Travel

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Bangkok Now

As someone who frequently visits Bangkok, I can confidently say it’s one of the most exciting and diverse cities in Southeast Asia. Known for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, the vibrant capital of Thailand is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences, especially during this festive season. From bustling markets and flavourful street food to serene temples and dynamic nightlife, Bangkok truly has it all. If you’re planning your next vacation, here are five compelling reasons why Bangkok should be at the top of your travel list right now.

#1 Christmas Decor
The Christmas decorations in Bangkok are nothing short of spectacular, especially with the buzz around Labubu and other Popmart characters adding a trendy twist to the festive season. Iconic malls such as CentralWorld, Siam Paragon, and ICONSIAM go all out with dazzling light displays, towering Christmas trees, and meticulously crafted holiday setups. Even the streets and smaller markets embrace the holiday spirit with festive decorations and cheerful music. It’s an ideal time to immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere and snap picture-perfect moments with your loved ones.

#2 Street Food
Bangkok’s street food is legendary and a highlight for every visitor. The city is often referred to as the world’s street food capital for good reason. You can savour everything from the classic pad thai to spicy som tam (papaya salad) and grilled seafood. Sweet treats like mango sticky rice and roti with condensed milk are equally irresistible. Popular food hotspots like the newly opened Jodd Fairs and the Sukhumvit food stalls offer a chance to enjoy authentic Thai flavours at affordable prices. Every bite is a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage with hints of urbanisation.

#3 Shopping Haven
Shopping in Bangkok is an experience like no other, offering everything from unique handmade goods to luxurious branded items. Chatuchak Weekend Market is a treasure trove of bargains, where you can find souvenirs, clothing, and accessories. Platinum Fashion Mall is a favourite for affordable yet stylish apparel, while Siam Paragon and ICONSIAM cater to those seeking luxury and high-end brands. Don’t miss the floating markets for a more traditional shopping experience, where you can buy everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

#4 Creative Exhibitions
Bangkok is currently buzzing with exciting creative events that showcase its vibrant cultural scene. One must-see is the ICONSIAM Bangkok Illumination 2024 x ROBBi, running until 25 December 2024. This dazzling event transforms the riverside into a spectacle of lights and art, featuring ROBBi installations that blend innovation and festive cheer. Another highlight is the Immersive Disney Animation at EMSPHERE, open until 29 December 2024. This magical experience brings beloved Disney stories to life through cutting-edge technology and interactive displays, making it perfect for visitors of all ages. There are many other events happening in Bangkok now until the end of the year!

#5 Vibrant Nightlife
Bangkok’s nightlife is as vibrant as its daytime attractions. Rooftop bars like Tribe, Sky Bar and Vertigo offer stunning views of the city’s skyline, complemented by world-class cocktails and fine dining. For those seeking more energy and excitement, places like Khao San Road, Soi Thonglor, and Silom buzz with activity, featuring live music, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening or a night full of adventure, Bangkok’s nightlife has it all.

With its festive atmosphere, incredible food, endless shopping, inspiring creative spaces, and electrifying nightlife, Bangkok is a city that promises something for everyone. Now is the perfect time to explore its magic and create unforgettable memories in this one-of-a-kind destination.

Bonus: 7-Eleven
And while I’m on the topic of favourite spots, I can’t leave out 7-Eleven, which is a must-visit in Thailand. It’s not your ordinary convenience store—here, you’ll find everything from delicious ready-to-eat meals like spicy basil chicken rice to unique snacks and beverages that you can’t get elsewhere. I make it a point to pop into a 7-Eleven every time I’m in Bangkok, whether it’s for a quick bite, an iced coffee or simply to explore the latest offerings. It’s a little slice of convenience and culture that I always look forward to.

Food & Drink

Sofitel Kuala Lumpur’s Wan Chun Ting Celebrates the Prosperous Year of the Dragon with Culinary Extravaganza

Yee Sang with Norwegian Salmon and crispy white bait fish

As the vibrant Year of the Dragon unfolds, Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara beckons all enthusiasts to join in the festivities and indulge in a plethora of enchanting Chinese New Year offerings throughout 3 January to 24 February 2024. From delectable Cantonese delights to exclusive spa experiences, Sofitel is set to make this Chinese New Year celebration a memorable and prosperous affair.

A Symphony of Culinary Delights at Wan Chun Ting
Sofitel’s award-winning restaurant, Wan Chun Ting, under the culinary mastery of Executive Chinese Chef Leong Weng Heng, promises an imperial Cantonese dining experience like no other. With 33 years of expertise, Chef Leong has crafted three special set menus – Prosperity, Fortune, and Wealth – priced at RM288+, RM338+, and RM398+ per person, respectively.

The Chinese New Year Yee Sang Delight at Wan Chun Ting is a feast for the senses, starting at RM88+. Diners can choose from a variety of options, including Vegetarian Yee Sang, Jellyfish Yee Sang, Deep Fried Soft Shell Crab Yee Sang, and more. Each dish reflects the richness of Chinese traditions and symbolizes prosperity for the coming year.

For reservations at Wan Chun Ting, guests can contact +603 2720 6648 or email Jasmine.Yap@sofitel.com.

Sofitel Prosperity Luxury Box
For those looking to extend the celebration beyond the dining table, Sofitel presents the Prosperity Luxury Box, priced at RM298+. This opulent box includes a curated assortment of delightful items such as a Luxury Leather Box, Yun Nam Pu Erh Aged Tea, Chef Heng Special Chilli Sauce, Dried Mushroom, Pineapple Tart, Nian Gao Fish, London Almond Cookies, Cashew Nuts, Fortune Cookies, Mandarin Oranges, and a special Gift Voucher.

Sofitel Prosperity Luxury Box

To sweeten the deal, an enticing 20% early bird discount is available for orders placed by 21 January 2024. To secure your Prosperity Luxury Box, call or WhatsApp +6017-511 7725 or email HA123-FB@sofitel.com. All orders should be placed 48 hours before the preferred collection date with full payment.

Chinese New Year-themed Buffet, Afternoon Tea and Spa Indulgence
On top of that, Kwee Zeen offers Chinese New Year-themed buffets featuring a delightful mix of Chinese, local, and international dishes. The festive buffet dinner will be available from 3 January to 11 February 2024.

Le Bar Cocktail & Stories is also serving Chinese New Year Festive Afternoon Tea, priced at RM168+ (Monday–Friday) and RM188+ (Weekends) for two persons, with option for a package with Champagne or Cocchi cocktails at RM279+. The Chinese New Year Festive Afternoon Tea is available daily from 3 January to 13 February 2024, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Indulge yourself at Sofitel Spa with the Chinese New Year Thalgo offer available from 3 January to 24 February 2024.

Check out the full Festive Packages on their digital brochure at https://bit.ly/SofitelKLCNYFestiveDelight

About Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara
Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara is a luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant Damansara Heights. With its sophisticated design, elegant accommodation, and world-class facilities, the hotel offers a refined sanctuary for discerning travellers. From its stylish rooms and suites to its exceptional dining experiences, spa and fitness facilities, and warm and personalized service, Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara provides guests with a truly unforgettable stay.

About Sofitel
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is an ambassador of modern French style, culture, and art-de-vivre around the world. Established in 1964, Sofitel is the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France with more than 120 chic and remarkable hotels in the world’s most sought-after destinations. Sofitel exudes a refined and understated sense of modern luxury, always blending a touch of French decadence with the very best of the locale. The Sofitel collection includes such notable hotels as Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, and Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort. Sofitel is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,200 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

Website: www.sofitel.com
IG: @sofitelkualalumpurdamansara

Food & Drink, Travel

Welcoming the Year of the Dragon at Han Pi Yuen Chinese Restaurant, Royale Chulan Seremban

Chef Daniel Chong with his creations

Step into the realm of culinary excellence as Han Pi Yuen Chinese Restaurant at Royale Chulan Seremban unveils its spectacular Chinese New Year offerings. From 9 January to 24 February 2024, immerse yourself in a feast that embodies prosperity, expertly crafted by Chef Daniel Chong and his team.

A Gastronomic Journey
Experience the delicate balance of flavors and meticulous presentation in our Chinese New Year Set menu and the irresistible Prosperity Yee Sang. The restaurant, located on the Mezzanine Level, invites you to savor the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine, promising a culinary journey like no other.

Prosperity Yee Sang Options
Choose from a variety of Prosperity Yee Sang options, each meticulously prepared and available in small or large portions. Whether you prefer the Vegetarian Yee Sang, Salmon Yee Sang, Jellyfish Yee Sang, or Abalone Yee Sang, indulge in the symbolic tossing of prosperity for prices ranging from RM68 nett to RM198 nett per box.

Delectable Set Menus
There are three delectable set menus, priced from RM1388 nett to RM1788 nett per set for ten diners, showcase the pinnacle of Chinese culinary artistry. Highlights include Abalone with Dried Scallop Soup, Golden Chicken Pancake with Almonds, Steamed Tiger Grouper with Chicken Essence and Superior Sauce, Tiger Prawns with Garlic Flakes and Chilli Sauce, Steamed Lotus Leaves Rice with Crispy Mermaid, Braised Sea Cucumber with Dried Oyster and Broccoli, Chilled Peach Gum with Blossoms and Aloe Vera, and Signature Banana Fritters.

This year’s Chinese New Year Set Menu marks the return of Han Pi Yuen after a hiatus of three years. We hope to welcome back our guests and entice new patrons to indulge in these special dishes. Additionally, we will commence the Sunday All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum to attract more patrons to Han Pi Yuen.

said En. Rahman Ahmad, General Manager of Royale Chulan Seremban

Lion Dance Extravaganza
Guests will also be treated to an exhilarating lion dance performance by the Yung Loong Wushu and Lion Dance troupe on 10 February 2024 (Saturday), starting from 11:00 a.m. The vibrant drumbeats and lively presentation will unfold at the Hotel Lobby and dining outlets.

Asiatique’s Buffet Experience
For those who prefer a buffet experience, Asiatique restaurant offers a four-day Chinese New Year Festive Buffet for both lunch and dinner. Prices vary for different dates, so make sure to check the schedule and reserve your spot.

  • Chinese New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet (9 February 2024): RM98+ for adults, RM68+ for seniors and children below 12.
  • Chinese New Year Hi-Tea Buffet (10 and 12 February 2024): RM78+ for adults, RM58+ for seniors and children below 12.
  • Chinese New Year Dinner Buffet (10 and 11 February 2024): RM88+ for adults, RM48+ for seniors and children below 12.
Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Staycation Deals
Extend your celebration with staycation deals available from 1 – 28 February 2024. Enjoy attractive room rates at RM240.00 nett per night in the Deluxe Room category, including breakfast for two persons. To book your stay, contact Royale Chulan Ser directly via WhatsApp at 016 920 9934 or email us at booking.rcs@royalechulan.com.

Booking Info
Embrace the festivities, savor the flavors, and create lasting memories at Han Pi Yuen Chinese Restaurant. Reserve your table now and usher in the Year of the Dragon with an unforgettable culinary experience. For reservations, contact 06-766 6620/6609 or WhatsApp message to 016 920 9925, or email at fbdept.rcs@royalechulan.com.

About Royale Chulan Seremban
Royale Chulan Seremban is a 4-star hotel part of the Boustead Royale Chulan Hotel chain in Malaysia. It’s situated in the heart of Seremban town and offers 345 guestrooms, three dining options, and 17 function rooms. We are a preferred name for hosting dignitaries and significant events, particularly in the corporate and government sectors. Learn more at www.royalechulan.com/seremban , Facebook (Royale Chulan Seremban) and Instagram (@royalechulanseremban).