Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, art exhibitions, shows, food and hotel deals.
STUFF
Sunglasses collection / Smileyhound
Smileyhound recently launched its debut sunglasses collection. The Thai designer fashion house has introduced two acetate models, Copenhagen and Capri, reflecting the splendour of European resort towns. The Copenhagen model comes in a tortoise pattern of black and brown and features a chunky frame with a square shape, a nod to Denmark's iconic townhouses. For a retro-chic look, put on Capri's shades, which boast a cat-eye frame. They come in two colourways inspired by the beauty of an Italian paradise island, one features an amber frame with a green-tinted lens that depicts Italian-style houses amid warm sunlight, while the other reflects the shimmering water surface of the Mediterranean Sea through a crystal-clear frame with a soft blue lens. Visit smileyhound.com.
Virtual Rainbow / Casio
Casio has unveiled a quartet of G-Shock watches that will capture the attention of gamers with their cyberpunk-inspired design. Drawing inspiration from gaming culture and e-sports, the latest "Virtual Rainbow" series is the perfect complement to any gamer's play station. The watches feature a clever adaptation of the RGB spectrum, which is often used as decorative lighting for tech gadgets, into the watch face design. Their bezels and bands boast glossy black, accentuated by a prism effect on the brand's signature armoured crystal, which adds an iridescent sheen to the overall aesthetic. Visit gshock.casio.com.
Spring collection / Charles & Keith
As we transition to springtime, colourful dressers have more chances to experiment, and Singaporean fashion house Charles & Keith doesn’t want to be left behind. Its Spring 2023 collection includes the signature handbags and footwear in spring-ready shades, including green, pink and yellow, alongside classic colours like black and white. An adorable metallic flower buckle elevates classic silhouettes, hinting at spring. Adding a youthful spirit, is Thai pop sensation Achiraya "Ally" Nitibhon, who has been named the first Charles & Keith Thailand family member. In the spring campaign, Ally presents the Petra bag series, including a curved shoulder bag, wallet and front-flap bag, by matching them with her gladiator platform sandals. Shop at charleskeith.co.th.
Summer Fiesta! / Shein
Shein welcomes the sun with the "3.3 Summer Fiesta”, bringing many collections, including beachwear, vacation, family and home. Summer looks to check out are the Shein Bae satin dress with a mesh top, the Shein x Yelly Gray four-piece printed halter bikini swimsuit and cover-up top with skirt set, or the pink frill-trim tube top with matching skirt. Another head turner look is a fitted long sleeve bodysuit in dark blue — a popular colour this season, worn with flare pants for a Y2K feel. Visit th.shein.com.
Extreme 3.0 Collection / Montblanc
Montblanc’s signature leather collection “Montblanc Extreme 3.0” returns with a springtime selection of bags and leather goods in new shapes and colours. The updated selection departs from the original black and British green colours with the introduction of two shades: an intense blue and a modern grey. Accompanying the new colours are three new dynamic shapes: a Compact Envelope bag, a Mini Messenger bag, and two versions of a Round Pouch. Alongside these novelties, the selection features classic pieces, including a backpack, a thin document case, as well as an assortment of bracelets, wallets, mini pouches and notebooks. The Montblanc Summit 3 Smartwatch also joins the extended collection in April with a new watchface and leather strap in the new grey colour that is compatible with all Summit generations. The expanded “Montblanc Extreme 3.0” collection is available at Montblanc boutiques worldwide and online. Visit montblanc.com.
JOIN
The Musician Dog / Central Rama III / Until March 22
Dogs playing instruments might sound cartoonish, but you can hear these good boys and girls playing music at "The Musician Dog" hosted by Central Rama III. The shopping complex is running a dog-friendly event where you and your four-paw friends can have a good time at pet-friendly festivities, including collar and leash designing, getting your dog a tattoo and taking family portraits together at the photo studio. Don't miss out highlights on this Sunday, which include a dog music show (starting at 1pm) and a meet-and-greet session where you can snuggle with fluffy furry friends like the Alaskan Malamute. Go to centralrama3.com.
Self-care journey / Patom Organic Living / March 19
Are you feeling stressed and disconnected from yourself? Thong Lor's Patom Organic Living invites you to embark on a full-day self-care journey. Join "Building A Home Inside Me and get ready to unwind through a series of mindful activities, including yoga, Mandala circle, art therapy and journaling. You can customise your experience by choosing from different classes that suit your needs. Or book a bundle that includes a delicious lunch and a refreshing drink for only B6,600 per person. Visit fb.com/patom.organics.
Uncommon Ground / Bangkok International Performing Arts Meeting / March 22-26
Bangkok International Performing Arts Meeting (BIPAM) is back with the theme "Uncommon Ground", with the Jim Thompson Art Centre named as the new venue for this year's gathering. Metaphorically, like the Avengers assembling for art enthusiasts, this five-day art conference is dedicated to Southeast Asia's performing arts. The spotlight will be on four performances, two of which will be presented by Thai artists, including Intermission by Thanapol Virulhakul and I Say Mingalaba, You Say Goodbye by Jarunun Phantachat. Alongside the highlights, a series of programmes will explore the theme through talks, workshops and networking sessions, as well as new programmes such as tables, routes and BIPAM Explorer (an educational programme). Visit bipam.org.
Hotel film series / Amari Watergate Bangkok / March 24
The Amari Watergate Bangkok as launched a new “International Film Series”, which is an extension of the “Meet Locally Connect Globally’ motto, celebrating cinema, cuisine and sustainability, with award-winning movies and sustainably-sourced food. The opening film, “A Girl From Mogadishu”, is based on the life of Ifrah Ahmed, a Somalian refugee, who is one of the world’s foremost activists against gender-based violence. The film takes viewers through Ahmed’s tumultuous life, from her traumatised youth in war-torn Somalia, dangerous escape out of her country with a trafficker, arrival in Ireland as a refugee, amazing evolvement as an activist against FGM (female genital mutilation). Ahmed will deliver a video message to the Bangkok audience, before the screening, which will be attended by the Irish ambassador, Pat Bourne. There will also be a reception before the screening, where Irish whisky and wines will be served, along with snacks. Email hotelforum2023@gmail.com for bookings.
Vivaldi / Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai / March 25
The Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai’s annual charity concert returns with an uplifting performance of Antonio Vivaldi’s historic Baroque masterpiece, ‘The Four Seasons”, on March 25. Led by maestro violinist Dr Tasana Nagavajara, attendees can enjoy the most-acclaimed concertos ever written by the Italian maestro, performed by the Pro Musica trio. The presentation by the Pro Musica trio of Dr Tasana, Victor Gurulev and Kittikhun Sodpresert, is an adaptation of each concerto for the violin, accordion and violoncello, respectively. Antonio Vivaldi’s most famous composition, first published in 1725, is a set of four violin concertos, considered “programmatic” music in that each composition is paired with a sonnet about one of the four seasons of the year. As part of the resort’s annual charitable efforts, the concert will raise awareness in aid of The Wiang Phing Home for Children. Registration begins at 5.30pm on March 25 and tickets are available at the resort at B1,200 nett, inclusive of welcome drink and canapés. Call 053-298-181, email contactus.chiangmai@fourseasons.com or chat real-time via the FS Chat App.
Bar takeover / The St. Regis Bar / March 25
The St. Regis Bangkok will host celebrated bartender Allen Fang from The Nest in Shanghai, China, for a guest shift at The St. Regis Bar. Winner of numerous international cocktail competitions, Fang is bar manger at The Nest.He is also the co-founder of DreamSicle Bar, also in Shanghai. At The St. Regis Bar, Fang will present a selection of five cocktails, which include a Spring tea Champagne cocktail, a sparkling vodka-based drink with hints of genmaicha, elderflower, oolong tea, and eucalyptus; Durian gray, a gin-infused beverage that pays homage to the king of fruit; and The love cure, a tequila drink with cured tomato and onion, pine nut cordial, sour orange, perilla leaves and serrano chili dust. Fang will be behind the bar from 7-11pm on March 25. Cocktails are priced from B440++ per glass. Call 02-207-7777, email fb.bangkok@stregis.com or visit stregisbangkok.com.
New Italasia showroom / Vanit Vilage, Ari
Italasia, one of the country’s leading importers of Italian products recently unveiled its 31st showroom at Vanit Village, a chic new community mall that recently opened in Ari. The showroom has an izakaya-style design concept to encapsulate the spirit of the neighbourhood. The Ari branch offers imported Japanese beverage products and specialties, along with an array of wines, liquors, sakes, chuhai, soju and other beverages from Italy, France, Spain, Australia and Chile, to non-alcoholic beverages. Besides drinks, the store features tableware brands such as Luzerne and Wedgwood, as well as Schott Zwiesel, the famous crystal glassware brand from Germany. Italasia also launched a special collection from Zwiesel Glas called “Journey”, which is an anniversary series to celebrate the brands 150-year history, designed by Sebastian Herkner. Call 094-285-6262.
Thaï Love / Rosewood Bangkok / Until June 16
The Rosewood Bangkok will host a solo exhibition by abstract expressionist graffiti painter JonOne until June 16, the latest in its quarterly rotating exhibitions showcasing local and international artists. Featuring artworks inspired by Thailand,“Thaï Love” will be on display at The Art Gallery in Rosewood Bangkok. JonOne started in 80s New York during the height of the city’s graffiti movement, where he rubbed shoulders with Jean Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol at Studio 54. The streaks of colours, his signature, pay homage to his roots, representing the movement of subway train graffiti reproduced on canvas. Drawing inspiration from works of masters ranging from Kandinsky to Matisse and Pollock, JonOne’s works are known for their explosions of vibrant colours, which breathe life into voids.
STAY
Dine around / Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers / Until March 31
The riverside Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers offers a savoury stay with the "Dine Around" package, starting from B6,850 per night. Guests can kick back in a deluxe room and enjoy a dinner set of their choice, choosing from Italian dishes at Giorgio's, an international buffet at Feast or a Thai dinner set at Thara Thong accompanied by traditional Thai dance shows. Booking and staying periods are available until the end of this month. Go to bit.ly/3YLrHOk to book.
Immersive moment / The Sukhothai Bangkok / Until April 30
Treat yourself to a staycation package, "Your Immersive Moment", at The Sukhothai Bangkok with a delectable meal for stays by April 30. At rates starting from B8,300 per night for a superior room, guests can indulge in a five-course dinner at the Italian restaurant La Scala, starring the winter menu. The gastronomic stay is available between Tuesday and Saturday only. Reservation at sukhothai.com/bangkok.
Tropical getaway / InterContinental Hua Hin Resort / Until Sept 31
More joys are to be had when lingering longer at InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. By booking your tropical getaway for at least three consecutive nights, your third night will be on the house. The perks include daily breakfast for two guests and unlimited access to Vana Nava Waterpark during your stay. The package is available for booking and stays until Sept 30, which excludes the blackout date during the Songkran holiday, from April 13-17. Visit huahin.intercontinental.com.
New hotels / Meliá Hotels
Meliá Hotels International is expanding its INNSiDE brand throughout Asia with the opening of two new hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. INNSiDE is a collection of unique urban and beach hotels designed for curious minds with a fluid lifestyle. The 208-room INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit in On Nut, which opens soon, embraces local culture with design touches inspired by temples and Bangkok landmarks, while also offering the creative work and play spaces that underpin the INNSiDE brand. A sky-high pool bar and pool occupy the topmost floors, with dining options highlighting local and Spanish cuisines. A tapas restaurant will provide a culinary pilgrimage across Spain. The Bangkok property will also eliminate single-use plastic and provide drinking water in recycled glass bottles. The 238-room INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras, will be the first INNSiDE hotel to open in Malaysia this month. The property will introduce a range of eco-measures, including such in-room amenities as wheat straw yoga mats, solar-powered LED lighting, and a plastic-free environment. To enhance co-working and stimulate ideas, the hotel has two vibrant multifunctional areas, the Big Ideas Space and The Recording Studio. There is also an alfresco palm tree-fringed infinity pool with an expansive sun-lounging deck that provides space for visitors to take a break. Visit innsidebymelia.com.
EAT
St. Patrick’s Day / Barsu, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit / March 17
Barsu, the vibrant bar and live music venue at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, will roll out the green carpet on March 17, to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! To mark Ireland’s national day, this legendary bar is inviting you to wear your best green outfit and enjoy the craic, with a series of special dishes that showcase the spirit of the Emerald Isle. Indulge in comforting Irish classics like Guinness beef stew (B360+++), Shepherd’s pie (B320+++) and Slow-cooked corned beef with cabbage (B360+++). For dessert, enjoy Green velvet cheesecake (B190+++) and Green velvet pancake (B160+++). For one night only, Fabio Brugnolaro, owner and bar manager of Copper Bar Bangkok, will takeover the bar and bring a splash of Italian flair to the Irish festivities from 8pm until midnight. Call 02-649-8888 or email bkklcdining@marriott.com.
Four-hand dinner / Côte by Mauro Colagreco / March 22-23
For two days only on March, 22-23, Côte by Mauro Colagreco at the Capella Bangkok will welcome back its pioneer, multi-award-winning chef Mauro Colagreco. Chef Colagreco and Côte head chef Davide Garavaglia will present culinary creations with delightful flavours of spring, while showcasing ingredients for Capella Bangkok’s greenhouse and organic growers from around the country. Within Côte’s “Riviera to River” concept, the menu features flavours from the Mediterranean while embracing the colours, textures and tastes of the age-old traditions of Thai cuisine where ginger, lemongrass, and pomelo make for captivating cross-border delicacies. The special dinners will be served on March 22-23, while March 23 will also offer a lunch option. The nine-course “Carte Blanche” tasting menu is priced at B12,000++ per person. Call 02-098-3818, email cote.bangkok@capellahotels.com or visit cotebkk.com.
French evening / Favola, Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort / March 24-25
Chef Pathapee “Oan” Moonkonkaew of L'éléphant Boutique Bistronomy will take over the kitchen at Favola, Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort on Mach 24-25. L’éléphant is a French restaurant by chef Oan, who offers conceptual French cuisine. He was also one of the contestants on Iron Chef Thailand 2022. The five-course menu is priced at B2,200 nett. Call 053-603-333.
Weekly culinary journey / Ventisi, Centara Grand at CentralWorld
Themed buffets at Ventisi, crafted by executive chef Andrea Montella use the freshest local and imported ingredients, and classic cooking techniques and are being served every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. They feature a large selection of dishes with a focus on black truffles on Thursdays, premium Wagyu beef on Fridays and Argentinean cuisine on Saturdays. The Black Truffle Thursday Night Buffet offers a luxury in a variety of dishes. The Wagyu Friday Night Buffet features a range of mouth-watering dishes, including roasted Wagyu rump, Wagyu beef teriyaki skewers, Wagyu beef Neapolitan braciola, among others. The Taste of Argentina Saturday Night Buffet offers flavourful cuisine of Argentina with highlights, including Pork loin pizzaiola, Flank steak matambre, Morcillias, Roasted tri tip with green pepper sauce, Cordero de las pampas (grilled lamb) and more. The themed buffets are priced at B1,590++ per person (Children between the ages of six and 11 are B795++). Call 02-100-6255 or email diningcgcw@chr.co.th.
International Waffle Day / Belga, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit / March 25
International Waffle Day on March 25 will be celebrated at Belga where waffle-love will be taken to new heights, literally. The sinfully-decadent “Belga waffle tower”, a new addition to the menu, can be enjoyed for B200 nett. To redeem this offer, you have to take the best photograph of the waffle tower and upload it to your Instagram and tag Belga with signature hastags #BelgaBangkok #FeeltheCraftMoment. Visit bit.ly/3TclXwd.
Set lunch menus / Ki Izakaya, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok
Renowned for its impeccable culinary offerings and contemporary ambience that reflects traditional Japanese elements, Ki Izakaya at the Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok has launched new set lunch menus. The new menus showcase traditional Japanese flavours and diners choose between a four-course Niku Set or Sakana Set, priced at B490 nett, including a complimentary glass of hot or iced Sencha green tea. For an additional B690 nett, guests can enjoy a selection of desserts from the a la carte menu and free-flow hot or iced Sencha green tea. Call 02-095-9999 or email fb.sindhorn@kempinski.com.
WATCH
Shazam! Fury Of The Gods in cinemas
Directed by David F. Sandberg.
Who's in it?
Helen Mirren.Zachary Levi and Grace Caroline Currey.
What's it about?
The film continues the story of teenage Billy Batson who, upon reciting the magic word "Shazam!" is transformed into his adult Super Hero alter ego, Shazam.
Why watch it?
"When you and your friends are wielding the fury of the gods in Strongman Sim, you'll know what it's like to add a little Shazam to your life."
Shadow And Bone (Season 2) on Netflix
Premiered on March 16
General Kirigan emerges again with even more powers than before. Alina and the Darkling finally face off but there are also new characters, big new monsters, the flying ship Hummingbird and even a hook-up.
