Guru by Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in.
EAT
Galette des rois / Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok / Until Jan 15
For the first time, the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is offering a French Christmas tradition by celebrating with Galette des Rois. The delicacy of puff pastry cake filled with frangipane and a hidden “fève” (charm) is available until Jan 15 at The Mandarin Oriental Shops. The tradition of enjoying Galette des Rois is believed to have started in the 14th century to celebrate the Epiphany, which marks the presentation of the baby Jesus to the Three Wise Men. Celebrated on Jan 6, 12 days after Christmas, the Galette des Rois symbolises the arrival of the Wise Men in Bethlehem. This tradition, including its association with French royalty and its presence at the table of Louis XIV, has been passed down through generations and remains popular in France and other European countries. The person who finds the hidden “fève” is crowned “king” for the day, hence the name of the pastry. The hotel’s head pastry chef Maxime Caillon has reimagined the classic recipe substituting the conventional frangipane with a combination of pecan and pecan cream. Additionally, a rich pecan praline is incorporated into the filling, offering a sensational texture in every bite. Chef Caillon preserves the harmony of buttery and nutty aromas, a flaky crust and a smooth, textured praline filling. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok's Galette des Rois is available at The Mandarin Oriental Shops in Siam Paragon, Gaysorn Village and The Emporium and is also served as a slice.
Street food buffet / Shangri-La Bangkok / Jan 6
The Shangri-La Bangkok will hold the 15th “Raan Dung Ross Ded: RDRD Gourmet ‘Street Food’ Buffet Under the Stars @Salathip”. Bangkok’s first and only riverfront outdoor market features an all-you-can-eat buffet from stalls listed in the Michelin Guide Bangkok, along with Shangri-La Bangkok food stations and desserts — all in one venue, with live music and fun activities. On Jan 6, from 5.30-9.30pm, enjoy the “one-stop” best-in-class Michelin Guide Street Food in Bangkok, along with arts and handicrafts. Relish the majestic Chao Phraya River, which forms the backdrop for a fun-filled evening. Diners can enter a lucky draw and stand a chance to win complimentary dining vouchers from Shangri-La Bangkok. The Michelin Bib Gourmand spots include, Kuay Jup: Mr. Jo, Jok: Prince, Elvis Suki and Soi Yotse. Phad Thai from the Shangri-La Bangkok's chef de cuisine Yanavit Theerasomboonkun, Fried Chicken: Fah and dishes like Singaporean chicken rice, Cantonese shrimp wonton noodle soup, BBQ squid with seafood dipping sauce, Chicken satay, Fried oysters (hoi thod), Fried fish balls, Mango sticky rice and Waffle ice cream.
Black winter truffles / Akira Back Restaurant and Bar / Until Jan 31
Akira Back Restaurant and Bar, the Asian dining destination on the 37th floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, will be serving black winter truffles this January in a series of dishes. Sourced and imported from the shady woodlands of southern Europe, black winter truffles are one of the world’s most sought-after ingredients. To celebrate 2024, Akira Back chefs have crafted five dishes with the truffles. These include a trio of appetisers: Truffle tuna pizza, Akira Back’s signature dish enlivened with fresh black winter truffle, umami aioli and white truffle oil. The meat-free Truffle mushroom pizza also has the seasonal ingredient, as does the Truffle bomb, which is served with fresh truffles, mushroom croquettes, uni and seaweed caviar. The Wagyu short ribs is slow-cooked for 48 hours, topped with sliced truffles and accompanied with root vegetables, quail’s egg and braising jus. End on a sweet note with the Black truffle macaron with truffle white chocolate ganache. The dishes are available for dinner until Jan 31.
Afternoon tea / Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel
Experience the refined elegance and charm of London’s first Grand Café, The Wolseley on Piccadilly in Bangkok with the new Iconic Café Wolseley Afternoon Tea at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel. The tea service captures the essence of European cafés and features a selection of finger sandwiches, buttery fruit scones with housemade jam and clotted cream, and cakes. Opt for the classic or vegetarian menu, or add a touch of sparkle with a glass of Laurent Perrier ‘La Cuvée’ Brut NV Champagne. Dainty finger sandwiches come in classic flavours such as smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise, coronation chicken and cucumber and mint; while sweet-toothed patrons will be spoiled for choice with a variety of delectable cakes such as chocolate marquise, fruit tart, lemon meringue choux and baked cheesecake. The Iconic Café Wolseley Afternoon Tea is available daily from 2-6pm at the Lobby Lounge or at Aqua Anantara Siam Bangkok.
JOIN
Find harmony / Urban Wellness Centre, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River / Until Jan 14
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation at the Urban Wellness Centre at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, with the return of renowned practitioners Catherine Perera and Vanessa Hui until Jan 14. Perera, a psychic intuitive and expert in Eastern and Western divination will guide you through the mysteries of tarot card readings, astrology and numerology. Hui, a crystal healing practitioner and sound therapy expert, will help you connect with your higher self through mindful practices, crystal healing and the soothing vibrations of singing bowls. Explore a world of ancient wisdom sessions through tarot card readings, reiki energy healing, astrology reading, crystal chakra balancing, crystal singing bowl sound bath and Chinese astrology crystal reading. Enjoy an exclusive healing experience with the “Floating Hammock Sound Bath Experience” with Hui on Jan 7. The 60-minute session of crystal and Tibetan singing bowls played harmoniously combines the stress-relieving benefits of sound therapy with the physical relaxation of floating in hammocks, creating a deeply restorative experience for mind, body and soul.
Sunset Lounge / Red Sky, Centara Grand At CentralWorld
Ryan Hill, managing director Asia of Campari Group, and Robert F. Maurer Loeffler, vice-president operations and general manager, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, recently launched the "Campari Sunset Lounge" at Red Sky Bar. A new spot to sip and savour Italian-inspired and classic drinks while enjoying the stunning sunset above the city, Sunset Lounge is on the 56th floor at Red Sky Bar. The lounge is open daily from 5pm to 1am. Reservations are highly recommended.
Guest shift / Aqua Bar, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel / Jan 6
Aqua Bar at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel is kicking off 2024 with a special guest bartender session featuring Son Soko, the founder of Seoul’s Soko Bar. On Jan 6, Soko will dazzle Aqua Bar patrons with his inventive and elegant cocktails that blend Eastern and Western influences. The menu opens with Mr. Peanut, a smooth and nutty drink made with peanut butter-infused naked malt, amaro cordial and a roasted peanut garnish. The Sandalwood Highball infused with palo santo and sandalwood tinctures balances naked malt, ginger-honey syrup, arugula vinegar and soda, while the Lime Tree cocktail made with No.3 Gin, lime cordial, tonic water and soda is delightfully crisp and bright. The closing act is Martini No.2, a sophisticated and exotic twist on the classic martini, with shiso-infused No.3 Gin, yuzu cordial.
Conspiracy / 333Gallery / Jan 6-31
This solo exhibition by Phapat "Phlu" Seenaem explores the intersection of art and belief. "Conspiracy" transcends cultural boundaries, inviting you to challenge preconceived notions and explore the dynamic relationship between Western beliefs and Thai cultural perspectives. Delve into the intersection of conspiracy theories, scientific inquiry, and spiritual traditions, as the exhibition walks the thin line between the rational and the supernatural. The young artist specialises in the creation of realistic and figurative artworks, which intricately portray social beliefs and international cultures in contemporary renditions.
Kids Funival 2024 / The Em District / Jan 11-14
The Em District, which comprises Emporium, EmQuartier and Emphere, celebrates National Children's Day (Jan 13) with Kids Funival from Jan 11-14. Find the "Funival Playland" at Quartier Avenue when fun for the whole family awaits including a giant claw machine for the first time in the heart of Sukhumvit, a carousel and other games and activities. Head for EmJoy, the edutainment centre on the 2nd floor of EmQuartier, to enjoy the "Funival Playground" and talent showcase and magic shows throughout the day. Join the "Funival Furious Track by Monowheel" for an indoor go-kart session at Q Stadium, M floor, EmQuartier. Moreover, attend special kid fashion shows on two runways featuring items from leading brands.
Healthy January / The Standard, Hua Hin
To help guests kick start 2024 on a healthy track, The Standard, Hua Hin is launching ‘Healthy January’–a month-long celebration of health and physical wellness. On Jan 20, chef Som of Hua Hin's beloved Som's Table and Praça’s chef Fern will collaborate on "Get Som Breakfast". The healthful breakfast menu will feature scrumptious à la carte dishes and an unlimited Asian buffet with nutritious soups, protein-rich options, and light desserts. This one-off event is part of the resort’s popular ‘Saturday Breakfast by the Sea’ series. On Jan 26, guests can unleash their inner athlete at the 80s-themed Get HIIT (High-intensity interval training) Cardio Party at the Pool Deck led by Romain Chevalier, coach and head of Runista. After the workout running from 5.30-7.30pm, event co-hosts Runista and Plantomonster will put on a post-workout fruit buffet with free-flowing protein shakes and boozy shakes. On Jan 28, the beachfront resort will officially launch a weekly Sunday breakfast at Praça. Available every Sunday from 7.30am to 11am, the semi-buffet selection will be rotated regularly and feature savoury and sweet Thai bites and aromatic morning brews. Throughout January, all dining venues will also offer Hua Hin’s most comprehensive selection of zero-proof beverages for adults. This includes wines produced locally in Lamphun, refreshing honey mead beer made with kombucha by Nonz, and signature non-alcoholic cocktails created in partnership with Bangkok’s Skål Sober Bar & Concept Store. To truly get away, consider Spa Treats, a stay package focusing on spa and wellness that includes daily breakfast for two, a 60-minute Intuition Massage for two per stay and 20% off at The Spa for additional treatments.
TRAVEL
Seven-night getaway / Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach / Until Jan 31
The "Stay Longer, Save More" package gives guests a seven-night escape amidst the beauty of Nai Yang Beach, coupled with exclusive benefits at Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa. Take your pick from an array of expansive rooms and suites, boasting lush garden vistas, serene pool panoramas or captivating sea views. Select accommodations even provide direct access to the hotel's outdoor pool, while others offer the indulgence of stunning beachfront pool villas. Enjoy up to 30% off the stay, coupled with an array of additional perks when booking a seven-night consecutive stay, which includes daily breakfast for two, a 20% discount on laundry services and a 10% discount on food & beverages for Marriott Bonvoy members. Booking period is until Jan 31, with stays from May 1 to Oct 31.
Holistic heaven / Rakxa Integrative Wellness
In the serene "Green Lung” of Bang Krachao in Bangkok, Rakxa integrates cutting-edge medical science with holistic practices. The “Rakxa Rebalance” programme is a carefully crafted six-day, five-night experience that blends traditional and medical treatments, featuring mindful exercises, energy healing, ayurvedic massage, acupuncture and more. Rooted in diverse wellness traditions, the program fosters a profound body-mind connection through practices like Tai Chi and modern therapies such as oxygen therapy. Complemented by anti-inflammatory cuisine, this programme ensures not only physical rejuvenation but also imparts profound health insights. Beyond the programme, a variety of expertly curated treatments and programmes, including detox, destress, weight management and others aim to provide a comprehensive, personalised wellness experience tailored to help individuals achieve their unique health goals.
Inner well-being / Banyan Tree Veya Phuket
Banyan Tree Veya Phuket, a wellness-focused resort, crafts bespoke well-being journeys based on the eight pillars of well-being. Located in Laguna Phuket, the resort's 23 villas offer an intimate setting with exclusive access to a Wellbeing Centre, featuring Thailand’s inaugural White Room for sensory detox. Certified hosts expertly guide guests through a three-step protocol, ensuring a personalised journey. A stay includes accommodation in Veya Pool Villas, a private well-being assessment, a tailored itinerary from the group activity calendar, daily rituals, and mindful practices. Guests can use Flexible Veya credits for preferred private sessions, spa treatments, retail purchases and outlet dining, providing a truly empowering experience.
Soft opening offer / Dusit Princess Phatthalung / Until Jan 31
Dusit Hotels and Resorts has domestically expanded with the soft opening of Dusit Princess Phatthalung, the 15th Dusit-branded and southernmost property in Thailand. Comprising 132 spacious guestrooms and suites with a maximum space of 79m², the four-star hotel aims to raise the bar for leisure and business stays in Phatthalung as the province is considered an up-and-coming destination with rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Thoughtfully designed to pay homage to its natural surroundings and the intricate woven cattail handicrafts, "krajood" in Thai, for which the province is famous for, Dusit Princess Phatthalung serves a serene oasis and features a wide range of family-friendly facilities. These include a large, sculptured swimming pool with adjacent children’s pool, and open spaces for yoga and Muay Thai classes, nature-inspired activities and regular events showcasing local artisans. A state-of-the-art ballroom for up to 300 guests ensures the resort can cater to small and large-scale gatherings. The region's cuisine is reflected in F&B offerings at restaurant Chi Chiao, which celebrates local culinary traditions with refined renditions of Thai-Chinese street food classics. Dusit Gourmet, meanwhile, serves premium caffeinated drinks, juices and smoothies, fresh-baked treats and an array of international favourites with a view of the resort’s pond. Thale Noi Bird Sanctuary and Khao Pu-Khao Ya National Park are a 40-minute drive from the hotel. To celebrate its opening, Dusit Princess Phatthalung offers a special package for a Superior Room with breakfast for two, complimentary 3pm late check-out and 20% discount on dining at Chi Chiao. Valid until Jan 31.
STUFF
Upcycled phone cases / Jim Thompson x Revested Milano
Jim Thompson has launched upcycled silk iPhone cases in collaboration with Revested Milano. The collaboration is a sustainable premium line, showcasing the legacy of Thai silk-making and Italian design. The unique line of iPhone cases is crafted from upcycled Jim Thompson fabrics. Revested Milano is the first brand to produce iPhone accessories in fine Italian fabrics. The cases are tailored for the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max (Magsafe; three cameras) models and are available in two patterns, each inspired by the beauty of elephants. The “Baby Elephant” theme set against a classic navy backdrop, features charming baby elephant silhouettes depicted in a variety of delightful poses. The second pattern showcases a “Raised Trunk Elephant” motif in a vibrant yellow, where the elephant motif is repeated to create an engaging pattern that seems to dance across the case. Both patterns are a celebration of these magnificent creatures, offering not just protection for your device but also a statement of style. The cases are lined with a soft grey microfibre to ensure protection. They can be found at any Jim Thompson store.
Symfonisk series / Ikea x Sonos
Premiering in Thailand under the concept of "Looks Like Music. Sounds Like Art", the "Symfonisk Series" marks a significant collaboration between Ikea and Sonos, the world’s leading speaker manufacturer company. The series integrates home furnishing items with speakers and is on sale at Ikea stores or online. The series presents a diverse range of products, encompassing lamps, picture frames and bookshelves, all equipped with speakers that can be conveniently controlled through mobile phones using the Ikea Home and Sonos apps. Think a Table lamp speaker with Wi-Fi; a picture frame speaker with Wi-Fi or a bookshelf speaker.
New drinks and drinkware / Starbucks
The 5B price hike notwithstanding, Starbucks welcomes the Year of the Dragon with special beverages, Valentine’s special desserts and dragon-themed drinkware. Drinks to welcome 2024 include Iced Vienna creamy latte, Iced honey plum pure matcha latte and Iced peach plum pearls oolong. These new beverages are available until Feb 19 at all Starbucks stores. The St Valentine’s Day season also features an array of desserts filled with love such as Chocolate lava cake, Raspberry heart macaron, Raspberry and pink doughnut and Heart brownie cups. Equally important is the “Guardian Dragon and its Keeper” drinkware collection, inspired by the zodiac year of the dragon. This collection tells the story of a dragon sleeping in a splendid, multi-coloured flower field, guarded by its keeper. Together, the dragon and the guardian travel the world, bringing prosperity and peace to all. Available at Starbucks nationwide.
