Hit the beach in these funky shades. From top left to right: Oliver Peoples Cameo (B11,800), Oliver Peoples Bella Donna (B11,600), Oliver Peoples Papillion (B11,600), Freudenhaus April (B8,000), H-Fusion (B6,500), Oliver Peoples Divine (B11,600), Funk Missing Red (B9,500). All available at Niche Nation.

Keep cool and look hot with these breezy summer threads. Above, from left to right: cropped tie-front blouse from the Oddyssee Modevisualloft (B2,490), floral print shorts from Senada (B1,650), striped blue top (B2,490) and brown tank (B990) from the Oddyssee Modevisualloft.

Below, from left to right: Cropped trousers (B2,190) from Oddyssee Modevisualloft, short-sleeved shirt from Playhound (B2,590), short-sleeved plaid shirt (B1,990) from Lacoste, short-sleeved Japanese print shirt (B2,590) from Greyhound and plaid cap from Lacoste (B650).

Put some spring (or summer) in your step with these lightweight shoes and sandals. For girls, clockwise from top: orange and aqua mesh ballet slippers (B3,900) by Stella McCartney for Adidas, flip flops (B850) and leather slides (B2,750) from Lacoste, blue and yellow slides (B3,100) by Stella McCartney for Adidas.

For guys, clockwise from top to left: blue sandals (B950) from Adidas, black and red flip flops from Rip Curl (B395), red shoes from Adidas (B1,950).

Must-grab bags for the season—you won’t want to leave home without them. Clockwise from top left: woven straw bag from the Oddyssee Modevisualloft (B1,790), beige wallet from Adidas (B350), messenger bag (B2,890) from Playhound  floral print purse (B1,750) from Bv, canvas/leather bag (B4,595) from Greyhound Original.

Hit the pool in this summer’s swimwear. Pink two-piece (B2,695) from Rip Curl, yellow two-piece with pink heart detail (B2,720) and heart-print two-piece (B2,350) from Salinas.

Below, left to right: swimming trunks from Adidas (B750) and Lacoste (B890).

Orange swing ring (B850) and white mesh sun lounge chair (B2,200) from Room Interior Products.

Why wait for Oktoberfest? We recently visited a dining hotspot along Ramindra Expressway where the food is superb and the beer flows like the Danube. Tawandang Brew House or Roang Beer German Tawandang has opened its second branch, but don’t even bother comparing it with the original. This new offshoot is family friendly and far larger, with over 2,000 seats housed in the area of approximately two football fields.

Stepping into the European-style haus, you come face to face with a huge brewing system that guarantees how fresh your glass of beer really is. The dining hall is open, airy and, unlike the original establishment on Rama III, has no pillars obstructing the view of the stage. If so desired, seats upstairs in the mezzanine afford you a bit more privacy.

As would be expected of a brew house, beer is the highlight here. Tawandang brews and serves three varieties: Lager, Dunkel and Weizen (from 0.3lt/B85 to 5lt/B1,200). Lager is best for starting your meal as it has a mild taste and smell. Dunkel is a dark beer with a flavor that is both sweet and bitter. Weizen has more bubbles and bears a pleasing aroma of fruit and malt.

The food here is awesome. Highlights are the deep-fried pork knuckle served with spicy sauce (B280), mixed grilled sausages (B220), hor d'oeuvres som tum (spicy papaya salad served with grilled pork loin, thin rice noodle and sticky rice, B150) and kalum plee thawt nam plaa (sautéed cabbage in fish sauce, B100).

Stage shows occur nightly and include anything from sexy singers crooning Thai pop hits to variety show-style acrobatics. Though it may not be as excellent as Cirque du Soleil, it’s still quite entertaining. Best of all, they perform at no additional charge!

We sat down to chat with Supoj Theerawattanachai, co-owner of Tawandang Brew House about the B100-million project.

What makes this branch different from the original one on Rama III?
First, this one is a lot bigger. Second, the hall as you can see is without pillars to block your view of the stage. It’s also a non-smoking space catering to the family crowd that populates this area. Third is the theater. All our performers are professionals of international caliber. All the elements of family happiness are here.

Your beer is quite good.
Of course! The machine and most of the ingredients originate in Germany. Our beer is fermented from 19 to 28 days to produce three great tastes.

Some people think that brew houses are only for old people. How would you stimulate the younger segment of society to come here?
Is that how you guys really think? Umm… let me think about it. I’ll get back to you on that.

Brew House Details

Sip authentic German beer and catch fabulous shows at Tawandang Brew House. Open daily 11am-1am, at 51/199-200 Moo 1, Lad Phrao, 02-789-9988. MC, V.

Neo Victorian girls—put this one on the top of your shopping list and pin it on your white tank top. You can use these feathers for tickling your boyfriend… who knows what might come after that. From Exquisite Stories (B1,490).

This plain but classic stone pin from Artticle Unique (B650) goes well with either scarves or blazers.

Combine roses, a pink pendant and some artificial fur and you get this pin—perfect if you’re in the mood for love or for Chinese New Year. Try the earth-tone version for a more elegant look. From Exquisite Stories (B690).

Get flowery all in blue: velvet, beads, ribbon and tiny gems. A nice accessory for your blue day or just because you feel like it. From Exquisite Stories (B690).

This funky patchwork heart compliments your yippy-hippie look. You can even claim that you made it yourself! From Exquisite Stories (B1,650).

This brown velvet pin with vintage-style petite jewelry makes you look like Marie Antoinette. From Exquisite Stories (B1,795).

No matter what your stance on the inflammatory events of the day, when it comes to political demonstrations, being heard is intrinsically linked to being seen. A colored top is a must at these events—just make sure that you know what color your side plans on sporting. If it’s a huge public protest you are headed to, there will probably be some clothes available to buy on site. However, preparing your get-up at home will of course insure a snazzier style. You can pick up a new top anywhere from Giordano to Lacoste, or just reuse one that’s been sitting in your wardrobe since high school. Try Siam Discovery Center (Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1000) and MBK Mall (Phaya Thai Rd., 02-620-9111).

As for pants, play it safe with some black trousers or jeans: linen, cotton, or wool will do nicely. Shorts will even work if it’s a hot day, just as long as they’re black. As a simple rule of fashion, black goes with every color. If you are planning on buying something just for this event then you’d better find something that’s cheap and available at nearly every corner in Bangkok. Fashion-wise, choose the color that suits the theme. After all, we are Fashion City citizens. Try Bonanza Mall (Siam Square, Phaya Thai Rd.) and Silom Rd.

Accessories

Flags. You can get national flags in every size and shape at a flag or stationery store. Get creative by customizing your own version of the flag and you might get what you want! Try Saparn Wanchart intersedtion, Dinsor Rd.

Stickers. These are a must for every campaign: re-useable, portable and they get the attention you’re looking for. The more creative you are, the more people will get behind your message (though fellow protesters might not actually give a ****, stickers are cool to have anyway). You can probably get these for free at the venue. Try G/F MBK Mall (Phaya Thai Rd., 02-620-9111).

Paper visors. Mostly you can get these for free at the demonstration, so don’t bother bringing your own. Hold onto yours so you can customize or redecorate it for the next time. Try Saparn Wanchart intersection, Dinsor Rd.

Scarves. If you want to pick one of these up at the protest, you better get there early—free stuff never lasts long. For the fashion-conscious, make sure your color matches and that the scarf is made from cotton, especially on the hot and humid days. Try Chatuchak Weenkend Market, Kamphaeng Phet Rd.

Shoes. There are no rules concerning what kind of shoes you have to wear; just make sure they’re comfortable and fashionable. You never know how long you could be out there. Try MBK Mall (Phaya Thai Rd., 02-620-9111) and Siam Discovery center (Rama 1 Rd., 02-658-1000).

For those of you who feared that Lars Von Trier’s sequel to Dogville, Manderlay, will not make it to the local screen—fret not. It will be shown among 300 other feature films at this year’s Singapore International Film Festival (SIFF). While this year’s festival may not boast highly talked about films as in previous years, its offer of smaller, quality films should be lauded. Tickets will be on sale from Mar 20. Call 6292-2929 or go to www.ticketcharge.com.sg. Here are the 10 most highly anticipated picks, according to Festival Director Philip Cheah.

4:30

Touted as notorious local filmmaker Royston Tan’s (15) quietest film yet, 4:30, which premiered at last year’s Berlinale, stars Korean actor Kim Young Jun and newbie child star Xiao Li Yuan. 4:30 boasts hardly any dialogue, and centers on the alienation and detachment of Xioa Wu, a child from a single parent family. Wu leads a barely meaningful life, and finds solace in a mysterious Korean tenant Jung (Kim), who also faces restlessness with his life. Watch this to see how Tan has grown as a filmmaker.

The Book of the Dead

This sumptuous Japanese puppet anime by Kihachiro Kawamoto (Winter Days) is a haunted tale that centers on Iratsume, a woman who falls in love with the spirit of Prince Otsu. Even if Iratsume struggles to weave a shroud against her unrelenting lover, she becomes more and more drawn to him, towards an enlightening finale.

Innocent

Dealing with race and being gay in a heterosexual world, Hong Kong director Simon Chung (Stanley Beloved) explores the life of Eric, a gay 17-year-old Chinese boy who has affairs with a succession of men in Toronto. Innocent took home the best independent film award at last year’s Canadian Film Board Awards.

Manderlay

Never mind that Nicole Kidman is not in this. The reliable Bryce Dallas Howard (The Village) steps in as Grace, who was victimized in director Lars Von Trier’s (The Idiots) first part of his trilogy on the US, Dogville. In Manderlay, Grace stumbles upon a plantation in Alabama, and decides to liberate the slaves there, to shocking consequences. A must watch for avid followers of the brilliant Von Trier.

Men At Work

Fans of Iranian Abbas Kiarostami’s (A Taste of Cherry) work shouldn’t miss this one. This quirky film centers on four friends who encounter a strange enormous rock during a failed skiing trip. When they try to move it, their personalities clash, resulting in betrayal, defeat and, eventually, hope.

Perpetual Motion

This funny Chinese film centers on Niuniu, who wakes up one day to find her husband missing. She concludes that one of her three best friends—Lala, Qinqin and Madam Ye—has betrayed her and seduced her husband. When Niuniu invites them over for dinner, heads will inevitably roll. Directed by Ning Ying (I Love Beijing).

The President’s Last Bang

This quirky but politically charged film has been compared to Stanley Kubrick’s classic Dr. Strangelove in terms of plot and black humor. Korean director Im Sang-Soon’s The President’s Last Bang centers on a secret service agent Ju, who is assigned to kill the president, but the plot soon spirals out of control over the course of a single night.

Sunflower

Joan Chen (Saving Face) stars in this Chinese film directed by Zhang Yang, best known for his critically acclaimed films Shower and Quitting. Sunflower takes place from post- Cultural Revolution to recent moments in Chinese history, as a father and son must come to grips with the
changing times.

Tori

Famous Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano (Last Life in the Universe) tries his hand at directing in this much anticipated first effort. Comprising five shorts, Tori is a “visualization of dreams through live action and animation,” and includes “Sword of Mind,” about a calm samurai on the verge of revenge; “ATO,” which depicts graffiti art and skateboarders; and “Bird,” about a lively and spiraling bird—you have to watch this for yourself.

Wedding in Galilee

Acclaimed Belgium director Michel Khleifi’s political film from 1986, Wedding in Galilee, centers on the conflicts between an Israeli governor and the head of a Palestinian village. This unflinching look at power and destiny took home the International Critic’s Prize at 1987’s Cannes Film Festival.

Dates and venues of the screenings are unconfirmed at press time. Check www.filmfest.org.sg for more details.

Ten years ago our wine scene was exclusive, snobby and full of more social faux pas landmines than a sommelier could sniff at. Most Asians hardly ever saw the stuff, let alone knew what was a good year or from what region. Today, wine bars abound and everyone likes to think themselves a bit of an expert. Indeed, much of the pomp and ceremony surrounding the drinking of wine has disappeared. Now wines come with screw tops, plastic corks and even (shock! horror!) in cans.

There’s no denying that things are changing in the way we drink our wine. Traditionalists might protest, but here are some of the changes we’re seeing in our vino.

Colorblind

It’s always been the accepted rule that red wines go with red meats, and whites with poultry and seafood. According to Christopher Tan, Manager of Oaks Cellars Takashimaya, this developed from the idea that white meats tend to be lighter and sweeter in flavor and would be overpowered by a full bodied red wine. But these traditional pairings are no longer the only acceptable way to choose which bottle to open with a meal.

At leading haute French cuisine restaurant Saint Pierre, seafood dishes are no longer restricted to being paired with sauvignon blancs and rieslings. In fact, their new winter degustation menu features a risotto with escargot and king scallops infused with pinot noir and paired with a Bourgogne rouge vieilles vignes.

And vice versa. In chef Emmanuel Stroobant’s latest book Vine Dining White, he educates Singaporeans by listing recipes according to the grapes they best match. For instance, he gives a recipe for braised lamb shank under chardonnay and marinated braised veal shoulder under pinot gris.

Stroobant’s philosophy is simple. “We match the wine with the ‘stronger’ ingredient of the dish. It is not always the meat or the fish but also the sauce, which can play a major role in the match. For example, the side dish for the cod [on our menu] is a bordelaise (red wine sauce) braised lettuce with veal bone marrow; it supports a strong red pretty well.”

Brave New World

Along with the etiquette associated with different colors of wine, traditionally the pairing of wine with Asian food has been, at best, a haphazard affair. In Asian restaurants, wine lists used to be very limited. Today, many Asian restaurants have more extensive offers. However, unlike in many European or Western restaurants, the lack of a recommended wine listed with each dish means there is always the risk that ordering a merlot will turn out to be a poor choice with a beef rendang.

Tan’s theory is that the Asian market’s lack of exposure to the wine industry until recently is largely responsible for the misconception that Asian food cannot be paired with a glass of red or white. However, with the growing awareness and popularity of wines, parallel principles to those used to match European foods with wine can be used to suit our Eastern palates. The two types of cuisine he suggests are the most difficult to marry with grapes are Indian and Thai—because of the complexity of the spices.

There are a few places that are making it a point to change this tradition. Old school Chinese seafood restaurant, The Seafood International Market & Restaurant, has recently opened a wine cellar with over 200 different types to choose from. At the newer 8 on Greenwood, customers have the option to add three specially selected wines to pair with their 12-course local food-tasting menu. The restaurant’s philosophy is simple: They have chosen wines that are clean and flexible, to blend well with the weekly changing menu.

When choosing the wines for 8 on Greenwood, Mathew Tip says he recognized early on that the two Asian ingredients that tend to create the most havoc for wine drinkers are chili and ginger. Add to that the woodiness and the tannins in the skin of the red grapes, and wines can be a bit difficult to match. For Tip there are two types of wines: Those for drinking on their own and those for consuming with a meal. While some complex and fruity wines must be superb as stand-alones, Tip claims these are often too complicated to have with Asian foods. So when selecting a wine for a curry laksa, the rule is that simple flavors are best.

Canning the Debate

Even for the novice wine drinker, it does seem a little odd these days when the waiter leaves a plastic cork or a screw top on the table in lieu of a more traditional cork. This new trend is something that tends to be more fully embraced by New World producers from Australia, Chile or South Africa, rather than those from France, Italy or Spain. But, apart from losing the nice “pop” that a natural cork gives when it’s released, these new technologies do have their benefits. For the average drinker, it means no more corks breaking off midway or cork rot allowing air to infiltrate and spoil the wine. And screw tops mean half-full bottles are no longer delicate items at barbecues.

But is convenience destroying the romance of opening a bottle of wine? The latest revolution in wine drinking is wine in a can. Although an initial reaction might be to recoil in horror at the thought, there’s no denying the can’s utility: It’s easier to store in the fridge and it’s more transportable. Cans also get around that irritating problem of having to open a whole bottle of wine when you know you want only one glass.

For Tan, wines in a can have their place in the food chain, but it’s not the prime spot in the cellar. When asked whether the tin vessel would affect the taste of the wine, Tan doesn’t mince his words. “Wines in a can are made to be like that,” he says. “If they [the producers] thought it was a great wine, then it wouldn’t be in a can.”

Whatever your preference, it’s becoming clear that the burgeoning wine scene in Asia is creating more than one way to skin a grape, whether we like it or not.

2001

It all began with the singing dancing man. Some liked him: “Nice legs, great eyes.” Some didn’t: “Why him? Ugh, those thighs!” Some loved him: “What’s his number? I’m a fan.” Some hated him: “I hate you, singing dancing man.” Like, love or hate, singing dancing man served his purpose (to get your attention), as coverboy on a four-page teaser introducing BK Magazine to Fun City.

The first proper issue of BK hit the stands March 16, 2001—30,000 copies strong. The feature story was a school-themed yearbook of characters populating our urban neighborhood. Gracing the cover were Paradorn Srichapan (Class Jock) and Tata Young (The Comeback Kid)…with a dog. Note that this was long before their short-lived romance—are we psychic? No comment. (And no comment on the dog.) Also in this issue: Samak Sundaravej was The Principal, Janista Liewchalermwong was Prom Queen, Phanthongtae Shinawatra was The Scion and Sonia Cooling was The Bad Girl.

The military look was hot back then, and we did our bit to perpetuate the trend. We did LOTS of shopping in 2001, with features on his ‘n’ hers custom suits, open-air markets and holiday shopping secrets.

While everyone else was digging in Kanchanaburi caves, we told you places to find gold nearby without a shovel: the Hard Rock Café (gold records), dessert shops (thong yib, foi thong, thong yod), movie theaters (Gold Class seats), etc. Aren’t we clever?

We also did LOTS of traveling in 2001. We foresaw China as a hot vacation destination, giving you travel features on Yunnan, Xinjiang, and Shanghai. In general we stayed fairly close to home, taking you to Phnom Penh, Dubai, Sydney, Singapore and Osaka—but also Pattaya, Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Nayok. Oh, and Vladivostok.

This was the year of the steakhouse, and New York was a prime cut above the competition. Brewpubs were also big in those days—remember Hartsmanns Dorfer and Taurus Brewhouse?

Oh, poor Ministry of Sound, we hardly knew ye! This was the year that nightlife zoning became a big issue, and, as you would expect, we had a few things to say about this. Our helpful government also made our phone numbers two digits longer. More blasts from the past? 2001 was the year of Moulin Rouge, Pearl Harbor, Jan Dara, the first Shrek and the first Legally Blonde.

2002

To celebrate our first anniversary, we ran our first Readers’ Choice Awards. Top honors went to Ministry of Sound (best new and best dance nightspot), Q Bar (best drinks), Saffron (best new restaurant), Baiyoke Sky Tower (best restaurant with a view) and Spasso (best pickup spot).

Even way before J Avenue, H1 and Playground, Thonglor was hip and happening. Filled with funky shops and cool bars like Bar Buree, this soi of sanook always had something fresh and new. Time would prove that it would only get bigger and better. It was steak and Italian in 2002, which saw the openings of places such as Papa Alfredo’s, Delicatezza, Café Buongiorno, Park Avenue and The Outback Steakhouse.

Before Astra and the new RCA, we had Ministry of Sound and this was its year. Not since the days of Taurus or The Palace had we seen anything like it in Bangkok. Too bad it couldn’t last forever. Or even a couple of years. Let’s not forget white-hot Bed Supperclub. This achingly sophisticated, too-cool venue was the most happening place to dine out and boogie the night away.

We see the early stages of mall madness with the opening of Gaysorn Plaza, which gives our Favorite Shopping Mall and our pick for worst parking place, The Emporium, some friendly competition. These two malls had a major impact on our tastes that year as we went heavy on the designer brands and luxury items.

Thai film was a featured topic as we reaped the rewards of our first homegrown B400 million epic, Suriyothai, by M.C. Chatrichalerm Yukala. We also decided to shed some light on the unsung heroes of the film industry at the time. Directors like Sua Tia (Butterfly in Grey), Pen-ek Rattanalueng (Fun Bar Karaoke and Mon Rak Transistor), Nonzee Nimitbutr (Nang Nak, OK Baytong) were featured; they talked about the struggle of making quality films in a what was a known as a “poor man’s profession.”

Don’t you just love cartoons? We re-capped the year’s highlights with hilarious drawings that poked a little fun at our PM, Viagra, nightlife zoning, designated smoking, girls going braless and Paradorn. 

2003

After one year of the nightlife zoning policy, things were the same with more “surprise visits” from Interior minister Pracha Maleenont. Since night crawlers couldn’t stop their Friday night habits, new bars kept opening—do you recall the burst of Ratchada Soi 4? And the now-defunct dbl O took over Ministry of Sound.

Though it wasn’t in theaters until October, Fan Chan a.k.a. My Girl set the standard for all Thai films from 2003-2004. Fan Chan fever also brought back oldie songs (“Chatri” and “Sao Sao Sao”) and vintage fashion that year. It was also a year of huge production films: from Gangs of New York, Matrix Reloaded, Charlie’s Angels, Chicago, Hero and Hulk to LOTR The Return of The Kings. Indie films like Y Tu Mama Tambien, Blissfully Yours and Kill Bill Vol. 1 won many awards—the last one also caused an obsession with head-to-toe yellow sport suits.

After taking us high up in the sky with plenty of rooftop eateries, foodie entrepreneurs moved down to the river to bring us restaurants with the best Chao Phraya views. Good View, Khinlom Chom Sa Phan and To-Sit Pier 92 are still our favorite riverside outlets.

Girls, look at the guy by your side—does he look like someone from our funny “Evaluation of Thai Males”? One thing we know is that guys have been taking care of themselves since the Ayudhya Era—and much more these days. It went beyond skincare to cosmetics for “Real Men.”

In 2003, many mega-projects were in their infancy stage, including Siam Paragon, MRT and BMA urban planning—can you remember how hard it was to get from Lad Phrao to Hua Lamphong before the subway? And could you imagine how long it was gonna take before the opening of Siam Paragon?

When mainstream marketing strategies got old, textbook thinking got dumped. So we got to see Lukked taking a shower in the middle of traffic, a huge party of mini cars, and creepy mannequins at bus stations.

And no one could forget the grandest event of the year, the APEC summit. Many streets got a new look, there were fewer traffic jams and some other great improvements—for one week. 

2004

This year we highlighted many international concerts in our BK Picks, whether it was Jay Chou, Black Eyed Peas, Linkin Park or Sting. F4 fever was in the air: The four Taiwanese boys were on everyone’s lips, their TV series Fantasy 4ever pretty much emptied the streets during hours it was broadcast and their concert in Bangkok was even bigger than Mariah’s. Hope they enjoyed their 15 minutes.

Like F4, H1 was hot, hot, hot but is now not, not, not. The Mahachon Party began with glory as well but retreated in disgrace with its failure in the election. Nong Nat’s MPEG almost got her fame and fortune—but then women’s rights activist senator Rabiabrat came along. And yet another brat son of a politician ended up on the front page of the papers.

The reality craze kicked off in 2004, with round-the-clock Academy Fantasia and The Star spawning various imitators that propelled many an unknown into stardom.

The battle between low-cost airlines resulted in lower and lower prices, but worse service. In October, we compared the airlines’ strengths and weaknesses. We also got the subway, which experienced more than a few hiccups in the early days. 

2005

Big changes came in the first issue of 2005. We changed the BK logo and made the inside layout simpler, cleaner and easier-to-read. New columns included Recipe Request, First Person and Street Talk.

BK raised the topic of women, sex and love in late 2005, and this became one of the hottest—and most controversial—issues. We also launched our Sexpert column, Savage Love and the first pan-Asian sex survey—so we could find out just how kinky our readers are!

Like the airport, Siam Paragon opened “on time” though it could not be called “finished,” according to our definition of the word. Bangkok is now a battlefield of shopping malls, and we made that our cover feature in December. Before that was the opening of the unique Playground! store and J. Avenue.

Among all the sins, gluttony might have been the most prevalent last year as we covered a lot of dining venues—new ones were opening every week. The highlight was our round-up of old but nice grandfather restaurants around Yaowaraj, Phra Arthit, Tha Phrachan and even Silom. On the other hand, venues from abroad opened branches here—Wyndham Thai, Koi, Mistral, Crystal Jade and Tour de France.

The cool breeze of nightlife became hotter with the launch of the bigger, brighter, more luxurious Route 66—along with the openings of Astra, 3Some, Re-Feel, Hip Hop 2, it guaranteed a truly reborn RCA. Thonglor, Ratchada, Silom and Sukhumvit were also blessed with new bars and pubs.

Tata Young was on our first cover when she was en route to “going inter,” but in 2005, she had “already” become an international artist with more than a million copies sold. We had her as our First Person, along with Vanessa Mae, Hugo, Pen-ek, Danai Udomchoke and Sarocha Porn-udomsak in 2005.

2006

We’re weekly! They said it couldn’t be done, but we’re putting the magazine out every seven days. Highlights so far have included the results of our Sex Survey, conducted with our sister publications in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai, and an issue devoted to our favorite cutting-edge tech toys.

Everything you wanted to know about BK (but were afraid to ask)

Many people think we’re a tourist or expat magazine. In fact, 88% of our readers are Thai. More numbers: 58% are women, 80% are single, 92% are 20-39.

Though we’re based in Bangkok, BK shares content with HK (Hong Kong), I-S (Singapore) and SH (Shanghai). This gives us a bigger range of stories and columns to choose from and allows us to expand our coverage throughout the region.

We really do pay our own way. We have strict standards for food reviews, which is why they’re so popular. Unlike other publications, we won’t write a review based on a free meal organized by the restaurant. We never call ahead, we never identify ourselves (unless threatened!) and we never let someone else pay the bill. And if a venue isn’t worth your time or money, we’re not afraid to say this. Believe it or not, we feel bad for restaurants that earn only one or two stars. So if we hear a previously poor venue has turned things around, we’re happy to go back and review them again.

Rocker Gene Futon worked at BK in 2003. In the same year, one of the Sretsis sisters, Klyduan “Ib” Sukhahuta, was a member of our sales department.

In the Bangkok Yearbook feature in our inaugural issue, the Class Wit was none other than our current editor, who was then at the Bangkok Post. We described him as “Most likely to: Sell his own mother for a free wine tasting.” Guess things don’t change all that much.

Our previous editor now works for the Post. Honestly, there was no secret agreement.

You know those readership numbers that newspapers and magazines claim? We’re one of only a handful of publications that are independently audited. So when we say we have 90,000 readers, we can prove it. And this doesn’t even count the number of people who read BK online (www.asia-city.com).

Only our writers get bylines, but BK could not exist without our brilliant Art, Admin and Sales departments. There are also our distributors, who help get the magazine out. And we can’t forget our advertisers—they make it possible for BK to be free! Special thanks to our old friends: Accor Hotels, Anothai, A Garden, Bed, Chivas, Hong Kong Noodle, Heineken, Boonumsin, Tongsai Bay, Tony’s Roma, Old Map & Print, Lavazza Coffee and Starbucks. And thanks to our especially generous sponsors: Chivas, Heineken, Nokia, Shangri-La and Visa.

The sweet aromatic smell of Bangkok air pollution with just a hint of lethal carbon monoxide gives way to an abruptly pungent shot of freshly brewed coffee that doesn’t seem to leave your olfactory senses alone. What is it you ask? It’s that new coffee bun phenomenon that has taken Bangkok by storm. The warm, buttery and unusually high level of caffeine-fortified coffee frosting is the latest “craze” to satisfy your sweet tooth and with the invasion of the foreign coffee bun shops popping up all over town, how do you know which is best for you?

Coffee Dome

Carrefour Rama 4
2929 Rama 4 Rd., 02-661-5580-4. Open daily 9am-11pm.

Origin: The no. 1 bun chain in Singapore, Rotimum, has entered Bangkok under the name of Coffee Dome and is known for their use of top quality imported ingredients.

Taste: Buns are rich and buttery with softer bread, a lighter coffee frosting and are not nearly as greasy as the competition.

Variety: They’ve got just the big standard B25 size with the butter filling.

Best For: Early rising, in the park walking grandma and slightly obese, hyperactive children who really shouldn’t be drinking or eating any kind of growth-stunting coffee products.

Mr. Bun

Seacon Square
904 Srinakarin Rd.,02-721-8888,
Open Mon-Fri 10:30am-9:30pm, Sat-Sun 10am-9:30pm.

Origin: The first Malaysia bun to hit the scene in Bangkok.

Taste: Big buns are good, but the smaller buns pack a punch and are a little healthier because they’re dripping with margarine instead of butter.

Variety: Two sizes, large B25 and equally flavorful smaller, cuter buns B10.

Best For: Bangkokians from the outskirts and office workers who read Thai soap opera magazines and eat street vendor fruit at their desks while gossiping about other co-workers.

Roti Boy

Next to Nooddi, Siam Square Soi 4, 02-658-4483. Open daily 8:30am-10pm.

Origin: An import from Malaysia, Roti Boy has made the biggest splash among Thai bun lovers. They’ve got killer recipes and killer lines to boot. 

Taste: Coffee lovers just love the strong coffee frosting, but the buns are a bit tough and a tad too greasy. Just take a look at those grease-stained bags.

Variety: So far in Thailand, only one large bun in one flavor: butter. B25

Best For: Portly ladies with really tall blue hair, gold medallions and a lot of time and money who can pay people to wait over two hours in line for them (on a good day).

Answers for guys

Lab Series Skincare for Men, creating products with guys’ needs in mind, launches three new skincare products for metrosexuals. Instant Moisture Gel (B1,400/50ml) is oil-free and refreshing. When used consistently—daily, nightly or after shaving—your skin will look healthier. Instant Moisture Eye Gel (B1,400/7.5ml) wakes up tired eyes by decreasing swelling and wrinkles. Instant Moisture Lip Balm (B850/10ml) protects lips from nature’s effects and brings back softness and smoothness. It’s not sticky, heavy or glossy so you can enjoy its cooling sensation as often as you want. (Try 1/F, Central Chidlom, 02-655-7777.)

Most Serene

Joining the famed Divana Massage & Spa on Sukhumvit 25 is DVN Spa (8 Sukhumvit 35, 02-261-4818/-9. Open Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat-Sun 10am-11pm. www.dvn-wellbeing.com). The sister outlet is located in a beautiful contemporary Thai house with garden in a two-rai compound. Treatments are available a la carte or as packages such as Green Grass Steps (B1,450), an 80-minute program consisting of a pepper berry foot soak, mandarin & grapefruit foot scrub, aloe-vera rub, DVN Foot Massage and warm herbal compress. Another favorite is Flourishing Four Hands (B2,850), an aromatic body massage by two therapists. Future plans for DVN include a new outlet, Divana Kaya, on Thonglor Soi 17.

Fragrant Fingers

Molton Brown, London purveyor of plant-based bath products, invites you to try their new White Mulberry Collection. Pamper your hands with the Fine Liquid Hand Wash (B1,100) and Soothing Hand Lotion (B1,100). White mulberry root combined with oils of mimosa, green tea and elemi (a fragrant resin from tropical trees) smells so good you’ll be sniffing your hands all day. Want to try before you buy? Experience a sensuous hand washing at the Molton Brown counter at Paragon, where the attendant dries your fingers one by one. (Try M/F, Siam Paragon, 02-610-9000.)

Wheeling Activity

Riding nine years of success in the Thai bike market, LA Bicycle launches new products for better and easier driving. The lively orange E-ZE1000 (B24,000) is a cross between housewife bike and motorcycle. It has the classic front basket and pedals, with the addition of a battery driven motor and headlight. EX-450 (B17,000) is a blend of racing motorcycle and bike. With battery power, disc brake and v-brake, you can pedal it or drive it. EX-250 (B12,000) looks part Harley Davidson with big forks and mini side wheels. (Try LA Sale & Service, 58/1 Phuthamonton Sai 2 Rd., 02-865-4191-2, www.la-bicycle.com)

Luxury living is the in thing these days, and it’s not just the nouveau rich who choose to live it up. With high fashion boutiques, exclusive residential addresses, facelifts and club memberships available to just about anyone who has cash to spare, anyone, it seems, can lead the high life. From prestigious travel destinations to stylish sports cars to the latest bling in town, here’s our guide to living it up, baby.

The New Address | Members Only | Dress to Impress
Luxury Getaways | Wine and Dine | Face Off | The Good Life

The New Address

Get yourself a new home at the Sentosa Cove (Call 6270-0200 to make an appointment), Singapore’s most expensive and exclusive residential site. Located on Sentosa, 90 percent of the plots of land has been sold, with prices up to $2m for seafront units. What sets this address apart is a mega-yacht marina complete with boating facilities, so that residents with a private yacht can berth them literally in their very own backyards. Not since Australia’s waterfront homes with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge has another seafront residential area been so popular and coveted.

With a new home bought, those who want to indulge a little further should snag themselves an artwork from Opera Gallery (#02-12H, Ngee Ann City, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, 391 Orchard Road, 6735-2618). Home to some of the most expensive art pieces from all over the world, the outlet carries masterpieces by the likes of Warhol, Chagall and Picasso. But if you really want to live it up, the US$4.5m Modigliani piece Sapho is the one to get, as it is the most expensive painting selling in Singapore right now.

But what’s a real home without the right set of wheels in the driveway? The world’s fastest (and one of the most expensive) cars, the Koenigsegg, is available for sale here for almost $2.1m (call 9875-9875 for appointment and enquiries). The Swede import is not only speedy, but it’s super stylish to boot, boasting a two-seat mid-engine construction with a removable hardtop.

However, if motorbikes are more your thing, the striking and expensive Ducatti 999R (call Minerva Motors at 6298-4777 for appointment and enquiries) is the best out there—never mind that only one Ducatti has ever been sold in Singapore so far. Priced at over $70k, this superbike is a certified showstopper, and comes with a highly progressive design, including the striking black and red frames and wheels.

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Members Only

Snag yourself an exclusive club membership and mingle with the who’s who of high society. The Sentosa Golf Club (27 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa, 6275-0022) counts Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi and Thailand’s Thaksin Shinawatra as members, and is the club to get yourself into. Membership is highly revered, and is mostly by invitation only. But the club intends to increase its cackle of elites to 2,500 members from their present 1,500, so just give them a buzz if you have $121k to spare, the price of a year’s membership.

You can also try your luck at The Tower Club (9 Raffles Place Penthouse, Republic Plaza Tower 1, 6737-3388), as a five-year term membership is relatively affordable at just $10k. The highly esteemed board of governors includes President S. R. Nathan and Ambassador-at-Large Prof. Tommy Koh. This clandestine business club extends itself by recommendation and invitation only, so members are privileged with the power to preordain their social sets. Find out if your boss is a member, and get chummy with him or her—now.

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Dress to Impress

Hardcore fashionistas who have always dreamed of looking like a tai-tai, look no further. First stop: Luxury fashion store Hermes (#01-02A Liat Towers, 541 Orchard Rd., 6738-9807), where you can splurge on a much-coveted Birkin bag. This baby is individually handmade with over 2,600 hand stitches, and takes at least 23 hours to produce. First created for legendary French actress Jane Birkin in 1984 (hence its name), this is still the bag to be seen with. The starting price is $8.8k, and it goes up to nearly $20k. Waiting time: two years.

If you can’t wait that long, the gorgeous Fendi (#01-32 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6887-5981) bags are the next best thing. This season, the B Fendi bags, which come with a multitude of breathtaking covers such as butter-soft calfskin and gleaming patent leather, are simply a must-have for aspiring tai-tais, and they’re gorgeous to boot. The damage: Over $33k for selected models.

Shoe sluts must get their feet into the $1.5k Alaia shoes from On Pedder (#02-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road, 6835-1307). These are the season’s most luxurious and trendiest heels, and are available for the first time in Singapore. Proclaimed by fashion high priestess Suzy Menkes of the International Herald Tribune as fashion’s latest must-have, Alaia shoes come with delicate intertwining straps and killer vertical heels. Trendsetter Sarah Jessica Parker (TV’s Sex and the City) has been spotted with many pairs, and they are set to replace Manolo Blahnik as the shoe that befits any fashion queen.

Further bling out your inner Paris Hilton and 50 Cent with Cartier’s (#01-33 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6734-2427) range of yellow gold plated panther necklaces and pendants. The range, which boasts 18-carat gold, beautiful black lacquer markings and onyx muzzles, is a must have for any self-respecting golddigger, considering that most of the pieces cost over $50k.

Those who want to take it a little further can invest in a customized watch from Audemars Piguet (#17-00 Liat Towers, 541 Orchard Rd., 6238-6678), which can fetch as much as $3m. Each timepiece can be made according to the customer’s needs—from the dials to the movements to the crown—and attracts business types as avid fans.

Complete your luxe ensemble with the highly refined and sought after Vertu (#01-36 The Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6723-2288) handphones. The sleek Signature phone, which comes with 69.25 carats of pure scratch resistant sapphire crystal, starts at a cool $7.9k. Local celebrities such as actress Kym Ng have been spotted with one, and it’s about time you are too, if you want to make it to the high life.

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Luxury Getaways

Quite naturally, all that shopping would require you to take a much deserved luxury holiday. Landlubbers with queasy bellies can still enjoy a cruise with Crystal Cruises ([email protected], www.crystalcruises.com), especially since it’s a six-star cruise line which offers pure luxury on the high seas. These cruises take you to ports around the world, though predominately to those in Europe. What’s US$8-10k for a two-week cruise (excluding airfare to/from the port destinations), when you can have 24-hour butler service, champagne and fine wines in all the suites and the chance to hobnob with the rich and famous from the world over?

If cruising with hundreds is just not your style, how about hiring a private yacht for your exclusive use? A 3D/4N long weekend sail to Pulau Tioman on board Rising Tide, an 85-foot rigged schooner, will set you back $11k for eight persons. Dive, snorkel, wakeboard or just laze about in the sun. You’ll enjoy three meals cooked right on board, and comfy air-conditioned cabins and bathrooms.

Or fly to Bangkok or London on a private jet. Pacific Flight Services Ltd. (ST Aerospace Engineering Building, Seletar West Camp, Seletar Airport, 6481-3756) can fly you to over 200 destinations, and charges $3.6-3.8k for every hour you’re on-board the plane.

Perhaps a secluded private island is more your thing. At Pulau Pangkil ([email protected], www.pangkil.com), you can rent the whole island for a mere $11.8k for a 3D/2N weekend for 30 people. You don’t have to play Robinson Crusoe on this island located just off the coast of Pulau Bintan. This is executive camping at its best, with butlers and maids at your beck and call yet not losing that rustic outback feel. There are nine elegant driftwood bungalows, all just a few paces from the beach. Don’t expect air-conditioned rooms here though. The natural sea breeze and the hypnotic sounds of the waves nearby are enough to lull you to sleep on the four-poster beds.

Amanpulo of the ultra über Aman Resorts (6887-3337, [email protected], www.amanresorts.com), has just the thing for couples looking for a romantic holiday, no holds barred. At US$5,595+++, expect to be indulged for five nights on private Pamalican island, an hour’s flight from Manila. Staying in the Beach Casita, you’ll be indulged with a welcome champagne, three meals a day, a sunset cruise with cocktails and canapés, and a beach BBQ with a massage thrown in. The highlight of this lovers’ trip is the “blessing” on the beach at sunset.

Not ritzy enough for delicate sun-sensitive tai-tais? At Banyan Tree Seychelles (6849-5800, www.banyantree.com), the two-bedroom Presidential Villa, which goes for $7-7.4k per night, offers “the ultimate in luxury, exclusivity and privacy.” The price includes your very own private cove, a free-form infinity pool carved into granite boulders, an outdoor jet pool and shower, a large sun deck, and living pavilion with a kitchen and guest bathroom.

Bhutan is a unique holiday destination to name-drop at your next high society do, especially if you stayed at the Uma Paro (+975-232-6254, [email protected], www.uma.como.bz). At US$13,716 for a Himalayan Explorer seven-night package, you’d have much to brag about. The package includes accommodation with full board, custom designed activities, a COMO Shambhala massage and other administrative costs. Uma Paro is set in the forested hilltop with only 20 rooms and nine villas on the 38-acre estate. And in keeping with the meditative, wellness focus of the property, dishes served are wholesome and nourishing, relying on organic produce grown in the surrounding valleys.

But if don’t plan to travel far, check in at the Presidential Suite at The Fullerton Hotel (1 Fullerton Square, 6877-8077). Priced at $5,880+++ per night, the space comprises a living room, dining room, entertainment area with a Baby Grand piano, kitchen, a magnificent glass enclosed air-conditioned verandah, and round-the-clock butler service.

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Wining and Dining

Every suave dinner party must have wine. But pull out all stops, or in this case corks, and bring out the jaw-dropping $8,000 bottle of Domaine de la Romanee Conti from Burgundy. You can lay your hands on this rare and much sought-after wine at Bacchus Boathouse ( #03-01 The Boathouse, 3 Fullerton Rd., 6538-9038).

Living the high life must include knowing (or at least appreciating) your food and wine. What better way than to join a group of connoisseurs from the Slow Food Convivium Society (www.slowfood.org.sg)? Their monthly gourmet five-hour lunches are a steal at only $120 per person, considering this includes free flow of wine and champagne.

Planning a private party? Let the experts glam it up for you. Sit back and look pretty as Wendy and Adeline from LE (6736-1782, [email protected], www.le.com.sg) conceptualize and execute the itsy bitsy details that go into making your party the talk of the town.

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Face Off

What better way to indulge yourself than a little nip-tuck and a facelift whenever necessary? Famous plastic surgeons Dr. Woffles Wu and Dr. Marco Faria-Correa spill some of their most popular services.

What are the most expensive operations you perform?
$25k for a full face and neck lift, and a facelift for $15k.

What are the most popular procedures?
Double eyelids and eyebag surgery, which cost about $3.5-5k. Botox and fillers are also popular among tai-tais and socialites. I also do about two major liposuctions a week.

Who are your clients?
Celebrities, tai-tais, entrepreneurs, corporate bigwigs and prime ministers.

How often do your regulars see you in a year?
About four to five times.

Why is plastic surgery so important today?
Because it is human nature to want to look good. It’s an age-old desire.

What is your price range like?
The cheapest is $500 for a botox injection, mole removal or scar removal. A nose job costs around $5-6k, and a nose implant about $8k. Extreme makeovers can cost as much as $18-20k.

Who are some of your main clients?
Most of them are quite high status people: Professionals, entrepreneurs, celebrities and rich tai-tais. I not only see locals but also many visitors. They recommend me to their friends by word of mouth.

What are the most popular procedures?
It depends on the age. For instance, liposuction is most frequently requested by men and women from all age groups, while older women prefer breast lifts and implants. The men prefer to work on double eyelids, eye bags and nose jobs because they want to look young. This is especially so with politicians, artistes and celebrities.

Why is plastic surgery so important today?
It makes you feel good. It is a very personal thing: Go for it if you are unhappy. Beauty is a very strong concept here. Tai-tais need to please their husbands. It is also a sign of power.

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The Good Life

High flyers in the industry show us how to live it up.

Michelle Nicholas, Director of beauty and spa boudoir Adriana

“My idea of living it up is to have a massage at least three times a week and a weekly indulgent facial to stay youthful; taking short holidays to nearby destinations at least once in three to four months to unwind; indulging in vintage wines at private tastings and chilling out in a good ambience with music; shopping in Hong Kong, China, Europe, Australia, the US and never getting bored looking for flattering and everlasting fashion cuts and statement pieces from local designers and brands such as Chanel; enjoying the finer gourmet dining in some of my favorite haunts including Sebastiens, The Canteen, Les Amis, Au Jardin, Shiro, Garibaldi’s and Morton’s; and driving in a BMW Z4 3-liter with a six speed manual gearbox, although that hasn’t really happened yet. (Laughs). But my real ticket to indulgence is to fly to Paris, Monte Carlo, Milan, Zermatt—been there, done that, but I will do it over and over again!”

Henne Mercer, managing director of TONI&Guy

“Travel is my ultimate indulgence, and I always have a long list of must-see places that I am planning to try and fit in trips to. However, apart from chilling out with my family on holidays, we treat ourselves to crazy “girls’ weekends” for shopping and pampering in places like Bangkok and Bali. I love discovering local designers in these places and buying fantastic clothes, accessories and jewelry. One of my favorite getaways is Bali, a place and people that is always inspirational, serene and truly beautiful. My recent trip with my husband, David, my daughter, India, and my parents was indulgent in every sense. We stayed in a huge villa set in gardens with a pool in the heart of trendy Seminyak. We ate at amazing restaurants, had divine massages, sunbathed by the pool and explored unknown parts of the Bali countryside.”

Madeleine Ho, marketing director of Hermes

“My greatest indulgence is really clothes and food. I’m into functional art, and what’s more functional than clothes and food, two things that we all need daily. I have given up collecting paintings, sculptures and books as they have become nothing more than clutter to me. I usually do most of my shopping when I’m in Paris for work, twice a year. This is usually at the very tail end of the seasonal markdowns, which also coincides with the beginning of each season, so I get the best of both worlds. As I only have one afternoon to shop, I usually land up at places like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. Favorite buys this year from Singapore and Paris: White Ann Demuelemeester skirt from Printemps, hairy Martin Margiela vest from Club 21, Tina Borg ruched shirt dress from Felt, Victorian lace top from Kenzo and the most gorgeous lambskin laced up platform heels from Hermes. Apart from fashion, I also stock up on beauty products, lingerie and food.”

Melvyn Goh, managing director of Eurosports Auto and Lamborghini car enthusiast

“I love Lamborghini for its extremism and exclusivity. As Lamborghini keeps pushing the boundaries of performance, it is a symbol of ‘nothing is impossible.’ It is also an appropriate symbol of success for its owners. I drive a Model Year 2005 Gallardo Coupe, which features 500 horsepower from a V10 engine. Shortly, I will be upgrading to the Model Year 2006, which has an additional 20 horsepower and even more extreme performance. The model year 2006 Gallardo Coupe is currently available at $798k, excluding COE. In terms of modifications, Lamborghini is a car that you customize in the factory with a wide range of options. Each Lamborghini is custom tailored to the owners’ specifications, down to the color of the stitching in the leather seats. Lamborghini also offers a wide range of accessories, clothing and leatherware for its owners. This ranges from pencils to wallets, document folders, attache cases and luggage sets. Certainly, a Lamborghini is an indulgence. It is also a lifestyle, as it is about declaring who you are and reveling in the extreme nature of a Lamborghini. Lamborghinis are specifically designed as extreme sports cars that one can use daily. To own one is to declare to the world that ‘I have truly arrived.’”

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