Fah Thai Magazine Jul-Aug 2023

PHUKET’S SWEETEST SURFING SPOTS Read more

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

GO CRAFTING IN SUKHOTHAI

JUL-AUG 2023

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO KAMPONG GLAM

SPOIL YOURSELF ON KOH SAMUI

EXPLORAR KOH SAMUI THE ADULTS-ONLY RESORT (16+)

Explorar Koh Samui is a serene hideaway in an adults-only paradise. Designed with you in mind, you’ll find a stunning direct ocean view, 125 spacious suites & villas and our iconic 50m infinity pool. Work remotely from The Exchange, unwind in our hummingbird sanctuary, enjoy a tranquil sunset poolside drink and savour a unique culinary experience on our private beach.

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LONG LIVE HIS MAJESTY KING MAHA VAJIRALONGKORN BODINDRADEBAYAVARANGKUN Bangkok Airways and Fah Thai magazine jointly wish His Majesty the King the very best wishes on the auspicious occasion of his birthday anniversary on 28th July, 2023

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

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A Model Of Gracious Living

SUNSET SESSIONS

Live DJ: Saturdays Live DJ with Saxophone:

Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays SELECTION OF FINE CIGARS

OVERTURES 14 COME RAIN OR SHINE

Whatever the weather, you can still indulge in art, participate in sporting events, or visit a beautiful temple for peace of mind.

16 ALLURING LAMPANG

Enjoy the charms of Thailand’s friendly North by immersing yourself in the rich and ancient Lanna culture.

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20 SAVOURING SAMUI

Meet Samui’s legendary Chef Santi Wongsawat and discover the island’s authentic culinary secrets at Phensiri: Samui’s Lost Recipe

22 STAR OF FRUITS

Bite, pucker, chew – find out why Thais love the sensational sourness of Mayom, aka the star gooseberry.

24 MOUTHFUL OF HEAVEN

Sweet, sizzling and highly addictive: Why Khanom Khrok may become your favourite treat in Thailand.

26 SINGAPORE’S ART TRAIL A hunt for the Lion City’s finest art leads through museums and parks to its iconic transport routes.

FEATURES 28 WATERPROOF GADGETS Rainy season putting a damper on your lifestyle? Bring back the fun with a deep dive into high-tech solutions.

30 SAMUI’S SENSUAL SIDE Indulge your senses with a luxury stay at the Explorar Koh Samui or a feast at the Cliff Bar & Grill.

36 SAND, SEA & SURF!

A new surprise awaits travellers in Phuket, where surfing culture is riding high on the island’s beaches.

44 CRAFTING IN SUKHOTHAI

Visit Thailand's oldest capital and travel back centuries with a hands-on experience of Sukhothai's traditional art and crafts.

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52 EAT, PRAY, SHOP

Singapore’s Muslim quarter of Kampong Glam takes you on a rollercoaster ride of diverse cuisines, shopping and hangouts.

Exploring Singapore’s Buzzing Kampong Glam

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HAPPENINGS

CORPORATE

Check out hip hangouts in Thailand and its neighbours.

60 BANGKOK 62 SAMUI 66 PHUKET 69 CHIANG MAI / PATTAYA / TRAT

70 HONG KONG 71 SINGAPORE 72 PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP 73 LUANG PRABANG

76 BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS 81 ROUTE MAP

CHECKING OUT 82 HONG KONG, NATURALLY Feasted on Cantonese food in town? Work off the calories with a trip to Tai Mo Shan Peak, a natural wonder towering above the city’s skyscrapers.

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Sukhothai: Capital of Artisans

This month’s cover: Surf’s Up!

Amidst a panoramic dreamscape that overlooks the pristine Crystal Bay, The Cliff warmly invites you to a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Mediterranean Cuisine: Asia

Luxury Scenic Setting: South East Asia

Most Romantic Atmosphere: Thailand

WORLD LU X U R Y R E S TA U R A N T AWA R D S WINNER 2018

2005

2006

2007

Most Romantic Atmosphere: South East Asia

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2009

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WORLD LU X U R Y R E S TA U R A N T AWA R D S WINNER 2022

2011

2014 2013

2014

2015

2017

2018

2019

HAPA 2011 - 2022 Most Exquisite Dining Experience

"Thailand's Best Restaurants" 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 & 2019

Most Trendy Casual Dining

Top Choice Award 2016

Top Choice Award 2017

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020

Restaurant Of The Year

Reservations Essential reservations@brmunns.com | www.thecliffsamui.com | +66 (0) 77 448 508 Open Monday - Sunday 12:00 pm - 12:00 am

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Editor-in-Chief Anutra Ungsuprasert Sub Editor Ramona Varma Deputy Editor Sarita Urupongsa Contributors Anna Winters Ariya Chaiyarit Jeremie Schatz Kankanit Wichiantanon Khetsirin Pholdhampalit Loren Infeld Phoowadon Duangmee Richard Augustin Contributing Photographers Atripical.ig Jeremie Schatz Kankanit Wichiantanon Loren Infeld Samatcha Apaisuwan

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11

ESSENTIAL NOTES TO GUIDE YOUR TRAVELS

Sky-high Divinity Wat Phra Phutthabat Sutthawat on Phu Pha Daeng peak in Lampang is famous for its scenic trek of winding stairs and rocky cliffs.

Hikers are rewarded with a small temple and a stunning cluster of “floating” white pagodas, where the Buddha’s footprints vie for your attention with panoramic vistas of the villages below.

NEWS & EVENTS 14 / THAILAND TREASURES 16 / A TASTE OF THAILAND 20 / FRUITFUL FINDS 22 / JUST DESSERT 24 / ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS 26 / TECH TALK 28 / CHECKED IN 30

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OVERTURES NEWS AND EVENTS

23 &27 JUL 2023

AUG 2023

LAMPANG & PHANG NGA

BOUTIQUE SERIES 2023

Bangkok Airways is holding two halfmarathons under the Boutique Series 2023 in Lampang and Phang Nga provinces on July 23 and August 27, respectively. The events give runners the chance to participate in a variety of races, ranging from 5 kilometres to the half-marathon. The thrill of the run also gives racers the chance to experience Lampang’s rich history and culture, and Phang Nga’s natural beauty. The races have something for everyone, from junior joggers to serious athletes. www.bangkokairways.run

01-02

AUG 2023

ACROSS THE REGION

ASANHA BUCHA & BUDDHIST LENT

NowBANGKOK

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A CENTURY OF SILPA BHIRASRI

AUG 2023

Tuscan-born Corrado Feroci arrived in Thailand in 1923 to teach Western sculpture at the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Palace Affairs. By the time World War II ended, he had been renamed Silpa Bhirasri and made his mark as the father of modern art in Thailand. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of his arrival, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is hosting “Art-Thai-Time” to showcase the cultural legacy he left behind in his adopted country. The exhibition is organised in partnership with the Bhirasri Institute of Modern Art Foundation and Silpakorn University. The exhibition runs until August 20. Open daily (except Mondays) from 10am to 8pm, en.bacc.or.th/event/3196.html

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Asanha Bucha Day, commemorating the first sermon Lord Buddha delivered some 2,500 years ago, is celebrated on the first full moon of the eighth lunar month. Buddhists in countries like Cambodia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Laos and Myanmar make merit at their local temple, listen to sermons, offer alms to monks, and participate in Wian Thian – walking around the temple three times carrying a candle, incense sticks and lotus flowers.

Buddhist Lent or “Khao Phansa” starts the following day, as monks retreat to their temples for the three-month rainy season.

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AUG 2023

BANGKOK

BANG BANG BANGKOK

Get ready for banging tunes and a hot line-up at Bangkok’s top indoor music festival. After a decade-long hiatus, the one-day “Road to Sonic Bang 2023” arrives packed with international and local artists. Headlining is American poprock band Lany, followed by Valley, Korean indie pop outfit Adoy, Japan’s Nulbarich and Burnout Syndromes and Thailand’s very own, Hybs. www.livenation.co.th

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AUG 2023

SINGAPORE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SINGAPORE!

The Lion City roars to life for its 58th birthday with a day packed with parades and fireworks.

The GetActive! Singapore Heartland Festivals span the Padang open field and five stadiums in the heartlands. The day’s “Onward as One” theme encourages Singaporeans to look forward confidently and unite as one for a brighter future. www.ndp.gov.sg

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AUG 2023

SIEM REAP

RUNNING ANGKOR

Outdoorsy types will want to check out the 8th Khmer Empire Marathon, offering the unique experience of running past some 40 ancient monuments at the World Heritage Site, not to mention the backdrop of national forest and rice fields. Choose from four courses of different lengths, from 3 kilometres right up to the full 42.195km marathon, starting and finishing in front of the magnificent Angkor Wat. www.cambodiaevents.org/khmer-empire-full-marathon

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OVERTURES THAILAND TREASURES

Words by Phoowadon Duangmee

The Rooster Crows Again Clockwise from Top Left Wat Phra That Lampang Luang Aerial view of Wat Phra That Doi Phra Chan temple in Lampang Horse carriage in front of Phra That Lampang Luang temple

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One of the oldest cities in northern Thailand, Lampang was founded in the 8th century beside the Wang River and has retained a character all its own. The soul of the city is the 13th-century golden pagoda at Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, testament to the locals’ Buddhist faith.

The heart of the city, on the other hand, is spread along the river bank, where a maze of narrow streets takes visitors past bustling marketplaces and elegant 19thcentury merchant mansions.

Rich in cultural heritage and proud of its glory days, Lampang is a destination that cries out to be rediscovered

Before exploring the heart, you could take a horse-drawn carriage to the soul of the city: Wat Phra That Lampang Luang. Lampang’s horse-drawn carriages have operated since 1916, even after the railway and other modern travel conveniences arrived here. Today, you still find them horsing around city landmarks, waiting to transport visitors back a century or two. Jumping into a carriage and taking a fun, carbon-free ride to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is a great way to start your trip.

Located just 16 kilometres south of the city centre, the 800-year-old temple boasts the country’s oldest shrine hall, a Naga serpent stairway and elaborate arch, and outstanding Lanna and Thai Lue architecture. Its towering Lanna-style gilded pagoda is said to contain a holy relic of Lord Buddha, while the beautiful murals adorning the interior are renowned as the oldest in

the North. They depict Jataka tales of serpents, elephants, and Lord Buddha, as well as stories from the Ramayana and Lanna folktales.

Just a 10-minute ride west of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is Wat Lai Hin. Established by a Shan prince in 1683, this small Buddhist temple is the jewel in Lampang’s crown. The elegant shrine hall with multi-tiered roof is a bold statement of local architecture. The ornate plasterwork arch depicting angels and guardians was the archetype for the entrance of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang.

Perhaps the best way to get to know Lampang is by strolling through its old Kad Kong Ta neighbourhood. A century ago, Kad Kong Ta was bustling with European teak traders who exported the precious wood.

The old merchant houses and teak mansions are still here, but the riverside community has reinvented itself as a hip

Clockwise from Top Right Wat Lai Hin, beautiful Lanna architecture in Lampang Khao Soi noodle soup in Lampang may taste slightly different from Chiang Mai and other Lanna provinces of Thailand Baan Sao Nak or a house with many pillars Kad Kong Ta — the walking street and night market in Lampang’s old quarters

and happening neighbourhood with art and craft spaces and chill-out cafés.

To dig deeper into the lavish lifestyles of old Lampang, head to the Baan Sao Nak – or “house of many pillars” – and the Louis’ House. The former was built in 1895 by a wealthy Burmese log trader named Maung Chan Ong, and its 116 square teak pillars speak of boundless

bygone luxury. The Louis’ House, on the other hand, is a grand colonial mansion built by Louis T. Leonowens – an English log trader and son of Anna Leonowens, the famous English teacher in the royal court of Siam.

If hunger strikes, the locals swear by Khanom Jeen Pa Boon Sri restaurant for a hot and creamy bowl of Khao Soi egg

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OVERTURES THAILAND TREASURES

From Top to Bottom Elephants bathe at Thailand Elephant Conservation Centre Famous rooster ceramic bowls of Lampang Wat Phutthabat Sutthawat, hilltop temple and stupa

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noodles, or Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiaw (rice noodle in sensational tomato and pork-rib soup). Located right by the historic Rassada Phisek Bridge, this eatery is popular and you may be lucky to find a free table. Alternatively, there’s Saengwa restaurant for classic Thai recipes with a modern twist. Try Kaeng Ran Juan – aromatic sweet and sour curry with grilled pork (or beef), or Saengwa – a zesty shrimp salad.

Lampang also boasts beautiful and easily accessible countryside with more heritage landmarks, including Wat Phra That Doi Pha Chan and Wat Phutthabat Sutthawat. Both temples are perched high above the valley, and visitors must brave narrow, winding paths to experience their solitude and breath-taking views.

No trip to Lampang is complete without exchanging knowing looks with its largest residents. The Thailand Elephant Conservation Centre, 30 minutes’ drive from the city centre, is a cruelty-free refuge for domesticated jumbos. While riding the elephants is not an option, you can make an even more powerful connection through touch or by catching their eye.

Lampang is also renowned for its rooster bowls, made of high-quality kaolin (white clay). The white bowls with distinctive cockerel motif – the symbol of Lampang – make perfect souvenirs. You can strut through the history of Lampang pottery at Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum. Watch the designers at work and then see if you can resist taking home a Dhanabadee design – either traditional or modern – as a memento.

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OVERTURES A TASTE OF THAILAND

Return to the Roots Chef Santi Wongsawat’s Phensiri Restaurant: Samui’s Lost Recipe is a legend in the island’s food scene – with secret ingredients for success WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA

Chef Santi Wongsawat, a native of Samui Island, grew up immersed in the aromas and flavours of his mother’s food and sweets business. From a young age, he assisted his mother in the kitchen, honing his skills and embracing the rich culinary heritage passed down to him. The result is Phensiri, a restaurant famed for its bold southern Thai cuisine and use of fresh local ingredients.

Samui, with its archipelago, is blessed with fresh seafood in abundance. The island is also known for coconuts, which play a vital role in the local cuisine alongside the fruits of the sea. The age of coconuts matters too, as mature coconuts go best with curry-based dishes while young ones, with their subtly sweet flavour, are ideal for desserts.

Left Phensiri, with its sustainable creations, has been well-loved by locals for 11 years

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Right Chef Santi introduces Phensri as a member of the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure and Travel Association (TEATA)

Samui’s cuisine also draws inspiration from Malay herbs and spices.

For instance, Hua Kra Thue from the ginger family is a staple in southern Thai curries, though these days it is often replaced by galangal due to availability.

These unique variations help explain the delicious complexities of Samui’s cuisine. Different herbs and cooking methods create distinct flavours – exemplified by the way coconut milk is simmered on low heat to preserve its rich, sweet smoothness, or brought to a rolling boil to create a different sweetness and texture.

Growing up, Chef Santi began appreciating the exceptional quality

of Samui’s local produce. His love for the community also inspired him to support sustainable approaches, particularly in the cultivation of nutrient-rich local greens. He came to realise that people on the island had long overlooked the treasure trove of local vegetables that lay at their feet.

These indigenous greens are resistant to weather conditions and do not require pesticides. By incorporating them into Samui’s cuisine, local communities can enjoy increased income, with the potential of producing cash crops for the island in the future.

Chef Santi’s dedication extends beyond land-based produce to the sea

Clockwise from Top Yum Dok Sadao Pla Yang or spicy salad with grilled fish and Siamese Neem is one of Samui’s lost recipes Chef Santi squeezes grated coconut through a sieve to make coconut milk Traditional Samui cuisine is inspired by Malay and Hainanese recipes Gulao or Indian salmon is salted using traditional methods Phensiri’s wooden patio Chef Santi makes his own fish sauce from mackerel scad

around Samui. He buys fish caught fresh each day by local fishermen using sustainable fishing methods. This ensures their livelihoods and preserves local wisdom while guaranteeing fresh seafood for his restaurant.

At Phensiri: Samui’s Lost Recipe, Chef Santi and his crew meticulously select each ingredient to ensure the authenticity of the Southern Thai dishes they serve. His love of food is infused with unique seasonings and ingredients, resulting in a harmonious blend of distinct flavours. For example, the sweetness of coconut milk differs from that of sugar, while shrimp paste, with its aromatic oceanic essence, adds a depth of flavour that surpasses ordinary salt.

The combination of Chef Santi’s expert ingredient selection and meticulous cooking techniques contributes to the unmatched quality of every dish served at Phensiri.

Phensiri: Samui’s Lost Recipe Open daily from noon-10pm 80/30 Moo 3 Chaweng Beach Rd., Chaweng, Bophut, Samui, Surat Thani +66 (0) 77 945 151, +66 (0) 81 753 6767, www.phensiri.com, www.facebook.com/ PhensiriKohSamui

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OVERTURES FRUITFUL FINDS

If durian, mangosteen, rambutan, and longan are the sweet darlings of Thai fruit-lovers, then the tiny star gooseberry is their tangy upstart brother.

The star gooseberry is known as “mayom” in Thai – not to be confused with “mayong”, the orange marian plum.

The star gooseberry also has little in common with the European gooseberry, apart from its sour taste. This tropical fruit is believed to have originated in Madagascar but can now be found across Asia, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

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Shaped like six-pointed stars, its berries may be tiny but they are crisp, juicy and tart enough to make your mouth pucker and your eyes squint. Chew carefully, because there’s a tiny pebble-like seed hidden inside.

The light-green berries ripen to a yellow-white colour and turn red when cooked. Eaten as a refreshing snack straight from the tree, these tiny flavour-packed berries are also transformed into culinary delicacies. Think pickled star gooseberries served with chilli salt dip. Or in syrup. Or sun-dried, or pounded into a som tam or yum

spicy salad. Also keep a look out for star gooseberry juice, jam and sorbet.

The berry and other parts of the tree have also been used in Thai traditional medicine for centuries. Local folklore says planting a star gooseberry tree in your garden will bring you “niyom” or admiration (the Thai word for admire sounds a bit like the fruit’s Thai name “mayom”).

Yet despite its wide-ranging uses, this berry is rarely found in supermarkets. So if you spot a street vendor selling these rare and juicy gems, grab a few!

WORDS ARIYA CHAIYARIT

These tiny flavour-packed gems offer a sour break from Thailand’s sweet treats

PHOTO & STYLE SAMATCHA APAISUWAN

Pucker, Squint, Swallow – Meet the Star Gooseberry

OVERTURES JUST DESSERT

Bitesized Delights

pancakes are lifted out with a zinc spoon and left to cool for a minute or two before being popped into the mouth. These plump half-moon treats are sometimes sandwiched together to make a heartier bite.

The best way to enjoy Khanom Khrok is when it’s still warm – the combination of flour and coconut bursting in a sweet-salty goo on the tongue. But beware: that same gooey centre can be molten when it’s fresh off the griddle.

Toppings can range from traditional spring onions, corn and taro to gimmicky sweet potato, sweet egg yolk strings (“foi thong”) and even mango with sticky rice. One last word of caution: these crispy half-dumplings can be highly addictive!

WORDS SARITA URUPONGSA

Delicious crispy half dumplings with a sweet gooey centre, these common treats are uniquely addictive

Crisp bite-sized pancakes with a sweet and gooey coconut core: there’s nothing quite like Thailand’s Khanom Khrok. Served up by street vendors and posh eateries alike, these delicious hot treats come either naked or dimpled with crunchy corn or (surprisingly) spring onions.

This delightful snack dates back to the Ayutthaya era (14th-18th centuries) and is depicted in old temple murals.

The basic ingredients are simple – rice flour, coconut milk, sugar and salt. A thin mixture of rice flour is first poured into the hot indented griddle. When the flour begins to harden, coconut milk is poured in to give the pancake its meltin-mouth centre. Once ready, the bite-sized

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Read more

OVERTURES ARTS & CULTURAL MATTERS

All Aboard the Art Train Journeys of wonder, mystery and local insights await visitors to Singapore

Photos: Singapore Art Museum

Clockwise from Top Little Islands by Isabella Teng Yen Lin at Tanjong Pagar Plaza Sea of Flags by Grace Tan at Tanjong Pagar DistriPark, Block 39 Side Facade (facing Block 37) Grounding Points: Settling In by Aki Hassan at Duxton Plain Park Everfowl Estate by Divaagar at Everton Park, in front of Block 1

Merriam-Webster defines a trail as “a track made by passage especially through a wilderness”. The word “wilderness” evokes a sense of mystique that offers countless possibilities. For the adventurous, it could be the raw beauty of a deep jungle path, but for others the wonder and mystery lies in our everyday lives transformed by the power of art.

Inspired by this playful spirit of adventure, the Everyday Museum – a public art initiative run by Singapore Art Museum – conjures magic from the mundane in local communities.

Port/raits of Tanjong Pagar: Encounters with Art in the Neighbourhood is a lively art installation located between Outram Park MRT station and Singapore Art

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Museum at Tanjong Pagar DistriPark.

Clockwise from Top Moonlight by Sookoon Ang at Wessex Estate Open Field behind 2 Wilton Close

The series of public artworks created by artists and collectives portray the busy district’s transformation over the decades, revealing its roots in slower and more traditional lifestyles.

Walk Walk by Tan Pin Pin at Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal

Meanwhile, Singapore Deviation: Wander with Art through the Rail Corridor offers visitors an imaginative journey along the city’s iconic transport route. Hang onto your hats as public artworks by Sookoon Ang, Hilmi

diverse histories and relationships

Johandi, and Tan Pin Pin steam from

bound together through the rails.

the colonial railway to the new wildlife

Check out the Port/raits of Tanjong

corridor and recreation hall. The art trail

Pagar at Duxton Plain Park, Everton

runs parallel to the original Singapore-

Park, Tanjong Pagar Plaza and Tanjong

Kranji Railway, taking you on a trip

Pagar Distripark.

through the city’s transformation over

Board the Singapore Deviation art

time. The artworks travel from colonial

trail at Kampung Bahru Bus Terminal and

times to the modern day, tracking the

Wessex Estate. singaporeartmuseum.sg

Stagecraft: Landscaped Grounds

by Hilmi Johandi at Wessex Estate Rail Corridor Access at 55A Commonwealth Drive Key visual of Singapore Deviation

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OVERTURES TECH TALK

Come Rain or Shine Words: Richard Augustin

Wet season dampening your enthusiasm? Maybe it’s time to arm yourself with a waterproof/water-resistant gadget RUGGED BUDS JBL ENDURANCE PEAK 3 HEADPHONES

Wireless, waterproof and tough, JBL’s new headphones deliver your favourite tunes or podcasts anywhere. Built to withstand the elements, these rugged buds will suit outdoorsy types with up to 50 hours of playback on a single charge and IP68 water and dust resistance. Features like Ambient Aware and Talk Thru with four microphones also allow users to make and accept calls with ease.

Price: 5,442 baht / th.jbl.com

POWER FOR VLOGGERS CANON POWERSHOT V10

Small and lightweight, the PowerShot V10 is a handy camera to carry while travelling. Professional-quality 4K videos come from its 1.0-inch CMOS sensor with DIGIC X, while the built-in stand and microphone make recording a breeze. Image stabilisation, wide-angle lens and face tracking add to the amazing clarity. That said, the Canon PowerShot V10 is not waterproof – though a soft, waterproof case is sold separately. Priced from 14,000 baht / th.canon

TRACKING TOUGH G-SHOCK DW-H5600

Casio has expanded its G-Squad line of shock-resistant, tough watches with the DW-H5600, which comes with the added benefit of a heartrate monitor. The new watch also features an optical sensor and accelerometer for tracking activity.

It supports four modes of exercise: running, walking, gym workouts, and interval training. Apart from heartrate, users can also track distance and calories burned. Price: 10,708 baht / www.casio.com/th

WATCH AND LISTEN HUAWEI WATCH BUDS

Want a smartwatch with earbuds? The new Huawei Watch Buds could be just what you’re looking for. The smartwatch features a 1.43-inch AMOLED colour touchscreen attached to a 47mm stainless steel case. Pop the case open and you’ll find a pair of wireless earbuds with noise-cancellation features.

The watch, meanwhile, will keep an eye on your health with heartrate, sleep, and SpO2 monitoring plus 80+ workout modes. It’s also splash, dust and water resistant under normal conditions. The earbuds are splash proof with an IP54-rating. Price: 13,990 baht / consumer.huawei.com/th

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TAKE NOTE XIAOMI REDMI NOTE 12 5G

Although it’s pegged as a midrange smart device, the Note 12 packs in enough to put far more expensive devices to shame. Exceeding expectations for its price segment, this phone comes with IP53 water resistance and boasts a super smooth 120Hz AMOLED display. Powered by the latest Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, 8GB of RAM and Snapdragon 685 Mobile Platform respectively, operations are seamless, allowing for easy multitasking. The battery is fast-charging and long-lasting while the solid AI triple camera makes shooting a joy. Priced from 7,599 baht / www.bnn.in.th

FLAGSHIP PERFORMANCE POCO F5 PRO

DROP THE BEAT BEATS STUDIO BUDS+

Rich, immersive sound is the signature of Beats Studio Buds+, whether you’re listening to music or taking calls.

Each bud comes equipped with a custom two-layer transducer that delivers cleaner bass and ultra-low distortion. The new microphone is three times larger, with 1.6 times improved noise cancellation properties.

These buds are compatible with both Apple and Android devices, offer up to 9 hours of battery life, and are sweat and water resistant. Priced from 5,600 baht / www.central.co.th

The F5 is an allrounder – though targeted more at gaming geeks, photography enthusiasts and tech lovers. Powered by Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, POCO F5 Pro is the first device from the brand to feature a WQHD+ 120Hz AMOLED DotDisplay. It also boasts a 64MP+8MP+2MP triple camera setup with support for 8K video shooting. The package includes a 30W wireless charger and 67W turbo charging option. IP53 splash-proof protection helps it withstand the elements. Price: 15,000 baht / www.mi.com/th

SHOOT TO THRILL XIAOMI 13 PRO

Xiaomi’s latest offering may have shutterbugs ditching their DSLR cameras. The 13 Pro arrives with an ultra-large 1-inch sensor and a 75mm Leica floating telephoto lens. The phone also offers toptier performance powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 sensor, a dynamic 120Hx AMOLED display, 12GB of RAM + 512GB ROM and an ultra-powerful battery with hyper charging. It also sports a stylish design with IP68 water and dust resistance for durability. Price: 39,990 baht / www.mi.com/th

SWIMMING MELODIES SONY NW-WS410 SERIES

GAMING ON THE GO ROG ALLY

A boon for gamers on the fly, the ROG Ally is an incredibly powerful Windows II handheld gaming device. Driven by the cutting-edge AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, the Ally can breeze through AAA games and indie titles in 1080p with ease. Robust support and partnerships make the Ally fully compatible with Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic, GOG, and more. It also comes conveniently packed in its very own water-repellent case. Price: 28,800 baht / www.expansys.in.th

Dancing in the rain is easy with the latest Sony Walkman tech. Want to get even wetter? No problem: these wireless headphones are so waterproof that they can deliver music under two metres of water – even saltwater. Completely wireless with an ergonomic fit, this Sports Walkman also boasts 4GB of storage space for your tunes. Plus its sealed design keeps out sand, dust and grit. Price: 2,990 baht / www.sony.co.th

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OVERTURES CHECKED IN

A Map to

Sensual Samui

Photo courtesy: Explorar Koh Samui

Follow this trail for two peak experiences to pamper your taste buds, body and soul plus better vision in Bangkok

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OVERTURES CHECKED IN: SAMUI

STAYED: EXPLORAR

WORDS LOREN INFELD PHOTOS EXPLORAR

Explorar Koh Samui and its sister property on Koh Phangan offer a doorway to what the next generation of luxury holidays will look and feel like.

While a business traveller in New York may demand heel-clicking service in immaculate surroundings, this is Samui – a casual holiday island in the Thai tropics.

People are travelling for a warm, relaxing, and friendly experience and Explorar meets all those expectations and more.

The tone at this adults-only resort (no squealing kids!) on the gorgeous Mae Nam coastline is set by exceptionally friendly and capable staff and a vibe of free-andeasy accessibility.

Every member of staff greets you with a smile. Don’t be surprised if everyone here, from receptionists and waiters to groundskeepers and trainees, knows your name immediately. You can feel they are happy to be part of the Explorar family.

The accommodation ranges from hotel rooms to apartment-style suites to walled garden pool villas. All are impeccably designed with a well-planned, light and airy modern feel. But the beachfront pool villas are the jewels in this crown. Floor to ceiling windows extend

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even to the cleverly designed double shower, offering you a panoramic ocean view interrupted only by your private patio and infinity pool.

Even with such opulent rooms, General Manager Adam Boulton believes it’s the experience that distinguishes Explorar from other hotels.

“We want to showcase modern hospitality – a simple human approach with genuine care, like friends hosting friends. Explorar offers a complete holiday, blending leisure and experiences through events and exploration,” he explains.

The Exchange, the signature co-working space across from the massive, elegant pool, allows you to send a quick work email without disrupting the holiday mood.

Next door, the café and swim-up bar with breezy indoor and outdoor seating, a spectacular menu, and affable staff also hosts wonderful music most evenings – plus an unmissable breakfast buffet spread.

Clockwise from Top Kick back in a private Garden Pool Villa A stunning view from a Beach Pool Villa Exhale Spa’s oversized rooms exude tranquility Explorar’s Deluxe Sea View rooms offer panoramic views Every well-appointed room feels light and airy Strolling through the grounds evokes a quiet peacefulness

Exhale Spa is well-equipped and tranquil, offering top-class treatments in large private rooms with the added bonus of a nail salon. The gym next door, as well as yoga and wellness activities, add a healthy touch to an extraordinarily relaxing and charming resort experience.

Explorar breathes the new style of luxury – a beautiful beach resort with a warm and serene atmosphere that lingers in the mind long after check-out.

EXPLORAR KOH SAMUI 44, 134 Mae Nam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84330, +66 (0) 77 953 035 www.explorarhotels.com

TASTED: THE CLIFF BAR & GRILL

Clockwise from Top Cliffhanger, The Cliff’s signature cocktail

WORDS LOREN INFELD PHOTOS THE CLIFF BAR & GRILL & LOREN INFELD

The Cliff Bar & Grill has been winning awards and praise for its gourmet food and unbeatable selection of fine wines for nearly two decades now. Attentive staff welcome guests in the indoors dining area or the comfortable bar lounge for drinks.

But a reservation can guarantee you a coveted table on the patio overlooking the turquoise ocean between Chaweng and Lamai, framing the picturesque Silver Beach. The gorgeous sunlit view transforms into a starlit romantic canopy at night.

Chef Sergio Martelli and his team, meanwhile, whip up gourmet creations starring 21-day-aged Australian beef and freshly caught seafood. Begin your feast with an artfully arranged burrata platter, salami tray or salad as you peruse the vast menu for the perfect entrée.

Patio seating offers fresh sea air and stunning views The Portuguese Sizzling Steak cooked to perfection Spicy Peri Peri Organic Chicken is to die for Spaghetti Alfredo Con Tartufo Fresco Bacon and Mushroom Burrata Cheese Parma Ham with Argula and Dried Apricots

If prawns and lobster don’t appeal, try the succulent Piri Piri grilled chicken.

For pasta fans, palate-pleasing classics like Spaghetti Alfredo Con Tartufo Fresco with truffle-infused parmesan sauce await.

Carnivores can hunt through the long list of Australian steaks, from traditional filet and striploin to sizzling Portuguesestyle steak topped with a fried egg.

Finding the perfect liquid match for your meal won’t be a problem: The Cliff has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for several years running.

The Cliff Bar & Grill 124/2 Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, +66 (0) 77 448 508 www.thecliffsamui.com

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OVERTURES CHECKED IN: BANGKOK

TESTED: ISOPTIK : THE HI-END EYEGLASSES CENTRE

WORDS ANNA WINTERS PHOTOS ISOPTIK

For anyone encountering eyesight problems, finding the right pair of glasses is essential. Beyond the desire to look as good as iconic eyeglass-wearers such as John Lennon or Johnny Depp, the essential need is for clear and sharp vision.

ISOPTIK : The Hi-End Eyeglasses Centre, located on the second floor of AIA Capital Centre building on Bangkok’s busy Ratchadaphisek Road, is renowned for its optometry services accompanied by unmatched hospitality. However, if you expect to have your glasses made in 15-30 minutes, you will be surprised.

Here, the process of measuring eyesight and creating the glasses takes about two hours, so you are advised to make an appointment to avoid queuing.

Top The spacious ISOPTIK showroom Middle from Left Hundreds of eyeglass frames to match your style Eye test Master Bobi conducts a vision test Bottom A new and hygienic tool for precision eye measurement

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The surprising level of service begins on entering the centre. You are welcomed with a hot or cold beverage of your choice – from Iced Latte to Macchiato. Stepping into the spacious and elegant surroundings feels like walking into a jewellery shop, with hundreds of eyepieces on display.

The first 30 minutes are dedicated to recording your personal information.

Are you a sportsperson, a surgeon, or do you work at a computer screen? All activities, lifestyles, and behaviours are recorded as basic personal data before analysing your vision.

Next, the ophthalmologist will spend 30 minutes assessing the health of your eyes. Then comes the eye-measuring process, which takes about the same length of time. In the adjacent white room, new and hygienic devices guarantee precision through every step of the examination process.

Your chin and forehead are carefully

aligned with machines to analyse your vision for colour perception, focusing, and blurry points.

The final step involves trying the lens and selecting the perfect frame for your very own personalised pair of Ultra Individual 3D Smart Progressive lenses. The quality of your new ISOPTIK eyeglasses is guaranteed by the national product of the year awards.

As the second-generation high-end eyeglass maker Somboon Numtipjuntacharern, aka Master Bobi, the visionary behind ISOPTIK, once said: “You need a pair of glasses that seamlessly align with your body and mind as one.”

His journey in progressive eyeglassmaking has made profound impacts, both on himself and on ISOPTIK wearers.

ISOPTIK : The Hi-End Eyeglasses Centre 89 AIA Capital Centre building, 2nd floor, Din Daeng, Bangkok, +66 (0) 86 565 5711 www.isoptik.com

SURF SEASON

CATCHING THEW The Andaman coast serves up tasty curls and unique Thai surf culture

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WAVEINPHUKET 37

SURF SEASON

T

hailand’s largest island is famous for some of the world’s best beaches, a vibrant nightlife and a mind-blowing culinary landscape.

But Phuket also boasts a hidden side that surprises visitors who arrive at the right time of the year – a thriving surfing culture.

From Top to Bottom Several surf competitions are held throughout the year in Phuket Phuket’s waves may lack quality, but that is made up for by warm, clear waters and picturesque tropical backdrops Waves in Phuket are perfect for beginners, yet they still deliver enough action to keep experienced surfers happy

In the peak travel season, December to April, tourists are met with palm-shaded sands lapped by the calm, azure waters of the Andaman Sea. But after April, Phuket reveals its other side, as the waves rise to beckon those with a keen sense of adventure.

Surfing in Phuket has a surprisingly deep history dating back half a century. The 1970s was the golden era of surf exploration when the sports’ pioneers scoured the coasts of Southeast Asia in search of raw adventure. However, Phuket failed to match the quality and consistency of waves they found a few hundred kilometres south in Indonesia, and the island was relegated to the footnotes of surfing history.

Over the next few decades, Phuket’s waves were forgotten by all but a handful of expat surfers, opportunistic holidaymakers, and adventurous Thais.

Fast forward to 2020, when COVID-19 arrived and left people with endless leisure time on their hands. With beachside hotels offering huge discounts, many decided to quit the city for the beach

And since the waves arrive with the wet season in Phuket, surfing becomes a perfect rainy day activity. where they discovered the perfect antidote to lockdown blues: surfing.

Celebrity heartthrobs also caught the boarding bug, supercharging the trend.

The Thai surfing scene exploded.

Surfing schools and rental shacks sprang up on beaches from Rayong to Songkhla that showed even the slightest ripple. Big crowds joined surfing competitions and festivals in popular spots like Phuket, Khao Lak and Laem Ya. The wave rose so high that Thailand now has a surfing team that competes internationally, with riders enjoying big-name sponsorships.

Wild but also cool, surfing has

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always exerted a magnetic pull on people of all ages. Though some are quickly turned off by its challenges, others develop a lifelong love affair with the board. Surfing brings you closer to nature, while forcing you to leave your worries on the shore.

It brings surreal magical moments: glimpsing the sunset through a clear, blue wave, or that indescribable sense of achievement as you catch a wave in a dance of perfect harmony.

This novelty sport can easily grow into a hobby before finally embracing you in its laidback, laughter-filled, sun-kissed lifestyle.

In contrast with other sports, surfing relies entirely on the whims

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SURF SEASON

SURIN BEACH The surf school and board rentals are close to the main parking area behind the middle of the beach.

Look out for the big rock that is only visible at low tide.

WAVE HUNTING IN PHUKET

From Top Located across from the surf break, Super Surf Kata offers endless waves to practice and showoff your skills Super Surf Kata has additional two attractions: surfing after dark and tasty cocktails!

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of nature. Phuket, however, offers fairly consistent waves from April to November that are ideal for beginners. And the warm, tropical sunshine means you can always leave your wetsuit at home. For newbies, there are schools with skilled instructors sprinkled along Phuket’s west coast.

Though surfing may seem daunting at first, the right conditions and a good instructor can see you catching waves within an hour or two. And since the waves arrive with the wet season in Phuket, surfing becomes a perfect rainy day activity.

For those surfers who aren’t ready to put their boards away at sundown, Super Surf Kata off Kata Beach makes fantasies of a never-ending wave at the perfect speed come true. Though riding the artificial wave here is more like wakeboarding, the skills and sensations are similar and just as fun. The centre also offers surfers the chance to sharpen their skills for the next day’s session on the beach. Last but not least, it gives you an excuse to enjoy an after-surf cocktail and kick back to live music and beach vibes.

There are over a dozen surfing sites on Phuket’s west coast, but the following are the most notable. Most offer lessons from May to December:

PATONG/KALIM Patong Beach stretches deep into the bay, so doesn’t get too many big swells, making it perfect for beginners.

There’s a surfing school with boards across from the Four Points Hotel.

Kalim, meanwhile, is a rocky pointbreak just north of Patong suited only to experienced surfers. The swells here can be impressive and challenging at high tide.

NAI THON A small, picturesque beach surrounded by mountains.

Board rental and lessons are available, but you will see few if any other surfers. The boys at the rental stand will show you where to go to avoid the rocks.

WHAT YOU NEED

You may think that a surfer really only needs a board and a swimsuit, but a couple of other things are required to ensure a smooth ride.

KARON BEACH Several kilometres of sugary white sand offer a stunning backdrop to some perfect peaks. The surf school and shop at the traffic circle offers lessons, boards, accessories and a space for weekend warriors to park their boards. However, Karon is quite exposed and can get a bit wild when stormy!

WAX: Makes your board tacky so your feet don’t slip

BANG TAO/LAYAN Wide beaches stretching for several kilometres offer surfers plenty of opportunity to find the pleasant wave.

Board rental and lessons are available on Bang Tao, while Layan to the north is undeveloped but offers inviting waves near the mouth of the river.

KATA BEACH Kata is usually considered to be Phuket’s surf capital. It can get a bit crowded at times, but for good reason: Kata has the island’s best waves for all levels. Plus, there are plenty of schools where lessons are available in several different languages.

Board: Start with a long board and work your way down as you progress

LEASH: Attaches the board to your leg and should be about the same length as your board FINS: One for long boards, two for speed and manoeuvrability, thruster (three) for all-rounders, quad (four fins) for speed and control in bigger waves

KAMALA Kamala has perfect conditions for beginners – soft waves that are neither fast nor steep nor crowded, with plenty of boards and instructors available just north of Café del Mer.

ZINC SUNBLOCK: This type offers the best protection, is water resistant and does not contain chemicals that are harmful to marine life.

RASH GUARD: Longsleeved stretchy shirt that serves as a barrier between your skin and both the board and the sun

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SUKHOTHAI

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Words Khetsirin Pholdhampalit Photos Atripical.ig

Visitors can now bring the ancient culture of Thailand’s first capital back to life in galleries and workshops that dot the UNESCO World Heritage city

V

isitors to the UNESCO World Heritage ruins in Sukhothai are now getting the chance to bring the fascinating history of Thailand’s first capital back to life.

Local artists are opening their studios to hold workshops where tourists can learn to make anything from clay Buddhist amulets and heritage ceramicware to intricate textiles.

Sukhothai’s cultural roots can be traced in its distinctive blue-green glazed ceramic ware called Sangkhalok. These gleaming ceramics lit up the kingdom from 1238 to 1428 CE, and the centuriesold craft has been revived to make Sangkhalok Sukhothai’s most famous product today.

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SUKHOTHAI

Clockwise from Top Left Hand-drawn Pla Ka Dam fish motif on Sangkhalok ware A Ganesha takes the pride of place at Ganesha Gallery Drawing a traditional Pla Ka Dam pattern on a clay plate needs skill and practice Hathairat shows drawing techniques An array of ceramic and Sangkhalok wares inside Ganesha Gallery

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For an introduction to Sangkhalok ceramic making, look no further than Ganesha Gallery near the Sukhothai Historical Park, where workshops on pottery and inscribing traditional patterns are offered.

“Let me show you to how to draw a fish called the Pla Ka Dam [black sharkminnow], a distinctive motif used to decorate ancient Sangkhalok ware. The handdrawn style is unique to the local pottery,” says Ganesha Gallery’s co-founder Hathairat Promphet, as she guides visitors step by step through the process.

Each workshop participant is given a small clay plate on which they draw the pattern with a pencil under Hathairat’s careful guidance. Once the drawing is complete, the plate is glazed and then fired in the kiln at a precise temperature to create the perfect

shape and colour. The complex firing process takes time, and it is four weeks before the ceramics are delivered to participants.

The 60-minute workshop costs 600 baht per person inclusive of materials and refreshments. Anyone with a little more time to spare can learn how to mould clay into a mug, bowl, or elephant figurine in the 90-minute workshop priced at 900 baht per person.

“Our pottery goes through a biscuit firing [pre-glaze firing] at 800 degrees Celsius and then glaze firing at 1,270°C, to create stoneware that is durable, vitrified, and nonporous,” says Hathairat,

who established the gallery 17 years ago with her spouse Santi.

Ganesha Gallery produces its own Sangkhalok ware in both traditional and contemporary styles ranging from teaspoons, animal figurines, plates, and bowls to coffee mugs and vases. Traditional patterns include fishes, lotuses, vines, and waves to symbolise old Sukhothai’s fertility. The classic blue shade comes tinged with green and red, influenced by the pottery of China’s Ming Dynasty.

For a contemporary twist, Hathairat and Santi use wood-ash to create distinctive turquoise, oxblood, and blue-purple glazes for

Clockwise from Top Left Hathairat Promphet, co-founder of Ganesha Gallery

Western and Japanese-influenced ceramics that update the motifs.

The gallery also lives up to its name by creating Ganesha figures both big and small.

A short hop away is Baan Phra Phim Laksamonsilp, where friendly couple Narongchai and Yanapat Torin guide visitors through the ancient art of making Buddhist clay amulets from moulds. Narongchai, or “Kob”, first leads visitors to his boutique gallery for an introduction

to Sukhothai-period amulets via the private collection he unearthed on his property.

“Sukhothai-era amulets come in over 1,200 distinctive designs and I reproduce some for the sake of educational purposes. I am trying to keep alive the tradition of amulet making, which is a very important ritual dating back to the Sukhothai kingdom,” says Kob. Visitors are then invited to push soft clay into small moulds to make

Narongchai and Yanapat Torin of Baan Phra Phim Laksamonsilp are passionate about reviving Sukhothaiera amulet making Preparing clay for making amulets The hand-crafted amulet Removing excess clay Various shapes and styles of Ganesha Gallery’s ceramic and Sangkhalok ware

Traditional patterns include fishes, lotuses, vines, and waves to symbolise old Sukhothai’s fertility. The classic blue shade comes tinged with green and red, influenced by the pottery of China’s Ming Dynasty.

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SUKHOTHAI

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two styles of the talismans – the Phra Nang Phaya Saneh Chan for charm and power and Phra Luang Prathan Phon for prosperity.

“Press the clay into the mould firmly. You can use your thumbprint or a symbol to mark the amulet as your own before popping it out from the mould,” Kob grins as he engraves the back of the tablets with Khmer script.

The firing process takes about eight hours and the clay amulets are delivered to participants the following day. Kob also runs workshops teaching participants how to handle a bow and arrow, Sukhothai style. The 60-minute workshop costs 300 baht per person.

If weaving is more your thing, Suntree Thai Textile in Si Satchanalai district is a living museum showcasing the production process for phasin or wraparound skirts – from selecting the locally grown cotton types and hand-spinning the thread, to dyeing and weaving.

Suntree Thai Textile is renowned for preserving nine traditional patterns illustrating the rich heritage of Thai-Phuan people living in the area. The artisans are skilful in weaving the decorative hem (teen jok) of phasin, requiring intricate techniques to create the complicated and exquisite patterns.

“A weaver normally takes

The artisans are skilful in weaving the decorative hem (teen jok) of phasin, requiring intricate techniques to create the complicated and exquisite patterns.

Opposite Page Top Left Suntree Wichitnak, founder of Suntree Thai Textile, who was bestowed the title of master artisan by the SUPPORT Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand Top Right Raweewan Khanadnid follows her mother, Suntree’s footsteps in traditional textile weaving Others Suntree Thai Textile is like a living museum where visitors learn and participate in the weaving process and ornament making

about two months to complete an elaborate teen jok and the body of the skirt with a handloom. The completed item can cost up to 15,000 baht for a cotton phasin or 100,000 baht for one woven with silk and golden thread,” says Raweewan Khanadnid, who inherited the family business from her mother, Suntree Wichitnak.

Suntree was bestowed the title of master artisan by the SUPPORT Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand.

Visitors can learn how to weave intricate teen jok patterns in a 120-minute workshop that costs 600 baht per person, including materials and refreshments. For an easier option, it takes about 60 minutes to learn how to make earrings, keychains, or bag charms from a range of materials including pom-poms, textile scraps, beads, tassels, and fabric buttons. The fees range from 200 to 350 baht per person.

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KAMPONG GLAM Words & Photos Kankanit Wichiantanon

WHEN IN SINGAPORE,

GLAM IT UP! The Lion City’s historic Muslim enclave roars with the energy of a myriad different cultures

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KAMPONG GLAM

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n many culinary traditions across Asia, tossing various spices together in sizzling fat (be it oil or ghee) is the way to unlock their full aroma.

Similarly, Kampong Glam’s melting pot of cultures is infused with the best that its different communities have to offer.

Singapore’s Muslim enclave is a blend of Islamic communities from different countries and cultures that bursts with a unique and vibrant flavour. The Arab-Malay neighbourhood boasts a myriad of businesses worthy of a visit – restaurants, cafés, bars and shophouses that are packed full of handicrafts, fabrics, fragrances, rugs, and ceramics, to name a few.

Foodies with a taste for good Middle Eastern, Malay and/or Indian food will find the vast array of restaurants and cafés here a delight… I did!

During my two trips to the Lion City, I found myself drawn to Kampong Glam more than any other, visiting it daily. The buildings and people exude a warmth and gentleness that kept me coming back for more. As well as aromas from restaurants, the air is thick with a sweet and spicy perfume from fragrance shops that I wish I could bottle.

Top The streets of Kampong Glam serve as an outdoor gallery, with lovely murals and even cool artworks hanging in unexpected places – like by the trash bins in backstreets Bottom One of the many beautiful murals found in Kampong Glam

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Along with its status as a Muslim enclave, Kampong Glam is also a hub for some of the coolest happenings in town.

Although the spotlight is on Arab Street and Haji Lane, nooks and crannies behind the scenes glimmer with interesting hangouts waiting to be explored.

Nestled in the heart of Kampong Glam is the renowned Singapore attraction of Masjid Sultan or Sultan Mosque. This national monument, built in the early 19th century by Sultan Hussein and reconstructed in the 1920s to serve the growing Muslim population, holds huge cultural significance for Muslims in the city-state.

Along with its status as a Muslim enclave, Kampong Glam is also a hub for some of the coolest happenings in town. Turkish, Lebanese, Moroccan,

Malay and Indian culinary delights vie for your attention with newer Italian, Mexican, French, Swedish and Korean arrivals.

With its abundance of offerings and prime location just a stone’s throw from must-visit attractions like the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, this area has become a must-visit neighbourhood for locals and tourists alike.

My mission for my latest fiveday visit was to explore the depths of Kampong Glam and cram as many restaurants, cafés and shops into my itinerary as possible.

By day three, I had established a solid routine: morning coffee at Earlybird or Arabica followed by

Clockwise from Top Left Type8ar, where you can take a typewriting class Vintagewknd, a clothing store for great retro finds Black Sheep & Co Bar, a hip coffee shop slash bar on Haji Lane

a Murtabak (stuffed folded flatbread) feast at my absolute favourite restaurant, Zam Zam, and a mini catch-up with the friendly cooks who make the place so welcoming.

Lunch and dinner plans varied, depending on my mood and cravings, but I found it tough to resist returning to Islamic Restaurant for the opulent interior and scrumptious Mutton Biryani, or the Symmetry for its Eggs Benedict generously sprinkled with maple-glazed bacon bits.

As sunset approached, I would stroll leisurely along Haji Lane, lined with bars, cafés and shops with unique concepts, like

Solace Studios (a Korean selfie studio), Musicology Records (a record shop), Vintagewknd (retro clothing store), The French American Bakery, Madd Pizza, Black Sheep & Co Bar and Type8ar, where you can take a typewriting class.

For art lovers, the streets of Kampong Glam serve as an outdoor gallery. Expect to see cool artwork painted on buildings or hanging in unexpected places – like by the trash bins in backstreets.

Whether you wanna indulge in delectable offerings, get caffeinated, shop, or just wander around appreciating street art, Kampong Glam has got you covered.

Clockwise from Bottom Left The calm before the storm in Haji Lane’s bar scene Stop off at Earlybird for a cup of Joe when in Kampong Glam Musicology Records on Haji Lane Grand Bazaar Turkish Handicrafts on Bussorah Street

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Bangkok Night Out No trip to Bangkok is complete without a visit to Jodd Fairs DanNeramit. The city’s newest nightmarket attraction features a fairy-tale castle, colourful hot-air balloons, and vintage cars, along with countless stalls offering food plus knick-knacks to take home for souvenirs.

BANGKOK 60 / SAMUI 62 / PHUKET 66 / CHIANG MAI, PATTAYA & TRAT 69 / HONG KONG 70 / SINGAPORE 71 / PHNOM PENH, SIEM REAP 72 / LUANG PRABANG 73

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HAPPENINGS THAILAND

SPOTLIGHT

Treasure Hunt

Crazy for Japanese toy vending machines and the collectible treasures they hide? Head to the new Gashapon Bandai Official Shop on Siam Centre’s first floor and drop in your coins, turn the knob, and wait for the “pon” as the capsule drops. The huge variety of collectibles hidden inside range from anime and game characters to Japanese mascots to figures from SpyXFamily and Tokyo Revengers. With more than 270 vending machines installed, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for. Open daily 10am-10pm, Siam Centre. www.facebook.com/gashaponbandaithailand

LONDON LEGEND

London icon The Wolseley has transported its gastronomic charm to Bangkok’s Anantara hotel for a limited time. At Café Wolseley, foodies can treat their taste buds to à la carte offerings like Dressed Dorset Crab, Roast Anjou Chicken with Morels, and Aubergine Schnitzel, or a two- or three-course meal from the Prix Fixe menu. The Wolseley signature also infuses cocktails and

desserts like Mai O’ Mai Tai and Muay Thai or the “enhanced New York-style” Baked Vanilla Cheesecake and Manjari Chocolate Tart. Reservation is advised.

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch from noon to 2.30pm, and Monday to Sunday for dinner from 6pm to 10.30pm.

Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, siam-bangkok.anantara.com.

THE STROKES

New York-based alternative rockers The Strokes will be on stage in Bangkok on July 18. Frontman Julian Casablancas, guitarists Nick Valensi and Albert Hammond Jr, bassist Nikolai Fraiture, and drummer Fabrizio Moretti redefined indie rock with their first album “Is This It”. By their sixth album, “The New Abnormal”, they had been showered with Grammys and hailed as one of the most influential bands of the 21st century. The Strokes are due on stage at 7pm on July 18 at Thunder Dome, Muang Thong Thani. Tickets at www.ticketmelon.com or viagogo.com.

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BANGKOK

BRILLIANT BAZAAR

A new contender for the crown of Bangkok’s best night bazaar has popped up on Rama IX Road just north of the famed Chatuchak Market.

Jodd Fairs DanNeramit serves up a vast variety of delicious street food amid a huge maze of unique handmade

SPOTLIGHT

Delicacies at Dawn

Diners grazing on Nusaras’ award-winning dishes also get to feast their eyes on a stunning sight: the Temple of Dawn. Though the setting is homely and the menu inspired by the owner’s family recipes, the servings are anything but plain home-cooked food.

Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn, executive chef and owner of the famous Michelin Awardwinning Le Du, calls his creations “colourful Thai cuisine”. He says his dishes capture his grandma’s joyful nature and old Bangkok’s history and timelessness.

Reservation is required. Open daily from 5pm to 9pm except Tuesday. +66 (0) 97 293 5549, www.nusarabkk.com/ reservation

items and pre-loved treasures. Don’t miss Instagrammable spots like the dream castle, sailboat corner and parade of classic cars. Open daily from 4pm to midnight. MRT Phahonyothin Station, Exit 3, and BTS Ha Yaek Lat Phrao Station, Exit 4. www.facebook.com/ JoddFairs.DanNeramit

NEIGHBOURHOOD DESIGN COMMUNITY

Atelier 2+ has transformed a 5-storey shophouse into a mixeduse, communal design space called “Ground For”. With a naked design aesthetic and natural colour, the building is located right next to the Phahonyothin 59 BTS Skytrain station, and houses a studio, café, gallery, retail space, workshop and small garden.

The five-storey sandwich is anchored by Vibrant Coffee Bar on the ground floor. Climb the stairs for pop-up events, the Atelier 2+ design studio on the third floor, Naphakard Contemporary Craft and Design Gallery above that, and “Noone” – an “invisible” meeting space at the top.

Upcoming workshops include soundbathing and leatherwork. Open daily 8.30am to 6pm, +66 (0) 85 121 2223, Line Official: @groundfor, www.facebook.com/groundfor

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HAPPENINGS THAILAND SPOTLIGHT

Poolside Beats

Pool-party animals may want to mark their calendar for the weekly watery shenanigans at ARKbar Beach Club Koh Samui.

Each Wednesday, the famous Pisina Pool Party offers the chance to splash away your stress, sip on sangria, and dance the day away as DJs pump out upbeat tunes from noon till 8pm. +66 (0) 77 413 333, www.facebook.com/ ArkBarBeachResort

SENSUAL ITALIAN

GO DEEP AND DIRTY

Passion is the heart of Italian cuisine, and Pepenero Koh Samui pairs authentic flavours with sensual dimly-lit surroundings complete with a pink velvet throne and floor to ceiling shelves packed with wine bottles. Chef Alain Di Tomaso and Maître d’ Paolo Migliorini serve up delicacies created with premium ingredients specially imported from Italy.

Recommended are the juicy Fiorentina Steak, and Charcuterie Board brimming with a medley of cold cuts and cheese.

Be sure to try the La Raspadüra, a traditional Italian cheese that is shaved into ribbons right by your table. Open Monday to Saturday 6pm to 11pm. +66 (0) 77 963 353, www.facebook.com/ pepenerokohsamui

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One of the best ways to explore off-the-beaten tracks in Koh Samui is with an ATV and buggy adventure. X-Quad Samui ATV Tour offers a chance to see Samui in a new light while getting your adrenaline pumping at the same time.

Get deep and dirty with the four-hour Mountain Tour along muddy forest paths to the island’s highest point for a Thai feast. Capping your ATV expedition is a waterfall hidden among the trees, where you can jump in for a refreshing swim to wash off the dirt and the sweat before returning to the hotel. +66 (0) 90 980 5401, www.xquad-samui.com

SAMUI

MUAY THAI FOR EVERYONE

Fitness fans can up their game with martial arts classes at Tom Muay Thai Camp. Led by a Russian professional fighter, Tom Tomas, the camp is renowned for exceptional training offered for both newbies and experienced fighters. The facilities are also difficult to beat, with a wellequipped alfresco gym surrounded by lush green. Get a one-class pass (2 hours per class) to try out the venue, or opt for the 12, 15, 24 or 48-class memberships to dive deep into the art of Muay Thai. +66 (0) 86 302 7288, www.tommuaythai.com

SPOTLIGHT

Family Favourites READY FOR TAKE-OFF?

For a water sport that takes you airborne, check out flyboarding. Flyboard Koh Samui invites you to experience this elevating activity to get you hooked on the sensation of skimming over the sea. To ensure your “I believe I can fly” moment goes smoothly, pro flyboarders/instructors are on hand to give you step-by-step directions on how to reach the heights of fun. +66 (0) 61 873 4898, www.facebook. com/flyboard.koh.samui. chaweng.beach

Tara Bistro Samui has a must-try menu for those who love Thai cuisine. Nestled in Cascade Tara Resort, this eatery serves up time-tested favourites like Prawn Satay, Goong Saep Tara and Tara Spicy Seafood Salad. Don’t miss the incomparable Goong Yen Tara or cold prawns blanketed in fiery chilli-speckled sauce.

Western comfort food is also offered, including Surf and Turf, Salmon Steak, and Carbonara. Open daily 9am to 10pm. +66 (0) 98 822 9566, www.tarabistrosamui.com

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HAPPENINGS THAILAND

SPOTLIGHT

Bathing With Elephants KART, SKYDIVE – THEN SURF

SAMUI

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui has raised the bar for cruelty free animal attractions with its emphasis on ethical treatment of its magnificent residents.

Interactive tours give deep insights into the organisation’s mission, as well as upclose encounters with elephants as they go about their daily routines.

Those with a need for speed will find full-throttle satisfaction at Easykart. Four horsepower options range from regular karts with a top speed of 40kph to speedsters that reach up to 70kph. For a family-friendly kart, go for the two-seaters that are designed for parents to watch over little learner drivers (children must be at least 110cm).

For safety, a speed limit is set for children aged 7-13.

The same venue also offers other thrilling entertainment, including the Easyfly indoor skydiving adventure, and Easysurf where you can learn how to flowboard on an artificial wave. +66 (0) 77 413 302, easykart.net

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ITALIAN-THAI ROCKS!

Italian or Thai? If you can’t decide, don’t worry: Just head to Dr Frog Bar & Grill where you get the best of both worlds.

The hillside restaurant overlooks the sea between Chaweng and Lamai beaches and serves up Thai and Italian dishes starring fresh seafood.

Must-tries include the signature Seaweed Salad made from local angel hair seaweed served with coconut milk and prawns, the vibrant Somtam Soft-shell Crab, Fettuccine ai Fruitti Mare, and Margherita Pizza.

If you’re looking for a fusion of tastes go for the Phad Kraphao Thalay Pizza. Open daily from 7am till late. +66 (0) 77 448 505, www.frogs.rocks

The gentle giants get to roam the sanctuary uncaged and chain-free, and are trained with positive reinforcement and ethical techniques. Visitors can join the fun by making friends with elephants, feeding them and even joining them at bathtime. +66 (0) 99 295 4551, elephantjunglesanctuary.com/samui

HAPPENINGS THAILAND

JEWELS OF THE SEA

While shops selling pearls and pearl jewellery in Phuket aren’t exactly a rarity, finding one that does it as well as Ung Pearl Farm and Jewellery certainly is. For five decades, this family-run oyster farm and jeweller has been producing exquisite cultured pearls in Cape Panwa. The pearls are carefully nurtured through each stage of life, from babies suspended from buoys offshore to harvesting in large tanks on site.

CHILL-OUT BEACH

People often stay in Patong for its famous party lifestyle.

But even the biggest party monsters need time out occasionally, and the ideal spot for some quiet R&R is conveniently nearby at Tri Trang Beach.

Located about 1.5 kilometres from Paradise Beach, this serene strip of sand is perfect for lazing beneath the shade of tall trees or at the coffeeshops and restaurants boasting gorgeous views of Patong Bay. But if you come at high tide, be prepared to wade through chest high water to access the beach. When the sea is calm it’s worth bringing along snorkelling gear to explore the shallow bay. And once you’ve recharged for the madness of Patong, it’s only 10 minutes away.

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Oyster farming isn’t difficult but it requires patience. The gnarled molluscs can take anything from six months to four years to create a perfect pearl. In 1995, Ung Farm won recognition from King Rama IX for its breeding and farming of pearl oysters. Stop by at their shop to see Kriangsak Ung in action. He will be happy to explain the process and even offer a demonstration. +66 (0) 82 782 9599, www.ungpearl.com

SPOTLIGHT

Going Deep We inquisitive humans have always been curious about what lies under the sea, and while scuba diving gives you more time to explore, free diving can offer a mind-blowing experience. Free-diving lessons at Apnea Life show you the key to going deep in the ocean is plumbing the depths of your mind. Choices range from introductory two- and three-day courses for Level 1 certification to 10-day courses for a master certificate. Those who want to catch their own supper can try the spearfishing course. +66 (0) 90 065 6444, www.apnealifefreediving.com

PHUKET SPOTLIGHT

Belly Laughs

Looking for an evening of quirky costumes, hilarious dialogue and delectable eats? Head to the Junkyard Theatre for eccentric and boisterous dinner theatre.

The playhouse eatery is housed in the Underwood Art Factory, where

VEGAN NEAR THE BEACH

There are more restaurants offering vegan options in Phuket now than ever before.

Tucked in an unassuming lane near Nai Harn Beach, Go Fresh Organic Café may be the pick of the bunch. This quaint little garden café stands out for its all-homemade policy, extending even to the tempeh.

actors offer a tongue-in-cheek take on Phuket’s hybrid Southeast Asian and Western cultural landscape. The dinner cabaret serves up platters and laughter every Saturday evening. +66 (0) 61 174 3716, www.junkyardtheatre.com

Servings are generous, high-quality, and flavourful and prices are reasonable.

We recommend the baby potato salad with tempeh pastry, the avocado tempeh sandwich, or vegan gluten-free pasta with creamy coconut mushroom sauce. Yum! www.facebook.com/gofreshthailand

CHOCOLATE EXPERIMENTS

Local specialty craft chocolate shops are rare, so when you find one that won “World’s Best Dark Chocolate” at the International Chocolate World Finals in 2022, maybe you should indulge.

Located near popular Thalang Road, PARADAi is a recent addition to the burgeoning Old Town scene in Phuket. Here you will find chocolate bon bons in intriguing flavours like Tom Yum, Tom Kha and green curry as well as classics like rum & raisin and salted caramel to name a few. Other treats include ice cream, chocolate bars, and very good coffee. The open kitchen next to the cacao tree gives you the chance to watch the treats being created. +66 (0) 89 728 9871, www.facebook.com/paradaiphuket

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HAPPENINGS THAILAND SPOTLIGHT

PHUKET

Adventures in Taste

CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE

Seeds of Change is a charity project that offers underprivileged people lessons on sewing and repurposing recyclable materials. The resulting handmade creations are sold and the profits used to teach more people life skills.

Following an “earn as you learn” approach, Seeds of Change aims to make communities self-sufficient and sustainable.

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Food may not be the main thing that draws people to Phuket, but it’s likely a close second. Locals say you can’t throw a stone on the island without hitting a restaurant, so it can be tough deciding where to eat. This is where local knowledge comes in handy.

Book a guided culinary adventure with “A Chef’s Tour” and you won’t be disappointed.

With four hours and at least 15 palatepleasing tastings, you will wish your stomach was bigger. Apart from local flavours, your expert guide will also offer knowledge of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. www.achefstour.com, info@achefstour.com

It also offers workshops for visitors.

Sign up to join the Seeds of Change Beach Bag and Hat Painting Workshop on August 5 at the Craft Studio in Blue Tree Phuket. It’s fun for all ages, materials are provided and it’s for a good cause.

Check their website or Facebook page for other events. +66 (0) 80 592 3171, www.seedsofchangephuket.com

THAILAND

CHIANG MAI / PATTAYA / TRAT

JUMP FOR JOY

Why lie on the beach when you can jump out of a plane and parachute over Pattaya Bay? Skydiving Thailand offers a unique mix of emotions: fear, adrenaline, and awe at the breath-taking views. Tandem skydiving requires little athletic ability. All you need is the guts to jump out of a plane at 13,000 feet, strapped to a highly experienced instructor and a parachute designed for two. Gravity does the rest, catapulting you to 200 kilometres per hour in freefall before the buddy on your back pulls the cord at 5,000 feet and you float gently down with Thailand’s eastern seaboard at your feet. Skydiving Thailand offers tandem adventures with professional USPA instructors.

Open daily from 7am-4pm, +66 (0) 90 885 8882, www.skydivingthailand.com

QUADBIKE CONQUERORS

Plough through streams, mud, windswept valleys, rainforest, and rocky slopes.

If you want to explore the limits of fun off the beaten track, quad biking is a great option. Choose from several exciting routes to suit various abilities on Koh Chang and spend 60 minutes or more discovering the island on four wheels. Based at White Sand and Klong Prao beaches, quad bike (ATV) hire comes with expert guides for exciting adventures through the evergreen forest. The specially designed tracks snake their way through the rugged island landscape to ensure non-stop, heart-thumping fun for thrill-seekers.

Prices range from Bt1,900 for 60 minutes to Bt2,500 for a 90-minute expedition.

SPOTLIGHT

Marinated in History Hidden among food stalls and coffee shops on Nimmanhaemin Soi 9, the plain-looking Caravan Bar is easily missed by visitors and less intrepid revellers.

Inside though, it breaks the mould of Chiang Mai bars with jazz, soul and chill-out music, chic interior design, and some of the city’s best cocktails. Inspired by ancient Silk Road taverns, the Caravan Bar attracts a cosmopolitan crowd of expats, college students and stylish travellers for chat, tasty tipples and the chance to dance the night away with friends. From classic dry martinis to Bourbon Old Fashioneds to more cutting-edge cocktails, every sip is designed to whet your appetite for a nomadic night of adventure.

Open daily from 5pm-12am, +66 (0) 63 369 6562, www.facebook.com/caravanbar.chiangmai

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HAPPENINGS CHINA SPOTLIGHT

HONG KONG

Double Tempo

Quarry Bay is quickly becoming the place to see and be seen in Hong Kong. Among its incredible array of food joints and watering holes, Tempo Tempo stands out.

This perfect al fresco hideaway offers patrons a taste of real Italy.

Here you can tuck into a succulent

CELEBRATING A LEGEND

Leslie Cheung, an icon of Hong Kong’s film and music industry, is remembered in the “Miss You Much Leslie” exhibition.

Cheung managed to cram more than 40 albums and 56 films into a career spanning nearly three decades before bowing out of life in 2003, aged just 46.

His fans can now dive into the late superstar’s work at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum. On display are his stage costumes, vinyl records, music, film work and awards that offer deep insights into his wide-ranging talent.

Visitors will also get a glimpse of what the man was like behind closed doors via his personal collections. The exhibition runs until October 9.

Open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 6pm and Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10am to 7pm. Admission is free. www.hk.heritage.museum.

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selection of antipasti and mains, as well as signature desserts.

Also worth your attention is the restaurant’s drink menu, which comes peppered with curated cocktails and drink packages.

Open daily 12pm to 10pm, www.tempotempo.hk

WET & WILD

Touted as the world’s wettest party, the S20 Songkran Festival splashes into Hong Kong in August. Set against the backdrop of the island’s spectacular skyscrapers and Victoria Harbour, the festival at Central Harbourfront will immerse partygoers in a world of music, water and lights on two days from 2pm onwards. Headlining acts include MAKJ, Nicky Romero, NGHTMRE, Liu, Krewella and Ben Nicky. Expect stunning visuals, pumping performances and a wet and wild time. August 5-6, Central Harbourfront Event Space, www.s2ohongkong.com

SINGAPORE SPOTLIGHT

Preening in Paradise

Billed as Asia’s largest avian attraction, Bird Paradise spreads its wings over 17 hectares in the Mandai Wildlife Reserve to offer a rainbow of rare and eye-catching species.

Visitors to the new park can walk through eight bird biospheres, ranging from dense African rainforests and South American wetlands to Southeast Asian paddy fields and dry Australian eucalyptus forests.

Highlights among the 3,000 feathered species include the Philippine eagle, Negros bleeding-heart pigeons, strawheaded bulbuls, black-winged mynas and blue-throated macaws.

And don’t miss the colony of penguins at the Ocean Network Express Penguin Cove. For retail therapy and relaxation, head for the playgrounds and artworks at the adjacent Mandai Wildlife West. Open daily, 9am-6pm, 20 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore, www.mandai.com GAGGAN’S FIERY FUSION

Celebrity chef Gaggan Anand has brought his cutting-edge cuisine to Singapore with new restaurant Ms. Maria & Mr. Singh.

Situated on Craig Road, the fusion eatery is inspired by a passionate affair between a Mexican girl and an Indian boy. The result is a fiery collision of flavours drawn from two world-famous cuisines in dishes like cold curry ceviche, lamb keema quesadilla, and pork vindaloo taco. Dishes from Anand’s award-winning Bangkok restaurant, Gaggan, add more spice to the menu.

43 Craig Rd, Singapore; Open 6pm-10.30pm Tues-Thurs; 12pm-3.30pm and 6pm-10.30pm Fri-Sun; www.mariaandsingh.sg

SINGAPORE TIME TRAVEL

The National Museum is tripping through time with its “Now Boarding: Experiencing Singapore through Travel, 1800-2000s” exhibition. Visitors journey from the country’s colonial past to the post-independence years to the present, exploring Singapore as they go. Divided into four sections – transport, accommodation, food & beverage, and sights and shopping – the trip features curated artefacts that bring the past to life. Open daily 10am-7pm until November 19, National Museum of Singapore, www.nationalmuseum.sg

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HAPPENINGS CAMBODIA

PHNOM PENH / SIEM REAP

SPOTLIGHT

Best Bars in the Kingdom The Top 30 Bar Awards 2023 provide a map to the best watering holes in Cambodia, celebrating not just destinations but also the country’s top bartending talent.

Designed to boost local F&B standards while showcasing the capital’s vibrant bar scene, the awards distilled a shortlist of 150 bars down to the best 30 for ambience, creativity, quality of drinks and service.

The winners include Monsieur Wine & Beyond, MAWSIM Distillery and Concept Bar, as well as old favourites like Bar43 and Elephant Bar. www.top30.co

ASIA’S COOLEST NEIGHBOURHOOD?

Voted the coolest neighbourhood in Asia by Time Out magazine, Wat Bo Village should be high on the itinerary of any visitor to Siem Reap. Located a short stroll across the river from the Bar Street nightlife hub, this area is carving a growing reputation for the town’s hippest daytime and after-dark hangouts.

This once-quiet riverside neighbourhood set around the sprawling Wat Bo Pagoda is now home to an eclectic variety of characterful bars and coffee joints as well as innovative restaurants.

Visitors can enjoy a smorgasbord of cuisines including local delights, farm-to-table fare, and international favourites including fresh pastries.

For accommodation choices, boutique hideaways plus internationally renowned hotels like Viroth’s give visitors doorstep access to the many treasures of this ubercool neighbourhood. Wat Bo Village is on the east bank of the Siem Reap River, about 1.5km from the city centre.

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LAOS

LUANG PRABANG

SPOTLIGHT

Weaving Futures

Founded in 2000, Ock Pop Tok has grown from a small shop selling simple souvenirs into a social enterprise showcasing some of Laos’ finest handicrafts.

Ock Pop Tok (or ‘East Meets West’) aims to ensure fair trade and sustainability for textile weavers and other local artisans.

FOOD FROM THE HEART

Named after a local snack made from river weed, Khaiphaen is among the most wellknown restaurants in Luang Prabang. The fame comes not just from the excellent quality of its Lao cuisine, but also its mission to build futures for deprived young trainees.

Khaiphaen is serious about food, and that shows in the creative menu. The focus is on shared plates of Lao favourites like Crispy Rice Paper Rolls, Glass Noodle Salad, and other authentic delicacies made with locally sourced produce. Look out for the seasonal specials plus the imaginative drinks and cocktail menu.

All profits are channelled back to social programmes to help marginalised communities.

100 Sisavang Vatana Road, Ban Wat Nong.

Open Monday-Friday, from 11am to 9pm, www.tree-alliance.org

It also gives them a chance to preserve their culture while earning a fair wage. The store and the Living Crafts Centre on the Mekong riverside carry items made by skilled Lao craftswomen. Visitors can also sign up for workshops. 125/10 Ban Saylom. Open daily from 8am to 6pm, www.ockpoptok.com

DAY OF THE DEAD

Boun Haw Khao Padap Din is the day Laotians pay respect to their ancestors. Falling on August 18 this year, the festival sees locals visiting temples and offering small packets filled with sticky rice, fruit, cigarettes and money to gratify the spirits of their loved ones.

Adding more atmosphere on the evening of this special occasion

are candle-lit processions around neighbourhood temples.

However, Boun Haw Khao Padap Din is also a time for raucous celebration. During the day, oarsmen race their colourful boats down the Nam Khan River, cheered on by crowds on the banks.

This time-honoured Luang Prabang spectacle is not to be missed.

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BANGKOK AIRWAYS NEWS

Bangkok Airways is committed to operating sustainably and efficiently while supporting community and environmental protections.

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CHECKING OUT

King of the Hill Want a unique way to explore Hong Kong? The Tai Mo Shan hike takes you on an adventure to the territory’s highest peak and offers stunning visual proof that natural splendour can coexist with urban sophistication.

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