4 LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL | ISSUE 101 | VOLUME 1 | 2023 1968 together with the opening of its privately-operated Samui International Airport. 32 FLYING HIGH Since its establishment in 2014, Thai Vietjet has been cooperating with Vietjet to extend its route network and provide more opportunities for travellers to discover Thailand and other countries. 34 THE SPOTLIGHT: CHARLOTTE AUSTIN 12 CONCIERGE Keep yourself informed with the festival updates, regional announcements, on the ground and up on high. 24 THE BUZZ 26 MONSOON VALLEY Established in 2002, Monsoon Valley’s goal was to promote “wine culture” in Thailand.Today, it is 'the' location to hit when in Hua Hin. 30 FLYING BOUTIQUE Boutique airline Bangkok Airways has been the choice for travellers to Samui since its inauguration in 12 P. 34 P.54 THE FEAST 56 URBAN FOODIE Situated in the busy Sathorn district of Bangkok within Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok, Albricias is a modern and upscale restaurant serving a seasonal Mediterranean menu. 58 ITALIAN FLAVOURS BY THE ANDAMAN Olive, located in JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, is led by Chef de Cuisine Vincenzo Sorrentino who brings traditional Italian flavours beachside of the Andaman Sea. 60 GLITZ AND GLAMOUR ON THE BANKS OF THE CHAO PHRAYA Every city's port plays a role in how culturally expansive it is; from Auckland to New York there are wondrous varieties to explore and on the banks of the Chao Phraya in Bangkok, that is no different. 62 CHINESE WITH A CHIC TWIST Discover Charlie’s by Tong Peng, a fresh take on 40-year-old family restaurant Tong Peng! 64 THE JOURNEY 66 PARADISIACAL PEARL ISLAND Phu Quoc is dubbed the “Pearl Island” of South Vietnam due to its dear beauty and purity that is second to none. 72 GASTRONOMIC CELEBRATIONS IN THE FRAGRANT HARBOUR Now that Hong Kong has fully reopened its borders and withdrawn any quarantine regulations, the city has become a happening destination once again with its noted epicurean scene. 78 COME SLEEP WITH ME 80 PROFOUND PARADISE Discover a seamless blend of luxury accommodation, ultimate privacy and serene nature at Best Western Premier Sonasea Villas Phu Quoc in southern Vietnam. 82 THAI ELEGANCE, WORLD-CLASS HOSPITALITY Chatrium Grand Bangkok offers a seamless fusion of Thai charms and world-class hospitality by bringing together Thai arts and elegance with modern technology in the centre of Bangkok. 84 A RESORT YOU WON’T NEED TO LEAVE Situated on a stretch of Khuk Khak Beach, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa brings together modern creature comforts with top-notch dining outlets and exceptional leisure facilities to the serene island setting. 86 URBAN GETAWAY Experience the epitome of convenience and sophistication of Thong Lor, one of Bangkok's most chic districts. CONTENTS 72 P. 88 BEST ON THE BEACH Sprawled along a stretch of beach in the southern region of Vietnam is where you’ll find the Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc. 90 NEXT DESTINATION: KATORI The low-rise city of Katori, in Chiba Prefecture of Japan, is an ideal destination to head to with its historic town of Sawara which will immediately slow down your sense of time. 88 86 P. P. 68 EDITOR’S NOTE I once came across a quote by Jennifer Lee that said: “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire”. This gave me pause and evoked a need to examine where my real passions lie, the things I love to do and will pursue insistently. Certainly, travel triumphs the list. Travel has taught me how the world and all its diversity is out there waiting to be discovered and experienced, and thereby how I’ll acquire a better understanding of life and humanity. It has humbled me and broadened my perspective in plentiful ways. Travelling has guided me to understand that each step I take, literally and metaphorically, is not always only about myself but an amalgamation of forces that may also affect others in the greater picture. At the same time, however, it allows me to realize how miniscule my existence in this universe is, as well as the problems I face. Then, travel breaks down the routine and dreariness of everyday life and brings back your inner adventurous spirit, excitement and soulful moments. As travel writers, we strive to do our best to describe each and every destination to our dear readers. There are, of course, some experiences that are too profound in beauty or otherwise to be described in words. We therefore urge you to mark your calendar and start planning a trip in no time, and to remember to tag Lifestyle+Travel so we’ll remain your best travel mate along the journey. Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifestyleandtravel Email: urasa@lifestyleandtravel.com Urasa Chittamvanich Editor-in-ChiefNext >