Marisa Marchitelli

Bangkok’s dining calendar shifts into a lively new rhythm this week, moving between bold new openings, performance-led brunches, playful late-night parties and seasonal rituals rooted in tradition. In Ratchaprasong, Flavors at Renaissance Bangkok launches a drag-powered Sunday brunch that pairs a generous international buffet with live performances, setting a high-energy tone for the weekend. The momentum continues at  Emsphere, where Kaiwa turns Sundays into a drag-fuelled night out with Japanese handrolls and high-energy performances. On Sukhumvit 24, Chit Chaat brings the colour and energy of Indian street food into a social, all-day setting. Over in Silom, Scarlett welcomes January with a classic Galette des Rois, reviving a cherished French ritual of shared dessert and ceremony. Rounding things out, Stock.Room at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok marks Thai Children’s Day with a generous, family-friendly buffet designed to keep both kids and adults happy.   Here’s what Bangkok’s cooking up this week:

When fire tore through Route 66 at RCA this past October, it sent shockwaves across Bangkok’s nightlife community. For decades, Route 66 was a constant: a first club for many, a last stop for others and a defining fixture of RCA’s late-night rhythm. That sense of loss ran deep because RCA itself has been on Bangkok’s nightlife map since the ‘90s, evolving from one of the city’s first purpose-built entertainment districts into a proving ground for generations of clubs, DJs and partygoers. Its sudden rupture landed just as Bangkok was gearing up for a new wave of big openings, creating an oddly symbolic moment for a city that rarely stops dancing. From backpacker streets to built-for-scale districts There was a time when Bangkok nightlife was easy to explain. You went to Khao San Road for backpacker chaos or Patpong for R-rated neon-lit spectacle. Clubs were transient, tourist-facing and rarely built to last longer than the season. Bangkok has since outgrown that model. As the city’s middle-class expanded and travel tastes evolved, nightlife followed suit. Purpose-built zones like RCA offered something different: space, scale and the freedom to think long-term. Over time, the city’s club scene began to look less like a backpacker rite of passage and more like a fixture of urban life. Today, locals and tourists share the same dancefloors. Clubbing in Bangkok is no longer something that happens on the sidelines of the city. It is central, social and very much year-round.

Bangkok closes out the year with a festive mix of cocktails, comfort food, celebratory dinners and new openings across the city. In Thonglor, 008 Bar leans into the holiday mood with limited-edition drinks and lucky draws, while Quilombo officially opens its doors with fire-led Argentine parrilla cooking. Over by the airport, Big Bite Burger Bar and Grill delivers award-winning burgers in a relaxed grill-house setting, and Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road turns up the celebrations with a festive menu at CHAR. Following the festive spirit, Tropic City brings on the party with a Boxing Day friend shift, welcoming Maprang and Samantha behind the bar for one night only. Here’s what’s cooking in Bangkok on the final week of 2025:

December is when Thailand’s coasts start to hum again. The islands shake off the shoulder season, beach clubs sharpen their line-ups and resorts step forward with new looks, fresh menus and creative collaborations that turn a simple escape into something more charged. This month’s Getaways bring together some of the most compelling openings and relaunches across Koh Samui, Phuket and Hua Hin, each offering its own version of year-end ease. On Samui, CLUB SEEN kicks off a new chapter with global headliners and an elevated day-to-night rhythm, while Kimpton Kitalay sets the tone for the season with a bold Takara Wong collaboration that blends street-led Bangkok energy with beachfront calm. Phuket answers back in two directions: a one-day-only Japanese twist at Yona Beach as Zuma takes over the floating bar, and a coastal dining reset at Anantara Mai Khao as Sea Fire Salt returns with fire, salt and sunset heat. Further up the Gulf, Anantara Hua Hin reopens just in time for holiday unwinding, unveiling redesigned rooms, expanded beachfront and a refreshed take on its Thai-village inspiration. If you’re ready to leave the city noise behind, these are the getaways that define December.

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. 

Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road rolls out a full slate of festive dining and countdown celebrations across Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Highlights include Christmas Day dinners at CHAR Restaurant, with three- and five-course menus served alongside skyline views and live violin performances. New Year’s Eve brings multiple ways to celebrate, from a BBQ dinner buffet and countdown party by the infinity pool to elegant coursed dinners at CHAR Restaurant, followed by a late-night rooftop countdown at CHAR Rooftop Bar with a disco-themed party, DJ sets and panoramic city views. The programme marks the festive debut of newly appointed executive chef Surasak Charoenchane, whose menus lean into seasonal ingredients and refined technique. Festive dining and countdown events December 25 and 31. Reserve via 02 207 4999. CHAR, Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road, Sunday-Thursday 5pm-12am, Friday-Saturday 5pm-1am.

Big Bite Burger Bar & Grill makes a strong case for indulgence with a menu built around generous portions, premium ingredients and unapologetically bold flavours. Recently recognised at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2025 for Best Gourmet Burger Menu, the restaurant leans confidently into comfort food done right. Burgers here are stacked with quality meats, rich toppings and house-made sauces, with options ranging from classic crowd-pleasers to more indulgent signature builds. Chicken and vegetarian-friendly choices round out the menu, making it an easy pick for mixed groups. Set within Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, the space pairs an energetic grill-house vibe with relaxed, feel-good dining suited to travellers and locals alike. Big Bite Burger Bar & Grill, Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. 12pm-10pm.  

008 Bar marks the Christmas period with a week-long programme of drinks, creative activities and holiday-only perks running through the end of December. Highlights include exclusive lucky draws on December 25 and 31, giving guests the chance to win special offers available only on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. A limited-edition festive cocktail menu runs from December 20 to 31, alongside selected wines available by the bottle. Guests can also personalise their own wine glasses at the bar’s painting station, adding a playful touch to the celebrations. Christmas Day brings live entertainment, with DJ Woody rounding out a lively end-of-year line-up. Festive cocktails ‘til December 31, lucky draws December 25 and 31. 008 Bar, Thonglor. 6pm-1am.

Quilombo has officially opened in Thong Lor following a strong soft launch, bringing a focused Argentine parrilla experience to the neighbourhood. The menu centres on elemental fire cooking, with charcoal-grilled dry-aged grass-fed beef aged in house, hand-cut empanadas and classic Argentine sauces served tableside. Led by executive chef Ferran Tadeo, the kitchen prioritises technique, product integrity and generous portions over reinvention. The restaurant is housed in a restored stone castle spanning two levels, with an 80-seat dining room, private dining spaces and interiors inspired by the refined steakhouse culture of 1950s Buenos Aires. A wine programme led by Argentine labels completes the experience, positioning Quilombo as a confident new destination for serious steak lovers. Reserve via 062 987 9777. Quilombo, Thong Lor. Tuesday-Saturday 5.30pm-12am.

SIWILAI City Club welcomes SAOLE as its new restaurant partner, introducing a seafood-led menu shaped by the flavours of the coast and the mountain roots that inspire the brand. The cooking blends Mediterranean, Yunnan and Lao influences, leaning into clean, wood-smoked dishes layered with wild herbs and sea salt. Highlights include gambero rosso with fish sauce, scallops in butter garlic, white chives with oyster, and SIWILAI-exclusive grilled king river prawn with lemon capers. Two signature spritzes – heatwave negro and saole – round out the experience with a bright, sun-soaked character. It is an easygoing, flavour-driven addition to the rooftop, designed for relaxed meals, good music and the city’s shifting light. Reserve via 02 160 5631. SAOLE at SIWILAI City Club, Central Embassy. 10am-10pm.

Gaggan at Louis Vuitton welcomes the festive season with ‘Winter’s Carol’, an eight-course lunch and 11-course dinner menu running from December through February. Inspired by Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, the experience blends nostalgia, transformation and luxury through progressive Asian storytelling. Highlights include the world map trio, moving from a caviar-topped goat cheese and beetroot salad to a Thai spicy Hokkaido scallop salad and a striking foie gras pavlova. Other signatures explore heritage through a modern lens, from bites of India to purple reigns and the two-part surf-and-turf narrative – a tale of two. Desserts close on playful seasonality with shades of orange and a refined coffee and doughnut finale. It is a polished, imaginative expression of the maison’s festive spirit. Lunch from B8,000 and dinner from B10,000. Reserve via 098 279 5240. Gaggan at Louis Vuitton, LV The Place Bangkok, December-February, 12pm-11pm. Closed Tue-Wed except Dec 16-Jan 7.

ÆTHER is the newest addition to Bangkok’s skyline, a 360-degree rooftop lounge perched 44 floors above Dusit Central Park. The space takes a minimalist, design-first approach to nightlife, pairing panoramic views with a house-driven sound identity and cocktail programme rooted in modern techniques such as rotovap distillation, clarification and ultrasonic infusion. Led by Depp of Rabbit Hole, the menu leans clean, expressive and future-minded, mirroring the venue’s atmosphere-forward philosophy. Anticipate a rooftop experience built around presence, energy and cinematic ambience. Free entry. RSVP recommended. ÆTHER, Dusit Central Park. 5pm-late.

R-HAAN presents its new Flavours of Delight menu, a seasonal tasting journey shaped by winter’s most expressive Thai ingredients. The menu reflects the restaurant’s philosophy of honouring regional produce at its peak, weaving together local herbs, river prawns, winter fish and premium imported elements like Canadian lobster, Hokkaido scallops and A5 wagyu. Diners move through an elegant progression of courses, from a five-bite amuse bouche tour of Thailand to dishes such as Iberico pork Korat chili dip, Massaman beef cheek and R-HAAN’s signature tom yam, crafted with a siphon technique. Dessert closes on a classic note, with mango sticky rice or Thai taro custard. It is a thoughtful, beautifully composed menu that celebrates Thai culinary wisdom at Michelin Star level. Tasting menu from B6,512. Reserve via 095 141 5524. R-HAAN, Thonglor. Available nightly.

Anantara Hua Hin returns just in time for the year’s end with a full transformation that updates the brand’s first-ever resort for a new era. The December reopening reveals redesigned rooms and suites, an expanded beachfront, refreshed pools and a sharper, more contemporary interpretation of its original Thai-village inspiration. The main pool now sits within a lush oasis of towering palm trees, with new lounging decks that drift into the sea-facing landscape. Families get more room to roam thanks to an upgraded lagoon pool and bar, a reimagined kids’ club with creative play zones and the new mini farm, home to silkie chickens, pygmy goats and peacocks. Active travellers can get stuck into Muay Thai, pickleball, rock climbing and more at the revitalised sports zone. Dining also steps forward with renewed venues including Sea Fire Salt for prime cuts and seafood on Himalayan salt slabs, Rim Nam for bold Thai flavours and Issara Cafe for bright, breezy mornings. A polished reboot for one of Hua Hin’s most iconic beachfront escapes. Prices vary. Reservations via anantara.com/hua-hin. Anantara Hua Hin Resort, daily hours vary.

Kimpton Kitalay Samui brings sharp Bangkok energy to its laidback beachfront setting this December with a cross-cultural collaboration from Takara Wong, the fashion label known for its punchy graphics and street-led attitude. The resort’s festive programme folds the brand’s bold visual language into its island rituals, from limited-edition pieces to styled social spaces that play with contrast: soft shoreline, strong design. Guests can expect Takara Wong touches threaded throughout the celebrations, including custom decor, curated looks for key events and a playful aesthetic that brings something distinctly urban to Koh Samui’s northeast coast. It’s a collision of city edge and resort calm, turning the season into something brighter, braver and more expressive. A fresh crossover that lifts holiday lounging into fashion-led territory without losing Kimpton’s signature sleek style. Reservations via kimptonkitalaysamui.com. Kimpton Kitalay Samui, daily hours vary.

Yona Beach kicks off high season with a one-day splash of Japanese flavour as Zuma Phuket teams up with its’ Bangkok bar crew for a first-ever takeover. For one day only on December 12, the massive floating beach club turns into a playground for three signature serves: the bright Zuma Paloma, a sharp Yuzu Negroni and the peach-forward Koi Peach. Each cocktail comes with a curated gift bundle that feels tailored for a day at sea, including a disposable camera, fan, waterproof phone bag and a limited-edition postcard. Hold on to that postcard: bring it to Zuma Phuket at Anantara Layan Resort on your next visit to unlock a complimentary cocktail at the restaurant. A short, stylish crossover that blends island views with Zuma’s clean, contemporary energy. Reservations via @yonabeach and yonabeach.com. Yona Beach Club, December 12, 3-7pm.

CLUB SEEN Koh Samui begins a new chapter with a full relaunch and an elevated day-to-night concept that brings international names to Chaweng Beach. From December through January, the beach club hosts its most ambitious season yet with Defected, Glitterbox, ARTBAT, Nina Kraviz, Miss Monique, Kolsch and a roster of global artists set across its main stage and the intimate UNSEEN Club Room. Days unfold at SEEN Eatery, a relaxed seaside dining space blending Tokyo-inspired flair with Latin heat in sharing plates built for long afternoons by the water. Nights shift into deeper sets, sculptural lighting and high-intensity shows before rolling into a festive programme that includes Christmas brunch, New Year’s Eve fireworks and weekly O Beach Ibiza takeovers every Sunday in January. With seamless flow between dining, dancing and beachfront lounging, CLUB SEEN positions itself as the island’s defining party destination for the season. Prices vary. Tickets and dining reservations via clubseenkohsamui.com. CLUB SEEN Koh Samui, daily hours vary.

Bar.Yard’s refresh is anything but subtle. Soaring above the city, on the 40th floor of Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, the rooftop favourite enters a new chapter with a sharper look, louder energy and a clearer sense of purpose. This considered reset is aimed at reclaiming Bar.Yard’s place as one of the city’s most dynamic after-dark destinations. The transformation is immediately felt. The redesigned space leans confidently into colour, texture and atmosphere, shaping an urban tropical playground that feels distinctly tuned to Bangkok nights. Thai, Southeast Asian and Pan-Latin influences are layered throughout the design, creating an environment that feels playful in daylight and charged once the sun sets. Punchy hues, dramatic lighting and graphic patterns work together to frame a rooftop made for long evenings, spontaneous celebrations and nights that stretch well past dinner. Rather than chasing trends, Bar.Yard’s new look feels rooted in mood and movement. Every design choice supports how guests actually use the space, encouraging connection, circulation and energy rather than formality. It’s a rooftop that feels lived-in rather than staged, inviting guests to arrive early, stay late and let the night unfold naturally. Designed to move from sunset to late night Photograph: Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok Comfort and flow sit at the heart of Bar.Yard’s redesign, shaping a rooftop that evolves seamlessly as the evening progresses. New seating layouts allow the space to shift effortle

Cloudy Bay, the New Zealand winery credited with putting Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc on the global map, has officially launched in Thailand with an intimate sit-down dinner at Maison Dunand. The event brought together media and tastemakers for a curated introduction to one of the country’s most influential wine producers, set in one of Bangkok’s most refined dining rooms. A guided journey through Cloudy Bay Founded in 1985 by winemaker David Hohnen, Cloudy Bay has long been associated with purity, precision and a strong sense of place. From its Marlborough origins, the winery helped redefine global perceptions of Sauvignon Blanc, later expanding into Chardonnay and Pinot Noir across Marlborough and Central Otago.   The Thailand debut unfolded as a multi-course pairing experience designed to highlight the breadth of Cloudy Bay’s portfolio. Dishes were matched with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Te Koko, followed by Central Otago Pinot Noir paired with New Zealand venison, before closing with artisanal cheeses and dessert wines. Each pairing was intended to reflect the character of the vineyard and the balance between clarity, texture and depth. Photograph: Cloudy Bay Beyond the glass, Cloudy Bay continues to emphasise sustainability through environmental management, renewable energy initiatives and responsible vineyard practices. The Bangkok launch marks a new chapter for the winery, introducing Thai audiences to a producer whose reputation has been built on consistency, cr

If your feed has recently filled up with fluffy ears, red bib and wide-eyed smiles, you are not imagining things. Monchhichi, the Japanese character first introduced in the 1970s, has arrived in Bangkok in a big way, fronting one of the most extensive holiday collaborations in the city this season. Running across multiple locations under Monchhichi x The Mall Group: The Great New Year 2026, the campaign transforms The Mall Lifestore, Emporium, Emquartier, Emsphere and Paragon Department Store into festive playgrounds built around character installations, exclusive merchandise and immersive photo moments. It is the first large-scale Monchhichi collaboration of its kind in Thailand, positioning the long-loved character not just as a nostalgic toy, but as a cultural icon reintroduced for a new generation.   A Japanese character with global staying power Photograph: The Mall Group Created in Japan in 1974, Monchhichi has spent decades building a devoted following across Asia and Europe. Known for its soft brown fur, oversized ears and signature pacifier, the character has evolved beyond a children’s toy into a collectible embraced by adult fans, designers and pop culture collectors. That longevity is part of the appeal. In Bangkok, where nostalgia-driven design and character culture have found renewed popularity, Monchhichi arrives at exactly the right moment. The collaboration taps into that sentiment while scaling it up into something highly visual and public-facing. Rather t

Thailand has reached a major tourism milestone, welcoming its one millionth visitor from the United Kingdom in 2025 and marking a full recovery of one of its most important long-haul markets. The achievement comes as international arrivals from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa collectively hit their highest level on record, underscoring the strength of Thailand’s global tourism rebound. The milestone visitor arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok on December 17 on a direct Thai Airways flight from London. Officials from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thai Airways International and partner organisations marked the occasion with a formal welcome, reflecting the significance of the UK market to Thailand’s tourism economy. The traveller received a package of premium travel experiences designed to highlight the country’s high-end hospitality, wellness and dining offerings. A record year for long-haul travel The UK milestone forms part of a broader record-breaking year for long-haul tourism. In 2025, Thailand surpassed 10 million long-haul arrivals for the first time, accounting for more than 30 percent of total international visitors. This shift reflects a growing reliance on long-stay and higher-spending travellers, particularly from Europe and North America, as the country focuses on value-driven tourism rather than volume alone. UK travellers continue to play a key role in that strategy. Arrivals from the UK are expected to reach around 1.1 million by th

The Corner House is closing out the year with something lively, creative and unmistakably rooted in the spirit of Charoen Krung. From December 24-28, the building opens its doors for ‘Just Right Corner: EP. 01 – LOST & FOUND,’ the very first flea market staged across its four floors. It is designed as a thank-you to the people who helped shape the space through its first year, and an invitation for the wider community to gather, explore and celebrate the final week of the year. The atmosphere bridges nostalgia and curiosity, wrapped in a playful ‘90s theme that ties everything together. The concept of LOST & FOUND runs deeper than colourful visuals. It reflects the way many of us move through a busy year, sometimes misplacing small parts of ourselves along the way. The market becomes a gentle space to rediscover forgotten favourites, reconnect with personal interests and meet people who share the same creative leanings. The ‘90s frame the event with humour, brightness and a familiar aesthetic, but the intention is grounded in something warmer and more reflective, tapping into some sense of personal nostalgia. Four floors made for wandering Photograph: The Corner House The event is spread across four distinct environments, each one offering a different rhythm. The first floor operates as a dedicated food and beverage zone, featuring special event-exclusive menus curated by Sarnies & Friends, where guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy good music throughout the day.The second

Nimitr Thai Restaurant, perched on the 27th floor of 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok in Phrom Phong, pairs sweeping skyline views with a menu rooted in regional Thai cooking and an ingredient-led approach to herbs and spices. The restaurant takes its name from the Thai word for ‘special dream’, a fitting introduction to a kitchen built around heritage, sustainability and a deep respect for herbs and spices. This is Thai cooking shaped by personal history. The kitchen draws directly from the Wongphanlert family farm in Ratchaburi, where turmeric, fingerroot, ginger and other aromatics are grown specifically for use at Nimitr. Farming their own produce ensures freshness and quality, while quietly reducing carbon footprint and supporting local agriculture. More importantly, it gives the menu a sense of grounding that feels increasingly rare in high-rise dining. Photograph: 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok The menu encourages diners to choose their own path. You can order a la carte, opt for a four-course set, or dive into a family-style sharing menu designed to showcase flavours from different regions of Thailand. Across all formats, herbs and spices are not used simply for aroma or heat, but for balance, depth and wellbeing. A strong place to start is miang kham king scallops. This refined interpretation of the classic snack layers crisp betel leaves, lemongrass, coconut and shallots around plump scallops, delivering sweetness, bitterness and freshness in a sin

The capital’s art and food scenes collide with MUEBON x Mensho Tokyo, a new collab that blends contemporary street art with premium Japanese ramen culture. Presented by Sanctuary Gallery, the project marks Thai street artist MUEBON’s first-ever partnership with a restaurant, created together with Mensho Tokyo Bangkok, the Tokyo-born ramen house known for its meticulous broths and handmade noodles. Photograph: MUEBON x Mensho Tokyo At the centre of the project are 50 limited-edition Japanese ceramic ramen bowls, each hand-painted by MUEBON and designed as a one-of-a-kind artwork. For B20,000 a pop, you can take one home. Produced in Gifu, Japan, a historic centre of Mino-yaki pottery, the bowls feature MUEBON’s signature character Pooklook in playful scenes that weave ramen noodles directly into the designs. Available in both white and black bases, no two bowls are the same. Alongside the art launch, Mensho Tokyo Bangkok introduces a limited-edition menu built on its Signature Tori Paitan Ramen, simmered for over 20 hours. For this collaboration, the dish is elevated with Imobuta pork chashu, prized for its tender texture and natural sweetness, translating MUEBON’s vibrant visual language into flavour. The project offers a fresh take on how art can live beyond gallery walls, turning an everyday bowl of ramen into a collectible experience. Available now at Mensho Tokyo Bangkok, Sukhumvit Soi 31. 11am-9.30pm.  

There’s something truly magnetic about Thailand. With its tropical beauty, warm hospitality and vibrant lifestyle, it’s no surprise that so many visitors decide to make this country their home. From the beaches of Phuket to the charm of Chiang Mai and the buzz of Bangkok, Thailand offers a lifestyle that feels both inspiring and effortless. For expats, living in Thailand is about balance – enjoying life to the fullest while staying secure. That’s why having the right health insurance in Thailand is essential to every long-stay journey. Why health insurance matters for expats Under Thai immigration rules, anyone applying for a Long-Stay Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A) must have valid health insurance in Thailand. But beyond visa requirements, expat health insurance offers real peace of mind – giving you access to world-class hospitals, and expert medical care when you need it most. Allianz Ayudhya – Health protection you can trust With more than 130 years of global insurance expertise, Allianz Ayudhya is one of the most trusted names in Thailand. Combining international standards with local knowledge, Allianz Ayudhya provides comprehensive health insurance supported by a nationwide network of 400+ hospitals and clinics and 24-hour bilingual assistance. Health plans for expats in Thailand Allianz Ayudhya offers a full range of health insurance plans for foreigners in Thailand, designed for every lifestyle and level of protection: FlexCare PlanEnjoy up to B50 million annual coverage w

Bangkok’s pizza scene gets a provocative new player with Sexy Pizza, a modern Italian pizza and tapas bar bringing bold energy to Mercury Ville Chidlom. Positioned as Bangkok’s first pizza bar concept, every seat faces the open counter and some pretty sexy servers, turning each meal into a front row experience where diners watch chefs fire Neapolitan style sourdough pizzas to order. The dough starts with a slow fermented base that bakes into a light, crisp crust with an airy interior and a distinctive aroma. Photograph: Sexy Pizza Creative signatures define the space. Highlights include the 4+1 Cheese topped with burrata and truffle honey, the crab-tastic saffron and the morel Parma Monalisa layered with Parma ham and morel mushrooms. Couples can share the heartshaped will you marry me pizza with personalised half and half toppings. Pastas stay playful with vodka mac and cheese spiked with nduja and black garlic risotto served with SexyCow aged Australian striploin, while small plates like arancino and a refreshed burrata tomato salad round out the spread. Reservations via 061 410 3553 or sexypizzabkk.com. Sexy Pizza, Mercury Ville Chidlom. 11am-10pm

High season in Phuket brings the clearest water of the year and some of the heaviest crowds. Piers overflow before sunrise, boats fill fast and most travellers end up rushing between stops instead of enjoying the journey. Sawanu Travel offers a different approach. Their premium full-day trips focus on comfort and timing from the moment you leave your hotel to the moment you return, turning island hopping into a smooth flow,  even at the busiest of times. Experience island trips in total comfort Instead of battling pier traffic at dawn, guests begin in the Sawanu Travel Premium Lounge, the only check-in lounge of its kind among Phuket operators. Coffee, pastries and breakfast bites set a relaxed pace while staff handle check-in quietly in the background. Round-trip hotel pick-up and drop-off remove the usual transport stress entirely, so the trip feels polished before you even step onto the boat. Sawanu Travel operates more than 25 premium speed catamaran boats per day during peak season. These boats are built for stability and space, offering smoother rides and enough room to move without feeling squeezed. Curated meals, drinks, fruit and snacks are served throughout the day, with lunch on the island, keeping everyone energised for swimming and snorkelling. Better timing for Phuket’s biggest island highlights Photograph: Sawanu Travel The core of Sawanu Travel’s approach lies in its itineraries. Every route is designed around the best hours for sightseeing, snorkelling and

MBK Center is leaning into what people love most about shopping in Bangkok with a new high-season campaign shaped by real visitor insights. ‘Step into Thainess – Shop like a Thai’ highlights the warmth, charm and cultural buzz that define the city, inviting everyone to experience one of Bangkok’s OG malls through a more expressive, Thai-style lens. Shopping with real Bangkok energy The campaign video draws directly from Google Reviews, celebrating the moments that keep MBK on every must-visit list: smiling bargains, casual chats with vendors, discovering Thai crafts and walking away with more stories than souvenirs. CMO Puttachad Srinisakorn notes that MBK is more than a mall. It’s been a cultural destination for decades that houses a lively mix of visitors and vendors from all walks of life. MBK’s popularity is backed by major recognitions, including the Travelers Choice Awards 2025 in the Things to do in Bangkok category on Tripadvisor and the Trusted Thailand certification from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Inside, the offer is sprawling: explore floors dedicated to fashion, IT gadgets, and souvenirs, or unwind at premium beauty clinics and spas. Foodies can dive into the famous Food Legends by MBK, a hub of legendary street-food staples. Inclusivity is key here – the center is fully equipped with dedicated prayer rooms and a wide variety of certified Halal dining options, making it a welcoming stop for everyone. Photograph: MBK Center Culture sits at the heart of t

I first heard about Double Dick Tiger the way people hear about urban legends. Someone described it as a hike deep into the middle of nowhere on the outskirts of Chiang Dao. Someone else said the festival didn’t even have music in the early years. Another warned me I would be off-grid for three nights but could get one bar if I climbed up a nearby hill. Even the official guide felt vague: basic living, leave no trace, bring a tent, expect cold nights. It read like a riddle rather than a roadmap. The mystery only grew as the weekend approached. The music lineup dropped just days before, and only in a group chat. The meeting point arrived even later, a single pin shared the day before departure. Everything felt intentionally withheld, as if the organisers wanted you to commit with curiosity rather than comfort. I bought a ticket after some friends said they were going. I felt anchored in the pod. Then those same friends dropped out at the last minute. Thankfully I’m dialed into the Chiang Dao scene and had other friends, seasoned DDT-goers, already making the trip. Without them, I’m not sure I would have pushed through the nerves and the unknowns. So I went in. Blind, but not alone. Arrival: seven river crossings and no turning back Photograph: Mac Roja Getting to DDT means losing reception long before you reach the entrance. Everyone is dropped off at a muddy trail and from there it’s just you, the elements, your gear and whatever faith you managed to pack. The festival does