

Do you, like me, think that time passes too quickly? Today we have Christmas already around the corner. The Christmas trees are up outside the big shopping malls. In my opinion, it is far too early and you have time to get tired before Christmas arrives.

Lots of things were happening in Bangkok during September and October. Just a short while ago, the grand opening of “Bangkok One” took place. Sometimes I can’t help wondering if we really need all those huge shopping malls. What do you think?

Indeed Bangkok is a city that never sleeps, new restaurants are popping up like mushrooms. I would like to take the opportunity to introduce “Coals Steakhouse & Bar” to you. If you sometimes have a craving for a good steak, this is an ideal place to visit.
Coals Steakhouse & Bar has recently opened its doors at 2 minutes walk from Asoke BTS station, on the corner of Sukhumvit road and soi 17. This restaurant is following the success of its first location on Phuket Island. This is the ultimate spot for anyone longing for the perfect steak. The restaurant boasts a cozy, contemporary ambiance with a touch of New York flair. Featuring exposed brick walls, a small bar, and two floors of inviting seating, Coals also offers an intimate private room that accommodates 4-6 guests-ideal for a tete-a-tete dinner or an important business meeting. Enjoy live music every night, with a new band or performer selected weekly by the owner. The staff is ensuring a warm and welcoming experience.
The menu is a meat lover’s paradise, showcasing a variety of dishes prepared to perfection. There is an impressive selection of steaks includingTenderloin, which I can assure you tastes fantastic, Tomahawk, Sirloin etc.

Complement your meal with several options of potatoes, vegetables and sauces. If you are not a meat lover, of course, there are other options.If you also are craving for a cold beer, there is a variety of draft beers to choose from and an exquisite wine list. A visit to Coals Restaurant & Bar, after you have done your Christmas shopping and need a relaxing break, this is the place. I promise you will not regret it.
So what is going on in November month, my favourite month in Thailand and the least favourite in Scandinavia?
Well, on the 20th, the legendary steakhouse El Gaucho on Sukhumvit soi 19, is celebrating its 12th anniversary, a yearly happening for many meat lovers. The owner invites his frequent guests. It’s always crowded, and on each floor, people are gathering to enjoy free wine/beer and excellent bites of different meat.

On November 23rd, the Swedish community comes together to celebrate Santa Lucia at the Swedish residence. This year, a lot of children of all ages are practicing the Christmas Chorales to make a grand performance after the Swedish priest has held a short service. This celebration has become a real happening among the Swedes in Bangkok.
I can also tell you that SWECHAM is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a gala dinner on Saturday, November 9th, but let me get back to tell you more about this celebration in December.

I have recently learned that every 3rd year, Bangkok is hosting a Chopin competition with young students. I had the pleasure to attend the Jurys’ concert at the beautiful Tongsuang’s Concert Salon & Gallery on October the 27th. This remarkable concert hall is located, in my opinion, far out in the bush, towards the airport Don Muang. Many young students from the age of 8 years up to 16 years competed.
It was a dream listening to all those talented young pianists accompanied by proud parents and teachers. The Jury came from the US and Hong Kong and they praised the young talents. The grand prize was a scholarship to study in Poland for a year.
I have, for a few years, had my eyes on a very beautiful, young girl with hair like the princess from the fairy tale Rapunzel and a story like Cinderella. I was very proud when I listened to her playing one of my favourite compositions Nocturne Op.9 No.2. She did not only impress me, but the jury, and earned a top position. You can hear her also playing classical Christmas chorales at several places in Bangkok.
As usual, November and December are for most people very busy months. It is like, if you haven’t had time to plan a special dinner or any other event, you just have to do it during these two months.
The private Clubs are hosting recitals, wine tastings , Christmas lunches etc. You really have no chance to become bored in Bangkok.
Stay tuned for more news in December and don’t stress, but enjoy every minute!

