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Meet the real Anna

Anna Leonowens, a travel writer with two small children, arrived at the port of Bangkok 151 years ago. With no idea what was waiting for her at the Plain of Chao Phraya, she taught English in the royal court and rubbed her shoulders with the "hiso" of Siam in the 1850s. That was the little fact before fiction begins, as a novel "Anna and the King of Siam" made over million copies. But there is more fact to be told, according to the American professor Susan Morgan. On January 28, at Siam Society, Morgan will tell and illustrate more of Anna's life and work in Siam. Talk will start at 7.30pm. Call (02) 661 64707.

Scent in full bloom

The Chiang Mai Flower Festival in Nong Buak Hat Park from February 5 to 7 will have spectacular displays of roses, fantastic floats on parade and plenty of fragrant romance to get you in the mood for Valentine's Day. Botany fanatics and its admirers from afar will equally enjoy the agricultural exhibitions, floral arrangements and goodies for sale.

The Pullman premieres

Aisawan Resort and Spa is rechristened Pullman Pattaya Aisawan since the middle of January. This 353room hotel, with now more of a French connection and design, boasts contemporary architecture and avantgarde interiors. All rooms have lively and warm hues and newly renovated in a contemporary Thai style. All rooms feature modern in-room amenities and technology including WiFi Internet access and a 32inch LCD flatscreen TV. Pullman is located on Wong Amart Beach in North Pattaya. Visit www.pullmanhotels.com

Pirom Thai sous chef

You can only trust the "fat chef with flies" joke, but there is an exception at Pirom Thai Restaurant at InterContinental hotel in Hua Hin. The famous chain hotel recently hires Bansini Nawisamphan as Executive Sous Chef for Pirom - a Thai restaurant. The young (and slim) Thai chef holds significant experience at major luxury hotels in Asia, and her skill should improve your appetite. Pirom restaurant balances the local pro¬duce with cooking experience.