Hotel dining doesn’t have to be fancy. On the contrary, it’s time we dispel the myth that going to eat at hotels is a dress-up affair. Experience all the hype around those fancy-pants hotel restaurants, while enjoying a casual and relaxed atmosphere that leaves the dress shirts and ties at home; Marriott International’s fifth edition of M-Live Food Market.

This free-to-enter event happens at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park from Nov 27-29, from 5-10pm, and aims to bring 18 different cuisines from 18 different world-class hotels around Thailand along with live music by local artists. 

Expect to taste the best Thai cuisine has to offer, from somtam to soft shell crab curry, coming from attending restaurants like Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers’ Riverside Grill and MoMo Cafe at Courtyard. Pan-Asian cuisine also makes an appearance, with nigiri and maki rolls from Kisso; and pork and shrimp sui mai (traditional Chinese-style dumplings) from Man Ho. Lastly, there will be plenty of savory Western dishes on offer, like the “Mighty Mo” burger from The District Grill Room & Bar; or barbecued hotdogs from Tipsy Cow. Each of these dishes are expected to cost around B40 to B220.

These are just a small selection of what will be available at M-Live, right in the middle of Bangkok. This event will have free onsite parking, along with being walking distance from BTS Phrom Phong. 

Those who register at www.MLiveFoodMarket.com will be eligible to win one of 200 vouchers worth THB 250 that can be redeemed at the event.

Although Jay Fest has passed, the plant-based food movement is still strong in Bangkok. Even if you are a typical meat-eater, like many of us at BK, that doesn't mean plant-based food isn't exciting. In fact, a lot of plant-based alternatives are starting to rival their meaty cousins in terms of flavors and textures. Now, Marriott Bonvoy members can get access to a bundle of deals on plant-based foods across the hotel's properties. These were originally Jay Fest deals, but you can still redeem them.

You’ll be able to eat your way through different cuisines from 17 Marriott restaurants, each with their own unique selection of meat-free dishes. Fans of Japanese cuisine can head to Tsu, Kintsugi or Kisso that have specially curated menus just for the Vegetarian Festival. 

The Vegetarian Festival has roots in many cultures, and Chinese-style plant-based dishes are also on the menu. Man Ho, The Silk Road, and Pagoda are popular choices. Don’t skip the Athenee Hotel’s Rain Tree Café, which is releasing an exclusive Indian-inspired dish. 

There’s nothing wrong in going for what’s familiar too, with great Thai restaurants on the line-up such as Siam Tea Room, BBCO and Bistro M. You’ll see that a meat-free diet doesn’t have to be light on the palate, with ich and flavorful meat-free curries from the House of Smooth Curry. 

Sign up to become a Marriott Bonvoy member for free here, or at a participating restaurant. For the full list of restaurants or to make a reservation, visit http://benefits-staging-en.misolhub.com/R+B/discount-page/Bangkok-Vegetarian-Festival

While international travel is still looking like a distant dream, there’s still no lack of things to do in Bangkok. The view of the Chao Phraya River never gets old, and now you can see it from aboard the largest three-masted vessel in Thailand. The massive ship has been transformed into a floating hotspot for fine dining and a classy event space, and is able to accommodate up to 300 guests across two levels.

Docked permanently at Asiatique The Riverfront, the Sirimahannop invites passengers aboard into an exciting world of mixology and gastronomy, with exciting menus and picturesque views. Get ready to indulge in fresh local seafood and tapas-style plates paired with your choice of specialist rum cocktails, craft beers, fine wines and premium spirits.

Impress your date with a fine dining experience at The Bridge. You’ll be taken on quite the trip with elegant multi-course meals showcasing flavors from around the world. There’s also an exclusive hidden rum bar only accessible at the captain’s invitation. For a more casual but equally memorable experience, wine and dine al fresco with friends at the Upper Deck with live entertainment on rotation to keep things exciting. Sociable types looking to host a glamorous gathering or two might consider The Lower Deck, an intimate indoor area that accommodates 100 people.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit https://portal.marriott.com/bkkqp-dining/sirimahannop