dixonthum

I’ve always loved seeing Bangkok from the river, and this time, I decided to join the Vijit Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise — something I’d been wanting to try for a while. The cruise happened to coincide with the passing of Queen Sirikit, so the usual fireworks show was respectfully paused. Still, the night turned out to be special in its own way — calmer, more reflective, but still full of life.

We boarded from the pier at Terminal 21 Rama 3, a convenient starting point with plenty of restaurants and a lively atmosphere before departure. As the cruise began, I was genuinely thrilled when we approached the Krung Thon Bridge, one of the lowest bridges along the route. Everyone got excited, phones out, heads lowered a little as we passed under — it was such a fun, unexpected moment that had the whole deck cheering and laughing.

Dinner was served buffet-style, and while the queue was a little long, it moved steadily, and there was more than enough food for everyone on board. The spread was impressive — from fresh seafood and local Thai dishes to pasta with meatballs, plus a wide range of assorted cakes, desserts, and fruits to end the meal on a sweet note. I may or may not have gone back for seconds.

There was also a traditional Thai dance performance during the evening, adding a touch of local culture and elegance to the cruise. The dancers, dressed in beautiful costumes, moved gracefully to traditional music, and it was one of those moments that made you pause to truly appreciate Thailand’s charm.

At one point, as we passed by the Grand Palace, everyone on board stood up for a minute of silence to pay respect to the late Queen Sirikit. It was a quiet and emotional moment, one that made the evening feel even more meaningful.

Halfway through, the sky decided to join the fun — it started raining. But honestly, that didn’t stop us. We simply moved downstairs into the indoor cabin, and it felt like an entirely different experience. The glass windows fogged up slightly, raindrops traced lines down the side, and soft live music played in the background as we cruised past landmarks like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace glowing in the distance. It was warm, cozy, and a little romantic — the kind of scene you can’t plan, but end up remembering most.

Even without the fireworks, the evening turned out to be one of those quietly beautiful nights. Sometimes, the simplest moments — the sound of rain, good food, and a river view — are what make a trip unforgettable.

If you’re ever in Bangkok, I’d say the Vijit Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise is still worth doing. Go with no expectations, and just enjoy the ride.

Health & Wellness, Travel

Thailand Yoga Art & Dance 2025 at Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok

November 11, 2025 dixonthum

My recent trip to Bangkok was all about balance, mindfulness, and a good dose of fun — I attended the Thailand Yoga Art & Dance 2025 (TYAD), held from 31 October to 2 November 2025 at Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok.

For those who aren’t familiar, TYAD is an international wellness festival that combines yoga, dance, fitness, and culture in one vibrant space. This year marked its 9th edition, and it definitely lived up to its reputation. The event gathered 66 instructors from 13 countries, offering 133 classes across 12 classrooms — an impressive lineup that turned the entire hotel into a playground for wellness enthusiasts.

There were all kinds of sessions to explore — from Yoga, Dance, Pilates, Thai Massage, and Thai Cooking Class, to more adventurous ones like SUP Yoga, Fly Yoga, Detox Class, Ice Bath (Shock Cell), and this year’s highlight, the Stand Up Paddle Board on the River.

The festival kicked off with a lively Halloween Party on 31 October night — complete with a spooky photobooth, energetic performances, a fashion show, and a cocktail session that had everyone laughing and connecting before the workshops began. It was organized by Chayada Martcharoen, under TYAD by Make Friends For U Co., Ltd, and the whole weekend was filled with warmth, energy, and genuine passion.

During the three days, I joined two classes that stood out for me:

1. Aqua Yoga (1 November, 7am – 8am, 6th Floor Pool)
Taught by Kru Bub, this class was a refreshing way to start the day — literally. It was actually my first time trying Aqua Yoga, and practicing yoga in water gave a whole new dimension to balance and movement. The buoyancy made me feel lighter, and poses that are tricky on land suddenly became achievable. But it wasn’t all easy; maintaining balance against the gentle water current was its own challenge. It was fun, playful, and surprisingly calming at the same time — a perfect mix of exercise and mindfulness.

Attended the meditation session with Khun Sirin and Khun Mai

2. Vipassana & Walking Meditation by Kik Mayurin
Led by Kik Mayurin, a well-known Thai actress, this session was the complete opposite in energy — serene, grounding, and deeply reflective. She guided us through two forms of meditation: sitting and walking, rooted in Buddhist principles. During the walking meditation, we practiced awareness through breathing and slow, deliberate steps — lift, reach out, step — while focusing on the sensation of our feet touching the ground. It was a beautiful reminder to slow down and truly be present.

Overall, TYAD 2025 wasn’t just a fitness event — it was a soulful journey. It reminded me how movement, mindfulness, and community can nourish both body and spirit.

A huge thank you to Tourism Authority of Thailand Kuala Lumpur (TATKL) for giving me the opportunity to be part of this inspiring experience that truly brought health and wellbeing to my body and soul.

Travel

5 Must-Visit Spots to Explore in Bangkok

November 10, 2025 dixonthum

Bangkok never fails to surprise me — from peaceful canals to modern shopping hubs, it’s a city that blends old charm and new energy effortlessly. If you’re planning your next trip, here are five spots I’d personally suggest exploring. Each has its own story, flavour, and vibe that’ll make your Bangkok trip even more memorable.

1. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market
Location: 30/1 Moo 15, Bang Ramat Rd, Bang Ramat, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170

This floating market started back in 2004 thanks to Uncle Chuan Chujan, who wanted to bring back the canal-community spirit that Bangkok was once known for. I think that’s what makes this place so special — it feels real and local. You’ll see vendors selling fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, souvenirs, and cooked food both on land and from their boats.

I would suggest hopping on one of the small boat rides along the canal to soak in the scenery — it’s calm, friendly, and full of local colour. Plus, prices here are much cheaper compared to city markets, so you can snack all you want without burning your wallet.

2. Talad Noi Street Art
Location: Around Soi Charoen Krung 22 & Vanich 2, Samphanthawong District

If you enjoy artsy, laid-back walks, Talad Noi is one spot I’d definitely recommend. The old Chinese-Thai lanes here are full of colourful murals, installations, and creative cafés tucked inside heritage shophouses. One fun thing to do — hunt for all five “Talad Noi” manhole covers scattered along the streets!

I think it’s best to visit in the late morning when the sunlight hits the murals perfectly. Grab a coffee, wander slowly, and just enjoy how the old and new blend together so naturally.

3. Song Wat Road
Location: Song Wat Rd, Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100

Once a trading street for rice and spices, Song Wat Road has now become one of Bangkok’s trendiest creative zones. I’d describe it as a mix of vintage charm and youthful energy — where old warehouses turn into cafés, and artisan shops line the narrow lanes.

If you like exploring on foot, this place is for you. You’ll find unique crafts, minimal-design coffee bars, and cool street art tucked behind classic architecture. I’d suggest visiting mid-morning to afternoon for the best vibe — it’s lively but not too hot yet.

Note: Song Wat Road is located just a short walk from Talad Noi Street Art, so I’d suggest visiting both on the same day. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to explore two creative neighbourhoods in one go.

4. Pak Khlong Talad Flower Market
Location: Chak Phet Rd, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok 10200

This is Bangkok’s largest flower market, and honestly, it’s one of my favourites. I think there’s something magical about walking through rows of fresh marigolds, orchids, lotus and roses at 6 AM while vendors bustle around arranging petals for temples and homes.

Besides flowers, you’ll also find vegetables, fruits, herbs, and food stalls. I’d suggest going early in the morning or late at night when it’s less crowded and the atmosphere feels more authentic. Bring your camera — the colours are incredible.

5. Dusit Central Park
Location: 1 Soi Sala Daeng 1, Si Lom, Bang Rak District, Bangkok 10500

To balance out all the market wandering, I’d suggest ending your day at Dusit Central Park — one of Bangkok’s newest luxury lifestyle hubs. It’s modern, clean, and the criss-cross escalators inside have already gone viral for being super photogenic.

I think the rooftop “Hanging Garden” is a must-visit. You can enjoy the city view, catch some fresh air, and just unwind after a full day of exploring. The place combines shopping, dining, and greenery in such a refreshing way — it’s a great spot to end your Bangkok adventure.

My Final Take
What I love most about Bangkok is how every corner tells a different story — from floating markets run by locals to sleek skyscraper malls that redefine the skyline. If you’re planning a trip soon, I’d suggest mixing both sides of the city in your itinerary. You’ll come home not just with good photos, but with real experiences worth sharing.

Travel

Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok Review of Classic Thai Hospitality and Modern Comfort

November 9, 2025November 9, 2025 dixonthum

I stayed at Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok during my recent Bangkok trip for Thailand Yoga Art & Dance 2025, and it turned out to be one of those stays that quietly impresses you the more time you spend there. This 5-star riverside hotel has been around for quite some time, but it still carries that warm, old-school Thai hospitality that’s hard to find these days.

The first thing that caught my attention was how spacious everything felt — from the lobby to the rooms and even the restaurants. There’s this calmness about the place, especially when you’re facing the Chao Phraya River. I stayed in a river-view room, and every morning started with a peaceful view of the water and passing boats — a nice contrast to Bangkok’s usual buzz.

The room itself was clean, roomy, and well-equipped with everything I needed for a comfortable stay. It came with a bathtub, a flat-screen TV, a safe box, an electric kettle, a mini fridge, and plenty of space to unpack and settle in. It’s the kind of setup that makes it easy to just unwind after a long day exploring or attending events.

The hotel has a good mix of facilities too. There’s a big outdoor swimming pool, a gym with solid equipment, a sauna, steam rooms, tennis courts, and a full business centre if you’re mixing work and leisure. Service throughout the stay was warm and consistent — the kind of attentiveness that makes you feel genuinely looked after.

Now, food-wise, I’ve got to give special mention to their Hainanese chicken rice. I didn’t expect it to be that good, but it’s apparently one of the hotel’s signature dishes, and after trying it, I get the hype. Simple, comforting, and full of flavour — the kind of meal that makes you want to order it again the next day. Besides the chicken rice, the hotel also serves a variety of Thai and Western dishes to suit different tastes.

In terms of location, Montien Riverside Hotel is well-situated along Rama 3 Road. Terminal 21 Rama 3 is walking distance away if you need a quick shopping run or a good dinner spot. Asiatique The Riverfront is also nearby — perfect if you’re in the mood for a night stroll, riverside dining, or a cruise. There’s even a convenience store 7-Eleven around the corner for last-minute essentials, which is always handy.

The hotel is scheduled to go through some phased renovations to modernise its rooms and facilities while keeping operations running smoothly. I think once the full refresh is done, it’ll be even more impressive.

Overall, Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok feels like a place that balances comfort, classic hospitality, and a bit of quiet luxury. It’s not flashy, but it has character — and for me, that made the stay feel authentic. If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok and prefer somewhere peaceful with easy access to everything, this hotel is definitely worth checking out.

📍Montien Riverside Hotel Bangkok
372 Rama III Rd, Bang Khlo, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
🌐 http://www.montienriversidehotel.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/montien.river
IG: https://www.instagram.com/montienriverside/
Check-in time: 2:00 pm
Check-out time: 12:00 pm

Lifestyle

Diana Danielle and Joe Flizzow Honoured at ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival 2025 for Bridging Creativity and Entrepreneurship

October 27, 2025October 27, 2025 dixonthum

Two of Malaysia’s most influential cultural icons — Diana Danielle and Joe Flizzow — took centre stage at the 10th ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival 2025, where they were honoured for their remarkable contributions that bridge creativity, business, and community impact in Kuala Lumpur.

Diana Danielle received the Outstanding Content Creator and Performing Artist Award, while Joe Flizzow was recognised as the Outstanding Hip Hop Entrepreneur, celebrating their success in blending artistic passion with entrepreneurial excellence — and inspiring a generation of creative professionals across ASEAN.

Graced by His Highness Tengku Arif Bendahara of Pahang and Her Highness Tengku Natasya, the glittering ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony at MATRADE Kuala Lumpur marked a decade of the region’s most dynamic platform for youth-led innovation and creative enterprise. The event was officiated by YB Adam Adli, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, and attended by dignitaries, entrepreneurs, and youth leaders from across Southeast Asia.

What began ten years ago as a modest platform for youth innovation has grown into one of ASEAN’s most anticipated entrepreneurial gatherings — a celebration of creativity, culture, and business leadership under the theme “Connecting ASEAN, Creating Global Change.”

A beloved actress and digital storyteller, Diana Danielle was recognised for her evolution from screen star to multi-platform creative entrepreneur. Her commitment to producing authentic, meaningful content has inspired millions and brought attention to social and mental health issues close to her heart — showcasing the rising influence of Malaysia’s creative industry.

Meanwhile, Joe Flizzow — hip hop legend, mentor, and entrepreneur — was celebrated for his visionary role in shaping Malaysia’s urban music scene and elevating it onto the regional stage. Through Kartel Records, mentorship programmes, and cross-border collaborations, Joe continues to drive Southeast Asia’s creative economy forward, proving that music and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand.

“Diana and Joe embody the spirit of ASEAN’s next generation — fearless, creative, and globally minded,” said Deborah Melissa Bottreau, Chairperson of AYEC 2025 and Founding Chairwoman of the ASEAN Young Women Entrepreneurs Club (AYWEC). “They prove that culture and commerce can work together to inspire real regional change.”

Supported by Malaysia’s Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), MITI, ASEAN-BAC, MATRADE, MIDA, and the ASEAN Secretariat, this milestone edition marks a decade of AYEC’s evolution — from a startup initiative in 2015 to a powerful regional movement driving youth innovation, sustainability, and creative entrepreneurship.

As the night celebrated both business excellence and artistic innovation, one message resonated throughout the hall — the future of ASEAN lies not only in technology and trade, but in the power of storytelling, creativity, and culture.

About ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Council
The ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Council (AYEC) is the official voice of young entrepreneurs within ASEAN’s policy-making framework. Established in 2015 and launched in Kuala Lumpur, AYEC unites government-endorsed young entrepreneur associations from all ten ASEAN Member States, connecting them with the ASEAN Secretariat and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) to advance innovation and regional economic integration. It also oversees flagship initiatives such as the ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival and the ASEAN Young Women Entrepreneurs Club (AYWEC), fostering cross-border collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainable growth across ASEAN’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. For more info, visit AYEC website at ayec.org or their official pages on Facebook and Instagram (@aseanyec).