THE LOCAL

Jatturaput Nilumprachart

Name: Jatturaput Nilumprachart
Age: 33
Country: Thailand
Job/Profession: CEO of Marketing Agency (Netway Business Solution Co., Ltd)

My favorite place: Chiang Mai, especially the Bhubhing Palace
Bring there: Alone (or up to 2 friends)
Must-do: Go to temples, enjoy the nightlife, find local food and local architecture, walk in the old city with a cup of coffee — really the simple pleasures that are hard to enjoy in Bangkok
Must-see: Local and contemporary extravaganza shows near the river at night. Chiang Mai has a thriving artistic and cultural life and visitors should not miss those.
Must-buy: Herbs grown in Chiang Mai, local herbal tea, spa and beauty services and products!
Eat at: Bann Suan San Phee Saui; it’s something of a best-kept secret and I hope it stays that way.
Drink at: Nimmanhaeminda Street. With o many hip places to drink and hang out here, this is where you go for happenings!
Sleep at: Any boutique hotel on Nimmanhaeminda Street

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple above Chiang Mai, Thailand

THE EXPAT

Pierre Andre Pelletier

Name: Pierre-Andre Pelletier
Age: 47
Country: Switzerland
Job/Profession: Vice President & Area General Manager, South Thailand, ONYX Hospitality Group

My favorite place: It has got to be the south of Thailand. I was in Bangkok for over 20 years and just moved to my new role in Phuket last year. It is so refreshing to be surrounded by the ocean and lush scenery, and I am also able to travel regularly to our properties in Krabi and Samui. The air is clear and I feel much healthier living an island life.
Bring there: Your swimsuit, sunscreen, and flip flops — you don’t want to miss out on the essentials while lounging on one of Phuket’s many beautiful beaches.
Must-do: Snorkeling. Ask your hotel to book a tour where the guides will take you island hopping throughout the day. The best spot to snorkel near Phuket is Koh Racha.
Must-see: The old charm of the Sino-Portuguese houses in Phuket’s Old Town. Start your walk from the Central Post Office. If you are there in the evening, grab dinner and drinks at Ka Jok See and wait for the entertainment to happen.
Must-buy: Pearls. Phuket is famous for its locally farmed pearls. These make great souvenirs for our female guests.
Eat at: Loktien, a food center in Phuket Town for great local dishes at very affordable prices. My favorite dish is the Hokkien noodles.
Drink at: Quip Bar in Phuket Town. It’s a hip and happening rooftop bar with great music and fantastic drinks. It’s where I like to start off the night.
Sleep at: Amari Phuket. It has the best views of Patong Bay and easy access to all the happenings on the beach.