< Previous50 THE SPOTLIGHT51 What kind of souvenirs do you bring back from each destination? MEW: I buy magnets to put on my fridge door, as I go to my fridge frequently each day and when I see my magnets, they instantly bring back memories of amazing destinations I’ve visited. On my recent trip to Varadero I bought a magnet, and every time when I see that one now, it takes me back to that special place in Cuba and makes me feel really good. And you know what? The magnets I get at museums remind me of the incredible things I've seen in them. At the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York I fell in love with Van Gogh's artworks and bought a magnet featuring his famous ones. Having it on my fridge lets me recall the beauty of the paintings any day I want. What's the craziest thing you've done on vacation? MEW: Crazy? Hmm, let me think (Mew grinned). How about something completely unexpected that I’ve actually done? That was in Vang Vieng when I decided to try rock climbing. I've always had a fear of heights you see (he laughed) and had absolutely zero training beforehand – and it was a real cliff! The climbing gear they provided looked a bit rusty, which made me nervous and feel unsafe. The cliff was completely natural without any visible support or holds, but the instructor knew exactly where to guide my hands and feet and I had to put my trust in him and follow his lead. I was hooked onto the safety rope with him but still felt that if I fell, it would be a disaster. The height was just insane and I was incredibly scared. If I went back in time, I probably wouldn't attempt it. It took a long time to make it to the top with slow and careful steps from one rock to another. The ascent wasn't as terrifying as the descent though, because looking up felt less intimidating. On the way down from that height however, the fear of falling gripped me with every step I took! What destination is at the top of your bucket list? What draws you to this place? MEW: Ahhh, there are so many destinations on my bucket list. If I have to choose just one, it would be Iceland. I've been longing to visit it for a while now but just haven't had the opportunity yet. What draws me to Iceland is a chance to witness the mesmerising Aurora Borealis. What projects are you currently working on and what can your fans look forward to in the near future? MEW: Recently I wrapped up a drama series called Love Hurt, 2023 (รัักรั้าย) on One Channel. Fans can still catch the replay online on various platforms. Please continue to support Mister Bantao! In addition, I'm excited to share that a new action thriller series I’m in will start filming in the near future. I anticipate that it’ll be released towards the end of this year. I encourage everyone to watch it. Furthermore, I have a number of consecutive movies and series lined up for filming throughout this year. I can't reveal much at the moment, so please stay tuned for the official announcements and updates on my Instagram page: @mewsuppasit.52 The over 15 acres of land on the beachfront, armed with mature trees and lush gardens overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, is the prime location of Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach where guests could imbue the local culture in natural surrounding and experience authentic dining, wellness and fun family activities. Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach is set on Tawanron Beach – known as “Sunset Beach” for its magnificent sunset views – sit between the popular holiday hub of Jomtien and the charming fishing village of Bang Saray and is within a 10-minute drive from most of Pattaya’s scenic and tourism hotspots. The top-notch resort warmly greets guests with an awe-inspiring raintree and reflective pond upon arrival within the Raintree Court where restaurants with interactive show kitchens and an herb garden under shade of trees located. Exquisite Thai teakwood houses – all of which have been given a new lease on life using reclaimed wood materials from storied traditional Thai wooden houses – are nestled under the tropical foliage, while natural, locally sourced and handmade materials and artwork have been incorporated throughout the resort. Designed as low-rise clustered buildings embracing the beautiful natural landscape, the resort features 204 rooms, suites, and villas, which start from 538 square feet (50 square meters), catering to a wide range of occasions and guests. The Lagoon Access Rooms invite guests to step straight into the rippling waters of the 53 resort pool, while the Pool Suites allow guests to cool down with a private dip at any time of day, and the Beachfront Suites are set directly on the soft sand. The two heritage-inspired houses form the resort’s most highly prized accommodation that are ideal for multi-generational families and intimate celebrations – a duplex four-bedroom Manor House and a breath-taking six-bedroom Presidential Heritage House, each of which offers luxurious living with private pools, courtyards, butler service and ocean views. The resort’s six distinct restaurants and bars feature local, seasonal, and sustainable produce. Fish Club offers light poolside bites at lunch, refreshing cocktails at sunset, immersive contemporary dinners and late-night drinks with live DJ sets right on the serene beach. Wok Wok serves traditional Thai comfort food ANDAZ PATTAYA JOMTIEN BEACH 345 Moo 3, Na Jomtien, Sattahip, Chonburi 20250 Thailand T. +66 3822 1234 | W. ANDAZPATTAYA.COM and authentic regional flavors in a casual environment while La Cucina is a trattoria-style Italian restaurant. The Village Butcher is a classic steakhouse where diners can enjoy charcoal-grilled steaks alongside a wide selection of wines. The Teak Lounge invites guests to sit back and enjoy refreshments under the magnificent raintree, and the soon- to-open Ruen Thai is a traditional, charming teahouse adorned with Thai silks and classical floor seating, allowing guests to sit back and recharge in a tranquil space surrounded by nature. Three outdoor swimming pools are there to lure every spirit while the Sanuk Sanuk Kids’ Club is armed with fun games and vibrant vibe for the youngsters. The beachfront pool overlooking the beautiful beach sets the stage for sunset cocktails and sparkling DJ parties. Nestled amid the verdant gardens, PAÑPURI WELLNESS HARBOR offers a luxurious haven of wellness where guests can experience soothing therapies with organic skincare products. The 24-hour fitness center features the latest Technogym equipment and a rejuvenating yoga room.5456 FLY TO DINNER To dine in style at the Bird’s Nest, on Krabi island, with its literal bird’s eye view of the turquoise ocean, you may need to put on a pair of wings! 58 A NEW HEIGHT OF RUSTIC ISAN Discover the fulsome flavours of Isan cuisine at Chow Barn, which is nestled among the picturesque mountains of Khao Yai. 60 DOWN A SUPERB CULINARY LANE IN KRABI The satisfaction of dining well, with all of one’s senses delighted, is an integral aspect of an extraordinary holiday and this is certainly on offer at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. 62 ONE & ONLY - THE REVOLUTIONARY OF BREAD INDUSTRY If you think that you’ve arrived at a smoked sausage store or everyday sandwich joint in Phuket, you wouldn't be more wrong! 64 A SAVOURY HIDEAWAY OF PHUKET Discover a hidden culinary oasis at the Garden Grille, which is set within the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel Bang Tao, Phuket. 5556 COME DINE WITH ME THE FEAST57 It’s located in a concealed zone tucked amidst the greenery of the graceful resort Banyan Tree Krabi, and consists of three dining pods perched up trees – needless to say, very enchanting and highly Instagrammable. The only access is via an electrical funicular and over a private gangway. I was immediately entranced by it all – the surprise setting, the literal birds eye view of the horizon, and the anticipation of a delightful dinner! The Birds Next set menu (THB 3,000 per person) comes from the award-winning Saffron restaurant, and can be modified if diners have any food allergies. Our meal kicked off with Smoked Duck Breast, Spicy Roasted Chili, Rice Powder Sauce that was served exquisitely in the form of a roll. The flavoursome appetiser awakened our tastebuds, signalling that we were on the right track for a scrumptious dinner with a stupendous view! The duck breast was followed by Crispy Spicy Squid with Chili Mayo sauce, with the squid laid on top of fried Phuket noodles. Yes, it was divine. As the conversation flowed pleasantly, the Grilled Tiger Prawn Skewer with Tom Yum Sauce arrived followed by Crispy Sea bass, Spicy Sweet and Sour Thai Yuzu sauce. As we enjoyed these dishes, soaked up the unique ambience and watched the sun kiss the horizon, we thought we were near the end of the meal only to be advised that the main course was yet to come! It was Slow-Cooked Beef in Panang Curry Sauce with Local Brown Rice with Almond that was served in a pandan leaf cone (do not worry if you do not eat beef, as alternatives are offered). Last but not least, a refined version of Thai Mango Sticky Rice was served with a scoop of Roasted Coconut Ice Cream as the perfect ending up of our impressive meal. Both our appetites and spirits were wholly satisfied! Bidding adieu to our nest was difficult, but we were then informed that Bird’s Nest was BIRD’S NEST AT BANYAN TREE KRABI 279 Moo 3 Tambon Nongtalay, Amphoe Muang, Krabi 81180, Thailand Open: Afternoon Tea 2-5 p.m. / Dinner 6-11 p.m. T. +66(0) 75 811 888 E. saffron-krabi@banyantree.com W. banyantree.com/thailand/krabi/ dining/birds-nest Text by Urasa Chittamvanich | Photos by Suphachat Vetchamaleenont To dine in style at the Bird’s Nest, on Krabi island, with its literal bird’s eye view of the turquoise ocean, you may need to put on a pair of wings! FLY TO DINNER also available for afternoon tea during 2-5 p.m. and, without missing a beat, we made a reservation for the next day – after all, “the sun’ll come out tomorrow, so ya gotta hang on ‘til tomorrow” for the next culinary treat!58 COME DINE WITH ME THE FEAST59 open-fire cooking, variety of Isan fusion dishes with eye-catching presentation and fulsome spicy flavours made our experience truly a unique one. Chow Barn (which means “villager”) is the perfect place for anyone who loves the flavours of Isan cuisine. Here, you can enjoy them all from spicy Thai salads to rice clay pots, spicy soups and stews, and grilled delicacies. Of special note is the “From the Chow Barn Grill”; their perfectly grilled dishes with smoky flavours that will really tickle your taste buds. The best way to enjoy those are with Grilled Sticky Rice “Khao Niew” (THB 30) and Grilled Rice Noodles “Ka-nom Jeen” (THB 30) – staples of Isan cooking which are perfect for soaking up all the juices, as well as adding additional textures. One of the most popular spicy Thai salads here is Rice Noodles Salad in Isan Anchovy Sauce (THB 190), which is lovingly prepared with Vietnamese ham, boiled eggs, pork crackling and a blend of herbs with a good kick of chilli. Make sure to mix all the ingredients CHOW BARN 327-330 Moo 9, Pansuk-Kudkla Road, Phayayen Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phaya Yen 30320 Thailand T. +66 (0) 63 196 4999 L. @theperihotel FB. Chow Barn Khao Yai Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya Discover the fulsome flavours of Isan cuisine at Chow Barn, which is nestled among the picturesque mountains of Khao Yai. Chow Barn offers a fresh take on Isan cuisine by elevating the distinctive flavours to a whole new level using local cooking techniques, especially the open-fire grill. Your taste buds will be able to explore the delicious offerings of Isan food like never before! A NEW HEIGHT OF RUSTIC ISAN My visit to Chow Barn with its beautiful décor was like stepping into a different world. A part of The Peri Hotel Khao Yai, the modern white barn house on the main road is eye- catching and surrounded with many plants, and gave me a sense of the national park surroundings. Once inside Chow Barn, its concept of being a “Isan Soul Café” instantly transported me to a different world. The giant open-fire grill filled the restaurant with a smoky aroma that added to the exciting experience and also woke up our tastebud The rustic thoroughly before digging in! From the variety of rice clay pot dishes, I recommend the Pork & Salted Fish Patty Rice baked in Claypot served with Red Chilli Paste (THB 240). The rice was wonderfully fragrant and soft, and the red chilli paste was full-bodied yet soft enough to be enjoyed with it. There are a number of signature main courses from the grill. I recommend Grilled Beef & Isan Sauce served with Grilled Sticky Rice (THB 680) with Grilled Corn (THB 50) as a side dish, which came with grilled pumpkin and whole garlic as well. The delightful smoky flavours of a meal may be enjoyed with any of their very refreshing drinks such as Iced Lemon juice with Chinese Plum (THB 120). For dessert, you won't want to miss out on Chow Barn Sundae (THB 180), a coconut milk ice cream with crispy Khao Mao Rice topped with a medley of traditional Bua Loy, Lod Chong and Tubtim Krob. Needless to say, Chow Barn is a must for Isan food fans. The most recent news is that it has embarked on a new collaboration with celebrity chefs on “Isan Soul Café and Open- Fire” – a revolutionary experience in Isan cuisine. So keep an eye out on Chow Barn!Next >