Fah Thai Magazine - Inflight Magazine of Bangkok Airways Issue Nov-Dec 2024
Fah Thai Magazine is an In-Flight Magazine of Bangkok Airways.
Fah Thai Magazine is an In-Flight Magazine of Bangkok Airways.
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NOV-DEC <strong>2024</strong><br />
THAI FLOATING<br />
FESTIVALS<br />
KOH CHANG<br />
GETAWAY<br />
SUKHOTHAI<br />
SECRETS<br />
PHANG NGA<br />
PARADISE<br />
Read more<br />
COMPLIMENTARY COPY<br />
SUPPORT<br />
SUSTAINABLE<br />
TRAVEL
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT<br />
กัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ<br />
Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth<br />
กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ / President<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Public Company Limited<br />
Hello, and welcome onboard<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong>!<br />
As the festive season approaches, some<br />
<strong>of</strong> you may have started planning your<br />
holidays, and <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> remains<br />
committed to providing safe and enjoyable<br />
travel experiences for all passengers.<br />
Recently, the airline signed two<br />
memorandums <strong>of</strong> understanding (MoUs)<br />
to enhance operational efficiency and safety.<br />
The first MoU involves a collaboration<br />
with the Aeronautical Radio <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
(AEROTHAI) to improve the operational<br />
capacity <strong>of</strong> airports and aviation services,<br />
ensuring efficiency and safety in line with<br />
standards set by the Civil Aviation Authority<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land.<br />
The second MoU is a cooperation with<br />
the Airports <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land Public Company<br />
Limited (AOT) regarding the relocation <strong>of</strong><br />
disabled aircraft at the six AOT-run airports.<br />
Two other airlines – <strong>Thai</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> International<br />
Public Company Limited and <strong>Thai</strong> AirAsia<br />
Company Limited – have also signed<br />
the agreement, which aims to facilitate<br />
smoother operations.<br />
To ensure the highest level <strong>of</strong> service,<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> invests in regular training<br />
for its personnel. We also ensure good<br />
occupational health, because we believe<br />
happy employees provide excellent services<br />
and good health is the foundation <strong>of</strong> happiness.<br />
Our training programmes cover safety<br />
protocols, like fire drills, basic life support<br />
and emergency response exercises. We also<br />
focus on developing service skills to benefit<br />
our staff both personally and pr<strong>of</strong>essionally.<br />
Finally, I and my team would like to<br />
express our gratitude for your continued<br />
support throughout <strong>2024</strong>. We hope to be<br />
part <strong>of</strong> your joyful travel experiences during<br />
this holiday season and look forward to<br />
serving you again in 2025.<br />
Thank you!<br />
สวััสดีีครัับ ยิินดีีต้้อนรัับผู้้้โดียิสารัทุุกท่่าน<br />
ส้่การับริิการับนเทุียิวับินของสายิการบ ินบางกอก<br />
แอร์์เวัยิ์ส<br />
เทุศกาลแห่่งการัเฉลิมฉลองใกล้เข้ามาแล้วันะครัับ<br />
ท่่านผู้้้โดียิสารัเรัิมวัางแผู้นท่่องเทุี ยิวักันอีกห่รัือยััง?<br />
ในส่วันของสายิการบ ินบางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส<br />
เรัาพร้้อมในการัให้้บริิการัผู้้้โดียิสารัทุุกท่่านอย่่าง<br />
เต็็มทุี โดียิคำน ึงถึึงหลัักควัามปลอดีภััยิเป็นสำคััญ<br />
ล่าสุดี สายิการบิินบางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์สได้้มีการัลงนาม<br />
บันทึึกข้อต้กลง 2 ฉบับ ฉบับแรักว่่าด้้วัยิควัาม<br />
ร่่วัมมือด้้านการัให้้บริิการัการัเดิินอากาศกับ<br />
บริิษััทุวัิทุยิุการบิินแห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ จำำกััดี เพ่อพัฒนา<br />
ศักยิภัาพการัดีำาเนินงานของสนามบินและการัให้้<br />
บริิการัดี้านการัเดิินอากาศให้้เป็นไปอย่่างมี<br />
ปรัะสิทุธิิภัาพและปลอดีภััยิ เป็นไปต้ามมาต้รัฐาน<br />
ของสำน ักงานการบ ินพลเรืือนแห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ<br />
และฉบับทุี สอง เป็นการัลงนามควัามร่่วัมมือกับ<br />
บริิษััทุ ท่่าอากาศยิานไทุยิ จำำกััดี (มห่าชน) ห่รัือ<br />
ทุอทุ. ว่่าด้้วัยิเรัื องการัเคลือนย้้ายิอากาศยิานทุี<br />
ขัดข้้องรัะห่วั่างท่่าอากาศยิานทุั ง 6 แห่่งของ ทุอทุ.<br />
ทุั งนี เพ่อให้้เกิดีควัามคล่องตััวัในการัดีำาเนินการั<br />
โดียิมีสายิการบ ินเข้าร่่วัมลงนามด้้วัยิอีกสอง<br />
สายิการบิิน ได้้แก่ บริิษััทุ การบิินไทุยิ จำำกััดี (มห่าชน)<br />
และบริิษััทุ ไทุยิแอร์์เอเชียิ จำำกััดี<br />
นอกจำากนี บริิษััทุฯ ยัังเต้รัียิมบุคลากรัให้้มี<br />
ควัามพร้้อมอยู่่เสมอ ในส่วันของการัฝึึกอบรัมและ<br />
การม ีอาชีวัอนามัยที่่ ดีี เพรัาะเรัาเชื อว่่าการส่่งมอบ<br />
บริิการที่่ ดีีเรัิมจำาก “ควัามสุข” พ่นฐานของควัามสุข<br />
คือ การม ีสุขภัาพร่่างกายที่่ดีี อีกทุั งยัังมีการัจำัดี<br />
หล ักส้ต้รัให้้ควัามรั้้ สร้้างควัามเข้าใจำแก่พนักงาน<br />
รัอบด้้าน โดียิเฉพาะการัปล้กฝัังด้้านควัามปลอดีภััยิ<br />
ไม่ว่่าจำะเป็นการัฝึึกอบรัมดัับเพลิง การัฝึึกอบรัม<br />
ช่วัยิชีวิิต้เบืองต้้น และการัฝึึกซ้้อมรัับสถึานการัณ์์<br />
ฉุกเฉิน รัวัมไปถึึงการัฝึึกอบรัมการพััฒนาทัักษัะการั<br />
บริิการั ซ้ึงเหล่่านีล้วันเป็นปรัะโยิชน์กับพนักงาน<br />
สามารัถึนำาไปปรัับใช้ในชีวิิต้ปรัะจำำาวัันและรัะห่วั่าง<br />
ปฏิิบัติิหน้้าทุีได้้อีกด้้วัยิ<br />
ท้้ายินี ผู้มและพนักงานทุุกคนขอขอบคุณ์<br />
สำาห่รัับการัสนับสนุนทุี ดีีต้ลอดปีี 2567 โดียิห่วััง<br />
เป็นอย่่างยิิงว่่าสายิการบิินบางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์สจำะ<br />
เป็นส่วันห่นึงของควัามสุขในการัเดิินทุางท่่องเทุี ยิวั<br />
ของท่่านในช่วังเทุศกาลปลายปีีนี พบกันใหม่่<br />
ปี 2568<br />
ขอบคุณ์ครัับ<br />
6
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EDITORIAL<br />
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Contributors<br />
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Kankanit Wichiantanon<br />
Phoowadon Duangmee<br />
Pinanong Panchuen<br />
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Pinanong Panchuen<br />
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“FAH THAI” is the in-flight magazine <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Public Company<br />
Limited and is edited and published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd. All articles and<br />
photographs published herein are created by the authors and photographers<br />
at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views <strong>of</strong> the<br />
airline. <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> holds no responsibility or liability arising out <strong>of</strong> the<br />
publication <strong>of</strong> such articles and photographs.<br />
All information correct at press time. All rights reserved. No part <strong>of</strong> this<br />
magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in<br />
any form or by any means without the prior written permission <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />
<strong>Airways</strong> Public Company Limited and MPMI Group Co., Ltd.<br />
8
OVERTURES<br />
14 SAVE THE DATES<br />
Stay in the know about exciting<br />
events, exhibitions, and festivals<br />
at <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> destinations,<br />
from captivating art displays to<br />
high-energy sports.<br />
16 SUSTAINABLE DINING<br />
Savour dishes that honour local<br />
cultures and the environment,<br />
<strong>of</strong>fering fresh, authentic flavours<br />
while minimising ecological impacts.<br />
18 DESTINATION<br />
PHANG NGA<br />
Discover the beauty <strong>of</strong> Phang<br />
Nga’s towering limestone cliffs,<br />
tranquil mangroves, and serene<br />
islands – an ideal getaway for<br />
nature lovers seeking peace.<br />
22 VINTAGE THAI<br />
APPETISER<br />
Treat yourself to Pla Haeng Tangmo,<br />
a unique combination <strong>of</strong> fresh<br />
watermelon topped with salty dried<br />
fish that delivers deliciousness in<br />
every bite.<br />
28 SWEET AND CREAMY<br />
Experience the sweet, creamy<br />
sapodilla fruit, a lesser-known<br />
tropical treat from <strong>Thai</strong>land, rich in<br />
flavour and packed with nutrients.<br />
30 EAT THE RAINBOW<br />
Enjoy Roti Sai Mai, a colourful<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> street-food snack <strong>of</strong> delicate<br />
spun sugar wrapped in s<strong>of</strong>t roti –<br />
a perfect combination <strong>of</strong> sweet<br />
and chewy.<br />
32 SINGAPORE ART TOUR<br />
Step into a world <strong>of</strong> exquisite<br />
craftsmanship at HULS Gallery<br />
in Singapore, showcasing Kogei<br />
art and curated traditional<br />
Japanese crafts.<br />
36 BEAUTY GADGETS<br />
Pack the latest beauty tech<br />
essentials like the Foreo Luna 4,<br />
hair straighteners, and portable<br />
moisturisers to keep you looking<br />
fresh while travelling.<br />
10
FEATURES<br />
HAPPENINGS<br />
CORPORATE<br />
38 ISLAND ADVENTURES<br />
Explore Koh Chang’s rugged<br />
beauty, from untouched beaches<br />
to thrilling hikes, and experience<br />
diving spots teeming with<br />
vibrant marine life.<br />
50 FULL-MOON<br />
EXTRAVAGANZAS<br />
Celebrate <strong>Thai</strong>land’s floating<br />
festivals in Chiang Mai and<br />
Sukhothai, where krathongs and<br />
lanterns illuminate the night sky in<br />
a symbol <strong>of</strong> renewal and hope.<br />
60 OLD AND PRECIOUS<br />
Travel back in time to the golden<br />
era <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land’s ancient capitals.<br />
Explore the lesser-known districts<br />
<strong>of</strong> Sukhothai – Sawankhalok and<br />
Si Satchanalai – and their rich<br />
cultural heritage.<br />
Check out hip hangouts in <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
and its neighbours.<br />
72 SAMUI<br />
76 PHUKET<br />
78 CHIANG MAI /<br />
PATTAYA<br />
79 BANGKOK<br />
80 HONG KONG /<br />
SINGAPORE<br />
81 MALDIVES / SIEM REAP<br />
84 BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS<br />
89 ROUTE MAP<br />
CHECKING OUT<br />
90 SOME LIKE IT HOT<br />
Relax and rejuvenate in Chae Son<br />
Hot Spring’s healing, mineral-rich<br />
waters, a peaceful retreat in the<br />
heart <strong>of</strong> Lampang.<br />
This month’s cover:<br />
Let’s Float!<br />
18<br />
Beautiful<br />
Phang Nga<br />
11
ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS<br />
Pattaya’s Explosive<br />
<strong>2024</strong> Finale<br />
Mark your calendar for Pattaya<br />
International Fireworks <strong>2024</strong>,<br />
when the city’s coastline<br />
transforms into a canvas <strong>of</strong><br />
light and sound. As the sun<br />
sets, head to the beach and<br />
watch the glittering fireworks<br />
synchronised with music light<br />
up the horizon, their reflections<br />
shimmering across the sea.<br />
The atmosphere buzzes with<br />
excitement, as crowds gather<br />
for a night <strong>of</strong> unforgettable<br />
spectacles. Picture the sky ablaze<br />
over Pattaya’s cityscape –<br />
an exhilarating visual show<br />
that promises to captivate all<br />
who attend.<br />
NEWS & EVENTS 14 / SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL 16 / THAILAND TREASURES 18 / A TASTE OF THAILAND 22 / FRUITFUL FINDS 28 /<br />
JUST DESSERT 30 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 32 / TECH TALK 36<br />
13
OVERTURES<br />
NEWS AND EVENTS<br />
2-10 <strong>2024</strong><br />
NOV<br />
PHNOM PENH<br />
KHMER CULTURE EXPOSED<br />
Grab a front row seat at Cambodia Living Arts’<br />
Cultural Delegation, a thrilling showcase <strong>of</strong><br />
Khmer culture, history and art.<br />
This year’s theme, “Now and Then: A Creative<br />
Future Built from Centuries <strong>of</strong> Tradition” explores<br />
the crossroads where the country’s rich heritage<br />
meets its buzzing contemporary visual arts scene.<br />
Taking place in early <strong>Nov</strong>ember, the cultural<br />
exposition will kick <strong>of</strong>f in Siem Reap before<br />
heading to Battambang. The artistic journey will<br />
conclude in Phnom Penh, the nation’s cultural,<br />
commercial, and political capital.<br />
The final weekend <strong>of</strong> the nine-day event<br />
will showcase the country’s most innovative<br />
and recognised artists, as well next-generation<br />
creatives. Highlights <strong>of</strong> the Phnom Penh leg<br />
include a performance by the Royal Dance<br />
School HRH Princess Norodom Bopha,<br />
an Art & Architecture tour and a Khmer<br />
Instrument workshop.<br />
Siem Reap, Battambang, and Phnom Penh;<br />
www.cambodianlivingarts.org<br />
Photos: Cambodian Living Arts<br />
14-16 <strong>2024</strong><br />
NOV<br />
PHNOM PENH<br />
WONDER-FILLED WATER FESTIVAL<br />
The annual Water Festival, Bon Om Touk,<br />
is a major highlight on Cambodia’s cultural<br />
calendar. Marking the end <strong>of</strong> the rainy<br />
season, this multi-day event makes a splash<br />
with thrilling boat races, traditional dance<br />
performances, delicious food and revelry.<br />
Celebrated since the 13th century, the<br />
water festival is held to attract good luck<br />
and an abundant harvest. While Cambodians<br />
across the country join the fun, Bon Om<br />
Touk takes on a carnival-like atmosphere<br />
in major cities like Phnom Penh. This year’s<br />
celebrations in mid-<strong>Nov</strong>ember bring visitors<br />
an opportunity to indulge in special feasts,<br />
performances, dances and parties. Look out<br />
for fiercely contested boat races and dazzling<br />
firework displays as the sun sets. This is also<br />
the time when the Tonle Sap River usually<br />
reverses its flow, a unique natural wonder for<br />
visitors to witness. Phnom Penh riverfront.<br />
29 <strong>2024</strong><br />
NOV<br />
-1<br />
<strong>2024</strong><br />
DEC<br />
HONG KONG<br />
ROCK AT CLOCKENFLAP<br />
Clockenflap, Asia’s leading outdoor music and<br />
arts festival, returns to Hong Kong’s Central<br />
Harbourfront for three days <strong>of</strong> world-class<br />
entertainment. The 14th edition features a<br />
stellar bill topped by rock legend Jack White,<br />
French electronic pioneers Air, and the critically<br />
acclaimed St. Vincent. Other big names include<br />
DJ Jamie xx, psychedelic pop-rockers Glass<br />
Animals, and top Japanese acts like Creepy<br />
Nuts and toe.<br />
Multiple stages <strong>of</strong>fering a diverse array<br />
<strong>of</strong> performances, complemented by delicious<br />
F&B outlets and a thrilling outdoor atmosphere,<br />
make Clockenflap an unmissable celebration<br />
<strong>of</strong> international and regional culture.<br />
Clockenflap.com.<br />
Photos: Shutterstock<br />
Photos: Clockenflap<br />
14
29-30 <strong>2024</strong><br />
NOV<br />
PATTAYA<br />
PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL FIREWORK<br />
FESTIVAL <strong>2024</strong><br />
The seaside city’s skyline will explode in a<br />
kaleidoscope <strong>of</strong> colour not once but twice at<br />
the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival<br />
<strong>2024</strong>. Held over two nights, this annual<br />
event showcases jaw-dropping pyrotechnic<br />
performances from international teams,<br />
choreographed to music. Spectators can<br />
enjoy breathtaking views from the beach, the<br />
pier, or various ro<strong>of</strong>top bars, all <strong>of</strong>fering prime<br />
vantage points for the sparkling spectacle.<br />
Visitors can also browse food stalls, enjoy<br />
live music, and attend cultural performances<br />
that make this one <strong>of</strong> the city’s most anticipated<br />
events <strong>of</strong> the year. Whether you’re a local<br />
or a tourist, this festival promises an unforgettable<br />
experience filled with colour, light, and excitement.<br />
www.facebook.com/pattayafireworks<br />
Photo: Shutterstock<br />
1 <strong>2024</strong><br />
DEC<br />
-1 2025<br />
JAN<br />
HONG KONG<br />
WINTERFEST <strong>2024</strong><br />
Every winter, Hong Kong’s skyline glows<br />
even brighter with the arrival <strong>of</strong> WinterFest,<br />
when the West Kowloon Cultural District<br />
transforms into a charming Christmas Town.<br />
Wander through streets lit up by a dazzling<br />
light display and towering Christmas tree.<br />
The city buzzes with a festive vibe, as popular<br />
attractions host seasonal activities and high-end<br />
malls roll out exclusive promotions for holiday<br />
shoppers. Hotels and restaurants across<br />
Hong Kong also <strong>of</strong>fer special festive menus<br />
and themed itineraries for visitors to explore<br />
the city’s best winter spots.<br />
The celebration culminates with the<br />
spectacular Hong Kong New Year Countdown,<br />
with a dazzling multimedia light and music<br />
show lighting up the sky to welcome the<br />
new year. Be sure to capture the magic <strong>of</strong><br />
the season, from Christmas Town to the<br />
WinterFest Harbourfront pyrotechnics.<br />
www.discoverhongkong.com<br />
Photos: Hong Kong Tourism Boad<br />
5-9 <strong>2024</strong><br />
DEC<br />
LUANG PRABANG<br />
UNVEILING<br />
SOUTHEAST<br />
ASIAN CINEMA<br />
Luang Prabang Film<br />
Festival – now known<br />
as the Blue Chair Festival –<br />
has served as a celebration <strong>of</strong> Southeast Asian<br />
cinema since 2009. This <strong>Dec</strong>ember, the festival<br />
again brings regional filmmakers together for<br />
screenings, workshops and discussions.<br />
The festival provides an exciting forum for<br />
international exchange, where filmmakers and<br />
cinephiles share ideas, trends, and techniques.<br />
All screenings and public discussions are free<br />
and open to the public. Indulge in a fascinating<br />
selection <strong>of</strong> Southeast Asian films and engage<br />
with film buffs in a party-like atmosphere fuelled<br />
by good food, drinks and entertainment.<br />
Ban Pongkham, Luang Prabang, Laos;<br />
www.bluechair.film<br />
Photos: Blue Chair Festival<br />
15
OVERTURES<br />
SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL<br />
Planet<br />
on a<br />
Plate<br />
Sustainable dining matters while<br />
we’re on the road<br />
As the world awakens to the urgency <strong>of</strong> climate<br />
change, sustainable dining has become more<br />
than just a culinary trend – it’s an ethical choice.<br />
For travellers, seeking out eco-conscious dining<br />
options can elevate the experience, connecting<br />
us more deeply with the places we visit while<br />
supporting the planet.<br />
At its core, sustainable dining emphasises<br />
locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. When we<br />
choose restaurants that champion these values,<br />
we’re not just reducing the carbon footprint that<br />
comes with long-distance food transportation;<br />
we’re also tasting the very essence <strong>of</strong> a region.<br />
Whether it’s fresh seafood in Phuket or organic<br />
vegetables in Chiang Mai, sustainable cuisine gives<br />
us an authentic sense <strong>of</strong> place that processed or<br />
imported foods can’t match.<br />
Moreover, sustainable dining nurtures local<br />
economies. When chefs source ingredients from<br />
nearby farmers, fishermen, and artisans, they<br />
ensure that tourism dollars flow directly into the<br />
community. This promotes food security, preserves<br />
traditional agriculture, and encourages the<br />
development <strong>of</strong> organic, regenerative practices.<br />
As travellers, we have the opportunity to support<br />
this cycle, fuelling a more resilient local food<br />
system that benefits both people and the planet.<br />
And it’s not just about the environmental or<br />
economic impacts – sustainable dining is <strong>of</strong>ten<br />
an unforgettable experience. Whether harvesting<br />
organic herbs at a farm in Sukhothai or enjoying a<br />
zero-waste meal in Samui, these moments foster a<br />
more thoughtful and engaged kind <strong>of</strong> tourism. We<br />
leave with more than just a memory <strong>of</strong> a meal: we<br />
gain an appreciation for the cultural, environmental,<br />
and ethical dimensions <strong>of</strong> what’s on our plates.<br />
In a world where every action counts, making<br />
sustainable dining a priority is one small step<br />
travellers can take to protect the Earth – one bite<br />
at a time.<br />
By showing interest<br />
and respect, visitors<br />
can help prevent<br />
cultural erosion<br />
and protect unique<br />
traditions, such as the<br />
boat noodle vendors <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land’s canals<br />
WORDS PHOOWADON DUANGMEE<br />
16
OVERTURES<br />
THAILAND TREASURES<br />
Words: Phoowadon Duangmee<br />
Phang Nga: Seascape Wonders<br />
Endless tranquil beaches and a vibrant underwater<br />
realm make this southern province a tropical<br />
adventure playground<br />
Clockwise from Top<br />
Tourists bask in<br />
the crystal-clear<br />
turquoise waters<br />
amid stunning<br />
rock formations on<br />
Similan Island in<br />
the Andaman Sea<br />
A happy traveller<br />
relaxes on a boat <strong>of</strong>f<br />
the Surin Islands<br />
Koh Pha, the hidden<br />
desert island near<br />
Khao Lak<br />
Skirting <strong>Thai</strong>land’s Andaman coast just<br />
an hour’s drive from Phuket International<br />
Airport, Phang Nga mesmerises visitors<br />
with its enchanting seascapes. The<br />
province’s golden beaches with swaying<br />
palms and pines <strong>of</strong>fer a serene sanctuary<br />
where emerald waves gently lap the<br />
shore. But Phang Nga’s true appeal<br />
lies beyond its sun-kissed coastline. Its<br />
intricate bay – a labyrinth <strong>of</strong> islands –<br />
hides secluded lagoons, traditional fishing<br />
villages, and mystical caves adorned with<br />
ancient carvings. Below the surface, a<br />
vivid world <strong>of</strong> coral reefs and marine life<br />
awaits, marking this southern destination<br />
as a tropical treasure trove.<br />
Khao Lak is the perfect base to fully<br />
immerse in Phang Nga’s charms. Its<br />
expansive, unspoiled beaches surrounded<br />
by lush greenery <strong>of</strong>fer respite from more<br />
tourist-heavy spots and place you within<br />
easy reach <strong>of</strong> diverse attractions.<br />
18
THE PERFECT COASTAL RETREAT<br />
Once a quiet backwater, Khao Lak<br />
Beach has grown into a tranquil hub <strong>of</strong><br />
boutique luxury and wellness tourism.<br />
Along its shores, cute hotels and<br />
upscale resorts <strong>of</strong>fer sophisticated<br />
comfort with personalised service. The<br />
rise <strong>of</strong> wellness centres adds to the<br />
allure, providing tranquil spaces for spa<br />
treatments, yoga, and other holistic<br />
therapies amid nature’s grandeur.<br />
Khao Lak also boasts an emerging<br />
surf scene, especially at Memories<br />
Beach to the north, where gentle<br />
waves attract casual surfers and<br />
beginners. Surf schools and rental<br />
shops make it easy to dive into beach<br />
culture and catch your first breaker.<br />
Beyond Khao Lak, Phang Nga<br />
Bay beckons with its dramatic<br />
limestone karsts, hidden lagoons,<br />
and thriving underwater ecosystems.<br />
Cruising Phang Nga Bay is an almost<br />
surreal experience: Limestone karsts<br />
rise sharply from the emerald sea,<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten cloaked in mist, creating an<br />
otherworldly landscape. Among the<br />
wonders, James Bond Island (Khao<br />
Phing Kan) stands out with its iconic<br />
needle-like rock formation – a dramatic<br />
backdrop that encapsulates the<br />
region’s mystique and grandeur.<br />
A SEASCAPE ADVENTURE<br />
A short journey from the bay, Ban<br />
Tha Din Daeng weaves natural<br />
beauty with sustainable tourism.<br />
Grab a kayak and glide through its<br />
mangrove channels, the rhythmic<br />
sound <strong>of</strong> paddles cutting through<br />
the stillness along with the calls<br />
<strong>of</strong> kingfishers. Here, visitors can<br />
discover hidden lagoons and caves<br />
home to diverse wildlife. The village’s<br />
ecotourism initiatives safeguard the<br />
mangroves while <strong>of</strong>fering visitors a<br />
meaningful connection with the local<br />
way <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
For an elevated view <strong>of</strong> Phang<br />
Nga’s natural wonders, Samet<br />
Nangshe Viewpoint provides a<br />
stunning panorama <strong>of</strong> the limestone<br />
karsts and turquoise waters. The<br />
sweeping vistas come alive at “magic<br />
hour” during sunrise and sunset. Just<br />
an hour’s drive from Phuket, this<br />
easily accessible natural wonder is<br />
Clockwise from<br />
Top Left<br />
A view <strong>of</strong><br />
the stunning<br />
Tapoo Island in<br />
Phang Nga Bay<br />
Nothing can<br />
be better than<br />
kayaking down the<br />
Phang Nga Bay<br />
An aerial view <strong>of</strong><br />
mangrove forests and<br />
the mountain peaks<br />
<strong>of</strong> Phang Nga Bay<br />
Similan Islands, one<br />
<strong>of</strong> the best national<br />
parks in <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
The underwater<br />
world <strong>of</strong> Similan<br />
Islands – s<strong>of</strong>t coral<br />
colonies, sponges,<br />
and Gorgonians in<br />
vivid colours<br />
enhanced by nearby local dining and<br />
market experiences.<br />
From the l<strong>of</strong>ty heights <strong>of</strong> Samet<br />
Nangshe to the mysterious depths<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Andaman Sea, the Similan<br />
Islands hide a pristine underwater<br />
paradise. With crystal-clear waters<br />
and vibrant coral reefs, the islands<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer an extraordinary playground for<br />
divers. Expansive coral gardens and<br />
neon-hued fish abound alongside the<br />
promise <strong>of</strong> encounters with majestic<br />
giants like the elusive whale shark<br />
and giant stingray.<br />
While the Similans are renowned<br />
among divers, the Surin Islands<br />
cater to snorkellers. Their shallow,<br />
clear waters and colourful reefs are<br />
ideal for those who prefer shallower<br />
waters. Mu Koh Surin, with its less<br />
developed environment, <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />
tranquil retreat to fully immerse<br />
yourself in the undersea universe.<br />
19
OVERTURES<br />
THAILAND TREASURES<br />
THE MOKEN VILLAGE EXPERIENCE<br />
After exploring Surin Island’s underwater<br />
wonders, a visit to the Moken village<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers a pr<strong>of</strong>ound shift in perspective.<br />
The Moken, <strong>of</strong>ten called “Sea Gypsies”,<br />
have lived in harmony with the ocean for<br />
centuries. Their way <strong>of</strong> life is intricately<br />
tied to the tides, <strong>of</strong>fering a rare glimpse<br />
into a vanishing world. Visitors can<br />
delve into their traditions by joining a<br />
workshop to learn the art <strong>of</strong> Moken<br />
weaving or exploring the coral reefs<br />
with a Moken guide. The sea gypsies<br />
will lead you into a colourful world <strong>of</strong><br />
tropical fish while showcasing their<br />
impressive swimming techniques and<br />
deep connection with the sea.<br />
ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS<br />
Phang Nga <strong>of</strong>fers a variety <strong>of</strong> pristine<br />
escapes with stunning beaches and<br />
captivating seascapes.<br />
- Koh Khai Nai, known as “Cat Island”,<br />
is a hidden gem in Phang Nga Bay.<br />
Pristine beaches, striking rock<br />
formations, and friendly stray cats<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer a unique charm. Snorkellers are<br />
drawn here by clear waters teeming<br />
with marine life.<br />
- Koh Phra Thong’s savannah-like<br />
landscape is a rarity in <strong>Thai</strong>land. Explore<br />
the vast open plains and untouched<br />
golden beaches or explore mangrove<br />
forests by kayak, spotting rare wildlife.<br />
- Koh Pha, or “Sand Pile Island”, is a<br />
pristine sandbar that appears during<br />
low tide. Visitors can swim and<br />
snorkel among shallow coral reefs, or<br />
kayak around its tranquil shores.<br />
- Koh Yao Yai <strong>of</strong>fers a serene retreat<br />
with unspoiled beaches, clear waters,<br />
and a glimpse into traditional local life.<br />
Relax on beaches, snorkel in vibrant<br />
marine environments, and explore<br />
fishing villages and rubber plantations.<br />
- Koh Tachai, a secluded<br />
island in the Similan Islands<br />
National Park, boasts powdery<br />
white sand, turquoise waters,<br />
and rich marine life, making<br />
it a snorkelling<br />
paradise.<br />
Round <strong>of</strong>f your journey with a visit<br />
to Takua Pa Old Town, a captivating<br />
departure from the typical beach<br />
holiday. Known for its exquisitely<br />
preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture,<br />
Takua Pa is a window into a bygone<br />
era where colonial styles married local<br />
design. Wander through historic streets<br />
lined by elegant buildings with intricate<br />
facades and colourful tiles, tracing the<br />
town’s history as a thriving trading port.<br />
Takua Pa Old Town’s diverse<br />
heritage is reflected in its multicultural<br />
cuisine, bustling markets, and charming<br />
cafes in historic buildings. Here, visitors<br />
can savour traditional snacks while<br />
soaking in their vintage surroundings.<br />
This blend <strong>of</strong> historical intrigue<br />
and local flavours makes Takua Pa<br />
an enriching beyond-the-beach<br />
destination, perfect for those seeking a<br />
refreshing and enlightening adventure.<br />
Clockwise from<br />
Top Left<br />
Handmade stoneand-shell<br />
bracelets<br />
made by Moken sea<br />
gypsies on the<br />
Surin Islands<br />
Traditional long-tail<br />
boats and houses in<br />
the Moken village<br />
A vintage bicycle<br />
and historical<br />
photos evoke the<br />
history <strong>of</strong> Takua Pa<br />
An old Chinese door<br />
in Takua Pa<br />
Bottom<br />
Laem Had beach<br />
on Koh Yao Yai,<br />
Phang Nga<br />
20
SAMRAN GARDENS<br />
MAENAM<br />
KOH SAMUI<br />
A Rare and Exciting New Opportunity<br />
Luxury Four-Bedroom Pool Villa for Sale<br />
Located within the established grounds <strong>of</strong> the highly reputed<br />
Samran Gardens development in Maenam, Koh Samui.<br />
This impressively spacious and thoughully designed pool<br />
villa <strong>of</strong>fers complete privacy and comfort, set on a generous<br />
1,100 sq.m land plot.<br />
Price: 22,500,000 THB incl. land & house<br />
Full Freehold purchase acquision available. Construcon<br />
due to start imminently, esmated compleon <strong>Nov</strong>. 2025<br />
Direct Contact: Stuart Evans (Founder <strong>of</strong> Samran Gardens)<br />
Property Details<br />
• Master bedroom suite with bespoke<br />
wardrobes and large en-suite<br />
• 3 further guest bedrooms, all en-suite<br />
• Bespoke fied kitchen with appliances<br />
• Large living & dining areas<br />
• Cloakroom/WC & ulity/laundry<br />
• Impressive 12 m x 4.7 m overflow<br />
swimming pool<br />
• Covered, fan-cooled terraces<br />
• Dedicated outdoor dining &<br />
entertaining sala with covered kitchen<br />
• Double car garage & driveway<br />
Contact:<br />
Stuart Evans<br />
Mobile/WhatsApp:<br />
+66 95 498 9992<br />
E-mail:<br />
info@samrangardens.com<br />
Website:<br />
www.samrangardens.com
OVERTURES<br />
A TASTE OF THAILAND<br />
Vintage Dish<br />
REDISCOVERED<br />
Delve into Pla Haeng Tang Mo, a surprising classic appetiser with roots in<br />
the Ayutthaya Kingdom<br />
The ongoing renaissance in traditional<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> cuisine means long-lost recipes are<br />
being rediscovered and reimagined for<br />
modern palates.<br />
One such dish is Pla Haeng Tang Mo,<br />
an unlikely but delicious combination <strong>of</strong><br />
watermelon and dried fish that dates back to<br />
the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1351-1767), when it<br />
was a popular summer delicacy.<br />
Pla Haeng Tang Mo serves as a piquant<br />
appetiser for a scrumptious meal, with its<br />
delightful blend <strong>of</strong> refreshing watermelon<br />
and sweet-salty dried fish. The starkly<br />
contrasting textures and flavours <strong>of</strong><br />
crispy dried fish and juicy melon tease<br />
the tongue for a unique and memorable<br />
culinary experience.<br />
The secret to crafting a perfect Pla Haeng<br />
Tang Mo lies in the careful preparation <strong>of</strong><br />
ingredients, especially the dried fish, which<br />
is typically made with salted snakehead<br />
murrel or a local substitute. The dried fish is<br />
grilled until it is golden, crispy and fragrant<br />
before being dipped in water and then<br />
steamed. After steaming, the skin and bones<br />
are removed and the flesh is pounded into<br />
a fluffy texture. The pounded fish is then<br />
roasted until it’s thoroughly dry and golden,<br />
before being seasoned with palm sugar, fried<br />
garlic and fried shallots and served with<br />
refreshing bite-sized pieces <strong>of</strong> watermelon.<br />
Pla Haeng Tang Mo can also be paired<br />
with steamed or sticky rice for a more<br />
substantial meal.<br />
22
WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA<br />
23
PASTE <strong>Bangkok</strong>:<br />
Chef Bee Satongun’s Culinary<br />
Journey through Time<br />
Recipes aren’t always born in the kitchen – at this awardwinning<br />
restaurant they arise from childhood memories and<br />
trips through history<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> in the early 1980s was<br />
a sensory wonderland, alive<br />
with the sights and aromas<br />
<strong>of</strong> fresh ingredients and traditional<br />
cooking – a world that today’s<br />
generation may scarcely recognise.<br />
But the culinary wonder lives on<br />
in Chef Bongkoch “Bee” Satongun, a<br />
legacy <strong>of</strong> her mother’s buzzing kitchen<br />
where at least 10 different dishes<br />
were crafted daily. Chef Bee spent her<br />
formative years as a teenager helping<br />
her mother in the family restaurant.<br />
When her mother decided to close the<br />
restaurant, the future co-founder <strong>of</strong><br />
PASTE began spending less time in<br />
the kitchen, yet the memories forged<br />
by the creation <strong>of</strong> flavours there<br />
remained intact in her mind.<br />
Despite exploring various roles in<br />
the hospitality industry, Chef Bee’s<br />
heart was anchored deeply to food<br />
and beverage. Driven by her passion<br />
for rediscovering long-lost <strong>Thai</strong><br />
recipes and harnessing the wonders<br />
<strong>of</strong> local herbs and ingredients, she<br />
set out to raise <strong>Thai</strong> cuisine to a new<br />
level. Long before <strong>Thai</strong> fine-dining<br />
became popular in <strong>Bangkok</strong>, Chef<br />
Bee dared to dream outside the box<br />
and with support <strong>of</strong> her partner,<br />
Jason Bailey, she embarked on a new<br />
culinary journey that gave birth to<br />
PASTE. This establishment helped<br />
pave the way for sophisticated <strong>Thai</strong><br />
fare to make its mark on the local and<br />
international food scene.<br />
Passion and meticulous research<br />
are at the heart <strong>of</strong> PASTE’s continued<br />
success. The eatery’s status as a fixture<br />
on the list <strong>of</strong> Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants<br />
attests to Chef Bee’s dedication. Her<br />
signature dishes stem from exhaustive<br />
explorations <strong>of</strong> traditional and royal<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> recipes, many <strong>of</strong> which were<br />
nearly forgotten. By studying, refining<br />
and modernising these recipes,<br />
Chef Bee has uncovered culinary<br />
treasures, resurrecting them with<br />
fresh, locally sourced produce from<br />
across the country. This journey laid<br />
the foundation for PASTE’s remarkable<br />
success, where Chef Bee and Bailey<br />
breathe new life into classic dishes,<br />
reimagining them with contemporary<br />
culinary techniques and presentation.<br />
From Top to Bottom<br />
Renowned Chef<br />
Bongkoch “Bee”<br />
Satongun <strong>of</strong><br />
PASTE <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />
From the deep<br />
south <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
- Peranakan style<br />
curry <strong>of</strong> seared<br />
seabass, stuffed<br />
banana chilli with<br />
bamboo shoot &<br />
salmon roe
especting the roots <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong> cuisine.<br />
She believes in empowering young<br />
chefs to thrive in the boundless world<br />
<strong>of</strong> culinary possibilities.<br />
Asked for tips on where authentic<br />
flavours can still be found in <strong>Bangkok</strong>,<br />
Chef Bee enthusiastically recommends<br />
the old-school eateries around San<br />
Chaopho Suea Shrine near the Giant<br />
Swing and Nang Loeng Market in<br />
the heart <strong>of</strong> old <strong>Bangkok</strong>. These<br />
establishments have preserved their<br />
recipes and originality for decades<br />
as the city changes around them at<br />
lightning pace.<br />
For Chef Bee, authentic food<br />
For Chef Bee, the essence <strong>of</strong><br />
PASTE’s cuisine lies in honouring<br />
traditional dishes and staying true<br />
to their origins. Yet the restaurant<br />
has gained acclaim for its originality,<br />
captivating diners with its meticulous<br />
attention to detail. Each recipe,<br />
while seemingly simple, is the result<br />
<strong>of</strong> a thoughtful journey – from its<br />
preparation to presentation. PASTE<br />
brings the heritage <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong> cuisine<br />
alive in creative and exciting ways<br />
that are unmatched in <strong>Bangkok</strong>. Also,<br />
quality ingredients are essential,<br />
as without them, the authenticity and<br />
desired taste are compromised. Once<br />
the right ingredients and quantities for<br />
a dish are identified, Chef Bee and her<br />
team undertake rigorous taste tests.<br />
Occasionally, they invite in<br />
members <strong>of</strong> aristocratic families, seen<br />
as custodians <strong>of</strong> royal recipes passed<br />
down the generations, to ensure the<br />
dishes have retained their authentic<br />
flavours. If a recipe falls short <strong>of</strong> their<br />
high standards, the team revisits<br />
the process with meticulous revisions<br />
until it meets their exacting criteria.<br />
Though laborious, this process is<br />
vital for preserving the integrity<br />
<strong>of</strong> the cuisine.<br />
As PASTE flourishes with one<br />
establishment in <strong>Bangkok</strong> and another<br />
in Australia, Chef Bee remains devoted<br />
to uncovering original recipes<br />
and exploring local ingredients to<br />
enrich her menus. Her approach<br />
goes beyond reviving old recipes,<br />
though; it’s about honouring the<br />
past while embracing innovation.<br />
Her commitment to sourcing fresh,<br />
local ingredients not only supports<br />
sustainable practices, it also ensures<br />
each plate bursts with the authentic<br />
flavours <strong>of</strong> the region. Thanks to the<br />
duo’s dedication, PASTE has passed<br />
the test <strong>of</strong> time in becoming one <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong>’s most popular modern <strong>Thai</strong><br />
restaurants serving dishes based on<br />
ancient <strong>Thai</strong> recipes.<br />
Meanwhile Chef Bee’s leadership<br />
reflects a passion for passing on<br />
the legacy, encouraging the next<br />
generation to explore creativity while<br />
Clockwise from<br />
Top Left<br />
Northern Shan version<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hang Lay curry<br />
with slow cooked<br />
Australian beef cheek<br />
& pickled garlic<br />
Gingko and<br />
jujube cheescake<br />
topped with<br />
chrysanthemum<br />
syrup<br />
Tartlet <strong>of</strong> beef tonge,<br />
Burmese relish,<br />
apple eggplant<br />
& rosella gel<br />
PASTE <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />
is located on the<br />
3rd floor <strong>of</strong><br />
Gaysorn Village<br />
Bottom Right<br />
Ocean prawn,<br />
freshly made dry<br />
spice powder,<br />
organic eggs,<br />
chilli jam & pickles<br />
should evoke nostalgia for the<br />
vivid flavours <strong>of</strong> childhood<br />
favourites. Each dish tells a<br />
story and carries emotions that make<br />
it more than just a meal. At PASTE,<br />
Chef Bee strives to create not just a<br />
dining experience, but connections<br />
between diners’ tastebuds and their<br />
cherished memories. For her, food<br />
transcends comfort and aesthetics<br />
to become a bridge linking flavours<br />
with significant moments in our lives.<br />
3rd Floor, Gaysorn Village 999 Ploenchit<br />
Road, <strong>Bangkok</strong>, +66 (0) 2656 1003,<br />
www.pastebangkok.com
OVERTURES<br />
FRUITFUL FINDS<br />
Sapodilla: Hidden Treasure<br />
This underrated tropical fruit hides a rich, molasses-like sweetness and exotic<br />
fragrance beneath its dull exterior<br />
Despite its mundane appearance, the sapodilla,<br />
or “la-mood” in <strong>Thai</strong>, is a tropical gem with a<br />
unique taste and exotic fragrance – a must-try<br />
for foodies.<br />
While many fruits are judged by their eyecatching<br />
looks, the sapodilla’s drab earthy colour<br />
and egg-like shape means it is easily overlooked.<br />
However, beneath its skin lies a sweet, aromatic<br />
flesh that surprises and <strong>of</strong>ten delights.<br />
Native to Central America, sapodilla<br />
was brought to the Philippines during the<br />
Spanish colonial era before making its way<br />
across most <strong>of</strong> Asia, including <strong>Thai</strong>land, India,<br />
Pakistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Vietnam,<br />
Malaysia, and Indonesia.<br />
The sapodilla is a large berry with a<br />
round or oval shape. Unripe sapodillas<br />
produce a white, rubbery sap known as<br />
chicle which is used in chewing gum.<br />
This natural gum disappears when the<br />
fruit ripens. Eating raw sapodilla is not<br />
recommended due to its bitter taste and<br />
potential for mouth irritation. When ripe,<br />
however, sapodillas transform into a<br />
deliciously sweet and fragrant fruit, <strong>of</strong>ten<br />
likened to the rich flavour <strong>of</strong> molasses. Its<br />
juicy flesh ranges in colour from pale yellow<br />
to brown and has a slightly gritty texture.<br />
At its core, the fruit contains several<br />
hard, glossy black seeds that should never be<br />
eaten. These seeds contain toxic chemicals<br />
that can cause stomach ache and vomiting,<br />
while their small hook at the tip can be a<br />
choking hazard.<br />
Sapodilla is commonly enjoyed fresh but<br />
also serves as a delectable ingredient in desserts<br />
like pies and baked goods. And it can be<br />
preserved as jam or even used to make wine.<br />
This humble fruit is also rich in fibre that<br />
supports bowel health, while its high tannin<br />
content provides anti-bacterial and antiparasitic<br />
benefits. It is also a good source<br />
<strong>of</strong> vitamin C, potassium, copper and iron.<br />
However, people with diabetes are advised<br />
to enjoy sapodilla in moderation due to its<br />
high sugar content.<br />
Available practically all year round,<br />
sapodilla may not be visually appealing, but<br />
its succulent flavour can be love at first bite.<br />
Try it once, and you might just find yourself<br />
hooked to its irresistible sweetness.<br />
WORDS ARIYA CHAIYARIT PHOTO & STYLE SAMATCHA APAISUWAN<br />
28
(The welcome cocktail starts at 18:15 hrs.)<br />
*<br />
* *<br />
(The welcome cocktail starts at 18:15 hrs.)<br />
*<br />
*<br />
* *<br />
(The welcome cocktail starts at 18:15 hrs.)<br />
* *<br />
*Free flow beverage package available<br />
Children aged 4 to 11 are eligible for a 50% discount<br />
Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% goverment tax.
OVERTURES<br />
JUST DESSERT<br />
Taste the Rainbow<br />
Meet Roti Sai Mai, pastel candyfloss wrapped in paper-thin crepes<br />
that are bound to take your tastebuds to heaven<br />
With its pastel shades <strong>of</strong> pink<br />
and green, <strong>Thai</strong>land’s traditional<br />
candyfloss never fails to catch<br />
the eye. But when the air-spun<br />
silky threads <strong>of</strong> Sai Mai are<br />
wrapped in a s<strong>of</strong>t crepe, you have<br />
an irresistibly delicious snack.<br />
Roti Sai Mai comprises two<br />
delicious parts: thin crepes (Roti)<br />
made from salted wheat flour,<br />
milk, coconut milk and sesame,<br />
and the rainbow-coloured Sai<br />
Mai candyfloss. Just roll up a wad<br />
<strong>of</strong> the floss in the crepe, burrito<br />
style, and pop it into your mouth.<br />
How much <strong>of</strong> the filling you<br />
pack into the crepe is a matter<br />
<strong>of</strong> personal preference.<br />
Better still, this traditional<br />
treat is now firmly back in fashion<br />
and more flavours are popping up.<br />
As well as the original plain-white<br />
or pandan-flavoured green crepes,<br />
taro, banana and strawberry<br />
flavoured ones are also available.<br />
And the choice <strong>of</strong> candyfloss has<br />
expanded from traditional pastelgreen<br />
pandan to strawberry,<br />
blueberry, cocoa, orange, and<br />
banana to name a few.<br />
For the best Roti Sai Mai,<br />
head to its home province <strong>of</strong><br />
Ayutthaya, which is dotted<br />
with kiosks and shops serving<br />
up the authentic version <strong>of</strong><br />
this sweet treat. Most <strong>of</strong> the<br />
well-known shops are located<br />
on U-Thong Road and the street<br />
in front <strong>of</strong> Phra Nakhon Si<br />
Ayutthaya Hospital.<br />
Roti Sai Mai has been<br />
named an indigenous product<br />
<strong>of</strong> Ayutthaya, earning the<br />
government’s OTOP stamp. The<br />
dessert has also caught the eye<br />
<strong>of</strong> Michelin Guide, which<br />
conferred the prestigious<br />
Michelin Bib Gourmand honour<br />
on the Roti Sai Mai Mae Pom<br />
shop in 2022. With a 39-year<br />
legacy, the shop is renowned<br />
for its enticing aroma <strong>of</strong> crepes<br />
infused with black and white<br />
sesame, along with the divine<br />
flavours <strong>of</strong> candyfloss spun from<br />
simmered natural sugar.<br />
WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA<br />
30
NEW RED SKY SERVES UP<br />
SKY-HIGH EXCELLENCE<br />
Gracefully crowning the 55th floor <strong>of</strong> one<br />
<strong>of</strong> the city’s hottest addresses, Centara<br />
Grand and <strong>Bangkok</strong> Convention Centre<br />
at CentralWorld, is Red Sky – <strong>Bangkok</strong>’s<br />
iconic ro<strong>of</strong>top bar famed for its panoramic<br />
vistas and gastronomic delights.<br />
Fresh from a stunning transformation,<br />
Red Sky now dazzles with an elegant new<br />
design and an all-new Mediterranean<br />
menu crafted by Chef Luca Russo. With<br />
a Michelin-starred resume that spans<br />
Locanda del Pilone in Piedmont, La Pergola<br />
at Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel,<br />
Zaranda in Mallorca and more, Chef Russo<br />
brings Michelin flair and Mediterranean<br />
freshness to every dish all while you soak<br />
in the breathtaking <strong>Bangkok</strong> skyline.<br />
A recommendation for your visit:<br />
Kick <strong>of</strong>f your meal with a tempting array<br />
<strong>of</strong> standout appetisers that are sure to<br />
impress, like the Yellowfin Tuna Tartare<br />
<strong>of</strong> delicate fish swathed in a glistening<br />
green pistachio coulis and bejewelled<br />
with luxurious Oscietra caviar. Just the<br />
sight <strong>of</strong> this dish alone is pure eye candy<br />
for caviar connoisseurs. Another standout<br />
in the appetiser lineup is the Hokkaido<br />
Scallops seared to perfection and served<br />
on a bed <strong>of</strong> spicy lemon butter sauce while<br />
topped with fine ribbons <strong>of</strong> jamón ibérico.<br />
For mains, prepare for pure indulgence<br />
with these two stellar dishes. First, savour<br />
the Gundagai Lamb, a duo <strong>of</strong> succulent<br />
lambchop and persillade-crusted lamb<br />
filet accompanied by creamy mashed<br />
potatoes and flavoursome caponata,<br />
all brought together with a drizzle <strong>of</strong><br />
rich ruby port sauce. Next up is the<br />
Tuna Cheek, expertly seared with a<br />
caramelised golden-brown crust while<br />
remaining beautifully tender inside.<br />
Served with charred broccolini and a<br />
velvety eggplant purée, this dish <strong>of</strong>fers<br />
a delectable switch from beef to fish for<br />
“I am thrilled<br />
to bring a<br />
fresh culinary<br />
perspective to the<br />
newly revamped<br />
Red Sky menu,”<br />
said Chef Russo.<br />
“My passion<br />
lies in creating<br />
dishes that are<br />
both beautiful<br />
and bursting with<br />
flavour, using the<br />
freshest seasonal<br />
ingredients<br />
sourced from<br />
around the world.”<br />
those who still crave a hearty, satisfying<br />
meal. For vegetarians, there’s also the<br />
silky Fagottelli filled with eggplant<br />
parmigiana served with pesto sauce<br />
as well as provola cheese foam for a<br />
touch <strong>of</strong> gourmet delight.<br />
Citrus lovers, don’t miss out<br />
on the Candied Sicilian Lemon – a<br />
unique dessert where whole Sicilian<br />
lemons are candied then filled with<br />
creamy lemon Chantilly sorbet and<br />
served alongside a crisp vanilla sable<br />
for the perfect blend <strong>of</strong> crunch and<br />
comforting flavour.<br />
Tried and tested, we can confidently<br />
say that Red Sky’s grand reopening<br />
will have ro<strong>of</strong>top bar hoppers and bon<br />
vivants buzzing with bliss.<br />
Red Sky <strong>Bangkok</strong> 55th floor, Centara Grand and <strong>Bangkok</strong> Convention Centre<br />
at CentralWorld, 999/99 Rama I Road, Pathum Wan, <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />
www.bangkokredsky.com Tel: +66 (0) 2100 6255<br />
Email: diningcgcw@chr.co.th Facebook: @RedSky<strong>Bangkok</strong> IG: @redskybkk_centara
OVERTURES<br />
ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS<br />
Zen and the Art<br />
<strong>of</strong> Living<br />
Words Sarita Urupongsa<br />
Tradition influses modernity in the exquisite Kogei craftsmanship<br />
at HULS Gallery Singapore, while Italian-inspired creativity rules at<br />
Sapore Dell’Arte in <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />
Founded in 2017, HULS Gallery Singapore<br />
is dedicated to unveiling the beauty<br />
<strong>of</strong> Japanese artisanal crafts known<br />
as Kogei to the world. Traditional<br />
Japanese craftsmanship is renowned<br />
for its exceptional attention to detail,<br />
blending centuries-old techniques with<br />
contemporary aesthetics to create<br />
artworks that embody the essence <strong>of</strong><br />
simplicity, functionality, and beauty. HULS<br />
Gallery invites visitors to experience this<br />
deep-rooted artistry firsthand.<br />
The gallery’s philosophy is anchored<br />
in the concept <strong>of</strong> “roots & touch”. The<br />
roots represent the origins <strong>of</strong> these crafts<br />
in Japan’s diverse regions, each with its<br />
unique cultural and historical traditions.<br />
Whether ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, or<br />
woodworking, each craft carries a story <strong>of</strong><br />
place, history, and the hands that shaped<br />
it. On the other hand, touch emphasises<br />
the tactile experience <strong>of</strong> interacting with<br />
these pieces, something HULS believes<br />
is essential to understand their value.<br />
Visitors are encouraged to handle the<br />
pieces, feeling the texture, weight, and<br />
craftsmanship that go into each item. This<br />
hands-on approach is part <strong>of</strong> what makes<br />
visiting HULS Gallery such a memorable<br />
and immersive experience.<br />
32
Yusuke Shibata, the visionary behind<br />
HULS Gallery, has long been fascinated by<br />
the world <strong>of</strong> Japanese craft. His personal<br />
journey into the world <strong>of</strong> creativity began<br />
unexpectedly. Before founding the gallery,<br />
Shibata worked as a musician and web<br />
designer. However, his family’s business<br />
took him to different places around the<br />
world, opening his eyes to the incredible<br />
artistry found in various cultures. During<br />
his travels, Shibata noticed a growing<br />
admiration for Japanese craftsmanship and<br />
the way it was interwoven into everyday<br />
life. He saw how people around the globe<br />
were captivated by the quiet beauty and<br />
luxurious simplicity that Japanese crafts<br />
possess. This revelation ignited his passion<br />
for sharing these cultural treasures with a<br />
global audience.<br />
In 2017, Shibata established HULS<br />
Gallery in a charming shophouse located in<br />
Singapore’s lush and picturesque Duxton<br />
Hill neighbourhood. The gallery’s unique<br />
location, nestled in the city’s vibrant arts<br />
and culture district, is a perfect match<br />
for its mission. Visitors are invited to step<br />
inside a calm, carefully curated space where<br />
they can appreciate the intricate works<br />
on display. From elegant pottery to finely<br />
woven textiles and delicately carved wood<br />
pieces, each item in the gallery evokes a<br />
tangible connection with the artisans who<br />
created it. The intimate setting <strong>of</strong> the gallery<br />
enhances the experience, encouraging<br />
guests to slow down, observe, and, most<br />
importantly, touch the pieces to get a<br />
deeper appreciation <strong>of</strong> the craftsmanship<br />
and skill involved in their creation.<br />
HULS Gallery is not just a retail space,<br />
but a hub that weaves connections between<br />
various industries, particularly the culinary<br />
and design fields. Japanese fine-dining<br />
establishments, known for their attention to<br />
aesthetics and presentation, have become<br />
some <strong>of</strong> the gallery’s most loyal patrons.<br />
These restaurants, always on the lookout<br />
for unique, high-quality serving ware that<br />
complements their exquisite dishes, are<br />
drawn to the exceptional craftsmanship<br />
found in HULS’ <strong>of</strong>ferings. The gallery’s<br />
connection to the design world is equally<br />
strong, with interior designers and architects<br />
sourcing HULS’ pieces to add a touch <strong>of</strong><br />
Japanese elegance to their projects.<br />
Ultimately, HULS Gallery Singapore<br />
is more than just a place to buy beautiful<br />
objects. It’s a destination to explore, learn,<br />
and connect with a rich cultural heritage<br />
that spans centuries. With its emphasis on<br />
both tradition and modernity, HULS Gallery<br />
serves as a bridge between Japan’s artisanal<br />
past and the future <strong>of</strong> global design, <strong>of</strong>fering<br />
a space where the world can come to<br />
appreciate the lasting beauty and artistry <strong>of</strong><br />
Japanese crafts. Whether you are a collector,<br />
designer, or simply someone who appreciates<br />
the finer things in life, a visit to HULS Gallery<br />
promises to be a transformative experience<br />
that deepens your connection to the art<br />
and craftsmanship <strong>of</strong> Japan. 24 Duxton Hill,<br />
Singapore; https://huls.com.sg<br />
33
OVERTURES<br />
ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS<br />
THE ART OF RELAXATION<br />
Driven by artistic passion and Italian<br />
inspiration, a group <strong>of</strong> friends have opened<br />
a creative space for everyone in the heart<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Bangkok</strong>.<br />
Nestled by the scenic Chao Phraya<br />
River, Sapore Dell’Arte <strong>of</strong>fers painting<br />
classes in a relaxing atmosphere perfumed<br />
with the aroma <strong>of</strong> freshly brewed c<strong>of</strong>fee.<br />
Everyone from amateurs to art<br />
connoisseurs is invited to drop by and<br />
unleash their creativity or just bathe in<br />
the arty ambiance.<br />
The space boasts an airy vibe with<br />
a breezy interior <strong>of</strong> white stones and<br />
flowers. The result is a soothing sanctuary<br />
where guests can de-stress amid the<br />
city hustle and immerse themselves in<br />
rejuvenating artistic endeavours.<br />
Sapore Dell’Arte is at 396/5, Wanglang Pier,<br />
Arun Amarin Road, <strong>Bangkok</strong> Noi;<br />
www.instagram.com/saporedellarte<br />
34
Ocean Romance and Culinary Highs at Koh Samui’s<br />
Unique Treetop Sanctuary<br />
T<br />
ree Tops Signature Dining,<br />
nestled amid the enchanting<br />
canopy <strong>of</strong> a 120-year-old<br />
forest at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui<br />
Resort, stands as the quintessential<br />
dining destination on the island.<br />
Renowned for its unparalleled setting,<br />
Tree Tops <strong>of</strong>fers an exquisite fusion<br />
<strong>of</strong> intimacy and nature, perfect for<br />
romantic occasions or any special<br />
celebration. Guests are transported to<br />
a tranquil realm in private, open-air<br />
salas elevated above the lush greenery,<br />
while the top-tier salas unveil<br />
unforgettable ocean panoramas.<br />
At the heart <strong>of</strong> this enchanting<br />
venue is the visionary Chef Maël<br />
Monchauzou, whose career spans<br />
Michelin-starred restaurants from<br />
Europe to Asia. Chef Maël’s culinary<br />
philosophy marries sustainability<br />
with innovation, as reflected in Tree<br />
Tops’ new eight-course tasting menu,<br />
“A Symphony <strong>of</strong> Sea & Land”. With<br />
over 80% <strong>of</strong> ingredients sourced<br />
locally, Chef Maël has crafted a<br />
sophisticated, seasonal menu that<br />
evokes Koh Samui’s rich landscape,<br />
culture and heritage.<br />
The journey begins with delicately<br />
balanced amuse-bouches such as<br />
the Imperial Caviar Tarte, paired<br />
with tiger prawn cream and <strong>Thai</strong>landsourced<br />
caviar, followed by the Wagyu<br />
Potato Sphere, a sublime fusion<br />
<strong>of</strong> European elegance and Asian<br />
precision. The Dried Duck Magret<br />
Tiradito, sourced from Chiang Mai<br />
and aged in-house, is artfully paired<br />
with Sichuan corn for a cross-cultural<br />
culinary experience, while the Rock<br />
Lobster Saffron Seafood Soup celebrates<br />
the ocean’s bounty with Phuket<br />
lobster and Samui rock fish in a<br />
Mediterranean-style bisque.<br />
Clockwise from<br />
Top Left:<br />
Tree Tops Signature<br />
Dining <strong>of</strong>fers<br />
romantic, treetop<br />
hideaways in a<br />
120-year-old forest<br />
at Anantara Lawana<br />
Koh Samui Resort<br />
Chef Maël<br />
Monchauzou<br />
irresistable Sun-Dried<br />
Tomato Tarte<br />
The Imperial<br />
Caviar Tarte<br />
Wagyu Potato<br />
Sphere: Wagyu<br />
tartare with <strong>Thai</strong><br />
flavours in a crisp<br />
potato medley<br />
Chef Maël joins<br />
Tree Tops as its new<br />
Chef de Cuisine,<br />
after years <strong>of</strong><br />
delighting diners<br />
at Restaurant<br />
Mirazur and<br />
Joël Robuchon<br />
Scallops Kaffir<br />
Lime Binchotan<br />
Main courses embody the delicate<br />
dance between land and sea, with<br />
highlights such as the charcoal-kissed<br />
Scallops Kaffir Lime Binchotan, and<br />
the exquisite Farmer Poultry Smoked<br />
Citrus Fragrance, where citrus-scented<br />
braised poultry breast meets a<br />
pistachio crumble and honey-roasted<br />
beetroots, all enhanced by thyme<br />
jus. Between courses, a refreshing<br />
Calamansi Sorbet cleanses the<br />
palate, preparing guests for the<br />
elegant finale <strong>of</strong> Bavarois Passion<br />
Mango Flowers, where tropical fruits,<br />
coconut, and caramelised macadamia<br />
nuts <strong>of</strong>fer a sublime<br />
conclusion to the meal.<br />
For those seeking<br />
an elevated, intimate<br />
experience, Tree Tops<br />
Signature Dining<br />
is an essential<br />
destination on Koh<br />
Samui, where<br />
culinary artistry,<br />
romance, and<br />
nature’s beauty<br />
converge to create<br />
lasting memories.<br />
Tree Tops Signature Dining<br />
92/1 Moo 2, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani Tel: +66 (0) 7796 0333 www.treetopsrestaurantsamui.com Email: treetops@anantara.com35
OVERTURES<br />
TECH TALK<br />
Best <strong>of</strong><br />
Beauty Tech<br />
Words: Richard Augustin<br />
Enhancing your beauty routine with these<br />
game-changing gadgets will pave the way<br />
for ultimate maintenance<br />
DEEP CLEANSING<br />
FOREA LUNA 4<br />
Renowned for its facial cleansing devices, Swedish brand<br />
Foreo recently unveiled the latest edition <strong>of</strong> Luna, which<br />
boasts the power to deliver deep, in-pore cleansing. Utilising<br />
T-Sonic pulses and velvety-s<strong>of</strong>t silicone touch points, the<br />
Foreo Luna 4 removes dirt, oil and makeup residue.<br />
Users can choose from 16 levels<br />
that cleanse the skin while<br />
also promoting lymphatic<br />
drainage. The Luna 4<br />
lasts up to 600 uses<br />
on one charge and<br />
is waterpro<strong>of</strong>.<br />
Price: 12,600 baht;<br />
www.central.co.th<br />
CLOSE SHAVE<br />
YOOSE MINI<br />
With Type-C charging, an IPX7<br />
waterpro<strong>of</strong> rating, and wet and<br />
dry modes, the Yoose Mini has all<br />
your shaving needs covered. Transform<br />
stubble to silky-smooth skin with the two<br />
rotary blades, then pop them <strong>of</strong>f to rinse.<br />
The stylish, portable device comes equipped<br />
with a lithium battery that lasts up to 30<br />
days. Available in different colours to match<br />
different tastes.<br />
Price: 1,030 baht; www.lazada.co.th<br />
FACE VALUE<br />
AMIRO R1 PRO<br />
This innovative facial massager produces<br />
RF waves to wipe away signs <strong>of</strong> ageing.<br />
The electric-powered device combines<br />
four cutting-edge technologies to help<br />
reduce wrinkles, firm sagging skin, close<br />
pores and lift the face. Its compact<br />
size means users can maintain their<br />
facial care regime both at home and<br />
on holiday.<br />
With treatments that last between<br />
five and 10 minutes, using RF (radio<br />
frequency), red and infrared light, the<br />
Amiro R1 Pro promises to restore your<br />
radiant glow.<br />
Price: 11,500 baht; www.instagram.com/<br />
vividandvoguethailand<br />
COMPLEXION BOOST<br />
DR DENNIS GROSS DRX SPECTRALITE FACEWARE PRO<br />
An upgrade on normal face masks, the DRx SpectraLite FaceWare<br />
Pro addresses skin concerns through LED technology. The device<br />
employs 100 LED lights in red mode and 60 LED lights in blue mode<br />
to stimulate natural collagen production, reduce discolouration and<br />
even combat acne. Chargeable via USB, this wearable device from<br />
skincare experts promises to target signs <strong>of</strong> ageing in as little as three<br />
minutes. Price: 20,832 baht; www.lookfantastic.co.th<br />
36
LOVELY LOCKS<br />
GHD DUET STYLE 2-IN-1 HOT AIR STYLER<br />
Transform your tresses at a moment’s notice with this<br />
handy hair straightener that heats and styles at the<br />
same time. The GHD Duet Styler not only simplifies<br />
styling routines but also features a heat protection<br />
system to keep your precious mane safe.<br />
Price: 20,133 baht; instagram/ghdhair.thailand<br />
MILLION-DOLLAR SMILES<br />
ORAL-B IO SERIES 9S<br />
ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH<br />
Give your teeth and gums<br />
five-star treatment with Oral-<br />
B’s latest electric toothbrush,<br />
the iO Series 9S. It <strong>of</strong>fers<br />
seven different smart brushing<br />
modes and 3D tracking <strong>of</strong> the<br />
cleansing experience.<br />
This intelligent implement<br />
also comes with a “smart<br />
pressure sensor” which<br />
protects your gums and enamel<br />
against hard brushing, while<br />
an AI Recognition interactive<br />
display guides cleaning around<br />
the mouth to ensure cavities<br />
are kept at bay. Price: 21,154<br />
baht; www.caretobeauty.com<br />
THE EYES HAVE IT<br />
OSIM UMASK<br />
If eyes are the windows to the soul,<br />
then surely they deserve to be well<br />
cared for. The Osim uMask eye<br />
massager steps up with its gentle<br />
and effective vibration function,<br />
helping relax eye muscles and<br />
improve circulation. The result is<br />
soothing comfort that also alleviates<br />
fatigue and strain. A sleek, lightweight<br />
design makes the uMask a perfect<br />
travel companion while the washable<br />
and reversible cover helps ensure<br />
good hygiene. Price: 1,290 baht;<br />
www.osim.co.th<br />
HAIR APPARENT<br />
ULIKE SAPPHIRE AIR-3<br />
This laser hair removal tool from<br />
Korean beauty brand Ulike <strong>of</strong>fers<br />
a painless way <strong>of</strong> removing<br />
unwanted hair. The device boasts<br />
a powerful IPL (intense pulse<br />
light) that targets hair at the root,<br />
while the Sapphire Ice-Cooling<br />
Tech soothes the skin. A simple<br />
10-minute treatment with Ulike<br />
Sapphire AIR-3 <strong>of</strong>fers quick and<br />
effective maintenance for both<br />
men and women. Price: 8,144<br />
baht; www.lazada.co.th<br />
LIFELINE FOR DRY SKIN<br />
BASEUS PORTABLE<br />
MOISTURISING SPRAYER<br />
The Baseus Moisturising Sprayer<br />
ACBSY-0G is a handy way <strong>of</strong><br />
keeping your skin hydrated<br />
during hot, dry days. The<br />
nano-fine spray disperses<br />
a refreshing mist to<br />
rejuvenate the epidermis<br />
without ruining your<br />
makeup. Users can<br />
mix water with their<br />
choice <strong>of</strong> toner in<br />
the 15ml tank. The<br />
sprayer recharges<br />
easily and quickly<br />
with a USB port.<br />
Price: 490 baht;<br />
www.facebook.<br />
com/baseus.th<br />
37
KOH CHANG & BEYOND<br />
Koh Chang<br />
Words Kankanit Wichiantanon<br />
Photos Shutterstock<br />
A Living Postcard <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
Wild at heart but with all mod-cons, Elephant Island is<br />
your gateway to a whole national park <strong>of</strong> adventure<br />
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39
KOH CHANG & BEYOND<br />
P<br />
huket, Koh Samui, and Krabi may hog the<br />
limelight as <strong>Thai</strong>land’s top beach escapes, but<br />
if you’re craving a slice <strong>of</strong> paradise with fewer<br />
footprints in the sand, Koh Chang is king.<br />
This eastern island is perfect for anyone ready to swap<br />
well-trodden paths for a serene, azure adventure.<br />
Koh Chang, meaning “Elephant Island” due<br />
to its shape on the map, is <strong>Thai</strong>land’s thirdlargest<br />
island. Standing in the stunning Mu Ko<br />
Chang National Park, it’s part <strong>of</strong> a breathtaking<br />
archipelago <strong>of</strong> over 50 islands in Trat province.<br />
Though Koh Chang <strong>of</strong>fers everything from cosy<br />
bungalows to stunning hotels and resorts and a<br />
wide range <strong>of</strong> dining options to suit every palate<br />
and budget, its heart remains wild and green. Much<br />
<strong>of</strong> the island is still clothed in lush rainforests and<br />
rugged mountains fringed by sparkling beaches and<br />
coral reefs, inviting visitors to immerse themselves<br />
in its natural wonders. Wildlife also thrives, with<br />
animals still roaming freely beneath the island’s<br />
lush forest canopy.<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong>’ own Trat Airport makes<br />
travel to this wedge <strong>of</strong> heaven a breeze. Opened<br />
in 2003, the green airport nestles among rubber<br />
and fruit plantations like its eco-friendly sister<br />
in Samui and boasts Carbon Footprint for<br />
Organisation certification. Just 17 kilometres away<br />
by minibus, shared taxi, or hotel transfer is Ao<br />
Thammachat Pier, where you can hop on the ferry<br />
to Koh Chang.<br />
Those dreaming <strong>of</strong> an eco-vacation that marries<br />
modern comfort with natural wonders will be right<br />
at home on Koh Chang. From hiking up the majestic<br />
Khao Laem and Khao Jom Prasat to exploring the<br />
stunning Khlong Phlu and Kai Bae waterfalls,<br />
there’s no shortage <strong>of</strong> adventures. Beach-hopping<br />
is another Koh Chang speciality – a great way to<br />
perfect your tan at must-visit spots like White Sand<br />
Beach, Lonely Beach, and Klong Prao Beach.<br />
Here’s our comprehensive guide to the<br />
unmissable natural attractions and exciting<br />
activities on Koh Chang.<br />
Beach-hopping<br />
Koh Chang boasts beautiful sandy stretches perfect for swimming,<br />
sunbathing, or leisurely strolls. Here are our top picks on the island.<br />
KAI BAE BEACH<br />
One <strong>of</strong> our favourite gems on the island, Kai Bae is an<br />
ideal spot for seaside saunters beside sparkling azure<br />
waters. This tranquil haven <strong>of</strong>fers a strong selection <strong>of</strong><br />
upscale hotels and resorts for a touch <strong>of</strong> luxury amid<br />
natural beauty. Keep an eye out – you might catch a<br />
glimpse <strong>of</strong> elephants bathing in the sea here. Come<br />
evening, Kai Bae Beach also makes for a perfect sunsetwatching<br />
spot on its s<strong>of</strong>t white sand.<br />
40
WHITE SAND BEACH<br />
One <strong>of</strong> Koh Chang’s most popular spots, White Sand<br />
Beach is the ideal destination when you’re in the mood<br />
to explore seaside restaurants, bars, cafés, and shops all<br />
while staying close to the sand. Spend the day shopping,<br />
soaking up the sun, or unwinding with a sundowner in<br />
hand and a delicious seafood feast on the side: White<br />
Sand <strong>of</strong>fers a wonderful blend <strong>of</strong> beach vibes and<br />
bustling energy.<br />
LONELY BEACH<br />
Don’t be fooled by the name: Lonely Beach<br />
is anything but lonely. It <strong>of</strong>fers laidback<br />
vibes, welcoming travellers with an<br />
array <strong>of</strong> budget-friendly accommodation,<br />
restaurants, and bars, making it a perfect<br />
hub for backpackers and anyone looking<br />
to meet and mingle with like-minded<br />
adventurers.<br />
WAI CHAEK BEACH<br />
For a true “Cast Away”<br />
experience, look no further<br />
than Wai Chaek Beach, Koh<br />
Chang’s secluded, unspoiled<br />
gem. Accessible only by<br />
narrow road, hiking trails,<br />
or a boat ride, Wai Chaek is<br />
a wonderland for intrepid<br />
travellers. Here, you’ll find<br />
no buildings or tourist<br />
infrastructure, just the beauty<br />
<strong>of</strong> pristine nature. Be sure to<br />
pack a delicious snack and<br />
refreshing drinks to make<br />
the most <strong>of</strong> your time on this<br />
untouched shore.<br />
41
KOH CHANG & BEYOND<br />
Jungle Adventure<br />
Koh Chang is a tropical sanctuary brimming with lush<br />
greenery and endless spots to dive deep into natural<br />
beauty. Here are two <strong>of</strong> our favourite places to soak up<br />
the island’s wilderness:<br />
KHAO LAEM<br />
For a hike that <strong>of</strong>fers both a fun challenge and a<br />
breathtaking view where sea meets mountains, Khao<br />
Laem is unbeatable. After the climb, you’ll be rewarded<br />
with a stunning panorama that reveals Koh Chang from<br />
a whole new perspective. Whether you’re trekking solo or<br />
on a guided adventure for extra peace <strong>of</strong> mind, this is an<br />
unforgettable way to experience the island beyond just<br />
sunbathing at the beach.<br />
SALAKPHET MANGROVE WALKWAY<br />
Salakphet Mangrove Walkway, also known as the Red Bridge,<br />
feels like a scene from a dream. This picturesque crimson pathway<br />
gracefully zigzags through lush mangrove forest with verdant<br />
mountains as a serene backdrop. Take the chance to connect with the<br />
island’s rich ecosystem and discover the beauty that lies outside the<br />
vibrant island life.<br />
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47
KOH CHANG & BEYOND<br />
Waterfall Escapades<br />
Need a break from the salty sea? Dive<br />
into the beauty <strong>of</strong> Koh Chang’s stunning<br />
waterfalls for a refreshing splash <strong>of</strong> fun.<br />
Here are some <strong>of</strong> our favourites:<br />
KHLONG NONSI<br />
WATERFALL<br />
For a more secluded<br />
natural shower, Klong<br />
Nonsi Waterfall is<br />
an excellent choice.<br />
Accessible via a<br />
charming trek along a<br />
lush trail, this peaceful<br />
cascade may not boast<br />
towering heights but<br />
it <strong>of</strong>fers an intimate<br />
oasis perfect for a<br />
refreshing morning or<br />
afternoon dip.<br />
KHLONG PHLU WATERFALL<br />
As the largest cascade on Koh Chang, Khlong Phlu<br />
promises plenty <strong>of</strong> excitement, starting with a tranquil<br />
nature trail that winds through lush forest before<br />
reaching the waterfall. Take a dip for a refreshing<br />
change from beach swimming.<br />
Underwater<br />
Journey<br />
With its plethora <strong>of</strong> diving<br />
sites, Koh Chang is a true<br />
haven for discerning divers.<br />
Among them, the HTMS<br />
Chang Wreck stands as our<br />
favourite spot beneath the<br />
waves, captivating us time<br />
after time with its charming –<br />
and haunting – beauty.<br />
HTMS CHANG WRECK<br />
Intentionally sunk in<br />
2012 to create a thriving<br />
artificial reef, this grand<br />
vessel has a storied past.<br />
Once known as the USS<br />
Lincoln County (LST-<br />
898), it was a US Navy<br />
tank-landing ship that<br />
served in WWII and<br />
the Korean War before<br />
being passed on to the<br />
Royal <strong>Thai</strong> Navy. Now<br />
resting on the seabed,<br />
this historic relic has<br />
transformed into a<br />
lively marine habitat<br />
and a thrilling dive site,<br />
inviting adventurous<br />
souls to explore.<br />
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47
KOH CHANG & BEYOND<br />
Island<br />
Hopping<br />
Koh Kood is a lovely island destination nearby, but we’d love to introduce you to a few<br />
lesser-known gems around Koh Chang that are just as entrancing. These hidden islands<br />
are well worth the boat ride, <strong>of</strong>fering a journey to paradise <strong>of</strong>f the beaten path.<br />
KOH WAI<br />
Escape to this little heaven for a blissful day <strong>of</strong><br />
swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling. With just a<br />
handful <strong>of</strong> charming accommodations and limited<br />
electricity, Koh Wai embraces a minimalist vibe that<br />
encourages you to soak in the present moment. Just<br />
a short boat ride from Koh Chang, it also makes the<br />
perfect spot for day-trippers or those who want to<br />
play Robinson Crusoe while keeping the comforts <strong>of</strong><br />
the larger island close at hand.<br />
KOH NGAM<br />
Let the tranquillity wash<br />
over you at Koh Ngam. This<br />
gem is easily reached by<br />
boat, or if you dare, why<br />
not paddle over in a kayak<br />
for a little workout? The<br />
island’s distinctive shape<br />
with two peaks bridged by<br />
a glistening white sandbar<br />
has earned it the charming<br />
nickname <strong>of</strong> Koh Phi Phi <strong>of</strong><br />
the Koh Chang Archipelago.<br />
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47
KOH CHANG & BEYOND<br />
เกาะช้้าง อััศจรรย์์ทะเลไทย์<br />
อััญมณีีแห่่งภาคตะวัันอัอัก จุุดห่มายปลายทางที ตอับโจุทย์ผู้้ต้้องการห่ลบลี<br />
จุากควัามวั่่นวัาย<br />
ภููเก็ต้ เกาะสมุยิ และกรัะบี เป็นสถึานทุี ของอ่ทุยิานแห่่งชาติิหมู่่เกาะช้าง จัังห่วััดี<br />
ท่่องเทุียิวัลำาดีับต้้นๆ สำาห่รัับผู้้ที่่ ต้้องการั ต้รัาดี บนเกาะมีสิงอำานวัยิควัามสะดีวัก<br />
แห่วักว่่ายิในท้้องทุะเลสีเทุอร์์คอยิส์์และ ห่ลากห่ลายิ ไม่ว่่าจำะเป็นบังกะโลไปจำนถึึง<br />
สัมผู้ัสผู้ืนทุรัายิขาวัสะอาดี แต่่สำาห่รัับคน โรังแรัมและรีีสอร์์ตส ุดีห่รั้ และร้้านอาห่ารั<br />
ทุีแสวังห่าควัามสงบ ต้้องการัห่ลีกหน ี ทุี มีให้้เลือกสรัรั เห่มาะกับนักท่่องเทุี ยิวัทุุก<br />
ควัามวั่่นวัายิเพ่อเพลิดีเพลินไปกับท้้อง กลุ่ม สำาห่รัับสถึานทุีท่่องเทุี ยิวับนเกาะ<br />
ทุะเลและทุดีสอบสปิริิต้แห่่งการัผู้จำญภััยิแล้วั<br />
เกาะช้างน่าจำะเป็นจุุดีห่มายิปลายิทุางทุี<br />
เห่มาะเจำาะทีีเดีียิวั เกาะแห่่งนี ได้้รัับการั<br />
ขนานนามว่่ามีธิรัรัมชาติิทุี อุุดมสมบููรณ์์<br />
และมีควัามห่ลากห่ลายิทุางรัะบบนิเวัศทุี<br />
ดึึงดููดน ักท่่องเทุี ยิวัทุังไทุยิและเทุศให้้มา<br />
เยืือนอย่่างไม่ขาดีสายิ ไม่ว่่าจำะเป็นชายิห่าดี<br />
ป่าไม้ และยิอดีเขาส้งทุีกรัะจำายิอยิ้่รัอบเกาะ<br />
บนเกาะยัังอุุดมด้้วัยิสัต้วั์ป่าและพรัรัณ์ไม้<br />
นานาพันธุ์์ เห่มาะสำาห่รัับผู้้ ที่่ ต้้องการค้้นพบ<br />
สิงใหม่่ๆ รัะห่วั่างทุางท่่องเทุี ยิวัพักผู้่อน<br />
เกาะช้างเป็นเกาะทุีมีขนาดีใหญ่่เป็น<br />
อันดัับสามของปรัะเทุศไทุยิ และเป็นส่วันห่นึง<br />
นอกจำากห่าดียิอดน ิยิมอย่่างห่าดีไก่แบ้<br />
ห่าดีทุรัายิขาวั และโลนลีบีช ห่รัือห่าดีห่วัายิ<br />
แฉกทุีเห่มาะสำาห่รัับผู้้้รัักควัามเป็นส่วัน<br />
ตััวัแบบสุดีๆ แล้วั บนเกาะยัังมีนำาต้กอย่่าง<br />
นำาต้กคลองพล้และนำาต้กคลองนนทุรัี<br />
ทุีจำะช่วัยิเปลียินบรัรัยิากาศจำากการั<br />
ว่่ายินำาเล่นในทุะเล มาเป็นการักรัะโดีดีลง<br />
ไปสัมผู้ัสควัามเย็็นชุ่มฉำาของสายินำา<br />
ผู้้ที่่ รัักการัเดิินป่ายัังสามารัถึสัมผู้ัสกับ<br />
ควัามห่ลากห่ลายิทุางธิรัรัมชาติิและ<br />
ควัามเขียิวัขจีีของเกาะช้างต้ามเส้นทุาง<br />
ศึกษัาธิรัรัมชาติิเขาแห่ลม ห่รัือศึกษัา<br />
ธิรัรัมชาติิรัะบบนิเวัศต้ามเส้นทุางป่า<br />
ตามเข็็มนาฬิิกาจากบน<br />
ท่่าเรืืออ่าวบางเบ้า<br />
เป็็นจุดท่่นักท่่องเท่่ยว<br />
สามารืถข็้นเรืือ<br />
เพื่่อไป็ท่่องเท่่ยวตาม<br />
เกาะต่างๆ ใกล้้เคีียง<br />
การืแสดงไฟ<br />
บนชายหาดยามคีำาคีืน<br />
ซากเรืือหล้วงช้าง<br />
เป็็นอ่กจุดดำานำาไฮไลต์์<br />
ข็องเกาะช้าง<br />
ชายิเลนสลักเพชรั นอกจำากนี เกาะช้าง<br />
ยัังมีควัามลับใต้้ท้้องทุะเลสำาห่รัับผู้้ที่่<br />
ชื นชอบการัดีำานำาให้้สำารัวัจำ โดียิแหล่่ง<br />
ดำำานำายิอดน ิยิมคือซ้ากเรืือห่ลวังช้าง<br />
เรืือห่ลวังจำากรัาชนาวีีไทุยิทุีมีปรัะวััติิศาสต้รั์<br />
มาอย่่างยิาวันาน ภัายิห่ลังจำากปลดีรัะวัาง<br />
กองทััพเรืือได้้จำมเรืือลงเพ่อสร้้างเป็น<br />
แนวัปะการัังเทีียิม ปัจำจำุบัน ซ้ากเรืือห่ลวัง<br />
ช้างถืือเป็นแหล่่งขุมทุรััพย์์ใต้้สมุทุรัทุี<br />
อุุดมสมบููรณ์์ทุี สุดีแห่่งห่นึง สำาห่รัับผู้้ที่่<br />
อยิากลองสัมผู้ัสเกาะอืนๆ ในกลุ่มอ่ทุยิาน<br />
แห่่งชาติิหมู่่เกาะช้าง ยัังสามารัถึใช้<br />
เกาะช้างเป็นฐานต้ังต้้นในการัออกสำารัวัจำ<br />
เกาะรัอบๆ ได้้ ทุั งเกาะกููด เกาะห่วัายิ และ<br />
เกาะง่าม ซ้ึงรัับปรัะกันได้้ว่่ามีควัามสวัยิ<br />
และมีกิจำกรัรัมต่่างๆ ให้้ทำำาไม่แพ้เกาะช้าง<br />
แน่นอน<br />
48
EXPERIENCE THAI CUISINE WITH A MODERN TWIST:<br />
FROM LOCAL FARMS TO GLOBAL PLATES<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> cuisine has won hearts worldwide with its perfect<br />
blend <strong>of</strong> flavours, but beyond the familiar Phad <strong>Thai</strong><br />
and Kaeng Kheo Waan (green curry) lie a wealth <strong>of</strong><br />
local treasures that tell a richer story. At Phensiri, we’re<br />
on a mission to bring these hidden gems to the global<br />
stage with a fresh twist.<br />
Sourcing the Best <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
Local Ingredients<br />
We source the finest ingredients<br />
directly from <strong>Thai</strong>land’s lush farms<br />
and lively markets. From the zesty<br />
fragrance <strong>of</strong> kaffir lime leaves to the<br />
punch <strong>of</strong> organic <strong>Thai</strong> chillies, our<br />
farm-to-table approach ensures<br />
every dish is bursting with flavours<br />
and freshness while supporting<br />
local farmers and artisans.<br />
Global Presentation with<br />
an Authentic Heart<br />
Phensiri’s menu blends traditional<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> techniques with modern,<br />
global presentation. Imagine a<br />
beautifully deconstructed Tom Yum,<br />
or mango sticky rice reinvented<br />
into shareable bites. We stay true to<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> roots while <strong>of</strong>fering a dining<br />
experience that’s visually stunning<br />
and globally appealing.<br />
More Than Just a Meal –<br />
A Cultural Experience<br />
Dining at Phensiri isn’t just<br />
about food – it’s about culture.<br />
Each dish takes you on a culinary<br />
journey through <strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
vibrant regions. Our chefs infuse<br />
passion into every bite, sharing<br />
stories and traditions passed down<br />
through generations.<br />
Sustainability and Tradition<br />
Hand-in-Hand<br />
We’re proud to work closely with<br />
eco-conscious <strong>Thai</strong> farmers,<br />
ensuring that the ingredients<br />
used honour both the land and the<br />
people behind them. At Phensiri,<br />
dining supports a sustainable food<br />
system that embraces authenticity<br />
and community.<br />
Join Us in Bringing <strong>Thai</strong> Cuisine<br />
to the World<br />
Whether you’re a <strong>Thai</strong> food<br />
enthusiast or a curious newcomer,<br />
Phensiri <strong>of</strong>fers an unforgettable<br />
experience that celebrates the best<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land’s culinary heritage, with<br />
a modern twist. Join us in bringing<br />
these vibrant flavours to the global<br />
stage – one dish at a time.<br />
Phensiri <strong>Thai</strong> Restaurant<br />
80/30 Moo 3, Suanuthit Road, Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 81 753 6767 | www.phensiri.com<br />
facebook.com/PhensiriKohSamui
TRADITIONS UNVEILED<br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
Words Ron Emmons<br />
Photos Ron Emmons & Shutterstock<br />
Fabulous Floating<br />
Festivals<br />
What<br />
to see and do at the Loy<br />
Krathong and Yi Peng festivals<br />
Every year, at the full moon in<br />
<strong>Nov</strong>ember (this year on the 15th),<br />
something wonderful happens to<br />
waterways throughout the Kingdom<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land. After dark, locals and visitors<br />
alike come to the riverside holding krathong<br />
– lotus-shaped floats adorned with flowers,<br />
incense sticks and a candle.<br />
Then they light the candle, raise the<br />
float to their foreheads in silent prayer<br />
and release it onto the river to be carried<br />
away by the ceaseless flow; this action <strong>of</strong><br />
floating is called loy in <strong>Thai</strong>. Multiply it by<br />
thousands, and the river’s surface becomes<br />
a glistening band studded with gems,<br />
echoing the stars above.<br />
Meanwhile, others prepare to launch<br />
khom loy or sky lanterns into the night sky.<br />
These consist <strong>of</strong> a cylinder <strong>of</strong> rice paper held<br />
at top and bottom by rings <strong>of</strong> bamboo strips,<br />
with a wax coil and sometimes a string <strong>of</strong><br />
firecrackers at the bottom.<br />
When the coil is ignited, the heat pulls the<br />
lantern skyward and the people holding it make a<br />
wish as they let it sail into the night sky. As with<br />
the twinkling band <strong>of</strong> krathong on the river’s<br />
surface, these delicate airborne lanterns drift<br />
away in unison, creating a heavenly vision <strong>of</strong><br />
thousands <strong>of</strong> glowing lights soaring towards the<br />
stars. For two nights these actions are constantly<br />
repeated in <strong>Thai</strong>land’s loveliest festival, called<br />
Loy Krathong, or Yi Peng in the North.<br />
50
51
TRADITIONS UNVEILED<br />
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?<br />
But what’s the difference between<br />
Loy Krathong and Yi Peng?<br />
Basically, Loy Krathong is a<br />
nationwide event, while Yi Peng is<br />
held only in the North and dates<br />
back to the time before the region<br />
became part <strong>of</strong> Siam in 1932.<br />
As mentioned, Loy Krathong<br />
means to float a krathong. Yi<br />
(sometimes written yee) means<br />
two and peng is the day <strong>of</strong> the full<br />
moon, so the name denotes the<br />
date <strong>of</strong> this festival, on the second<br />
full moon <strong>of</strong> the northern lunar<br />
calendar. This aligns with the 12th<br />
lunar month in the rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land.<br />
By popular legend, Loy<br />
Krathong originated in 13th century<br />
Sukhothai, when Nang Noppamas,<br />
a consort <strong>of</strong> King Ramkhamhaeng,<br />
crafted a beautiful krathong that<br />
she floated on the river. No such<br />
fable is attached to Yi Peng, which<br />
simply marks the end <strong>of</strong> the rainy<br />
season and the beginning <strong>of</strong> the<br />
cool season.<br />
The main activity at Loy<br />
Krathong is the making and<br />
releasing <strong>of</strong> krathong as an <strong>of</strong>fering<br />
to Mae Khongkha, the goddess <strong>of</strong><br />
water, to express thanks for the<br />
liquid that sustains life. Yi Peng<br />
by contrast is characterised by the<br />
launch <strong>of</strong> khom loy to let go <strong>of</strong><br />
bad feelings and embrace a new<br />
beginning. Some people write out<br />
their wish and attach it to the<br />
sky lantern.<br />
However, these days krathong<br />
and khom loy are released<br />
everywhere, and the two festivals<br />
happen at the same time, so visitors<br />
don’t need to fret about which<br />
festival to favour, as activities are<br />
similar throughout the country (for<br />
local variations, see box).<br />
FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES<br />
AND BELIEFS<br />
Both festivals have their roots in<br />
Brahmanism and share similarities<br />
with India’s Diwali, the ‘festival <strong>of</strong><br />
Clockwise from Top<br />
The beautiful Loy<br />
Krathong parade<br />
Giant illuminated<br />
krathong<br />
Colourful lanterns<br />
made <strong>of</strong> paper<br />
Traditional<br />
performance to<br />
wow visitors at Loy<br />
Krathong parade<br />
Opposite<br />
Thousands <strong>of</strong> sky<br />
lanterns illuminate<br />
the night sky<br />
The main activity at Loy Krathong is the making<br />
and releasing <strong>of</strong> krathong as an <strong>of</strong>fering to the<br />
goddess <strong>of</strong> water, while Yi Peng, by contrast,<br />
is characterised by the launch <strong>of</strong> khom loy<br />
into the sky to let go <strong>of</strong> bad feelings and embrace<br />
a new beginning<br />
52
53
TRADITIONS UNVEILED<br />
lights’. During the festival, <strong>Thai</strong>s<br />
light small clay votive lamps called<br />
phang pratheep in front <strong>of</strong> their<br />
houses, and many decorate their<br />
gateways with banana stems and<br />
coconut fronds.<br />
One reason this is such an<br />
enjoyable time for visitors to<br />
the kingdom is that it’s easy to<br />
participate in as well as watch<br />
events. Hotels and guest houses<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten organise krathong-making<br />
sessions where visitors learn<br />
how to decorate a slice <strong>of</strong> banana<br />
stem with waxy leaves in the<br />
shape <strong>of</strong> lotus petals, and then<br />
affix flowers, incense sticks and a<br />
candle to the base.<br />
Besides thanking Mae Khongkha<br />
for nourishing the crops, releasing<br />
a krathong is also a chance to let go<br />
<strong>of</strong> any negative feelings and wipe<br />
the slate clean. To symbolise this,<br />
many <strong>Thai</strong>s add a lock <strong>of</strong> their hair,<br />
a clip <strong>of</strong> their fingernails and a coin<br />
to their krathong.<br />
Some believe that if a couple<br />
release their krathong at the same<br />
time, the route taken by the floats<br />
is an indicator <strong>of</strong> the future <strong>of</strong><br />
Clockwise from Top<br />
Parade participants<br />
holding phang<br />
pratheep<br />
Colourful krathong<br />
Khom kwaen<br />
outside guest house<br />
their relationship. If they glide<br />
downstream together with their<br />
candles flickering brightly, all will<br />
be well, but if they diverge or the<br />
candles go out, the omens are not<br />
so good.<br />
Making khom loy is not as easy<br />
as making krathong, but they are<br />
cheap to buy, and many hotels hand<br />
them out to guests.<br />
As with krathong, at the<br />
moment <strong>of</strong> releasing a sky lantern,<br />
we should also let go <strong>of</strong> any grudges<br />
that we harbour towards our fellow<br />
humans and make a fresh start.<br />
54
TRADITIONS UNVEILED<br />
PARADES AND LANTERNS<br />
While floating krathong and<br />
launching khom loy form the<br />
highlight <strong>of</strong> these festivals, there<br />
are plenty <strong>of</strong> other activities such<br />
as colourful parades, beauty-queen<br />
competitions, firework displays and<br />
cultural performances.<br />
Apart from khom loy, several<br />
other types <strong>of</strong> lantern feature in the<br />
festival, especially in Chiang Mai,<br />
which also includes a lantern parade<br />
on the evening before the small and<br />
big krathong parades, making three<br />
evenings <strong>of</strong> pageantry.<br />
The simplest lantern is the<br />
khom thue, or portable lantern,<br />
which features in the parade, while<br />
khom kwaen are star-shaped or<br />
diamond-shaped and are used to<br />
beautify housefronts and shops. The<br />
most intricate are khom phat, or<br />
fan lanterns, which consist <strong>of</strong> two<br />
concentric cylinders that revolve<br />
when heated by a lamp inside to<br />
create a moving image.<br />
Top Three<br />
Thousands <strong>of</strong> sky<br />
lanterns dot the sky<br />
Left: from Top<br />
to Bottom<br />
Holding home-made<br />
krathong<br />
Preparing to release<br />
khom loy<br />
A SUSTAINABLE FESTIVAL?<br />
Ironically, there is a downside to all<br />
these well-intentioned efforts to<br />
honour the goddess <strong>of</strong> water and to<br />
aim for the stars with sky lanterns,<br />
as the debris from the festival leaves<br />
an unsightly mess come daylight.<br />
However, environmental<br />
awareness seems to be growing, and<br />
these days most participants are<br />
careful to select or make a krathong<br />
made <strong>of</strong> natural products that blend<br />
back into the environment without<br />
causing harm.<br />
These floating festivals attract<br />
more and more visitors each year,<br />
but let’s hope that their bonding<br />
spirit will ensure that this inspiring<br />
spectacle continues to be re-enacted<br />
far into the distant future.<br />
WHERE TO SEE THE FLOATING FESTIVALS:<br />
BANGKOK: Take a dinner cruise<br />
on the Chao Phraya River, watch the<br />
shows at Asiatique Riverside or go to a<br />
temple such as Wat Arun.<br />
PHUKET: Float your krathong or<br />
khom loy at Patong Beach, Karon Lake<br />
or Nai Harn Lake.<br />
SUKHOTHAI: Book a ticket for<br />
the light & sound show (https://www.<br />
facebook.com/sukhothailoykrathong/)<br />
that portrays the legendary origins <strong>of</strong><br />
this festival, from <strong>Nov</strong>ember 8-16.<br />
CHIANG MAI: Watch the<br />
lantern, small krathong and big<br />
krathong parades on Tha Pae Road,<br />
float a krathong from a riverside<br />
restaurant or join a mass release<br />
<strong>of</strong> sky lanterns such as https://<br />
yipengchiangmailanternfestival.com/.<br />
TAK: Watch a string <strong>of</strong> thousands <strong>of</strong><br />
krathong made <strong>of</strong> coconut shells float<br />
downstream from the footbridge over<br />
the Ping River.<br />
56
TRADITIONS UNVEILED<br />
หลงใหลในเทศกาลไทย์<br />
ห่ากมีแผู้นจุะไปชมเทศกาลลอัยกระทงและเทศกาลยี เป็ง ห้้ามพลาดสิ่่งเหล่่านี <br />
ตระการตาแสงไฟ<br />
ในวัันขึ้้น 15 ค่ำำขึ้องเดืือนพฤศจิิกายนทุุกปีี<br />
(ปีีน้เป็็นวัันทุ้ 15) สายธารลำำนำทุุกหน<br />
แห่งในปีระเทุศไทุยได้้เป็็นสักขึ้ีพยานขึ้อง<br />
ปีระเพณี้ทุ้สืบทุอดืมาอย่างยวันานอย่าง<br />
เทุศกลำลำอยกระทุง ผู้้้ค่ำนทุั งชวัไทุยแลำะ<br />
เทุศต่่างหลำังไหลำออกมริมแม่นำยามค่ำำค่ำืน<br />
พร้อมกับกระทุงทุ้ ต่กแต่่งอย่างสวัยงาม<br />
ด้้วัยดือกไม้ ธููปเทีียน ก่อนจิะอธิษฐานถึึง<br />
พระแม่ค่ำงค่ำ แล้้วัปีลำ่อยกระทุงให้ลำอยไปี<br />
กับสายนำ เป็็นทุ้มขึ้องชือเทุศกลำ ภาพ<br />
กระทุงหลำยพันชินทุ้ม้เทีียนส่องสว่่างลำอย<br />
อย้่บนกระแสนำ ราวกัับอัญมณีีระยิบระยับ<br />
ทุ้ส่องปีระกายบนผู้ืนนำ สะท้้อนภาพท้้องฟ้้า<br />
ทุ้ เต็็มไปีดื้วัยดืวังดืวันับล้้านเบืองบน<br />
ในเทุศกลำน้ ยังม้กิจิกรรมอ้กอย่างค่ำือ<br />
การปีลำ่อยโค่ำมลำอยขึ้้นส้่ทุ้องฟ้้ายามราตรีี<br />
ตััวัโค่ำมทำำมจิกกระดืษสาแลำะโค่ำรงไม้ไผู้่<br />
ขึ้้างในใส่ไส้เทีียนเอาไว้้ หรือบางทุ้ก็ผู้้ก<br />
ปีระทััดืเอาไว้้ทุ้ ก้นโค่ำม เมือจุุดืไส้เทีียน<br />
ค่ำวัมร้อนจิะพาตััวัโค่ำมลำอยขึ้้นฟ้้า ส่วันค่ำน<br />
ทุ้ถืือโค่ำมไว้้ก็จิะอธิษฐานก่อนปีลำ่อยโค่ำม<br />
ออกไปี บนพ้นนำม้กระทุงลำอยระยิบระยับ<br />
บนผู้ืนฟ้้ก็ม้โค่ำมลำอยทุ้ล่่องไปีมา ปีระกอบ<br />
กันเป็็นภาพแสงไฟ้เล็็กๆ หลำยพันดืวังทุ้<br />
ลำอยขึ้้นส้งส้่ทุ้องฟ้้า กิจิกรรมเหล่่น้มัก<br />
เกิดืขึ้้นในช่วังสองวัันขึ้องเทุศกลำลำอย<br />
กระทุง หรือทุ้เรียกกันในภค่ำเหนือว่่า<br />
เทุศกลำย้เป็็ง<br />
ความต่างในความเหมือัน<br />
แม้เทุศกลำลำอยกระทุงแลำะย้ เป็็งจิะ<br />
ค่ำลำ้ายค่ำลำึงกัน แต่่ก็ยังแต่กต่่างกันอย้่<br />
เล็็กน้อย โดืยลำอยกระทุงนันเป็็นการ<br />
เฉลิิมฉลำองทุั วัปีระเทุศ ในขึ้ณีะทุ้ ย้เป็็ง<br />
นันอย้่แค่ำ่ในภค่ำเหนือขึ้องไทุยเท่่นั น<br />
แลำะถืือกำเนิดตั้้งแต่่ก่อนทุ้ ล้้านนาถููก<br />
ผู้นวักเขึ้้าเป็็นส่วันหนึ งขึ้องสยามเมือ<br />
พ.ศ.2475 เส้ยอ้ก<br />
นอกจิกน้ ชือเรียกแลำะทุ้มขึ้องทุังสอง<br />
เทุศกาลย ังแต่กต่่างกัน โดืยลำอยกระทุง<br />
หมายถึึงการ “ลำอย” กระทุงออกไปีในสายนำ<br />
ส่วันค่ำำว่่า “ย้ ” หมายถึึงสอง แลำะ “เป็็ง”<br />
หมายถึึงวัันพระจัันทร ์เต็็มดืวัง ชือเรียกจึึง<br />
ระบุวัันขึ้องเทุศกลำน้ทุ้ต่รงกับวัันพระจัันทร์์<br />
เต็็มดืวังหรือวัันเพ็ญเดืือนสองขึ้องปีฏิิทิิน<br />
จัันทุรค่ำต่ิล้้านนา ซึ่่งต่รงกับเดืือนสิบสอง<br />
ต่มปีฏิิทิินจัันทุรค่ำต่ิทุั วัปีระเทุศไทุย<br />
ตำำนานเล่่ขึ้นว่่า จุุดกำำเนิดืขึ้อง<br />
เทุศกลำลำอยกระทุงเกิดืขึ้้นเมือศต่วัรรษทุ้<br />
13 สมัยอณีจิักรสุโขึ้ทุัย นางนพมาศ<br />
สนมเอกขึ้องพ่อขึุ้นรามค่ำำแหง ได้้ปีระดิิษฐ์<br />
58
กระทุงสำหรับลำอยในแม่นำ แต่่กลัับไม่<br />
ปีรากฏิต่ำนานใดืๆ ทุ้เก้ยวัขึ้้องกับเทุศกลำ<br />
ย้เป็็ง ม้เพียงแค่ำ่ค่ำวัมสำค่ำัญว่่าเทุศกลำ<br />
เป็็นสัญญาณบ่่งบอกว่่าฤดููฝนสินสุดืลำง<br />
แลำะฤดููหนวัได้้เริมต้้นขึ้้น<br />
การเฉลิมฉลอังและความเช้ือั<br />
ปีระเพณี้ทุั งสองอย่างล้้วันม้รากฐานมา<br />
จิกค่ำวัมเชือขึ้องศาสนาพราหมณ์์ ในช่วัง<br />
เทุศกลำ ผู้้้ค่ำนจิะจุุดืไฟ้ในผู้งปีระทุ้ปีหรือ<br />
ถ้้วัยทุ้ ทำำจิกดิินเผู้แลำะต่ังไว้้หน้บ้าน<br />
หลำยค่ำนก็ร่วัมสนุกด้้วัยการต่กแต่่ง<br />
ทุงเดิินด้้วัยต้้นกล้้วัยแลำะทุงมะพร้วั<br />
ไปเทศกาลที<br />
ไหนดีี:<br />
กรุงเทพฯ:<br />
แนะนำให้้จอง<br />
ดิินเนอร์์บนเรืือล่่อง<br />
แม่่นำเจ้าพร์ะยา<br />
ชม่กร์แสดิงที่่<br />
เอเช่ยที่่ค ห้ร์ือ<br />
เย่ยม่ชม่วััดิ เช่น<br />
วััดิอรุุณ ซึ่่งเป็็น<br />
ตััวัเลืือกที่่น่าสนใจ<br />
เพร์ะมีีพร์ะป็ร์งค์<br />
วััดิอรุุณเป็็น<br />
ฉากห้ล่ังที่่ช่วัยเพ่ม่<br />
ควัม่ป็ร์ะที่ับใจ<br />
เชีีย์งใหม่:<br />
ตัร์ะกร์ตัไปก ับ<br />
ขบวันพาเห้ร์ดิโคม่<br />
แล่ะกร์ะที่งน้อยให้ญ่่<br />
ที่่โล่ดิแล่่นไป็ตัม่<br />
ถนนที่่าแพ แล่ะร่่วัม่<br />
ล่อยกร์ะที่งจากร้้าน<br />
อห้ร์ร์ิม่นำสักแห่่ง<br />
ห้ร์ือไป็ร์่วัม่ป็ล่่อย<br />
โคม่ล่อยที่่<br />
https://yipeng<br />
chiangmailantern<br />
festival.com<br />
เหตุุผู้ลำหนึงทุ้ นักท่่องเทุ้ยวัค่ำวัรมา<br />
เย้ยมชมเทุศกลำน้ค่ำือทุุกค่ำนสามารถึเขึ้้า<br />
ร่วัมกิจิกรรมต่มปีระเพณี้น้ได้้<br />
พาเหรดีและโคมลอัย์<br />
การลำอยกระทุงแลำะการปีลำ่อยโค่ำมลำอย<br />
อจิเป็็นไฮไลำต่์หลัักขึ้องปีระเพณีี แต่่ขึ้ณีะ<br />
เดีียวก ัน ยังม้กิจิกรรมทุ้ น่าสนใจิให้นัก<br />
ท่่องเทุ้ยวัได้้สัมผู้ัสอ้กมาก ทุังขึ้บวัน<br />
พาเหรดืต่ระการต่ การปีระกวัดืนาง<br />
นพมาศ โชว์์ดือกไม้ไฟ้ แลำะการแสดืงทุง<br />
วััฒนธรรมต่่างๆ<br />
นอกจิกโค่ำมลำอย ยังม้โค่ำมปีระเภทุอืนๆ<br />
ในเทุศกลำน้เช่นกัน โดืยเฉพาะเช้ยงใหม่<br />
ซึ่่งเป็็นสถึนทุ้ยอดน ิยมสำหรับเทุศกลำ<br />
ย้เป็็ง ในช่วังเย็นก่อนวัันลำอยกระทุงมักม้<br />
การจััดืพาเหรดืขึ้บวันโค่ำม ต่มด้้วัยขึ้บวัน<br />
ปีระกวัดืปีระชันกระทุงทุังเล็็กแลำะใหญ่<br />
โค่ำมแบบง่ายทุ้ สุดืเรียกว่่าโค่ำมถืือทีี<br />
สามารถึถึือไปีไหนมาไหนได้้ แลำะปีรากฏิอย้่<br />
ในขึ้บวันพาเหรดื ส่วันโค่ำมแขึ้วันนั นมา<br />
ในร้ปีดืวัหรือเพชร มักใช้แขึ้วันต่กแต่่ง<br />
หน้บ้านหรือร้านค่ำ้า โค่ำมทุ้ต่กแต่่งวิิจิิต่ร<br />
ต่ระการตาสุุดื เรียกว่่าโค่ำมผู้ัดื หรือโค่ำมทุ้ม้<br />
ภาพต่รงทุ้ ค่ำรอบ เมือจุุดืไฟ้แล้้วั ทุ้ค่ำรอบ<br />
จิะหมุน ทำำให้เกิดืเงาสะท้้อนขึ้องภาพ<br />
บอกเล่่าเรืองรวัในตััวัภาพได้้<br />
ขึ้บวันในพาเหรดที่่ต่กแต่่งอย่างปีระณี้ต่<br />
ซึ่่งแล่่นไปีต่มท้้องถึนน เหล่่น้ปีรากฏิ<br />
เป็็นภาพพญานค่ำแลำะมังกร เทุวัดืแลำะ<br />
กษัตร ิย์ทุ้สรรสร้างอย่างวิิจิิต่ร นอกจิกน้<br />
ยังม้ผู้้้เขึ้้ปีระกวัดืนางนพมาศทุ้ นั ง<br />
เรียบร้อยอย้่บนขึ้บวันรถึ ในมือถืือกระทุง<br />
พร้อมกับยิมอย่างอ่อนโยนให้แก่ผู้้ค่ำนทุ้มา<br />
เฝ้ชื นชมต่ลำอดืเส้นทุง<br />
คำาถามว่าด้้วย์ความย์ังยืืน<br />
เรืองต่ลำกร้ายกลัับกลำยเป็็นว่่ปีระเพณีี<br />
เหล่่น้เกิดืขึ้้นจิกค่ำวัมต่ังใจที่่ จิะขึ้อขึ้มา<br />
เทุพธิดืแห่งสายนำ แลำะขึ้อพรให้ถึึงดืวังดืวั<br />
แต่่ผู้ลำทุ้ได้้ค่ำือขึ้ยะปริิมณีมหาศาลที่่เกิดืขึ้้น<br />
หลัังจิบเทุศกลำลำง<br />
ยังดื้ทุ้ ว่่าปััจิจิุบันผู้้้ค่ำนเริมต่ืนตััวัถึึง<br />
ผู้ลำกระทุบต่่อสิงแวัดืลำ้อมกันมากขึ้้น อ้กทุัง<br />
นักท่่องเทุ้ ยวัแลำะผู้้้ค่ำนทุ้ เขึ้้ร่วัมงานลำอย<br />
กระทุงต่่างเลืือกใช้กระทุงทุ้ ทำำจิกวััสดุุ<br />
ธรรมชาติิ ซึ่่งสามารถย่่อยสลำยได้้แลำะ<br />
ไม่ก่อให้เกิดอ ันต่ราย<br />
ในแต่่ลำะปีี เทุศกลำลำอยกระทุงแลำะ<br />
ลำอยโค่ำมย้เป็็งดึึงดููดน ักท่่องเทุ้ยวัให้มา<br />
เย้ยมชมเป็็นจำำนวันมาก หวัังว่่ค่ำวัมผู้้กพัน<br />
แลำะค่ำวัมนิยมทุ้ ม้ต่่อเทุศกลำน้ จิะช่วัย<br />
ส่งเสริมแลำะสานต่่อปีระเพณี้ทุ้ ดำำเนินมา<br />
อย่างยวันานน้ให้สืบทุอดืต่่อไปี<br />
ภููเก็ต:<br />
ล่อยกร์ะที่งห้ร์ือ<br />
ป็ล่่อยโคม่ล่อยที่่<br />
ห้ดิยอดน ิยม่<br />
อย่างห้ดิป็่ตัอง<br />
ห้ดิกะร์น ห้ร์ือ<br />
ห้ดิในห้น<br />
สุโขทัย์:<br />
อย่าพล่ดิตััวั<br />
เข้าชม่กร์แสดิง<br />
ไฮไล่ตั์ของสุโขที่ัย<br />
อย่างกร์แสดิง<br />
แสง ส่ เส่ยง<br />
(https://www.<br />
facebook.com/<br />
sukhothailoy<br />
krathong/)<br />
บอกเล่่าตำำนาน<br />
ควัม่เป็็นม่ของ<br />
เที่ศกล่ กร์แสดิง<br />
จัดิร์ะห้วั่าง 8-16<br />
พฤศจิกายนน่ <br />
ตาก:<br />
ชม่ภาพที่ิวัแถวั<br />
กร์ะที่งที่่ที่ำจาก<br />
กะล่ม่ะพร้้วั<br />
ห้ล่ยพันชินล่่อง<br />
ไป็ตัม่ล่ำนำปิิง<br />
59
SUKHOTHAI’S SECRETS<br />
60
A Dive Into<br />
Words and photos Pinanong Panchuen<br />
Sukhothai’s<br />
Culture, History, and Flavours<br />
Explore the hidden depths <strong>of</strong> this northern province, where<br />
food, art and traditions weave a unique <strong>Thai</strong> tapestry<br />
The serene beauty <strong>of</strong><br />
Sukhothai, <strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
first capital, is<br />
synonymous with<br />
ancient temples, timeless art,<br />
and the <strong>Thai</strong> nation’s deeprooted<br />
history. Yet just a short<br />
distance away from this Unesco<br />
Heritage Site, the treasures <strong>of</strong><br />
Sawankhalok and Si Satchanalai<br />
testify to the local ingenuity<br />
and vibrant everyday life <strong>of</strong><br />
this northern province.<br />
Though <strong>of</strong>ten overshadowed<br />
by the archaeological riches <strong>of</strong><br />
their neighbour, Sawankhalok<br />
and Si Satchanalai still pulse<br />
with Sukhothai’s centuries-old<br />
legacy <strong>of</strong> culinary traditions,<br />
textile crafts, and creativity.<br />
Together, these two<br />
destinations <strong>of</strong>fer travellers a<br />
rich journey through <strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
past and present, unveiling<br />
intimate connections between<br />
tradition and modern culture.<br />
A <strong>Thai</strong>-inspired afternoon tea set at<br />
Ban Mayura Tea House, Sawankhalok<br />
61
SUKHOTHAI’S SECRETS<br />
KHAO POEP YAI KRUEANG:<br />
CULINARY LEGACY OF SUKHOTHAI<br />
No ordinary dish, Khao Poep<br />
Yai Krueang is a culinary time<br />
capsule created 50 years ago by Yai<br />
Krueang Wongsaranasin, inspired<br />
by a simple craving for noodles. A<br />
thin sheet <strong>of</strong> rice flour is steamed<br />
and then folded (“poep”) over<br />
vegetables, eggs, and succulent<br />
red pork before being drowned in<br />
savoury pork bone broth.<br />
A visit to Ban Na Ton Chan,<br />
the home <strong>of</strong> this historic dish,<br />
allows travellers to see how it<br />
is made and understand how<br />
food traditions preserve not just<br />
flavours but also Sukhothai’s<br />
strong sense <strong>of</strong> community.<br />
For another local twist on<br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land’s familiar noodle dishes,<br />
try Khao Bae: delicate rice noodles<br />
served with red pork and<br />
crunchy peanuts.<br />
Location: Ban Na Ton Chan,<br />
Si Satchanalai District, Sukhothai<br />
Open daily 8.30am to 5pm.<br />
CHOMPRANG HOUSE: BETWEEN HISTORY AND MODERNITY<br />
Chomprang House is more than traditional homes he transformed<br />
just a boutique hotel; it’s a tribute into Chomprang House serve as a<br />
to the balance between tradition bridge between past and present,<br />
and modernity in Sukhothai.<br />
with warm, homely elements<br />
Conceptualised by Sophon balanced by meticulous service.<br />
Plueksang, a local deeply connected Guests can enjoy dishes made<br />
to his hometown, Chomprang House from the freshest local ingredients<br />
embodies his dream <strong>of</strong> reviving a at the in-house restaurant or<br />
forgotten heritage. Inspired by the take afternoon tea while feasting<br />
iconic silhouette <strong>of</strong> the Prang at Wat on the view <strong>of</strong> the ancient prang.<br />
Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, the hotel Comfort, tradition, and historic<br />
merges classic architecture with the surroundings make Chomprang<br />
comforts <strong>of</strong> modern living.<br />
House more than just a place to<br />
Sophon chose the plot for its rest – it provides a momentary<br />
proximity to Sukhothai’s ancient escape into Sukhothai’s golden age.<br />
temples, and the hotel’s design Location: 98/1 Si Satchanalai<br />
mirrors the beauty and elegance District, Sukhothai<br />
<strong>of</strong> these historic structures. The Facebook: Chomprang House<br />
Clockwise from Top<br />
Khao Bae: Small dry<br />
noodles with red<br />
pork, crispy pork<br />
crackling, spiced<br />
with chilli flakes,<br />
sugar, lime juice,<br />
and peanuts<br />
Khao Phan:<br />
Seasoned vermicelli<br />
wrapped in s<strong>of</strong>t<br />
rice sheets<br />
Yai Kham Krueng<br />
Wongsaranasin:<br />
The creator <strong>of</strong><br />
Khao Poep<br />
From Left to Right<br />
Private dining<br />
room at<br />
Chomprang House<br />
A guest room at<br />
Chomprang House<br />
Luk Chup: A sweet<br />
treat for guests<br />
Chomprang House:<br />
A beautifully<br />
restored historical<br />
wood home<br />
62
THE TWELVE CUTTING UNITS: A FUSION OF ART AND HOSPITALITY<br />
Sukhothai’s famed Twelve<br />
restaurant <strong>of</strong>fers elegantly<br />
Cutting Units is an artistic<br />
prepared rustic and flavourful<br />
sanctuary that doubles as a unique dishes that reflect the simplicity <strong>of</strong><br />
dining and lodging experience. Sukhothai’s culinary heritage. The<br />
Named after the traditional Tai three rooms <strong>of</strong> this boutique gem<br />
Phuan weaving pattern, this<br />
showcase the traditional aesthetic<br />
establishment celebrates the <strong>of</strong> the region, connecting patrons<br />
artisanal craftsmanship for which with the local artistry, textiles, and<br />
this region is renowned. The warmth that define Sukhothai.<br />
intricate design, with its 12 hooks In a place like Sawankhalok,<br />
forming the iconic motifs found where historical resonance runs<br />
on traditional Sukhothai textiles, deep, this fusion <strong>of</strong> art, hospitality,<br />
serves as the foundation for this and community creates a living<br />
culturally immersive space.<br />
museum <strong>of</strong> the region’s identity.<br />
Twelve Cutting Units welcomes Location: Yan Yao, Sawankhalok<br />
guests into a world where art District, Sukhothai<br />
and tradition harmonise. The Open daily 10am to 8pm.<br />
Clockwise from<br />
Top Left<br />
Twelve Cutting<br />
Units: A restaurant<br />
and guesthouse in<br />
Sawankhalok<br />
A cosy guest room<br />
at Twelve<br />
Cutting Units<br />
A selection <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong><br />
desserts, including<br />
flower-shaped Alua,<br />
Thong Aek, Saneh<br />
Jan and Tong Yod<br />
topped with ant eggs<br />
A relaxing corner at<br />
Ban Mayura<br />
BAN MAYURA TEA HOUSE:<br />
WHERE TRADITION MEETS<br />
INNOVATION<br />
Ban Mayura Tea House redefines<br />
the <strong>Thai</strong> tea experience with its<br />
unique blend <strong>of</strong> local tradition and<br />
contemporary presentation. Named<br />
after its founding family, Ban Mayura<br />
captures the essence <strong>of</strong> Sawankhalok’s<br />
charm through the pairing <strong>of</strong> delicate<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> sweets and artisanal teas.<br />
Co-founder Pop Wutthipat and his<br />
partner Narapong Mayura<br />
returned from bustling <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />
to their hometown with a mission<br />
– to make tea a more accessible,<br />
everyday pleasure.<br />
Their tea house emphasises<br />
simplicity, <strong>of</strong>fering signature brews<br />
like Cha Suan Sawan (Paradise<br />
Garden Tea) and Cha Suan Dok<br />
Mai (Flower Garden Tea), made<br />
with local herbs and flowers. The<br />
experience extends beyond the tea<br />
itself – beautiful <strong>Thai</strong> sweets like<br />
Kanom Alua and Kanom Sam Pun<br />
Nee, present visitors with a taste <strong>of</strong><br />
Sawankhalok’s culinary artistry.<br />
Stepping into Ban Mayura feels<br />
like entering a serene retreat. The<br />
focus here is on encouraging visitors<br />
to slow down, savour, and appreciate<br />
the simplicity <strong>of</strong> good tea and<br />
delightful sweets amid Sawankhalok’s<br />
peaceful ambience. It’s a perfect<br />
fusion <strong>of</strong> local pride and modern<br />
tastes, making Ban Mayura a mustvisit<br />
for those who want to experience<br />
Sawankhalok’s s<strong>of</strong>ter side.<br />
Location: Pracharat Road,<br />
Sawankhalok District, Sukhothai<br />
Open daily 11am to 6pm<br />
(closed Wednesdays)<br />
63
SUKHOTHAI’S SECRETS<br />
EUROPEAN-STYLE KUTI AT WAT SAWANKHARAM:<br />
AN ARCHITECTURAL CURIOSITY<br />
Among the historical wonders <strong>of</strong><br />
Sawankhalok stands a unique relic<br />
– the European-style kuti at Wat<br />
Sawankharam. This three-storey<br />
building is a rare example <strong>of</strong> Western<br />
architectural influence in <strong>Thai</strong>land’s<br />
northern provinces. Constructed in the<br />
early 20th century by Luang Kamhaeng<br />
Singhanat, an architect who studied in<br />
Germany, the kuti reflects the merging<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong> religious architecture with<br />
European design principles.<br />
The kuti’s elegant design, with<br />
its towering facade and intricate<br />
woodwork, tells a story <strong>of</strong> cultural<br />
exchange and modernisation<br />
during a period when <strong>Thai</strong>land was<br />
engaging with Western powers.<br />
Inside, the space serves a dual<br />
purpose: housing the relics <strong>of</strong><br />
Phra Buddha Luearit and acting as<br />
a living example <strong>of</strong> architectural<br />
innovation in rural <strong>Thai</strong>land.<br />
The kuti introduces visitors to<br />
the blend <strong>of</strong> Eastern and Western<br />
influences that shaped Sawankhalok’s<br />
historical trajectory. It stands as<br />
a reminder <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land’s openness<br />
to global ideas balanced with<br />
the preservation <strong>of</strong> its distinct<br />
spiritual heritage.<br />
Location: Sawankharok District, Sukhothai<br />
Top & Bottom<br />
European-Style<br />
Kuti at Wat<br />
Sawankharam:<br />
Designed by<br />
Hok Liang<br />
Sunonant, a<br />
German-educated<br />
architect, and built<br />
by a skilled<br />
Chinese artisan<br />
64
SUKHOTHAI’S SECRETS<br />
SAWANKHALOK<br />
POLICE STATION:<br />
A HISTORICAL RELIC<br />
Overlooking the Yom River,<br />
Sawankhalok Police Station is<br />
a living piece <strong>of</strong> history. Built<br />
before 1939, when Sawankhalok<br />
was still a province, this wooden<br />
structure is one <strong>of</strong> the few<br />
surviving examples <strong>of</strong> early<br />
government architecture. Its<br />
hip-ro<strong>of</strong> design and teak wood<br />
construction give it an air <strong>of</strong><br />
timelessness, evoking the charm<br />
<strong>of</strong> a bygone era. Today, the<br />
station stands as a tribute to the<br />
diligent <strong>of</strong>ficers who served in<br />
this region during its provincial<br />
days. The site is not only a place<br />
<strong>of</strong> historical significance but<br />
also a reminder <strong>of</strong> Sukhothai’s<br />
enduring commitment to<br />
preserving its heritage.<br />
Location: Sawankhalok District,<br />
Sukhothai<br />
Top:<br />
The historic jail cell inside<br />
the old police station<br />
Bottom Left:<br />
Police desk and secure<br />
storage, resembling a<br />
detainee’s holding cell<br />
Bottom Right:<br />
The old Sawankhalok Police<br />
Station, a stunning two-storey<br />
wooden structure from WWII<br />
66
RONG NA BAAN RAI ART FARM: SUKHOTHAI’S CREATIVE HEART<br />
Nestled in Sawankhalok, the Rong <strong>of</strong> the area. The farm is an ideal<br />
Na Baan Rai Art Farm is a creative destination for travellers seeking<br />
haven where art, nature, and more than just passive sightseeing –<br />
local life intersect. Founded by it’s an opportunity to create, learn,<br />
renowned author and poet Sanya and immerse oneself in the essence<br />
Panichyayavech, the farm functions <strong>of</strong> Sukhothai’s artistic traditions.<br />
as an art studio, a workshop space, Visitors leave the farm with more<br />
and a rural retreat. Sanya, better than just memories, carrying with<br />
known by his pen name Nok Kawi, them a deeper understanding <strong>of</strong> how<br />
envisioned a place where visitors creativity is interwoven with the<br />
could engage in artistic activities daily life <strong>of</strong> the people in this part<br />
while connecting with the age-old <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land. Through the lens <strong>of</strong> art<br />
rhythms <strong>of</strong> rural life.<br />
and nature, Rong Na Baan Rai <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />
Workshops at Rong Na Baan Rai fresh perspective on Sawankhalok and<br />
range from papermaking to<br />
Sukhothai’s evolving cultural story.<br />
traditional cookery, <strong>of</strong>fering handson<br />
experience that reflects the Sawankhalok District, Sukhothai<br />
Location: Wang Mai Khon,<br />
artistic and agricultural heritage Facebook: rongnabaanrai<br />
Clockwise from Top<br />
Art Workshops at<br />
Rong Na Baan Rai:<br />
Dive into painting,<br />
fabric dyeing, and<br />
other creative<br />
activities and<br />
discover that anyone<br />
can make art<br />
Charming<br />
Souvenirs: Adorable<br />
keepsakes available<br />
for purchase<br />
Art in Every Corner:<br />
Every space at<br />
Rong Na Baan Rai<br />
is infused<br />
with creativity<br />
67
SUKHOTHAI’S SECRETS<br />
สุโขทัย์...ซ่่อันไว้ให้ค้นหา<br />
สิ่ัมผู้ัสิ่กล่นอัายประเพณีี ประวััต่ศาสิ่ตร์ และสิ่ีสิ่ันทีซุุกซ่่อันอยู่่ตามอำำาเภอั<br />
ต่างๆ ในเมือังห่ลวังแห่่งแรกขอังไทย สิ่่งเล็กๆ น้้อยๆ เหล่่านี ได้้หลอัมรวัม<br />
เป็นสิ่ายธารแห่่งวััฒนธรรมขอังชาต่ที สิ่ืบเนือังมาถึึงปัจุจุุบัน<br />
เมื อพูดีถึึงสุโขทััยิ ห่ลายิคนมักนึกถึึงวััดี<br />
โบรัาณ์และแหล่่งปรัะวััติิศาสต้รั์ของชาติิ<br />
แต่่ห่ากลองสำารัวัจำพ่ นทุี รัอบๆ อย่่าง<br />
ศรีีสัชนาลัยิและสวัรัรัคโลก จำะพบว่่าทุั ง<br />
สองอำาเภัอก็มีศิลปวััฒนธิรัรัมและวิิถีีชีวิิต้<br />
ของผู้้้คนทุี น่าค้นห่าเช่นกัน ไม่ว่่าจำะเป็น<br />
อาห่ารั งานศิลปะ และควัามสร้้างสรัรัค์จำาก<br />
พลังขับเคลือนของยุุคสมัยที่่ ผู้สมเข้ากับ<br />
เสน่ห์์โบรัาณที่่ช่วัยิเติิมเต็็มควัามสมบููรณ์์<br />
ด้้านปรัะวััติิศาสต้รั์ของจัังห่วััดสุุโขทััยิ<br />
ข้าวเป๊บย์าย์เคร่อัง: สูตรเด็็ดีในตำานาน<br />
เรัิมด้้วัยิอาห่ารัพ่นเมืองอย่่างข้าวัเปิบ<br />
ยิายิเครัืองทุีมีชือเสียิงโด่่งดัังมากว่่า 50 ปี<br />
ส้ต้รัเด็็ดีของคุณ์ยิายิเครัือง วังศ์สารสิิน ทุี<br />
นำาของกินท้้องถึินอย่่างข้าวัแคบมาผู้สม<br />
กับการันึ ง ทำำาให้้ได้้แผู้่นแป้งลักษัณ์ะคล้ายิ<br />
กับข้าวัเกรีียิบปากหม้้อ และเพ่มควัามอร่่อยิ<br />
ด้้วัยิผู้ัก ไข่ และหม ูแดีงทุี มาพร้้อมนำา<br />
ขลุกขลิกรัสชาติิเข้มข้น โดียิคำาวั่าเปิบนัน<br />
เป็นภัาษัาถึินทุีสือควัามว่่า “พับ”<br />
อีกเมน้ห่นึ งทุี มีลักษัณ์ะคล้ายก ันคือ<br />
ข้าวัแบ ห่รัือก๋วัยิเต้ี ยิวัทุีมาพร้้อมกับ<br />
หม ูแดีงและถึัวป่่น ซ้ึงมีรัสชาติิเฉพาะตััวั<br />
เมน้เหล่่านี ได้้รัับการัยิกย่่องให้้เป็นมรัดีก<br />
ด้้านอาห่ารัของจัังห่วััดี และเป็นจุุดีเรัิมต้้น<br />
ทุีดีีสำาห่รัับนักท่่องเทุี ยิวัทุี อยิากลิมลอง<br />
รัสชาติิแบบสุโขทััยิแท้้ๆ<br />
บ้านนาต้นจั น อ.ศรีีสัชนาลััย จ.สุโข็ท่ัย<br />
เปิิดทุุกวัน ตังแต่ 8.30 น. ถึง 17.00 น.<br />
บ้านช้มปรางค์: ด้้วยร ักและทันสมัย์<br />
บ้ทุีคโฮเต็็ลกลาง อ.ศรีีสัชนาลัยิ แห่่งนี<br />
เกิดีข้นจำากควัามฝัันและสำน ึกรัักบ้านเกิดี<br />
ของคุณ์โสภัณ์ ปล้กสร้้าง ทุี รัักในมรัดีก<br />
ท้้องถึินและมุ่งมันถ่่ายิทุอดีปรัะสบการัณ์์<br />
และการัต้้อนรัับทุีทำำาให้้ผู้้มาเยืือนปรัะทัับใจำ<br />
ในควัามรุ่่มรัวัยิของวััฒนธิรัรัมปรัะจำำถิ่่น<br />
คุณ์โสภัณ์ได้้เลือกทุี ดิินเพ่อทำำาเป็น<br />
บ้านชมปรัางค์ โดียิคำน ึงถึึงรัะยิะทุางทุี<br />
สามารัถึมองเห็็นวััดีโบรัาณ์ของสุโขทััยิ<br />
สถึาปัต้ยิกรัรัมและการัออกแบบต่่างๆ ของ<br />
โรังแรัมยัังสะท้้อนควัามสง่างามและควัาม<br />
รุ่่งเรืืองจำากครัังอดีีต้ ผู้่านการัต้้อนรัับ<br />
และบรัรัยิากาศทุี แสนอบอ่่น<br />
98/1 อ.ศรีีสัชนาลััย จ.สุโข็ท่ัย<br />
Facebook: Chomprang House<br />
สิบสอังหน่วยต ัดี: ศาสตร์แห่งศิลปะและ<br />
การโรงแรม<br />
สิบสองหน่่วัยิต้ัดีห่มายิถึึงลายิผู้้าทุอของ<br />
ชาวัไทุยิพวันแบบห่นึ ง ซ้ึ งการัเลือกใช้ชือ<br />
เช่นนั นสะท้้อนถึึงควัามต้้องการส่่งเสริิม<br />
ศิลปวััฒนธิรัรัมท้้องถึิน สิบสองหน่่วัยิ<br />
ตััดีเป็นทุั งทุี พัก ร้้านอาห่ารั และแหล่่งฮีล<br />
ใจำของเหล่่าศิลปิน รัวัมถึึงผู้้ที่่ต้้องการั<br />
หล ีกเร้้นห่าควัามสงบ นอกจำากนี ยััง<br />
พร้้อมถ่่ายิทุอดีปรัะสบการัณ์์งานศิลป์<br />
ผู้้าถัักทุอ และควัามอบอ่่นทุีเป็น<br />
เอกลักษัณ์์ของเมืองสุโขทััยิให้้แก่ผู้้้มา<br />
เยืือนทุุกคนอีกด้้วัยิ<br />
ต.ย่านยาว อ.สวรืรืคีโล้ก จ.สุโข็ท่ัย<br />
เปิิดทุุกวัน ตังแต่ 10.00 น. ถึง 20.00 น.<br />
บ้านมยุุราขนมไทย์และช้าอัอัแกนิก:<br />
กรุ่นกลินใบช้าและวัฒนธรรม<br />
บ้านมยุุรัานำาปรัะสบการัณ์์การัจำิบชามา<br />
ถ่่ายิทุอดีใหม่่ผู้่านวััฒนธิรัรัมท้้องถึิน<br />
และการนำำาเสนอในรููปแบบร่่วัมสมัยิ ร้้าน<br />
ชาแห่่งสวัรัรัคโลกขวััญใจำผู้้้มาเยืือนแห่่ง<br />
นีถ่่ายิทุอดีเสน่ห์์ของเมืองด้้วัยิชาทุีเบ<br />
ลนด์์มาเฉพาะตััวั จัับค้่กับขนมไทุยิทุี<br />
สวัยิทุั งรููปและรัสอย่่างขนมอาลัวัและ<br />
ขนมสัมปันนี สููตรดั้้งเดิิมของครัอบครััวั<br />
ซ้ึ งต้รังกับควัามต้้องการัของเจ้้าของ<br />
อย่่างคุณป๊๊อป วั่ฒิภััทุรั และคุณ์นรัา<br />
พงษ์์ มยุุรัา ค้่คิดีของคุณป๊๊อป ทุี<br />
ต้้องการัใช้ชาเป็นเครัืองดีื มทุี ใครก ็<br />
สามารัถึเอ็นจำอยิได้้ทุุกวััน<br />
ถนนป็รืะชารืาษฎร์์ อ.สวรืรืคีโล้ก จ.สุโข็ท่ัย<br />
เปิิดตังแต่ 11.00 น. ถึง 18.00 น.<br />
(หยุดทุุกวันพืุ่ธ)<br />
กุฏิิฝรัง วัดีสวรรคาราม: ความแปลกตาทางสถาปัตย์กรรม<br />
สิงห่นึ งทุีโดีดีเด่่นออกมาจำากมรัดีกทุางสถึาปัต้ยิกรัรัมในเมือง<br />
สวัรัรัคโลกคือกุฏิิฝรั่่ง ณ์ วััดีสวัรัรัคารัาม อาคารัสามชั นนี เป็น<br />
ตััวัอย่่างสถึาปัต้ยิกรัรัมทุี ได้้รัับอิทุธิิพลจำากต้ะวัันต้ก ซ้ึ งถืือว่่า<br />
ห่าได้้ยิากมากในภัาคเหน ือ อาคารัห่ลังนีสร้้างข้นเมื อต้้น<br />
ศต้วัรัรัษัทุี 20 เป็นผู้ลงานการัออกแบบของห่ลวังกำาแห่งสิงห่นาทุ<br />
สถึาปนิกทุีได้้รัับการศ ึกษัาจำากเยิอรัมนี และได้้รัับคำาชืนชมว่่า<br />
สามารัถึสอดีแทุรักเอกลักษัณ์์ทุางศาสนาของไทุยิเข้ากับหล ัก<br />
การัออกแบบสไตล์์ยุุโรัปได้้อย่่างลงตััวั<br />
อ.สวรืรืคีโล้ก จ.สุโข็ท่ัย<br />
โรงพักสวรรคโลก: บันทึกประวัติศาสตร์<br />
โรังพักแห่่งนี สร้้างข้นก่อน พ.ศ. 2482 สมัยที่่ อ.สวัรัรัคโลก<br />
ยัังเป็นจัังห่วััดีอยู่่ โดียิโครังสร้้างไม้สักของโรังพักสวัรัรัคโลกเป็น<br />
ตััวัอย่่างสถึาปัต้ยิกรัรัมของหน่่วัยิงานรััฐในยุุคเรัิมต้้นทุีเหล ือ<br />
เพียิงไม่กีแห่่งในปัจำจำุบัน ควัามคลาสสิคดัังกล่าวั อาจำจำะเป็น<br />
เห่ตุ้ผู้ลว่่าทำำาไมสถึานทุีแห่่งนีจึึงยืืนห่ยิัดีทุ้าทุายิกาลเวัลามา<br />
จำนถึึงทุุกวัันนี นอกจำากนี โรังพักสวัรัรัคโลกยัังเป็นสถึานทุีเพ่อ<br />
รัะลึกถึึงเจ้้าหน้้าทุีผู้้้ปฏิิบัติิงานอย่่างอุุตสาห่ะในอดีีตอ ีกด้้วัยิ<br />
อ.สวรืรืคีโล้ก จ.สุโข็ท่ัย<br />
โรงนาบ้านไร่: สุขใจกับศิลปะ<br />
ปลดีปล่อยิควัามสร้้างสรัรัค์ไปกับศิลปะ ธิรัรัมชาติิ และวิิถีีชีวิิต้<br />
ท้้องถึินทุีโรังนาบ้านไร่่ ทุี ๆ ผู้้ก่่อต้ังอย่่างอาจำารัยิ์สัญญา<br />
พานิชย์์เวัช ห่รัือ “นกกวีี” ได้้แรังบันดีาลใจำมาจำากควัาม<br />
ต้้องการที่่อยิากให้้ผู้้้มาเยืือนได้้มีส่วันร่่วัมในกิจำกรัรัมเชิงศิลปะ<br />
พร้้อมกับสัมผู้ัสปรัะสบการัณ์์การัเกษัต้รัทุ้องถึิน กิจำกรัรัมทุี<br />
นีมีทุั งการัทุำากรัะดีาษัสาไปจำนถึึงการัทุำาอาห่ารัพ่นเมือง<br />
ทุี สะท้้อนภั้มิปัญญาและมรัดีกท้้องถึิน โรังนาบ้านไร่่เป็นสถึานทุีๆ<br />
เปิดีโอกาสให้้ทุุกคนได้้ลองสร้้างสรัรัค์ เรีียินรั้้ และดีื มดีำาไปกับ<br />
ภั้มิปัญญาทุางศิลปะทุี เป็นอัตล ักษัณ์์ของสุโขทััยิได้้อย่่างเต็็มทุี<br />
ต.วังไม้ข็อน อ.สวรืรืคีโล้ก จ.สุโข็ท่ัย<br />
Facebook: โรืงนาบ้านไร่่<br />
จากบนล้งล่่าง<br />
โรืงนาบ้านไร่่<br />
ศูนย์ศิล้ป็ะท่่ามกล้าง<br />
ธรืรืมชาติอันรืืนรืมย์<br />
ข็นมไท่ยในชุดนำาชา<br />
ยามบ่ายท่่บ้านมยุรืา<br />
ศิล้ป็ะวัตถุใน<br />
บ้านชมป็รืางค์์ท่่ม่<br />
เรืืองรืาวเล่่าข็านถึง<br />
วันวานท่่งดงาม<br />
68
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO<br />
Savour the Sunset<br />
As the sun gives way to a<br />
canopy <strong>of</strong> stars on Choengmon<br />
Beach, your table nestles on<br />
the sand amid the scent <strong>of</strong><br />
sea air mingling with freshly<br />
prepared seafood and aromatic<br />
herbs. Flickering lanterns<br />
cast playful shadows on the<br />
waves as they caress the shore.<br />
Each course surprises with<br />
bold <strong>Thai</strong> flavours, perfectly<br />
complementing the serene,<br />
secluded setting <strong>of</strong> your<br />
romantic escape on Koh Samui.<br />
SAMUI 72 / PHUKET 76 / CHIANG MAI, PATTAYA 78 / BANGKOK 79 / HONG KONG, SINGAPORE 80 / MALDIVES, SIEM REAP 81<br />
Photo: Pi Samui<br />
71
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Guilt-free<br />
Delicious<br />
Journey<br />
ANNIE eatery&sweetery began as a passion project<br />
15 years ago when its founder experimented with<br />
vegan desserts and cakes for family and friends.<br />
Health-conscious from an early age, she embraced<br />
a gluten- and sugar-free lifestyle but struggled to<br />
find tasty, nutritious options. As her creations gained<br />
popularity among friends, the idea <strong>of</strong> a café took<br />
shape. In 2021, despite the challenges <strong>of</strong> the pandemic,<br />
ANNIE opened its first location on Koh Samui,<br />
thanks to the support <strong>of</strong> the Pavilion Hotel owners.<br />
Starting with a small menu <strong>of</strong> comfort food<br />
and her signature gluten-free, sugar-free vegan<br />
desserts, the eatery soon expanded to meet the<br />
growing demand for plant-based meals. Today,<br />
ANNIE boasts four locations, including Central<br />
Festival Samui and Fisherman Village, serving<br />
over 100 vegan-friendly dishes daily. Whether<br />
you’re local or just visiting Koh Samui,<br />
stop by to enjoy wholesome meals<br />
and guilt-free treats. Tel: +66 (0)<br />
95 091 4760, www.instagram.com/<br />
annie.sweetery<br />
FIND YOUR CAT-LIKE CALM<br />
Seeking your zen home in Samui?<br />
Look no further than Black Cat &<br />
White Cat Studio in Lamai. This serene<br />
sanctuary <strong>of</strong>fers an exclusive island<br />
yoga experience, welcoming both<br />
beginners and seasoned yogis. With<br />
daily classes available for all levels, you<br />
can choose from either group sessions<br />
or personalised practice, exploring<br />
various styles including Kundalini,<br />
Hatha, and Yin yoga.<br />
Black Cat & White Cat also <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />
range <strong>of</strong> other holistic healing programmes,<br />
such as Reiki, gong baths, Tibetan soundbowl<br />
massages, and energy cleansing. For<br />
those looking for something beyond just<br />
sunbathing and swimming, Black Cat &<br />
White Cat provides the perfect escape.<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 80 007 1601, www.facebook.com/<br />
yogacatsamui<br />
Photos: Black Cat & White Cat<br />
DINING WITH THE GIANTS<br />
Prepare for an extraordinary dining<br />
experience at Wild Child Organic<br />
Kitchen, nestled within the eco-luxury<br />
Wild Cottages Elephant Sanctuary<br />
Resort in Bophut. In partnership with<br />
Samui Elephant Haven, the resort<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers a unique opportunity to stay in<br />
harmony with rescued elephants who<br />
roam freely across the grounds.<br />
The magic continues at the Wild<br />
Child Organic Kitchen, where you<br />
can indulge in farm-to-plate <strong>Thai</strong><br />
cuisine infused with Mediterranean<br />
flair. Every dish is crafted using fresh<br />
produce grown in their own organic<br />
garden, enjoyed alongside expertly made<br />
cocktails and overlooking the majestic<br />
views <strong>of</strong> the sanctuary.<br />
With its open-air dining area, wood<br />
furniture and serene décor, this space<br />
exudes tranquillity. Views <strong>of</strong> the gorgeous<br />
pool, and the awe-inspiring sight <strong>of</strong> elephants<br />
roaming freely, make Wild Child Organic<br />
Kitchen and unmatched dining experience<br />
on Samui. Tel: +66 (0) 62 375 5786,<br />
www.wild-cottages.com<br />
Photos: ANNIE eatery&sweetery<br />
Anna Kirakosyants,<br />
founder and Vegan Pasty Chef<br />
Photos: Wild Child Organic Kitchen<br />
72
SAMUI<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Fairytale<br />
Magic on<br />
Horseback<br />
Discover Lipa Noi Beach in a whole<br />
new way with Fisherman Horse Riding<br />
Samui, as you saddle up for a magical<br />
adventure. This horse-riding centre<br />
is dedicated to creating unforgettable<br />
experiences while treating their horses<br />
like family. Visitors can ride with peace<br />
<strong>of</strong> mind, knowing that the horses receive<br />
premium care, including high-quality<br />
feed, regular health checks, and plenty<br />
<strong>of</strong> time and space to roam freely.<br />
Your adventure begins with a visit<br />
to a beautiful temple before a gallop<br />
along the beach amid the sea breeze<br />
and gentle waves. The tour continues<br />
through coconut palms and culminates<br />
in a relaxing sunset ride along Lipa<br />
Noi Beach, to bask in the glow <strong>of</strong> the<br />
golden hour.<br />
With horses ranging from small<br />
ponies to medium-sized and larger<br />
imported breeds, this tour caters to<br />
riders <strong>of</strong> all ages, making it a perfect<br />
activity for families. Tel: +66 (0) 61 869<br />
952, www.instagram.com/fisherman.<br />
horse.riding<br />
CHIC LA FABRIQUE<br />
Craving a crusty baguette, French pastry or<br />
a hearty continental meal? Then head to<br />
La Fabrique French Bakery for its perfect<br />
three-in-one culinary blend <strong>of</strong> bakery, c<strong>of</strong>fee<br />
shop and restaurant.<br />
Each dish at La Fabrique is a slice <strong>of</strong> France,<br />
bursting with authentic imported ingredients and expertly<br />
crafted flavours. The all-day breakfast <strong>of</strong>fers a tempting<br />
array <strong>of</strong> scrumptious sandwiches, baked goods and more<br />
substantial bites. But no French bakery would be complete<br />
without buttery, flaky pastries and decadent cakes, so make<br />
sure to treat yourself to a croissant or rich melt-in-your-mouth<br />
confection with a perfect cup <strong>of</strong> c<strong>of</strong>fee. Caffeine-free options<br />
include fresh milkshakes and smoothies.<br />
With branches in Lamai, Chaweng and Bangrak, La Fabrique<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers boulangerie buffs on Koh Samui easy access to<br />
their daily fix. Opening hours vary, so be sure to<br />
check in advance. Tel: +66 (0) 93 601 1770,<br />
www.instagram.com/lafabriquesamui<br />
Photos: Pi Samui<br />
Photos: La Fabrique French Bakery<br />
Photos: Fisherman Horse Riding Samui<br />
FEAST OF DREAMS<br />
Named after the mathematical constant, Pi Samui <strong>of</strong>fers flavourful<br />
perfection in the strikingly beautiful setting <strong>of</strong> Choengmon Beach.<br />
On <strong>of</strong>fer is a delicious medley <strong>of</strong> Italian, Mediterranean and <strong>Thai</strong><br />
flavours at any time <strong>of</strong> the day. Bring your friends for a relaxed brunch or<br />
get cosy with your beloved during a magical romantic dinner at twilight.<br />
Fan <strong>of</strong> sundowners? Check out their irresistible cocktails – each<br />
crafted to Instagramably pristine perfection. No dining experience is<br />
complete without a sweet finale, so be sure to indulge in one <strong>of</strong> their<br />
utterly delectable desserts. Tel: +66 (0) 93 438 4995, www.pisamui.com<br />
73
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
SAMUI<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Phensiri’s<br />
Cocktail Triumph<br />
Samui’s beloved fine-dining gem,<br />
Phensiri, shone bright at Krabi’s<br />
Reeve Mixology Competition <strong>2024</strong><br />
this year, where their talented staff<br />
secured a spot among the final 23 and<br />
finished as second runners-up. Dubbed<br />
“Beach, Vibe, Dine”, the competition<br />
showcased the pristine charm <strong>of</strong><br />
Ao Nang Beach while celebrating<br />
the art <strong>of</strong> cocktails infused with<br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land’s own Phraya Rum.<br />
Phensiri’s award-winning cocktails<br />
evoke the vibrant flavours <strong>of</strong> Koh<br />
Samui, using local ingredients to<br />
perfectly complement their Southern<br />
<strong>Thai</strong> classics. Diners can indulge in<br />
a gourmet feast brimming with bold<br />
umami flavours, paired with creative<br />
concoctions that add a delightful <strong>Thai</strong><br />
twist to every sip. Delicious!<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 81 753 6767, www.phensiri.com<br />
Photos: Phensiri<br />
Photos: Samui Electric Motorbike<br />
EXPLORING SAMUI’S WILDS<br />
Weave through lush greenery, discovering hidden views<br />
and secluded natural wonders <strong>of</strong> Samui’s wilderness on<br />
an exhilarating private tour with Samui Electric Motorbike.<br />
Choose between two exciting options: a 45-minute<br />
expedition for 1,500 baht or a two-hour adventure for<br />
3,000 baht. Both are ideal for those seeking a more<br />
immersive exploration <strong>of</strong> Samui’s stunning landscapes.<br />
Hop on one <strong>of</strong> the ultra-light, 55-kilo motorbikes and<br />
feel the thrill as you zip through the forest at speeds <strong>of</strong><br />
up to 75 kilometres per hour. All safety gear is provided,<br />
allowing riders to enjoy the sensation <strong>of</strong> speed with<br />
reassuring security. Perfect for families and friends aged 16<br />
and up looking to create unforgettable memories together.<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 96 086 5880, www.samui-electrip.com/fr<br />
BREAD OF HEAVEN<br />
For a slice <strong>of</strong> culinary paradise,<br />
head to 88% Artisan Bread,<br />
where sourdough loaves are<br />
lovingly crafted using traditional<br />
fermentation techniques for an<br />
impressive 88% hydration.<br />
Beyond traditional natural<br />
leavening and top-notch unrefined<br />
flour, time and Koh Samui’s unique<br />
climate run through each loaf. The<br />
island’s breezy sunshine creates the<br />
perfect environment to nurture the<br />
natural starter and infuse each loaf<br />
with a taste <strong>of</strong> tropical magic.<br />
The restaurant dreams up<br />
delicious sides to go with their bread,<br />
like irresistible hummus with sesame<br />
oil, shakshuka and even homemade<br />
salami. Enjoy these delectable<br />
<strong>of</strong>ferings in a charming, old-school<br />
wooden house by the sea, the<br />
fittingly cosy setting <strong>of</strong> 88% Artisan<br />
Bread. Tel: +66 (0) 83 209 9391,<br />
www.instagram.com/88_artisan_bread<br />
Photos: Vaela Gulhasopha<br />
74
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Paradise With Pillows<br />
Nestled amid lush greenery in Phuket, A Blanket and A Pillow <strong>of</strong>fers a tranquil<br />
escape with stunning views. The café’s minimalist décor, floor to ceiling windows<br />
and cosy corners with plush cushions make for a relaxing experience. Adding to<br />
the laid-back vibe is the self-service counter, where guests can order delicious,<br />
Instagram-worthy dishes like Truffle Scrambled Eggs and Coconut Pancakes. These<br />
can be paired with refreshing beverages like Iced Matcha Latte or a smooth Flat White.<br />
10/1 Laemsai Road Tumbon, Karon, Muang, Phuket, ablanketandapillow.com<br />
Photos: Jeremie Schatz<br />
Photos: Jeremie Schatz<br />
Photos: A Blanket and A Pillow<br />
CULINARY JOURNEY TO NORTH<br />
If you’re craving a taste <strong>of</strong> northern <strong>Thai</strong>land, then look no further than<br />
Muan Jai, a hidden gem nestled in a tranquil garden in a quiet corner <strong>of</strong><br />
the bustling island, with not much else but the Ton Sai Waterfall around.<br />
Muan Jai’s menu features a variety <strong>of</strong> specialities from the North,<br />
though the universally loved Khao Soi (coconut curry with yellow<br />
noodles) is only available at weekends. Think favourites like Nam Phrik<br />
Ong (minced pork and tomato dip), Sai Oua (spicy grilled sausage) and<br />
Gaeng Hung Lay (braised pork red curry). For something truly unique,<br />
try the palate-pleasing young jackfruit salad, spicy<br />
mushroom salad or the grilled sour pork with egg<br />
cooked in banana leaves. 6014, Thep Krasattri, Thalang<br />
District, Phuket, Tel: +66 (0) 96 648 4406<br />
GRILLED GOODNESS<br />
It’s <strong>of</strong>ten said that a great sandwich starts with great bread, and FOLD Sourdough<br />
proves this adage to be true. Sourdough bread is a centuries-old staple that has<br />
gained renewed popularity in recent years, and for good reason too.<br />
If you’re a fan <strong>of</strong> grilled sandwiches, then look no further than this<br />
charming little shop nestled between Naka Weekend Market and<br />
Old Town Phuket. FOLD Sourdough’s simple yet delicious<br />
menu features a variety <strong>of</strong> grilled sandwiches on your choice<br />
<strong>of</strong> regular, brioche or whole wheat sourdough. Don’t miss<br />
the crispy, cheesy chicken pesto, Cubano, or tuna melt<br />
– they’re all highly recommended and addictive. 66/3<br />
Pattana Road, Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket, Phuket,<br />
Tel: +66 (0) 86 350 5531
PHUKET<br />
STYLISH TRIBUTE TO PHUKET’S PAST<br />
Old Town Phuket’s latest addition, Coolie’s Club, is a vibrant and intriguing<br />
lounge and eatery that pays homage to the island’s rich tin-mining industry<br />
and the Chinese immigrants who flocked here centuries ago.<br />
Designed by celebrated architect Bill Bensley, Coolie’s Club channels the<br />
style <strong>of</strong> the brothels, gambling houses and opium dens that once thrived on Soi<br />
Romanee. While the illicit activities <strong>of</strong> the past are long gone, the classy ambience,<br />
weekend live music, expertly crafted cocktails and a seductive menu invites<br />
patrons to experience a taste <strong>of</strong> Phuket’s colourful past. 11 Soi Romanee,<br />
Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket, Phuket, Tel: +66 (0) 63 454 6966<br />
AUTHENTIC DELIGHTS<br />
One <strong>of</strong> the joys <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land’s culinary scene is that you can find exceptionally<br />
delicious food without breaking the bank at a fancy restaurant. Ajarn, a<br />
humble eatery in Chalong, is a perfect example. This unassuming restaurant,<br />
which relies on word-<strong>of</strong>-mouth rather than social-media influencers, <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />
true taste <strong>of</strong> southern <strong>Thai</strong> cuisine.<br />
Ajarn, or teacher in <strong>Thai</strong>, is an apt name for this eatery as it trains your palate<br />
for the rich, bold flavours <strong>of</strong> the South. The curries, such as the savoury s<strong>of</strong>t-shell<br />
crab and the spicy Phad Phet with bitter bean, are particularly noteworthy. Don’t<br />
miss the refreshing banana flower salad, the whole fish cooked tableside<br />
or the Yam Sa Ouen, the signature dish featuring fresh lemongrass, ginger,<br />
fried fish, shrimp, squid and cashews. Chao <strong>Fah</strong> Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong,<br />
Mueang Phuket, Phuket, Tel: +66 (0) 86 281 5598<br />
Photos: Bucha Gallery & Restaurant<br />
Photos: Coolie’s Club<br />
Photos: Jeremie Schatz<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Bucha: Where Flavour Meets Art<br />
Indulge in the vibrant flavours <strong>of</strong> Southern <strong>Thai</strong>land at Bucha Gallery & Restaurant. Led by<br />
renowned Chef Wina Sriyaphong, Bucha <strong>of</strong>fers a captivating blend <strong>of</strong> culinary artistry<br />
in the form <strong>of</strong> classic dishes like the fiery Kanom Jeen Nam Ya, fragrant Khua Kling,<br />
and the irresistible Moo Hong slow-braised pork belly. Each dish is a testament to<br />
Chef Wina’s culinary heritage and passion for preserving traditional flavours.<br />
Beyond its gastronomic delights, Bucha is also a haven for culture buffs. Explore the<br />
extensive collection <strong>of</strong> over 5,000 rare <strong>Thai</strong> amulets and statues, meticulously<br />
curated by founder Udom <strong>Dec</strong>hsakda. The “Bucha Experience” <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />
stylish mix <strong>of</strong> exquisite cuisine and cultural immersion – perfect for<br />
diners who crave something bold, meaningful and unforgettable.<br />
26/156 Chao <strong>Fah</strong> Tawan Ok Rd, Chalong, Mueang Phuket, Phuket,<br />
www.facebook.com/bucharestaurant, Tel: +66 (0) 61 176 5562<br />
77
HAPPENINGS<br />
THAILAND<br />
CHIANG MAI / PATTAYA<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Eco-friendly Extravaganza<br />
Pattaya is poised to host the Wonderfruit Festival,<br />
a unique annual event celebrating art, music, and<br />
sustainability. This year’s dynamic festival features<br />
an eclectic line-up <strong>of</strong> local and international<br />
acts, captivating art installations and immersive<br />
performances. Wonderfruit’s heart is sustainability,<br />
showcasing practices such as waste reduction, renewable<br />
energy and eco-friendly dining. Visitors can participate in<br />
workshops and talks on art, wellness and environmental<br />
issues, blending education with creativity. The festival’s<br />
culinary <strong>of</strong>ferings highlight gourmet street food<br />
and inventive plant-based dishes, reflecting its<br />
commitment to sustainable gastronomy. Held in Siam<br />
Country Club, just west <strong>of</strong> Pattaya Beach, Wonderfruit<br />
fosters a sense <strong>of</strong> community and cultural exchange,<br />
bringing people together to celebrate creativity and<br />
environmental stewardship. With its compelling mix <strong>of</strong><br />
sustainability, engaging activities, and scenic location,<br />
Wonderfruit <strong>2024</strong> promises to be a highlight in<br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land’s festival scene. From <strong>Dec</strong>ember 12 to 15.<br />
Photo: Shutterstock<br />
Photos: Wonderfruit.co<br />
DESIGN ODYSSEY<br />
Prepare for seven days <strong>of</strong> eye-opening creativity as Chiang Mai<br />
Design Week (CMDW) lights up the historic Old Town in <strong>Dec</strong>ember.<br />
This year’s event transforms the city’s charming streets into a<br />
buzzing design playground, where local and foreign talents gather<br />
to showcase cutting-edge design, architecture, fashion and interior<br />
design. Setting this festival apart is its unique fusion <strong>of</strong> contemporary<br />
flair and traditional Lanna culture. Witness artisans seamlessly<br />
blending age-old techniques with modern aesthetics, <strong>of</strong>fering a fresh<br />
perspective on heritage. Engage with designers through interactive<br />
workshops and thought-provoking talks that <strong>of</strong>fer valuable insights<br />
into the creative process. Visitors can also explore the event’s<br />
vibrant markets and pop-up shops, filled with handcrafted items<br />
and innovative products. CMDW is more than just exhibitions, it’s<br />
an invitation to discover Chiang Mai’s neighbourhoods and immerse<br />
yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. From <strong>Dec</strong>ember 7 to 15.<br />
HEALING HARMONIES<br />
<strong>Thai</strong>land’s northern capital vibrates<br />
with soul-stirring rhythms during the<br />
“Chiang Mai Soul: Healing through<br />
Music” festival. This year’s celebration<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers visitors an escape from the fastpaced<br />
world, using the power <strong>of</strong> jazz<br />
to connect and cure. The Old Town,<br />
along with iconic venues like Moment’s<br />
Notice Jazz Club, The Mellowship<br />
Jazz Club and Thapae East, will host<br />
electrifying performances that reflect<br />
Chiang Mai’s vibrant cultural spirit.<br />
The festival promises to transform<br />
the streets into a musical celebration:<br />
Expect smooth rhythms and dynamic<br />
harmonies in an immersive journey<br />
<strong>of</strong> culture and creativity. The magic<br />
culminates with a grand finale at the<br />
Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre, where<br />
music, history and culture weave artistic<br />
enchantment. From <strong>Dec</strong>ember 1 to 8.<br />
Photos: Chiang Mai Street Jazz Festival<br />
78
THAILAND<br />
BANGKOK<br />
TASTE OF TRADITION<br />
At Onggi, food is more than just<br />
a meal – it’s a window into the<br />
soul <strong>of</strong> Korean cuisine. Inspired by<br />
Hanjeongsik, traditional Korean<br />
multi-course meals, this restaurant<br />
proudly preserves the original<br />
fermentation method using onggi<br />
(Korean clay jars). By fermenting<br />
locally sourced ingredients, Onggi<br />
creates a fascinating blend <strong>of</strong><br />
flavours that reflect the essence <strong>of</strong><br />
Korea’s rich fermenting philosophy<br />
and culinary heritage.<br />
Beyond the delicious food,<br />
diners embark on a delightful journey with each dish.<br />
The experience begins with the taste <strong>of</strong> jang, the essential<br />
fermented sauce, and continues through expertly crafted<br />
courses prepared by Chef Injin Kim, a renowned Korean<br />
cultural ambassador in <strong>Thai</strong>land. Level 55, EA, Empire Tower,<br />
1 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa, Sathon; onggibkk.com<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Cinema Under the Stars<br />
Who doesn’t love outdoor<br />
cinema? The cool breeze, the<br />
atmosphere and the magic <strong>of</strong><br />
watching movies under the<br />
stars make for an unforgettable<br />
experience. Since 2016, Skyline<br />
Film has been curating unique<br />
outdoor screenings in <strong>Bangkok</strong>,<br />
featuring a mix <strong>of</strong> international<br />
and local films. Now held<br />
on the ro<strong>of</strong>top <strong>of</strong> River City<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong>, the screenings<br />
become even more magical<br />
with the Chao Phraya River as<br />
a stunning backdrop.<br />
With the rainy season giving<br />
way to cooler evenings, there’s<br />
nothing better than cosying up<br />
with loved ones and enjoying<br />
great films. Check out Skyline<br />
Film’s Facebook page or<br />
Instagram for the latest movie<br />
line-up. Instagram: skylinefilmbkk;<br />
www.facebook.com/skylinefilmbkk<br />
Photos: Onggi<br />
MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA<br />
After lighting up <strong>Bangkok</strong> with endless<br />
fun last year, Maho Rasop returns this<br />
<strong>Nov</strong>ember with a highly anticipated twoday<br />
music and lifestyle extravaganza at<br />
ESC Park. The festival will feature an<br />
eclectic lineup <strong>of</strong> international and local acts,<br />
headlined by French electronica legends AIR, known for<br />
their iconic hit “Playground Love”.<br />
The lineup also includes the vibrant Paradise <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />
Molam International Band, South Korean indie-pop<br />
sensation ADOY, and Japan’s psychedelic trailblazer Shintaro<br />
Sakamoto, plus many more. With three stages hosting acts<br />
like <strong>Thai</strong> indie rockers YONLAPA, <strong>Bangkok</strong>’s instrumental<br />
rock band JPBS, along with techno/EBM artists such as the<br />
Netherlands’ Identified Patient and Kova O’ Sarin, this year’s<br />
Maha Rasop promises to be an unforgettable adventure for<br />
music lovers. <strong>Nov</strong>ember 23-24; mahorasop.com<br />
Photos: Skyline Film<br />
Photos: Mahorasop<br />
79
HAPPENINGS<br />
SINGAPORE / HONG KONG<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
SIX: The Musical<br />
Photos: Marina Bay Sands/Pamela Raith Photography<br />
Photos: Cosford Container Park<br />
The hit musical SIX is<br />
winging in direct from the<br />
West End and Broadway to<br />
take the stage in Singapore.<br />
The British musical comedy,<br />
featuring pop-inspired tunes, has captivated over 3.5 million people<br />
across the world.<br />
Written by Tony Award winners Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the<br />
musical tells the stories <strong>of</strong> King Henry VIII’s six wives. It transforms<br />
these Tudor queens into pop princesses, empowering them to share<br />
their stories through an 80-minute celebration <strong>of</strong> 21st-century<br />
girl power. Fans <strong>of</strong> musicals should make the most <strong>of</strong> a unique<br />
opportunity to catch this multiple-award winning <strong>of</strong>fering in sunny<br />
Singapore. From <strong>Nov</strong>ember 14 to <strong>Dec</strong>ember 1; Sands Theatre, Marina<br />
Bay Sands; www.marinabaysands.com<br />
CHANGI’S HIGH-FLYING HANGOUT<br />
Nestled in the heart <strong>of</strong> Changi, with stunning views <strong>of</strong><br />
the airport’s landing strip, sits the Cosford Container Park.<br />
Spanning 35,000 square feet, this event space and foodie<br />
destination has quickly become one <strong>of</strong> Singapore’s most<br />
hip and happening hangouts.<br />
As a one-stop destination for all ages, Cosford Container<br />
Park boasts both indoor and outdoor dining options<br />
<strong>of</strong>fered by 13 vendors, and also hosts events like live sports,<br />
weekend markets and live music and entertainment. Visitors<br />
can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere while<br />
enjoying an eclectic range <strong>of</strong> culinary choices plus stunning<br />
views <strong>of</strong> airplanes landing and taking <strong>of</strong>f. Open 10am-10pm<br />
daily; www.mountfaberleisure.com<br />
DISCOVER RARE TREASURES<br />
Collectors and fans <strong>of</strong> rare prints will want to mark their calendars for “Firsts Hong<br />
Kong” in <strong>Dec</strong>ember. Revived for <strong>2024</strong>, this fair gathers together international dealers to<br />
showcase a variety <strong>of</strong> rare books, manuscripts, photographs, prints and works on paper<br />
related to Asia and beyond. Held at the impressive Hong Kong Maritime Museum,<br />
the fair will also give visitors a chance to admire rare atlases,<br />
maps, journals and photo books.<br />
Some 30 dealers from across the globe will participate,<br />
presenting their most prized <strong>of</strong>ferings. This event promises to<br />
be a treasure trove for collectors and anyone with a passion<br />
for rare books and prints. <strong>Dec</strong>ember 6-8; Hong Kong Maritime<br />
Museum, 11 Man Kwong St Central Pier No. 8, Hong Kong;<br />
www.firstshongkong.com<br />
Photos: Firsts Hong Kong<br />
80
CAMBODIA / MALDIVES<br />
ADDU ATOLL, MALÉ / SIEM REAP<br />
SPOTLIGHT<br />
Wetland<br />
Wonders<br />
The natural wonders <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Maldives extend far beyond its<br />
pristine beaches and turquoise<br />
waters. Addu Nature Park,<br />
located on the southernmost<br />
atoll, is a protected paradise<br />
brimming with biodiversity.<br />
This nature park is renowned<br />
not only for marine life but<br />
also for its unique terrestrial<br />
ecosystem. Hidden on Hithadhoo<br />
Island is one <strong>of</strong> the Maldives’<br />
largest wetlands, Eydhigali<br />
Kilhi, along with its Unescoenshrined<br />
neighbour, Koattey<br />
nature reserve. Stroll through<br />
lush vegetation and mangroves<br />
teeming with native bird<br />
species. For a more adventurous<br />
experience, canoe the Bedhi<br />
Bay for close encounters with<br />
juvenile stingrays and sharks.<br />
www.visitmaldives.com<br />
Photo: Visit Maldives/Unsplash<br />
Photos: Scribe Bar<br />
COCKTAILS WITH CULTURE<br />
Dive into Siem Reap’s riverside al<br />
fresco bar, Scribe, for full immersion<br />
in exceptional cocktails laced with<br />
captivating culture.<br />
Explore a world <strong>of</strong> vibrant<br />
flavours and intriguing stories<br />
as you explore Scribe’s carefully<br />
crafted beverage menu. Each<br />
cocktail is a celebration <strong>of</strong><br />
Cambodian culture, featuring local<br />
spirits and sustainable ingredients.<br />
Indulge in delicious Cambodian<br />
and international snacks while sipping<br />
on chilled craft beers, fine wines and<br />
imaginative drinks. Scribe is the perfect<br />
destination for a fun-filled evening<br />
with friends. Pokambor Avenue, next<br />
to the Royal Residence, Siem Reap;<br />
www.facebook.com/scribebar<br />
Photo: Jet Car<br />
OCEAN JET-SETTING<br />
If swimming, snorkelling and jet-skiing no longer float your<br />
boat, then a thrilling Jet Car ride may push your buttons. These<br />
sleek and powerful marine vehicles <strong>of</strong>fer an exhilarating way to<br />
explore the Indian Ocean.<br />
Inspired by exotic cars, Jet Cars are equipped with highperformance<br />
marine engines, allowing you to zip across the<br />
water at impressive speeds. Enjoy an exhilarating blend <strong>of</strong><br />
luxury and excitement as you navigate the waves in style.<br />
With premium features like Bluetooth speakers, pilots and<br />
passengers can also enjoy their favourite tunes while cruising<br />
the ocean. www.jetcarmaldives.mv<br />
81
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 84 / ROUTE MAP 89<br />
83
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS<br />
AOT AND KEY THAI AIRLINES<br />
PARTNER FOR COORDINATED<br />
RESPONSE TO DISABLED AIRCRAFT<br />
Airports <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land Public<br />
Company Limited (AOT) signed a<br />
memorandum <strong>of</strong> understanding<br />
(MoU) on disabled aircraft with<br />
key <strong>Thai</strong> airlines, including <strong>Thai</strong><br />
<strong>Airways</strong> International, <strong>Thai</strong> AirAsia<br />
and <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong>, on September<br />
10. The MoU aims to improve<br />
the handling <strong>of</strong> disabled aircraft<br />
at AOT-operated airports.<br />
Presiding over the event at the<br />
Asawin Grand Convention Hotel was<br />
Flight Lieutenant Thummavudth<br />
Nonsee, AOT’s Senior Executive<br />
Vice President (Airport and Aviation<br />
Standards). The signing was<br />
witnessed by Mr. Phongpatan<br />
Tiansiri, Deputy Director General<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Civil Aviation Authority<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land.<br />
Other signatories were Mr.<br />
Kittipong Kittikachorn, General<br />
Manager <strong>of</strong> Suvarnabhumi<br />
Airport, Mr. Vijit Kaewsaitiam,<br />
General Manager <strong>of</strong> Don Mueang<br />
International Airport, Mr. Monchai<br />
Tanode, General Manager <strong>of</strong><br />
Phuket International Airport,<br />
Wing Commander Ronakorn<br />
Chalearmsanyakorn, General<br />
Manager <strong>of</strong> Chiang Mai International<br />
Airport, Mr. Choowit Pantunane,<br />
General Manager <strong>of</strong> Hat Yai<br />
International Airport, Squadron<br />
Leader Somchanok Tiamtiabrat,<br />
General Manager <strong>of</strong> Mae <strong>Fah</strong> Luang-<br />
Chiang Rai International Airport,<br />
Mr. Cherdphan Chotikhun, Chief<br />
Technical Officer <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong> <strong>Airways</strong><br />
International Public Co Ltd,<br />
Mr. Chalermrit Saisakulsri, Head<br />
<strong>of</strong> Operational Quality Assurance<br />
at <strong>Thai</strong> AirAsia Co Ltd, and<br />
Mr. Tongsook Chompoonuch,<br />
Vice President – Maintenance<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong>.<br />
The MoU outlines cooperation<br />
to provide seamless, safe and<br />
integrated services, while ensuring<br />
operational and business benefits<br />
between AOT and <strong>Thai</strong> airlines.<br />
It sets a framework for continuous<br />
collaboration in handling emergencies,<br />
particularly in the efficient relocation<br />
<strong>of</strong> disabled aircraft. The agreement<br />
also establishes a foundation<br />
for developing improved protocols<br />
for aircraft movement, supporting<br />
AOT’s mission to be a world-class<br />
airport operator focused on<br />
service, safety and balanced<br />
revenue generation.<br />
บริิษััทุ ท่่าอากาศยิานไทุยิ จำำกััดี (มห่าชน) ห่รัือ AOT นำาโดียิ<br />
เรืืออากาศเอก ธิรัรัมาวั่ธิ นนทุรัีย์์ รัองกรัรัมการัผู้้อำำานวัยิการั<br />
ใหญ่่ (สายิงานมาต้รัฐานท่่าอากาศยิานและการบ ิน) เป็นปรัะธิาน<br />
ในพ่ธิีลงนามบันทึึกข้อต้กลงควัามร่่วัมมือการัเคลือนย้้ายิอากาศยิาน<br />
ทุี ขัดข้้อง ณ์ ท่่าอากาศยิาน รัะห่วั่างท่่าอากาศยิานในควัามรัับผู้ิดี<br />
ชอบของ AOT กับ บริิษััทุ การบิินไทุยิ จำำกััดี (มห่าชน) บริิษััทุ<br />
ไทุยิแอร์์เอเชียิ จำำก ัดี และบริิษััทุ การบิินกรุุงเทุพ จำำก ัดี (มห่าชน)<br />
โดียิมีนายิพงศ์พัฒน เทีียินศิริิ รัองผู้้อำำานวัยิการสำำน ักงานการั<br />
บินพลเรืือนแห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ ร่่วัมเป็นสักขีพยิาน เมื อวัันทุี 10<br />
กันยิายิน 2567 ณ์ ห้้องพรัะพรัห่ม โรังแรัมอัศวิิน แกรันด์์ คอนเวันชัน<br />
สำาห่รัับผู้้้รั่วัมลงนามในบันทึึกข้อต้กลงควัามร่่วัมมือฯ<br />
ปรัะกอบด้้วัยิ นายก ิต้ต้ิพงศ์ กิต้ต้ิขจำรั ผู้้อ ำานวัยิการัทุ่าอากาศยิาน<br />
สุวัรัรัณ์ภั้มิ นายิวัิจิิต้ต้์ แก้วัไทุรัเทีียิม ผู้้อำำานวัยิการัทุ่าอากาศยิาน<br />
ดีอนเมือง นายิมนต์์ชัยิ ต้ะโห่นดี ผู้้อ ำานวัยิการัทุ่าอากาศยิานภููเก็ต้<br />
นาวัาอากาศโทุ รัณ์กรั เฉลิมแสนยิากรั ผู้้อ ำานวัยิการัทุ่าอากาศยิาน<br />
เชียิงใหม่่ นายชููวิิทุยิ์ พันธุ์์เณ์รั ผู้้อำำานวัยิการั ท่่าอากาศยิาน<br />
ห่าดีใหญ่่ นาวัาอากาศต้รัี สมชนก เทีียิมเทีียิบรััตน์์ ผู้้อำำานวัยิการั<br />
ท่่าอากาศยิานแม่ฟ้้าห่ลวัง เชียิงรัายิ นายิเชิดพ ันธ์์ โชติิคุณ์<br />
ปรัะธิานเจ้้าหน้้าทุีสายช่่าง บริิษััทุ การบ ินไทุยิ จำำกััดี (มห่าชน)<br />
นายิเฉลิมฤทธิ์์ สายิสกุลศรีี ผู้้อำำานวัยิการัฝึ่ายิควับคุมคุณ์ภัาพ<br />
องค์กรั บริิษััทุ ไทุยิแอร์์เอเชียิ จำำก ัดี และนายิทุองสุข ชมพูนุช<br />
รัองกรัรัมการัผู้้อำำานวัยิการัใหญ่่ ส่วันซ่่อมบำารัุงอากาศยิาน<br />
บริิษััทุ การบ ินกรุุงเทุพ จำำกััดี (มห่าชน)<br />
ทุั งนี การัลงนามในบันทึึกข้อต้กลงควัามร่่วัมมือฯ ดัังกล่าวั<br />
ถืือเป็นมุมมองร่่วัมกันรัะห่วั่างผู้้ดีำาเนินการัเดิินอากาศและผู้้้ดีำาเนิน<br />
การัสนามบินในด้้านการัให้้บริิการั โดียิคำน ึงถึึงควัามปลอดีภััยิ<br />
เป็นสำค ัญ นอกเหน ือจำากการัมองในผู้ลปรัะโยิชน์ด้้านธุุรก ิจำ ซ้ึงจำะ<br />
ช่วัยิสร้้างควัามมั นใจำวั่าสนามบินและสายิการบ ินจำะบ้รัณ์าการั<br />
ร่่วัมกันในการัรัองรัับสถึานการัณ์์ฉุกเฉินได้้อย่่างต่่อเนื องและมี<br />
ปรัะสิทุธิิภัาพ โดียิเฉพาะการมีีแนวัทุางการัรัองรัับการัเคลือนย้้ายิ<br />
อากาศยิานทุี ขัดข้้องสอดีคล้องกัน และมีแนวัทุางทุีจำะพัฒนาการั<br />
เคลือนย้้ายิอากาศยิานทุีขัดข้้องให้้มีปรัะสิทุธิิภัาพมากยิิงข้นใน<br />
อนาคต้ เพ่อพัฒนาอุุตสาห่กรัรัมทุางอากาศของไทุยิให้้พร้้อมสำาห่รัับ<br />
การัเติิบโต้ทุางธุุรก ิจำ ซ้ึงสอดีคล้องกับวิิสัยิทุัศน์ของ AOT ทุีพร้้อม<br />
จำะเป็นผู้้้ดีำาเนินการัและจััดีการัทุ่าอากาศยิานทุี ดีีรัะดัับโลกโดียิมุ่ง<br />
เน้นการับริิการั ควัามปลอดีภััยิ และการัสร้้างรัายิได้้อย่่างสมดุุล<br />
84
BANGKOK AIRWAYS ‘BLUE VOLUNTEERS’ DELIVER RELIEF TO<br />
SUKHOTHAI FLOOD VICTIMS<br />
Sukhothai – <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong>,<br />
in partnership with Sukhothai<br />
Airport, has mobilised its Blue<br />
Volunteers team to distribute over<br />
1,200 relief packages to floodaffected<br />
communities in Sukhothai<br />
province. The effort, led by<br />
Mr. Nijjapat Piyapant, Vice<br />
President - Airport, focused on<br />
residents in Sawankhalok district’s<br />
Khlong Krachong, Yan Yao and<br />
Tha Thong subdistricts, where<br />
riverside communities have been<br />
severely impacted. The packages<br />
included essential supplies such<br />
as adult diapers for bedridden<br />
patients, providing much-needed<br />
assistance to those in need.<br />
จำ. สุโขทััยิ / บริิษััทุ การบิินกรุุงเทุพ จำำกััดี<br />
(มห่าชน) ห่รัือสายิการบิินบางกอก<br />
แอร์์เวัยิ์สและสนามบินสุโขทััยิ นำาโดียิ<br />
นายน ิจพ ัฒน์ ปิยิะพันธ์์ รัองกรัรัมการั<br />
ผู้้อ ำานวัยิการัใหญ่่ฝ่่ายิสนามบิน พร้้อมด้้วัยิ<br />
ทีีมจิิต้อาสา Blue Volunteers ของสายิ<br />
การบ ินฯ และสนามบินสุโขทััยิ จััดีเต้รัียิมถุุง<br />
ยัังชีพจำำานวันกว่่า 1,200 ชุดี และแพมเพ่ส<br />
(ผู้้าอ้อมผู้้้ใหญ่่) สำาห่รัับผู้้ป่่วัยิต้ิดีเตีียิง<br />
ออกแจำกจ่่ายช่่วัยิเหล ือผู้้้ปรัะสบอุุทกภััยิใน<br />
เขต้พ่นทุีตำำาบลคลองกรัะจำง ตำำาบลย่่านยิาวั<br />
และตำำาบลท่่าทุอง อำาเภัอสวัรัรัคโลก จัังห่วััดี<br />
สุโขทััยิ เพ่อช่วัยิบรัรัเทุาทุุกข์เบืองต้้นแก่<br />
ชุมชนซ้ึ งนำาเข้าท่่วัมบ้านเรืือนทุีอยู่่ติิดี<br />
ริิมแม่นำา เมื อเร็็วัๆ นี<br />
85
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS AND AEROTHAI JOIN FORCES<br />
FOR SAFER SKIES<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Public Company Limited has partnered<br />
with Aeronautical Radio <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land (AEROTHAI) to<br />
enhance air navigation services in <strong>Thai</strong>land. Seen here<br />
at the memorandum <strong>of</strong> understanding (MoU) signing<br />
ceremony are <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> President Mr. Puttipong<br />
Prasartthong-Osoth (third from left) and Mr. Nijjapat<br />
Piyapant, Vice President - Airport, with AEROTHAI’S<br />
President Dr. Nopasit Chakpitak (fourth from left) and<br />
Executive Vice President Mr. Paisan Praneetponkrang<br />
(fifth from left). The MoU outlines cooperation in<br />
optimising resources to support the growth <strong>of</strong> aviation<br />
in <strong>Thai</strong>land and positioning the country as a regional<br />
air transport hub. The signing ceremony took place<br />
at the <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> headquarters on Vibhavadi-<br />
Rangsit Road.<br />
บริิษััทุ การบิินกรุุงเทุพ จำำก ัดี (มห่าชน) ห่รัือสายิการบ ิน<br />
บางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส นำาโดียิ นายพุุฒิพงศ์ ปรัาสาทุทุองโอสถึ<br />
(ทุี 3 จำากซ้้ายิ) กรัรัมการัผู้้อำำานวัยิการัใหญ่่ พร้้อมด้้วัยิ<br />
นายน ิจพ ัฒน์ ปิยิะพันธ์์ (ทุี 2 จำากซ้้ายิ) รัองกรัรัมการั<br />
ผู้้อำำานวัยิการัใหญ่่ฝ่่ายิสนามบิน ร่่วัมกับ บริิษััทุ วิิทุยิุการบ ิน<br />
แห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ จำำก ัดี โดียิ ดีรั.ณ์พศิษัฏิ์ จัักรพิิทัักษ์์<br />
(ทุี 4 จำากซ้้ายิ) กรัรัมการัผู้้อำำานวัยิการัใหญ่่ และนายิไพสาน<br />
ปรัาณีีต้พลกรััง (ทุี 5 จำากซ้้ายิ) รัองกรัรัมการัผู้้อำำานวัยิการั<br />
ใหญ่่ ลงนามบันทึึกข้อต้กลงว่่าด้้วัยิควัามร่่วัมมือด้้านการัให้้<br />
บริิการัการัเดิินอากาศ ภัายิใต้้วััต้ถึุปรัะสงค์ในการพััฒนาการั<br />
ดำำาเนินงานสนามบินและการัให้้บริิการัดี้านการัเดิินอากาศ<br />
ร่่วัมกันให้้เป็นไปอย่่างมีปรัะสิทุธิิภัาพ ปลอดีภััยิ เป็นไปต้าม<br />
มาต้รัฐานของสำน ักงานการบ ินพลเรืือนแห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ<br />
ณ์ สำนัักงานใหญ่่ สายิการบ ินบางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส ถึ.วิิภัาวัดีีรัังสิต้<br />
เมื อเร็็วัๆ นี<br />
86
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Public Company<br />
Limited, led by Mr. Puttipong<br />
Prasarttong-Osoth (seventh from<br />
left), President, and Mrs. Ariya<br />
Prasarttong-Osoth (sixth from left),<br />
Board <strong>of</strong> Directors and Chairman<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Corporate Sustainability<br />
Working Committee, along with<br />
the executive team and Blue<br />
Volunteers, participated in the<br />
“Love Earth, Save Earth: Love<br />
Samui, Save the Coconut Trees”<br />
activity for the 7 th consecutive<br />
year. This initiative aims to continue<br />
the company’s environmental<br />
conservation policy and support<br />
the goal <strong>of</strong> achieving net-zero<br />
greenhouse gas emissions by<br />
2050 through the “Low Carbon<br />
Skies by <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong>” project.<br />
As part <strong>of</strong> a broader<br />
environmental effort, coconut<br />
saplings were planted at Samui<br />
Airport to restore green spaces.<br />
The team also collaborated with<br />
the Baan Tai Community Blue Crab<br />
Bank in Koh Samui to release<br />
6 million baby blue crabs back into<br />
the wild. This effort promotes the<br />
conservation <strong>of</strong> marine resources<br />
and raises awareness about the<br />
sustainability <strong>of</strong> the community’s<br />
ecosystem. The event took place<br />
recently at Bophut Beach,<br />
Koh Samui, Surat Thani.<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS AND BLUE VOLUNTEERS<br />
CELEBRATE ITS 7 TH YEAR OF THE ‘LOVE<br />
EARTH, SAVE EARTH’ CAMPAIGN BY<br />
PLANTING COCONUT TREES FOR KOH SAMUI<br />
บริิษััทุ การบิินกรุุงเทุพ จำำก ัดี (มห่าชน)<br />
ห่รัือสายิการบ ินบางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส นำาโดียิ<br />
นายพุุฒิพงศ์ ปรัาสาทุทุองโอสถึ (ทุี 7<br />
จำากซ้้ายิ) กรัรัมการัผู้้อำำานวัยิการัใหญ่่<br />
และนางอาริิญา ปรัาสาทุทุองโอสถึ (ทุี 6<br />
จำากซ้้ายิ) กรัรัมการับริิษััทุฯ และปรัะธิาน<br />
คณ์ะทำำางานควัามยิังยืืนองค์กรั นำาคณ์ะ<br />
ผู้้้บริิห่ารัพร้้อมด้้วัยิทุีมจิิต้อาสา Blue<br />
Volunteers ลงพ่ นทุี ร่่วัมกิจำกรัรัม<br />
“รัักษ์์โลก ดููแลโลก ปล้กมะพร้้าวัเพ่อ<br />
เกาะสมุยิ ปีทุี 7” : “Love Earth, Save<br />
Earth: Love Samui, Save the<br />
Coconut Trees” โดียิมีวััต้ถึุปรัะสงค์ใน<br />
การัสานต่่อนโยิบายิการม ีส่วันร่่วัม<br />
อนุรัักษ์์สิงแวัดีล้อม ส้่การข ับเคลือนเป้า<br />
ห่มายิการัลดีการัปล่อยก๊๊าซ้เรืือนกรัะจำก<br />
สุทุธิิเป็นศ้นย์์ “Net Zero 2050” ภัายิใต้้<br />
โครังการั ท้้องฟ้้าโลว์์คาร์์บอน: Low<br />
Carbon Skies by <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong><br />
โดียิได้้ปล้กกล้ามะพร้้าวั ณ์ บริิเวัณ์<br />
พ่นทุี สนามบินสมุยิเพ่อฟ้้นฟููพ่นทุี สีเขียิวั<br />
พร้้อมกันนี ยัังได้้ผู้นึกกำล ังร่่วัมกับ<br />
ชาวัปรัะมงธินาคารัป้ม้าบ้านใต้้<br />
อ.เกาะสมุยิ ร่่วัมคืนป้ม้าสู่่ทะเลไทุยิ<br />
ในการัปล่อยล ูกป้ม้าวััยอ่่อน จำำานวัน<br />
6 ล้านตััวั เพ่อส่งเสริิมการัอนุรัักษ์์<br />
ทุรััพยิากรัทุางทุะเล รัวัมถึึงสร้้างควัาม<br />
ต้รัะหน ักในการัรัักษัานิเวัศชุมชนให้้<br />
ยิังยืืน ณ์ ห่าดบ่่อผูุ้ดี อ.เกาะสมุยิ<br />
จำ.สุรัาษัฎร์์ธิานี เมื อเร็็วัๆ นี<br />
87
BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS AND TAT’S ‘LANNA HALF MARATHON <strong>2024</strong>’<br />
BOOSTS SPORTS TOURISM<br />
The “<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Lanna Half Marathon”,<br />
held by <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> in partnership with the<br />
Tourism Authority <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land (TAT), was declared<br />
a roaring success on August 25. This event marks<br />
the second race in the airline’s “<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong><br />
Boutique Series <strong>2024</strong>” launched to boost sports<br />
tourism in the region. The event ceremony, held<br />
at Chiang Mai’s Royal Park Rajapruek, was graced<br />
by distinguished guests including Chiang Mai<br />
Vice Governor Mr. Weerapong Ritrod (second<br />
row, fifth from left) and <strong>Bangkok</strong> Dusit Medical<br />
Services President Dr. Poramaporn Prasartthong-Osoth,<br />
MD, (second row, sixth from left). Leading the<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> team was Miss Amornrat<br />
Kongsawat (second row, seventh from left),<br />
Vice President <strong>of</strong> Sales and Acting Vice President<br />
<strong>of</strong> Marketing, while representing TAT was Mrs.<br />
Passalin Sawatetarath (second row, fourth from<br />
left), Director <strong>of</strong> the TAT Chiang Mai Office. Also<br />
participating were celebrities Pakorn “Boy” and<br />
Wanmai Chatborirak (second row, eighth and<br />
ninth from left).<br />
บริิษััทุ การบิินกรุุงเทุพ จำำก ัดี (มห่าชน)<br />
ห่รัือสายิการบ ินบางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส นำาโดียิ<br />
นางสาวัอมรัรััตน ์ คงสวััสดีิ (แถึวัทุี 2 ลำาดีับ<br />
ทุี 7 จำากซ้้ายิ) รัองกรัรัมการัผู้้อ ำานวัยิการัใหญ่่<br />
ฝ่่ายิขายิและรัักษัาการัรัองกรัรัมการั<br />
ผู้้อำำานวัยิการัใหญ่่ฝ่่ายิการัต้ลาดี ร่่วัมกับ<br />
การัทุ่องเทุียิวัแห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ ซ้ึ งมีตััวัแทุน<br />
นำาโดียินางพัศลินทุรั์ เศวัต้รััตน์์ (แถึวัทุี 2<br />
ลำาดีับทุี 4 จำากซ้้ายิ) ผู้้อำำานวัยิการัการั<br />
ท่่องเทุียิวัแห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ สำนัักงานเชียิงใหม่่<br />
เปิดีการัแข่งขัน “บางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส ล้านนา<br />
ฮาล์ฟ้ มารัาธิอน” เป็นสนามทุี 2 ในรัายิการั<br />
วัิง “บางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส บ้ทุีค ซีีรีีส์ <strong>2024</strong>:<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Boutique Series <strong>2024</strong>”<br />
เพ่อกรัะตุ้้นการัทุ่องเทุียิวัเชิงกีฬา และได้้<br />
รัับเกียิรัต้ิจำากนายิวัีรัพงศ์ ฤทธิ์์ รัอดี (แถึวั<br />
ทุี 2 ลำาดีับทุี 5 จำากซ้้ายิ) รัองผู้้้วั่ารัาชการั<br />
จัังห่วััดีเชียิงใหม่่ และพญ. ปรัมาภัรัณ์์<br />
ปรัาสาทุทุองโอสถึ (แถึวัทุี 2 ลำาดีับทุี 6<br />
จำากซ้้ายิ) ปรัะธิานกรัรัมการับริิห่ารั และ<br />
กรัรัมการัผู้้อ ำานวัยิการัใหญ่่ บริิษััทุ กรุุงเทุพ<br />
ดุุสิต้เวัชการั จำำกััดี (มห่าชน) ร่่วัมเป็นปรัะธิาน<br />
ในพ่ธิีฯ พร้้อมตััวัแทุนเครืือข่ายิธิุรก ิจำการั<br />
ท่่องเทุียิวัภัาครััฐ-เอกชน กลุ่มผู้้้สนับสนุน<br />
และ บอยิ(ปกรัณ์์) น้องวัันใหม่่ ฉัต้รับริิรัักษ์์<br />
(แถึวัทุี 2 ลำาดีับทุี 8, 9 จำากซ้้ายิ) ร่่วัมใน<br />
กิจำกรัรัม ณ์ อ่ทุยิานห่ลวังรัาชพฤกษ์์<br />
จำ.เชียิงใหม่่ เมื อเร็็วัๆ นี<br />
BANGKOK AIRWAYS<br />
WRAPS UP ‘BOUTIQUE<br />
SERIES’ WITH SUKHOTHAI<br />
HALF MARATHON<br />
<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> and the Tourism Authority <strong>of</strong> <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />
(TAT) are celebrating a successful conclusion to the<br />
“<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Boutique Series <strong>2024</strong>”, launched<br />
to promote sports tourism. The final race in the series<br />
was the “<strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Sukhothai Half Marathon”<br />
held on September 22.<br />
Presiding over the closing ceremony at Wat Mahathat<br />
in the Sukhothai Historical Park was Deputy Sukhothai<br />
Governor Mrs. Sanguan Masena (second row, fourth<br />
from left).<br />
Leading the <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> team was<br />
Mrs. Darunee Debavalya (second row, fifth from<br />
left), Senior Director <strong>of</strong> Marketing Communications,<br />
while TAT was represented by Mr. Sobthana<br />
Anprasert (second row, second from left), Director<br />
<strong>of</strong> the TAT Sukhothai Office. Also attending were<br />
representatives from public and private tourism<br />
business networks.<br />
สายิการบ ินบางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส นำาโดียิ<br />
นางดีรัุณีี เทุพวััลย์์ (แถึวัทุี 2 ลำาดีับทุี 5<br />
จำากซ้้ายิ) ผู้้อ ำานวัยิการัอาวุุโส ส่วันสือสารั<br />
การัต้ลาดีพร้้อมด้้วัยิคณ์ะผู้้บริิห่ารั ร่่วัมกับ<br />
การัทุ่องเทุียิวัแห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ นำาโดียิ<br />
นายิสบธินา อันปรัะเสริิฐ (แถึวัทุี 2 ลำาดีับ<br />
ทุี 2 จำากซ้้ายิ) ผู้้อำำานวัยิการัการัทุ่องเทุี ยิวั<br />
แห่่งปรัะเทุศไทุยิ สำน ักงานสุโขทััยิ ร่่วัมส่ง<br />
ท้้ายิแคมเปญเพ่ อกรัะตุ้้นการัทุ่องเทุียิวั<br />
เชิงกีฬา “บางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส บ้ทุีค ซีีรีีส์<br />
<strong>2024</strong>: <strong>Bangkok</strong> <strong>Airways</strong> Boutique<br />
Series <strong>2024</strong>” โดียิมีสนามการัแข่งขัน<br />
“บางกอกแอร์์เวัยิ์ส สุโขทััยิฮาล์ฟ้<br />
มารัาธิอน” เป็นสนามสุดีทุ้ายิในรัายิการั<br />
แข่งขัน ทุังนี ยัังได้้รัับเกียิรัต้ิจำาก<br />
นางสงวัน มะเสนา (แถึวัทุี 2 ลำาดีับทุี 4<br />
จำากซ้้ายิ) รัองผู้้้วั่ารัาชการัจำังห่วััดสุุโขทััยิ<br />
ร่่วัมเป็นปรัะธิานในพ่ธิีฯ พร้้อมตััวัแทุน<br />
เครืือข่ายิธิุรกิิจำการัทุ่องเทุียิวัภัาครััฐ-เอกชน<br />
และกลุ่มผู้้้สนับสนุนร่่วัมในกิจำกรัรัม<br />
ณ์ วััดีมห่าธิาตุุ อ่ทุยิานปรัะวััติิศาสต้รั์<br />
สุโขทััยิเมื อเร็็วัๆ นี<br />
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CHECKING OUT<br />
Thermal Bliss<br />
In the remote valleys <strong>of</strong> Lampang<br />
lies Chae Son Hot Spring, where<br />
time slows and nature takes over.<br />
Here, the earth’s geothermal bounty<br />
transforms ordinary moments into<br />
transcendent bliss. Luxuriate in<br />
mineral-rich pools enveloped by a s<strong>of</strong>t<br />
veil <strong>of</strong> steam, while the distant hum<br />
<strong>of</strong> the forest creates a rare connection<br />
between body and nature. Whether<br />
you’re hiking its ancient trails or<br />
soaking in this natural haven, Chae<br />
Son <strong>of</strong>fers more than relaxation – it<br />
delivers a rebirth <strong>of</strong> the senses. And<br />
if hunger strikes, let the thermal<br />
waters delicately poach an egg for you:<br />
with nature’s own culinary flourish.<br />
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