Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and travel to indulge in.
JOIN
Mini marathon / CentralWorld / Aug 25
Join the “Bangkok Post International Mini Marathon 2024”, which will be organised on Aug 25 at Square A-B Central World. To apply, visit jogandjoy.run/project/detail/129.
Anniversary celebrations / Ojo Bangkok / July 5
Mexican restaurant Ojo at The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon will celebrate turning two on July 5. Chef Francisco Paco Ruano’s “Ojo Turns Two’ party will deliver head-spinning views of Bangkok, unlimited Mexico-inspired canapés from the city’s hottest chefs, zesty cocktails and sultry beats. Chef Paco is rolling out the red carpet for Bangkok’s culinary titans who are invited to whip up their take on tacos for an all-you-can-eat taco extravaganza, including desserts to die for from The Standard Bangkok’s pastry prodigy, chef Max Panna Lerdsri. The night’s guest list stars chefs Franck le Bayon of Iode (French flair), Napol “ Joe” Jantraget of Samlor (Thai twists), Paolo Vitaletti of Appia (Italian indulgence) and Aruss “Jai” Lerlerstkull of Charm Krung (Thai tradition). The fiesta will also feature concoctions from Ojo’s Marc Pérez Rodriguez and guest mixologist Big Mike, all while DJ Maarten spins the decks. Chef Paco will be at the helm of Ojo kitchen from June 28 June to July 7. Visit the hotel’s website.
Exchange dinner / Villa Frantzén x Khaan / July 8
Villa Frantzén and Khaan will offer a culinary collaboration on July 8 at Villa Frantzén. Chefs Nilas Corneliussen from Villa Frantzén and Sujira "Aom" Pongmorn from Khaan will swap characteristic ingredients from their cuisines to create an unforgettable six-course tasting menu that intermingles Nordic and Thai cuisines. Chef Corneliussen will experiment with Thai ingredients such as Thai eel, dry fish, bull’s penis, giant toad, water bugs and ant eggs to create his Scandinavian Villa Frantzén-style dishes. Chef Aom will incorporate Nordic elements like pine shoots, sea buckthorn, liquorice, pickled ramson flowers, rhubarb juice and lingonberry into her Thai creations. The ingredient-swapping challenge promises a night of new culinary challenges, discoveries and excitement as both chefs step out of their comfort zones to deliver a menu that intertwines the best of both culinary worlds. Expect a chawanmushi by Villa Frantzén, using Khaan's dry fish, tiny shrimps and pad ka yang oil. Khaan will present a Squid pine salad with Villa Frantzén's pine shoots and pine oil. Visit the restaurant's website.
Six stars align / Côte By Mauro Colagreco / July 18-19
Chef Chudaree "Tam" Debhakam from two Michelin-starred Baan Tepa in Bangkok and chef Shinobu Namae from Tokyo’s three Michelin-starred L’Effervescence join hands with Michelin-starred Côte’s chef Davide Garavaglia to deliver a culinary adventure and shine a light on sustainable seafood. The confluence of three waterfront landscapes — France’s temperate Côte d’Azur, Thailand’s karst island-dotted Andaman Sea, and the life-giving oceans of Japan — reveals an experience that showcases the vision of three culinary talents. On July 18-19, Côte By Mauro Colagreco at Capella Bangkok will be the stage for a gastronomic journey. Dinner on July 18 will see chefs Namae and Garavaglia cook dinner, while chef Tam will join the duo for lunch and dinner on July 19. For a deep-dive into the world of conscious consumerism and eco-friendly eating, diners are invited to a 60-minute pre-lunch masterclass on July 19. Hosted by Celia Lam, founder of Sustainable Food + Wellness, the class will be an introduction to the Slow Food Movement, and include a hands-on sustainable cooking workshop. Visit the hotel's website.
Fifth Anniversary / Mia Restaurant / July 18
Mia Restaurant is celebrating its fifth anniversary with an unforgettable evening on July 18. The celebrations see Mia chefs Pongcharn “Top” Russell and Michelle Goh join forces with other chefs, each bringing their talents and perspectives to the table. The guest chef list features chefs Dan Bark from Cadence, Garima Arora from Gaa, Riley Sanders from Canvas, Arne Riehn from Igniv Bangkok, Andrew Martin from Fatboy Izakaya, Nilas Corneliussen from Villa Frantzen and Gerard Villaret from Elements. The chefs will create an eight-course tasting menu, each showcasing their signature style. Visit the restaurant’s website.
Stay and dine / Intercontinental Khao Yai / July 20
The Intercontinental Khao Yai resort is offering a “Stay & Dine” package, which includes accommodation with breakfast and a seven-course Thai set dinner for their "Chef’s Table — A Thai Journey” event on July 20. Executive chef Nirut Pochsalee will be cooking up a storm at Somying’s Kitchen. Dinner begins with a wine tasting. Booking has opened for stay dates on July 20-21. Visit the resort’s website.
French Sunday / Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit / July 14
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit will mark France’s National Day with a special edition of its popular weekend feast, including a French Corner and half a lobster Thermidor for every guest. A special edition of its Sunday Jazzy Brunch will be staged at Rossini’s and The Living Room on July 14. An extensive selection of dishes will transport the tastebuds to the bistros and brasseries of Paris, Provence, Côte d’Azur, Bordeaux and Burgundy. A dedicated French Corner will showcase an array of delicacies, including Saumon fumé jus de persil (smoked salmon with parsley sauce), Brie aux petites verdures, vinaigrette aux noix du Brésil (Brie with small greens and Brazil nut vinaigrette), Velouté d’asperges à la crème de truffe noire (Chilled asparagus velouté with black truffle cream), Rillettes de canard (Duck rillettes), Crabe pomme verte salade éclair (Pastry with crab meat and green apple salad), plus Pâté de foie du poulet (Chicken liver pâté) and Petit croque monsieur (Mini ham and cheese toasted sandwiches). French regional classics such as Bouillabaisse (Provençal-style seafood soup), Quiche Lorraine (savoury egg tart with bacon, ham, cheese and onion), Galette des rois aux épinards (king cake with spinach) and Salade Niçoise (traditional Nice salad), Coq au vin (Chicken in red wine), Saumon en croûte (Salmon Wellington) and Canard à l’orange (Duck with orange sauce) will also be served. The brunch will include fine French beverages, as well as live jazz music by Jazziam band. Visit the hotel's website.
French feasts / Goji Kitchen + Bar / July 14
Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park is celebrating the cultural and culinary traditions of France on July 14 with a “Bastille Day Buffet”. Celebrate France’s national day with a selection of European delicacies, including escargots, Wagyu beef tartare with sourdough toast, French onion soup, and pissaladière, a traditional flatbread from southern France. Other international favourites available in this bountiful buffet include premium cheese and cold cuts, grilled prime rib of beef, and three kinds of French oyster, plus desserts such as crème brûlée, lemon tart and macarons. Visit the hotel's website.
Bastille Beach / Salt Society Beach Bar & Kitchen / July 14
Salt Society Beach Bar & Kitchen at Centara Reserve Samui! will hold the "Bastille Beach Brunch", a festive French National Day celebration on July 14. Guests can indulge in an exceptional French-themed brunch experience with live entertainment and beach views. Guests can choose from three exclusive brunch packages — Vitamin A, Vitamin B, and Vitamin Sea. Each package includes a spread of French cuisine, ensuring a feast for all tastes and preferences. Visit the resort's website.
Colours and cultures / Ardel's Third Place Gallery / Until July 27
"Facades Unveiled: A Journey Through Global Colorscapes" by Araya Choutgrajank takes viewers on a journey of colours and cultures through building facades from different cities around the world. Her paintings take you as far as the vibrant streets of Lima and the colorful neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires and end somewhere closer to home at the enchanting alleys of Macau. These paintings aren't just depictions of structures, but reflections of the human experience, emotions, and dreams, presented through the universal language of colour. This exhibition is Araya's first solo show.
STUFF
New song / D Gerrard
Big D Gerrard (Dee Gerrard) or Brian Gerrard Ukrit Willey Broad Don Gabriel, Thai-Portuguese-Sri Lankan hip-hop singer, best known for being on The X Factor Thailand, has released a new single."You Are Legend" is a song that inspires people to pursue their dreams. The concept comes from the fact that when people usually talk about legends, they think of those who have done great things, such as musicians or artists. Their work becomes legendary even after they are gone. Visit the link to listen, dgerrard.lnk.to/youarelegend.
New perfumes / Fendi
For the first time in its history, Fendi unveils a complete collection of perfumes. As the centenary of the Roman brand draws near, Fendi reveals itself in a whole new light, a more intimate facet, close to the skin. Seven exclusive fragrances, embodying the soul of the house, retrace its saga, personify its values and immerse us in a unique family culture. This olfactory story is rooted back to 1925, when Adele Casagrande Fendi and her husband Edoardo Fendi opened a fur and leathergoods workshop in Rome, passed on from generation to generation, from matriarch to strong, inspiring and inspired women, across a closely bonded family. Seven fragrances, seven personalities and as many emblematic places. Each fragrance is inspired by one of the outstanding personalities of this close-knit chosen family. Available in Fendi boutiques and online. Meanwhile, the Roll Bag has been released. The bag was created with Made For A Woman (M4W), a socially responsible women-led and women-centred social entrepreneurship project dedicated to empowering Malagasy artisans. The Roll Bag pays homage to its original design from 1997, retaining its effortless elegance while being renewed with soft, capacious shapes and elongated leather handles for modern functionality. Available in three sizes, each bag is designed to fit various lifestyles and occasions. Available in boutiques worldwide.
Limited edition / Lenovo Thailand
Lenovo Thailand has joined Minecraft to celebrate Minecraft 15th Anniversary with free limited edition of Minecraft — Shape your World merchandise pack and laptop skin when purchase the latest Lenovo Legion or Lenovo LOQ with Intel Core Processor. Until Aug 31, customers purchasing the latest Lenovo Legion or Lenovo LOQ will receive an exclusive limited edition Minecraft 15th anniversary complimentary merchandise package and laptop skin. With the purchase of the latest Lenovo Legion, including Legion 9 16IRX9, Legion Pro 7 16IRX9H, Legion Pro 5 16IRX9, Legion 7 16IRX9 and Legion 5 16IRX9, customers will receive a limited-edition Minecraft 15th anniversary package, including Minecraft –— Shape your World 15th anniversary themed t-shirt, mouse pad, stickers pack and bag. Addition to this, customers purchasing the latest Lenovo LOQ including LOQ 15IRX9, LOQ 15IAX9I and LOQ 15IAX9 will also receive Minecraft– Shape your World 15th anniversary themed laptop skin that is designed to delight Minecraft enthusiasts and celebrate the game's enduring legacy. The offer is available while stock lasts.
Cool kids / H&M
H&M's latest kidswear collection embodies two icons, the late American artist Keith Haring and Disney's Mickey Mouse. Drawing on his playful depiction of Mickey Mouse, the collection for kids below the age of 14, comprises clothes, shoes and accessories, features collages and all-over prints in shades of red, white and black, as well as a light denim blue. Oversized fits and boxy silhouettes create a streetwear vibe, with pieces including a baseball jacket, t-shirts, denim jackets and dungaree dresses. Available in stores and online.
EAT
Bird’s nest / Summer Palace / Until July 31
Chef Yau Shui Wing, executive Chinese chef, is preparing the rare Chinese delicacy of bird’s nest, for an opulent à la carte menu available daily throughout July at Summer Palace, InterContinental Bangkok. Highlights of the special selection include Baked mini egg tart with bird’s nest, Braised bird’s nest with matsutake mushroom and bamboo fungus, and Stir-fried bird’s nest with dry scallops and scrambled egg. The opulent bird’s nest menu is available until July 31. Visit the hotel’s website.
Joint campaign / Café Wolseley Bangkok x Jo Malone London / Until Aug 31
Café Wolseley Bangkok and Jo Malone London have joined forces for a joint campaign, blending the elegance of British cuisine with the luxurious scents of Jo Malone London. The collab marks the introduction of Jo Malone London's new product, Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense, paired with a specially curated lunch menu by Café Wolseley at the Anantara Siam Bangok. Until Aug 31, indulge in “Through The Grapevine” three-course menu, which highlights classic British dishes, inspired by the aromatic notes of Cypress & Grapevine Cologne Intense, and offers a unique and sensory dining experience that intertwines taste and fragrance. With every purchase of the menu, diners receive a 15ml Body and Hand Lotion from Jo Malone London, in either English Pear & Freesia or Wood Sage & Sea Salt scents. Customers who purchase any item at Jo Malone boutiques at Siam Paragon, Emporium, Central Chidlom and Central World and present their receipt from Café Wolseley will receive a Cologne (9ml), Body and Hand Wash (30ml), and a Mini Pouch. Visit the hotel’s website.
Seasonal Menu / Shang Palace Chinese Restaurant
Experience the delicate flavours and tender texture of premium-quality threadfin from the Gulf of Thailand, renowned for its exquisite taste, at Shang Palace Chinese Restaurant, Shangri-La Bangkok. Executive Chinese chef Tan Kwang Aik has created three exclusive signature dishes. Expect steamed threadfin with spicy young galangal plum sauce, Deep-fried threadfin with turmeric and Slow-cooked threadfin with curry spices in Malaysian style. All ingredients are sustainable sourced, with fresh herbs from the Royal Project. Visit the hotel's website.
Brunch delivery / Uno Mas
Enhance your brunch experience with a slice of Spain delivered straight to your door (or desk)! The "Unleash Your Fiesta Uno Mas Brunch" offers an at home or at office gourmet feast that promises to transform any occasion into a memorable fiesta. Indulge in the Seafood extravaganza with Canadian lobster, Alaskan king crab and a variety of prawns, mussels and salmon. The Tapas Time selection features an array of Spanish tapas, including Iberico jamón, Pulpo salad, White anchovies in vinegar “boquerones”, Seafood salad and Foie gras terrine. The offerings are accompanied by freshly baked baguette, butter and a delightful assortment of petits fours to complete your gourmet experience. The brunch comes as a set for two people and one can elevate it with a bottle of Pommery Champagne or a Magnum 1.5 litre bottle of Pommery Champagne. Visit Centara Grand at Centralworld's website.
Tiki-inspired flavours / Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Steps away from the white sand beach and overlooking the azure blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand, CoCoRum at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is an idyllic oasis of relaxation and a true reflection of the island life. Celebrating Koh Samui’s rich fishing heritage, CoCoRum offers guests an immersive experience that transitions from a serene paradise by day to an enchanting nighttime vibe. Traversing through four key experiences — Safe Haven, Jewel of the Tropics, Island Rituals and The Vault — CoCoRum’s menu embodies the spirit of personalisation and curation with a playful approach to the beverage experience. From refreshing rum concoctions to tequila blends and mezcal infusions, the menu offers a symphony of flavours designed to relax and uplift. The tiki-inspired aperitivos are served in a clay copita and from a clay jug, accompanied by tantalising snacks inspired by Thailand and Latin America. Every Saturday immerse in the flavours of Levant. At the Beach House, “Zaatar Night” will offer a dinner fit for a sultan as executive chef Ruslan Shipunov guides diners on a culinary journey through the eastern Mediterranean. Savour the magic of zaatar, the beloved herb, and experience an evening of exquisite tastes and cultural delights. Visit the resort’s website.
Chocolate Celebration / Cocoa XO / Until July 31
Cocoa XO, the rooftop bar at Centara Grand at CentralWorld, will offer a chocolate experience celebrating International Chocolate Day. Bangkok's chocolate cave, the Cocoa Pod is the ultimate destination for chocolate lovers. Though International Chocolate Day falls on July 7, at Cocoa XO it is celebrated throughout the month. The experience offers an opportunity to indulge in two specially-crafted cocktails paired with luxurious chocolate fondue. The Chocolatier Buffet also has Cognac cocktails and bar snacks. Visit the hotel's website.
Rockstar fever / Line Man / Until August 15
In the wake of Lisa's music video for "Rockstar", Line Man has highlighted 800 Yaowarat eateries on its platform. If you don't want to brave the crowd, you can order famous dishes from Bangkok's Chinatown at your fingertips. New and existing Line Man users can enjoy discounts of up to 20% when using promo codes.
STAY
Summer break / Àni Thailand
Àni Thailand has launched the “Summer Special” package that invites guests on a journey into the art of Muay Thai. With private lessons from champion Kasem Kranam, guests can learn key moves and enjoy daily training sessions with Kru Fronk, followed by a nourishing breakfast. They will also receive tickets to a professional Muay Thai match, immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. Apart from Muay Thai, guests can explore the world of hornbill birds on Koh Yao Noi or join a fishing expedition with local experts. Engaging workshops on Hapa Zome and Tie-Dye, and fruit carving offer opportunities for creativity. Families and kids can enjoy a delightful chocolate-making workshop, while a traditional Thai Longtail Boat introduces guests to pearl farming. Thai language, traditional dances, mandala art sessions, jet skiing in Phang Nga Bay, rock climbing, and rejuvenating massage workshops provide diverse experiences. Visit the resort’s website.
Slow travel / Meliá Chiang
Meliá Chiang Mai is offering a host of benefits ranging from discounts on spa and dining to access to its executive lounge for stays of seven days or more. Under the “Travel Slow In Chiang Mai” package, guests get daily 20% discounts on Yhi Spa treatments, minibar items, laundry and food and beverage at the hotel’s two restaurants, two bars, lobby lounge and in-room dining. Guests staying in The Level Room categories, including The Level Premium Room, The Level Premium Corner Room, The Level Suite and The Level Presidential Suite, also enjoy exclusive access to 21st floor The Level Lounge, which offers all-day snacks and beverages accompanied by panoramic vistas of the city and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west. Fresh complimentary fruits in the room on arrival and a late check-out until 2pm are also among long-stay benefits. Guests staying for two weeks or longer also receive one-time access to Mai The Sky Bar and a cocktail on the house. Visit the hotel’s website.
Meaningful experiences / Hyatt
“Be More Here”, a new global brand platform complementing the reimagined World of Hyatt loyalty programme, encourages guests to immerse in meaningful experiences rooted in care, leaning into the transformative powers of travel and be more present. Wellness retreats have been launched to harmonise the body, mind and spirit, leading to inner balance and tranquillity at The Barai Spa at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin. Thai healing philosophy is based upon four elements: earth, water, air, and fire. Dive into interactive edutainment at Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort’s Marine Biological Centre. Led by a resident marine biologist, guests of all ages can explore the house reef, engaging in hands-on lessons about marine life. Visit the brand's website.
Anniversary celebrations / Innside by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit
Thailand’s first Innside hotel is turning one on July 7 and is offering discounts on room rates and dining, a giveaway and fundraising campaign to support education for disadvantaged children, to celebrate. In On Nut, Innside by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is offering guests 10% and 20% discounts on room rates for Innside Rooms and The Townhouse accommodations, respectively. Bookings must be made directly to reservations or via DMs on Instagram and Facebook with promo code "1ANNIV" by July 31 for stays until Oct 31. Guests who have booked the promotion also enjoy 10% off dining at Luz Bangkok Tapas Bar and The Kites Eatery during their stay. A social media giveaway will offer three complimentary one-night stay prizes with dining credits, with winners being announced on July 29. Visit the hotel's social media pages. Guests are encouraged to make a voluntary contribution of US$1 (B37) or more during check-out to provide funds to support education for disadvantaged children. On July 6, there will be monks' almsgiving, Trimurti shrine worship, a monk ceremony in the Fah Room and offerings to monks. Visit the hotel's website.
Family fun / Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort / Until Nov 30
Make memories with your young ones by taking advantage of Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort's "Family Getaway Package". Parents and kids stay and play together in a colourful two-bedroom Family Suite and enjoy free meals, ice cream and activities for kids. The whole family can kickstart each day with daily breakfast at Chao Leh Kitchen and little ones can eat for free throughout the day from a dedicated kids’ menu. Free ice creams for kids are also available all day long. The Little Sea Gypsies Kids Club will transport little ones into a world of adventure through toys, games, books and complimentary activities. Use the promo code “ZJ5”.
Wellness vacay / Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach / Until Dec 31
Have your getaway while elevating your body and mind with the “Unlimited Wellness Package” from Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach. This comprehensive offer includes a healthy and refreshing welcome drink, access to wellness and leisure facilities whenever you choose, daily yoga classes, wellness workshops and one hour of daily kayaking or paddle-boarding. Reward yourself after a day of activities with a daily 60-minute spa treatment for two from a selected menu at the award-winning Quan Spa. Moreover, the daily buffet breakfast at the Andaman Kitchen comes with plenty of delicious and nutritious options. To make your stay stress-free, you are also entitled to early check-in, late check-out and a room upgrade. Visit the resort's website.
TRAVEL
Complimentary stay / Emirates
Travellers planning their summer getaway to Dubai can enjoy a complimentary stay at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai. Until July 21, travellers who purchase an Emirates return ticket in First Class or Business Class will be able to enjoy a complimentary two-night stay at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai. While those travelling in Premium Economy Class or Economy Class can enjoy a complimentary one-night stay. This special offer is valid for all return tickets to or stopping over in Dubai for more than 24 hours, for travel dates between until Sept 15. The offer is available on bookings made on emirates.com, the EK App or via Emirates ticketing offices and call centres or participating travel agents, made at least 96 hours in advance of passengers’ arrival.
New flight / Vietjet / Until July 7
Vietjet has introduced a new flight between Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City and China's Xi’an and revealed its plan to launch a flight between Vietnam's Nha Trang and South Korea's Daegu. The latter will commence on Oct 27 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Vietjet's service between Vietnam and South Korea. To celebrate these new flights, 1 million seats will be offered at special prices starting from zero baht (excluding taxes and fees) for domestic and international flights. You have until Sunday to avail of this offer. These promotional seats are valid from travelling from Aug 22 to May 22, 2025. Visit Vietjet Air's website.
Aroi onboard / Air Asia
Air Asia has introduced new items for their on-flight meal such as boat noodles, khao tom mud (glutinous rice with banana) and Longan-infused Americano. Consider them if you want to spruce up your flight a bit. They are available on flights with codes FD (Thai AirAsia) and XJ (Thai AirAsia X).
