Guru By Bangkok Post's pick of the most exciting products, activities, food and hotel deals to indulge in.
STUFF
Pride Collection 2023: Proud to Be / Converse
Converse paints its signature shoes and t-shirts in a rainbow spectrum for its Pride Month collection, dubbed "Proud to Be". The collection sees classic silhouettes have been given a vibrant makeover by LGBTQIA+ icons. Standing out among all is the Chuck 70 De Luxe Heel Pride, revamped for Pride with a sparkling silver glitter canvas and a platform heel designed by Latinx lesbian singer-songwriter Eva Westphal, who named her creation "Proud To Be Uplifting". From the garment side, a crop top and a t-shirt sport a redesigned logo featuring a deconstructed rainbow graphic. Go to converse.co.th.
Pride Capsule Collection 2023: Hound For All / Smileyhound
Just in time for Pride Month, the Thai designer label Smileyhound rolls out a capsule collection. To proudly showcase the name "House for All", the Pride edition comprises t-shirts and polos featuring a vibrant rainbow stripe pattern that celebrates people of all stripes. A special item for this year's pride collection is a puffer nylon tote with an embroidered logo in a rainbow thread. Shop at smileyhound.com.
Classique & Le Male Pride Edition 2023: Get Used To It! / Jean Paul Gaultier
The self-titled fashion label Jean Paul Gaultier introduces a new edition of its annual pride bottle. The pride edition of the Eau de Toilette is more than just a fragrance; it's a powerful statement, upholding and honouring the values of the LGBTQIA+ community. With top notes of sensual blood orange and yuzu, complemented by a musky-woody aroma from blond wood, this gender-neutral fragrance offers a zesty yet decadent scent experience. The fragrance is available in two signature bottle designs, including the Classique, a voluptuous female torso, and Le Male, a masculine body. Both bottles are adorned with a white sleeveless t-shirt sporting a graffiti print that reads "Get Used to It", paying homage to the brand's slogan from the Spring/Summer collection of 1994. Stay tuned at sephora.co.th.
Summer 2023 Collection / H&M
A sophisticated summer wardrobe calls for refined simplicity with a touch sparkle and shine. With H&M’s Summer 2023 collection, relaxed suiting mixes with crochet pieces, fabulous swimwear, strappy sandals and glam accessories. A fresh colour palette of crisp white and sunny yellow is set against graphic black. Whether it’s strolling on the beach or down a city street, H&M pairs them this summer with fluid satin separates, sparkly statement pieces and captivating swimsuits and bikinis with tie-up details. It’s a modern contrast that elevates textures, simple silhouettes and natural, breathable materials. The collection is available in-storeS and at th.hm.com.
JOIN
Picnic Picjai Art Market / Art Atmos / Until June 4
Art Atmos is hosting a weekend market, "Picnic Picjai Art Market", underground at the Metro Art project, located within MRT Phahon Yothin. Browse through an array of arts 'n' crafts from local creators while a line-up of artists, such as Tukatoon and Zene, amping the ambience with live music. Join for free by pre-registering at bit.ly/3oD0FNl for additional benefits. Visit fb.com/artatmos.
Friendly Food Market / Lemon Farm / Until June 7
Step into the world of sustainable and organic living at Friendly Food Market, where a blend of conscious choices and wholesome products awaits. Lemon Farm has gathered a plethora of seasonal vegetables and fruits from local producers for purchase at the market zone, including grab-and-go hearty meals for visitors to enjoy a quick bite. A series of eco-conscious activities is featured at the event to provide visitors with a better understanding of a greener lifestyle, such as a cooking class and a lean-in talk sharing how to Eat the Rainbow. Visitors can also take part in wild honey taste testing, as well as a beehive workshop. The event is taking place on the G floor of Samyan Mitrtown. Go to fb.com/lemonfarmorganic.
Self Love & Art Workshop / Tentacles Workshop / June 4
Tentacles Workshop embarks you on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression through the "Self Love & Art" workshop. Through self-affirmation, participants are encouraged to engage in a psychological practice that lets them find their inner voices. The self-awareness process is combined with art workshops, as sometimes words alone are not enough to express your thoughts and feelings. A seat on a self-exploration sets you back B1,500. Register at fb.com/TentaclesN22.
World Ocean Day at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives / June 7-9
The resort is marking World Ocean Day with a series of vibrant happenings between June 7-9. Educating adults and kids on protecting the ocean and marine life, the resort is playing its part in taking collective action around the international day. A 35-minute speedboat journey from the Unesco Biosphere Reserve of Hanifaru Bay, guests can look forward to the chance of seeing and learning more about the 220 species of aquatic creatures that live within the pristine house reef. Including grey sharks, eagle rays, tropical fish and turtles, it is also home to 98 different types of magnificent coral. For those looking to explore the colourful and stunning underwater world or witness manta rays in all their glory, the resort will be offering guided snorkelling and manta excursions, accompanied by a local marine biologist. The property will also be hosting free coral planting and house reef cleaning sessions throughout the week. The Lil Shark Kids Club is hosting a special programme of educational and interactive sessions including coral/shell painting and an oceanic boat tour offering kids the chance to learn about the ocean. Visit standardhotels.com/maldives.
Wellness programmes / Four Seasons Resorts Thailand / Until June 30
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Koh Samui will participate in Global Wellness Day on June 10 with a range of complimentary experiences that reflect the spirit of this year’s theme — #DanceMagenta. At Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, guests can flow with the “art of eight limbs” and learn the nuances of muay Thai. The resort also celebrates International Yoga Day on June 21 with a monk offering, 108 sun salutations and a group session in sound healing. With the azure blue waters as inspiration, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers a variety of programmes and activities to support guests' well-being, including the K2 run, stretching class, aqua aerobics, Thai massage, and tak kraw on the beach. In the evening, guests can participate in the Ecstatic Dance Class, which features a sound healing journey and live music event. Book the “Art Of Mindful Living Package” for Chiang Mai at fourseasons.com/chiangmai/offers/the-art-of-mindful-living and the Koh Samui’s “Spa Escapades” at Koh Samui at fourseasons.com/kohsamui/offers/spa-escapades.
Bitterman x Shareday / Bitterman / June 4
“Bitter Day & Night” was conceptualised as a small community to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experience between seasoned artists and aspiring young artists. The event is organised in two periods: Bitter Day and Bitter Night. The Bitter Day workshop is hosted by Thai musicians Imhavingabadday. The workshop is an exchange of knowledge and know-how from professional musicians. This includes songwriting, marketing, performance and other industry-related skills to help aspiring artists hone their craft. The workshop will be held from 1-4pm and ticket prices are B500 for one person and B900 for two and include one coffee or cocktail and entry to the night show. The workshop is limited to 20 participants. The Bitter Night is a music show about giving opportunities to new artists and serves as a practice ground to encourage them for future live performances. Three bands will perform and the shows will be from 6-10pm. Ticket prices are B600 for one person and B1,100 for two and include one drink. Buy tickets via Line: @shareday.th. Bitterman is on Sala Daeng 1, Silom. Call 063-846-2288.
Culinary contest / Klong Phai Farm, The Food School Bangkok / June 10
A culinary contest will take place at The Food School Bangkok, hosted by Klong Phai Farm on June 10 from 11.30-1.30pm. There will be six teams from four culinary schools competing. Participants will have to follow the exact recipe created by chef Arnaud Dunand Sauthier of Maison Dunand and will have to choose a garnish from a surprise vegetable pack from Uraiwan Organic Farm. The next course will have to contain the main ingredient, which will be eggs from Klong Phai Farm. The jury comprises chefs Sauthier, Julien Le Breton, Herve Frerard, Dominique Bugnand and Michael Papo. The technical jury is made of chefs Kent and Olivier Castella. The winner will receive a gold trophy, a month’s training with chef Sauthier, two knives from Siam Blade, a pair of working shoes from Nordways and B10,000 in cash from M Wrap. Join the lunch for B1,250 plus VAT. Visit fb.com/Klongphaifarm or klongphaifarm.com.
Reel workshop / Netflix / Until June 30
Netflix has launched the Reel Life workshop for aspiring film and television creatives. Set to take place between August 5-6 in Bangkok. Thai nationals between the ages of 20-26 can take part in the two-day workshop to hone their skills and meet mentors from Netflix and others in the industry. Promising participants will also be given a chance to join on-the-job training programmes with Netflix’s production partners in Thailand. The initiative is supported by Netflix’s Fund for Creative Equity, launched in 2021 to invest US$100 million over five years to create more pathways for talent from underrepresented communities around the world. The workshop aims to play a part in supporting the next generation of creatives by offering a pathway to learn and to being their careers. Registration will open until June 30. Visit reellife.camp or email reellifecamp@netflix.com.
STAY
Love Nest / The Standard Hua Hin / Until June 30
The Standard Hua Hin celebrates Pride Month with "Love Nest", where lovebirds can sweep their other half off their feet for a romantic escape with a half-board package. The resort has combined a romantic five-course dinner by the beach with relaxation in a standard room for rates starting at B10,999 per night, a suite for B13,499, a villa for B15,499 and a pool villa for B37,999. Indulge in cake on arrival and enjoy a little effervescence with a complimentary cocktail for two. Other perks include a signature mud lounge session for two and a 15% discount at dining outlets and the spa. The resort is also hosting a series of events throughout the month. Expect a pride edition of "Not Your Standard Bingo" night on June 15, a pride talk on June 17 featuring guest speakers from Girl x Girl, an online community that empowers women-loving women, and a fashion show on June 30. Check out standardhotels.com/hua-hin.
Love It Up! / The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon / Until June 30
The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon also joins the rainbow bandwagon. Take advantage of "Love It Up!" to save up to 25% on your stay, with a starting rate from B5,975 per night, including daily breakfast and a complimentary turn-down service with Pride Month-inspired cocktails for two. Snag a 15% discount on afternoon tea at Tease, where the tearoom doubles as an art exhibition displaying a series of designed headsets by artist Eric Tobua. Visit standardhotels.com/bangkok.
Put You Pride On / Arbour Hotel and Residence Pattaya / Until Aug 31
Feel the love in the air at Arbour Hotel and Residence Pattaya, where romance and celebration intertwine. "Put Your Pride On" with a staycation package that offers a night's stay for B3,500, with breakfast included. The perks come with two complimentary cocktails, a gift set and a 20% discount on F&B. During Pride Month, the hotel transforms into a beacon of love and acceptance, with rainbow decorations adorning every corner. Book by Aug 31 for stays until Sept 30. Go to bit.ly/th_pride_fmays.
Immersive luxury / Rosewood Luang Prabang
The Rosewood Luang Prabang invites travellers to immerse themselves in an enchanting destination with a three-night stay in an all-inclusive indulgence. The package includes roundtrip airport transfers, all meals and spa treatments. Curated activities include almsgiving, a sunset cruise, visits to a waterfall and the night market in the Unesco World Heritage town centre. The experience includes a choice of Bill Bensley-designed accommodations. While Riverside Rooms and Riverside Suites are housed in the main building, the Riverside Villa offers added seclusion, and the Waterfall Pool Villa provides outdoor amenities like a private pool, al fresco wooden bathtub and outdoor dining table overlooking a natural stream. For the epitome of luxury, the Hilltop Tent brings guests closer to nature with an oversized wraparound balcony with comfortable sofa seating looking out over the surrounding forest. The package starts from US$4,500 for two persons. It is valid for a consecutive three-night stay booking and stays until March 31, 2024. Visit rosewoodhotels.com.
Family Is Everything / Meliá Chiang Mai
Meliá Chiang Mai aims to reconnect families with its “Family Is Everything” holiday, combining a stay in the Family Room with fun at its teens club. Kidsdom offers Thai boxing, umbrella-painting, plaster model-painting, arts and craft with recycled materials and origami. A new kids pool is home to two water slides, a rain curtain, water fountains and a giant tipping bucket. Yhi Spa offers treatments for children between the ages of six and 12, a 45-minute or 60-minute “Kids Therapy” aims to prevent hyperactivity by starting with stretching and animal yoga poses before a gentle massage with Harnn coconut oils to stop skin irritation. The package is priced at B5,759 nett per night, with complimentary access to Kidsdom and the kids swimming pool. Call 052-090-699, email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com or visit melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm.
Special promotions / Holiday Inn & Suites Siracha Laemchabang / June 6-30
From June 6-30, guests who secure a standard room at the exclusive rate of B2,666 nett are rewarded with an additional night at no cost. Furthermore, they have the opportunity to select one bonus perk from six enticing options: a room upgrade, a one-time afternoon tea for two, a one-time FB credit of B666, a complimentary lunch or dinner, or an hour of free-flowing wine for two at The Hub or Level 8. Until June 30, a standard room can be reserved for B3,800 nett, which includes breakfast for two, two tickets to the renowned Tiffany's Show Pattaya, and two Pride welcome drinks at The Hub Bar & Deli. The “Swing & Stay” package, available from Dec 1-31, allows guests to enjoy a weekday or weekend golf getaway. The weekday package is priced at B3,350 nett and the weekend package is offered at B4,050 nett. Both options include a breakfast box and golf fees at the Bang Pra Golf courses. At B2,900, guests can reserve a one-bedroom suite from Dec 1-31, inclusive of breakfast for two, Sichang SkyLab tickets and transportation via the hotel van. From Dec 1-31, the “Temple Retreat” offers a one-bedroom suite for B 2,500 nett and includes breakfast for two and a day trip to the Viharnra Thep Satit Phra Kiti Charoem (Naja Temple). The” Stay & Dine” package, starting from B3,143 nett per room per night includes daily breakfast, a choice between a khao tom buffet or a seafood/international buffet, IHG One Rewards points, Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, sauna and a private onsen. The Stay Longer and Save package, starting from B3,100 nett per room per night offers savings of up to 15% for stays of three nights or more. Call 033-251-699, Line: in.ee/DL3H3Bx, email dmksr.rsvn@ihg.com or visit bit.ly/3JS4JzF.
A Touch of Elegance / The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam / Until June 30
The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam is celebrating its 10th anniversary with refurbishments. The event hall has been transformed into a clay-court tennis venue, while the rooms and facilities have been upgraded to offer a seamless digital experience for guests. The hotel has also been made more sustainable and eco-friendly, with an investment in solar power and improved waste management. The fully-equipped fitness centre has been upgraded and dining experiences will come with detailed calorie information and ingredient transparency. The hotel has also begun cultivating organic vegetables and fruits at Siam Dasada Khaoyai Resort in Prachin Buri. To celebrate the upgrade and the 10th year of operations, The Berkeley Hotel Pratunam has launched the “A Touch of Elegance” campaign for June. Mulberry Chinese cuisine will offer a special Chinese table set for 10 persons at B11,110 nett. More packages are available for stays. Call 02-309-9999 or visit berkeleypratunam.com.
EAT
All Love / Anantara Siam / Until June 30
This June, Anantara Siam’s bakery, Mocha & Muffins launches a handcrafted “All Love” premium chocolate bar, in a limited edition. The “All Love” wrapper features a rainbow design that represents love and appreciation for everyone and everything from everywhere. The 80% dark chocolate bar is handcrafted using the finest Belgian chocolate, sustainably farmed and certified by Cocoa Horizons. The bar is priced at B240++ and the cafe also serves up new creations to celebrate Pride Month. Layers of “Love Cake” and “Prisem Frappé” will be available at Mocha & Muffins until June 30, Call 02-126-8866 or email dining.asia@anantara.com.
Roman Adventure / Anantara Layan Phuket Resort / Until July 31
Appia, Bangkok’s trattoria is taking its classic Roman cuisine to Anantara Layan Phuket Resort until July 31. The Beach House offers the perfect setting for the pop-up providing a gourmet tribute to fresh coastal living. Diners will be able to savour freshly baked breads with tasty accompaniments of cold cuts, creamy cheeses and marinated red peppers. Artisanal salads like the Puntarella made with chicory greens grown in Lazio, Cured and pickled anchovies and fresh pasta dishes such as Cacio e Pepe and Norcia truffle pasta, will satisfy cravings for true Roman food. On the dessert menu, try the Tiramisu and don’t miss out on the excellent Passion fruit panna cotta. Call 076-317-200, email beachhouse.alay@anantara.com or visit beachhouselayan.com.
Durian Fiesta / Siam Tea Room / Until July 31
Siam Tea Room, the casual café and authentic Thai eatery at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, is celebrating the arrival of durian season with its “Durian Fiesta”. Throughout June and July, experience the distinctive flavour and fragrance of this fruit with a selection of sweet and savoury Thai dishes using locally-sourced and sustainably-farmed durians. The menu includes a light and vibrant appetiser of Young durian salad with fresh mangosteen and shrimp, and three mouth-watering main courses: a rich and indulgent Slow-braised beef cheek massaman curry with young durian, light and fresh Steamed sea prawns in fresh milk with chili and durian, and succulent Chu chee grilled pork neck with durian. A delectable dessert is also available: Durian in syrup with crispy gems and coconut milk ice cream. Call 02-059-5999, email restaurant-reservations.bkkqp@marriotthotels.com or visit sevn.ly/x6KK3qe6.
Brunch affair / Uno Mas, Centara Grand / June 4 and July 2
Mark your calendars for the upcoming two editions of this opulent feast on June 4 and July 2. Chef de cuisine Roberto Gonzalez Alonso has curated a gastronomic adventure on the 54th floor. Bask in breathtaking views, while indulging in a delectable array of Spanish and Mediterranean flavours. Unlimited pours of the prestigious G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne accompany the brunch, which offers tapas, imported meats, fresh seafood and Uno Mas signature dishes prepared à la minute. The extensive selection includes four varieties of oysters, snow crab, Maine lobsters, tiger prawns, jamon Iberico, paella, lobster sashimi, A5 Kobe beef sashimi, and an array of other tempting delicacies. Priced at B4,555++ per person, including the Champagne and select soft drinks, treat yourself to an unforgettable Sunday brunch. Call Uno Mas at Centara Grand at CentralWorld at 02-100-6255 or email diningcgcw@chr.co.th.
Pasticceria Classics / Zing
Zing at Centara Grand at CentralWorld has launched the “Pasticceria Classics” menu. Transport yourself to the charming streets of Italy and indulge your senses with a tempting array of traditional Italian pastries and desserts. Try the classic Cannoli Sicilian (B150++), Canoncini (B150++) and Zeppole (B150++) to the delicate Sicilian biscotti (B25++) and Almond biscotti (B25++). Zing's “Pasticceria Classics” menu is available daily from 7am-7pm. Call 02-100-6255 or email diningcgcw@chr.co.th.
WATCH
The Idol on HBO/HBO Go
Premiers on June 5
The Idol, co-created by Sam Levinson, Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye and Reza Fahim, stars Tesfaye and Lily-Rose Depp. The series premiered to much controversy at Festival de Cannes this year. The plot goes like this — After a nervous breakdown derails Jocelyn’s last tour, she’s determined to claim her rightful status as the greatest and sexiest pop star in America. Her passions are reignited by Tedros, a nightclub impresario with a sordid past. Will her romantic awakening take her to glorious new heights or the deepest and darkest depths of her soul? Also starring Troye Sivan, Dan Levy, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Eli Roth, Hari Nef, Jane Adams, Jennie Ruby Jane, Mike Dean, Moses Sumney, Rachel Sennott, Ramsey, Suzanna Son, and Hank Azaria.
