Away from the Crowd in ‘Phuket Old Town’
By Lifestyle+Travel
As travel restrictions have been eased, Phuket Old Town is filling with tourists once again. Nevertheless, if you prefer hanging around quieter spots, or are just wishing to take a break from the crowds, here are our picks of not-so-touristy places in the old part of town for quality experiences.
Museum Phuket
The museum has long been located in the Old Town, but you may have walked past it many times without realising it as it sits within a beautiful Sino-Portuguese building. The museum showcases stories of Phuket’s rich history, Peranakan culture, Chinese influences and much more that will all help you appreciate and enjoy the island even more.
Drawing Room Phuket
Drawing Room Phuket is an art space with a slow bar serving handcrafted coffee made with an intelligent choice of coffee beans, as well as non-coffee drinks. If you are an epicurean, you should stop by when you are in town.
Rosa Sweets & Chocolate
Rosa is a new paradise for those with a sweet tooth! When you enter the shop, you will be delighted by the myriad choices of craft chocolate. There is seating so you may slowly indulge into some sweet treats, and coffee and chocolate drinks are offered here as well. You may even like to opt for a bottle of Prosecco to pair with your choice of confection.
Pop Espresso Phuket
This coffeehouse delivers the fine aromas and flavours of coffee, to be selected from an array of well-chosen beans and then transformed into a heavenly cuppa using either the pour-over method or with an Aram Espresso Maker. If you are looking for a spot to sip and chat, discover new coffee flavours and take a break from the outside sun, this is the place for you.
Cloud Markt
It is neither a grocery store, restaurant nor bar, but a terrific combination of all three! Open day to night, you will find local products like snacks and aromatic candles here and be able to enjoy tasty dishes, light bites and a range of drinks including craft beer, kombucha cocktails and natural wines with cold cuts to accompany those.
Text and Photos by Pakvipa Rimdusit
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Sky-High Spirits: The Standard’s Boldest Season
Forget silent nights. The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon subverts tradition with a high-altitude festive lineup. Ditch the ordinary for a high-altitude festive takeover. Featuring quirky markets, Michelin-starred hairy crab, and Thailand’s highest countdown, this subverted, sky-high celebration redefines holiday glamour with unrelenting attitude. The Creative Kick-off The festivities ignite at The Parlor with Objects of Desire (Dec 19–21). This isn't your average market; it’s a curated playground of creative merch, fashion finds, and holiday drama. Expect live DJs, DIY workshops—think custom scrunchies and live drawing—and a pet-friendly policy that ensures no one is left behind. When the retail therapy peaks, head to Double Standard for comfort food and festive sips. A Culinary Odyssey The hotel’s dining icons are pulling out all the stops. Mott 32 brings back its cult-favorite Hairy Crab menu, while Tease offers a "Hypnotically Cool" afternoon tea (THB 1,100++). On Christmas Day, The Standard Grill serves a lush semi-buffet featuring roasted suckling pig (THB 1,800++), and Ojo delivers Mexican-inspired singular creations like King Crab Veracruzana against the city’s best backdrop. The Ultimate Countdown New Year’s Eve peaks at Sky Beach and Ojo for Thailand’s highest party. As 2025 fades, disco-house maestro Dicky Trisco and underground icon Seelie take over the decks 78 floors up. Whether you opt for a five-course dinner at the Grill or the all-in "Stay for Midnight" package (from THB 34,000++), you’ll be toasted by free-flow champagne and front-row views of Bangkok’s explosive firework display. The morning after? Recover at The Standard Grill with a "Morning After Brunch" designed to cure any festive hangover. For more information LINE Official Account @thestandardbangkok Tel: +66 (0) 2085 8888
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok Presents the Enchanting Festive Programme to Grace the Season
Dining out transforms a simple home meal into a true event, creating lasting memories. Everyone gets to enjoy gourmet menus, elegant settings, and an atmosphere filled with smiles and joy. Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok welcomes guests to an extraordinary festive season! The Enchanting Programme brings families together for treasured holiday dining and memorable experiences, making it the perfect place to celebrate the end of 2025. Magical Christmas Celebrations The festivities begin with a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony & Festive Buffet on December 3, 2025. Join us in the lobby for the lighting, followed by a dinner buffet at Nourish (6:30 pm – 9:00 pm) with carol performances. Price: THB 2,400++ per adult / THB 1,500++ per child. Christmas Eve (December 24, 2025) • Nourish: Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner (6:00 pm – 10:00 pm) features an expansive international spread. Indulge in fresh seafood on ice (Alaskan King Crab, oysters), a foie gras terrine station, and a carving station with Christmas porchetta and turkey. Enjoy live music and signature Mövenpick desserts. (Price: THB 2,600++ per adult / THB 1,500++ per child.) • Khum Hom: Thai-Inspired Christmas Eve Dinner (6:00 pm – 9:00 pm) presents an elegant six-course regional Thai set menu by Chef Ian Kittichai. Price: THB 2,600++ per person (food only). • Bittersweet: Festive Bubbles & Beats (6:00 pm – 11:00 pm) offers a celebration lounge with free-flow sparkling wine and live entertainment. Price: THB 1,600++ per person. Christmas Day (December 25, 2025) • Nourish: Christmas Day Brunch Buffet (12:00 pm – 3:00 pm) offers a spectacular spread, including Hokkaido scallop, a sashimi selection, a dedicated Raclette Cheese station, and festive roasts like Beef Wellington and Grilled Lamb Rack. Price: THB 2,800++ per adult / THB 1,500++ per child. • Khum Hom: Continues the celebration with its exceptional six-course Thai set menu for lunch (12:00 pm – 3:00 pm) and dinner (6:00 pm – 9:00 pm). Price: THB 2,400++ per person (food only). New Year's Eve Spectacular (December 31, 2025) • Nourish: New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet (6:00 pm – 10:30 pm) features a premium collection including rock lobster, Alaskan King Crab, a sushi/sashimi bar, and festive roasts. Price: THB 3,000++ per adult / THB 1,500++ per child. • Khum Hom: Offers an exquisite seven-course refined regional Thai culinary journey (6:00 pm – 10:30 pm). Price: THB 3,000++ per person (food only). • Bliss Pool Bar: - New Year's Eve Dinner (6:00 pm – 9:00 pm): Five-course surf & turf set dinner. THB 2,500++ per person (food only). - Countdown Party (9:00 pm – 1:00 am): Energetic DJ beats and your favorite drinks under the stars. Starting the New Year Right (January 1, 2026) • Nourish: New Year's Day Extended Breakfast Buffet (6:00 am – 12:00 pm). Start the year with a leisurely long breakfast. Price: THB 900++ per adult / THB 500++ per child. Early Bird Offer: Secure an exclusive 15% privilege when booking with full, non-refundable advance payment by December 15. (ALL Accor+ Explorer members receive 30% off.) For reservations and further information Tel: +66 (0) 2666 3333 Website: www.movenpickbdmsbangkok.com
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Celebrate the Festive Magic of Paris at Printemps
As winter arrives, the City of Light transforms into a glowing wonderland of sparkling boulevards, stylish decorations, and warm seasonal charm. The atmosphere is so unique from dazzling illuminations to cosy Christmas markets, Paris captures the spirit of celebration like nowhere else — and at the heart of this magical atmosphere stands the iconic Printemps Haussmann. Founded in 1865, Printemps has long been a symbol of Parisian elegance and innovation. Created with the ambition to offer something fresh, beautiful, and accessible, the department store soon became a pioneer in modern retail. It introduced fixed pricing, seasonal sales, and artistic window displays that would later become legendary Christmas attractions. Its magnificent Art Nouveau architecture — complete with historic domes and ornate facades — has been admired for generations and officially recognised as part of France’s cultural heritage. Today, Printemps remains one of Paris’s most beloved shopping destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. During the festive period, the store comes alive with enchanting window displays, exclusive collections, and the joyful energy that defines Paris in winter. Whether you’re searching for the perfect holiday gift, refreshing your wardrobe, or simply immersing yourself in the city’s festive charm, Printemps offers an unforgettable experience. Festive Promotion (15 Nov 2025 – 15 Jan 2026) Shop till you drop with our VIP Invitation and receive exclusive rewards when you, • Spend €800 or more → Receive a small makeup pouch (valued at €18) or a stylish cap (valued at €25) • Spend €1,200 or more → Receive a laptop sleeve (valued at €35) • Spend €2,000 or more → Receive a large bag (valued at €69) A perfect bonus treat — whether as a Parisian keepsake or a thoughtful gift for someone special. This holiday season, let Printemps be your gateway to the magic of Paris. Discover the traditions, the beauty, and the joy of celebrating in one of the world’s most enchanting cities.