Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, art exhibitions, shows, food and hotel deals.
STUFF
Harry Potter Collection / Cath Kidston
Accio, tea cup! Cath Kidston returns to the wizarding world for the second collaborative collection with Harry Potter. From clothing to bags, tableware to kitchen textiles, this batch offers a wide range of products sporting hand-painted prints inspired by all things Hogwarts. The trio of Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger, as well as the magical beasts, are brought to life as decorative details for the brand's vintage floral prints. The Forbidden Forest and Professor Pomona Sprout's herbology class are among eight themed prints that draw inspiration from the whimsical scenes of the Harry Potter saga. Shop at cathkidston.com.
Bangkok City Garment Collection / Off-White
Off-White has released an exclusive "City Garment" capsule collection for Bangkok, which includes a limited-edition t-shirt with 120 pieces already displayed at its downtown boutiques. The line is one of Virgil Abloh's legacies and has been passed down to Ibrahim Kamara, the new art and image director of the streetwear house, after the devastating passing of the late Abloh. The casual-fit tee sports "Bangkok" in a cursive font, in "Impossible Blue" that makes the lettering pop out of its white background as a statement piece. Also, this striking hue serves as a key colour in Kamara's first Spring/Summer 2023 collection for Off-White, which the designer has named "Celebration". Visit off---white.com.
Peaceminusone Collab Collection / Nike
G-Dragon‘s Peaceminusone and Nike have joined forces for a collaborative garment and sneaker collection that is revealed in a black and white colour palette, taking design notes from the taekwondo uniform. The clothing line-up sees a series of utilitarian silhouettes taking centrestage, with accents of workwear and streetwear styles; think of a multi-pocketed pair of pants and a heavy-duty vest in all-black. However, the South Korean artist's iconic daisy motif, sported throughout the collection, adds a softening touch. Dubbed the Nike Kwondo 1 Panda, the kick is already on sneakerheads' radar after the Thai rapper Milli wore them at the Rolling Loud Thailand festival. Expect a bold makeover of a brogue shoe with sneaker design language, with the Floral icon embroidered into the heels. Visit nike.com.
New launch / Baccarat, Siam Paragon
Baccarat, crystal glassware from France has made its debut in Thailand with a series of exquisite chandeliers from the Paris Chandelier Collection, available at the Baccarat flagship store in Siam Paragon. The Baccarat boutique is inspired by a French townhouse and by the lifestyle of a Parisian apartment. The Paris Chandelier Collection is designed by architect and interior designer Stephanie Coutas, who presents a novel approach to Baccarat lighting, with a special technique of cutting. Also available is the Harcourt collection, which transforms the four elements: earth, water, wind and fire, into glassware. The highlight of the collection is the Red knob, which is the red symbol on the handle of the Champagne glass. First appearing in the Baccarat catalogue in 1975, the Harmonie collection spurred creative enthusiasm of artists and in 1986, Jeff Koons imagined a work of art inspired by the collection, a masterpiece that is now part of the collections of the Moma museum in New York. The collection is also available in the shop. Visit crystalsymphony.co.th/baccaratthailand.
New features / Oppo Find N2 Flip
Global leading smart device brand Oppo rolled out a major software update for its flagship foldable phone, the Find N2 Flip, which further enhances functionality of its cover display. The new Spotify widget, jointly developed by Oppo and Spotify exclusively for the Find N2 Flip, maximises the utility of the largest cover screen of any flip phone. Users can enjoy full play control, the Heart button and content recommendations, without unfolding their device. A custom-built Speech-to-Text quick reply feature will also drop, accessible through the cover screen when users receive a message. All apps that enable quick reply will support Speech-to-Text, including: WhatsApp, Messenger, Messages by Google, Telegram and Line. This is the first significant update for the Find N2 Flip since its launch in February. It signals Oppo's four-year commitment to major device improvements, which rolls out worldwide from mid-April. Speech-to-Text will automatically update, while users can manually add the Spotify widget through the screen widgets settings under "Pocket Player”. Visit oppo.com.
JOIN
Record Store Day 2023: Daytime Extended / Red.cose / April 22
Calling all music lovers! Record Store Day returns on Saturday at Charoen Krung's lifestyle cafe/creator hub Madi BKK. Presented with the theme "Daytime Extended", the event promises a day-to-night celebration of music from midday to midnight, with a series of activities, such as an analogue talk and a DJ 101 workshop. Independent record stores, such as Have You Heard? Records and Dust on Wax BKK, will set up their pop-up stores at the vinyl market. And don't forget to check out an installation art, "Longing For More Sun", and an exclusive slipmat collection displayed at the gallery zone. Visit fb.com/Red.cose.
Homemade Fresh Cheese 101 / Joyrukclub / April 22, 23
Join Silom's Joyrukclub this weekend to learn the art of cheese making for B3,500 per person. Designed for home cooking, the hands-on class will take you through the step-by-step process of making four different types of fresh cheese: mozzarella, cream cheese, ricotta and American cheese. Save your spot at fb.com/JoyRukClub.
Paint & Wine: Post Songkran Edition / The Hive Bangkok / April 27
Songkran may have come to a close, but the joyous memories and experiences it brought will last a lifetime. Let's share them on a canvas with others at "Paint & Wine: Post Songkran Edition" hosted by The Hive Bangkok for B500 for general and B400 for members. Reservation at bit.ly/3m19yi6.
Magic theatre show / Outrigger Koh Samui Beach / Mondays to Saturdays
A new magic show has been unveiled on Koh Samui. The Illusions Theatre magic show will take place six nights a week in a purpose-built 71-seat air conditioned show theatre within the newly-opened Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort on Lamai Beach. From Monday to Saturday, there will be two shows nightly: a 7pm show for the family, and a 9pm show for adults only. Each show lasts an hour with a 15-minute interval. Resident magician of Illusions Theatre, Ed Clarke, says the 7pm family experience combines a perfect balance of visual magic, mind reading and illusions that the entire family will enjoy. Clarke says the 9pm show, for those above the age of 15, will feature amazing illusions and captivating feats of mind reading. Guests can enjoy pre-theatre dining and drinks at Outrigger’s Edgewater Beach Club restaurant and bar, a beautiful beachside setting under the coconut palms. Pre-dinner and interval drinks are also available at the Illusions theatre venue. Tickets are priced at B1,200 per person. Tickets can be booked on IllusionsKohSamui.com. Visit Outrigger.com.
Nominations open / Asia-Pacific Hero Awards / May 5
Based in Bangkok, Apcom is a non-profit organisation, who together with three regional community partners, APN+, APTN, and ILGA Asia, have announced that the nominations for the 2023 Hero Awards are open. Standing for HIV, equality, and rights, the Hero Awards is an annual gala event in Bangkok, and shines a light on the region’s LGBTQI communities, as well as those who made significant contributions to the HIV response in Asia and the Pacific region. Nominate individuals and organisations across 10 categories who directly help others, whose work is improving the well-being of others, or whose achievements are inspiring others, under the following categories: Business Ally, Community Ally, Community Hero, Community Organisation, Covid-19 Hero, Health & Wellbeing, HIV Hero, Social Justice, Transgender Hero, and Young Achiever. Nominate and honour those active in the LGBTQI and HIV field in your country and throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Nominations close on May 5 at 11:59pm Thailand time! Visit apcom.org/inspiring-7th-hero-awards-2023-calls-nominations.
Neon art night / King Power Mahanakhon / April 29
A “Neon Art Night” workshop with “mediums” will be held on April 29 from 7pm, on the 74th floor of King Power Mahanakhon. The workshop will see participants paint a stylish tote bag in their individual style with reflective acrylic paints. Be inspired by Bangkok’s spectacular night views and create an eco-friendly tote bag, which can be taken home. The entrance fee is B999 per person, including a souvenir tote bag from mediums and gift set from Firster King Power Mahanakhon. Advance reservations at bit.ly/Book-Ticket-Neon-Art-Night. Call 02-677-8721 or visit kingpowermahanakhon.co.th.
World Health Day / Rakxa Wellness
Rakxa Wellness celebrates World Health Day, which was on April 7, with their "Health for All" aspect. To celebrate, the wellness centre is highlighting the art of traditional Thai reflexology or foot massage, which helps with deep relaxation, balance and well-being. The traditional Thai ya-pok therapeutic massage combines the cooling properties of Thai herbs with andrographis and clay, making it an ideal summertime remedy. The Thai pure nutrient hair and scalp treatment cleans, nourishs, repairs damage and rejuvenates hair. Driven by the belief that integrative wellness is essential to a healthy lifestyle, Rakxa Wellness strives to take a holistic approach to provide facilities and services for health and wellness. Visit rakxawellness.com.
Immersive art / The Peninsula Bangkok / Until May 31
“Take Your Seat”, a global photographic journey, that uses a director’s chair as a symbol of taking charge, is an initiative by Canadian father-and-son photographers, Randy and Spencer VanDerStarrren. The duo have explored the regions of Thailand over four separate expeditions, capturing inspiring images that showcase the beauty of The Land of Smiles and its people. The exhibition extends from the front lobby to the signature Peninsula Thai-style boats. Large textured murals through the gardens and an interactive studio incorporate sound design by Thai celebrated artist, musician and conservationist, Note Panayanggool (Notep). In addition to the Thailand series, the exhibition also features a special photographic tribute to Turkey. To book a personally guided Artist Studio Tour, call 02-020-2888 or email pbk@peninsula.com. Visit peninsula.com/art.
STAY
April Sale / Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok / Until April 24
Save up to 15% of your room rate at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok by booking your stay for three nights minimum. Soi Langsuan's luxury hotel is running a flash sale to snag a savings staycation right in the heart of Bangkok. The rate starts from B7,032 per night for a room and B11,123 for a suite, with privileges including daily breakfast and a 'Forgot It? We Got It!' amenity. Guests are also entitled to Kimpton Hallmark, which includes daily breakfast and Kimpton Hallmarks, which include coffee-to-go from 6.30-9.30am at the lobby and a free-flow signature drink at Pool.bar from 5-6pm. Your good boys or girls are welcome to join your stay, which requires a seven-day notice in advance. Visit kimptonmaalaibangkok.com.
Stay Chic, Get Xtar / Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 / Until April 30
Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 invites you to "Stay Chic, Get Xtar" and enjoy your urban escape for a starting rate of B4,149 per night, with daily breakfast included. Quench your thirst at XYZ Bar for a complimentary cocktail and stay in a luxury loop with early check-in at 11am and late check-out till 2pm. Book and stay by April 30. Visit bit.ly/41zJ5rf.
Down by the Sea / Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa / Until May 31
By booking a minimum of two nights at Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, guests can upgrade their tropical getaway with a series of benefits, including daily breakfast, a B700 resort credit and a roundtrip airport transfer. The rate begins at B3,899 per night for a guest room, with a flexible check-out time until 2pm. The "Down By The Sea" package is available until May 31. Go to bit.ly/3MPgiuM.
New launch / Intriq Keys / Until April 30
Bespoke luxury travel designer, Intriq Journey, has launched an innovative hotel membership programme, Intriq Keys, to reward discerning travellers. Created to unlock a new world of privileges and recognition at iconic luxury hotels, Intriq Keys offers members value-added amenities and benefits on hotel experiences, with instant confirmation at more than 3,000 luxury hotels worldwide, as well as flexible cancellation without additional costs up to as late as the arrival day itself. Intriq Keys is powered by Intriq Journey, which specialises in curating customised travel experiences for discerning jetsetters. Intriq Keys includes iconic properties from global travel networks such as Virtuoso, Mandarin Oriental Fan Club, Hyatt Privé and Shangri-La Luxury Circle, as well as boutique hotels such as SLH WithIN hotels and Belmond Bellini Club. An Intriq Keys membership comes with a US$388 annual fee, inclusive of Intriq Rewards points. These can later be redeemed for a US$300 hotel gift card to offset guest stays at partnered properties. Until April 30, new members who sign up with the IntriqKeysGrandLaunch2023 special code get to enjoy 20% off the cost of their membership application. Visit intriqkeys.com.
Residents offer / Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary / Until April 30
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary on Koh Samui has launched a four-day, three-night getaway available exclusively for Thailand residents. Including discounted rates on accommodation, a daily healthy breakfast and a seven-course vegetarian dinner at Luna by Clara, the Thai residents offer is available for bookings until April 30. Package rates start from B20,960 for single occupancy and B31,000 for double occupancy. Apart from discounted room rates, the offer includes savings on wellness programmes and spa treatments. A 20% discount on the à la carte spa menu, 10% discount on wellness programmes, including one wellness consultation and one body bio-impedance analysis is also on the table. Complimentary access is extended to Kamalaya’s daily holistic activity classes, herbal steam caverns, swimming, lap and thermal plunge pools, as well as Shakti Fitness Centre. For elevated levels of vitality and health, combine stays with a three-day “Renew & Relax” that includes airport transfers, three healthy meals per day and eight therapeutic treatments. Packages start from B60,503 for single occupancy or B110,086 for double occupancy. Guests can also take advantage of Kamalaya’s newly opened Longevity House, which provides IV therapy, ozone therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and high-sensitivity cancer screening to support guests on a path to lifelong wellness. Call 077 -429-800, email reservations@kamalaya.com or Line: @kamalaya.
EAT
Afternoon tea / Sindhorn Kempinski Bangkok
Celebrate the arrival of summer with the Verdant Afternoon Tea at Sindhorn Kempinski Bangkok. The delectable collection of sweet and savoury treats takes inspiration from the verdant greenery that envelops the hotel lobby. As part of the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, the delicious treats will be served in eco-friendly containers made from husk bio-composite material and coconut fibre. The tea set includes Smoked salmon slice on white bread with horseradish and ikura, Crab meat and strawberries on crispy bread with balsamic, Tuna tartlette with cucumber and smoked herring caviar, and Foie gras parfait on a cracker with cru de cacao and almond. To satisfy the sweet tooth, there is Mojito with lime jelly, Bacardi cream and minted cucumber, Raspberry Charlotte with joconde, bourbon and vanilla cream, Chocolate beignet with fried ganache and pear puree, Mango tapas and Coconut lollipop and Malibu. The tea is served in containers hanging from a miniature salapee tree surrounded by a mist from dry ice. The particular tree was chosen for its strength and organic, graceful shape. It is also considered auspicious with the belief that it brings longevity and luck. The Verdant Afternoon Tea is served from 2-5pm daily at B2,300++ for two persons, and B100 from every tea set sold on Wednesdays is donated to the Autistic Thai Foundation and Foundation For The Blind, as part of The Melody of Giving Back programme. This programme also includes a vision-impaired pianist performing at tea time. Call 02-095-9999 or email fb.sindhorn@kempinski.com.
Anniversary celebrations / Rosewood Bangkok / Until June 30
The Rosewood Bangkok introduces its newest afternoon tea experience created in celebration of the hotel’s fourth anniversary, presented at Lakorn European Brasserie until June 30. The “Taste Of Rosewood Bangkok” afternoon tea draws inspiration from the flavours of the hotel’s restaurants and bars, served alongside a selection of pastries, ice cream and signature cake created by executive pastry chef Dustin Baxter. Savoury dishes include Cucumber served with Brie and Ham sandwich with charcoal bread and caper berries representing the European signature of Lakorn European Brasserie, while the Ratatouille texture with roasted capsicum and pesto on brioche embodies G&O’s philosophy of using organic, natural and locally-sourced ingredients. An exquisite Hamachi tart enlivened with honey jelly, olive and pickled yuzu encapsulates the stylish nature of the hotel’s upscale rooftop bar Lennon’s, and the authentic regional flavours of the Chinese cuisine served at Nan Bei are reinterpreted as Beijing duck served with spinach bun. Elegantly complementing the hotel’s distinct culinary flavours is Cornmeal fried oyster topped with Royal caviar and a delectable choice of pastries including Strawberry cheesecake, Pistachio éclair, Almond sponge with vanilla mousse and apricot cream and Hazelnut sponge with milk chocolate custard. Enjoy a refreshing Raspberry yuzu sorbet and exotic pavlova, a signature cake dish made with coconut mousse, mango lime compote and passion fruit coulis. A quintessential component of the afternoon tea ritual, the classic English scone, is given a twist as Citrus scone, served with honey Madeleine, berry jam and clotted cream. An optional Champagne pairing is available or a choice of two signature cocktails from Lennon’s. The “Taste Of Rosewood Bangkok” Afternoon Tea is priced at B2,700++ per set per couple, including tea or coffee, and an additional B400++ per Lennon’s signature cocktail. Call 02-080-0080 or email bangkok.lakorn@rosewoodhotels.com.
Seoul to Bangkok / Viu, St. Regis Bangkok / April 27-29
Viu at the St. Regis Bangkok is adding to its series of high profile guest chefs, with a six-course dinner that captures the vibrant energy of Gucci and the philosophy of chef Massimo Bottura of three Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy, from April 27-29. The gastronomic experience by Gucci Osteria Seoul, a collaboration between Gucci X Osteria da Massimo Bottura, will see executive chef Hyungkyu Jun and head chef Davide Cardellini from Gucci Osteria Seoul combine the vibrant spirits of Italian and Korean culinary cultures. The epicurean journey starts with a “Black Pearl Garden”, followed by “Gambero Scapece”, and “Kimchi Chronicles”. Experience the “Fallen Leaves In The Ocean” and “Rosso e Nero”, a hashed tenderloin dish inspired by the Godfather trilogy. On the menu of every Gucci Osteria features a tribute dish to the chocolate-loving son of chef Bottura, and the Seoul chefs are creating “Viagggio Universale di Charley”. The Gucci Osteria Seoul experience is priced at B5,100++ per person or B7,800++ with wine pairing. Call 02-207-7777, email fb.bangkok@stregis.com or visit stregisbangkok.com.
Durian buffet / River Park, Iconsiam / Until April 23
Greyhound Café and Iconsiam have organised the “Kin Durian Gun Hai Gold Finger 2’ until April 23 at River Park, G floor, Iconsiam. The event celebrates the best durian varieties, selected from top durian orchards. Guests can enjoy a durian buffet for an hour and 30 minutes, five times a day, with rounds at 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm and 7pm. Tickets are priced at B1,290++ per person. The five main durian varieties available are Monthong, Nok Yib, Puangmanee, Kan Yao and Nuan Thong Chan. There are also rare durian varieties such as Chanthaburi 3, Chanthaburi 7, Chanthaburi 10, Gob Chai Nam, Long Lab Lae, Thong Lin Jong and Musan King, rotated for everyone to taste, as well. In addition, there are also seasonal fruits such as rambutan, lychee, mangosteen, watermelon, dragon fruit, longan and Nam Dok Mai mangoes. In addition, Greyhound Café also offers desserts and special beverages exclusively for this event, such as Durian sticky rice, Mango sticky rice and Durian ice cream. Drinks include Lychee and Mango juices. Guests can buy durians or snacks to take home. Aside from the buffet, there are also limited edition t-shirts for sale for B790 each and two cost B1,500. Purchase durian buffet tickets via ticketmelon.com or at the event. Call 1338 or visit iconsiam.com.
WATCH
Evil Dead Rise in cinemas
Directed by Lee Cronin.
Who's in it?
Alyssa Sutherland, Lily Sullivan and Morgan Davies.
What's it about?
A twisted tale of two estranged sisters whose reunion is cut short by the rise of flesh-possessing demons, thrusting them into a primal battle for survival as they face the most nightmarish version of family imaginable.
Why watch it?
The fifth installment of the Evil Dead film series.
Coldplay: Music Of The Spheres: Live At River Plate in cinemas
Directed by Paul Dugdale.
Who's in it?
Chris Martin, Jin and Jon Buckland.
What's it about?
The band announced a special worldwide cinema presentation of their spectacular “Music Of The Spheres World Tour”, filmed during the 10-night run at Buenos Aires’ River Plate stadium at the end of 2022. The concert film will be shown in cinemas across the globe on April 19/23.
Why watch it?
The film includes a host of footage, which wasn’t shown during the live broadcast, when it screened in a record-breaking 81 countries. The cinema presentation will also include an exclusive behind-the-scenes short film featuring new interviews with the band. The concert sees the band perform classic hits from across their career, including Yellow, The Scientist, Fix You, Viva La Vida, A Sky Full Of Stars and My Universe in a stadium bursting with lights, lasers, fireworks and LED wristbands. It also features guest appearances from multi-Grammy winner H.E.R., and Jin of BTS, who performs alongside Coldplay for the live debut of his record-breaking single The Astronaut.
