In October 2008, Thailand welcomed over 1,000 tour operators and travel press representatives during the “Visit Amazing Thailand Year 2009” - one of the largest Familiarization Trip campaign ever conducted in Thailand. Before continuing their trip to Thailand’s North, Northeast and South, some of them visited the new Amita Thai Cooking Class. In particular, four groups from the United States, Germany, Kazakhstan and Ukraine were presented and taught the Art of Thai cooking.

Because one of the best ways to explore Bangkok is on the water, participants traveled by boat from Maharaj Pier to the Amita Thai Cooking school. Cruising along Chao Phraya River, passing by the Royal Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn through Bangkok’s Yai Canal for about half an hour before arriving at the school, they enjoyed the serene and simple lifestyle of riverbank dwellers. A welcome herbal drink and cold towel were served upon arrival, before the visitors were taken to the school’s herbs and spice garden where they were able to pick themselves a few fresh herbal ingredients for their hands-on cooking of the day.

The day’s recipes included:

• Moo Satay: Tasty strips of grilled marinated pork served with spicy peanut sauce
• Khang Keaw Wan Gai: Green curry chicken in coconut milk
• Khao Man Som Tam: Coconut rice and papaya salad with chili lemon sauce
• Gluay Buat Chee: Banana in coconut milk

This new school gathered enthusiastic from participants:
“It was a highlight of my Bangkok stay……..”
“I will feature this in my “Bangkok Update” story…….”
“Thanks so much for a wonderful experience……”