Fah Thai Magazine - Inflight Magazine of Bangkok Airways Jan-Feb 2025

JAN-FEB 2025

LUANG PRABANG

REIMAGINED

DELICIOUS

PHUKET

AQUAVERSE

ADVENTURE

LAMPHUN’S

OLD GOLD

Read more

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

SUPPORT

SUSTAINABLE

TRAVEL

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

กัปตัน พุฒิพงศ์ ปราสาททองโอสถ

Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth

กรรมการผู้อำนวยการใหญ่ / President

Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited

Greetings to all passengers and welcome aboard

Bangkok Airways.

It is our great pleasure to announce that

Bangkok Airways will host next year’s 69 th

Assembly of Presidents of the Association of Asia

Pacific Airlines (AAPA) in Thailand. This event

in November 2025 will bring together airline

executives from across the region to share

experiences and strategies, with a goal of fostering

sustainable growth in the global aviation market.

The event will also serve as an opportunity to

promote Thailand on the global stage.

Sustainability remains a firm focus of Bangkok

Airways’ policy and management of its three

airports – Samui Airport, Sukhothai Airport, and

Trat Airport. The airline aims to enhance operations

and services across all areas – economic, social,

and environmental. Our initiatives include efforts

to recycle plastic bottles from passenger lounges

and in-flight services, transforming them into polo

shirts for staff. Additionally, old uniforms are being

upcycled into new products to optimise their use

within business operations. We also continue to

explore the use of sustainable aviation fuel to

reduce carbon emissions, aligning with our “Low

Carbon Skies” initiative.

Community engagement remains a priority.

Bangkok Airways actively supports and nurtures

local communities through initiatives like promoting

local products as airport amenities or corporate

gifts and organising educational activities such as

“Open House for Kids” to inspire youth. The airline

also runs health-related programmes, including

mobile dental clinics and health check-ups to

enhance community well-being. These ongoing

efforts underscore Bangkok Airways’ commitment

to fostering sustainable community growth.

Passengers are encouraged to support

sustainability efforts by using online check-in,

conserving resources, sorting waste, and minimising

inflight waste.

Stay updated on promotions and activities via

Facebook: FlyBangkokAir, or bangkokair.com.

As the New Year approaches, I wish all

passengers happiness and success in their

endeavours. May this year bring you joy, fulfilment,

and the realisation of your aspirations. May good

fortune accompany you, and may you enjoy vibrant

health throughout the year. On behalf of myself

and the entire Bangkok Airways team, we are deeply

committed to ensuring that your journey with us

is not only comfortable but also truly satisfying.

We look forward to serving you in the year ahead.

Thank you for flying Bangkok Airways.

Happy New Year!

สวััสดีีท่่านผู้้โดียสารทุุกท่่าน ขอต้้อนรับส้่การบริการ

ของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์์สครับ

นับเป็็นเร่องท่ีน่ายินดีียิงท่ี ในปีี 2568 นีสายการบิน

บางกอกแอร์เวย์์สไดีรับเกียรติิจากสมาคมสายการบิน

เอเชีียแป็ซิิฟิิก หร่อ Association of Asia Pacific Airlines

(AAPA) ใหเป็็นเจาภาพจัดีงานป็ระชุุมสมัชีชีาผู้้นำาของ

สายการบินในภ้มิภาคเอเชีียแป็ซิิฟิิกครั งท่ี 69 ซิ่งจะจัดีข้น

ท่ีป็ระเท่ศไท่ยในเดืือนพฤศจิกายนนี โดียจะมีสมาชิิก

สายการบินจากภ้มิภาคเขาร่วัมป็ระชุุมหาร่อ แลกเป็ลี ยน

ป็ระสบการณ์์และแนวัท่างธุุรกิจท่ี เกียวข้้องกับการบินใน

ระดัับภ้มิภาค เพ่อพัฒนาสู่่ตลาดีการขนส่งท่างอากาศ

ท่ีใหญ่่ท่ี สุดีในโลกอย่างยังยืน อีกท่ังยังเป็็นการโป็รโมท่

ป็ระเท่ศไท่ยดีวัยอีกท่างหน่ง

สำาหรับนโยบายของสายการบินฯ และสนามบินท่ั ง

3 แห่งภายใต้้การบริหารของบริษััท่ฯ ได้้แก่ สนามบิน

สมุย สนามบินสุโขทััย และสนามบินต้ราดี ในปีีนี เรายังคง

วัางเป้้าหมายเพ่อกาวสู่่ควัามยั งยืน ท่ังการดำำาเนินงาน

ต้ลอดีจนพัฒนาการบริการใหครอบคลุมในทุุกมิติิ

ท่ังเศรษัฐกิจ สังคม และสิงแวัดีลอม อาทิิ การรีไซิเคิล

ขวัดีพลาสติิกไรสลากจากหองรับรองผู้้โดียสารและ

บนเคร่ องบินมาผู้ลิต้เป็็นเสือโป็โลพนักงาน และการ

อัพไซิคลิงชุุดีย้นิฟิอร์มเก่าเป็็นผู้ลิตภ ัณ์ฑ์์ใหม่มาใช้้ให

เกิดีป็ระโยชน์์ในกระบวันการธุุรกิจต่่อไป็ นอกจากนี

สายการบินฯ ยังคงศ่กษัาและติิดีต้ามแนวัท่างการนำา

เชีื อเพลิงอากาศยานแบบยังยืนมาใช้้ เพ่อลดีการปล่่อย

คาร์บอนจากการป็ฏิิบัติิการบิน นำาไปสู่่เป้้าหมาย

Low Carbon Skies ต่่อไป็

ในส่วันของการดููแลชุุมชีนใหเติิบโต้อย่างยังยืน

สายการบินฯ มีการจัดก ิจกรรมเพ่อสนับสนุนและ

พัฒนาชุุมชีนอย่างต่่อเนือง อาทิิ สนับสนุนสินคาท่ี

ผู้ลิต้จากท้้องถิ่่นเพ่อนำามาผู้ลิต้เป็็นของใชีท่ีสนามบิน

หร่อเป็็นของชำำร่่วัยขององค์กร การจัดก ิจกรรมส่งเสริม

ควัามร้แก่เยาวัชีนในกิจกรรมเปิิดบ้้านสอนนอง

รวัมไป็ถิ่่งกิจกรรมท่ีสนับสนุนด้้านสุขอนามัยท่ีดีีของชุุมชีน

อาทิิ กิจกรรมคลีนิคทำำาฟิันเคลือนท่ี หร่อการต้รวัจ

สุขภาพสัญ่จร

ผู้มจ้งอยากเชิิญ่ชีวันใหทุ่กท่่านร่วัมออกเดิินท่าง

พรอมกับดููแลรักษ์์โลกกับเรา ซิ่งสามารถิ่ท่ำาไดีง่ายๆ ไม่

ว่่าจะเป็็นการเช็็กอินออนไลน์ การใช้้ทร ัพยากรอย่าง

ป็ระหยัดี การแยกป็ระเภท่ขยะก่อนท่ิง หร่อการลดี

ปริิมาณ์ขยะจากการใช้้บริการในหองรับรองผู้้โดียสาร

และบนเท่ียวบ ิน

สำาหรับโป็รโมชีันและกิจกรรมต้ลอดทั้้งปีี ผู้้โดียสาร

สามารถิ่ต้ิดีต้ามข่าวัสารอัป็เดีต้ไดีท่ี เฟิสบุก:

FlyBangkokAir หร่อเว็็บไซิต้์ bangkokair.com

และเนืองในโอกาสวัันข้นปีีใหม่ 2568 ผู้มขออวัยพร

ใหผู้้โดียสารทุุกท่่านจงมีควัามสุข คิดีหวัังสิงใดี ขอให

สมควัามป็รารถิ่นาทุุกป็ระการ พบเจอแต่่สิงท่ี ดีี

มีสุขภาพร่างกายท่ี สมบ้รณ์์แข็งแรงนะครับ ท้้ายนีผู้ม

และพนักงานทุุกคนหวัังเป็็นอย่างยิงว่่า ผู้้โดียสาร

ทุุกท่่านจะไดีรับควัามพึงพอใจและสะดีวักสบายต้ลอดี

การเดิินท่างครับ

ขอบคุณที่่ เลือกเดิินท่างกับเรา…บางกอกแอร์เวย์์ส

เอเชีียบ้ท่ีคแอร์ไลน์

สวััสดีีปีีใหม่ครับ…

6

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“FAH THAI” is the in-flight magazine of Bangkok Airways Public Company

Limited and is edited and published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd. All articles and

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8

OVERTURES

14 SAVE THE DATES

Mark your calendar for must-attend

events across Bangkok Airways

destinations. From art exhibitions

to seasonal festivals, discover

what’s happening near you.

16 MAGIC OF MARKETS

Step into Thailand’s local

markets, where vibrant stalls

brim with fresh produce, artisan

goods, and insights into the soul

of communities.

18 VISIT LAMPHUN

Explore Lamphun’s rich history

and culture, from ancient

heritage to modern creativity.

This charming city blends

tradition and innovation for a

unique and lively experience.

22 SPICE AND SOUL

Dive into the bold, zesty world

of Laab – a dish steeped in

Thai lore, spices, and communal

celebrations that evoke the spirit

of the kingdom.

26 DRAGON FRUIT

DEMYSTIFIED

Peel back the mystery of

dragon fruit, a vibrant, flame-like

treasure that bursts with

refreshing flavour and a wealth

of nutritional benefits.

28 BUA LOY BLISS

Fall head over heels for Bua Loy,

a traditional Thai dessert of soft

rice flour balls in fragrant coconut

milk that symbolises love and

togetherness in Thai culture.

30 TRACING ROOTS

Discover the threads of

Sino-Thai heritage woven into

Thailand’s art and architecture

at the Phuket Thaihua

Museum and Bangkok’s Tang

Contemporary Art.

36 TASTE & TRY

Uncover Koh Samui’s finest

culinary delights and explore

fun-filled activities on Koh

Phangan with this guide to the

best local experiences.

10

FEATURES

HAPPENINGS

CORPORATE

44 FLAVOURS OF PHUKET

Fah Thai invites you on a

mouthwatering tour of Phuket’s

UNESCO-celebrated food

culture – a blend of Thai,

Chinese, Malay, and Peranakan

influences.

58 ETERNAL LUANG

PRABANG

Immerse yourself in Luang

Prabang’s serene beauty,

where time stands still and

the rhythms of life flow gently

between two embracing rivers.

Check out hip hangouts in Thailand

and its neighbours.

82 SAMUI

85 CHIANG MAI /

PATTAYA / TRAT

86 PHUKET / KRABI

88 BANGKOK

89 HONG KONG /

SINGAPORE

90 PHNOM PENH /

SIEM REAP

91 LUANG PRABANG /

MALDIVES

96 BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS

101 ROUTE MAP

CHECKING OUT

102 LOST IN BLUE

Koh Nang Yuan’s sandbar

causeways and clear waters

beckon you to explore its undersea

wonders and the panoramic views

from its emerald hills.

This month’s cover:

Lustrous Luang Prabang

72 SPLASH INTO ACTION

Get ready for blockbuster fun

at Columbia Pictures Aquaverse,

where thrilling rides and movie

magic collide not far from the beach.

44 Island

Feast

11

ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS

Love Blossoms

Chiang Mai’s cherry blossom

season envelops the northern

hills in romantic hues from

December to February, making

Valentine’s Day and its month

of love extra special. Known

locally as Nang Phaya Suea

Khrong or Thai Sakura, the

blooms transform mountain

landscapes into a pink

wonderland. Beyond the floral

display, the journey offers a

chance to engage with local

hill-tribe cultures, adding a

deeper layer of connection to

this charming escape.

NEWS & EVENTS 14 / SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL 16 / THAILAND TREASURES 18 / A TASTE OF THAILAND 22 / FRUITFUL FINDS 26

/ JUST DESSERT 28 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 30 / CHECKED-IN 36

13

OVERTURES

NEWS AND EVENTS

NOW

BANGKOK

HONOURS FOR THAI ICONS:

SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT AND

TOM YUM KUNG

Two Thai icons have recently earned global

recognition. Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Satellite

Terminal 1, celebrated for its blend of modern

design and Thai culture, was named one of 2024’s

six most beautiful airports by UNESCO Prix

Versailles in late November. Highlights include

statues of Himmapan mythical creatures,

Khon masks, and a grand elephant sculpture

symbolising wisdom.

Meanwhile, Tom Yum Kung, Thailand’s

signature sour and spicy soup, was added to

UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in

December 2024. Announced in Paraguay, this

recognition highlights Thailand’s rich culinary

legacy, placing Tom Yum Kung alongside

treasures like Khon dance, Nora, the Southern

dance, Thai massage, and the Songkran festival.

These honours underscore the nation’s deep

cultural heritage and innovative spirit. www.

prix-versailles.com/2024, ich.unesco.org/en/home

Photos: Shutterstock

NOW

SOUTHEAST ASIA

KEBAYA: A SHARED LEGACY UNVEILED

The iconic Kebaya, with its delicate embroidery

and timeless elegance, has woven its way onto

UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

This achievement celebrates the joint efforts

of Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and

Thailand in preserving a symbol of Southeast Asian

identity. Far more than a garment, the kebaya

represents a shared cultural legacy – gracing

weddings, festivals, and traditional gatherings.

In each country, it tells a unique story,

but its beauty and significance unite the

region. Whether paired with a sarong or

styled with modern flair, the Kebaya’s intricate

craftsmanship reflects a living tradition that

continues to inspire. This UNESCO recognition

not only honours its history but also ensures

its future, inviting the world to appreciate its

cultural richness and enduring charm.

ich.unesco.org/en


JAN

NOW-26 2025

BANGKOK

A REFLECTION ON CONSUMERISM

Thaiwijit Puengkasemsomboon, an acclaimed

Thai artist known for his dynamic sculptures

and bold abstract forms, returns with

“Untamed Melody” Part 2 at MOCA Bangkok.

With a passion for exploring societal issues,

Thaiwijit delves into the environmental

impact of consumerism in his latest artwork.

His installations and sculptures spotlight the

consequences of overconsumption, using

recycled and waste materials to depict the

tangible toll of modern habits.

Through large-scale, immersive creations,

the exhibition challenges visitors to confront

the waste generated by excessive consumption

and invites reflection on sustainable choices.

Thaiwijit’s distinctive style, combining raw

textures with vibrant colours, captures both the

beauty and chaos of consumer-driven waste,

urging audiences to reconsider their own impact

on the planet.

The exhibition is open Tuesday-Sunday,

10am-6pm (closed Mondays). Follow updates at

www.facebook.com/mocabangkok.

Photos: Thaiwijit Puengkasemsomboon

14

28

FEB

-29

MAR

2025

2025

MID-MID

JAN FEB 2025

CHIANG MAI

SAKURA BLOOMS IN THAILAND

The hills in Chiang Mai come alive with delicate

pink cherry blossoms from December to

February. Known locally as Nang Phaya Suea

Khrong or Thai Sakura, the wild Himalayan

cherry trees paint the landscape in hues of soft

pink in the mountains of Doi Inthanon, Doi

Suthep-Pui National Parks, Doi Ang Khang, and

Pha Daeng.

Worth visiting is Khun Chang Khian

Highland Agricultural Research Centre, a hidden

gem offering a tranquil, floral paradise with

fewer crowds. Alongside the scenic beauty,

the cool weather adds an extra layer of charm,

making it the perfect time for nature lovers and

photographers to explore.

Beyond the blossoms, this period allows

for a deeper connection with local hill-tribe

communities, offering insights into their

traditions and way of life. For anyone seeking

a unique, magical escape in Thailand, cherry

blossom season in Chiang Mai is a must-see.

www.tourismthailand.org

Photo: Shutterstock

Photos: Artists & BKKDW 2025

8-23 2025

FEB

BANGKOK

BANGKOK DESIGN WEEK

Bangkok Design Week 2025 will showcase over

400 creative programmes across Bangkok from

February 8 to 23.

This year’s design week showcases innovative

solutions to global challenges, emphasising

optimism and creative resilience under the

theme “Design Up+Rising: Facing Challenges

with a Positive Twist”.

Highlights include exhibitions exploring

generative AI, sustainability, and communitycentric

design, alongside workshops and talks

by leading designers. Expect thought-provoking

projects tackling issues like environmental

sustainability and urban development, while key

venues like Charoen Krung Creative District

and Bang Lamphu will feature interactive

installations. Stay updated on programmes and

events at www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en

HONG KONG

HONG KONG ARTS FESTIVAL

The 53 rd Hong Kong Arts Festival promises

a dazzling array of performances in February

2025, headlined by two beloved classics –

Shanghai Yue Opera House’s “Family” and

“The Butterfly Lovers (Yuan & Fan Version)”.

Other festival highlights include a rare

staging of Bizet’s Carmen as it was originally

performed in 1875, to celebrate the 150 th

anniversary of the composer’s passing.

A musical adaptation of Emily Brontë’s

Wuthering Heights, directed by Emma Rice,

adds a dramatic touch. Fans of literature can

also look forward to TS Eliot’s The Waste

Land through the lens of hip-hop.

The festival kicks off with the

Orchestra of the Teatro Comunale di

Bologna performing works by Rossini and

Mendelssohn under Donato Renzetti’s baton.

Fascinating exhibitions, masterclasses, and

interactive performances will further enhance

this feast of culture. www.hk.artsfestival.org/en

Photos: Hong Kong Arts Festival

15

OVERTURES

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

Local Markets:

From aromatic spices to intricate handicrafts

– unlock authentic local culture at these

bustling bazaars

Gateway to a Country’s Soul

Visiting local markets is more than just

shopping – it’s a deep dive into the heart of

authentic culture, flavours and rhythms. For

the sustainably-minded traveller, these vibrant

bazaars offer a unique opportunity to support

small businesses, savour freshly harvested local

produce and discover handcrafted treasures.

What makes the market experience richer

is the chance to connect with farmers, artisans

and cooks, each with experiences to share and

stories to tell. Ask about their ingredients, learn

local recipes and hear about traditions passed

down through generations. Not only will you

walk away with one-of-a-kind treasures, but

your purchases will directly support families,

helping to preserve their way of life.

In Chiang Mai’s San Kamphaeng district,

Cham Cha Market (Lhong Him Khao) thrives

as a vibrant weekend destination, showcasing

an array of handmade crafts, artisanal products,

and mouthwatering Thai snacks.

Across the border in Cambodia’s Siem

Reap, Psar Chaa (Old Market) offers an

unforgettable journey, with silk scarves,

Khmer spices and exquisite handicrafts

adorning every corner. In this feast for the

senses, you can snack on street food or

perhaps pick up a hand-carved miniature of

the ancient Angkor Wat.

The Morning Market in Luang Prabang,

Laos, offers a more serene but equally

authentic experience. Talat Sao, which

opens at dawn, overflows with fresh

produce and the enticing aroma of Laotian

coffee. Begin your day like a local, with

sticky rice, hot coffee and casual chat across

the breakfast table.

To ensure your visit is as sustainable as

possible, seek out locally grown or handmade

products, avoid single-use plastics by bringing

a reusable bag, and consider the impact of

your purchases. Markets like these offer not

just an introduction to local life, but also

a chance to give back to the communities

that make Southeast Asia such a rich and

unforgettable destination. Let a market visit

be your gateway to a place’s heart and soul,

and take home a piece of it with you.

Cham Cha Market

in San Kamphaeng,

Chiang Mai,

welcomes visitors

every Saturday and

Sunday from

9am to 2.30pm

By showing interest

and respect, visitors

can help prevent

cultural erosion

and protect unique

traditions, such as the

boat noodle vendors of

Thailand’s canals

WORDS PHOOWADON DUANGMEE

16

Chivitr Wellness Retreat and Clinic of Integrative

Medicine on the Southern Tip of Phuket

Perched on a serene hillside near

Naiharn Lake and within walking

distance of a pristine beach,

Chivitr offers a holistic wellness

retreat that intertwines Eastern

and Western healing philosophies.

It , s Chivitr , s mission is to

foster long-term well-being by

emphasising personalised care

and sustainable lifestyle practices.

With tailored programmes,

Chivitr empowers guests to achieve

balance and health through a wide

array of therapies. These include

Traditional Chinese and Thai

Medicine, sound and vibration

therapy, gut microbiome analysis,

and mindfulness practices such

as yoga and breathing exercises.

Whether a day of relaxation or

a month-long transformation,

each experience is designed to

rejuvenate body and mind.

The retreat features 11

thoughtfully designed suites, each

named after elements like water,

fire, and earth, reflecting Chinese

and Chino-European influences.

Antique furnishings, fine linens,

and curated décor evoke an

atmosphere of refined elegance,

offering a tranquil escape.

Central to the Chivitr

experience is its culinary

philosophy, where nutritious,

locally sourced organic ingredients

take centre stage. Dining here

is a wellness journey in itself,

with meals designed to nourish

and energise. Samut, the retreat’s

Michelin-starred restaurant, is a

highlight. Under the direction of

Master Chef Ton, the eight-course

tasting menu celebrates Southern

Thai flavours and the freshest

local seafood. Each dish,

Clockwise from Top

Chivitr cocooned

in nature

Lymphatic Therapy

Chivitr Dining Hall

Moon Suite

from delicate starters to the

Samrub-style finale, offers a

sophisticated progression

of flavours.

Chivitr embraces holistic

wellness and a sustainable health

approach, focusing on health

transformation. Guests leave

relaxed and equipped with the

tools to continue their wellness

journey. From hydrotherapy

and lymphatic treatment to

personalised nutrition and

mindfulness practices, Chivitr

provides a comprehensive

approach to well-being that

ensures lasting positive change.

Whether you seek a brief

respite or a complete health

overhaul, Chivitr’s holistic

offerings cater to every wellness

need, creating an environment

where guests can truly flourish.

Address: 14/106 Moo 1, Rawai, Muang, Phuket | Tel: +66 (76) 388 838, +66 (0) 63 086 1487 | Email: info@chivitr.com | www.chivitr.com

OVERTURES

THAILAND TREASURES

Lamphun:

Thailand’s Time Machine

Journey through the kingdom’s oldest city, where

ancient temples and vibrant traditions meet

modern creativity

Nestled between the Ping and Kuang

rivers in northern Thailand, Lamphun is

a captivating mix of history, culture, and

modern charm. As Thailand’s oldest city,

its roots trace back over 1,300 years to

its founding in the Hariphunchai Kingdom

by Queen Chamadevi. This northern

province embodies a harmonious mix

of Dvaravati, Mon, and Lanna heritage,

drawing visitors with its timeless

atmosphere and rich cultural offerings.

Today, Lamphun stands as a fascinating

contrast of ancient traditions and modern

creativity, making it an increasingly

popular destination for travellers seeking

authenticity as well as dynamism.

The city’s historic core is a treasure

trove for history enthusiasts. Wat

Phra That Haripunchai Woramahawihan,

located near the main square, is

Lamphun’s crowning glory. This majestic

temple, built to house a relic of the

Buddha, features a striking 46-metrehigh

golden chedi, a masterpiece of

Lanna artistry. A place of pilgrimage and

devotion for centuries, this site embodies

the enduring connection between

Lamphun and Buddhism. Surrounding the

chedi are intricately designed pagodas,

ancient stone inscriptions, and ornately

decorated prayer halls that showcase

Dvaravati and Mon culture.

WORDS PHOOWADON DUANGMEE

Photos: Phoowadon Duangmee

18

Photos: Aq Bur Old Town

Next door to the temple lies a vibrant

creative hub: The Temple House. This

café and art space is a favourite among

locals and visitors alike, offering a relaxed

ambiance, excellent coffee, and homemade

pastries – great for unwinding. It’s also

a dynamic venue for art exhibitions,

workshops, and cultural events, adding

a modern twist to Lamphun’s heritage

environment. Nearby, Thailand Chicken

Rice serves up the city’s best chicken rice –

perfectly tender meat paired with fragrant

grains. For dessert, Aq Bur Old Town,

housed in a beautifully restored 1950s

heritage building, is a must-visit. Known for

savoury favourites like Steamed Jasmine

Rice with Hang Lay Curry but famed for

its ever-changing array of house-made

desserts, this charming café exemplifies

Lamphun’s harmonious blend of old-world

charm and contemporary tastes.

For a deeper dive into local history,

head for the Hariphunchai National

Museum. Here, an impressive collection

of ancient artifacts – inscriptions,

sculptures, ceramics, and Buddha

images – open a door to the Dvaravati,

Hariphunchai, and Lanna eras. Highlights

include intricately carved lintels and

stucco decorations that once adorned

local temples. Nearby, the Urban

Lamphun Museum offers a glimpse into

the daily lives of the region’s people

a century ago, with exhibits featuring

old photographs, writing materials,

and household tools. Together, these

museums paint a vivid picture of

Lamphun’s rich cultural legacy.

Top

Wat Phra That Haripunchai’s

46-metre golden chedi

shines as a stunning Lanna

artistic masterpiece

Clockwise from Far Left

The Temple House offers

great coffee and homemade

pastries downstairs

Local art on display upstairs

in the Temple House

Replica of an ancient Lanna

temple assembly hall,

or Viharn, from

Lamphun province

Top Right

Aq Bur Old Town, set in a

1950s heritage building,

delights with comforting

favourites like Steamed

Jasmine Rice with Hang Lay

Curry and Creamy Egg

19

OVERTURES

THAILAND TREASURES

Another historical gem is Wat

Chamadevi, also known as Wat Ku Kut.

This ancient temple, believed to be

over 750 years old, is a rare landmark

of Mon architecture in Thailand. Its two

prominent stupas, Chedi Suwan Chang

Kot and Ratana Chedi, are adorned with

intricate stucco images of the Buddha.

The latter is said to enshrine the ashes

of Queen Chamadevi, adding to the

temple’s historic significance. Just

10 kilometres from busy downtown

Lamphun, Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha

offers a serene escape. Perched atop

a hill, this revered temple is celebrated

for its sacred Buddha footprint. Its

serene ambiance and sweeping views

of the surrounding mountains make it a

favourite among pilgrims and travellers

seeking peace and tranquillity.

Lamphun’s cultural richness

stretches beyond its temples and

museums. In Li district, Wat Phra

Phutthabat Huai Tom is the spiritual

heart of the Karen community,

known for their vibrant traditions

and vegetarian lifestyle. Its unique

laterite facade and serene atmosphere

transform each December into a lively

cultural festival featuring traditional

hilltribe dances, local sports, and

a bustling handicraft market. This

celebration offers a rare opportunity to

experience the warmth and hospitality

of the Karen people.

Food lovers will find plenty to

savour in Lamphun. Dao Khanong

Restaurant, a local legend, offers

authentic northern Thai dining with its

traditional Khantoke meals. Dishes like

Nam Prik Ong (tomato chilli dip), Kaeng

Hang Lay (rich pork curry), and Kaeng

Om Moo (herb-infused pork curry)

showcase the bold flavours of the

region. Other delicacies, such as green

jackfruit salad and bamboo shoots

stuffed with minced pork, highlight the

diversity of Lamphun’s culinary scene.

For those seeking unique souvenirs,

Lamphun’s weaving communities are

a must-visit. The Yok Dok Lamphun

Thai Cloth Learning and Conservation

Centre invites visitors to learn

traditional silk-weaving and try their

hand at tie-dyeing. The shop here also

offers exquisite silk products while the

museum showcases the art of mulberry

and silk production. Nearby, Ban Nong

Ngueak’s weaving community is famed

for its hand-woven cotton pillows,

tablecloths, and clothes. Further north,

Ban Don Luang showcases the Yong

ethnic group’s renowned batik and

cotton craftsmanship.

From its golden chedis and ancient

temples to its thriving art scene

and culinary delights, Lamphun is a

destination that captivates the senses.

Whether sipping coffee in a heritage

café, exploring centuries-old relics,

or shopping for hand-woven textiles,

visitors are sure to leave with lasting

memories of this enchanting province.

Lamphun’s ability to blend its storied

past with modern creativity makes it

a place that lingers in the hearts of all

who travel there.

Clockwise from Top

Buddha statues in

Wat Chamadevi

A woman in a

Lamphun village

weaving on a

traditional loom

Lamphun’s

traditional

brocaded silk

Sai Ua

(Lanna sausage)

at Dao Khanong

Restaurant

A stunning aerial

view of the Golden

Pagoda Sri Vieng

Chai at Phra

Phutthabat Huai

Tom Temple

Ku Kut Pagoda at

Wat Chamadevi

Temple in Lamphun

Photo: Dao Khanong Restaurant

20

OVERTURES

A TASTE OF THAILAND

Laab Un leashed

Imagine a salad that’s anything but ordinary, packed with spices, herbs and flavours

that tell the story of Thai traditions. That’s Laab!

Despite somewhat mysterious origins, the

spicy, flavour-packed meat salad known as

Laab has secured a treasured status in Thai

cuisine. A traditional staple in the North

and Northeast, this flavour-packed dish

was once reserved for special occasions

like merit-making ceremonies, weddings

and funerals. Back then, preparing Laab

was more than just a solo task, requiring

a village-wide effort – starting with the

butchering of a cow or pig.

While cherished across the whole of

Thailand, the flavours of Laab can vary

significantly from one region to another.

Laab in the North of Thailand is a bold

and intense experience, characterised by

earthy aromas from local spices like Ma

Kwaen (similar to Sichuan pepper), long

peppers and nutmeg. In contrast, the

more widely available Northeast version is

known for its balanced mix of roasted rice,

spices and a subtle, tangy finish.

These days, Laab appears on menus

spanning street vendors and family-owned

eateries to high-end restaurants in the

glitziest neighbourhoods.

The word “Laab” in the Northern dialect

means to “finely minced meat”. True to

its name, a good dish of Laab requires

the meat – whether chicken, pork, beef,

duck, buffalo or even fish – to be finely

chopped. Exceptions include a version

called Goi, in which bite-sized pieces of

meat are blanched and then seasoned.

Herbs and greens are essential

components of Laab, adding both aroma

and freshness. Spring onions, coriander,

shallots and lemon balm leaves not only

enhance the flavour but also help balance

the dish’s meatiness. The seasoning is

where Laab truly shines: a combination

of chilli peppers, fish sauce, lime juice,

sugar and, in some recipes, a splash of

umami from fermented fish sauce or dried

chillies. Traditionally, this hearty salad is

served with sticky rice and bitter-tasting

local greens like Siamese neem, young

acacia and wild betel leaves.

Over the years, Laab has inspired

numerous spinoffs. Think Laab Nam Tok

made with grilled, fatty cuts of meat, or

Laab Khua, a gutsy version with boiled offal

that is then roasted to perfection. More

playful versions like Laab with glass noodles

and fried Laab balls have become common

sights in Northeastern-style restaurants.

Whether you prefer it fiery and

aromatic or tasty-tangy, Laab remains a

beloved, versatile dish that continues to

evolve and delight tastebuds nationwide.

22

WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA

23

DISCOVER YOUR MUSE

AT MUSE BARS

A REFINED ATMOSPHERE

Muse Bars sets the stage for memorable

moments, whether you’re enjoying

a solo retreat, an intimate date, or a

casual gathering. The interior design

combines warm, ambient lighting

with chic, modern décor, creating

a luxurious yet inviting space. Soft

notes of jazz and acoustic melodies

fill the air, offering a soothing

soundtrack to your evening. This

harmonious blend of art, music, and

design invites guests to unwind and

let their minds wander.

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS:

CRAFTED TO INSPIRE

At Muse Bars, every drink tells a story,

drawing inspiration from art and

nature. The Sea Plum, for example,

captures the spirit of the sea with

Japanese whiskey, pickled plums, and

a subtle hint of seaweed. A dash of

wasabi adds a delicate spice, evoking

the serene yet powerful beauty of a

sunset over the ocean.

For those seeking passion in a glass,

the Long Lai delivers. This cocktail

embodies boldness and intensity,

reflecting the essence of Koh Samui.

Meanwhile, the Artist offers a playful,

immersive experience, allowing guests

to decorate their drinks with edible

colours that enhance both flavour

and presentation. Each sip becomes a

personal masterpiece.

A WORLD OF WHISKEY

& WINE

Muse Bars also boasts an impressive

collection of premium whiskeys and

fine wines from around the globe.

Whiskey aficionados will appreciate

the rare, aged selections, each served

to perfection. Wine lovers can explore

an array of carefully curated reds,

whites, and sparkling vintages,

ensuring the perfect pour for every

occasion. For the adventurous, creative

twists on classic cocktails add a touch

of surprise and delight.

MORE THAN A BAR:

A CREATIVE HAVEN

Beyond its carefully crafted menu,

Muse Bars fosters a space where

creativity thrives. The venue

Step into Muse Bars, a sanctuary designed for those who

crave elegance, inspiration, and a tranquil escape from

the rush of everyday life. Here, creativity meets relaxation

in a sophisticated space that encourages connection,

contemplation, and celebration of life’s finer pleasures.

MUSE BARS

occasionally hosts live art

performances, poetry readings,

and small workshops, turning an

evening out into an inspiring

experience. Guests are encouraged

to engage, exchange ideas, and

find their muse in the company of

like-minded individuals.

WHY MUSE BARS?

Muse Bars is more than just a place to

enjoy a drink – it’s a destination for

relaxation and inspiration. With

impeccable service, a thoughtfully

curated atmosphere, and a dedication

to fostering creativity, Muse Bars offers

a unique escape from the ordinary.

Whether you seek quiet introspection

or lively conversation, you’ll find it

here, surrounded by beauty, flavour,

and the sound of soulful music.

Come and discover your muse!

888 Moo 4, Bo Phut, Koh Samui,

Surat Thani

Tel: +66 (0) 81 753 6767

Instagram: musebars_samui

The Origins and Influences of Southern Thai Cuisine:

A Journey Through Flavours and Cultures

Southern Thai cuisine stands out as one of Thailand’s most

distinctive culinary traditions, celebrated for its bold flavours,

intense heat, and fragrant spices. This unique cuisine reflects

the region’s culture, lifestyle, and geography, shaped by both

its abundant natural resources and diverse cultural influences

introduced through ancient maritime trade routes.

The Origins of Southern Thai

Cuisine: A Fusion of Nature

and Tradition

Nestled between the Andaman Sea

and the Gulf of Thailand, Southern

Thailand is rich in seafood,

including fish, shrimp, shellfish,

and crabs. These treasures from the

sea, combined with ingredients like

turmeric, lemongrass, and kaffir

lime leaves, form the essence of

Southern Thai cooking.

Agriculture also plays a crucial

role. Coconut farming provides

fresh coconut milk, while rice

cultivation and foraging for local

vegetables, such as wild betel

leaves and palm shoots, contribute

to the region’s culinary diversity.

Southern Thai cuisine, therefore, is

deeply rooted in nature’s bounty.

Influences That Shaped

Southern Thai Cuisine

Southern Thai cuisine is a tapestry of

cultural influences, shaped by centuries

of trade and cultural exchange:

• Indian and Sri Lankan Influence

Spices like black pepper, turmeric,

and cloves arrived via trade

routes, enriching dishes such as

gaeng tai pla (fermented fish

curry) and massaman curry.

• Malay and Indonesian Influence

Close proximity to Malaysia and

Indonesia introduced coconut

milk and herbs, evident in dishes

like khao yum (southern-style

rice salad) and roti with curry.

• Chinese Influence

Hokkien Chinese settlers in

Phuket contributed dishes like

mee hoon gaeng poo (vermicelli

with crab curry) and loba (fried

pork and tofu).

• Muslim Influence

Muslim communities introduced

rich, spice-laden dishes such as

khao mok gai (chicken biryani)

and oxtail soup, inspired by

Arab cuisine.

Key Characteristics of Southern

Thai Cuisine

Spicy Heat: Known for intense

spiciness, featuring chilli peppers

and turmeric.

Natural Saltiness: Ingredients

like shrimp paste and fish sauce add

depth, as seen in kaeng tai pla and

southern dipping sauces (nam chup).

Herbal Aromas: Fragrances of

kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and

turmeric define the cuisine’s aroma.

Southern Thai Cuisine: A Taste

of History

Beyond bold flavours, Southern

Thai cuisine tells a story of travel,

adaptation, and cultural blending.

Every dish carries the legacy of

ancient traditions and local wisdom.

The next time you savour Southern

Thai food, remember the rich

history and cultural fusion that

make it one of the world’s most

remarkable cuisines!

Phensiri Thai Restaurant

80/30 Moo 3, Suanuthit Road, Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani

Tel: +66 (0) 81 753 6767 | www.phensiri.com

facebook.com/PhensiriKohSamui

OVERTURES

FRUITFUL FINDS

With spikes that look like flames and peel resembling a monster’s

scales, it’s clear how dragon fruit earned its name. Its vivid pink,

leathery exterior serves as a protective armour for the delicate,

juicy flesh within.

Also called pitaya, this exotic fruit is known as Kaew Mangkorn

in Thai. The most common variety boasts bright pink skin and white

flesh dotted with tiny black seeds. The less common varieties have

vibrant red flesh or white flash with yellow skins and are often

sweeter than the common pink version.

The dragon fruit plant is a type of cactus which prized not only

for its fruit but also its ornamental beauty. Its red berries contrast

dramatically with thorny green stems, making it a striking addition

to gardens.

Native to Central and South America, the dragon fruit was

brought to Asia by the French in the early 19 th century. Today it

flourishes in tropical regions worldwide, with Vietnam, India and

Ecuador being the top three exporters globally.

The fruit is typically enjoyed fresh, boasting a flavour profile

somewhere between a sour kiwi, sweet pear and juicy watermelon.

Just cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out its flesh, or peel off

the skin and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Dragon fruit can also be

added to salads and blended into smoothies.

Beyond its unique and luscious flavour, the dragon fruit comes

packed with health benefits. High in fibre and antioxidants, it can

help lower the risk of diabetes and cancer, strengthen the immune

system, improve digestion and heart health, and slow signs of

ageing. It also supports hair, bones, vision and pregnancy health.

However, like any food, moderation is the key.

Overconsumption can cause diarrhoea, bloating, or spikes

in blood sugar. Additionally, eating red-fleshed varieties may

temporarily turn the urine pink or red – a harmless effect that

disappears quickly.

In Thailand, this eye-catching pink fruit is widely available

in markets and a must-try for visitors seeking exotic flavours

and textures.

Enter the

Dragon

Don’t be fooled by its fiery looks – the dragon

fruit is a cool and delicious delight

WORDS ARIYA CHAIYARIT PHOTO & STYLE SAMATCHA APAISUWAN

26

Sharing style is

ideal to experience Thai food

CAY Restaurant - A New Beachfront

Dining with a Sino-Thai Twist

Thai appetizer set

CAY Restaurant redefines beachfront

dining at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui

Resort with a fresh take on Sino-Thai

culinary traditions. Inspired by the

Chinese influence on Thai cuisine,

particularly seafood, CAY combines

historical family recipes with modern

finesse to deliver an innovative yet

authentic dining journey.

The culinary philosophy at CAY

centres on simplicity and authenticity.

The rich and flavourful

Kaeng Poo Bai Chaphlu

Ancient recipes are reimagined with

a seafood-forward approach, crafted

by a chef renowned for her expertise

in fine Thai dining. The result is

a sophisticated interpretation of

traditional dishes, retaining their

essence while presenting them with

modern precision.

Commitment to freshness is a

cornerstone of CAY’s ethos. From

scratch-made curries to the peak use

of ingredients like freshly pressed

coconut milk, garlic, and shallots,

every detail is carefully considered.

The restaurant achieves balanced bold

flavours by meticulously extracting

spice to suit a variety of palates.

Rooted in sustainability, CAY

partners with local artisans to

source premium ingredients,

ensuring each dish reflects the richness of the region.

Fresh seafood, including rare seasonal catches like

pomfrets, is delivered daily from nearby markets,

guaranteeing quality and flavour. Complementing

this is rice sourced from an organic cooperative in

northeastern Thailand, directly supporting local farmers

and advocating for ethical, chemical-free farming

practices. This thoughtful approach ensures that every

bite at CAY is not only delicious but also mindful of its

environmental and social impact.

For diners seeking a fusion of heritage, sustainability,

and the finest flavours, CAY delivers an unforgettable

beachfront dining experience.

CAY Restaurant

Address: 92/1 Moo 2, Bophut,

Koh Samui, Surat Thani

Tel: +66 (0) 7796 0333

Email: fbs.als@anantara.com

A Gourmet Escape Above the Island:

Tree Tops Signature Dining

Nestled within a 120-year-old treetop canopy, Tree Tops Signature Dining

stands out as Koh Samui’s most romantic and exclusive culinary destination.

As the island’s sole treetop restaurant, its intimate setting is tailored for

unforgettable romantic evenings.

Guests can indulge in two curated 8-course menus, including A

Symphony of Sea & Land blending Mediterranean and Asian flavours with

finesse, and Garden Symphony, a vegetarian celebration of nature’s finest

ingredients.

Committed to sustainability, Tree Tops sources the majority of its

ingredients locally, from fresh produce grown in Thai highlands to

seafood supplied by nearby communities. Each dish reflects eco-conscious

craftsmanship, blending modern techniques with traditional culinary

practices.

Reserve your table for an enchanting treetop experience, where fine

dining meets romance.

Tree Tops Signature Dining

The best sala for a romantic dinner night out

92/1 Moo 2, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani Tel: +66 (0) 7796 0333 www.treetopsrestaurantsamui.com Email: treetops@anantara.com

OVERTURES

JUST DESSERT

Floating Petals chewy

Traditional dessert Bua Loy is prized for its soft,

texture and sweet coconut flavour

This traditional Thai dessert features tiny,

colourful rice balls immersed in rich, aromatic

coconut milk and has been a beloved treat in

Thai households for centuries, passed down

from generation to generation. Bua Loy

translates as “floating water lily” and is especially

popular at auspicious events, since it symbolises

bonding, love, and closeness.

While crafting the perfect bowl of Bua Loy

requires several steps, this classic dessert is

surprisingly easy to prepare. Its vibrant colours,

inviting fragrance, and delightful presentation

make preparation a beloved family activity.

Everyone can join in, from kneading the dough

and shaping the rice balls to simmering the

coconut milk and Bua Loy balls.

To make Bua Loy, rice flour is kneaded into

chewy, tiny balls in lovely pastel colours. Paired

with pandan-infused coconut milk, this dessert

offers the perfect blend of sweet flavours with

a hint of saltiness. Each region of Thailand has

its own unique recipe and tips – hidden gems

waiting to be discovered!

The colourful appearance of Bua Loy is

achieved using natural food dyes derived from

fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The lilac colour

comes from steamed taro while the yellow is

from steamed pumpkin. Other variations include

green from rich pandan juice, orange and purple

from steamed sweet potato, red from steamed

beetroot, and blue from butterfly pea juice.

These natural colourings are mixed into the

dough, which is then shaped into bite-sized balls

and boiled to perfection.

Bua Loy comes in many variations, with the

coconut milk variety being the most popular and

widely found. Other options, like Bua Loy Khai Whan

(poached egg in ginger and sugar water) or Bua Loy

served in fresh milk with young coconut and ginger

water, add to the dessert’s delightful diversity.

With so many ingredients and flavours to

enjoy, alternative Bua Loy recipes have emerged,

including varieties with fillings. These are usually

larger than the typical Bua Loy balls, such as

sesame-filled rice dumplings paired with ginger

syrup. Appearance is also key to the dessert’s

attraction, leading to creative variations on the

standard ball-shapes, including flowers.

WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA

28

OVERTURES

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS

Words Sarita Urupongsa

Thailand’s Top Chinese

Heritage Spots

Embark on a fascinating journey

through the kingdom’s living

Sino-Thai heritage

China’s cultural influence has woven a

rich tapestry across Asia, transcending

borders and centuries to form unique,

timeless bonds. This influence, shaped by

trade, migration, and shared history, has

left a lasting mark on the art, architecture,

and daily lives of countries in the region,

including Thailand. Threads of Chinese

heritage crisscross the Land of Smiles,

waiting to be discovered.

For a vibrant journey through Thailand’s

rich Sino-heritage, explore these top

destinations showcasing Chinese art,

architecture, and cultural legacy.

BANGKOK: THE ARTISTIC BEAT

Starting with Bangkok, a city that bursts

with energy, colour, and a dizzying array

of cultural landmarks.

Tang Contemporary Art is a must-visit

for lovers of Chinese and Asian art. With a

legacy spanning 27 years, this prestigious

gallery has become a cornerstone of the

Asian art scene. Known for its masterful

curation, Tang Contemporary Art brings

together the old-world charm of traditional

Asian art with the edgy and often inspirational

elements of contemporary cultural expression.

Six branches across Asia, including two

in China, foster a deep appreciation for

Asian creativity.

Expect to see a mix of works from

both celebrated masters and emerging

talents. However, Tang also serves as

a dynamic space for cultural exchange,

encouraging innovative perspectives

and methodologies. Its reputation as

a nurturing ground for young artists

underscores its mission to build bridges

between art communities worldwide.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a

casual art enthusiast, Tang Contemporary

Art offers an immersive experience that

celebrates Asian culture and creativity.

Open from Tuesday to Saturday (closed on

public holidays) 11am-7pm, River City

Bangkok, 23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Bangkok;

www.tangcontemporary.com

Photos: The artists and Tang Contemporary Art

30

PATTAYA: BEYOND THE BEACH

Pattaya is famed as a hub of vibrant

nightlife and beachside attractions, but

there’s a quieter side to this coastal city

too. Just minutes from the bustling beach

lies Anek Kuson Sala, also known as

Viharn Sien or the Temple of the Gods.

This extraordinary museum-temple hybrid

houses an impressive collection of Thai

and Chinese antiques, bringing together

history, spirituality, and artistry in a

reverent atmosphere that inspires awe.

A highlight is the majestic white jade

statue of Guan Yin, the Chinese goddess

of mercy, exuding a serene beauty that

reflects her compassionate spirit. The

museum also boasts striking clay warriors

and horses, reminiscent of Emperor Qin

Shi Huang’s famous terracotta army, along

with delicate ceramics and intricate art

pieces that speak to the rich heritage of

both Thai and Chinese cultures.

Anek Kuson Sala is an architectural

marvel in its own right. Designed with

PHUKET: A HERITAGE FEAST

Moving south, the island of Phuket reveals

another side of Chinese influence through

the local Peranakan culture, a beautiful

fusion of Chinese and local styles. The

distinctive Sino-Portuguese shophouses

in Phuket’s Old Town are beloved for their

pastel colours and charming facades, making

them an ideal spot for travellers seeking

the perfect photo op. These buildings

are more than picturesque, they reflect a

longstanding blend of Chinese aesthetics

a keen respect for traditional Chinese

aesthetics, the three-storey temple was

brought to life by Sanga Kulkobkiat, a

passionate preserver of cultural heritage.

Granted 8 rai of land by King Rama IX,

Sanga filled the space with over 300

precious artifacts gifted by the Chinese

government, along with hundreds

more from Thai artists. This fascinating

museum invites visitors to take their time

on a journey through art and history

where every piece has a story to tell.

Open daily from 8am to 5pm, Na Jomtien,

Sattahip District, Chon Buri

with local influences, dating back to the

era when Chinese traders first settled in

southern Thailand.

To dive deeper into Phuket’s Chinese

history, visit the Phuket Thaihua Museum in

Talat Nuea. This two-storey building in the

elegant Sino-Portuguese style was originally

established in 1934 as a Hokkien Chinese

school. The ground floor offers exhibitions

that trace the lives and customs of Hokkien

Chinese immigrants in Phuket. Wander

through displays of traditional garments,

household items, and historical photos that

showcase the deep-rooted connections

between the Chinese and local communities.

The museum brings to life the shared cultural

legacy of Phuket, where old traditions meet

modern ways.

Open daily from 9am to 5pm. Entrance fee

200 baht for adults, 100 baht for children.

28 Krabi Road, Talat Nuea, Mueang District,

Phuket; phuketthaihuamuseum.com

Photos: Phuket Thaihua Museum Photos: Shutterstock

31

OVERTURES

ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS

MAE HONG SON: TREASURE IN THE MOUNTAINS

Completing the journey, venture north to seeking both beauty and history. Whether

Mae Hong Son province and discover you’re exploring its tea shops, admiring

Ban Rak Thai, a picturesque highland village the mountain views, or simply soaking in

celebrated for its enchanting landscape and the atmosphere, Ban Rak Thai captures

unique cultural heritage. Nestled among the spirit of a time-honoured way of life

lush hills and scenic tea plantations, Ban that continues to thrive.

Rak Thai offers a tranquil escape with an Ban Rak Thai, Mok Cham Pae Sub-District,

unmistakable Chinese charm. The village Mueang District, Mae Hong Son

was founded by former Kuomintang soldiers

who fled from Yunnan, China, after the

Chinese Communist Party came to power.

Today, it remains a living homage to their

Yunnan roots, with buildings and signage

that retain their Chinese character and

residents who often converse in Mandarin.

Stroll along quiet streets lined

with traditional wooden houses, enjoy

authentic Yunnan cuisine, and sip freshly

brewed tea from local plantations. The

serene surroundings and cool mountain

air make an idyllic spot for travellers


32

INDULGE IN LUXURY WITH SPECTACULAR VISTAS

At AIR BAR, luxury meets vibrant ambiance in perfect harmony. Indulge in finely crafted cocktails, premium beverages,

and delectable bites, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the Samui coast. As the sun sets, AIR BAR comes alive with

entertainment, from the soulful tones of a saxophone to the rhythmic pulse of a live band or the vibrant beats of a DJ. The experience is

as unforgettable as the view. Whether you're toasting the sunset with a signature drink or immersing yourself in the lively ambiance,

AIR BAR offers the epitome of seaside sophistication.

Every detail is designed to elevate your evening, ensuring an experience as remarkable as the coastal panorama.

INDULGE IN IN LUXURY WITH SPECTACULAR VISTAS

At AIR At BAR, AIR BAR, luxury luxury meets meets vibrant ambiance in in perfect harmony. Indulge in in finely crafted cocktails, premium premium beverages, beverages,

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T.+66 (0) 77 429 100 E. icsamui.rsvn@ihg.com | samui.intercontinental.com



OVERTURES

CHECKED IN: PHANGAN

Recover, Recharge, Repeat:

Full Moon Adventures At Explorar Koh Phangan

TRIED: EXPLORAR KOH

PHANGAN

When it comes to party islands, Koh

Phangan is Thailand’s Ibiza – where the

celebration is as endless as the stunning

sunsets and rolling waves. The island’s

legendary Full Moon Party draws revellers

from across the world for a neon-drenched,

drink-fuelled night of dancing, fire shows

and nonstop music. But why limit yourself

to just one epic evening when you can

keep the good times alive for days?

Enter Explorar Koh Phangan, the hotel

that knows how to elevate your party

experience as well as offering plenty of

chillout time to keep you refreshed and

ready for more.

WORDS: KANKANIT WICHIANTANON PHOTOS: EXPLORAR KOH PHANGAN

Clockwise from

Top Right

Dive into the

ultimate beach

BBQ experience at

Explorar Beach BBQ,

accompanied by

mesmerising fire

shows on the beach

Gourmet fare

curated by

French-native

Chef Jerome Henry

Fun, frothy moments

from the Signature

Pool Party – the

ultimate foamfilled

fiesta

Enjoy pulsing beats,

bubbles galore, and

a glass of bubbly in

hand at the pool bar

during the Signature

Pool Party

Tucked away on a serene slice of

Haad Rin Nai Beach, this adults-only

resort offers the best of both worlds:

peaceful beachside bliss paired with

adrenaline-pumping adventures and

unforgettable parties – all in a warm and

welcoming atmosphere. Whether you

want to dance the night away or recharge

in luxury, Explorar has you covered.

The hotel sets the tone on the eve

of the full moon with its Signature Pool

Party – the ultimate foam festival. Enjoy

pulsing beats, bubbles galore and a

glass of bubbly in hand at the pool bar.

It’s bathtime fun multiplied by 10! The

evening then transitions seamlessly into

the Explorar Beach BBQ, where fresh

sea-to-table grilled delicacies await,

accompanied by mesmerising fire shows

on the beach.

On the big day itself, guests can

immerse themselves in pre-party rituals

like body painting complete with energising

music to get you in the perfect mood for

the night ahead. The real standout, however,

is the Hangover Recovery Kit left in every

room for the morning after. With hydration

boosters and pain-relief tablets, they

ensure you will bounce back in no time.

Once refreshed, you can lounge on

the beach or dive into another round of

island fun – like the party never ended.

So, when the moon reaches its fullest, let

Explorar Koh Phangnan be your ultimate

base. Choose from rooms, suites or villas

ensconced in lush gardens and indulge

in fine French cuisine curated by Chef

Jerome Henry. Whether you are here for

the thrill or the chill, this resort promises

an unforgettable escape.

EXPLORAR KOH PHANGAN

117/21 Rin Nai Beach, Ban Tai,

Koh Phangan, Surat Thani

Tel: +66 (0) 77 951 567

www.explorarhotels.com/koh-phangan

36

OVERTURES

CHECKED IN: SAMUI

Where Healthy

Meets Heavenly

TASTED:

ANNIE EATERY & SWEETERY

Living the green life gets a decadent

twist at ANNIE eatery & sweetery, where

plant-based dishes with bold flavours

make you forget this is just “healthy” food.

Driven by her passion for crafting vegan

and gluten-free desserts for her loved ones,

vegan pastry chef and owner Anna, with

more than 15 years of experience, has built

a successful café and pastry chain with four

locations on the island – Lamai, Central

Festival Samui, Fisherman Village, and

Thong Krut Pier. Nowadays, ANNIE eatery

& sweetery focuses on a healthy and

vegan menu for daily meals.

On our visit, we chose the conveniently

located Central Festival Samui café, where

Top Right

From passion to

pastry perfection,

meet Anna,

the owner and

mastermind behind

every delicious

creation at ANNIE

Left, from Top

to Bottom

ANNIE’s Magic

Shrooms Wrap,

a must-try for

mushroom lovers

If smoothies and

wholesome drinks

are your passion,

the array of healthy

beverages at ANNIE

will make you swoon

WORDS: KANKANIT WICHIANTANON PHOTOS: ANNIE EATERY & SWEETERY

a breezy Bali bungalow-style design

matches dishes zinging with fresh produce

– truly sunshine on a plate. While 90%

of the menu features 100% plant-based

delights, the other 10% showcases several

delectable dishes with fresh fish and

eggs – options that will delight even the

pickiest of healthy food lovers. It’s the

perfect spot for friends with different

dietary preferences to gather.

As sweet-toothed foodies on a mission,

we dove spoon-first into a tall glass of

Chunky Monkey – a dreamy blend of

frozen bananas, coconut milk, chocolate

sauce, and homemade peanut butter.

Crowned with a cloud of coconut whipped

cream, this treat walks a delicious line

between drink and dessert.

If smoothie bowls are your passion,

the Love Strawberry Bowl will make you

swoon. The sunny mix of strawberries

and bananas topped with crunchy signature

granola, chia seeds, almond flakes, and

banana and strawberry slices tantalises

with smooth and crunchy textures in

every bite.

For those craving a hearty, savoury start

to their day, the Brekkie Vegan Plate delivers

in sumptuous style. Think scrambled tofu,

baked potatoes, pan-charred mushrooms,

roasted tomatoes, fresh greens, and

toasted sourdough bread, all tied

together with a drizzle of herbaceous

pesto sauce.

Or the Magic Shrooms Wrap, which

comes loaded with mushrooms, vegan

cheese, carrot, beetroot, and fresh greens –

perfect for anyone craving a meaty texture

minus the animal products. Pair the wrap

with a bowl of Creamy Pumpkin Soup, rich

with the velvety sweetness of pumpkin and

coconut milk, for a comforting combo.

For a sweeter breakfast treat, the

Gluten-Free Pancakes Cuties Bi Bi offer a

recipe for guilt-free indulgence with fluffy

chickpea pancakes topped with tangy

strawberry jam.

Looking for the perfect blend of

health and hedonism on Samui? Head to

one of ANNIE eatery & sweetery’s cafés

and discover how vibrant, bold, and

satisfying vegan cuisine can be!

ANNIE EATERY & SWEETERY

Central Festival Samui, 209, Bo Phut,


Tel: +66 (0) 65 012 8043

www.annie.ps.me

38

OVERTURES

CHECKED IN: SAMUI

A Southern Feast of Quality,

Authenticity, and Value

Clockwise from

Top Right

Come for the

authenticity of the

food and stay

to enjoy the

classic ambiance

One of Kapi Sator’s

bucket-list dishes –

Giant Tiger Prawns

with Chilli and Salt

The fork-tender

Southern slowsimmered

pork stew

A flavourful treat,

Sauteed Squid with

Sweet Sauce

A lip-smacking

culinary journey

awaits you here

TASTED: KAPI SATOR

Our recent feast at Kapi Sator was a

lip-smacking culinary journey through

the rich heritage of southern Thai cuisine.

As one of only four Koh Samui restaurants

awarded a Bib Gourmand in the

Michelin Guide Thailand 2024 and 2025,

this unassuming gem tucked away on

a quiet road in Bo Phut delivers bold

and beautiful flavours that both delight

and surprise.

Setting the relaxed tone with

her warm welcome was Sureewan

Ratchadarak, the visionary behind Kapi

Sator. Her and her team’s genuine

hospitality nurture an inviting atmosphere

that made us feel right at home.

Born from Sureewan’s deep

appreciation of southern Thai flavours,

Kapi Sator presents authentic regional

classics carefully crafted with traditional

techniques and locally sourced

ingredients. House-made curry pastes

and the freshest seafood caught daily

from the island’s waters guarantee that

every dish sings with authenticity and

exceptional freshness.

Our meal was a symphony of dishes,

each with a unique flavour profile. True

to tradition of family-style dining, the

feast showcased an array of cooking

techniques, all coming together to

celebrate a perfect balance of sweet,

salty, spicy, and sour flavours. The sight

of the spread – comprising stir-fries,

soup, curry, and a raw vegetable platter

with dip – evoked the joy of Thai dining

where a different tastes and textures can

be enjoyed in one sitting.

To ensure your visit to Kapi Sator

is as memorable and flavourful as ours,

we have put together a menu of the

restaurant’s signature dishes to grace

your table. The Southern Slow-Simmered

Pork Stew offers a perfect balance of

savoury sweetness; Stir-fried Melinjo

Leaves with Eggs, a delectable vegetable

dish that perfectly complements the bold

flavours of southern cuisine; Sauteed

Squid with Sweet Sauce, a tender and

flavourful treat; Southern Sour Curry with

Grouper, a zesty dish that freshens the

palate; and Stir-fried Stink Beans with

Prawns, an umami-packed classic pitching

the richness of shrimp paste against the

exquisitely pungent beans.

Two other bucket-list dishes are the

Giant Tiger Prawns with Chilli and Salt, a

tantalising blend of salty and spicy; and

the Crab and Betel Leaf Curry served

with noodles and raw vegetables, for a

perfect balance of creamy richness and

herbaceous freshness.

Kapi Sator presents an unmissable

opportunity for foodies to savour

Michelin-standard Southern cuisine, with

exceptional quality, authenticity, and

value tied together in every dish.

KAPI SATOR

25/236 Tawirat Phakdi Road, Bo Phut,


Tel: +66 (0) 98 799 8007

www.kapisator.com

WORDS: KANKANIT WICHIANTANON PHOTOS: ANUTRA UNGSUPRASERT

40

SAMRAN GARDENS

MAENAM

KOH SAMUI

A Rare and Exciting New Opportunity

Luxury Four-Bedroom Pool Villa for Sale

Located within the established grounds of the highly reputed

Samran Gardens development in Maenam, Koh Samui.

This impressively spacious and thoughully designed pool

villa offers complete privacy and comfort, set on a generous

1,100 sq.m land plot.

Price: 22,500,000 THB incl. land & house

Full Freehold purchase acquision available. Construcon

due to start imminently, esmated compleon Nov. 2025

Direct Contact: Stuart Evans (Founder of Samran Gardens)

Property Details

• Master bedroom suite with bespoke

wardrobes and large en-suite

• 3 further guest bedrooms, all en-suite

• Bespoke fied kitchen with appliances

• Large living & dining areas

• Cloakroom/WC & ulity/laundry

• Impressive 12 m x 4.7 m overflow

swimming pool

• Covered, fan-cooled terraces

• Dedicated outdoor dining &

entertaining sala with covered kitchen

• Double car garage & driveway

Contact:

Stuart Evans

Mobile/WhatsApp:

+66 95 498 9992

E-mail:

info@samrangardens.com

Website:

www.samrangardens.com

OVERTURES

CHECKED IN: SAMUI

Cocktails, Cuisine

and Coastal Views

WORDS: KANKANIT WICHIANTANON PHOTOS: ANUTRA UNGSUPRASERT

TASTED: MAITHY POOL BAR

& RESTAURANT

For the best views of Samui’s stunning

sunsets and sunrises, Maithy Pool Bar &

Restaurant offers the perfect front-row

seat. Perched atop the Bang Rak Hills,

this stylish open-air restaurant serves

up breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of

Thailand along with a menu of Thai and

international dishes in delicious harmony.

Maithy’s delectable dishes are

crafted to complement the time of day –

morning, afternoon or evening. Breakfast

is an exclusive affair for guests of the

UniQue Boutique Residences & Resort,

while allcomers are invited to savour the

brunch and dinner of global favourites and

creative fusion dishes. With a sparkling

pool and an impressive cocktail menu, it’s

the perfect spot to unwind in style.

We visited at golden hour, starting

with the signature Maithy cocktail – a

tropical mix of white and dark rum,

orange curaçao, and orange juice.

Keeping the sunset spirit alive, we sipped

on Frozen Unique, a refreshing blend of

vodka, strawberry, and coconut syrup,

before rounding off with a timeless

Cosmopolitan.

As the sun dipped below the horizon,

our culinary journey began. The Maithy

Salad dazzled with crisp greens, quinoa,

avocado, nuts and a touch of feta and

parmesan. The All-Season Maithy Plate

impressed with parma ham-wrapped

melon, mussels au gratin, and pieces

of toast topped with smoked salmon,

guacamole, tomato and feta. The Maithy

Burger, oozing with creamy gruyere

cheese, delivered indulgent comfort,

Clockwise from

Top Left

Sip a sundowner

while soaking in

Samui’s stunning

seascape at

Maithy Pool Bar

& Restaurant

The Maithy Salad

comes with crisp

greens, quinoa,

avocado, nuts and

a touch of feta

and parmesan

Tuck into the meltin-your-mouth

Duck

Confit served on a

bed of truffle-infused

mashed potatoes for

a taste of luxury

Their selection of

sushi dishes

also delivers

indulgent comfort

A cosy ambiance

and a breathtaking

sunset view —

perfect for romantic

moments, friendly

meet-ups, and

family gatherings

while the Duck Confit on a bed of

truffle-infused mashed potatoes offered

rich, satisfying flavours. The Salmon

Steak, paired with a creamy phanaeng

curry sauce made our tastebuds dance.

Ending on a sweet note, we indulged

in timeless treats like Dame Blanche,

Brussels Waffle, and Profiteroles. But

dessert devotees will want to save room

for the house-made Mint Chocolate Chip

Ice Cream – an unmissable treat.

Maithy caters to music lovers with

live DJ performances every Wednesday,

Friday to Saturday, while Wednesdays,

Saturdays and Sundays elevate the

experience with a DJ set accompanied by

the sultry sounds of a live saxophone.

MAITHY POOL BAR &

RESTAURANT

23/402 Moo 4, Bo Phut,

Ko Samui, Surat Thani

Tel: +66 (0) 64 917 5174

www.uniquekohsamui.com/dining

42

FOOD CULTURE

Phuket’s

Culinary Stars

Take a tour of Phuket’s rich culinary heritage, where Thai, Chinese, Malay,

and Peranakan influences whip up a feast for the senses

Words & Photos Chutima Limpasurat

44

45

FOOD CULTURE

Phuket, the pearl of the Andaman, is

renowned for its crystal-clear waters,

vibrant nightlife, and luxurious

resorts. Beyond its postcard-perfect

vistas lies another captivating treasure: its

cuisine. Recognised as a UNESCO Creative City

of Gastronomy in 2015, Phuket boasts a food

culture steeped in history and shaped by a

blend of Thai, Chinese, Malay, and Peranakan

influences. Every dish tells a story, reflecting

centuries of migration, trade, and adaptation.

Exploring Phuket’s culinary landscape is a

journey into the heart of its identity, where

flavours, aromas, and textures evoke both

nostalgia and discovery.

Top Right

O-Tao, a signature

Phuket dish of

oysters, taro

chunks, crispy pork

crackling, and

savoury fried

pancake batter

Bottom Left to Right

In Phuket Town, the

local food market

is a vibrant spot to

enjoy local cuisine,

meet friends, and

browse in a popular

tourist destination

Sticky rice wrapped

in banana leaves

(Khao Tom Mud)

can be found in

local markets

MORNING MARKETS: THE

BEATING HEART OF LOCAL

CUISINE

No journey through Phuket’s food

culture is complete without a visit

to its bustling morning markets.

These lively hubs serve as the soul

of the island’s gastronomic scene,

where vendors showcase an array

of fresh produce, seafood, and

homemade condiments. A stroll

through the Banzaan Fresh Market

or Downtown Market in Phuket

Town immerses visitors in the

sights, sounds, and smells of daily

life. The air is filled with the sharp

tang of citrus fruits, the salty breeze

of freshly caught fish, and the

wafting aroma of herbs like kaffir

lime leaves and lemongrass.

Markets in Phuket are more

than just places of commerce –

they are community spaces where

locals exchange recipes, gossip, and

For travellers, the market is an

excellent starting point to understand

the foundations of Phuket’s cuisine

greetings. Chatting with vendors

provides insights into traditional

cooking methods, as many families

here have been selling their

specialties for generations. Don’t

miss the stalls offering freshly

pressed coconut milk or handmade

curry pastes, staples in nearly every

Phuket kitchen.

For travellers, the market

is an excellent starting point to

understand the foundations of

Phuket’s cuisine. Pick up snacks

like grilled bananas or sticky rice

wrapped in banana leaves, or simply

admire the vibrant tapestry of

ingredients that form the roots of

this culinary paradise.

46

PHUKET’S SIGNATURE DISHES: A FLAVOUR SYMPHONY

Poe Pia Sod (Fresh Spring Rolls)

Phuket’s Poe Pia Sod stands out

from its counterparts in Bangkok or

central Thailand. Rooted in Hokkien-

Chinese traditions, these fresh spring

rolls are an irresistible blend of

textures and flavours. Soft rice paper

wraps a filling of crunchy Chinese

cabbage, bean sprouts, and savoury

pork, all tied together by a sweet

soy-based sauce. Fried shallots on

top add an umami boost, while fresh

chilli slices provide a spicy kick for

those who dare.

For the full sensory experience,

head to Cham Cha Market. Watching

vendors carefully assemble the

rolls is a testament to the art of

street food in Phuket. This dish is a

reminder that simplicity often offers

the deepest satisfaction.

Mee Hoon Kraduk Moo (Rice Noodles

with Pork Rib Soup)

A favourite among locals, Mee

Hoon Kraduk Moo exemplifies

the interweaving of Thai and

Chinese culinary traditions. Silky

rice noodles are served alongside

a rich herbal broth of tender pork

ribs infused with star anise and

cinnamon, creating a dish that is

both hearty and soothing.

This dish is a speciality of

family-run eateries that have

perfected the recipe over decades.

Pairing it with a glass of freshly

brewed Thai tea captures the

essence of comfort food.

O-Tao: The Oyster Delight

O-Tao is a truly local gem of

Phuket’s street food scene, a dish

found nowhere else in Thailand.

The magic of O-Tao lies in its

unique combination of small,

plump oysters, soft taro chunks,

crispy pork crackling, and a thick,

savoury batter. These ingredients

are fried together to create a sticky,

pancake-like dish that bursts with

contrasting textures and flavours.

The crispy pork adds a crunchy

bite, while the taro provides a

starchy softness that balances the

briny oysters. The final touch often

comes from a topping of fresh

chives and a drizzle of chilli sauce.

Night markets in Phuket Old Town

are the best places to experience

this local specialty fresh off the pan.

Top Right

Poe Pia Sod:

Phuket’s fresh spring

roll filled with tender

pork, sautéed yam

bean, and veggies,

served with a sweetsavoury

dipping

sauce

Above

Mee Hoon Kraduk

Moo: Tender braised

pork ribs and rice

noodles in a rich,

aromatic herbal

broth—a comforting

Thai-Chinese

delicacy

Bottom Left

The unique O-Tao is

a true scrumptious

gem of Phuket street

food

47

FOOD CULTURE

BREAKFAST WITH A TWIST

The Dim Sum Breakfast Tradition

Phuket’s Chinese heritage shines

brightest in its breakfast culture.

Steamed dim sum, served in small

saucers, is a morning ritual for

many locals. Options range from

pork dumplings to shrimp wontons,

each bite offering a blend of delicacy

and richness. The dishes are

accompanied by a cup of milk tea

or freshly brewed coffee, creating a

leisurely start to the day.

Khanom Jeen Phuket: Curry Feast

Khanom Jeen Phuket is a breakfast

experience like no other. Unlike

the standard version found across

Thailand, Phuket’s Khanom Jeen

is served with an array of curry

options, including Nam Ya, Gaeng

Top to Bottom Left

A variety of dim

sum, served with

a flavourful local

dipping sauce

Muek Phat Kapi

Sator: Stir-fried

squid with shrimp

paste and stink

beans

Namya Poo

(crab curry) is a top

choice to go with

Khanom Jeen

Clockwise from Top

Right

The famous Nam

Phrik Kung Siap

The bold Nam

Phrik Kapi Kung

Khoei, served with

fresh and boiled

vegetables

Khanom Jeen is

one of Phuket’s

favourite dishes

Tai Pla, and even fiery Gaeng Phet.

What makes it truly special are

the generous accompaniments:

pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and

crunchy toppings, which diners mix

in according to their taste. It’s a

vibrant, flavour-packed meal that

energises locals and visitors alike.

This flavourful and a must-try dish

is a staple throughout the island,

especially in Phuket Town’s bustling

breakfast stalls, drawing earlymorning

crowds eager to start their

day with this local favourite.

SOUTHERN THAI STAPLES WITH

PHUKET FLAIR

Nam Phrik Kapi Kung Khoei (Shrimp

Paste Chilli Sauce)

Southern Thai cuisine is famed for

its bold flavours, and Nam Phrik

Kapi is no exception. This chilli dip,

made from shrimp paste, garlic,

lime, and bird’s eye chillies, offers a

taste explosion that pairs perfectly

with boiled vegetables, fried fish, or

crispy pork. The local Phuket shrimp

paste adds a unique brininess that

sets this version apart from those

found in other regions.

Muek Phat Kapi Sator (Stir-Fried Squid

with Stink Beans)

Few dishes capture the essence of

southern Thai cooking like Muek

Phat Kapi Sator. This stir-fry

combines tender squid with the bold

aroma of Sator (stink beans) and the

umami depth of shrimp paste. While

the beans’ distinctive smell can be

polarising, their creamy texture and

nutty flavour are a cornerstone of

Phuket’s culinary identity.

Nam Phrik Kung Siap: Smoky Spice

Nam Phrik Kung Siap is Phuket’s

take on the traditional Thai chilli dip,

elevated with the addition of dried,

smoked shrimp (Kung Siap). The

result is a smoky, umami-packed

condiment that pairs perfectly

with fresh vegetables and rice. The

48

dried shrimp’s intense flavour gives

this dip a unique depth that sets it

apart from other chilli dips found

in Thailand. Visitors can find Nam

Phrik Kung Siap at food markets and

souvenir shops, making it a delicious

memento of their culinary journey

through Phuket.

Hoy Chak Teen: Coastal Freshness

Hoy Chak Teen, or blood cockles, are

a testament to Phuket’s abundant

seafood offerings. These small

shellfish are known for their tender,

slightly sweet flesh and are often

boiled or steamed to retain their

natural flavour. The highlight of

this dish is the accompanying nam

jim seafood, a spicy dipping sauce

made from lime, garlic, chilli, and

fish sauce, which adds a zesty kick

to the cockles. Hoy Chak Teen is

a popular snack at local markets

like the Phuket Weekend Market

and Banzaan Fresh Market, where

visitors can sample the freshest

catch of the day.

PERANAKAN-INSPIRED

DELICACIES

Phad Mee Sapam: Stir-Fried Perfection

Originating from Sapam Village,

Phad Mee Sapam or Phad Mee

Hokkien is a dish that brings

together the freshest local seafood

and a signature stir-fry technique.

Thick yellow noodles are stir-fried

with squid, prawns, and occasionally

pork, along with garlic and soy sauce

for a rich, savoury flavour. What

makes this dish special is its balance

of texture: the noodles are chewy,

while the seafood adds a fresh, juicy

bite. Often garnished with green

onions and fried shallots, Phad Mee

Sapam is comfort food with a coastal

twist. Travellers can find this dish in

food stalls across Sapam Village and

Phuket Town, where locals flock for

an authentic taste of home.

Loba: An Afternoon Delight

Adventurous eaters will revel in Loba,

a dish rooted in the Hokkien-Chinese

flavours that permeate Phuket’s

cuisine. A snack of pork offal, crispy

fried tofu, and marinated pork belly,

Loba is served with a tangy dipping

sauce of tamarind and chilli. While

the idea of eating offal may seem

daunting to some, the depth of

flavour and contrasting textures of

this dish make it a must-try for the

intrepid foodie.

The best spots to sample Loba

are the roadside stalls across Phuket

Old Town, where the enticing aroma

of frying meat beckons passers-by.

For locals, this dish is more than

just a snack – it’s a nostalgic taste

of home.

Clockwise from

Top Left

Phad Mee Saparn:

Phuket’s must-try

Hokkien noodles

The ingredients of

Loba may be a bit

strange, but it’s

worth trying

Sweet and savoury

braised pork, or Moo

Hong, has a long

culinary history

You need a toothpick

and a dipping

sauce to eat

Hoy Chak Teen

Moo Hong: Braised Comfort

Moo Hong is a dish steeped in

history and cultural significance.

This sweet-and-savoury braised pork

dish is made using pork belly, slowcooked

until it becomes tender and

infused with a sauce of soy, garlic,

pepper, and palm sugar. The result

is a melt-in-your-mouth texture,

with layers of pork that include the

perfect ratio of fat, meat, and skin.

Moo Hong is often served with rice

and is a staple at family gatherings

and celebrations in Peranakan

households. Its rich, comforting

flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia,

making it a must-try for anyone

exploring Phuket’s culinary roots.

49

FOOD CULTURE

Gaeng Too Mee: Rich Curry

Gaeng Too Mee is a lesser-known

yet deeply flavourful Peranakan

dish from Phuket, showcasing the

region’s culinary blend of local Thai

and Chinese influences. Typically

made with fresh seafood like seabass

or shrimp, this curry is enriched with

fenugreek, coconut cream, and okra.

Its signature yellow hue comes from

turmeric, giving it a robust, earthy

aroma. This dish, often referred to as

Tumee Curry, highlights the use of

Southern spices and the Peranakan

touch of balancing richness with

aromatic herbs.

Nam Choop Yum: Fiery Dip

Nam Choop Yum, a spicy

Southern Thai shrimp chilli

paste, is a versatile dipping

sauce that pairs perfectly with

local vegetables. It’s made

with a combination of boiled

shrimp, fish, and lime juice,

delivering a fiery and slightly

tangy punch. This condiment

enhances many dishes and

reflects Phuket’s love for bold

flavours. It often accompanies

boiled vegetables or coconutbased

curries, adding

complexity to meals.

Clockwise from Top

Gaen Too Mee,

a fish curry

rich with deep

Pernakan flavours

Ah Pong, a thin and

crispy treat much

loved by locals

The Southern-style

shrimp chilli dip,

Nam Choop Yum,

served with fresh

vegetables

SWEET TREATS:

A CELEBRATION OF FLAVOURS

Ah Pong (Phuket Pancake)

Ah Pong is a snack that exemplifies

the island’s culinary creativity. Made

with rice flour, coconut milk, and

palm sugar, these thin, crispy treats

are rolled into delicate tube shapes.

What sets Ah Pong apart is its light,

airy texture and the rich coconut

aroma that wafts from every bite.

The pancakes are slightly sweet,

making them a perfect mid-day

treat or dessert. They are sold by

vendors near Thalang Road, where

locals and tourists alike queue for

a taste of this nostalgic favourite.

Watching them made fresh on a hot

griddle is part of the charm.

50

Phuket offers a

variety of snacks

perfect for tea time.

Highlights include

O Aew, Tao Sor,

Bee Pang, Khanom

Phrik, and Khanom

Khee Mot

Clockwise from

Top Left

O Aew

Khanom Phrik

Tao Sor

Tao Sor, Bee Pang,

and Khanom Khee

Mot

O Aew (Iced Jelly Dessert)

On a hot day, nothing refreshes like

O Aew. This simple yet delightful

dessert features translucent jelly

made from banana-flour seeds,

served with red beans, shaved ice,

and sweet syrup. The result is a

cooling treat that is both light and

satisfying.

Tao Sor and Beyond

Phuket’s Tao Sor pastries are a

must-buy souvenir. These bitesized

treats, with their flaky crusts

and rich fillings, are beloved by

locals and visitors alike. Modern

variations include flavours like

matcha and chocolate, adding a

contemporary twist to this age-old

delicacy.

Khanom Khee Mot (Powdered

Coconut Snacks)

This rarely found dessert is a

testament to Phuket’s culinary

creativity. Made from coconut,

sugar, and flour, it has a light, airy

texture that melts in your mouth.

51

Experience Timeless Elegance

at Phuket’s House of Tin Baron

Nestled in the heart of Phuket

Old Town, House of Tin Baron

seamlessly blends cultural

heritage with refined hospitality.

Housed in a meticulously restored

century-old Sino-Portuguese

mansion, this destination

offers more than a meal out – it

delivers an experience rich in

timeless sophistication.

Visionary Deepak Ohri,

renowned for redefining Thailand

luxury hospitality, brings his

philosophy of emotional

connections to life here. “True

luxury,” he says, “lies in the

memories it creates and the

emotions it stirs.”

The journey begins at the

world’s first Louis Roederer

Cristal Room, a serene enclave

celebrating the artistry of

champagne. Guests can savour

exquisite vintages like Cristal

Brut and Cristal Rosé, perfectly

paired with spectacular caviar or

fresh seafood canapés.

The experience then flows

into the Terra Italian Restaurant,

where European charm and

elegance infuses every detail –

from sophisticated interiors to

Executive Chef Okan Ozturk’s

masterful menu curated with

the finest seasonal ingredients.

Highlights include Nova Scotia

Clockwise,

from Top Left

House of

Tin Baron

Bluefin Tuna

Tartare

Chef Okan Öztürk,

Executive Chef

at Terra Italian

Restaurant

Phuket Old Town

Bottom Left

to Right

Max Erpelding:

Head Sommelier

at House of

Tin Baron

Louis Roederer

Cristal Room

Alba White Truffle

Lobster with chilled sour risotto

and Tortellini Fontina with

Alba white truffle. The Dolce

Terra dessert bar crowns the

experience with inventive,

precision-crafted creations that

celebrate Italian artistry.

Each course at Terra is

elevated by expertly selected

wines, handpicked by the house

sommelier to enhance the flavours

of each dish. The restaurant’s

commitment to authenticity and

excellence ensures a memorable

dining journey.

However, House of Tin Baron

offers far more than exceptional

cuisine. From its serene, lush

surroundings to its attentive,

knowledgeable staff, every

element is meticulously crafted

to deliver an unforgettable

experience. Whether for an

intimate evening, or a grand

celebration, House of Tin Baron

makes the prefect choice with its

harmonious blend of heritage,

luxury and innovation.

Photos: House of Tin Baron

House of Tin Baron

Address: 18 Satun Road,

Talat Nuea, Phuket

Tel: +66 (0) 95 368 0888

Website: tinbaron.com

52

For those seeking a taste of Greece

amid Phuket’s lush tropical

surroundings, Emma offers an

idyllic getaway. Set along a serene

lakeside in Laguna Village, this

refined yet welcoming restaurant

promises more than just a meal

– the restaurant invites guests

on a culinary journey inspired

by the sun-drenched coasts of

the Mediterranean.

Emma’s philosophy is simple

yet profound: to bring the best

of Greece to Phuket. Each dish

reflects a dedication to quality and

authenticity, with an emphasis

on fresh, locally sourced and

imported ingredients. Seafood

lovers can delight in selections

such as oysters, crab, mussels, and

scallops, while meat aficionados

are treated to premium Australian

Wagyu beef and lamb, grilled over

A Mediterranean Escape in Phuket:

Discover Emma’s Greek Oasis

From Top Left

An open kitchen,

which is quite rare

in Thailand

The restaurant

is nestled in one

of Phuket's most

prestigious areas,

Bang Tao, offering

breathtaking views

of the lake

Fresh oysters

paired with a glass

of Prosecco

The art of making

chicken soup

Bottom

Our interior blends

steel, natural stone,

teak wood, and

handcrafted details

an open flame to bring out their

natural flavours. Greek classics

like meze platters and wood-fired

flatbreads add a comforting,

rustic touch, complemented by

vibrant vegetables that evoke the

colours of a Greek summer, and

thoughtfully curated wine list

enhances the dining experience,

featuring an array of Greek and

international wines chosen to pair

perfectly with the menu. Whether

you’re a wine connoisseur or

simply looking to explore new

flavours, Emma’s selection offers

something for every palate.

The ambiance at Emma

is equally compelling. The

restaurant’s design blends natural

stone, teakwood, and steel,

creating a modern yet inviting

atmosphere. Stylish furnishings

and an open layout encourages

diners to relax and savour their

surroundings, whether they’re

gathered for a family meal,

a romantic date, or a special

celebration. Also, Emma’s warm,

pet-friendly policy invites guests

to enjoy long, leisurely meals

with their furry companions.

More than just a restaurant,

Emma embodies a lifestyle – a

place where food, ambiance, and

heartfelt service come together to

create lasting memories.

As dusk falls, the setting

transforms into a dreamy retreat,

with sunsets casting golden hues

across the lake. Emma becomes

a sanctuary for those seeking not

just a meal but an experience to

remember – where every bite

and every detail tells a story of

Greece, right here in Phuket.

Photos: EMMA Modern Greek

EMMA Modern Greek

Address: Laguna Village, No. 21/19,

Lagoon Road, Choeng Thale,

Thalang, Phuket

Tel: +66 (0) 98 382 8434

Email: emmarestaurant24@

yandex.ru

54

OUR OFFER:

Order oysters and get a glass of

complimentary sparkling wine

Show a photo of this page to participate

in the promotion

Address: Laguna Village, No. 21/19,

Lagoon Road, Choeng Thale, Thalang, Phuket

TEL: +66 (0) 98 382 8434

55

FOOD CULTURE

Top Right

Khanom Jeen Nam

Ya, served with

a variety of fresh

and preserved

vegetables

Clockwise from

Below Left

Freshly caught

lobsters in

Banzaan Market

Streaky Pork

Fermented with

Special Spices: Crispy

pork belly marinated

in a secret spice

blend, served with

tangy pickles and

rich sauce

Various spicy

Phuket dishes

BEYOND THE PLATE

Phuket’s food culture is deeply

tied to its unique heritage and

community. Events like the

annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival

showcase the island’s celebration

of food as a spiritual and cultural

phenomenon. The festival, held

over nine days, features elaborate

processions, rituals, and a vast

array of vegetarian dishes, many of

which are unique to the event.

For visitors who want to dive

deeper into the island’s culinary

roots, cooking classes are widely

available. Often led by local chefs,

these classes provide hands-on

experience in preparing signature

Phuket dishes, from pounding curry

pastes to crafting intricate desserts.

A CULINARY JOURNEY TO SAVOUR

Phuket’s cuisine is a microcosm of the

island’s history, culture, and spirit.

From the humble morning markets

to the refined flavours of its signature

dishes, every meal is an invitation

to explore the island’s soul. Whether

you’re savouring the fiery kick of Nam

Phrik Kapi, enjoying the comforting

warmth of Mee Hoon Kraduk

Moo, or cooling off with a bowl

of O Aew, the flavours of Phuket

linger long after the last bite.

Embark on this culinary

journey and discover why Phuket

is a haven not just for sun-seekers,

but also for food lovers worldwide.

56

เส้้นทางส้ายอร่่อย

ภููเก็็ตเป็็นที่่รู้้จััก็จัาก็ชายหาดสวยใส ช่วิตยามรู้าตรู้ีที่่ม่ส่สัน และรู้ีสอรู้์ตหรูู้หรู้า แต่เสน่ห์

ของภููเก็็ตไม่ไดม่แค่่ภูาพสวยป็รู้ะดับโป็สก็ารู้์ด เพรู้าะยังม่อ่ก็หน่งขุมที่รู้ัพย์ที่่น่าต่นตา

ต่นใจัไม่แพก็ัน นันก็็คืืออาหารู้ เม่อปีี พ.ศ. 2558 UNESCO ไดเล่อก็ภููเก็็ตเป็็นเม่อง

สรู้างสรู้รู้ค่์ดานวิที่ยาก็ารู้อาหารู้ (Creative City of Gastronomy) ดวยวัฒนธรู้รู้ม

อาหารู้ที่่ม่ป็รู้ะวัติศาสตรู้์มายาวนานและอิที่ธิพลจัาก็ไที่ย จีีน มาเลย์ และเป็อรู้านากััน

ทีุ่ก็จัานบอก็เล่าเรื่่องรู้าวที่่สะที่อนถึึงก็ารู้แลก็เป็ล่ยน ก็ารู้ป็รู้ับตัว และเอกล ัก็ษณ์์ของ

ภููเก็็ต ก็ารู้ผจัญภััยไป็ก็ับอาหารู้เหล่าน่จึึงเหม่อนก็ารู้เดินที่างสู่หัวใจัของเม่อง ที่่ซึ่่งรู้สชาติ

ก็ลิน และสัมผัสช่วยสรู้างทั้้ งค่วามที่รู้งจำำาและค่วามแป็ลก็ใหม่ไป็พรู้อมกััน

ตลาดเช้้า หััวใจของอาหัารพื้้นเมืือง

ที่รู้ิป็ตะลุยกิินจัะไม่สมบูรู้ณ์์หาก็ไม่ไดไป็

ตลาดเชา ที่่น่คืือแหล่งรู้วมวัตถุุดิบสดใหม่

อาหารู้ที่ะเล และเค่รู้่องป็รูุ้งรู้สม่อดั งเดิม

ตลาดสดบันซึ่านหรู้่อตลาดในตัวเม่องภููเก็็ต

คืือจุุดเริ่่มตนที่่นักช ิมตองไป็ลอง ที่่ภููเก็็ต

ตลาดไม่ไดเป็็นแค่่สถึานที่่ซื้้ อขายอาหารู้

แต่ยังเป็็นแหล่งพบป็ะของชุมชน ที่่ๆ ผูค่น

แลก็เป็ล่ยนสูตรู้อาหารู้ ค่วามเป็็นอยู่ และ

เรื่่องรู้าวในช่วิต ก็ารู้พูดคุุยกัับพ่อค้้า

แม่ค้้าจัะพาคุุณ์ไป็รู้้จััก็ก็ับรู้าก็เหงาของ

วัฒนธรู้รู้มอาหารู้ หรู้่อวิธีีทำำาอาหารู้แบบ

ดั งเดิมที่่ส่บที่อดมาหลายต่อหลายรูุ้่น

จานเด่นของภููเก็็ต: ลำนำำาแห่่งรสช้าติ

อาหารู้จัานเด็ดป็รู้ะจำำาภููเก็็ตนันม่มาก็มาย

ใหเล่อก็สรู้รู้ เริ่่มจัาก็เป็าะเป็ียะสดสไตล์

ภููเก็็ตที่่แตกต่่างจัาก็ที่่อ่น ป็รู้ะก็อบดวย

แป้้งบางนุ่มห่อไสผัก็ก็าดขาว ถึัวงอก็ และ

หมูสามชั น พรู้อมโรู้ยดวยหอมเจีียวและ

พรู้ิก็สดเพ่อเพ่มค่วามเผ็ดรู้อน หรู้่อจัะ

หม่หุนก็รู้ะดูก็หมูที่่เป็็นก็ารู้ผสมผสาน

รู้ะหว่างรู้สชาติไที่ยและจีีน ดวยเสนหม่ขาว

เสิรู้์ฟคู่่กัับนำาซึุ่ป็สมุนไพรู้หอมเค่รู้่องเที่ศ

อย่างโป๊๊ยก็ัก็และอบเชย ที่านคู่่กัับชาไที่ย

รู้อน นอก็จัาก็น่ ยังม่โอต๊าว จัานพ่เศษที่่

หาที่านที่่ไหนไม่ได เป็็นจัานเด็ดที่่ม่ส่วน

ผสมของหอยนางรู้ม เผ่อก็หันเต๋า โรู้ย

หนาดวยแค่ป็หมูก็รูุ้บก็รู้อบ

ติมืซำำาและขนมจีีนรับอรุณ

อีีกหน่งมรู้ดก็ที่างวัฒนธรู้รู้มจีีนที่่โดดเด่น

ในภููเก็็ตคืือก็ารู้ที่านติมซึ่ำาเป็็นอาหารู้เชา

เมนูติมซึ่ำาหลาก็ชนิดเสิรู้์ฟมาในจัานเล็ก็ๆ

ไม่ว่าจัะเป็็นขนมจีีบหมู เก็่ยวก็ุง หรู้่อ

ซึ่าละเป็า มาพรู้อมรู้สชาติที่่โดดเด่น เต็มไป็

ดวยค่วามป็รู้ะณีีต ยิงเสิรู้์ฟพรู้อมชาเย็น

หรู้่อก็าแฟรู้อน ที่ำาให้้การู้เริ่่มตนวันใหม่

เต็มไปด้้วยค่วามอิมเอม อีีกทั้้ งชาวภููเก็็ต

ยังช่นชอบรู้ับป็รู้ะที่านขนมจีีนยามเชา ซึ่่งม่

ทั้้ งนำายาใต นำายาปูู แก็งไตป็ลา และแก็งรู้ส

จััดจ้้านอีีกหลาก็หลาย แนมดวยผัก็สด

และผัก็ดองเป็็นเค่รู้่องเคีียง

อาหัารใต้สไตล์ภููเก็็ต

หาก็รู้สชาติเผ็ดรู้อนแรู้งและค่วามจััดจ้้าน

ไม่ใช่ปััญหา ตองไม่พลาดสำารู้ับอาหารู้ใต

ที่่ม่เมนูน่าสนใจัมาก็มาย ไม่ว่าจัะเป็็นนำา

พรู้ิก็ก็ะปิิก็ุงเค่ย ที่่ใช้้กะปิิของภููเก็็ตที่่ม่

ค่วามหอมและรู้สเค็็มละมุนเฉพาะตัว

ที่านคู่กัับจัานเคีียงอย่างผัก็ลวก็ ป็ลาที่อด

หรู้่อหมูสามชั นก็รู้อบ ที่่ล่มไม่ไดค่่อนำา

พรู้ิกกุ้้งเส่ยบที่่ใค่รู้ๆ ต่างก็็พากัันซื้้อเป็็น

ของฝาก็ก็ลับบานชั นด่ อย่าล่มหม่ก็ผัด

ก็ะปิิสะตอ ที่่เป็็นตัวแที่นสะที่อนค่วาม

เป็็นภููเก็็ตไดด่ที่่สุด และหอยชักต ีนลวกจิ้้ม

นำจิ้้มรู้สแซึ่่บ

อาหัารภููเก็็ตสไตล์เพื้อรานากััน

เมนูหลาก็หลายชนิดในภููเก็็ตได้้รัับอิที่ธิพล

มาจัาก็อาหารู้เป็อรู้านากััน อาที่ิ ผัดหม่

สะปำำาหรู้่อผัดหม่ฮก็เก็่ยน ที่่ใชหม่เหล่อง

คล ุก็เคล้้าเขากัับก็ุง ป็ลาหมึึก หมู และไข่

สำาหรู้ับผูที่่ตองก็ารู้ค่วามแป็ลก็ใหม่

ตองลองโลบะ ซึ่่งป็รู้ะก็อบดวยเค่รู้่องในหมู

เตาหูที่อดก็รู้อบ และหมูสามชั นหมัก็

รู้าดดวยนำจิ้้มรู้สเป็รู้ียวหวานจัาก็

จากบนลงล่าง

อาหารใต้้แม้้จะรสชาติิ

จัดจ้าน แต่่ก็ยัังคงไว้้

เร่ องคว้าม้สมดุุลและ

คว้าม้อร่อยั

ม้าเที่่ยัว้ภููเก็ต้ที่ั งที่่

ห้าม้กลับบ้านมืือเปล่า

เพราะที่่น่เต็็ม้ไปด้ว้ยั

ขนม้อร่อยัและของฝาก

กระจุกกระจิกที่่มีีรสชาติิ

เป็นเอกลักษณ์์เฉพาะตััว้

มะขามเปีียก็และพรู้ิก็ หมูฮองเป็็นอีีกเมนู

ที่่ไม่พูดถึึงไม่ได เป็็นหมูสามชันหมัก็ป็รูุ้งรู้ส

อย่างพ่ถึ่พ่ถึันดวยสมุนไพรู้จัีนต่างๆ หรู้่อ

จัะเป็็นแก็งตูม่ ที่่มัก็ใช้้ปลาและก็รู้ะเจัียบเขียว

มาป็รูุ้งในแก็งก็ะหรี่่ที่่มีีความเฉพาะตัว

นอก็จัาก็น่ยังม่นำช ุบหยำารู้สจัีดจ๊๊าดที่่ป็รูุ้ง

จัากกุ้้งและป็ลาสดลวก็ พรู้ิก็และมะนาว

ที่านกัับผัก็เค่รู้่องเคีียง

ของหัวานภููเก็็ต: รสช้าติแห่่งความส ุข

เม่อสัมผัสกัับอาหารู้จัานหลัก็รู้สชาติ

จััดจ้้านแลว อย่าล่มตบที่ายดวยของหวาน

เพ่อลดค่วามรู้อนแรู้ง ของหวานยอดนิยม

ป็รู้ะจำำาภููเก็็ตหน่ไม่พนโอเอ๋ว ขนมหวานที่่

ช่วยดับรู้อนแบบเบาๆ ดวยว้นใสผสมกัับ

นำาแข็งไส ถึัวแดง และนำาเช่อมหอมหวาน

เป็็นของหวานที่่ลงตัวและสดช่น และอาโป๊๊ง

ขนมก็รู้อบบางรู้สชาติคล ้ายขนมเบ่อง

ผสมแพนเค่ก็รูู้ป็ที่รู้งมวน ที่่มัก็วางขายใน

ถึนนค่นเดิน ส่วนขนมขีมอด ของหวาน

พ่นเม่องหายาก็ที่่ที่ำาจัาก็มะพรู้าว นำาตาล

แป้้ง ใหสัมผัสเบาๆ ละลายในป็าก็ และยังม่

ขนมพรู้ิก็ และเตาสอที่่ทีุ่ก็ค่นรู้้จััก็ก็ันด่

ก็ารเดินทางของรสช้าติ

ก็ารู้ที่ำาค่วามเขาใจัอาหารู้ภููเก็็ตไม่ใช่แค่่

ก็ารลิ ้มลองรู้สชาติ แต่คืือก็ารู้เช่อมโยง

กัับเรื่่องรู้าวและวิถึ่ช่วิตของค่นในพ่ นที่่

อาหารพื้้นเม่องของภููเก็็ตได้้รัับอิที่ธิพล

จัากว ัฒนธรู้รู้มต่างๆ ที่่ไม่เพียงสะที่อน

รู้สชาติที่่หลาก็หลาย แต่ยังบอก็เล่า

เรื่่องรู้าวของชุมชนและค่วามเป็็นอยู่ของ

ค่นในพ่นที่่ รู้วมทั้้งป็รู้ะวัติศาสตรู้์ในภููมิภูาค่

ไดอย่างน่าสนใจั ภููเก็็ตจึึงไม่ไดเป็็นแค่่

จุุดหมายป็ลายที่างของค่นรู้ัก็ที่ะเล แต่ยัง

เป็็นสวรู้รู้ค่์ของค่นรู้ัก็อาหารู้อ่ก็ดวย ทีุ่ก็ค่ำา

ที่่ลิมลองจัะพาคุุณ์เดินที่างผ่านเรื่่องรู้าว

ของผูค่น ป็รู้ะเพณีี และวัฒนธรู้รู้มของ

เม่องน่ อย่างลึึกซึ้้ง

57

QUIET BREAK

Eternal

Words Anutra Ungsuprasert

Photos Kay Choomongkol,

Veruree Apisitamornkul

& Shutterstock

Luang Prabang:

A Tale of Time and Grace

Cradled by two rivers, this historic Lao town invites you to

embrace ageless rhythms of simplicity and reverence

58

59

QUIET BREAK

There are places that feel untouched

by the passage of time. Not because

they resist change, but because they

absorb it gently and seamlessly,

making the present feel like an extension of

the past. Luang Prabang, nestled at the serene

confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan

rivers in northern Laos, is one such place.

It doesn’t clamour for attention or demand

admiration. Instead, it whispers an invitation

– to slow down, to listen, and to immerse

yourself in its timeless rhythm.

Clockwise from

Top Left

Wat Xieng Thong:

An iconic temple

known for its

intricate design and

cultural significance

A young novice at a

window cut into Wat

Xieng Thong’s pink

wall sporting the

shimmering Tree of

Life mosaics

Monks queue up to

receive alms

at dawn

Wat Visoun,

recognised by its

watermelon shaped

stupa, stands serenr,

steeped in history

Opposite

Wat Xieng Thong’s

Main Hall

As your plane descends, the

landscape unfolds like a living

canvas: jade-green mountains, the

glimmering ribbon of the Mekong,

and the town’s terracotta rooftops.

January and February bring crisp

air and cloudless skies – a gentle

welcome to a realm where nature

and culture entwine. The cool

temperatures make every stroll feel

pleasant, whether exploring quiet

streets or venturing into the lush

countryside.

At first light, the town stirs to

life with age-old reverence. The

Tak Bat, an ancient almsgiving

ceremony, unfolds in hushed

stillness. Monks in saffron robes

walk in single file, their alms

bowls open to receive offerings.

This sacred exchange is a quiet

The Tree of Life mural, shimmering

with glass tiles, symbolises

interconnectedness, echoing the

rhythms of existence

testament to humility and

gratitude, a ritual rooted in the

town’s spiritual core. I knelt with

lowered eyes, offering sticky rice

with trembling hands. The quiet

magnitude of the moment – a

communion between giver and

receiver – felt profound. It was like

stepping forth into Luang Prabang’s

soul, where every gesture spoke of

life’s essential truths: generosity,

respect, and presence. Watching

from the colonial-style Belle Rive

Boutique Hotel, painted in soothing

white and blue, overlooking the

Mekong, this ritual becomes even

more poignant, blending the sacred

with the everyday.

As the morning mist lifts, the

sun’s golden rays illuminate the

town’s gilded temples. Wat Xieng

Thong, with its low-sweeping

roofs and intricate mosaics, stands

as a testament to devotion and

artistry. The Tree of Life mural,

shimmering with glass tiles,

symbolises interconnectedness,

echoing the rhythms of existence.

At Wat Visoun, the simple stupa

hides a layered history, inviting

quiet reflection. For a more

intimate experience, venture out

early as monks’ chants fill the

air, weaving a serene tapestry

against the backdrop of slanting

sunbeams.

60

61

QUIET BREAK

Walking barefoot and donning a

pha phat or breast cloth, I entered

these spaces not as a visitor but

as a humble observer, letting the

centuries-old chants resonate

within me. The town’s Frenchcolonial

architecture lining quiet

streets also courses with history

– each shuttered window and

weathered wall a silent witness to

time. Along Sisavangvong Road,

grand villas adorned with French

accents coexist with traditional Lao

wooden homes, a harmonious blend

of East and West.

A stop at a local kindergarten

and pharmacies nearby offers a

glimpse into everyday life rooted

in nostalgia. The town’s historic

facades, including French-era

shophouses, invite exploration

on foot or by bicycles rented

from Sang Lao Hotel, where Thai

designer Sarun Yenpanya’s touch

lends an understated elegance.

Top to Bottom Right

French colonial

buildings add

charm to Luang

Prabang’s UNESCOlisted

streets

Lao Khao Soi:

A local favourite

with rich broth

and minced meat,

topped with

crispy noodles

Clockwise from

Below Left

A kindergarten in

Luang Prabang

Euay Duean Som

Tam is a popular

spot for som tam,

grilled meats and

crispy rice

Thai designer

Sarun Yenpanya’s

creative interior

at the Sang Lao

Hotel elevates

your stay

Biking is a good

way to explore the

serene UNESCOlisted

town

Food in Luang Prabang also has

stories to tell. Each dish, from the

Lao Khao Soi – distinctly different

from its northern Thai counterpart

– to the savoury Somtam Luang

Prabang (spicy papaya salad),

evokes the land’s bounty and

traditions. The morning market is a

kaleidoscope of colours and aromas,

a sensory gateway into local life.

Vendors bundle herbs, grill river

fish, and prepare tamarind – a

lively scene reflecting the town’s

vibrant energy. Fresh produce,

from exotic fruits to wild greens,

highlights the organic richness that

defines Lao cuisine.

Sharing a meal at the night

market, where lanterns cast a warm

glow over steaming bowls of noodle

soup, fosters a sense of community.

It’s here, on a wooden bench shared

62

Hummus Chiang Mai:

Fresh Middle Eastern Cuisine

with a Modern Touch

ituated in the heart of

Chiang Mai, Hummus Chiang

Mai offers an authentic Middle

Eastern dining experience, bringing

bold and vibrant flavours to Thailand.

As the first hummus restaurant

in both Chiang Mai and Thailand,

we specialise in creating fresh,

flavourful, and healthy dishes that

honour the rich culinary traditions

of the Middle East.

Our menu boasts a wide range

of Middle Eastern dishes, including

creamy hummus, crispy falafel,

flavourful shakshuka, and an array of

vibrant salads. Additionally, we offer

unique Middle Eastern starters and

indulgent sweets, all crafted from highquality,

fresh ingredients. Every dish is

meticulously prepared to highlight the

authentic tastes of the Middle East, with

many of our ingredients sourced directly

from the region to ensure the utmost

quality and authenticity.

At Hummus Chiang Mai, we

are deeply committed to healthy

eating. Our dishes not only deliver a

rich variety of flavours but are also

designed with wellness in mind. Our

menu emphasises fresh vegetables,

wholesome grains, and nutritious

ingredients, ensuring that dining with

us is both nourishing and delicious.

To enhance your dining experience,

we present a carefully curated

selection of wines and cocktails that

perfectly complement our dishes.

Whether you opt for a light salad or a

hearty plate of hummus, our bespoke

drinks menu elevates the flavours of

your meal, creating a sophisticated

culinary experience.

We pride ourselves on exceptional

customer service, ensuring that every

visit is memorable. Our restaurant’s

warm and inviting atmosphere reflects

our commitment to making each guest

feel valued, with attentive staff always

ready to cater to your needs.

As Hummus Chiang Mai grows,

we are thrilled to expand and share

Clockwise from

Top Left

Chef Amir Peer blends

his native cuisine well

with local flavours

The signature

Chiang Mai Hummus

and Msabbacha

Hummus

Fresh Falafels - the

real Middle-Eastern

taste

The restaurant's

classic Shakshuka

Must-try dishes:

House Salad,

Iron Salad, and

Tabouli Salad

our vibrant, healthy Middle Eastern

flavours with other cities across

Asia. With a proven concept and a

rising demand for authentic and

wholesome cuisine, we are poised for

continued growth. This is a pivotal

moment to join a culinary movement

that celebrates flavour, health, and

well-being. Together, we aim to

bring the essence of Hummus Chiang

Mai to new destinations, creating an

exceptional dining experience for even

more guests.

Come and experience the finest

Middle Eastern cuisine in Chiang Mai.

We look forward to welcoming you to

Hummus Chiang Mai.

Address: 109, 1 Mun Muang Rd, Sri Phum Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

Tel: 099 298 5222 Website: www.hummuscm.com

Facebook: Hummus Chiang Mai Instagram: HummusCM

47

QUIET BREAK

Clockwise from

Top Left

Enjoy wood-fired

pizza, fusion Lao

cuisine or just chill at

the riverside Tropical

Mekong Café

Le Banneton Café,

a French bakery

famed for its strong

coffee and delicious

croissants

The rooftop Maison

Sam San offers

budget-friendly

cocktails

Stop by at the

LuLaLao Coffee near

Wat Xieng Thong for

top caffeine shots

with strangers, that I felt the true

heart of Luang Prabang’s dining

culture: connection. For those

seeking refinement, restaurants

like Tropical Mekong Café blend

traditional Lao flavours with

contemporary flair. Set by the

Mekong River, it’s an ideal spot

to savour wood-fired pizzas and

Lao delicacies while watching

the sunset. Nearby, Zurich Bread

Factory and Café offers unique

treats like croissants filled with Foi

Thong (sweet golden egg threads),

showcasing the town’s culinary

creativity. Each bite is a fusion of

tradition and innovation, making

every meal a delicious milestone in

your culinary journey.

Luang Prabang’s cafés offer

moments of quiet retreat amid

the bustle. At LuLaLao Coffee,

a Japanese-inspired haven

overlooking Wat Xieng Thong, each

sip feels like a moment to savour

as time slows amid the minimalist

décor and in-house roastery. One

afternoon, perched at Maison Sam

San, a rooftop bar with panoramic

views of Mount Phousi, I sipped

a tamarind and lemongrass

mocktail as golden light bathed the

landscape. The gentle hum of life –

children’s laughter, distant temple

bells – became the soundtrack to

my stillness.

Just around the corner, Le

Banneton’s flaky croissants and

strong coffee are a cherished ritual,

inviting you to linger and savour.

Each café here, much like

the neighbouring sacred spaces,

encourages mindfulness and

presence – a chance to let the

town’s rhythm guide you.

The Zurich Bread

Factory and Café

offers unique treats

like croissants with

Foi Thong (golden

egg threads)

64

QUIET BREAK

Clockwise from

Top Left

Watch skilled

artisans weave

masterpieces at Ock

Pop Tok

A breathtaking

view of the

Kuang Si Falls’

turquoise pools

LaLa Laos Boutique

offers unique

T-shirts, Buddhist

jewellery and

handmade textiles

Pak Ou Cave, a

sacred site, home

to thousands of

Buddha statues

Luang Prabang is also a town

of craftspeople. At Ock Pop Tok

Living Crafts Centre, the rhythmic

click of looms weaves stories of

tradition and artistry. Each piece

– silk and cotton vibrant with

symbolic patterns – carries the

weight of generations. Participating

in a weaving workshop, I feel a

deep connection to this craft,

understanding that beauty

demands patience, discipline, and

heart. The intricacies of handdyeing

and loom work reveal

a profound respect for nature

through the plants and minerals

used to create rich, earthy tones.

Sao Sinh rents out

traditional clothes

for travellers

seeking the

authentic look

Fashion lovers can indulge their

passion at Sao Sinh Traditional

Clothing Rental, donning richly

woven sinhs for cultural photo

moments, while shops like LaLa

Laos showcase Buddhist-inspired

jewellery and artisanal crafts.

Each piece, like the town itself, is

a tapestry of time and beauty. The

craftsmanship evoked in each fold

and stitch mirrors the meticulous

care the town takes in preserving

its identity.

Two rivers cradle Luang

Prabang, shaping its identity and

flow. A boat ride along the Mekong

reveals quiet sanctuaries like the

Pak Ou Caves, where thousands

of Buddha statues left by pilgrims

fill the limestone chambers with

a reverent ambiance. The nearby

Kuang Si Falls, with their turquoise

pools cascading in tiers, offer a

different kind of sanctuary. Hidden

trails lead to secluded spots, where

the water’s murmur becomes a

meditative lullaby. The trek through

rice paddies, lush with postmonsoon

vibrancy, and refreshing

dips after climbing 400 steps makes

the journey as rewarding as the

destination.

66

QUIET BREAK

Though Luang Prabang seems

untouched by time, it evolves with

quiet grace. Electric tuk-tuks hum

along its streets, and sustainable

tourism initiatives thrive, ensuring

progress is attuned with the town’s

soul. Even luxury finds its place

here, not as an intrusion but as an

extension of the local ethos.

The Belle Rive Boutique Hotel

and Maison Sam San embody this

balance – offering comfort without

disrupting the delicate harmony.

Sipping cocktails under the stars,

with the Mekong flowing silently

below, feels indulgent yet intimate,

reminding you that true luxury

lies in presence. The simplicity

of bamboo bungalows and the

elegance of restored colonial

mansions blend seamlessly, offering

diverse experiences for travellers

seeking authenticity.

As my time in Luang Prabang

drew to a close, it felt less like a

departure and more like a gentle

passage. The hum of temple chants,

the shimmer of the Mekong, and

the warmth of a stranger’s smile

lingered within me. In a world

that often moves too fast, Luang

Prabang stands as a reminder to

slow down, to embrace simplicity

and experience grace.

This is not just a place – it is a

state of being, a quiet invitation to

carry its timeless rhythm with you,

wherever your journey leads next.

From Left to Right

A French facade

oozes sophistication

A view of a Luang

Prabang street

from the top of

Mount Phousi

68

THAI CACAO GROWN

AND PROCESSED IN

NORTHERN THAILAND

Chiang Mai’s culinary scene

is buzzing with a delicious

revolution led by Siamaya

Chocolate, a craft chocolatier

redefining how the world

experiences Thai flavours.

Founded by Neil Ransom,

Siamaya brings a surprising

ingredient to the forefront: locally

grown Thai cacao. “People don’t

expect cacao from Thailand,”

Neil explains. “But when they

taste it, they’re amazed by its

bright, fruity notes that reflect

our tropical environment.”

SIAMAYA CHOCOLATE’S

SIGNATURE CURRY-

FLAVOURED BARS

Siamaya transforms this

unique cacao into creations

that pay homage to

Thailand’s culinary heritage.

Think single-origin dark

chocolate bars infused

with Thai tea, durian, or

aromatic spices. Standout

flavours include Massaman

Curry (Peanut Curry Dark

Chocolate) and Tom Yum

(Coconut Curry Dark

Chocolate) – artful fusions

that celebrate the nation’s

rich food culture.

SIAMAYA CHOCOLATE’S

RETAIL SHOP ON THAPAE

ROAD IN CHIANG MAI

Beyond satisfying sweet cravings,

Siamaya offers a window into

Thailand’s evolving gastronomy,

blending ancient traditions with

modern techniques. Its flagship

store on historic Thapae Road,

housed in a 1950s building, is a

destination in itself. Chocolate

lovers can also visit a second

location – a retrofitted 1970s

ice factory in central Chiang

Mai – where visitors watch

the chocolate-making process

while sipping on luxurious hot

or iced chocolate.

Whether you’re a foodie, traveller, or chocolate connoisseur,

Siamaya Chocolate offers more than just a treat;

it’s a journey into the heart of Thai innovation and tradition.

Don’t miss the chance to take home a taste of Thailand

on your next visit to Chiang Mai.

SIAMAYA CHOCOLATE THAPAE STORE

Thapae Road, Chang Moi, Chiang Mai

Opening Hours: 10am-8pm Everyday

SIAMAYA CHOCOLATE FACTORY & STORE

Soi 3, Wualai, Chiang Mai

Opening Hours: 10am-6pm Everyday

QUIET BREAK

หลวงพระบาง เสน่่ห์เหนืือกาลเวลา

จุุดหมายที่่ไม่ได้จุบลงที่่ปลายที่าง แต่่ยัง

เดินที่างต่่อไปด้วยเสน่ห์ของความ

เรีียบง่ายที่่ดึงดูดผูู้้คนจุากทีุ่กสารีที่ิศ

สถานที่่บางแห่่งเปี่่ยมมนต์์เสน่ห์์ที่่ไม่เคย

จางห่ายไปี่กัับกัาลเวลา เพราะห่ลอมรวม

กัลมกล ืนไปี่กัับยุคสมัยใหม่่ได้้อย่างลงตััว

ห่ลวงพระบาง เมืองเล็กัๆ ที่่เปี่็นจุด้บรรจบ

ของแม่นำาโขงและแม่นำาคานในภาคเหนืือ

ของลาวคือห่น่งในสถานที่่เหล่่านัน

กัารเดิินที่างส่่ห่ลวงพระบางให้้ความร่้ส่กั

เหม ือนก้้าวเข้าส่่ความสงบ เมือเคร่องบิน

ลด้ระดัับลง คุณจะเห็็นภ่มิที่ัศน์ส่เขียวชอ่ม

ที่่แผ่่ขยายเหม ือนพรมผืืนให่ญ่่ที่่ถักัที่อ

จากภ ูเขาส่เขียวมรกัต์ และแม่นำาโขงที่่

ระยิบระยับราวกัับริบบินกว้้าง ยิงในช่วง

เดืือนมกัราคมและกุุมภาพันธ์์ อากัาศเย็น

สด้ชืนและที่้องฟ้้าส่ครามที่ำาให้้ผู้้มาเยือน

ร่้ส่กัถ่งอ้อมกัอด้จากัธ์รรมชาติิ

พิธีีกรรมแห่งร่่งอร่ณ

เมื อห่มอกัจางลง เมืองก็็เริมต์ืนจากักัาร

หล ับให่ลเพ่อดำำาเนินธ์รรมเน่ยมที่่สืบสาน

มาอย่างยาวนานอย่าง “ตัักับาต์ร” หรืือ

กัารใส่บาต์รพระ ภาพพระสงฆ์์ในจีวรส่ส้ม

เดิินเรียงแถวพร้อมบาต์รและชาวบ้านนั ง

คุกัเข่าพร้อมอาห่ารใส่บาต์ร ที่่เห็็นได้้จากั

มุมมห่าชนของโรงแรม The Belle Rive

Boutique Hotel สะที่้อนความเรียบง่าย

ที่่เปี่่ยมด้้วยจิตวิิญ่ญ่าณของผู้้คนและ

เอกลัักัษณ์ของเมือง

อารามแห่งกาลเวลา

เมือด้วงอาที่ิตย ์เริมสาด้แสง อารามส่ที่อง

ก็็ส่องปี่ระกัายแวววาวใต้้ที่้องฟ้้าส่คราม

ที่่ห่ลวงพระบาง วัด้เช่ยงที่องเปี่็นห่น่งใน

ไฮไลต์์สำค ัญ่ เพราะม่สถาปี่ัต์ยกัรรมที่่

งด้งาม และยังม่ภาพปี่ระดัับร่ปี่ต์้นที่อง

ขนาด้ให่ญ่่ หรืือจะเปี่็นวัดวิิชุล ที่่พระธ์าตุุ

ปี่ระจำวััด้เปี่็นเคร่องห่มายของปี่ระวัติิศาสตร์์

ที่่ดำำาเนินมาอย่างยาวนาน

ก้าวย่างในรอยจำา

อาคารที่่ได้้รับแรงบันด้าลใจจากั

สถาปี่ัต์ยกัรรมยุคโคโลเน่ยลโอบล้อมถนน

ห่นที่างในห่ลวงพระบาง ช่วยถ่ายที่อด้

ปี่ระวัติิศาสตร์์ในแบบของตััวเอง เปี่รียบ

เสมือนปี่ระจักษ์์พยานของช่วงเวลาห่ลาย

ศต์วรรษ บนถนนศรีสว่างวงศ์ คุณจะได้้

พบกัับวิลล่าหร ูสไตล์์ฝรังเศสที่่ต์กัแต่่ง

ด้้วยรายละเอ่ยดส ุด้ปี่ระณีีตอย่่เค่ยงข้าง

บ้านไม้ลาวแบบด้ั งเดิิม ซึ่่งเปี่็นสัญล ักัษณ์

ของกัารผ่สมผ่สานระหว่่างต์ะวันออกั

และต์ะวันต์กัอย่างกัลมกล ืน สำาห่รับผู้้ที่่

ชืนชอบความด้ังเดิิม ลองโฉบไปี่แถวโรงเรียน

อนุบาลห่ลวงพระบาง และร้านขายยาแบบ

ลาวใกล้้ๆ ที่่จะช่วยเปี่ิดม ุมมองช่วิต์ปี่ระจำา

วันในแบบที่่เรียบง่าย สถาปี่ัต์ยกัรรมเหล่่าน่

ม่มนต์์เสน่ห์์ที่่เชื อเชิญ่ให้้นักัเดิินที่างออกั

สำารวจเมือง

บน

ทิิวทััศน์สบายตาของ

เมืืองหลวงพระบาง

ริมืแม่่นำาโขง

ซ้้ายล่าง

ภายในอุโบสถ

เรียบขลังของ

วัดเชีียงทิอง

รสชาติและการเดิินทาง

แม้แต่่อาห่ารที่่น่ก็็ยังเปี่็นสิงบอกัเล่าเร่อง

ราวที่่สะที่้อนถ่งความอุุดมสมบ่รณ์ของ

แผ่่นดิิน ทั้้งข้าวซึ่อยร้อนๆ ที่่แต์กัต์่างจากั

ข้าวซึ่อยที่างเหน ือของไที่ย ขณะที่่รสชาติิ

เผ็็ดร้้อนของแจ่วบองช่วยปี่ลุกัทีุ่กส ัมผััส

ให้้ต์ืนตััว ต์ลาด้ในยามเช้าของห่ลวงพระบาง

ยังเปี่็นสถานที่่น่าต์ืนต์าต์ืนใจที่่เปี่ิด้ปี่ระตูู

จังห่วะช่วิต์ของผู้้คนในที่้องถิน อันเต็็มไปี่

ด้้วยส่สัน กัลิน และเส่ยง ยามต์ะวันต์กัด้ิน

ต์ลาด้กัลางคืนกล ับกัลายเปี่็นงานเล่ยง

ร่วมกัันใต้้แสงโคมไฟอัันนุ่มนวล กัารนัง

บนม้านั งไม้เค่ยงข้างคนแปี่ลกัห่น้าพร้อม

ซึ่ด้นำากั๋วยเต์่ยวร้อนๆ ที่ำาให้้ร่้ส่กัถ่ง

มิต์รภาพระหว่่างคนที่้องถินกัับนักัเดิินที่าง

หรืือห่ากัอย่่ในมู้้ดดิินเนอร์แบบหรูู Tropical

Mekong Café พร้อมต้้อนรับทีุ่กัคน

ด้้วยอาห่ารรสชาติิด้ั งเดิิมที่่ปี่รับโฉมให้้

เข้ากัับยุคสมัย ทั้้งยังม่วิวสวยๆ ของ

แม่นำาโขงไว้ให้้เพลิด้เพลินอีีกด้้วย อ่กัห่น่ง

ร้านที่่ไม่ควรพลาดค ือ Zurich Bread

Factory ที่่เมน่เด็็ด้อย่างครัวซึ่องต์์

ฝอยที่องนำาเสนอความเปี่็นที่้องถินเข้า

กัับความแปี่ลกัใหม่่ได้้อย่างลงตััว

จิิบความสงบ

เสน่ห์์อีีกอย่างของห่ลวงพระบางคือ

ความสงบที่่ได้้จากักัารด้ื มด้ำาในคาเฟ่่

70

น่ารักัๆ รอบเมือง คาเฟ่่เหล่่าน่เปี่รียบ

เสมือนโอเอซึ่ิสของความสงบ เห่มาะสำาห่รับ

ครุ่นคิด้ห่ร่อเพียงนั งมองโลกัที่่หม ุนเวียน

ไปี่กั็เพลิด้เพลินแล้ว ลองห่าเวลาไปนั ่งจิบ

บรรยากัาศต์ามคาเฟ่่ และปี่ล่อยให้้จังห่วะ

อันแผ่่วเบาของเมืองนำาพาเราไปี่ ร้านกัาแฟ้

ที่่เราชอบอย่าง LuLaLao Coffee ม่วิว

สวยๆ ของวัด้เช่ยงที่องให้้ได้้รับชมไปี่

พร้อมกัับกัารจิบกัาแฟ้ห่อมกรุ่่น ส่วน

Le Banneton ม่เมน่ครัวซึ่องต์์ให้้จับค่่

กัับกัาแฟ้เข้มข้นต์ามเอกลัักัษณ์ลาว หรืือ

จะลองใช้เวลายามบ่ายบนร่ฟ้ที่็อปี่บาร์ที่่

Maison Sam San รับปี่ระกัันว่าวิว

พระอาที่ิตย์์ต์กัด้ินจากัที่่น่ก็็สวยไม่แพ้

ที่่ใด้เลยที่่เดีียว

ร้อยเรียงงานฝีีมือ

ห่ลวงพระบางเปี่็นเมืองแห่่งความสร้างสรรค์

ทีุ่กัเส้นด้้าย ทีุ่กจัังห่วะแปี่รง และทีุ่กัลวด้ลาย

แกัะสลักั ล้วนสะที่้อนถ่งปี่ระเพณ่ที่่สืบที่อด้

มายาวนาน ที่่ศ่นย์หััต์ถกัรรม Ock Pop

Tok Living Crafts Centre เส่ยงคลิกัเปี่็น

จังห่วะของกั่ที่อผ้้าบ่งบอกถึึงความชำานาญ่

ของช่างที่อ ผู้้ที่่ถ่ายที่อด้ความร่้และ

ภ่มิปี่ัญ่ญ่าจากรุ่่นส่รุ่่นลงในทีุ่กัลวด้ลาย

สายแฟ้ชั นทั้้งห่ลายที่่อยากัม่ร่ปี่ในชุด้

ปี่ระจำาชาติิลาวสวยๆ ต้้องไม่พลาด้กัาร

เช่าชุด้และเก็็บภาพที่่ Sao Sinh Traditional

Clothing Rental หรืือห่ากัเปี่็นสายช้อปี่

ร้าน LaLa Laos ม่เคร่องปี่ระดัับและงาน

ฝ่มือที่่ได้้แรงบันด้าลใจจากัศาสนาพุที่ธ์

รับรองว่านอกัจากัสวยแล้ว ยังเปี่็นชินงาน

ถ่ายที่อด้ปี่ระวัติิศาสตร์์และความละเม่ยด้

ละไมต์ามแบบช่างฝ่มือลาว

เร่องราวของสายน า

แม่นำาโขงซึ่่งที่อด้ต์ัวยาวเสมือนเส้นเลือด้ให่ญ่่

ได้้ห่ลอมรวมเปี่็นลักัษณะพิเศษของเมืองน่

กัารล่องเร่อข้นไปี่ต์ามลำานำาจนถ่งถำาปี่ากั

อูนำาไปสู ่่กัารค้นพบพระพุที่ธ์ร่ปี่นับพันที่่

ผู้้แสวงบุญ่ที่ิงไว้ในห้้องหิินปี่่น อากัาศภายใน

ถำาอบอวลไปี่ด้้วยความเคารพ และความ

เงียบสงบที่่ให้้ความร่้ส่กัศักดิ์์ สิที่ธ์ิ ในขณะ

ที่่นำาต์กัต์าด้กัวางส่พาคุณห่ลบล่จากั

ตามืเข็มืนาฬิิกา

จากบนซ้้าย

รถต๊กต๊กรับจ้างแบบ

ดั งเดิมืของหลวงพระบาง

พระพุทิธรูปนับพัน

ประดิษฐานอยู่ภายใน

โถงด้านในของถำาปากอู

หรืออีกชีือคืือถำาติง

นักท่่องเทิี ยวสามืารถชีมื

ผ้้าและเรียนรู้วิธีทิอผ้้า

พ้ นเมืืองของลาวได้ทิี

Ock Pop Tok Living

Crafts Centre

ทุ่่งนาเขียวขจีระหว่าง

ทิางไปนำาตกกวางสี

ความว่่นวายซึ่่งแต์กัต์่างออกัไปี่ สระนำส ี

เขียวเที่อร์ควอยส์ที่่โอบกัอด้ด้้วยปี่่าที่่บ

เปี่็นภาพที่่ทั้้ งน่าต์ืนต์าต์ืนใจและผ่่อน

คลายไปี่ในเวลาเดีียวกััน

วิวัฒนาการทีลงตัว

แม้ห่ลวงพระบางจะดููเหม ือนเมืองที่่กัาล

เวลาไม่อาจแต์ะต้้องได้้ แต่่ไม่ได้้ห่มายความ

ว่าจะไม่เปลี ่ยนแปี่ลง รถต์ุกตุ๊๊กัไฟ้ฟ้้าแล่น

เบาๆ ไปี่ต์ามที่้องถนน และโครงกัารส่งเสริม

กัารที่่องเที่่ยวอย่างยังยืนก็็เติิบโต์ข้นเพ่อ

ให้้ความก้้าวหน้้าไม่ที่ำาลายจิตวิิญ่ญ่าณ

ของเมือง

รอยจำาของความงดิงาม

เส่ยงสวด้มนต์์ แสงระยิบระยับของแม่นำา

โขงยามพลบคำา และรอยยิมอบอ่่นจากั

คนแปี่ลกัห่น้ายังคงติิด้ต์ร้งอย่่ในใจของ

ผู้้มาเยือน ในโลกัที่่อาจเคลือนที่่เร็วเกิินไปี่

ห่ลวงพระบางช่วยให้้เราระล่กัถ่งความ

ห่มายของกัาร “ม่อย่่จริง” สถานที่่แห่่งน่

ไม่ใช่เพียงจุด้ห่มายปี่ลายที่าง แต่่คือ

สภาวะจิต์ใจที่่ให้้เราบันที่่กัรอยจำาของ

ความงด้งามเหนืือกัาลเวลาน่ ไม่ว่าจะ

เดิินที่างไปี่ที่่ไห่นก็็ต์าม

71

FAMILY FUN

Columbia Pictures Aquaverse offers a new

twist on theme parks, with family-friendly

adventures just a short ride from Bangkok

Words Sarita Urupongsa

Photos Arthit Limpong, Columbia Pictures Aquaverse

Seeking a waterpark with thrills and spills

for all ages just a short drive from bustling

Bangkok? Dive into Columbia Pictures

Aquaverse, where blockbuster movies come

to life and immerse you in a world of excitement

and adventure. This location is also the world’s

very first Sony movie-themed park. Nestled by a

picturesque tropical beach, the Aquaverse promises

an unforgettable escape for children and adults

alike, combining thrilling rides, serene retreats, and

movie-inspired magic.

72

Enter the

Ghostbusters universe!

73

FAMILY FUN

Top and Bottom

Hotel Transylvania,

the biggest aqua

playground in

Southeast Asia,

featuring nine slides

ADVENTURE BEGINS!

Kick off your adventure at Hotel

Transylvania, a family favourite

bursting with spooky fun. This

zone features nine epic water slides

and over 100 delightfully exciting

features, from water rockets

and splash buckets to cascading

fountains. As you explore, you’ll

bump into beloved characters like

Drac, Mavis, and Blobby. Dive

back onto dry land for daily live

performances and family-friendly

shows at Hollywood Square to

the left of the zone. Just around

the corner, the park’s latest thrill

beckons: Ghostbusters Frozen

Empire, the Immersive Bumper

Car Experience, inspired by

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. This

groundbreaking attraction is the

world’s first-ever Ghostbustersthemed

bumper car ride. Hop aboard

and glide through a neon-lit frozen

town with the Ghostbusters movie

as your backdrop. It’s a glowing,

family-friendly ride that feels like a

scene straight out of the big screen.

Those craving wave action

can head over to Surf’s Up, home

to the thrilling FlowRider. This

40-foot-long surf simulator

churns out 30,000 gallons of water

per minute, offering an authentic

surfing experience whether you’re

With a firm commitment to preserving the

environment, the park has implemented

cutting-edge technologies and green

practices that ensure its operations have

a minimal impact on the planet

a beginner or a seasoned pro.

Expert instructors are on hand to

help you master the art of surfing

or bodyboarding. For those not quite

ready to ride the waves, the nearby

plunge pool and jacuzzi provide

a relaxing retreat, while kids can

enjoy splashing around in their

own dedicated pool. The excitement

continues at Aquaverse’s Mega

Wave Pool, where the fun swells

to a crescendo. Picture yourself

floating on rolling waves, grooving

to live music, and soaking in the

sun. With LED screens and Dolby

sound enhancing the experience,

it’s not just a pool – it’s a cinematic

wave party!

74

THRILL-SEEKERS UNITE

For adrenaline junkies, the Jumanji

Zone is not to be missed. This lush

jungle setting offers three heartpounding

attractions. First comes

the Viper Slide, where visitors brave

a mandrill-filled whirlpool before

splashing through a serpent’s

mouth. Then, take on the twists

and turns of Jungle Stampede, a

wild ride that ends with a dramatic

plunge through a giant hippo’s jaws.

Finally, conquer the electrifying

descents of Jaguar Mountain,

navigating daring twists as you

escape from mighty wild beasts. The

zone welcomes adventurers of all

ages, provided they meet the height

and weight requirements.

The thrills don’t stop there! The

Ghostbusters Zone invites guests

to step into a world of supernatural

adventure. The main attraction is

a 90-second slide journey where

riders zoom through three tunnels,

each offering unique sensations.

The Proton Stream Slide twists

and turns in complete darkness

before plunging you into a mystical

vortex. The Slimer Slide catapults

you towards the open mouth of

the gluttonous green ghost for the

ultimate Ghostbusters experience.

Solo adventurers will find their

adrenaline rush in the Zombieland

Zone, packed with spine-tingling

rides. Start with Zombie Chase,

a mat racer slide that weaves

through twists, turns, and barriers

for a heart-pounding escape. If

you’re feeling brave, take on The

Beast, a 12-metre freefall that

tests your nerves as you twist

through narrow bends. And for the

boldest thrill-seekers, Double Tap

offers an 18-metre vertical drop

and the steepest slide in the park,

mimicking the daring escapes from

the undead in Zombieland.

Top Left

Feel the surge

of adrenaline at

Jumanji Zone

Top Right

Slimer Speed Racer,

the world’s first

two-person

Ecto-1 tube-car ride

The Rest

Escape from

zombies at the

Zombieland Zone

75

FAMILY FUN

CRUISIN’ ON THE RIVER

When it’s time for a break, grab a

raft and float down the Lazy River,

inspired by the movie Cloudy with

a Chance of Meatballs. This serene,

slow-moving waterway meanders

over two kilometres through the

park, giving you the chance to

relax while soaking in the view of

surrounding attractions. Families

can choose from larger rafts or

kid-friendly options, making it

the perfect way to recharge before

diving back into the excitement.

As the sun begins to set, wrap up

your day with a ride at Gran Turismo

Go-Kart. This racetrack captures

the breezy vibe of Miami Beach,

complete with twists, turns, and

views of the sunset over the tropical

shoreline. It’s the perfect way to end

a day full of fun and adventure.

Clockwise from

Top Left

Compete with

racers from all over

the world at Gran

Turismo Go-Kart

Float through

Swallow Falls

and spot Wacky

Foodimals at

Cloudy with a

Chance of Meatballs

Enjoy giant LED

screens and a Dolby

DTS surround sound

system at Aquaverse

Mega Wave Pool

Pickle, one of the

friendly Foodimals

KEEP THE FUN GOING

Columbia Pictures Aquaverse

offers guests everything they

need to make their day as smooth

and enjoyable as possible. Private

cabanas with secure storage let

you relax in style, while ample

locker rentals and towel services

ensure you can focus on the fun.

The park is fully covered with

complimentary Wi-Fi, so you can

share your favourite moments in

real time. Safety is a top priority,

with a fully staffed first aid centre,

registered nurses, and certified

lifeguards guaranteeing everyone

is well cared for.

76

FOOD PARADISE

No day is complete without

delicious eats, and the park’s Food

Paradise truly lives up to its name.

From authentic Thai favourites like

Pad Krapow, Khao Soi and Larb to

classic Western fare like burgers,

fries, and freshly baked pizzas,

every dish here is made with care by

expert chefs.

For those seeking more

adventurous flavours, the park

offers a variety of international

cuisines, from spicy Indian,

sophisticated Italian, and

mouthwatering Middle Eastern to

sushi prepared with sustainably

sourced fish. Local specialities also

take centre stage, with farm-totable

dishes that showcase the

region’s seasonal produce while

supporting local farmers and

producers. Whether you’re grabbing

a quick snack or sitting down for

a leisurely meal, the options are

endless, ensuring that every craving

is satisfied.

For adults, refreshing beverages

and cold beer are available

throughout the park, including

unique, themed concoctions

inspired by its most popular

attractions. For the younger

crowd, soda and other soft drinks

are perfect for quenching thirst

between rides.

Clockwise from

Top Left

Phad Kaphrao:

stir-fried organic

chicken in hot Thai

basil and garlic

sauce, served with

steamed jasmine

rice and an organic

fried egg

Irresistible smokey

bacon and two

cheeses pizza

Double cheese burger

with chipotle sauce

Clockwise from

Below Left

Dining area next to

Asian food zone

Mouth-watering

Banana crepe with

chocolate and

whipping cream

Must-try Khao Soi

and unlimited

beverage options

77

FAMILY FUN

Endless summer

vibes at Columbia

Pictures Aquaverse

SUSTAINABLE TO THE CORE

Columbia Pictures Aquaverse also

leads the way in sustainability,

setting a remarkable standard

for eco-conscious amusement

parks. With a firm commitment to

preserving the environment, the

park has implemented cutting-edge

technologies and green practices

that ensure its operations have a

minimal impact on the planet.

One of the park’s standout

features is its use of advanced

Olympic-certified Neptune Benson

water filtration systems, which help

minimise chlorine usage in the

water attractions, ensuring cleaner,

safer water while reducing the

environmental footprint. This

high-tech filtration system is one of

only two of its kind in Southeast Asia,

showcasing the Aquaverse’s dedication

to innovation in sustainability.

The park’s commitment to

renewable energy is equally

impressive. Solar-powered lights

illuminate many key areas, with

plans to transition to 100% solar

power in the near future. This will

significantly reduce the park’s

reliance on fossil fuels, making

it an even greener destination.

Visitors can enjoy the park’s

stunning atmosphere without

the environmental guilt that

often accompanies large-scale

entertainment complexes.

Even the smallest details are

carefully considered in the name

of sustainability. Eco-friendly

packaging is used throughout

the park, with biodegradable

materials replacing traditional

plastics. Additionally, on-site food

composters ensure that waste is

properly managed, reducing landfill

impact and returning valuable

nutrients back to the earth. The

result is a guilt-free day of fun,

where visitors can enjoy themselves

knowing that every step taken is

part of a larger effort to protect

the environment. By integrating

sustainability into every aspect of

the experience, the thrills and spills

also demonstrate how each of us can

have a positive impact on the planet.

COSTUMES AND PROPS

Swimwear is recommended but drawstring shorts and T-shirts are welcome too!

And don’t forget your sunscreen and shades to stay cool while enjoying the fun.

Tickets at columbiapicturesaquaverse.com;

888 Moo 8, Na Jomtien, Chon Buri; www.facebook.com/ColumbiaPicturesAquaverse,

instagram: columbiapicturesaquaverse

78

พ่งตััวเข้้าส่คลืน่ความสนุุกกัน่!

ถ้้าคุุณกำำาลัังมองหาสวนนำาที่่จััดเต็็ม

คุวามมันส์ให้ทีุ่กว ัย ต็ังแต่่เด็กน้้อย วัยรุุ่่น

ไปจันถึึงผู้้ใหญ่่ แลัะอย้่ไม่ไกำลัจัากำกำรุุ่งเที่พฯ

ขอแนะนำา Columbia Pictures Aquaverse

สวนนำส ุดอลัังกำารุ่ที่่ดึงคุวามมหัศจัรุ่รุ่ย์

จัากำหนังดังรุ่ะดับโลักำมาสรุ่้างเป็น

ปรุ่ะสบกำารุ่ณ์สุดต็่นเต้้นแลัะน่าผู้จัญ่ภััย!

นอกำจัากำคุวามสนุกส ุดหรุ่รุ่ษาแล้้ว

ยังต็ังอย้่ไม่ไกำลัจัากำชายหาดที่่มาพรุ่้อม

วิวสุดพิเศษสำาหรุ่ับกำารุ่พักำผู้่อน ที่่น่จึึง

เหมาะกัับกำารุ่หลั่กำหนีีความว่่นวาย

พรุ่้อมสนุกสุุดเหว่ยงในโซนต่่างๆ ที่่ทั้้ ง

หวาดเส่ยว ผู้่อนคุลัายไปพรุ่้อมกัับธีีม

จัากำภัาพยนต็รุ่์ช่อดัง

เริ่่มกำารุ่ผู้จัญ่ภััยที่่ Hotel Transylvania

โซนยอดฮิิต็ของคุรุ่อบคุรุ่ัวที่่ เต็็มไปด้วย

คุวามสนุกส ุดต็่นเต้้น ที่่น่ม่สไลัเดอรุ่์สุดเจ๋๋ง

ถึึง 9 แบบ แลัะเคุรุ่่องเล่่นนำากำว่า 100 จุุด

แลัะอย่าลืืมแวะที่ักำที่ายตััวลัะคุรุ่จัากำ

แฟรุ่นไชส์ภัาพยนต็รุ่์น่อย่าง Drac, Mavis

แลัะ Blobby กำรุ่ะตุุกำต็่อมคุวามหลัอนแล้้ว

อย่าลืืมไปเฉิิดฉิายกัับเกำลั่ยวคลื่่นที่่ Surf’s

Up บน FlowRider เคุรุ่่องเล่่นเซิรุ่์ฟสุดมันส์

ที่่สรุ่้างคลื่่นยักษ์์ให้คุุณได้โชว์ลั่ลัาเซิรุ่์ฟ

เหม่อนม่อโปรุ่! ไม่พรุ่้อมลุุยคลื่่นเหรุ่อ?

แช่ตััวในสรุ่ะนำาเย็นๆ หรุ่่อจิิบเคุรุ่่องด่ม

ในอ่างจัากุุซซ่กำ็ฟินไม่แพ้กััน แล้้วอย่าลืืม

เช็กอ ิน Mega Wave Pool ที่่ไม่ใช่แค่่

สรุ่ะนำาธีรุ่รุ่มดา แต่่คืือคุวามมันส์ที่่มา

พรุ่้อมกัับจัอ LED ยักษ์์แลัะรุ่ะบบเส่ยง

Dolby DTS กำรุ่ะหึ มรุ่อบที่ิศที่าง!

สายแอดเวนเจัอรุ่์ต้้องไม่พลัาด

Jumanji Zone ดินแดนป่าลึึกำลัับที่่มา

พรุ่้อมเคุรุ่่องเล่่นสุดหวาดเส่ยว เช่น Viper

Slide ที่่พาคุุณหมุนวนผู้่านกำรุ่งลิิง ก่่อน

พ่่งที่ะลุุปากำง้ยักษ์์ หรุ่่อ Jungle Stampede

กัับสไลัเดอรุ่์สุดโหดที่่พาคุุณที่ะลุุผู้่านปากำ

ฮิิปโปขนาดยักษ ์! ถ้้าชอบเรื่่องผู้่ๆ ต้้องไป

Ghostbusters Zone ที่่จัะพาคุุณสไลด์์

ผู้่านอ่โมงค์์ม่ดสุดสะพรุ่ึง หรุ่่อจัะลัอง

Slimer Slide ที่่ที่้าให้คุุณพ่่งเข้าส้่ปากำ

ปีศาจัเข่ยวตััวแสบก็็สนุกำไม่แพ้กััน สำาหรุ่ับ

สายชิลัลั์ Lazy River รุ่อคุุณอย้่ ลัอยตััว

ไปเรื่่อยๆ ที่่ามกำลัางบรุ่รุ่ยากำาศที่่ได้แรุ่ง

บันดาลัใจัจัากำภัาพยนต็รุ่์ Cloudy with a

Chance of Meatballs รุ่ับรุ่องทั้้งสบาย

ทั้้งฟิน! ก่่อนจัะปิดที่้ายวันพักำผู้่อนแสนสนุกำ

ด้วย Gran Turismo Go-Kart ซิงบนสนาม

โกำคุารุ่์ที่พรุ่้อมวิวพรุ่ะอาที่ิตย ์ต็กำบอกำเลัย

ว่าทั้้งมันส์แลัะโรุ่แมนติิกำ

ไปปล่่อยพลัังแบบสุดเหว่ยงแล้้ว อย่าลืืม

ชารุ่์ที่แบต็ที่่โซนศ้นย์อาหารุ่ที่่มาพรุ่้อม

ตามเข็็มนาฬิิกาจาก

ข็วาบน

VIP Cabana ห้้องส่่วน

ตัวสำำาห้รัับ 10 ท่่าน

พบกับการัแส่ดงและ

กิจกรัรัมสุุดพิเศษตลอด

ปีีท่่ Hollywood Square

Surf’s Up เครั่องจำาลอง

การัเล่นเซิิร์์ฟท่่ม่

ความยาวกว่า 40 ฟุต

คุอนเซปที่์ Food Paradise ม่ที่ังอาหารุ่

ไที่ยจัานเด็ดอย่างผู้ัดกำะเพรุ่า ข้าวซอย

ลัาบ แลัะเมน้นานาชาติิที่่ปรุุ่งด้วยวัต็ถุ้ดิบ

คุุณภัาพส้ง ไม่ว่าจัะเป็นเซ็ต็แฮิมเบอรุ่์เกำอรุ่์

พิซซ่าแป้งสด สเต็็กำเน่อฉิำส ุดพรุ่่เม่ยมจัากำ

ฝีีม่อเชฟมากำปรุ่ะสบกำารุ่ณ์ที่่พรุ่้อมปรุุ่ง

อาหารุ่สดใหม่รุ่สชาติิเย่ยมเพ่อเติิมเต็็ม

วันหยุดของคุุณ

นอกำจัากำน่ สวนนำาแห่งน่ ยังมาพรุ่้อม

คุวามสนุกำแบบรุ่ักษ์์โลักำ เพรุ่าะที่่น่ใส่ใจั

สิงแวดล้้อม ต็ั งแต่่รุ่ะบบกำรุ่องนำาขั นส้ง

เนปจููน เบนสัน ซึงเป็นรุ่ะบบเด่ยวกัับที่่

กำารุ่แข่งขันกีีฬาโอลิิมปิกำเลืือกำใช้ ที่่ลัดกำารุ่

ใช้คุลัอรุ่่นเพ่อบำบ ัดนำา ซึ งเป็นเพียงหนึ ง

ในสองแห่งที่่ติิดต็ังในเอเช่ยต็ะวันออกำเฉีียงใต้้

เที่่านัน คุวามรุ่ักษ์์โลักำของสวนนำาแห่งน่ ยัง

รุ่วมถึึงกำารุ่ใช้พลัังงานแสงอาที่ิตย์์ในหลัายๆ

พ่นที่่ ซึ งม่แผู้นจัะปรุ่ับกำารุ่ใช้พลัังงาน

แสงอาที่ิตย์์ให้เพิมเป็น 100% เรุ่็วๆ น่ แลัะ

แพ็กำเกำจัจัิงแบบย่อยสลัายง่ายที่่เป็นมิต็รุ่

ต่่อโลักำ เที่่ากัับว่าผู้้้มาเที่่ยวจัะสามารุ่ถ้

สนุกำได้แบบไรุ่้กัังวลั แลัะรุ่ักษ์์โลักำได้ไป

พรุ่้อมๆ กััน!

พรุ่้อมหรุ่่อยัง? แพ็คุกำรุ่ะเป๋าพรุ่้อมชุด

ว่ายนำาของคุุณให้พรุ่้อม ชวนเพ่อนๆ แลัะ

คุรุ่อบคุรุ่ัว ออกำเดินที่างเข้าส้่โลักำแห่งคุวาม

สนุกำที่่ Columbia Pictures Aquaverse!

79

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Caverns & Coral

Koh Phi Phi offers more than just spectacular

marine scenery – it’s a gateway to an

evolving underwater story shaped by time

and tides. Deep dive into canyons and caves

where shafts of sunlight cast a cinematic

glow on colourful coral gardens teeming with

life. Eco-conscious travellers can contribute

to marine protection efforts by joining one of

the reef conservation projects.

SAMUI 82 / CHIANG MAI, PATTAYA, TRAT 85 / PHUKET, KRABI 86 / BANGKOK 88 / HONG KONG, SINGAPORE 89

/ PHNOM PENH, SIEM REAP 90 / LUANG PRABANG, MALDIVES 91

81

HAPPENINGS

THAILAND

SPOTLIGHT

A Place to Stay & Savour

Photos: Chaweng Garden Beach Resort

At Chaweng Garden Beach Resort, luxury comes

paired with a side of deliciousness. Enjoy a perfect

blend of gorgeous beach vibes and tasty bites with

on-site restaurants that satisfy your cravings from

sunrise to sunset.

Born in 1990, this family-run resort has

bloomed into a heartwarming haven where three

generations greet visitors with warm Samui

hospitality. Whether you’re staying or just passing

by, the resort delights with a diverse menu of

scrumptious dishes. For Thai and international

favourites served with a stunning sea vista, head

to Sue’s Ocean Restaurant. When it’s time for

sundowners, the Beach Bar is a perfect spot to

relax. Want a swim and a sip? Head to the Monkey

Pool Bar for the best of both worlds.

For a memorable meal, grab a table on Chaweng

Beach and sink your toes into the sand, gaze at the

sea, and select fresh seafood cooked to your liking.

162/8 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach, Bophut, Koh Samui,

Surat Thani, www.chawenggarden.com

Photos: Anutra Ungsuprasert

MUCH MORE THAN JUST CAFFEINE

Samui mornings exude a zen-like energy and Double T Samui captures it perfectly.

The chillout café in Maenam serves sensational fresh coffee, tea, juice, and smoothies,

plus a mouth-watering selection of Thai and international comfort dishes.

We kicked off with the Eggs on Waffle – a delectable combination of silky

scrambled eggs and crispy ribbons of bacon draped over a warm freshly made waffle.

Next came the Pan-Fried Eggs with Toast, Thai-style fried eggs sprinkled generously

with minced chicken, Chinese sausage, ham, and bacon. Craving grain? Try the

Grilled Chicken on a warm bed of rice, drizzled with umami-packed sauce. Want

something light and sweet? Go for the Yogurt Bowl of

creamy house-made yoghurt topped with crunchy

granola and fresh fruit, or the decadent Waffles

with Coconut Ice Cream. 215/19 Maenam Soi

4, Koh Samui, Surat Thani; www.instagram.com/

doublet.samui

MAKING EVERY DIVE LESSON A MEMORY

For those keen to explore Samui’s hidden depths, Member

Diving provides the perfect mix of unforgettable memories

and underwater mastery.

Since 2013, this Swiss-managed dive school has been

making waves with its Swiss Quality Diving approach.

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned undersea explorer,

their certified SSI and PADI instructors ensure every lesson

is safe and sensation-rich. Think small groups, premium

gear, and premium safety protocols. All courses include

hotel transfers, certification fees, equipment rental, as

well as lunch and refreshments on the boat. 158/6 Moo 1,

Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani; member-diving.com

Photo: Member Diving

82

SAMUI

ONE-STOP HAVEN FOR LIFESTYLE SATISFACTION

Chaweng offers a diverse range of lifestyle venues catering

to shoppers of every gender and generation. Haven Samui

Community Mall draws locals and visitors alike with an alfresco

design mixing eco-friendly charm, island vibes, and sleek modern

stylings. With an irresistible lineup of boutiques, restaurants from

around the world, and wellness venues, Haven is the perfect

place to indulge in fashion, flavours, and relaxation.

Shopaholics can snag the latest trends or pick up unique

island souvenirs and local arts and crafts while foodies can tuck

into mouthwatering feasts, from Thai delights to global cuisine.

For those seeking rest and rejuvenation, the spas offer blissful

treatments perfect for a self-pampering day. The mall offers

a lively island escape where island nature, local culture, and

modern lifestyle come together to create one vibrant destination.

Chaweng Beach Road, Koh Samui, Surat Thani; havensamui.com

Photos: Fisherman Horse Riding Samui

Photo: Haven Samui

PATTY PERFECTION IN SAMUI

On Chaweng Beach Road, a little slice of burger heaven has been

serving up meaty magic since 2017. The Hungry Wolf takes pride in

its from-scratch approach, featuring house-made buns, sauces, and pickles.

Alongside their beloved Wagyu Beef Burgers, which blend premium Australian

beef with Tajima wagyu, other mouth-watering must-tries include the Classic Wagyu

Beef Cheeseburger, Blue Cheese Burger, and Spicy Jalapeño Burger. The lineup

features both traditional thick patties and smash-style creations, catering to every

burger craving.

Not a burger fan? Choose from an array of delectable dishes like Italian-style

pizzas, homemade pastas, premium steaks, ribs, burritos, Thai curries, and fresh salads,

each bursting with top-quality ingredients like Australian and Japanese beef, Italian

cold cuts and cheese, and free-range Thai pork. 17/46 Moo 3. Koh Samui, Surat Thani,

thehungrywolf.xyz

Photos: The Hungry Wolf

SPOTLIGHT

Thai Banquet

on the Beach

The recipe for a perfect evening often begins with

choosing the right restaurant. With delicious food, a

wonderful ambiance, and views to die for, Hug Samui

ticks all the boxes.

Located right on Bangpor Beach, this al fresco

restaurant serves up a feast of Southern Thai fare

alongside Thai classics, all made from local produce

and the freshest island catches. Each dish sings with

bold flavours and beautiful presentation to tantalise

eyes and taste buds.

The bar elevates the experience with creatively

crafted cocktails amid gorgeous sea views that enhance

every sip. Enjoy a sundowner or three, perfectly paired

with mouthwatering seafood fresh from local waters

and herbs and vegetables from island farmers. A

splendid blend of both visual and culinary pleasure,

this is a dining experience not to miss. 11/5 Moo 6,

Maenam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, www.facebook.com/

hugsamui.bangpor

Photos: Hug Samui

83

HAPPENINGS

THAILAND

SAMUI

SPOTLIGHT

Where Thai Staples

Meet Tapas Creativity

Step into a world where Thai classics

meet Spanish creativity at The Thai Tapas.

Anchored in Fisherman’s Village, this lively

restaurant combines the best of traditional

local flavours with a modern tapas touch. Tropical vibes

and culinary finesse in every bite have catapulted this spot

into the hearts of local foodies since opening in 2022. Even

the White Lotus crew couldn’t resist its tasty charms, with

Jason Isaacs, Walton Goggins, Aimee Lou Wood, Parker

Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger and Sam Nivola dropping

by to graze.

From the zinging Mango Salad and tangy Thai Tacos

to the rich Lamb Panang and tender Seabass with Tom

Yum Sauce, the menu is a trip through bold and authentic

Thai flavours. For the sweetest finale, we recommend the

Mango Tarte Tatin or Ginger Lemongrass Crème Brûlée.

www.facebook.com/thethaitapas

WHERE COFFEE IS

A PASSION

Moored near Samui’s lively

Fisherman’s Village, this roadside

gem has quickly become the

must-visit coffee stop for locals

and globetrotters alike. Owner

and coffee aficionado Michael

Kane is as passionate about

his custom-roasted Chiang Mai

organic beans as he is about

his rescue dog, Izzy, “the real

manager here”.

The menu boasts standout

creations like Iced Coconut Latte

topped with crispy coconut

flakes, a perfect marriage of

flavour and textures. There’s also

the Honeycomb Caramel Latte,

crafted with house-made caramel

and honeycomb, or the Baked

Affogato, crowned with a cloud

of freshly made meringue toasted

to perfection. Add a freshly baked

custard tart or two on the side and

you’ve got the perfect pick-me-up

for any time of day. Bophut,

Koh Samui; www.facebook.com/

izzyscoffeesamui

Photos: The Hub Samui

Photos: The Thai Tapas

HUB OF WHOLESOME AND HEARTY DINING

Craving a feast that satisfies both your senses and well-being? Look no

further than The Hub Samui. This Lamai café specialises in healthy dining

with wholesome, tasty dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients and

complemented by artisanal brews and baked goods.

The Hub’s laid-back atmosphere is ideal for casual meals or catchups

with friends for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Start with their

signature Avocado Toast or indulge your sweet tooth with their colourful

smoothie and yogurt bowls. For hearty bites, the Wagyu Beef

Burger, Chicken Pesto Pasta, and Salmon Cream Cheese

Wrap are guaranteed to hit the spot.

Imaginative vegan and vegetarian options

include the Beyond Meat Wrap, Teriyaki Tofu

Poke Bowl, Burmese Tea Leaf Salad, and Falafel

Burger. 82/2 Moo 3, Maret, Lamai Beach, Koh

Samui, Surat Thani, thehubsamui.com

84

THAILAND

CHIANG MAI / PATTAYA / TRAT

Photo: Shutterstock

SPOTLIGHT

Gateway to

Island Bliss

Koh Chang, a picturesque island

in eastern Thailand, is the perfect

base to explore the stunning

surrounding archipelago. Ideal

weather conditions in January

and February give travellers easy

access to nearby islands like Koh

Mak, Koh Kood and Koh Wai.

Koh Mak boasts tranquil

beaches and eco-tourism wonders,

Koh Kood is known for its dense

jungles, waterfalls, and serene

coastline, while Koh Wai, the

smallest of the trio, offers quiet

shores perfect for snorkelling and

sunbathing. From snorkelling

in pristine waters to strolling

along unspoilt beaches, each

destination presents its own

distinct charm.

REDISCOVERING LOST FLAVOURS

The “Dern Kin Thin Na Kluea” festival is underway at Na Kluea, a

historic community just north of Pattaya Beach. This “feast and

stroll” fest invites locals and visitors alike to explore the region’s

rich culinary traditions. Until January 12, Na Kluea’s main market

transforms into a vibrant hub of local delicacies, showcasing fresh

seafood, traditional recipes and regional delights.

Themed “rediscovering lost flavours”, this year’s festival

offers rare dishes prepared by local experts, including cooks and

community clubs. New offerings introduced each week allow

visitors to savour the unique tastes of Na Kluea’s culinary heritage.

Photo: Shutterstock

Photo: Shutterstock

UNFURLING LANNA TRADITIONS

Bo Sang Village, just a short drive from Chiang Mai, is inviting

visitors to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Bo Sang Umbrella

and San Kamphaeng Handicraft Festival in mid-January. Renowned

for its enchanting parade of women on bicycles carrying colourful

paper parasols, the festival shines a spotlight on the region’s rich

artisanal traditions.

Over three days, visitors can explore the intricate art of handpainted

umbrella making, and even try crafting their own unique

parasol. The festival also showcases a wide range of other local

crafts, including pottery, silk weaving and woodworking, each

reflecting talent and heritage passed down through generations.

With cultural performances, colourful parades, and festive street

displays, the event offers a captivating glimpse into the beauty and

history of the Lanna Kingdom.

85

HAPPENINGS

THAILAND

SPOTLIGHT

Time Machine

Housed in the historic

Standard Chartered Bank

building, Museum Phuket

is a fixture on travellers’

must-visit list in Old Town

Phuket. The iconic yellow

clock tower has starred in

a million selfies, but the

museum itself offers a fascinating deep dive into

the island’s rich history.

Explore the indigenous peranakan culture

– a unique blend of Chinese and southern Thai

influences – and venture into the island’s past,

from pirate raids and foreign invasions to the

tin-mining boom. Discover the stories behind

the distinctive architecture of Old Town and the

region’s unique cuisine. Open daily except Mondays,

free entry. www.facebook.com/Museumphuket

A GEORGIAN GEM

Phuket’s food scene is famed for

its diversity, but the recent influx

of Eastern Europeans has added an

exciting new dimension. Among these

new culinary gems is Georgian House.

With its traditional décor,

cultural videos on screens and catchy

Georgian tunes, the restaurant

perfectly captures the essence of

this fascinating country. The menu

is a joyful journey through Georgian

cuisine featuring delicious dishes like

lamb or beef Khinkali soup dumplings

and Ajapsandali stew. Other not-tobe-missed

specialities include Phali,

a creamy dip of pureed vegetables,

walnuts and herbs, and Acharuli, a

flatbread topped with a rich mixture of

homemade cheese and egg. Instagram:

georgian_house_phuket

SENSORY SANCTUARY

Tantitium grabs your attention from the get-go with its

tantalising sign – “eat, drink, massage” –hinting at the sensory

delights that await within.

Housed in an old Sino-Portuguese shophouse, Tantitium

blends classic charm with contemporary flair. It’s an ideal

sanctuary to indulge in a massage, sip on handcrafted cocktails

at the bar, or enjoy a delectable meal accompanied by live music.

The restaurant offers a unique fusion of traditional Thai cuisine

and modern flavours. Savour a rich and zesty Tom Yum under the glow of

purple neon and disco balls, drool over a mouthwatering Phad Thai in the

chic courtyard, or tuck into a fragrant crab curry while grooving to live

music. Tantitium is the ultimate in Phuket’s vibrant culture and style.

www.facebook.com/tantitium

Photos: Jeremie Schatz

Photos: Museum Phuket

Photos: Tantitium

86

PHUKET / KRABI

PULSING HEART OF KRABI

Just a short drive from bustling Ao Nang beach, Krabi Town

teems with authentic Thai culture. This charming town is

filled with lively markets, historic temples and stunning

cultural landmarks. Explore local markets, where the air is

perfumed by the aroma of delicious dishes like crab curry

with vermicelli. Discover the town’s rich heritage at its

temples and other cultural attractions, or opt for outdoorsy

activities like kayaking through mangrove forests and hiking

up limestone cliffs. Krai is also a gateway to local fishing

villages set amid tranquil rice paddies and rustic shorelines.

As the sun sets, the town’s riverside bars and eateries

come alive, offering a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the

local atmosphere.

SPOTLIGHT

Underwater Wonderland

Photo: Shutterstock

The peak months for diving in Krabi are January and February, when

calm seas and crystal-clear waters unveil a breathtaking underwater

paradise. Scuba divers can explore world-class sites ranging from the

colourful coral reefs of the Phi Phi Islands to the mysterious depths

of the King Cruiser Wreck.

Encounter playful reef sharks, graceful manta rays and a

dazzling array of other marine life. For the adventurous, sites like

Koh Haa, Shark Point and Anemone Reef offer dramatic underwater

landscapes perfect for experiencing beautiful creatures up close.

With dive centres offering tailored packages, Krabi’s underwater

world is waiting to be explored.

BELLY-PLEASER

Fatty’s has long been a haven for hearty,

homemade German food – a sturdy

ship in a storm that matches its unique

surroundings resembling an old boat.

This Phuket’s local favourite has a

well-earned reputation for big portions,

fair prices and authentic flavours.

The menu offers a variety of dishes

both Thai and Western, including salads,

pastas and even Greek Gyros. However,

the spotlight is firmly on German

classics. Fatty’s is famed for the quality

of its German sausage, while Tournedos

(tenderloin beef) also come highly

recommended. The Beef Stroganoff

is another crowd-pleaser, featuring

chunks of tender beef, fresh Spaetzle

(egg noodles) and a savoury yet tangy

gravy. And if you spy the delectable

apple pie on the menu, don’t miss your

chance to indulge. www.facebook.com/

FattysRestaurantGermanFood

Photos: Jeremie Schatz

87

HAPPENINGS

BANGKOK

Photos: SAAM

REBELLIOUS SIBLING

The StandardX, Bangkok Phra Arthit is shaking up the

way visitors experience Bangkok after opening its doors in

November 2024. No ordinary hotel, this place is a vibrant hub of art, culture, and

adventure, nestled in the city’s old town right by the iconic Chao Phraya River.

Following the brand’s bold debut in Melbourne’s Fitzroy neighbourhood, this

is the second outpost of The StandardX, and it’s bringing its signature rebellious

spirit to one of Bangkok’s most artistic enclaves. With 62 guest rooms designed

by The StandardX’s in-house team and Studio Freehand, the accommodations

are as unique as the neighbourhood itself. The hotel also sits at the heart of a

creative neighbourhood teeming with eclectic cafés, buzzing bars, and a dynamic

music scene. Step outside and you’re surrounded by inspiration at every turn.

45/1 Phra Athit Rd, Phra Nakhon; www.standardx.com/bangkok

SPOTLIGHT

Thai Flavours

Meet Australian Soul

A treasure in the vibrant foodie enclave of Sukhumvit

31, SAAM brings a bold new twist to Bangkok’s dining

scene. This modern bistro wine bar masterfully

fuses the rich flavours of Thailand with the creative,

laid-back spirit of Australian wine bars, offering

a convivial atmosphere where guests can relax,

connect, and savour something truly special.

At the core of SAAM’s philosophy is a vibrant

melding of cultures, with co-owner and chef Sareen

drawing inspiration from his Melbourne roots. The

menu showcases Thai ingredients reimagined with

an Australian culinary flair, resulting in creations

that are both surprising and comforting.

Highlights like Saam Hoy Thot, Son-in-Law

Chicken Wings, and Tom Yum Ice Cream Reimagined

embody the essence of sharing, blending bold

flavours with unexpected techniques. Complementing

the inventive menu is a thoughtfully curated wine

list featuring natural and low-intervention bottles.

Each selection is handpicked to enhance the dishes’

flavours, ensuring that each sip feels as considered

as every bite. More than just a bistro, SAAM is

a celebration of connection and creativity.

Open Wednesday-Sunday, 6pm-midnight; 235, 4

Sukhumvit 31, Wattana, Bangkok; Instagram: saam.bkk

Photos: The StandardX

SOOTHING THE SOUL

Tucked away in the heart of the

busy metropolis, Lomlom offers a

secret escape where tranquillity

reigns. Step inside and the noise

and chaos of the world melt away

as you inhale the comforting

scents of nature mingling with

the steam of freshly brewed tea.

Every sip is a gentle reminder to

stay in the present, let go, and

reconnect with yourself before

indulging in one of the wonderful

treatment programmes.

“Akanee”, a luxurious blend of

hot stone therapy and signature

handcrafted coconut oil infused

with three natural scents, is a

fine choice. Caressed by the

gentle pressure of hands and

the welcome warmth of stones,

tension melts away, muscles

loosen, and circulation improves.

By the end, you’ll feel completely

relaxed and ready to take on the

world again. Lomlom is nothing

less than a sanctuary for your

soul. Each soothing breath and

every calming ritual bring you

closer to peace, helping you to

rediscover your balance. Open

Thursday-Tuesday, noon-midnight;

350 Wong Wian 22 Karakada

Khom Rd, Pom Prap Sattru Phai,

Bangkok; Instagram: lomlom.bkk

Photo: Lomlom

88

HONG KONG / SINGAPORE

SPOTLIGHT

Art of the Cloud

A.A.Murakami, a Tokyo and

London-based artist duo, are

showcasing their distinctive

vision through immersive

installations at M+, a leading

contemporary visual culture

museum in Hong Kong.

Comprised of Alexander Groves

and Azusa Murakami, the duo

presents “Floating World”

– a series of interconnected

immersive pieces that conjure up

an otherworldly experience.

Photos: M+

The installations take visitors on

a journey through the digital realm,

brought to life with physical rings

of fog and floating bubble clouds.

Crafted from transient materials and

powered by custom-built technology,

these large-scale works invite

reflection on philosophical themes,

including the nature of reality,

artifice and digital existence.

“Floating World” further evolves

A.A.Murakami’s pioneering concept

of the “Art of Ephemeral Tech”,

which takes art and research beyond

conventional technological interfaces.

The exhibition runs until February 2.

The Studio, M+, West Kowloon Cultural

District; open Tuesday to Sunday,

10am to 6pm, and Friday, 10am to 10pm;

www.mplus.org.hk

Photo: Harry Potter: Visions of Magic

VISIONS OF MAGIC

Harry Potter: Visions of Magic casts

its spell on Singapore until 31 March,

2025 at Resorts World Sentosa, offering

fans an immersive journey through

JK Rowling’s magical universe. This

captivating multimedia exhibition spans

10 themed zones, including Singapore-

exclusive scenes like The Chamber of

Secrets and The Trap Door. Visitors can

explore iconic locales such as the Knight

Bus, Grimmauld Place, and the Room

of Requirement.

The exhibition combines state-

of-the-art visuals, sound effects, and

interactive elements to transport guests

into the heart of the wizarding world.

Guests can enjoy Butterbeer at the café

and shop for exclusive Harry Potter

merchandise, making this a must-visit

for fans and muggles alike. Open daily,

Harry Potter: Visions of Magic promises

an unforgettable adventure for wizards,

witches and muggles, bringing the magic of

Hogwarts and beyond to life in Singapore.

harrypottervisionsofmagic.com/sg

PLAY BALL

Known for its exclusive location atop Singapore’s

iconic F1 racetrack, MBP Racket Sports at Marina

Square is among the city’s best spots for players to

work up a sweat. The facility focuses on tennis, padel

tennis and pickleball, offering top-tier courts as well

as lessons from internationally acclaimed coaches.

Located on the fourth floor and surrounded by

Singapore’s stunning cityscape, MBP Racket Sports

provides an exceptional setting for players to enjoy

a game or two or hone their skills in a professional,

picturesque setting. 6 Raffles Boulevard, Level 4

Marina Square Rooftop; open daily, 7am to 10pm;

www.mbpsports.com

Photo: MBP Racket Sports

89

HAPPENINGS

CAMBODIA

PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP

SPOTLIGHT

Tapas and Spirits

As the sun sets and evening beckons with a promise

of refreshing drinks, locals and visitors alike head

to Infusion Bar, a rising gem in Siem Reap’s bar scene.

Located on River Street, this vibrant spot prides itself on crafting

cocktails with a delightful local twist. Each drink is infused with the

flavours of Cambodia, blending local fruits, flowers, herbs and spices

with locally produced spirits for a unique experience in every glass.

Infusion Bar isn’t just about exceptional cocktails, it also offers

a tempting variety of tapas that fuse Cambodian and Mediterranean

influences. With a menu featuring mouthwatering snacks, exquisite

drinks and an impressive selection of spirits and wines, Infusion Bar

provides the perfect setting to savour the charm of Siem Reap at a

leisurely pace. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 5pm to midnight;

www.instagram.com/infusion_bar_siemreap

LENS ON ASIA

Since its launch in 2005, the Angkor Photo Festival

has served as a vital platform for photographers across

Asia to expand their reach and showcase their talent,

creativity and artistic vision. As a non-profit event, it

remains dedicated to advancing and developing the

sphere of photography.

True to its mission, the festival continues to offer

affordable and accessible opportunities for professional

growth. Held in Siem Reap, this year’s programme

includes “Angkor Photo Workshops” for Asian

photographers and the “Angkor Photo Festival” featuring

exhibitions, projection screenings, talks and other

activities designed to engage visitors and the wider

public. February 7-16; Siem Reap; www.angkor-photo.com

Photos: Angkor Photo Festival

Photos: Infusion Bar Siem Reap

WORLD’S FINEST MOVIE MORSELS

The Asia South East – Short Film Festival returns in 2025 with the best

independent offerings from across the region, Poland and the Americas.

Audiences can expect an eclectic selection ranging from gritty crime

noir and surreal animation to gripping family dramas, innovative music

videos, and more. The 2025 edition offers travellers and film enthusiasts

a chance to experience some of the finest short films being produced

across the globe.

Curated by Wwcsff Worldwide Cineastes Film Festivals, the

event features works from both established and emerging filmmakers,

promising a dynamic mix of storytelling and creativity from today’s

visionaries and tomorrow’s trailblazers. January 11; The Kampus, 502h

Preah Monivong Blvd (93), Khan Chamkar; www.filmfreeway.com

Photo: Filmfreeway

90

LAOS / MALDIVES

LUANG PRABANG, MALÉ

SPOTLIGHT

Revelling

in Rice

Like elsewhere in

Southeast Asia, rice

is cherished as a symbol

of life and prosperity in

Luang Prabang. The Boun

Khoun Khao festival, held

every January, is a vibrant

celebration of fertility,

honouring the spirit of

the land in the hope of a

successful rice harvest.

Highlighted by religious

ceremonies at temples

across the city, this festival

features blessings, offerings

and rituals dedicated

to the life-giving grain.

Adding to the fun are

parades showcasing paddy

and milled rice, cultural

performances, sporting

events and trade fairs. www.

tourismluangprabang.org


BOATS, YACHTS, AND MORE

Weighing anchor in February, the Maldives Marine

Expo is one of the world’s largest exhibitions of leisure

boats and maritime equipment. As the longest-running

exhibition of its kind in the region, it showcases industry

innovations while serving as a platform for sailors and

businesses to collaborate and exchange ideas.

Alongside dazzling displays of boats, yachts and

other vessels, the expo features panel discussions,

recreational activities, food and beverage stalls and live

entertainment. With its carnival-like atmosphere, the

Maldives Marine Expo offers exciting opportunities

for visitors and stakeholders to connect, explore and

celebrate all things maritime. February 6-9; Central Park,

Hulhumalé City; www.facebook.com/maldivesmarineexpo

LET’S GET JIGGY WITH IT

Jigging is one of the most challenging

fishing techniques, utilising jigs that mimic

bait to lure a variety of deep-sea species.

This demanding method calls for strength,

stamina and patience, making it a true test

for fishing enthusiasts.

The Maldives, with its archipelago of

1,192 coral islands scattered across the

Indian Ocean, provides an ideal backdrop

for jigging. Its waters teem with species

like Eightbar Groupers, Ruby Snappers and

Pomfrets, making it a paradise for anglers.

Photos: Hook&Line

Photos: Maldives Marine Expo

This January, visitors to the Maldives

can participate in the ultimate fishing

adventure with Hook&Line’s Deep Jigging

Experience. Guided by experts, participants

will be ferried to prime fishing spots and

equipped with top-tier gear, ensuring the

best chance of an unforgettably successful

catch. January 10-14; www.instagram.com/

hookandline.mv

91

Add Friend!

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 96 / ROUTE MAP 101

95

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS

BANGKOK AIRWAYS: LEADING THE PUSH FOR SUSTAINABILITY

THROUGH COLLABORATION

In today’s world, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is no longer

merely a temporary trend or corporate policy. ESG for sustainability has

become a priority for organisations across the board, integrated into every

dimension of their operations. For the global aviation sector, the

International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has established the

“Fly Net Zero Carbon Emissions 2050” roadmap. Bangkok Airways, a

leading airline in Thailand, has taken this directive seriously, implementing

strategies to contribute to this goal with determination and consistency.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

As an award-winning full-service

regional airline, Bangkok Airways

has pioneered the use of Sustainable

Aviation Fuel (SAF) since the second

quarter of 2024 on its Samui-

Bangkok route. Mr. Puttipong

Prasarttong-Osoth, CEO of the

airline, said the global aviation

industry faces challenges to align

operations with ICAO and

International Air Transport

Association (IATA) measures to

achieve the Net Zero Carbon

Emissions 2050 target. The airline

has launched the “Low Carbon

Skies by Bangkok Airways” campaign,

focused on reducing operational

CO2 emissions through initiatives

like blending SAF with Jet A-1 fuel

at a 1%% ratio under the concept

“1% Better Every Day”. The airline

acknowledges that several

challenges need to be addressed

for broader use of SAF but hopes

for support from stakeholders

to strengthen the global

competitiveness of Thailand’s

aviation industry.

Bangkok Airways has also

continually pursued initiatives to

combat climate change, including

the “Blue Volunteers” programme

in which executives and employees

lead the “Love Earth, Save Earth”

campaign. Efforts include coconut

planting on Koh Samui for the

seventh consecutive year and using

eco-friendly tissues on flights and

in passenger lounges, saving the

equivalent of 2,160,901 watts of

electricity annually or 8,168 litres

of fuel.

Aiming for Zero Waste

Bangkok Airways manages waste

with the long-term goal of

achieving “Zero Waste to Landfill”.

The airline emphasises value

creation from food waste through

fertiliser production and increasing

recycling and upcycling rates.

Eco-friendly in-flight products are

also part of its commitment to a

circular economy and sustainable

resource use.

Community Engagement:

‘Connect Your Happiness’

Mr. Puttipong highlighted the airline’s mission to

create sustainable value for Thai society across

multiple dimensions, emphasising the importance of

“growing alongside communities”. Key areas of focus

include communities around its three airports – Samui,

Sukhothai, and Trat – through holistic development

approaches addressing the economy, society, education,

environment, and health. Notable projects include

flood relief efforts in Sukhothai and medical equipment

donations, now in their third year. The airline also

supports community enterprises, such as the

award-winning “Oyster Cooperative of Tha Som”,

recognised for excellence in 2024.

Bangkok Airways is also committed to promoting

workplace safety and occupational health through

initiatives like the “Zero Accident Campaign”, earning

certification and recognition from occupational

safety organisations.

96

Excellence in Product and Service Quality

with Corporate Governance

The airline upholds safety standards certified by the

IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and adheres

to ISO 9001:2015 quality management standards.

Bangkok Airways has consistently been recognised

with a high Corporate Governance score by the Thai

Institute of Directors and has won Skytrax awards for

the world’s best regional airline for eight consecutive

years. Additionally, it is listed as the 27th Best

Airline in the World in the Top 100 Airlines 2024.

This year, the airline received the "E-E-E" (HygiEne,

TravEl, and ExperiEnce) badge as part of the

“Sustainism” project in partnership with the Tourism

Authority of Thailand. Bangkok Airways emphasises

innovative solutions like secure online payment

options, including Pay by Link and QR-Cross Bank,

and automated exchange and refund systems, enabling

customers to manage their bookings with ease.

The airline is also committed to sustainable supply

chain management with continuous improvement of

services to maximise customer benefits and ensure

seamless travel experiences to every destination.

เมื่่อพููดถึึงความื่ยั่่งยั่่น หรืือ ESG ในปััจจุบัันน้คงไมื่่เป็็นเพีียั่ง

กรืะแสชั่่วครืาวของภาครััฐ และเอกชั่น หรืือเป็็นแค่นโยั่บัายั่องค์กรื

อ้กต่่อไปั แต่่เป็็นเรืืองของทุุกคนและองค์กรื ทุ้ต้้องให้ความื่สำค ัญ

พูรื้อมื่นำามื่าปัรื่บัใชั่้ในทุุกมื่ิติิของการดำำาเนินงาน โดยั่หากโฟก่ส

ในภาคอุต่สาหกรืรืมื่การืบัินโลก ทุางองค์การืบัินพูลเรืือนรืะหว่าง

ปัรืะเทุศ หรืือ “ICAO” ได้กำาหนดโรืดแมื่ปั “Fly Net Zero Carbon

Emissions 2050” ไว้ ซึ่่งหนึงในผู้้้ให้บัรืิการืจากภาคการืบัิน

ในปัรืะเทุศไทุยั่อยั่่าง “สายั่การืบัินบัางกอกแอร์์เวยั่์ส” ก็ให้ความื่

สำค ัญและดำาเนินแนวทุางน้อยั่่างจริิงจ่งและต่่อเน่อง

ฉากทัศน์ภาคการบินกับนวัตกรรมเชือเพลิงยังยืน ก่ญแจำแก้เกมปัญหาสิงแวดล ้อม

จากกรณีีศ่กษัาของ “บางกอกแอร์เวย์์เวย์์ส”

สายการบินฟููลเซิอร์วิิสยอดีเยียมระดัับ

ภ้มิภาค ไดีนำร่่องการใช้้เชีื อเพลิง

อากาศยานแบบยังยืน หร่อ SAF เมือช่่วัง

ไต้รมาส 2 ของปีี 2567 ในเท่ี ยวบ ิน สมุย-

กรุงเท่พฯ นายพุฒิพงศ์ ป็ราสาท่ท่องโอสถิ่

กรรมการผู้้อำานวัยการใหญ่่ หร่อ CEO

สายการบินสีฟ้้าท่ีปููพรมธุุรกิจการบินส้่

เสนท่างสีเขียวัเล่าว่่า ถิ่ือเป็็นหน่งควัาม

ท้้าท่ายสำาหรับภาคการบินท่ัวัโลก ในการ

วัางแผู้นดำำาเนินงานใหสอดีคลองกับ

มาต้รการขององค์การการบินพลเร่อน

ระหว่่างป็ระเท่ศ (ICAO) และสมาคมขนส่ง

ท่างอากาศระหว่่างป็ระเท่ศ (IATA) เพ่อ

บรรลุเป้้าหมาย Net Zero Carbon

Emissions 2050 สายการบินฯ จ้งไดีจัดี

ต้ังแคมเป็ญ่ “Low Carbon Skies by

Bangkok Airways” มุ่งหวัังท่ี จะผู้ลักดััน

การลดีการปล่่อย CO2 จากการดำำาเนิน

ธุุรกิจ โดียเฉพาะในด้้านการป็ฏิิบัติิการบิน

ซิ่งไดีท่ดีลองใชีนำมััน SAF ผู้สมกับ Jet A-1

(เชีือเพลิงอากาศยานพาณิิชย์์) ในสัดส่่วัน

1% ต้ามแนวค ิดี “1% Better Everyday”

ท่ังนี การนำานำม ัน SAF มาใช้้อย่างเป็็น

ร้ป็ธุรรมในอนาคต้ ยังคงมีปััจจัยหลาย

ด้้านท่ีต้้องคำน ึงถิ่่ง โดียคาดีหวัังเป็็น

อย่างยิงว่่าจะไดีรับการสนับสนุนจาก

ภาคส่วันท่ีเกียวข้้อง เพ่อเสริมสราง

ศักยภาพการแข่งขันของอุต้สาหกรรม

การบินไท่ยใหไป็ส้่จุดีหมายระดัับสากลได้้

ต่่อไป็ในอนาคต้

นอกจากนี บางกอกแอร์เวย์์สยังมี

การจัดีการด้้านการเป็ลียนแป็ลงสภาพ

ภ้มิอากาศ อื น ๆ อย่างต่่อเนื อง อาทิิ

กลุ่มจิต้อาสา “Blue Volunteers” ซิ่งเป็็น

ผู้้บริหารและพนักงาน ไดีร่วัมขับเคลือน

เป้้าหมายท้้องฟ้้าโลว์์คาร์บอน สานต่่อ

แคมเป็ญ่ “Love Earth, Save Earth”

ปล ูกมะพราวัเพ่อเกาะสมุย ปีีท่ี 7 อีกท่ัง

ในปีี 2567 นี สายการบินฯ ยังไดีรับรางวััล

“Sustainable Forest Contributors

Award” จากการเลือกใช้้กระดีาษัท่ิชชููร ักษ์์

โลก สำาหรับการใหบริการบนเท่ียวบ ินและ

ในหองรับรองผู้้โดียสาร ซิ่งเทีียบเท่่าการ

ลดีใช้้ไฟิฟิ้า 2,160,901 วััต้ต้์/ปีี หร่อการ

ลดีการใชีนำม ัน 8,168 ลิต้ร/ ปีี

97

BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS

อินไซด์์การจััดิการของเสียแบบไม่เสียเปล่า

บางกอกแอร์เวย์์สบริหารจัดีการของเสีย โดียมีเป้้าหมายระยะยาวั

เพ่อลดีป็ริมาณ์ขยะส้่บ่อฝัังกลบเป็็นศ้นย์ หร่อ “Zero Waste to

Landfill” ต้ลอดีจนการสรางคุณค่่าจากขยะเศษัอาหาร โดียนำามา

ผู้ลิต้เป็็นป็ุย หร่อเพ่มอัต้ราการรีไซิเคิล-อัพไซิคลิงของเสียหร่อ

ของไม่ใช้้แล้้วจากการดำำาเนินธุุรกิจ รวัมถิ่่งการใชีผู้ลิตภ ัณ์ฑ์์บน

เคร่องบินท่ีเป็็นมิต้รกับสิงแวัดีลอมเพ่อมุ่งส้่ “Circular Economy”

ท่ี สามารถิ่ต้อบโจทย์์การลดีใช้้ทร ัพยากรอย่างยังยืน

ใช้ “ใจำ” เชือมโยงและใส่ใจชุุมชนด้้วยแนวคิดิ “Connect

Your Happiness”

นายพุฒิพงศ์ ต้อกยำาถิ่่งพันธก ิจของสายการบินฯ ท่ี มุ่งมั นใหการ

สนับสนุนและมีส่วันร่วัมในการสรางคุณค่่าท่ี ยังยืนใหกับสังคมไท่ย

ในหลากมิติิ โดียเนนว่่า “หัวัใจสำค ัญ่ของกาวที่่ยังยืน…คือการกาวั

ไป็พรอมกับชุุมชีน” ซิ่งมีพ่นท่ีเป้้าหมายหลัก คือ ชุุมชีนรอบ 3

สนามบินภายใต้้การบริหารของบริษััท่ฯ ได้้แก่ สมุย สุโขทััย และ

ต้ราดี โดียใช้้แนวัท่างการพัฒนาชุุมชีนแบบองค์รวัม (Holistic

Area-Based) ท่ีคำนึึงถิ่่งด้้านเศรษัฐกิจ สังคม การศ่กษัา สิงแวัดีลอม

และสุขภาพ ต้ามควัามเหมาะสมของบริบท่พ่นท่ี อาทิิ โครงการ

“ปัันนำาใจ ส้่ผู้้ป็ระสบภัยนำาท่่วัม จังหวััดสุุโขทััย มอบถิุ่งยังชีีพ

มากกว่่า 1,000 ชุุดี โครงการ “ส่งมอบควัามห่วังใย…จากใจส้่

ชุุมชีน” มอบอุป็กรณ์์การแพทย์์ใหกับโรงพยาบาลส่งเสริมสุข

ภาพตำำาบลและอาสาสมัครสาธุารณส ุขป็ระจำาหม้่บานอย่างต่่อ

เนื อง เป็็นปีีท่ี 3 รวัมถิ่่งการส่งเสริมวิิสาหกิจชุุมชีนใหแข็งแกร่งและ

มีผู้ลงานท่ีโดีดีเด่่น เช่่น “วิิสาหกิจชุุมชีนหอยนางรมท่่าโสม” ซิ่งได้้

รับรางวััลวิิสาหกิจชุุมชีนดีีเด่่นระดัับจังหวััดี ป็ระจำาป็ี 2567 จาก

สำน ักเกษัต้รจังหวััดีต้ราดี

“สายการบินฯ ยังใหควัามสำค ัญ่และส่งเสริมควัามต้ระหนัก

เร่อง "ควัามป็ลอดภ ัยและอาชีีวัอนามัยของพนักงานและผู้้ป็ฏิิบัติิ

หนาท่ี ส่งผู้ลอย่างยังยืนต่่อการบริการผู้้โดียสาร" และเขาร่วัม

กิจกรรม “Zero Accident Campaign” โดียไดีรับป็ระกาศ

เกียรติิคุณ์และการรับรองจากสถิ่าบันส่งเสริมควัามป็ลอดภ ัย อาชีีวั

อนามัย และสภาพแวัดีลอมในการทำำางาน (องค์การมหาชีน) สสป็ท่.”

ความประณีตในค่ณภาพผลิตภัณฑ์์-บริการ ควบคู่่ธรรมาภิบาลและ

จำรรยาบรรณธุุรกิจำ

บางกอกแอร์เวย์์สยังคงรักษัามาต้รฐาน

ควัามป็ลอดภ ัยการันตีีจาก IATA

Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) และได้้

รับป็ระกันมาต้รฐานด้้านการจัดีการระบบ

คุณ์ภาพ ISO9001: 2015 อย่างต่่อเนื อง

รวัมถิ่่งรักษัาระดัับ CG Score โดีย

สมาคมส่งเสริมสถิ่าบันกรรมการบริษััท่

ไท่ย อย่างนอยในระดัับ “ดีีมาก” อีกท่ั ง

สามารถิ่ครองแชีมป์์โลก 8 ปีีซ้้อน กับสอง

รางวััลสกายแทร็็กซ์์ (Skytrax World

Airline Awards) ท่ียกใหบางกอกแอร์เวย ์ส

ข้นแท่่นเป็็น อันดัับ 1 สายการบินระดัับ

ภ้มิภาคท่ี ดีีท่ี สุดีในโลก และสายการบิน

ระดัับภ้มิภาคท่ีดีีท่ี สุดีในเอเชีีย และยังไดีรับ

การจัดอ ันดัับใหเป็็นสายการบินท่ีดีีท่ี สุดีใน

โลก อันดัับท่ี 27 Top 100 Airlines 2024

นายพุฒิพงศ์ เล่าต่่อว่่า ในปีีนี บางกอก

แอร์เวย ์ส ไดีรับมอบต้ราสัญล ักษัณ์์ E-E-E

(HygiEne, TravEl and ExperiEnce) ใน

ฐานะพันธม ิต้รร่วัมโครงการยั งยืนนิยม

(Sustainism) โดียควัามร่วัมมือของ

“การท่่องเท่ี ยวัแห่งป็ระเท่ศไท่ย สมาคม

อุต้สาหกรรมเท่คโนโลยีชีีวัภาพไท่ย และ

สภาอุต้สาหกรรมแห่งป็ระเท่ศไท่ย” โดียให

ควัามสำค ัญก ับมาต้รฐานควัามป็ลอดภ ัย

ในการเดิินท่างท่่องเท่ี ยวัและสุขอนามัย

ผู้่านป็ระสบการณ์์ท่ี ส่งมอบควัามสุข

ใส่ใจสังคม เป็็นมิต้รกับสิงแวัดีลอม และมี

ธุรรมาภิบาล ต้ามแนวัท่าง ESG Tourism

Model อีกท่ังไดีนำานวััต้กรรมเขามา

พัฒนาการดำำาเนินงานเพ่อสรางคุณค ่า เช่่น

การเพ่มช่่องท่างรับชำำาระเงิน “Pay by Link”

และ “QR-Cross Bank” เนนควัามป็ลอดภััย

ในการทำำาธุุรกรรมออนไลน์ และเพ่มควัาม

สะดีวักรวัดีเร็วั การพัฒนาระบบ Auto

Exchange & Refund เพ่อรองรับกรณีี

เท่ี ยวบ ินถิ่้กยกเลิก ซิ่งล้กคาสามารถิ่

เป็ลี ยนเท่ี ยวบ ิน หร่อขอรับเงินคืนไดีดีวัย

ต้นเองผู้่านเว็็บไซิต้์สายการบินฯ โดียไดีรับ

การยกเว้้นค่าธุรรมเนียมอัต้โนมัติิ

สำาหรับด้้านการจัดีการห่วังโซ่่อุป็ท่าน

อย่างยังยืน สายการบินฯ ใหควัามสำคััญ่

กับการดำำาเนินธุุรกิจร่วัมกับค้่คาท่ีใส่ใจเร่อง

ESG โดียพัฒนาการดำำาเนินงานในส่วันท่ี

เกียวข้้องอย่างต่่อเนื อง ต้ลอดีจนใส่ใจการ

บริหารป็ระสบการณ์์ล้กคาเพ่อพัฒนาและ

ปร ับปร ุงคุณ์ภาพการใหบริการ ทำำาใหล้กคา

ไดีรับสิท่ธุิป็ระโยชน์์ส้งสุดี จากการเลือก

เดิินท่างไป็ถิ่่งทุุกจุดีหมายป็ลายท่างกับ

บางกอกแอร์เวย์์ส นายพุฒิพงศ์ เล่าท่ิงท้้าย

98

BANGKOK

AIRWAYS,

BRITISH AIRWAYS

EXPAND CODESHARE

FOR SEAMLESS

SOUTHEAST ASIA TRAVEL

Bangkok Airways and British Airways have expanded

their codeshare partnership to provide seamless

connections from London Gatwick Airport to popular

destinations in Thailand and Southeast Asia serviced

by Bangkok Airways.

British Airways resumed direct flights between

London and Bangkok starting October 28, 2024,

operating three flights per week. The frequency will

increase to five flights weekly from January to March

2025, offering travellers more flexibility and convenience.

Under the new codeshare agreement, British Airways

will place its flight numbers on Bangkok Airways’ routes

from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Samui, Phuket, Phnom Penh

(Cambodia), and Siem Reap (Cambodia). These routes

will be in addition to the existing Singapore-Samui

codeshare option.

The expanded codeshare partnership will offer

British Airways passengers the convenience of seamless

connecting flights to these destinations under a

single booking, including through-checked baggage.

For more information, visit www.britishairways.com.

บริษััท่ การบินกรุงเท่พ จำก ัดี (มหาชีน) และ สายการบินบริติิชี

แอร์เวย์์ส ป็ระกาศขยายควัามร่วัมมือด้้านเท่ียวบิินร่วัม (Codeshare

Partnership) โดียการร่วัมมือในครังนีจะช่่วัยอำานวัยควัามสะดีวัก

ใหแก่ล้กคาของสายการบินบริติิชี แอร์เวย์์ส ดีวัยการเชีือมต่่อท่ีสะดีวัก

สบายจากท่่าอากาศยานลอนดีอนแกต้วัิค ไปยัังจุดีหมายป็ลายท่าง

ยอดน ิยมในป็ระเท่ศไท่ยและเอเชีียต้ะวัันออกเฉียงใต้ท่ีใหบริการ

โดียบางกอกแอร์เวย์์ส

สายการบินบริติิชี แอร์เวย์์ส กลับมาใหบริการเท่ี ยวบ ินต้รง

ระหว่่างลอนดีอนและกรุงเท่พฯ อีกครัง เมือวัันท่ี 28 ตุุลาคม

ท่ีผู้่านมา โดียช่่วังเริมต้้นใหบริการ 3 เท่ียวบิินต่่อสัป็ดีาห์ และ

เพ่มเป็็น 5 เท่ียวบิินต่่อสัป็ดีาห์ในช่่วังเดืือนมกราคมถิ่่งมีนาคม 2568

ภายใต้ขอต้กลงเท่ียวบ ินร่วัมนี สายการบินบริติิชี แอร์เวย์์ส จะ

ใช้้รหัสเท่ียวบ ินร่วัมบนเสนท่างของบางกอกแอร์เวย์์ส ได้้แก่

กรุงเท่พฯ-เชีียงใหม่, กรุงเท่พฯ-สมุย, กรุงเท่พฯ-ภ้เก็ต้,

กรุงเท่พฯ-พนมเป็ญ่ (กัมพูชีา), กรุงเท่พฯ-เสียมเรียบ (กัมพูชีา)

นอกเหนือจากเสนท่างเท่ี ยวบิินร่วัมท่ี มีอย้่แล้้วระหว่่างสิงคโปร์์-สมุย

ท่ั งนี ควัามร่วัมมือด้้านเท่ียวบ ินร่วัมท่ี ขยายเพ่มเติิมจะช่่วัยให

ผู้้โดียสารของสายการบินบริติิชี แอร์เวย์์ส ไดีรับควัามสะดีวัก

สบายยิงข้นในการเชีื อมต่่อเท่ียวบ ินไปย ังจุดีหมายป็ลายท่าง

เหล่านี ภายใต้้การจองครังเดีียวั รวัมถิ่่งการบริการเช็็คสัมภาระ

ไปย ังจุดีหมายป็ลายท่าง

ผู้้โดียสารสามารถิ่หาขอม้ลเพ่มเติิมไดีท่ี

www.britishairways.com

BANGKOK AIRWAYS RELAUNCHES

CHIANG MAI-KRABI ROUTE TO

LINK NORTHERN THAILAND

AND ANDAMAN

Bangkok Airways has resumed direct flights between northern

and southern Thailand to boost domestic tourism and facilitate

passengers in response to growing travel demand. The airline has

resumed its direct Chiang Mai-Krabi (one-way) route with three

flights per week and increased flight frequency on its Bangkok-Krabi

(round-trip) route. Both services are available to book and fly now.

Flight Information

• Chiang Mai-Krabi (one-way): Flight PG246 operates three times per week

(Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday) with an Airbus A320 (162 seats). Departure from

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) at 2.35pm, arriving at Krabi International

Airport (KBV) at 4.30pm. Service resumed in late October 2024.

• Bangkok-Krabi Route (round-trip): Increased frequency for winter (October 27,

2024 – March 29, 2025). Outbound Flight PG261 departs Suvarnabhumi Airport

(BKK) at 7.50am, arrives at Krabi International Airport (KBV) at 9.20am. Flight

PG263 departs Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) at 7pm, arrives at Krabi International

Airport (KBV) at 8.30pm. Inbound Flight PG262 departs Krabi International Airport

(KBV) at 10.05am, arrives at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) at 11.35am. PG296 departs

Krabi International Airport (KBV) at 5.20pm, arrives at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

at 6.50pm. PG264 departs Krabi International Airport (KBV) at 9.15pm, arrives at

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) at 10.45pm. Aircraft: Airbus A319 and A320, seating

138-162 passengers.

For reservations and additional information, please visit www.bangkokair.com or

contact Bangkok Airways Call Centre at 1771 or +66 (0) 2270-6699 (8am-8pm).

You can also connect through PG Live Chat at https://bit.ly/3hXocjG or email us at

reservation@bangkokair.com.

บริษััท่ การบินกรุงเท่พ จำก ัดี (มหาชีน) หร่อสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย ์ส เชีือมการท่่องเท่ียวั

ภาคเหนือและภาคใต้้ เพ่อศักยภาพการท่่องเท่ียวัระหว่่างภาคภายในป็ระเท่ศ พรอมอำานวัย

ควัามสะดีวักแก่ผู้้โดียสาร ขานรับแนวัโนมดีีมานด์์การท่่องเท่ี ยวที่่เติิบโตส ูง โดียกลับมาเปิิดี

ใหบริการในเสนท่างบินต้รง “เชีียงใหม่-กระบี ” (One way) จำานวัน 3 เท่ี ยวบ ินต่่อสัป็ดีาห์ และ

เพ่มควัามถี่่เท่ี ยวบ ินต้รง “กรุงเท่พ-กระบี” (ไป็-กลับ) เปิิดีใหบริการแล้้ววัันนี

กำาหนดีการเดิินท่างเท่ี ยวบ ิน PG246 เชีียงใหม่-กระบี (One way) ใหบริการจำานวัน 3

เท่ี ยวบ ินต่่อสัป็ดีาห์ในวัันพุธุ ศุกร์ และวัันอาทิิตย์์ ดีวัยเคร่องบินแอร์บัส เอ 320 รองรับ

ผู้้โดียสารจำานวัน 162 ท่ี นั งออกจากสนามบินนานาชีาติิเชีียงใหม่ (CNX) เวัลา 14.35 น. ถิ่่ง

สนามบินนานาชีาติิกระบี (KBV) เวัลา 16.30 น. โดียเริมเปิิดีท่ำาการแลวัต้ังแต่่ช่่วังป็ลายเดืือน

ตุุลาคมท่ีผู้่านมา *ซิ่งใหบริการเฉพาะเท่ียวบ ินขาไป็เท่่านัน พรอมกันนีบริษััท่ฯ ได้้เพ่มควัามถี่่

เท่ี ยวบ ินกรุงเท่พฯ-กระบี (ไป็-กลับ) โดียมีกำาหนดีการดัังนี เท่ี ยวบ ินขาไป็ PG261 ออกจาก

สนามบินนานาชีาติิสุวัรรณ์ภ้มิ (BKK) เวัลา 7.50 น. ถิ่่งสนามบินนานาชีาติิกระบี (KBV)

เวัลา 9.20 น. และ เท่ี ยวบ ิน PG 263 ออกจากสนามบินนานาชีาติิสุวัรรณ์ภ้มิ (BKK) เวัลา

19.00 น. ถิ่่งสนามบินนานาชีาติิกระบี (KBV) เวัลา 20.30 น.

และเท่ียวบ ินขากลับจำานวัน 3 เท่ียวบ ิน ได้้แก่ PG262 ออกจากสนามบินนานาชีาติิกระบี

(KBV) เวัลา 10.05 น. ถิ่่งสนามบินนานาชีาติิสุวัรรณ์ภ้มิ (BKK) 11.35 น. PG 296 ออกจาก

สนามบินนานาชีาติิกระบี (KBV) เวัลา 17.20 น.ถิ่่งสนามบินนานาชีาติิสุวัรรณ์ภ้มิ (BKK)

เวัลา 18.50 น. PG 264 ออกจากสนามบินนานาชีาติิกระบี (KBV) เวัลา 21.15 น. ถิ่่งสนาม

บินนานาชีาติิสุวัรรณ์ภ้มิ (BKK) เวัลา 22.45 น. โดียจะใหบริการดีวัยเคร่องบิน 319 และ

เอ 320 รองรับผู้้โดียสารจำานวัน 138-162 ท่ี นัง

ผู้้ท่ี สนใจสำารองท่ี นั งบัต้รโดียสารในเสนท่างดัังกล่าวัสามารถิ่ต้รวัจสอบรายละเอียดี

เท่ียวบ ินไดีท่ี www.bangkokair.com หร่อสอบถิ่ามขอม้ลเพ่มเติิมไดีท่าง ศ้นย์บริการขอม้ล

ล้กคา (Call Center) โท่ร 1771 หร่อ โท่ร 0 2270 6699 ต้ั งแต่่เวัลา 08.00 น. - 20.00 น.

PG Live Chat: bit.ly/3hXocjG และสำน ักงานบางกอกแอร์เวย์์ส www.bangkokair.com/

our-offices โดียสามารถิ่สำารองเท่ี ยวบ ินผู้่านท่าง PG Live Chat: bit.ly/PGLiveChatTH

หร่อ อีเมล reservation@bangkokair.com

99

CHECKING OUT

Trio of

Tranquillity

Koh Nang Yuan captivates

with its iconic Y-shape:

three lush islets connected

by sparkling white sandbars.

These unique strips of sand

emerge at low tide, inviting

you to stroll across turquoise

waters on a causeway crafted

by nature. Beneath its

crystal-clear waters lies a

vibrant underwater world,

where swimmers can explore

vivid coral reefs festooned

with tropical fish.

102

Fah Thai Magazine - Inflight Magazine of Bangkok Airways Jan-Feb 2025

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