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ISSUE 8 VOL 14. AUGUST 2026

T MAGAZINE

Luxury Living and Exclusive Lifestyle

THE BARAI HUA HIN ENTERS A NEW ERA

75 YEARS OF PENFOLD’S GRANGE

SUPERCAR INSTINCT TAKES TO THE WATER

THAILAND’S EASTERN RIVIERA, REIMAGINED

Editor’s Note This month, HOT Magazine tackles three subjects of considerable importance: wine, yachts and whether Pattaya has finally become respectable. We’ll let you decide which is the most controversial. We begin with Penfolds Grange, which turns 75 this year and comes with one of those wonderfully reassuring stories proving that occasionally ignoring your boss is exactly the right career move. In 1951, winemaker Max Schubert began experimenting with an Australian red inspired by the great wines of Bordeaux. His employers were unimpressed and eventually told him to stop making it. So naturally, he kept making it, quietly, for several years. Eventually Penfolds realised Schubert may have known what he was doing after all, production resumed openly, and Grange went on to become one of Australia’s most celebrated wines. Seventy-five years later, collectors are still cellaring bottles, critics are still handing out enormous scores, and somewhere Max Schubert is presumably enjoying the satisfaction of history’s longest “I told you so.” From there, we travel to Pattaya and Jomtien, where another unlikely transformation is underway. Now, nobody is suggesting Pattaya has suddenly joined a monastery. The neon still glows, the cocktails still flow and bedtime remains very much a personal decision. But look beyond the familiar reputation and something rather more polished has appeared along Thailand’s eastern coast.

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And when land-based temptation becomes too much, there is always SONG OF SONGS. At 42.2 metres, with six suites, a beach club, Jacuzzi, chase boat and an owner’s suite with its own private terrace, this is not so much “getting away from it all” as ensuring “it all” follows you in substantially greater comfort. Based in Phuket, she is perfectly positioned for cruising the Andaman, where days can involve swimming in hidden coves, lunch beneath limestone cliffs and cocktails while the sun disappears behind an empty horizon. It sounds exhausting. Fortunately, there are ten crew members to deal with that. So there you have it: a legendary wine born from disobedience, a seaside city quietly reinventing itself, and a superyacht offering a compelling alternative to sensible financial planning. Three stories. Three excellent reasons to pour something good, pack something linen and temporarily reconsider the virtue of moderation. Enjoy the issue.

"Tanya” Nakawatjidapa Editor, HOT Magazine

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Head south toward Jomtien and Na Jomtien and you’ll find design-led resorts, private-pool villas, excellent restaurants, beach clubs, golf, wellness and one of the country’s major marinas. In other words, Pattaya has discovered luxury without completely giving up mischief, which, frankly, seems like an excellent compromise.

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What’s inside?

Supercar Instinct Takes To The Water

Thailand’s Eastern Riviera, Reimagined

The Barai Hua Hin Enters a New Era

Finding

Perfect Harmony at Sea

75 Years

Of Penfold’s Grange

Bangkok’s World Gourmet Festival

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Dine Delight Discover Welcome to the culinary playground of Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok. Sip on signature cocktails at BKK Social Club, crowned Asia’s number 1 spot by The World’s 50 Best Bars, or savour the flavours of Cantonese cuisine at Yu Ting Yuan. Dive into the Italian charm of Riva del Fiume or experience the Parisian chic of Brasserie Palmier, where every bite is a work of art crafted with passion and precision.

DISCOVER THE JOURNEYS Fourseasons.com/bangkok | +66 (02) 032-0885

20260818_BPY_HotMagazine_Neen_v1.indd 1

18/8/2569 BE 10:53

THAILAND BANGKOK HUA HIN

Asia’s Ultimate Golfing Lifestyle Experience Championship Golf Course • Stay & Play • Luxury Course-side Properties Come and enjoy playing one of the most scenic championship golf courses in the whole of Asia. Voted Best Course in Thailand by Golf Digest, Black Mountain Golf Club has hosted both Asian Tour and European Tour events. Drawn by Hua Hin’s cosmopolitan charm and ideal year-round golfing climate, an increasing number of discerning golfers are choosing to make Black Mountain their second or permanent home. We are now building luxurious new 4-bedroom

Tel: +66 32 618 666 Email: sales@bmghuahin.com www.blackmountainhuahin.com

two-story course-side “Twinhouses” for just 19.9M Baht and 3 bedroom pool villas for 29.9M Baht, both accompanied by two lifetime golf club memberships, so there has never been a better time to sample the renowned Black Mountain lifestyle. Visit us to play a round, or even book into one of our luxury private pool Hotel Villas for a relaxing “Stay & Play” break. We look forward to welcoming you here soon. More info at www.blackmountainhuahin.com

THE TWINHOUSE

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A Tale of Two Cities: A Considered Journey from Chiang Mai to Bangkok 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts pairs the old-world poise of Chiang Mai with Bangkok’s contemporary energy in a two-city escape. Thailand’s enduring appeal lies in the contrast between its storied northern capital and its relentlessly inventive metropolis. A Tale of Two Cities from 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts brings those worlds together, pairing a stay at 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai with an urban interlude at 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok. The experience begins in Chiang Mai, where the brand’s story took root in 2012 with the restoration of a late-19th-century colonial teak homestead. Today, that historic residence forms the centrepiece of the intimate, all-suite 137 Pillars House, a leafy retreat close to Wat Gate, the Ping River and the city’s independent boutiques.

Chiang Mai: Heritage in a Garden Setting With only 30 suites, 137 Pillars House offers an unhurried perspective on the city. Days can move between its emerald pool, framed by a living

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wall of more than 20,000 plants, and treatments at Nitra Serenity Centre. The Dining Room, Palette Restaurant and Jack Bain’s Bar bring a sense of occasion to the historic house, while A Ride Through Time offers a particularly characterful way to explore: a 90-minute private journey aboard a restored Royal Enfield sidecar.

Bangkok: Elevated City Living The journey continues in Sukhumvit at 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok, moments from EmQuartier and Emporium. Two raised infinity-edge pools, including a rooftop pool reserved for Suite guests, offer a welcome pause above the city. Panoramic views, cabana daybeds, sundowner drinks at the Pool Bar or Bangkok Trading Post, dining at Bangkok Trading Post Bistro & Bar and Nimitr Restaurant, and tailored discovery programmes make a compelling counterpoint to Chiang Mai’s slower rhythm. Together, the two properties create an itinerary shaped by heritage, design, wellness and a distinctly personal sense of place.

Offer: 25% saving on direct bookings across all suite categories in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, with a minimum consecutive two-night stay for two people at each property. Inclusions: Round-trip airport transfers; personal butler service; daily breakfast for two; upgrade from the lead-in to the second suite category, subject to availability; 15% off additional food, non-alcoholic beverages and spa treatments; a 60-minute Thai or aromatherapy massage for two; and daily Bangkok sundowners from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Validity: Until 31 October 2027. Blackout dates apply, including 1-7 October 2026, 24-28 November 2026, 2-3 December 2026, 21 December 2026-3 January 2027, 5-12 February 2027 and 1-7 October 2027. Reservations: +66 (0) 2079 7000 | info@137pillarshotels.com | www.137pillarshotels.com

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The Langham, Custom House, Bangkok Opens Reservations for a New Riverside Landmark Reservations are now open for The Langham, Custom House, Bangkok, a highly anticipated 75-key retreat set to welcome its first guests from 20 December 2026. Anchored by the city’s storied Custom House in Bang Rak, the property promises an intimate interpretation of riverside luxury in one of Bangkok’s most historically resonant settings. Built in 1888 during the reign of King Rama V, the Custom House once served as Thailand’s gateway to the world. Its restoration is paired with a contemporary neighbouring structure by Thai architect Smith Obayawat, Founder and Principal of OBA, whose curvilinear form traces the movement of the river. The conversation between old and new is deliberate: the heritage building and its modern counterpart are conceived as a respectful meeting of generations. The new building will house 60 guestrooms and 15 suites, designed with residential ease, natural textures, subtle Siamese references and views across

courtyards, the city skyline and the river. Sculptural bathtubs, brushed-metal finishes, rhombus-inspired etching and bespoke lighting extend the narrative of Thai craftsmanship without overwhelming the calm of the spaces. A Chuan Spa and fitness centre featuring Technogym’s Sandstone collection, its first installation in Asia, will be joined by dining, drinking and lifestyle destinations within the restored Custom House and adjoining heritage buildings. Guests will also be able to access Bangkok’s riverside and cultural highlights with ease, including bespoke private river journeys and chauffeured Bentley transfers.

The Grand Arrival For its inaugural season, the hotel introduces The Grand Arrival, a threenight opening experience available from 20 December 2026 to 31 March 2027. The offer layers a stay with The Langham Afternoon Tea, a signature

dining experience, Chuan Spa treatment, privately guided Heritage Journey through the Custom House and private airport limousine transfers. Suite Collection guests receive further privileges, including private Bentley airport transfers and The Key to Bangkok signature experience. Opening: 20 December 2026 Inaugural offer: The Grand Arrival, valid 20 December 2026-31 March 2027. Rates from THB 131,888++ for a Classic Room and THB 248,888++ for a Classic Suite. Location: Bang Rak District, Chao Phraya River, Bangkok Reservations: The Langham, Custom House, Bangkok; bookings are open through 31 March 2027.

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The Allium Bangkok Sets the Tone for Social Hour and Social Night At The Athenee Hotel, a relaxed daily aperitivo and a spirited Friday gathering bring Mediterranean ease to the city centre. The Allium Bangkok is giving the after-work ritual a brighter Mediterranean accent. Set within the third-floor Epicurean Hub at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, its new Social Hour and Social Night are designed for the easy transition from working day to evening. Social Hour runs from Tuesday to Sunday, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with a specially priced selection of shareable Mediterranean bites and beverages, including a buy-one-get-one offer on drinks with an emphasis on beer and wine. It is an unfussy invitation to slow

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down over good company before the evening gathers pace.

A Friday Night with Mediterranean Spirit Every Friday, Social Night takes over from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Guests are welcomed with bubbles before settling into a two-hour, all-you-caneat selection of Mediterranean dishes, prepared à la minute and served to the table. Seasonal ingredients and coastal flavours give the menu its generosity, while a live DJ supplies the feel-good soundtrack. With optional free-flow wine, beer and signature sangria, the format suits a spontaneous office gathering as readily as a more celebratory start to the weekend. The atmosphere is convivial

rather than overdone: a contemporary Bangkok evening with the warmth and sociability of a Mediterranean table. Social Hour: Tuesday-Sunday, 5:00 PM-7:00 PM; special net-price food and beverage menu, plus buy-one-get-one drinks. Social Night: Every Friday, 6:00 PM10:00 PM; THB 990++ per person. Add THB 800++ per person for free-flow wine, beer and signature sangria. Venue: The Allium Bangkok, 3rd floor Epicurean Hub, The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok Reservations: Social Night: +66 (0) 2 650 8800

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Grill and Gather Brings a More Considered Lunch Break to Ploenchit In the Ploenchit-Wireless Road-Ruamrudee business district, a weekday lunch need not be a hurried compromise. Château Grill & Gather at Château Botanique brings a more substantial, relaxed alternative to Radisson Hotel Chateau de Bangkok, balancing a freshly grilled main with an open-handed selection of sides, salads and desserts. Available Monday to Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, the format is designed for business lunches, informal team gatherings or a quiet break from the office. At THB 399 net, it offers one grilled main course with unlimited access to the salad bar and a selection of accompaniments.

Choices include lemongrass grilled chicken, grilled pork collar with Thai herb glaze, crispy fried chicken thigh and grilled sea bass with smoked chilli-lime dressing, alongside a vegetarian option. Around the main course, the selection ranges from soup of the day and fresh greens to truffle-infused French fries, garlic bread, garlic fried rice, French potato purée, roasted seasonal vegetables and spaghetti with tomato sauce. Desserts are included.

Availability: Monday-Friday, 11:30 AM-2:30 PM; available from now onwards Price: THB 399 net per person; premium upgrades of rump cap of beef or rack of lamb available for THB 300 net Venue: Château Botanique, Radisson Hotel Chateau de Bangkok Reservations: https://sevn.ly/ xgeNaPqD | +66 (0) 2 116 2222

For a more indulgent finish, rump cap of beef or rack of lamb can be selected for an additional THB 300 net. The result is a lunch that remains brisk enough for the workday while feeling reassuringly complete.

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Prestige on a Plate: A Weekend of Foie Gras & Bluefin Tuna Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai elevates the weekend dining ritual with a decadent new experience at The Market@5, bringing together Japanese Bluefin Tuna, foie gras and an international feast designed for leisurely indulgence. Bangkok’s weekends have just gained a rather delicious new temptation. Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai has introduced Prestige on a Plate” at The Market@5, placing two of gastronomy’s most celebrated ingredients — premium Japanese Bluefin Tuna and foie gras at the heart of its Saturday Grand Dinner Buffet and Splendid Sunday Brunch. Japanese Bluefin Tuna takes centre stage across a collection of dishes that move effortlessly from refined simplicity to full-blown indulgence. Maguro Sashimi showcases the fish in its purest form, while Maguro Yukke and Sesame-Seared Tuna with Ponzu Sauce introduce layers of texture and acidity. For those inclined towards something richer, Spicy Tuna Melt and Truffle Ne-

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gitoro Don combines buttery tuna with aromatic truffle and a gentle kick of spice, while Maguro Steak with Wasabi Butter Sauce gives the prized ingredient a decidedly luxurious treatment. Foie gras provides an equally decadent counterpoint. Seared until beautifully caramelised yet silky within, it is paired with balsamic mango purée, balancing its richness with tropical sweetness and a subtle tang. The result is a dish that feels suitably extravagant without overwhelming the palate. Saturday evenings offer guests a choice of two featured specialties per person alongside The Market@5’s extensive Grand Dinner Buffet. Sunday takes things further, with the featured creations served without limit throughout the three-and-a-half-hour Splendid Sunday Brunch. Exclusive to Sunday is Khao Soi Soft Shell Crab, where Northern Thailand’s fragrant curry broth, soft and crispy noodles and succulent crab bring a distinctly local note to the proceedings.

Beyond the headline dishes, The Market@5 continues its “Thai Street Food Reimagined” philosophy, bringing together seafood, Thai favourites, sushi and sashimi, teppanyaki, braised abalone noodles, crab curry, signature beef and freshly made pizza, followed by an appropriately generous parade of desserts. With direct access from Phaya Thai BTS Station and the Airport Rail Link, “Prestige on a Plate” offers an enticing excuse to surrender a few weekend hours to excellent food, good company and just the right amount of extravagance — because occasionally, restraint is terribly overrated. The Market@5, Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai Reservations: +66 (0)2 483 2899 fbadmin@eastingrandphayathai.com

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A Sparkling Start to the Day at Courtyard Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 Breakfast in Bangkok has taken on a rather more celebratory air at Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Sukhumvit 20, where Reap Factory is pairing an expansive international morning buffet with free-flow sparkling wine — proving that bubbles need not wait until sunset. Available daily from 6:00 AM until 10:30 AM, the breakfast brings together an impressive mix of Asian and international favourites for THB 790 net per person. Thai dishes rotate through familiar curries, fried rice and wok-fried vegetables, while a traditional congee station offers a comforting selection of eggs, Chinese sausage, preserved radish and classic accompaniments. Freshly prepared dim sum adds another tempting diversion, with shrimp and pork shumai, taro buns and barbecue pork buns among the daily selections.

The journey continues across Asia with Japanese favourites including miso soup, natto, chicken teriyaki and salt-grilled saba, alongside a live noodle station preparing dishes to order. Indian flavours are equally well represented, with rotating specialties such as roti, naan, Aloo Bhaji, Poha and Chole. Those leaning toward a more traditional Western start can opt for made-to-order eggs accompanied by bacon, sausages, grilled vegetables, cheeses and cold cuts, while fresh salads, seasonal fruit and a dedicated healthy corner provide lighter alternatives. And then, of course, there is the sparkling wine. Served free-flow throughout breakfast, it transforms an otherwise ordinary morning into something altogether more indulgent. Freshly brewed coffee made with Australian beans and a selection of juices are also

on hand for those who prefer their mornings slightly less effervescent. Located in the heart of Sukhumvit between BTS Asok and Phrom Phong, Reap Factory makes an easy stop after an early workout or walk through nearby Benchakitti Park, a leisurely catch-up with friends or simply an excuse to start the day on a brighter note. Because while breakfast may still be the most important meal of the day, nobody ever said it had to be the most sensible. To reserve your table, please visit cy.bkkct.ays@courtyard.com or call +66 2 127 5900.

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Lotus Reverie at The Bakery: An Afternoon Tea in Bloom The Athenee Hotel interprets the rainy-season lotus from root to petal in a graceful seasonal tea service. Thailand’s rainy season brings a particular kind of renewal: fuller waterways, softened light and lotus ponds returning to bloom. At The Bakery, The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok translates that moment into Lotus Reverie Afternoon Tea, a seasonal collection inspired by the flower’s journey from root to petal. Served daily until 30 September 2026, the experience is rooted in delicate flavours and botanical imagery. Its presentation draws on lotus ponds, raindrops and gentle ripples, while the menu explores the flower in all its forms - roots, stems, leaves, seed pods and petals.

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From Earth to Fragrance The savoury course, titled Where Earth Meets Water, includes lotus petal with dried shrimp, lotus root with blue crab and salmon roe, and lotus stem with prawn and lemongrass. Sweet creations, presented as From Bloom to Fragrance, A Quiet Elegance, include lotus seed scones with lychee and lotus-petal preserve, lotus stem and arrowroot, red grapes with jasmine and lotus pollen, roasted-lotus-seed macarons, and coconut mousse with pandan and lotus root. The result is a quietly evocative afternoon ritual that embraces Thailand’s natural seasonality with the polished detail expected of The Athenee.

Availability: Daily, 2:00 PM-5:00 PM, from now until 30 September 2026 Price: THB 1,200++ per couple with specialty coffee or premium organic tea; THB 1,800++ per couple with two glasses of sparkling wine Member benefits: Marriott Bonvoy members receive 10% off; Club Marriott members receive 30% off food only Reservations: athenee.co/LotusReverieAfternoonTea TheBakery.TheAthenee@luxurycollection.com +66 (0) 2 650 8800

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Caviar and Bubbles Above Bangkok at Akira Back On 31 August 2026, Akira Back Bangkok turns an evening above the city into a study in contrast: the clean salinity of French Sturia caviar, the celebratory lift of Champagne and sparkling wine, and the chef-led Japanese-Korean style for which the restaurant is known. Caviar & Bubbles is a five-course, one-night-only experience at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. Its setting on the 37th floor adds a suitably expansive backdrop, while the menu remains focused on texture, precision and quietly theatrical flavour pairings.

A Five-Course Progression The evening opens with the restaurant’s familiar tuna or mushroom pizza, refined with Classic Osciètre caviar, fresh truffle, white truffle oil and micro

shiso, paired with Veuve Clicquot Brut NV. Flounder carpaccio with Classic Baerii caviar, jalapeño, crispy shallots and nanbanzu follows alongside Gremillet Blanc de Blancs Brut NV, before Argentinian prawn with Osciètre caviar, nori butter and nasturtium meets La Burgondie Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Noirs Brut NV. For the main course, Kagoshima A5 striploin is joined by Prestige Baerii caviar, baby corn, potato foam and kizami butter, with Drappier Rosé de Saignée Brut NV. Coconut panna cotta, jasmine Baerii caviar, vanilla crumble and makgeolli ice cream provide an unexpectedly tropical finale, accompanied by Paul Dangin & Fils Cuvée Carte Or Brut NV.

It is an indulgent but considered late-summer occasion, built for diners who appreciate ingredient-led luxury with a spirited point of view. Date: 31 August 2026 Price: THB 6,000++ per person Venue: Akira Back Bangkok, 37th floor, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Reservations: +66 (0) 2 059 5999 restaurant-reservations.bkkqp@ marriotthotels.com

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HOT AROUND CHIANG MAI

A New Gastronomic Chapter at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping enters the late monsoon season with a renewed dining direction and a thoughtfully layered calendar of occasions. At its heart is the arrival of Chef Kevin Liu as Chef de Cuisine at HONG's Chinese Restaurant, bringing a refined command of Cantonese, Sichuan and Hubei cooking to one of the city’s most distinctive dining rooms. Chef Kevin’s craft has been honed in acclaimed international kitchens, including Hakkasan Dubai and Mandarin Oriental Doha. His approach balances the depth of Chinese culinary tradition with subtle Southeast Asian influences, lending the season a sense of both authenticity and quiet invention.

HONG's: A New Voice in Chinese Dining Throughout August, HONG's Lucky 8 presents an eight-dish sharing menu shaped around Chef Kevin’s new chapter. Wagyu beef potstickers and golden-thread oatmeal tiger prawn are among the signature dishes, offering an introduction to a kitchen where technique and generosity meet. On 25 September, An Evening with Catena Zapata brings a five-course dinner together with premium Argentine wines, including Angélica Zapata Malbec. It is an elegant pairing

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of expressive food and celebrated winemaking, suited to a leisurely Chiang Mai evening.

Dining, Elevated At The Gad Lanna, A Taste of Mother’s Love on 12 August brings together a generous selection of Thai and international favourites for a Mother’s Day lunch. One mother per table receives a 50% saving, adding a gracious note to an occasion built around sharing. Above the city, HONG's Sky Bar continues its golden-hour rhythm with Sky Social from Monday to Friday, featuring buy-one-get-one selected beverages. Thursdays belong to Gin & Glow, where ladies receive a complimentary Bombay Gin & Tonic, while Bao After Dark pairs the signature bao bun with a selected drink each day.

The Northern Art of Restoration For a more contemplative pause, The ii Spa looks to local healing traditions. The 120-minute Lanna Signature Massage draws on Tok Sen, a rare Northern Thai practice in which handcrafted wooden tools create rhythmic vibrations intended to release deep-seated tension and restore equilibrium. The Rainy Season Wellness Journey offers a shorter seasonal reset: a 60-minute Traditional Thai Massage followed

by a 30-minute herbal compress. Together, the treatments bring a distinctly Lanna sense of place to the restorative side of the season. HONG's Lucky 8: Throughout August | THB 1,888 net per person. An Evening with Catena Zapata: 25 September | THB 2,250 net per person; early-bird THB 1,900 net for bookings by 16 September. A Taste of Mother's Love: 12 August | THB 2,388 net per person; early-bird THB 1,988 net for bookings by 7 August. One mother per table receives 50% off. Sky Social: Monday-Friday | Buy one, get one on selected beverages. Bao After Dark: Daily | Signature bao bun with selected drink, THB 550 net. Lanna Signature Massage: 120 minutes | THB 4,500++ per person. Rainy Season Wellness Journey: 60-minute Traditional Thai Massage and 30-minute herbal compress | THB 2,880 net. Reservations Dining: +66 52 090 998 dining.icchiangmai@ihg.com LINE: @interconchiangmai, lin.ee/ O6esFM5. More information: chiangmai.intercontinental.com/en.

The Ultimate Golfing Experience

August - September Green Fee: ฿ 2,500 Stay & Play: ฿2,995

032-618-666 Email: reservation@bmghuahin.com www.blackmountainhuahin.com

HOT AROUND HUA HIN

Jaras Hua Hin Receives Thai SELECT 2 Stars 2026 Jaras Hua Hin at InterContinental Hua Hin Resort has been awarded Thai SELECT 2 Stars 2026, a distinction that recognises exceptional Thai cuisine, quality ingredients, thoughtful presentation and professional service. Presented by Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce, the award marks a significant affirmation of the restaurant’s approach to place-led dining. For Jaras, the recognition is inseparable from Hua Hin and the communities that surround it. Its kitchen celebrates Thai flavours through carefully chosen regional ingredients and refined technique, allowing the provenance behind every dish to remain central to the experience.

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A Table Shaped by Place Signature expressions include CharGrilled Kamphaeng Saen Thai Angus in cassia leaf curry with Phetchaburi fleur de sel, Hua Hin tiger prawns smoked over coconut husk in chu chee sauce, and stir-fried Hua Hin tiger prawns with smoked shrimp oil essence and chilli jam. Each brings together local character and considered craftsmanship. “These stars represent more than the food on the plate,” said Sabrina Hofstetter, General Manager of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. “They celebrate the ingredients, traditions, communities and people behind Thai cuisine.”

The Thai SELECT 2 Stars honour further establishes Jaras as a destination for diners seeking an eloquent, contemporary expression of Thai culinary identity on Hua Hin’s shoreline. Venue: Jaras Hua Hin, InterContinental Hua Hin Resort Opening hours: Daily, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM Reservations: https://bit.ly/ JarasHH-ReserveATable | ichh. dining@ihg.com

HOT AROUND PHUKET

Minor Residences Brings the Invisible Art of Hospitality Home The residential arm of Minor International translates decades of hotel expertise into private homes designed around service, wellbeing and enduring value. Minor Residences, the dedicated residential arm of Minor International, is bringing the group’s hospitality experience into a new generation of private homes. Drawing on nearly five decades of expertise across more than 600 hotels and 25 years of Anantara hospitality, the group is creating residences where discreet service, thoughtful design and professional management remove much of the daily friction associated with homeownership.

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“At Minor, we have always focused on being experiential rather than transactional,” says Bill Heinecke, founder of Minor International. “Luxury has become closely linked to quality of life — privacy, green spaces, adaptability and the freedom to live in a way that feels personal and restorative.” The portfolio includes The Estates Samui, Residences at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Anantara Chiang Mai Serviced Suites, Avadina Hills by Anantara and Layan Residences by Anantara. Two of its latest developments, Anantara Desaru Coast Residences and Kiara Reserve Residences, continue this approach in distinctive coastal settings.

Anantara Desaru Coast Residences Located along 17 kilometres of shoreline in Malaysia, Anantara Desaru Coast Residences comprises 20 private pool villas conceived as permanent homes rather than holiday retreats. Described as Malaysia’s first and only beachfront branded residences, the development is situated within the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone and can be reached from Singapore in approximately 60 minutes by road or ferry. The architecture responds to the natural monsoon breeze, allowing air and light to flow through the villas while connecting the interiors with the South

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China Sea. Owners also benefit from Anantara services, including spa experiences and private butler assistance.

Kiara Reserve Residences Set on a forested hillside above Phuket’s Layan Bay, Kiara Reserve is a collaboration between Minor International and Japan’s Kajima Corporation. The private enclave comprises 46 residences surrounded by generous green spaces. Flexible interiors allow rooms to transition between living areas, private gyms and workspaces, while bespoke elements created with Villeroy & Boch complement the surrounding landscape.

Residents receive access to the private Layan Bay community, wellness facilities, membership in Layan Life by Anantara and dining at the neighbouring Anantara Layan Phuket Resort. Kiara Reserve was named Best Ultra Luxury Development in Phuket at the Thailand Property Awards 2024 and is scheduled for occupancy in 2026.

Further information: Anantara Desaru Coast Residences anantaradesaruresidences.com propertysales@minor.com +60 19 241 2296 Kiara Reserve Residences kiara-reserve.com propertysales@minor.com +66 85 484 8752

“We only commit to projects in strategic, high-growth locations that offer long-term value,” says Micah Tamthai, Chief Operating Officer of Minor Lifestyle and Real Estate. “The location must support both lifestyle and investment potential.”

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HOT AROUND PHUKET

Southern Thai Soul Shapes a New Chapter at Chatrium Phuket Rawai Set beside historic Rawai Pier, this forthcoming beachfront retreat draws upon Chao Lay heritage, local craftsmanship and the changing colours of the Andaman coast. Phuket’s southern shoreline has always moved to a rhythm of its own. Far from the island’s busier resort districts, Rawai retains a strong connection to the sea, shaped by fishing traditions, waterfront life and generations of Chao Lay families. It is within this culturally rich setting that Chatrium Phuket Rawai is taking shape. The forthcoming 304key beachfront resort will be the first property to express the new identity of Chatrium Hotels & Resorts, bringing

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together contemporary design, Thai grace and a strong sense of place. Created by global design practice dwp in collaboration with Foreign Policy Design Group, the resort has been conceived as a sequence of sensorial chapters. Natural materials, coastal references and carefully considered craftsmanship run throughout, allowing the architecture to feel connected to both the landscape and Rawai’s maritime past.

A Story Written by the Sea Rawai Pier was once the gateway to the Andaman Sea for the surrounding fishing village. Chao Lay families launched their boats from here, brought their catch ashore and built their daily

lives around the changing tides. That heritage provides the resort with its central design narrative. Maritime forms, traditional weaving, natural timber, rattan and stone appear in contemporary interpretations rather than as decorative nostalgia. The result promises to feel unmistakably Southern Thai while remaining polished, calm and modern. Guests will also be within easy reach of the pier’s lively local culture and longstanding seafood traditions, grounding the resort experience in a part of Phuket that continues to feel authentic and www.chatrium.com

HOT AROUND KOH SAMUI

SunRay Brings a New Rhythm to SAii Koh Samui Villas S Hotels & Resorts is introducing SunRay Social & Swim Club, a fresh beachside concept built around the more relaxed pleasures of a day by the water: good food, considered drinks, music, movement and time that does not need to be rushed. The concept soft-launched on 1 August at SAii Koh Samui Villas, where it is available exclusively to adult guests. Rather than pursuing late-night intensity, SunRay follows the pace of daylight. The result is a social experience that unfolds in four moods, moving from early wellness to languid poolside hours, easy afternoons and sun-drenched evenings.

Four Moods, One Day by the Water First Light begins with sunrise yoga and Pilates. Morning Drift draws guests into the slower hours with pool floats, board games and listening cor-

ners created with Bangkok turntable label Gadhouse, including its Henry turntables, Wesley headphones and a vinyl library that ranges across moods and eras. Every Saturday, Gadhouse playlists bring a curated soundtrack to the shoreline. At Peak Sun, globally inspired comfort dishes, SunRay signatures and local favourites are made for sharing over long lunches or poolside dinners. A drinks menu of sun-ready cocktails and easy-going serves carries the day through to Happy Hour from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Games, waterproof Uno, poolside Jenga and sustainable creative activities keep the energy playful but unforced. Golden Hour then takes over with downtempo beats and sunset anthems, joined by fire dance performances on Thursdays and Sundays, DJ and

saxophone sessions on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and Muay Thai dance showcases every Saturday.

A New Social Language “SunRay marks the next step in our evolution towards experience-led hospitality,” said Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts. The concept is scheduled for its official global debut in October, expanding to SAii beachfront resorts in Phuket and the Maldives. Debut: Soft launch at SAii Koh Samui Villas from 1 August 2026; official global debut in October 2026 GHA DISCOVERY Day Pass: THB 1,500, including pool access, signature activities and THB 2,000 food and beverage credit More information: Instagram: @ sunraysocialswimclub

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EXPERIENCE REMARKABLE JOURNEYS. The Swift Trawler 54 is a spacious family home on the water, perfect for long-range cruising. It offers exceptional outdoor space, ample storage, and innovations like Sleipner Vector Gen 3 fins for stability and 360-degree control. Enjoy the journey and the destination. PRIMUS MARINE | info@primus-marine.com | +66 (0) 98 825 1000

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PHOTO: © JEAN BAPTISE D’ENQUIN

37 - 41 - 48 - 54

Patrick Jacobs,

An Artist With A Lens

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Kayserberg, France

To view more of Patrick’s work visit, facebook.com/Fotosbypatrick.jacobs Patrick is reachable at patrickhasselt@hotmail.be

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Kayserberg, France

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Kayserberg, France ???

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Kayserberg, France

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PALM AVENUE 4 & 5

Discover Palm Avenue 4 & 5, an exclusive residential gem nestled in a tranquil location just a short 10-minute drive from Hua Hin`s vibrant center, a 3-minute drive to one of the most scenic championship golf courses in whole Asia, the Black Mountain Golf Course. With meticulous attention to detail and uncompromising quality, these exceptional residences offer an unrivaled lifestyle experience. Palm Avenue boats 7 distinct villa design, all energy efficient, featuring large, covered terraces, along with amenities that would expect in a development of this stature.

One of the most beautiful villages of Hua Hin, with its comfortable, high qualitative Villa Designs.

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Paradise Found at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

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Named Best Thai Island Tropical Resort at the 2026 HOT Magazine Signature Awards, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui captures the island at its most seductive: secluded, deeply tropical and effortlessly refined. The first impression arrives from the open-air Arrival Sala, where the resort appears almost hidden within a forest of coconut palms. More than 800 existing coconut trees, together with mature tamarind, jackfruit and mango trees, were retained in the original design, allowing the villas to settle naturally into the hillside above Laem Yai Bay. Despite the feeling of complete escape, Koh Samui International Airport is only a 45-minute drive away.

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The resort’s 60 pool villas, including seven beachfront villas, draw upon traditional Southern Thai architecture while introducing contemporary comfort. Each offers a private infinity pool and expansive views across the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Phangan or Laem Yai Bay. Larger two- to four-bedroom Private Retreats provide generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, full resort access and the services of a live-in butler. At sea level, a white-sand beach and calm private cove invite days of kayaking, paddleboarding or unhurried relaxation beside the 50-metre lap pool. More active guests can choose Muay Thai training in the Bill Bensley-designed ring, tennis, yoga or the steep Koh Samui K2 Run from the beach to the Arrival Sala.

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Dining moves between treetop and oceanfront settings. Pla Pla serves seafood and prime cuts beside the beach, while Southern Thai flavours are enjoyed high above the bay. CoCoRum adds a playful note with artisanal cocktails and the Rum Vault’s collection of more than 150 unique rums, while KOH Bar provides a memorable vantage point for sunsets over Ang Thong National Marine Park. The Secret Garden Spa offers private indoor-outdoor treatment salas among the coconut trees, with rituals influenced by Thai, Yogic and other Asian traditions. Families can also join the resort’s coral conservation programme or explore the reefs and islands of Ang Thong by private boat. It is this rare balance of landscape, privacy, thoughtful service and authentic island character that makes Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui a deserving 2026 HOT Magazine Signature Award winner. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui fourseasons.com/kohsamui

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THE SUPERCAR INSTINCT TAKES TO THE WATER Inside the World of SAY Carbon Yachts

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Carbon fibre, extraordinary power and sports-car thinking are changing the way a new generation approaches life on the water. Germany’s SAY Carbon Yachts is bringing that philosophy to Asia.

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For decades, the accepted formula for luxury on the water was fairly straightforward: make it larger, add more cabins, provide more marble and, whenever possible, attach another deck. SAY Carbon Yachts has taken a rather different approach. Its boats begin with a philosophy more familiar to the performance-car world: reduce weight, sharpen handling, introduce serious power and make the person behind the wheel feel connected to the machine. The comparison with a supercar is difficult to avoid. Based in Germany near Lake Constance, SAY builds its yachts around extensive carbon-fibre construction, a material prized for providing enormous structural strength while dramatically reducing weight. The company says its carbon hull construction can result in boats around 50 percent lighter than comparable models, with the resulting efficiencies affecting acceleration, fuel use and handling. Now that philosophy is heading deeper into Asia. In July 2026, Primus Marine began representing SAY Carbon Yachts across Asia, with a SAY 42 Sport due to arrive in Singapore as the brand expands its presence within the region.

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Howard Prime, CEO of Primus Marine, believes the partnership arrives at an opportune moment for performance-led yachting in Asia. “With the level of technology at an all-time high in the global yacht design and construction market, it is great to partner with SAY Carbon as their dealer for Asia for sales and after-sales. We are certain that this region will see positive demand for this innovative, sporty and very exciting brand". And the SAY 42 Sport is quite an introduction. At 12.96 metres long and weighing just 4.98 tonnes including its Seakeeper 2 gyro stabiliser, the boat is capable of a claimed 47-knot maximum speed. With twin Volvo Penta V8 engines, total output reaches 860 horsepower, while its range is listed at 285 nautical miles.

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Those numbers tell only half the story. The challenge with a performance boat is resisting the temptation to make it something that is tremendous fun for 30 minutes and exhausting for the remaining six hours of the day. SAY’s answer is to combine speed with the qualities expected of a serious luxury day cruiser. There are forward and aft sun lounges, a generous swim platform, and a central entertaining area incorporating a bar top, twin refrigerators, cooking facilities and a wash basin. Up to 12 people can be aboard, allowing the same boat that delivers an exhilarating morning run to transform into an elegant platform for lunch, swimming and sunset drinks. It is this dual personality that makes the concept particularly interesting for Southeast Asia. Here, boating frequently means island hopping rather than crossing oceans. Phuket, Phang Nga Bay, Krabi and the islands of southern Thailand offer precisely the sort of environment where a fast, agile luxury day boat makes sense. Owners may want performance, but they equally want access to a quiet anchorage, a beach club or a hidden bay followed by a comfortable journey home.

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The SAY range currently extends from the compact 32 through the 42 and 42 Sport to the larger SAY 52. Even the 15.95-metre SAY 52 weighs a relatively modest 7.5 tonnes and is rated for speeds of up to 45 knots. That expanding international presence is already giving prospective owners opportunities to experience the range firsthand. Prime adds: “With a new stock SAY 42 Sport arriving soon in Singapore and a SAY 52 already at our St Tropez office, we look forward to welcoming potential new clients to discover what SAY Carbon has to offer". Perhaps the most telling change here is not technological but cultural. Luxury buyers increasingly expect the boats in their lives to possess character. An exotic car must do more than transport its owner. A watch must offer more than the time. And a yacht no longer needs to measure 30 metres before it can provide a sense of occasion. Howard Prime

There will always be a place for the magnificent floating palaces that populate Monaco, Phuket and the Mediterranean. But at the other end of the luxury spectrum, something lighter, faster and arguably more playful is gaining attention. Because sometimes the finest day on the water doesn't require a crew of twelve and three decks. Sometimes it requires 860 horsepower, a beautiful bay and a very good excuse to take the long way home.

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Limited Plots Remaining in one of Hua Hin’s Most Sought-After Community’s

Highland Villas continues to be the choice for buyers who value quality construction, space, privacy, and a refined Hua Hin lifestyle - where modern living meets mountain air and effortless access to town, beaches, golf, and international schools.

Highland Villas 3 & 4 info@highlandhuahin.com | Eng: +66 (0) 941 497 980 | Thai: +66 (0) 969 096 393 MAP [GOOGLE MAPS] 12°35’43.4”N 99°53’38.9”E

Each High-Quality Villa Comes Standard With; » Just 2KM’s From the Black Mountain Golf Course and International School » Furniture package » 10 X 4m Swimming Pool with Overflow » UPVC Doors and Windows with Double Glazing » Inverter Air Conditioners » Hot Water Boiler Heated from Air Conditioner » X Shield Heat Reflecting Roof Tiles » Electronic Stainless-Steel Gate » Fully Landscaped » Full Chanot Land Title » No Maintenance fees » 10-meter-wide road

Highland Villas 3 Final Opportunity

With only 4 plots remaining, this established phase is now in its last chapter. For those who want to secure land in a proven community with a strong track record, Highland Villas 3 represents a rare, ready-now opportunity.

Highland Villas 4

New Release — Now Selling Highland Villas 4 launched with 20 plots, thoughtfully planned for elegant villa living in a low-density setting. Plot sizes range from 566 m² to 993 m², with prices starting from 9.45 Million Baht. Opportunity is narrowing at Highland Villas 4, with only 7 exclusive plots remaining on the market.

www.highlandvillas3.com

THE BARAI HUA HIN A Hua Hin Icon Enters a New Era

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Long before wellness became one of luxury travel’s favourite words, Hua Hin understood the restorative power of escaping to the sea. Now one of the Royal Resort Town’s most distinctive sanctuaries has entered an ambitious new chapter. There are hotels designed around a destination, and there are those rare places that somehow seem inseparable from it. THE BARAI has long belonged to the latter category. Set along Hua Hin’s historic Khao Takiap coastline, the remarkable wellness sanctuary has been part of the town’s luxury landscape for almost two decades. In June, that story evolved dramatically with the opening of THE BARAI HUA HIN as a 98-room beachfront resort and the first property in Thailand to join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.

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It is a fitting marriage. The Unbound Collection is Hyatt’s portfolio for hotels with identities strong enough not to be diluted by a conventional brand template. THE BARAI has never suffered from an identity crisis. Its extraordinary architecture is deliberately transporting. Shaded corridors, monumental forms, courtyards, pools and water passages borrow inspiration from ancient Khmer design, while the elemental forces of earth, water, air and fire are woven through the wellness philosophy. The effect is theatrical without becoming ostentatious — a place designed to encourage the outside world to recede. The original destination spa has now become the heart of a considerably broader resort experience. THE BARAI HUA HIN offers 98 rooms and suites, including 27 suites and two two-bedroom penthouses, with expansive balconies, soaking tubs and rainforest showers framing its tropical setting. Higher-category suites introduce private terraces, butler service, in-suite wellness rituals and daily massage inclusions.

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Wellness, however, remains the reason for being here. The expanded experience includes a two-storey Wellness Hub incorporating a 24hour fitness studio, yoga facilities and holistic spaces. Personalised programmes address areas including sleep recovery, longevity, women’s health, emotional wellbeing, back care and heart health. Rather than prescribing one rigid definition of wellness, the resort encourages guests to find their own rhythm — whether that means serious restorative work, movement, meditation, spa treatments or simply rediscovering the underrated pleasure of doing very little beside the Gulf of Thailand. Two swimming pools provide distinctly different moods. The Forest Pool sits within a lush, shaded setting, while the Beach Pool turns its attention outward towards the sea. Even the dining carries a sense of place. White Cottage references the seaside residences once associated with Siamese nobility, while McFarland House occupies a restored 19th-century beachfront pavilion. The latter has long been one of Hua Hin’s loveliest places to spend an unhurried afternoon, its history and position beside the sea offering something no newly constructed restaurant can easily imitate.

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That sense of heritage matters because Hua Hin itself has always represented a particular kind of Thai luxury. It is quieter than Phuket, more relaxed than Bangkok and far less interested in shouting about itself. For generations, its appeal has been tied to the simple sophistication of escaping the capital for fresh air, long beaches and an easier pace of life. THE BARAI’s evolution therefore feels less like the arrival of something foreign and more like a contemporary expression of something Hua Hin has understood for a century. Luxury wellness has become a global industry. Resorts around the world now compete with longevity clinics, biohacking programmes, sleep specialists and increasingly elaborate treatments. Yet somewhere amid all that science and optimisation sits a wonderfully simple truth. Sometimes feeling better begins with going somewhere beautiful. And in Hua Hin, THE BARAI has been refining that particular prescription for a very long time.

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PATTAYA & JOMTIEN: Thailand’s Eastern Riviera, Reimagined

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Let’s Go

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Beyond the familiar bright lights, Pattaya and Jomtien are revealing a more sophisticated side — one shaped by design-led resorts, ambitious dining, yachting, wellness and a coastline offering everything from high energy to wonderfully unhurried days by the sea. For decades, Pattaya has been one of Thailand’s best-known seaside destinations, but familiarity can be misleading. Look beyond the old weekend-away clichés and a more interesting story is unfolding along the Eastern Gulf. Pattaya has grown up, Jomtien has found its confidence, and together they now offer a coastal lifestyle more sophisticated, varied and luxurious than many visitors expect. The transformation is especially visible south of central Pattaya. Cross Pratumnak Hill and the mood softens. Jomtien Beach stretches for kilometres along a broad shoreline, replacing the city’s intensity with sea breezes, beachfront cafés and a relaxed rhythm. Continue to Na Jomtien and the landscape becomes more resort-like, with luxury hotels, beach clubs, villas and spacious waterfront settings far removed from central Pattaya.

A Tale of Two Coastlines Pattaya and Jomtien work because they offer contrast. Central Pattaya remains exuberant, energetic and unapologetically social. It is a destination for rooftop cocktails, shopping, restaurants, live entertainment and evenings that rarely end early. Beach Road provides the theatre, while the city behind it is packed with international dining, hotels and entertainment. Jomtien, by comparison, is where the shoulders drop. Its longer beachfront feels more residential and less frenetic, popular with families, long-stay visitors and those who prefer morning walks by the sea. The farther south one travels toward Na Jomtien, the more the atmosphere shifts from urban beach town to polished seaside retreat.

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New-Generation Luxury Perhaps the clearest sign of Pattaya’s evolution is the quality of hospitality now arriving along this southern stretch of coast. Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach brings design-conscious luxury to a lush oceanfront setting, pairing locally inspired rooms, suites and pool villas with gardens, wellness and beachfront dining. MASON Pattaya takes a more intimate approach, with striking private-pool villas and architecture that makes the sea part of the experience. Both received One MICHELIN Keys in Thailand’s 2025 hotel selection. More recent arrivals are adding fresh energy. The Standard, Pattaya Na Jomtien introduces its playful, design-led personality through 161 rooms and suites, tropical gardens and Esmé, the brand’s first beach club. Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa adds a full-scale five-star beachfront resort to Jomtien, with 289 rooms and suites, three pools and spa facilities. The message is clear: Pattaya is no longer relying on its reputation. It is actively building a new one.

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A Dining Scene With Greater Ambition For years, Pattaya’s culinary strength was variety. Its international community ensured everything from Thai seafood and Italian trattorias to Japanese, Indian and European cooking was close at hand. That diversity remains, but it is now joined by a more ambitious dining culture. The MICHELIN Guide’s 2026 Thailand selection includes Chon Buri, giving the wider Pattaya area greater culinary visibility. Around Jomtien and Na Jomtien, dining can now be as polished as the hotels themselves. Fish Club at Andaz places seafood and openfire cooking beside a serene stretch of beach, while La Cucina offers relaxed Italian cooking in a tropical garden setting. Yet Pattaya still understands informality. Some of the most memorable meals remain the simplest: fresh seafood, som tam and grilled meats enjoyed near the water. The city has never asked visitors to choose between glamour and casual pleasure, and that may be one of its greatest strengths.

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Life on the Water The Gulf of Thailand gives the region another dimension. Koh Larn, sitting just offshore, remains one of the easiest escapes, with sandy beaches and clear-water coves reached by boat from Pattaya. For those wanting something more private, yacht and catamaran charters open up quieter stretches of coastline and less-visited islands. Na Jomtien is also home to Ocean Marina Jomtien, Thailand’s largest marina resort complex and one of Asia’s established yachting destinations. With more than 450 modern berths and capacity for yachts up to 75 metres, it gives Pattaya a serious nautical identity many casual visitors never discover. Spend a morning sailing, stop for a swim and return as the afternoon light softens, and Pattaya suddenly feels less like a resort city and more like Thailand’s answer to an Eastern Gulf Riviera.

Beyond the Beach The appeal also extends inland. Golf has long been one of Pattaya’s strengths, with numerous courses

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within easy driving distance. Wellness continues to expand, particularly within newer resorts, while Nong Nooch Tropical Garden adds landscaped beauty and Thai cultural interest. Then there is the Sanctuary of Truth, rising dramatically beside the sea in Naklua. Part architecture, part craftsmanship and part philosophical statement, the monumental wooden structure remains one of the region’s most memorable sights. Pattaya’s advantage is that it rarely runs out of options. One can spend a morning at the beach, an afternoon golfing, sunset on a yacht and dinner in a refined seaside restaurant without travelling particularly far.

A Destination With Range What makes Pattaya and Jomtien compelling today is not that they have abandoned their past, but that they have expanded beyond it. Pattaya still has nightlife, noise and spectacle for those who want it. It also has quiet five-star resorts, serious restaurants, golf, yachting, wellness and polished beachfront living. Jomtien provides the counterpoint: calmer, more spacious and more residential, with Na Jomtien pushing the mood further toward understated coastal luxury. For Bangkok residents, the proximity remains irresistible. In roughly two hours, the capital gives way to the Gulf and the weekend begins. Perhaps that is the new way to understand Pattaya: not as a single destination with a single personality, but as a collection of experiences along one remarkably varied coastline. Come for the energy or the calm. Stay in the heart of the action or disappear into a beachfront villa. Dine somewhere glamorous, eat seafood with your feet in the sand, spend a day at sea and leave enough time to do absolutely nothing. Pattaya and Jomtien have learned that modern luxury is not always about escaping everything. Sometimes it is simply about having every option within reach.

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SONG OF SONGS Finding Perfect Harmony at Sea

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YACHT OF THE M

NTH

Graceful, contemporary, and quietly commanding, SONG OF SONGS is the sort of yacht that doesn’t need to shout for attention. She simply arrives, and the world around her seems to rise to meet the moment.

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There are yachts that impress with sheer size, yachts that seduce with styling, and yachts that make a statement through excess. Then there are those rarer vessels that achieve something more nuanced: a sense of balance. A harmony between elegance and adventure, between indulgence and ease, between the romance of the sea and the refined expectations of modern luxury living. SONG OF SONGS belongs firmly in that latter category. At 42.2 metres, this 2022 Heysea Asteria 139 is every inch a contemporary superyacht, yet what makes her memorable is not simply her length or her gleaming profile. It is the way she has been conceived as a complete lifestyle platform, one designed not merely for getting away, but for getting away beautifully. Based primarily in Phuket and perfectly suited to cruising the Andaman Sea and the wider waters of Southeast Asia, SONG OF SONGS feels as though she has found her natural home in this part of the world.

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From the moment she is seen at anchor, there is a calm confidence about her. Her lines are clean and fluid, her white superstructure crisply modern, and her proportions pleasing from every angle. She has presence, certainly, but not arrogance. In an age when some yachts can feel overly aggressive or ostentatious, SONG OF SONGS offers something more refined. She is visually striking without trying too hard, and therein lies much of her appeal. Of course, true luxury reveals itself not in first impressions alone, but in the experience of living aboard. Here, SONG OF SONGS excels. She accommodates up to 12 guests in six beautifully appointed suites, attended to by a professional crew of 10, creating an environment where privacy, service, and comfort are seamlessly interwoven. The yacht’s layout has been thoughtfully arranged to give owners and guests both intimacy and generous shared social space, a combination that is essential for successful life at sea.

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One of her most appealing features is the upper-deck owner’s suite, a space that elevates the onboard experience well beyond the ordinary. More than just a cabin, it is a private retreat, complete with its own aft-facing terrace, lounge area, and a marble-clad bathroom that reinforces the feeling of being in a boutique resort rather than on a yacht. It is easy to imagine beginning the day here with coffee at sunrise, watching the first light catch the sea, or ending it with a quiet drink under the stars, the yacht gently at rest in one of Phuket’s hidden anchorages. A second master suite on the main deck ensures that premier accommodation is not reserved solely for the owner, while the remaining guest cabins continue the theme of understated luxury. The atmosphere throughout is one of polished calm. Nothing feels forced. The spaces are elegant without becoming overly theatrical, allowing the sea, the light, and the destinations themselves to remain part of the design conversation.

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The public spaces aboard SONG OF SONGS are equally well judged. The main salon is inviting and sophisticated, with the sort of proportions and finish that encourage both formal entertaining and relaxed evenings with family and friends. Dining flows naturally from indoors to out, which is exactly as it should on a yacht designed for warm-weather cruising. Outside, expansive deck areas create multiple moods and opportunities throughout the day. There are spaces for sunbathing, lounging, dining alfresco, or simply sitting back and watching the horizon unspool. On the sundeck, a Jacuzzi adds another dimension to life aboard, offering a perch from which to enjoy panoramic views with a glass in hand. It is the sort of feature that instantly turns an afternoon at anchor into an occasion. Below, the beach club brings guests closer to the water and becomes a natural hub for swimming, launching toys, or slipping into the sea for that most luxurious of pleasures: an unhurried swim in tropical waters.

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And what waters they are. It is here, amid the extraordinary cruising grounds of the Andaman Sea, that SONG OF SONGS truly comes into her own. To experience a yacht like this in the Mediterranean is one thing; to enjoy her amid the cinematic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay, the emerald coves of Krabi, or the island-dotted coastlines beyond Phuket is something else entirely. Southeast Asia offers a different sort of yachting magic. It is less crowded, more sensorial, and in many places still blessed with a feeling of discovery. From Phuket, an itinerary aboard SONG OF SONGS can unfold in all manner of glorious directions. One day may begin with a leisurely cruise through the dramatic scenery of Phang Nga Bay, continue with lunch on deck in a quiet anchorage, and end with cocktails as the sky burns orange over the Andaman. Another might bring a beach picnic on a near-deserted island, paddleboarding in crystal-clear water, or an evening spent dining under the stars after a day of total privacy at sea. For those wishing to venture farther afield, Southeast Asia opens up even more possibilities, each one promising its own blend of culture, beauty, and escapism. The yacht’s 10.7-metre chase boat adds to that sense of freedom, providing stylish and practical access to shore, watersports, and exploration. It also reinforces the fact that SONG OF SONGS has been designed not just for passive luxury, but for active enjoyment. She is not a static floating residence. She is a gateway to experience. There is also an intriguing duality to her story. SONG OF SONGS is available not only for charter, but also offered for sale, making her appealing both as a weeklong fantasy and as a serious ownership proposition. For those who charter, she represents an invitation into an elevated world of service, scenery, and seaborne serenity. For potential buyers, she offers the rare opportunity to acquire a nearly new yacht of striking style and strong presence in one of the world’s most rewarding cruising grounds.

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Yet beyond the specifications, beyond the deck plans, and beyond the glossy imagery, what lingers most about SONG OF SONGS is the feeling she evokes. She is a yacht that understands the art of measured luxury. She does not overwhelm. She enchants. She offers the sort of sophisticated escape that many dream about, but few truly experience: days shaped by sunlight and sea, evenings framed by impeccable surroundings, and the enduring pleasure of knowing that for a little while, at least, life has found its perfect rhythm. In that sense, her name feels entirely appropriate. SONG OF SONGS is not merely a vessel. She is an ode to the pleasures of yachting done properly — with style, grace, and the sort of quiet confidence that never goes out of fashion. For those in search of perfect harmony at sea, the music begins here.

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WHEN THE WORLD COMES TO DINNER Bangkok’s World Gourmet Festival Returns

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For six extraordinary days this autumn, Bangkok will once again become one of the most exciting dining rooms on earth as celebrated chefs from around the world converge on the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.

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Bangkok does not suffer from a shortage of excellent places to eat. That, rather wonderfully, is part of the problem. In a city where Michelin-starred restaurants coexist with extraordinary street food, internationally recognised chefs open new concepts with regularity and reservations at the hottest tables can become competitive sport, staging a culinary event capable of genuinely getting Bangkok’s attention takes some doing. The World Gourmet Festival has been doing exactly that for more than two decades. Returning to the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel from 29 September to 4 October 2026, this year marks the festival’s 26th edition, bringing together internationally celebrated chefs alongside some of Thailand’s most compelling culinary talent. worldgourmetfestival.asia And the line-up is formidable. Among the international names is Julien Royer, whose three-Michelin-starred Odette in Singapore has become one of Asia’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants. He is joined by Dave Pynt of Singapore’s Burnt Ends, California-based Josiah Citrin, Colombia’s Álvaro Clavijo, and Georgiana Viou, the Benin-born chef recognised as the first Black female chef to earn a Michelin star in France.

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But what makes the World Gourmet Festival particularly interesting in 2026 is its embrace of collaboration. Bangkok’s own culinary personalities feature prominently, including Arnaud Dunand of Maison Dunand, Chalee Kader of Wana Yook, Dylan Jones and Bo Songvisava of Bo.lan, Chumpon Jangprai of R.HAAN, Deepanker “DK” Khosla of Haōma, Tamaki Kobayashi of Le Normandie, and the team from Saneh Jaan. World Gourmet Festival 2026 Rather than simply placing visiting chefs into individual restaurant kitchens, several events create conversations between culinary cultures. One evening brings fire specialist Dave Pynt together with Dylan Jones and Bo Songvisava. Another pairs Álvaro Clavijo’s Colombian perspective with Chumpon Jangprai’s interpretation of Thai cuisine. Josiah Citrin joins fellow chefs for explorations of contemporary French cooking, while other collaborations move between Europe, Asia and the Americas. World Gourmet Festival 2026

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It is precisely this exchange of ideas that has transformed the modern food festival. The attraction is no longer simply the opportunity to eat a meal prepared by a famous chef. Luxury travellers today can fly to Singapore, Paris or Tokyo and do that whenever they wish. What cannot easily be recreated is a dinner that exists for a single evening, bringing together chefs who might otherwise never share the same kitchen. That sense of occasion turns dinner into experience, and the setting helps. Anantara Siam remains one of Bangkok’s grand hotel addresses, occupying a particularly elegant corner of Rajadamri where soaring ceilings, Thai art, silk murals and tropical courtyards create an atmosphere that feels removed from the relentless movement just beyond its doors. For one week, its restaurants become a culinary map of the world.

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The festival arrives at an interesting moment for Bangkok as well. Thailand's capital has spent the past decade steadily strengthening its claim as one of the world's serious food cities. Fine dining here no longer depends purely on imported luxury. Increasingly, the most memorable restaurants are confident enough to celebrate Thai produce, reinterpret regional traditions and place local ingredients into genuinely international conversations. The World Gourmet Festival captures that evolution beautifully. Yes, there will be stars. There will be exquisite plates, long dinners and probably more photographs taken before the first bite than anyone wishes to admit. But the real luxury is fleeting. A particular group of chefs. One kitchen. One night. And then it is gone. That may be exactly why we want a seat at the table.

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Zensiri is an established property developer known for delivering distinctive residential communities in Pattaya and Koh Chang. With a commitment to design, quality, and longterm value, the group has completed more than 300 pool villas and condominiums across nine signature projects. Each development blends elegant architecture with practical comfort, creating exceptional homes that stand the test of time. Whether by the lake, in the heart of the city, or beside the beach, Zensiri continues to shape communities that reflect modern lifestyles while embracing natural surroundings.

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75 YEARS

OF GRANGE The Wine They Told Him Not to Make

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It began as an experiment, continued for a time in secrecy and ultimately became one of the world's great fine wines. Seventy-five years after Max Schubert created the first experimental Grange, Penfolds is celebrating a remarkable story of conviction, patience and the occasional wisdom of ignoring one's boss. Some of luxury's greatest stories begin with permission. The story of Penfolds Grange begins with something far more interesting. Defiance.

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It began as an experiment, continued for a time in secrecy and ultimately became one of the world’s great fine wines. Seventy-five years after Max Schubert created the first experimental Grange, Penfolds is celebrating a remarkable story of conviction, patience and the occasional wisdom of ignoring one’s boss. Some of luxury’s greatest stories begin with permission. The story of Penfolds Grange begins with something far more interesting. Defiance. In 1951, Penfolds winemaker Max Schubert produced the first experimental vintage of the wine that would eventually become Grange. His inspiration followed a visit to Bordeaux, where he became fascinated with the idea of creating an Australian red capable of developing gracefully for decades.

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There was only one difficulty. His employers weren’t particularly impressed. After early vintages received a less-than-enthusiastic response, Schubert was instructed to discontinue the project. Instead, convinced of what the wine might become, he continued producing it away from official attention. By 1960, the Penfolds board had reconsidered and production resumed openly. Seventy-five years later, one suspects Schubert has won the argument. In 2026, Penfolds is marking 75 years since that first experimental 1951 Grange, celebrating an unbroken lineage that has seen a rebellious winemaking experiment become the house’s flagship and one of Australia’s most recognised fine wines. At the centre of the modern story is Peter Gago, Penfolds’ chief winemaker, the fourth custodian of that role and the current steward of Grange. Custodian is an interesting word. It suggests temporary possession rather than ownership, and that seems appropriate for a wine whose life is measured not simply in harvests but in generations. The responsibility is not to reinvent Grange each year in pursuit of fashion. It is to protect a house style while responding to whatever nature provides.

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Grange itself breaks one of fine wine’s most romantic conventions. Rather than relying upon a single celebrated vineyard, it traditionally draws on exceptional Shiraz from different regions and vineyard sites, allowing the winemaking team to pursue a recognisable style regardless of vintage variation. Its signature has long included powerful fruit, structure and maturation in American oak. The anniversary coincides with the release of Grange 2022 as part of the Penfolds Collection 2026, released globally on 6 August. Fruit for the vintage was sourced from the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Coonawarra, following a relatively cool South Australian growing season. The new vintage has already attracted exceptional critical attention, including a 100-point score from Decanter. But Grange’s true currency has always been time. Penfolds has simultaneously released the ninth edition of Rewards of Patience, its long-running guide to how its wines evolve in bottle. Appropriately, the new edition arrives during Grange’s 75th year, four decades after the first Rewards of Patience was published. The latest edition revisits vintages stretching back to the earliest years of the Grange story and considers when bottles may reach their finest drinking windows. There is something wonderfully unfashionable about all of this. We live in an age devoted to immediacy. Meals arrive in minutes. Films stream instantly. Messages cross the world before we have had time to reconsider sending them. Fine wine refuses to cooperate. It asks its owner to buy something wonderful and then, in many cases, have the discipline not to drink it. A bottle laid into a cellar can become a marker of life itself: opened for a 50th birthday, an anniversary, a child’s wedding or simply that rare evening when someone finally decides the occasion is worthy of the wine. That may explain why Grange has transcended being merely an expensive bottle of Shiraz. It represents patience. It represents continuity. And perhaps most wonderfully, it represents the enduring possibility that the person being told to stop might just be the only person in the room who understands what comes next. Max Schubert understood. It only took the rest of the world a little while to catch up.

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HOME OF

THE MONTH Penthouse Living at 185 Rajadamri, Bangkok

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INTERIOR: 386.5 M 2 BEDROOMS: 3 BATHROOMS: 4

165,000,000 THB

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Occupying an exceptional position high above one of Bangkok’s most prestigious addresses, this expansive 386.5-square-metre penthouse combines grand-scale living, sweeping city views, resort-style amenities and a location at the very heart of the capital. There are luxury addresses in Bangkok, and then there are those rare locations whose names have become synonymous with the city itself. Rajadamri belongs firmly in the latter category. Running through the heart of central Bangkok, the neighbourhood sits between the energy of Ratchaprasong and the greenery of Lumpini, placing some of the capital’s finest shopping, dining, hotels and cultural attractions within remarkably easy reach. It is here, on the 27th floor of Raimon Land’s award-winning 185 Rajadamri, that this month’s Home of the Month awaits.

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With approximately 386.5 square metres of interior space, the three-bedroom, four-bathroom penthouse has the proportions of a substantial private home rather than a conventional city condominium. Arranged across a single level, the residence provides generous space for both everyday living and large-scale entertaining. The sense of scale becomes immediately apparent within the principal living areas. Two spacious lounges allow formal entertaining and relaxed family life to coexist comfortably, while one is crowned by a dramatic double-height ceiling, creating an architectural sense of volume rarely found in high-rise residences. Large expanses of glazing connect the interiors with Bangkok beyond, turning the city itself into part of the décor. By day, greenery softens the surrounding urban landscape; after dark, the outlook transforms as the Bangkok skyline begins to sparkle.

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The setting is particularly unusual because 185 Rajadamri overlooks two of central Bangkok’s most treasured green spaces: the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and nearby Lumpini Park. In a city where uninterrupted green views have become increasingly scarce, the outlook gives the residence a sense of openness few central Bangkok addresses can replicate. The private accommodation follows the same generous philosophy. Three spacious bedrooms each enjoy their own en-suite bathroom, while the principal suite has been conceived as a sanctuary within the home. A large walk-in wardrobe provides ample storage, while its private balcony provides a place to begin the morning above the city or retreat at the end of the day.

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For those who enjoy entertaining, the kitchen arrangement is equally impressive. Two fully equipped kitchens allow the practical side of food preparation to remain separate from the social areas of the home. The principal gourmet kitchen features high-end appliances and generous preparation space, while a secondary kitchen can handle larger-scale entertaining discreetly. Dedicated wine storage completes an arrangement particularly well suited to dinner parties and evenings with friends. Developed by Raimon Land, 185 Rajadamri has long occupied an important place within Bangkok’s ultra-luxury residential market. Its credentials were established early when, in 2013, it was named Best Luxury Condo Development (Bangkok) at the Thailand Property Awards, as well as Best Condo Development (Thailand) at the Southeast Asia Property Awards.

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The freehold development rises 35 storeys above Rajadamri and complements its prime location with an extensive collection of resident amenities. At the heart of these is the swimming pool, supported by a fully equipped fitness centre, sauna, yoga and relaxation areas, landscaped outdoor spaces, residents’ lounge, library and multipurpose facilities. Twentyfour-hour security, CCTV and concierge services provide the discreet infrastructure expected at this level of residential living. Yet impressive as the residence and amenities are, perhaps the greatest luxury is what lies outside the front door.

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BTS Ratchadamri is approximately a six-minute walk away, placing the wider city within effortless reach. Head north and the neighbourhood flows into Ratchaprasong, home to CentralWorld, Gaysorn Village and some of Bangkok’s most prestigious hotels, restaurants and shopping destinations. In the opposite direction lies Langsuan, where tree-lined streets, sophisticated restaurants, cafés and boutique lifestyle destinations create one of central Bangkok’s most attractive residential pockets. Then there is Lumpini Park, Bangkok’s great green sanctuary, offering morning walks, evening runs and a welcome escape beneath the trees. Together with the neighbouring Royal Bangkok Sports Club, it creates an extraordinary expanse of greenery directly below the upper floors of 185 Rajadamri. Perhaps that is what ultimately distinguishes this penthouse. The generous proportions, double-height living room, spacious bedroom suites, dual kitchens, wine storage and extensive amenities make for an impressive home. But what cannot easily be recreated is their combination at this address. High above Rajadamri, with Bangkok stretching into the distance and rare expanses of green below, this is a residence that places its owner at the very centre of the capital while somehow remaining removed from its intensity. Viewings are by appointment only. For further details or to arrange a private viewing, please visit https://thailuxuryliving.com, with reference TLL187335, or contact us directly at +66 (0)84 387 5699 or info@ thailuxuryliving.com.

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HOT Magazine Issue 8, Volume 14