dixonthum

During my recent trip to Satun, I stumbled upon a café that left me utterly mesmerized—De Bua Café Satun. Tucked away in this serene part of Thailand, De Bua (which fittingly means “lotus”) is a delightful spot that beautifully marries nature with exquisite dining.

Ambience and Setting
True to its name, De Bua Café features a picturesque lotus pond that adds a touch of tranquility to the atmosphere. The café offers a blend of indoor seating and an enchanting outdoor garden setting, perfect for photo op and OOTD shots. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful meal or host an event, De Bua Café is a versatile venue perfect for weddings, parties, and family reunions.

Delectable Halal Dishes
The menu at De Bua Café is a delightful surprise, featuring a range of halal dishes that cater to diverse palates. Here are some of my top recommendations:

Deep Fried Shrimp Donut
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these are a must-try!

Steamed Seabass with Spicy Seafood Sauce
Perfectly cooked seabass paired with a zesty sauce that packs a punch.

Fried Seabass Spicy Salad with Herbs
A refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the best of Thai spices and fresh herbs.

Deep Fried Soft Shell Crab with Garlic
Crunchy and aromatic, this dish is a treat for seafood lovers.

Super Hot Tom Yum Noodle
For those who love a bit of heat, this noodle dish is a fiery delight.

Other delicious options include:
• Stir-fried Stinky Beans with Shrimp
• Stir-fried Malindjo Leaves with Egg
• Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce with Fresh Shrimps
• Beef/Chicken Khao Soy
• Desserts like Toast with Ice Cream, Assorted Bingsu and many more!

Why You Should Visit
The combination of excellent food, beautiful surroundings, and outstanding service makes De Bua Café a must-visit. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new flavors or someone seeking a relaxing spot to unwind, this café has something for everyone.

📍De Bua Cafe
66 ซอย 2 Khlong Khut, Mueang Satun District, Satun 91000, Thailand
Opening Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM
Tel: +66 97 470 6522

@dixonthum
A very Instagrammable café in Satun. No regret coming here. Good food, nice ambience. Perfect for a chill trip! Bua means Lotus in Thai. @debuacafe01 #tatkl #amazingthailand #amazingnewchapters #yourstoriesneverend @tatkul23
♬ Romantic Classical Piano Solo – FREDERIC BOUCHAL

If you find yourself in Satun, don’t miss the chance to experience De Bua Café. Trust me, it’s a hidden gem that will make your trip unforgettable! Fret not, the staff their speak simple Bahasa Melayu which makes communication so much easier for us!

Travel

Exploring Thailand’s First UNESCO Global Geopark in Satun, Thailand

July 13, 2024July 14, 2024 dixonthum

Did you know that the first UNESCO Global Geopark in Thailand is located in Satun? I’m thrilled to share my unforgettable experiences exploring this natural wonder of Ao Toa Ba and Prasat Hin Pan Yod at Ko Kao Yai during my trip to Pak Bara via a long boat ride that braved through Andaman Sea.

Ao Toa Ba
Our adventure began with a long boat ride from Pak Bara in La-Ngu District to Ao Toa Ba beach. The highlight here is the nautilus fossils embedded in the limestone rock mountain, dating back to the Paleolithic Age. From here, I learned that the nautilus was actually a squid that morphed into a ‘shelled’ squid throughout its evolution and ended up being a fossil on these rocks after so many years. Seeing these ancient fossils up close was nothing short of fascinating.

But it wasn’t all about the history and geology. We had a delightful picnic on the beach, enjoying local dishes prepared by our guides. The tranquil surroundings, combined with good food and great company, made for a perfect day.

Prasat Hin Pan Yod
Next on our itinerary was Prasat Hin Pan Yod, an incredible limestone pinnacle rising majestically from the sea at Ko Khao Yai. The only way to access this natural fortress is by kayak, as the route is narrow and dotted with low-hanging rocks.

Paddling through the serene waters and navigating the cave-like passageways felt like an adventure straight out of a fantasy novel. Once inside, the view was absolutely breathtaking. The open roof of the limestone fortress allowed sunlight to filter in, creating a magical atmosphere that I’ll never forget. I could actually find tiny seashells on these rocks which I find miraculous. Imagine a shell clinging on to the rocks for thousands of years and still firmly attached to the surface despite being washed by waves and strong currents.

Exploring Satun’s Geopark was an enriching experience, blending the awe of ancient natural formations with the simple joys of picnicking on a pristine beach and kayaking through unique limestone structures. If you’re ever in Thailand, I highly recommend adding this hidden gem to your travel itinerary!

You may reach out to this 8Mile Travel Agency at +66 89 298 4549 for more information about this 1-day trip package.

Travel

My Unforgettable Stay at Navakiri Boutique Resort Satun, Thailand

July 11, 2024July 14, 2024 dixonthum

Recently, I had the pleasure of staying at Navakiri Boutique Resort in Satun, the first boutique resort in Satun, and it was an experience I won’t soon forget. Located in the Chalung district, this resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and local charm, making it an ideal retreat for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life from as low as THB2,200 only!

Facilities & Amenities
From the moment I arrived, I was served with a welcome drink and snacks; a small gesture which I appreciate very much. I was impressed by the resort’s stunning panoramic landscape as well! Surrounded by mountains and lush trees, Navakiri Boutique Resort provides a serene and picturesque setting. The highlight of my stay was definitely the long saltwater pool, complete with a floating bar. Whether I was swimming or lounging by the pool, the experience was incredibly relaxing.

The on-site restaurant was another standout feature. I indulged in delicious local cuisine that truly captured the flavours of Satun. My breakfast (which was complimentary that came with the room) was a delightful culinary journey, perfectly complemented by the beautiful natural surroundings.

Room & Amenities
I stayed in a Deluxe room, which was beautifully designed to reflect the local stories of Satun. It was located on the second floor which came with a balcony, which oversee the salted water pool and beautiful view of hills and mountains. The room was spacious, comfortable, and provided all the amenities I needed for a relaxing stay.

Some of the amenities in the room include: Wi-Fi, bathtub & shower, bath robes, slippers, fridge, complimentary snacks & drinks, hair dryer, work desk, balcony with pool view, TV, towels, toothbrush and toothpaste, cotton buds and more.

About Navakiri Boutique Resort
Navakiri Boutique Resort is truly a hidden gem. The exceptional service and attention to detail made my stay unforgettable. The resort is perfect for those seeking a luxurious and peaceful getaway. The serene environment, combined with the stunning mountain views and top-notch facilities, made for an incredibly relaxing and enjoyable holiday.

The resort also offers Wi-Fi in public areas, which allowed me to stay connected with family and friends during my stay. The combination of great hospitality, affordable prices, and luxurious amenities make Navakiri Boutique Resort an excellent choice for anyone visiting Satun.

My stay at Navakiri Boutique Resort Satun was everything I hoped for and more. From the beautiful setting and luxurious facilities to the delicious cuisine and exceptional service, every aspect of my stay was perfect. If you’re looking for a memorable and relaxing getaway, I highly recommend Navakiri Boutique Resort.

@dixonthum
Let me bring you for a room tour at Navakiri Boutique Resort Satun. This is a Deluxe room. #tatkl #amazingthailand #amazingnewchapters #yourstoriesneverend @tatkul23
♬ Beautiful – Soft boy

📍Navakiri Boutique Resort
363 Chalung, Mueang Satun District, Thailand, 91140
Tel: +66 97 354 1642
Website: https://www.navakiri.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/navakiri_resort_satun/

Grooming, Lifestyle

Tohtonku Contributes RM1 Million in Personal Care Products to Support Marginalized Communities in Klang Valley

July 4, 2024 dixonthum

In a heartwarming gesture to celebrate its 60th anniversary, Tohtonku, a renowned home-grown personal care manufacturer, has pledged RM1 million worth of personal care products to the B40 community and other marginalized groups in the Klang Valley. The initiative aims to enhance hygiene and personal care among these communities, which have been significantly affected by limited access to essential hygiene solutions. I feel so proud to be able to witness this great milestone of Tohtonku during its press conference that took part in Imazium Tower, Kuala Lumpur on 3 July 2024.

Tohtonku Celebrates 60th Anniversary
Founded in 1964, Tohtonku has grown to become a household name in Malaysia, synonymous with quality personal care products. This year, as Tohtonku marks its 60th anniversary, the company is dedicated to giving back to the community that has supported its growth over the decades. Jasper Lim, Executive Director at Tohtonku, emphasizes the importance of maintaining good hygiene, especially in light of the recent rise in Covid-19 cases.

According to the WHO, diseases disproportionately affect the poor and socially disadvantaged members of society, due to their inability to access hygiene solutions. Additionally, the rise in Covid cases earlier in May underscores the need for us to continue to stay vigilant. As such Tohtonku hopes to give back to the community by raising awareness on the importance of good hygiene and distributing products that can be used by our communities to maintain a high level of hygiene.

said Mr. Jasper Lim, Executive Director at Tohtonku

RM1 Million Contribution to B40 Communites & Marginalized Groups
The RM1 million contribution includes essential “Follow Me” products such as toothbrushes, hand sanitizers, moisturizers, cleansers, body wash, and shampoo. These products are being distributed to approximately 13,000 individuals from marginalized communities in the Klang Valley. This generous donation targets the B40 community, indigenous peoples, differently-abled individuals, and orphans.

To ensure effective distribution, Tohtonku is collaborating with various non-governmental organizations and selected PPRs (People’s Housing Projects). Partners include Doctors without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the SOLs Foundation. In June, the first batch of products was distributed to PPR Taman Wahyu 2, PPR Seri Semarak, and the SOLs Foundation, benefiting 6,300 individuals. The latest batch will reach B40 communities in Sungai Besi, Keramat Permai, and Bandar Kinrara.

Additionally, Tohtonku is partnering with charitable organizations such as Rumah Kasih Harmoni Paya Jaras, Community at Heart, Rumah Raudhatul al-Feez, and Pertubuhan Rumah Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Home of Peace to facilitate further distribution.

A Legacy of Giving Back
Tohtonku’s commitment to social responsibility and community welfare shines through this remarkable initiative. By providing essential personal care products, the company not only celebrates its milestone anniversary but also plays a pivotal role in improving the quality of life for marginalized communities in the Klang Valley. As Tohtonku continues to grow, its dedication to giving back remains unwavering, setting a powerful example for other businesses to follow.

About Follow Me
Follow Me draws inspiration from the Japanese principle of continuous improvement at every step of our evolution. Inspired by the gifts of nature and the advances of Japanese technology in beauty and wellness, we constantly strive to bring you our best. Only by giving you the best, can you then look your best – from head to toe.

About Tohtonku
Since 1964, Tohtonku Sdn Bhd has progressed from a homegrown name into a multi-national brand. Several of Malaysia’s well-known beauty and personal care products under its wing include Nutox, Nanowhite, Follow Me, Ubermen, Koolfever and Ammeltz Yoko Yoko. Tohtonku’s products are also found all over Southeast Asia including Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Brunei, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.Tohtonku aims to become the foremost progressive personal care company in Southeast Asia, building on its legacy as a leading provider of a diverse range of beauty and personal care products. Our vision is to empower everyone with access to enhancing their appearance and well-being, enabling each individual to look good, feel good and truly become their ‘best self’.

Lifestyle

ARTCONOMICS: Bridging Art and Economics at Universiti Malaya

June 3, 2024 dixonthum

I was invited to witness the launching of ARTCONOMICS – a groundbreaking collaboration between the Universiti Malaya Economics Society (PEKUMA) and the Universiti Malaya Museum of Asian Art & Art Gallery, which is set to redefine the relationship between art and economics. This thought-provoking exhibition promises a unique experience for all participants, shedding light on the dynamic interplay between these two fields.

ARTCONOMICS Contemporary Art Exhibition runs from 2 June to 2 July 2024, at the Universiti Malaya Art Gallery, offering an insightful journey into the fusion of art and economics. For you information, the exhibition was officiated by Senator Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), on 2 June 2024, at 12:00 PM.

According to the Project Director, Amin Sufian, this contemporary art exhibition is inspired by an article from Senator Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz during his tenure as Minister of Finance in 2021. ARTCONOMICS is more than just an art show. It serves as a visionary platform that aims to establish art as a potent economic mechanism, particularly in the realm of investment. The mission is to delve into the relevance of art in today’s economic landscape and raise awareness among Universiti Malaya students and the Malaysian public about the critical role of art in the economy.

ARTCONOMICS – being the 8th Solo Art Show by Ali Nurazmal Yusoff, one of Malaysia’s top contemporary artists, the exhibition features 43 of his finest works, spanning from the 1990s to the present day. Curated by Zena Khan from AFK Collection and Mohd Umair from the Universiti Malaya Museum of Asian Art & Art Gallery, this showcase is a testament to Ali Nurazmal Yusoff’s artistic evolution and prowess.

In addition to the exhibition, a forum titled “Relevance Between Art & Economics” will facilitate academic and intellectual discussions. This forum aims to explore the critical connections between art and economic theories, providing a platform for knowledge exchange.

Some of the main objectives of ARTCONOMICS is to expose students to the interconnectedness of art and economics, highlighting career opportunities within the art industry. It aims to enhance students’ awareness of the role of artistic expression in the dynamic economic fabric and serves as a reference point for understanding the development and function of art and culture in Malaysia. Moreover, it empowers the analytical and critical thinking capabilities the youth as future leaders.

Popular Malaysian actor, Fadhli Masoot was also present at the event. He said that he is amazed with the talent and creativity of the artist Ali Nurazmal Yusoff. His wife, Suraya is featured in one of Ali’s artworks.

In my opinion, whether you are a student, local or international artist, an art agency, or a member of the public, ARTCONOMICS is an unmissable event that promises to enlighten and inspire.