Author: Deborah

Fine Dining in Isan

Posted on by Deborah

Fermented pork taco or ant eggs entree, anyone? Gourmet Isan cuisine promises exciting meals beyond Som Tum.

The agricultural heartland of northeastern Thailand, known as Isan, has transformed into an unexpected hotspot for fine dining. The region, long recognised for its rustic charm, rich culture, and signature cuisine, is now a place where traditional flavours and innovative techniques converge to redefine its culinary reputation.

The Essence of Isan Cuisine

At the core of Isan’s food culture is a celebration of bold, spicy, and rustic flavours. Sticky rice, grilled meats, spicy salads like som tum (green papaya salad), and larb (minced meat salad) are staples. These dishes are defined by the liberal use of fish sauce, fiery chilies, lime juice, and fresh herbs such as mint and coriander.

A New Wave of Culinary Creativity

In recent years, chefs across Isan have begun to elevate these local flavours through modern, fine-dining techniques. Taking cues from global trends while staying true to their roots, they reinvent traditional dishes by incorporating premium ingredients, artistic plating, and intricate cooking methods.

Farm-to-Table Philosophy

Many fine dining establishments in Isan embrace a farm-to-table ethos, sourcing fresh ingredients from local farmers and foraging in nearby forests. This commitment to sustainability is not just a trend, but a way of life in rural Thailand. It ensures that diners at high-end restaurants in cities like Khon Kaen or Udon Thani can experience the freshest and most flavourful dishes, with menus that feature locally grown organic herbs, free-range poultry, and freshly caught river fish.

Contemporary Takes on Tradition

At restaurants like the Michelin-recommended Samuay & Sons in Udon Thani, Chef Num Samuay has been at the forefront of reimagining Isan cuisine. His tasting menus are a journey through the region’s landscape, combining elements like Isan-style marinated beef with organic vegetables and unique garnishes like edible flowers and foraged mushrooms. Each dish pays homage to traditional recipes while adding a modern twist, offering guests a sophisticated yet truly local dining

Experience

Another noteworthy name to know is Kaen in Khon Kaen, another Michelin-starred restaurant. Its menu reflects the seasons, and the healthy nature of Isan cuisine. Crunchy bamboo shoots are picked fresh from the garden and crafted into a spicy salad with pork neck. Kaen also reaches to the sea for inspiration. Pomelo salad with Cajun squid is a surprising mashup of far-flung flavours of the Caribbean and the juicy grapefruit relative found locally.

Isan’s fine dining scene is a fusion of culinary influences, a blend of French techniques with local Thai ingredients, and Japanese precision with Isan’s bold, spicy flavours. Dishes like smoked duck breast with tamarind glaze or a delicate soup incorporating aromatic Thai herbs with a broth slowly simmered in the French style are just a few examples of this exciting fusion.

Artisanal Ingredients

A deep respect for artisanal ingredients also characterises the finest dining experiences in Isan. Tasting menus highlight locally made fish sauce, crafted by hand and aged for months, or rare rice varieties grown in small batches. Some chefs even collaborate directly with local producers to source unique ingredients, such as wild honey from forest bees or salt harvested from ancient salt mines in the region.

Dining with a View

In addition to the food, fine dining in northeastern Thailand often comes with breathtaking scenery. From restaurants along the banks of the Mekong River to dining spots in the hills of Loei Province, the region’s natural beauty adds another layer to the dining experience. Imagine enjoying a perfectly seared piece of Isan-style pork while gazing over the lush, rolling mountains or sipping a glass of wine as the sun sets over the Mekong.

A New Culinary Destination

While Bangkok remains the epicentre of Thailand’s fine dining scene, northeastern Thailand is fast emerging as a destination for food lovers looking for something different. Whether it’s the vibrant street food markets or the newly opened Michelin-starred restaurants, Isan is beginning to attract gourmands worldwide. Chefs in the region are pushing boundaries, combining the ancient with the avant-garde, all while keeping the soul of Isan cuisine intact.

Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Isan’s fine dining scene is a perfect balance between tradition and innovation. It beautifully showcases the diversity and depth of Isan’s culinary heritage while embracing modern techniques that appeal to the discerning diner. For those seeking a unique gastronomic journey, northeastern Thailand offers an unforgettable blend of flavours, textures, and cultural richness—making it a rising star on the global culinary map.

This article was first published on TAT News. About the Author Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya: (Chat): Frequent foodie and occasional craftsman of travel stories, Khun Chat draws on his nearly four decades of promoting Thailand’s tourism industry to highlight everything from world-class attractions to hidden gems. When not writing stuff, he makes it a mission to catch rom-coms and DC superheroes whenever they show up in theatres.

Elephant Hills Bush Camp, Chiang Mai 

Posted on by Deborah

Morgan Taylor is a passionate about wildlife conservation, and recently joined the team at Elephant Hills. She shares her first experience at the new Chiang Mai Bush Camp here.

My first day in Chiang Mai was spent with a truly wonderful guide, Nink. We spent the whole day exploring all the main sights together, temples, markets, monuments, iconic walks, incredible food – we fit a lot in – even the expansive mall!

I feel my understanding of Chiang Mai is much greater having had this day out. It’s a brilliant city with SO much on offer. I knew I would love it, but it truly touched my soul. I will never forget this day. A waterfall so powerful it gave me chills, landscapes that never seemed to end and some very off-the-beaten-track routes. It was heaven. A rural cafe with a delightful owner, buffalo by the side of the road, rice fields, I get emotional thinking about this first day. This day is something that will stay with me forever.

I wasn’t expecting the Bush Camp to impact me so much. I don’t know if it was the location or the scenery, but I could have sworn I was deep in an African National Park. The surroundings were familiar to Hwange, The Namib bush, and KZN province, all in one.

The welcome from the team here was so warm, I felt ‘home’. My tent was enormous, the bed and the ensuite left me without words. Air-con was a welcome component – it was hot! Dinner was delicious, the children’s performance left me with tears in my eyes and I was blown away at the feeling of this place, it was magic.

My guide Nink explained the plans for the coming day, I couldn’t wait. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening video presentation here, I think it’s important to hit pause and truly appreciate where we are. 

We started the next day with the elephants, our guides, Chai and Sherlee were both an absolute joy. In the morning, we had a huge laugh making the elephant dung paper. Our artwork was not amazing, but gosh I enjoyed making this with Nink. The coconut pancakes were insanely yummy, and the Thai coffee and tea was so, so fantastic – and seeing the elephants right by us was very special.

Heading back to camp was an experience, the drive so picturesque. We even saw elephants and mahouts on the way. Lunch was so yummy and so generous; I could not fault the variety or quantity at all. 

Our afternoon was another elephant session, these elephants, compared to those I met in the south, bore many scars of their past lives. It was very moving to see them with such kind and engaging mahouts and in this beautiful setting. I loved this experience and could see the whole group I was with did too. There was a moment spending time with an elephant called “Mae Buap” that I was moved to tears, I’m so grateful she has found herself at The Bush Camp. 

We then walked to the Karen village. Sherlee was so thorough with her knowledge and explanation of this and I did not realise the scope of this whole set up, it was absolutely extraordinary. I appreciated the care taken to go into detail at each point we visited and it felt like we were all very much welcomed to get involved and hands on.

It was special and quite humorous for us all to try and use the traditional methods for preparing the rice – I was for one, terrible at this. The cooking demonstration was much more a cooking lesson and so interactive. I will never forget this experience. Everyone got so involved, especially the children, it was joyous.

Before sunset, we saw more around the property. On the way I was lucky enough to see three endangered peacocks – I could not believe it!! 

The Bush Camp Chiang Mai is, in my opinion, a total gem. It is tranquillity, luxury, beauty and warmth. Even though such a short visit, I feel I’ve left a part of my heart there. 

Even weeks on, I’m missing it. Whether agents are booking families, couples or older clientele, I would personally recommend this camp to everyone. What it offers is exceptionally unique and is in a setting that cannot be fully explained in words – it’s the feeling, too.

Fine Dining in Northern Thailand

Posted on by Deborah

Fine dining establishments in northern Thailand are redefining traditional Lanna cuisine by infusing it with global techniques, creating a truly extraordinary culinary experience.

Northern Thailand, particularly the culturally rich region of Chiang Mai and its surrounding provinces, is a treasure trove of history, artistry, and nature. Its lush mountains, serene temples, and vibrant markets are well-known, but its culinary landscape is also a sight. Here are some of the best spots to savour.

The Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Northern Lanna cuisine emphasises local, seasonal ingredients like sticky rice, herbs, wild greens, freshwater fish, and meats, prepared in a way that’s often slow-cooked, grilled, or steamed. The food is known for its balanced flavours—spicy, salty, sour, and a touch of sweetness—but never overpowering.

In recent years, chefs in Northern Thailand have elevated the traditional flavours of the Lanna Kingdom with modern cooking techniques. This fusion of old and new has given birth to the Northern Thai fine dining renaissance, offering diners a nostalgic yet innovative experience.

Locus Native Food Lab (Chiang Rai)

Locus Native Food Lab Is situated amongst the lush green landscape of mountainous Chiang Rai. Chef/owner Gongwut Chaiwongkhajorn draws on local ingredients indigenous to the region and uses herbs and vegetables familiar only to the residents of other provinces. The restaurant focuses on simplicity, with foods that appear uncomplicated but burst with flavours that consistently surprise. The sustainable dining concept is strong here with dishes like Kaeng Toon with catfish, utilising the wisdom of the Lanna people in combining the native Bon plant with taro and fish. The result is a soup with a sour and sweet taste that is the inherent flavour of the vegetables.

Blackitch Artisan Kitchen (Chiang Mai)

For an experimental take on fine dining, Blackitch Artisan Kitchen offers a small, personalised tasting menu focusing on sustainability. Chef Phanuphon “Black” is known for his innovative approach to local ingredients, often foraging for herbs and using traditional fermentation methods. Dishes may include elements like fermented soybeans, wild forest mushrooms, or seafood from the Andaman coast, all presented with artistic flair.

Cuisine de Garden (Hang Dong, Chiang Mai)

Nestled on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, Cuisine de Garden offers a nature-inspired dining experience. The restaurant brings the beauty of northern Thailand to the plate, with a menu that changes to reflect the seasons. Ingredients like local flowers, herbs, and roots feature in visually stunning dishes that blend modernist techniques with authentic flavours.

The Service at 1921 House (Chiang Mai)

Located in the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, the Service is a steakhouse experience in a teak house built over a century ago. The restaurant serves imported premium beef with dishes like Scotch Egg and afternoon tea that you would likely find in a British club in the early 20th Century. The setting is tranquil and elegant, with views of the resort, making it a perfect place to experience both Lanna tradition and dining sophistication.

Embracing Sustainability and Farm-to-Table Philosophy

Northern Thailand’s culinary scene is a beacon of sustainability. Many chefs here follow farm-to-table principles, using locally grown and foraged ingredients to reduce their carbon footprint and support local farmers. This philosophy is particularly fitting given the region’s abundant natural resources. With access to fresh produce, herbs, and even wild game, chefs in northern Thailand can offer diners authentic flavours that reflect the richness of the land.

A Region on the Culinary Map

While Bangkok has long been Thailand’s capital, Northern Thailand is increasingly being recognized on the global culinary stage. From traditional Lanna fare to inventive molecular gastronomy, the region offers an incredible variety of high-end dining experiences catering to local and international tastes. It’s a food where ancient recipes meet modern flair, and the land’s natural beauty is mirrored in every bite.

In essence, fine dining in Northern Thailand offers more than just a meal—it’s a sensory exploration of a region that values history, sustainability, and creativity. Whether you’re a gourmand or simply curious about new flavours, going for a meal in a posh restaurant in this region will surely leave an indelible mark.

To plan your culinary trip to Northern Thailand, start by researching the fine dining establishments that interest you and making reservations in advance. Consider the season and the availability of certain ingredients, as the menu often changes to reflect the local produce. Also, don’t forget to explore the local markets and street food scene for a more comprehensive culinary experience.

This article was first published on TAT News. About the Author Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya: (Chat): Frequent foodie and occasional craftsman of travel stories, Khun Chat draws on his nearly four decades of promoting Thailand’s tourism industry to highlight everything from world-class attractions to hidden gems. When not writing stuff, he makes it a mission to catch rom-coms and DC superheroes whenever they show up in theatres.

8 secret spots on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River

Posted on by Deborah

Longtime Amazing Thailand blog contributor John Borthwick shares his best tips on Bangkok’s historic Chao Phraya River.

Bang Krachao It’s half a kilometre across the Chao Phraya from the tower blocks of Bangkok to the mangroves of Bang Krachao “island”, but it feels like another continent. Bang Krachao, a wetland oasis that sits in an oxbow-bend in the river is not an actual island. Join the Bangkokians heading here for food, drinks and handicrafts at the Sunday morning market, or hire a bicycle to explore its raised pathways and sights like the ageing Wat Bang Kor Bua temple. There’s limited accommodation but it’s a good day trip. thethailandlife.com 

Kudijeen On the river’s west bank (“the Thonburi side”), the historic enclave of Kudijeen – aka Kudichin – is where 16th century Portuguese traders, missionaries and mercenaries became the first Europeans to settle in Siam. The architecture and a unique pastry live on. Kudijeen (“Chinese shrine village”) consists of narrow soi lanes and old teak houses, including the ancestral, family Baan Kudichin Museum. The domed, 1770 Santa Cruz Church and Wat Prayurawongsawat temple with its 60-metre stupa spire are open to all. And be sure to drop into one of the family bakeries that sells the traditional tart called kanom farang — “foreigner sweet”. baankudichinmuseum.com

National Museum of Royal Barges The most beautiful boatshed in the world. The Thai Crown’s fleet of gilded, 40-metre vessels is housed here. ”Barge” is not an adequate word for these works of art with their swan-necked prows and mythological figureheads. At rare intervals they glide for the extraordinary Royal Barge Procession, where a flotilla of 52 boats rowed by chanting sailors parades past the Grand Palace and its Camelot-like golden wats. The museum, in the west bank area called Bangkok Noi, displays eight intricate vessels; watch, fascinated as artisans maintain them. Royal Barge National Museam

Jack’s Bar Jack’s shack teeters on the brink of over-discovery at the end of Soi 42/1 Charoen Krung. Perch at a pew with a cold beer on a hot afternoon, then add spicy snacks, a breeze and longtails running riot on the river. Why leave, ever? There’s a wine list and democratic menu, plus music after dark. A parrot sits on the cashier’s shoulder – as they do. Capacity, about 30 people. Open noon til midnight. Jack’s is a ten-minute walk north from Saphan Taksin BTS station and next to the Shangri-La Hotel: a very Bangkok contrast.

Warehouse 30 A row of old warehouses in riverside Bang Rak has been transformed into galleries, design studios and smart retailers. There’s a bit of everything: art, craft beer, coffee, home decor, books and streetwear. The knockout retailer is Horse Unit & Woot Woot – forget about decoding the name – which looks like the world’s hippest army disposals store. It’s a dump-bin emporium of vintage military clobber, antique toys, vinyls, denim and furniture. Nostalgic, ironic and tons of fun. Warehouse 30 stretches between sois 30 and 32 Charoen Krung Road. warehouse30.com

Loy La Long This tiny hotel hides amid the piers of the river’s eastern bank. Its name implies “Let it be, let it go, let it flow”. This century-old, two-storey teak hideaway, a former warehouse, perched beside the River of Kings has six guestrooms creatively done in a style that might be called retrofunk steampunk. There are two sunny, river-view decks where you can dine, sip or just let your dreams drift downstream. A Chinese pagoda faces Loy La Long across the river and, surprisingly (or not – this is amazing Thailand), this unique, boutique bolthole sits in the grounds of a Buddhist monastery. loylalong.com

Rolling on the River One thing better than being beside a river is being on it. The Chao Phraya’s best public transport mode is the Smart Ferry, electric catamarans that carry up to 250 passengers. A convenient place to board is Sathon Pier beside Saphan Taksin BTS station (minesmartferry.com). Other river experiences range from boom-box dinner boats ablaze with neons to the Anantara Riverside’s stately, converted Manohra boats. This two-hour river cruise with superior Thai cuisine and occasional commentary is a special night out (manohracruises.com).

Meantime, local commuter ferries pull in and out of the local piers at Formula One pit-stop speed. More leisurely are the Chao Phraya Tourist Boats, a commentary ferry service that reaches all the major historic attraction piers. Again, Sathon Pier is a good starting point. chaophrayatouristboat.com

ThreeSixty Rooftop Bar Bangkok CBD bristles with ever-new rooftop bars.Meanwhile, on the Thonburi side of the river, and 31 floors above its restless comings and goings, enjoy a drone’s-eye view of both sides of town and, of course, its river of life. The Millennium Hilton’s ThreeSixty Rooftop Bar and Jazz Lounge is perfect for late-night cocktail meditations, often enhanced by a chanteuse weaving smoky jazz spells. hilton.com

Doing life differently in Thailand

Posted on by Deborah

Realising in her early fifties that she needed to do life differently for a while, Mel Pike seized the opportunity of a few months with no responsibilities in her happy place, Thailand.

Among the sun-soaked streets of Phuket’s Kata Beach, Mel discovers the joys of solo travel and embracing new experiences. From the aromatic flavours of Thai food to the restorative power of the ocean to learning more of the language and the fun of immersing herself in the vibrant culture, in her recently published memoir, Mel takes you with her on a journey of self-discovery.

We interviewed Mel about her journey of discovery in Thailand, and her journey of self-discovery.

Why Thailand? Why did you choose Thailand to embrace solo travel?

My love for Thailand started in 1989 when I was an exchange there for 12 months. I lived with a Thai family and attended high school. I’ve been going back ever since. I refer to Thailand as my ‘happy place’ as when I’m there I’m able to live simply and leave behind the daily grind of life at home. It’s also a very easy and safe country for solo women to live comfortably and travel in.

Was your Thailand experience anything like you expected?

My experience was way beyond my expectations. I planned to stay for three months, and it turned into five months. I was nowhere near ready to leave when my trip was over. Four months into my stay I wrote this ‘I can honestly say that in all my wildest dreams I could never has imagined the people I’ve been lucky to meet, the places I’ve seen, the food I’ve eaten and the kindest hearts that have made me feel so welcome and helped me live so happily here’.

What aspect of Thailand do you love the most?

Without a doubt the Thai people! Their generosity of spirt, their warm hospitality and curious nature, their ability to live with so little and still maintain a level of contentment, their willingness to share their culture and traditions and their wonderful sense of humour are all very endearing. Oh and of course their smiles are just the best!

The fragrant mouth-watering Thai food and fascinating culture also keeps me returning to Thailand.

What is your most enduring memory?

To be honest, when I was writing my book it was just for me. I wanted to be able to capture all the incredible memories my five months gave me. There were so many micro-moments I wanted to be able to reflect upon once I was home. The sense of calm I felt as I sat on the beach alone, feet buried in the warm sand and staring at a golden sunset, or the taste of a ripe mango paired with sticky rice and smothered in coconut cream, or the feeling of the weightlessness of my body and the worries of the world around me evaporating as I floated in the warm, jade-coloured waters of the Andaman Sea. These memories are now part of who I am.

Were there any moments you were truly outside your comfort zone?

Learning the Thai language always makes me feel like I’m outside my comfort zone. I went to a language school in Phuket to consolidate and brush-up my rusty Thai language skills. Not only does reading, writing and speaking Thai push me into a very foreign space but on the flip side it also allows me to further my understanding of the Thai culture and customs on a much deeper level.

Generally, I feel very comfortable when I am in Thailand. My Thai friends will often say I am 80% Thai and 20% Australian and that maybe I was born in the wrong country!

What is it about Thai culture that you find the most endearing?

So many aspects of the Thai culture that I love. With over 95% of the Thai people practicing Buddhists, it’s no surprise that this is central to their daily lives. I always ensure I participate in the early morning giving of food to the local monks as they walk barefoot through the streets. ‘Dtuk bart’ is a very simple understated way of making merit-making and providing for others.

I also like how the Thai people highly value respect, particularly towards elders, teachers, monks, and the royal family. The “wai,” a traditional Thai greeting involving a slight bow with the hands pressed together in a prayer-like gesture, is a common sign of respect.

The importance of family and community also shines through. I experienced this daily as I interacted with those I lived near in my street. Offers to eat together, help with learning the language and the kindness shown towards me was at times overwhelming.

What could we learn from the Thai way of life that would enhance our way of life here in Australia?

When I return to Thailand, I’m reminded of all that I easily take for granted at home. I rarely question our opportunities, lifestyle and high expectations of what life will deliver. The accumulation of ‘stuff’ can easily take over. This country provides me with a reminder of what I need to live and what I want. There’s a big difference.

Over the years I’ve had countless experiences when those with less give so freely. They will quite literally do anything for you, happily sharing what little they have freely without expectations. It’s who they are, how they live and it’s very humbling to be around.

What is the greatest lesson Thailand has taught you?

Lessons are everywhere for me in Thailand. It is a place that constantly humbles me. This trip reinforced that a sense of belonging and community has a huge positive benefit on the wellbeing of humans the world over. Often while chatting with my Thai friends, I was reminded of how similar we all are in the emotions and struggles that we face in life. The human condition has no real language barriers. We have more that binds us than divides us.

What inspired you to return?

My time in Kata provided me with the opportunity to live my best life and gave me time and space to do something so incredibly necessary and special for myself. Doing more of what brings you joy and giving yourself permission to do this one precious life differently can never be underestimated and it’s never too late to start.

It was incredibly hard to leave my life in Kata and my friends. The deep yearning to return once I arrived home lasted far longer than I ever expected.

The love and commitment I have for my Thai friends, my happy place and for doing life differently has only intensified since my return home. The decision to make this place a regular and important part of my life going forward was easy.

You can read a 30-page extract of Mel’s wonderful book here, and find out where to purchase a copy here.

Conserving Thailand’s underwater world

Posted on by Deborah

Thailand is fast becoming a leader in responsible tourism, providing visitors a wide range of sustainable attractions, activities, and accommodation offerings.

Visitors to popular dive destinations such as Phuket, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta and Koh Tao can choose from carbon neutral hotels, take part in local conservation efforts, enjoy paddock to plate fine dining and support local communities.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao has embraced a sustainable lifestyle for many years, proactively reducing waste and putting considerable energy into research and sustainability projects. Community gardens, organic composting, solar panel installations, and the natural production of biogas are just a few strategies some local businesses are using to decrease their consumption levels and work towards more sustainable practices.

The island now celebrates its world-famous marine environment with an annual festival, Spotlight Koh Tao, which in fact spotlights marine conservation issues. Visitors to the festival can choose from a selection of revitalisation activities, everything from beach clean-ups to zero-waste Thai cooking classes.

Koh Tao’s diving community were among the first to witness the effects of over-tourism, pollution and climate change on local reefs and have joined forces to monitor reef health, manage regular underwater clean-ups and nurture coral restoration projects. Some, such as Black Turtle Dive have taken this step further with the development of marine conservation courses, internships, and workshops for visiting divers.

Koh Lanta

Luxury dive resort, Pimalai Resort & Spa were recently rewarded for their conservation efforts on Koh Lanta which include an extensive coral monitoring program and underwater cleanups at nearby dive sites including Koh Ha and Koh Rok.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park authorities, in collaboration with leading coral scientist Anuar Abdullah have been diligently monitoring the health of nearby reefs. The second coral monitoring expedition at Koh Rok and Koh Ha took place recently, with results happily reporting that the coral ecosystems in both areas are thriving and in excellent health.

The resort also led the local community in a cleanup of Koh Rok and the underwater surroundings of Koh Ha. The goal being to establish these locations as sustainable tourist attractions and promote a sense of community responsibility in preserving the local environment. Pimalai.com

Phuket

Located in Phuket, the OCEANS FOR ALL foundation was founded in 2019 by David Martin and Thibault Salaun, passionate ocean advocates. The foundation supports several initiatives in Phuket, including a coral farm, seagrass habitat conservation and a bamboo shark nursery.

The organisation’s flagship project is the construction of a coral farm on land in Phuket thanks to the technology invented by Dr. Jaubert from the Foundation of Prince Albert II of Monaco.

This system enables corals to grow faster so that they can be later relocated to reefs around Phuket (in collaboration with local reef NGOs and government agencies) that have been damaged by tourism activities in places like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Racha and other reefs around Phuket. Beyond this immediate scientific purpose, the Coral Farm will become a an educational tourist attraction for all nature lover.

In collaboration with the Phuket Marine Biological Center, the foundation also breeds baby sharks. Amongst the 450 different shark species, some are egg layers (oviparous, like the Bamboo shark or the Zebra shark), as opposed to most species that give birth to live bearing (viviparous). These two species lay eggs that develop and hatch outside the mother’s body with no parental care after the eggs are laid. This means they can be bred in captivity to be later released as young specimens.

The release of juvenile marine life such as sharks helps restore the balance of the marine food chain. Sharks constitute the apex predator and are on top of the food chain. The drastic decline of their population affects the whole marine ecosystem in unsuspected ways, endangering directly, for instance, the coral reefs themselves. If sharks are to disappear, certain species that feed on coral vegetation will proliferate and affect the coral’s survival.

Releasing the baby sharks is an inspiring and educational experience for visitors, with release events and education centres sponsored by partner hotels wishing to involve their guests.

Advocating for sustainability, the foundation plans expansion to other sea-dependent tourist destinations. oceansforallfoundation.org

Introducing… Pastel Rooftop

Posted on by Deborah

Pastel Rooftop is Bangkok’s latest rooftop dining experience. Located on top of the Aira Hotel on Sukhumvit 11, it offers visitors panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline.

Pastel’s decor is an elegant mix of contemporary and traditional styles, reflecting the spirit of the Mediterranean – and a menu to compliment, filled with delectable Mediterranean flavors and aromas, made with farm-to-table ingredients.

From classic small plates to refined crudo and flavorful seafood dishes, there’s something for every taste and appetite. And if you’re in the mood for something to drink, the restaurant offers a vast selection of Mediterranean signature cocktails and wine.

A highlight is the convivial and festive atmosphere, which is perfect for enjoying good food, engaging conversations, and laughter with friends and loved ones. The rooftop is also known for hosting lively and vibrant nights, featuring talented musicians, performers, and DJs.

The restaurant opens at 5pm, the perfect location to enjoy a few cocktails with views of the Bangkok skyline at sunset. In fact, for all these reasons, Pastel Rooftop has quickly become one of the most popular rooftop restaurants in Bangkok.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to enjoy a night out with friends, this rooftop restaurant offers everything you need for an unforgettable evening.

Be sure to add this to your Bangkok itinerary! Reservations can be made HERE.

Thailand Awaits: A guide to Pattaya

Posted on by Deborah

Founder of Expert Travel Media, writer Paula Morgan is well-known for her comprehensive travel guides; Sydney Expert and Australia Your Way. Paula has now set her sights on creating an equally comprehensive guide for travellers to Thailand: Thailand Awaits. Here’s an excerpt from the Expert Guide to Pattaya – a taste what to expect from this new blog!

PATTAYA GUIDE 2023: DISCOVER THE BEST BEACHES AND ATTRACTIONS

Walking Street, beer bars and sunburn? Another beach and more bars? There’s much more for visitors to Pattaya, Thailand’s premium party town, than the old cliches from last century. How about fine dining, five-star hotels and family attractions?

  • beach at pattaya
  • pattaya walking street
  • Pattaya Beach

“Pattaya, the Extreme City,” declares the welcome arch at Jomtien Beach, the southern portal to sprawling Pattaya. It’s a fair description, or brag, because Pattaya and its zones run the gauntlet from beach resort, family destination and expat retirement enclave to red light bar-world, and back again via golf mecca and much more.

Tiffany Show. Copyright John Borthwick

These days the town has a growing sophistication that overshadows its still-rocking nightlife…

This comprehensive guide to Pattaya includes a guide to the region’s beaches, theme parks, shopping, dining out, night clubs, hotels and golf courses, as well as information on how to get there, and how to get around.

Read the full Guide to Pattaya here.