tourismlaos.org 

8-16DEC 


CHIANG MAI 

CHIANG MAI DESIGN WEEK 2018 

The fourth incarnation of this vibrant design 

fair is all the buzz about town this December. 

Artists, designers and craftsmen from near 

and far will be sharing their work in pretty 

much every nook and cranny of Chiang Mai. 

Spearheaded by the Thailand Creative & Design 

Center (TCDC), this ambitious gathering unites 

over 200 collaborators and offers a slew of 

activities from workshops, talks, pop-up markets, 

and design showcases to performances. 

Chiang Mai sparks up when this inspiring 

design festival enlivens the town’s creative 

atmosphere. Inventive activities are dotted 

across the city with events highlighting 

innovative design and modern living, while 

paying homage to the area’s rich heritage in 

arts and culture. With the innovative lead of 

Thailand’s CDC, in partnership with a slew 

of local businesses and organisations, all are 

welcome to visit, participate and observe the 

city from a new perspective. Hopefully your 

imagination will be invigorated as well! 

chiangmaidesignweek.com 

13-16DEC 


PATTAYA 

WONDERFRUIT FÊTE 

Get ready for the big event in music, the arts, 

thought-provoking talks and the theme of 

sustainable living. It’s time for Wonderfruit 2018, 

which is returning again from 13-16 December 

2018. This year, the event will be held in a new 

home, just a kilometre away from the previous 

site, and within the grounds of Siam Country 

Club in Pattaya. Expect lush venues surrounded 

by shady coconut plantations in a tropical forest, 

with pristine lakes, nearby beaches, and stunning 

sunsets set against mountain vistas that’s the 

glory of Pattaya. It may be a new venue, but the 

fun and enlightenment will all be the same. 

Enjoy live music and international DJs with 

a line-up that includes Nicolas Lutz, Craig 

Richards, Mathew Jonson, Margaret Dygas, 

Job2do, Costlywood, Bobby Pleasure, Carmen 

Rizzo, Felix Dickinson, Fleetmac Wood, Gidge, 

Goldie and The Ensemble, Horse Meat Disco, 

Howie Lee, Kweku Collins, Libella, Lord Echo, 

Kuniyuki and much more! Experience sustainable 

and innovative art and architecture created by 

artists from all over the world such as Solar 

Stage by Gregg Fleishman, The Quarry by 

All(zone), Theatre Stage by Mpdstudio, Eco 

Pavilion by Ab Rogers Design, Theater of Feasts 

by Ab Rogers Design, Bath House by Ab Rogers 

Design, Molam Bus from the Jim Thompson Art 

Center, etc. Apart from the eclectic music and 

art, on tap are a variety of activities everyone 

can enjoy–such as perspective-shifting talks and 

workshops, world-class cuisine, and familyfriendly 

activities. Get your ticket and get set for 

the fun and global inspiration! wonderfruit.co/th 

20

OVERTURES 

BEAUTY AND HEALTH 

WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLING SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTO SANTIPONG CHOOCHAROEN 

SPOTLIGHT 

Having Faith in the Old Ways 

Oils, balms, ointments and powders have always been part 

of the Thai medicine cabinet and beauty arsenal. No Thai 

ever leaves home without a small tin of Tiger Balm and 

now the secret’s out as the round containers can be found 

on retail shelves outside of the country. Essentially packed 

with Thai wisdom through the decades and local herbs 

with the power to soothe and improve, here’s a rundown 

on unusual products and packaging you were curious about 

but were afraid to ask! 

PRICKLY HEAT 

COOLING POWDER 

CLASSIC 140G 

FROM SNAKE 

BRAND (33 Baht) 

Essential in a humid 

summer, this original 

cooling, refreshing and 

soothing powder is 

effective in relieving 

itching due to a prickly 

heat rash or skin irritations 

from the hot weather. 

Apply after a bath as an 

antiseptic and absorbent 

dusting powder with the 

guarantee to make you 

feel fresh and relaxed. 

Suitable for daily use for 

the whole family. 

HERBAL TALCUM 

POWDER 60G 

FROM YOKI 

(30 Baht) 

The talcum powder 

continues to offer 

soothing properties using 

the traditional features of 

absorbing oil and sweat 

to prevent acne and 

blemishes. It’s relief for 

itchiness, rashes as well as 

minor skin irritations, good 

for your face and body. 

BOTANICAL GREEN 

SOAP & REFRESHING 

FLORAL FRAGRANCE 

60G FROM PARROT 

(20 Baht) 

Distinctive for its parrot 

image and green paper 

packaging, this Thai 

naturally floral-scented 

soap offers thorough 

cleansing and a long-lasting 

fragrance on the skin. A 

bonus to its lingering scent 

is also a refreshing feeling 

during and after use. Easy 

to rinse off and suitable for 

all skin types. 

RED OINTMENT 30G 

FROM TIGER BALM 

(95 Baht) 

This warmer variation 

of the classic Tiger 

Balm muscle pain relief 

ointment is ideal for 

soothing muscular aches 

and pains. The ointment 

offers quicker relief by 

working fast to soothe 

itches from insect bites 

as well. 

THAI MEDICATED 

BALM 8G FROM 

WHITE MONKEY 

HOLDING PEACH 

(20 Baht) 

Contains several traditional 

Chinese herbs providing 

effective relief of physical 

pains and discomfort 

including minor backaches, 

sprains, strains, insect 

bites, headaches, motion 

sickness, hangover and 

nasal congestion. 

STOCKISTS 

EATHAI 

LGF Central Embassy 

Tel +66 (0) 2160 5995 

GLOBAL WORLD WIDE 

HERB SHOP 

24 Section 34/1 

Chatuchak Market 

Tel +66 (0) 817 92 8579 

Thailand Beauties 

Thailand’s home-grown beauty brands are gaining international 

recognition, and you shouldn’t miss out. If a nourishing herbal 

face mask on a lazy Sunday afternoon sounds appealing or simply 

getting that fresh feeling after a long day of work, these are local 

beauty and health brands to find in Thailand. Get these uniquelydesigned 

souvenirs for your friends and family. 

NATURE THAI HERBAL TOOTH 

POWDER 40G FROM THIPNIYOM 

(10 Baht) 

The original Thai herbal tooth powder for 

clean gums and teeth. Reduces plaque, 

tobacco and coffee stains. Keep your breath 

fresh and clean with the natural herb extracts. 

HERBAL TOOTHPASTE THAI HERBS 

ORIGINAL TASTE 30G FROM 

TEPTHAI (105 Baht) 

A concentrated herbal toothpaste for your 

healthy oral hygiene. Of high quality, use 

minimally, just the size of a small green bean 

seed is effective enough. 

POWDER LOTION 

COOLING, FRESH 

& AROMATIC 80ML 

FROM MONG LEYA 

(27 Baht) 

This liquid talc has 

a pleasant aroma 

and is usually used 

as cooling powder 

and skin tonic to 

help keep you cool, 

reducing itchy and 

rashes. Just pour 

on your palms and 

gently slap its 

refreshing coolness 

on your face and body. 

BALM 2G FROM GOLDEN CUP (6 Baht) 

Made from all organic materials from 

northern Thailand’s mountains, works to 

relieve discomfort, aches and pains. Used 

for help with muscle pain and strain, 

rheumatic pains, sprains while providing 

relief for burns and scalded skin, itches 

and insect bites. Effective as a nasal 

decongestant and works well for massages. 

BLACK COLOUR 

CREAM-TONE 

OIL SHAMPOO 

TINT 12ML FROM 

AUDACE (52 Baht) 

Long lasting, washes away 

grey and leaves black 

hair shiny, beautiful and 

naturally soft and supple. 

FACIAL SCRUB 

5G FROM 

SUPAPORN 

(24 Baht) 

Supaporn Facial 

Scrub removes dead 

skin cells whilst 

rejuvenating facial skin, 

without irritating skin 

surface. Experience 

smoothness, radiance, 

and healthy skin. 

PEARL CREAM GOLD 

EDITION 3G FROM 

KUAN IM (15 Baht) 

Tackle facial wrinkles from a cream 

with genuine crushed pearls and 

natural extracts to reduce acne 

scars, melasma, aging, spots and 

suitable for all skin types. 

COOLING POWDER NATURAL TALCUM 

MADAM AROMA 200G FROM BHAESAJ (35 Baht) 

Natural talcum powder, combined with perfume oils from 

France. Camilla Aroma provides a sweet and fragrance 

from aromatic barks, blended with sweet blossoms. 

It refreshes and cools your skin with menthol, with 

calamine mixed in to prevent or alleviate rashes, 

prickly heat and itches. 

JASMINE PERFUME BODY TALCUM 

POWDER 200G FROM SPRING SONG (19 Baht) 

A vintage, classic scent of jasmine in a body powder 

that’s been around for more than a 100 years. Provides a 

natural & relaxing jasmine scent throughout your day. 

ALL-IN-ONE WHITENING OIL 

CONTROL POWDER PERFECT FOR 

OILY SKIN 10G FROM SRICHAND 

(280 Baht) 

Srichand translucent powder is perfect for 

oily skin and helps clear the face. Banish 

acne, pimples with their whitening mask 

and oil control properties. 

Tips 

STOCKISTS 

BIG C SUPERCENTER 

Ratchadamri 

Tel +66 (0) 2250 4888 

Rama 4 

Tel +66 (0) 2661 5580 

GLOBAL WORLD WIDE 

HERB SHOP 

24 Section 34/1 Chatuchak 

Market 

Tel +66 (0) 81 792 8579 

TESCO LOTUS 

Rama 4 

Tel +66 (0) 2672 8585 

Try these effective Thai traditional remedies 

and secrets to feel contentment in time wellspent 

taking care of yourself. 

Turmeric – Turmeric is used as a great 

facial scrub. To make this face scrub, take some 

turmeric powder then add a little water and blend 

well. Spread all over your face with the paste and 

gently rub for four minutes before rinsing off. 

Coconut Oil – Both used in Thai food and for its 

beautifying properties since coconut oil is a great 

ingredient. This oil is used as a great multipurpose 

product for hair, face and body since it’s considered 

as one of the safest oils. 

Tamarind – Tamarind is a popular ingredient 

in Thailand that’s high in minerals and vitamins, 

bringing great benefits in the beauty care. 

Thai Massage – Massages are also one 

of the best beauty secrets of Thai women. 

Massages flush out toxins from the body and 

soothe aching muscles as well. The principles 

of Thai massage give an overall wellbeing body 

and soothing the soul. 

22 

23

OVERTURES 

STYLE 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WORDS PASSAKORN HONGTHONG STYLING SARANYA ARIYAKUL PHOTOS SANTIPONG CHOOCHAROEN 

 

 

 

Sporting Goods 

The Muay Thai shorts has inevitably become 

a fashionable item as the iconic sport is 

world renowned. The Muay Thai look is 

not apparent just in Thai men’s styles, but 

gadgets and accessories nowadays carry 

the look and logo in a distinctively Thai way 

for everyone to follow. 

FOR HIM 

SATIN SHORTS 

WITH MAUY THAI 

EMBROIDERY 

AND DRAWSTRING 

WAISTBAND 

FROM K.1 

(490 Baht) 

STOCKISTS 

K.1 

1F JJ Mall 

Tel +66 (0) 2160 5995 

LIGHTER 

WITH LOGO 

PRINT FROM 

THE ONLY 

MARKET 

@SIWILAI 

(149 Baht) 

SIWILAI 

5F Central Embassy 

Tel +66 (0) 2160 5809-12 

PHAYANAK 

MATCHSTICKS 

FROM SIWILAI 

(95 Baht) 

PLASTIC 

NYLON BAG 

WITH LOGO 

PRINT FROM THE 

ONLY MARKET 

@SIWILAI 

(550 Baht) 

YELLOW 

MUSCLE 

T-SHIRT WITH 

RED BULL 

LOGO PRINT 

FROM K.1 

(290 Baht) 

FOR HER 

NOTEBOOK 

WITH VISET- 

NIYOM THAI 

TRADITIONAL 

TOOTHPASTE 

PRINT FROM 

SIWILAI (890 Baht) 

STOCKISTS 

GLOBAL WORLD 

WIDE HERB SHOP 



Tel +66 (0) 81 792 8579 

PLASTIC 

NYLON BAG 

WITH ROSE 

PRINT FROM 

WEARNCARRY 

(450 Baht) 

JUNKTION 



Tel +66 (0) 81 692 3478 

FAN, WOVEN 

BAMBOO FROM 

K.1 (89 Baht) 

K.1 

1F JJ Mall 

Tel +66 (0) 2160 5995 

ENAMEL 

TIFFIN FOOD 

CARRIER 

FROM 

JUNKTION 

(250 Baht) 

SIWILAI 

5F Central Embassy 

Tel +66 (0) 2160 5809-12 

TANAKA 

GOLD POWDER 

MASK 20G 

FROM 

SRICHAND 

(90 Baht) 

WEARNCARRY 

Tel +66 (0) 95 424 5151 

IG @wearncarry 

Siamese 

Nostalgia 

Several blasts from the past define 

nostalgic design for Thai women. 

Luckily, they’ve been around awhile 

or upcycled into utilitarian items. With 

motifs and styles pointing to a strong 

reflection of beauty and lifestyle, here’s 

our tribute to the old days. 

24 

25

OVERTURES 

THAILAND TREASURES 

The 7 Wonders 

of Lampang 

Story & Images Courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand 

Translation Chusri Ngamprasert 

With a diversity of natural and cultural 

attractions, Lampang, a cosy town 

in Northern Thailand, has the right 

appeal for all generations. 

The spiritual soul of the city lies in 

the wooden temple of Wat Phra That 

Lampang Luang and considered as one 

of the most beautiful wooden temples 

in Thailand. The impressive structure 

holds an open viharn or assembly hall, 

a protective Naga adorning a stairway, 

and excellent examples of Lanna and 

Thai Lue architecture. A noteworthy 

fact, the temple of Phra That Lampang 

Luang is a zodiac patron for people 

born on the Year of the Ox. Meanwhile, 

the pagoda enshrines the hair, forehead 

bone and neck bone relics of Lord Buddha. 

Another historical significance here 

includes bullet holes on the brass railing 

of the temple, fired by infamous folk 

hero Nan Thipchang, an ancestor of 

Chao Ched Ton dynasty, that ruled three 

northern states of Siam: Chiang Mai, 

Lampang and Lamphun. 

On top of Doi Phra Chan mountain, 

the temple of Wat Phra That Doi Phra 

Chan reveals an incredible panoramic 

view of Mae Tha district. The vista of 

a green valley against a backdrop of 

misty mountains depicts your classic 

Northern Thai image. During the rainy 

season and winter, the early morning 

mist enshrouds the whole area, creating 

a dreamlike image of a serene haven. 

Worth visiting too is Wat Phra 

Phutthabat Sutthawat, acclaimed as an 

“Unseen Thailand” attraction with striking 

scenic rocky cliffs around the temple itself. 

It’s worth taking a bus up the mountain 

and strolling along the 800-metre winding 

path to enjoy the dramatic and panoramic 

view of many small white-washed pagodas 

positioned on rock peaks. Here, the footprints 

of the Buddha are enshrined in the crown of 

the pagoda. 

Opposite 

‘Unseen’ Wat 

Phutthabat 

Sutthawat, sitting 

atop the mountain 

Top 

An aerial view of 

Wat Phra That 

Lampang Luang 

Bottom 

Chae Son 

National Park 

26 

27

OVERTURES 

THAILAND TREASURES 

Chae Son National Park in Mueang 

Pan District makes a perfect destination 

for the family and easily visited year 

round. A large rocky area with many 

small pools of hot springs water creates 

a picturesque view in the morning when 

the soft sunlight shines through the 

haze from the pools. There’s a choice 

for a short trek to beautiful Chae Son 

waterfall to dip in fresh water or wind 

down in the bathhouses with their 

large pools and private huts. It’s also 

good to try a famous snack in the area, 

Yum Khai Nam Rae (a salad with eggs 

cooked in the hot springs). 

For an inspiring experience, visit the 

Thai Elephant Conservation Centre in 

Lampang which provides space for an 

elephant hospital. The hospital emphasises 

care for ill elephants and elephant calves. 

The centre also manages an elephant 

dung paper factory, and visitors can 

Photo Thanadit Sriyanong 

Clockwise from 

Top Left 

Dhanabadee Ceramic 

Museum and its 

famed roosterdesigned 

bowls 

High above at Phra 

That Doi Phra Chan 

Taking a splash 

at the Thai Elephant 

Conservation Centre. 

Kad Kong Ta 

walking street 

further enjoy an elephant show and 

mahout experience to learn more about 

the pachyderms. 

To know Lampang better, one 

exciting activity to do on the weekends 

is to stroll along Kad Kong Ta walking 

street. Formerly a colonial trading 

community, the charm of the place 

lies in well-preserved buildings and 

houses constructed in a variety of 

Chinese, European and Burmese-Tai Yai 

architectural styles. This is a place to 

shop for local products, handicrafts, 

local foods and souvenirs. Cultural shows 

are on hand to entertain the crowd. 

Lampang also finds fame in its 

rooster-designed bowl. At Dhanabadee 

Ceramic Museum, learn more about the 

history of this most loved and ubiquitous 

dish that uses traditional ceramics 

production techniques. See the exhibition 

of the world’s smallest rooster bowl, right 

up to the oldest Dragon Kiln in Lampang. 

To round out the trip, consider the 

Lampang rooster bowl as one of the best 

souvenirs for friends and family. 

Touring Lampang 

in a horse-drawn 

carriage. 

For more information, call the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Lampang Office) at 

+66 (0) 54 222 214-5 or phone TAT Contact Centre at 1672. 

Photo Teerapat Bupphapibul 

28

OVERTURES 

A TASTE OF THAILAND 

Sweetness in the Eye 

of a Dragon 

The longan fruit, also known as the 

Dragon’s Eye (due to its black seed which 

resembles an eye) is a summertime 

favourite. Many Thai people enjoy fresh 

longans with its refreshingly sweet taste. 

Its benefit does not just lie in the fruit 

itself but also in the other parts of the 

plant. People in the old days would boil 

longan leaves to cure them of colds. 

Burn its seed until it becomes ash, and 

this can be rubbed on scars to speed up 

healing and also soothe itches. 

Small in size, but abundant in 

benefits, the longan fruit is said to block 

carcinogenic substances and reduce 

oxidants in white blood cells. Another 

key feature of the fruit is that it can 

strengthen the body. It specifically 

has minerals, vitamins, and nutrients, 

notably Vitamin C and B12, to nourish 

the blood, nerves, eyes, and heart. Even 

Chinese medical books give the recipe 

of boiling dried longan fruits together 

with ginseng and other medicines 

Ingredients 

to help older adults experiencing 

forgetfulness. Longan fruits may be rich 

with nourishment, but a moderate intake 

is recommended as the fruit itself has a 

heating effect, meaning that its excessive 

intake can cause mouth ulcers. 

The longan fruit’s sweetness is 

high in carbohydrates or sugar which 

quickly replenishes the body from any 

deficiency. The fruit then provides 

energy to the body. It’s a reason why 

those who drink longan juice feel 

instantly refreshed. Hot or iced, regular 

drinking of longan juice can guarantee a 

peaceful night’s sleep as well. 

Another great thing about the 

longan fruit is that it is excellent for 

desserts – from longan fruit with 

sticky rice (a Thai-style sweetened 

dessert with young coconut meat) to 

iced longan in syrup. These desserts 

promise a refreshing taste, thanks to 

their sweetness of flavour and reviving, 

aromatic fragrance. 

• ½ cup of dried longan fruits 

• 1 litre of water 

Instructions 

• ¾ cup of refined sugar 

• A pinch of refined salt to further 

brighten taste 

Clean the dried longan fruits in water 

twice to wash away dirt and longan flakes. 

Pour ¼ cup of sugar in a pot and 

melt on medium heat. Continue to stir 

until the sugar liquefies and the colour 

changes to dark brown. 

Pour water in and stir until the sugar 

further melts. Add the dried longan 

fruits and continue to boil for around 

10 minutes. 

When the longan fruits are softened 

enough, add the rest of the sugar and 

salt. Continue to boil and stir until all the 

sugar is dissolved. 

Put the lid on the pot and remove from 

the stove. Leave it to cool down. Before 

drinking, add ice. The refreshing longan 

juice is now ready to be enjoyed. 

WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA 

32 33

OVERTURES 

FRUITFUL FINDS 

WORDS CHUSRI NGAMPRASERT PHOTO KAY CHOOMONGKOL 

A Lucky 

Red 

With an attractive red colour albeit 

scaly peel, the translucent white 

flesh of the lychee fruit offers a taste 

that’s sweet, tangy and refreshing. 

With its aromatic scent, the fruit can 

be enjoyed throughout the season as 

a timeless treat. 

Its light, floral notes of rose and 

pear pair perfectly with other 

tropical flavours like limes and 

coconut in a symbiotic fruit mix. 

Lychee martinis and mojitos give 

any party a blast. The fruit also 

goes well in bubble tea or made 

into desserts like ice cream. 

Originating in southern China 

in the Guangdong and Fujian 

provinces, the lychee was first 

introduced to the West in 1656 

by Michal Boym, a Polish Jesuit 

missionary. The fragrant fruit is 

extensively grown in China, India, 

Thailand, Vietnam and many tropical 

and subtropical regions of the world. 

The rosy-coloured fruit also 

became a symbol for love after 

Emperor Tang Ming Huang of the 

Tang Dynasty arranged a special 

courier service to deliver the fresh 

fruits hundreds of miles from South 

China. A quick delivery got carried 

out to the Imperial court in the 

North before the fruit got spoiled 

to please his favourite concubine 

Yang Guifei, considered one of 

the four most beautiful women in 

ancient China. A popular lychee 

variety is named Fei Zi Xiao, or the 

concubine smile, after this legend. 

With over 40 varieties of lychee 

worldwide, Thailand has: Hong Huay 

(from oblong, conical to heart-shaped 

with a thin skin, sweet and sour 

properties and aromatic); Ohia (heartshaped, 

thinner skin, a soft and thicker 

flesh, sweet); Emperor or Jakkraphat 

(huge, thick skin, pinkish red, sweet, 

juicy) and Khom (heart-shaped, 

reddish-pink, juicy, and sweet). 

Apart from its enticing taste, the 

fruit has vitamin C, vitamin B complex. 

The beneficial presence of copper, 

phosphorus, and polyphenol oligonol 

gives it antioxidant and anti-viral 

properties. It’s said that the lychee aids 

in weight loss, protects the skin, and 

boosts the immune system. Eating a 

lychee can be a preventative measure 

for cancer, improve digestion, lower 

blood pressure, improve circulation, 

and optimise metabolic activities. 

With its delicate and lingering 

taste, the lychee has put a smile for 

hundreds of years on many faces. 

34

OVERTURES 

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 

Design Splendour 

for a Subway Line 

Bangkok’s next subway line elegantly blends Thai traditional design and 

neo-classical European architectural influences. Expect to see awe-inspiring 

interiors not just above ground, but underground as well. 

Words Sarita Urupongsa Photos Chakkaphong Sukkasame 

When they debut, the four subway 

stations of Bangkok’s MRT Blue Line 

extension – from Hua Lamphong to 

Bang Khae – will reflect a classic charm to 

their design while referencing significant 

flourishes in history. Captivating events 

inspired the MRT station’s interior, 

reflecting each area’s diversity and cultural 

stories. The Sanam Chai station will be a 

tasteful showcase of traditional Thai art 

conceptualised by Professor Dr. Pinyo 

Suwankiri, Thailand’s National Artist in the 

Visual Arts, esteemed for his expertise 

in Thai architecture, traditional pattern 

drawing and woodcarving. Having been 

selected by contractor CH. Karnchang, 

his vision is seen in the now completed 

interior of MRT Sanam Chai. 

Inspired by the desire to preserve the 

majestic heritage of Thai architecture, 

Dr. Pinyo tastefully highlights elaborate 

Thai art and culture while underlining the 

spectacular architectural lines that future 

generations can appreciate. As a result, 

the MRT’s Sanam Chai station is a oneof-a-kind 

masterpiece. 

The station’s main highlight is 

located on the ticketing floor, just before 

patrons descend to the platform level. 

Resembling an ancient royal court hall, 

this part of the station will feel familiar 

from history books, while commuters 

also experience a visit to the magnificent 

Grand Palace outside. 

MRT Sanam Chai’s imitated royal 

court interior is elaborately decorated 

with ancient-style columns adorned 

with exquisite bullet wood flower tile 

patterns. Lotus-shaped decorations in 

gold plate are above each column, all 

of which from floor to ceiling visualises 

an ancient city gate. 

Another spectacular sight is the 

ceiling’s decorative carved pattern 

known as Dao Lom Duean, meaning 

“Moon Encircled with Stars.” Lavishly 

ornamented, the pattern is a sight to 

behold with a mesmerising use of white, 

gold, and crimson as the setting and 

gold leaf plate covering the patterns. 

Already, the Sanam Chai line hears 

praise as Thailand’s most beautiful 

subway station. 

One interesting aspect of this MRT 

station in this historically-rich area of 

Bangkok are the archaeological discoveries 

during its construction. Site excavations 

uncovered an underground foundation 

of a former palace that could date back 

to the early Rattanakosin era. Further 

research revealed that the area was once 

the location of the residence of His Royal 

Highness Prince Adisorn Udomdej. 

Many artefacts like pearl shells, intact 

horses’ bones, and glazed clay items 

were unearthed. 

To acknowledge such valuable 

discoveries, space outside the station has 

been dedicated to the historical finds, as 

curated by Museum Siam. MRT Sanam Chai 

Station is located at the junction between 

Sanam Chai and Phra Phiphit Road, and 

Sanam Chai and Rachini Road, Phra Borom 

Maha Ratchawang Sub-District. It is set to 

open in December 2019. 

36 

37

OVERTURES 

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 

A Chef’s Tour started from a 

passionate chef who also happens 

to be a licensed tour guide named 

Nutth. A Bangkok native, he knows 

the city like the back of his hand 

and as a chef, he appreciates 

the joy a delicious dish brings. A 

Chef’s Tour was created with the 

goal to introduce culinary gems 

hidden in the City of Angels, from 

her backstreets and back alleys 

catering to food enthusiasts and 

adventure seekers. Most of all, 

they’re meant to be tours that 

chefs themselves can enjoy. During 

the four and half hour tour, guests 

can expect 17 different dishes, 

snacks, and drinks as well as 

interacting with locals. They may 

make their acquaintance with a 

vendor who still makes noodles 

by hand for old-style dishes of 

steamed shrimp noodles. The bowl 

gets topped with juicy and tender 

pork slices, squid and black bean 

sauce and places like these have been 

in business for over 60 years. Get the 

local experience and grab colourful 

plastic stools that famed Jek Pui curry 

stall whose traditional doorways 

become Insta-worthy spots. 

Trailing Cuisine’s Culture 

A Chef’s Tour is not just another 

run-of-the-mill food tour that has 

been springing up in tourist spots 

all over the world. If anything, it 

hopes to differentiate itself by taking 

food lovers off the beaten track to 

savour authentic tastes and delve 

in the culture and history behind 

each food or vendor’s business. Its 

goal is not just to deliver a palatepleasing 

experience, but also to unveil 

interesting stories, as well as offer 

a glimpse into local people’s lives 

through the culinary tour. Already 

known for their street-wise style 

and true knowledge in the art of 

food and cooking, the team behind 

A Chef’s Tour has spent days and 

hours following the foodie path and 

selecting only the best, the most 

delicious, interesting, and hygienic 

for the tour. 

The unique eating trails featured 

on A Chef’s Tour are organised by 

local knowledge and expertise from 

the team’s circles of chefs, passionate 

home cooks, and foodies. Lasting 

about 4 hours, each tour delivers a 

true experience to food aficionados 

amidst street vibes, with 8 guests at 

maximum per one tour to ensure a 

rounded experience. What’s even 

more special about A Chef’s Tour is 

that it is customised, basing itself on 

local surroundings. That’s why it’s 

not surprising to see A Chef’s Tour in 

Chiang Mai which highlights authentic 

Northern cuisine. Since its launch, 

A Chef’s Tour has branched out to 

Phuket, Chiang Mai, then further 

abroad to India in popular towns 

like Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi. 

The tour plans to cultivate a bigger 

foodie experience in Asia in 2019, 

with their sights set on cities such as 

Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Shanghai, 

Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh, Kuala 

Lumpur, Penang, Singapore and 

many more. achefstour.com 

38

OVERTURES 

CHECKED IN: LUANG PRABANG 

The pink-tinged 

soup of “Lon Som” 

(sour fish eggs 

in pork and 

eggplant curry) 

TASTED: THE GREAT HOUSE 

AT ROSEWOOD LUANG 

PRABANG 

Ever wonder about tasting a menu 

borne of a culinary marriage between a 

classically-trained French chef and longlost 

Lao recipes? Here at the Great House, 

Culinary Director Sébastien Rubis takes 

diners on that merger. It’s a genuine food 

journey in a restaurant concept that is 

based on an enduring love for Laos and its 

culinary specialties. 

When life brought Sébastien to this 

country two decades ago, the young chef 

enjoyed the simplicity and serenity of the 

beautiful Lao landscape. It was then that 

he also delved deeper to learn about past 

royal Lao cuisine by canvassing from a 

wide spectrum of forgotten recipes. 

An Inside List to Luang Prabang 

and Koh Samui 

Words Anutra Ungsuprasert (Luang Prabang), Jeremie Schatz (Samui) 

Photos Pangchanak Pangviphas (Luang Prabang), Jeremie Schatz (Samui) 

Forgotten recipes take on new life in Laos while in Koh Samui, 

a popular restaurant continues its long run. Our team 

experienced it all lately, to share information on where 

you can sleep well, a place where you can be well, and a 

place where you can…well, stay for the party. 

Clockwise 

from Top 

Rosewood Luang 

Prabang’s main 

lobby with the Great 

House dining area 

Laotian dishes in 

a farm-to-table 

concept, using 

organic and fresh 

ingredients 

Culinary Director 

Sébastien Rubis 

reintroduces recipes 

found in royal 

Lao cuisine. 

Now “Noor Tho,” (bamboo shoots 

cooked with fish paste on Acacia leaves) 

and the pink-tinged soup of “Lon Som” 

(sour fish eggs in pork and eggplant 

curry) which disappeared from menus a 

long time ago have been re-introduced. 

Once reserved for royalty, such recipes 

are being brought back to the table so 

everyone at every social class can taste it. 

The Culinary Director insists that both he 

and his restaurant team stick to old-school 

cooking methods to derive an authentic 

taste, even though the preparation takes 

longer to go from plate to palate. 

Awarded as the ASIA Geographical 

Indication (GI) Ambassador for Laos, 

from the United Nations’ (FAO) and 

French Development Agency (AFD) 

project with a focus on protecting 

food culture in the region and reviving 

ancestral and forgotten recipes, 

Sébastien brings a seasonal and 

sustainable farm-to-table concept to 

Rosewood Luang Prabang. He began 

working with local farmers before 

the hotel opened, presenting 

organic freshness with the 

local produce. 

Apart from hotel 

guests benefitting from the organic 

produce, the Great House, located at 

the main lobby, also welcomes nonhotel 

guests for breakfast, lunch and 

dinner with an affordable price, starting 

from US$20 per person. The 16-table 

restaurant, with its design luxury brings 

colonial nostalgia as your eyes catch 

the stunning view past the oval-shaped 

swimming pool facing Nahm Dong river. 

Look further to see the colourful statue 

of the sacred Phra Mae Thorani sitting in 

a wildly thrashing stream. 

Whether your choices are traditional 

Lao dishes like Nem Khao, Papaya Salad, 

Mieng Phadeck or other comfort foods 

with a strong French flair yet using local 

ingredients like Fish ‘n’ Chips or a Buffalo 

Burger, the Great House definitely has 

much to offer. And if you’re inspired 

enough, try Lao cooking classes which are 

available for a small group, with advance 

booking recommended. 

The Great House 

Rosewood Luang Prabang 

Opens daily: Breakfast 6-10am, Lunch 

11.30am-3pm, Dinner 5.30-10pm 

Ban Nadueay, Luang Prabang, Lao 

+856 7121 1155 

luangprabang@rosewoodhotels.com 

40

OVERTURES 

CHECKED IN: SAMUI 

STAYED: NIKKI BEACH 

Widely known as one of the most 

glamorous and extravagant beach clubs 

in the world, Nikki Beach Club has been 

building up and polishing that reputation 

for more than 20 years. With locations in 

renowned seaside party locales such as 

Miami, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Saint Tropez, 

and their Lipa Noi Beach location in Koh 

Samui, they pretty much have all the 

bases covered. 

Many consider Nikki Beach Koh 

Samui an elite destination for a day 

chilling in the pool, sipping on 

champagne, and dancing to top-notch 

international DJs. What some may not 

realise is that you can come for the 

day, and never leave. That’s because in 

addition to their beach club, which was 

voted the “sexiest beach bar” by the 

Travel Channel, Nikki Beach Koh Samui 

is also an exclusive 48-room beach resort. 

The accommodations are set into 

two separate wings flanking the beach 

club in the centre offering up five basic 

room types: garden villas, seaview villas, 

pool access suite, pool view suite, and 

the penthouse. Appealing to groups 

of friends or families, several suites 

can be converted to two, to up to five 

bedrooms. The suites are situated on 

each side of a pool so long it’s more like 

an inland sea. They all have immense 

balconies with cosy couches and strong 

ceiling fans to keep the breeze blowing 

– a small but appreciated detail. 

The 70 sqm. garden villas have equally 

spacious verandas just outside of the 

tastefully decorated and well-appointed 

rooms. Step off the veranda of a seaview 

villa right onto the sand and leave the 

door open and let the salty breeze blow 

through. Seaview pool villas have the best 

of both worlds with a pool right outside 

your door and only steps to the sea. 

All rooms are luxuriously appointed 

with silky linens on comfy king-size beds, 

high ceilings with modern lighting, and 

sprawling bathrooms with his-and-her 

sinks. The walk-in showers are equipped 

with awesome rain shower heads and 

posh aromatherapy products. While you 

take a break from partying at the beach 

club, you can flick on the 42″ TV with 

a ton of international channels where 

something is always on. 

And as one may expect of a resort 

of this calibre, they offer many other 

activities to keep you occupied including 

a full service spa, gym, boutique shop, 

Thai cooking classes, a beachfront 

massage pagoda, and shuttle service to 

take you to all sorts of cool spots around 

the island. Any mention of Nikki Beach 

Koh Samui would be remiss without 

bringing up their notoriously amazing 

Sunday brunch with an endless array of 

delectable fare and drink options. 

Most people are likely come to Nikki 

Beach with their sights set on having a wild 

time at the beach club, but now you can 

come for the part and stay for the resort. 

96/3 Moo 2, Lipa Noi, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 

+66 (0) 77 914 500 

nikkibeach.com 

42

OVERTURES 


TRIED: HEALTH REPUBLIC 

With our whirlwind modern lifestyles, 

many of make sacrifices in our wellbeing 

to keep up. Not getting enough rest, 

suffering from stress, consuming a poor 

diet, and slacking on exercise almost 

go hand-in-hand with juggling work 

and home life. The human body can be 

extremely resilient and adaptable but 

it can only be pushed so far before 

problems arise. 

Naturally the best solution is to adapt 

a healthier lifestyle and treat your body as 

the temple that it is. Let’s be honest, there 

is a strong culture (and maybe a bit of human 

nature) tending towards the “binge and 

purge” lifestyle. It’s easy to binge and 

neglect your body, but what to do when 

it’s time to purge? 

Detoxes have exploded in popularity 

in recent years as a way to quickly purge 

your body of toxins and waste products, 

recover from some of the damage it’s 

been subjected to, and help regain its 

natural balance. Detoxes are based on the 

premise that waste products which aren’t 

naturally expelled from our bodies and 

can’t be broken down accumulate in our 

organs. Detox programmes utilise various 

methods designed to remove these toxins. 

Situated on beautiful Lamai Beach 

in Koh Samui, the Beach Republic has 

recently introduced Health Republic 

Wellness Center and Spa. Just next door 

to their long-running beach club, Health 

Republic is comprised of their own piece 

of serene beach, a beachfront massage 

Clockwise from Top 

Yoga and meditation 

classes are offered 

daily as part of Health 

Republic’s wellness 

and detox programmes. 

Therapeutic 

massages not only 

feel good, but offer 

physiological benefits 

during a detox. 

What better view 

could one ask for 

while embarking on 

a journey to improve 

your mental and 

physical wellbeing? 

sala, a huge open air yoga and meditation 

sala, indoor/outdoor café, juice shack, 

modern colema facilities, herbal steam 

rooms, and outdoor showers. 

Health Republic offers a full menu of 

wellbeing options from 2-3 day wellness 

programmes as well as comprehensive 

detox programmes from 1-9 days. 

Depending on duration, the wellness 

programmes aim to boost overall physical 

and mental wellbeing using meditation 

and yoga, cold pressed juices and fruit, 

massage and herbal steams, colemas, and 

healthy meal options. 

Detox programmes begin with expert 

instruction to prepare you for what to 

expect and how to proceed through the 

steps of the detox. During the detox 

your meals are replaced with specially 

formulated detox drinks, nutritious 

broths, and herbal supplements that help 

break up and mobilise toxins, especially 

in the intestines. Daily yoga classes and 

therapeutic massages help relax the body 

and mind while relieving stress. 

A vital part of Health Republic’s detox 

programmes are the twice-daily colemas. 

Colemas are similar to an enema but 

introduce more water into the colon in 

order to provide a more thorough cleanse. 

It’s very important to carefully and 

properly transition your body back to a 

normal diet at the end of your detox. Your 

detox guide will provide you with specially 

formulated drinks, probiotic capsules, and 

specific light foods to break your fast. 

Embarking on a detox can be a bit of a 

challenge to abstain from your norms and 

vices. With Health Republic’s beachfront 

location and spectacular facilities on a 

paradise island combined with supportive 

staff, it’s less of a challenge and more of 

a pleasure. 

176/34 Moo 4, Tambon Maret, 

Koh Samui, Surat Thani 

+66 (0) 77 458 100 

beachrepublic.com/Health 

44

OVERTURES 


TASTED: PREGO 

If you’re in Koh Samui and you absolutely 

must have some real-deal, down home 

Italian cooking you have two options: 

you travel 9,000 kilometres to Italy or you 

go to Prego. 

Established in Koh Samui in 2003, 

Prego (Italian for ‘you’re welcome’) was 

met with instant success. Part of that 

success can be attributed to the fact that 

there was simply no competition, but if 

you ask someone who’s had the pleasure 

of enjoying one of Chef Marco Boscaini’s 

creations, they’ll tell you he still doesn’t 

have any competition. 

Chef Marco’s tale of Thailand is not 

unique; like so many others he came here 

for a short trip in 1994 and simply never 

left. However, his kitchen history dates 

back a bit farther to his culinary training 

at the Instituto Giovanni Pastore in 1983. 

Whatever food-based sorcery they taught 

him hasn’t gone unnoticed as one of his 

risotto recipes was featured in “100 Best 

Risottos”, a book whose author compiled 

a list of the best in the world. 

Beyond risottos, inside the recently 

and tastefully renovated restaurant you 

will find the kitchen churning out dishes 

like the well-received Crema di zucca 

(pumpkin soup), Filetto di manzo (Grilled 

Australian beef tenderloin, sautéed 

asparagus, with a truffle taleggio sauce), 

a variety of select seafood creations, and 

17 different pizzas. Chef Marco explained 

it’s common for their wood-fired oven to 

see 100-150 pizzas pass through it 

in a day. It’s clear he believes that for 

pizza to be considered authentic there 

is no other option than to cook it in a 

wood-fired oven. 

Several homemade pasta frescas can 

be found on the menu as well. The Pici 

comes highly recommended: Tuscan handrolled 

pici pasta, Chianti wine beef ragú, 

and pecorino. Who doesn’t love a good 

homemade pasta with that smooth fresh 

flavour and firm texture? 

A little inside tip: if you happen to be 

in the neighbourhood in November and 

you’re a truffle fan, Prego is the place to 

be. Chef Marco orders in a fresh batch of 

these luxurious delicacies, using them to 

create unique weekly specials. 


Chef Marco Boscaini 

has developed a 

menu of authentic 

Italian classics that 

has made Prego 

one of the go-to 

restaurants on 

Koh Samui. 

Tiramisu is often 

offered, but rarely 

done as well as 

Prego’s. 

To many Italianfood 

lovers, 

offering pasta 

fresca elevates a 

restaurant to a new 

benchmark. 

Prego’s wood-fired 

oven often bakes 

over 100 pizzas a 

day to perfection. 

Prego’s reputation for expertly crafted 

Italian food and attentive service from staff 

who’ve been there since the beginning 

have made it necessary for them to 

expand from about 110 seat to nearly 

200. Before, they would hope for see 

60 patrons walk through their door but 

would end up with 200-400. They make 

significant efforts to accommodate their 

guests offering dishes in two sizes for 

varying appetites as well as gluten-free 

and non-dairy cheese options. 

Italy is an incredible country and 

worth making the journey to visit, 

but Prego recreates the flavours of 

Italy without having to leave this 

island paradise. 

Opposite Amari Koh Samui on Chaweng 

Beach Road, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 

+66 (0) 77 300 306 

prego-samui.com 

46

PHUKET FOCUS 

Phuket: 

Always An Ideal Escape 

Words Pallavi Mehta Photos Courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Jeremie Schatz 

With its sheer size, Phuket offers potential itineraries as long 

and as plenty as its many coastlines. Find your pace, be it 

active or tranquil, for memorable island experiences. 

Only an hour’s flight from Bangkok, Phuket (‘h’ is 

silent in the pronunciation of Phuket) has long 

been a candidate for one of the finest holiday 

destinations in Asia. Studies indicate that your 

stress goes away quickly when you catch sight of the sea. 

But if it’s action you’re after – the entire island, including 

its magnificent beach frontier becomes an extravagant 

setting with beach parties. 

50 51

PHUKET FOCUS 

However, Phuket is much 

more than its beach offerings. 

It bedazzles travellers with its 

nature that’s meant to be seen 

and enjoyed, aquamarine waters 

that beckon you to explore (with 

a lot of help from tour operators 

hawking their business), limestone 

cliffs and lively towns, it’s difficult 

to come close to that of Phuket. 

Travellers who visit Thailand’s 

southwestern island are welcomed 

with a little slice of paradise, brimming 

with some of the finest hotels of edgy 

or organic architecture, restaurants 

offering the best in simple dishes 

to inventive fare and spas whose 

names are renowned in the world. 

There’s something for everyone, 

regardless of taste and budget. 

You can splurge on a wellappointed 

pavilion in one of the 

numerous luxurious hotels or 

resorts that overlook the scenic 

Andaman Sea or check into a villa 

with a private terrace and pool. Start 

your vacation by indulging in the 

extensive wellness offerings of your 

hotel. Take your pick from authentic 

herb-infused Thai treatments or hit 

the gym or Pilates facilities. Cap it up 

with traditional meals of scrumptious 

Thai curries (among some of the 

most intense in the country), and 

delicious seafood – Phuket has its 

own spiky version of lobster! Here 

is where you’ll also find the best 

of world cooking. Local favourites 

include Peranakan food in Phuket 

Town or Hokkien Chinese stir-fries, 

in addition to fine dining options 

scattered throughout the island. 

Being Thailand’s largest island, 

Phuket is enclosed by over 30 

glorious beaches. Patong Beach, Kata, 

Karon, Kamala, Nai Harn Beach, and 

Mai Khao are the most renowned 

places. From the exclusive resorts of 

Surin Beach and Bang Tao Beach, to 

family-friendly Nai Harn Beach, or 

the party city of Patong, there is a 

beach for every mood. 

Clockwise from Left 

Wat Chalong, 

always on people’s 

list for Phuket, 

for its religious 

and architectural 

relevance. 

Phuket Town’s rich 

past is visible in 

old-world shops, 

charming cafés, 

and grand Sinocolonial 

mansions. 

Below Left & Right 

The glorious colours 

at Nai Harn beach 

An aerial view of 

Koh Phi Phi 

The nearby tropical islands, 

can be accessed by a speedboat 

or a luxury yacht or cruise, and 

gaining in popularity as a means of 

exploration. Well-furnished yachts 

take visitors on a voyage to discover 

the islands of the Phuket archipelago 

with more golden sand beaches that 

are equal parts mesmerising and 

enjoyable. Characteristic to Phang 

Nga Bay are the sheer limestone 

karsts that vertically stand out of the 

emerald-green water. James Bond 

Island and Panyi Island are two of 

the most well-known in this bay. 

By far the best way of enjoying the 

impressive Phang Nga Bay, with only 

passing encounters with tourists at 

James Bond and Panyi islands, is to 

take a laid-back luxurious cruise. 

Another stop on these cruises 

is world famous Maya Bay. In 1999, 

Maya Bay was magical – white-sand 

beaches, azure skies and a jeweltoned 

sea, which was abundant in 

natural resources and colourful 

marine life. Located in Koh Phi Phi, 

off the coast of Phuket, is the 

strikingly scenic bay that comprises 

a 200-metre idyllic beach, which is 

enclosed by 100-metre high cliffs 

on three sides. Maya Bay became a 

popular tourist attraction after the 

Hollywood movie – ‘The Beach,’ 

starring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed 

there in 1999. In recent times, it 

52

PHUKET FOCUS 

has been speculated its popularity 

received an average of 200 boats and 

4,000 tourists daily. Unfortunately, 

because of excessive tourism, there 

has been environmental damage to 

this once unspoiled area. 

Due to extensive destruction 

of the coral reef and marine life 

of Maya Bay, Thailand’s National 

Parks and Wildlife Department 

decided to close the bay. Locals 

and tourists alike are hopeful that 

Maya Bay will be restored to its 

former beauty when it reopens. 

Meanwhile, there are numerous 

hidden beachfront escapes for a 

more private experience. These 

‘secret’ beaches boast a laidback vibe 

tempered with an indulgent dash 

of luxury. 

Ao Sane Beach is ideal for 

snorkelling and lounging during the 

day. Its beachside restaurant serves 

54 

Top Left & Right 

Nui Beach and its 

quiet side. 

Big Buddha sits tall 

at 45 metres high. 

Bottom 

Banana Beach’s 

clear, blue waters 

and verdant 

surroundings. 

Not only are you guaranteed unobstructed views 

(at Big Buddha), the 6-km drive up also gives you a 

peek into the authentic, non-touristy side of Phuket. 

up tasty Thai fare and fresh fruit 

smoothies with a stunning view of 

Koh Man. 

Ao Yon Beach for a fun, relaxed 

ambiance and the best nature has 

to offer, all in one place. Choose to 

blissfully unwind at this pictureperfect 

beach oasis. 

Banana Beach (more details 

in Happenings Phuket, p. 110) for 

an exotic virgin beachfront. Vast 

stretches of azure waters and 

pearlescent sands on a crescentshaped 

beach are enough to captivate 

one’s attention. Banana Beach 

is jaw-droppingly beautiful on 

a calm day. Take in the scenic 

locale as you soak in the serenity and 

exquisiteness of this hidden beach. 

Nui Beach for beach activities 

such as snorkelling, beach volleyball 

and sea kayaking. Also known as 

Water Beach Club, this beach has 

its own luxurious spa along with a 

trendy restaurant and bar. Nui Beach 

is perfectly maintained by the Water 

Beach Club staff and is great for 

indulging in activities away from the 

crowds in an exclusive setting. 

Khao Kad Beach also known 

as Panwa Beach has been able to 

maintain its natural beauty and not 

be overridden by tourists. Only 8km 

east of Phuket Town, this beach 

exudes its own unique feel and is a 

world apart from the rest of Phuket. 

At the culturally rich and 

charming capital - Phuket Town, it 

has its own unique personality and 

history and time should be set aside 

to explore it. Its rich past is visible 

in Buddhist and Chinese temples, 

old-world shops, charming cafés, 

quaint museums and grand Sinocolonial 

mansions. 

Wat Chalong and the Big 

Buddha are two of the island’s most 

admired cultural destinations. A 

multitude of glittering pieces of 

glass adorn Wat Chalong, a revered 

Buddhist temple, thereby creating 

reflections on its many pagodas. 

Big Buddha, which at 45 metres 

tall, rests at the top of the Nakkerd 

Hills. The 6-km drive up reveal 

unobstructed views, giving you 

a peek into the authentic, nontouristy 

side of Phuket. 

The sight of Phuket’s sparkling 

waters and towns should put you 

in immediate holiday mode. With 

every trip, the island shows you just 

enough to be satisfied, yet creates 

the desire to be back for more. 

INVESTING IN SOPHISTICATED LIVING 

Tucked in a desirable spot in Phuket’s Bangtao/Laguna area and just minutes away from everything 

you need – Botanica Luxury Villas property boasts 21 custom-built elite residences of large open plans, 

bespoke design and sophistication in a tropical climate setting. Completed by January 2020, enjoy 

nearby beaches, restaurants, boutique shops and numerous activities for the family. 

In 2018, the Thailand Property Awards selected Botanica Luxury Villas as the winner for Best Villa 

Development (Phuket), also coming in highly recommended in the category of Best Housing Architectural 

Design (Resort). Botanica Luxury Villas is now ready to create your dream home. Three standard designs 

offer spaces from 265 to 700 sq. metres with a signature feature of a covered terrace that seamlessly 

interconnects all spaces. Other amenities include smart home technology along with 24-hour security. 

The Botanica Luxury Villas are also an ideal investment for short term rental accommodations 

vacations. Enjoy the remaining duration for your family. For a visual tour and discussion of your 

aspirations and dreams in a home, please contact us at info@botanicavillasphuket.com. 

www.botanicavillasphuket.com | Tel: +66 (0) 98 394 7097, +66 (0) 81 893 2113 

botanicavillasphuket botanicavillas

PHUKET FOCUS 

จะมีที่ไหนเหมาะกับวันหยุดยาวของคุณ 

มากไปกว่าภูเก็ต เพียงบินจากกรุงเทพฯ 

ราวหนึ่งชั่วโมง คุณจะได้ชะล้างความเครียด 

ด้วยหาดทรายสวยสด เหมาะที่สุด 

สำหรับปาร์ตี้บนชายหาดในฝัน 

มาพักผ่อน ณ สวรรค์แดนใต้ของไทย 

ต้องไม่พลาดชมธรรมชาติสุดอลังการของ 

สิ่งมีชีวิตใต้น้ำหลากสีสันนานาพันธุ์ แนว 

ปะการังสวย และตัวเมืองที่ไม่เคยหลับใหล 

พร้อมที่พักที่มีให้เลือกหลากสไตล์ ไม่ว่าจะ 

หรูหรา หรือเก๋ไก๋ ร้านอาหารอร่อยใน 

ราคาที่เอื้อมถึง และสปาระดับโลก เรียกว่า 

มีทุกอย่างสำหรับทุกคน ทั้งในแบบหรูหรา 

และงบประมาณจำกัด 

ภูเก็ตเป็นเกาะที่ใหญ่ที่สุดในประเทศไทย 

ล้อมรอบด้วยหาดทรายกว่า 30 แห่งที่ให้ 

อารมณ์ความรู้สึกที่แตกต่างกันออกไป 

อย่างหาดป่าตอง หาดกะตะ หาดกะรน 

หาดกมลา หาดในหาน และหาดไม้ขาว 

ล้วนเป็นหาดที่กำลังโด่งดัง พบรีสอร์ต 

สุดพิเศษที่หาดสุรินทร์และอ่าวบางเทา 

ที่พักสำหรับครอบครัวที่หาดในหาน 

หรือจะเป็นที่สุดแห่งความรื่นเริงยาม 

ค่ำคืนที่หาดป่าตอง 

นั่งเรือยอร์ชเพียงไม่นานจากภูเก็ต 

ยังมีความงามบนเกาะแก่งอื่นๆ อีก 

มากมายรออยู่ เกาะพีพีอันโด่งดัง 

อุทยานแห่งชาติอ่าวพังงา เขาตะปู 

ท่ามกลางน้ำทะเลสีมรกต หรือจะนอน 

อาบแดดอย่างสบายอารมณ์ที่เกาะปันหยี 

ชมความงดงามของธรรมชาติ คลอด้วย 

เสียงเกลียวคลื่นซัดสาด 

จุดจอดเรืออีกแห่งที่พลาดไม่ได้ 

คืออ่าวมาหยาบนเกาะพีพี ชมทรัพยากร 

ธรรมชาติสมบูรณ์ อุดมด้วยสัตว์น้ำ 

น้อยใหญ่ แต่เนื่องจากมีนักท่องเที่ยวแวะเข้า 

มาเยี่ยมชมเกาะแห่งนี้วันละกว่า 4,000 คน 

ส่งผลเสียต่อสภาพแวดล้อม กรมอุทยาน 

แห่งชาติ จึงตัดสินใจปิดเกาะเพื่อเยียวยา 

ธรรมชาติ และยังไม่ประกาศเปิดจน 

ถึงบัดนี้ 

ภูเก็ตยังมีหาดทรายที่ค่อนข้างมี 

ความเป็นส่วนตัวสำหรับผู้ที่ชอบความ 

สงบและความหรูหรา ลองมาที่หาดอ่าวเสน 

ดำน้ำดูปะการัง ทานอาหารสุดชิคริม 

ชายหาดที่เสมือนกั้นไว้เป็นหาดส่วนตัว 

เล็กๆ อย่าลืม อ่าวยน ที่มีกระแสลมอ่อน 

คอยประโลมใจ ต้นปาล์มพลิ้วไหวล้อกับ 

หาดทรายขาว นี่คือเกาะในฝันโดยแท้ 

นี่ก็อีกที่ ลองหนีความวุ่นวายมายัง 

หาดกล้วย หาดทรายสีขาวรูปร่างเหมือน 

พระจันทร์เสี้ยวที่ดึงดูดทุกสายตา เป็นหาด 

ส่วนตัวที่สงบเงียบไร้สิ่งรบกวน 

หาดนุ้ย มีกิจกรรมหลากหลายให้ 

คุณได้สนุก เช่น ดำน้ำ วอลเลย์บอล 

ชายหาด พายเรือคายัค หรือจะไปผ่อน 

คลายที่สปาสุดหรูพร้อมร้านอาหารและ 

บาร์อินเทรนด์ หรือแวะมาที่ หาดพันวา 

ที่ยังคงความงดงามและความสมบูรณ์ไว้ 

ได้ท่ามกลางชายหาดที่ทอดยาวกว่าแปด 

บน 

หอนาฬิกาสีเหลือง 

ตระหง่านใจกลางย่าน 

เมืองเก่าภูเก็ต 

ล่าง 

อ่าวเสนเรียงรายด้วย 

แนวหินทอดยาวไปทั่ว 

ชายหาด 

กิโลเมตร ความร่มรื่นผสมผสานกับ 

ความหรูหราทำให้หาดแห่งนี้เป็นที่ที่ทุก 

คนแสวงหา 

หากคุณต้องการวันหยุดที่มีเอกลักษณ์ 

และดื่มด่ำวัฒนธรรม ห้ามพลาดตัวเมือง 

ภูเก็ต รวมถึงที่วัดฉลอง ไหว้ขอพรพระ 

สักหน่อย รับรองว่าทริปภูเก็ตครั้งแรก 

ของคุณจะเป็นประสบการณ์ที่คุณไม่ 

ลืมเลือน และเรียกร้องให้คุณมาเยี่ยมเยือน 

อีกนับครั้งไม่ถ้วน 

56

MAKUT ONRUDEE 

Words Phoowadon Duangmee 

Photos Wichit Kongsiangsung 

An independent publisher has created their version of a 

rare book, distinctive for its stitched art and potentially a 

collectible with its limited production. Meet one crafter 

of words and the community of needleworkers whose 

different sets of skilled hands ‘bound’ together a delightful 

Thai children’s classic. 

58 59

MAKUT ONRUDEE 

Today many people read – not a 

book – but a tablet, a smartphone 

and other electronic devices. 

A book, as we know, naturally 

loses its charm to digital media. Project 

Gutenberg, for example, has more than 

22,000 e-books for free downloads. To 

survive the abrupt rise of the digital 

revolution, a publisher in Thailand did 

some novel magic to win a reader back to 

a bookstore. 

Top 

The publisher 

shows a piece of 

embroidery that is 

on its way to 

becoming a 

book cover. 

Bottom, 

Left to Right 

Embroidered books 

are painstakingly 

done, requiring 

skilled needlework. 

Each embroiderer 

stitched their own 

cover interpretation 

as a means of 

personalising 

their work. 

Butterfly Book, a small and 

independent publishing house, 

recently released a threaded cover 

edition of “Kru Wai Jai Rai (Mean 

Teacher Wai)”, a well-known 

children’s book, whose cover is 

done in needlework. Behind the 

decision is one of the publisher’s 

co-founders, Makut Onrudee. Makut 

is a respected author himself. The 

68-year-old Thai writer is noted for 

his acclaimed novel “Pheesua Lae 

Dokmai (Butterfly and Flowers)”. 

The story reveals a beautiful side 

despite the hard lives of children 

along Thailand’s southern frontier. 

To introduce Thai readers to world 

literature, Makut and his two friends 

established the small publishing 

house Butterfly Book. For decades, 

they translated and distributed 

children’s literature and classical 

novels (P. L. Travers’s “Mary 

Poppins”, Roald Dahl’s “George’s 

Marvellous Medicine”, Tetsuko 

Kuroyanagi’s “Totto-Chan: The 

Little Girl at the Window” and Andre 

Malraux’s “La Voie Royale,” to name 

a few) for Thai readers of all ages. 

Butterfly Book has always 

fascinated bibliophiles with their 

drop-dead gorgeous books, the 

type that readers crave to add 

to their collection. Their team 

spends considerable time editing 

manuscripts, designing charming 

covers and illustrations, not to 

mention using quality paper in their 

printing with durable book binding 

that can last for many years. 

“The Butterfly threads series 

bind together two types of art 

– writing and embroidering,” 

indicated Makut – who’s a cofounder 

of Butterfly Book. For Kru 

Wai Jai Rai, Makut explains, “We 

sketch out a line drawing portrait 

for the embroiderers, then with only 

needle and thread, they sew it all by 

hand. A finished embroidered cover 

is then cleaned, dried and glued to 

the hardcover using a traditional 

hand bookbinding technique.” 

The illustrations in the book 

are also embroidered, then 

photographed and scanned for 

page layout since they can not be 

bound into the book. This unique, 

beautiful book will appeal to lovers 

of handmade work and book lovers 

alike. A copy of the threads covers 

edition will cost a reader and book 

collector Bt3,000 (around US$93). 

“This is a gift-worthy edition of Kru 

Wai Jai Rai, and marking its 50th 

Anniversary [in print].” 

Makut revealed that his passion 

for doing an embroidered book cover 

started more than 30 years ago when 

he saw the Japanese bestseller, 

Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the 

Window. “Back then, when I got a 

Butterfly Book has always fascinated 

bibliophiles with their drop-dead gorgeous 

books, the type that readers crave to add to 

their collection. 

® 

60

MAKUT ONRUDEE 

copy of Totto-Chan, I was fascinated 

by its beautiful and sweet cover. I 

wished it to have an embroidered 

cover to complement that beauty. 

Unfortunately, I couldn’t get it 

going because I couldn’t find a 

fine embroiderer.” 

This year, he came across 

Nopphakao Netbutr, an independent 

female embroidery artist who 

wanders around with stitching 

needles and threads in Thailand’s 

Deep South to teach local people the 

art of ornamental needlework. That 

meeting re-ignited Makut’s passion 

for making an embroidered cover. 

The editor convinced the 

embroidery artist that with needles 

and pens, they can co-create new 

and potent art. The exquisite 

embroidery art could take the 

beautiful story of Kru Wai Jai Rai to 

the next level, and vice versa. 

“Nopphakao was interested 

in a threaded cover project, but 

she wasn’t sure how long it would 

take as embroidering was such a 

time-consuming process. She needs 

several weeks to complete a piece 

of embroidered cover. A hundred 

covers would take around two 

years,” said Makut. 

Creating the expected 500 pieces 

would surely take an eternity. And 

no one can wait that long. So the 

editor himself and the embroidery 

artist spread the news about their 

planned project to an embroidery 


Several embroiderers 

work on the same 

book concept and the 

same pattern, yet 

they each add their 

own details. 

For Kru Wai, an 

embroiderer may 

choose a different 

hair colour, 

different styles of 

floral prints, or add 

blush to her cheeks 

or even a hint of 

a smile. 

community and asked if anyone 

would like to participate. The 

response was phenomenal as more 

than 200 embroiderers turn up. 

Butterfly Book then decided to 

create its first embroidered cover 

with Kru Wai Jai Rai – one of its 

bestselling novels written by another 

co-founder Phakawadee Uttamote. 

The book tells a story of an older 

female schoolteacher – infamous for 

her strictness and cold looks, making 

students and villagers in the small 

village nickname Kru Wai (Teacher 

Wai), as jai rai (mean in Thai). 

The idea of embroidering a book 

cover is not new but an ancient art. 

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the 

Europeans embroidered a Bible cover 

in cotton, silk and even gold threads. 

Needlework on a book is luxurious 

and the painstaking process of 

thought and work that must go into 

both aspects of embroidering 

and bookbinding. 

In 2011, Penguin Books (USA) 

commissioned artist Jillian Tamaki, 

an illustrator and comic artist 

(who also has a strong passion for 

embroidery), to create embroidered 

covers for three classic novels – 

“Black Beauty” by Anna Sewell, 

“The Secret Garden” by Frances 

Hodson Burnett and “Emma” by 

Jane Austen. Tamaki completed the 

three covers by hand over a twomonth 

period before her original 

copies were reproduced through an 

innovative printing technique for 

final covers. 

The stitch-like book covers 

are spellbinding – but each book 

does not give a sense of originality 

as Butterfly Book does. Their 

threaded series, on the other 

hand, offer original embroidery 

and needlework on every cover. 

“We print 500 copies, and each 

has its unique cover. Not one of 

those 500 covers are the same 

since they’re stitched by different 

embroiderers,” said Makut, 

illustrating his point as he showed 

five different stitched covers. 

“Before the project started, 

the local embroiderers had no idea 

about the story of the book they’re 

working on, because they don’t read 

a novel or anything [else]. Once 

the project carried on, they went 

through the story to find out who 

Teacher Wai is. They then discussed 

the character and passed along the 

stories around their circle in their 

embroidery community,” related 

Makut, who has dedicated himself 

to promoting reading among Thais 

for decades. 

Already, Kru Wai Jai Rai with its 

stitched cover got more than 300 

copies sold at the pre-order period. 

Butterfly Book plans to exhibit all 

500 of the embroidered covers at 

the National Library of Thailand 

before the delivery of the luxurious 

edition to the bibliophiles. 

62

MAKUT ONRUDEE 

เมื่อคนหันมาอ่านหนังสือผ่านหน้าจอมาก 

ขึ้น สำนักพิมพ์ผีเสื้อจึงผุดไอเดีย ตีพิมพ์ 

ครูไหวใจร้าย ฉลองวาระครบรอบ 50 ปี 

ของวรรณกรรมเรื่องนี้ด้วยหน้าปกผ้าปัก 

สุดประณีต 

มกุฏ อรฤดี ผู้ร่วมก่อตั้งสำนักพิมพ์ 

ผีเสื้อกล่าวว่า ชุดหนังสือผ้าปักของผีเสื้อ 

ผสานศิลปะสองแขนงเข้าไว้ด้วยกัน ได้แก่ 

งานเขียนและงานปัก ปักลายหน้าปกด้วยมือ 

ติดลงบนหน้าปกแข็งที่จะเย็บเข้ากับตัว 

หนังสือด้วยเทคนิคดั้งเดิม ภาพสแกนงาน 

ปักด้ายที่ใช้เป็นภาพประกอบจะดึงดูด 

ทั้งคนที่รักหนังสือและงานฝีมือให้เก็บสะสม 

หนังสือชุดนี้ไว้ในคอลเลกชันส่วนตัว 

มกุฏ อรฤดี นักเขียนและบรรณาธิการ 

วัย 68 เป็นที่ยอมรับในแวดวงวรรณกรรม 

อย่างกว้างขวาง เขากับเพื่อนอีกสองคน 

ร่วมกันก่อตั้งสำนักพิมพ์ผีเสื้อ เพื่อตี 

พิมพ์วรรณกรรมแปลและวรรณกรรม 

คลาสสิกให้แก่ผู้อ่านไทยทุกเพศทุกวัย 

หนังสือแต่ละเล่มล้วนผ่านกระบวนการ 

การปรับแก้ต้นฉบับที่ละเอียดและใช้เวลา 

ออกแบบหน้าปกและคัดสรรภาพประกอบ 

อย่างละเมียดละไม ยังไม่รวมกระดาษ 

คุณภาพดี และระบบเย็บกี่ที่ทำให้หนังสือ 

แต่ละเล่มมีอายุยาวนานหลายสิบปี 

นักเขียนวัย 68 ปีเล่าให้ฟังว่า หนังสือ 

โต๊ะโตะจังเด็กหญิงข้างหน้าต่าง มีหน้าปก 

ที่สวยงามมากอยู่แล้ว ทว่าหากเป็น 

หน้าปกผ้าปักคงจะดีกว่านี้ไม่น้อย 

เขาคิด แต่ก็หาช่างปักทำให้ไม่ได้สักที 

จนเขาได้มาพบกับ นพเก้า เนตรบุตร 

ศิลปินผ้าปักที่เดินทางไปทั่วแดนใต้เพื่อ 

สอนศาสตร์การปักผ้าแก่คนท้องถิ่น 

แม้จะตอบตกลง แต่นพเก้าต้องใช้เวลา 

หลายอาทิตย์เพื่อปักผ้าหนึ่งชิ้น และคง 

ใช้เวลาเกือบ 2 ปีกว่าจะปักได้ร้อยปก 

บน 

มกุฏ อรฤดี บรรณาธิการ 

และผู้ร่วมก่อตั้งส ำนักพิมพ์ 

ผีเสื้อ ท่ามกลางผลงาน 

ที่เขารัก 

ล่าง 

“ครูไหวใจร้าย” ในหน้า 

ปกผ้าปัก แม้จะมีลวดลาย 

ต้นแบบเดียวกัน แต่สีสัน 

และรายละเอียดฝีเข็มจะ 

แตกต่างกันไปตามใจผู้ปัก 

เมื่อมกุฏตั้งเป้าไว้ที่ 500 เล่ม เขาจึง 

ประกาศรับสมัครนักปักผ้าทั่วประเทศ 

จนได้ช่างฝีมือปักผ้ากว่า 200 ชีวิตใน 

เวลาไม่กี่วัน สำนักพิมพ์ผีเสื้อจึงตัดสินใจ 

รังสรรค์หนังสือหน้าปกผ้าปัก ครูไหว 

ใจร้าย ซึ่งเล่าเรื่องราวของคุณครูวัย 

กลางคนที่สอนนักเรียนด้วยความเข้มงวด 

ด้วยหน้าตาท่าทางเคร่งขรึมของเธอ 

จนเป็นที่โจษจันไปทั้งหมู่บ้าน 

แน่นอนว่าหน้าปกผ้าปักไม่ใช่ความ 

คิดใหม่ ชาวยุโรปในศตวรรษที่ 17 และ 18 

ปักผ้าเพื่อเป็นปกของพระคัมภีร์ไบเบิล 

ปักบนผ้าฝ้าย ผ้าไหม หรือแม้แต่บน 

แผ่นทอง อีกทั้งยังต้องเย็บเข้าเล่มอย่าง 

ประณีต ซึ่งไม่ใช่เรื่องง่ายเลย 

ในปี พ.ศ. 2554 สำนักพิมพ์เพนกวิน 

ได้ตีพิมพ์นวนิยายคลาสสิกอย่าง Black 

Beauty ของ Anna Sewell The Secret 

Garden ของ Frances Hodson Burnett 

และ Emma ของ Jane Austen ปักหน้า 

ปกหนังสืออย่างประณีต ถ่ายภาพและ 

สแกน จากนั้นตีพิมพ์หน้าปกด้วยเทคนิก 

พิเศษ ถึงกระนั้น หนังสือแต่ละเล่มก็ไม่ได้มี 

เอกลักษณ์แต่อย่างใด 

แต่ชุดหนังสือผ้าปักของสำนักพิมพ์ 

ผีเสื้อใช้ปกผ้าปักจริงบนหน้าปกของ 

หนังสือทั้ง 500 เล่ม แถมไม่มีเล่มไหนที่ 

ซ้ำกันเลยเพราะปักด้วยฝีเข็มและฝีด้ายที่ 

แตกต่างกัน ทั้งหมดเป็นรูปหญิงวัยกลาง 

คนใส่แว่นตา สวมเสื้อคอปกลายดอกไม้ 

รายละเอียดของสีและลายปักก็จะแตกต่าง 

กันไปจากการตีความของช่างปักแต่ละคน 

ครูไหวใจร้าย ปกแข็งลายผ้าปักจะเปิด 

ให้จองล่วงหน้าและจะจัดแสดงหน้าปกทั้ง 

500 เล่ม ณ หอสมุดแห่งชาติ มกุฏกล่าว 

ว่า กำไรจากหนังสือชุดผ้าปักนี้คงไม่ได้ 

มากมายอะไร แต่กำไรที่สำนักพิมพ์ได้รับ 

ที่แท้จริงคือแรงบันดาลใจต่างหาก 

อย่างไรก็ตาม สำนักพิมพ์ผีเสื้อคงไม่ 

ปรับเปลี่ยนเป็นธุรกิจอีบุ๊ก แต่จะยังคง 

สร้างหนังสือเพื่อวางไว้บนชั้นหนังสือต่อไป 

งานฝีมือและการเย็บหนังสือด้วยมือแบบ 

ดั้งเดิมนี่แหละจะเป็นแรงขับเคลื่อนเศรษฐกิจ 

ความคิดสร้างสรรค์ของไทย 

เมื่อสำนักพิมพ์เปลี่ยนจากหนังสือ 

กระดาษเป็นหนังสือรูปแบบดิจิทัล หนังสือ 

เล่มงามก็จะกลายเป็นของล้ำค่า แต่สิ่งที่ 

แน่นอนกว่านั้นคือ โต๊ะโตะจังเด็กหญิงข้าง 

หน้าต่าง และ ผีเสื้อและดอกไม้ จะมีหน้า 

ปกผ้าปักลายประณีตให้ทุกคนเก็บสะสม 

ได้ตราบนานเท่านาน 

64

CHAM CULTURE 

The 

CHARM 

Words & Photos Ron Emmons 

of the 

CHAMS 

Dramatic spiritual complexes built by the ancient Cham 

people with their intricate details dot parts of the Vietnam 

landscape. Their origins and the significance of their lasting 

contributions are explained by Ron Emmons. 

If you travel along Vietnam’s central coastline, you’re 

likely to spot some striking brick towers standing on 

hilltops; these are ancient Cham temples. Visitors 

heading for the beach resorts of Mui Ne or Nha Trang 

will almost certainly see examples of such towers, originally 

built over a thousand years ago. 

On the road leading into Mui Ne 

from Phan Thiet, the Po Sah Inu 

Towers gaze out from an isolated 

spot above the South China Sea, 

while on a hill above Nha Trang, 

huge brick columns line the entrance 

to the Po Nagar Temple. This is 

dedicated to a local goddess, Yan 

Po Nagar, who is venerated in the 

main tower. A carving of Durga, 

a female warrior goddess with 

whom Yan Po Nagar is identified, 

adorns the pediment above the 

entrance to the temple. So who are 

these Chams, the creators of such 

beautiful structures? 

As just one of Vietnam’s 54 

ethnic groups, these days the 

Chams are largely a forgotten 

people, with a population of 

around 160,000. Yet for centuries 

they have clung on to their 

traditional ways, which differ 

from mainstream Vietnamese 

culture in almost every aspect. 

They have their own language 

and script, which is derived 

from Sanskrit. Matriarchal in 

society, women initiate marriage 

proposals, pass their family name 

to their children, and leave family 

property to daughters, not sons. 

66 

67

CHAM CULTURE 


For hundreds of 

years, the Chams 

were known 

throughout Asia 

– with the South 

China Sea referred 

to as the Champa 

Sea for the kingdom 

that controlled all of 

central Vietnam. 

Bottom Left & Right 

The Chams cultivate 

their own rice and 

take care of their 

own animals. 

The Cham women 

engage in a 

traditional dance 

during a festival; 

and tend to wear a 

scarf or turban. 

Young girls receive careful protection, 

and great importance is placed 

on virginity. A Cham saying goes 

“As well leave a man alone with 

a girl as an elephant in a field of 

sugar cane.” 

The women are highly skilled in 

pottery and weaving, particularly 

brocade, and the men play unique 

musical instruments, such as the 

xaranai, a type of clarinet, and the 

paranung, a cylindrical drum. These 

are put to good use in Cham festivals, 

particularly the Kate festival, which 

honours past kings and ancestors, 

and takes place in late September 

or early October each year. For 

three days, the Chams celebrate 

by making and eating ginger cakes, 

dancing and singing, and carrying 

offerings to their local temple, 

which is housed in an ancient 

brick tower. 

The women are highly skilled in 

pottery and weaving, particularly 

brocade, and the men play unique 

musical instruments, such as the 

xaranai, a type of clarinet, and the 

paranung, a cylindrical drum. 

A thousand years ago, the 

Chams were one of the most 

feared peoples in Asia, frequently 

fighting pitched battles with 

their sworn enemies, the Khmers 

and the Dai Viet. Their Champa 

Kingdom, established in the 

second century, occupied what 

is now Central Vietnam, as well 

as parts of modern-day Laos and 

Cambodia, and the Chams were 

also undisputed masters of the 

South China Sea (then known as 

the Champa Sea). Then in the 15th 

century they were heavily defeated 

by the Vietnamese, and many of 

them fled west to neighbouring 

Cambodia, though a large number 

stayed in Vietnam. 

They practised Hinduism, 

probably because of trade with 

Indian merchants, and they used 

the wealth accumulated from 

selling goods such as spices and 

sandalwood to finance the building 

of eye-catching towers in which to 

worship their Hindu gods. Later, 

many Chams converted to Islam, 

so they split into two groups — 

the Balamon Cham, following 

68 

69

CHAM CULTURE 

Hinduism, and the Bani Cham, 

following Islam. 

Most of the Balamon Chams 

live in villages around the towns 

of Phan Thiet and Phan Rang on 

Vietnam’s south-central coast, 

while the smaller group of Bani 

Cham are predominantly based 

in the Mekong Delta around Chau 

Doc. Both groups make their 

living from fishing, farming, and 

making handicrafts. 

Traditionally, both men and 

women wear a kind of sarong, as 

well as a scarf or turban. Travellers 

who venture into their territory 

find most Chams living in thatched 

huts made of mud, straw and bamboo, 

with no running water or electricity. 

Yet despite the appearance of 

poverty, they are a welcoming, 

fun-loving people. If strangers 

wander into their village, the 

locals will usually invite them 

to a cup of tea and maybe a snack 

of rice crackers. 

Several generations live 

together in their simple houses 

and the children help with tasks 

like gathering firewood and caring 

for their animals, such as goats 

and water buffalo. When they have 

free time, the kids are out playing 

on nearby sand dunes or inventing 

games, such as throwing their 

sandals to see who can get nearest 

to a chosen target. As for cuisine, 

they are particularly keen on sour 


The brick-red 

structures serve as 

places of worship for 

the Cham people. 

Below Left & Right 

The Cham men 

play traditional 

instruments at a 

festival, music being 

an important part 

of lives. 

Cham descendants 

farm their land. 

soups made with local ingredients, 

such as young tamarind leaves and 

frogs in the rainy season. 

In recent years, Vietnamese 

authorities have come to appreciate 

the appeal of the country’s diverse 

ethnic groups to visitors, and funds 

have been provided to promote 

their culture. As a result, many of 

the Cham towers that are scattered 

around the landscape between 

Da Nang and Phan Thiet have now 

been carefully restored, revealing a 

sophisticated sense of design. 

The bricks are crafted so skillfully 

that no mortar is necessary to hold 

the buildings together, and the 

bricks are also often carved into 

images of elephants or mythical 

creatures that decorate the exterior 

of the towers. 

One of the best-preserved 

Cham temple complexes is the 

Po Klong Garai Temple, located 

on a hill near Phan Rang, built 

in the late 13th century. The temple 

features a gorgeous carving of 

Shiva over the mandapa and 

considered a masterpiece of Cham 

sculpture. Many Cham towers 

see dedication to Shiva, though 

some honour local kings or other 

Hindu deities. 

A Cham temple complex consists 

of four principal elements. The 

main sanctuary, or kalan, houses 

the particular deity (often Shiva) 

that is worshipped here. 

70

CHAM CULTURE 

Right 

Artefacts 

belonging to the 

Cham civilisation, 

the likes of brick 

flooring, their 

sandstone pillars, 

and pottery pieces, 

go as far back as 

the second 

century A.D. 

Below 

Red-brick temples 

give Cham towers 

their distinction. 

The entrance hallway that leads 

to the central sanctuary is called 

the mandapa, while a separate 

building with a saddle-shaped 

roof, the kosagrha, is used for 

storing objects relating to the 

deity. Finally, the gopura is an 

arched gateway that leads into 

the temple complex. 

For anyone intrigued by Cham 

culture, a visit to the UNESCO 

World Heritage Site of My Son 

(pronounced ‘mee sern’) is a 

must. American bombs destroyed 

much of this temple city during 

the 1960s, but restoration work 

has been going on steadily and 

the site, surrounded as it is by 

lush green hills, exudes an eerie 

spirituality. Though comparisons 

with Angkor are inappropriate as 

the scale here is much smaller, 

the silent evidence of a highly 

developed ancient culture is 

similarly awe-inspiring. 

An informative museum at 

the entrance to the complex 

helps visitors to identify different 

aspects of temple architecture, as 

well as strange mythical creatures 

such as the gajasimha, a combination 

of lion and elephant, and the 

hamsa, a mythical bird. Despite 

its remote feel, My Son is just a 

short ride from either Hoi An or 

Da Nang, so it’s easy to get to, 

but since a visit entails a lot of 

walking, it’s better to go there 

either early or late in the day to 

avoid the midday sun. 

Besides being innovative and 

accomplished temple builders, the 

Chams are also excellent sculptors 

in stone, and this is clear to see 

at the Da Nang Museum of Cham 

Culture, which makes an ideal first 

or last stop on a tour to learn about 

the Chams. Most of the exhibits are 

huge slabs of sandstone that were 

meticulously crafted centuries ago, 

and were later removed from the 

Cham temples they adorned for 

safekeeping. Delightful depictions of 

Hindu gods and mythical creatures 

reflect a vibrant culture that achieved 

great artistic heights in its heyday. 

Even today, though more subdued, 

Cham culture is alive and well, and 

thoroughly charming. 

72

CHAM CULTURE 

สถาปัตยกรรมอิฐตั้งสูงตระหง่านบนทิวเขา 

ต้อนรับผู้มาเยือนที่กำลังมุ่งหน้าไปยังรีสอร์ต 

ในมุยเน่ หรือนาตรัง ประกาศความศิวิไลซ์ของ 

อารยธรรมโบราณที่สร้างขึ้นกว่าพันปีมาแล้ว 

พระปรางโปซาอินุ ในวัดโปนาการ์ สร้างเพื่อ 

อุทิศแด่เจ้าแม่โปนาการ์ ประดับด้วยทับหลัง 

อันวิจิตรบนประตูทางเข้าวัด แสดงความ 

เจริญรุ่งเรืองของชาวจามไว้อย่างเด่นชัด 

จาม เป็นหนึ่งในกลุ่มชาติพันธุ์ 54 กลุ่มใน 

เวียดนาม มีประชากรประมาณ 160,000 คน 

งดงามด้วยวัฒนธรรมที่แตกต่างจากวัฒนธรรม 

กระแสหลักของเวียดนามอย่างสิ้นเชิง โดยเฉพาะ 

ค่านิยมทางสังคมที ่เพศหญิงเป็นใหญ่ มีภาษา 

พูดและภาษาเขียนเป็นของตัวเอง 

หญิงชาวจามมีทักษะขั้นสูงด้านเครื่องปั้น 

ดินเผาและการทอผ้า ในขณะที่ผู้ชายสามารถ 

เล่นดนตรีที่แปลกหูแปลกตาอย่าง xaranai 

(เครื่องเป่าคล้ายคลาริเน็ต) และ paranung 

(กลองทรงกระบอก) จนใครหลายคนอาจไม่เชื่อ 

ว่าเมื่อพันปีก่อน ชาวจามแห่งอาณาจักรจำปา 

เป็นที่เกรงกลัวจากการต่อสู้เพื่อยึดครองดินแดน 

ที่ปัจจุบันคือเวียดนามตอนกลาง ลาวและ 

กัมพูชา แต่ก็พ่ายแพ้ต่อชาวเวียดนามช่วง 

ศตวรรษที่ 15 ในที่สุด 

ชาวจามนับถือศาสนาฮินดู เผยแพร่จาก 

พ่อค้าชาวอินเดียที่เข้ามาค้าขาย ทำให้อาณาจักร 

ร่ำรวยจนสามารถสร้างศาสนาสถานอัน 

ยิ่งใหญ่อุทิศแด่เทพเจ้าฮินดูได้ ต่อมาชาวจาม 

บางส่วนได้หันมานับถือศาสนาอิสลาม (กลุ่ม 

จามบานี) แต่ยังมีกลุ่มที่ยังนับถือศาสนา 

อิสลามอยู่ (กลุ่มจามบาลามง) 

ชาวจามทั้งชายและหญิงสวมโสร่งตาม 

ธรรมเนียม พร้อมกับผ้าพันคอ หรือผ้าโพกหัว 

ที่อยู่อาศัยสร้างจากดิน โดยไม่มีน้ำประปาหรือ 

ไฟฟ้าเข้าถึง ถึงดูเหมือนว่าความยากจนจะ 

แทรกอยู่ทุกอณู แต่น้ำใจมีเปี่ยมล้น ต้อนรับขับสู้ 

ผู้มาเยือนด้วยข้าวเกรียบรับประทานคู่กับน้ำชา 

อยู่เสมอ ชาวจามใช้ชีวิตเรียบง่าย อยู่ร่วมกัน 

หลายรุ่นในหนึ่งครัวเรือน เด็กมีหน้าที่หาฟืน 

และดูแลสัตว์เลี้ยง ใช้เวลาว่างวิ่งเล่นหยอกล้อ 

กันตามประสาเด็ก ชาวจามโปรดปรานแกงรส 

เปรี้ยวที่ปรุงจากวัตถุดิบท้องถิ่น เช่น ใบมะขาม 

และเนื้อกบในช่วงฤดูฝน 

เมื่อไม่กี่ปีมานี้ ภาครัฐของเวียดนามได้ให้ 

ความสำคัญกับความหลากหลายของชาติพันธุ์ 

จัดสรรงบประมาณเพื่อบูรณะพระปรางศิลปะ 

จามในดานังและฟานเทียต จนทำให้รู้ว่าอิฐ 

แต่ละก้อนได้รับการแกะสลักอย่างประณีต 

ประกอบกันอย่างแน่นหนาจนไม่จำเป็นต้องใช้ 

เสาหลักค้ำยันไว้ อีกทั้งยังมีลวดลายเป็นรูป 

สัตว์ในตำนานอันงดงามน่าทึ่ง 

วัดจามประกอบด้วยสี่องค์ประกอบหลัก 

ได้แก่ อาคารหลัก ใช้เป็นอาคารบูชาเทพเจ้า 

(พระศิวะ) โถงทางเดินสู่อาคารหลัก พร้อมกับ 

บน 

โบราณสถานและโบราณ 

วัตถุจากอารยธรรมเก่า 

แก่ที่ย้อนไปกว่าพันปี 

ของชาวจาม 

ล่าง 

กิจวัตรของเด็กๆ ชาย 

หญิงชาวจาม เมื่อเว้น 

ว่างจากงานดูแลฝูงสัตว์ 

เลี้ยง อย่าง แกะหรือ 

วัวควาย 

อาคารอีกหลังซึ่งใช้เป็นที ่เก็บวัตถุที่เกี่ยวข้อง 

กับเทพเจ้า และซุ้มประตูทางเข้าสู่วัด 

วัดโปกลองการาย เป็นได้รับการบูรณะ 

จนมีสภาพสมบูรณ์ที่สุดแห่งหนึ่ง ตั้งอยู่บน 

ภูเขาใกล้ฟานซาง สร้างขึ้นช่วงศตวรรษที่ 13 

ภายในมีรูปปั้นของพระศิวะ ศิลปะชิ้นเอกของ 

อารยธรรมจาม สำหรับผู้ที่หลงใหลใน 

วัฒนธรรมจาม สามารถมาเยี่ยมชมแหล่ง 

มรดกโลกหมีเซินได้ แม้ว่าจะได้รับความเสียหาย 

จากระเบิด แต่การบูรณะก็เป็นไปอย่างต่อเนื่อง 

สะท้อนความงดงามของอารยธรรมโบราณได้ 

อย่างไร้ที่กังขา 

นอกจากนี้ ยังแนะนำให้ไปชมพิพิธภัณฑ์ 

เพื่อดื่มด ่ำความซับซ้อนของสถาปัตยกรรม 

ทุกแง่มุม อีกทั้งยังตั้งอยู่ไม่ไกลจากเมืองฮอยอัน 

หรือดานังมากเท่าใดนัก เตรียมตัวให้พร้อม 

สำหรับการเดินเท้า และขอแนะนำให้มาเที่ยว 

ช่วงเช้า หรือช่วงบ่ายเพื่อหนีความร้อนระอุใน 

ช่วงกลางวัน 

ชาวจามยังมีความสามารถด้านประติมากรรม 

หินสลักด้วย อย่าลืมแวะเยี ่ยมชม พิพิธภัณฑ์ 

วัฒนธรรมจามแห่งดานัง จัดแสดงหินแกะสลัก 

ฝีมือประณีตขนาดมหึมาอายุหลายศตวรรษ 

โดยเคลื่อนย้ายมาจากวัดจามเพื่อการเก็บรักษา 

สื่อภาพของเทพเจ้าศาสนาฮินดู สัตว์ในตำนาน 

และวัฒนธรรมอันรุ่มรวย นับเป็นวัฒนธรรม 

จามที่ยังมีชีวิตและเปี่ยมเสน่ห์ไม่รู้คลาย 

74

PROPERTY SPECIAL 

CALLING 

ANISLAND 

HOME 

Words Jeremie Schatz 

There’s no need to plan anymore for an island 

getaway when you already own your little slice 

of beach paradise. Imagine sipping a tropical 

drink at your leisure and admiring seaside 

sun views anytime, knowing you don’t have 

to leave. In Thailand, it’s not as impossible a 

dream as you may think. 

76 

77


Let’s be honest, at 

some point the 

majority of us have 

let our minds 

wander into a daydream 

where you’re the master 

of your own little tropical 

dominion. You while away 

days supine in your hammock, 

the warm salty breeze is 

always blowing, with gentle 

turquoise waves lapping at 

the shore, and the supply 

of perfectly ripe coconuts is 

endless. But we always have 

to snap out of it and find our 

way back to reality...or do we? 

Maybe that concept of a tropical 

living is a bit idealistic, but the 

possibility of owning an island 

property in Thailand is closer 

and within reach than you might 

realise. The reasons are simple, says 

John Dopere, General Manager of 

Koh Samui real estate developer 

Samujana. “It’s a beautiful island 

and we build amazing houses.” All 

joking aside (he’s right though), it’s 

unlikely that the reasons in favour 

of investing in island property have 

ever been so great. 

Botanica 

ACCESS 

For those considering purchasing 

a vacation home or secondary 

residence, having reliable and 

convenient access will be the first 

consideration. After all, what good 

is your piece of paradise if you can’t 

get to it. 

Fortunately, Bangkok Airways 

opened Koh Samui Airport way 

back in 1989 and currently offers 

dozens of daily flights including 

direct flights to Bangkok, Phuket, 

Singapore, Hong Kong, and many 

more to come. 

Once you’ve landed at Koh 

Samui’s award-winning airport, 

many property development 

companies employ a villa manager 

who will be waiting to whisk 

you away. 

There is a small contingent of 

foreign buyers in Thailand that opt 

Azur 


Sweeping vista of 

Koh Samui from 

the Samujana 

residential 

development. 

Developers such 

as IVL Property 

ensure that your 

island paradise is 

an easy escape from 

Thailand's major 

airport hubs. 

The design of Azur 

residences integrate 

views from the 

surrounding nature 

that can be appreciated 

in the home. 

Bottom 

Beautiful Botanica 

Villas, Cherngtalay, 

Thalang District 

Samujana Photo by Jeremie Schatz 

"Pool on the Hill" 

for the peace and tranquillity that 

can be found living in more rural, 

undeveloped areas. Those coming 

from more developed countries or 

cities may struggle with 

insufficient infrastructure, 

difficulty in communication, 

and lack of familiar creature 

comforts. That’s why so many fall 

in love with Thailand’s holiday 

islands, they discover a healthy 

economy, warm and welcoming 

communities, modern and 

international amenities, and a 

place that is thoroughly enjoyable 

to spend time in. 

INFRASTRUCTURE 

For those who visited Koh Samui 

back in the 1980’s, things have 

come a long way. Although a bit 

narrow in places, paved roads 

criss-cross the island enabling 

access to all of the popular 

beaches and little hideaways. 

Electricity is supplied via an 

underwater cable from a power 

station on the mainland. In case 

of a power cut, many villas or 

estates are equipped with backup 

generators. For even more peace 

of mind, Impact Samui’s latest 

developments, The Peak and 

Residence8, will be equipped with 

solar panels and battery storage as 

well as rain catchment systems for 

more independence and a smaller 

environmental footprint. 

WHO’S BUYING AND WHY 

Of course, if you look at who’s 

invested in island properties – a vast 

range of nationalities are represented. 

However, logic dictates that people 

living in places such as Hong Kong, 

Singapore, and Australia are better 

represented considering their 

geographical location and ease of 

access. Indeed, those residing in Asia, 

both nationals and expats, comprise 

the majority of foreign investment in 

island properties. 

Since the real estate market 

in Koh Samui and Phuket hasn’t 

experienced an overnight explosion, 

there hasn’t been the corresponding 

influx of investors looking to make 

a quick buck. Instead, properties have 

been purchased to serve as holiday 

escapes, rental properties, retirement 

homes, or as primary residences. 

If managed properly, many 

people can have their vacation 

getaway and rent it the rest of the 

time. “Buy now, get a bit of return 

on investment, and also importantly, 

get your property used frequently,” 

explains Susan Field, Director of 

Impact Samui Property Specialists. 

Susan’s last point is a valid one as 

those who wish to leave their houses 

Layan Residences by Anantara 

empty need a management company 

to keep an eye on maintenance of 

the property. “90% of people buy 

for rental investment purposes and 

for a family home. They want to 

rent it out however many weeks of 

the year and they want to use it for 

themselves or their friends 

and family.” 

Others buy with what Susan 

calls an “exit plan” in mind. They 

purchase a property and rent it out 

for several years before retiring, thus 

enabling them to make a smooth 

transition into post-career life when 

the time is right. 

There’s a general consensus 

amongst property specialists like 

Diah Intan Maulidya, Property Sales 

Manager at Samujana, explaining 

how “properties consistently 

generate positive income and rental 

returns as tourism continues to 

increase each year.” 

Then of course there are those 

who fully commit and start a new 

life in Koh Samui or Phuket with 

their families. This is continually 

becoming a more viable option 

for some due to fast and reliable 

internet connections, quality and 

Botanica 

Right, Top & Bottom 

Multi-level spaces 

on a Koh Samui 

landscape at the 

Grand Himalai 

development. 

Resort design relies 

on natural materials 

for an organic and 

inviting feel. 

Left, Top & Bottom 

For island homes, the 

design concept stays 

true to comfort, 

luxury and relaxation. 

Sunsets come 

automatically with 

a resort home. 

Grand Himalai 

Grand Himalai 

affordable healthcare and hospitals, 

international schools delivering a 

high standard of education, as well 

as security and low crime rates. 

“For those looking to own 

a property overseas but not 

necessarily use, the Koh Samui 

long-term rental market is buoyant 

due to the International schools, 

retirees [foreigners over 50 years 

old are eligible for retirement visas] 

and the foreigners who live here 

all year round,” explains Emma 

Johnson, managing director of 

Overseas Property Portfolio (OPP). 

If you’re worried about getting 

stuck without being able to rent 

your property, anything is possible 

but it’s unlikely considering the 

steady growth in tourism and 

development. A good indication of 

the health of the vacation rental 

market can be based in part on 

flight passenger numbers. In the 

last five years, foreign passenger 

arrivals via international flights 

to Koh Samui has doubled and 

Phuket has seen a 19% increase 

from last year. This steady increase 

is a promising sign for the ongoing 

economic health of the islands. 

78 

79


ใครบ้างล่ะจะไม่ต้องการนอนเอกเขนกอยู่ 

ท่ามกลางสายลมและแสงแดดอ่อน พร้อม 

กับเสียงคลื่นซัดชายฝั่ง ขณะเดียวกับ 

ที่กำลังดื่มน้ำมะพร้าวเย็นฉ่ำ แต่สุดท้าย 

เราทุกคนก็ต้องกลับมาสู่โลกความเป็น 

จริงอยู่ดี เอ๊ะ...ต้องเป็นแบบนี้เสมอไป 

จริงเหรอ 

บางที การเป็นเจ้าของอสังหาริมทรัพย์ 

บนเกาะในประเทศไทยก็ไม่ได้ไกลเกินฝัน 

การเข้าถึงสถานที่ 

การเดินทางไปยังบ้านพักตากอากาศหรือ 

บ้านหลังที่สองก็เป็นปัจจัยสำคัญไม่น้อย 

ถึงที่พักของคุณจะสวยแค่ไหน แต่หากเดิน 

ทางยากลำบากก็จบข่าว 

โชคดีที่บางกอกแอร์เวย์สเปิดสนามบิน 

เกาะสมุยตั้งแต่ปี พ.ศ. 2532 ปัจจุบันมี 

เที่ยวบินตรงจำนวนมาก ทั้งไปและกลับ 

จากกรุงเทพฯ ภูเก็ต สิงคโปร์ ฮ่องกง 

และอาจมีเส้นทางบินเพิ่มสู่เมืองอื่นๆ อีก 

ในอนาคต 

ทุกคนที่มาที่เกาะสมุยไม่ต้องกังวลว่า 

จะสื่อสารกับคนท้องที่ไม่ได้ หรือไม่ได้รับ 

ความสะดวกสบายอย่างที่เคยชิน เกาะใน 

ประเทศไทยจึงเป็นสถานที่ในฝันสำหรับ 

การพักผ่อนในช่วงวันหยุดของคนจาก 

ทั่วทุกมุมโลก 

โครงสร้างพื้นฐาน 

นับจากปี พ.ศ. 2523 สมุยพัฒนาไป 

ไกลมาก แม้ถนนจะเล็กไปบ้าง แต่ก็ตัดผ่าน 

ทุกสถานที่ยอดนิยมและมุมลับเฉพาะบน 

เกาะ เดินทางสะดวกสบายหายห่วง 

ไฟฟ้าส่งผ่านทางสายเคเบิ้ลใต้น้ำ ถ้าไฟ 

ถูกตัดขาด ก็มีเครื่องปั่นไฟสำรองไว้ใช้ใน 

ยามฉุกเฉิน นอกจากนี้ โครงการ The 

Peak and Residence 8 ได้พัฒนาและ 

Lavaliere 

ติดตั้งแผงพลังงานแสงอาทิตย์และระบบ 

เก็บน้ำฝน รักษ์โลกได้แบบไม่จำเป็นต้อง 

พึ่งพาใคร 

กลุ่มเป้าหมายและเหตุผลในการซื้อ 

แน่นอนว่าคนจากทุกชาติสามารถเป็น 

เจ้าของบ้านบนเกาะสมุยได้ แต่กลุ่มผู้ซื้อที่ 

น่าจะเป็นกลุ่มหลักคือชาวฮ่องกง สิงคโปร์ 

หรือออสเตรเลีย รวมไปถึงผู้ซื้อจาก 

ประเทศอื่นๆ ในเอเชีย เพราะประเทศเหล่านี้ 

ไม่ไกลจากเกาะสมุยมากนัก 

เนื่องจากเกาะสมุยไม่ได้โด่งดังแบบ 

ชั่วข้ามคืน อสังหาริมทรัพย์บนเกาะจึงซื้อ 

ไว้เพื่อเป็นบ้านพักวันหยุด บ้านสำหรับ 

ปล่อยเช่า บ้านพักหลังเกษียณ หรือเป็น 

ที่พักถาวรเสียส่วนใหญ่ 

Susan Field ผู้อำนวยการของ 

Impact Samui บริษัทผู้เชี่ยวชาญด้าน 

อสังหาริมทรัพย์ อธิบายว่า ซื้อตอนนี้ ได้ 

มาอยู่บ่อยแน่นอน แถมยังมีรายได้จาก 

บน 

Lavaliere บ้านพักตาก 

อากาศสุดหรูจาก 

Impact Samui ที่หลาย 

คนฝันถึง นอกจากจะได้ 

ใช้วันหยุดกับคนรัก 

ครอบครัว และเพื่อนๆ 

อย่างแสนจะส่วนตัว 

มีระดับแล้ว ยังเป็นการ 

ลงทุนระยะยาวที่ดีอีกด้วย 

ล่าง 

Azur Samui โครงการ 

บ้านพักย่านแม่น้ำ 

ที่สวยงามทุกรายละเอียด 

Azur 

การลงทุนไปพร้อมกันด้วย ผู้ซื้อกว่า 90 

เปอร์เซ็นต์ซื้อเพื่อการลงทุน และต้องการ 

มาพักผ่อนบ้างปีละหลายๆ สัปดาห์ 

Diah Intan Maulidya ผู้จัดการ 

ฝ่ายการขายอสังหาริมทรัพย์ของ 

Samujana เห็นด้วยว่ารายได้จากการ 

ลงทุนอสังหาริมทรัพย์บนเกาะสมุยเพิ่ม 

ขึ้นเพราะการท่องเที่ยวเติบโตขึ้นทุกปี 

หรือจะเริ่มต้นชีวิตใหม่หรือชีวิตวัย 

เกษียณที่นี่ก็เป็นทางเลือกที่ดีเลิศ เพราะมี 

โรงพยาบาลและการสาธารณสุขคุณภาพ 

สูง ราคาไม่แพง มีโรงเรียนนานาชาติชั้นนำ 

รวมไปถึงมีความปลอดภัย และอัตรา 

อาชญากรรมค่อนข้างต่ำ 

แนวโน้มอสังหาฯ 

เนื่องจากกระบวนการและระเบียบในการ 

ซื้ออสังหาริมทรัพย์เปลี่ยนแปลงค่อนข้างบ่อย 

การดำเนินการซื้อเองด้วยตนเองเป็นเรื่องที่ 

จุกจิกและยุ่งยากอยู่บ้าง การได้รับค ำแนะนำ 

จากผู้เชี่ยวชาญอย่าง “Architecture 

Properties & Development”และ “Minor 

International” ในภูเก็ต หรือ “Samujana” 

“IVL” “Impact” หรือ “OPP” หรือ Overseas 

Property Portfolio บนเกาะสมุยก็เป็นทาง 

เลือกที่ไม่เลว 

Emma Johnson กรรมการผู้จัดการ 

ของ OPP บริษัทอสังหาริมทรัพย์ที่คร่ำ 

หวอดมาตั้งแต่ปี พ.ศ. 2551 ซึ่งแนะนำว่า 

ให้วางใจผู้เชี่ยวชาญเมื่อต้องการลงทุน 

เกาะในไทยไม่ได้เป็นแค่เพียงสถานที่ 

ท่องเที่ยว แต่ยังเป็นทางเลือกในการลงทุน 

อันหอมหวาน การพัฒนาด้านโรงสร้าง 

พื้นฐานที่เอื้อต่อการท่องเที่ยวและการอยู่ 

อาศัย การสาธารณสุขและการศึกษาที่มี 

มาตรฐานสูง ล้วนทำให้คุณภาพชีวิตและ 

ความเป็นอยู่บนเกาะสมุยและภูเก็ตพัฒนา 

ขึ้นแบบก้าวกระโดด 

80


DYNAMIC DESIGN FOR 

A SAMUI HAVEN 

Nestled in the hills above Maenam, yet only a five-minute 

drive from the main road is Azur Samui. Designed by 

award-winning architects, the development offers 

unrivalled panoramic views out over coconut plantations 

across to the neighbouring island of Koh Phangan and 

stunning vistas of the southern coastline. 

There’s a sense of peaceful calm at this easily accessible 

hillside property, yet a mere 10-minute drive from the ever 

popular and charming Fisherman’s Village, and only 20 

minutes from the island’s airport. The bustling downtown 

area of Chaweng, not to mention Maenam’s beautiful and 

unspoilt beach are also just 5 minutes away. 

The inspiration of local property developer and 

hotelier Tim Dean-Smith, who with the help of an 

international firm of architects, (who had worked on 

another of his Samui developments, the ever popular 

and eminently fashionable Beach Republic in Lamai) 

set about drawing up an equally impressive design 

for a hillside community in this magnificent location. 

With the exacting standards and attention given to Azur 

Samui, many materials have been brought in from as far 

afield as Australia and Europe. 

There are now seven completed villas, all sold 

and occupied, with a further three currently under 

construction. In addition, what will be the centrepiece 

of this “village in the hills”, is the Clubhouse with its 

26-metre swimming pool, a fully 

equipped gym, a yoga and Pilates 

centre, and a kiosk selling food and 

beverages. When the West Wing of 

the Clubhouse opens in 2019, there 

will be further facilities added such 

as a herbal steam room, massage 

rooms, and mini-mart. 

With many property owners 

visiting only a few times a year, 

security is paramount. At Azur 

Samui, the presence of a single road 

in and out of the development, a 

constantly manned gatehouse and 

security barrier, 24-hour patrols and 

a state-of-the-art CCTV system, 

provide owners with peace of mind. 

Ownership at Azur couldn’t 

be easier, with straightforward 

contracts, developer finance 

available at up to 50%, and 

repayment plans customised to 

suit each buyers’ specific needs. 

With the financing packages 

available, first-rate design and 

exemplary standards in build 

quality, plus the amenities and 

security, Azur Samui aims to be one 

of the most affordable and desirable 

developments in Koh Samui. 

KAMALA BEACH ADVANTAGE WITH 

GRAND HIMALAI 

Our residential project sits on 

Millionaire Mile Road in Kamala 

Beach, assuredly the most exclusive 

coast in Phuket where top island 

resorts and multi-million dollar 

villas are situated in a place where 

one can live like royalty. 

Ideally located, construction 

of the development sits beside a 

Hyatt hotel property in their deluxe 

category. The project’s vision aims 

to maximise ocean views, with a 

guarantee that it can be seen it 

from all of the residences. Fivestar 

facilities include glass-edged, 

ocean view swimming pools, a beach 

club, a spa and recreational area, 

high end restaurants, a kids’ club, 

a fitness club with sauna facilities 

and a fantastic view point at the top 

of the mountain–completing the 

framework of a wonderful 5-star 

vacation and investment retreat. 

This investment opportunity is 

supported by the international hotel 

management of Ramada Plaza. In this 

pre-launch phase, incredible prices 

start at 3.9 M Baht. Units sizes are 

33.92 sqm, with studios that can be 

combined into 2 bedrooms at 67.84 sqm. 

Connecting units with a simple double 

door will offer more flexibility, and a 

return on your investment, enabling 

you to rent separately or combine it into 

a 2-bedroom family suite. 

SIGN UP NOW FOR 

PRESALE PRICES! 

Beachfront Residences with prices 

starting from 3.90M Baht 

82 83


ENHANCING BEAUTY 

AND IDYLLIC SURROUNDINGS 

Botanica Luxury Villas defines itself as the ultimate in 

luxury with the best in concept for architecture and 

interiors, right down to the organic feel of the space. 

The Phuket tropical terrain is part of the inspiration, 

giving a flow of the space that can be appreciated 

indoors and outdoors and most importantly, a welcoming 

feel and comfort of being home. 

When planning Botanica Luxury Villas, the architect 

and developer kept in mind a personal dream project. As a 

result, the property accentuates details that would appeal 

also to him as a homeowner, and also keeping in mind 

the lush nature that is true to Phuket’s topography. 

The materials that define the villas are natural 

wood and natural stone tiles used in the outdoor 

spaces that visually merge the 

indoors and outdoors. Spacious 

indoors have high ceilings and 

a panoramic window that look 

out into the green outdoors with 

views of the infinity pool and 

a covered terrace. An overall 

soothing colour pallet creates a 

calming environment. 

Bedrooms are available in 3 to 

5 combinations, ranging from 265 

to 700 sqm. 

In 2018, the Thailand Property 

Awards selected Botanica Luxury 

Villas as the winner for Best 

Villa Development (Phuket), also 

coming in highly commended 

in the category of Best Housing 

Architectural Design (Resort). 

For more information, contact 

Botanica Villas Phuket, +66 (0) 98 

394 7097, +66 (0) 81 893 2113, 

info@botanicavillasphuket.com, 

botanicavillasphuket.com 

COMMITTED TO ETHICAL 

BUILDING AND COMMUNITY 

PROJECTS 

Property developer Impact Samui established early 

on that there were many opportunities to enhance the 

beauty of the island, by adapting a responsible approach 

to its developments. 

Director David Birchall says: “Redeveloping older and 

unfinished houses is a real passion for me. Looking at what 

exists and then designing something new and relevant to 

the project location is personally very rewarding.” 

Impact’s first project was the 

transformation of four houses with a 

central swimming pool. Rebranding 

it as Lavaliere, the company created 

four newly-configured villas, each 

with a private pool. Existing trees 

and plants were moved to an offsite 

nursery to be nurtured throughout 

the building phase and then replanted 

on completion. 

Impact’s current redevelopment 

project, Residence8, involved 

transforming a partly-built 

house into six beautiful and 

individual apartments, all of 

which have magnificent views 

across the Gulf of Thailand. 

“We are constantly looking at 

ways to raise the bar, and using the 

latest technology to minimise energy 

consumption and global warming,” 

says director Rodney Waller. 

Impact Samui’s latest new-build 

project, The Peak, will showcase 

the highest possible eco-sensitive 

building standards available to 

create spacious, family-friendly 

luxury villas in one of the island’s 

most sought-after locations. 

Social responsibility is a passion of 

company director, Susan Field. “Whilst 

our business provides commercial 

benefits to the country and its people, 

we feel it is important to give back to 

our local community. As such, we are 

involved in the current renovation 

of the Children’s Ward at the public 

hospital in Nathon, providing goods 

and services to help create a friendly, 

colourful environment for young 

patients. We have also assisted with 

Soi Dog’s island-wide neutering 

programme and supported the island’s 

Elephant Sanctuary.” 

OWNING THE BEAUTY OF NATURAL LUXURY 

www.botanicavillasphuket.com | Tel: +66 (0) 98 394 7097, +66 (0) 81 893 2113 

84 85 

botanicavillasphuket 

botanicavillas


GET TO KNOW THE EXPERTS ON 

KOH SAMUI REAL ESTATE 

IVL Property welcomes you to Thailand, with a special 

welcome to Fah Thai readers flying to Koh Samui. If 

you have fallen in love with the island and are ready 

to own a piece of paradise, we provide a full spectrum 

of services, from land surveying and construction to 

all administrative and financial services at the time of 

purchase and for the lifetime of your investment. 

Interested in a coconut farm in the hills or a plot 

of beach land? Purchasing off plan or a completed, 

furnished villa? We are a Koh Samui-based boutique 

real estate company with a proven track record and 

deep understanding of the property market and Thai 

business practices, and we can help you. 

We are proud co-developers of the stunning 

villas at The Ridge, winner of the Best Residential 

Development - Koh Samui, now completed and 

fully booked this holiday season. Currently under 

construction is Oasis, an award-winning collection 

of stunning pool villas on a gentle, palm tree fringed 

hill with sea views. Off plan and completed villas are 

available for sale. 

Based on the success of these developments, the 

soon to be launched, award-winning luxury villas and 

apartments of Anamaya will surely impress holiday 

makers from around the world. 

HEAVENLY RETREAT 

In the search for the ultimate in luxury living in 

Phuket, Layan Residences by Anantara is a sure 

contender to connect tranquillity and luxurious 

comfort in a residence. Sitting high on a hill looking 

onto Layan Bay, the special location ensures dreamy, 

awe-inspiring views merging beautifully in a 

residential layout. All this caters to a discerning 

home owner who gets to define what it means to 

live at Layan Residences by Anantara. 

The design vision, inspired by the west coast of 

Phuket, belonged to the late Indonesian design guru Jaya 

Ibrahim. Known for his refinement and elegance, these 

qualities are also brought into the property in a space 

that borrows from the surrounding lush environment 

while maintaining efficiently luxurious indoors. 

With an open-plan design, the 

layout possesses clean lines that 

plays up the natural light, leading 

the eye to appreciate the outside 

view of land and sea. As a design 

visionary, Jaya’s signature touches 

include lattice-decked ceilings and 

entrance doors accentuated by 

antique Burmese teak. 

The interiors of the Residences 

speak to classic Asian design yet 

pay attention to modern wants 

and conveniences. This is seen in 

the high ceilings for the feeling 

of spaciousness and airiness, while 

floor-to-ceiling windows play up the 

vistas belonging to Layan Beach. 

With 15 exclusive pool residences, 

owners enjoy the privacy while looking 

into the secluded Anantara Layan 

Phuket Resort, which itself is a tropical 

sanctuary in a tranquil beach setting 

on the island’s west coast. Customised 

to reflect each owner’s personality, 

each residence is individually created 

in a two-story layout, available in 

three to eight-bedrooms, ranging 

from 1,700 to 3,600 sqm. 

YOUR GREAT ESCAPE 

WITH EXTRAORDINARY MOMENT 

86 

Project Name: 


Developer: 

Hua Hin Resort Limited 

Registered Capital: 

200,000,000 Baht 

Project Location: 

Layan Soi 4, Cherngtalay, 

Layan Beach, 

Phuket 83110 

Registered Address: 

16th Floor, Berli Jucker Building, 

99 Soi Rubia, Sukhumvit 42 

Road, Prakanong Sub-District, 

Klongtoey District, Bangkok 

10110, Thailand 

Plot No.: 

23, 54, 55, 57 

Title Deed No.: 

9441 (internal access road), 

29786 (partial), 29787 and 29788 

Project Area: 

32 Rai 1 Ngan 52.8 Square Wah 

Number of Residences: 

15 residences 

Construction Permit No.: 

44/2556, 45/2556 

and 51-62/2556 

Schedule Completion Date: 

May 2016 


168 Moo 6, Layan Beach Soi 4, 

Cherngtalay, Layan Beach, 

Phuket 83110 

Mobile: +66 (0) 85 484 8752 

Email: residences@minor.com 

residences-anantara.com


A HOME WITH SCENIC VIEWS AMONGST 

SAMUI’S NATURAL BEAUTY 

Samujana is an exclusive collection 

of spacious individual, free standing, 

and luxury residences on the island 

of Samui whose award-winning 

architecture, design and interiors 

embraces its natural tropical 

environment. Gary Fell of GFAB 

Architects designed Samujana with 

a grand vision to preserve and protect 

the incredible natural beauty 

surrounding the development. 

This allowed him to incorporate 

the majestic natural features, 

including mature trees and rock 

formations into living areas, gardens 

and even directly into some pools. 

Perfectly perched on a Samui 

hillside with expansive sea views and 

direct beach access, the residences 

boast some of Asia’s largest private 

pools. Each uniquely-designed 

villa offers impressive views of 

neighbouring islands and Samui’s 

rolling landscape. Ideally located just 

minutes away from the airport and a 

short distance to Chaweng and Choeng 

Mon beaches, the hillside location 

affords spectacular views and an 

enviable location that fronts a secluded 

coral bay. A plethora of attractions and 

activities available to be enjoyed in 

Koh Samui and its surrounding islands 

allow you to indulge in a fantastic mix of cultural 

immersion and adventures, either in an island 

jungle or at sea. 

A dedicated staff provides exemplary estate 

and villa management and hospitality services. 

All residences are fully furnished with high 

quality furniture and fittings. The villas feature 

exceptionally large living areas including living 

room, dining room, and kitchen, which wrap 

around a pool, – all adding to the feel of freedom 

and openness. The villa construction includes 

sturdy and hardwearing natural materials with 

an eye to superior specifications and materials. 

Consequently, the villas include superb quality 

kitchens (at both front and service kitchen) and 

spacious double bathrooms for each bedroom. 

Private offices, media rooms, gyms and home 

theatres complement the general feeling of space 

for occupants. 

Many of the homes utilise extensive internal 

landscaping to provide shade and privacy while 

also encouraging natural and cooling ventilation 

which ensures a comfortable environment even 

when away from natural breezes. Assisted by 

overhead fans, minimal air-conditioning is required. 

With proximity to all necessities on the island 

while providing a luxurious haven, Samujana 

is an excellent option for both your investment 

opportunities and lifestyle. 

MAKE YOUR ISLAND DREAM A REALITY 

As an independent estate agent with 

over 10 years experience solely in 

the Koh Samui property market, 

OPP should be your first choice to 

make your dreams of island living 

become a reality. At OPP we provide 

personal, professional, honest 

and straightforward advice. We 

understand that you, our client, 

require both astute and financially 

sound property advice in addition to 

a turn key service. 

With knowledge that can only 

be gained by local experience, we 

can engage with, and advise you on 

how best to navigate the property 

market and find the most suitable 

properties that the charming island 

of Koh Samui has to offer. We strive 

to understand your needs depending 

upon the type of property you are 

looking for and its purpose. 

Koh Samui is firmly on 

the map with its international 

airport, international schools and 

international hospitals making 

the island a paradise for investors, 

holiday makers, families and those 

looking to retire. With steadily 

increasing passenger numbers 

year-on-year due to airline route 

expansion, the future for Koh Samui 

is bright. 

Benefit from OPP’s knowledge 

and expertise and arrange an 

appointment with us. 

FOR SPECIALIST PROPERTY ADVICE 

ON KOH SAMUI, VISIT OUR OFFICE IN BOPHUT OR CALL US 

AND WE WILL COME TO YOU. 

Tel: +66 (0)80 535 1725 

Email: martin@overseaspropertyportfolio.com 

Website: www.overseaspropertyportfolio.com 

119/20 Samui Town Centre, Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui 

Villas Townhouses CONDOS Apartments Land Holiday Rentals Long Term Rentals 

89

GALLERY 

Paving 

Every year, people gather for the Loy Krathong 

festival in the ancient and spiritual kingdom of 

Sukhothai, where it is believed to have started. 

A Festive Path 

Sukhothai 

Words & Photos Sugato Mukherjee 

alking through the 

neatly manicured 

gardens of Sukhothai 

Historical Park, I 

pass the ancient statues of Buddha 

that serenely face eastwards to the 

mellow glow of the morning sun. 

With a goal to celebrate, I arrive 

at the northern fringes of the park 

with its leafy backwoods. 

At the annual festival of Loy 

Krathong, rivers and canals come 

to life with revellers floating 

colourful vessels to give thanks to 

the water goddess for a bountiful 

harvest, as well as pray for 

the washing away of negative 

thoughts. Before this uplifting 

act of penance, a ceremony 

takes place. A small group of 

orange-robed monks arrive 

and wordlessly enter through a 

narrow slit in the wall. Following 

them inside, I stand transfixed. 

In front of me is one of the largest 

and finest Buddha statues I have 

ever seen. 

As the chants of the monks 

reverberate among the complex of 

pagodas, the rays of the sun filter 

through, lighting up the golden 

fingers of the 13th century statue. 

This is the Speaking Buddha of 

Wat Si Chum, as legend has it, 

that boosted the morale of the 

Siamese king’s troops in a battle 

with the invading Burmese army. 

Now part of folklore, monks 

commemorate the 15th century 

incident during the Loy Krathong 

celebrations in Sukhothai. 

In the evening, the main 

boulevard of the former capital 

of Thailand brims with colours. 

It is the fifth and climactic day 

of Loy Krathong. Festivities 

included beauty pageants, 

basket-making competitions, 

food stalls, and musical soirées. 

A grand parade slowly inches 

towards the Historical Park. 

Women in flowing traditional 

costumes on palanquins vogue in 

elegant poses to the delight of the 

shutterbugs, and small children 

dart in and out of the procession 

towards snack vendors. 

90 

91

GALLERY 

OPPOSITE 

According to a Thai legend, the 

stuccoed Buddha statue inside Wat 

Si Chum of Sukhothai Historical 

Park spoke to the Siamese army 

during a 13th-century battle against 

Burmese invaders. 

RIGHT 

The Loy Krathong festival has 

spiritual overtones in which the 

Thai people pay their respects to 

the water goddess, along with the 

promise to protect and respect 

her generosity. 

BOTTOM 

Colourful parades and traditional 

attire are an integral part of the 

festivities in Sukhothai. 

92 93

GALLERY 

TOP 

The strikingly beautiful son-et-lumiere show 

encompasses the history of Kingdom of Sukhothai 

that was founded in 1238 A.D. 

OPPOSITE LEFT 

Sporting a festive smile and headgear. 

RIGHT 

Traditional art, crafts and customs come together, 

a fire breathing demonstation (opposite page), 

at a parade. 

94 

95

GALLERY 

OPPOSITE, TOP 

Participants atop 

palanquins grace the 

vibrant procession, 

to the delight 

of shutterbugs. 

OPPOSITE, BOTTOM 

The krathongs are released 

into the water as an 

offering to Phra Mae 

Khongkha, the goddess 

of water. 

TOP LEFT 

Crafted from banana tree 

trunks and its folded 

leaves, the krathong gets 

colourfully decorated 

with flowers. 

TOP RIGHT 

The whisper of a prayer 

accompanies the release 

of paper lanterns into the 

night sky. 

BELOW 

An exquisite 

display of fireworks 

inside Sukhothai 

Historical Park. 

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHERS 

Sugato Mukherjee is a photographer 

and writer based in Calcutta, India. 

When he is not working on longterm 

personal projects, Sugato 

loves to weave visual narratives 

on exotic and offbeat destinations. 

He has contributed to The Globe 

and Mail, Al Jazeera, National 

Geographic Traveller, Jet Wings 

International, among others. His 

work on sulphur miners of East Java 

was awarded by UNESCO. Sugato’s 

coffee table book ‘An Antique Land: 

A Visual Memoir of Ladakh’ was 

published from New Delhi in 2013 

and received critical acclaim. 

96 

97

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO 

Unconventional 

Expression 

Staying true to its 

objectives for 

contemporary 

works, Toot Yung 

Gallery in Chiang Mai 

exhibits artist 

Montri Toemsombat’s 

striking and 

original work. 

BANGKOK 100 / SAMUI 106 / PHUKET 110 / CHIANG MAI 114 / KOH CHANG 115 / 

CHENGDU, CHONGQING & GUANGZHOU 116 / HONG KONG 118 / SINGAPORE 120 / KL 121 / PHNOM PENH, SIEM REAP & SONG SAA 122 / 

HANOI 124 / YANGON 126 / LUANG PRABANG 128 / MUMBAI 130 / MALDIVES 131 

99

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

BANGKOK 

SPOTLIGHT 

A Grand Hotel 

Comes to Bangkok 

Bangkok continues to ascend 

the ranks of incredible luxury 

with new hotel offerings this 

year. The arrival of iconic 

luxury hotel Waldorf Astoria 

Bangkok, marks the latest 

property under the portfolio of 

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, 

owned by the Hilton Group. The 

property strives to introduce its 

legacy of hospitality and style 

to the City of Angels as well 

as deliver once-in-a-lifetime 

experiences for guests. Located 

within the 60-storey Magnolias 

Ratchadamri Boulevard, the hotel 

is conveniently within walking 

distance to all the excitement 

that Bangkok has to offer. It 

boasts the most striking ballroom 

with its sweeping staircase and 

sophisticated ambience, making 

it a great venue for social events 

and weddings. Designed by 

architect André Fu and his AFSO 

studio which blends contemporary 

architecture together with Thai 

artisanal elements, the Waldorf 

Astoria Bangkok’s 171 guest rooms 

and suites are the marvel of the 

chain’s legendary luxury adapted 

to a local yet contemporary setting. 

Waldorf Astoria Bangkok is also set to 

become a dining destination, with 3 

unique restaurants including Nordic– 

Thai Cuisine at Front Room, a lounge 

and 2 bars to fulfil everyone’s culinary 

desires. 151 Ratchadamri Road, Lumphini, 

waldorfbangkok.waldorfastoria.com, 

+66 (0) 2846 8888 

A REFINED SPOT ON THE BLOCK 

Ratchadamri’s legendary establishment, the 

Peninsula Plaza, recently welcomed a new 

addition to its dining outlet with MaiMai 

Eatery. Here’s a place where east meets west 

in a refined setting with flavourful fusion 

dishes, namely Crispy Wonton Pad Thai 

with Shrimp, and international mash-ups like 

Crab Croquette with Tartar Sauce. MaiMai 

Eatery caters to any craving for local Thai 

touches with the likes of popular Penin 

Boat Noodles and its “hi-so” (high society) 

options for either tender pork or beef, based 

on an authentic recipe hailing from Ayutthaya. 

Spacious and air-conditioned, MaiMai Eatery’s 

setting offers a Euro-chic atmosphere thanks 

to the natural light pouring through the 

transparent ceiling, not to mention live piano 

performances. The Peninsula Plaza Bangkok 153 

Ratchadamri Rd., facebook.com/maimaieatery, 

+66 (0) 2652 1399 

100

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

BANGKOK 

SPOTLIGHT 

All’s Well in a Sanctuary 

Asia’s leading wellness brand Pañpuri recently 

unveiled Pañpuri Wellness, an urban oasis 

aimed to promote rejuvenation and introduce 

long-lasting vitality. Pañpuri Wellness greets 

guests upon their entry to this wellness 

sanctuary with an elegant and timeless space 

with organic materials such as natural woods, 

fine marble, with silk draperies as well as 

a panoramic view of the Bangkok skyline. 

Following Pañpuri’s unique offerings of “The 

Seven Wonders of Pañpuri Wellness”, the 

wellness oasis features 12 

treatment rooms diversified 

into couples and singles massage 

rooms as well as 2 exclusive 

suites with an en-suite onsen 

for privacy. The spa also uses 

Blueair, a premium air purifying 

system to prevent harmful 

effects of poor air quality and 

ensure guests’ ultimate relaxation. 

Apart from Pañpuri’s finest spa 

materials, another highlight of 

the place are onsen pools with 

different types to complement 

guest’s wellness journey. 

12th Floor, Gaysorn Urban 

Retreat, Gaysorn Village, 

Ploenchit Rd., Lumphini, 

panpuriwellness.com, 

+66 (0) 2253 8899 

HIGH UP IN GLAMOUR 

Sitting high on the 32nd floor of 

the Bangkok Marriott Hotel — The 

Surawongse, is Yào Restaurant and Rooftop 

Bar that modernises the concept of a 

Chinese eatery with its contemporary 

sophistication. The venue is designed 

in 2 levels: the restaurant has a breathtaking 

view of the Bangkok skyline and 

shimmering Chao Phraya River, and the 

rooftop bar with its modern Chinese feel. 

Offering diverse menus of Cantonese and 

Shanghai cuisines, Yào’s head chef Bruce 

Hui has crafted authentic recipes with 

a stylish twist to give Yào’s menus 

a unique representation from other 

Chinese eateries. The drink selection 

is not to be missed either. Apart from 

extensive signature cocktails, Yào offers 

a Chinese-style tea ceremony known as 

Des-Tea-Ny which introduces diners 

to distinctive tea aromas and exotic 

flavours. 262 Surawongse Road, Si Phraya, 

Bang Rak, +66 (0) 2088 5666, 

bangkokmarriottsurawongse.com 

102

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

BANGKOK 

Photos by Dolnapa Ram-Indra 

SPOTLIGHT 

A Tempest of 

Tastes 

In the old days in Thailand, 

“Am-dang” meant Mrs. or Miss 

whereas “Typhoon” referred 

to the manner of stir-frying 

crabs found in typhoon shelters 

off Hong Kong Island. This 

unusual combination reflects 

the idea of preserving authentic 

Thai recipes which requires 

meticulous details in every step, 

many of which may soon be 

forgotten. The restaurant, Amdang 

Typhoon has a dedicated 

owner and chef Yai Buncharas 

who strives to maintain local 

Thai recipes with authenticity 

and fresh ingredients of the 

highest quality. The result is 

a mesmerising array of Thai 

and Chinese dishes – from 

Stir-Fried Pork Crackling with 

Green Curry Paste to Hong Kong 

Typhoon Shelter Spicy Crab 

which includes the hot, peppery 

flavour and aromatic fragrance 

from stir-frying garlic with 

fresh crabs. Sukhumvit 32, 

facebook.com/amdangtyphoon, 

+66 (0) 95 716 4712 

LIGHTS OUT IN DINING 

The name, Wang Hinghoi, says it all, as this sensory experience 

of a restaurant is named after the firefly, ‘hing hoi’ in Thai. The 

dining concept at Wang Hinghoi bridges the city, the woods, 

and people as more than 1,000 sq. metres of land has been 

transformed into a lush area in the city. It’s a different kind 

of dining in the dark, encased in a large glasshouse whose 

steel framework lends an urban and contemporary 

touch as fireflies flit about. Inside, the model 

ecosystem houses the creatures who 

engage in their show of light to entertain 

as diners go about their meal in a 

separate space. During the 18 months 

that Wang Hinghoi remains open, 

experience seekers will dine on food 

that is relied on by all five senses. On 

offer are different culinary journeys 

crafted under the concept, “The Four 

Elements of Life.” Earth, water, wind, and 

fire are interpreted into diverse menus which 

promise a true awakening of the senses. As the 

dining experience at Wang Hinghoi is truly 

one-of-a-kind, advanced booking is the only 

option. wanghinghoi.com, +66 (0) 91 979 6226 

104

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

SAMUI 

SPOTLIGHT 

Five-Star Luxury 

On A Private Island 

Luxury in the Gulf of Thailand 

has reached a new standard 

with the addition of the 

beautiful 5-star resort Cape 

Fahn. Situated on the small 

private island of Koh Fahn, 

the resort offers guests a truly 

exclusive experience. Just 

300 metres off the north east 

coast of Koh Samui, guests 

can arrive by private boat 

or simply walk from Samui 

during low-tide. Once at the 

Cape, guests get immersed 

in luxury with private pool 

villas, world-class French 

and Thai cuisine, natural 

spa treatments and much 

more. Each one of the 22 

private pool villas comes 

well equipped and includes 

around-the-clock staff to 

meet the desires of guests. 

As the only resort on the 

small island of Koh Fahn, the 

property sets a new standard 

of luxury and offers guests 

the experience of a private 

island. capefahnhotel.com, 

+66 (0) 77 602 301 

AN ESTABLISHED FAVOURITE 

Since 2008, Karma Sutra Bar Et Kitchen 

has been a well-loved staple of vibrant 

Fisherman’s Village. With the blue sea 

and Koh Phangan as a backdrop, guests 

stop by Karma Sutra for the views just 

as much as the delicious food. With 

extensive opening hours from 7.30am 

to 2am every day, people are constantly 

flowing in and out of the beach restaurant. 

In the morning, the place is a favourite 

among tourists and locals alike looking for 

a hearty breakfast. In the evening Karma 

Sutra turns into one of the liveliest bars 

in the village. Rattan décor, pastel colours, 

and the breeze from the ocean make for 

perfect beach vibes. Karma Sutra’s menu 

features Thai and local favourites as well 

as French dishes, along with influences 

from the establishment’s owners. Guests 

are invited to enjoy some of Samui’s 

favourite food and drinks on one of Karma 

Sutra’s two floors; each offering beautiful 

views and friendly faces. 

karmasutrasamui.com, +66 (0) 81 891 8363 

FEEL THE BURN 

For those looking to burn off the indulgence of a holiday well 

spent in Samui, Air Wellfit is the perfect place to take part in 

dance and fitness classes. With classes ranging from aerial silk 

acrobatics to hip hop dance, and everything in between, the 

studio offers something to suit all tastes. With two studios 

based in Plailaem and Chaweng, Air Wellfit provides group 

classes for children and adults, as well as private specialised 

classes. facebook.com/airwellfit, +66 (0) 99 312 2194 

106

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

SAMUI 

BEACH RESTAURANT BUZZES 

Lively Chaweng Beach has seen a new fabulous 

addition to its already impressive line-up with the Tent 

Restaurant at Sala Chaweng. The Tent has become one 

of Chaweng’s most coveted beachfront dining spot 

due to its chic restaurant and lounge set against the 

powdery white sand. In addition to the stunning beach 

setting, the Tent also boasts a perfectly manicured 

lawn for guests to lounge on while sipping artisan 

cocktails and wine. With an impressive selection of 

imported gin and wine, guests from around the island 

are drawn to the Tent to appeal to their finer tastes. 

A number of dining options are available from private 

beach salas to a cool terrace overlooking the sea. Each 

night of the week, the Tent features new offerings for 

its guests including surf and turf buffets, live music, 

traditional Thai dancing, movie nights on the lawn and 

much more. facebook.com/SALASamuiChaweng, 

+66 (0) 77 905 888 

TOUR OF THE ISLANDS 

A guided tour while vacationing on Koh 

Samui can provide a special experience. 

With so many tour operators to choose 

from, it can often be difficult to select 

the right one. For a unique tour option 

with a completely relaxed, unrushed and 

authentic feel – Island Gem Tours serves 

as a good choice. Island Gem Tours 

offers a guided variety on Samui and 

the surrounding islands. Partnering with 

local families and offering a look into the 

authentic Samui life, the operator prides 

itself on giving patrons a memorable 

experience. Available tours include one 

for drinks tasting, wellness, island view 

sunset tour, a private speed boat charter 

and the most popular one – a picnic tour. 

islandgemtours.com, +66 (0) 84 647 6185 

A MOVIE UNDER THE STARS 

A sky full of stars, plush and lush beach cushions, artisan food and drinks, 

and your favourite film on the big screen. To many people this may sound 

like a dream evening. W Hotel of Koh Samui makes dreams come true with 

their weekly Monday beach cinema nights starting at 8pm. Each week guests 

or non-guests can attend this relaxed and picturesque evening full of great 

food and great films. Guests are invited to watch the films at no cost but are 

required to purchase an item from the W’s beach menu. Laying back in the 

comfort of 5-star seating on a white sand beach, with a beautiful backdrop of 

palm trees, stars, and the sprawling sea, is a perfect way to spend a Monday 

evening. Seating is limited, so booking in advance is recommended and can 

be done by calling the W Hotel directly. wkohsamui.com, +66 (0) 77 915 999 

SUNDAY BRUNCH & YOGA 

When we fantasise about a 

Sunday brunch on a beautiful 

island:an unending buffet, 

bottles of champagne and a DJ 

spinning tunes come to mind. 

For those who prefer to start 

their day off with wellness as 

their top priority, Wide Tribe 

Superfood Café & Juice Bar 

offers a special twist on the 

typical Sunday. At Wild Tribe’s 

Sunday Yoga Brunch, you 

won’t find unending bottles 

of champagne or every kind of 

indulgence. What you will find is 

a peaceful and gentle yoga class 

followed by a healthy, organic 

and nourishing meal, all for only 

590 Baht. Located at the end 

of Lamai Beach road, Wild Tribe 

is perfectly positioned in busy 

Lamai but also has the beach 

right at its steps. Yoga Brunch 

is held every Sunday and starts 

at 10.30am, wildtribecafe.com, 

+66 (0) 80 112 5541 

SPOTLIGHT 

An Oyster Bar to Remember 

On the corner opposite of Karma 

Sutra Bar Et Kitchen sits Art of 

Life Restaurant. Known for fresh 

oysters and seafood served in an 

industrial décor setting, Art of 

Life is making a name for itself 

as one of the most coveted seats 

in Fisherman’s Village. As Samui’s 

first true oyster bar, Art of Life 

has set the standard extremely 

high. At the helm of the 

restaurant is Christophe Scali, 

a well-known French chef who 

sources 85% of his products 

from the esteemed Rungis 

market in France. All seafood 

is delivered fresh twice a week 

or purchased daily from local 

fishermen on Samui. A true 

French experience can be had 

at Art of Life, though the 

restaurant can still cater to 

the Thai palate and offer 

some local fare. Diners 

are are encouraged to 

book on a Friday night. 

artoflifesamui.com, 

+66 (0) 80 319 1924 

108

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PHUKET 

SPOTLIGHT 

Hip and 

Chill Retail 

As a more recent addition to Phuket’s market scene, Chillva has 

sprouted up and flourished as a hip hangout spot. 

Located near Rajabhat University, this nightly market attracts 

local students and tourists alike as a more stylish option to the 

well-known Naka weekend market. Dozens of food stalls serve up 

snacks while specialised restaurants offer up fantastic seafood, 

noodle soups, and more. Treat yourself to a unique t-shirt, new pair 

of shoes, or wacky gift for a friend. Converted shipping containers 

stacked two tall serve as themed pubs with live music or the airing 

sporting events. 

Chillva has something happening every night of the week, but 

it’s more fun Thursday-Saturday when there’s live music on the 

main stage and everything is in full swing. Yaowarat Rd., Talat Yai, 

Amphoe Mueang Phuket, +66 (0) 94 419 5670 

YOUR OWN SLICE OF PARADISE 

Everyone comes to Phuket in pursuit of a little slice of paradise. 

While most are perfectly content at the popular spots, the more 

adventurous wander off in search of something a bit more off the 

beaten track. 

Nestled amongst the swaying palms and rugged headlands 

between Bang Tao and Nai Thon is where one can find just 

the slice they’re searching for at Banana Beach. You won’t find 

beachside parking, sun loungers, or someone fetching you mai 

tais, but you will find a secluded crescent of sand and glistening 

sea in a national forest setting. 

Find limited parking along the road and a short, steep trail 

down to the sand. From November to April, the calm, crystal-clear 

waters are an ideal setting for a chill afternoon. Cherngtalay, 

Thalang District 

SURF’S UP FOR THE SEASON 

The best thing about monsoon season 

in Phuket is that it’s also surf season! 

From May through October, the 

Andaman Sea awakens and delivers 

some fun-sized waves for all abilities. 

For the past 15 years, Phuket Surf at 

Kata Beach has been offering lessons 

and board rentals for adventure seekers. 

Nestled in the southern corner of Kata 

Beach, their shop offers the perfect vantage 

point to check out the entire beach, and more 

importantly, the waves. 

With several decades of combined 

experience, the team at Phuket Surf will have 

you catching your first wave in no time. 

From stretching to paddling, to proper stance 

and reading waves, reading waves, they know 

all the tricks to make it seem easy. 

phuketsurf.com 

110

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

PHUKET 

WHERE JAZZ MATTERS 

In the heart of Phuket Town tucked down 

a dark alley is the area’s quintessential, and 

only, dedicated jazz club. Unmistakable with 

tables out in the street, dim red lighting, and 

jazz tunes echoing down the alley, Music 

Matter has been filling the ears of local and 

visiting jazz fans for more than 18 years. 

Known for his friendly personality and 

pure passion for jazz, owner and pianist 

Jeffrey Sevilla almost always joins in for 

the popular Wednesday night jam session. 

Jeffrey has an infectious dedication to 

supporting the jazz community in Phuket, 

hosting many special events such as 

the King Rama IV Memorial Concert on 

October 14 and the upcoming UNESCO 

International Jazz Day on April 30. 119 

Chanajaroen Rd., Talat Yai, Amphoe Mueang 

Phuket, facebook.com/phuketmusicmatters 

WOVEN AND WEARABLE ART 

Let’s face it, who isn’t always on the prowl for something 

unique and colourful to enrich their fashion repertoire? With 

a colour palette ranging from subdued earth tones through 

vivid hues of all sorts, Paul Ropp’s eclectic selections will 

please almost everyone. 

The Bali-based designer proclaims that his creations are 

not merely fashion, but “wearable art”. Indeed, the colours, 

textures, and styles are not your run-of-the-mill department 

store standards. The high-end fabrics are woven and dyed 

by hand in India with the garments, shoes, and accessories 

crafted in Bali. The styles run the gamut from what could 

be described as wildly bohemian-hippie to elegantly simple. 

paulropp.com 

JOURNEY TO WAT SIN SUPHARAM 

This glittering and usually quiet temple sits picturesquely poised 

over a pond. Wat Sin Supharam pays homage to the late Luang Pu 

Supa and is one of two Buddhists temples he built after coming to 

Phuket in 1957. 

Born in 1896 in Sakon Nakhon, Luang Pu Supa was acknowledged 

as a Buddhist prodigy who became a monk at nine years old and 

studied in China, India, Afghanistan, and across Southeast Asia. 

He came to Phuket after being directed to do so in a dream and 

reached near god-like status for his strict personal ideals as a 

phra thudong (forest monk). 

Passing away in 2013, Buddhist amulets bearing his likeness 

are considered very sacred and valuable. Chalong, Amphoe 

Mueang Phuket, +66 (0) 76 521 342 

THE BRUNCH CLUB 

Phuket has always been the ideal 

getaway for beach clubs and now, add 

brunch to the list and where the party 

can keep going. After all, a leisurely 

spread of food favourites is the best 

thing to greet you. For a real escapist 

holiday, experience the ultimate at the 

Dream Beach Club and their Sunday 

brunch, called “All New Around the 

World Sunday Brunch” available from 

12 to 4 pm, followed by a pool party 

right on Layan Beach. 

Nothing wakes you up better 

than their brunch smorgasbord of 

seafood, other meats and high quality 

ingredients in the vibrant atmosphere 

whipped up by the Dream Beach Club. 

The ‘All New Around the World Sunday 

Brunch’ will have live cooking stations 

for dishes à la minute, a Japanese 

Kitchen, a Carvery selection and 

freshly made BBQ, desserts and global 

menus galore. 

Enjoy the meal with the weekly 

Dream Beach Club Pool Party every 

Sunday at 12pm, which goes on until late. 

Promising an exuberance of Carnival and Mardi 

Gras, the atmosphere intensifies poolside as the 

weekly themed parties get underway. ‘Pirates of 

the Caribbean meets Superheroes’ is how the 

organisers describe it, with some of the best 

international DJs and live musicians while aerialists, 

fire shows, and Dream Dancers round out the 

mix. For an even better time, book their sunbed 

packages for the ultimate Dream Beach Club 

VIP experience. Layan Beach, Soi 2, Cherng Talay, 

Amphoe Thalang, dreambeachclub.com, 

+ 66 (0) 98 048 3500 

SPOTLIGHT 

Food 

that’s 

Worth 

the 

Detour 

Krua Sirin is a brand new 

addition to the Phuket culinary 

scene and this place truly 

has it all: a killer location in 

Old Phuket Town, an artsy 

vibe with funky tiles and a 

huge mural, and honest-togoodness 

homestyle Thai 

cooking. After the first bite, it’s 

no surprise that Chef Jurairat 

has been spending the last 30 

years working in kitchens. 

The signature dish is the 

namprik goong siep; a potent 

dip made with dried shrimp, 

garlic, chilli, shallot, coconut 

and more, served with a raw 

veggie medley. Another 

recommended dish is the 

gaeng khua moo sapparot 

which is a thick, spicy curry 

with minced pork and Phuket 

pineapple overflowing with 

complex flavours. Other classic 

favourites include the epitome 

of Southern Thai food - gaeng 

som, as well as geeyin (pork, 

crab, and shrimp eggrolls), and 

fried fish with garlic and 

black pepper. 

If we were talking about an 

average restaurant we would 

say stop by if you’re in the 

neighbourhood – but Krua 

Sirin isn’t average and is worth 

going out of your way. 58/3 

Ratsada Rd., Tambon Talat Nuea, 

Amphoe Mueang Phuket, +66 (0) 

64 241 4665 

112

HAPPENINGS 

THAILAND 

CHIANG MAI 

THAILAND 

KOH CHANG 

SPOTLIGHT 

In-Depth Culinary Experience 

Three Trees embraces Thai 

culinary traditions of past and 

present. Drawing on historical 

recipes and 15 years of extensive 

research, founder and prominent 

food scholar, Hanuman Aspler 

offers a bespoke and intimate 

approach to learning the art of 

Thai cooking. From Royal Thai 

cuisine to regional cooking, 

minority dishes and even Laotian 

cuisine – given enough notice, 

a unique experience can be 

carefully crafted to suit your 

interest. All classes are private 

for 1-3 students at a time, and 

the setting is pure magic. Just 

30 minutes from the city centre, 

the school is nestled on a 15-rai, 

luscious farm at the foothills of 

Doi Saket. Hanuman dedicated 

years to revitalising the area’s 

swampland, managing water 

systems and creating a food 

forest that is reminiscent 

of ancient Siam. A definite 

foodie haven for those 

seeking out an in-depth 

appreciation of Thai cuisine. 

thaifoodmaster.com 

TASTE OF THE MEXICAN SPIRIT 

Take a break from Thai seafood and indulge 

in a fun Mexican dining experience on 

Barrio Bonito on Koh Chang. Located in 

the heart of Kai Bae village on the island, 

the restaurant is known for its authentic 

Mexican fare. Founded by a Mexican chef 

and a Frenchman who felt the only way 

to not miss home is to bring the mood of 

the barrio, or neighbourhood in Spanish, 

over to the island. Originally from Mexico 

City and Oaxaca, the owner brought with 

her the local culture and gastronomy with 

imported spices and ingredients. Chipotle 

chilli, ancho chillies, and achiote paste add 

an authentic touch to the scrumptious 

dishes. Spice up your day with a wide 

array of Mexican delights such as alambre, 

taquitos, cochinita pibil, along with their 

signature cocktails. 98/14-15 Moo 4 

Kai Bae, Koh Chang, Trat, barriobonito.com 

ART MEETS NATURE 

Toot Yung (that’s “mosquito butt” in Thai) 

abandoned the bustle of the Bangkok 

art scene earlier this year in favour of an 

unlikely and rather remote enclave in Mae Rim 

district. Some 30km north of Chiang Mai 

city, the compound was designed by owner 

and art enthusiast Udom Dansakchai with 

a vision of creating a peaceful space that 

blends art and nature. The haven features 

a world-class art gallery, a design gallery 

and a workshop for artists-in-residence, 

all nestled in lush tropical gardens. 

Curator and director Myrtille Tibayrenc 

has a penchant for the provocative and 

believes that destiny brought this centre 

into being. This December showcases 

respected Thai sculptor, Haritorn 

Akarapat. tootyunggallery.com, 

+66 (0) 84 914 5499 

HANDMADE, FROM START TO FINISH 

A passion project of founder and designer Boontavee “Boon” 

Charoenpoonsiri, Torboon, embraces every stage of the bag-making 

process – from weaving the base fabric, to selecting the finest leather 

details and above all, for a carefully crafted and enduring design. After 

deciding on a career change, Boon spent two years learning the art 

of bag-making in Florence and Milan. Returning home with new skills 

in tow, she found further inspiration in the local culture of textile 

weaving, thereby creating a marriage of Thai heritage and Italian 

craftsmanship. Her contemporary range has expanded to include 

women’s shoes, unisex hats and a men’s bag line. One Nimman, 

1 Nimmanhaemin Road, torboonchiangmai.com 

A NOT-SO-SECRET CAFÉ 

My Secret Café’s (not-so-secret, really) 

In Town branch echoes the vibrant mood 

and cosy feel of their flagship location on the 

outskirts of town (minus the lamyai or longan 

farm and friendly horses). Nestled in a nook 

just behind popular Akha Ama coffee, their 

discreet yet central location is steps away 

from Sunday walking street and the revered 

Phra Singh temple. On offer is a combination 

of Thai and Western comfort food with 

an array of mouth-watering, fresh-baked 

goodies. The otherwise tranquil café comes 

alive with Tuesday Music Nights, expect an 

impressive line-up of jazz, blues, samba and 

more – featuring up-and-coming musical 

talents – all carefully curated by respected 

local sax player “Ek.” 175/12 Rachadamnoen 

Road, facebook.com/mysecretcafeintown 

114

HAPPENINGS 

CHINA 

CHENGDU / CHONGQING / GUANGZHOU 

VIBRANT EXPRESS TO GUANGZHOU 

A new bullet train service between Hong Kong and Guangzhou on the 

mainland whisks travellers in a speedy 40 minutes. While more efficient than 

airport commutes with potential flight delays, travellers must still arrive early 

for security and immigration. The trains have two classes of seats, Standard 

Class and First Class. The stations involved are the Guangzhou South railway 

station, a quick stop in Shenzhen, and on the Hong Kong end of the High 

Speed Rail line, the futuristic West Kowloon station, conveniently located 

between the Kowloon (MTR and Airport Express) and Austin (MTR) stations. 

Timetables can be downloaded via a special High Speed Rail app, which also 

includes trip planning, advice on which station exit to use, and other practical 

information. Tickets can be purchased in person, over the phone, and online. 

The new high-speed railway will travel at 200kph (or 120mph) to 44 

destinations in the mainland. A first class ticket on the Vibrant Express 

train from Hong Kong to Guangzhou costs around HK$370 and a second 

class ticket HK$247. 

SPOTLIGHT 

Almighty Gorges 

in Chongqing 

GET READY FOR YOUR PISTE IN XILING 

The 18th Xiling Snow Mountain Snow and Ice Festival will start on December 20 at Xiling Snow 

Mountain in west Chengdu’s Dayi County. Tourists can appreciate a beautiful snowscape, go skiing and 

take part in other colourful events during the Festival, including a music gala, family activities, a theme 

photography programme, and a flash mob, etc. 

For night skiing and visits, the ski field in the mountain will open at 19.00-20.00 daily with a 

professional illuminating system for the trails, decorative string lights celebrating the season, and 

spotlights that will light up the night sky over the resort. 

Considered the largest snow mountain skiing resort in China, Xiling Snow Mountain’s location 

in the Sichuan Province offers visitors its natural beauty and culinary delights. Getting there is just a 

two-hour bus ride from Chengdu. gochengdu.cn/events/festivals/18th-xiling-snow-mountain-snow-and-icefestival-a6614.html 

THE OASIS OF ZHUJIANG PARK 

Hidden in plain sight, at the centre of Zhujiang 

New Town, is a nearly 70-acre park filled with 

interlaced foot paths, jogging tracks, trails, streams, 

and waterfalls. If you happen to be in Zhujiang 

New Town, and have at least half an hour to spare, 

take time to absorb the charming atmosphere. 

The park is wonderfully diverse, having 8 gardens, 

namely: Ornamental Forest Zone, Shady Plant 

Zone, Osmanthus Garden, Magnolia Garden, 

Palm Garden, Flowers Garden, Lake Area, and 

the Sparse Lawn zone. Zhujiang Park, Metro Line 5 

(Jiaokou–Wenchong) to Liede station. 

CELEBRATING ANCIENT CULTURE 

The Tianfu Old Town International Art Festival 2018 will celebrate Chinese 

cultural and arts & craft creations at Anren Ancient Town, in west Chengdu’s 

Dayi County. 

Everything from China’s four famous ink stones, porcelain ware, 

embroidery crafts, woven bamboo ware, figurines, and lacquer ware will be 

showcased. Famous old towns in China will exhibit their unique heritage and 

cultural offerings. 

Chengdu, the city of hotpot and pandas, is one of the fastest-growing 

cities in China. Their new Tianfu International Airport expects completion by 

2019 as a world-class aviation hub. gochengdu.cn, enquiry@gochengdu.cn 

It’s been said that the Three Gorges served as the main 

reason why people journeyed to Chongqing. A crucial visit 

on any China itinerary, Chongqing is either the start or end 

for most people wanting to journey along the Yangtze River 

to experience the scenic and historic Three Gorges area. 

Itineraries include sailing down the Yangtze from 

Chongqing to Yichang so that you can take in the scenery 

while passing through the lush valley between mountains. 

Temples and river towns dot the vast landscape with their 

stories told to all spectators. The Qutang Gorge is famous 

for its magnificence and the gateway to the mighty Yangtze, 

Wu Gorge takes on a quieter beauty while Xiling Gorge 

held a past reputation as the most dangerous gorge for its 

treacherous shoals. 

Tickets (about Y100 for an hour) can be purchased at each 

dock. Travellers can stop over anywhere along the way. 

116

HAPPENINGS 

HONG KONG 

SPOTLIGHT 

A Modern Roast House 

When it comes to Hong Kong 

cuisine, roast meats often take 

top billing on most foodies’ 

list. Hongkongers have taken 

the art of roasting meat to near 

perfection and this element 

certainly shines through at 

Madame Ching. This truly 

modern Chinese restaurant and 

roast house offers traditional 

Cantonese dishes with an 

internationally-inspired twist. 

Nested in the Star Street 

neighbourhood, the restaurant 

reinterprets classic Chinese 

flavours whilst paying tribute 

to local Cantonese roasts. The 

menu at Madame Ching tells 

a story of Chinese provenance 

and features authentic flavours 

with favourites such as General 

Son’s Chicken and Sichuan 

staples such as Mapo Tofu. 

Still, it is roast meats that 

take prominence here, with 

specialities such as Pork Belly 

(Siu Yuk), Char Siu (barbecued 

pork) and Roast Duck, all of 

which are prepared in the 

traditional drum oven. G/F, 

No.5 Star Street, Wan Chai, Hong 

Kong, opens Monday to Thursday 

& Sunday, 12pm-10.30pm; 

Friday & Saturday, 12pm-11pm, 

madameching.hk 

FLORAL FANTASY 

Inspired by the hole-in-the-wall florists 

of Paris, Dear Lilly offers a whimsical 

and fantastical take on contemporary 

western cuisine with fine cocktails. 

The restaurant and bar – the brainchild 

of award-winning Australian designer, 

Ashley Sutton – features an 

exquisite floral themed interior 

with stunning views overlooking 

Victoria Harbour. 

However, don’t just let the 

interior of the restaurant be the 

hook that reels you in. Dear Lilly 

also carries an impressive menu, with their own 

respective takes on cocktails, which are inspired 

by 1920s French drinks and modern western fare 

such as the short rib burger, slow-cooked octopus 

and rocket and seaweed hummus. With its warm 

atmosphere, Dear Lilly offers the perfect setting 

for a leisurely meal or a casual catch up over 

drinks in busy Hong Kong. Shop 4010, Podium 

Level 4, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong 

Kong, opens Sunday-Wednesday, 11.30am-12am; 

Thursday-Saturday, 11.30am-1am, diningconcepts.com/ 

restaurants/Dear-Lilly 

EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE 

Named as one of the best new restaurants in 2017 by CNN, 

12000 Francs has stamped an indomitable mark on Hong 

Kong’s dining scene. The restaurant prides itself on an 

ingredients-driven menu that showcases innovative, refined 

and thoroughly comforting modern European dishes. Under 

the helm of Chef Conor Beach, 12000 Francs takes great 

attention to detail with the food it serves. 

Each dish is created from scratch, 

utilising elements of both traditional and 

contemporary preservation methods to 

create an intriguing yet accessible menu 

for both lunch and dinner. Everything 

from the sourdough bread to terrines 

and even the pastrami is made in-house. 

Complementing the eclectic menu is a 

60-label-strong wine collection, which 

showcases many boutique and hardto-source 

wines available by the glass. 

43A Elgin Street, Elgin Building Ground 

Floor, SoHo, Central, Hong Kong, opens 

Wednesday-Friday, 12pm to 2.30pm 

(lunch); Tuesday-Sunday from 6pm, 

12000francs.com.hk 

118

HAPPENINGS 

SINGAPORE 

MALAYSIA 

KUALA LUMPUR 

SPOTLIGHT 

Vibe Dining 

At Its Best 

SPOTLIGHT 

Simply 

Rustic 

Don’t let the old exterior 

of Chocha Foodstore fool 

you – beyond the walls of 

this unique restaurant lies a 

hidden gem. Situated in busy 

and crowded Petaling Street, 

the eatery prides itself on 

local and regional favourites 

served with a creative twist 

like its Duck Confit Rice and 

Cincalok (fermented shrimp) 

Fried Chicken. 

The appeal of this restaurant, 

however, stretches beyond 

its food. The sheer rustic 

appeal of Chocha Foodstore 

complete with old wooden 

tables, exposed light bulbs and 

an open staircase, also lends a 

homely vibe. With its laid-back 

Take quality Italian-American 

cuisine, pair it with electrifying 

music and amazing views of the 

city and you undoubtedly have 

the trappings of a bona fide 

F&B hit on your hands. That’s 

what the proprietors of LAVO 

Italian Restaurant & Rooftop 

Bar are fortunate to have as the 

restaurant has been attracting 

droves of diners ever since it 

opened its doors at the iconic 

Marina Bay Sands. 

Nestled on the 57th floor of the 

hotel and offering 180-degree 

views of Singapore’s spectacular 

skyline, LAVO favours classic 

Italian-American dishes like 

Chicken Parmigiano and the 

staple meatball, done of course 

with a twist using fresh Imperial 

Wagyu Beef and Italian sausage. 

The restaurant 

also flaunts a 

luxurious lounge complete 

with a fully-equipped DJ booth 

as well as an outdoor bar and 

terrace. Level 57, Hotel Tower 1, 

Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront 

Avenue, opens daily 10.30am- 

2am, LAVOSingapore.com 

setting and delicious food, it 

offers a perfect reprieve for 

diners looking to escape the 

hectic city just outside its 

doors. Chocha Foodstore, 156 

Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur, 

opens Tuesday to Sunday 11am 

to 10pm, chocha.foodstore 

GLUTEN-FREE DELIGHTS 

Singapore’s hip heritage neighbourhood, 

Tiong Bahru, has welcomed its newest 

restaurant, The Butcher’s Wife, which 

boasts an entire menu of delicious 

gluten-free meals. Spearheaded by 

consultant Chef Diego Jacquet, the 

concept eatery features modern 

European-styled cuisine which is 100 

per cent gluten-free. 

The menu at The Butcher’s Wife is 

firmly anchored on comfort cooking and 

most importantly free from any trace of 

gluten, without sacrificing an ounce of 

taste. Diners can embark on an epicurean 

journey with hearty starters such as a Kale 

& Gorgonzola ‘Buñuelo’ with saffron 

aiòli and Green Peas ‘Hummus’ served 

alongside grilled lamb sausage, yogurt, 

mint and pistachio. The Butcher’s Wife 

also carries a wide variety of vegan 

dishes on its menu. 19 Yong Siak Street, 

Tues to Fri 12pm-2.30pm, 6pm-11pm, 

Sat & Sun 11am-3pm, 6pm-11pm, 

thebutcherswifesg.com 

SHOTS OF FUN 

Whisky lovers and connoisseurs will want to check out Whisky 

Live 2018 as it makes its return to the Garden City. After a 

global tour, the international whisky tasting show makes a 

pit stop in Singapore for its ninth stint offering fans of the 

delectable spirit a chance to savour new releases, and also the 

opportunity to delve deeper into the world of whiskies. 

Held at the Andaz, visitors can experience an extensive 

selection of whiskies and spirits, learn more about brand 

histories and attend whisky master classes. 3-4 November, 

Andaz Singapore, 5 Fraser Street, whiskylive.sg 

120

HAPPENINGS 

CAMBODIA 

PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP / SONG SAA 

SPOTLIGHT 

Island Paradise 

If you’re searching for a truly 

private and luxurious escape, 

then Song Saa Island may well 

deliver the dream vacation you 

so desperately crave. Located 

in Cambodia’s southwest Koh 

Rong archipelago, the two 

islands that make up Song Saa 

– Koh Ouen and Koh Bong offer 

24 luxurious, environmentally 

friendly villas. 

A short flight away from 

Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, 

Song Saa is considered one of 

Cambodia’s most exclusive 

island getaways and hidden 

secrets. The resort is inspired 

by Cambodian fishing villages, 

each of which come with sunset 

views and their own private 

pool. Guests can engage in a 

wide variety of marine-based 

activities or even conservation 

and community initiatives 

during their break. Song Saa 

is accessible via a 30-minute 

speed boat transfer from 

Sihanoukville port. songsaa.com 

CHIC COCKTAIL BAR 

Ever since opening its doors a decade ago, Miss 

Wong has built itself a reputation for being one 

of Cambodia’s most sophisticated cocktail bars. 

Embracing a 1930s old Shanghai speakeasy 

theme, the intimate watering hole is located in a 

small lane in the central bar and restaurant district 

of Siem Reap. 

Premium cocktails and spirits are the order 

of the day at Miss Wong, and it is undoubtedly 

something the outlet does rather well. So well in 

fact that proprietor Dean Williams has opened a 

second outlet, which exudes a Chinoiserie-style 

motif, in the Sino-French heritage quarter of 

Battambang. The menu at Miss Wong is occupied 

by delectable and creative cocktails as well as 

staple Chinese bites such as dim sum, hot pots, 

duck pancakes and steamed pork buns, which 

are perfect accompaniments for an evening of 

drinking and socialising. The Lane, Siem Reap, 

Cambodia, opens daily 6pm-1am, misswong.net 

RECYCLING FOR A GOOD CAUSE 

Rehash Trash offers a unique and imaginative solution to Cambodia’s 

plastic problem and it’s helping improve Cambodian lives too. 

The social enterprise champions women’s empowerment and 

skills-training whilst promoting recycling efforts as part of its 

mission statement of ‘Recycling Rubbish & Renewing Lives’. 

The green initiative employs disadvantaged Khmer women 

to create products of value so they can support their families 

and transform their lives. Sale proceeds of the items are then 

channelled back providing a source of income for the women 

in the programme. Tourists to Cambodia can choose to support 

the efforts of Rehash Trash by not only purchasing products, 

but to also engage in recycling workshops where they will learn 

to turn trash into treasure. Sombai Road, Krong Siem Reap, 

opens daily 8am-5pm, facebook.com/RehashTrash 

122 

DELICIOUS START 

The claim to fame for Khéma Pasteur 

in Phnom Penh has always been its 

free-flow breakfast. The sophisticated 

international boutique restaurant 

features an on-site gourmet café, 

bakery and delicatessen with a wide 

range of specially imported and housemade 

delights to ensure you get the 

right start to your day. 

The restaurant welcomes diners as 

early as 6am with a value-for-money 

spread made up of western as well as 

local fare. From eggs done any way you 

like to traditional Cambodian breakfast 

soups and rice dishes and freshly baked 

pastries, Khéma undoubtedly rewards 

those who rise and shine in time for its 

luscious spread. The outlet also caters 

to the lunch and dinner crowd, which 

is perfect for those who prefer a later 

start to the day. Arunreas Hotel Ground 

Floor, Corner of Street 228 & Street 51, 

Phnom Penh, opens daily 6am-11pm, 

khema-restaurant.com 

Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa offers the ultimate relaxation 

and comfort on your Thai cultural journey. 

Experience the tranquility of endless rice fields while exploring 

the history of Thailand’s ancient civilisation. 

www.sriwilaisukhothai.com

HAPPENINGS 

VIETNAM 

HANOI 

SPOTLIGHT 

Soul In 

Your Nighlife 

Just when you think Hanoi has gone 

too commercial — too many soulless 

venues for a night out — someone 

opens a new place that renews your 

faith in this city. Monsoon is one. 

Opening in September of this year, and 

somewhat concealed in a basement, it 

may be a part of the “Hidden Charm” 

promised in brochures and ads by the 

tourism authority of Vietnam. And 

perhaps it is the odd combination 

of the two partners with an artist’s 

sensibility that has resulted in such a 

disciplined yet delightful environment, 

and a focused menu of fine food. 

At street level, guests walk past 

a wall of bamboo and a high counter 

hiding the kitchen then are invited 

down a few stone steps reminiscent 

of Japanese gardens. Go through the 

unadorned double door and you are 

greeted in an anteroom with leather 

couches surrounding a contemporary 

metal fireplace. Enjoy a glass of wine 

and a quick chat with the owners, 

Khuat Tuan-Anh, a graduate of the 

Harvard Kennedy School of government, 

and Le Vinh, a Columbia University-trained 

urban designer turned food designer, 

both with a penchant for small venues that 

are exquisite, relaxing, and a shelter from 

the bustle of Vietnam’s capital city. 

For Monsoon, Tuan-Anh and Vinh 

bring select fish and meat from the US, 

which they cure and pickle themselves. 

Their salted duck breasts are simply 

delicious. But if you’re hankering for 

something more local, there is a beef 

noodle soup that’s flavourful and true 

to its Vietnamese roots. The owners 

claim to keep the wine list limited, 

avoiding anything pretentious or too 

expensive. Yet, what they serve fits 

well with the dishes, and an evening 

at Monsoon will be remembered 

with delight. Tuan-Anh has already 

mounted several branches of a café 

named Tranquil, as well as a small 

concept store with an attached café 

called Vui. It is astonishing that in 

a city consumed with social media 

and selfies, Tranquil spaces are often 

a refuge for people quietly reading 

a book, working on a hand-drawn 

design, or simply having a hushed 

conversation. Monsoon: 77 Nguyen Thai 

Hoc Street, Hanoi, +84 (0) 96 325 6477, 

8am-10pm; Tranquil Cafés: 5 

Nguyen Quang Bich Street, Hanoi, 

+84 (0) 98 938 4541, 8am-10.30pm, 

18b Nguyen Bieu Street, Hanoi, 

+84 (0) 98 938 4541, 8am-10.30pm 

TANNIN WINE BAR 

Real wine lovers can opt for the more 

elaborate Tannin Wine Bar, in the centre 

of Hanoi’s old quarter. By elaborate, 

we mean the wine selection: over 400 

varieties, including an impressive array of 

champagnes. This comes with no surprise 

as two of the owners, Sylvan Bournigault 

and his wife Van Anh, have been importing 

wine into Vietnam for over 15 years and 

still run Celliers d’Asie. Van Anh is easily 

the most knowledgeable wine connoisseur 

in Hanoi: she is professional and dedicated 

in her formal wine studies, and travels 

throughout Europe in search of fine wines 

from dozens of vintners. 

The other two owners, Matt and Thu, 

have dreamed of a wine bar for a decade, 

and finally settled on a typical Hanoi tube 

house — the same house where Thu was born, and still owned by 

her family. It’s narrow but well laid out with high tables on one 

side and a long bar on another. Large chalkboards make it easy 

to select your wines — or the cold cuts and specialty dishes that 

can keep you from getting too drunk. 

The partners are in the establishments most nights to mingle 

with the guests. At any moment, you’ll hear Vietnamese and 

English — with Australian, American and British accents. And if 

you’re there late enough, you might catch Sylvain claiming in his 

native French, “Je suis saoule — I am drunk.” For your information, 

“saoule” is pronounced exactly as the word “soul!” 46 Hang Vai, 

Hanoi, opens 2pm til midnight, +84 (0) 90 478 9482 

124

HAPPENINGS 

MYANMAR 

YANGON 

SPOTLIGHT 

Lighting Up the Night 

The Tazaungdaing festival, 

also known as the “Festival 

of Light,” is celebrated for 

several days in November all 

over Myanmar in the days 

leading up to the full moon 

day of Tazaungmone. It also 

marks the end of the rainy 

season, expected to be around 

the November 21 full moon 

this year. 

A nationwide holiday, it is 

also the time for monks and 

Buddha images to be offered 

new robes in a ceremony known 

as “Kahtein” or “Kathina”. 

The merit one achieves from 

the offering during this time 

is said to be greater than that 

at any other time. Teams of 

weavers compete to weave 

the robes to be offered to 

the Buddha images the next 

day. The robes are called 

mathoe thingan, meaning, 

‘before food spoils’ because the 

weaving should be completed 

before the evening’s food goes 

bad overnight. Ceremonies are 

held at most of the pagodas 

throughout Myanmar, especially 

at the major pagodas like the 

Shwedagon in Yangon. 

Around the country, in the 

evening after the full moon, temple 

goers are customarily treated to 

a salad of “mezali” flower buds. 

This treat, tasting a little on the 

bitter side, however is believed 

to protect one from 96 kinds 

of diseases! 

In the Taunggyi region of 

the Shan State, a traditional 

hot-air balloon festival is widely 

celebrated. Starting seven days 

before the full moon, two types 

of balloons are floated: daytime 

balloons and large night balloons 

made with handmade paper crafted 

into animal figures. Locals as 

well as folks from other parts of 

the country come to Taunggyi to 

partake in this delightful event. 

SEEKING CANTON PARADISE 

Since Myanmar is a no stranger to Chinese 

traditions and food, the city of Yangon finds 

itself filled with many Chinese restaurants 

existing from ages ago. A new addition to the 

Yangon dining scene – the multi-award winning 

Singapore restaurant Canton Paradise – recently 

made its first venture to Yangon. 

Bringing Hong Kong vibes to town, Canton 

Paradise features dim sum delights, traditional 

congees, soups, roasts, seafood and specialty 

Cantonese dishes. 

Set in a vibrant venue that’s ready to 

accommodate 300 diners, the restaurant has a 

lavish dining hall and sixteen private dining rooms 

to cater to parties or business meetings. 

An all-day dining menu offers 27 choices 

of dim sum along with their signature salted egg 

yolk and custard piggy buns, crispy BBQ pork 

buns with honey for 2,500 Kyats each. The chef’s 

special roast duck and Cantonese chicken are 

at 6,000 Kyats (for half a bird), and 17,000 Kyats 

for the whole plate. 

Eldwin Chua, the CEO of Paradise Group, 

which also runs Beauty In the Pot Myanmar 

guarantees authentic Cantonese dishes based 

on frequent trips to Guangzhou and Hong Kong 

for inspiration. 61 Saya San Road, Yangon, 

strongsourcegroup.com, facebook.com/ 

cantonparadisemm 

GOOD STUFF IN MYANMAR 

Yangoods sounds like a good thing for 

people interested in buying authentic 

souvenirs. Found in their fashionable 

bags and homewares are design twists 

of archetypal symbols in Burmese 

kingdoms and landmarks. 

The 3-year-old Yangoods started in a tiny 

corner at Bogyoke market in 2015, and now 

has five outlets in Yangon, one in Mandalay, 

one in Bagan and more than 20 displays 

in many boutique hotels in Myanmar. 

“I grew up in Paris, the capital of 

fashion and luxury which had a major 

influence on me as an artist. Here in 

Yangon, I am a foreigner who discovers 

through curiosity and eager eyes the 

cultural and artistic contrasts that Myanmar 

offers,” said Delphine de Lorme, one of the 

four entrepreneurs who had put their heads 

together to come up with the creative 

fashion brand of Yangoods. “I often wander 

downtown with my camera or sketchbook. 

Inspiration is all around us. In the streets, I 

search through antique book shops, looking 

for old photos, and the memories that I find 

there to inspire me.” 

With their range of designs, one of 

their services include customisation goods 

for businesses, right up to furnishings and 

interior designs for hotels, restaurants or 

office spaces. They now have Yangoods at 

Bangkok’s very own Open House Central 

Embassy. 62 Shan Gone Street, Bogyoke 

market; Le Planteur Fine Dining, 2nd Fl., 

Myanmar Plaza; City Mall St. John, Yangon, 

yangoods.com 

126

HAPPENINGS 

LAOS 

LUANG PRABANG 

SPOTLIGHT 

A Day In 

A Farmer’s Life 

More than 80 per cent of Lao 

people engage in farming 

activities, and “Living Land Lao” 

organic farm just outside Luang 

Prabang helps visitors experience 

the traditional Lao farm life. This 

arable farm prides itself on a 

“hands-on” approach: visitors 

are encouraged to experience 

how rice is grown and cultivated. 

A budding farmer can sign up 

for a home-stay programme 

for a night or two, and get a taste 

of agricultural life. Plowing a rice 

paddy involves negotiating with 

the meek yet occasionally stubborn 

water buffalo with a plough. Set 

in the idyllic village and classic 

countryside, Living Land Lao also 

offers a half-day programme for 

those who want to watch and try 

to understand fun and educational 

farm practices. Living Land Lao 

is a must-do in Luang Prabang 

since it offers a chance to integrate 

in the life of the locals, and 

providing fascinating insights into 

rice growing in Laos. Ban Phong Van, 

Luang Prabang, +85620 55199 208, 

livinglandlao.org 

RESURRECTING LOST RECIPES 

Michelin star Chef Bongoch Satongun, 

also known as “Chef Bee”, has reinvented 

historical Lao cuisine into a fine dining 

experience at “Paste Laos” – a newly-opened 

restaurant in Luang Prabang. Chef Bee is 

noted for her culinary art beyond “Paste”, 

a one Michelin Star restaurant in Bangkok, 

and “Paste Laos” is her culinary expansion 

of Lao cuisine. Located inside The Apasara, 

a small and beautiful hotel with a French 

colonial accent, Paste Laos promises to 

bring Luang Prabang’s long-lost recipes 

to the modern and fine dining scene. 

Some menus are inspired by the royal 

cookery book of Phia Sing – a Lao chef who 

served the royal family in Luang Prabang’s 

Royal Palace in the mid 20th century. A 

signature dish is Kalee Ped – Lao Duck 

Curry – where the royal chef made it more 

complex than the Thai version due to the 

combination of French and Lao cooking 

techniques. Chef Bee brings more than 

just skill, creativity and experience to the 

Paste Laos experience. Her family heritage 

traces back across northern Thailand 

and Laos, providing the very important 

genetic connection required to decode and 

represent these complex natural flavours. 

Kingkitsarath Road, Ban Wat Sene, Luang 

Prabang, pastelaos.com 

TIME FOR CINEPHILES 

The annual Luang Prabang Film Festival (LPFF) returns to Laos’ 

ancient capital on December 7-12, transforming the fabled 

riverside town into a fascinating open-air cinema. The festival, 

which celebrates Southeast Asian cinema every December at 

the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a range of feature 

film screenings, short film programmes, public discussions, 

and events. This year’s Spotlight will focus on the Indonesian 

film industry. Curated by KOLEKTIF Project Manager Gayatri 

Nadya, the programme will offer audiences a full day of 

programming and lively discussions from leading Indonesian 

film experts and filmmakers. 7-12 December 2018, lpfilmfest.org 

128 

Scan Me

HAPPENINGS 

INDIA MUMBAI 

MALDIVES MALDIVES 

SPOTLIGHT 

Theatre Talking 

While Mumbai rarely sees a winter 

season, there’s a palpable nip in the 

air as November rolls around. Diwali 

will be celebrated with great gusto in 

early November, complete with lanterns, 

fireworks, and special sweets and 

savouries. The city takes on a festive 

flavour, which continues well into 

December and right up to Christmas 

and New Year’s Eve. 

The theatre season begins and 

this year, the National Centre for the 

Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai’s 

premiere performance space adds an 

international flavour to its calendar of 

events. First up is the India première 

of Nick Payne’s award-winning play 

Constellations, directed by Bruce Guthrie. 

From 22-25 November, there will be 6 

performances of the play that The New 

York Times called “the most sophisticated 

date play Broadway has seen”. This will 

be followed by NCPA and The Shakespeare 

Edit’s co-production of Shakespeare’s 

poem Lucrere, directed by 

Paul Goodwin. The play stars 

Bollywood actress Kalki 

Koechlin and is a modern 

adaptation of the 16th-century 

poem that tackles current issues 

around sexual assault and 

patriarchy. The play runs from 

28-29 November. The final 

production, in collaboration 

with the Australia Fest, is 

Slingsby’s Emil and the 

Detectives by Erich Kästner, 

from 19-20 January, 2019. 

All productions will be staged 

at NCPA’s Experimental Theatre. 

ncpamumbai.com 

SPOTLIGHT 

Weather Check 

for the Maldives 

It’s high time to plan your winter 

getaway. For island destination 

like the Maldive Islands, the 

best weather is taking place 

right now. To max out diving at 

popular spots like Banana Reef, 

or snorkelling at one of the 

atolls, make sure there are enough 

sunny days to really make it 

a true beach holiday. Travel 

consultants say to visit between 

November and April as the 

weather is pleasantly warm 

with average temperatures of 

23 to 31 o C and the rains make 

infrequent appearances. 

The high season falls between 

December and March as people 

opt for tropical getaways, lured 

by thoughts of enchanting 

white sands and mesmerising 

blue waters. In the Maldives, 

accommodations on the islands offer 

innovative resort designs that borrow 

from nature or science fiction, from 

over the water bungalows to underwater 

restaurants. With many coral atolls in the 

Indian Ocean to choose from, a vacation 

here becomes the ultimate in low impact 

luxury with eco-awareness trips such as 

coral regeneration or seeing the bluegreen 

glow of bioluminescent plankton. 

Water-based activities are the big 

draw naturally. The best marine life 

viewing happens here without having 

to seek too hard above and below 

the water. If you’re fascinated by the 

thought of spotting the gentle whale 

shark, the South Ari Atoll is the place 

to go with their year-round sightings, 

making it one of the top spots to see 

them in the world. 

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 

There’s no chance of a white Christmas in 

Mumbai, but the city puts on a pretty show 

for the festival. Most major hotels and malls 

pull out all stops with massive Christmas 

trees, fairy lights, festive decorations, and 

of course, a visiting Santa Claus. We 

recommend visiting the Oberoi, ITC 

Maratha and ITC Grand Central, Vivanta 

by Taj, Westin Mumbai Garden City, Sofitel 

Mumbai BKC, and Marine Plaza Hotel to 

see some of the prettiest trees. Malls such 

as Palladium in Lower Parel, Phoenix Market 

City in Kurla, Inorbit Mall in Malad, and 

Viviana Mall in Thane also have elaborate 

decorations and special promotions. 

If you want to attend Christmas Mass, 

head to Mount Mary’s Basilica in Bandra, 

the city’s favourite church that has been 

around for more than 100 years. Carols 

start at around 11.30pm and the midnight 

mass is quite well attended. Other churches 

for midnight mass include the Gothic-style 

Gloria Church in Byculla, the 16th-century 

Saint Andrew’s Church with a particularly 

picturesque location in Bandra overlooking 

the Arabian Sea, and Saint Michael’s Church 

in Mahim. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice for a Christmas 

feast as most restaurants have special menus. 

Consider places like Grand Hyatt Mumbai, 

or Geoffrey’s at Hotel Marine Plaza, to name 

a few. 

130

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 134 / FLYERBONUS 138 / ROUTE MAP 142 / AIRCRAFT INFO 144 

133

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 

Mr. Darren Ng, Managing Director, TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd (2nd from left), Mr. Varong Israsena Na Ayudhya, Vice President – Sales, Bangkok Airways PCL (3rd from left), 

Mr. Pierre Quek, Publisher – TTG Travel Trade Publishing (2nd from right) 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS VOTED BEST BOUTIQUE AIRLINE 2018 

BY TTG ASIA 

Bangkok Airways, led by Mr. Varong 

Israsena Na Ayudhya, Vice President 

– Sales, recently received recognition 

as “Best Boutique Airline” from 

TTG Travel Awards 2018. Given 

by Group Publisher – Travel Group 

TTG Asia Media, represented by 

Mr. Darren Ng, Managing Director 

and Mr. Pierre Quek, Publisher, the 

award was received at the 29th 

Annual TTG Travel Awards 2018 

Ceremony and Gala Dinner held at 

the World Ballroom, Centara Grand 

at Central World in Bangkok. 

“On behalf of everyone at 

Bangkok Airways, I am honoured 

to receive the TTG Travel Awards 

2018 for Best Boutique Airline” said 

Mr. Varong Israsena Na Ayudhya, 

Vice President – Sales of Bangkok 

Airways. “I would like to extend our 

thanks to all the readers of TTG 

publications for their consideration 

in making us a contender and further 

more, for the effort put into voting 

for us. Not only does this award 

validate our overall credibility within 

the aviation industry but also serves 

as a reminder of the exemplary 

dedication of our airline staff. They 

made this possible by providing the 

highest quality in services for our 

passengers. We promise consistency 

in our service standards in order to 

underline our commitment as Asia’s 

Boutique Airline.” 

Organised annually by TTG Asia, 

the TTG Travel Awards honours the 

best of the best in the Asia-Pacific 

travel trade. This prestigious travel 

industry event marks a time for the 

industry to recognise the exemplary 

organisations that raise the bar 

for excellence. 

เมื่อเร็วนี้ๆ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ได้รับรางวัล 

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แอร์เวย์สทุกคน รู้สึกเป็นเกียรติอย่างยิ่งที่ได้รับรางวัล 

สายการบินบูทีคยอดเยี่ยมในปีนี้ ผมขอแสดงความขอบคุณ 

ต่อผู้อ่านนิตยสาร ทีทีจี ทุกท่านที่ลงคะแนนโหวตให้เรา 

ความสำเร็จในครั้งนี้นอกจากจะสะท้อนให้เห็นถึงคุณภาพ 

การบริการและมาตรฐานความปลอดภัยของสายการบิน 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์สซึ่งเป็นที่ยอมรับในระดับสากลแล้ว ยังแสดง 

ให้เห็นถึงความตั้งใจของพนักงานทุกคน ที่มุ่งมั่นสร้างสรรค์ 

และส่งมอบผลิตภัณฑ์และการบริการที่เป็นเลิศเพื่อความ 

ประทับใจสูงสุดของผู้โดยสารภายใต้สโลแกน Asia’s 

Boutique Airline’ อีกด้วย” 

รางวัลทีทีจี ทราเวล อวอร์ดส์ จัดขึ้นเป็นประจำทุกปี 

เพื่อเป็นเกียรติแก่บุคคลและองค์กรในอุตสาหกรรมท่องเที่ยว 

ที่มีความโดดเด่นในประเภทต่างๆ ของภูมิภาคเอเชียแปซิฟิก 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS PARTNERS WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF 

NATIONAL PARKS, WILDLIFE AND PLANT CONSERVATION IN 

“BANGKOK AIRWAYS AGAINST WILDLIFE CRIME” INITIATIVE 

Recently, Bangkok Airways Public 

Company Limited led by Ms. Ariya 

Prasarttong-Osoth, of the Board of 

Directors and Chairman – CSR Working 

Committee, together with the Department 

of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant 

Conservation and Veterinary Medical 

Aquatic Animals Research Center 

(VMARC) organised the “Bangkok 

Airways Against Wildlife Crime” 

training for airline executives and staff 

members in order to raise awareness 

on illegal wildlife trade in connection 

with the aviation industry. The event 

was held at Bang Phra Wildlife Domestic 

Research Station, Chon Buri. 

The training provided all participants 

with practical knowledge on how to 

classify various species of turtles, 

as well as how to give basic care to 

injured ones. Participants also had the 

opportunity to engage in the activity 

to release turtles. These included 

sick and injured turtles that had been 

rescued and rehabilitated for their 

release back to the wild by the Veterinary 

Medical Aquatic Animals Research 

Center (VMARC), Faculty of Veterinary 

Science, of Chulalongkorn University. 

In addition, Bangkok Airways 

donated two air conditioners to the 

Wildlife Hospital at Bang Phra Wildlife 

Domestic Research Station, Chon Buri 

as part of the activity to support the 

veterinarian team. 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยนางอาริญา 

ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการบริษัทฯ และ 

ประธานคณะทำงานส่วนรับผิดชอบต่อสังคม 

ร่วมกับกรมอุทยานแห่งชาติสัตว์ป่าและพันธุ์พืช 

และศูนย์วิจัยโรคสัตว์น ้ำ คณะสัตวแพทยศาสตร์ 

จุฬาลงกรณ์มหาวิทยาลัย จัดกิจกรรมอบรม 

“Bangkok Airways Against Wildlife Crime” 

ให้กับผู้บริหารและพนักงานของสายการบินฯ 

เพื่อสร้างความตระหนักและการมีส่วนร่วมใน 

การแก้ไขปัญหาและหยุดยั้งการลักลอบค้าสัตว์ 

ป่าผิดกฎหมายในอุตสาหกรรมการบิน ณ สถานี 

เพาะเลี้ยงนกน้ำบางพระ จังหวัดชลบุรี 

กิจกรรมดังกล่าวเปิดโอกาสให้ผู้เข้าร่วม 

กิจกรรมได้เรียนรู้การจำแนกประเภทของเต่า และ 

การสังเกตอาการและวิธีการดูแลเต่าที่บาดเจ็บใน 

เบื้องต้น เพื ่อนำความรู้ที่ได้รับกลับไปใช้ในการ 

ปฏิบัติงานหากพบกับเหตุดังกล่าว และยังได้ร่วม 

ปล่อยเต่าคืนสู่ธรรมชาติ ซึ่งเป็นเต่าป่วยหรือ 

พิการที่ได้รับความช่วยเหลือมาจากสถานที่ 

ต่างๆ เช่น วัด ท้องถนน ฯลฯ และได้รับการรักษา 

พยาบาลและดูแลฟื้นฟูร่างกายโดยศูนย์วิจัยโรค 

สัตว์น้ำ คณะสัตวแพทยศาสตร์ จุฬาลงกรณ์ 

มหาวิทยาลัย เพื่อคืนชีวิตให้อยู่ในธรรมชาติที่ 

เหมาะสมและแพร่ขยายพันธุ์ได้ต่อไป 

นอกจากนี้ สายการบินฯ ยังได้ร่วมมอบ 

เครื่องปรับอากาศ จำนวน 2 เครื่องให้กับทาง 

โรงพยาบาลสัตว์ป่าของทางสถานีเพาะเลี้ยงนก 

น้ำบางพระ จังหวัดชลบุรี เพื่อสนับสนุนการ 

ทำงานของทีมสัตวแพทย์อีกด้วย 

134 

135

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS' YOUTH 

EDUCATION CAMP 

Recently, Bangkok Airways’ CSR 

Department, led by Ms. Ariya 

Prasarttong-Osoth, Board of 

Directors and Chairman – CSR 

Working Committee, together 

with the airline’s executives, 

organised the “Youth Education 

Camp” programme by taking 60 

secondary school students from 

Sukhothai, Trat and Surat Thani 

(Koh Samui) aboard a Bangkok 

Airways flight. Additionally in 

Samut Prakan, the airline's 

Operations Centre participated 

in the 3-day programme, where the 

professional staff and executives 

from different areas of the 

aviation industry shared their 

knowledge and experience with 

the students. 

The “Youth Education Camp” 

project is one of the activities 

initiated by Bangkok Airways’ 

CSR Department with the objective 

of giving youths an opportunity 

to learn directly from veteran 

lecturers, for example, pilots, flight 

attendants, ground staff, ticketing 

staff and aircraft technicians. 

The children have a chance to 

observe the airline’s actual 

operation site for each department, 

which will benefit and inspire 

them to consider the aviation 

profession. A highlight of the 

programme was piloting an 

aircraft in a flight simulator and 

up close with Bangkok Airways 

President, Capt. Puttipong 

Prasarttong-Osoth. 

All 60 students in the “Youth 

Education Camp” programme are 

selected secondary schoolers, 

aged between 14-18 years old 

from six schools in three provinces 

(20 students from each province); 

Koh Samui School and Theeparat 

Pittaya (Koh Samui, Surat Thani), 

Sukhothai Witthayakhom School 

and Sawan Anan Witthaya School 

(Sukhothai), Khiriwes Rattana 

Phien Upatham School and Khlong 

Yai Witthayakhom School (Trat). 

All the activities they took part in 

the campaign at the Bangkok 

Airways’ Operations Centre in 

Samut Prakan is a complimentary 

gesture of the airline. 

เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยส่วนรับผิดชอบต่อ 

สังคม (CSR) นำโดยนางอาริญา ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการ 

บริษัทฯ และประธานคณะทำงานส่วนรับผิดชอบต่อสังคม และคณะ 

ผู้บริหารของสายการบินฯ จัดโครงการ “ติดปีกเติมฝัน ปันความรู้ 

สู่อาชีพการบิน” โดยนำคณะเยาวชนระดับชั้นมัธยมศึกษาจาก 3 

จังหวัด ได้แก่ สุโขทัย ตราด และสุราษฎร์ธานี (เกาะสมุย) จำนวน 

60 คน เดินทางโดยเที่ยวบินของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส 

มาร่วมโครงการฯ ณ ศูนย์ปฏิบัติการ บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ 

จำกัด (มหาชน) จังหวัดสมุทรปราการ เป็นระยะเวลา 3 วัน เพื่อรับ 

ฟังการบรรยายให้ความรู้และแบ่งปันประสบการณ์ทางด้านธุรกิจ 

การบินจากพนักงานและผู้บริหารของสายการบินฯ ซึ่งมีประสบการณ์ 

ในสายงานต่างๆ 

โครงการ “ติดปีกเติมฝัน ปันความรู้ สู่อาชีพการบิน” เป็นหนึ่ง 

กิจกรรมที่อยู่ภายใต้โครงการรับผิดชอบต่อสังคม (CSR) ของ 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดยมีวัตถุประสงค์เพื่อให้เยาวชน 

ท้องถิ่นได้มีโอกาสเข้ามาศึกษาเรียนรู้ จากผู้บรรยายที่มีประสบการณ์ 

ในสายงานของธุรกิจการบินโดยตรง เช่น นักบิน พนักงานต้อนรับบน 

เครื่องบิน พนักงานต้อนรับผู้โดยสารภาคพื้นดิน พนักงานส ำรองที่ 

นั่งและออกบัตรโดยสาร และฝ่ายช่าง เป็นต้น รวมถึงได้มีโอกาสเข้าชม 

สถานที่ปฏิบัติงานจริงของแต่ละหน่วยงาน เพื่อสร้างแรงบันดาลใจใน 

การประกอบอาชีพด้านธุรกิจการบินในอนาคต ในโอกาสนี้เยาวชนที่ 

เข้าร่วมกิจกรรมยังได้ทดลองขับเครื่องบินในห้องจำลองการบิน 

(Flight Simulator) โดยมีกัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ 

กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ จำกัด (มหาชน) 

มาเป็นผู้ให้คำแนะนำและบรรยายแก่เยาวชน 

สำหรับโครงการ “ติดปีกเติมฝัน ปันความรู้ สู่อาชีพการบิน” 

ทางสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สได้คัดเลือกเยาวชนระดับชั้น 

มัธยมศึกษาที่มีอายุระหว่าง 14-18 ปี จาก 6 โรงเรียนใน 3 

จังหวัด ได้แก่ โรงเรียนเกาะสมุย และโรงเรียนทีปราฏร์พิทยา จาก 

จังหวัดสุราษฎร์ธานี (เกาะสมุย) โรงเรียนสุโขทัยวิทยาคม และ 

โรงเรียนสวรรค์อนันต์วิทยา จากจังหวัดสุโขทัย โรงเรียนคีรีเวส 

รัตนเพียรอุปถัมภ์ และโรงเรียนคลองใหญ่วิทยาคม จากจังหวัด 

ตราด โดยแบ่งเป็นจังหวัดละ 20 คน รวมจำนวนทั้งสิ้น 60 คน 

เดินทางมาเข้าร่วมกิจกรรม ณ ศูนย์ปฏิบัติการ บริษัท การบิน 

กรุงเทพ จำกัด (มหาชน) จังหวัดสมุทรปราการ โดยไม่เสียค่าใช้จ่าย 

ในการเข้าร่วมโครงการ 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH AMADEUS 

Recently, Bangkok Airways President, 

Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth 

and airline reservations systems 

Amadeus, represented by Mr. Cyril 

Tetaz – Executive Vice President, 

Airlines, Asia Pacific, held a signing 

ceremony to announce a partnership 

at Bangkok Airways headquarters. 

“As Asia’s leading boutique 

airline, we need to continuously 

innovate and enhance the company 

through innovation and technologies 

that improve our operations and 

management in the very competitive 

and fast growing aviation industry. 

We believe that with Amadeus 

Altéa Suite, and by putting the 

traveller experience at the heart 

of everything we do, this will help 

drive our expansion plans and bring 

success for many years to come,” 

affirmed Mr. Puttipong. 

TIME TO SAVE THE 

COCONUT TREES 

Bangkok Airways, led by Ms. Ariya Prasarttong-Osoth, 

from the Board of Directors and other 

representatives in Samui from the Department 

of Agriculture, Koh Samui District Agricultural 

Extension Office, hospitality entrepreneurs and 

agriculturists, recently re-launched the 4th year 

project, “Love Earth, Save Earth: Love Samui, 

Save the Coconut Trees.” The goal is to share 

eco-awareness among the community to 

preserve the iconic coconut trees of Koh Samui. 

This year, Acting Sub. Lt. Kittiphop Roddon, 

Samui’s District-Chief, presided over the 

opening ceremony at Baan Talay (Baan Lay) 

Public Park, Samui, Surat Thani, with over 100 

interested participants. 

Participants were also taught about pest 

control, such as the biological control of 

tree pests such as black-headed caterpillars, 

and having vespidae wasps as a natural way 

to control coconut pests. Young coconut 

plants and vespidaes were also contributed 

to the public during the event. 

เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส โดย 

นายพุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการ 

ผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ และบริษัทอะมาดิอุส เอเชีย 

จำกัด โดย มร.ไซริล เททัซ รองประธานกรรมการ 

ส่วนสายการบินประจำภูมิภาคเอเชียแปซิฟิก 

จัดพิธีลงนามความร่วมมือการใช้ระบบบริการ 

ผู้โดยสาร “อะมาดิอุส อัลเทีย สวีท” ณ สำนักงานใหญ่ 

บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ จำกัด (มหาชน) 

สายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์สจัดกิจกรรม 

“ปลูกต้นมะพร้าวเพื่อเกาะสมุยปี 4” ภายใต้ 

โครงการ “Love Earth, Save Earth: Love 

Samui, Save the Coconut Trees” เพื่อรณรงค์ 

ให้ประชาชนหันมาสนใจและอนุรักษ์ต้นมะพร้าว 

ซึ่งเป็นสัญลักษณ์สำคัญของเกาะสมุย โดยมี 

คุณอาริญา ปราสาททองโอสถ กรรมการ 

บริษัท การบินกรุงเทพ จำกัด (มหาชน) และ 

ตัวแทนจากหน่วยงานต่างๆ อาทิ กรมวิชาการ 

เกษตร เกษตรอำเภอเกาะสมุย ผู้ประกอบการ 

จากโรงแรมในอำเภอเกาะสมุย และเกษตรกร 

เข้าร่วมกิจกรรม โดยได้รับเกียรติจากว่าที่ร้อยตรี 

นายพุฒิพงศ์ กล่าวว่า “ตลอดเวลาที่ผ่านมา 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์สมุ่งมั่นที่จะสร้างสรรค์นวัตกรรมและ 

เสริมสร้างศักยภาพในการดำเนินงานของสายการบินฯ 

เพื่อส่งมอบการบริการที่เป็นเลิศให้แก่ผู้โดยสาร รวมถึง 

เสริมประสิทธิภาพในการปฏิบัติงานและบริหารจัดการ 

ของธุรกิจ โดยระบบอัลเทียของอะมาดิอุส ถือว่าเป็น 

ระบบปฏิบัติการที่ทันสมัยและเป็นเทคโนโลยีชั้นนำที่ได้ 

รับการยอมรับจากสายการบินชั้นนำทั่วโลก” 

กิตติภพ รอดดอน นายอำเภอเกาะสมุย เป็น 

ประธาน และมีเกษตรกรรวมถึงผู้ที่สนใจ เข้าร่วม 

กิจกรรมกว่า 100 คน ณ สวนสาธารณะบ้านทะเล 

(บ้านเล) อำเภอเกาะสมุย จังหวัดสุราษฎร์ธานี 

กิจกรรมดังกล่าว เปิดโอกาสให้ผู้ที่สนใจ 

ได้เรียนรู้วิธีการควบคุมและกำจัดแมลงศัตรู 

มะพร้าว การควบคุมแมลงศัตรูมะพร้าวโดยชีววิธี 

การเพาะเลี้ยงขยายแตนเบียน และการควบคุม 

หนอนหัวดำมะพร้าว นอกจากนี้ สายการบินฯ 

ยังได้มอบกล้ามะพร้าวเพื่อให้เกษตรกรและผู้ที่ 

เข้าร่วมโครงการนำไปปลูก และแจกแตนเบียนเพื่อ 

ให้นำไปใช้ควบคุมแมลงศัตรูมะพร้าวอีกด้วย 

136 

137

FLYERBONUS 

PREMIER MEMBERS VISIT PHUKET AND CHIANG RAI 

FOR THE BANGKOK AIRWAYS BOUTIQUE SERIES MARATHON 

FlyerBonus, the Frequent Flyer 

Programme of Bangkok Airways, 

recently organised two exclusive 

trips for lucky Premier Members 

and their companions. Both trips 

were part of the 'Bangkok Airways 

Boutique Series 2018', the Phuket 

Half Marathon held between 4-5 

August and the Chiang Rai Marathon 

held between 15-16 September. 

As well as testing themselves physically, 

the Premier Members had time to visit 

a selection of interesting attractions 

and enjoy sumptuous food offerings 

in both cities. 

In Phuket these included a trip to 

Chinpracha House, a beautiful example 

of Sino-Portuguese architecture, along 

with a secret dining experience at the 

China Inn Café & Restaurant located 

in the heart of the old town. In 

Chiang Rai, Premier Members spent 

time at 'Baan Dam’ (Black House), 

the museum home of renowned 

Thai artist Thawan Duchanee; 

savoured Northern Thai dishes as 

well as dropping by the picturesque 

Le Meridien Resort on the banks 

of the Mae Kok River to sample 

authentic Italian cuisine at 'Favola'. 

เมื่อเร็วๆ นี้ รายการสะสมคะแนนฟลายเออร์โบนัส สายการบิน 

บางกอกแอร์เวย์ส นำสมาชิกฟลายเออร์โบนัส ระดับพรีเมียร์ 

ผู้โชคดีพร้อมผู้ติดตาม เข้าร่วมกิจกรรมวิ่ง รายการ บางกอก 

แอร์เวย์ส บูทีค ซีรีย์ 2018 “ภูเก็ต ฮาล์ฟ มาราธอน” ระหว่าง 

วันที่ 4-5 สิงหาคม และ “เชียงราย มาราธอน” ระหว่างวันที่ 

15-16 กันยายนที่ผ่านมา พร้อมท่องเที่ยวสถานที่ต่างๆ 

ที่น่าสนใจ และยังได้อิ่มอร่อยกับอาหารรสเลิศจากร้านเด็ด 

ร้านดังของทั ้งสองจังหวัด 

ที่ภูเก็ต คณะฯ ได้เข้าชม “บ้านชินประชา” บ้านเก่าแก่ทรงโบราณ 

สถาปัตยกรรมแบบชิโน-โปรตุกีส เต็มไปด้วยเสน่ห์ของกลิ่นไอเมือง 

เก่าภูเก็ตดั้งเดิม และเพลิดเพลินกับอาหารไทยคลาสสิกและเมนู 

ตะวันตกหลากหลายในสวนสวยหลังร้าน China Inn Café & 

Restaurant ร้านอาหารที่ตั้งอยู่ในอาคารสไตล์ชิโน-โปรตุกีส 

ใจกลางย่านเมืองเก่าภูเก็ต ส่วนที่เชียงรายนั้น คณะฯ ได้เยี่ยมชม 

“พิพิธภัณฑ์บ้านดำ” ของ อ.ถวัลย์ ดัชนี ศิลปินแห่งชาติ และร่วม 

ดินเนอร์มื้อพิเศษที่ห้องอาหารอิตาเลียน “ฟาโวล่า” ภายในโรงแรม 

“เลอ เมอริเดียน เชียงราย รีสอร์ท” อบอวลด้วยบรรยากาศอันแสน 

โรแมนติกริมแม่น้ำกก 

138 139

142 143

AIRCRAFT INFO 

AIRBUS A319 

NUMBER OF FLEET : 15 

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 

BANGKOK AIRWAYS OPERATES FOUR TYPES OF AIRCRAFT 

TAKE ME 

HOME 

READ 

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 . 

TOO MUCH BAGGAGE? 

ONLINE! 

AIRBUS A320 





ENGINE : IAE V2500 


870 km/h 


39,800 ft 


162 seats 

••••• 

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

FAHTHAIMAG.COM 

And feel free to send us your feedback. 

Your voice is our inspiration! 

ATR 72-500 





ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp 

Pratt & Whitney 

Canada PW127F 


509 km/h 


25,000 ft 


70 seats 

Read more 

ATR 72-600 


LENGTH : 27.166 m 



ENGINE : 2 x 2,750 hp 

Pratt & Whitney 

Canada PW127M 


509 km/h 


25,000 ft 


70 seats 

OUR SCHEDULE FLIGHTS AND FREQUENCY 

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS 

Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai : 

Numerous flights every day from a variety of destinations 

Chiang Mai : 1 flight per day from Phuket ; 

1 flight per day from Koh Samui 

Chiang Rai : 3 flights per day from Bangkok 

Hat Yai : 

1 flight per day from Phuket 

Koh Chang/Trat : 4 flights per day from Bangkok 

Krabi : 3 flights per day from Bangkok ; 


Lampang : 3 flights per day from Bangkok 

Mae Hong Son : 2 flights per day from Chiang Mai 

Pattaya : 1 flight per day from Phuket ; 


Sukhothai : 3 flights per day from Bangkok 

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS 

Chengdu : 4 flights per week from Koh Samui 

Chongqing : 1 flight per week from Koh Samui 

Da Nang : 1 flight per day from Bangkok 

Guangzhou : 1 flight per week 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 : 11 flights per week from Bangkok ; 

4 flights per week 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 : 1 flight per day 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 

IS THE 

GOLD WINNER 

PEARL AWARD 2017 

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY 

144

CHECKING OUT 

Just Say ‘Ahhh’ 

Open wide, a mama whale shows her 

offspring, as both engage in the straight up 

art of eating fish in the waters of Phetchaburi. 

The seaside town outside of Bangkok is 

home to pods of Bryde’s Whales, pronounced 

“broo-dus,” with conservation groups 

organising whale-sighting tours. Without any 

teeth, the tropical whales gulp in enormous 

amounts of schools of fishes and krill through 

furry-looking baleen plates. 

Photo Thewin Chanyawong 

146

Fah Thai Magazine Nov-Dec 2018

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