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Fah Thai Magazine - Inflight Magazine of Bangkok Airways Issue Nov-Dec 2024

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


MOST<br />

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TRAVEL AND<br />

LEISURE<br />

BEST USE OF<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

BEST<br />

PHOTOGRAPHY<br />

READ ONLINE<br />

BANGKOK AIRWAYS PUBLIC<br />

COMPANY LIMITED<br />

99 Mu 14, Vibhavadi Rangsit Road,<br />

Chom Phon, Chatuchak, <strong>Bangkok</strong><br />

10900, <strong>Thai</strong>land<br />

www.bangkokair.com<br />

ADVISORY BOARD<br />

Amornrat Kongsawat<br />

Vice President – Sales<br />

Komkrit Ngamwongwirot<br />

Director - Key Account and<br />

Ancillary Product<br />

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Manager - Ancillary Product<br />

Tanchanok Aunmueang<br />

Officer - Ancillary Product<br />

PUBLISHER<br />

MPMI Group Co., Ltd.<br />

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Tel. +66 (0) 2744 4975<br />

Fax. +66 (0) 2744 5271<br />

Managing Director<br />

Steven Fong Chookiat Pangviphas<br />

Email: steven@mpmith.com<br />

EDITORIAL<br />

Email: editorial@fahthaimag.com<br />

Editor-in-Chief Anutra Ungsuprasert<br />

Sub Editor Ramona Varma<br />

Deputy Editor Sarita Urupongsa<br />

Contributors<br />

Ariya Chaiyarit<br />

Jeremie Schatz<br />

Kankanit Wichiantanon<br />

Phoowadon Duangmee<br />

Pinanong Panchuen<br />

Richard Augustin<br />

Ron Emmons<br />

Contributing Photographers<br />

Jeremie Schatz<br />

Pinanong Panchuen<br />

Ron Emmons<br />

Samatcha Apaisuwan<br />

ART<br />

Creative Director JyeShen Koo<br />

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PRODUCTION<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 />

38


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 />

42


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 />

44


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 />

46


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 />

88


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 />

90

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