View From The Top December 2023 - January 2024 Season’ s Greetings!
The Bangkok Club celebrates Christmas and New Year 2024 with a variety of our products packaged in beautiful hampers… CHECK IT OUT NOW!! *Available from now on with advance order of 2 business days or while supplies last* Special Gift Hampers For more information and advance order, please call 0 2679 5550 Hamper A (Baht 3,500 nett) Spa Gift Set (Baht 3,350 nett) Fruitcake 1 lb. (Baht 670 nett) Butterfly Cookies (Baht 330 nett) Package of Chocolate Chips & Multigrain Cookies (Baht 490 nett) Fruitcake 1/2 lb. (Baht 340 nett) Hamper B (Baht 4,900 nett) Aubert et Fils Brut NV (French Champagne) (Baht 4,650 nett) Château de Sales Pomerol 2013 (Baht 7,550 nett) Leather Wine Bag (Baht 1,580 nett) Château Malartic Lagraviere, Grand Cru Classé 2013 (Baht 9,600 nett) Château Monbousquet Saint Emilion, Grand Cru Classé 2017 (Baht 10,000 nett) Adorably
Club Holidays Dear Valued Members, It's that magical time of the year again, when the Christmas festivities begin and we embrace a sense of togetherness. Your Club has organized a "Family Christmas Brunch" as well as a range of entertainment options on Christmas Day for you and your family to enjoy the festive season. We invite you to come and have a fun-filled time! Additionally, we are delighted to offer a selection of beautiful hampers specially curated for this festive season. Please place your order early as supplies are limited. For more details, please refer to page.... I am delighted to see the overwhelming participation of our Club's members in our social activities this year, and I look forward to your continued involvement in the coming year of 2024. Wishing you and your family peace, health, happiness, prosperity, and a wonderful New Year. Dear Members, Season's Greetings! On behalf of The Bangkok Club's Board of Advisors and Governors, as well as the Management and Staff, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2024 to all of our valued members. We are committed to providing you with the best corporate and networking services, and we will continue to strive for excellence in serving you. May you have a joyful and memorable Christmas, and a fantastic New Year! A Message from the President A warm welcome to all of our new Members who joined our Club in October - November 2023. We hope you will all enjoy the Club and take part in as many events as possible! December 2023 Monday, 25th Family Christmas Brunch January 2024 Thursday, 18th New Zealand Night Thursday, 18th Open Mic Night Club Events A Message from General Manager Chutima Wattanachang General Manager Please note that the Club will be closed on the following public holidays: December 2023 Tuesday, 5th H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej's Birthday, National Day and National Father's Day Monday, 11th Substitution for Constitution Day Saturday, 30th Substitution for 31st December A Warm Welcome to Our New Members • H.E. Mr. Artur Dmochowski • Arun Dhawan • H.E. Mr. Evgeny Tomikhin • Madame Indira tomikhina • Janista Taosuwan • Madame Monika Dmochowska • Sukhathep Chansrichawla For further information on Club’s events, please contact your Club at 0 2679 5550 or browse our website: www.thebangkokclub.com Board of Advisors Arsa Sarasin Bangkok Chowkwanyun Dr. Boonkiet Chokwatana Chai Sophonpanich Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi Chartsiri Sophonpanich Visith Leelasithorn Board of Governors Chali Sophonpanich (Chairman) Giorgio Gamba Jayavadh Bunnag Dr. Juree Vichit-Vadakan Kittipong Urapeepatanapong Dr. Kongkiat Opaswongkarn Narong Intanate Khunying Natthika W. Angubolkul Palawi Bunnag Prasong Owlarn Pravidhya Suvaruchiphorn Somnuk Kyavatanakij Sudhitham Chirathivat Takeo Kato Siriya Sophonpanich President January 2024 Monday, 1st New Year’s Day THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024 3
Q: COULD YOU PLEASE PROVIDE A BIT OF BACKGROUND ABOUT YOURSELF? A: I graduated from the University of Rome with a degree “cum laude” in Political Science. Further studies in Paris, La Sorbonne University and in Providence (R.I.-USA), Brown University. I have a Diploma in Common Defense and Security Policy from the European Security and Defense College. I am also an alumnus of the IVLP of the US State Department Before joining the Foreign Service, I served as First Lieutenant in the Army where I was promoted to Captain after a further training. I joined the Foreign Service in 1991. I served as young diplomat in Germany and Lebanon, in Rome I served as diplomatic adviser to the PM, Special Envoy of my Government for Syria and the Coalition Against Isis. I had been Ambassador of Italy to the UAE and to the Sultanate of Oman. I held important positions also in the private sector, such as Vice President of Alitalia Airlines and Foreign Affairs Adviser to the Policlinico A. Gemelli Hospital Foundation, the largest hospital in Italy. Before arriving in Thailand with my wife, in October last year, I served as diplomatic adviser to the Minister of Economic Development of the Republic of Italy. Q: HOW BIG IS THE ITALIAN COMMUNITY IN BANGKOK? IF YOU ARE TO PROMOTE ANY OF ITALIAN PRODUCT (S), WHAT WOULD IT BE? AND WHY? A: The Italians resident in Bangkok are around 5,000. Italy is globally known for the 3 F, Food, Furnitures and Fashion but I would add also Automotive (the luxury brands Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maseratti, Bugatti, Fiat, Lancia, Alfa Romeo are all Italians), Space industry (the Thai satellite was recently launched by the Italian space launcher Vega by Avio Spazio Company), Ship Building (from the largest cruise ship to the most luxurious yacht, Italy is the global leader), and I could continue with many other sectors. Italy is also the country with the world largest number of UNESCO cultural sites Q: WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR MOST TRYING AND MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE(S) AS AN AMBASSADOR? A: I arrived in Thailand in the middle of October last year. In the past year, I have traveled to many places in Thailand, from North to south. I visited Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Udon Thani, Rayong, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Krabi, Phang Nga, Phuket, Samui, and many other smaller cities. Before arriving in Bangkok, I knew little about Thailand, and I have always tried to understand and learn more about Thailand. One thing that I noticed is how similar Thai and Italian people are. Thai people are like Italians in many ways. Thai and Italian people are hospitable, making me feel at home. I saw the family connection and the respect for elders. Thai people like to enjoy life like us. That's why I think Italians and Thais get along very well. Another thing that I enjoyed trying here in Thailand is the Thai cuisine. We have a lot in common surrounding food, such as eating in company and likes to talk about food. The only difference is that Italian food may be less spicy than Thailand's. Q: WHAT DO YOU WISH TO ACCOMPLISH DURING YOUR TERM AS AMBASSADOR TO THAILAND? A: During my term as Ambassador to Thailand, my primary goal is to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Italy and Thailand. I aim to achieve several key objectives: 1. Enhancing Diplomatic Relations: I strive to foster closer diplomatic relations between our two countries, promoting dialogue and collaboration on a wide range of issues, from trade and investment to culture and education. 2. Promoting Trade and Investment: Facilitating economic ties is a top priority. I aim to encourage Italian businesses to explore opportunities in Thailand and Thai businesses to invest in Italy, thereby boosting bilateral trade and economic growth. 3. Cultural Exchange: I aspire to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding between our nations. This includes organizing cultural events, exhibitions, and educational programs to showcase Italy's rich cultural heritage and promote Thai culture in Italy. 4. Supporting Italian Communities: It is crucial to provide support and services to the Italian expatriate community in Thailand, ensuring their well-being and promoting their contributions to both countries. 5. Addressing Global Challenges: Italy and Thailand share common interests in addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and regional stability. I will work to align our efforts in addressing these pressing issues. MEET YOUR MEMBER Overall, my mission is to advance Italy's interests and deepen the friendship between our nations during my tenure as Ambassador to Thailand. Q: WE HAD FACED SUCH CHALLENGES IN THE PAST 2-3 YEARS, HOW IS ITALY HANDLING THE SITUATION AND ANY ADVICE FOR ANY TOURIST WHO WANT TO VISIT IN THE NEAR FUTURE? A: I appreciate the opportunity to share Italy's perspective on these global challenges. Italy has indeed faced its share of difficulties in the past few years, including the pandemic and conflicts in Eastern Europe. Our approach has been one of resilience and adaptability. To address the pandemic, Italy has implemented comprehensive health and safety measures, ensuring the well-being of both residents and tourists. We have also made great strides in our vaccination efforts. Regarding conflicts in Eastern Europe, Italy has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability. We advocate for peaceful resolutions and support international initiatives to address such conflicts. For tourists planning to visit Italy soon, I advise staying updated on travel guidelines and safety protocols. Italy remains a beautiful and welcoming destination known for its rich culture, history, and cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable experience in our country by following local regulations and respecting health guidelines. We look forward to welcoming tourists back to Italy and hope they will contribute to the vibrancy of our nation while prioritizing safety and respect for local communities. Q: YOUR JOB SOUNDS VERY DEMANDING. WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR LEISURE TIME? A: Being an Ambassador is not only a job but also a lifestyle because in your life, you will have to change the country you live in, face many problems, and sometimes be apart from your family and friends. But at the same time, you have the opportunity to meet new people, fascinating new cultures, and learn new languages and a new way of life, which, if you're flexible, have a curiosity and interest in learning for the rest of your life, of course, you will never be bored. I feel that this lifestyle is very suitable for me. Because it's a job that I've wanted since I was a kid, and if I have to redo it a thousand times, I won't change anything. But of course, I am not perfect, and I often commit to my work, even in my free time, because I love my job and enjoy every moment I'm working. One of the things that I would like to do more is play golf. I love playing golf and Thailand is the golfer’s paradise. H.E. MR. PAOLO DIONISI AMBASSADOR OF THE EMBASSY OF ITALY TO THE KINGDOM OF THAILAND 4 THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024
Enjoy a festive buffet brunch with music and carols at your favourite Club. Santa Claus will be there with presents and goodies for all … Don’t miss this magical holiday experience! Adult: Baht 1,300 nett Children 5-10 years: Baht 950 nett Children under 5 years: Free Make an early bird reservation at 0 2679 5550 FAMILY CHRISTMAS BRUNCH Celebrate Christmas with Us! Monday, 25th December 2023 11:30 a.m. – 02:30 p.m. TURKEY PROMOTION The Most Succulent Traditional Christmas Turkey! Relish the festive season at the Club or at home with the most succulent roast turkey, bronzed to perfection and served with traditional trimmings, chestnut cranberry and brandy giblet gravy sauce. An exotic touch of roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts are included. Price: Baht 1,200 nett per kilo Promotion is available now with advance order of 3 business days or while supplies last … 200 Gifts and Vouchers! Come celebrate the festive seasons with your family, friends and colleagues. Dine in any one of our dining rooms with a minimum 1,500 Baht spend, and get a chance to win lucky draw. This promotion is valid from 1st till 29th December 2023 Let’s enjoy! Applicable to dining rooms at Ivory Palace, Kohaku and Cassiopeia Not applicable to function, meeting, take away or catering events THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024 5
Seasonal Specials Ivory Palace HONG KONG SPRING ROLL Deep-fried rice paper spring roll wrapped minced shrimp, carrot and coriander, served with sweet plum sauce BAKED TOFU SEAFOOD Baked tofu with seafood (prawn, squid, seabass and scallop) and ginger, carrot, garlic and spring onion in brown sauce, served in clay pot Kohaku SASHIMI MAKI SET Cut rolls with vinegared rice and dried seaweed stuffed salmon, hamachi, tuna, crab stick, avocado and Japanese cucumber, served with ikura, tarako, miso soup and fresh fruit A great opportunity to come and meet other members ~ please join us at your Club for a socializing evening of member gathering @New Zealand Night provided by the Club on Thursday, 18th January 2024 from 6:30 pm … We would like to thank Vanichwathana (Bangkok) Co., Ltd. for the sponsorship of this event! Please note: Changes may be made without prior notice. The Bangkok Club brings ‘Open Mic Night’ to let you show your talent amidst a cozy atmosphere with friends and other Club members … Come enjoy lively tunes at your Club 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM OPEN MIC NIGHT Please note: Changes may be made without prior notice. Thursday JAN For more information, please contact F&B Department at 0 2679 5550 Let’s Get Together! From 6.30 PM onwards Thursday JAN 18 onwards Thursday JAN 18 NEW ZEALAND NIGHT ENTRY FEE Baht 380 nett (snack included) 6 THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024
December 2023 - January 2024 Cassiopeia PAN-FRIED SALMON Pan-fried salmon over angel hair pasta and parmesan cheese, served with garlic oil GRILLED RACK OF LAMB WITH RED WINE SAUCE Grilled rack of lamb topped on fried potato, asparagus and cherry tomato, served with red wine sauce IKA CHASOBA SET Chilled green tea buckwheat noodle on a bamboo tray with soya dipping sauce, chilled squid and pickled egg, served with miso soup and fresh fruit of the Months MERRY GREEN CHRISTMAS Cocktail • Smirnoff vodka • Peppermint green • Grenadine green SANTA CLAUS MOCKTAIL Mocktail • Red apple • Japanese melon • Yogurt • Grenadine red During December 2023 and January 2024, our signature drinks are made of mixture of imported ingredients and fruit juices ~ crafted by our team of bartenders … THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024 7
High Life Warmly Welcome to New Ambassadors: Khun Siriya Sophonpanich (2nd left), President of The Bangkok Club graciously welcomed the following Ambassadors as our Club’s Honorary Members: • H.E. Mr. Artur Dmochowski (centre), Ambassador of Poland to Thailand and Mrs. Monika Dmochowski (2nd right) • H.E. Mr. Evgeny Tomikhin (2nd right), Ambassador of Russian Embassy to Thailand and Mrs. Indira Tomikhin (centre) H.E. Jaroslav Auxt (1st left), Ambassador of the Slovak Embassy to Thailand, H.E. Mr. Artur Dmochowski (2nd left), Ambassador of Polish Embassy to Thailand, H.E. Mr. Pavel Pitel (2nd right), Ambassador of the Czech Republic Embassy to Thailand and H.E. Dr. Sandor Sipos (1st right), Ambassador of Hungarian Embassy to Thailand, had a warm gathering luncheon at Lily Room recently. H.E. Mr. Gustavo Alberto Martino (standing), Argentine Ambassador of the Argentine Republic Embassy to the Kingdom of Thailand, recently opened speech for a meeting at Lyra Room. Dr. Kongkiat Opaswongkarn (standing centre), Chief Executive Officer of Asia Plus Group Holdings and Board of Governors of The Bangkok Club, recently hosted the training of “ATA : Aesthetics ToPART” at the Grand Hall. Khun Kobsak Duangdee (seated 3rd right), hosted a luncheon meeting of the Thai Bankers Association at the Grand Hall recently. 8 THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024
High Life Members of Young Thai Entrepreneurs Association (YTEA) gathered for a meeting and dinner at Sunflower Room. Recently, Numeni Leaders and The Bangkok Club organized the Numeni Champagne Networking Forum on the theme: ‘Future Thailand, My Vision’. This event was honoured by H.E. Mr. Pavel Pitel, Czech Ambassador (3rd left), Khun Voranai Vanijaka, Politician and Writer (1st left), Mr. Todd Thongdee Lavelle (2nd left), Singer and Composer and TV Producer, Khun Siriya Sophonpanich (centre), President of The Bangkok Club, Dr. Juree Vichit-Vadakan (3rd right), Chair of the Center for Philanthropy & Civil Society, NIDA, Dr. Sirilaksana Khoman (2nd right) Vice Chair of Foundation for the Public Policy and Good Governance and Khun Pamela Hongsakul (1st right), Director of Numeni Leaders. Khunying Chodchoy Sophonpanich (standing 3rd right) and Khun Nuchanart Sophonpanich (standing 4th right), together celebrated on a heartwarming occasion for Khun Krachaorat's 96th Birthday (seated), at Rose Room. Khun Belinda Changkajonsakdi (seated 4th left, 2nd row) recently hosted a meeting on the topic of “Global Federation of Chinese Business Women Thailand Chapter” at Lyra Room. THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024 9
High Life Many happy returns to Khun Aroon Eamsureya (centre) celebrating his birthday among a lovely family at Centaurus Room recently. Khun Supatta Sangsit (standing 2nd right) recently hosted dinner for her guests at Grand Hall. H.E. Mr. Darkey Ephraim Africa, South African Ambassador to Thailand, recently opened the South African Night’s event at the Grand Hall. A fun and relaxing evening! H.E. Mr. Darkey Ephraim Africa, South African Ambassador to Thailand (3rd left), graciously opened the South African Cultural Day at Centaurus Room, and was honored by H.E. Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly, Moraccan Ambassador (2nd right) attending, and also joined with Mrs. Thandiwe Doris (2nd left) and Khun Siriya Sophonpanich, President of The Bangkok Club (3rd right) recently. Khun Theparak Leungsuwan (2nd left) happily hosted a birthday party for his friend at Rose Room. 10 THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024
Relax and Rejuvenate! To enrich your life with memorable spa treatments, please call 0 2679 5550 ext. 3011, 3012 Season Greetings PURCHASE 10 SESSIONS ~ GET 3 COMPLIMENTARY SESSIONS: FACIAL TREATMENT • Modeling Facial Treatment (90 mins) BODY TREATMENT • Foot Reflexology Massage (60 mins) • Sport Massage (90 mins) BEAUTY SALON • Hair Treatment (Male/Female) Short / Long BENEFITS OF REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ... The Club Spa invites you to step away from your busy life to enjoy peace, serenity and relaxation. Our goal is to provide you with luxury in a beautiful, tranquil environment, and help you to develop a healthy lifestyle in this New Year! These festive New Year specials are available in December 2023 and January 2024 only! EXERCISE CAN BE FUN - AND SOCIAL! Exercise doesn't have to be a chore - it can be enjoyable and sociable too. Engaging in physical activity allows you to connect with loved ones or friends in a fun and social environment. To reap the benefits, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Alternatively, you can opt for 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity. You can also mix it up with a combination of moderate and vigorous exercises, spreading them out over several days. For even greater health advantages, consider aiming for 300 minutes or more of moderate aerobic activity per week. This level of exercise may aid in weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight. However, remember that even small amounts of physical activity can be beneficial. Incorporating short bursts of activity throughout the day can accumulate and contribute to your overall well-being. Don't forget about strength training! It is recommended to engage in strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least twice a week. Performing one set of each exercise is sufficient to reap health and fitness benefits. Use weights, resistance bands, or your own body weight to challenge your muscles. If your goal is weight loss, weight maintenance, or achieving specific fitness targets, you may need to increase your exercise frequency. Discover the incredible benefits that regular exercise can bring to your life. Not only does it boost your mood, but it also has the power to improve your overall well-being. If you're looking to feel better, increase your energy levels, and even extend your lifespan, exercise is the answer! Take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle by visiting the Club Fitness Centre and starting your physical activity journey today! THE BANGKOK CLUB December 2023 - January 2024 11