What’s the difference between this album and the previous one?
So: This album is more fun than our first one. The name of the album is “Plien” [Change] and we changed many things. Our drummer has become a lead singer, we switched to a new label, and unlike our first super-chill album, our music is now more frantic.
Nueng: Mellow moods are still in our album but we added more upbeat melodies too this time around.
What does Etc. mean?
B: Etcetera means we like all kinds of different music even though we choose to play together. Some of us like standard and fusion jazz; others are fond of R&B and rock. We blend our passions and find a harmony in it.
What would you say to those who would like to get where you are now?
So: Success takes time. We all have been through many things to get to this point. We have been playing music since we were in university. We joined lots of contests and played in pubs until P’Aom, a producer from GMM, found us and invited us to launch an album. From the beginning until now, we never changed our goal, which is to make good songs for audiences and for ourselves. You must try hard and practice all the time.
What do you get from music?
Nueng: Playing music is like trying to hook up with a girl. Every time I’m on a stage, I'm full of adrenalin. It’s kind of exciting when I think that I’m just a normal person who’s standing in the spotlight. But the best thing is that I have a chance to do what I like and to be myself. It makes me really happy.
So: I get satisfaction knowing that there are people out there who love what we do.
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When the sun goes down, tourists and bargain hunters alike know there’s only one place to head to: the Suan Lum Night Bazaar. Built on the 120 rai grounds of an old military academy, it is a celebrated shopping hub for thousands of racks of hip clothing, stylish furniture, handicrafts and numerous restaurants. Despite the rumors that the market is about to close in April, it continues to attract many tourists and local passersby everyday.
The market has two main sections named after two well-known provinces—Ayudhya and Lopburi. Strolling along the Lopburi side first, we find a heap of classic leather bags at Good Old Days (No. 462 Lopburi Soi 7, 08-6064-3141. Open daily 4-11:30pm). If you are looking for a prop to complete your James Bond image, look no further. From handbags to briefcases, the shop has it all on offer at B2,900 to B6,500. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted.
After walking in and out of a lot of clothing shops, trying real hard to keep our banknotes in place, we almost give in to a super-glamorous shop called His Story (No. 116 Lopburi Soi 8, 08-9000-2999. Open daily 6-11pm. www.hisstorybkk.com). The place offers shirts, jackets, pants and shoes with prices starting from B1,290. The classy white lace jacket (B4,500) is particularly hard to resist. However, if neat and clean is not your style, check Rock Bitch Mafia Sound (Lopburi Soi 4, Open daily 5-11pm). This rastafarian shop focuses only on colorful T-shirts (B300-500), big loose jeans and rainbow ski hats. If you prefer vintage clothes, drop by Siscily’s Me (Lopburi Soi 4, 08-6307-3497. Open daily 6:30-11:30pm) and try on one of its dresses. Prices range from B490 to B590, with a 10% discount for BK readers.
Moving on to the rear of the Lopburi zone, there are numerous furniture options for you to choose from, including modern, retro and oriental styles. Hiding in Zone C, away from the other furniture shops is a wide warehouse-like store called Retro Chairs (Zone C7, 08-1503-4172. Open daily 4-11pm), which sells imported and handmade sitting pieces, tables, lamps and chandeliers. Prices range from B1,000 to B100,000.
Moving into Ayudhya, we found one interesting CD shop with a very friendly shopkeeper. Though he may not be as cool as the famed Doreme auntie, the trader at The Garage Record (Ayudhya Soi 5, 08-1838-8212. Open daily 5pm-midnight) has racks of jazz, bossa nova, blues and soul CDs. Vinyl records (starting at B4,000) from the owner’s collection are also available.
Wandering through the innumerable rows and junctions for half an hour, we happened upon a little wooden shop in the middle of Ayudhya Soi 5. Vintage violins on display drew our attention. The old shopkeeper there says he “only sells imported ones, all secondhand.” At The Violin Shop (Ayudhya Soi 5, Open daily 5-11pm), you can find fiddles from Italy, France and Germany. The shop also offers repair and tuning services.
As in the Lopburi zone, most of the area in Ayudhya is occupied by women’s wear. Out of the numerous stalls, Moulage (Ayudhya Soi 4, 08-1985-6186. Open daily 6pm-midnight) is one shop that stands out with trendy tomboy items and can save you money at the same time. Shirts cost just B490, ties are B200 and bibs start at B280. So it’s affordable too.
Last but not least, if you are looking for a souvenir for a farang friend, take a minute to check out Ex-Planning (Ayudhya Soi 4, 02-978-6896. Open daily 4-11:30pm. www.zakkathailand.com). There are hundreds of tiny wooden dolls for you to choose from. Magnets, mobile straps or name card stands: everything is only B60 a piece.
Suan Lum Night Bazaar is on the corner of Rama 4 and Wireless Road. Open daily 3pm-midnight (but most shops open around 6pm).
Buses no. 13, 14, 17, 22, 45, 46, 47, 50, 62, 74, 76, 106, 109, 115, 116,
MRT Lumpini
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Whether you want to make it into a hobby, a full-blown profession, or you just want to spruce up your living space, going beyond your monthly browsing of Wallpaper* is the first step to taking interior design a bit more seriously. Try these places for beginner classes.
This is a brand new institute from Italy for those who are serious about interior design. (How serious? See the prices, below.) The academy offers many levels of interior design programs, ranging from a one-year basic course to a three-year advanced level course, which is a precursor to studying for a master’s degree. As for the fees, it’s B165,000 per semester plus a B60,000 enrollment fee.
998 Soi Thonglor, Klongton, Wattana 02-391-9103. Open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. www.aithai.co.th.
Technology meets creativity at All Step, where the focus is on computer graphic programs like 3D Studio Max. Their interior design and architecture course will teach you how to create 3D models, choose materials for each model and how to set up compositions and perspectives in your work. Their 36-hour course costs B5,500 and is limited to 5-7 students per class.
2/F, Seri Center, Srinakarin Rd., 02-748-4384 ext 1, 08-6899-9921. Open Mon-Fri noon-6:30pm, Sat-Sun noon-9pm. www.allstep.net.
This is a community for those who love art and design. They offer a variety of design courses, including “Room Planning with Style,” which teaches the basics of space and furniture arrangement, as well as color theory and lighting. For a 24-hour course, the fee is B6,300. Classes are limited to a maximum of 15 students. Other design classes include feng shui for architects, landscaping for home gardens, interior color and furniture design.
KMUTT, 231/2 South Sathorn Rd., 02-673-9434/-5, 02-470-9922, 02-211-9405, 02-211-9367. Open Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. www.bangkokcode.com.
Din Sor See has interior design classes taught by experienced tutors in a homey atmosphere. For a basic course (12 lessons), it will cost you B2,500 (10% discount through May 9). Watercolor painting, oil painting and drawing lessons are also available. Private courses are offered at B3,000/15 hours.
Room. No. 206, 2/F, Scala Theater, Siam Square Soi 1, 02-254-7968/9. Open Mon, Wed-Fri noon-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6:30pm.
IAS has classes to help improve your sketching, drawing and painting skills, so that you can transform your dark and gloomy room into a chic and comfy palace.
Its 33-hour “Interior Decoration 1” course covers fundamental functions and composition in interior decoration: choosing materials, writing specifications, color theory and presentation. B4,550.
Alliance Francaise, 29 South Sathorn Rd., 02-670-4200. Open Mon-Fri 9:30am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am-5:30pm. www.alliance-francaise.or.th
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There are more than 6.6 billion people (and counting) on our blue planet, and the majority of them don’t have it as good as you do. Is this your fault? Of course not. Is this your problem? No, we’re not saying that, either. But can you make a difference? Absolutely.
And if you look deep into our hearts, 99% of us would like to lend a hand, whether that be helping the poor, the handicapped, orphans, victims of natural disasters or even little wild critters. Few of us actually do, however.
Sure, we have our own lives to lead. But our inaction stems not so much from selfishness as it is due to the fact we simply don’t know where to start. Well, here’s your starting point, would-be angels. Everyone have something to give, and there are millions of ways you can make a difference—it’s not necessary to be Bill Gates. And who knows? By giving, you might receive something back in unexpected ways. Here’s a list of opportunities for you to volunteer, share, donate and support.
We know you’re busy, but come on, you still veg in front of the TV and go to the mall.
The Goodwill Group (2/F, Ruam Rudee Bldg. 3, 51/2 Soi Ruam Rudee, Ploenchit Rd., 02-253-8493/02-255-4176. Open Sat-Thu 9:30am-8pm. www.goodwillbangkok.com) is a private Thai foundation set up to help disadvantaged women through education. The Goodwill Group is seeking people who are willing to commit at least three months to teach basic computer skills, including how to use email, the internet and Microsoft applications in Thai. It is also seeking Thais and foreigners who are willing to give two-three hours a week for at least six months teaching English. Interested? Email beer@goodwillbangkok.com for more details.
Pakkred Home for Boys (2 Moo1 Tambon Bangtalad, Pakkred, Nontaburi, 02-583-8343. www.pakkredhome.org) was founded to prevent at-risk children from being drawn to criminal lives. There are over 200 boys there who are orphans, children of dysfunctional parents and/or who face extreme poverty. The Pakkred Home provides a nourishing environment in which they can learn handicrafts, electrical and agricultural skills, and it finds families to adopt them. Call if you want to visit them or donate a free lunch.
Holidays that help improve the lives of those you visit are on the rise. Consider Kon Asa project (Room 907, 9/F, 41 Lertpanya Bldg., Soi Sri Ayutthaya, 02-642-7991/2 ext 16. www.siamvolunteer.com), one of the Mirror Foundation projects. The group occasionally seeks out volunteers for activities such as building homes for victims of disasters and teaching kids in remote areas.
Or, you can choose your favorite location in our beautiful country and help build and repair homes for the poor with Habitat for Humanity Thailand (15/F, SSP Tower, 555 Sukhumvit 63, 02-711-6934. www.habitatthailand.org). They differ from other volunteer groups in that they don’t believe charity without responsibility. Benefactors work side-by-side with volunteers to build their own homes, and they have to pay for the actual cost of materials (with the help of zero interest payment plans organized by the group).
The Foundation for Karen Hilltribes in Thailand (16/4 Soi Intamara 15, Suthisarn Rd., 02-271-1787. www.karenhilltribes.org.uk) is looking for the kind of volunteer who wants to be immersed in a real hilltribe community and spend 4-5 hours a week for three months (or more) teaching English to rural children. No TOEFL qualification required but you’ll need some training first.
Money can’t buy happiness, but it can help improve the lives of the less fortunate. Check out these places and see what your money can do.
The Foundation for Children (95/24 Moo 6, Soi Kiat Ruammitra, 02-814-1481. www.fcc.or.th) is dedicated to improving children’s reading skills. You can help by ordering sets of books from its website which will be sent to 200 school libraries in Thailand and across our borders. For only B700-1,000 you can give one community a chance to explore a whole world of knowledge and imagination.
Not too far from Bangkok lies a peaceful place for HIV patients: Wat Phra Baht Nam Phu, Lopburi (www.aidstemple.org.th). There, those suffering from AIDS can receive good care and a proper education about the disease. to make a donation: account number 579-233730-7, Siam Commercial Bank, Lopburi branch (or visit http://www.aidstemple.th.org/howtodonation.html for other banks).
Amnesty International Thailand (641/8 Ladprao Rd., 02-938-7746. www.amnesty.or.th) has long been raising awareness of human rights issues. Its recent campaigns include eradicating violence against women, stopping the death penalty and claiming rights for refugees. You can make a donation online.
Founded in 1974, World Vision Thailand (582/18-22 Sukhumvit Soi 63, 02-381-8863/-5. www.worldvision.or.th) is an affiliate of the worldwide Christian network World Vision. They strive to improve overall living standards, particularly for children. You can sponsor its children adoption project by donating at least B450 monthly to one child.
To reduce a newborn’s chances of contracting HIV from its mother, Thai Red Cross AIDS Project (The Thai Red Cross Society, 1871 Rama 4 Rd., 02-256-4107/-9) gives free AZT medicine to HIV-positive pregnant women. To support them, contribute your money to its saving account: 045-2-31605-7, Siam Commercial Bank, Thai Red Cross branch. Then fax ATM slip to Khun Ladda, 02-254-7577 (write “Save a child’s life from Aids projects” on the top), so they can send you a receipt.
Baan Tantawan is a shelter for malnourished and abused children run by the Foundation for Children (666 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-438-9331/2 or 02-814-1481/-7). Savings account name: Foundation for Children. Account number: 236-0-30989-8, Bangkok Bank, Nhongkham branch. Not only money, but food, toys, sport equipment and stationeries are needed; visit www.fcc.or.th/info/lack.php for details on how to donate such items.
Sueb Nakhasathien devoted his life to preserving Thai forests and wildlife. Help aid his dream to keep our open spaces safe by donating to the Sueb Nakhasathien Foundation (693 Bldg. 4, Department of Medical Sciences, Bumrungmuang Rd., 02-224-7838/9. www.seub.or.th). Account number: 053-2-38652-4, Siam Commercial Bank, Bangbua branch.
With your money, rape victims can be helped to regain their self-esteem. Donate to the Kanitnaree Center (Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women, 501/1 Dechatungkha Rd., Sikan, 02-929-2222. www.apsw-thailand.org) at account number 135-2-00041-6, Thai Military Bank, Songprapa branch.
To promote the idea that the blind can contribute to society, the Music Association for the Blind (Khun Komkrij 08-9201-2020, K.Boy 08-9179-1911. www.mabthai.com) has formed a professional band called “Memory.” You can support them by hiring the band for events at B150/hour. Or donate to the association at account number 374-1-34258-7, Bank of Ayudha, Kasetsart branch.
The one and only counseling center for transsexuals, Sisters Counseling Center (29/44 Moo 10, Soi Yen Sbai, Phratumnak Rd., Pattaya), provides essential sex education to transsexuals to decrease HIV infection rates among them. To help them build a well-educated community, you can donate to account number 205-0-47385-5, Bangkok Bank, Ploenchit branch.
The Friends of the Asian Elephant organization (687/2 Ramindra Rd., 02-509-1200. www.elephant.or.th) needs financial assistance to help domestic elephants that are sick and injured as well as to give old elephants a last refuge. Make a donation at the organization’s account number 088-2-20983-0, Kasikorn Bank, Ramindra. 111-2-27207-8, Siam Commercial Bank, Rachayothin.
Our homes are full of unused stuff. Toys we haven’t touched in ages, spare blankets that always stay in a brown-paper box or clothes that never leave the closet. Here’s where to give these things a new life.
Founded in 1993 and supported by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirinthorn, the Wankaew Project has been helping many people to see the world more clearly. Drop off your old eyeglasses in boxes across town at any Better Vision (Hor Waen) store, Major Cineplex or UBC counter.
Mettapracharak Hospital’s Eyeglasses Bank in Nakhon Prathom helps underprivileged children with poor eyesight. Donate your old eyeglasses to Mettapracharak (Wat Raikhing) Hospital (52 Moo 2, Raiking, Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathom, 034-321-983/-5 ext 2101/02.) Cash donations are also appreciated.
Your old bicycles can be a rural children’s way to get to school, not to mention the source of a lot of fun moments. The Thailand Cycling Club (Chula Soi 6, Pathumwan Rd., 02-612-4747. www.thaicycling.com) operates a “Recycled Bicycle Project” to get shabby bikes back in good condition and hand them over to kids in rural areas.
Old and unwanted children’s toys can bring smiles to the faces of less privileged kids through the BMA’s Toy Bank program. They welcome any toys, new or old—especially educational toys. Please clean and repair toys before donating them. Drop them off at Suan Aoy Youth Center (Sukhothai Rd., Dusit, 02-243-2706).
Nuannoi “Khru Noi” Timkul uses her home as a free day-care center for poor slum children. At Baan Kru Noi (No. 319, Moo 1, Soi Rat Burana 26, 02-871-3083), kids are in reliable hands. The home is in constant need of food, books and learning tools. You can also donate money: account number 117-2-15788-2, Bangkok Bank of Commerce, Rat Burana branch.
Baan Unrak (36 Moo 3 Tambon Nhonglu, Kanchanaburi, 034-595-428) is home to 106 orphans and kids with disabled moms. Since 1991, the place has been a home, a school, a skilled-training center and much more. They need food, stationery, toys and just about anything that can be useful to kids. Call in advance before visiting them or mail your stuff directly to Sanklaburi.
Issarachon organization (95/617 Pansak Villa, Boromratchonnanee Rd., 02-884-5711/2. http://gotoknow.org/planet/vacanet) works with homeless children, people with disabilities and prostitutes. Currently, the organization needs help for children with HIV-infected parents. You can help them by sending clothes, food and stationery. Or donate your money to Samakom Sangsan Kijjagam Issarachon’s saving account 031-0-03432-9, Krungthai Bank, Pinklao.
Animals need help, too. The Home for Handicapped Animals Foundation (15/1 Moo 1, Soi Phramahagarun, Tiwanon Rd., Nontaburi, 02-584-4896, 02-961-5625) picks up dogs, cats, birds, monkeys or even turtles up that are wounded, starving, or disabled and gives them food and medical attention. Things like food, garbage bags, shampoo, syringes, towels, Betadine and old newspapers are always needed.
The National Association of the Deaf in Thailand (144/9 Moo Baan Thitiporn, Soi Pattanakarn 29, 02-717-1902/3) fights for the rights of the deaf and develops their skills. They need your old computers to enhance educational opportunities for deaf people. You can give your old machine or make a cash donation to The National Association of the Deaf in Thailand’s saving account: 028-2-60253-9, Siam Commercial Bank, Klong Tan branch.
The Kevorkian Foundation (59/33 Soi Than Ying Phuangrathana Prapoi, Sukhumvit 26, 02-258-5252. Open Mon-Sat 9am-4pm. www.bangkokbabyhome.com) is a home for children infected with HIV. They are in need of volunteers with medical backgrounds or experience who can lend their skills and their affection to young children. For more info, contact Linda Der Kevorkian at 08-1841-4838.
Soi Dog Rescue (www.soidogrescue.com, soidogrescue@hotmail.com) works to improve the lives of Bangkok’s street dogs by administering birth control—spraying and neutering through field clinics. Street dogs under their care are vaccinated, treated, tattooed for monitoring and collared before being released again. They need many types of volunteers (see their site for a “wish list” of volunteers they need as well as much needed supplies).
Action Aid Thailand (717 Soi Boromratchonnani 4, 02-886-5276, 02-886-6369. www.actionaid.org/thailand) as a part of Action Aid international has one main objective: fighting poverty. It has many projects, one of which is to use the power of writing. If you have good English writing skills, use it for society’s sake. The organization needs people to pen articles, case studies, reports or anything that can improve general ignorance of poverty. Just contact them at the address above or email ratirose.supaporn@actionaid.org.
In Laos, good books are rare, especially quality books for children. To broaden the horizon of Lao children, Big Brother Mouse (Xiangmouan Village, Sothikuman Rd., House No. 19/02, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, 856-20-583-780. www.bigbrothermouse.com) decided to publish bilingual Lao-English books and donate them to schools around the country. If you love to write and would like to help our neighbor, send your English non-fiction writing to Sasha@BigBrotherMouse.com. They will have children read your stories, then simplify and translate them before handing them out to school libraries.
Little time, strapped for cash, already gave out everything in your home except the mat you sleep on? Give blood! It’ll make the difference between life and death for someone, so you could even see it as the ultimate gift (except maybe for the one below). Drop by the National Blood Center (Thai Red Cross Society, 1871 Henri Dunant Rd., 02-252-4106/-9) and you should be in and out in 15 minutes. Plus, you get a free snack, tea and coffee.
You won’t be around to enjoy the benefits of this one, but this is really the gift of life. If you are under 60 and have no chronic disease, make sure that you fill out an organ donor card at the Organ Donation Center (Thai Red Cross Society 1871 Henri Dunant Rd., 02-252-4106/-9, www.organdonate.in.th) or visit the website. You’ll receive a donor card which will testify to your wish to have your organs donated after your death.
Can’t get away from your screen long enough to do anything but pick up BK? Fear not, in the 21st century, helping others is just a click away.
Child abuse is nothing new, but the internet gave it a new life. Simply lighting a candle online can save innocent children from online child pornography by raising global awareness on this issue.
This is a network of charity organizations that you can help simply by clicking on their front page ever day. You’ll find the www.thebreastcancersite.com, www.theliteracysite.com and www.theanimalrescuesite.com there and more. You can also link to these sites by choosing one of the many logos listed on CharityUSA.com and put them on your blog or home page. Every time you click on a logo, the money from the ads on that page will be sent to them.
This Donation Exchange Center website is the give-and-take hub of Thailand. Originally an e-charity project, Internet Thailand expanded into a place where people in need can post their requests online and donators can choose from them.
Website with searchable charity news, events and updates for Thai non-governmental organizations.
This is the ultimate hub for the environmentally conscious. Take a tour around Greenpeace’s site to see their current projects and sign online petitions for those topics that matter to you. No need to photocopy your ID or passport, just fill in an online form and it will go straight to government officials (then pray that they’ll listen).
Take child beggars off the streets today! First, don’t give to them. Most people don’t realize that while they are doing kusol, hoping their money will help these children get their next meal, they are actually supporting a huge human abuse network. Help the foundation by reporting child beggars in your neighborhood and by giving these children food instead of money.
If you are a huge bookworm and regularly order books from Amazon.com, you can do the Neilson Hays Library (195 Suriwongse Rd., 02-233-1731) a big favor. Every Amazon book purchased through the Neilson Hays’ site will result in a discount on the books ordered by the library.
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“Good health begins with the right and safe body workout.” Applying this same chiropractic philosophy (a science of spine restructuring without using drugs or surgery) to medical fitness, Dr. Ruj Rojjanasrirat has just opened a new option for health conscious exercisers—Chirofit (Unit 802-804, 8/F, Homeplace Bldg., Thonglor Soi 13, 02-712-7383/-6. www.chirofitbangkok.com).
“Most people don’t realize they are having structural problems until pains and aches occur. We are now trying to introduce preventive methods for our clients,” says Doctor Ruj. The process begins with the client’s 45-minute health checkup (free for first-timers) to designate an appropriate training program for each person. The checkup includes a fitness test, a lab test, body posture analysis and body composition analysis (using an InBody machine that will report your fat level, protein level, mineral level, body strength and diagnose your total health in just a few minutes!). This differs from other fitness programs in that all checkup processes are conducted by professional doctors with a team of experts (including chiropractors, physiotherapists, sport scientists and nutritionists) on hand to monitor members closely.
Taking up most of the 8th floor, the place consists of a wide reception area, aerobics room, Pilates room, girokinesis room, sauna, cycling room, gym and an examination room. Everything at Chirofit is super clean, neat, hiso and standardized (even combs in its bathroom are Evita’s). All gym equipment is top brands shipped from the US including Precors, Hammer Strength, Free Motion, Technogym and Peak Pilates. Chirofit prides itself on being the first medical fitness center in Thailand offering yoga, aerobics, stretching and Pilates classes conducted by qualified teachers, including Or-Yah Avni, a leading world-class instructor and the owner of The Pilatestudio. Moreover, to give each member the most exclusive experience, it limits memberships to 1,000, so you can be sure that the place won’t get too crowded.
A one-year membership to Chirofit costs B72,000 (B42,000 for the first 250 members). Sign up now and get a package that includes six personal training sessions, a B10,000 voucher, physiotherapy treatment (if needed) and nutritional consultation.
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1 Choose a box that matches your gift’s size and shape. Put the box at the center of a piece of wrapping paper, making sure that each side of the paper is enough to wrap the box. For a perfect result, when folded up each end of the paper should meet with the middle of the box. 
2 Bring one lengthwise edge to the center of the box and attach with double-sided tape. Turn the other edge of the paper up, making it overlap the first edge. Fold the second edge in about an inch to hide any rough cuts before taping it.
3 Turn to a short end. Grab the left and right corner of the paper; push both sides in to make top and bottom flaps. Try to keep them close to the box as much as possible (don’t make it too tight or you’ll wreck it).
4 Tape both flaps to the box. If the edge is too long, do the same as you did on the longwise side—fold it in.
5 Don’t overlook small details—the ribbon you choose and how you tie it inevitably reflects your taste. Never match graphics, patterns or cartoon wrapping papers and ribbons together. Plain is classic, and safe.
6 Place one end of the ribbon at the center of the box. Leave about four or five inches free to tie a bow later.
7 Wrap a long tail around and cross it with the first end at the center of the box. Twist it, and wrap around the other side of the box.
8 Tie a knot tightly then make a bow.
9 Fold the ends of the ribbon in half and cut at a 45-degree angle.
10 Write a card and insert a tag—it could be almost anything ranging from a Christmas tree ornament to a toy to a glass mat, like this one.
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Imagine having someone walking around your home, sharing your bedroom (and bathroom), eating your food and expecting to be entertained. Welcome to the wonderful world of houseguests. Like it or not, sometimes putting your friends, relatives, friends of friends or friends of relatives up in a hotel is not an option. For times like these, here are some tips for making the most out of their visit.
The only person who knows each and every deep secret you’ve kept since childhood. Someone who can tell what’s on your mind before you say it.
Preparations: Stock up on Paracetamol, Betadine and a complete first aid kit. Take time off work. Plan a party. Be prepared for a hangover.
First night: Go straight to Route66 (29/33-40 Block B, Royal City Avenue, Rama 9 Rd., 08-1916-2898. Open daily 8pm-2am, www.route66club.com) and dance ’til both of you drop.
First morning: Get a bowl of congee at Joke Sam Yan (920 between soi Chula 52 and 54, 08-1350-6671. Open Mon-Fri 3-8am, 3-8pm, Sat and Sun 3-8am.)
Must-do: Get him laid.
Can’t miss: Spending a whole day sitting in Cup B (2/F, Lido Theater, 02-658-4700/-1. Open daily 11am-9pm) over cups of tea and cakes while digging up stuff from the old days.
Risk factor: He misses his return flight.
Highlight: Behaving like teenagers again.
True highlight: Feeling like teenagers again.
Get-out clause: No need.
Parents, grandparents, assorted relations and friends of the family.
Preparations: Old(er) people can be a lot more work, but remember: You owe them. Plus they can be really sweet. So, clean up your house, change the sheets, fill the fridge—and don’t forget to hide your porn.
First night: Dinner at home. They fall asleep by dessert, you go out for a much-needed drink.
First morning: They get up at 6am, clean the kitchen and make breakfast for you.
Must-do: Take them to a good spa or holistic center. Try The Bodhi (Unit 403-404, 4/F, Erawan Bangkok, 494 Ploenchit Rd., Pathumwan, 02-250-7882/-3. Open daily 10am-8pm)
Can’t miss: Tuba (34 Room 11-12 A, Ekkamai 21, 02-711-5500. Open daily 11-1am), where you can sit and drink while grannies enjoy reminiscing over hip, retro furniture.
Risk factor: They lose your keys.
Highlight: The wedge of cash sneaked into your pocket on the way to the airport.
True highlight: Bonding with your folks, adult-to-adult.
Get-out clause: Urgent business trip to Chiang Mai.
No matter how much you liked this person when you were loved up, the thought of sharing your real life with him longer than a week fills you with horror.
Preparations: Hide spare bed. Empty fridge.
First night: Forget to pick him up from the airport.
First morning: Trip over his prone form on the floor (you have loaned your sofa to a friend).
Must-do: Khao San, where he will feel right at home, for bars and galleries. Pretend to unintentionally mention all the nice guesthouses in the area.
Can’t miss: Chatuchak Market (without a map).
Risk factor: He stays more than one night.
Highlight: He leaves.
True highlight: He doesn’t come back.
Get-out clause: Change the locks, take the phone off the hook and stay at someone else’s house.
This could be The One.
Preparations: Big up your life. Save up, go to gym, get waxed, buy condoms. Make up one bed.
First night: Have a drink and marvel at the view at Moon Bar at Vertigo (61/F, Banyan Tree, 21/100 South Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200. Open daily 5pm-1am). Then home for Champagne, candles, bubble bath.
First morning: Breakfast in bed. Don’t forget that single rose.
Must-do: Take a one-day trip around Rattanakosin Island, then head to Divana Nurture Spa (8 Soi Sukhumvit 35, 02-261-4818/9. Open Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat and Sun 10am-11pm) for the 3-hour Intimate Elegance treatment, which includes foot soak, body massage, aromatic steam, body scrub and floral milky bath (B3,950). The next day enjoy fine Thai food and river breezes on a Manohra Cruise (B1,766. 02-477-0770, www.manohracruises.com)—or make it your own private pumpkin cruise for B30,000-40,000.
Can’t miss: First kiss.
Risk factor: Is a bit too friendly with your best friend.
Highlight: First night.
True highlight: Last night.
Get-out clause (we’re hoping you won’t need one, but just in case): Introduce him to your married friends who are always fighting.
For her, spending = satisfaction (and is just as good as other “s” words). Thankfully, courtesy of King Power, she can begin her mission from the moment she steps off the plane.
Preparations: Get yourself a pair of super comfortable shoes, write down a list of all shopping malls in Bangkok with ongoing sale info and arrange for limo or taxi service.
First night: Take a cab from the airport to Suan Lum Night Bazaar. After trolling the aisles for bargains, enjoy an authentic huun lakorn lek show at Joe Louis Theater (1875 Suan Lum Night Bazaar, Rama 4 Rd., 02-252-9683/4. Open daily 7:30-8:45pm. www.joelouis-theater.com). Tickets for your friend are B400 (B200 for you, if you’re Thai).
First morning: Hand over the list of malls along with BK—then wave goodbye.
Must-do: Go to Pratunam, and teach her how to really bargain—up to 80% off the original price.
Can’t miss: Countdown to 2007 at Siam Paragon (991/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9000. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.siamparagon.co.th) or Central World Plaza (999/9 Rama 1 Rd., 02-264-5555. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.centralworld.co.th).
Risk factor: Bankruptcy.
Highlight: A suitcase full of fake handbags.
True highlight: They fall apart after a month of use.
Get-out clause: Lose your Visa card.
He’s been living in a gym for so long he’s immune to that funky locker room smell.
Preparations: Push-ups and sit-ups, take the stairs instead of the elevator, watch ESPN.
First night: Dine and drive at Top Golf (Piyarom Sports Club, Sukhumvit Soi 101/1, 02-201-3019/20. Open 9am-midnight. www.thaitopgolf.com).
First morning: Morning walk in a cozy park—try Benjasiri Park (Sukhumvit Rd., between Soi 22 and 24, 02-262-0810. Open daily 5am-8pm).
Must-do: Sign him up for Muay Thai at Sor. Vorapin Muay Thai Boxing Gym 1 (13 Trok Kasap, Jakkapong Rd., 02-282-3551. Open daily 7:30-9:30am and 3-5pm. www.thaiboxings.com). Instruction is B400/hour (B200 if you’re Thai).
Can’t miss: Thai-style energy drinks; dee nguu, ya dong.
Risk Factor: Juvenile horseplay results in bruises and broken bones.
Highlight: You lose weight.
True Highlight: You gain it all back in two months.
Get-out clause: Fake letter from a doctor—in Thai—that says you’re not allowed to exercise until your test results are in.
Gamer, bookworm, collector of Star Wars paraphernalia. Find the right spot and leave him in peace with his weird favorite things.
Preparations: Buy rare comics (early editions of Spiderman, Superman, etc. if you can afford them), video games, chessboard, monopoly. Sign up for broadband if you don’t have it already.
First night: Scrabble ’til you drop.
First morning: Let him enjoy your comics while you sneak out for a quiet cup of coffee alone. Return with a bag of donuts and Diet Coke.
Must-do: Take him to TCDC (6/F, The Emporium, 662 Sukhumvit 24, 02-664-8448. Open Tue-Sun 10:30am-9pm. www.tcdc.or.th)—don’t forget his passport and your ID for one-day free admission.
Can’t miss: Neilson Hays Library (195 Suriwongse Rd., 02-233-1731. Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-5pm).
Risk factor: Suffocating to death among piles of books.
Highlight: You learn to speak Greek (beta, gamma, alpha, omega).
True highlight: Close encounter of the Third Kind.
Get-out clause: Fake a kidnap scene, leave him a code to break and stay at your friend’s house until he leaves.
Day 1: After their long sleepless flight, warmly welcome them with a party. Invite tons of your friends; keep it noisy.
Day 2: Wake them up before sunrise. Ask for help with the dishes and throwing out the empty bottles.
Day 3: Announce you’re going on a vegetarian lent. No steak, ice cream or alcohol—tofu and soybeans only.
Day 4: Fake illness. Put a pack of ice on your forehead and pretend that you’ve got a cold.
Day 5: Start your all-time worst soap operas marathon. Baansaithong or Sombat Methani’s series would be perfect.
Day 6: Ask them to baby-sit your neighbor’s kid.
Day 7: Keep busy; act like your responsibilities at work have suddenly become a matter of life and death.
Day 8: Wear the same pajamas for 7 days. You’re working too hard to change.
Day 9: Leave them alone, taking care of your home, while you go get some steak and booze.
Day 10: Recommend a nice hotel nearby or, even better, a place to get cheap camping gear.
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Celebrate Christmas Italian-style at La Gritta (Sukhumvit Soi 19, 02-255-7350. Open daily 6am-11pm). On Dec 24-25, feast on light Italian lunch buffet (B690), featuring fresh oysters, antipasti, smoked salmon, Parma ham and meat carving stations. The Feast of the Seven Fishes (B1,500) takes place at dinner, when you are served a five-course set menu including antipasto, your choice of seven fish main courses, as well as refreshing sherbet.
At Japanese steakhouse Amapola (72/1 Sukhumvit 51, off Sukhumvit 49, 02-258-7077. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6pm-12am), all this month they’re offering a seven-course Christmas set menu (B2,940)—appetizer, soup, salad, two main courses (Kobe sirloin steak and grilled seafood) and dessert as well as welcome Champagne and coffee or tea. Through Dec 31.
Book a luxurious meal on board the Manohra Cruises and feast on a Thai set dinner (B4,500). The boat takes off from the pier of Anantara Riverside (257 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-476-0022 ext 1416) on Dec 24-25 at 7:30pm and returns at 10pm.
The Peninsula (333 Charoennakorn Rd., 02-861-2888) has everything for everyone at its outlets on the Christmas Eve, Dec 24. Enjoy a seven-course set menu (B4,600) and performances by Radklao Amaradit, carol singing and Santa Claus at its Lobby Terrace, while lovers should stroll down to The Pool for a seven-course dinner, inclusive of welcome Champagne and a selection of wines, in a romantic private Thai pavilion (B15,000/couple).
The Landmark’s latest addition Rib Room & Bar, a.k.a. RR & B (31/F, The Landmark, 138 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-254-0404 ext 7777. Open daily 6-11pm) dishes out an X’mas Eve set lunch (B3,800) and set dinner (B4,500) on Dec 24-25, and a seven-course set dinner (B20,007/couple) on Dec 31. Both Christmas and New Year meals are inclusive of a free-flow cocktails and Champagne before dinner.
Vertigo (61/F, Banyan Tree Bangkok, 21/100 South Sathorn Rd., 02-679-1200. Open daily 6:30-11pm) whips up a posh nine-course wine dinner along with panoramic views of Bangkok at B13,900. Through Jan 31, the rooftop restaurant also opens for breakfast serving its special Champagne sunrise breakfast (B650 for Continental breakfast, B750 for American breakfast) to early birds.
It’s a festive month and Crystal Jade (G/F, Siam Paragon, 991/1, Rama 1 Rd., 02-610-9363. Open daily 11am-3pm, 5:30-10pm) is ready to serve you with its year-end special set. At B1,200, a six-course menu includes diced fish with Osmanthus, braised shark’s fin soup with crab roe and sautéed prawn coated with salty egg yolk. Then finish the course smoothly with yummy ground almond cream for dessert. Through Jan 31.
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I began as a stand-up comic because I thought making people laugh by just standing alone on a stage telling jokes was a challenging task. No one ever tried it before in Thailand. We have a lot of good comedians but mostly they play in groups.
Those stories I told really happened. I just tried to narrate them from a different angle.
My attitude towards the world is the most important thing I have in my everyday life. It keeps me alive and makes me into the person I am today.
Of all the things I’ve done, art makes me the happiest. I really don’t know why. Although I don’t even earn a living from it, still I love art. It could be because I’m having fun with it, I guess.
I must admit that in Thailand, we don’t get much support in the art field.
In my view, a painting is one-way communication. It differs from installation art, and its Thai translation explains all about its specialty—jud wang. An artist just wang (put it there) and it’s audiences who turn it into something beyond their own expectations. To me, using installation art in this Platform project is giving power back to the people.
When this project’s over, I think I’ll just go with the flow. If someone asks me to do something interesting, I’ll do it. If there is a nice role offered from a director, I would jump in and learn from it.
When I was young, I suffered from my own ambitions. Now that I’m getting older, my ambition is less strong than before. I think happiness occurs when people drop their ambitions a bit and just do whatever they need to do.
I now understand that failure can happen, and it’s acceptable. Ten years ago, I felt like I had to be a success at everything I did, which is impossible.
I believe we learn from the past. Problems and obstacles will always occur in our lives in different forms and we gradually learn through them. It’s like when someone breaks your heart; you can’t say that it will never happen again for sure.
Currently, I don’t have any goals or plans, but that may change ten years from now. In the past, I was like a tourist, taking a package tour, setting goals to achieve. Now I see that living without a goal is like backpacking—it’s more fun, more of a challenge.
I admire Prapas Cholsaranon. I like the way he makes complicated stuff understandable. Although he’s a businessman, he also creates good things in our society.
I want to be like him, but I’m not good at business. I try to be positive and give myself a break. Maybe making people laugh is another kind of virtue.
If I couldn’t speak, I’d use art as a tool. I don’t need everyone to understand everything I try to say. Let’s say I hang up a photo of a sunset in my office—it doesn’t mean I want everyone in the office to understand why I think this photo is so beautiful. I just want them to feel something. Art is something you may not understand, but you can feel it.
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Time has three main services: facial treatments, body treatments and slimming treatments, all for men. It has many programs to serve different types of skin. Prices start from B800. Currently offering a buy-3-get-1 package.
11/2 Tesaban Nimitai Rd., Prachanivet 1, 02-953-9706/-8. Open daily noon-10pm
Everything is fusion now—including spas! CHA spa is where modernity meets traditional Chinese heritage. Combining Chinese remedies with new massage techniques, its signature Tui Na treatment (B3,850/150 minutes) focuses on improving the flow of Qi through your body.
9 Thonglor Soi 25, 02-381-7000. Open Tue-Sun 10am-10pm. www.cha.co.th
More than an ordinary spa, M Room provides you with sports equipment, a Jacuzzi, a steam room and standard spa massage and treatment services.
Differing from other day spas, M Room is designed to be a small place for working people to come and relax after a long day before heading home.
It also serves juice and alcoholic drinks, and every cute, young member of their female staff is carefully chosen. A set of 10 coupons for a workout, Jacuzzi, steam and massage cost B5,500.
39/1 Soi Ruam Rudee 2, Ploenchit Rd., 02-650-9737. Open daily 11am-11pm)
Here’s a luxurious unisex spa in the heart of Bangkok. To give the most pleasurable experience to both members and guests, Praduu Spa offers male and female spa menus. At B2,500, its 60-minute Garruaud facial treatment for men is a good choice for a super workaholic dad.
83/8 Soi Sukhumvit Soi 63, 02-392-2345. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.praduuspaclub.com
Giving you a warm, relaxing experience, Tantara offers special packages exclusively for men. A 90-minute body massage, steam sauna and refreshing drink cost B1,600.
8/F, Pathumwan Princess Hotel, 444 MBK Center, 02-216-3700 ext 14. Open daily 8am-10pm. www.tantaraspa.com
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