Our 2022 Chapitre was special and spectacular. We started with our Induction Ceremony together with promotions officiated by Bailli Délégué Joe Thawilvejjakul in his capacity as a Member of the Conseil Magistral. There were 36 members and guests in attendance. The Induction Ceremony was formal yet relaxed and educational. This was the first time in almost three years that a Chapitre could be held in Phuket due to COVID-19 restrictions.

After everyone received their regalia and signed the Livre d'Or, we moved to the hotel’s terrace overlooking the Andaman Sea for cocktails. Bailli Ian Lancaster came as the Phantom himself, flanked by myself and my daughter dressed as Carlotta and Christine.

A seriously hot evening hence people moved into the cool interior. The amazingly, beautifully decorated dining room provided respite from the heat. Mingling continued inside.

After Ian gave a welcome speech, it was time to enjoy a much anticipated dinner.

MENU

Prologue
Snow crab avocado roulade
Cucumber | Melon | Basil mayonnaise
Champagne Gosset Extra Brut

ACT I
Truffle | Potato | Egg custard
Champagne Gosset Extra Brut

ACT II
Pressed duck foie gras | Rhubarb | Pistachios
Wegeler Riesling Trocken - Rheingau, Germany

ACT III
Herb-crusted black cod | Parsnip purée | Pickled carrot
Saint-Véran - Cháteau Fuissé, Burgundy, France

ACT IV
Oxtail ravioli | Red wine reduction | 24-month Parmesan
Penfolds Bin 389 2018 - South Australia

FINALE
Modern peach melba

Before ACT IV was served Vic-toria sang two songs from Phantom of the Opera. A further intermission came after the Finale. Lights were dimmed. Suddenly serving staff came in each holding a chandelier with candles. Vic-toria returned to sing a final opera song.

After dinner and before dancing, we invited the staff to receive certificates of appreciation, helped by Molchaya Tejapaibul, Bailli of newly established Bailliage of Bangkok Rattanakosin. Appreciated they certainly were. A delicious, beautiful dinner with many very tasty courses. Our heartfelt thanks to Chef Dennis and his staff for an unforgettable evening.

Finally General Manager Brett Wilson was presented with a framed Diploma from us for the Pullman Arcadia.

And then we started dancing …..

Lena Willoch Forselius
Vice-Chargée de Presse