Fah Thai Magazine May-June 2018

MAY- JUN 2018

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

BANGKOK ART WORLD’S NIGHTS OUT

SAMUI’S GOOD DEEDS

VANN MOLYVANN: PROLIFIC AND PROMINENT

OVERTURES

16 WHAT’S UP

Raise your hands up in the air for Dua Lipa’s Asian tour. In Cambodia, raise your eyes to the sky for the Rocket Festival, among the many regional events.

20 YOUTHFUL BEAUTY

Armed with the right rejuvenating products, keep everyone guessing your real age. Our beauty experts share their list.

60 Vann Molyvann’s Legacy of Landmarks

22 TIED TO STYLE

Polka dots or stripes? There’s no need to get tied up in knots in the search for the right tie to match the outfit and the occasion.

24 GIVE CHIANG RAI A TRY

Seek out a gleaming white temple, climb scenic hills and know more about the wicked history of the opium trade in this northern town.

28 TO YOUR HEALTH

Make roselle your drink of choice as the myriad benefits of this plant include anti-oxidant and freeradical properties.

32 DEALS ON WHEELS

Thailand’s street carts remain a reliable source of nourishment and snacks. With no two carts alike, we show you the differences.

FEATURES

44 PARADISE GAINED

Lovers of Samui are not just visitors but local residents who make sure it stays a paradise.

50 ANTHROMORPHIC TALES

In a commissioned work for Gucci, a Thai illustrator takes to flights of fancy with animal characters.

60 FOR THE LOVE OF ARCHITECTURE

We seek out Phnom Penh’s heritage architecture and modernistic buildings designed by the late visionary Vann Molyvann.

70 MYANMAR BEAN TOWN

Pyin Oo Lwin in Myanmar, while known for its colonial past, creates contemporary history as a coffee-producing area.

78 NIGHTS IN ART

It’s an active year in art for Bangkok as the city preps for major art shows, including the debut of two biennales. Roving photographer Jesper Haynes is out on the town capturing the art crowd.

HAPPENINGS

A selection of relevant events around Asia.

90 BANGKOK

92 SAMUI

96 KRABI / PHUKET

100 CHIANG MAI / CHIANG RAI

101 PATTAYA / KOH CHANG

102 CHINA

104 HONG KONG

106 SINGAPORE

107 KUALA LUMPUR

108 BATTAMBANG / PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP

110 DANANG / HANOI / PHU QUOC

112 LUANG PRABANG / YANGON

114 MALDIVES / MUMBAI

CORPORATE

118 NEWS

Bangkok Airways announces collaborations and winners.

127 AIRCRAFT INFO

128 ROUTE MAP

CHECKING OUT

130 YANGON

The city’s strong spiritual flow lives alongside its modern city feel.

This month’s cover: Illustrator Phannapast Taychamaythakool features her signature work of whimsical animals drawn in vivid and elaborate detail.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Welcome on board our Bangkok Airways flight.

Currently, the world faces unpredictable weather conditions – from seasonal changes to severe climate changes. Because of this, I believe it’s crucial for all of us to make our health a priority. For that reason, we’d like to introduce and encourage everyone to engage in sporting activities, such as the “Bangkok Airways Boutique Series 2018” marathon running series, held throughout the year of 2018 in seven different Bangkok Airways destinations. Furthering our health and sports initiative is our latest cooperation with Borussia Dortmund, one of the most successful football clubs in Europe, which allows us to leverage our branding cooperation and tap into the larger market in Asia. With this partnership, we see the benefits of education and the creation of opportunities; so together with Borussia Dortmund, Bangkok Airways is planning to organise a special football coaching programme for our Thai youth. Other collaborations extend to many educational institutions such as Bangkok University and Mae Fah Luang University with the launch of “Bangkok Airways Open House,” a campaign that reaches out to interested youth with career goals in the hospitality or aviation industry.

Another important milestone for us includes expanding the airline networking partnership. Recently, Bangkok Airways announced a codeshare partnership with three leading airlines, namely EL AL Israel Airlines, Lao Airlines and Oman Air, to strengthen networks and provide passengers more convenient and seamless access to popular travel destinations both in Thailand and neighbouring countries.

On behalf of Bangkok Airways, I would like to give sincere thanks to all passengers flying with us. We truly hope you receive an experience you’ll find impressive and convenient wherever the travel may be. We are determined to delivering better service, and ultimately the best, for our passengers again in the future. Thank you.

ทางการบินให้มีความแข็งแกร่งยิ่งขึ้น อีกทั้งยัง อ� า นวยความสะดวกให้กับผู้โดยสารในการเดินทาง เชื่อมต่อไปยังแหล่งท่องเที่ยวที่มีชื่อเสียงทั้งใน ประเทศไทยและประเทศเพื่อนบ้านอีกด้วย

ผม ในนามของสายการบินบางกอกแอร์เวย์ส ขอขอบคุณผู้โดยสารทุกท่านที่เดินทางกับเรา และ หวังเป็นอย่างยิ่งว่าท่านจะได้รับความสะดวกสบาย และประทับใจในการบริการของเรา

Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth

| President, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited

BANGKOK AIRWAYS PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED

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Contributors

Chalotorn Payomyol

Chusri Ngamprasert

Jeremie Schatz

Nawarat A Wright

Nicola Hil

Passakorn Hongthong

Phoowadon Duangmee

Prachi Joshi

Richard Augustin

Ron Emmons

Sarita Urupongsa

Sirin P Wongpanit

PHOTOGRAPHY

Sophia Natasia Powell-Schaffer

Susan Field

Thawat Tangtienchai

Photo Editor Thewin Chanyawong

Contributing Photographers

Jesper Haynes

Kay Choomongkol

Lesley Fisher

Permboon Wongpanit

Ron Emmons

Sang-arun Champawan Thawat Tangtienchai Wichit Kongsiangsung

ART

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Graphic Designer Pongtorn Khaoplag

Contributing Stylist Saranya Ariyakul

Contributing Illustrator Arthit Limpong

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“FAH THAI” is the in-flight magazine of Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited and is edited and published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd. All articles and photographs published herein are created by the authors and photographers at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of the airline. Bangkok Airways holds no responsibility or liability arising out of the publication of such articles and photographs.

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Cover Illustration: Courtesy of Phannapast Taychamaythakool

Crafting Coffee

As a beloved Thai beverage, coffee always had its own artisanal movement. Street carts keep the tradition alive, with minimal equipment to produce that caffeine kick.

ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS

1-8MAY 2018

ASIA

DUA LIPA ‘THE SELF-TITLED TOUR’

British songstress Dua Lipa made quite an impact during her debut performance in Asia back in 2017. This month, the singer/model returns to enthral her fans with a solo show with major performances in several Asian cities including Hong Kong (1 May), Kuala Lumpur (3 May), Singapore (4 May), Seoul (6 May) and Tokyo (8 May).

Dua Lipa’s ‘The Self-Titled Tour’ will see the artiste perform her hit singles that made her one of the most exciting and most streamed British female artist in recent history proven by her five 2018 Brit Award Nominations.

Dua Lipa exploded on the scene last year with her hit song, “New Rules”, which topped the charts in the UK. Riding the wave of popularity, she followed-up with several popular singles such as “IDGAF”, “Scared to be Lonely” and “Blow Your Mind (Mwah)”. dualipa.com

4-8MAY 2018

LAOS & ISAAN, THAILAND ROCKETS FOR RAIN

In Laos and the northeastern provinces of Thailand like Yasothon and Roi Et, no aerospace engineer is needed to make rockets fly. Spectators will gather to see the master creators of rockets, typically monks with skilled knowledge of gunpowder and a good sense of motion in space that’s more than enough to send the rockets hurling upwards to the skies.

Now the much-loved rocket festival or “Boun Bang Fai” returns to the Lao paddy fields – where home-made rockets will be launched. For visitors travelling to Laos in May and June, there’s a good chance you may happen upon the festive and colourful rocket processions.

The festival marks the annual growing season in Laos, as the monsoon season is expected in June. Ahead of the ploughing period, the farmers send up the rockets skywards to please and remind the God of Rain to send enough to nourish the paddy fields.

Lao folks leave their routine work a few days before the launch day. Then led by local monks, who are counted on for genius rocket engineering, gunpowder gets put inside a long pipe before firing them in the empty field.

The smaller rockets are fancier in the way they shoot up into the heavens while the large ones don’t even look like they’re capable of flight. The higher the rockets go, say the locals, the more rain will come down. But it’s no guarantee every rocket shoots upward as the God of Rain may have the last word. tourismlaos.org, tourismthailand.org

12

MAY 2018

HO CHI MINH RUNNING HAPPY WITH COLOURS

Think of India’s Holi festival, a 5k fun run and dance party mixed into one day for a “messy weekend” in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. La Vie Color Me Run is uncompetitive fun, and a most colourful running race. Runners start the event in white clothing, but by the end of it become a kaleidoscope of colours having run, danced and walked through different zones where they’re pelted with vivid corn starch-based powders. There will be no hard feelings of being a loser mingling in the air. The unclocked run has no winners or prizes, but runners are showered with coloured powder at stations along the way. At the ‘finish line,’ the runners become party-goers and are rewarded with a DJ-anchored dance. colormerun.vn, runsociety.com

MID-MAY

KRABI

CHAO LAY BOAT FESTIVAL

Lanta island in Krabi is the place where you can observe an ancient sea ritual still carried out by Urak Lawoi natives of the island. The Aboriginal Malay people of Urak Lawoi has been living in the islands of Phuket and Krabi, and for centuries they have maintained their lives circling around the seas with open ocean fishing. It is not then a surprise that they would carry on colourful rites and celebrations at the beginning of each year’s fishing season. Loi Ruea (Floating Boats) festival takes place twice a year during the 13th to 15th day after the full moon of the sixth month or middle of May this year. In this elaborate event where visitors can witness heavily decorated fishing boats — real ones and models — that fishermen make especially for this celebration meant to ward off all the bad spirits that might affect their fishing efforts and work throughout the year. These ‘floating boats’ can also be seen as a smart solution for fishermen to test the conditions of the waters. The event brings back family members that might have moved further out and here they’ll gather, even for a few days during the celebration, as a way to catch up and strengthen rare clan ties.

Tourism Authority of Thailand, Krabi, T: +66 (0) 89 201 7985, tourismthailand.org

26-27 MAY 2018

&2-3 JUN 2018

SINGAPORE WATER DRAGONS

The sport of Dragon Boat racing dates back to ancient China. Today, it is a sporting race widely practised in Asia and renowned for instilling teamwork, dedication and team coordination. Singapore, in owing to its large Chinese community, will once again celebrate this grand sport with the Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place at several venues across the island nation.

Bedok Reservoir and Kallang River will host several races in May and June but most eyes will be fixed on DBS Marina Regatta. Held against the backdrop of the Gardens by the Bay, the DBS Marina Regatta, which is backed by the Singapore Dragon Boat Association (SDBA), will serve up a carnivallike atmosphere as teams take to the water to compete for honour and glory. Marina Bay, Singapore, sdba.org.sg

1-7

CHIANG MAI

JUN 2018

INTAKHIN CITY PILLAR FESTIVAL

Inthakin is a Chiang Mai city pillar believed to be first erected by King Mangrai when the city was founded in 1296. The sacred pillar was moved from its original place at Wat Inthakin to Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai’s city centre in the 1800s. Each year, Chiang Mai celebrates the incoming rainy season by worshipping this sacred monument. After a period of droughts and dry spells, locals welcome the lusher climes with colourful celebrations and major merit-making at the temple. Wishes for a good year ahead abound as the rains approach, meaning a bountiful rice crop and healthy harvest. The best spot to witness this long-time tradition is at Wat Chedi Luang where hundreds of people will attend the event either in a formal procession or as families and individuals. This Brahman tradition usually last seven days beginning with ‘Tam Bun Khan Dok’ or flower-blessing rituals to be followed by dancing, music performance, carnival games and street fairs. Wat Chedi Luang, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai, Tourist Hotline 1672, tatcontactcenter.com/en

9-11MAY 2018

HONG KONG FINE DINING SHOWCASE

Foodies and gourmands will want to pay a visit to the inaugural Gourmet Asia 2018. Part tradeshow and exhibition, the event will serve up a delicious array of high-end speciality food, drink as well as hospitality equipment. Although Gourmet Asia’s main intention is to deliver a platform for the F&B industry to show off their latest ingredients, products and technologies, the event also provides visitors and culinarians an opportunity to sample exclusive food products and items.

One of the main highlights of the event will be the Gourmet Tasting Restaurant, which will showcase a mixture of local chefs, talents and international award winners. The pop-up styled eatery will serve a speciality menu prepared exclusively by award-winning talents from the culinary field for a truly extraordinary gourmet tasting experience. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, gourmetasia.com

29 MAY 2018

CAMBODIA VISAK BOCHEA DAY

The end of May sees Cambodians and many people in Southeast Asia celebrating one of the most important days of the Buddhist Calendar – Visak Bochea in Khmer or Visakha Bucha Day in Thai.

Commemorating the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha, Visak Bochea Day will see temples across the country come alive with candle processions and people offering food, alms and flowers in order to make merit.

A national holiday, the festivities begin in the early hours of the morning in temples and pagodas with prayer as well as the offering of food and sweets to monks. The grandest celebration of Visak Bochea Day takes place in Oudong Mountain, located some 40km away from Phnom Penh, where a golden urn containing the relics of Buddha is kept. For visitors, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to experience the culture and people of Cambodia up close. tourismcambodia.com, tourismthailand.org, Tourist Hotline 1672

NOW

GUANGZHOU

NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL

Guangzhou’s Baiyun International Airport plans to open its new terminal by May 2018. At a cost of $2.7 billion US Dollars, the new terminal supports Guangzhou’s goal to rival Hong Kong as an international air hub and economic centre in the Guangdong region. The new terminal is projected to handle around 45 million passengers annually by 2020 and 100 million by 2025. Growth trends suggest that the airport, now ranked 13th internationally for airport size, will soon overtake Hong Kong, currently in the 8th spot. baiyunairport.com, +86 20 3606 6999

OVERTURES

BEAUTY AND HEALTH

SPOTLIGHT

Tricks and Treats

If there’s ever been a moment or two when you wish to hide something, go ahead. Make-up tricks and rejuvenating colours can bring on a more youthful look, and our tips below are yours to learn. All you beauties out there can use concealing techniques that hide evidence of less sleep the night before.

Here are some new tools for your makeup kit plus goto tips when you want that ageless glow. So yes, turn the clock back a bit!

GALIFORNIA BRUSH 5.0G FROM BENEFIT (1,250 Baht)

A sunny, golden pink blush that blends a bright shade of pink with shimmering gold, for a sun-kissed glow; complementing all skin tones.

BOI-ING HYDRATING CONCEALER 3.5G FROM BENEFIT (900 Baht)

This concealer stick is infused with vitamin E and apple seed extract to keep your skin hydrated for up to six hours while leaving a natural-looking sheer finish.

NAIL POLISH 11ML FROM BOBBI BROWN (650 Baht)

A long-lasting nail colour with a high-shine gloss. This polish dries to a hard finish and stays put.

LE VERNIS NEON NAIL COLOUR 13ML FROM CHANEL (1,050 Baht)

A long-wearing nail polish bursting with intense, vibrant colours and a neon finish. With its extra fine, ultra shiny formula, each coat offers an even, smooth and lacquered result.

PUNCH POP LIQUID LIP COLOUR 7ML FROM BENEFIT (800 Baht)

This liquid lip colour combines vibrant hues with a shiny finish to create the perfect blend for lip colours that pop. It glides on smoothly and contains vitamin E that is known for softening lips.

Candy Crush

Tired of the usual when it comes to your everyday makeup? When you have a strong desire to break the monotony of dark colours and banish the boredom of an unexciting pallette of pale faces, be bold and give these soft and lively colours a try.

PURE COLOR ENVY LIP

PALETTE 1.5G/EACH FROM ESTEE LAUDER (1,900 Baht)

Sculpt your lips with moisturising colour and transform your look with 6 sweet shades from provocative plum to powerful pink and subtle rose.

VELVET MATTE LIP PENCIL

2.4G FROM NARS

(1,050 Baht)

Every colour virtually works on everyone. Paired with soft eye colours, even the darkest or brightest shade of on your lips create a striking makeup look on its own.

MARIMEKKO X CLINIQUE

POP LIP COLOUR + PRIMER 3.8G FROM CLINIQUE (850 Baht)

From design house, Marimekko, vibrant patterns and cheery hues on offer for a limited time only and colour stays true, making your lips feel moisturised for up to 8 hours.

SKIN VEIL BASE DOT CUSHION

SPF 14 PA++ 15G FROM LANEIGE (1,200 Baht)

The Cushion now comes with ingredients from the Waterbank Essence acting as natural moisturising agents that maintains the optimum moisture balance in your skin.

NAKED SKIN COLOR CORRECTING FLUID

6.2G FROM URBAN DECAY (1,200 Baht)

Correct imperfections and play up your best features – all without having to lug around a whole contour kit.

PATENT SHINE 10X NAIL LACQUER VERNIS 11ML FROM BUTTER LONDON (730 B

The innovative formula is loaded with ingredients proven to promote brighter, stronger and healthier nails for the best-dressed look.

SWEET GLAMOUR

EYESHADOW PALETTE

0.5OZ FROM ZOEVA (1,109 Baht)

A mix of matte and shimmering for dreamy daytime looks. Playful yet glamorous, this poetic palette offers a romantic array of pastel shades as light as thistledown.

METAL CRUSH EYESHADOW

2.8G FROM KAT VON D (900 Baht)

Glides smoothly across the lids, saturating them with beautiful metallic pigments to bring a shock of metallic colour to your eyes.

MARIMEKKO X CLINIQUE POP SPLASH LIP GLOSS

4.3ML FROM CLINIQUE (850 Baht)

Smile brightly with this collection of next generation glosses that combine a pop of colour with a splash of hydration, providing exceptional moisturise for all-day comfort.

Tips

ΠGo easy РIf you have dark circles or some sun spots, dot a tiny bit of concealer on the inner corners of your eyes or on those spots, not just random places on your face. The more skin you can leave alone, the better.

 Lighten up – Tinted moisturisers with luminescent particles or lightweight liquid foundations are best for lined skin.

Ž Open your eyes – Curling your eyelashes and adding a little glimmery shadow as a highlighter are the easiest things you can do to make your eyes look bigger and best of all, younger-looking.

 Warm it up – A neutral rose colour applied to the lips and the apples of the cheeks flatters all skin tones and really brightens it up.

 Nail it well – This is one of the classic shades that we could never get enough and considered to be the best anti-aging colour. That’s the ever-so-popular red! Let the bright shade take attention away from skin blemishes, putting the focus instead on your shiny, bright manicure.

STOCKIST Sephora 2F Central Embassy, Tel +66 (0) 2160 5817-8

Tie It On

The key to looking dapper in men’s ties lies in deliberate choices, like hand selecting a pattern to complement the outfit. Choosing a tie with care, especially one that goes with an existing wardrobe, will be easier in establishing that sharp-edged, selected look. Prints and polka dots look livelier and possess a more unique touch compared to solid colours, yet remain appropriate for most business occasions.

FOR HIM

ΠPOLKA DOT SILK TIE WITH WOVEN TEXTURE FROM MASSIMO DUTTI (2,550 Baht)

STOCKISTS

➋ FLORAL PRINTS SILK/ COTTON TIE FROM MASSIMO DUTTI (2,550 Baht)

➌ RAINBOW BIRD PRINTS SILK TIE FROM PAUL SMITH (6,500 Baht)

➍ BLUE OCEAN PRINTS SILK TIE FROM PAUL SMITH (5,900 Baht)

➎ BEACH COCONUT TREE PRINTS SILK TIE FROM PAUL SMITH (6,500 Baht)

FOR HER

ΠWALLET WITH DURABLE COTTON CANVAS AND LEATHER TRIM FROM MCM (10,900 Baht)

STOCKISTS

➋ PINK VELVET HEELS WITH GREY SATIN AND ROCKCOLOUR ELAPHE FROM FENDI (37,000 Baht)

➌ TEEN WITCHES CHARM WITH MINK FROM FENDI (29,500 Baht)

➍ CAN EYE METAL OVERSIZE SUNGLASSES SQUARE SHAPE WITH WHITE STUDS FROM FENDI (20,300 Baht)

➎ CROSSBODY BAG WITH FINEST SPANISH LEATHER AND ICONIC LOCK FROM MCM (18,900 Baht)

A Colourful Touch

Adding a pop of colour can bring on life and the magic touch to complete your look. Enhancing colours found in accessories or the latest heels can be eye-catching, definitely drawing attention so you can be fearless in the pursuit of colour.

Chiang Rai: The Destination for All Seasons

Many people tend to think of Chiang Rai as a winter haven. In fact, the northern province of Chiang Rai is a destination for all seasons. Here is a noteworthy list for a trip that’s good all year round.

Witness the unique beauty of Thai architecture at Wat Rong Khun. Decorated with silver-coloured-glass, you’ll see the fascinating all-white temple as designed by a Thai artist. Take time

to see the display of elaborate murals and a separate art gallery with a showcase of fine paintings. The temple and the art gallery are open daily from 8am to 5pm.

If you’re someone who loves the active participation of agro-tourism and adventure travel, add Singha Park to your itinerary. Boasting various floras spanning over 8,000 rai (2,300 acres) of land, Singha Park offers numerous beautiful sceneries and a wide variety of activities. Enjoy farm tours, biking or get up close to the animals from the African continent, such as giraffes, zebras, and Watusi cows. Venture high up on the mountain of picturesque Doi Tung, where three must-visit places include the royal villa, Phra That Doi Tung and Mae Fah Luang Garden. For the

coffee aficionado, Café Doi Tung is the place to test the body and aroma of highland Arabica coffee cultivated in Chiang Rai. Drop by the Doi Tung Lifestyle Shop, with their varieties of products, made by ethnic minorities and people working in the Doi Tung Development Project. These include hand-woven products such as apparel, accessories, and home décor, ceramics and mulberry paper products.

On the cliff of Phu Chi Fa, the spectacular views of the valley and sea of mist at sunrise are mesmerising. Phu Chi Fa Forest Park is about 1,200–1,628 metres above sea level, so the weather is mild all year round. During wintertime, visitors and campers flock there to enjoy the winter retreat, the sea of

Opposite Page, Left and Above

The beautiful all-white creation of Wat Rong Khun’s exterior and interior designed by a Thai artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Opposite Page, Bottom Left Up close with the animals at Singha Park

Left Spectacular flora at Mae Fah Luang Garden, Doi Tung

OVERTURES

clouds at sunrise and the white beauty of wildflowers (the orchid tree) in full bloom around the peak of Phu Chi Fa. A camping ground is available – in town and very close to the summit.

Chiang Rai’s wealth of scenery is endless. From the vantage point of Sop Ruak, at the confluence of the Ruak and the Mekong Rivers, you can see the Golden Triangle where the borders of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos meet. Consider a boat trip, it’s an enjoyable way to appreciate the scenery of the Mekong River and the infamous Golden Triangle. Souvenir shops along the walkway offer up clothing, accessories and other keepsakes. The Golden Triangle gained

Top

On clear days, visitors are rewarded with spectacular views of mountains shrouded in mist.

Bottom Left and Right At Sop Ruak, you can see the countries of Laos and Myanmar while standing on the Thailand side, visible at the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak Rivers.

notoriety for being an opium-producing area. Here, you’ll learn more about the opium’s history; its origins, the Opium Wars, as well as see opium smoking kits and instruments used in the opium trade from around the world.

Chiang Rai and the rest of Thailand offer plenty of places to explore. Please

don’t let weather be a deterrent. Come rain or shine; well-prepared travellers will surely have a blast.

For more information, contact Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Chiang Rai Office, Tel: +66 (0) 53 717 433, +66 (0) 53 744 674-5

Tranquil spots and less populated areas invite exploration at the Golden Triangle area.

OVERTURES

A TASTE OF THAILAND

Red Positive

When wandering the streets in Thailand, you’ll encounter street vendors with pushcarts of colourful herbal drinks. The bright red roselle juice is sure to be one of the choices. This drink, with a sweet and sour flavour, is the best option when it comes to replenishing one’s body from thirst and fatigue. Resourceful vendors mix roselle juice together with the jujube fruit for an even better taste and additional health benefits.

The traditional Thai herbal drink boasts a great number of healthful advantages, namely its high content of vitamin C, a natural anti-oxidant known to help with improving blood quality, an ability to reduce cholesterol levels, as well as lowering the risk of diabetes. Importantly, a roselle drink contains anthocyanins and polyphenols, with the former possessing high levels in its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies claim that the anthocyanin levels can stop irregular cancer cells from expanding. For women, the drink is interesting knowledge as it can fight against free radicals and slow down the aging process, thanks to the presence of polyphenols. However, be careful not to drink too many glasses as roselle works a bit like a laxative!

The whole plant itself can be used for further medicinal purposes, contributing to greater benefits. The calyx – which forms around the seedpod –when consumed can reduce fatty deposits in arteries while the young leaves are favoured by local Thai people as vegetable side dish. The stem also serves as a utilitarian purpose; it can be turned into fibre to make rope.

Ingredients

• 150g. of roselle (fresh or dried ones)

• 4 cups of water

Instructions

• ½tbs, refined salt

• 1 cup of sugar

• Small ice cubes

ΠWash the roselle with water, avoid removing the calyxes. Put the roselle into an empty pot.

 Pour water in the pot over the plant, leaving it at a medium flame until it boils.

Ž Lower the heat and continue simmering for 15 to 20 minutes. The roselle drink, with its beautiful red colour forming, is almost ready.

 With its lowered temperature on

• Roselle calyxes (to decorate)

the stove, add sugar and salt. Continue simmering the liquid a bit so that the salt and sugar melts and produces a wellbalanced flavour.

 Once done, filter only the liquid. Keep the pot partly covered with the lid as you drain. Set aside the rest of the roselle in a bowl as it is edible.

 Let the drink cool down a bit, add ice cubes, and top the glass with the calyxes.

A Gem Among Fruits

The papaya, with its deep and rich colour, holds many benefits. Easy enjoyment of its smooth and butter-like interior just requires a smooth slice.

simple slice and just a squeeze of lime are some of the best ways to enjoy its refreshing perks.

Papaya, known as Pawpaw in Australia and New Zealand, is ubiquitous in Thailand. Also native to southern Mexico and Central America, the Spaniards centuries ago took the papaya seeds from the coasts beyond Panama to Manila and then Malacca. Today it is cultivated throughout the tropics.

civilisation, the people honoured the papaya tree and called it the “Tree of Life”. The Mayans eat papaya to help with digestion and use it as a paste to heal a skin rash or other skin problems.

Hawaiian and Mexican are two popular varieties of the papaya fruit. Both are pear-shaped, but the Hawaiian papaya tends to be smaller, sweeter and easier to harvest. Traditionally, papayas are grown from

unripe, yet red when ripe), Khaek Nuan (a hybrid from Khaek Dum, crunchy when green and sweet when ripe with an orange-red flesh), Holland (also known as Red Maladol from the Mexican variety, crisp and sweet when ripe) and Sai Nam Phueng (extremely sweet when ripe but tends to be mushy).

While many parts of the world don’t consume raw green papaya,

and subtle sweetness.

Papaya seeds are also edible: the taste is a cross between mustard and black peppercorns and can be grounded like black pepper. In India, the leaves of the papaya are often prepared like spinach recipes, and the papaya leaf extract is used to fight dengue and malaria. It’s not just the apple a day that keeps the doctor away – so does a papaya.

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ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS

Words Sarita Urupongsa

Illustrations Arthit Limpong

NOODLE CARTS

It’s not a street food scene in Thailand without the iconic presence of food carts! From the early hours of dawn to late night, vendors attach these wheeled workhorses to motorbikes or bicycles, planting themselves at any convenient location: sidewalks, main streets, and small alleys. When hunger pangs or cravings hit, our primer shows you how to spot the right set of wheels.

One thing all noodle carts share in common is the round pit of a steaming cauldron where sumptuous broths, stocks and water settle in an eternal rolling boil to blanch noodles, vegetables, and meats. Usually a clear glass box sits atop the side of the cart. Here is your open glass menu, with a bi-level mouth-watering display inside the box. The upper layer is usually reserved for assorted proteins, like beef and pork cuts, BBQ meats, assorted meatballs, fishballs, and wontons. The lower shelf gathers different noodle types: thin rice vermicelli

BARBECUE CARTS

For office staffers to construction workers –skewered snacks serve as comfort food. Pork, chicken, giblets, or Northern-style sausages to grilled bananas or corn are their best friends as immediate stomach fillers. The smoke from the grills is absorbed by an embedded exhaust hood, which later spreads the tantalising smell further afield.

to wide ones, egg noodles, bean sheet noodles and even instant noodles within easy reach. Some vendors take pride in the already rich, flavourful taste of their broth while other places season for you. Not to worry though, as every noodle cart comes with its own set of seasonings and condiments to cater the dish to your own taste. There’s always a seat for you as most places provide foldable tables and bright plastic chairs for their customers to enjoy the vibe of street-side dining.

SOM TAM OR PAPAYA SALAD CARTS

Many people can’t do without the ubiquitous som tam or papaya salad carts. Prepped, sliced and chopped in a rich display are shredded papaya, yardlong beans, cherry tomatoes, and Thai eggplants. They find company with glass jars containing flavourings of dried shrimp, peanuts, and palm sugar. Some carts assemble a minimalist setup of trays for all the ingredients

with the key tool: a pestle and mortar, and base flavourings of Thai anchovy or fish sauce, managing to draw in the crowds. The spicy papaya salad carts usually come attached with a barbecue grill for cooking chicken, catfish, and cuts of pork. Another essential feature of this type of cart is a large bucket where packs of steamed sticky rice keep warm.

OLD-STYLE COFFEE CARTS

The classic brewing method of traditional Thai coffee begins with a large kettle of boiling water, cloth filter bags that strain the brewed liquid, and a metal canister to hold the drink. With this setup, ground coffee gets pressed into a filter bag attached to an aluminium loop with handle. With a firm grip, the vendor pours boiling water on coffee grounds and waits for it to filter all the way through. To sweeten the rich, dark coffee – sugar, condensed milk, and evaporated milk serve as key options for both hot and iced old school coffee. This type of cart not only offers the aromatic traditional coffee and tea, but also other choices such as an iced pink milk for sweet enjoyment or Nom Yen (sala syrup mixed with condensed milk), or the more familiar cocoa drink or lime soda. Some vendors have modern equipment for espresso drinks thereby providing a longer drink menu. Expect your drink to be served classic style: in plastic tumblers encased in a bag with a handle for sipping enjoyment while commuting. At breakfast time, some places even offer warm toast with butter and sprinkled sugar in addition to coffee.

HAWKERS

Our special mention includes hawkers on foot who offer a form of commerce long familiar in Thai society. The authentic tradition has sellers carrying a woven basket that perches on both ends of a slim wood plank and balanced on a shoulder. In the baskets are usually ready-made snacks which customers can grab easily for easy consumption on the sidewalk or for takeaway. Popular items include sticky rice with sweetened pork or shredded pork, a spicy fermented pork salad, cooked eggs, steamed peanuts, and Thai desserts packed in bags or banana leaves of local delicacies from different parts of the country. Some hawkers even include handmade products crafted from local natural materials; such as wicker and other wood products.

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ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS

FRUIT CARTS

On every busy street, fresh fruit carts are assuredly a common sight. Easily spotted, thanks to the bright colours of assorted fruits neatly sitting on ice blocks, check out a vendor’s knife skills of swift peel-and-slash. The enticing display of sliced tropical fruits include a selection of mango, guava, papaya, rose apple, pineapple, cantaloupe to the refreshing coconut. These fruits reach another level of tastiness with unique condiments. Fruits get dipped in regular combinations of salt and chilli while some carts offer more sophisticated dipping options such as a sweet shrimp paste, sweet fish sauce, or a salt blend with chilli and dried plum.

ASSORTED SNACK CARTS

This type of cart usually features a sizzling round stove to cook snacks and Thai pancakes galore. From rolled pancakes with fillings, crispy mini pancakes, pancakes made of glutinous rice flour and shredded coconut to Thai crêpes, the list goes on. Some places feature items such as fried dough balls of sweet potato, banana fritters, or snacks requiring a unique cooking equipment and stools of coconut rice pancakes or steamed tapioca balls with pork fillings. All of these snacks are best sellers when urbanites get hungry and crave a light snack before dinnertime.

COCONUT ICE CREAM CARTS

Coconut ice cream carts consist of round or square ice cream tubs surrounded by colourful and chewy toppings in clear containers. Customers can choose to have their ice cream served in a cone, cup, bread, or even in a coconut shell. Apart from coconut, sellers offer other flavours such as chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. You know the drill: pick your flavour, choose your vessel and select toppings ranging from attap fruits, sweetened pumpkins, corn, jackfruit bits, sticky rice and roasted peanuts. Evaporated milk and chocolate sauce add the rich tastiness to the ice cream as a final touch.

OVERTURES

CHECKED IN: PHUKET

STAYED: THE NAKA PHUKET

In the ocean of accommodations in Phuket, there are many fishes in the sea. They come in all shapes and sizes: from petite and humble to expansive and opulent. The Naka Phuket has settled in nicely to its own niche in the market, appealing to guests who prefer peace, privacy and tastefully minimalist design. Naturally, this exclusive resort has all of the amenities one would expect –outstanding service, a pampering spa, wellequipped gym, Olympic-size infinity pool, a tantalising international dining menu, boutique shop, shuttle to nearby Patong, baby-sitting service, big fluffy pillows and all the rest. They even provide you with a complimentary smartphone to use during

Island Spotlights

We continue our series with first-hand accounts on the latest discoveries that appeal to the senses.

Photos Jeremie Schatz

Above Left and Right

Balance: the minimalist villas strike a tasteful equilibrium with the surrounding environment.

Commanding views of Patong Bay at the rooftop bar – an ideal sunset spot.

Below Left and Right

Even the room numbers pay homage to the mountainside which the Naka calls home.

Architect Duangrit Bunnag’s unique cantilevered design has led the Naka to be included as a member of the Design Hotel Group.

your stay with free local and international calls, maps and city guide, and internet. However, it’s the architectural style that lends to its uniqueness and gives the Naka Phuket its soul.

At the end of a steep meandering mountain road, the Naka Phuket’s 95 pool villas don’t dominate the landscape, but

instead compliment the topography of the scooped out, steep beachside valley. Many of the window-wrapped villas take advantage of the geography by being cantilevered out over the hillside. Slide open the blackout curtains or settle onto the balcony and you’re met with an aweinspiring feeling of space.

OVERTURES

Clockwise from Top The Naka’s glass-wrapped pool villas offer privacy while maintaining a feeling of openness.

The airy Wiwa Restaurant has nothing lying between it and the beach except an Olympic-size infinity pool.

A true hideaway: so close, yet feels so far away.

The Meka Sky Lounge serves up a delicious view and a menu to match.

ink

Well-known Thai designer Duangrit Bunnag threw intricacies out the window. However, this is not a barren design but one where the less-is-more approach found an authentic triumph. The villas are primarily concrete, steel and glass with a peppering of wood accents and teak floors for good measure. A feature that really resonates is Bunnag’s decision to work his design around established trees thereby introducing an organic element.

The Naka will have a strong appeal to those who relish a private hideaway feel and find solace in luxurious simplicity

without distractions. As General Manager Sawai Sombat likes to say while gesturing skyward at night, “some resorts have five stars, we have thousands.”

The Naka Phuket is a member of the Design Hotel group of properties whose mission is to “create an unrivalled global community for design, architecture, culture and become the definite source of original hospitality experiences”.

1/18, 1/20 Moo 6 Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83150

+66 (0) 76 337 999 thenakaphuket.com

Squid

pasta with roe and garlic cream sauce.

OVERTURES

TASTED: CATCH BEACH CLUB

Clockwise from Above Left

The gambas pil pil combines fresh shrimp and ample garlic in a rich chilli oil and butter sauce.

Seafood lovers will rejoice over the tender, Spanishstyle grilled octopus.

Stay a while: Catch’s beachfront pool looks out over stunning Bang Tao Beach.

The beach club’s regulars and return visitors will be delighted to discover new menu items every month.

Although not the only beach club in Phuket, Catch has set the bar for what a beach club should be.

Although probably not the first to import the beach club concept to Phuket, Catch Beach Club is largely considered the island’s quintessential elite beach party spot. After enjoying several luscious years in Surin Beach, the fashionable club hasn’t missed a beat since moving to their new expansive Bang Tao Beach location.

Renowned for hosting big-name contemporary DJs and champagnepopping glitzy parties, Catch has another more subdued, yet just as glamorous side – in the kitchen.

With 20+ years of experience behind him, Chef Anan has spent seven of those masterminding the eclectic menu at Catch. Several new, thematically-inspired dishes get concocted every month to keep the popular club at the culinary cutting edge.

So what medley of Chef Anan’s taste-bud-tingling creations might one discover? How about grilled Spanishstyle octopus in a chili and garlic butter sauce. Not overpoweringly buttery, with some magical herb mix sprinkled on top, this fresh mollusc is cooked to

OVERTURES

CHECKED IN: PHUKET

precise consistency. Coaxing octopus to just the right texture is a skill that separates the cooks from the chefs.

Another Spanish tapas-derived crowd-pleaser is the gambas pil pil. Although these fresh shrimp are served bathing in a chilli oil and butter sauce similar to the octopus, the pungent flavours are simplified. A fresh baked baguette from the woodfired oven soaks up every drop of garlicky goodness.

The codfish à la nage, however, has no disguise and is an honest-togoodness soup. À la nage translates to

“in the swim” referring to the way the imported Australian cod is poached alongside vongole (clams) in a savoury broth. The sweet cherry tomatoes and tarragon pesto fill out the light flavours of this afternoon favourite.

Chef Anan’s vision led him to tap into the culinary traditions of coastal Spain where they have found a home in Phuket. Where will Chef Anan lead us next?

202/88 Moo 2, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket T: +66 (0) 65 348 2017, book@catchbeachclub.com

Left Chef Anan’s extensive experience with Japanese cuisine shines through in Catch’s sashimi offerings.

Top, Middle to Right

Any self-respecting

beach club would serve up a mean mojito, and Catch is no exception.

With its tarragon pesto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh clams, the codfish à la nage makes an ideal beachside lunch.

Below

Having spent nearly half his life in the kitchen, Chef Anan’s experience is reflected in the well-thought -out menu.

It’s easy to visit Koh Samui and have our days in the sun. But behind the scenes of waving palm trees and beckoning waters, dedicated locals make their paradise a true haven.

Making Good

Island on the

On the first visit to Koh Samui in 1986, my mother and I arrived by ferry. I promptly fell in love with this idyllic island with its azure waters, soft white sand beaches, gently swaying palm trees, fantastic food and friendly people.

The love affair continued over the years and in 2004, I commissioned my first villa which rented out successfully for the next ten years, giving plenty of excuses to spend more time in Samui. And with each visit, I became more enchanted!

In 2015, after selling my busy PR company, it was time to leave the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong after thirty fun, hectic years and settle in Samui. With hourly connections to Bangkok as well as two direct daily

flights to Hong Kong and Singapore, it made travelling to other places in the world very easy.

While still idyllic, Samui has changed and developed so much. Those of us who want development to be more ecologically and ethically sustainable are doing our part.

Koh Samui has a number of active organisations that work tirelessly for the greater good, care of animals and preservation of the island.

Words Susan Field Photos Lesley Fisher

Top

This Page

The Samui Elephant Sanctuary gained inspiration from the Save Elephant Foundation, whose founder Sangduean “Lek” Chailert, is known for being at the forefront for elephant welfare and ethical tourism.

From a previous life of hard labour, the elephants now thrive in a caring environment.

An experience not to be missed is Samui Elephant Sanctuary which opened in January this year and already has five adorable elephants in residence. Getting up close to the elephants is a memory you can never forget! According to the founder Khun Pao, “Here at the Samui Sanctuary, we treat our elephants with the dignity and respect they deserve. We do not allow riding or any type of performance; instead we work with our herd through positive reinforcement via food! Our tours follow a very relaxed programme which starts with an introduction to our work, followed by feeding the elephants. Then (it’s) a leisurely stroll through the sanctuary –accompanied by other elephants!”

There are two tours each day, from 9am-12pm, 2-5pm. samuielephantsanctuary.org, Tel: +66 95 269 8343, email: info@samuielephantsanctuary.org

SOI DOG FOUNDATION

Founded in Phuket in 2003, Soi Dog (which means Street Dog) has an excellent animal welfare programme, having efficiently spayed and neutered more than 200,000 dogs since opening its doors. They also work tirelessly providing medical treatment, sheltering, adoption opportunities and sponsorship of dogs.

Funded entirely by donations, Soi Dog currently has a mobile sterilisation unit in Koh Samui which neuters many dogs and cats every month. To find out more or to donate, please visit soidog.org.

SISTERS ON SAMUI (SOS)

Every month, around 50 ladies gather for an informal lunch at one of Samui’s excellent restaurants. Aside from a fun social event, SOS supports local charities and has been the driving force behind several important causes.

Its current focus is on raising funds to renovate the Children’s Ward at the government-run Nathon Hospital. In addition to the refurbishment programme, SOS is looking for sponsors and donations to provide new pyjamas for the children and to install bright new cheerfully coloured curtains. Details of the work by Sisters on Samui can be found at facebook.com/ kohsamuicharity.

SAMUI CLEAN & TRASH HERO

And where there are humans, there is invariably garbage and Samui is no exception. Visitors and locals to the island can see an increasing number of large bins on the beaches that encourage disposal of trash responsibly and help keep the beaches in pristine condition. Decorated with the message Respect Our Beaches and bright sea

SAMUI ELEPHANT SANCTUARY

images, they are the brainchild of local artist Idania Lucia Reiss, who creates the captivating artwork together with other artists. The bins are then distributed by Brent Jones, founder of non-profit organisation, Samui Clean and Samui Bins.

Samui Clean, together with another group, Trash Hero, organises beach cleaning sessions every Sunday afternoon at 3pm. They welcome visitors to join them. Samui Clean accepts donations, however small, to finance the bins and the materials needed for the artwork.

Details can be found on facebook/samuiclean.

DOING MY PART

Two years ago, I co-founded Impact Samui with my partners Rodney Waller (an established, award-winning developer on the island), and financial and project manager David Birchall.

With a clear focus on responsible development, we do new building projects and we also carve a niche through our restoration of existing, run-

down buildings. Rather than demolishing them and adding more development to the island, older buildings get beautified and new life breathed into them. Whenever possible, usable materials get recycled before donating the remainder to various causes on the island – in particular, children and animals. Sometimes our company sells such materials and makes cash donations to

worthwhile causes. With our first project, Lavaliere, we sold all sorts of items, and made a donation towards the redevelopment of the Children’s Ward at Nathon Hospital on the island.

If you’re just visiting, consider a bit of volunteer or responsible tourism by visiting the organisations or sending a donation. It’s what keeps Samui beautiful.

Top Above

Respect Our Beaches’ Idiana Lucia Reiss, an artist who paints the cans and Brent Jones of Samui Clean and Trash Hero work tirelessly to keep Samui shores pristine.

Left Volunteers for Trash Hero may also be non-Samui residents. Jones says that many tourists ask to help with beach cleaning who directly contact the organisation.

เลยพลอยให้ได้มำเยือนที่แห่งนี้บ่อยครั้งขึ้น

จนกระทั่งในปี 2005 ฉันขำยบริษัทพีอำร์

หนีควำมวุ่นวำยจำกฮ่องกงมำอยู่ที่เกำะสมุย

เต็มตัว จนได้เห็นว่ ำ สมุยเปลี่ยนแปลง

ไปมำก ทว่ำเรำก็ได้พัฒนำสมุยอย่ำงยั่งยืน

ที่ด�ำเนินกมำรู้จักองค์กรจ�ำนวนมำกบนเกำะสมุย ำรอย่ำงไม่เหน็ดเหนื่อยเพื่อสังคม

คอยดูแลสัตว์และอนุรักษ์เกำะแห่งนี้

Samui Elephant Sanctuary

เพิ่งเปิดท�ำก ำ รตั้งแต่เดือนมกร ำ คมที่ ผ่ ำ นม ำ แต่ตอนนี้มีช้

ำ สให้คุณได้ใกล้ชิดและสัมผัส

9.00-12.00 น. และ 14.00-17.00 น. จอง/สอบถ ำ มข้อมูลได้ที่เว็บไซต์ samuielephantsanctuary.org, โทร: +66 (0) 95 269 8343

ที่นั่นมีขยะ สมุยก็เช่นกัน — อิด ำ เนีย ลูเซีย ไรส์ และศิลปินอีกหล ำ ย คนจึงได้คิดสร้ำงงำนศิลปะพร้อมข้อควำม

“ Samui Clean and Samui Bins ”

พร้อมกับถังขยะที่จัดหำโดย เบรนต์ โจนส์

ผู้ก่อตั้งองค์กรไม่แสวงห ำ ผลก�ำไร

Samui Clean and Samui Bins

บน, ขวาล่าง

ชายหาดและธรรมชาติ

facebook.com/samuiclean

บนเกาะสมุยจะสวยงาม และสะอาดหมดจด เหมือนเดิมไม่ได้ หากผู้คนละเลยหน้าที่

ซ้ายล่าง กลุ่มอาสาสมัคร

ทั้งจาก Samui Clean

และ Trash Hero

ร่วมแรงร่วมใจกันจัดการ ขยะบนเกาะสมุย

SAMUJANA’s name comes from the blend of Koh ‘Samui’ and the word ‘Jana’, meaning coral in Moroccan, due to its stunning hillside location overlooking a coral cove, with private beach access and uninterrupted views of Samui.

Samujana’s def inition is very simple – 24 charming villas from 1 to 8 bedrooms, all with oversized private inf inity pools, modern Thai architecture and breath-taking views, 5-star hotel services and details that make a world of difference –the perfect place for friends and family to gather and have a great time.

Haute Drawings High Fantasy

Infused with a sense of fantasy, urban legends and popular culture, Thai artist and fashion designer Phannapast Taychamaythakool has created a unique collection of illustrations for a global high house of fashion.

Words Phoowadon Duangmee

Photos Phannapast Taychamaythakool for Gucci & Wichit Kongsiangsung

FASHIONED FANTASIES

Last summer, Phannapast left her creative stamp when Gucci unveiled their “Le Marché des Merveilles” jewellery line. The collaboration with the Italian high fashion brand also came with a fairytale installation of animal portraits at their New York Fifth Avenue and Beverly Hills stores.

In the series of fantastical portrayals, an elephant appears in an enormous red hat and blue dress with floral motifs. Then there is one of a loved up couple, a dolphin and a panther, in colourful dresses with tongues wagging in euphoria. These animals stand proud and confident in their finery. Odd yet magical – the entire set of illustrations burst at the seams with floral details and patterns, sending art and fashion aficionados to fantasy land where beauty and the beast manages to find a comfortable marriage, and wild animals have access to high fashion or in this case, Gucci’s latest collection.

In the historic neighbourhood of Bangkok’s Chinatown, Phannapast shows up at Starbucks Wang Burapha on a sunny afternoon with her drawing markers and drawing logbooks for a private interview with Fah Thai magazine.

An imaginative rendering of an unlikely yet passionate affair between a dolphin and black panther by Phannapast.

Bottom

Armed with a degree in fashion design, the illustrator’s personal expression is as colourful as her work.

“I come to Starbucks often to do some sketching and drawing. The daylight is about right to do hand drawing,” says the 31-year-old Thai illustrator.

The up-and-coming artist appeared in a loose blue shirt, super long and over blue jeans and sneakers. Her face stands out with the distinctive “Beatle moptop” haircut and a pair of round, supersized hippy sunglasses – like John Lennon’s look from the 1960s to 70s. A prominent mole – similar to Cindy Crawford’s signature one – occasionally draws attention with the people she talks to. Unlike her vibrant and quirky works, Phannapast’s voice is surprisingly gentle and conversations are carried out politely like with most Thai women, ending every sentence with the particle ‘kha.’

“Your work is oversaturated with a bright palette – pink, red, blue and yellow – so vibrant. Do you keep any black clothing in your wardrobe?” I asked the young fashion designer this as many fashion designers wear all black. Yohji Yamamoto, Vera Wang, Riccardo Tisci, Karl Lagerfeld – to name a few.

“No, I don’t like black,” says Phannapast. “I keep a few black

pieces, but I don’t really put them on.” Behind the pair of large hippy shades, I could sense some degree of shyness. After a few sips of hot Cappuccino, an ice breaker moment happens. The conversation becomes more sensational, with voices rising in a series of higher pitches.

“When I was very young, I avoided looking at myself in the mirror,” says Phannapast. “Something wasn’t right in there. The reflection of a schoolboy in a typical and traditional crewcut was like a stranger to me, and that made me feel uncomfortable. There was conflict and disgrace. I didn’t even glance at my reflection,” confesses Phannapast, who is male and dresses as a woman.

Nothing unlocked the conflict in her mind except art. It built up self-esteem and brought her out of a protected shell to eventually shine. Phannapast studied fashion design at Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, and became a creative director of the local clothing brand “Kloset”. Being a freelance illustrator, she posts her work on Instagram occasionally.

“In my young age when I started drawing, no one told me such things about creativity. Form and function

Right

FASHIONED FANTASIES

Right

The commissioned work from Gucci resulted in a set of illustrations featuring the ‘Wonder Factory’ where gems are fashioned.

Bottom In Phannapast’s vision, the factory is run by all kinds of fanciful and endearing creatures behind ‘Le Marché des Merveilles’ jewels and charms.

were very conventional. Leaves had to be green, and the branches of the tree had a certain form,” says Phannapast.

In art school, Phannapast had access to many artistic concepts, ideas and inspiration, and found out that beauty, indeed, has different faces and forms. She started to take a hard, long look in the mirror to find out her talents.

“People have been living in a conventional world way too long, and are way too comfortable to recognise the beauty of being different,” says Phannapast.

“When we find something or someone unconventional, we keep asking too many questions. We tend to think that they are misfits and alienated. We believe that they need to be fixed.

“In fact, we don’t have to look, think, feel or act like our peers. Beauty lies in being different – be it difference in sexual identity or appearance.” In her work for Gucci, Phannapast tries to convince people of this philosophy.

In art school, Phannapast had access to many artistic concepts, ideas and inspiration and found out that beauty, indeed, has different faces and forms.

She also illustrated a book of imaginative fairy tales written by a friend, Aracha Cholitgul, inspired by stories of a personal past, and brought into an artistic visualisation. The tales in three chapters revolve around a “Wonder Factory” where animals create jewellery.

In the first chapter, “A Present from the Sky” tells a tale of the kitten who wears a mask to cover up a facial mole. One day the little cat decides to take off the mask when it learned that beauty and a feelgood experience do not come from appearance alone.

The second chapter, “The Very Big New Friend”, Erawan is a large elephant having a hard time trying to get a job in the factory. She is large in size with legs as large as the oldest trees in the forest. Her body is even bigger than the factory itself and when her ears flap, they create a small whirlwind. After Erawan has been in the factory for a while, she learns that she is a misfit. Every

FASHIONED FANTASIES

time the hapless pachyderm tries to help, everything she touches breaks. In these stories, both artists create an unforeseen relationship that challenges people’s attitudes.

In the third chapter, “To Our Beloved Siranee from the Wonder Factory”, a dolphin has fallen in love with the stone statue of a panther who guards the jewellery factory.

These fantastical animal stories and Phannapast’s eccentric illustrations blend fantasy and very human emotions, enhancing these stories on self-identify, conflict, and love.

“People are too curious about everything, anything. People ask too many questions and don’t even bother about what they really need from the answer – or where the answer will take them to,” says the artist. “Perhaps they want an answer to satisfy their curiosity – or simply keep asking just for fun.”

“In ‘Wonder Factory’, the animals don’t ask why or how the dolphin could develop such a romance with a statue – but they help make magic happen by appeasing the ‘Lioness Goddess.’

For this set of stories, every chapter ends like a Han Christian Andersen book. It’s so sweet that you might need a lemon (to counteract it). The stone statue of a panther springs to life, thanks to the Lioness Goddess who gives him a heart and our creature takes the dolphin’s hand to a romantic, tantric cloud nine. Apart from the fantasy story, what makes eyebrows raise higher is the eccentric illustrations full of vibrant colours.

Drawn with great details, Phannapast’s signature touches are of animals wearing luxurious clothing and posing as humans. Influenced by the Chinese shrines

Top “A Present from the Sky” Right A whimsical drawing from the Thai illustrator has unleashed creative power.

she often visits and the tribal art patterns that she is fond of, the artist creates a mysterious beauty in these illustrations.

“I like drawing animals and making them like humans,” the Thai artist puts it. “There is some degree of animal in a human being. When we are mad, sometimes we turn into a wild beast.”

เครื่องประดับ “Le Marché des Merveilles”

ที่ผสมผสานกลิ่นอายความอัศจรรย์

ต� า นาน และป๊อปคัลเจอร์ ออกแบบโดย

ศิลปินและนักออกแบบแฟชั่นชาวไทย

ปัณพัท เตชเมธากุล

สิงสาราสัตว์นานาชนิด ช้างสวม หมวกสีแดง

หรือจะเป็นคู่รักปลา

โลมากับเสือด� า ในชุดสีสันสดใส เปล่ง

ประกายความสุขล้นบนผืนภูษา ออกแบบที่แปลกใหม่และมีมนต์ขลังเป็นงาน

น� า วงการแฟชั่นเข้าสู่ดินแดนมหัศจรรย์

แห่งใหม่ ความมหัศจรรย์แห่งกุชชี่

ฟ้าไทยมีโอกาสสัมภาษณ์นักวาด

ภาพประกอบสุดชิคผู้นี้ที่ย่านเยาวราช

ด้วยเสียงอันนุ่มนวล ขัดกับการแต่งตัว ที่โดดเด่นและดึงดูดทุกสายตาที่มองมา ปัณพัทกล่าวว่า เธอชอบมานั่งวาดรูปที่

สตาร์บัคส์แห่งนี้เพราะแสงที่นี่เหมาะกับ การสร้างสรรค์งานใหม่

เพราะงานออกแบบของเธอมีสีสัน ฉูดฉาด เราจึงอดสงสัยไม่ได้ว่า

บทแรก

ฝ่ายสร้างสรรค์ของ

Our Beloved Siranee from the Wonder Factory”

A CHINESE GUIDE TO THAILAND

Tai Guo Zhi Nan or Thailand Guide is a custom-made guidebook designed for Chinese visitors to Thailand. Packed with insights and recommendations, the guidebook is a colourful presentation of Thailand focusing on Bangkok, Samui and Phuket.

Tai Guo Zhi Nan is curated and edited by some of the most experienced and talented native speakers and multi-award magazine designers. The image-driven contents open with an overview of Thailand followed by events and festivals, recommendations to the best places to Eat, Shop & Play and close with tips tailored for Chinese visitors. The guidebook is divided into distinct sections highlighted by bright bold colours and section openers.

Distributed by Bangkok Airways at airports and travel agents in China, the guidebook is also available at select hotels and resorts in Bangkok, Samui and Phuket and at Bangkok Airways lounges. The Guidebook also comes in a digital format via its website taiguoguidebook.com or scan the QR code on the cover.

Published by MPMI Group Co., Ltd.

Phnom Penh’s glorious past can be seen through some of the still functioning buildings designed by the late Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann. If things had gone according to the original plans from decades ago, his influential urban designs would have defined Cambodia’s architectural destiny.

Words Sirin P Wongpanit

Photos Permboon Wongpanit

The sun is coming down and the indoor stadium of the National Sports Complex in Phnom Penh is the best spot to watch the evening’s gorgeous amber lights. Completed back in 1964, when Cambodia was pitching to host the Southeast Asian Peninsular Games, the Olympic Stadium, as it was once called, possesses clean and crisp lines of aluminium panels that run in parallel with the main balusters. While the original function of this fluting façade is to provide the needed cross-ventilation to the typically stuffy spaces in this stadium, these breathable walls also create stunning effervescent screen patterns that play along with the glimmering sunlight. I was told that the architect Vann Molyvann based the idea of this building on a mushroom – with a big core at the centre supporting the entire cantilevered structure – all symmetrical and with a stark modernist approach.

Above

The indoor stadium at the National Sports Complex with its ‘breathable’ interior.

Below Shimmering light passes through the indoor stadium of the sports complex.

Opposite Page Top Left Inspired by a moat, the outdoor stadium drew its plan from the ancient Angkor Wat complex.

Top Right

The stadium showcases a design befitting the Khmer climate and lifestyles.

Not too long ago on a dusty tuk-tuk ride in and about Phnom Penh, I found myself inadvertently gawking at the beautiful landmark of Chaktomuk Conference Hall on the busy riverside strip, not too far from the Royal Palace. Vann Molyvann, as I learned again, designed this magnificent Phnom Penh icon, along with almost a hundred other public buildings back in the 1960s that could have shaped Cambodia into a stunning metropolis, if not for the tragic interruption by the Khmer Rouge that practically erased everything. Some people told me I should not focus on the sad parts of Cambodia. Phnom Penh as we now know is a capital in big transition. Money is flowing in, with mega-constructions aplenty everywhere in the city. Snarling traffic with urban expansions are a big part of life here. Office workers and urban dwellers don to-go gourmet coffee cups as a daytime accessory. Those who visited Phnom Penh just decades ago would never recognise the city now. Its dust, prominent in

memories, is almost completely gone. Roads are paved, buildings are getting higher, megamalls and condominium complexes are being built quite rapidly. Phnom Penh is letting bygones be bygones. But then again, there are these gorgeous buildings of the 1960s – collectively referred to as ‘New Khmer Architecture’ – the ones that constructed Cambodian’s Golden Age, that took place not too long ago.

At the Institute of Foreign Languages (IFL), another of Vann Molyvann’s public building that is still standing and being used, students are reading with some of them engrossed in group studies. All of them are in oblivion to the great architect. Out of personal curiosity, I tried to quiz some of them, to see whether they know of my admired architect. Sadly, none had heard of his name, except for one geek whose job was to keep guard of the library – the round-shaped ‘bibliothèque – whose iconic avant-garde design was based on Cambodian farmers’ straw hats.

For enthusiasts who love to scout for awesome buildings, the IFL buildings are magnificent examples of how the architect achieved his own personal directives. Vann Molyvann was known for his modern designs that fit well in the tropical heat. Small precise structures, raised platforms, cross-ventilation, aesthetic “claustra” and “brisesoleil” screens are heavily featured. In the middle of the plaza at the IFL complex is a giant banyan tree under which you might want to sit down and soak in the unique 1960s atmosphere. But the highlight from Vann Molyvann’s playful mind is in the main building’s staircase. Leading from the first to the fourth floor, the simple and open staircases seamlessly form an infinite juxtaposition. A flow of pedestrian traffic going up and down creates

Above, Left and Right

The shape of a fan provided design inspiration for the Chaktomuk Conference Hall, accentuated by traditional Khmer elements.

Vann Molyvann began work on the conference hall, his first building, upon his appointment as chief architect in the 1950s.

Vann Molyvann was known for his modern designs that fit well in the tropical heat.

ever-changing and fluid human patterns. It is something genius in my opinion – and you have to be there to understand it.

The ‘Golden Age’ of Cambodia took place between the 1950s to 1960s when the country celebrated its full independence for the first time after almost a century as a French protectorate. The then King Norodom Sihanouk had a great vision to wholesomely uplift his country through education, arts and culture. Vann Molyvann, the Kampot province native, was coming back from his years on scholarship studying architecture in Paris. Heavily influenced by Le Corbusier and the like; he was appointed the State Architect and

Head of Public Works. Unlike other prestigious architectural projects where people would need to pay to be able to enjoy the building facilities, Vann Molyvann’s landmarks were all public projects, hence creating a greater impact for everyday people. Doing the research for this architectural trip to Phnom Penh, we wish we could have seen the gorgeous 1962 Preah Suramarit National Theatre – an icon in the cultural landscape of Phnom Penh and the host to the National Conservatory of the Arts. The building had been torn down in 2008 after a fire severely damaged its structure.

New Khmer Architecture in Phnom Penh has become an

Published by

Above

A flow of pedestrian traffic going up and down creates ever-changing, fluid human patterns.

Right

A classroom at the Institute of Foreign Language, with its gradient and sloped seatings.

Below

The circular pattern of the library at the IFL, intimate and book-reading cosy.

interest among foreign visitors and professional architects during the past decades. In 2013, the Nikkei Asia Prize awarded Vann Molyvann in the culture category for his significant social contribution in Asia. The foreign recognition helped perpetuate his remaining works too. The Vann Molyvann Project, a pro bono effort of an international team of architects, architectural students and researchers, did a great job archiving the architect’s precious plans and stories. As anyone would tell you about the modern history of Cambodia, they are mostly oral. And Vann Molyvann’s records are pretty much the same.

Then again, one could not curb the curiosity of the younger generation. Subdued despite obvious glories, Vann Molyvann’s works are now drawing attention among young and aspiring Cambodian architects and architectural students.

His works are not taught in schools, yet a lot of people are studying it. Special projects and architectural tours of the city provide good resources for those interested to learn more about this historical slice of Phnom Penh.

For me, the students at the IFL are the lucky ones. They may not know it, but they are spending

Ms.DaruniKlaprapchon(Guitar) 087-929-6611 Guitar@mpmith.com Mr.RezaBizmark(Bob) 082-446-9192 Reza.bizmark@mpmith.com

ScanMe

New Khmer Architecture in Phnom Penh has become an interest among foreign visitors and professional architects during the past decades.

time in one of the greatest buildings on earth. I sneaked into their iconic auditorium-style classroom, taking my time sitting on the raised platform that from the outside looks like a giant box on a pair of lady stilettos. The wall of the hallway that connects all these classrooms is a perforated claustra wall that breathes and allows sunlight to create beautiful patterns that change with the hours of the day.

There are also the active teams of aunties and uncles who, in colourful and stretchy

spandex, arrive in droves for the evening’s aerobics on the raised outdoor arena of the National Sports Complex. Even now that the area is being encroached by mega construction, the magnificent allure of the whole place remains. A landmark of the great late architect who just passed away late last year at the age of 91, this complex as well is evidence of the glorious past – still perpetuated through its actual use by the people of Phnom Penh.

For more information about Vann Molyvann and the Golden Age of Khmer Architecture, visit vannmolyvannproject.org. For those interested in the tours of Khmer Architecture Tours, browse through ka-tours.org.

Above Surrounded by pillars and protruding rain gutters, the exterior of the International Foreign Institute’s library becomes a spectacular sight when it rains.

พระอาทิตย์ก� า ลังจะลับขอบฟ้า คงไม่มีจุด ชมแสงอาทิตย์อัสดงที่งดงามเทียบเท่า สนามกีฬาในร่มที่ศูนย์กีฬาแห่งชาติกรุง พนมเปญอีกแล้ว แสงอาทิตย์ระยิบลอด ผ่านช่องผนังที่แต่เดิมออกแบบมาเพื่อ ระบายอากาศ ดังที่สถาปนิก

า รอบเมืองพนมเปญ ไม่ไกลจากพระบรม มหาราชวัง สายตาของคุณไม่อาจพลาด หอประชุมจักโตมุขแน่นอน ไม่น่าแปลกใจที่

หอประชุมแห่งนี้ก็ออกแบบโดย วัน มาลีวาน

เช่นเดียวกันกับอาคารของรัฐอีกกว่าร้อย แห่ง กัมพูชาอาจกลายเป็นเมืองหลวงอัน ตระการตา เคลื่อนไหวของเขมรแดงเสียก่อนถ้าไม่ถูกขัดขวางโดยการ

ถึงกระนั้น กัมพูชาก็ยังเป็นเมืองหลวง ที่ก� า ลังเปลี่ยนผ่านและขยายตัวอย่าง รวดเร็ว ขนาดยักษ์เม็ดเงินไหลบ่าสู่โครงการก่อสร้าง ผู้ที่เคยมายังเมืองหลวงแห่งนี้ เมื่อไม่กี่สิบปีก่อนคงแปลกใจที่ได้เห็นร้าน กาแฟสุดฮิป ห้างสรรพสินค้า ตึกสูง เสียดฟ้า และวิถีชีวิตคนเมืองอย่างเต็ม รูปแบบ แต่พนมเปญก็ไม่ลืมรักษารากเหง้า ของตัวเองเอาไว้ด้วยอาคาร “สถาปัตยกรรม เขมรสมัยใหม่” ที่สร้างในช่วงปี 1960 สถาบันภาษาต่างประเทศ อาคารรูป วงกลมแบบอาว็อง-การ์ดเป็นอาคารของ รัฐอีกแห่งหนึ่งที่ปัจจุบันยังใช้ในการเรียน การสอน แต่ถ้าถามนักเรียนที่นั่นว่ารู้จัก สถาปนิกผู้ออกแบบอาคารหลังนี้หรือไม่

บน ช่องก�ำแพงโปร่ง ที่สถำบันภำษำ ต่ำงประเทศ กรุงพนมเปญ ฝีมือออกแบบของ วัน โมลีวำน มีลวดลำย แปลกตำ สวยงำม ยำมแสงแดดลอดผ่ำน ล่ำง ห้องเรียนของสถำบัน ภำษำต่ำงประเทศ รูปทรงแปลกตำ ได้รับ กำรออกแบบมำอย่ำง มีเอกลักษณ์

Colonial Vestiges y

A former British hill station in Myanmar provides the ideal setting for coffee to thrive.

Words & Photos Ron Emmons

When British colonials established Maymyo (literally ‘May’s Town’, after Colonel May) in the early 20th century, they were desperate to escape the sweltering heat of Mandalay in the hot season. At 3,538 feet (just over 1,000 metres) of elevation, Maymyo offered a cool retreat, and soon the town had a familiar feel to its new inhabitants, with its clock tower, governor’s house and botanical gardens. These days Maymyo is known as Pyin Oo Lwin, and though the Brits are long gone, their legacy lingers on and attracts a steady stream of visitors from Mandalay, just 70km to the west.

Yet alongside these tourist attractions, Pyin Oo Lwin is also making a name for itself as a producer of fine coffee. Several small plantations in the region are united under the umbrella organisation of the Myanmar Coffee Association, and some of them, such as Ngu Shwe Lee Coffee and Lone Star Coffee, welcome visitors to look around their estates to see all the stages in the preparation of this popular beverage.

I began my exploration of Pyin Oo Lwin at the former Governor’s House, which is now on the grounds of the Aureum Palace Hotel. Being a Brit myself, I was curious to see how my compatriots had lived during the colonial era. As I entered the grand building, which was surrounded by manicured gardens, I stopped in my tracks.

Top Right

Bottom Right

Bottom Left

Opposite

Sitting and standing around the entrance hall were models of soldiers and other colonial types that were so lifelike, I expected them to step forward and shake my hand. Once I had got over this shock, I looked around the mansion’s many rooms, one of which included an indoor swimming pool, and imagined how my compatriots lived at the time.

My next stop was the Kandawgyi National Gardens, which was based on England’s famous Kew Gardens, and I was instantly impressed by the meticulous order that had been established in the midst of a tropical jungle. Walkways led through colourful flowerbeds, past a collection of petrified wood, along a raised boardwalk over a swamp, through massive stands of bamboo, and around

an elevated timber walkway bordered by massive, tropical trees. After a couple of hours meandering round the lakes and pathways, I felt uplifted by nature’s beauty and eager to see more of this quirky town.

In the town centre, I smiled to see the Purcell Tower, a clock tower that would not have been out of place in any English town. Another throwback to the colonial era were horse-drawn carriages waiting patiently for passengers on street corners; they might have been lifted straight out of Victorian London. Clearly the intention of the colonials was one of stamping their own culture on the local scene rather than adapting to Burmese ways. As I wandered around, I realised that this place didn’t feel like Myanmar at all, as the faces were predominantly of people with Nepali or Indian descent.

Young coffee plants at the ‘butterfly stage’, with just two leaves.

Raspberry latte coffee served at café in Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar.

Old photograph of residents and staff at the Governor’s House, Maymyo (now Pyin Oo Lwin), Myanmar.

The Purcell Clock Tower in the centre of Pyin Oo Lwin, erected.

I presumed that many of those who worked for the colonials had stayed on after the Brits had left and put down roots here. Even in the town’s main market, which was a riot of noise, colour and unusual smells, most of the stall vendors seemed to be Nepali or Indian.

I settled into a café to reflect on these rich experiences, and was delighted to find a fantastic range of coffees to choose from.

I ordered a latte, and while I was enjoying it, I got talking to a man called Samuel. “Do you like our local coffee?” he asked, and when I expressed surprise that the beans came from the area, he explained that the soil and climate in the hills around Pyin Oo Lwin make it ideal for growing coffee. It turned out that there are many small coffee plantations in the region, all of which are part of the Myanmar Coffee Association and produce top-grade varieties, such as S795, which is much sought after by coffee buyers.

“So how come you know so much about coffee?” I asked Samuel. “Well, it just so happens that I was a manager of one of the local plantations for a decade,” he answered with a grin. “Would you like to take a look around one tomorrow? I’ll be showing a small group around a couple of plantations and a processing plant.” I jumped at the opportunity; after all, I had drunk coffee every day for countless years without much idea of how the brew was made.

Samuel picked me up the next morning and we drove with his small group a few kilometres out of town to a coffee estate run by a friend of his. The welcoming owner, U Kyaw Sein, immediately poured us a cup of coffee from his farm and cracked open some macadamia nuts to nibble as we drank. Samuel explained that the macadamia tree provides excellent shade, which coffee bushes need, and the crop of nuts (around 12 tons a year) provided valuable extra income.

We hopped into a pick-up truck and bounced along dirt tracks that led through the estate, stopping here and there for U Kyaw Sein to show off the waxy-leaved coffee bushes laden with green berries. He explained

Clockwise from Top Right

Grading beans at coffee factory.

Local brands of Myanmar coffee.

Coffee beans ripening on the bush.

Somehow the experience of watching the process of coffee production all the way from seed to cup had given me a new appreciation of just how much knowledge and hard work goes into producing the drink that kick-starts my days.

that with careful maintenance, a coffee bush can keep producing beans for up to 80 years, but it was evident that this is a labourintensive business. As we drove around, we passed small groups of workers pruning the bushes, weeding the area around them and adding fertiliser to the earth. Apart from coffee, which yields about 15 tons of green beans a year from around 200 acres, the estate also grows dragon fruit and avocados. The avocado is another tree that doubles as a shade tree for coffee and brings an extra source of income.

Samuel then took us to the Mandalay Coffee Group processing plant on the outskirts of Pyin Oo Lwin to see what happens to the beans once they have been harvested. I was shocked to see

all kinds of elaborate machinery used to soak the beans, throw out the bad ones, take off the skins and then roast them so that they are ready for consumption.

In one corner of the processing plant, a small army of women sat grading berries one by one, a job that would drive me mad with its repetitive nature.

We couldn’t leave without sampling the finished product, and I smacked my lips as I supped a cup of S795 Arabica special. Somehow the experience of watching the process of coffee production all the way from seed to cup had given me a new appreciation of just how much knowledge and hard work goes into producing the drink that kick-starts my days. I thanked Samuel for allowing me to see

an aspect of this former colonial town that I never knew existed, one that complements a colourful past with the hope for a bountiful future. He smiled and presented me with a small packet of Arabica to take home as a souvenir, telling me that it was his pleasure to share the secrets of his home town’s rich culture with a stranger from far away.

Clockwise from Top Left Burmese worker roasting coffee beans.

Ex-coffee plantation manager Samuel pointing out features of healthy coffee bush.

Coffee beans being processed at processing plant, Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar.

บ้านพักเจ้าครองเมือง

พินอูลวินผลิตเมล็ด

อีกทั้งยังเปิดให้นักท่องเที่ยว ชมไร่กาแฟและสัมผัสกรรมวิธีการผลิต ต้นแต่ต้นจนจบก่อนจะมาเป็นกาแฟหอมกรุ่น หนึ่งถ้วยให้เราได้จิบยามเช้า เราเริ่มทริปที่บ้านพักอดีตผู้ครอง เมืองในพินอูลวิน พื้นที่ของโรงแรมออเรียมพาเลซซึ่งปัจจุบันตั้งอยู่บนเราย่าง ก้าวเข้าไปในอาคารอันโอ่อ่า ประตูทาง เข้ามีรูปปั้นทหารเหมือนจริง ด้านในมี

ห้องจ�านวนมาก หนึ่งในนั้นคือ สระว่ายน�้า

กันดอว์จี ผู้ที่มายังสวนแห่งนี้ต้องประทับใจ การจัดวางสถานที่ท่ามกลางป่าฝนเขตร้อน ทางเดินทอดยาวสู่แปลงดอกไม้หลากสี ข้ามหนองน�้าเงียบสงบ ทิวไผ่พลิ้วไหวตาม

และต้นไม้เขตร้อนสูงใหญ่โดยรอบ ทุกอย่างที่นี่ล้วนเชื้อเชิญให้เราอยากรู้จัก

It’s a constant busy in the city’s indie art world, with momentum picking up for an inaugural biennale. Photographer Jesper Haynes makes the rounds on the opening day circuit.

Words & Photos Jesper Haynes

Ifell in love with Bangkok’s art scene back in early 2000, a time when About Café was an active experimental gallery, with always something fun going on. Another place called Gig Groceries inspired me to make the book GIG, which is a tribute to Bangkok’s indie music and art world.

The continuing energy and passion of artistic creations in this city endured. Ten years later, my first solo show was at No Space gallery in (nightlife destination) RCA. At the time it was one of the most fun art galleries around. Run by musician Bank and

photographer Yoko, this followed with more of my works exhibited at burgeoning art spaces such the Space, Soy Sauce Factory, Speedy Grandma and finally, at Jam factory last year. So here we are, with an established Bangkok scene bursting with artistic expressions that can be avant-garde, offbeat but always personal.

I have really high hopes for Bangkok becoming a mini Berlin. It has all the right ingredients, one of the most important being low rent and secondly, lots of big available spaces that could easily be converted into galleries.

Many poor artists would probably argue we’re not there yet but I do have a sense the Bangkok [art] world is still evolving. In the last four or five years, so many new interesting venues have appeared, and there are now many areas where clusters of galleries form small communities where artists support each other, a sweetness that is often missing in bigger markets.

Bangkok’s Chinatown has independent galleries like Cho Why, around the corner from the original About Café that started it all back in the 80’s.

TOP Artist Apiwat Banler often puts himself in his large paintings: this is from the exhibition “Maybe Tomorrow” at Cho Why Art Space.

Cho Why (on Soi Nana in Chinatown), run by David Fernandez and Victor Hierro, is one of those really cool spaces, a converted Chinese shop house where anything art-related is encouraged.

BOTTOM

Justin Mills explains his work to a visitor in his studio on Soi Nana in Chinatown.

OPPOSITE TOP

Bangkok-based Douglas Diaz’s exhibit at Woof Pack Gallery. The current work of drawings and illustrations explore his personal definition of “Love.”

OPPOSITE, BOTTOM

Looking out from the entrance to Gallery

Speedy Grandma, a very hip and cool gallery run by Lee Anantawat.

GALLERY

RIGHT

Artist Taweewit

Kijtanasoonthorn at Bangkok Screening Room, Woofpack Building, that also champions the artistic community. He stands in front of his work, “Up Side Down Town.”

BELOW

Miti Ruangkritya’s installation at WTF Café & Gallery, “Two men look out through the same bars: one sees the mud, and one the stars”.

ABOVE

Alex Face, an influential graffiti artist whose work is always familiar, even outside of Thailand. The work is from the group exhibit, SOS-Souled Out at Bangkok CityCity Gallery, now one of the leading art spaces in Bangkok.

BOTTOM LEFT

Street art has enabled a larger community to connect to public art and acquaint themselves with the creative process of an artist.

BOTTOM RIGHT

Kittitorn Kasemkitwatana’s “Impermanence” at Project Room by Gallery Ver. The gallery is founded by artist Rirkrit Tiravanija.

ABOVE

Japanese artist Wakabuko puts the last few brush strokes on his painting at Jam Factory Gallery, another great spot and all around interesting place to visit along the Chao Phraya river on the Thonburi side.

BELOW

Graffiti has been part of Bangkok’s street scene for many years. This is on the khlong (canal) next to the Jim Thompson house near the Ratchathewi BTS station and a nice way to see Bangkok’s waterways.

ABOVE

Jeff Gompertz’s space keeps the experimental part of the Bangkok art world alive, here with a video installation titled “Public RelationS”.

BELOW

incubating project for

This installation is by

An

Young Artists at BACC (Bangkok Art and Culture Centre).

Kanich Khajohnsri.

CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT

Bangkok CityCity Gallery is a hip young space founded in 2015, this is from the exhibition SOSSouled Out Studios.

Artist and curator Angkrit Ajchariyasophon. He supports young Thai artists by introducing their work at Angkrit Gallery.

Tew Maneesutham’s To Reminisce, at CASE Space Revolution, located on the second floor of vegan restaurant Broccoli Revolution, on Sukhumvit 49.

OPPOSITE PAGE

Works by British artists Lucas Price and Mau Mau at Bangkok CityCity Gallery.

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER

American/Swedish photographer Jesper Haynes was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1962. When he was 16 years old, he met Andy Warhol in Stockholm who encouraged him to come and live in New York. Once in the Big Apple, he started working for Ralph Gibson printing in the darkroom for five years. Days were spent in the darkroom and nights at club Area while living in American film director

and photographer Larry Clark’s apartment on Hudson and Canal –“I never saw daylight.” Jesper has since established himself as an artist documenting his unique lifestyle through photography. His photographs are part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in Stockholm, Sweden. He shares his time between New York (where he is based), Bangkok, Paris and Tokyo.

Urban farms continue to proliferate, and in Bangkok diners now can eat within plucking distance of their greens. Inventive dishes and a farm tour are yours just a few steps away.

BANGKOK 90 / SAMUI 92 / KRABI & PHUKET 96 / CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI 100 / PATTAYA & TRAT 101 / CHENGDU, CHONGQING & GUANGZHOU 102 / HONG KONG 104 / SINGAPORE 106 / KL 107 / BATTAMBANG, PHNOM PENH & SIEM REAP 108 / DANANG, HANOI & PHU QUOC 110 / LUANG PRABANG 112 / YANGON 113 / MALDIVES & MUMBAI 114

A Heartfelt Royal Exhibit

The exquisite Phya Thai Palace now opens to the public at the main Phiman Chakri Hall, also the site of the ‘Forever in Our Hearts’ exhibition. Poignant and informative, it comprises an extensive collection of the life story of the late and beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej. It was part of the multi-faceted series of exhibitions of the Royal Cremation Ceremony last year. Now, those who missed this invaluable presentation can visit Phya Thai Palace and walk through the comprehensive series packed with information about the King’s lifetime of comprehensive works and showcase of ancient Thai traditions.

MASTER PIECES

Phya Thai Palace itself is a very beautiful historical complex in architecture and historical value. Once a personal experimental farming plot of King Rama V, the space was later turned into the palace for King Rama VI. Towards the end of his reign, King Rama VI turned his palace into a luxurious

You can find classic pieces from Danish designer Arne Jacobsen to those of German conceptual artist Ottmar Hörl in this “boutique of timeless objects” at The Object Room, opening at K Village. Enjoy browsing through a wide array of lifestyle products and accessories selected for their well-crafted quality and timeless charm from all over the world

hotel. When Thailand went through the 1932 constitutional changes, the palace was used by the Bangkok military medical division and later became King Mongkut Memorial Hospital. Phya Thai Palace Conservation Foundation, Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok, phyathaipalace.org, +66 (0) 2354 7987, (0) 2354 7732

and in Thailand. Originally from Auckland, New Zealand and founded in 2011, the multi-brand design store understands the desire to combine cutting-edge aesthetics with an everyday functional purpose. K Village, 93, 95 Sukhumvit 26, +66 (0) 2007 0767, facebook.com/theobjectroom

RICE AND SHINE

After 35 years in Thai cuisine, Chef Vichit Mukura has unveiled his marvellous menu in a more contemporary setting in the heart of the bustling street of Ekamai. The renowned chef aims at crafting what he has gathered and mastered over the years into perfect Thai dishes accompanied by the magic of rice, an everyday staple, hence the name of the restaurant Khao (rice in Thai).

SPOTLIGHT

All dishes are wonderfully created using premium ingredients from Or Tor Kor, the Chef’s favourite market and venue for high-quality fresh products. Enlivened with blond wood and natural light, the space offers traditional à la carte Thai dishes, along with Chef’s Table options ranging from six, eight, to ten-course menus. Advanced booking is highly recommended. 15 Ekamai Soi 10, khaogroup.com, +66 (0) 2381 2575

ALL THE SAKURA YOU CAN DRINK

Inspired by Japan’s Sakura cherry trees, Up & Above Bar is introducing cocktails and mocktails to celebrate the beauty of cherry blossoms. The delicately-crafted selection includes favourites like the floral champagne cocktail Sakura Royale, and a Sakura Martini which fuses sake, cherry liqueur, and gin together for a delightful twist. New selections include the Sakura 75, an alluring combination of champagne, gin, Sakura syrup, and lemon juice, and the Sakura Oriental Tonic that tweaks the classic Gin Tonic with a Japanese botanical touch. For mocktails, the bubbly Simply Sakura is the true manifestation of cherry purée, yuzu juice, and soda water, while the Blossoms offers a more adventurous experience with cherry purée, black pepper-infused syrup, cream and lime juice. Up & Above Bar at The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Road, okurabangkok. com, +66 (0) 2687 9000

Next Level Green Dining

Vegetables get their own gastronomic treatment at Haoma. The combination may not seem so out of the ordinary, but with executive chef Deepanker ‘DK’ Khosla’s culinary skills and finesse at Haoma (pronounced ha-o-ma), the vegetables excel. Green produce and local organic

ingredients create a progressive dining experience in line with the restaurant’s environmental approach. Nestled serenely in the corner of Sukhumvit 31, the restaurant’s two-storey glasshouse embraces the lush greenery of the surrounding area. Complete with its own

organic garden, it perfectly sums up the concept of an urban farm with the mission to cook only what they grow and reap. Also, Haoma has drinks crafted by Bacardi’s brand ambassador mixologist Mitchell Kai Lum. His creations, in line with Haoma’s sustainable approach, feature an innovative way of interpreting spirits, fruits and vegetables. 231/3 Sukhumvit Rd, haoma.dk, +66 (0) 2258 4744

The Tongsai Bay Exclusive

Adding to Koh Samui’s repertoire of sophisticated dining options is the newly opened Butler’s at The Tongsai Bay.

With the intention of adding an exclusive take on dining, Butler’s opens its doors only on Wednesday and Friday evenings

from 7pm with a maximum of 20 guests per evening. Aiming for an intimate dining experience, the overall setting is informal yet cosy.

The tempting menu features a selection of Pan-Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes from skilfully-trained Chef Eak,

COCKTAIL X PIZZA

CoCo Tam’s, a popular haunt at vibrant Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, is famous for its oversized cocktails, weekly fire dance shows on the beach, swing seats, and chill beach bar vibe. With the opening of CoCo Tam’s x Peppina this past November, this collaboration merges expertly-made drinks and expertly-made pizza. With several branches in Bangkok already, Peppina’s beach location still means wood-fired pizza skilfully served up: this time from

a beautiful two-story brick building expertly decorated for a Bali-esque feel.

A variety of lounging option comes in the form of CoCo Tam beanbag chairs, rattan seating, or any number of beachchic seats. If beautiful views of boats bobbing on the deep blues of the Gulf aren’t enough, Peppina’s game room is also well stocked with your favourite board games to help pass the time.

facebook.com/cocotamsxpeppina, +66 (0) 77 945 269

who attentively curates a menu that changes weekly yet maintains a consistency and theme. The intimate setting is one not to be missed for food lovers visiting the island. Interested guests are urged to pre-book to enjoy this tantalising dining experience. 84 Moo 5, Bo Phut, tongsaibay.co.th, +66 (0) 77 913 750

THE GREAT WATER ESCAPE

For adventure seekers looking to take a break from the beach but still beat the heat, High Park Samui is the island’s hippest new place to do so. It’s hard to resist spending a day swooshing from the 15-metre-high water slides while enjoying beats from a live DJ, casual bites, and perfectly priced drinks. You can switch gears by going from the intense thrill of the water slides to a more relaxed dip in High Park’s infinity pool overlooking picturesque Chaweng and the mountains. After all that high, catch the sun as it goes down, as the sky bursts into its beautiful array of colours to provide a dreamy scene to end the day. highparksamui.com, +66 (0) 77 961 484

BRIDGING COFFEE, HIDDEN NATURE

Just hidden in the jungle amongst the rolling hills of Maenam sits one of Koh Samui’s most unique and new hotspots. Opened just a year ago, Tree Bridge Coffee is already establishing itself as a ‘must see’

on this side of paradise. The attraction begins with a wooden bridge whose beautiful design leads out to a tree house café. Exposing jungle and ocean views, the worthwhile visit becomes an unbeatable

choice for an afternoon trip. Continuing a short 200 metres from the café and right into the jungle, patrons will find themselves toe to toe with a 20-metre high waterfall and the soothing sounds of nature. In addition to expanding its already impressive offerings, Tree House recently started a 400-metre zip line. Here’s a chance to sail over the top of a dense Samui jungle after having sipped a coffee in the treehouse for great views all around. Maenam Soi 5, samuitreebridgetour.com/en, +66 (0) 77 901 175

The Island Godfather of Italian Restaurants

Koh Samui’s first introduction to authentic Italian cuisine came from the long established island favourite, Prego restaurant. Though many Italian restaurants now grace the shores of Koh Samui, Prego holds its place as the best one to visit for that taste from the old country. Chef Marco’s precise ability to transport the flavour of Italy straight to Thailand draws in long-time islanders as well as a wealth of new visitors. Pasta dishes are good choices in the extensive menu given that it is hand made with real semolina flour. Their pizza menu is a

crowd favourite as well, with the pies themselves done in a wood fire oven. Located along lively Chaweng beach road opposite Amari resort, Prego continues to offers complex Italian flavours and a wide selection of drinks in an unwavering commitment to quality dining in Samui. Chaweng Beach Road, prego-samui.com, +66 (0) 77 300 317

Less than a year into its debut, Two Fishes Italian Restaurant has become the talk of Samui town for its noteworthy Italian cuisine. Helmed by chef Leandro Panza with 25 years of experience in the kitchen, the restaurant uses imported Italian ingredients along with fresh local produce. Two Fishes offers a sleek,

modernist vibe along with mouth-watering Italian dishes with highlights such as Black Grouper All’Agro Dolce – a crispy black grouper fish served in a sweet and sour sauce with onions – and the classic Vitello Tonnato, a slow-roasted veal fillet with a tuna and caper sauce. 79/5 Bophut, 2fishessamui.com

SAMUI’S ITALIAN

(QUAD)RUPLE THE FUN

What could be a more perfect way to enjoy Samui’s exciting terrain and lush nature by way of a quad bike? The multi-national team at X-Quad possess sure knowledge of the island’s best spots, creating customised nature trails for holiday-goers to fulfil their adventurous spirit. Quad bike excursions boast picturesque scenery from Samui’s highest hill, the feel of a real jungle, and a mesmerising hidden waterfall, with maximum safety provided. No experience is needed, just the craving for an adrenaline rush and the usual island gear (swimwear, sunscreen, etc) and all is set for the ride. This one-day trip of magnificent views, with lunch and beverages, can also be done as a private tour provided by X-Quad, depending on the season. Maenam Soi 5, xquad-samui.com, +66 (0) 90 980 5401

IN DEMAND BRUNCH

If you are looking for a leisurely Sunday brunch, look no further than Nikki Beach Resort Koh Samui, where entertainment, luxury, and gastronomy all fuse into one memorable experience. Starting from 11am to 4pm, the beach club’s Amazing Sundays Brunch offers a wide array of gastronomic Western and Thai cuisine in a gorgeous setting on Lipa Noi Beach. As the restaurant is one of the most sought-after brunch spots thanks to its pleasing cuisine and four

different dining/lounging areas, guests are recommended to make a reservation in advance. Also, mark June 24 as they are hosting the Burning Man-inspired event “Wild and Free,” an expression of art, love, music, and spirituality. Combined with entertainment and music, the free-spirited event will be another lasting memory complemented by the spectacular seascape. 96/3 Moo 2, Lipa Noi, Samui, +66 (0) 77 914 500, nikkibeach.com

SPOTLIGHT

Charm of a Restaurant

KNOWING MEE

Phuket always has its own local interpretation of staple foods. An example is the ubiquitous rice vermicelli known as ‘sen mee’ in other parts of Thailand but in Phuket, it’s known as ‘mee hun’. Enjoying this thinner strand of rice noodle requires a quick trip to Talad Lor Rong food court a few kilometres away from Phuket Town. Expect mee hun noodles in Phuket to be served with crabmeat curry or stir-fried and served with pork rib soup. When ordering mee hun, this widely-used name brings to mind that the beloved noodle should be blanched until perfectly al dente and served with myriad dishes.

Mee hun is cooked up differently and also has the novelty of being

UNESCO’s recognition of Phuket as a City of Gastronomy recently spurred increased interest among the local and international crowd for the city’s local cuisines, especially Peranakan food. The latest addition to an already vibrant and varied food scene is ‘The Charm,’ a traditional restaurant in Phuket Old Town that features rarely found homemade Peranakan recipes. These have been gathered by the owner’s family by watching and learning over time in their ancestors’ kitchens. The traditional fusion cuisine itself has a long heritage that traces back to early Chinese migrants who settled in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. Distinctively influenced and tasty dishes once exclusively prepared in the homes of Phuket natives are now served to diners to satisfy inquisitive palates. Gaeng Tu Mee or Muslim-inspired fish curry, the unfamiliar delicacy of Gaeng Plaa Ama (Ama’s style fish curry) requiring a good quality sesame oil, or the

called a ‘mee Thai.’ Although a lesser known name of the rice noodle, mee Thai is great for those who love a meatless dish. The noodle strands get stir-fried with coconut cream until fragrant, served with crunchy beansprouts, julienned cucumber and chopped chives with super delicious results. Staple condiments include toasted dried chillies and maybe a spoonful of sugar. It’s a great afternoon munch. Talad Lor Rong is also the place you can find other indigenous Phuket snacks, such as their famous spring rolls and rice pancakes called ‘A Pong.’ Ranong Road, Amphur Muang, Phuket, open daily (except Tuesdays): 11am - 3pm, +66 (0) 86 814 9772

Hainanese-style pork steak that used to be a favourite among Western engineers working Phuket’s mines back in the day; all are usually hard to find in a restaurant. Diners should not miss the signature dessert of Koi Taa Lam, a Phuket delicacy of pandanus-infused custard served in a modern style. Open Tuesday - Sunday: 11am - 10pm, 93 Deebuk Road, Amphur Muang, Phuket, +66 (0) 96 998 9244

WORKING THE LAND IN PHUKET

If you’re looking for a change from Phuket’s beaches, just a few kilometres north of Phuket Old Town sits Vanich Farm where you can learn about the farming life. Gain insight on how rice is grown, cook Thai dishes and even get up close and personal with water buffalos, the farmer’s trusty companion in the rice

paddy. While Vanich farm dedicates a large part of the land to growing sweet corn, their rice paddy complete with tractors and farm animals sets this place apart from other destinations in Phuket. Visitors can come in and take a stroll before retreating to a farm-to-table meal at Barn Café where recommended

dishes include a Mulberry Salad and of course, corn soup. Those determined to know more can sign up for packaged tours with offers of educational experiences, like the hands-on planting of rice seedlings in the comfortable outfit of a farmer’s ‘morhom’ shirt, cropped pants and protective straw hat. Workshops on how to make salted eggs, and how to maintain a worm farm are also interesting choices. Open daily: 10am - 6pm, 19/540 Rassada Road,

Super Bowls

Lion & Shark, a healthful and veganfriendly hub of food and lifestyle in scenic Ao Nang is best-known for their signature tropical smoothie bowls whose unique superfood tastes and impressive sizes can easily fill up one’s appetite for the entire day. The eye-catching bowls are named after Krabi’s scenic beaches, namely Lanta Bowl (Mango and Passionfruit), Railay Bowl (Coconut and Pineapple), Poda Bowl (Peach and Mango), and Tonsai Bowl (Spinach and Kiwi). Apart from their offerings, Lion & Shark cares for the Krabi environment by arranging activities for the public to engage in, such as “Ao Nang Trash Hero”, “No Straw Movement”, “A Bucket of Beach Trash for a Coffee” and much more. 247/3 Moo 2, Ao Nang, Krabi, facebook.com/LionandShark, +66 (0) 87 681 9008

PERANAKAN FOR THE DAY

A theme museum where visitors can immerse in the vibrant lives of Phuket’s Peranakan clans, the Peranakan Phuket Museum showcases the vast and private collection of Phuket families in colourful portrayal. From depicting their deep roots in the jewellery trade of Phuket to featuring toy size models the likes of a traditional Phuket Anglo-Chinese shop house adorned with fine details – the exhibit illustrates life as it was back when Phuket was the main mining hub of the Thai South. Since jewellery plays a big part in the Peranakan tradition

A 24 YEAR LOVE

In a town where the main food culture is mostly influenced by Chinese and Muslim dishes, Je t’aime, Phuket’s longest-standing Vietnamese restaurant, has ample reasons to celebrate its 24th anniversary. They’re the first restaurant to break the mould of typical eating out habits in Phuket by bringing in Vietnamese and Thai selections to their menu. Their popular dishes include Naem Nueang, or grilled pork sausages, whose do-it-yourself wrapped rolls come with a tray of assorted herbs and vegetables. Also popular is Chạo Tôm or grilled shrimp wrapped around a sugar cane eaten with a sweet and tangy sauce and rice vermicelli. If you’re looking for something warm and hearty, there is always a good bowl of Bánh Canh, a thicker type of Vietnamese noodle served with choices of meats – typically pork spare ribs. Open daily: 11am - 10.30pm, 183/93 Phang Nga Road, Amphur Muang, +66 (0) 76 219 103, facebook.com/jetaimevietnamese

and spans centuries, stories of these precious objects and their creation see heavy representation alongside displays of traditional clothing like the exquisite kebaya, batik sarong, embroidered slippers and everyday accessories. The entrance ticket comes with guided tours available in English, Chinese, Korean and German (advance booking recommended.) A portrait studio and

traditional apparel are also available for rent. Drop by ‘Ya Ya Kitchen’, a restaurant where you can try a Phuket -style delicious Peranakan meal, or the lovely Piñana Café for coffee and sweet treats. Open daily: 9am - 6pm, 124/1 Moo 1, Thepkasattri Road, Tambol Si Sunthon, Amphur Muang, Phuket, +66 (0) 76 313 556, (0) 92 224 4574, peranakanphuketmuseum.com

LAGUNA PHUKET INTERNATIONAL MARATHON

The ‘Laguna Phuket International Marathon’ takes place this year from 8 to 10 June at the Laguna Phuket resort complex in the Cherngtalay area that’s located north of the island. Held for 13 consecutive years, the event expects to draw more than 7,000 runners and enthusiasts

from all over the world. The event offers a selection of different races that’s open to people of all ages. Kids can join the 2km run, while adults can choose from 5km, 10.5km or half marathon (21km), a marathon relay (42km) and full marathon (42km). The races start and finish at

Laguna Phuket. Runners follow the course out of the resort and head north through local villages, with pineapple and rubber plantations en route. The proceeds of this marathon go to the Laguna Phuket Foundation, established back in 2009, to support education and social development in the Phuket area. phuketmarathon.com

KRABI / PHUKET

HAPPENINGS

With a menu dedicated to soy milk – ‘slow coffee’ bar Yellow Crafts Café – opted out of using a high-tech espresso machine and instead makes each shot by hand, using the likes of an Aeropress. Expect an Americano to be done with the hand-drip method, thereby producing a cup of aromatic coffee per order. Their cold brew requires an overnight drip process that slowly extracts the coffee with cold water. Run by soy milk enthusiasts whose soybeans are supplied from a trusted farm in Chiang Mai, this small café serves vegan-friendly caffeine drinks and more. Their signature ‘soy milk coffee’ uses their blend of beans especially selected and roasted to

SAY CHEESE IN CHIANG RAI

The sleepy town of Chiang Rai has become a food destination of late with the number of high-profile chefs and food establishments drawing visitors from everywhere. Now it’s time for the spotlight to be on creamy cheeses. Made by artisan producers Chiang Rai Cheese, the cheeses rely on the milk of cows and goats from the area

withstand soy milk’s natural coagulation keeping the drink smooth; there’s also a ‘soy milk chocolate’ and a pure homemade soy milk available hot or cold and served with their own soy cookies. Dairy is also available as an option and can be found in the many

and provided by the Chiang Rai Dairy Cooperative. The cheese makers themselves produce original varieties such as ‘Chiang Rai Cremoso,’ and ‘Chiang Rai Blanco’ which is a blend of goat’s milk and cow’s milk, as well as ‘Chiang Rai Halloumi,’ blue cheeses and much more. On site is their factory outlet called ‘Baan Cheese’ retailing their cheese selections with tasting samples. Those looking for a new place to have a bit of a cool down can also drop by for coffee. T: +66 (0) 64 005 2405, chiangraicheese.com

baked items available, such as brownies and biscotti. The place is decked out with cheerful spots for photo opportunities, hence it’s a hangout for selfie-crazed teens in the area.

Open daily: 7am - 7pm, Moo Ban Dao Dung Soi 2, Chiang Mai, T: +66 (0) 53 278 757

STITCHED ARTS OF BLACK LAHU

Bold and spunky abstracts best describes the stitching patterns and signature of ‘Cha Arnon Phahompok’ apparel. Handmade by the Black Lahu people, find these collections at Cha Arnon café and boutique at Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park in Amphur Fang. With a modest start of sourcing hand-woven and sometimes raw cotton from the local villages, café owner Cha Arnon created designs that the Black Lahu people stitched into life, putting their own personalities and style into one-of-a-kind fashion in jackets, dresses, shirts, or a super-sized satchel. 8am - 5pm daily, Pha Hom Pok National Park, Amphur Fang, Chiang Mai, T: +66 (0) 91 139 5170

CHIANG MAI / CHIANG RAI

Soy Milk Heaven

SPOTLIGHT

A Special Time at Level 34

If it’s a grand night you’re after, consider going high. Special events can easily happen at the Horizon Rooftop Restaurant and Bar located on level 34 of Hilton Pattaya. The rooftop restaurant and bar is the only place in town with stunning panoramic views of the city in a stylish setting. The restaurant

features both indoor and outdoor spaces which include private dining rooms with floor-to-ceiling glass panels to fully appreciate views of the city and bay as far as the eye can see. Signature dishes of Miso Glazed Snowfish, a 48-Hour Lamb Shank, followed by a Baked Alaska dessert round out a fine meal. Their signature cocktail, Horizon 8 Shot Tower makes a further impression. Bookings for that special night are recommended for the best spot in the house, guarantee to be a hit with your loved ones. 333/101 Moo 9 Hilton Pattaya, 34th Floor, Pattaya, +66 (0) 38 253 000, facebook.com/ Horizonrooftoprestaurantandbar

AWAKEN YOUR SENSE OF ADVENTURE

Koh Chang as an island destination for everyone means you’ll never run out of things to do. Perhaps you’ve already chilled at the beach, gone diving, or have swum in the waterfalls. If a little more adventure is on the list, there’s Tree Top Adventure Park. Daredevil fun comes in the form of trying out rope bridges, air bikes, tight rope walks, Tarzan swings, a flying skateboard and expansive zip line courses with the abundance of nature. With a constant eye on safety, the Park offers packages for both adults and children at 1,250 baht. Located beside Bailan Bay in the lush forest, it’s the ideal group excursion with friends or family for a memorable Koh Chang day. 115 Moo 1, Koh Chang, Trat, +66 (0) 84 310 7600, treetopadventurepark.com

BIKINIS ON THE RUN

History tells us that bikinis are an ancient invention first worn by Roman gymnasts. Pattaya Beach will also see a sporting event in the two-piece swimsuit at the Central Festival Bikini Beach Race 2018.

The event plans to bring sexy back in cheeky fun on 19 May 2018 by encouraging runners to join and wear their best bikinis to run for their health and keep fit. All fitness levels are welcomed to join the race – fees are 700 baht for the 9km run and 600 baht for 3km. To make the event more entertaining, special prizes will be given for best outfit, best body and more. Summer temperatures are just right to don a bikini for a fun run. If running’s not your thing, the event is still a spectator-friendly experience. facebook.com/CentralfestivalBikiniBeachRace

SPOTLIGHT

Stilt ComplexStanding

With unique stilt house architecture and views over the intersection of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, Hongyadong is a scenic spot to enjoy historic Chongqing. Converted into a recreational and cultural attraction, Hongyadong showcases local cuisine, folk art, and culture. A must-see sight is the impressive 11-story wooden stilt house that is spectacular day or night. Sample delicacies like spicy hot pot, burning noodles, and fried

silkworm chrysalis before heading up to the stilt house’s top floor viewing deck that looks out over the waterfront. Free admission; open day and night. No. 88, Jiabing Road, Yuzhong District.

DIM SUM IN THE PARK

Built in 1958, Guangzhou’s tranquil Li Wan Lake Park is an oasis of calm in Guangzhou’s historic Lychee Bay. Antique shops along Wenjing Antique Street are a picturesque place to find hidden treasures.

After a stroll around Li Wan Park and nearby antique shops, consider stopping at the famous Pan Xi Restaurant for some dim sum. One of China’s largest lakefront restaurants, a dazzling array of dining rooms awaits groups of any size. Pan Xi, 151 Longjin West Road.

GET LOCAL WITH LOST PLATE

With food tours in Beijing, Xian, and Chengdu, Lost Plate’s goal is to “change the way foreigners eat in China by breaking down language barriers and taking them off the beaten path to eat where the locals eat.” Tours are small at no more than 10 people each to give the group an intimate connection with their guide. All restaurants are local, family-run, and in places tourists would never find on their own.

In Chengdu, guests can choose from two tours: the 6.30pm “Evening Food Tour” filled with street snacks, Sichuan dumplings, chuan chuan hot pot, and noodles; or the 4pm “Hotpot, Tea, and Market

Tour” featuring traditional tea and snacks, a visit to a local market, and Sichuan hotpot. Both tours end at a boutique bar for local wine or beer in a relaxed atmosphere. Tours are allinclusive with unlimited food, drinks, guide, and transportation and are highly rated as one of the top food tours in China. lostplate.com

JINSHA SITE TREASURES

In 2001, archaeologists discovered remnants of the ancient capital of the Shu Kingdom that existed 3,000 years ago. In total, the Jinsha site has 6,000 relics, 63 sacrificial areas, 3 burial grounds, and more than 70 building sites. It also contains the largest concentration of ancient ivory and jade from that period. Visitors can explore the Site’s Exhibition Hall, Relics Hall, Ecological Garden, and Centre for Cultural Heritage Protection. The Exhibition Hall has realistic displays on Shu life and compares the Shu Kingdom to the contemporary Mayan, Mesopotamian, and Ancient Indian civilisations.

Take Metro Line 7 to exit C, Jinsha Site Museum, Chengdu. Open daily 8am-8pm, May-October. jinshasitemuseum.com

LOTUS HILL VISTAS

Located 12.5 miles southeast of Guangzhou’s city centre, Lotus Hill is a huge park with many points of interest. It is famously known as the ancient quarry that supplied stone for the two thousand year old tomb of the Nan Yue King. King Zhao Mo ruled from 137 BC to 122 BC over the Nam Viet Kingdom, an empire that stretched from South China’s Guangdong and Guangxi provinces to Northern Vietnam. Today, the remaining stone cliff walls rise up imposingly above thick forest, tunnels, grottoes, and pools. The park also contains a large statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin, a nine-story pagoda, and a sprawling orchard of peach trees. Line 4 to Shiqi, then bus 92 or 93 to the park.

YOUNG ARTISTS EXHIBIT AT REDTORY

In 2009, the founders of the Redtory repurposed the Sovietstyle Yingjingqian Canned Good Factory and turned it into an art centre focused on local revitalisation and artistic innovation. Along with exploring the factory buildings turned galleries, visitors can enjoy three large exhibition halls, working studios, book and gift shops, and a variety of

restaurants and small coffee shops. Through May 7, 2018, the Redtory features Future Life Handbook, the first exhibition in its Young Artists Program. Curated by Rachel Rits-Volloch, the exhibition features the artwork of six young artists in residence in Berlin and China. No. 128, Yuancun Si Heng Rd, Guangzhou. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10.30am-9.00pm redtory.com.cn

VISIT THE CITY OF GHOSTS

Known to locals as the “Ghost City,” Fengdu on Ming Mountain is a treasure trove of Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist shrines and temples spanning two thousands years. Classical Chinese works like Apotheosis of Heroes, Journey to the West, and Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio all mention this eerie place. According to legend, during the Eastern Han Dynasty imperial officials Yin Changsheng and Wang Fangpin came to Fengdu to practise Taoism and through their study became

immortal. Their names combined to “Yinwang,” meaning King of Hell, giving rise to Fengdu’s ghostly reputation. Within the park is a route depicting the Chinese vision of the dead’s transition into the afterlife, including, the Bridge of Helplessness, the Torturing Pass, and Tianzi Palace. While walking this route, visitors can explore intricate depictions of the underworld. Admission 80RMB; open 9am - 5pm daily. About two hours from Chongqing, accessible by Yangtze cruise or by car.

HAPPENINGS

HONG KONG

A SHOWCASE OF PERSIAN ART

The Liang Yi Museum in Hong Kong will be showcasing prime examples of Persian art, some of which are sourced from the Ashmolean Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the David Collection. The showcase titled, The Blue Road: Mastercrafts from Persia, will be held at this private museum until 24 June.

The exhibition stands as one of the most dedicated and comprehensive exhibitions surveying different aspects of the colour blue in Persian art and history in Hong Kong. With materials and categories ranging from glass, ceramic, textiles, painting and manuscripts, this showcase of carefully selected artefacts illuminates the significant role of blue in the visual and material culture of Iran and the impact it made on shaping of other artistic traditions in Asia and beyond. 181-199 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, liangyimuseum.com

PASSION AND OPERA

The Opera Hong Kong will host one of the world’s most beloved operas this May with the staging of Georges Bizet’s ‘Carmen’ at the Grand Theatre. A story of passion, destiny, freedom and liberty, Carmen tells the timeless tale of Don José, a soldier who forsakes his career, honour and family for a doomed love affair with the gypsy Carmen.

Combining Spanish passion with French lyricism, Opera Hong Kong

A Spicy Affair

Asians have always had a penchant for spicy food but Chilli Fagara has taken that concept up by several notches. A haven for those with a spicy palate, the outlet boasts an eclectic modern and traditional Chinese-inspired décor, and dishes out authentic and notoriously fiery Sichuan cuisine.

Established in 2005, Chilli Fagara embraces the Ma La Tang concept for numbing (ma), burning (la) and neutral (tang) tastes of Sichuan food. Chillies and peppers are the main ingredients at this restaurant, which should bode well for diners who require a little more ‘kick’ to their dishes.

For those who aren’t daring enough, Chilli Fagara does carry ample delicately flavoured dishes that won’t have you breaking a sweat.

Open daily, 11.30am-3pm; 5-11.30pm, 7 Old Bailey Street, Soho, Central, chillifagara.com

will inject an air of modernity into this classic opera with an innovative nested rotating set design. Bringing Carmen to life on stage are JeanFrançois Borras, Giancarlo Monsalve, Varduhi Abrahamyan, Marie Karall, Vittorio Vitelli and Jean-Kristof Bouton, six versatile and experienced artists who have performed at leading opera houses around the globe. 16-20 May, Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, operahongkong.org

A Taste of Britannia

One only needs to venture out to popular Gough Street in Hong Kong to savour authentic British cuisine. Renowned for its style, craftsmanship, hospitality and charm, Gough’s on Gough has been attracting diners ever since its doors opened in July 2017.

Offering a menu that revisits classic British-styled dishes, the restaurant injects a modern and sophisticated take on these staple favourites. Executive Chef Arron Rhodes has applied his creative approach and philosophy on the outlet’s menu, utilising only the freshest of ingredients and best in season produce.

Gough’s on Gough not only boasts a generously appointed dining room but a raw bar as well with fresh British seafood, and a selection of bespoke crafted cocktails, fine champagnes and wines for guests to savour. Open daily, 12-2.30pm; 6.30pm till late, 15 Gough Street, Central, goughsongough.com

Moving to the Music

The Ultra Music Festival stands as one of the world’s most highly-anticipated electronic festivals. For two decades, UMF has grown to become a global phenomenon with up to 45 events held internationally. Singapore remains one of the stopovers for the

electronic music festival and this June, the Garden City is set to put on another epic showcase.

Ultra Singapore, which is now in its fourth year, will see an eclectic line-up of DJs take to the stage throughout the two-day event.

NEOCLASSIC SETTING, CONTEMPORARY CUISINE

Chef Robert Chan went on a mission to strip back the fine dining experience and highlight what was most important to him – the food. The result of this ideology is Tablescape, Singapore’s newest and hottest F&B establishment.

Housed within the luxurious Grand Park City Hall, Tablescape is a contemporary restaurant and bar, focusing on delivering hearty, comforting favourites that can be paired with artisanal cocktails, and extensive premium wine and craft beer. Desserts are provided off the trolley with an indulgent array of house-made sweets. 12-2.30pm and 6-10.30pm daily, Level 3, 10 Coleman Street, Grand Park City Hall, parkhotelgroup. com/en/cityhall/tablescape

Artists such as Tiesto, Dash Berlin and Steve Aoki have graced previous year’s events. Expect similar big name stars to get the crowd rocking and pumping this year as well. June 15-16, Ultra Park, 1 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore, ultrasingapore.com

Fort Canning Park will be transformed into a stage for the Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) as they present this year’s edition of Shakespeare in the Park. This year’s performance of Julius Caesar will be directed by London-based theatre director Guy Unsworth, who has assembled an impressive cast of talents from the region. SRT will tap into modern-day

international relations and global current affairs in order to deliver a contemporary spin to Shakespeare’s renowned political thriller. With an engaging storyline presented on a beautiful set under a blanket of stars, Shakespeare in the Park - Julius Caesar will surely deliver a theatre experience like none other. May 2-27, 7.30pm, Fort Canning Park, srt.com.sg/ show/juliuscaesar

HAIL CAESAR!

RAMADHAN NIGHT MARKETS

The holy month of Ramadhan from 15 May to 14 June will see numerous streets around Kuala Lumpur come alive with evening markets selling signature Buka Puasa (Iftar or breaking of fast) chows and delicacies. If you’re in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur during the holy month of Ramadhan, then this would be the best time to savour some of the best Malaysian street food and local dishes.

There are many Ramadhan bazaars to choose from during the month, but ask any KL-ite where

SPOTLIGHT

Foodie Hangout

The row of shop houses in Plaza Batai, on Jalan Damansara, which once housed old bookshops, florists, coffee shops and a market, has now caught a second wind as a hip and happening neighbourhood hangout. Food choices here are abundant and so is the variety, thanks to inventive and passionate cooks who took advantage of the redevelopment to set up shop here.

their favourite go-to places are and Taman Tun, Kampung Baru and Bangsar will surely be on their list. All three venues and numerous others provide the usual array of favourites such as apam balik (turnover pancake stuffed with crushed peanuts), bubur lambuk (savoury porridge) and ayam percik (barbequed chicken).

For sheer variety, Kampung Baru should prove ideal to whet your appetite, and while you’re in there, stroll around the neighbourhood to get a slice of the kampung (village) life within a bustling metropolis. Bazaar Ramadan Kampung, Jalan Raja Alang, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, open 3-7pm

Eateries such as Yellow Brick Road and Beauty and the Beast live up to their name with creative and whimsical creations ranging from pancakes to burgers and sandwiches to entice diners. International cuisine offerings include Torii, which specialises in Japanese Yakitori and Sitka, a modern Asian restaurant and wine bar and Ekkamai, which serves contemporary Thai.

The biggest footprint is occupied by Ben’s Independent Grocer, which also houses a small number of eateries within the supermarket but regulars however have a soft-spot for Restoran Shangri-La. The outlet maintains a selection of food stalls, peddling hawker fare, which adds a dash of nostalgia for diners who used to frequent Batai all those years ago. Jalan Batai, Bukit Damansara, opens daily 7am to 11pm.

SPOTLIGHT

Classically French

For the past two decades, Topaz has cooked its way into the hearts of diners in Cambodia. A landmark destination for fine French dining, the restaurant located in the heart of Phnom Penh celebrates timehonoured traditions and cutting-edge gastronomy in a stylish surrounding.

Even the most sophisticated taste buds will appreciate the extensive menu available at Topaz, especially its signature and hearty favourites. French staples such as Tartare de

Filet De Saumon (Salmon Tartare), Soupe Élysée Au Truffes (Truffle Soup) and Entrecote de Boeuf Black Angus (Grilled Black Angus Ribeye) are just some of this restaurant’s highlights. Diners are guaranteed a complete dining experience at Topaz, with the best ingredients sourced from leading

ROYAL PLOUGHING CEREMONY

Every year in May, Cambodians celebrate the Royal Ploughing Ceremony or ‘Bon Chroat Preah Nongkoal’, which signifies the beginning of the sowing and planting season. One of Cambodia’s most important royal ceremonies, the main celebration takes place at the park in front of the National Museum just next to the Royal Palace.

According to tradition the King, or a chosen representative, will till a plot of land with a plough pulled by bulls. This customary act signals the

start of the farming season throughout the country. After three rounds with the plough, the bulls are allowed to feed on rice, corn, seeds, grass, water and wine. It is a belief that the foods the bulls have chosen will ultimately decide a good harvest for that crop. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony also sees local men and women wearing brightly coloured traditional Khmer costumes to commemorate the event. 3 May, National Museum, Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh, Cambodia

producers and suppliers, ending with sublime service. There’s also a wellstocked bar on site, complete with an extensive and impressive wine list to complement each meal. Open daily, 11.30am-2pm; 6pm-10.30pm, 162 Preah Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh, topaz-restaurant.com

A GALLERY OF PORTRAITS

Humanitarian photographer Joseba Etxebarria has amassed an incredible collection of photos from his travels around the globe. Now his vast and impressive collection can be savoured to its fullest at his very own gallery in Cambodia.

The HUMAN Gallery – Joseba Etxebarria

Photography brings together some of the best portraits of the photographer has taken. The gallery located in the city of Battambang, roughly three hours away by road from Siem Reap, is situated in a century-old house, which offers a relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy.

Monday to Friday, 10am-2pm; 4pm-8pm, Street 1.5, No.49, Battambang, josebaetxebarria.com

SPOTLIGHT

Gateway to Khmer Cuisine

You’re always spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options in Siem Reap but the Embassy Restaurant is arguably your best bet to experiencing authentic Khmer cuisine in a fine dining setting. Kimsan Pol and Kimsan Sok, better known as the ‘Kimsan Twins’ are the creative culinary force behind this establishment, which elevates Cambodian cuisine to new heights.

The restaurant with its tastefully decorated dining room and indoor terraces that overlooks

the King’s Road complex serves an impressive array of gourmet-styled Khmer dishes. The twins make it a point to regularly change the menu to showcase a wide variety of flavours so no visit to the Embassy is ever the same.

The outlet’s ‘active menu’ is changed on a monthly basis and there’s also a seasonal multiplecourse set menu paired with matching wines as well.

Open daily 6pm-11pm, King’s Road Angkor Village, Siem Reap, embassyrestaurant.com

BATTAMBANG / PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP

THE WORLD’S LONGEST CABLE CAR

Phu Quoc has the longest non-stop cable car in the world, as confirmed by the Guiness Book of Records. For riders, this means a breath-taking scenic journey over the sea and islands with a 360-degree view on board. The Hon Thom 3S Gondola Lift, also simply referred to as the Phu Quoc cable car, glides between Phu Quoc island and the smaller and greener Hon Thom sland. With a debut in February during Tet (the Vietnamese lunar new year), the Phu Quoc cable car promises riders a thrill and beauty from high up. With a panorama encompassing small islands, an emerald-coloured sea and coral reefs during high noon – the 15 minute ride in nearly 8 kilometres will feel barely long enough. phuquocislandguide.com

SPOTLIGHT

Under the Danang Sky

A growing city like Danang is best seen when you’re perched at Sky 36 Bar observing the skyline. As the name suggests, Sky 36 is Vietnam’s highest rooftop bar with amazing views over the city. Situated on the 35th and 36th floor of the Novotel Danang Premier Han River, the bar fills up nightly with beautiful people. Swanky interiors showcase curved booths with glass and suede while

THINK PINK

Travel along Danang’s long strip of beaches in this evolving coastal city from the convenience and flexible itinerary of Coco Bus – a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus. Visitors can choose a one-day ticket (250,000 VND/person/route) and enjoy 29 tour stops that are available along Beach Route – or the generous choice of 55 stops on the City Route. Passengers can hop on and off on the bright pink bus along the routes to discover Danang’s best attractions and landmarks in order to sight-see at their own pace, or stay on the bus for the full duration of the tour. Coco Bus takes passengers to hotspots like the Museum of Cham Sculpture, the Dragon Bridge, May Ann Beach, Han Market, Danang Cathedral and Le Duan Shopping Street. +84 236 3954 666, cococitytour.vn

a DJ rocks the tunes. Outside on the roof deck, it’s all about the neon lights, dancing and the irresistible glittering views. Drinks at Sky 36 run the gamut from imported beers to premium spirits, as well as a selection of wines by the glass. Cocktails range from classics like a margarita or mojito to contemporary ones like ‘Death in the Afternoon.’ Try a Vietnamese Sangria with fresh

fruits. Once fuelled up with music and drinks, views of the Han River amidst the backdrop of modern architecture give you a sense of Danang’s future. 6pm to 2am, 36 Bach Dang Street, Danang, facebook.com/ sky36bar

A GO-TO WATERING HOLE

If you’re after a well-crafted cocktail or beer and interesting conversation, Tadioto Bar is one of the coolest places for a nightcap plus a hangout that keeps the party going in the Vietnam capital.

While there may be iconic spots like the Sofitel Metropole Legend Hotel, Opera House, National Museum of Vietnamese History, and other establishments in the French Quarter, it can be said that Tadioto Bar has its own cultural relevance to make it a destination in its own right.

Nguyen Qui Duc, a Vietnamese-American journalist and former radio commentator who relocated to Hanoi, established what is now the go-to watering hole. Its roots go way back to 2006 in a former artsy location where local artists and the creative crowd converged, staging poetry readings and other artistic performances.

Like Duc himself, Tadioto has moved from place to place following the government shutdown of a street where creative types

used to hang out. People have lost count of how many times Tadioto relocated before re-planting itself in the city’s French quarter. Duc himself is a painter and patron of Hanoi’s art scene. Tadioto is a small enough bar to mingle with the local crowd. Now you can pop in during the day for a quiet coffee and snack or drop in for a drink at night and check out what’s happening with the local scene. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 24 Tong Dan Street, Hanoi, +84 24 6680 9124, facebook.com/tadiototongdan

DANANG / HANOI / PHU QUOC

Heritage Luxe

Located in the heart of Luang Prabang, brand new hotel AVANI+ Luang Prabang sits within walking distance to the banks of the Mekong River while being strategically close to the Royal Palace, Night Market and beautiful temples.

AVANI+, in a town that’s earmarked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, raises the bar on contemporary French neo-classical architecture. Blending into the historic neighbourhood, the French colonial-inspired interiors blend with modern elegance in its 53 rooms and suites. An intimate, open-plan feel

with louvre wooden doors open to a balcony or terrace overlooking either the pool or a private courtyard. For guests, AVANI+ offers a stunningly contemporary property set within the historic riverside zone, and conceived for a demanding new breed of traveller. After a day spent exploring temples or an adventure boat trip to Kuang Si Waterfalls or Pak Ou Caves, the hotel offers a retreat to AVANISPA for rejuvenation before enjoying a dinner cruise down the Mekong. Setthathirath Road, Hua Xieng Village, Luang Prabang, +856 71 262 333, minorhotels.com/en/ avani/luang-prabang

NO MORE FOREIGN FOODS FOR MORNING ALMS

Everyday in the early calm in Luang Prabang, hundreds of monks make their way through the streets for morning alms. Recently however, throngs of tourists have disrupted the ritual. In the enthusiastic need to participate, inappropriate foods have been given. With cameras and smartphones, they also clamour for ‘exotic’ photos of monks. Hawkers laden with baskets of sticky rice bags also run to tourists to sell their wares. Oftentimes a frenzied atmosphere ensues, and morning alms now sometimes give way to camera flashes and yelling, with inappropriate food offerings consisting of lollipops and ‘khao larm (sticky rice char-cooked in a bamboo tube.) To return peace and the true meaning of alms offering, Luang Prabang now puts a ban on foreign foods. With local tourism authorities providing guidelines, khao larm is forbidden, including pre-packaged offering sets that get inserted with imported snacks. The tourism organisation stresses that sticky rice – a staple food in Laos – sold during morning alms must be of good quality and freshly steamed. More can be learned at tourismluangprabang.org

MYANMAR YANGON

GOOD MORNING, YANGON

Motivated by fitness, health, and the enjoyment of a morning calm, a mix of pro and amateur runners recently got together to share their love for the activity and are encouraging those who happen to be in Yangon join them. Started by a group of Thai expats, the group meets at 6am near Kandawgyi Lake. As a bonus, Yangon’s many angles get discovered in the early morning hours while roads are still quiet with a wonderfully agreeable weather. The 10km route takes the group downtown and over the Pansodan bridge with the beautiful Yangon Central railway station within view. More historical and iconic British Colonial buildings mark the route, with many of them still in use. This running tour also goes past a local wet market and the large People’s Park near Shwedagon Pagoda, followed by breakfast.

BEST BITE OF PIZZA

Calling themselves Yangon’s homegrown slices, Parami Pizza serves excellent and authentic pizza baked in a wood-fired oven. If your cravings go beyond that, the menu of fine Italian dishes tempt children and adults alike in a relaxed ambience. Menu highlights include authentic Neapolitan pizza, antipasti like Hokkaido Octopus Carpaccio using fresh ingredients of pomelo and citrus-chilli dressing, homemade Tagliatelle with Venetian Duck Ragu of

slow braised duck, eggplant, olives, peppers, and must-have desserts like the classic Tiramisu and Nutella Pizzette.

The place is typically busy in the evening after work hours with its prime location on the main road of Parami, so advanced bookings are ideal to avoid the wait. Open late until 11pm. 11/C, Corner of Malikha Road and Parami Road, 7th Quarter, Mayangone Township, Yangon, +95 9 261767616, paramipizza.com

SPOTLIGHT

Maldivian Blue and White

It’s not surprising that couples and seekers of glamorous tropical getaways have long had the Maldives at the very top of their wish lists. Imagine the visual impact of islands encircled by a lagoon shimmering with crystal clear waters and protected by a reef structure where spectacular underwater life dwells.

The Maldives prides itself on 26 natural atolls with 1,190 islands formed in unique and circular shapes. The word “atoll” comes from the Dhivehi language, “atholhu.” Ring-shaped reefs developed after volcanoes subsided and the sea level rose. Every resort is on its own island.

One of the biggest groupings of islands is Baa Atoll, consisting of 3 separate atolls of 75 islands and a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve. Several well-known 5-star resorts operate here.

While most of the Maldives has great snorkelling and diving, the Baa Atoll offers outstanding experiences that include incredible gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks. On clear days of snorkelling or diving, you might get lucky in spotting

DESIGN & DÉCOR

marine turtles with at least five species out of seven in the world swimming by: the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, olive ridley turtle, loggerhead turtle and leatherback turtle. Frequently sighted on the atoll are hawksbill turtles.

The Baa Atoll can be reached by a domestic flight or seaplane direct to your island resort. The best time to go depends on your budget and timing. It’s low season between May and November, when storms occur but usually won’t disrupt a week-long stay.

The quaint by-lanes of Kala Ghoda, Mumbai’s cultural precinct, saw another store opening recently. Translate is a concept store that celebrates the traditional handloom weaving and dyeing style of Pochampally Ikat. The brand sources directly form regional Ikat artists and transforms the material into

contemporary, everyday apparel and home design. Choose tops and tunics in a range of classy colours, from aubergines and olives to midnight blue and ruby. Home décor includes cushion covers, table runners, bed sheets, and more. Translate, 18 Commerce House, Opp. Kala Ghoda Café, Fort +917700077338

/ FLYERBONUS 122 / AIRCRAFT INFO 127 / ROUTE MAP 128

A NEW CODESHARE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN PG AND EL AL

Bangkok Airways and EL AL Israel Airlines (LY) have announced a new codeshare partnership to strengthen their respective route networks.

This new codeshare partnership with EL AL Israel Airlines is yet another important milestone and significant development in the continued growth of Bangkok Airways. Passengers can now receive convenient and seamless access to well-known destinations in Thailand and neighbouring countries. Moreover, EL AL's passengers travelling on Bangkok Airways will enjoy the boutique airline’s unparalleled services, in areas such as lounge access and in-flight meals.

This codeshare agreement will cover 9 routes on both domestic and international categories. Codeshare flights operated by Bangkok Airways include roundtrip routes on Bangkok-Samui, Bangkok-Chiang Rai, BangkokChiang Mai, Bangkok-Lampang, Bangkok-Trat, BangkokSukhothai, Bangkok-Danang, Bangkok-Phnom Penh and Bangkok-Siem Reap.

ประกาศ

ลงนามข้อตกลงในการให้บริการเที่ยวบิน ร่วม เพื่อสร้างความแข็งแกร่งให้กับ

เส้นทางบินระหว่างสองประเทศ

การลงนามข้อตกลงในการให้

บริการเที่ยวบินร่วมกับสายการบิน

BANGKOK AIRWAYS ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION WITH

EXPEDIA GROUP

Bangkok Airways recently announced a new collaboration with Expedia group, the world’s largest online travel company, to add a new distribution channel and incorporate a marketing campaign globally. The airline sees a boost in ticket sales through various sales channels of Expedia and its subsidiaries especially in North America, Europe and Australasia. Starting today, passengers can make reservations for all Bangkok Airways flights via different Expedia channels such as www.expedia.com (locally in Thailand through www.expedia.co.th,) Expedia’s mobile application on both iOS

and Android or at any Expedia customer service centres worldwide.

Varong Israsena Na Ayudhya, Vice President — Sales, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited said, “It’s another significant milestone for Bangkok Airways to collaborate with the Expedia group, one of the world’s leading online travel companies. The new collaboration will enable us to offer passengers a broader choice of booking channels via Expedia’s extensive platforms. Bangkok Airways strives to improve service provided to our passengers to enhance their travel experience as well as emphasise our position as "Asia's Boutique Airline."

มากขึ้นผ่านทางแพลตฟอร์มของเอ็กซ์พีเดีย ซึ่งสายการบิน บางกอกแอร์เวย์สมุ่งมั่นที่จะพัฒนาการบริการของเราให้ดียิ่งขึ้น เพื่อมอบประสบการณ์พิเศษในทุกการเดินทางดั่งสโลแกน Asia's Boutique Airline

BANGKOK AIRWAYS SIGNS PARTNERSHIP DEAL WITH BORUSSIA DORTMUND

Bangkok Airways and German football club Borussia Dortmund recently announced a partnership deal at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, Germany to collaborate on branding opportunities and extend market reach by tapping into the large Asian market.

Borussia Dortmund is one of Europe’s most successful football clubs with a traditionally strong fan base in Asia and the world and Bangkok Airways is proud to announce itself as a ‘regional partner’ of Borussia Dortmund. The collaboration includes a variety of advertising and promotional components in co-branding campaigns in Thailand, other Southeast Asian countries, China, Hong Kong, India and Bangladesh thereby enhancing the airline’s brand recognition across the regions.

Bangkok Airways’ President, Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth said, “We are proud and excited to partner with Borussia Dortmund, who are eight-time German champions. With Borussia Dortmund’s strong global brand presence and huge fan base, we believe it will strengthen Bangkok

Airways’ brand image as Asia’s Boutique Airline. This will make the airline better known across Asia and Europe – our main customer bases."

"Highlighting this is the BVB Evonik Football School for children. It is our way of giving back to the community and part of our business roadmap for many years. We will work with our dedicated CSR team to make this sponsorship activation a tangible reality,” added Mr. Puttipong.

Mr. Carsten Cramer, Chief Marketing Officer of Borussia Dortmund also stated, “We are excited to partner with Bangkok Airways who has strengthened their award-winning position over the last couple of years in Asia. Both of us are ambitious and aspiring brands and are looking forward to announcing our cooperation across Bangkok Airways’ key markets.”

Bangkok Airways, together with Borussia Dortmund, are also in talks with the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and the Thai FA for the possibility of initiating a special coaching programme that implements Dortmund's coaching expertise for Thailand's national youth teams.

“JUNIOR RUNNING CLINIC” ACTIVITY

Bangkok Airways, led by the Corporate Social Responsibility Department, organised a “Junior Running Clinic.” This event brought 50 students from Wat Salak Phet School to join Bangkok Airways' "Ultra Trail Unseen Koh Chang," which was the first of its planned 7 running events in the Boutique Series 2018 programme. This activity aims to provide local kids an opportunity to learn how to run in a professional race and to inspire them to see the importance of exercise.

Bangkok Airways has also added a further initiative to the running series, with their “Shoes For Kids” campaign. It provides the opportunity for runners to take part, by donating a pair of shoes to kids living in the provinces where the running races take place. Donations are made simple via www.teelakow.com.

Selected students at 7 destinations of the Bangkok Airways Boutique Series 2018 will get a chance to learn some running techniques and receive donated running shoes from registered runners.

BANGKOK AIRWAYS OPEN HOUSE 2018

Bangkok Airways led by Mr. Tortakul Samakul, Regional Director – Sales, organised the “Bangkok Airways Open House” campaign at Bangkok Airways Operations Center (BAOC), Suvarnabhumi airport. In addition to that, the airline also organised a pioneer visitation trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia during 21-23 February 2018 for professors from leading universities in Thailand.

The Bangkok Airways Open House is organised to disseminate knowledge regarding the operation of Bangkok Airways. The campaign aims to improve the quality of learning, increase comprehension skills, and exchange knowledge.

ที่จัดอบรมให้เยาวชนท้องถิ่นได้เรียนรู้เทคนิคการวิ่งที่ถูกต้องทั้ง ภาคทฤษฎีและภาคปฏิบัติจากนักวิ่งที่มีประสบการณ์

FLYERBONUS

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FLYERBONUS CONGRATULATES ALL THE LUCKY WINNERS OF 2 FABULOUS CAMPAIGNS

Mr. Prote Setsuwan, Vice President for Marketing at Bangkok Airways, accompanied by Mrs. Darunee Debavalya, Senior Director of Customer Satisfaction and Relationship Management, recently had the pleasure of drawing winners for two FlyerBonus Lucky Draws, 3D/2N Luxury Stay at the Dusit Thani Maldives and the FlyerBonus New Year Surprise 2018. Winners enjoy premium accommodations plus a pair of round-trip tickets for Bangkok and Malé (Maldives) valued at 209,100 THB. Congratulations to the lucky FlyerBonus Members! Enrol now to earn FlyerBonus Points and reap the benefits at flyerbonus.com!

PG DIRECT SERVICE FROM CHIANG MAI TO HANOI

On 25 March 2018, Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited led by Mr. Varong Israsena Na Ayudhya, Vice President – Sales and Mrs. Chanthip Thongkanya, Vice President – Office of the President, joined in the launch of the inaugural flight from Chiang Mai to Hanoi. The event was held at Noi Bai International Airport in the capital city of Hanoi, with a warm welcome from local authorities in Vietnam.

Bangkok Airways’ new service offers daily flights between Chiang Mai and Hanoi with a 70-seater ATR72-500/600 aircraft. The outbound flight PG995 departs Chiang Mai International Airport at 09.55 hrs and arrives Hanoi

(Noi Bai International Airport) at 12.00 hrs. The inbound flight PG996 departs Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) at 12.45 hrs and arrives Chiang Mai International Airport at 14.50 hrs.

Hanoi is the third destination in Vietnam for the airline, adding to Bangkok Airways’ route network after successful runs on the Bangkok-Danang and BangkokPhu Quoc flight routes launched earlier in May 2016 and October 2017, respectively. Bangkok Airways is a full-service regional airline that provides the best personalised service to passengers, under the slogan of “Asia’s Boutique Airline”.

เวลา 12:00 น. และเที่ยวบิน

เวลา 12.45 น. ถึงเชียงใหม่

เวลา 14:50 น.

AIRCRAFT INFO

AIRBUS A319

NUMBER OF FLEET : 14

LENGTH : 33.84 m

WINGSPAN : 34.1 m

HEIGHT : 12.17 m

IAE V2500 ENGINE : 920 km/h

AIRBUS

NUMBER OF FLEET : 9

LENGTH : 37.57 m

HEIGHT : 12.17 m

39,800 ft

12 seats & 108 seats / 144 seats / 138 seats CRUISING SPEED : MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE : PASSENGER CAPACITY :

CRUISING SPEED :

870 km/h

MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :

39,800 ft

PASSENGER CAPACITY :

IAE V2500 ENGINE :

162 seats

NUMBER OF FLEET : 6

LENGTH : 27.17 m

WINGSPAN : 27.06 m

HEIGHT : 7.65 m

ENGINE :

Pratt & Whitney

Canada PW127F

ATR 72-600

CRUISING SPEED :

509 km/h

MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :

25,000 ft

LENGTH : 27.166 m WINGSPAN : 34.1 m

PASSENGER CAPACITY :

70 seats

NUMBER OF FLEET : 9

WINGSPAN : 27.050 m

ENGINE :

HEIGHT : 7.72 m 2 x 2,750 hp 2 x 2,750 hp

Pratt & Whitney

Canada PW127M

OUR SCHEDULE

CRUISING SPEED :

509 km/h

MAX OPERATIONAL ALTITUDE :

25,000 ft

PASSENGER CAPACITY :

70 seats

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS FLIGHTS AND FREQUENCY

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket and Chiang Mai :

Numerous flights every day from a variety of destinations

Chiang Mai : 1 fligh t per day from Phuket ;

1 fligh t per day from Koh Samui

Chiang Rai : 3 fligh ts per day from Bangkok

Hat Yai : 1 fligh t per day from Phuket

Koh Chang/Trat : 3 fligh ts per day from Bangkok

Krabi : 3 flights per day from Bangkok ;

1 flight per day from Koh Samui

Lampang : 3 fligh ts per day from Bangkok

Mae Hong Son : 1 flight per day from Chiang Mai

Pattaya : 1 fligh t per day from Phuket ;

1 flight per day from Koh Samui

Sukhothai : 2 flights per day from Bangkok

Chengdu : 4 fligh ts per week from Koh Samui

Chongqing : 3 fligh ts per week from Koh Samui

Danang : 1 fligh t per day from Bangkok

Guangzhou : 1 fligh t per day from Koh Samui

Hanoi : 1 flight per day from Chiang Mai

Hong Kong : 2 fligh ts per day from Koh Samui

Kuala Lumpur : 1 fligh t per day from Koh Samui

Luang Prabang : 2 fligh ts per day from Bangkok

Malé : 1 fligh t per day from Bangkok

Mandalay : 1 fligh t per day from Bangkok ;

Mumbai : 1 fligh t per day from Bangkok

Nay Pyi Taw : 6 fligh ts per week from Bangkok

Phnom Penh : 6 fligh ts per day from Bangkok

Phu Quoc : 4 fligh ts per week from Bangkok

Siem Reap : 5 fligh ts per day from Bangkok

Singapore : 2 fligh ts per day from Koh Samui

Vientiane : 2 fligh ts per day from Bangkok

Yangon : 4 fligh ts per day from Bangkok ; 1 flight per day from Chiang Mai 1 flight per day from Chiang Mai

Modern In Its Own Way

Myanmar’s capital Yangon moves forward at an even pace, making sure its traditions remain intact.