Live In Style With The Metropolitan Bangkok

Located right in the heart of the the diplomatic and commercial districts of Bangkok , just 15 minutes walk to Suan Lum Night Bazaar and underground subway (MRT Lumpini) is The Metropolitan Bangkok, one of the most stylish, contemporary and upscale hotels in town. The modern high-rise hotel features 171 tastefully-designed guestrooms created by well-known Singaporean interior designer Kathryn Kng and each spacious guest room features a unique piece of artwork from emerging Thai contemporary artist, Natee Utarit.

The Metropolitan Room (Rm 714)

A Ming-style chair from natural teak and rattan which is a unique feature of the Metropolitan Room  

The Metropolitan Room (Rm 714) that I stayed was clean, very spacious and comfortable and well-designed.The room is fully equipped contains superior furnishings included a king-size bed enough to accommodate a young family, lounge sofa, a Ming-style chair from natural teak and rattan which is a unique feature of the Metropolitan Room and a modern contemporary bathroom with separate shower and bathtub overlooking the city skyline. But more importantly, a choice of pillows to get a good night’s sleep. On arrival, after a short check-in, the hotel offers a warm welcome with a complimentary fresh pot of Chinese tea served on fine bone china. In addition, the hotel gives you 15 minutes of free internet daily and seasonal fruits and mineral water are replenished throughout the course of your stay.

The Lobby (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

 A stunning leaf-shaped sculpture next to the hote’sl entrance

What is so unique about the hotel? The hotel offers plenty of contemporary architectural space from natural materials. At The Metropolitan Bangkok, the spacious lobby uses Makha wood from Thailand combined with oxidized brass paneling. The airy interiors are flooded with light, manipulated by lighting architects, Isometric, London. The hotel pays attention to details. Each guest room is uniquely decorated with rare Asian antiques and fine art. As a plant lover, I am impressed with the lovely contemporary flower arrangement in the lobby. Personally, I feel that the water lily flowers help to enhance the mood or theme of the hotel and it goes well with Natee Utarit’s contemporary paintings in the rooms and the stunning leaf-shaped sculpture next to the hote’sl entrance. Besides that, another plus point of this hotel is the excellent service provided by the staff. The smart hotel uniforms are designed by Comme des Garcon and shoes by Calvin Klein.

The CY’AN Restaurant (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

The GLOW organic restaurant (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

There are two dining options for breakfast, either CY’AN or GLOW. At Cy’an, a 110-seat contemporary restaurant located on the first floor next to the pool offers Mediterranean-inspired seafood cuisine prepared by award winning Australian Executive Chef Daniel Moran focuses on fresh, healthful, local ingredients. GLOW is a 57-seated organic restaurant (second floor) showcasing healthy, natural, organic COMO Shambhala cuisine first developed at Parrot Cay. Daily breakfast is well presented. Besides the selection of fruit, cereals, pastries, charcuteries, daily products etc, food is freshly prepared to order.

The COMO Shambhala Urban Escape (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

The COMO Shambhala Urban Escape incorporates the four elements of nature – creating a serene, peaceful, relaxing environment. Simple lines, natural elements of stone, wood, water and dramatic atmospheric lighting, contribute to the serene spa experience. The spa now offers a three-day complimentary trail membership and limited, exclusive annual membership at Baht 35 000 nett till December 31st 2009 to help you strengthen your senses through yoga and related treatments. Besides the sport facilities and gaining practical coaching experience, other benefits include a complimimentary 60 minute COMO Shambhala massage, special room rate and 15% discount on spa therapy services and food in all the F&B outlets. As the whole philosophy of the COMO Shambhala Urban Escape is to ensure privacy and seclusion for the members and hotel guests, limited number of membership places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Central Business District  (South Sathorn Road, Bangkok)

COMO Suite (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

The Metropolitan Bangkok’s location in the Central Business District is among the address for private and business events, from cocktail parties to private lunches, press conference, TV screenings, fashion shows and interviews. Meetings at the Met features three state-of-the-art rooms accommodating up to 90 people. Each venue can be configured to meet your specific requirements.

Met Bar (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

The Met Bar located on the ground floor at Metropolitan Hotel is the perfect place for an aperitif or to end a relaxing day. Lighting is soft and moody. It is a dynamic, private place to party the night away if you want to avoid the crowds. Both Thai and international DJs play eclectic lounge sounds from around the word. Reward yourself for a hard week with a glass of signature martini.

 Lovely Contemporary Flower Arrangement (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

The Metropolitan Bangkok is delicated to people who appreciate the finer things in life and a creative environment in which great ideas and inventions happen.

Creative environment (The Metropolitan Bangkok)

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Geting There:

The Metropolitan, Bangkok
27 South Sathorn Road, Tungmanhamek,
Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand

The Metropolitan Bangkok

Exotic Plants on the Coast of Thailand - Tacca leontopetaloides (Seashore bat lily)

Besides Tacca integrifolia, Tacca leontopetaloides (Seashore bat lily or Polynesian arrowroot) is considered a very rare plant found growing naturally at Pulau Semakau and Pulau Pawai in Singapore but not in Thailand. So far, I found the plant on the island of Koh Yao Noi and Koh Lipeh . The plant is cultivated in the Pacific, East Asia and East Africa for the starch in its underground roots. It has unusual flowers and fruits growing in a cluster with leafy bracts and long ‘whiskers’ and it belongs to a familyof tropical plants, named Taccaceae.

Fruits - Tacca leontopetaloides (Seashore bat lily) 

It is estimated that there are about 11,000 species of vascular plants of which 10,200 are flowering plants, with 2,500 tree species and 1,100 orchid species (7-10 % of which) are reportedly endemic in Thailand (WCMC, 1994; OEPP, 2000).

Tacca leontopetaloides (Seashore bat lily or Polynesian arrowroot)

The Royal Trophy 2010 - Europe vs. Asia Golf Championship

The fourth edition of the Royal Trophy golf championship, played between the continents of Europe and Asia will take place on 8 – 10 January, 2010 at the exclusive Amata Spring Country Club in Chonburi, Thailand. The highly competitive team match-play epic Championship will feature eight players and a non-playing Captain representing the Asian and European continents respectively in a series of sixteen foursomes, four-ball and singles matches.

Henrik Stenson at Royal Trophy

With Asia triumphing over the Europeans for the first time in the latest edition, the upcoming Tournament will surely be a fantastic battle for stewardship of the solid-silver sixteen-kilogram Trophy, so graciously donated by His Majesty the King of Thailand. Players already nominated for the Asian Team for the fourth edition of the Royal Trophy include Thai power duo Prayad Marksaeng and Thongchai Jaidee, as well as global golf sensation Ryo Ishikawa.

Ryo Ishikawa at Royal Trophy

The magnificent Tournament will be played on 8 – 10 January, 2010, in the beautiful seaside province of Chonburi, located a mere 45 minutes away from bustling Bangkok. The cool breezes and bright sunshine typical of January in Thailand make this the perfect time for golfers to visit the Land of Smiles. The Championship offers a great opportunity to play some of the fantastic golf courses located in Bangkok, Chonburi and Pattaya, enjoy magnificent spas and beautiful Thai cuisine and cheer for Asia or Europe as they battle for the Royal Trophy – all while experiencing the unforgettable Thai hospitality. Special travel deals are now available to the Royal Trophy spectators and fans. 

Spectators enjoy the great atmosphere

The Royal Trophy Premier and Major Sponsors include Heineken, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), PTT, Sports Authority of Thailand, Siam Commercial Bank, Sodick (Thailand) and THAI Airways. The Championship is also supported by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and Chonburi Provincial Government. For further Tournament information, please call +662 651 9499 or visit the official website www.TheRoyalTrophy.com. The Royal Trophy is promoted by Entertainment Group Limited and Amen Corner S.A.

Ryo Ishikawa’s fans and supporters

Thailand’s Best-Loved Departmental Store - Central Chidlom (Bangkok)

Bangkok is a truly “Shoppers’ Paradise“. There are many shopping areas throughout the city from Siam Square to Sukhumvit Road featuring stylish shopping malls, department stores as well as bustling open-air street bazaar. Located right at the heart of Bangkok’s premier shopping avenue next to Chitlom BTS station stands Central Childom, the Flagship store of Thailand and Southeast Asia’s leading department store chain. Boasting over 60 000 square meters of world-class shopping space, it is one of Thailand’s best-loved department stores.

Central Exclusive Label - DeFry01 (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

Collectable Bears at Kid’s Department (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

You are really spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in Central Chidlom. The store offers an incredible array of luxury brand names from International and local fashion houses, beauty products, chilldren’s wear and accessories and many other items exclusive to Central Chidlom.  Beautiful home furnishings and decor that will reflect your homes personal style and ambiance and exquisite oriental handicrafts satisfy the more artistically inclined. SuperSport offers a place for sport enthusiasts with a great selection of sports-related items from apparel and shoes to equipment and accessories. At B2S (7th floor), customers can find an extensive range of local and international books, stationery for home, office and school; music and movies from around the world,  all under one roof.

The Central Food Hall ( Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

The Premiere Lounge (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

The Central Food Hall designed by British design consultancy Fitch popular with expatriates offers a stunning array of fine foods and wines from around the world and it is an ideal place for food and drink grocery shopping. The Premiere Lounge located at the top floor (7th) is an exclusive facility for card members to rest while shopping at the store. There is even a tastefully furnished Muslim prayer room (6th floor) for those who need it. Limited reserved parking spaces are available for members on a first come, first served basis and as well as home delivery service for customers.

The Food Loft (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

Greyhound Café, 3rd Floor, Central Chidlom Department Store

Besides shopping, the mall has a wide range of dining outlets that include local food and international cuisine housed in fancy restaurants and posh food courts such as Food Loft located on the top level offers a variety of freshly prepared gourmet dishes. This place is made up of kitchen “islands”, each with a different type of food available - there’s Thai, Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese and more. Thai food is still my favourite. You get a card with a barcode on it which gives you a 1000 baht credit-Just hand over the card every time you order something and pay as you leave, that’s simple. Personal service is important here and you will be served by helpful and friendly staff compared to other places.

Prestigious timepieces (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

Central Annual Flower Show (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

The annual prestigious Central Watch Fair and Sale is one of the much anicipated events worth waiting for watch collectors. Central is also the first department store in Thailand that initiated a flower event and this event has been held on continuous basis for 15 years now. Every year, the entire 7-storey Central Chidlom shopping department store is turned into a magnificent heavenly garden of flowers and plants producing a number of stunning widow displays and each floor is beautifully decorated with fresh cut flowers, creating a relaxing ambience for shoppers. It is an event not to be missed.

Premium Thai silk collectables (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

Lovely Homemade Aromatic Products (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

The first Central Department Store was established in Bangkok’s Wangburapha district in 1956. Until today, the Central Group of Companies has remained committed to the Founder’s vision. Samrit Chirathivat believed that success would come from honesty, hard work as well as the best services and products for Central’s customers. Its one-stop shopping concept, under which customers enjoy not only a staggering assortment of merchandise but also a vast variety of lifestyle services, continues to be the biggest draw for shoppers. Central Chidlom  remains a  firm favourite for locals and discerning visitors.

Central Chidlom offer a wide range of designer womens perfume, mens aftershave, skincare, cosmetics and gifts at great prices

Women’s shoe department (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

Special Offer for TG passengers:

Simply present TG Boarding Pass and passport to get the Privileges Today - 31 Dec 2009 @ Central Chidlom. Pattaya Beach, Phuket and Zen Department Store. Offer for Non-Thai resident only.

Sexy Lingeries (Central Chidlom, Bangkok)

Getting There:

Central Chidlom
1027 Ploenchit Road
10330 Bangkok
Thailand

Opening Hours: Mon to Sun from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
View Map of Central Chidlom in a larger map

Baby hornbill sea turtle ( The  Sea Turtle Conservation Center ,Sattahip)

The Royal Thai Navy has played an important role in the protection of sea turtles since 1950 by avoiding training in certain areas during the sea turtle nesting season around Sattahip. As a result, it has helped a great deal with the conservation of hatchery areas.  The Sea  Turtle Conservation Center  at Sattahip was set up in 1992 and it is located on the beach inside the Royal Thai Navy under  the reponsibility of the Air and Coastal Defense Command  (ACDC)  Unit.

Information Center (The  Sea Turtle Conservation Center, Sattahip)

Hatchery ponds (The  Sea Turtle Conservation Center, Sattahip)

In the year 2000, the Thai navy has launched a nurturing program to protect the sea turtles.  The program involved nurturing turtles in a protected area before returning them back to the sea and the project also included the construction of the Information Center to educate the general public on the conservation and protection of the marine turtle species. The center is divided into  three areas: the media room, the exhibition area and the library.

3-6 months old baby hornbill sea turtle

I wanna go home…

Although there are some limitations in the conservation of sea turtles but with the full co-operation of the government, private sector, schools and general public, the center is able to nurture and release more than 20 000 turtles a year. Each year, more than 200 000 students and visitors particpate in various actiivties organised by the center.

The Sea Turtle Consevation Center (Sattahip)  is open daily from 8.30am to 4.30pm

 “Giant Sea Turtle” at Sattahip

Getting There:

The Royal Thai Navy’s Sea Turtle Conservation Center
Sattahip, Chonburi
(about 30km from the tourist centre of Pattaya)

For more information, please call:
0-3843-1477, 0-2466-1180-1
ext 066-1035-6

Group Photo with the Thai Navy Officers (The  Sea Turtle Conservation Center (Sattahip, Chonburi))

 From left: Mr. Anusak Inthraphuvasak, Chairman of the Board of the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Mr. Akapol Sorasuchart, President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau

TCEB announces the appointment of two new top executives- Chairman of the Board (Mr. Anusak Inthraphuvasak) and President (Mr. Akapol Sorasuchart). During a press conference, TCEB also shared its new organizational vision and its 7-year strategic plan to build competitiveness through the “Thai Team” initiative, a collaborative public-private partnership. The effort is expected to generate practical and long-term benefits and to increase confidence. This initiative will also press for policy and regulatory improvements to help drive industry growth and enhance convenience for group MICE visitors to Thailand. These efforts could generate up to 15-25% annual growth and 50 billion baht income with 500,000 MICE visitors annually.

In 2010, TCEB has been allocated a budget of 749 million baht, and has set a clear goal of 25 % growth in terms of both income and MICE visitors.

GLOW organic restaurant at the Metropolitan, Bangkok

If you are already a fan of organic food or anyone looking for a nutritious meal or snack in Bangkok’s Central Business Disrict, “Glow” organic restaurant located adjacent to COMO Shambhala Urban Escape at the Metropolitan Hotel Bangkok is the place to go for health and nutritional products. Located on the second level, the 57-seat upscale eatery features spa lifestyle cuisine with a focus on use of fresh, organic ingredients . The ingredients mainly come directly from the Royal Project organic farms in northern Thailand.

Heart-healthy salad made tasty with the addition of fresh Thai herbs (GLOW, Metropolitan Bangkok)

To my understanding, there are not many organic restaurants in Bangkok. Perhaps, not many locals are into organic food as compared to Singapore. Partly the cost for organic food is much higher. Frankly speaking, I like the ambience and simple design in this restaurant. A pleasant, peaceful place to escape stress and troubles. While dining, you get a very calm and relaxed feeling.The tables are neatly arranged and simply decorated with a stalk of white pom-pom chrysanthemum. Trays of fresh, green wheatgrass have become part of the decor. The professionally trained staff are glad to answer all your queries regarding organic food.

Steamed Red Snapper (GLOW, Metropolitan Bangkok)

The restaurant offers a long list of specially selected items to help you live a healthy, long life. For starter, I had silky chicken, green mango & lemon grass salad, tamarind, sesame dressing topped with crispy fried shallot. The salad dish looked very appetizing and well presented. It offers a slightly tangy-sweet pickle taste. The minty flavor come from the organic Thai herbs. It is tasty and filling. For the main course, I had the steamed red snapper (fish of the day) in hot and sour broth with mushrooms, lemon basil and brown rice. The fish was not overcooked and it was still tender and moist on the inside .The broth was delightful, clear, light, a bit gingery and slightly acidic. The Enoki mushroom has a pleasantly crunchy texture and gives the dish a delightful flavour.

Black sticky rice with fresh mango (GLOW, Metropolitan Bangkok)

I had black sticky rice with fresh mango for dessert. Instead of rich coconut milk, it is replaced with fresh shredded coconut. The serving portion was a bit too much for me. It also serves a range of fresh organic vegetable and fruit juices rich in living enzymes, vatamins and minerals. I ordered a glass of “Berry energizer” - a  fresh fruity blend of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, honey and soy milk to end a perfectly delightful meal.

“Glow” is open for all day dining from 11am to 9pm and also an alternative choice of breakfast for hotel guests.

Fruit blend - Berry energizer (GLOW, Metropolitan Bangkok)

Getting There:

GLOW at the Metropolitan, Bangkok
27 South Sathorn Road. Tungmahamek,
Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand.

Organic Restaurants in Thailand - Glow at Metropolitan Hotel Bangkok

 Mrs. Malinee Kitapanich, Meetings & Incentives Director of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB)

Thailand is considered one of the most outstanding Creative Event organizers in the world and TCEB has teamed up with 5 strategic partners of creative arms and tourism agencies both state and private sectors in Thailand to establish “Thailand Creative Event Awards-TCEA”. The objectives of the event are to showcase creative events held in Thailand, to enhance the country’s image as the preferred venue for high quality, creative international business events, to raise the quality of business events in Thailand to international standards and to reinforce the country’s competitive advantage on the global stage.

Impressive Opening Ceremony - TAT Mega Fam 2008 for Buyers and Media

The “Thailand Creative Event Awards (TCEA)” is under the working plan of Creative Event Advisory Panel (CEAP) with its 5 strategic partners including, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA), Event Management Association (EMA) and Marketing Association of Thailand (MAT), together with one advisory organization Krungthai Card Public Company Limited.These 5 partners and advisor will be screening and selecting the best Creative Events of Thailand.

The “Thailand Creative Event Awards (TCEA)” is open for all the business entrepreneurs in Event organizing business, seminar business from all over the country whether it is small or big companies to enter into this competition. The Creative Event needs to use local resources in Thailand and shows the creativity of blending into its unique selling point of each event and impresses its customers.

Local Thai designers showcase at Zen (CentralWorld)

Both Thai and foreign owned organizations are invited to submit entries. The entry should be within the past 5 years by the time of submission and must be approved by the client/event owner prior to the submission. The Entry must highlight on creativity in organizing and delivering the event and has unique “out of the box” characteristic.

TCEB only accept online submission at http://www.tceb.or.th/tcea  in Thai or English languages by November 1 – January 31, 2010. The judging period will be during February 8-12, 2010 and finalist announcement will be on February 15, 2010 and the award presentation has been scheduled for February 25, 2010.

The event will be held annually and those who is selected could have a chance to present its Creative Event idea to the world.Winners will also be entitled to use the TCEA 2009 Winner Logo as recognition and in their marketing communications messages.

TCEA Winner Logo

A Gorgeous Sunset over Sattahip, Chonburi Province

Last week, I was invited to Khun Senee’s belated  farewell party and it has given me  the opportunity to see parts of Sattahip in Chonburi province . The trip was organised by Khun Suchada and staff from the IT department.  We spent a memorable night singing our hearts out at the Royal  Thai Navy Club and visited some places of interest around Sattahip. Karaoke singing has always been hugely popular amongst Thais. 

Karaoke singing has always been hugely popular amongst Thais

Sattahip is a district (amphoe) located at the southern tip of Chonburi province, about 30km from the tourism centre of Pattaya. To the south and the east is the Gulf of Thailand. The Sattahip Naval Base is the largest base of the Royal Thai Navy and is home to the HTMS Chakri Naruebet, the Navy’s sole aircraft carrier. It was my first experience on board a battle war vessel.

Chuk Samet Deep Seaport at Sattahip, Chonburi

 HTMS Chakri Naruebet (เรือรบหลวงจักรีนฤเบศร) with a  28-meter wide runway

Most of the islands around Sattahip have white sandy beaches and crystal clear water as compared with Pattaya. Island such as Koh Kham is managed by the Royal Thai Navy is open for day visits by the public. It is advisable to carry a bottle of insect repellent with you For years, the Royal Thai Navy has collaborated with private and non-profit organisation to protect and conserve the marine envirnoment.  The objective of the Marine Turtle Conservation Center at Sattahip is to create love and the preservation awareness towards Thai sea turtles. Thousands of  sea turtles are released to celebrate  HM The King’s birthday each year.

Koh Kham, Sattahip (Chonburi Province)

Releasing sea turtles (Marine Turtle Conservation Center,Sattahip)

Besides the navy vessels, there is a large number of  fishing boats dotted along the coastline. Squid fishing is a big business in Thailand.  In the village, squids and anchovies are laid out and  left to dry naturally in the sun.  You may also visit clown fish farms  to find little Nemo and feast on sumptuous seafood and other local delicacies before heading back to Pattaya.

Squids are left to dry naturally in the sun

Dried anchovies (Sattahip, Chonburi)

To me, the sunny island  Koh Kham and the  Marine Turtle Conservation Center is worth a visit  and Sattahip is a good place to shop for cheap  Navy gear and apparel.

Sunset over Sattahip (Chonburi province)

Miss Loy Krathong (Bangkok) - Miss Phenthip Kasayakorn

Loy Krathong is considered one of Thailand’s most beautiful festivals. It is celebrated on the twelfth lunar month when Thai people pay tribute to the Goddess of the River (Chao Mae Kongka).  The highlight of the festival will be the most beautiful Krathong contest and beauty pageant set in memory of “Nang Noppamas“, a legendary woman in the Sukhothai period about 700 years ago. Nang Noppamas was the chief royal consort of the King, named “Lithai” in the Sukhothai period. She was said to have made the first ever decorated Krathong to float in the river on the occasion. In order to complete the celebrations, it is traditional to find the prettiest young lady from each area.

Finalists - Loy Krathong Festival 2009 (Bangkok)

Miss Phenthip Kasayakorn (nickname: N’Natt), a student from Rachamongkol Institute of Technology  was crowned Nang Noppamas (Miss Loy Krathong) and also won the Miss Photogenic title and the 100000 baht prize in the Loy Krathong Festival 2009  in Bangkok.

 Wining the Miss Photogenic Title - Miss Phenthip Kasayakorn

Miss Phenthip Kasayakorn (Miss Loy Krathong Bangkok)

Prize presentation (100000 baht)

Group photo with judges (Loy Krathong Festival 2009, Bangkok)