Thailand’s K-Pop Obsession
For a foreigner, it’s easy to compare Asian fanclubs – more specifically Korean and Japanese – to the “Beiber Fever” of western tween girls’ fame. Images of these young pre-pubescent girls discovering sexuality and believing that super feminine men with an arrogant personality are true husband material come to mind. In Thailand it’s similar; but these fans often include people in their twenties, thirties…even forties. Though most fans are harmless enough, there have been a few incidents involving uber fans, which have taken a more sinister turn…
The Adventures of Tom: September 2014
It’s a bit tricky pretending to be a writer at the moment, because those who are in charge of this gorgeous country are being very strict about what is, and what isn’t, allowed into print. But as luck would have it, while I was looking around for something relatively politically, religiously, majestically and socially innocuous to wax lyrical about my eyes settled on the erection opposite my apartment.
Best Burgers in Chiang Mai
01 Rock Me Burger & Bar Their tasty, well cooked and fat homemade patties are sure to quench your craving all things round and meaty. Burgers are served with curly fries and onion rings in baskets, bringing Americana to Chiang Mai. For quality patties, washed down with all kinds of *enter chocolate bar name here* milkshakes, Rock Me Burger is the place to be. www.facebook.com/Rockmeburger Tel. … Continued
CityGuide: Nimmanhaemin
Resident Expert: Dr. Danai Praditsuwan, 47 Nationality: Thai Occupation: Lipo surgeon, doctor and owner of Dr. Aesthetic Clinic Neighbourhood: Nimmanhaemin What are the defining characteristics of your neighbourhood? What makes it special or unique? As the “Heart of Chiang Mai”, those who enjoy its varied entertainment and chic restaurants will definitely know its special qualities. Nimmanhaemi … Continued
TEDx Returns to Chiang Mai
Following last year’s success, TEDx is about to return to Chiang Mai this month. Through the highly credited international creativity and idea forum, TEDx, Chiang Mai’s theme this year will explore the concepts around “Creating Connections”. With over twenty Thai and International speakers and artists already signed up, this is one TEDx event not to miss.
100 Years Since the Great War: a Northern Siam Perspective
The First World War, which broke out a hundred years ago, led to the downfall of empires and the redrawing of world maps. The horrors of trench warfare and the mechanised slaughter of millions haunt Europe still, as seen in the sombre remembrance services held across the continent last month.
Seven Days in Shangri-La: why you need to put Bhutan on your bucket list
For as long as I remember, Bhutan was on my bucket list. I didn’t know much about Druk Yul, or Land of the Dragon as the Bhutanese call it, but it beckoned. And like every Thai person (read woman), King Jigme’s exotically suave looks (he made Vanity Fair’s International Best Dressed list this year, didn’tjaknow) did nothing to dim the draw I felt towards this reclusive Himalayan kingdom.
The Flying Scouts
This British Thai couple have spent the past decade selflessly volunteering to help protect Thailand’s many endangered animals. There are talkers and there are doers in this world; Tom Potisit and his partner Eduardo Loigorri stand firm in the latter group. Having met the couple on the rare occasion at various cocktail parties and wine tastings in Chiang Mai over the years, I knew that Ed flew planes and Tom was a photographer. But since neither of them had ever mentioned any job in particular, I assumed that they were yet another well-to-do couple enjoying Chiang Mai’s leisurely lifestyle.