Royal Thai Cuisine - Spicy Pomelo Salad

Any curious traveler coming to Thailand seeks to experience the country’s tastes, colors and textures through its culinary delights. The magic of food in Thailand lies in the number of options that are offered to cater the the varied palettes of all food lovers – whether you enjoy fine dining or authentic street food.

The names of Thai dishes– Phranaeng nuea (beef curry), Khai Kata (egg, pork sausage, shredded pork) or Khai yat sai (stuffed omelette) – are an invitation for a culinary journey off the beaten track.

At Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien, Chef Varaporn is the keeper of the secrets of Royal Thai cuisine - we will share with you one of those secrets.

Explore one of her favorite recipes, the Spicy Pomelo Salad, in four easy steps.

Ingredients for 4 persons:

- 1 kg of pomelo

- 60 g of chicken breast

- 80 g of chili paste

- 120 ml of fish sauce

- 120 g of fresh lemon juice

- 80 g of palm sugar

- 20 g of shallot

- 20 g of dried roast coconut

- 640 g of tiger prawn

1. Peel the pomelo and shred it in small pieces.

2. Boil the chicken breast in hot water, then slice it into thin pieces.

3. Season the pomelo with freshly squeezed lemon juice, fish sauce, palm sugar and chili paste.

4. Add the chicken, shallot, dried roasted coconut and add the boiled tiger prawn on the top.

Bon appetit!

Part 1 of our 4 Part Recipe Compilation - stay tuned for more next week.



Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien Hotel, features 8 dining outlets, including French Fine Dining, Japanese, Chinese and Royal Thai Cuisine. See http://www.royalmeridienbangkok.com/ for more details.

Songkran from a local & expat viewpoint

The word has spread - Songkran in Thailand is a 'must do' for any curious and dynamic traveller in the country in mid-April (13th-15th of April, 2010).

We decided to investigate further by interviewing one Bangkokian, Khun Poo Chutamat, Public Relations Manager at Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien as well as Mr. Volkert Geertsen, Director of Sales and Marketing at Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien, resident in the City of Angels for 7 years.

1) What does Songkran represent to you?

Poo: This national celebration of the traditional Thai New Year captures the imagination of travelers for both its cultural and fun attributes. The Songkran Festival is very much related to water, since people believe that water splashing will induce abundant rainfall in the upcoming year. The purpose of bathing or splashing water is to request for blessings. In order to welcome the New Year, the celebration will comprise of fun-filled local entertainment with friends and family.

Volkert: Songkran is my favorite holiday. The city looks great when everyone is wearing their most colorful shirts and I love the fact that it does not matter what age you are; everyone is playing with water: a 3 year old is having as much fun as a 80 year old.

2) What would you advise the visitors to take note of when they come to celebrate Songkran in Bangkok? Any "do's" or "don'ts"?

Poo: Do's: Have fun and remember to always smile! You will get soaked whether you like it or not if out and about on Songkran day. If you really do not wish to participate, it may be best to stay indoors.
Don’ts': Do not douse monks, babies or the elderly. Most of the older generations of locals will stay indoors for Songkran.

Volkert: My first advice would be to fully participate! Make sure you bring your most colorful shirt, preferably with a flower print and of course a small water gun. Don’t worry if you did not pack it: they can be bought on every street corner. You will get wet so don’t forget the Ziplock bags for your telephone and wallet. Make sure to wish everyone a Sawasdee Pii-Mai (a Happy New Year). Please do not get angry - as soon as you are out on the streets it is 'fair game' and you can get wet even if you are wearing a suit and tie. If you would like to avoid getting wet, make sure you take Taxi's and let them stop right in front of the entrance of the Hotel (inside you are safe from getting wet!).

3) Where do the locals hang out for Songkran festivities?

Poo: "The good start is part of the success" is the motto for the Thai New Year celebration. Thai's travel to sacred / auspicious areas to start with a postitive / happy piece of mind!

Volkert: I love to play Songkran ("len Songkran" in Thai ) so if you want to get a head start; go to RCA in the evening on the 12th of April. Normally, this is the domain for the younger ones but during Songkran it’s fun for everyone. During the day Khaosan Road is where you will definitely get wet, a good mix of tourists and Thai's will celebrate here together. In the evening Silom is where the fun continuous, drum bands on big trucks will add to the fun.

4) Why do you believe Songkran became one of Thai's favorite celebrations?

Poo: Because Songkran is the Thai New Year - it is the biggest public holiday of the year, and for three days most business activity shuts down and the party begins! Bangkok feels a little bit 'empty' (it's all relative :)) as many tavel “upcountry” to return to their hometown to visit parents and grandparents.

Volkert: Everyone is enjoying this together. Thais certainly love to dress up and everyone has their Songkran gear prepared many days before the event starts. The colorful shirts give the whole city a great look and there is still a lot of respect - everything is done with a gentle touch.

Sawasdee Pii-Mai to all of you!

8 things to do in BKK during Earth Hour 2010

The City of Angels is considered as one of the liveliest cities in Asia with its gigantic department stores, street music, flashy billboards displaying Thai latest fads and Bangkok's legendary traffic jams.

For the past 10 years, the Thai capital city has been more willing than ever to consolidate all the entertainment it has to offer with a cleaner image in terms of environment: electric public transportation, new eco labels for hotels and restaurants, eco-friendly thai designers and high investments to protect the green areas in the city such as Lumphini Park (which happens to be walking distance from Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien). In addition, the 2009 Earth Hour event in Bangkok saved 1,423MW of electricity, which reduced CO2 emissions by 900 tonnes.

If you chose Bangkok as your destination for the 'light out' event of tomorrow, 27th of March 2010, you will have a plethora of choice on how to get the best out of this hour into darkness. We share with you - what we believe - are the 8 best things to do during the Earth Hour evening:

1) Get a Thai Massage. Why not ask your regular masseur to replace the neon light and strong air conditioning with a natural scented candle. It is proven that subdued light helps to reach complete relaxation.

2) Head to Ratchada Night Market. This open-air market is only open on Saturdays from 6pm to 12am and is specialized in second-hand items - ranging from vespa retail pieces to clothes and designer bags. The perfect destination for a eco-friendly shopping (Lat Phrao MRT station).

3) Bangkok by night? Bangkok by bike. Several companies offer 'green' tours of Bangkok by bike at night. Check mountainbiketoursthailand for a 4-hours tour starting from 06:00pm.

4) Eat local. Hit local food markets or street food stalls to enjoy local products for which preparation doesn't require high energy consumption.

5) Put on a black outfit and head to Bed Supperclub. The whitest restaurant/club in town will also plunge into darkness with a special set menu using exclusively local ingredients.

6) Send a "Bangkok Snow Removal" postcard to your friends. This original postcard concept integrates the global warming issues with a serie of paintings of Bangkok under the snow.

7) Visit the Four-Faced Buddha. Being out of touch with our modern technologies might be a good occasion to meditate. Light on incense sticks and make a wish at Four-Faced Buddha Erawan Shrine located next to Chidlom BTS station.

8) A candelight show in the lobby? Yes, at Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien, we will be displaying an iconic candle arrangement to show our support to the 'light out' event.

Itinerary of a memorable Sunday in the vibrant Bangkok

After a cultural Saturday, one of the most iconic shopping experiences in the world will set the tone of a memorable Sunday in the city of Angels.

SUNDAY

9:00am: After having enjoyed an energizing breakfast in the relaxing surroundings of the Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien, you will be ready to head to one of the most iconic markets in the world: Chatuchak weekend market – or JJ for the trendy locals. It will take you only 15 minutes to reach Chatuchak/Chit lom station by BTS Skytrain from Phloen Chit, located right outside of the hotel.

9:15am: First impressions last a lifetime – and JJ gives a great one. This market has anything one could imagine, ranging from clothes by the latest Thai designers to fresh orchids, 2nd hand books and even pets! A tip from us: go early because it does get crowded late in the day.

01:00pm: For shopaholics, we invite you to prolong the experience – others may wish to explore the very central Lumpini Park (also located only a 10 minute walk from Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Meridien) described as the “wooden area” by locals. Locals and expats alike enjoy taking a stroll on Sundays while observing fellow residents practicing tai chi or other cardio-vascular activity. The park, from where you can indulge yourself with astonishing views over the City of Angels’ skyline, was a gift from King Rama VI to the people of Bangkok.

03:30pm: Le Méridien culture is characterized by a strong interest for art and local culture, and Bangkok is abundant in art galleries and museums. At the Chidlom station, walking distance from Paragon Cineplex, you will find the 100 Tonson Gallery, dedicated to contemporary art scene and artworks by Thai and international artists. Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien room keys have been designed by this gallery.

05:00pm: Conclude this multidimensional weekend in Bangkok in the relaxing atmosphere of the lagoon swimming pool at the hotel. For an early dining option before travelling back home, opt for the View or the Rain Tree Café, serving delicacies all day.

07:00pm: If you are lucky enough to prolong your weekend, experience a magic night dinner cruise on the Chaophraya River. Many options are available for such cruises – please consult our knowledgeable Concierges to join fine dining along with the beautiful city’s lights in one pastoral night.

To discover more about the world of Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien, please visit www.lemeridien.com/plazaatheneebangkok

Earth Hour - Be green, Switch off the lights

On the 31st of March 2007, 2.2 million Australians switched off their lights in order to take action against global warming. On the 29th of March 2008, a hundred million people in more than 88 countries joined this impressive movement.

WWF is behind this highly respected global action, which is the largest global climate change initiative. The secret of its worldwide success is to be found in the simplicity of the action - switching off the lights for an hour. The impacts of such an action can be considerable when the world works together for a greener future.

On March 27th, 2010, at 08:30pm Bangkok Time, the Grand Palace in Bangkok, the Bosphorus bridge (for the first time) and other well known landmarks will disappear into the darkness for an hour. Take action and have some fun - show your support and create your own virtual lantern on the Earth Hour website.

Throughout the week, we will be sharing some 'green tips' on our FanPage and other quick facts about The Earth Hour organization. Speacial measure that we at Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Meridien, have taken on the 27th of March, 2010, will be communicated to you shortly after.

What's more? Participate to our virtual lantern competition on our FanPage and win a 20% discount voucher at the Rain Tree Cafe.

Itinerary of a multidimensional Saturday in Bangkok

The city of Angels, which attracts many business travelers during the week, has many activities to offer for those in search of a stimulating weekend getaway.

SATURDAY

06:00am: Rise early – it’s worth it. All around Bangkok and – more specifically in Banglamphu – Bangkokians perpetuate the tradition of day’s sustenance donation to the monks while monks’ promenade on their alms route in the early morning.

08:00am: This early stroll might have stimulated your appetite and real Thai breakfast is a must-try once in a lifetime. What about trying a Khao Tom, a very popular local rice soup? For a porridge-like version, opt for the Johk that you can find in almost all local restaurants and street stalls.

08:30am: It is just about the right time to experience one of the most extraordinary attractions in Thailand - Wat Pho. Not only does the Reclining Buddha measure 46 meters, but he also displays the 108 auspicious traits that signify the birth of a pre-destined Buddha. Mingle with the locals and take the SkyTrain to Saphan Thaksin station followed by a boat-taxi to Wat Po.

10:00am: After you’ve toured the grounds of the Reclining Buddha, visit the Massage School found within the grounds of Wat Pho for a relaxing foot reflexology or full body massage at reasonable prices.

10:30am: What about discovering another one of Bangkok’s cultural landmarks? Head to the Grand Palace, the City of Angels’ most well-known sight. You will have the chance to visit Wat Phra Kaew, and its 14th century Emerald Buddha. If you need a little tonic, sample the delicious and traditional thai coffee called Oliang, prepared in a tall skinny pot found in many of the street stalls.

12:30pm: It is time for lunch and you’re only a few steps from some of the most romantic spots for a traditional Thai lunch – Bangkok riverside.

02:00pm: After a cultural morning, you wouldn’t mind enjoying a real shopping experience…and what an experience! Jump into the futuristic Skytrain and admire Bangkok skyline until Siam station. It is one of Bangkokians' favorite shopping destinations to find good deals at Thai stylists’ tiny boutiques. If your shopping experience is getting a little intense, rest on a terrace and observe the crowd of insatiable shoppers passing by.

07:00pm: Have you ever dreamt about travelling to the other side of the world for one night? Bangkok makes your dream come true with a palette of international cuisine all around the city. At Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Méridien, choose between seven different dining options, ranging from Cantonese to Japanese , Thai, International and French. I am torn between suggesting the tender Seared Dover sole on Parmesan crust at The Reflexions or the Barbecued Hong Kong-style suckling pig at Silk Road - so what about staying a little longer and trying it all?

...finish the night off on top of State Tower at Sirocco which boasts a breathtaking expansive view over the Bangkok Skyline.

Coming next week: Itinerary of a memorable Sunday in Bangkok

A colour for Every Day

Have you ever wondered why so many people were wearing a yellow shirt the last time you were in Bangkok? You probably experienced this phenomenon on a Monday – for which yellow is the color of the day.

In Thai culture, a colour is dedicated to every day of the week, based on the God who protects the day. The colour of the birth day is considered most important - it is tradition that you wear the color of your birth day on your birthday for it is an auspicious occasion.

Do you know which day you were born? Click here to find out.

If you were born on a...:

Monday - your colour is yellow
Tuesday - your colour is pink
Wednesday - your colour is green
Thursday - your colour is orange
Friday - your colour is blue
Saturday - your colour is purple
Sunday - your colour is red

In Thailand, where the jewels have the pride of place, this tradition can be followed in style.

From the 26th of February until the 2nd of March, Bangkok has the privilege to host the exclusive 45th Gems & Jewellery Fair featuring over 1'200 exhibitors which will display their latest creations. Start your visit right and stay at the Plaza Athénée Bangkok, A Royal Meridien - only steps away from Phloen Chit Skytrain Station.

For accommodation and exclusive offers, visit our website.