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These Studios and Spaces Offer Art Classes to Kids in Bangkok
by: The Beat Asia
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by: The Beat Asia
Published: April 06, 2022
Last Updated: February 11, 2025
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Art classes are a great way to encourage and foster creativity in children. Regardless how old one may be, getting started on creating art – no matter the form – brings about many benefits, from boosting one's self esteem and reducing stress to stimulating the imagination and enhancing one's problem-solving skills and memory, among many others.
If you want to enroll your kids in art classes and other creative activities in Bangkok, here are some studios and spaces to check out!
Paron School of Art
This art studio in Khlong Toei district offers art classes for different age groups, such as the Mini Monet (four to six years old), Progressive Picassos (seven to 13 years old), Tenacious Teens (14 to 19 years old), and Artistic Adults. While drawing and painting are the two visual art forms that Paron School of Art focuses on in its activities, it employs countless ways to approach these. For those who don't feel like enrolling in an art class, this studio also offers art packs with video instruction for kids and adults as well as private art parties for special occasions.
Playville is an indoor space that offers process art and messy play activities for children aged 1.5 to five years old. The former helps in enhancing kids' motor skills through their small and large hand muscles, as well as improving their concentration and mood. Messy play, on the other hand, offers a fun, sensory experience for kids who are not afraid to get their hands dirty.
The process art activity costs THB550 on Tuesdays and THB650 on Sundays per child, whereas the messy play activity costs THB650. The fee includes a one-hour ticket entrance to the Playzone for one kid and adult. You may check Playville's website for more information on the activities' schedules. You may also reach out to Playville through LINE for inquiries.
Amy Diener
Amy Diener is a New York artist, educator, and entrepreneur based in Bangkok. Diener has battled obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) since she was 18 years old. Through art, she was able to turn her "suffering into something inspirational and beautiful" by paintings dots, which she considers a "mindful practice, requiring focus and repetition."
Today, Diener offers dot painting classes for one-on-one and small groups in her art space at Waterford Diamond Condo on Sukhumvit 30/1, Phrom Phong, Bangkok. Outside of this, she also offers private and small group drawing and painting classes for kids, which follow a choice-based art curriculum.
Little Pea is a playgroup located at The Commons shopping mall. It offers multi-sensory play and other fun and educational activities for kids, from dance and arts and crafts to cooking, as well as classes for the whole family and even expectant parents. Aside from its daily activities, the calendar of which you can check here, Little Pea also organizes camps every school break for your kids to join. Its April Camp 2022 (4th-15th), for example, is open for kids aged three to five and six to 12 years old, with activities like science experiments, painting, photography, and costume creation in store for the attendees.
Little Pea likewise offers at-home projects with its activity kits for sale, including a playdough set, ultimate slime set, and sew and stitch kit, among others.
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Finding a way to quiet the chaos and reconnect with yourself as you prepare to begin 2026 with inner peace? Sound healing has become one of today's most popular wellness treatments.
Sound healing, an ancient practice, harnesses the vibrant energy of sound vibrations to enhance physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Through the use of instruments such as singing bowls and gongs, practitioners create resonant sound waves that align the body’s natural frequencies. This harmonious process not only balances energy but also alleviates stress, fosters profound relaxation, improves sleep quality, and sharpens focus. As our collective consciousness has increasingly acknowledged the importance of mental health and embraces holistic therapies, sound healing has emerged as a compelling and rapidly evolving wellness trend worldwide.
If you are seeking a rejuvenating experience to realign and revitalize your being, check out these studios and wellness centers in Bangkok where you can experience sound healing therapy.
Lotus Wellness Bangkok
Courtesy of Lotus Wellness Bangkok
Nestled in an elegant Thai-Colonial style house in the heart of Sathorn, Lotus Wellness Bangkok is a holistic wellness studio and a pioneer in sound healing in the city. They offer a variety of sound healing sessions throughout the week. The classes here include a 60-minute Gong Relaxation session, Sound Healing Meditation, 5 Elements Sound Journey, Tibetan Bowls & Gong Relaxation, and Tibetan Bowls Relaxation. Additionally, they also have a 75-minute Soul Connection & Sound Healing session. Private sessions are also available, lasting between 60 to 90 minutes.
Their general schedule for 2026 features Sound Healing and Gong & Singing Bowls Relaxation classes every day from Tuesday to Sunday. Lotus Wellness is closed on Mondays. Check out their specific schedule here. For more information, email them at lotuswellnessbangkok@gmail.com or call them at +66822833442.
Location: Lotus Wellness Bangkok, 43 Soi Atthakan Prasit, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok, Thailand
The Green Room Yoga
Courtesy of The Green Room Yoga
The Green Room Yoga is a wellness sanctuary established by Jen Chapman, located in the heart of Sukhumvit 31. This distinguished studio offers an impressive array of over 80 classes each week, catering to individuals of all skill levels. The diverse offerings include an assortment of yoga classes, sound baths, and other rejuvenating wellness activities designed to help participants reset and invigorate their spirits.
Jen, a Yoga Alliance E-RYT 200 certified instructor, transitioned from a successful career as a professional dancer to embrace the art of yoga and sound therapy in 2015. The studio boasts a team of 23 qualified experts, each dedicated to guiding clients through enriching sessions. Among its offerings, The Green Room Yoga features a variety of sound healing experiences, such as Crystal Bowl Sound Bath (THB690), Slow Flow & Sound Bath (THB690), Flow Yoga & Sound Bath (THB790), Gentle Flow and Sound Bath (THB790), Cacao & Sound Bath (THB890), and more.
Additionally, the studio provides a comprehensive 20-hour Sound Therapy Training program, which delves into the fundamental principles of sound therapy. This program emphasizes practical, hands-on experience with modalities including gongs, Tibetan bowls, crystal bowls, and more. In addition, Jen offers private one-on-one sessions and is available for hosting corporate events as well.
Location: The Green Room Yoga, 29 Sukhumvit 31, Khlong Toei Nuea, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110
Attuned Studio
Courtesy of Attuned Studio
Attuned Studio is a premier sound healing and meditation studio situated in the heart of Bangkok, founded by Ice Sound Healing. The studio offers a serene environment conducive to relaxation and overall well-being. Among its diverse offerings are the Foundations of Himalayan Singing Workshops, where participants explore the rich history, techniques of playing, and selection of singing bowls. Other offerings include Sound Meditation with Handpan & Singing Bowls, as well as Sound Bath sessions (THB700), and Chakra Awareness Meditation (THB700 for first-timers), which are available monthly.
Attuned Studio provides numerous options to kickstart your healing journey, including private one-on-one sessions, group workshops, retreats, and corporate wellness programs, ensuring that you can choose the approach that best suits your needs.
Check their offerings and book a session here. Contact them via LINE or inquire via email at icesoundhealing@gmail.com.
Pree Chawla is a Bangkok-based practitioner specializing in Reiki healing and gong sound therapy. Pree offers an array of sessions designed to foster relaxation, alleviate stress, and cultivate inner peace through both energy work and immersive sound vibrations. With a rich background in Reiki since 2015 and gong sound healing since 2018, Pree brings considerable expertise to their practice.
The offerings here include private one-on-one sessions at THB2,000, semi-private sessions for two participants at THB1,400 per person or three participants at THB1,200 per person, and group sessions for four or more individuals at THB1,000 per person. Additionally, those interested in advancing their skills can enroll in the Gong Course Level 1, priced at THB7,000 per person.
Message Pree - Energy & Sound via Facebook to book. For more information, email pree.chawla7@gmail.com or call +66896710055.
Location:Pree - Energy & Sound, B.T. Residence, 10 Soi Sukhumvit 8, Khwaeng Khlong Toei, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110
Moonzpell Studio
Courtesy of Moonzpell Studio
Moonzpell Studio in Bangkok is an exquisite wellness center dedicated to crafting transformative wellness experiences that seek to restore equilibrium and foster a deeper connection with your inner self. Their array of offerings includes immersive ice bath sound journeys (THB750) and floating sound healing sessions (THB750), both designed to rejuvenate your mind and body.
The studio also provides yoga sessions suitable for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned yogis, featuring nurturing and mindful practices that resonate with your natural rhythm. In addition to individual sessions, Moonzpell Studio offers tailored private and group experiences to address diverse physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The studio is also available for rent, perfect for hosting various sessions or events.
They post their monthly schedules on Instagram. Book a session via LINE.
Safensound is an integrative wellness center that provides personalized healing sessions tailored to your individual needs. The serene environment offers a variety of Sound Healing therapies, including Himalayan and Crystal Singing Bowls, Reiki, Chakra Balancing, Somatic Experiencing, Oracle Card Guidance, as well as Cacao or Matcha Ceremonies, among other offerings.
Sound therapies include Chakra Balancing for 60 mins (THB1,900), Somatic Experiencing for 60 mins (THB1,900), Crystal Frequency for 60 mins (THB1,900), and Comprehensive Sound Healing for 60 mins (THB2,500), and Himalayan and Tibetan Singing Bowls (THB999 per person). Meanwhile, there's also Sound and Soma (THB1,200 per person) sessions using sound healing instruments and Melodies of New Moon (THB1,300 per person), which involves moon rituals and sound bath.
For those looking to enhance their self-care routine with alternative healing practices, private sound and oracle sessions are also available. They post monthly schedules via Instagram, which is also where you can reach out to them for more information and to book a session via DM.
Location: SafenSound Healing Home, 34 Sukhumvit 62, Soi 5-4 Phra Khanong Tai, Phra Khanong, Bangkok 10260
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If you’re looking for some new plans for the family, Siam Paragon has just the thing!
MELAND, the world’s leading indoor theme park, has finally opened its first flagship branch outside China at Siam Paragon! Located on the 5th floor of Siam Paragon, the 5,000-square-meter theme park blends advanced technology with a whimsical, fairy-tale aesthetic, presenting a next-generation “edutainment” space that merges play, learning, and immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.
The flagship features seven themed zones and more than 500 different activities, positioning itself as a comprehensive learning-through-play destination for all. MELAND brings exclusive large-scale mechanical rides to Thailand, including the Sea-Merry-Go-Round and the “Fiship Tour,” both designed to bring families on a journey through deep-sea worlds and colorful cloud kingdoms.
Photo from Instagram/MELAND Thailand
The park also introduces immersive digital art through a collaboration with D’strict, the creative studio behind Jeju Island’s Arte Kids Park. Meanwhile, daily programming — including fairy tale parades and interactive stage plays encourages hands-on participation for children to learn and play.
The park also includes age-specific zones, such as a zone for babies, an imaginative role-playing area for toddlers, and a large, five-storey climbing zone for older children, offering tailored play experiences for all developmental stages.
MELAND operates a comprehensive, standardized operational support system, including a smart wristband with location tracking, a three-tier hygiene protocol, a professional and multilingual team of doctors, nurses, and service staff, and family-friendly facilities such as nursing rooms, parent-child restrooms, and more.
Photo from Instagram/MELAND Thailand
Tickets to MELAND range from THB1,150 to THB1,730 for single-day entry passes, with multi-entry and unlimited-entry passes also available via their website. Guided activities and art workshops will be added soon, so stay tuned!
MELAND Siam Paragon is now open, welcoming families into its immersive world of rides, fun, and fairy tale “edutainment”!
For more information and updates, visit MELAND’s website here and follow their official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages.
Location: MELAND Siam Paragon Bangkok, 5/F, North Zone, Siam Paragon Shopping Center, Rama 1 Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok
Operating Hours: Daily, from 10 AM to 9 PM
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Rosewood Phuket is ushering in the 2025 holiday season with a dynamic and expansive line-up of culinary collaborations, cultural experiences, and family-friendly moments. From late November through the New Year, the resort’s secluded Emerald Bay setting will transform into a tropical celebration of global flavors and local culture.
A seasonal highlight is the Taraz x Rosewood São Paulo pop-up at The Shack from Dec. 18 to 28, 2025, where guests can savor the fresh, raw, and light flavors of Peru and Brazil. Expect ceviches, tiraditos, and South American delicacies refined with Japanese techniques and bright Latin accents.
Courtesy of Rosewood PhuketCourtesy of Rosewood Phuket
Across the resort, signature dining venues will headline the season’s grand feasts. The Night Before Christmas at Red Sauce delivers a festive-themed Mediterranean celebration with an open kitchen and live music. On Boxing Day, La Tavolata brings an Italian countryside feel to the lawn with a rustic BBQ under the stars, finishing with a dramatic fire dance show. Thai culture takes the spotlight on Dec. 29, 2025 at the Ta Khai Festive Fair, a village-style market hosted by beloved chef couple Auntie Yai and Uncle Nun.
The festivities culminate with the New Year’s Dinner, a spectacular culinary journey featuring a feast of local and international flavors, live performances, and a magnificent fireworks display by midnight. The new year starts off gently with The First Bite of the Year, an expanded and restorative breakfast affair on Jan. 1, 2026.
Courtesy of Rosewood Phuket
Throughout the season, the resort’s atmosphere will be set by a calendar of holiday-defining moments. Every Sunday, the Advent Solstice Lounge transforms the poolside with curated DJ sets to match the Andaman sunset. At Mai Bar, Light Up The Night offers a live band, enjoyed with handcrafted cocktails.
On Dec. 27 and 28, 2025, the resort welcomes Philip Huang & Friends for an artisanal collaboration, with activities like a hands-on indigo dyeing workshop and an exclusive menu of cocktails at Mai Bar inspired by exceptional Thai ingredients.
The resort’s youngest guests can go on their own adventures at the Rosewood Explorers Club, filled with creative games, a cookie decorating class, and a visit from Santa! Families can also gather for Christmas Movie Night, where they can watch Hallmark Christmas films under the stars on the main lawn.
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Put yourself and your fitness first this June! Asia's largest group fitness festival, The Ultimate Fitness Force 2025 (TUFF 2025), is making its way to TRUE ICON HALL, ICONSIAM Mall.
Taking place over two days from June 7 to 8, 2025, this thrilling event is hosted by Fitness First Thailand in collaboration with ICONSIAM, and Les Mills Asia Pacific, and it is gearing up to welcome over 8,000 participants from across Asia and beyond.
This year’s lineup features the largest Les Mills experience yet! Get ready for 13 adrenaline-pumping classes across two days, including fan favorites like BODYPUMP, BODYCOMBAT, BODYJAM, RPM, LES MILLS DANCE, BODYBALANCE, and the exciting launch of Les Mills Pilates!
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Kick up things a notch with Red Hot Dance Ignition by Fitness First, a sizzling dance workout that blends Pop, Hip-Hop, House, Latin, Shuffle, K-Pop, and EDM with a fierce, feminine flair.
Facebook/Fitness First Thailand
And who better to lead these epic sessions than the best in the biz? You’ll train alongside Les Mills top global trainers, presenters, and ambassadors, including Thailand’s finest fitness superstars.
Your energy levels are guaranteed to soar even higher with an immersive stage production featuring cutting-edge sound, lighting, and visuals that’ll make every workout feel like a concert.
There will be non-stop action and the opportunity to test your strength and endurance with the HYROX Physical Fitness Challenge, a worldwide fitness competition designed for all skill levels.
Standard class passes are priced at THB900 per session, with premium options available, such as VIP front-row access and exclusive meet-and-greet sessions. There is even a discount for Fitness Trainers around the world! Tickets are available on Eventpop here.
Location: True Icon Hall, Iconsiam, 299 Charoen Nakhon Soi 5, Charoen Nakhon Road, Khlong Ton Sai Sub District, Khlong San District
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Looking after your fitness and health isn’t just about lifting dumbbells at the gym — sometimes, sports like Muay Thai offer a dynamic and engaging alternative. A centuries-old combat sport that originated in Thailand, Muay Thai combines punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes, making it a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, and discipline.
If you’re in Bangkok and ready to experience this well-loved sport, these Muay Thai gyms are some of the best places to learn how to punch and kick like a professional athlete.
Elite Fight Club Bangkok
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If you’re looking for a gym run by legitimate Muay Thai enthusiasts and experienced trainers, Elite Fight Club Bangkok delivers. Located in Sukhumvit, this 2,000 sqm training camp offers a modern facility with top-tier coaching, on-site accommodations, and healthy meal options.
Muay Thai classes run for two hours, with a full-day pass at THB800 and a week-long pass at THB3,500. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fighter, this gym provides the space and expertise to train seriously.
Location: Elite Fight Club Bangkok, 758/22 Water Diamond Tower Sukhumvit 30/1 Alley, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110
Bangkok Fight Lab
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Are you a beginner looking to try Muay Thai or an experienced fighter wanting to sharpen your skills?
Bangkok Fight Lab offers group classes for those who enjoy a community vibe and private sessions for a more focused approach. No need to feel intimidated — this gym welcomes all skill levels, with coaches dedicated to helping you reach your fitness goals while keeping the energy high.
A drop-in class is priced at THB550, making it an accessible option for anyone ready to train.
If you’re looking for top-tier Muay Thai training, Krudam Muay Thai School guarantees expert coaching. Every instructor has completed the school’s basic coaching development course, ensuring you receive high-quality instruction from trained professionals.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fighter, you’ll get the guidance needed to improve your skills. Prices start at THB599 for adults and THB499 for kids.
Contact Krudam Muay Thai School via Line for more information.
Want to connect with people from all over the world? Tiger Eye MMA is the place to be. Popular among tourists, this gym offers professional training while giving you the chance to mingle with fellow travelers who came to Thailand to experience the sport firsthand. Regular clients even join the gym’s annual retreat to train, bond, and deepen their understanding of Muay Thai.
If you’re interested, this could be your perfect opportunity to learn and connect. A single Muay Thai session is priced at THB600.
Sure, established gyms with top-tier facilities are great, but sometimes the best training experiences come from local gems run by dedicated, knowledgeable people. Kiatphontip Gym is exactly that.
This no-frills gym keeps it simple — you show up, pay for a session, and get straight to training. The coaches are rising stars in Muay Thai, and occasionally, even big-name fighters drop by to train.
Call +66 89 129 8383 to book a slot.
Location:Kiatphiontip Gym, 6, 1 Moo 2 Thanon Sala Thammasop, Sala Thammasop, Thawi Watthana, Bangkok 10170
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Love is in the air, especially in Thailand! In celebration of the upcoming enactment of marriage equality in the country, digital travel platform Agoda is inviting same-sex couples to join their newest competition, #AgodaLoveWins, for a chance to win their dream honeymoon!
From Jan. 22, same-sex couples in Thailand can already legally obtain their marriage licenses in accordance with the Marriage Equality Bill, passed by the Thai Senate in June last year.
With the competition, Agoda is giving away a holiday voucher worth up to THB350,000 to a lucky same-sex couple of Thai nationalities who will be obtaining their marriage license until Jan. 31.
Photo from Website/Agoda
To join, couples must post a photo or video of themselves with a description that tells their love story and their dream honeymoon destination. All entries can be posted on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, using the hashtag #AgodaLoveWins and tagging Agoda’s official social media pages.
Couples must also register their participation here, where they can input the necessary information and the link to their social media post.
The winning couple can enjoy their holiday voucher, which can be used in Agoda’s over 4.5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, until May 26, 2025.
“This is our way of helping same-sex couples in Thailand begin a new chapter filled with joy and unforgettable memories. We look forward to witnessing the inspiring stories and dream destinations shared by this incredible community,” said Pitichoke Chulapamornsri, Senior Director at Agoda, in a press release.
To see full terms and conditions for #AgodaLoveWins, visit their website.
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Hold onto your hats (or your nearest T-Rex expert), as Jurassic World: The Experience is stomping its way to Bangkok in the second quarter of 2025!
This colossal collaboration between AWC, NEON, and Universal Live Events & Location Based Entertainment promises to turn Asiatique The Riverfront Destination into an adrenaline-filled family-friendly adventure.
Spanning over a jaw-dropping 6,000 square meters, this isn’t your average dinosaur exhibit. Visitors will step into the wild world of Isla Nublar, the legendary island from the blockbuster franchise, complete with life-like animatronic dinosaurs and iconic movie-inspired environments.
Courtesy of NEON
Stroll among the giants and explore the island’s wonders. Discover educational insights along the way and encounter delightful surprises at every turn.
And for those who like their dino-ventures with a side of deliciousness, the experience will include a Jurassic World-themed café and restaurant, the perfect way to refuel after escaping Isla Nublar’s untamed wilderness.
Asiatique is no stranger to hosting blockbusters. Back in 2023, it brought us the magical Disney100 Village, which featured everything from a Frozen walk-through to a Pixar mini-golf course and an Iron Man Experience.
This time, Jurassic World: The Experience aims to provide an exhilarating, high-quality experience for guests of all ages that's almost like the real thing, because who doesn't dream about dodging velociraptors by hiding in a car?
To receive updates and exclusive perks, join the waitlist here. Find out more Jurassic World events on their Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly known as Twitter).
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Gamers rejoice, as Southeast Asia's first Nintendo Authorized Store by SYNNEXhas officially landed in Bangkok!
Located on the third floor of Siam Paragon, this 356-square-metre flagship store is an absolute must-visit, whether you’re a lifelong follower of Japan’s largest gaming company or a super big Super Mario Fan.
Facebook/SYNNEX
Visitors are invited to shop until they drop at the store's strategically designed, immersive zones. This includes the Merchandise Zone, a treasure trove of over 350 Nintendo-themed goodies. Offering a range of 350 Nintendo character-themed products, including adorable plushies, action figures, stylish stationery, video games, consoles, and gaming gear. There’s a little something for every Nintendo fan.
Facebook/SYNNEX
Not sure which game to grab? The Experience Zone lets you test-drive over 60 iconic Nintendo titles, like Super Mario Party, The Legend of Zelda, Kirby, and Pikmin. It’s the perfect way to find your next obsession before purchase — or just have a blast for free while you’re there!
Looking to level up your gaming setup? They’ve got you covered with consoles, video games, and accessories.
“More items will be available at the store in the future, such as accessories and souvenirs in a bid to attract more visitors,” SYNNEX said.
To celebrate their launch, the store is offering special deals on Nintendo Switch consoles and games until Nov. 27, 2024. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to grab a Switch, this could be it.
For more information, visit Nintendo’s website, or follow them on Facebook for more updates.
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Dreaming of the ultimate Christmas bumper harvest? Whether you're hunting for cute and unique stocking stuffers, dazzling holiday décor, or that jaw-dropping gift, Giant Xmas Hope Fair 2024 at Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok
has you covered!
Mark your calendar for Nov. 27, 2024, from 11 AM to 8 PM. This leaves you plenty of time to get started on your Christmas shopping, and what’s even better, your festive shopping spree will also support a great cause!
This year marks the 10th Christmas edition of The Hope Fair, a beloved pop-up market twice a year that brings Bangkok’s community together for a day of festive fun and meaningful giving.
Facebook/The Hope Fair
For one magical day, over 150 artisans, entrepreneurs, and culinary creators such as Antonius Caviar, BAKED Bangkok, Creative Crochet Club, Petit Souk BKK, and more, will gather to showcase their curated handmade goods, unique gifts, and festive treats. Whether it’s one-of-a-kind crafts, delicious seasonal specialties, or heartfelt treasures, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list.
Facebook/The Hope Fair
Over the years, the fair has donated more than THB1 million to The Mercy Centre, funding school repairs and supporting vulnerable children, seniors, and the visually impaired. If you wish to get involved, bring along gently-used clothes or household items to donate at the event — they’ll be collected and distributed to those in need.
Don’t miss this celebration of craftmanship and Santa Claus himself, who will be flying in at 3:30 PM, to spread joy and snap photos with families. And keep your ears peeled for the children of The Mercy Center, who’ll be caroling their thanks and adding a heartwarming touch to the day. The best part is that entry is free and the event is open to everyone!
For more details, visit The Hope Fair on their website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Location:The Hope Fair, The Avani Sukhumvit Bangkok, 7th Floor Ballroom, BTS On Nut (Exit 3)
Opening Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM
Admission Fee: Free!
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Cacao is often thought of as a culinary aid or an occasional sweet treat. However, the chocolates we eat today – oftentimes loaded with sugar – are a completely different experience from raw cacao, which Nalinee Diosara, the founder of Thai-based, Mama Cacao Love, uses as a tool for healing.
“Cacao helps us remember our hearts and activates our spirits. Cacao is the love of Mother Earth,” said Nalinee. “Cacao contains many nutrients that support healing; molecules such as anandamide which is recognized as a love molecule, theobromine to aid focus, magnesium to relax the body, and flavonoids that support cardiovascular health.”
Nalinee Diosara | Courtesy of Nalinee Diosara
Cacao ceremonies, which have been used for centuries by past civilizations, are still currently being practiced today. It is a form of shamanic practice, wherein a person – the shaman – interacts with the spirit world through altered states of consciousness (in this case, achieved by cacao).
For believers, cacao is a potent tool for opening the heart, stimulating creativity, and releasing negative emotions. “Cacao has taught me a lot and teaches me to overcome many illusions such as abandonment,” shared Nalinee of her experience.
Those who would like to experience a cacao ceremony can expect a few things: aside from consuming raw cacao – which is different from most chocolates we know – participants are also likely to take part in mindful rituals such as breathwork, meditation, or intention-setting. Though fairly straightforward, Nalinee attested that cacao ceremonies can be deeply profound.
A cacao ritual with Nalinee and her husband | Courtesy of Nalinee Diosara
Her experience in learning about cacao has brought Nalinee and her husband to the jungles of the Amazon, where they spent time learning about indigenous medicine. While often associated with Mayan history, cacao is believed to have originated in the Amazon. “Cacao is…a sacred offering that we can give to ourselves and one another. To the Mayans, Cacao connects us with the most important processes: birth, life, and death,” Nalinee said.
Before discovering cacao, Nalinee admitted that she had been depressed and suicidal for over a decade. She had struggled with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders on top of suicidal ideation. “One day, I realized I was doing this to myself and slowly tried to cut old habits that fed into my illnesses,” she recounted. She used art as a lifeline, but also began to try meditation. “One by one, guidance came,” Nalinee said. “I started to open up to my sensitivities and soon after, my husband and I discovered the calling to explore the Amazon.”
A cacao ritual setup | Courtesy of Nalinee Diosara
After returning from their sojourn, Nalinee and her partner settled back in Thailand and felt compelled to share what they had learned. “It was a calling of home as well as the next step of my service,” she said. Since then, Nalinee has immersed herself further in the shamanic practices of cacao healing.
“The code of conduct of a shaman is responsibility. It is to bring balance into their own life as well as into their community. My shamanic work holds space for others to connect with their inner power, power that helps them remember who they are,” Nalinee stressed.
Today, the couple share more about their ongoing spiritual healing journey with others via Mama Love Cacao, a community that offers cacao healing sessions. And while Nalinee believes that these tools can help people overcome certain hardships, she knows that healing remains to be a continuous process.
“To be healed means that we can still feel old pain. However, in healing, there is more awareness, more space for making new choices, and more compassion towards what currently is,” she explained.
The human experience will always include emotions such as fear, sadness, and anger, and so for Nalinee, healing does not equate to the absence of such emotions, but instead, to the awareness of them that allows one to create new actions and reactions.
“The key is responsibility,” she underscored. “No one can heal anyone but themselves.”
While not everyone may believe in spiritual practices such as these, Nalinee promises that there are many ways to achieve healing. “There are many ways that lead us to the same result,” she said. “The most important thing is that I know and understand what I am doing.”
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