Marisa Marchitelli

Bangkok settles into December with a mood that’s both festive and unhurried, the kind of atmosphere that invites long dinners, slow drinks and nights that stretch past closing time. The city’s food scene mirrors that rhythm this week with new menus, flame-driven kitchens, late night bars and a standout collaboration built around dry aged fish and rice. It is a mix of polish, punch and after-dark personality. At Langsuan, Ms.Jigger reopens its kitchen with a refreshed Italian menu from Chef Danilo Aiassa, all handmade pastas, seasonal secondi and zero-waste finesse. Thonglor heats up with STOKE, where wood fire and smoke lead the flavour conversation across sharing plates and late-night dining. Penthouse Cocktail Bar launches a new illustrated cocktail menu by Fabio Brugnolaro with live Latin jazz from Alba Santos, while Ruay Mitr introduces Khao Mun Pla Dee, a collaboration with Pla Dee Preeda built around dry aged Ang Gui fish and stone-pot richness. For something looser and louder, Chinatown Yacht Club deals cocktails, rooftop haze and New York hotdogs, late into the night. Here’s what’s cooking in Bangkok this week:

If you really want to experience local life at its most authentic when exploring a new city, the best thing you can do is take to the streets. And no, not that one major thoroughfare with the samey high street megastores and generic coffee shops. We’re talking about the neighbourhood backstreets and lively avenues that locals love; the places packed with independent shops and creative people, where a brand-new hi-fi listening bar will share the space with an old-school grocer or a centuries-old pub.  This year, to create our annual ranking of the world’s coolest streets, we asked our global network of local editors and experts to nominate the street that epitomises the very best of their city. Time Out’s global travel team then narrowed down the list and ranked each street against criteria including food, drink, culture, fun and community spirit.  From Saturday samba sessions in Rio de Janeiro to a shapeshifting shopping street in Osaka, every avenue, alleyway and side street on this year’s ranking is unique to its hometown. Walking their length is like taking a stroll through the city in miniature, getting a taste of what makes life there brilliant – from food and culture to shopping and nightlife.  Did your favourite street make the list? Read on to find out. RECOMMENDED: 🏘️ The world’s coolest neighbourhoods in 2025🌆 The world’s best cities in 2025 Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for the latest travel news and the best stuff happening a

Chiang Mai, the cultural and spiritual capital of Northern Thailand, has long drawn seekers in search of balance – a city where ancient temples meet slow mornings and mindfulness feels like a way of life.  It's no surprise then that yoga studios reflect that same grounded yet creative energy – offering places to move, breathe and reset amid the city’s evolving wellness scene. But beyond a good stretch, these spaces go deeper. Many double as hubs for growth and connection, hosting workshops, sound baths and internationally recognised teacher training. Some offer aerial and hoop yoga, others focus on traditional lineages or creative fusions – together representing the full spectrum of Chiang Mai’s mindful movement culture.  This list brings together longstanding favourites and exciting newcomers shaping the next wave of yoga in the city. From polished loft studios to lovingly restored teak houses, here’s where to find your flow – and maybe your next step – in Thailand’s most soulful city.

Bangkok’s bread scene has come a long way. Once content with soft white slices and convenience-store toasties, the city now kneads, ferments and bakes like never before. A new generation of bakers is obsessing over hydration ratios, natural starters and long fermentations, while chefs are curing their own meats, whipping house-made butters and layering locally sourced pickles, jams and sauces. The result? Sandwiches with substance – where every bite tells a story of craft, patience and a little culinary ego. From the smokey pastrami on rye at Larder to Bartel’s cult sourdough melts, from Sarnies’ heritage-style sandwiches to the butter-dripping creations at Beyond Bread, Bangkok has quietly become a city of sandwich artists. These aren’t afterthoughts on a brunch menu anymore – they’re the main event. Whether you like them simple, stacked, or smothered, these are the spots raising the bar, one perfectly stacked sandwich at a time.

Looking 10 years ahead, Phuket could be Asia’s Monaco or St Tropez – a hub of yachting and sophisticated lifestyle, but with its own cultural heartbeat. Marina promenades could one day host art fairs, culinary festivals and regattas that attract a new wave of high-value travellers. If the island has long been known for its beaches, its next chapter could be written by the sea. This future is being mapped on Phuket’s east coast, where one of Thailand’s last deep-water marina sites has just been made available. The 138,000-square-metre property on Sapam Bay has the potential to host up to 200 yacht berths, including mega-yachts, alongside a mixed-use village of residences, retail and leisure facilities. It’s the kind of project that could shift the island’s economic horizon and strengthen Thailand’s ambition to become the ‘Boating Capital of Asia’.

Northern Thailand’s drinks scene is in full bloom. Head to Chiang Mai and you can sip locally-made rice and sugarcane spirits, farm-to-bottle gins, rhums (made with sugarcane juice) and even sparkling mead. Head into the mountains for hop-driven IPAs poured straight from the tanks.  But consumption aside, there’s a craftsmanship here that’s worth discovering, and thankfully Chiang Mai’s best distilleries and breweries are now opening their doors so you can take a peek and a sip inside.  Tour copper stills and fermentation tanks. Taste experimental sour beers with burgers in a mountain taproom. Climb into a hidden tasting room overlooking Chiang Dao’s wildlife sanctuary. Or simply sit down in a bar, order a highball and sip on spirits made just a few kilometers away. Each stop on this list offers a window into Thailand’s forever evolving drinking culture – and with the country’s recent decision to scrap the afternoon alcohol ban (almost, at least), you can raise a glass whenever the mood strikes.

In Thailand, if the kitchen is the heart of the home, the street is its theatre. We all know the scene: sparking woks, clouds of fragrant smoke, and vendors cooking in plain sight. But now, a new wave of restaurants in the country’s north is taking that raw, theatrical spirit and channelling it into fine dining. And if the street stall is the theatre, these new spots are the opera houses – sleek, intimate stages where the open kitchen is the main event. What ties them together is a devotion to fire, fermentation and fiercely local ingredients. Forget imported luxuries; Chiang Mai’s top chefs are championing foraged herbs, freshwater fish and indigenous grains, using modern techniques that are still deeply respectful of their heritage. The result is inventive, grounded and completely thrilling. Ready for a front-row seat? Here are the essential restaurants in Chiang Mai – and beyond – leading the culinary charge.

Thai kitchens don’t whisper, they roar: garlic sizzles, chilies pound, woks clang. And always in the background, jasmine rice steams quietly in the corner, filling the air with a soft, pandan-like perfume. For Thais, that fragrance means home. For me, that scent is steeped in nostalgia. As a child, when my head barely reached the countertop, I would watch my mother lift the lid of the rice pot, a cloud of steam rising to veil her face. Later, when the rice cooker gave its telltale ‘pop,’ my role was clear: to fluff the rice quickly, separating each grain before closing the pot again to trap its warmth and perfume. Even now, that small but important duty remains mine. That daily ritual revolves around what the world knows as jasmine rice. But its true name and official designation is Khao Hom Mali, Thailand’s most celebrated grain. First discovered in the Northeast in 1945, it is protected under Thailand’s Geographical Indication (GI) certification and can only be grown in Thai soil. The most prized fields lie in the Thung Kula Ronghai basin of Isan, where once-barren saline plains have, over generations, been transformed into fertile paddies. Here, the extremes of hot days, cool nights, and mineral-rich soil coax out the rice’s signature qualities: a floral aroma, delicate sweetness, and a soft, fluffy texture when cooked. Harvested just once a year in late autumn, these grains are recognized globally as the finest fragrant rice in the world. Photograph: TAT More than just

Forget the fuss over Michelin stars – khai jiao, the Thai omelette, has always been the people’s champion. Crispy, fluffy, sometimes stuffed with crab, sometimes nothing more than eggs and oil. It’s the dish that works at any hour of the day.  When Jay Fai’s Michelin-starred crab omelette made headlines for costing more than most people’s weekly shop, it sparked a nationwide debate: how much should an omelette really cost? The truth is, khai jiao has always been gloriously democratic. It can be a crisp-edged street snack, a lush crab-laden treat or even dressed up with herbs, flowers or tea leaves. Technique makes all the difference – timing, heat control and respect for ingredients – transforming something so simple into something unforgettable. And while the high-priced versions grab headlines, some of the most satisfying omelettes are still found at humble prices. From minced pork comfort-food classics to inventive riffs with unexpected toppings, forget Bangkok and try out our list of the top omelettes in Chiang Mai instead, ranging from B100 classics to near-thousand baht masterpieces. 

Chiang Mai may be laid-back by day, but after dark the city reveals a more mysterious side. Tucked behind unmarked doors, winding alleys and quiet staircases are some of the city’s most intriguing watering holes – places where the cocktails are serious, the lights are low and finding the entrance will require a bit of detective work. From speakeasy-style lounges with live jazz to minimalist hideaways in heritage buildings, these hidden bars are where Chiang Mai’s creative energy and nightlife scene quietly thrive. You won’t find big signs or flashing lights – these spots may appear on Google Maps, but good luck finding your way in. If you don’t know the secret, you could be pushing bookshelves or following mysterious red lanterns like moths to a flame. We’ll give you a hint, but it’s the whisper of music down an otherwise empty alley that will be your beacon call.  Once you eventually find your way inside, cocktails laden with the best liquor available to man are to be found – from rare international reserves to our favourite locally distilled spirit, Sonklin, from Choeng Doi Distillery just up the road. With a bit of planning (and some comfortable shoes), it’s entirely possible to turn these tucked-away gems into a weekend-long bar crawl – or even squeeze into one night if you’re feeling brave. Instead, we’d opt for a relaxed weekend of shaken drinks, sultry jazz and mysterious discoveries made by candlelight.

High in the hills of northern Thailand, a quiet, yet unexpected cheese renaissance is taking shape. With a growing interest in cheese, mostly imported from Europe, a new generation of Thai and expat artisans are trying their hand at crafting wheels, wedges and washed rinds right here in Chiang Mai – with results that rival their European counterparts.  Using raw local milk, time-honored techniques and a fearless sense of experimentation, a surprising number of cheesemakers are popping up across the north. Leading the way is Jartisann, a micro-creamery where each cheese is composed with instinct, artistry and a sense of place. While their creativity stands out, makers like DoFann, Dacheeso and Adirak are also redefining the possibilities for Thai cheese – sometimes rustic, sometimes refined, always rooted in place. The revolution may be small, but it’s bold, local and ready to be tasted!

If there’s a single dish that is the icon of Northern Thai cuisine, it’s khao soi – a fragrant, curry-laden bowl of rich coconut broth, silky egg noodles and finished with crispy golden strands of those very same noodles deep fried on top.  Yet, for all its deep ties to Chiang Mai, khao soi is something of an outlier in Lanna cuisine. Unlike most northern Thai dishes, which lean toward herbaceous, smokey and coconut-free flavours, khao soi bursts with over thirty bold spices, creamy stewed meats and curiously Chinese-Muslim and Indian influences. So how did this peculiar dish become the unofficial ambassador of northern Thai fare? Well, it is said to have arrived in Thailand via Yunnanese and Muslim traders on the Silk Road way back in the 13th century. And while Chiang Mai remains the heartland of khao soi, Bangkok has been steadily catching up, with top-tier Chiang Mai transplants popping up across the capital as the love for this food cascades over the country (with one of our featured listings recently winning big at Grab’s 2025 Thumbs Up Award). Here’s a roundup of the ten best places to eat khao soi – from legendary roadside stalls to modern interpretations in both Chiang Mai and the capital. And, for a bit of good measure, we’ve also thrown in a few expert-approved cooking schools where you can master the dish yourself. Let the slurping begin!

Chinatown Yacht Club merges New-York grit with Yaowarat charm in a three-floor restored shophouse on Soi Nana, where dim lighting, red lanterns, mirrored walls and bold street-art murals set a sultry tone. The front door glows under Chinese lanterns, the first floor pulses with dive-bar energy and the second hides intimate corners painted by New-York street artist Harif Guzman. Upstairs, the rooftop unfolds as an urban jungle – green foliage, soft lights and city views create a secluded escape above the street bustle. This week the bar offers buy-two-get-one free cocktails until 8pm plus B99 New-York hotdogs all night. Expect great cocktails, easy vibes, a creative playlist and an atmosphere where neon, shadow and good drinks do the talking.Cocktails from B290. Hotdogs B99. Chinatown Yacht Club, Wed-Sat 6pm-1am.

Ruay Mitr unveils Khao Mun Pla Dee, a new dish created in collaboration with Pla Dee Preeda and built around dry aged Ang Gui fish known for its firm texture and clean natural aroma. Served sizzling in a stone pot alongside grilled fish bone broth and a house made sauce by Chef Phusit Hemwihok, the dish blends Pla Dee Preedas home style depth with Ruay Mitr’s more polished approach. It is meant to be eaten slowly, letting the oils from the fish seep into the rice beneath while the broth adds warmth and umami with every pour. The flavour leans rich, smokey and gently sweet rather than heavy, landing in that space between comfort and craft. Available exclusively at the Ekkamai branch, it stands on the menu as a signature release for diners looking to try something traditional yet thoughtfully modern.Mains from B250. Reserve via @ruaymitr. Ruay Mitr Ekkamai, 11am-midnight

Penthouse Cocktail Bar at Penthouse Bar + Grill launches a new menu by Head Bartender Fabio Brugnolaro, who not only developed each cocktail but illustrated the menus artwork by hand. The collection blends flavour and design in equal measure, from miang kham with betel leaf juice and miang kham syrup to Ghost Rider with rye whiskey and vermouth and jasmine with gin, lillet rose and mezcal. Each drink draws inspiration from the hotel's art filled interiors, turning the menu into a visual and sensory gallery. Adding to the atmosphere, Spanish vocalist and composer Alba Santos performs live every Wednesday to Sunday from 8pm until late, weaving Latin American rhythm into the city skyline backdrop. It is a refined space for cocktail drinkers who value craft, detail and a little nighttime theatre.Cocktails from B400. Reserve via bkkph.penthouse.reservation@hyatt.com or 02 011 7480. Penthouse Cocktail Bar, open daily 5.30pm-midnight

STOKE lands on Thonglor Soi 6 with a fire-driven kitchen built around twin grills, a Josper charcoal oven and a multi-layer brick firepit designed for clean smokiness and flame-kissed depth in every dish. The mood is lively and unbuttoned with three dining zones including a buzzy open-kitchen atrium, a main dining hall for groups and a private upstairs room for late nights or celebrations. Expect wood-fired plates built for sharing and grounded in bold, honest flavour, from blackened brick chicken pressing over charcoal to ricotta gnocchi with chorizo, slow cooked lamb, charred vegetables and spiced apple crumble still warm from the embers. Wines, bourbons and craft beers line the bar in a relaxed drink-as-you-like approach that suits everything from casual dinners to all-out nights with friends.Mains from B250. Reserve via @stokebangkok or marketing@stokebangkok.com. STOKE, Thonglor Soi 6, Sun-Wed 11am-midnight, Thu-Sat 11am-1am.

Chef Danilo Aiassa returns to Ms.Jigger at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok with a refreshed Italian menu built around seasonal flavour, zero-waste creativity and warm, soulful cooking. Running from December 1 to January 3 as a festive preview before the full menu launch, the new experience brings together handmade pastas, refined antipasti and thoughtful secondi that honour Italian heritage while leaning into modern technique. Highlights include soft focaccia with mascarpone and truffle, slow cooked beef tongue with parsley hazelnut sauce, spinach ricotta agnolotti in a bright tomato base and two standout mains: baby chicken alla diavola and mustard crusted lamb chops with roasted potatoes and spinach. The dessert offering keeps things classic with warm almond ricotta cake and cassata ice cream. Next door, Ruby's complements the experience with gem-inspired cocktails and clever zero waste bites, extending the restaurant's focus on sustainability and storytelling across both spaces.Mains from B420. Reserve via 02 056 9999 or @ms.jigger. Ms.Jigger, Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, 11.30am-midnight.  

Vivin Suk 22 teams up with Chef Masahiro Kan of Sushi Sugahisa for a special Hen Thai sushi workshop that blends Japanese technique with Thai artisan ingredients. The intimate sessions take place on the ‘Library, Speakeasy Bar’ floor and offer guests a chance to learn directly from Chef Kan in a relaxed format designed for sushi lovers of all levels. Participants can watch a live sushi making demonstration then taste two creations made by Chef Kan using Vivin cheeses, smoked fish and charcuterie paired with Thai condiments. Guests will also make four pieces of their own including nigiri and temaki while enjoying light snacks from the cafe plus Thai namasake and umeshu from Seii. With only ten seats per session the workshop offers a rare opportunity to explore creative Thai-Japanese crossover cooking with one of the city's most inventive chefs. Workshop B1,800. Reserve via 099 614 0402 or @VIVINgrocery. VIVIN Suk 22, November 24, sessions at 10am and 1pm

Gigi Eatery Ekkamai puts you in charge with their pizza workshop, promising a hands-on session that’s heavy on fun and flavour. Forget passive dining – this is where you earn your crust. Grab your most enthusiastic crew (because rolling dough is a team sport), tie on an apron, and prepare to master the messy, magnificent art of pizza. You'll be taught how to handle the dough, select the perfect sauce spread, and, most importantly, pile on those toppings until your creation is a true reflection of your cheesy soul. Nothing quite beats the satisfaction of pulling your own perfect pie out of the oven, does it? Workshop B350 per person. Contact Gigi Eatery Ekkamai for reservations. November 22, 3pm-6pm  

Rangoon Tea House expands its Bangkok presence with a new riverside brasserie at Iconsiam, bringing modern Burmese cooking to a bright, relaxed setting on the Chao Phraya. Founded in 2014, the brand is known for reimagining classic Burmese teahouse culture with heritage recipes, multicultural influences and refined presentation. The menu highlights favourites such as laphet thoke, mohinga, Shan noodles with braised pork rib, butter prawn curry and mutton biryani, showcasing the layered flavours that define Burmese cuisine. A dedicated beverage programme celebrates the house signature Burmese milk tea alongside tea-based cocktails and refreshing mocktails. With rattan textures, brass accents and touches inspired by old Rangoon, the space is designed as an easygoing all-day brasserie with a small retail corner offering signature teas and pantry items to take home. Rice sets from B265. Reserve via @rangoonteahouse. Rangoon Tea House Iconsiam, G Floor, 10am-10pm

Park Hyatt Bangkok welcomes back Yuzu Safari for its fourth edition, uniting leading chefs from across Asia for a full afternoon and evening dedicated to Japan's most expressive citrus. The experience begins with interactive workshops that explore tuna butchery, soba making, pastry and matcha, followed by a lively cocktail hour with yuzu spritzes, small bites and premium sake. The night continues with a collaborative six-course dinner at Embassy Room La Marina featuring signature creations from chefs representing Sushi Masato, Eat Me, Fatboy Izakaya, Ojo, Embassy Room La Marina and the Park Hyatt team, each offering their own interpretation of yuzu in seafood, noodles, wagyu and desserts. With a roving sake trolley, curated wines and a roster of culinary talent, Yuzu Safari remains one of Bangkok's most anticipated chef-driven events. Tickets from B6,700. Reserve via 02 011 7431 or embassyroom.bkk@hyatt.com. Park Hyatt Bangkok, November 22, 4.30pm-9.30pm

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong turns its ninth-floor terrace into a full-scale weekend hangout with Backyard BBQ, a buffet style spread built around smokey flavours and easygoing vibes. Expect charcoal grilled seafood, slow cooked brisket, lamb ribs and a rotating mix of meats and vegetables served straight from the grill. Live bands ease into DJ sets as the evening progresses, keeping the atmosphere bright and unpretentious. Guests can opt to add a three-hour free-flow wine buffet or chilled draught beer by the tower or jug, making it an effortless choice for groups. With wide terrace seating, skyline views and a crowd that tends to stay longer than planned, the Backyard BBQ brings together food, music and drinks in a relaxed open air setting at the heart of Ratchaprasong. BBQ buffet from B818. Reserve via 02 209 5999 or moxy.bkkox.rsvn@moxyhotels.com. Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, Fri-Sat 6pm-10.30pm

If you’re ready to take your yoga practice to a more adventurous – and off-the-ground – level, this dynamic indoor studio delivers. Located in the Wat Ket area and surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a refreshing blend of energy and calm. Specialising in aerial yoga, hoop, hammock and silk classes, it’s perfect for anyone looking to stretch, strengthen and play in equal measure. Although traditionalists fear not, standard mat classes are also on offer.Sessions unfold to fun, dance-infused music and are led by upbeat instructors who make movement feel like art. It’s also a welcoming spot for families – with kid-friendly sessions that introduce little ones to the joy of movement and flight. Whether you’re an experienced yogi exploring new dimensions or a curious beginner ready to soar, this is where gravity is optional.Ustudio Yoga. Classes from B300. 18 Rat Uthiti Rdoad. 9am-9pm.

Found slap bang in Chiang Mai’s Old City, Wild Rose occupies a charming old teak house that’s survived modernisation, instantly evoking a sense of stepping back in time. With over a decade on the scene, this studio is both a local institution and a magnet for committed yogis.Named after its founder, Rose, who still runs the space with a warm welcome and a friendly chat before class, the studio has built a loyal following for its strong, grounded practice. Classes are intentionally small – limited to just 13 students per session – and must be booked in advance via their website. Alongside daily Vinyasa and alignment-based classes, the schedule includes sound baths and sound healing sessions paired with yoga to create a unique blend of intensity and restoration. With its polished wood floors, antique windows and Rose’s signature warmth, Wild Rose remains one of Chiang Mai’s most authentic and soulful spaces to practice.Wild Rose Yoga. Classes from B350. 4/1 Phra Pok Klao Road. 9.45am-6.30pm.

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong is closing out the year with two standout events that take over both the ninth floor and the rooftop – 32 floors above the city. Christmas Eve leans festive and food-focused, while New Year’s Eve splits into two very different countdowns - one centred on dinner and entertainment, the other neon, sky-high and built for late night energy. Christmas Eve Feast Photograph: Moxy Bangkok Christmas Eve brings a relaxed buffet with a welcome bubbly on arrival, followed by cheese and charcuterie boards, salmon gravlax, festive sweets and a live carving station serving Angus beef prime ribs and Christmas ham. A Santa Izakaya a la carte menu runs alongside the spread, adding playful small plates like pork skewers and Wagyu spaghetti, designed to be shared and passed around the table.   New Year’s Eve - Two ways to ring in 2026 New Year’s Eve comes with a split personality at Moxy. Inside, The Carnival Countdown leans into dinner plus party energy, with an all-you-can-eat premium buffet running alongside DJs, live shows, free-flow drinks and a photo booth that tends to get rowdier as the night builds. It’s the option for people who want to eat, dance and never leave the room. Upstairs, on the SATO SAN rooftop bar, Electric Carnival takes the celebration higher with DJs, dancers, lighting effects, confetti bursts and panoramic views of the city as midnight hits. This one feels louder, looser and more electric, with the option to arrive later in the night in tim

High above the meeting point of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort introduces a new way to experience the region with the launch of its Mekong Explorer Pool Suites. Designed for travellers drawn to nature, stillness and a sense of adventure, the suites redefine jungle luxury and mark the latest expansion to the resort’s collection of immersive accommodations. A private pool terrace sits at the heart of the experience, opening onto shifting seasonal views of rolling mist, monsoon light or clear, crisp sun over densely forested hills. Wake up to an orchestra of birdsong and the not-too-distant call of elephants at the property’s sprawling sanctuary below. Inside, the suites draw on the romance of early Mekong expeditions through dark wood panelling, elephant patterns and vintage travel trunks. Curated artworks above each headboard connect the interiors to the river landscapes below. The Mekong Explorer Pool Suite offers 64 square-metres of space for couples or young families, while the 96 square-metre Family Pool Suite features connected rooms. Bookings open from November 1, with stays including exclusive experiences and dinner at Samsarn.  anantara.com/en/golden-triangle-chiang-rai 

Canon is turning up the excitement in Thailand’s creator scene with the launch of two new full-frame cameras that push forward both photo and video performance. Revealed in Bangkok on November 14, the EOS R6 Mark III and the Cinema EOS C50 headline the lineup, landing alongside two new lenses – the RF45mm f/1.2 STM and the Cinema Lens CN5 x 11 IAS T. Together, they mark a major boost to Canon’s ecosystem for photographers, filmmakers and hybrid creators looking to level up their work. A hybrid cinema camera built for creators   Photograph: Canon Thailand The Cinema EOS C50 leads the lineup as Canon’s smallest full-frame cinema camera, built for creators who need big performance in a compact body. It can shoot high-resolution RAW video up to 7K and delivers smooth slow-motion options for more dynamic storytelling. Its new Open Gate mode captures the entire sensor, making it easy to produce both vertical and horizontal content from the same shoot. With a lightweight, modular design and pro-ready ports for audio, monitoring and livestreaming, the C50 is made for everything from tight documentary setups to fast-moving creator workflows. A major upgrade for stills and hybrid shooters   Photograph: Canon Thailand   The EOS R6 Mark III continues the ‘6’ series with a new 32.5-megapixel sensor, improved low-light shooting and faster, smarter autofocus. Built for photographers and hybrid creators covering events, travel and fast-moving stories, it offers high-resolution 7K recordi

Electric Daisy Carnival is officially returning to Phuket – and this time, it’s supersized. From 16-18 January 2026, EDC Thailand takes over Rhythm Park for a three-day explosion of music, art and pure creative energy, marking the festival’s biggest edition in Southeast Asia yet. After a record-breaking debut in 2025, this year’s festival doubles in scale with massive new stages, immersive lighting and all-new creative zones, playgrounds and the first-ever Hotel EDC Thailand, a full resort takeover packed with themed rooms, pool parties, wellness sessions and exclusive beach events. The 2026 lineup reads like a who’s who of global EDM heavyweights: Tiësto, Zedd, Armin van Buuren,  Axwell b2b Ingrosso, Fisher, Deadmau5 and more – alongside rising stars and genre-blurring artists from around the world. Beyond the music, EDC Thailand lifts the whole atmosphere with a colourfuwl, welcoming vibe – part global festival rush, part Phuket seaside spirit. It’s all about diversity, creativity and shared energy, no matter who you are or where you’re from. Tickets are on sale now, with single-day passes also available. Get yours before they’re gone: https://www.eventpop.me/e/89319-edc-thailand-2026?aff=TimeoutBangkok

If you see only one thing in Talat Noi this week, make it this. Tucked inside The Warehouse Bangkok is one of the most unusual exhibitions of the year. Spread across nearly 50 square metres of floor space are two sprawling cardboard cities: Bangkok in the 1880s and Ayutthaya around 1700, recreated in meticulous detail by 23-year-old artist Alexander Coke Smith VI, known as Coke. The work is on show for just a few more days, with open hours until November 27. Entry is free, and Coke is usually in the space to talk visitors through the models, answer questions and point out hidden details. For anyone who loves Bangkok history or simply enjoys the thrill of seeing the city from above, it is a must-see. What you will find inside Enter Warehouse’s ground floor and the first thing that hits you is the scale. Coke’s model of 1880s Bangkok unfolds like a living map: canals, temples and wooden neighbourhoods arranged on a 1:1,000 scale, where one metre represents one kilometre. The Grand Palace anchors the scene, surrounded by moats, monasteries and the irregular grid of the old riverside settlements. Photograph: Alexander Coke Smith VI Beside it is a second work, an equally detailed recreation of Ayutthaya at its peak, around 1700. At that time the city had close to a million inhabitants and was considered one of the world’s great capitals. Coke’s model shows its monumental layout, where temples line up in long geometric axes, something that is easy to miss when you wander the pres

A double walkout that stunned the pageant world Miss Universe 2025 has been hit by fresh turbulence just days before the November 21 finale in Bangkok, after two of its official judges abruptly quit. Lebanese French musician Omar Harfouch announced his resignation on Instagram, claiming he had uncovered what he called an 'impromptu jury' pre-selecting the Top 30 finalists without any involvement from the eight official judges. Harfouch wrote that he learned of the secret selection via social media and said the group was made up of 'individuals with a significant potential conflict of interest due to some personal relationships with some of the Miss Universe contestants'. Harfouch added that when he raised his concerns with the Miss Universe leadership, he was brushed off. He said that after a 'disrespectful conversation' with Miss Universe CEO Raul Rocha about the 'lack of transparency in the Miss Universe voting process', he chose to step down and would 'not be part of this charade'. He also noted that he would no longer play the original music he had composed for the event. What the judges say happened behind the scenes The controversy escalated quickly. Harfouch alleged that the mysterious early selection included someone 'responsible for counting the votes and managing the results', suggesting another conflict of interest inside a process that is supposed to be tightly supervised. He claimed that countries removed in this unofficial round 'could be at war, discriminated a

หลังเจอกระแสคัดค้านจากประชาชนและแรงกดดันจากภาคท่องเที่ยว รัฐบาลตัดสินใจโบกมือลากฎห้ามขายเครื่องดื่มแอลกอฮอล์ช่วงบ่ายที่อยู่คู่ประเทศไทยมานานหลายสิบปี ถือเป็นการปรับเปลี่ยนอย่างเป็นทางของกฎควบคุมแอลกอฮอล์ที่เป็นเรื่องถกเถียงมากที่สุด โดยคณะกรรมการนโยบายเครื่องดื่มแอลกอฮอล์แห่งชาติตัดสินใจแบบฉับพลัน เห็นชอบให้ยกเลิกการแบนการขายเครื่องดื่มแอลกอฮอล์ในร้านค้าปลีกในช่วง 14.00-17.00 น. ซึ่งสร้างทั้งความงุนงงและหงุดหงิด ให้กับนักท่องเที่ยวและผู้ประกอบการมาเป็นเวลานาน การตัดสินใจนี้เกิดขึ้นเพียงไม่กี่วันหลังมีเสียงวิจารณ์สนั่นเมืองต่อกฎหมายแอลกอฮอล์ฉบับแก้ไขที่เพิ่งประกาศไป ซึ่งคราวนี้กฎหมายลงโทษ ‘ผู้ดื่ม’ ด้วยการปรับหนัก รัฐบาลจึงออกมาประกาศรีเฟรชกฎเกณฑ์ให้เข้ากับประเทศไทยที่เดินหน้าพัฒนาการท่องเที่ยวอย่างทุกวันนี้ รองนายกฯ โสภณ สารัมย์ ในฐานะประธานคณะกรรมการฯ ยังยอมรับตรงๆ ว่า กฎแบนเหล้าช่วงบ่ายมันล้าหลังไปนานแล้ว เพราะทุกวันนี้ข้าราชการก็ไม่ได้แอบจิบกันกลางวันเหมือนสมัยก่อน และกฎเก่าก็ไม่สะท้อนพฤติกรรมจริงของคนและธุรกิจอีกต่อไป ทั้งหมดนี้จะเข้าสู่กระบวนการรับฟังความคิดเห็นของประชาชน 15 วันก่อนประกาศใช้จริง กฎสุดงงที่อยู่มานานเกินทน กฎห้ามขายแอลกอฮอล์ช่วง 14.00-17.00 น. อยู่มาหลายทศวรรษ และแทบทุกคนเห็นตรงกันว่านี่เป็นหนึ่งในกฎแอลกอฮอล์ที่งงที่สุดในโลก เดิมตั้งใจใช้เพื่อกันคนดื่มในเวลางาน แต่ในทางปฏิบัติจริงกลับสร้างปัญหามากกว่าสร้างประโยชน์ โรงแรม บาร์ และร้านอาหารต่างบ่นกันเป็นเสียงเดียวว่ามันกลายเป็นอุปสรรค โดยเฉพาะกับบริการที่ต้องมีความลื่นไหล นักท่องเที่ยวที่สั่งเบียร์ริมสระตอนบ่ายสามแล้วโดนปฏิเสธก็มีแต่หน้าเหวอ ส่วนผู้ประกอบการก็ต้องมาอธิบายกฎที่ดูงงและบังคับใช้ยาก หลังจากการยก

Thailand has officially taken a step back from one of its most controversial alcohol rules. In a rapid U-turn, the National Alcohol Policy Committee has agreed to lift the long-standing 2pm-5pm ban on retail alcohol sales, a restriction that has frustrated travellers, hospitality operators and bar owners for years. The decision comes only days after a tougher amendment to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act began drawing criticism for targeting drinkers with hefty fines. Now the government says it is ready to modernise alcohol rules that no longer match Thailand’s tourism-driven economy. Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Sarum, who chairs the committee, admitted the afternoon blackout had outlived its purpose. He noted that civil servants no longer engage in daytime drinking and that the regulation no longer reflects real behaviour or business needs. The committee’s decision will enter a 15-day public hearing period before being finalised. An outdated rule The 2-5pm sales ban has been in place for decades and is widely considered one of Thailand’s most puzzling alcohol restrictions. Introduced to discourage office-hour drinking, it has long been criticised for confusing visitors and complicating restaurant and retail operations. For hotels, bars and restaurants that rely on seamless service, the blackout created an unnecessary mid-afternoon hurdle. Tourists ordering a poolside beer at 3pm were often surprised to be turned away, while operators struggled to explain rules that seemed

Get ready to pop the bubbly – Thailand just turned its New Year break into a full-blown five-day celebration. The Cabinet has officially approved an extended national holiday running from December 31 to January 4, giving the country one more day to travel, feast and welcome 2026 in style. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed the move this week, saying it’s designed to ‘stimulate local tourism and strengthen family ties’. The extra day marks a strategic push to spread holiday spending across the nation and keep the good vibes rolling long after the fireworks fade. More time to play Tourism officials are already cheering. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) predicts the longer holiday will inject tens of billions of baht into the economy, with hotels, restaurants and transport operators all set to benefit. The timing couldn’t be better: December and January are Thailand’s high season, when the weather is cool, the beaches are glowing and everyone’s in the mood to move. ‘Every extra public holiday has a multiplier effect,’ said a TAT spokesperson. ‘It’s not just about tourism – it’s about reconnecting, recharging and rediscovering Thailand.’ From the mountains of Chiang Mai to the sands of Koh Lanta, travel searches have already spiked. Bangkokians are booking beach villas, while boutique hotels in the north are rolling out festive brunch menus and live-music nights. Airlines are adding domestic routes, and train tickets are selling fast. Expect traffic jams on major

Thailand’s drinking rules just got a whole lot stricter – and this time, it’s not just bar owners in the firing line. A new amendment to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, effective 8 November, makes it illegal for individuals to drink or be served alcohol during restricted hours or in unauthorised places. In other words, it’s no longer enough to buy your beer before the cut-off – if you’re still sipping once the clock strikes, you could face a fine of up to B10,000. The law maintains Thailand’s long-standing booze-free windows – 2pm to 5pm, and again after midnight for most venues – but extends responsibility directly to consumers. It’s the first time drinkers themselves have been made liable under national law. Officials say the goal is to promote ‘social order and safety’, yet the announcement has sent shockwaves through the country’s nightlife and tourism industries, both still recovering from pandemic-era slowdowns. Bar owners and tour operators warn the measure could confuse travellers and dampen Thailand’s famously lively drinking culture. So what actually counts as breaking the law? Under the new rule, both drinking and being served alcohol during prohibited hours are offences. Even if you bought your drink at 1.59pm, taking a sip at 2.05pm could technically land you in trouble. The law applies nationwide – from Bangkok rooftop bars to Chiang Mai cafes and Phuket beach clubs – though licensed venues such as hotels, airports and designated tourist zones are exempt. Dr

UNESCO has just added Songkhla and Nan to its global Creative Cities Network, putting Thailand’s southern spice and northern crafts on the world stage. The new designations celebrate how local culture can drive creativity, sustainability and community pride – and they’re a big win for both cities’ creative economies. Songkhla: the south’s kitchen of ideas Down by the lake, Songkhla has long been a crossroads of Thai, Chinese and Malay culture – and its food tells that story beautifully. From fragrant curries and seafood markets to the traditional snacks found in the city’s historic quarter, Songkhla is a living cookbook of southern flavours. Now officially a City of Gastronomy, it joins Phuket and Phetchaburi as a culinary capital recognised by UNESCO. The title gives a global platform to the city’s chefs, fisherfolk and food producers and helps preserve the age-old recipes that define the region’s identity. Nan: art in the air Surrounded by lush mountains and centuries of tradition, Nan is redefining northern Thai crafts. The province is known for its temple murals, silver filigree, delicate woven textiles and wood carving – all of which reflect a deep sense of place. As a new City of Crafts and Folk Art, Nan is set to develop creative tourism projects and cultural exchanges that support artisans and keep local skills alive. Officials say the focus will be on linking village-level craftsmanship with contemporary design to attract younger makers and global attention. A growin

ระหว่างการเก็บตัวนางงาม ก่อนรอบไฟนอลของการประกวด Miss Universe ครั้งที่ 74 ซึ่งจะจัดขึ้นในวันที่ 21 พฤศจิกายนนี้ ที่กรุงเทพฯ  จู่ๆ ก็มีเหตุการณ์สุดช็อกเมื่อผู้เข้าประกวดหลายสิบคนพร้อมใจกันเดินออกจากห้องประชุมแบบไม่หันหลังกลับ หลังเกิดการปะทะเดือดต่อหน้าผู้เข้าแข่งขันกับ ณวัฒน์ อิสรไกรศีล ผู้ดูแลทีมเจ้าภาพไทย และ ฟาติมา บอช มิสเม็กซิโก คนปัจจุบัน ทำเอา Miss Universe Organization (MUO) ต้องรีบออกมาเคลื่อนไหวกันจ้าละหวั่น เกิดอะไรขึ้นคะ? พยานเล่าว่า ณวัฒน์ เจ้าภาพในการจัดประกวดในปีนี้ ได้เข้าไปต่อว่ามิสเม็กซิโกด้วยท่าทีเสียงดัง ต่อหน้าผู้เข้าประกวดจากทั่วโลก เพราะเธอไม่ร่วมถ่ายวิดีโอโปรโมตกับสปอนเซอร์ ทางฟาติมาพยายามที่จะอธิบายเหตุผลว่าทำไมเธอไม่ได้ตกลงที่จะทำ แต่ก็โดนตัดบทสะก่อน และเรียกการ์ดมาคุมตัวเธอ ไม่นาน หลังเดินออกจากห้อง ฟาติมาก็ให้สัมภาษณ์สื่อว่า ‘สิ่งที่ผู้จัดกระทำนั้นมันไม่ให้เกียรติฉันเลย เขาเรียกฉันว่าโง่เพราะเขามีปัญหากับองค์กร ฉันคิดว่าคนทั้งโลกควรได้เห็นเรื่องนี้ เพราะพวกเราเป็นผู้หญิงที่มีพลัง และเวทีนี้คือพื้นที่สำหรับที่ทำให้เสียงของเราดังขึ้น และไม่มีใครมาหยุดเราได้’ งานนี้ทำเอาผู้เข้าประกวดหลายคน รวมถึง Victoria Kjær Theilvig Miss Universe คนปัจจุบัน ลุกเดินออกจากห้องแบบไม่แคร์ เพื่อแสดงจุดยืน เธอบอกว่า: ‘นี่คือเรื่องสิทธิของผู้หญิง เราเคารพทุกคน แต่เรื่องแบบนี้ไม่ควรถูกจัดการแบบนี้’ เทลวิกกล่าว ‘การดูถูกผู้เข้าประกวดคนอื่นถือเป็นการไม่ให้เกียรติอย่างรุนแรง’ แล้วทำไมถึงกลายเป็นเรื่องใหญ่ขนาดนี้? การเดินออกจากห้องครั้งนี้เผยให้เห็นถึงรอยร้าวที่กำลังประทุขึ้นระหว่างทีมเจ้าภาพไทยกับองค์กร Miss Universe หลังเหตุการณ์ดังกล่าว MUO ออกแถลงการณ์ว่า ‘กิจกรรมและอีเวน