Kuala Lumpur’s New Boutique Hotel ‘Else’ Set to Launch in September
By Lifestyle+Travel
Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, the city’s new boutique hotel Else is slated to open in September 2022 in the former Lee Rubber Building, honouring the landmark’s architectural legacy while embracing contemporary design, featuring 49 well-appointed guest rooms, 2 compelling dining concepts, and modern wellness facilities.
Else Founders Justin Chen and Javier Perez commissioned local leading designers, artists and partners to create their vision of conscious hospitality. Malaysian design
firm Studio Bikin conceptualised the design and oversaw the restoration which was executed by Faizah Architect, another celebrated Malaysian partner. Complex, thought-provoking and inspiring art pieces have been acquired from emerging and award-winning Malaysian artists.
“Else has been a four-year project realized through the challenges of the global pandemic and inspired by the emerging new era of traveller. The result is an urban haven for the globally minded and curious. Our design and construction team have sensitively balanced a contrast of new and old with a refined juxtaposition of a pre-war building beautifully preserved and innovative design that invites all our guests to explore the property on their own, and discover intimate pockets to pause and reflect,” commented Justin Chen.
Else opens on 10 September 2022 with opening rates from MYR 398 until 31 October 2022. For more information, visit www.elseretreats.com
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
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.
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Learn Thai Cooking from the Masters – Join Bo.Lan’s November Classes!
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.