B75 for mixed greens with a choice of salad dressing
We know your type. You like it fresh. You like to stick with the basics. And so we’d like to set you up with this café.
Toppings: More than 30 items available with prices ranging from B15-B55. Smoked salmon, smoked turkey, smoked duck, blue cheese, anchovy, walnuts and more.
Varieties: Not in the creative mood? Try their Salade Nicoise (tuna, eggs, tomatoes and black olive with mixed vegetables, B220) or see if their “Today’s Special” is your thing.
Athenee Residence, 65/2 Witthayu (Wireless) Rd., 02-168-5464. Open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-8p
B44 for mixed greens with five toppings and one dressing.
The new Rain Hill mall on Sukhumvit Road houses this salad spot, with a long list of meat options and ten salad dressings from which to choose.
Toppings: Free toppings include grilled sweet pepper, grilled Japanese pumpkin, eryngii mushroom, pasta and many kinds of beans. There are also more than 30 extra toppings, mostly meat. Prices range from B69-B320, and choices include bacon, grilled duck breast, New Zealand mussels, grilled scallop with herbs—even foie gras.
Varieties: Other options include pasta, pizza and steaks.
2/F Rain Hill, Sukhumvit Rd., 084-931-7711. Open daily 10am-10pm
B79 for greens, one dressing and three toppings
Tucked away in Baan Silom, this place offers you the whole salad bar to choose from. The vegetable options are not that enticing, but you can pick up one of their eight salad dressings at wholesale prices (B200/kg).
Toppings: Grilled salmon, grilled beef, chicken teriyaki and tuna.
Varieties: Teriyaki salad (B109) is the popular pick here, if you want an a la carte dish.
Baan Silom Shopping and Dining Arcade, Silom Soi 19, 082-074-7171. Open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm
B99 for mixed vegetables with five toppings and one dressing.
This option is one of The Salad Gallery’s other ventures. Their big selling point is the use of the extra virgin olive oil in all of their eight dressings.
Toppings: There are more than 20 veggie toppings you can add to your green leaves, such as black olive, celery, radish and Job’s Tears. Not enough? Go for their special B30 toppings: 10 meat options like ham, crispy fish, dried shredded pork and grilled chicken. A word of warning, though, low prices mean small portions.
Varieties: Check their special of the day or try their dessert, tofu ice cream (B45 for one scoop).
E104 The Nine Center, 999 Rama 9 Rd., 02-716-7814. Open daily 11:30am-9:30pm
B55 for five vegetables with salad dressing
The Khao San/Banglumphu area may have loads of places to drink and grab some greasy pub grub, but they sure don’t have much choice when it comes to a healthy meal. But located amid the slew of bars on Phra Arthit Road, you’ll spot a bike in front of a small, white shop that offers low-fat dishes. All of the salad dressings here are oil-free because they only use vegetable stock. Our recommendation is the sesame sauce.
Veggies: Grilled eggplant, zucchini, olive, asparagus, Japanese seaweed, grilled pumpkin and more.
Toppings: Grilled chicken, bacon, tuna, smoked salmon and parmesan cheese.
Varieties: Try their pad thai rai nam mun (fettuccine pad thai without oil, B75). What’s special about it is that their pad thai is, again, cooked with vegetable stock. Also, try the nam fak khao or gac fruit juice (B25), one of the fruits that has the highest concentration of beta-carotene and ranks first as a source of lycopene, 20-times more than tomato juice.
60 Phra Arthit Rd., 02-629-3982. Open daily 8am-9pm
B100 for mixed greens and a choice of salad dressing
The Salad Gallery is quite popular for its Moroccan-style décor—patterned floor tiles and some Arabian lanterns. But moreover, their meat toppings are also generous in size. You can have fun choosing more than 12 homemade salad dressings, including the popular honey mustard, pepper blend or Persian nutty.
Toppings: Roast chicken, tuna, egg, ham, cheese and sirloin steak (B150).
Varieties: The owner is working on the food copyright of her Samantha Salad or salad pla ra (Northeastern style fermented fish in salad served with crispy fish and boiled egg, B150). Their pastas and soups also go well with salads.
Tower A, Room A103 The Nine Center, 999 Rama 9 Rd., 02-716-7858, 082-323-2240. Open daily 11am-10pm
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What he does: While most people typically work with goals like weight loss, lean muscle gain and improved energy levels, Tan prefers to focus more on improving movement, skill and posture—goals that help you lose fat and gain lean muscle. He’s also a firm advocate of full body movements and high intensity interval training for maximum effect, especially since many of his clients are busy and are prone to going on hiatus.
What he recommends: “To start, sign up with a good gym with reliable trainers and create a simple, realistic goal like ‘I will train here at least twice a week.’”
Get disciplined with Ian Tan at Thrive (Blk 72 Seng Poh Rd., 9687-0854) from $90 per private class.
What he does: Mason conducts classes at the Claycourt Tennis Academy, the new go-to place for tennis players who don’t live in condos. This one features US Open-worthy DecoTurf hard courts, as well as clay courts.
What he recommends: “If you’re trying to get back your speed and stamina for an upcoming doubles match, get those feet moving by skipping 5-10 minutes a day. Combine that with interval training (slow jogs and wind sprints so you can chase those balls down).”
Improve your backhand with Simon Mason at the Claycourt Tennis Academy (10A Winchester Rd., Alexandra Park, 9144-5223. Private lessons cost $40-100 per hour.
What he does: This senior coach at the Singapore Swimming Academy believes that swimming can be more effective than running. “In my 40 years of swimming, I’ve seen many friends who’ve switched routines because their joints can’t deal with the high impact of running anymore,” he says. He’s worked with those who just want to maintain their overall fitness and also clients with target goals such as losing belly fat.
What he recommends: “If you haven’t gone swimming in the past few months, don’t overestimate yourself. It’s not necessary to swim in deep water just for the sake of training.”
Lawrence Ang coaches with the Singapore Swimming Academy, various locations, 6680-6530. Four classes for $240.
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The local shopping scene may have been inundated by fashion giants over the last two years, but a small group of emerging local designers are still making themselves heard with their bold creations. Here are five you should know about.
Who: Previously known as Lucyd Acyd, Feist Heist emerged in November of last year. “Feist represents the female counterpart, while Heist represents the homme collection, marketed together as a brand and lifestyle,” says creator and designer Min G. “Our main design philosophy is to make well thought out wardrobe essentials that are simple, understated and evergreen, with Feist being more sophisticated and modern, and Heist being more street-and grunge-influenced.”
Must buys: For the girls, vests and blazers will make standout pieces (from $48.80 and $54.80 respectively) while for the guys, shirts and pants go from $48.80.
Where: Blackmarket
Who: One of the slightly more established local brands (though only around since 2009), designer Alicia Ong’s playful creations have a strong underground following, although this year’s Spring/Summer release (their fifth) is one of their most relaxed yet. “The inspiration came from our love of superheroes and comic book characters,” says Ong. “This initial idea gives rise to flirty and feminine dresses paired with tough and strong pieces in bright primary bold colors.”
Must buys: Slouchy cropped blazer made from tencel in hues of powder, phantom and power red ($328) and slim fit trousers with tapered hems ($178).
Where: Antipodean
Who: This London-based designer/musician with her eponymous bag label was the talk of town recently for her collaboration with design studio Garnet London, resulting in a series of limited edition leather women’s bags that are both classic and progressive. “The collection started from my interest in art, photography, film, science, current affairs and history,” says Yip. “The images and information are then put through a deliberate thought and design process as I relate what I see to my memories, beliefs and aesthetic.” Yip then works with leather makers and craftsmen to produce small capsule collections.
Must buys: The Garnet collaboration pieces of course (from $190), which are unique pieces that go with just about anything.
Where: Blackmarket
GoldilocksWho: This artisanal jewelry brand is the brainchild of hip couple Sara Ooi and Chris Lim, who see jewelry as “an open-ended art form,” says Ooi. “Goldilocks gives us freedom to create fine jewelry that is more playful and personal. We created them for everyday wear, but with a meaning.” That meaning comes in the form of special edition pieces like their popular “Names” necklaces, which can be customized for specific individuals, as well as fun editions like the “Martini” pendants.
Must buys: The “Names” pendants (from $550) and the twee “You & Me” couple pendants (from $580).
Where: #02-16 Tudor Court, 131 Tanglin Rd., 6235-8873.
Who: Dressmaking duo Letitia Phay and Jade Swee first premiered their haute couture-inspired debut “Lifecycle” collection at a Grey Goose fashion showcase late last year to rave reviews. “Everything is made locally, says Phay. “We have a team of dressmakers who help us execute our designs but the final touches, craft and lace work or any three-dimensional detailing are done by the two of us.
Must buys: Evening dresses and skirts with a gothic edge, including a skeletal rib-like skirt, a dress with multiple layers of organza in gradation color schemes, and tan dress with a bouquet of flowers on its back—certainly not for the demure. Short dresses are from $800, long dresses from $1,500 and evening gowns from $3,000.
Where: 61 Niven Rd., 6648-0316.
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Chef and owner Janice Wong has really hit her stride at this dessert lounge, with innovative creations that often feature unusual ingredients that she incorporates in surprising ways. Try the Kayambe H2O and Basil White Chocolate, with passion fruit puff, coconut sorbet and sea grapes. A real plus in our book is the fact that they’re open till two in the morn’, hence the name; ideal for a late night tête à tête (if you’re lucky).
This is the place to hit for a full-on chocolate feast ($38; 8pm to midnight daily). Brace yourself for a sugar rush with close to 60 items on offer such as rosemary-milk chocolate cappuccino, Jivara chocolate lime tart and dark chocolate pralines, all made with Valrhona. To sweeten the deal, opt for a glass of Piper-Heidsieck bubbly to go with it ($16 supplement). As a bonus, the view from the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark is spectacular.
Chocolatier Then Chui Foong has trained with world-renowned pâtissier Pierre Herme, and it shows. Our picks are the Perle Noir (Black Pearl) with champagne ganache, and the Coral, cola and chili (sounds odd, but it works). But it’s not only the hand-crafted chocolates that are scrumptious, they also do some mean macaroons; the unique Black Palm Island Salt and Butterfly Pea Bloom are sure bets. We recommend a teatime set (available from noon-10pm daily); you won’t regret it.
They might be a newbie, but this tidy little bakeshop has been pulling in the crowds. Being close to Tanjong Pagar MRT helps, but it’s their fresh-baked goods that keep people coming back for more. We adore their pastries, cranberry muffins, sourdough bread and pretty cakes.
This quaint (read: tiny) ice cream shop has done so well for themselves, they’ve expanded their premises. Flavors in their portfolio include tangy basil, tofu & dates, pumpkin & winter melon, rosemary-apple, caramelized onion and even seaweed. Less adventurous types can stick with equally gratifying flavors like Granny’s Favorite or Melt & Sizzle, studded with fizzy pop rocks.
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Bedrock Bar & Grill
Look past the cartoon-inspired name and list of choice cuts at this steakhouse and you’ll find Number 11 ($11). A simple but yummy shooter with a Pisco base, there’s also pineapple syrup to be found, spiced with ingredients like cinnamon and star anise, and a splash of Prosecco for good measure.
Brewerkz
Well-known for their extensive list of beers brewed in-house, spirited atmosphere and extensive screening of sports, these folk also do a Pisco cocktail called the Mad Rabbit ($15). With carrot juice, apple liqueur, lemon juice and Pisco (of course), this is a drink that’s made for those with a bit of a sweet tooth.
City Space
A luxe space with a stunning view of the city skyline, City Space also serves up some mean drinks, care of talented cocktail architect Richard Gillam. In addition to the star ingredient, Barsol Quebranta Pisco, Gillam’s rendition of a refreshing Peruvian Pisco sour ($20) calls on lime juice and passion fruit for zing and some fruitiness, finished with a dash of aromatic bitters.
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For some fuss-free Italian, take advantage of the Al Dente Trattoria set deal, which is $68++ for reservations made between 6-8pm and $88++ for the second seating on Valentine's Day only.
The people behind Les Amis present a six-course menu at Au Jardin that includes pan-seared quail and oven-roasted veal rack especially for Valentine's Day. $200++ per person.
Hot date? We've got you covered with our 2014 Valentine's Day deals
The alfresco area at Barossa is perfect for enjoying the breezy Esplanade courtyard and they've got a $58++ deal for one set meal on Valentine's Day too.
We recommend the posh yet cozy dining space Brasserie Wolf for its five-course Valentine's Day set menu that promises grilled foie gras for $170++ per couple.
Quite unmissable is Breeze's Platter for Two ($98++ per person), a dinner menu that includes an oyster platter, mixed seafood salad, a scrumptious-sounding mixed platter with rack of lamb and salmon skewers, as well as a white choc mousse cake—yum-my.
Dine in at the lovely (and dog-friendly) Casa Verde with a three-course set for $70 nett per person only on Feburary 14.
The Courtyard is offering a delectable Valentine's Chocolate Buffet ($42 per person) on the evening of February 14, featuring exquisite love-inspired creations like a pink chocolate fountain, dark chocolate rose mousse cake and heart-shaped pralines. Also notable is their bespoke hot chocolate, made a la minute. There's also an afternoon tea set option here, where you can find anything from heart-shaped vanilla and raisin scones to duck rillettes and blueberry crouton. Available for $46 per person from February 11-14.
The happy hour at District 10 is great, but if you're spending V-Day here, check out their special menu (available February 11-14) with the Mediterranean Seafood Salad, Braised Wagyu Beef Cheek or Grilled Salmon Steak ($58++). Includes a glass of Veuve Cliquot Rose.
This exquisite six-course set at Fat Cow specially created for Valentine's Day includes an impressive lil' something: Wagyu tasting. $388++ for two.
Specially for Valentine's Day, the Fremantle Seafood Market is offering a special set meal for $68++ (6.30-8.30pm) and $88++ (9pm).
One of Singapore's best fine dining restaurants Garibaldi, is offering a customized six-course dinner set that includes caviar for $138++. Only available on Valentine's Day.
Go all the way with a seven-course modern European tasting set menu for $388 per couple at Gordon Grill. Includes a demi bottle of champagne and only available on February 14.
Only on February 14, Graze at Martin No. 38 is offering a four-course set ($100 per person) that includes a complimentary glass of Prosecco. Add $50 for additional wine pairing.
It's a little offbeat but maybe that's why we're attracted to the seafood-centric buffet dinner option at Greenhouse. Available only on February 14 at $109 per person.
Dine in the garden at Halia, with its four-course dinner set from $300 nett per couple, which includes noteworthy wine pairings from Brown Brothers. Only on February 14.
For $98++ per pax, enjoy an exclusive Valentine's Day dinner at Hot Stones, which has a great range of flavored meats for your cooking (and eating) pleasure.
$660++ per couple may sound a little steep but we suspect the nine-course degustation dinner (comes with a glass of Dom Perignon each) at JAAN will be worth it.
Where to eat in Singapore on Valentine's Day 2014
Indulge in an oriental five-course set ($88 per person) that includes Pearl Lobster at Jing, one of Loh Lik Peng's many ventures.
Experience the good food (and good service) at modern European restaurant Keystone, which has a five-course menu (with special cocktail included) priced at $138++ per person exclusively for Valentine's Day.
Enjoy some Japanese fusion at Kinki Restaurant + Bar withs its $148++ dinner set meal that includes a complimentary glass of Moet & Chandon. Only for February 14.
The Knolls at Capella Singapore is going for $298++ per couple ($698++ with wine pairing per course) and includes king prawns with Mediterreanean rice as well as wagyu beef cheek.
From February 10-19, tuck into a delightful meal of tempura style Sydney rock oysters, roast black cod loin and slow cooked duck leg at Ku De Ta for $148++ per person.
Oysters, Champagne and Iranian caviar for dinner ($328 per person for a six-course menu) at Les Amis maketh a lovely Valentine's Day date.
From 6.30pm, get caught up in a lovely Italian romance with The Lighthouse's five-course dinner set menu ($198 per person) with items like Rossini Cocktail, baked scallops, crispy baby chicken and an Orange Blossom Tiramisu.
Talk about love and all that jazz at Lobby Lounge over your five-course dinner set complete with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow label champagne. $188++ per couple only available on February 14.
Enjoy five delish courses with a bottle of German wine (for two) at Magma German Wine Bar & Bistro. Menu includes prawn cocktail with fruit, double boiled chicken broth (with heart-shaped tomato dumplings—nice) and grain-fed beef tenderloin. $69++ per person.
Celebrate love with a six-course menu at Majestic Restaurant, which includes braised whole abalone at $199 per couple. Only for Valentine's Day.
The four-course set at Mezza9 at Grand Hyatt is accompanied by two glasses of Perrier-Jouët Champagne and a nine-piece praline gift box for $211++ per couple on February 14 only.
Mikuni's got a 10-course rose-inspired set menu creation you may want to check out from February 11-14. $150++ per person.
$78++ per person for items like tian of salmon and scallops tartare served with avocado mousse, duck confit cake, lobster bisque, cod fillet and char-grilled beef medallion is a serious steal. Available at Our Korner from February 7-14.
Seat yourself by 7pm and you can enjoy a six-course set for $118 at Prive. Regular price is $138++ per person. Available only on February 14.
A firm stalwart among Singapore's Italian restaurants, Ristorante Bologna is a sweet option for Valentine's Day, with its seven-course set dinner menu from February 11-14. $128++ per person with a glass of Prosecco with strawberry.
Opt for a five-course set ($188) with a glass of champagne or wine included for Valentine's Day only at Shenton Room at M Hotel.
At $108++ per couple, you can enjoy pan fried scallops, cheesy baked green mussels, chocolate mousse, Champagne and even roses at Shiraz.
If you don't fancy having to hunt for a restaurant no matter how good the food is, The Steakhouse just by the Clarke Quay taxi stand is a safe bet. Its V-Day set meal costs $58++.
For $128++ per couple on February 14, partake in a three-course set amidst the lush and tranquil setting of Pantry at the Stables.
Spice up your Valentine's Day at Patara Fine Thai Cuisine with its $98++ menu exclusive to February 14.
We recommend the alfresco seating for tucking into Pierside's three-course Valentine's set menu ($288++ per couple), which comes with a refreshing gin & guava cocktail. Only available on February 14.
Probably one of the cheapest deals, the Valentine's Day menu ($49.90++ per pax) at Al Dente Pronto is worth checking out.
At the Singapore Flyer, you can have a four-course dinner for two for $299 from February 10-12, and $339 from February 13-14, with sittings at 7pm and 8.30pm. Each meal lasts an hour.
There's a handful of great vegetarian options at Skyve Bar & Bistro, which is offering a customized five-course set for $80++ per person (with additional wine supplement for $20++) only for Valentine's Day.
Spices Café is offering a buffet dinner with a complimentary glass of wine from February 11-14 for $65++ per person. They're known for their yu sheng, which has a vibrant Singaporean twist.
If the Swissotel The Stamford's Helipad Soiree ($9,999++) doesn't impress, we don't know what will. This exclusive 12-course set dinner with two bottles of Dom Perignon Champagne includes a night at the Executive Club Room and limo transfers. Swanky.
If the sea breeze does something to you, Tanjong Beach Club is the way to go with their seafood-heavy, four-course dinner only for Valentine's Day. $108 per person.
For a taste of great meats and Singapore's unique colonial history, dine at the Tongkang Colonial Bar & Restaurant, whose V-Day deal $88++ per pax.
The White Rabbit is perfect for charming your date, with its old world vibe and gender-differentiated five-course set menu. Only available on February 14 for $108++ per person.
Another great steal is the gourmet semi-buffet dinner at Town Restaurant by the Singapore River, which includes oysters and sashimi, as well as mouth-watering desserts like red velvet cupcakes. $78 per person with complimentary glass of Kir Royal or Strawberry Rossini.
Even if you're not an NUS alumni, you can enjoy the five-course set deal at The University Club for $98++ per person from February 10-14.
If you want quiet, lush surroundings to romance your date in, the Vineyard @ HortPark has a special $88++ (per person) deal from February 10-13 and a $188++ one on Valentine's Day.
Probably one of our favorite Spanish eateries is Don Quijote, whose Paella Especial made it to our 50 Things to Eat Before You Die list in 2010.
If you prefer your meal less spiffy, make a date with the wood-fired pizzas at Modesto's, which we like for its charmingly unpretentious ambiance.
We gave NUOC at Orchard Central four stars in our latest review and it's no wonder—this place has got a stunning view and features stewed clams, also one of I-S Magazine's 50 Things to Eat Before You Die.
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For as long as we can remember, Hua Hin has been the go-to spot for Bangkokians looking for an easy beach break. The result is the seaside town is now packed most weekends, hotels are expensive and the beaches are no longer the golden stretches of sand they used to be. Still, there is an alternative, take the bypass road, and by the time it would take you to get to Plernwan you can be at Pranburi, gateway to a stretch of coast that offers beautiful, empty beaches, some stunning scenery and the chance to enjoy a more natural escape.
The area south of Hua Hin is blessed with countless pristine and often deserted beaches. Probably the biggest and also the best-known beach along this stretch of coastline, Pak Nam Pran (aka Khao Kalok) is a gently curving bay that reaches from the headland out by the Evason (See Where to Stay, page 10) and slowly sweeps around to the iconic rocky outcrop, Khao Kalok (Skull Mountain). It’s proximity to Pranburi town means it’s the most developed beach in the area, yet, it’s still remarkably quiet. The only section that gets really busy is up in the shade of Khao Kalok, and then only on weekends and public holidays, when hordes of locals descend to drink whiskey and eat fresh horseshoe crab, and fried chicken, served up by an army of beachside wait staff. The rest of the long beach is wonderfully empty, if often a little windswept, which means that the only interruptions you’ll have to your musings are from the birds and the kite surfers.
Like Hua Hin, the sport is really big around Pak Nam Pran, thanks to the regular coastal breezes and the relatively calm, shallow waters. There are numerous places along the beach where you can learn how to fly across the crests of the waves, some even offer accommodation. Our pick would have to be Airstylers Kite School (www.airstylerskiteschool.com), which has a nice, laid-back attitude, offers lessons in Thai and English and has basic three-day group courses (with lessons, equipment and five-night accommodation) starting from B18,000. Another decent option is Kite Surfing Pranburi (www.kitesurfingpranburi.com), which limits its classes to just two students per teacher and has a one-hour discovery course that costs B1,500.
If flying across the waves at breakneck speed seems a little hair-raising for a holiday, then there are less intense ways of getting a work out in Pak Nam Pran while enjoying the surroundings. Most hotels rent out bicycles for hire (from B50-150 an hour), and the quiet roads, pretty temples, stunning limestone hills and sleepy pineapple plantations all help make for a charming cycle ride. Make sure to stop by the quaint Wang Phong train station, a mini version of the one at Hua Hin, and grab a drink or snack from the lovely couple who run the small stall outside. Alternatively, you can head past Khao Kalok to check out Wat Summanawas, also known as the dog temple because it acts as a refuge for the seemingly thousands of stray pooches that call this area home.
Another way to work up a sweat in Pak Nam Pran is to take to the hills, or specifically, the small national park of Khao Kalok, which has a series of nature trails winding up to its summit. Be warned, it can get a little hairy, due to the steepness of the path and shouldn’t be attempted in flip flops. Still the view from the top is well worth the effort. Another good nearby destination is the nature trails at Pranburi Forest Park (089-787-4812). Set up in 1980 to protect the mangrove swamps and forests around the estuary of the Pran River, it’s a pleasant spot to take a stroll. There are two trails to choose from: one that goes via Pran Kiri beach and a shorter route that heads through the Mangroves. Both can be reached from the visitor center that also has a few food stalls.
Of course, when it comes to taking in some nature in this area, you’d be remiss not to check out the longer nature trails and abundant wildlife of Sam Roi Yod
Getting There: Take Highway 4 as if you were heading to Hua Hin, except skip the traffic jams and opt for the bypass road at the 202 km mark. The road rejoins the main highway at Pranburi. Turn left at the lights opposite Tanarat Military Camp, then follow signs to Khao Kalok. The journey should take around 3.5 hours.
When to Go: While there’s never a bad time to go, just be warned that the size of the beaches in this region is seasonal depending on the high tides. In some cases (like down in Kui Buri), the sand can disappear completely from Nov to Feb.
If you want further ideas of things to do in the area, check out the excellent map by the people behind Nancy Chandler’s maps of Bangkok. It is available for free at various locations along the beach road, including AirStylers and Mexican restaurant Fajitas. Alternatively, order online at www.nancychandler.net for FREE plus delivery.
There are a growing number of places to stay in Pak Nam Pran, most of which are spread along the beach road. Here are our picks:
If the Pranberry feel too basic for you, then head up the road and take in the boutique charms of Hua Plee Lazy Beach (Beach Front Road, Pak Nam Pran. 032-630555, www.huapleelazybeach.com). This lovely compound, with its large garden that accommodates the main, white house and a couple of smaller bungalows, is right on the beach and has just seven rooms and suites all finished in a nautical, Mediterranean theme. It’s owned by one of Thailand’s leading female windsurfers, and each room benefits from her personal touch, be it the hand-embroidered pillowcases or the handpicked wall hangings. Lazy Beach rates start from around B3,500 for two people, including breakfast.
Eschewing the frankly weird trend for all things Arabian in the neighborhood, the Foresta (169/5 Moo 3, Pak Nam Pran, 032-630-678) goes for a very modern style. A set of cubist-inspired white suites and rooms flank a central swimming pool, yielding clean, dramatic lines. The spacious rooms are equally modern with concrete floors and white walls enlivened by playful touches of color and some cutesy details. Aside from the pool, the facilities include bike hire and the Foresta Ley Café, which serves up inter-Thai dishes. Rates start from B3500 for a superior room rising to B5000 for the two bedroom Family Room, but do check their website for cheaper packages.
If your holiday is all about indulging body and soul, then your best bet in Pak Nam Pran is to head to the Evason resorts (www.sixsenses.com). Set within 20 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens dotted with lotus ponds, the resort is divided into the Evason Six Senses and the Evason Hua Hin. The Evason Hua Hin is more family (and pocket) friendly, with a big communal pool and simple but spacious rooms finished in cream and brown tones. The Six Senses only offers private pool villas (55 in total) and has a particular focus on holistic treatments in its eco-focused Earth Spa. Sure, this place is pricy and maybe some of the in-room facilities could do with an upgrade, but you’d be hard-pressed to find another spot that matches the level of service experienced here—even if all the pool staff look like Hunter S. Thompson with their crazy hats.
If you plan on descending on the beach en masse and want to stay in style, then Le Bayburi Villas (306-9 Beach Front Rd, Pak Nam Pran, 032-630-636. www.lebayburi.com) is a great option (if you can afford it). Each of the four, sprawling two-story, three-bedroom, villas features its own individual design, allowing you to choose from: Mediterranean Retreat, Pacific Hideaway, Modern Tropical or, our favorite, the minimal white finish of Scandinavian Vacation. We love the beachfront location, the alfresco kitchen areas, the big living room and the large private pools (each with its own pool bar). There’s a team of staff always on hand, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning up after yourself and you can even order in from the Thai seafood restaurant over the road if you can’t be bothered to go out. Just be warned, it is right on the beach so privacy could be an issue for some. Rates start from B10,800 per villa per night.
For those in need of a design fix, the best option is to stay on Highway 4 a little longer (around 30-40 minutes) and head to the brainchild of Thai starchitect Duangrit Bunnang, the X2 Kui Buri. Situated on a remote stretch of coastline, the look and feel of X2 follows his trademark style: lots of boxy, clean lines and lots of natural materials. The rectangular pool villas are all built with walls made of rocks, which can seem a little cold at first, but thanks to the warm tones and subtle lighting, you’ll feel like you’re sleeping in a cozy cave. As well as the private pools, the rooms also come with open-air showers, while the rest of the complex boasts a spa, pool and an arresting bar with views of the Gulf of Thailand. The place is lovely and chill, but it is also really remote, so you’ll have to get in a car if you don’t want to put up with the slightly scatter-gun service and high food prices.
While it certainly wasn’t the first Moroccan-themed resort in Thailand, Villa Maroc (Pak Nam Pran, 032-630-771, www.villamaroc.com) is probably the best of its kind, so far. Staying here is like lodging in a hi-so Moroccan beach villa. No matter which room you’re checking in to, from a pool court suite to a pool villa, you’ll be surrounded by vivid, warm-hued tones, fancy textiles and Arabian-style decorations imported from North Africa. If you can afford it, go for a pool villa. A can’t-miss activity is slipping into a blood-red Moroccan-style robe and heading to the Shisha Bar for an herbal smoke and light cocktails just in time for sunset. Rates start from B10,000 for a pool court room to B26,000 for a Royal Villa.
From super-fresh seafood to sinful desserts Pak Nam Pran has plenty of affordable options.
Of course, if you’re by the sea, you want to eat seafood, and Tonto Restaurant (166 Moo 3 Pak Nam Pran, 032-570-108. Open daily 10am-9pm) is really the long-term favorite in the area. An unassuming place, with a small lawn surrounded by simple tables, it does benefit from a prime location overlooking the beach. But it’s the freshness of the produce and the relative cheapness of their traditional Thai seafood dishes that mean it’s usually packed with families. Must-try dishes include classics like the deep fried seabass with fish sauce (B290), huge prawns baked with salt (from B450 per kilo) and, for a snack, try the moreish crisp-fried silver sillago with garlic (B80).
If you head past the hill of Khao Kalok, with its army of gai yang and somtam sellers, and keep on going past the temple, then the road eventually reaches another much quieter bay. Right on this corner there is a tumble-down collection of huts on the shoreline next to a small fleet of fishing boats. Kaokalok National Park Restaurant (Pak Nam Pran Beach Rd., 086-701-8597, 085-788-5575. Open daily 9am-8pm), Might be a long way short of fancy, but it does serve up some super-fresh seafood dishes like their crisp-fried yellow tail with lemon grass (B300) which can be enjoyed while you look out over the fishing boats that caught your dinner.
Pranberry (Beach Front Rd, Pak Nam Pran, 081-307-2213, 081-850-8778. http://tinyurl.com/7mcmhv5. Open weekends and public holidays from 10.30am-9.30pm.) is a charming little eatery and makes for a welcome change, if you’re tired of fried seafood. The sand floor brings the beach to you as you enjoy the charming space. It’s run by a group of friends from Bangkok who head down here on weekends to get away from it all and indulge their love of cooking Italian food and decadent desserts. You can expect an ever-changing menu of hearty pasta dishes using super fresh sauces, some great sausages and sinful treats, like their to-die-for chocolate lava cake. If you love the rustic charm of the place, then you can stay over at one of their two simple, circular cob houses out in the small garden (B1500 per night for two with breakfast).
Clad in a design that’s inspired by a farmer’s village, La A Natu (234 Moo 2, Samroiyod, Prachuab Khirikhan, 032-689-941/-3) is certainly a resort with a difference. Apart from the chance to view its unique eco-look, it’s worth a visit to sample the owner’s homemade coconut cake (along with all the other baked goods served here). If you want a place to stay, there are 10 minimal suites and villas featuring wood, clay and earth-tone colors that sit overlooking a peaceful and delightfully deserted beach.
An unassuming spot by the side of the road, Jim Daeng (27 Moo 2 Beach Front Rd, 032-559-160, 085-808-9050, open daily 9am-9pm) is a husband-and-wife affair tucked away behind a hedge across from Villa Maroc. While at first glance it serves the pretty standard fare, they are best known for offering particularly spicy seafood dishes. Must tries include their gaeng som and their fiery Tod Mun Pla Insee (fried fish curry cake, B80).
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Drinking & shopping—a dangerous combination? We don't know about that but MAAD Pyjamas this Friday (February 10) with its live music and designer goodies sounds like such a thrill.
Social Media Week finally arrives in Singapore, with some of the digital world's most celebrated names such as Trendwatching.com, Travel Massive and Pat Law of Goodstuph taking part.
Fans of The Horrors, Feist, M83, Twin Shadow Chairlift and other world indie favorites will do well to get their tickets for Laneway Festival Singapore 2012 fast.
Hot K-pop group Super Junior returns for Super Show 4 in Singapore with their latest album Mr Simple, which won Album of the Year 2011 at the Mnet Asian Music Awards.
We only have good things to say about Spring Awakening, which opened this week. Runs through February 26 at The Drama Centre Theatre.
The M1 Fringe Festival 2012 starts this month, and we're already penciling in the provocative-sounding Tongues, an interactive theater piece at the Gallery Theatre.
Hit by the travel bug? The NATAS Fair 2012 makes sure you don't burn a hole in your pocket when you decide to humor it.
On February 25, the world's top tier boxers like Andy Souwer and Albert Kraus hit the ring for some action at the Fighterzone Kickboxing World Series 2012. At the Singapore Expo.
Possibly the world's toughest sailing competition is the Clippers Around the World Race, which pays a visit to Keppel Bay this year.
A regular fixture on DJ Mag's Top 100 list, UK DJ John Digweed dishes out his signature progressive house and techno beats for Avalon and Supermodified Present John Digweed.
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Artist: Zero Hero Feat. Poomjit
Label: Lemon Factory
Zero Hero’s debut album Man Man is pure Thai rock n’ roll, and reminds us of the old band Sip Lor led by Hugo. After releasing the first promo single “Supan,” the fun continues with “Goodbye Bangkok,” which takes a sarcastic look at the craziness of life in Bangkok.
Artist: Paradox /Daydreamer 6.1
Label: Genie Records
After a five-year hiatus since their last release, the pop-rock outfit Paradox is back with their fifth studio album Daydreamer 6.1. As the name suggests, the overall mood and tone of this album will be soft and gentle love songs with smooth, acoustic guitars. Saying that; their third single “Honey Bee” is a fun, 60s-inspired sound that takes us back to hits “Balloon” and “Love.” Daydreamer 6.2 is set to follow soon.
Artist: Kor Notapol Srichomkwan
Label: Spicydisc
After releasing his first single “Prove Me Wrong” from the album The Workings of the Soul Part 02, Groove Rider’s bassist Kor Notapol Srichomkwan continues this vintage-pop project with “I Want to Tell You,” an easy-listening love song inspired by Paul McCartney’s “Silly Love Song.” Soft vocals, simple, attractive lyrics blend with brass and drums to create a toe-tapping tune.
Artist: Brown Flying
Label: Believe Record
The brand-new American rock-inspired group from Believe Records, launches their debut single entitled “Long (Lost).” The four-man band composed of Diew (vocal and guitar), Note (drums), Na (bass) and Pom (guitar) reminds us of the band Nickelback. The first single brings us hard drum and bass beats, while the lyrics and guitar have a suitably catchy hook.
Artist: Slur
Label: Smallroom
This final single from their third studio album Boong is about the passion that comes from flirting in a club. Slur sticks with their grungy style but add a lot of synthesized material, which works even if it is quite a shift from the first two albums. Perhaps a result of Pae Arak announcing he was quitting the band. Not to worry, if you’re in love with Slur the band, you’ll be happy to know they’re already working on a new album.
Artist: Tabasco
Label: Lemon Factory
The very Two Door Cinema Club-esque indie-punk band, Tabasco, delivers their third single from their debut album 1984 entitled “Chiang Mai.” The lyrics talk about bad weather and failed love in Bangkok, so they’re moving to Chiang Mai. Still if you ignore the lyrics, the guitar, bass and drums have a great arrangement, which could easily get you into the rock mode and craving for their live performance.
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