Giambattista Valli x H&M Is Bringing Couture Back to Life Again!
By Lifestyle+Travel
H&M’s next designer collaboration is with Giambattista Valli, the Paris-based master of beauty and sophistication. The news was revealed at The amfAR gala in Cannes, where Giambattista Valli and H&M’s Creative Advisor Ann-Sofie Johansson walked the red carpet together with Kendall Jenner, Chris Lee (Li Yuchun), Chiara Ferragni, H.E.R., Bianca Brandolini d’Adda and Ross Lynch. The stars were dressed in glamorous must-have pieces from a unique limited-edition pre-drop collection from the Giambattista Valli x H&M collaboration. For the first time fashion fans can enjoy the collaboration immediately (well, almost!), as the beautiful pieces worn on the red carpet are available in selected stores and on hm.com. The main Giambattista Valli x H&M collection launches worldwide on November 7, 2019.
“I am excited about this collaboration: H&M gives me the opportunity to bring my vision of style and my celebration of beauty to a wider audience. The goal is to share my love for beauty and to be able to be part of everyone’s “happy moments”, to help create love stories all around the world.” -Giambattista Valli
A limited pre-collection of the Giambattista Valli x H&M collaboration are available in 12 selected H&M stores around the world and on hm.com on May 25th. The exquisite pieces give fashion fans a sneak peek of the exciting collaboration full of stylish twists and turns. The main collection launches worldwide on November 7, 2019.
By Lifestyle+Travel
Khao Chae Round-Up 2026: Where to beat the heat this summer
When the hot season in Thailand ceases to be a mere conversation starter and becomes a daily survival challenge, the people’s collective palate shifts toward its most sophisticated, traditional cooling mechanism: Khao Chae. Originally a humble New Year’s tradition brought to Thailand by the Mon people, the dish was famously adopted and “upscaled” by the royal palace during the reign of King Rama V, transforming it into an elaborate display of culinary masterpieces. This summertime treat manages to be both incredibly light and remarkably complex. Every grain of rice is parboiled, polished by hand, and soaked in the floral-infused water, and every classic condiment is a balance of salt, sugar, and smoke, meticulously prepared with time-honoured techniques. How to Eat Khao Chae To truly appreciate Khao Chae, there is a specific, almost meditative etiquette to the meal that ensures the delicate floral water stays pristine. Start by taking a small bite-sized piece of a side dish, follow it with a spoonful of the chilled rice and a sip of the scented water, and then finish with a piece of fresh vegetable, such as a slice of fingerroot, cucumber, or green mango. This ritual ensures that each flavour remains distinct and the fragrant rice water is untainted by grease. With the ritual mastered, explore our curated selection of this year’s finest offerings, where Bangkok and Chiang Mai’s top chefs prove that while the weather may be relentless, the tradition of keeping cool is an art form in itself. Khum Hom, Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok Experience Chef Ian Kittichai’s interpretation of the quintessential Thai summer delicacy that has graced family tables for generations. The Khao Chae experience Khum Hom is a masterclass in culinary precision and diligence—premium jasmine rice is parboiled, polished, and bathed in chilled, candle-scented water, served with 10 savoury-sweet, meticulously hand-crafted side dishes, including Look Kapi(Deep-fried caramelised shrimp paste), Prik Yuak Yud Sai (green peppers filled with minced pork and shrimp), Pla Yee-Son Wan (sweetened shredder sun-dried ray fish), and Khai Deng Kem Tod (fried salted egg yolk). The meal concludes on a bright final note: seasonal fruits and kaffir lime suspended in a light, scented syrup—a refreshing palate cleanser that acts as an immediate sensory pick-me-up against the midday heat. Pricing and Packages: Dine-in: 990++ baht per person (All Accor+ Explorer enjoying 10% off) Takeaway Set: 1,790++ baht per 2 persons and served in a woven basket with a 10% discount for online orders and self-pickup Period: 15 March – 30 April (Lunchtime only) T: +66 (0) 2 666 3311 | W:www.khumhomrestaurant.com Bodhi Terrace, Anantara Chiangmai Resort As the northern heat settles over the Mae Ping River, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort unveils its seasonal remedy: a curated collection of summer treats that celebrate the intersection of royal tradition and seasonal contemporary flair—the cooling ritual of Khao Chae and the fleeting, sweet-and-tart vibrancy of the Mayongchid (Marian Plum). What sets the Anantara rendition apart is the precision of its accompaniments. Each bite offers a calibrated balance of textures and flavours, while the Mayongchid is undoubtedly the golden star. The
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Madi Paidi Bangkok’s Festive Revolution
Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection has unveiled a holiday experience that is “Exactly Festive Like Nothing Else,” launching its first-ever Festive Decoration Contest. This visionary initiative invited 25 teams of talented university students to step beyond the classroom and transform the hotel’s sophisticated spaces into immersive art installations. By pairing young creatives with industry experts in architecture and design, the hotel has created a platform that bridges the gap between academic talent and professional hospitality, echoing Marriott International’s Serve 360 commitment to empowering the next generation. The Winners’ Circle The results are a masterclass in Thai craftsmanship and sustainable storytelling. Taking home the Winner’s Award, team Pun Parn (KMUTNB) captured the essence of renewal with a striking centerpiece made of bamboo strips from Nakhon Sawan, electrified by the vibrant colors of Bangkok’s iconic tuk-tuks. The First Runner-Up, Three Whispers (Chulalongkorn University), curated a serene welcome featuring handcrafted paper trees and traditional Pha Khao Ma fabrics from Lampang. Meanwhile, Second Runner-Up, A Land of Abundance (Thammasat University), reimagined the Thai garland at EKKALUCK restaurant using recycled materials, proving that luxury and eco-consciousness can walk hand-in-hand. Cast Your Vote The journey doesn't end with the judges. From now until January 1, 2026, Madi Paidi Bangkok invites the public to become part of the creative process. Guests can vote for their favorite design either onsite at the hotel or via social media. The winner of the Popular Vote Award will be announced on January 2, 2026, marking a new chapter for these rising stars of Thai design. Experience a festive atmosphere where every corner tells a story of local heritage and future innovation. For more information www.madipaidibangkok.com Tel: +66 (0) 2127 5999
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Unfolding the Art of Journey
The art of elevated travel has evolved the experience of air travel far beyond mere transportation. For the discerning passenger, it has truly become an art—a curated journey where comfort, exclusivity, and personalization transform the flight itself into a desirable destination. Traveling hits another level of sophistication as Jim Thompson and Thai Airways International (THAI) elevate their collaboration. The stunning new in-flight collection transforms the journey, draping passengers in contemporary Thai artistry with bespoke amenity kits and luxurious Royal Silk Class Comfort Wear. To celebrate the third year of their landmark partnership with a stunning, style-and-sustainability-focused in-flight collection. This collaboration elevates the experience for the modern traveler, blending aviation excellence with immersive Thai culture. Building on the success of premium amenity kits launched in 2023, the latest expansion introduces 14 exclusive new prints for amenity bags. Highlights include designs like House on the Klong and Orchids Bunch—reflecting Thai heritage and THAI’s emblem. For the first time, Royal Silk Class passengers on European routes will enjoy bespoke Jim Thompson Comfort Wear featuring the signature Origami Elephant motif, ensuring travel is "Smooth as Silk." THAI's CCO, Kittiphong Sansomboon, emphasizes the commitment to sustainability and authentic Thai identity. This focus is clear in the collection's eco-friendly fabrics and biodegradable accessories, including a toothbrush and shoehorn. The 2026 Collection invites travellers to "live the story" of Thai culture through rich fabrics and innovative design, solidifying Jim Thompson and THAI's shared passion for world-class hospitality and craftsmanship.