Travellers will have more dining options as Michelin Guide Thailand 2025 is set to feature the coastal province of Chon Buri to highlight Thailand's diverse culinary landscapes. Last year, the guide expanded its list to include Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani and Udon Thani, as well as Koh Samui and Surat Thani this year.
This newest addition to the Michelin Guide Thailand map will provide inspiration for both gourmets and travellers to explore the culinary scene in different provinces and territories across the country.
Promoting itself as one of the world's best gastronomic tourism destinations, this move supports the government's national soft-power strategy focusing on food, fashion, film, fight, and festival so that Thailand can compete in tourism.
A 80km drive from Bangkok, Chon Buri is a popular holiday destination among Bangkokians and foreign tourists seeking an escape from hectic schedules to experience local traditions and fresh seafood. It's also a haven for beach lovers with renowned destinations such as Bang Saen, Pattaya and Koh Lan.
"Chon Buri has enough to keep travellers occupied during their stay -- beautiful beaches, peaceful temples, local cultural performances, varied festival activities, diverse eateries, stalls and nightlife. The fresh seafood, unique local delicacies and beachfront dining experiences are also among other features. All these make Chon Buri a lively tourist destination," said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guides.
Visit guide.michelin.com.
Spring K-Royal Culture Festival kicks off in Seoul
To mark its 10th anniversary, the Spring K-Royal Culture Festival will return to Seoul's historic royal palaces -- Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung and Gyeonghuigung -- and Jongmyo Shrine from Saturday to May 5.
In collaboration with the Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation, this year's opening ceremony is designed under the "Love For The People" theme to reimagine King Sejong the Great's historic proclamation of the Hunminjeongeum script in 1446.
Gyeongbokgung Palace will take visitors back to the glorious days of the Joseon Dynasty and showcase royal court customs through immersive activities. From May 1-5, the "Time Travel, King Sejong" programme will offer a glimpse into court life under the reign of King Sejong the Great, while the "Royal Music Concert - Harmony Of 100 Court Musicians' Song In Peaceful Times" will take place between May 4 and 5.
The historic Geunjeongjeon Hall presents Palace Musical - Sejong, 1446 from April 28-30 to portray King Sejong's pivotal role in creating the Korean alphabet. At the same time, Gyeongbokgung Heungnyemun Square is turned into a vibrant K-heritage market offering traditional crafts and cultural products amidst a lively atmosphere.
Deoksugung Palace will conduct the engaging "Royal Hobby Club" programme and a talk show that delves into the palace's history during the Japanese colonial era. Families can continue their journey to Gyeonghuigung Palace and enjoy a variety of educational activities, exhibitions and performances tailored to children.
Changgyeonggung Palace will serve as a playground for the Children's K-Royal Culture Festival, where families can participate in interactive activities and the enchanting "Changgyeonggung Night Tour - Water Splendour" programme.
Visit www.chf.or.kr.
Cosi Vientiane Nam Phu offers discounts
To celebrate its opening, Cosi Vientiane Nam Phu is offering an exclusive 30% discount plus US$3 (110 baht) in daily food and drink credit for up to two guests for bookings and stays from now until July 31. CentaraThe1 members will receive an extra 15% on-top discount and the opportunity to earn triple points for future stays at Centara Hotels & Resorts worldwide.
Opened last month, this brand-new hotel boasts a fresh lifestyle, eco-friendly rooms which range in sizes from 18m² to 39m², a serene rooftop pool and a buzzing social hub for round-the-clock action.
Visit centarahotelsresorts.com.
