Eric Nam recommends his favourite food places in Bangkok; Jackson Wang x Hennesy V.S.O.P
Plus, find out how you can win Blackpink Jennie's autographed adidas shoes!
New Things On The Block covers all the latest lifestyle news you need to know at the tip of your fingers.
Explore Bangkok through Eric Nam’s lens for a gastronomical adventure like no other
Singer and television personality Eric Nam, who is now the face of Booking.com's Explorers 2023 campaign, gives us his insights on what to do and where to go in Bangkok, Thailand.
Phorm Phong: Sorn & ICI Bangkok
This buzzing neighbourhood along Sukhumvit Road offers a wide range of culinary options, from upscale restaurants to trendy cafes. Top of your list should be Sorn, a Michelin-starred restaurant housed in a restored two-storey mansion. While most of us are familiar with dishes such as pad thai (stir-fried rice noodles) and green curry – central Thai cuisine, in other words – Sorn’s head chef, Supaksorn “Ice” Jongsiri, prefers to spotlight southern Thai fare, which is characterised by big, bold flavours.
Here, chef Ice and his team reinterpret traditional recipes using modern techniques, using sustainable ingredients sourced from across southern Thailand. Standout dishes on the 22-course menu include the decadent Gems on Crab Stick, which features blue swimmer crab legs coated with crab roe.
For dessert, head to ICI.BKK for Instagram-worthy creations such as the Chilli Crab, a cake that looks impressively like the real deal. Here, a “crab claw” is fashioned out of a tomato sponge cake, served alongside calamansi mousse, chilli sauce and coffee caramel, and then garnished with salted egg crumb. Other noteworthy desserts include the Poodle Doodle, a dog-shaped cake with a butter cheese frosting, and the Starfish, a bright yellow creation made with a coffee-vanilla mascarpone mousse and filled with pineapple compote and praline.
Stay at Staybridge Suites: Bangkok Thonglor
READ:
Best things to do in Bangkok with your family
5 best areas to shop in Bangkok
5 unique places to visit within 24 hours in Bangkok
Ekkamai: Wattana Panich
Ekkamai is often overshadowed by neighbouring Thong Lor, but it certainly holds its own when it comes to food options. For starters, this is where you’ll find Wattana Panich, one of the most famous eateries in Bangkok. “I’ve heard so much about this family-run restaurant, which goes back generations,” Eric says. “I’m not just talking about how long it has been around for – it also serves a soup that has been cooking for more than 50 years!”
The soup in question is a beef broth that has been simmering non-stop in an enormous vat for half a century. Each morning, the owners use some of the leftover broth from the previous day as a stock base, adding water and fresh ingredients – including nearly 10 different Chinese herbs and spices – to the mix. The result is a rich, flavourful broth used to make the eatery’s signature kuay teaw nua (beef noodles), which comes topped with meatballs and innards. Eric’s verdict? “This has been 50 years very well spent, and I’m glad the family has kept the recipe unchanged,” he declares.
Stay at The Salil Hotel Sukhumvit Thonglor 57.
Silom: Le Du
Bangkok’s gleaming business district is home to several fine-dining hotspots including Le Du, which recently topped the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list. True to its name, which is derived from the Thai word for “season”, the restaurant combines the best seasonal produce with age-old culinary techniques and a dash of modern flair. The four- and six-course tasting menus change regularly, but diners can expect inventive dishes such as crab with mushroom and homemade sriracha, aged duck with kale and green curry, and golden snapper with sticky rice.
Stay at Pullman Bangkok Hotel G.
Krystal Jung, Ahn Hyo-seop and more to grace the grand launch of Ralph Lauren & Ralph's Coffee at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore
To mark the grand launch of Ralph Lauren's first Ralph Lauren store in Southeast Asia at Marina Bay Sands, South Korean Brand Ambassador, Actress Singer Krystal Jung and South Korea-based Canadian Actor Singer Ahn Hyo-seop will be making a special appearance at the store on 18 October.
The event will see several regional and local celebrities, including ‘Force’ Jiratchapong Srisang and ‘Book’ Kasidet Plookphol from Thailand, Luna Maya and Afgansyah Reza from Indonesia, Zahirah Macwilson, Hael Husaini and Daiyan Trisha from Malaysia, alongside Fann Wong, Jeanette Aw, Joanne Peh, Rebecca Lim, Desmond Tan, Glenn Yong, Chantalle Ng and Ayden Sng.
The grand launch of Ralph Lauren and Ralph’s Coffee will be happening on the 18th of October 2023, 5.30pm, at Level 1 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.
Joy Park of Red Velvet to attend Tod's special Tim Walker Exhibition & Spring Summer 2024 Preview in Singapore
Italian luxury brand Tod's will be hosting a special Tim Walker Exhibition & Spring Summer 2024 Preview at 72-13 on 13 October. British photographer Tim Walker rose to fame when he started shooting for magazines such as i-D, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Love and W, just to name a few. His fantastical approach to photography has won him fans and longstanding collaborations with models like Kate Moss, Karen Elson and actress Tilda Swinton.
For the exhibition, guests will be taken on a whimsical adventure through Tod's universe, meeting some of the brand’s iconic leather pieces and Tim Walker’s surrealistic portraits.
Some personalities and celebrities who will be expected at the exhibition include Joy Park Soo-young of Red Velvet girl group, Japanese actress Marie Litoyo, Japanese DJ and musician Mademoiselle Yulia, Thai actor Blue Pongtiwat, Australian model Jamie Nguyen, actress Carrie Wong, Malaysian model Zhen Ning, singer Nathan Hartono and more.
Following the preview at 72-13, members of the public can also preview 'The Art of Craftmanship' at Paragon Shopping Centre. The pop-up will be carrying an array of limited-edition accessories such as the iconic T Timeless family bags and Gommino shoes.
Visit Tod’s The Art of Craftsmanship Pop-up until 22 October, at Paragon Atrium 2.
Tourism Western Australia Launches Drive The Dream Road Trip Campaign
From wine regions to coastal adventures, and from art trails to ancient Aboriginal experiences – Western Australia has something for every traveller. Western Australia is one of the world’s most spectacular road trip destinations, thanks to its rich history, hidden gems, spectacular coastline, and the quirky characters and stories you discover. It’s a place of natural wonders, supernatural contrasts, and rare experiences, where you can hit the open road, and discover magnificent attractions.
“Singaporeans are increasingly craving the opportunity to get off the beaten track and reconnect with nature. Just over four hours away and on the same time zone, Western Australia is the perfect backdrop for an incredible road trip that will allow you to connect with yourself, your loved ones and with the destination,” said Ms Ava Ang, Tourism WA SG/MY Country Manager.
Take a quiz here and see which road trip is best for you!
Check airfare here: Skyscanner | Trip.com | Expedia
Book accommodations and activities here: Agoda | Booking.com | Klook | KKday | HotelsCombined | LuxuryEscapes
Save big, get the all-inclusive pass & explore your destination in-depth: GoCity
General info here: Tripadvisor
Affordable data plans here
And while you are at it, get your travel insurance with Alliance Assistance | Income | Prudential!
Martin Scorsese directs Chanel's new Bleu De Chanel campaign featuring Timothee Chalamet
Inspired by the magnetic pull and timeless spirit of this fresh, luminous scent, Scorsese, an icon, and Chalamet, one of the boldest actors of this generation, worked together for the first time ever to create a contemporary picture of free, daring, and determined self-discovery.
The American director’s film explores the delicate ambivalence between the overexposure that comes with fame, which causes the actor to live a scripted version of his life, and his profound desire to seek authenticity in his craft. In the short film, Chalamet portrays a man who sets off on a quest to find himself, following only his own instinct, in a deeply candid role written just for him.
Chanel will reveal the film on 16 October, 8pm, SGT. Watch the film on @chanel.beauty
Chloé launches new fragrance boutique in Singapore
Located at a new luxury beauty wing of the Vivocity mall, the boutique embodies the essence of Chloé's femininity. With its sleek and contemporary aesthetics, the boutique is adorned in soft tones of powder pink and cream, evoking the allure of an elegant French flower garden. The new boutique space is dedicated to Atelier des Fleurs, a fragrance collection that is inspired by the art of floral composition, designed to work in harmony in endless combinations. Each fragrance is crafted by renowned perfumers who pay homage to their favorite flower plant or the heart of an exclusive fragrance and share the unique story that binds them.
The boutique embodies Chloé’s timeless elegance and distinctive style, a haven for fragrance lovers to indulge in a luminous and inviting ambiance. Designed to resemble a French florist cart, the Atelier des Fleurs fragrance bar displays the 17 exclusive scents to compose your personalised fragrance the same way you select your favourite blossoms to create a bouquet at a flower shop. Beauty lovers are encouraged to pick and layer on different scents to create your own personalised scent. New scents include Chéne, Immortelle and Hyses.
adidas Presents FW23 Members Week
This bi-annual Adidas FW23 Members week event promises exclusive rewards and experiences for adiClub members this Members Week. Membership is free and gives you the first dibs on sales and exclusive launches. Here are the highlights:
adiClub Community Celebration: Members Week kicks off on 9 Oct, celebrating and rewarding our adiClub community, which includes passionate individuals from around the globe.
Exclusive Prizes: adiClub members in have the opportunity to win exciting prizes, such as an immersive fitness experience in New Zealand, a VIP Manchester United Home game experience, signed adidas Superstars from Blackpink’s Jennie, adiClub Pro Pass privileges, and more.
Exciting Contests and Promotions: The week features engaging contests, including the Rivalry Slamdunk Showdown, where you can demonstrate your basketball skills and win vouchers at adidas Brand Centre Orchard.
Activities for All Members: From 9 Oct, all adiClub members can participate in a range of thrilling activities, available both in-store and online or the adidas app.
Exclusive Contests and Giveaways
Fitness Journey to Les Mills Live New Zealand: Win a trip to Auckland, New Zealand, including workouts with top Les Mills trainers and a custom adidas x Les Mills training bundle.
Closer to the Game: Win the ultimate Manchester United game experience for two at Old Trafford stadium, partnered with Manchester United Supporters Club Singapore.
adidas Superstars Signed by Blackpink’s Jennie: Win exclusive pairs of adidas shoes autographed by Jennie from Blackpink, in collaboration with HallyuSG.
adiClub Pro Pass Giveaway: Unlock exclusive benefits, including a 3D2N Phuket hotel treat for two and a personalised shopping experience.
READ
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Fitness giant adidas joins hands with Finnish brands Moomin and Marimekko
Iman Fandi shares her passion for dance
Level up your skincare with the new Heliocare Luminance
Designed to give your skin a glow-up, Heliocare Luminance is specially formulated for Asia and replaces the Heliocare PureWhite Radiance Max 240. It is developed by international suncare expert Heliocare, which offers a dazzling array of topical and oral sunscreens, and Neoasia, a Singapore-based distributor of medical aesthetics and dermatological technologies in Asia, and the sole authorised distributor of Heliocare.
With its potent ingredients of Fernblock, Glutathione, Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3), and Rosemary Extract, you can look forward to these benefits:
Prevents and improves the formation of dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Brightens skin tone and promotes skin radiance
Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Improves skin barrier function to better retain moisture
Protects against environmental stress and free radicals
Protects and repairs against DNA damage that could lead to premature skin ageing
Heliocare Luminance is priced at S$162 (inclusive of GST) for a box of 60 capsules and is available at selected leading dermatological clinics, plastic surgery clinics and aesthetic clinics. Check out the full list of clinics.
Marks & Spencer Remarksable Value range now available at M&S Foodhall
British retailer M&S has always been a go-to for everyday needs, from food, work wear, lingerie and of course tea and biscuits, perfect for Christmas gifting. Planning a party or simply some tea-time beverages and snacks? Look to M&S Remarksable Value range at M&S Foodhall. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly ingredients to prepare a family meal or essential homecare products, the Remarksable Value range has it all.
For those moments when you're in need of a tea-time pick-me-up at the office or home, you can tuck into delectable treats like the Milk Chocolate Digestive Biscuits and soothing Peppermint Tea. With these essentials, you will be well-prepared to conquer the rest of your workday without breaking the bank. Don't miss out on their in-store tastings, available until 29 October. Head to M&S every weekend at M&S Wheelock Place from 2pm to 4pm (while stocks last!), and indulge in a delightful array of M&S products across various weekends.
READ
Marks & Spencer unveils new lingerie fitting room and bra-fitting service
Starbucks launches 2023 anniversary blend
Starbucks' Anniversary Blend 2023 has dropped, and this year's blend is a tribute to the beloved aged Sumatra. Sourced exclusively from Indonesia—the coffee-growing region that’s inspired Starbucks from the beginning—this blend features beans from Sumatra, West Java and Sulawesi to form a bold blend. Notes of smoked cedar and allspice pair with accents of fresh herbs and black truffle. Best prepared with a french press.
Check out how to prepare the blend here.
Tipsy Unicorn Beach Club puts the fun back into Sentosa
Opened in September, Tipsy Unicorn Beach Club is a fun F&B lifestyle destination at Sentosa, that spans 9,000 square feet, including a 5,000 square feet outdoor space for party-goers. Offering a variety of indoor and outdoor amenities, including daybeds, prime daybeds, lounge cabanas and suites, the main pool also has an elaborately designed stage that leads the VIP to the cabanas and an ocean-view main bar area. Guests can relish in an extensive range of food and beverages, including craft cocktails, and wines, while enjoying the stunning views of the beach and breathtaking sunsets.
Inside the seating area, guests can munch on local and international delights by Tipsy Collective’s Culinary Director, Chef Alvin Tan, who has concocted an extensive menu including fresh seafood, pasta, burgers, and delectable plant-based options for vegetarian and vegan guests. At the media's tasting menu, we got to experience seafood paella, grilled prawns green salad, rainbow-sprinkled carrot cake and even a flambé cake called the Mystical Unihorn. While the food left much to be desired, music lovers would love the ambience and good vibes.
Tipsy Unicorn Beach Club is located at 36 Siloso Beach Walk, #01-01, Sentosa Island, Singapore. Opens Monday – Thursday: 11am to 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 12pm to 12am, Sunday: 11am – 10pm.
Michael Kors introduces a new statement print
Behold the new statement print from Michael Kors: Empire Signature Logo. Elegantly entwining the brand’s iconic Signature Logo with the architecturally inspired Empire motif, Empire Signature captures the mix of timeless glamour and modern ease that lies at the heart of Michael Kors’ design aesthetic.
To celebrate the fall launch of Empire Signature, the print has been splashed — in chic, tonal neutrals — on a range of items and silhouettes, including ready-to-wear, shoulder bags, totes, sling packs, crossbodies, camera and messenger bags, card cases and footwear. Whether worn head to toe or as an accent on a tote bag or crossbody, the distinctive pattern adds a chic and polished finish to any look.
For Fall 2023, Empire Signature takes centre stage in a sleek new campaign starring models Grace Elizabeth and Malik Anderson, captured by photographer Ethan James Green.
Shop at Michael Kors Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd, Mandarin Gallery #01-12/13 & 02-13.
Shop on Michael Kors Singapore
READ: Michael Kors bags, wallets and cardholders up to 50% off: Shop now
Hennessy V.S.O.P launches collaboration with Jackson Wang
Fans of Jackson Wang, look sharp. Hennessy V.S.O.P has just launched a vibrant limited edition bottle with global brand ambassador Jackson Wang and his luxury streetwear label, TEAM WANG design. You can try out two specially made signature Hennessy VSOP cocktails at a pop-up in Somerset 313 from now till 22 October 2023.
Accordingly to Jackson Wang, "Hennessy V.S.O.P is a catalyst of new revelry: it creates immersive, aspirational experiences of luxury that opens the door to serendipity and fantastical moments."
The Limited Edition bottle is also available for purchase at all Hennessy official retailers and the pop-up, as well as here.
