Suuai
Monthly news for Chiang Mai Thailand
December 2023 |
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| Loy Krathong begins |
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From the editor
Thailand’s Loy Krathong festival dominated the month of November with traditional ceremony’s, parades, beauty contests, fireworks, dancing, and much much more. Estimated parade attendance 25,000 people and the word was all the hotels were at 100% capacity. Many new businesses scramble to get their shops open taking advantage of the long awaited influx of business. The wellness business sector alone is said to have an expected 24% growth rate over the next 5 years in Chiang Mai. Many businesses including restaurants have taken an active roll in the search for new employees in what could be best described as shortage in trained workers in the market.
Construction around the moat continues on but appears to be coming to a close soon. The sidewalks up Huay Kaew road have seen a return of workers, still trying to get the work completed. The completed sections have been a welcomed improvement and a nice added curbside appealing upgrade.
It was an incredible sight to see thousands of University Freshman Students trek up Doi Suthep Mountain at 4am, an annual University tradition; a picture of unity and determination.
Everyday I feel fortunate to have discovered Thailand at relatively a young age, it’s especially inspiring to see others find creative ways to spread the word; hence, the new music video launch “Holiday”. A quick 3 min clip covering Thailand’s beauty, fun, and romance.
Hope everyone has a fabulous December with Friends and Family over the Holiday break.
Smiles, Jonky
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| Photo credit: Bbj Michel (loy Kathrong floating in the river). |
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Free Chef School
Once a modest endeavor known as “One Chef at a Time,” Brian Pern’s vision had expanded beyond borders and expectations. What started as a humble effort to teach culinary skills to those in need had blossomed into something extraordinary—the Culinary Arts Foundation of Thailand.
In our home town Chiang Mai, Thailand, this endeavor stood as a glimmer of hope for underprivileged student’s void of resources but filled with passion. The transformation from “One Chef at a Time” to this comprehensive institution was a testament to Brian’s unwavering dedication.
The foundation’s 12-week cooking program was more than a series of classes; it was a lifeline for the students. From the basics of knife skills to the intricacies of Thai cuisine, each lesson was crafted with precision and care. Beyond just culinary techniques, the program instills confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose in the students.
What made this initiative truly remarkable was its accessibility. The foundation didn’t discriminate; it opened its doors to anyone with the passion to learn. Some students were orphans, others came from impoverished backgrounds, but within the walls of the culinary school, they were all equals bound by their shared love for food and learning.
Funding this ambitious venture solely through individual donations was no small feat. Brian, with his unyielding determination and seasoned background in culinary arts, managed to touch the hearts of many who wanted to make a difference. The foundation has supporters from all walks of life, from local business owners to international philanthropists, all united by a desire to empower these aspiring chefs.
Graduation day is a celebration of resilience and triumph. Friends, family, donors, and supporters gather through the year to witness the transformation of these incredibly fortunate students. With tears of joy, the Students take the next step to their futures in securing a kitchen position in one of the many restaurants in town and the Country.
The Culinary Arts Foundation of Thailand has become a symbol of empowerment, proving that with dedication, compassion, and support, even the most disadvantaged could aspire for greatness. And at its helm stands Brian Pern, a guidance of hope and inspiration for a new generation of chefs, one Chef at a time.
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| Culinary Arts Foundation of Thailand |
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| Brian Pern Founder of the Culinary Arts Foundation of Thailand. |
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| Photo credit to the very talented Wiradej Thongsuwan of Chiang Mai. |
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Thailand Tourism video
Enjoy Thailand’s newest tourism music video written and produced by Will Robinson; Holiday!
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| Isan Project ” Holiday” |
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In our City (Chiang Mai), the Isan Project was abuzz with energy as Will Robinson, the creative genius behind the latest music video “Holiday,” immersed himself in the final stages of production. Born in England, Will has found his second home in Thailand, drawn by its vibrant culture and the mesmerizing beauty of its landscapes.
“Holiday” wasn’t just another music video; it was a heartfelt ode to Thailand’s allure, a visual symphony crafted by Will himself. The hip hop sounds fused with traditional Thai instruments resonated with the essence of the country’s rich heritage and modern allure, aiming to entice tourists from every corner of the globe.
As the final scenes were being edited, Will showcased Thailand’s beauty through his vision and discoveries of the Country. The video portrayed the serene beaches of the Royal Coast, a relatively undiscovered area in terms of tourist destinations and utter beauty.
As the video neared completion, news spread with anticipation—the former Tourism Minister of Thailand, Senator Weerasak Kowsurat, had seen a preview and was immensely impressed. Senator Kowsurat, known for his dedication to promoting Thai tourism, was eager to commend Will for his extraordinary contribution to the cause.
A meeting was arranged at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok, where Senator Kowsurat, accompanied by a team of officials, arrived to express his gratitude and admiration for Will’s work. Dressed in traditional Thai attire, the senator greeted Will with warmth and appreciation, acknowledging the power of art in promoting the country’s beauty to the world.
The accolades from Senator Kowsurat were not just a recognition of Will’s talent; they were a validation of his passion for Thailand—a place he has come to cherish deeply. The senator pledged his support to ensure the video reached a global audience, promising to showcase it at tourism events and promotional campaigns worldwide.
“Holiday” a production work of imagination, talent, and beauty – hope you enjoy it!
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| Miss Grand (Chiang Mai) competition |
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| ATM machines can have different withdrawal charges including an exchange rate mark-up fee (5.5%). |
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| New scooter rental hits the town, QR code scan and you’re off “helmet” included. Gogo Scooter. |
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The second Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai building is under way being constructed next to the original building. Included will be 75 more inpatient rooms and 15 intensive care units. It is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Both preventive disease therapy and disease recovery contribute to the service of the Heart Center, Neuro.Science Center, Orthopedic Center and Oncology Center. It also covers the future demands of Genomic Medicine and Medical Tourism in Chiang Mai.
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| Cultural attire. |
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| Smash Daddy Restaurant |
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| The newest restaurant in town, Smash Daddy owned and operated by John and Bryan with spongy chairs and loads of room. Upstairs for more seating and soon to be a bar too. Using their signature grass fed New Zealand beef and their out of the oven fresh buns, the restaurant already has a loyal following with many more to come thanks to the newly enhanced expansion. Super job! |
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I love my helmet Month Jan- Dec.
Photo credit: unknown |
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Suitcase checklist when coming to Thailand
Osprey bag 80 with wheels and shoulder straps for motorbike. $450.
Comfy shoes (gel insoles).
No raincoat – can be purchased on arrival at 7-11 for $1.00 fits in your back pocket.
No stomach medicine – Thailand sells the best stomach medicine called Flying Rabbit. Main organic ingredient Phenyl Salicylate 2 grams made from tree bark.
Copy passport on phone
Wind breaker (Nov – Feb)
N-95 mask ( Jan- April)
Comfortable pants protect from the sun.
ATM card (machines will dispense Thai Baht).
Helmet (long journey Thai helmets are small and plastic).
Electric converter – Thailand is a 3 prong electric socket country. Can buy on arrival.
1-2 bottles of wine (expensive in thailand).
Small day back-pack.
Clothes and toiletries.
Download Google Translate on phone.
And a pocket full of wedding rings.
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| Annual Freshman University Students do the the trek up Doi Suthep Mountain at 4:00 am. |
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University Freshman Students get Thai initiation
Each year, a little-known tradition takes place in Chiang Mai, extending an invitation to only a select few. Commencing the academic calendar, bright-eyed students from Chiang Mai University (CMU) and the other surrounding Universities embark on a 6+ mile journey, meandering from the campus foothills to the summit of Doi Suthep. At the mountain’s pinnacle, they assemble at Wat Phra That, presenting offerings—a symbolic gesture marking the promising years of study that lie ahead.
With an estimated attendance of about 38,000, thousands of individuals joined in the lively CMU Freshman Welcoming Celebrations. This year’s ascent of Doi Suthep unfolded on November 18th, with some commencing their trek well before the crack of dawn.
Apparel plays a significant role in this tradition: Each CMU faculty showcases its distinct colors and symbols for the trek. Students proudly wore their faculty’s uniform, often a specially crafted t-shirt or shirt, occasionally added with a bandanna or sash—a visible representation of unity in the spirited gathering.
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| Koh Summui. |
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| Mae Rim |
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| Ballet competition begins |
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| Ko Lan about about a 30 minute drive by boat from Pattaya. |
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| Starlux fights to the USA are still only to Los Angeles and San Francisco from Bangkok. Business class (Flatbed class) $3899/RT. Menu organized by Michelin awarded Chefs. Third pic is the added mattress at bedtime. |
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