As the year’s final hours approach, the world’s great metropolises transform into vast, illuminated theaters of celebration. Clocking from the early pyrotechnics of the Southern Hemisphere to the midnight neon of the West, these four destinations remain the essential stages for a global New Year. ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ Sydney: The First Spark Sydney holds the prestige of being among the first to ignite the global festivities. The harbor becomes a shimmering arena as world-renowned pyrotechnics cascade from the Harbour Bridge, reflecting off the iconic sails of the Opera House in a masterclass of maritime scale. ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ Bangkok: The River of Light Along the Chao Phraya, Bangkok’s historic waterway serves as a majestic backdrop for the countdown. From the city’s soaring rooftop lounges to the traditional riverfront, the skyline erupts in a synchronized dance of light that blends ancient temple silhouettes with a high-octane festive energy. ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ London: A Thames-Side Tradition When Big Ben strikes twelve, the South Bank becomes the focal point of European celebration. The London Eye frames a breathtaking display of color reflected in the dark waters of the Thames, while the city’s historic streets and grand ballrooms hum with timeless British charm. ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ New York: The World’s Crossroads Few experiences rival the kinetic electricity of Times Square. As the crystal ball descends, a blizzard of confetti falls upon a global crowd in a moment of collective optimism. It remains the quintessential urban ritual—a high-energy finale at the center of the world.

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

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.

This November, the Bo.lan Education Program (BEP) invites food lovers to join a special Thai cooking and fermentation class led by Chef Bo and Chef Dylan Jones, the renowned chefs behind Bo.lan. They will demonstrate sustainable cooking concepts and share insights from their real-world culinary experience. The Bo.lan Education Program offers Thai cooking courses (THAI 101–108) that combine traditional Thai cuisine with eco-friendly practices, suitable for both beginners and passionate food enthusiasts. This November’s classes include THAI 108: Traditional Thai Cooking Class and Cook the Book: “Foundations of Flavor” Fermentation Workshop. THAI 108: Traditional Thai Cooking Class – Learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes, from your own kitchen to a professional level. On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., participants will cook classic Thai dishes such as stewed beef in coconut milk, grilled pork with chili paste, and mixed vegetable stir-fry. The class also covers essential techniques like pounding curry paste using a traditional stone mortar to achieve a rich, balanced flavor of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet. Prices start at THB 3,800++ per person. Cook the Book: “Foundations of Flavor” Fermentation Workshop – A special fermentation class inspired by The Noma Guide to Fermentation. Held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. onwards, this session explores the science of fermentation to elevate flavor, enhance nutritional value, and reconnect with nature. Participants will learn various fermentation techniques and enjoy a hands-on cooking and dining experience with Chef Bo and Chef Dylan. Prices start at THB 3,990++ per person, with a special 10% discount for BEP alumni. All classes take place at the Bo.lan Education Program, Sukhumvit Soi 53, Bangkok, just a few minutes’ walk from BTS Thonglor (Exit 1). Class sizes are limited to ensure a personalized learning experience and close interaction with the chefs. For reservations or more information Tel: +66 (0) 2260 2962 LINE: @bo.lan, or email: edu@bolan.co.th.

Carpe Diem Beach Club brings back one of Phuket’s most beloved seaside rituals with the return of La Dolce Vita Sundays, relaunching on Sunday, 5 October 2025, at the island’s iconic Bangtao Beach. Marking the start of the high season, La Dolce Vita Sundays celebrates the Mediterranean art of living — a seamless blend of sun, sea, music, and exceptional cuisine. The signature brunch-to-sunset experience captures the essence of effortless luxury, where guests can indulge, unwind, and embrace Phuket’s lively social spirit. From 12 PM to 3 PM, guests are invited to a beachfront buffet brunch featuring live cooking stations with fresh seafood, imported cheeses, sushi, Mediterranean favorites, BBQ carvings, and decadent desserts. The ambience is elevated with live music and panoramic sea views — the perfect prelude to an afternoon of coastal celebration. As the day unfolds, the scene transforms into a vibrant pool party from 3 PM till late, complete with full-service poolside lounges, chilled towels, signature cocktails, wines, champagnes, and bottle service. Resident DJs set the mood with laid-back daytime tunes that flow into sunset beats and deep-night rhythms, while captivating beach performances and a spectacular fire show finale keep the energy alive. The relaunch party featured a special guest appearance by Chef Álvaro Ramos Palancarejo (Chef Palanca), who performed a live culinary showcase featuring his signature dishes — including scallops on salmorejo, lobster paella, and arroz negro. Benny De Bellis, Co-Founder of Carpe Diem Beach Club, shared: “La Dolce Vita Sundays is our way of bringing Mediterranean soul to Phuket. It’s about great food, music, and moments that feel spontaneous yet unforgettable. We want guests to feel at home, to linger with friends, and to leave knowing they’ve been part of something special — because Carpe Diem has always been more than a beach club; it’s a way of life.” La Dolce Vita Sundays will be held every Sunday from October 5 onwards, with the following packages available: • Beach Lounge Chair – THB 2,000 per guest • Pool Deck or Beach Bed – THB 2,500 per guest • La Dolce Vita Sunday Brunch – THB 2,900 per guest + VAT • La Dolce Vita Experience (12 PM–8 PM+) – THB 5,000 per guest Supported by Sole Mio Boutique Hotel, five-star adults-only retreat just minutes from Bangtao Beach, this relaunch promises the ultimate celebration of Mediterranean lifestyle in Phuket. Walk-ins are welcome subject to availability, but advance reservations are highly recommended. Website: Carpe Diem Beach Club Phuket

The fusion of traditional Thai flavors with French cooking techniques creates waves of fresh and exciting tastes. Tamarind Restaurant Phuket proudly unveils four innovative new menus, skillfully crafted by the celebrated Chef Nok. This latest culinary collection blends the depth of Thai culinary heritage with the sophistication of contemporary French gastronomy, promising guests a truly memorable dining journey. The menu highlights Chef Nok’s creative vision, using premium ingredients to reimagine classic dishes. Diners begin with the Spicy Seafood & Glass Noodle Salad, where fine glass noodles are elevated with wakame and nori, then paired with tender Hokkaido scallops, rock lobster, and fresh squid for a vibrant, zesty start. Next, the ‘Tom Yum’ Lobster Bisque presents a brilliant fusion of two beloved soups. The creamy richness of a traditional lobster bisque is enhanced by the bold, spicy-sour notes of authentic Tom Yum Goong, delivering a layered taste experience that is both comforting and surprising. For the main course, the Phuket Lobster ‘Khao Soi’ offers a luxurious reinterpretation of Northern Thailand’s iconic curry noodle dish. Succulent local lobster rests in a fragrant coconut broth, accompanied by crispy noodles and traditional condiments for an elevated yet nostalgic flavor profile. To close, the Mango & Passion Tart Tatin puts a tropical twist on a French classic. Sweet mango and tangy passion fruit are caramelized into a golden tart, paired with refreshing homemade coconut ice cream for a vibrant finale. Each dish reflects an impressive balance of tradition, innovation, and artistry—raising the bar for fine dining in Phuket. For more information Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort Website: https://www.pullmanphuketpanwa.com/ Tamarind Restaurant Phuket Website: https://tamarindrestaurantphuket.com/

“DINNER INCREDIBLE THAILAND 2025” marks Asia’s first culinary event to feature 15 world-class chefs with a total of 21 Michelin stars, celebrating Thai ingredients on the global stage. Bangkok’s sky lights up with Michelin stars as “DINNER INCREDIBLE THAILAND 2025” makes its much-anticipated debut in Asia. In collaboration with 6ty Degrees, a premium Thai mineral water brand by Rare Beverage Co., Ltd., the event is co-hosted by DINNER INCREDIBLE, The Diplomat Network, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Ministry of Culture, GranMonte, Savoey Restaurant, Squid Brand, WeAreFactory, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, and Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok. This unprecedented event brings together 15 world-class chefs—boasting 21 Michelin stars—alongside influential guests and global culinary leaders to pay tribute to Thai ingredients and their inspirational role on the world stage. It promises to create a groundbreaking gastronomic experience like no other. More than just a one-of-a-kind dining event, DINNER INCREDIBLE THAILAND 2025 aims to spark new taste discoveries, celebrate local produce, and foster collaboration among chefs and culinary pioneers. The stellar lineup includes: Bruno Menard – Three Michelin stars, France Alvin Leung – Three Michelin stars, Hong Kong Thierry Voisin – Three Michelin stars, France Ebbe Vollmer – Two Michelin stars, Sweden Dalia Florence – Two Michelin stars, France Arnaud Dunand – Two Michelin stars, France Andy Yang – One Michelin star, Thailand Tim Golsteijn – One Michelin star, Netherlands Pradinan Arkarachinores – One Michelin star, Thailand Henk Savelberg – One Michelin star, Netherlands Deepanker Khosla – One Michelin star and Michelin Green Star, India The lineup also features acclaimed chefs including: Alessandro Frau – Owner of Thailand’s Best Italian Restaurant 2025 Michael Bao – Iron Chef Vietnam Naree Boonyakiat – Best Female Influencer Chef Asia 2025 Giorgio Diana – Chef of the Year 2023, ranked #31 on Italy’s 50 Top list, and founder of DINNER INCREDIBLE

Discover the story behind the kitchen: how Swedish chef Björn Frantzén became the only chef in the world to simultaneously operate three Michelin three-star restaurants. 1. A Historic Milestone The culinary world was stunned at the Michelin Guide ceremony in Dubai, where FZN—operated under the vision of Chef Björn Frantzén—was awarded three Michelin stars, the highest honor in gastronomy. Remarkably, the restaurant had only opened in October 2024. With this accolade, FZN became the first-ever restaurant in the UAE to receive three Michelin stars, instantly joining the ranks of the world’s finest dining destinations. 2. The Man Behind the Magic At the heart of this achievement is Chef Björn Frantzén himself—the only chef in the world currently operating three Michelin three-star restaurants. “This recognition is an incredible honor, not just for me, but for my entire team,” said Frantzén. “Receiving three Michelin stars for FZN in Dubai is a proud moment that reflects the hard work and creativity of everyone involved.” 3. A Trio of Stars Across Continents Out of just 152 restaurants worldwide with three Michelin stars, three belong to the Frantzén Group—cementing its status at the pinnacle of global fine dining, with a presence across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Frantzén – Stockholm The flagship restaurant and the first in Sweden to receive three Michelin stars, a distinction it has held since 2018. Zén – Singapore Opened in 2018 and awarded its third Michelin star in 2021. FZN – Dubai Awarded three Michelin stars in the 2025 Michelin Guide, just months after its debut in October 2024. Experience the Frantzén touch in Bangkok. Explore the Frantzén Group’s culinary philosophy at Villa Frantzén Bangkok.

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a distinguished Luxury Collection Hotel nestled in the vibrant heart of Bangkok's Sukhumvit area, recently hosted a memorable "Showcasing Our Culinary Journey" event. This special gathering offered an immersive experience in world-class gastronomy, complemented by the hotel's renowned impeccable service. Benefiting from unparalleled accessibility via both the MRT and BTS systems, this five-star haven serves as an ideal base for discerning business and leisure travelers seeking to explore the captivating energy of the city. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit seamlessly blends its exceptional hospitality with the unique charm of Bangkok, a metropolis where rich cultural heritage gracefully intertwines with contemporary sophistication. Beyond its prime location, the hotel boasts an impressive collection of premium amenities. Guests can indulge in luxurious accommodations, unwind at the spa, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, and discover a range of exceptional dining venues: Royal Suite: Opulent suites where Thai elegance meets European design. Overlooking Benjakitti Park, these havens offer breathtaking, unobstructed lake views alongside expansive living areas, lavish marble bathrooms featuring Jacuzzis, and personalized butler service. Orchid Café: Celebrated for its extensive international buffet and enticing à la carte selections, the restaurant presents a diverse array of culinary delights, including authentic Thai dishes, all prepared with the freshest seasonal ingredients. Rossini’s: An inviting eatery styled like a charming Tuscan villa, serving authentic Italian cuisine meticulously crafted with premium, high-quality ingredients.  basil: A contemporary Thai restaurant that reimagines traditional recipes with a modern flair. The Sala: A tranquil urban retreat offering a serene garden and poolside ambiance. Here, guests can savor a delightful fusion of Asian and Western culinary creations in a relaxed setting. The Living Room: Bangkok's legendary live jazz venue, where top-tier artists grace the stage, welcoming guests into its elegant and timeless atmosphere. BARSU: A trendy and vibrant bar where live music sets the scene for socializing and unwinding. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted drinks and a menu of curated bar-style dishes. Dine in the Dark: A unique and impactful culinary adventure where guests savor a meal in complete darkness, guided by visually impaired staff. A portion of the proceeds from this extraordinary experience supports the Foundation for the Blind. Le Petit Chef: Offering a groundbreaking 3D dining experience, this innovative concept takes guests on an immersive journey through delectable flavors and captivating narratives brought to life through cutting-edge technology. “The Living Room”: A Celebration of Jazz Music The evening started with the evocative "Rosette Reverie" cocktail at The Living Room, a gin-based creation blending rose, mint, and lemon, mirroring the improvisational charm of jazz. Exquisite Indulgence at “Royal Suite” Guests were welcomed to the Royal Suite with Ruinart Blanc de Blanc Champagne and a selection of refined canapés, including Gin and Cucumber Oysters, Jalapeño-Mint-Coriander Jelly Oysters, Oyster Espuma with Seaweed-Chilli Salsa, Royal Beluga Caviar Macaroons, Foie Gras Macarons, Hokkaido Scallops with Pea Purée and Yuzu Foam, and Wagyu Beef Bruschetta with Truffle Caviar. Allure of Thai Cuisine at “basil” The culinary journey continued at basil with the "Miang Kham Bua Luang," a delicate lotus petal wrap filled