Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit

When you think of places to view art, galleries and museums first come to mind. But art isn’t confined to these spaces – it can be found in unexpected places, including restaurants. While you might not run across many Picasso masterpieces here, Thailand is home to many talented artists who are transforming dining venues into stages to showcase their work. Curious about how art and gastronomy come together? Here are five Thai artists who are partnering with restaurants to whet your creative curiosity.

If you’re looking for a venue to celebrate the festive season in Bangkok, look no further than Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok. This five-star hotel brings the holiday spirit to life with ‘Tinseltown Festive 2024’, a seasonal celebration inspired by timeless Christmas silver screen classics. Participating venues within the hotel will showcase their unique festive charms, promising a cinematic holiday experience for every guest. 

Bangkok offers countless ways to spend your free time but occasionally nothing beats kicking back for a bit of couch surfing and a good movie. And when it comes to what to watch, there is a plethora of streaming services to choose from. On November, 19 Thailand bid farewell to HBO Go and welcomed Max, a platform that serves up HBO Originals, iconic films like Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings and hit series such as Friends and Game of Thrones – all in 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos. While Max has created a buzz among film lovers across Thailand, its selection of Thai movies is still quite limited with a few titles available such as Khun Pan 3 and School Tales. Hopefully, more Thai film content and original series will be added in the future. Until then, where can you stream the best of Thai cinema? We’ve got you covered with our list of top streaming services for Thai silver screen entertainment.

Thailand has been hit by summer showers and cloudy skies the past few months, and we can’t help but feel a bit blue. But instead of letting the dreary weather dampen our spirits, we’ve decided to embrace all it offers with the help of some soulful jazz tunes—because we all know nothing soothes and smooths our rain-ruffled feathers better than some sax-inflected soundtracks. We’ve rounded up the best jazz venues in the city, so you’ll know where to go to embrace those rainy day blues.  

From swanky Thonglor nightclubs to rooftop bars in Silom with unmatched views, Time Out Bangkok searched through the city to find the greatest mixologists with their unrivaled cocktail concoctions. Scroll down for the list of our favorite cocktail bars in Bangkok. 

Two hundred artists. More than 100 galleries. And 30 itineraries. Galleries’ Nights returns to Bangkok for its eleventh edition of after-hours art on November 22 and 23. Galleries will stay open late in two parts of the city over two nights: Sathorn, Silom and the Riverside on November 22 and Ari, Pathum Wan and Sukhumvit on November 23. Here’s a guide to making the most of this art-filled extravaganza.

From now until February 25 2025, the Bangkok Art Biennale returns for its fourth edition, showcasing diverse works by 76 local and international artists across 11 venues in Bangkok. This year, the artists shine the light on ‘Nurture Gaia’ which is inspired by the Greek goddess Gaia, who has taken many forms and is celebrated as a mother, nurturer and life-giver. References to Gaia appear across different cultures. In Southeast Asia, for example, she is represented as Phra Mae Thorani, a figure often seen in Buddhist scriptures and temples.  With recent challenges like climate change, pandemics, war and environmental destruction, this event encourages us to reflect on how we've neglected Gaia. It explores the connection between nature and nurture, the complexities of femininity and the values that sustain life. As you step into each venue, you’ll discover paintings, installations and video art that echo the theme of ‘Nurture Gaia’.  Over the course of four months, the festival offers more than just art to admire. Visitors can also enjoy a range of public programs including artist performances, talks, hands-on workshops and guided tours.  We know that it might be an overwhelming experience, as there is so much art to take in. So here is our guide to help you navigate each venue and highlight what you can expect at each of the 11 destinations.

Siam Paragon is already a top spot for luxury shopping and trendy dining, but now it's taken things up a notch with the Siam Paragon World Art Collective. This initiative lets you indulge in shopping while also enjoying art, all in one place – no need to go out of your way to visit a museum to experience culture and creativity. Scattered throughout the five floors of this shopping paradise you’ll discover nine masterpieces by celebrated Thai and international artists. On display is everything from vibrant sculptures to thought-provoking installations, spread across the various retail and dining zones, temporarily transforming Siam Paragon into a premier art destination. Feeling overwhelmed about where to start? No worries! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you dive into this artistic adventure without missing a beat.

Soi Nana was one of Bangkok’s first clusters of shophouses, built back in the early 1900s. After being left unattended for years, this small neighborhood has found a new lease on life as a cocktail bar district, thanks to pioneering spots like Teens of Thailand and Tep Bar, which began making waves in 2015. The initial buzz drew in new players, and a few years later, Soi Nana has transformed into one of Bangkok’s top bar districts, perfect for hopping between some of the city's best drinking spots. Here’s where to start.

From stomach-filling Western classics to quick Thai favourites, here’s our list of places you can fill up for the day.  RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants that opened this year

You’re never too far from some form of luxury in the Thai capital, particularly with the recent opening of One Bangkok, the city’s latest go-to destination for dining, boutique shopping and art. Pair that with Ritz-Carlton’s debut in the sleek 216-metre-high tower and the choice of glamorous accommodation has become even more varied.  Since December 4, the Ritz-Carlton at One Bangkok has been officially welcoming discerning guests to experience the luxury that blends Thai traditions with global influences, offering a timeless yet modern city escape.  Leveraging off a worldwide property portfolio, the new Ritz-Carlton occupies 24 floors. Overlooking Lumpini Park, it’s a serene retreat in the heart of the city and yet remains thoroughly connected to myriad sites and attractions.  The hotel shines the spotlight on the capital’s rich cultural heritage but showcases contemporary elegance at the same time. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by an expansive hall that serves as an invitation to a journey into design innovation. Elements inspired by Thai history are evident throughout, such as a grand archway in the reception space that takes inspiration from one of the royal cottages at Dusit Palace. Check-in happens on the eighth floor, where you’ll find a lobby set around a pond and glass lotus flower sculptures by Thai artist Nathakorn Kanitvaranun. At sunset, the scene takes on a magical hue as the golden hour casts a warm glow throughout the space.  The hotel boasts 260 rooms, som

If you find yourself in Bangkok's old town and thirsty for a beer, skip the busy bars of Khao San Road and head to Apron Bar on Samsen Road instead. This pour-your-own craft beer bar lets you enjoy self-serve draft beers in an analogue photography setting that offers an artistic glimpse into the city’s soul. Born out of a love for beer and photography, Champ Wanithanont has opened Apron Bar to showcase the beers from Underdog Micro Brewery. Named after his late grandmother, Apon, the name twists the meaning and connects her history to the story of his craft beer journey. Given his interest in photography, it’s also a spot ideal for those who still like things analogue, sharing space with Sweet Film Bar – a photo lab for traditional photography.  The photo lab offers a range of services from printing to scanning, enlarging and editing, while the craft beers keep visitors well-hydrated and happy while the processes happen behind closed doors. For those eager to see the film lab, you can join their workshop or photo walk. Check Sweet Film Bar’s social media for updates.  The bar itself spans both the first and second floors, decorated with analogue film, photos and camera equipment. There are around 18 local and international craft beers on tap, including IPA, ale and lager.  What makes this place special is the pour-your-own concept, allowing patrons to pour their own beers at will – but be careful, it’s not a buffet so watch out how much you get charged. Like any good bar, Apr

Even without the winter vibe, Bangkok still knows how to get into the festive spirit. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand have teamed up to light up the city with Vijit Chao Phraya 2024, featuring fireworks, projection mapping, laser shows and performances along the Chao Phraya River from now until December 15.   Several riverfront landmarks, such as Rama VIII Bridge, Wat Arun and the Royal Thai Navy Auditorium will shine throughout the festival. Exploring these locations on foot is free, but if you’d prefer to take it all in at once, you can book any cruise of your liking and enjoy the sights along the river. Among the venues, Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, presents ‘Arun Rung Su Ratree’ which means ‘from dawn till dusk’. This five-minute lasered show features lights projected onto the temple’s renowned 70-meter-tall pagoda along with majestic music that blends traditional Thai melodies with powerful orchestral arrangements. As the show goes on, a group of drones fly up next to the chedi arranging themselves into various formations that represent the country’s mythology and heritage such as the Naga (a divine serpent), the Royal Barge Suphannahong (a ceremonial swan-shaped royal barge) and Yak (a giant guardian). The Memorial Bridge showcases the performance theme ‘Mahatsajan Saeng Haeng Fan’, which translates to 'The Wonderful Light of Dreams’. As anticipated, the bridge will be illuminated by vibrant laser performances. Wha

If you’re looking for Thai silk products, Jim Thompson is perhaps the first name that comes to mind. In addition to silk, the brand has now boldly expanded its venture into wider lifestyle spaces with its new concept store at the capital’s latest landmark destination, One Bangkok. Featuring a stylish, contemporary design, this boutique offers more than just textiles as it brings together retail, dining and cultural heritage.  Situated in the Storeys, One Bangkok’s luxury brand retail area, Jim Thompson Lifestyle Store comes with a duplex design covering over 550 square metres. As you step inside, you’ll notice how the brand’s heritage craftsmanship merges with modern design, with silk-yarn-textured walls and Jim Thompson Home furnishings adding to the space’s aesthetic. The first level is dedicated to retail fashion. It is a treasure trove of silk products where you can find everything that illustrates the brand's expertise in silk, including scarves, handbags, clothing and homeware. On the second floor, the lifestyle concept takes centre stage with Jim’s Terrace restaurant, serving contemporary Thai dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Here, visitors can also enjoy sweeping views of One Bangkok’s lush grounds and The Wireless House, a new exhibition space that brings Thailand’s first telegraph station, established in 1914, back to life. This new project also houses The Silk Exhibition, which will take visitors through the brand’s history, exploring its origins and d

Bangkok’s food and drink scene has just heated up with the opening of EA Rooftop at The Empire, unveiling its top six floors dedicated to a dynamic collection of fine dining restaurants, cafes, and bars. A standout name among them is Le Du Kaan, the city’s first Thai rooftop restaurant, elevating the bold flavours of Thai cuisine to new heights. Perched on the 56th floor, Michelin-starred Chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn, known for his award-winning restaurant Le Du, which has earned one Michelin star for five consecutive years since 2019 and ranked twelfth on this year’s Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, introduced his spin-off venture – Le Du Kaan. Here, he serves an a la carte menu featuring his signature Thai flavours, all set against stunning panoramic views. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by an interior that delights the senses, artfully blending modern design with traditional Thai elements. From the thoughtfully chosen furniture to the intricate patterns adorning the floor tiles, every detail reflects Thailand’s rich heritage. Golden and wooden accents echo the country’s ‘Golden Land’ identity, while artwork inspired by the curves of the Chao Phraya River adds an extra layer of charm to your dining experience. As the name suggests, Le Du Kaan draws inspiration from the Thai word for ‘season’ and each dish showcases fine local ingredients sourced directly from farms and fishing communities across Thailand’s four regions.  Start your meal with an appetiser like somtum

Join Bellamy Hunt, the founder of Japan Camera Hunter, for a film photowalk where he will guide participants through the historic areas of Samsen and Banglamphu. Film photography enthusiasts may be familiar with this service. As the name suggests, it is known for sourcing rare and vintage film cameras and selling limited-edition film. This time participants will spend two hours exploring the area alongside Bellamy Hunt, Sweet Film Bar and BKK Collective. But the excitement doesn't stop there. After the walk, there will be a film photography meet-up at the Apron Bar, where you can enjoy B100 credits towards craft beer. There will also be an opportunity to purchase Japan Camera Hunter merchandise and a chance to win a signed copy of Japan Camera Hunter's unreleased book, Film Camera Zen. So bring your favourite camera and get ready for an unforgettable photowalk. Oct 5. B650. Apron Bar, 4pm onwards 

This is the first puppet festival to take place in Bangkok, hosted by Puppet Siam, a collective of enthusiasts dedicated to the art of puppetry. The festival brings together artists from various puppetry disciplines such as hand puppet, shadow play, marionette, object theatre and mask theatre. Featured performers include Jae, Ta Lent Show, Act It House and For WhaT Theatre, with each artist presenting a short performance lasting between three to eight minutes. For fans of puppetry or those simply looking for a weekend activity, check out this exciting puppet festival. Oct 19-20. Early bird B900 for 2 rounds before Oct 6 and regular tickets B550 per round and B1,000 for 2 rounds via here. River City Bangkok, 2pm,7pm

After serving breakfast and coffee on the nineteenth floor of Sathorn Nakorn Tower, Rico's has extended its branch to Soi Sukhumvit 26. Whether you love to enjoy a morning meal with a cityview of Sathorn or simply sip warm coffee inside a repurposed house in Sukhumvit, starting your day with Rico’s is an easy choice. Broaden your horizons with a glass of sunrise at Rico’s (B160) which blends a shot of coffee into a fresh lemonade, or the coffee breakfast shake (B160), a smooth latte hand crafted by Rico's top-notch baristas. When it comes to food, try the duck and waffles (B490) or tiger prawn toast (B220). 

If you're in Thonburi and looking for a spot to brighten up your morning, check out Praline Dining Room. Even though it mainly serves all-day dining, you shouldn’t miss their breakfast menu from 8am-4pm. This place was born from the two sisters who trained as chefs in London and Paris, inspiring a menu of European delight. Go for chubby boy breakfast (thick-cut maple glazed smoked bacon, scramble, house-made croffle, B330) or big mama breakfast (roasted pork sausage, bacon, sauteed mushroom, milk toast, butter and homemade jam, B395). And although breakfast doesn’t technically need dessert, their fluffy buttermilk pancakes (B210) or homemade brioche French toast (B230) are too sweet to decline.

The winners of this year’s annual portraiture competition have been revealed, and if you want to know who took home the grand prize of B500,000, this exhibition is a must-see. On display are My Gril My Gang by artist Nuttawut Kaiwansin, winner of the Portrait Prize chosen by the jury panel, My Wife by artist Veeravoot Phumdong, winner of the Packing Room Prize judged by the River City exhibition team and Waiting For This Moment For So Long by artist Rattasil Somoppahad, winner of the Youth Prize for artists under 16. Alongside these winning paintings the display also showcases 72 finalist artworks. As you explore the exhibition, take your time to examine each piece closely and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Prize. It is a prize awarded to the painting that receives the most votes, with the winner announced on November 4. Until Nov 3. Free. River City Bangkok, 10am-8pm

Whether you're an art enthusiast or just want to admire the creative talents of Thai artists, you can visit the 12th Asia Plus Art Exhibition. This annual event showcases the works of participants in the Asia Plus Art Contest, organised by Asia Plus Group Holdings. Now in its fourth year, the exhibition features artwork under the theme Mental Imagery, where artists from all over Thailand were invited to explore the freedom of the mind through two-dimensional art. Visitors to the exhibition will encounter a variety of pieces that express a range of emotions, from positive to negative, as well as personal life experiences. It's a great opportunity to support local talent and appreciate the diversity of artistic expression. Oct 22 - Nov3. Free. Bangkok Art And Cultural Center, 10am-8pm

If you love comics, this festival is for you. Now in its third year, online art magazine BKK Unzine continues to showcase a wide variety of comic art genres and shine a light on local creators and emerging talent. The festival will feature a two-week exhibition from October 1-13, followed by a two-day convention on October 12-13. The meeting will include events and activities such as an interview panel with manga artist Atsushi Kaneko, known for his manga Bambi, Soil, Evol and a Make a Diary Comic Zine workshop where participants will learn how to make a zine with Singaporean comic artist Juliette Yu Ming Lizeray. Oct 1-13. Free. Bangkok Art And Cultural Center, 10am-6pm

Feeling overwhelmed by endless New Year’s Eve options? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Time Out Bangkok is taking the stress out of planning your big night by partnering with Raynue and Gaysorn Urban Resort to host not one, but two, NYE parties in the centre of the action. From a carnival feast to disco dancing, prepare to kick 2024 to the curb and toast 2025 before a Time Out backdrop. Raynue at Gaysorn Amarin is ringing in the new year with The Great Supper Club, an evening filled with music, dining experience and immersive art. Known for its interior design inspired by the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon, this venue offers an electrifying musical journey led by a lineup of Bangkok’s finest DJs, including Sakina, Pat Thai and Alex Edels, who will spin urban jams, house grooves and Afro vibes.  The highlight of the evening is an extravagant carnival feast, featuring performers in glittering costumes and dishes from some of Gaysorn Amarin’s renowned restaurants, including Fatboy Izakaya, Sugar Daddy and Kai by Nippon Tei. Check out tickets here.  To top it off, Time Out Bangkok presents a pop-up booth where you can enjoy special cocktails created exclusively for this evening by bartenders. Curious about who will be shaking up the cocktails? Stay tuned – revelations are coming soon. If you prefer to dance the night away, Gaysorn Urban Resort has partnered with Disco Diaries, the organiser behind renowned parties like Kolour in the Park, to host a house and disco-themed

After a much-welcomed major restoration Erawan Bangkok, adjoining the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel and the famous Erawan Shrine, has re-opened as a vibrant dining and wellness lifestyle experience. A mixture of new and previous tenants, mostly upscale restaurants and wellness outlets, are housed in the sparkling white interiors of the iconic Thai-designed facade. The Erawan Tea Room is back with its classic take on Thai cuisine and afternoon teas, as is Nara Thai Cuisine with their much-loved interpretation of Thai favourites. New eateries such as Jharokha by Indus and Chisana Nami, serve contemporary Indian and Japanese dishes respectively. Coffee lovers are also well-catered for as they can sip Turkish slow-bar coffee at Shaloba or a traditional espresso at illy Caffe.  Erawan Bangkok’s wellness tenants occupy the health-centric third and fourth floors. Soma Health Clinic and PAPILLA by KIM LIM tailor their services to your personal needs for truly revitalising experiences. The cultural offerings of Scene Erawan – an art gallery and screening space on the first floor – combine Thai heritage with modern aesthetics, complementing the mall’s fresh-yet-Thai-colonial design and eco-conscious ethos.

Thailand’s status as a tourism hotspot remains firmly intact. In fact, it’s just been named Travel + Leisure's 2025 Destination of the Year. For the tenth year running, the New York-based magazine has released its list of must-visit destinations for the coming year. Past winners include Japan, Costa Rica and Italy and this time, all eyes are on Thailand. The kingdom’s blend of creativity in art, food and hospitality earned it top marks from Travel + Leisure, with Southeast Asia’s Editor-in-Chief Jeninne Lee-St. John praising the country’s dynamic scene. Thailand’s ability to balance tradition and modernity is also highlighted – same-sex marriage and cannabis legalisation sit alongside the country’s deeply rooted Buddhist practices, offering a compelling fusion of old and new. This recognition is a nod to the country’s famed hospitality, which is no stranger to accolades, as proven by Capella Bangkok's recent title as the world’s best hotel. Chompu Marusachot, Director of the TAT New York Office, summed it up: “We're thrilled to see Thailand's rich cultural heritage, commitment to sustainability, dynamic culinary scene, and exceptional wellness offerings acknowledged by Travel + Leisure. This recognition reinforces Thailand's timeless charm and renowned hospitality that resonates with visitors worldwide.” And if you need further justification for Thailand’s number one spot then, Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui have been chosen as filming locations for the much-anticipated third

Breakfast is having its moment in the fashion world, thanks to a collaboration no one saw coming. Yes, cereal and style have joined forces and St. James, a Thai brand known for its blend of modern design and cultural flair, has taken a leap into breakfast-inspired fashion. Teaming up with Kellogg’s, the label has cooked up a playful collection of bags that channel the spirit of classic cereal boxes with a stylish twist. St. James has been a staple in Thai fashion for 40 years, celebrated for its sharp yet culturally rooted designs. But with this new venture, it’s made a serious style statement, transforming iconic Kellogg’s branding into eye-catching accessories. The collection includes bags inspired by some of Kellogg’s most recognisable hits, from the vibrant rings of Froot Loops to the unmistakable yellow-and-red cornflakes box. Each bag turns something familiar – our daily bowl of cereal – into a whimsical piece of wearable art. Some of the collection's highlights include the Sunny Milk shoulder bag (THB 2,390), a rainbow-hued tribute to sugary breakfast treats; the Buttermilk handbag (THB 1,690), featuring the Kellogg’s logo in a classic, nostalgic design; and the Corn Flakes Small Box bag (THB 1,390), which riffs on the classic cornflake box, complete with vintage vibes and a dash of kitsch. And they’re not stopping at the shelves. St. James has partnered with Gourmet at Siam Paragon to host a pop-up event, the ‘Giant Bag Pop-Up’, along with smaller stores at The Mall,

Just two weeks ago, the World’s 50 Best Bars revealed its extended 50-100 list, showcasing two Bangkok bars – Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar and Vesper – that earned their spots thanks to votes from 700 independent drinks experts around the globe. Since then, all eyes have been on the big reveal. On October 22, the final list of this year’s top bars was announced, with two Bangkok venues making it into the elite ranks. This year’s awards ceremony took place in Madrid, Spain, celebrating the best bars of the year and shining a spotlight on their exceptional mixology, outstanding hospitality and creative menu offerings. Leading the charge for Bangkok is BKK Social Club, which proudly secured twelfth place this year, a step up from last year’s thirteenth. Situated in the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, this bar is no stranger to accolades, having previously clinched the No. 7 spot on Asia's 50 Best Bars earlier this year. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant parallels between Buenos Aires and Bangkok – where excellent drinks, lively gatherings and unforgettable nights thrive – BKK Social Club is helmed by Berlin native and industry veteran Philip Bischoff. The drinks menu is a spirited homage to Argentinian culture, showcasing inventive creations such as the Hands of God, inspired by the legendary Argentine footballer Diego Maradona. Photograph: BKK Social ClubHands of God   As the highest-ranked bar in Bangkok, Philip Bischoff shared his thoughts with Time Out Bangkok: “Honest

Thai fans who grew up in the 90s and early 2000s are in for a treat! Pop duo M2M is reuniting for ‘The Better Endings Tour’ next year after a 22-year hiatus, with Bangkok as one of the exciting stops. Hailing from Norway, M2M members Marit Larsen and Marion Ravn first burst onto the music scene in 1999. They captured hearts with hits like ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’, ‘Pretty Boy’ and ‘The Day You Went Away’. Despite their early success, the duo parted ways in 2002 to pursue solo careers, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their return. And now, the wait is over! On October 17, the Y2K pop stars sent waves of excitement across Southeast Asia with a social media post that shared a reel highlighting a map of Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania. Three countries – Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines – lit up, hinting at their inclusion on the tour. Their caption read: ‘See you in three months and a hundred days (we’ve missed you in a thousand ways)!’ Before announcing the tour, the members surprised fans with a reunion clip on September 22, performing an acoustic cover of their popular single ‘The Day You Went Away’. While details on the concert date and location are still under wraps, fans can stay in the loop through their website. This year alone has seen reunions from major bands like British rock legends Oasis and American icons Linkin Park, proving that even as new artists emerge, classic songs remain timeless and loyal fans will always support them.

Mark your calendars for the biennial international art exhibition which brings together artworks of international and local artists to various venues across Bangkok as it returns for the fourth time from October 24 2024 – February 25 2025.  This year, the Bangkok Art Biennale presents the theme Nurture Gaia which is inspired by the Greek goddess Gaia, who brings life and nourishment. In light of recent challenges such as climate change, pandemics, war and environmental destruction, the event shines a light on humanity’s disregard for the goddess. It explores the relationship between nature and nurture, the complexities of femininity and feminine values and offers a contemplative engagement with ecopolitics, animism and the supernatural. The exhibition curated by Professor Dr. Apinan Poshyananda will be spread across 11 venues in Bangkok, ranging from temples, museums, galleries and retail spaces. Notable locations include Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Wat Prayoon, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, Central World, Museum Siam and the National Gallery of Thailand. Featured are 76 artists from Thailand and abroad. Amongst the Thai artists are Prasong Luemuang who explores the human body and emotions through his meditative practice and Sophirat Muangkum who draws inspiration from personal stories, nature and subcultures. Art lovers can look forward to international works by artists like Louise Bourgeois, a French artist known for her large-scale sculptures and installations and George Bolster,

It’s no secret that Bangkok’s vibrant bar scene consistently secures its place among the world’s finest. Last year, BKK Social Club was crowned Best Bar in Asia at the World’s 50 Best Bars awards. With the anticipation building for this year's rankings, you might wonder which Bangkok venue will make the cut. As the countdown to the World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 announcement in Madrid on October 22 continues, the organisation has revealed its extended 51-100 list – and two Bangkok bars have earned a spot. The World’s 50 Best Bars is a major accolade in the drinking industry, representing the pinnacle of cocktail culture. The rankings are determined by a panel of over 700 independent drinks experts, including renowned bartenders, educators, award-winning drinks writers and cocktail specialists. Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar, famous for its Thai-inspired cocktails, previously held an impressive 19th position but has now dropped to 57th. Owners Ronnaporn ‘Neung’ Kanivichaporn and Chennarong ‘Jan’ Bhumichitr have crafted a menu that focuses on ‘resourceful cocktails,’ utilising every part of selected ingredients to maximise flavour. Meanwhile, Vesper, a swanky cocktail bar in Sala Daeng that mixes European elegance with a splash of modern flair, has dropped from 55th to 85th place. Under the guidance of British bar manager Tom Hearn, Vesper’s been shaking things up with its People of Vesper menu, serving up creative sips like the Miami Vice Vesper and the Turmeric Old Fashioned. ​​Despite th

Mixing whisky with art might seem like a drunken idea, but it’s a concept that’s gaining momentum in the luxury world. From Perrier’s partnership with Andy Warhol to Supreme’s collaboration with Damien Hirst, and even Dom Perignon’s work with Jeff Koons, brands are increasingly turning to artists to elevate their products. Art is no longer limited to galleries and museums – it’s finding its way into everyday life, making luxury products more accessible and visually exciting. A fresh example of this crossover is the creative collaboration between Glenfiddich and Swedish-French graffiti artist Andre Saraiva. The iconic Scotch whisky brand launched its latest limited-edition release, the Glenfiddich Grand Chateau, which forms part of the exclusive Grand Series. This 31-year-old whisky stands out not only for its impressive age but also for being the first Glenfiddich expression matured in Bordeaux wine casks, blending the rich heritage of Scotch whisky with the elegance of French wine. But it’s not just the whisky that’s turning heads – the packaging is a work of art. Saraiva, known for his vibrant graffiti style, brings a fresh, playful energy to the product’s design. He reinterprets the classic Toile de Jouy pattern – typically featuring pastoral scenes – by incorporating motifs from both Scotland’s Speyside whisky region and Bordeaux, creating something visually striking yet rooted in heritage. Mr. A, the cheeky, grinning character who has appeared on walls from Paris to New

Since opening for entries in March, art lovers have been buzzing with excitement over who would take home the prizes in Thailand’s national portraiture competition. And the wait is finally over! Now in its fourth year, with more than 237 entries, the three winners for 2024 in the Portrait Prize, Packing Room Prize and Youth Prize categories have been unveiled. This live portrait painting competition offers an opportunity for both amateur and professional artists to showcase their talents to the public by expressing their unique style of portraiture using a variety of techniques. Artists are free to choose any individuals to be their subjects as long as that person sits for them at least once.  In a ceremony which took place at River City Bangkok on September 26, the painting My Girl My Gang by artist Nuttawut Kaiwansin was awarded the Portrait Prize and a cash prize of B500,000. Nuttawut took home the grand prize for a portrait of his girlfriend, which the jury noted reflects the many new and future generations in Thailand today. The Youth Prize, awarded to a young artist under 16, was given to Rattasil Somoppahad for his painting Waiting For This Moment For So Long. The work depicts two girls who are the artist's friends and he feels grateful to have them in his life. The young artist received a cash prize of B100,000. Both winners were selected by a panel of judges including Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of Italthai group, Naphalai Areesorn, editorial consultant Koktail and

When there is a report on the most visited countries, Thailand almost always makes it to the top of the leaderboard. Bangkok was even crowned the most visited city in the world in 2023, according to a report by Mastercard. But most visited doesn't always mean best. And when it comes to ranking the best countries in the world overall, Thailand has made it to twenty-eighth place.  The annual ranking of countries by US News & World Report and the Wharton School is out, and Thailand has achieved an overall score of 57.1, moving up one place from twenty-ninth in 2023.  While this improvement secures our position as number two in ASEAN, following Singapore (No.14), it still places the country below other Asian countries like Japan (No.2), China (No.16), and South Korea (No.18). The ranking is based on 73 attributes collected from nearly 17,000 people in 36 countries around the world. The ten broad categories of the report include cultural influence, quality of life, heritage and adventure. Unsurprisingly, Thailand scored best in the Adventure and Mover categories, positioning us fifth and sixth in the world respectively. The Mover category ranks countries based on their perceived ability to grow and adapt to change, including aspects such as economic shifts, global trends and new opportunities, showing off our potential for future growth. However, the country faces challenges in the Social Purpose category where it ranks forty-fifth. This category measures a country's commitment to

Ever since the announcement that Rolling Loud Thailand will be back this November, party lovers have been eagerly awaiting who else will join confirmed headliners A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti this year.  Now, just two months out, the full line-up has now been released, with big names, local and international legends all scheduled to make an appearance.  Saturday’s headline act, Lil Wayne, is the biggest surprise for hip-hop fans. Known for his accumulation of American Music Awards, Billboard Awards and Grammys, Lil Wayne is regarded as one of the most influential hip-hop artists of his generation. His hits include 'Lollipop', 'A Milli' and 'Hustler Musik'.  Other artists confirmed for Saturday include Wiz Khalifa, French Montana, Denzel Curry, and Rich the Kid.  A$AP Rocky is scheduled as Friday’s headline act, supported by artists like Tyga, Quavo, Tyla and Akon, while Playboi Carti leads the last hurrah, headlining the Sunday spot following performances by Gunna, Nav, Ken Carlson and Destroy Lonely. Although this year's music festival has moved from Thailand's scorching April summer slot to the comfort of winter climes on Nov 22-24, the festival will be no less hot, bringing some of the biggest names in hip-hop to the Asian continent for the second time. As well as internationally famous artists, the event also shines a light on Asian and Thai performers, including Jay Park, BamBam, CL, Milli and Dreamgals, Two Pee Southside and Thaitanium. Tickets for Rolling Loud Thailand