More Than Shopping

Let me start by saying I love to shop when I travel, in particular when I am on the lookout for something authentic to purchase, items that reference the place that I am visiting, a product from a local brand, locally made hopefully, even better if crafted by an artisan rather than mass manufactured. However, shopping isn't the be all and end all of a good trip.

An original experience, a lovely view to take in, eating as the locals do, a gastronomic meal, spiritual enhancement, and many more intangible encounters add to the journey. These are the experiences that stay with us when we reminisce years later.

As 2012 comes to a close, I am grateful for the many journeys travel has taken me on the past twelve months. I look forward to even greater ones in the year ahead.

Beautiful view of Bangkok's skyline from the terrace of Zense at CentralWorld Bangkok, Thailand.

Tea At Twinings

I was first introduced to Id by my friend Eileen. That was a few years back. Since then we have become good Facebook friends and we make it a point to meet up whenever I am in Bangkok. We chat about our lives, what we've been up to; basically a 'live' update on what we've been following on Facebook.

This visit, Id suggested we meet at the recently opened Twinings Of London Tea Shop at CentralWorld. A very English afternoon tea was the order of the day and I am always appreciative of Id taking the time to catch up and ensuring that I get to experience the latest openings in the City of Angels as he would put it. The pride he has in his home city is infectious, and in a way elevates the experience of one's visit.

I've also snagged an invite to tea at Id's new digs the next time I'm in Bangkok. I had noticed his Facebook postings about new lodgings, interior decoration and the like, and had brought with me a home decor book as a gift. There is much satisfaction in gift-giving when it is well-received. Thanks again Id for the great catch up!

Photo courtesy of Id Nukulkarn.

Birthday Bash In Bangkok

I was joking with my good friend, saying that his birthday week-end festivities in Bangkok were akin to a destination wedding. There was a pre-birthday bash dinner the night before, the birthday bash itself, followed by a post birthday bash brunch the next day. It was a wonderful way to celebrate and I had a great time as I always do.

I got into Bangkok last Friday morning, one of the earlier guests to arrive, and was happy to be invited to dinner at fab italian restaurant Zanotti. It was a very nice prelude to the birthday party on Saturday. Up on the 17th floor of CentralWorld, Zense offered a fantastic view of the Bangkok skyline at dusk over pre-dinner drinks. Dinner amongst good friends in an intimate setting made the celebration a meaningful one, particularly during this milestone of significance. Sunday brunch at The Sukothai was a smaller affair as some friends had headed off to Hua Hin, but no less enjoyable.

This occasion reinforced a few things I already knew. Good friends are hard to come by and when they do, we should nurture and cherish the friendship. Good friends are those whom you can be open with, without the fear of being judged. Good friends are the ones who make it a point to consider your likes and dislikes, and then plan to make one's stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Good friends are those whose birthdays you look forward to celebrating again come the following year.

Table setting during the birthday dinner at Zense, CentralWorld in Bangkok, Thailand.