Prestige 300 High Flyers 2023: Celebrating Thailand’s ‘New Establishment’

On November 23, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok’s Astoria Ballroom was transformed into a haven of exclusivity as Prestige, in collaboration with UOB Privilege Banking, revealed the 2023 edition of 300 High Flyers during a ‘Le Club’ themed bash. The highly anticipated event honoured Thailand’s ‘New Establishment’, a distinguished group comprising of tastemakers, thought leaders, and cross-industry game-changers.

A glamorous affair from start to finish, guests made their grand entrance to the ballroom by traversing a cutting-edge LED walk-way, lit up with images of this year’s inductees before stepping onto a black carpet to be photographed in their dazzling attire. The night’s honourees were joined at the event by luminaries of Thai high society, event partners, and several of Prestige’s previous cover personalities.

Upon entering the ballroom, guests were ushered towards the UOB VIP Lounge. Decorated in UOB Privilege Banking’s golden hues, it provided a distinguished setting for power networking. The lounge featured a Champagne bar, while a ‘glam bot’ added a touch of modern flair, capturing stylish slow-motion videos that could be shared via social media.

The mainstage, framed by vertical LED screens, provided the perfect platform for the evening’s speakers to share insightful remarks. Björn Rettig, CEO of BurdaLuxury (Asia & India), delivered the official welcome note, underscoring the significance of the annual 300 High Flyers edition, before Yuttachai Teyarachakul, Managing Director, Country Function Head of Personal Financial Services at UOB Thailand, had an opportunity to address guests.

They were then joined onstage by François Oosthuizen, Editor-in-Chief of Prestige Thailand, and representatives of the sponsors, including Vira-anong Chiranakhorn Phutrakul, Managing Director, Head of Retail and Brand at UOB Thailand; Nitchaya Ekaraphanich, Executive Director of PMT The Hour Glass; Alexander Baraka, President and CEO of BMW Group Thailand; Laphatrada Pitchalad, National HORECA Manager at Alchemy Thailand; and Stefan Bucher, Director of Food & Beverage, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok.

The event partners added a plethora of vibrant elements to the celebration. On the right side of the stage, BMW showcased the cutting-edge BMW XM SUV. Blending pillars of performance and luxury, the vehicle features a twin turbocharged V8 engine coupled with a unique plug-in hybrid system, which has the capacity to deliver an impressive 738 horsepower and reach a top speed of 270 km/h. The car also features a spacious cabin equipped with a range of desirable tech features. Guests had the opportunity to explore these features first-hand during their visit to the booth.

Meanwhile, PMT The Hour Glass, showcased four exquisite Girard-Perregaux watches. Among them were the Girard-Perregaux Quasar Tourbillon with three bridges, a skeletonised dial and sapphire crystal caseback; the Girard-Perregaux Neo Constant Escapement; the 42mm Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph with a Clous de Paris dial; and the Girard-Perregaux Aston Martin Special Edition, which was particularly appealing to supercar enthusiasts. The booth not only allowed guests to browse the impressive watch selection but also housed a special camera that printed photos to be kept as souvenirs.

Rémy Martin’s dedicated booth offered a selection of celebratory drinks. Guests indulged in the globally celebrated cognac served neat over ice, as a highball with soda, and in various cocktails. The booth also showcased super-premium bottles of Louis XIII, including the highly valuable Louis XIII Rare Cask (one of three available in the kingdom). Drawing considerable attention, the booth also featured a 360-degree camera, providing guests with the opportunity to capture delightful memories with friends and new connections.

Culinary delights crafted by the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok team enhanced the evening’s festivities. Guests also enjoyed performances from a live band led by singer Zoe Plubthong Stickney, who serenaded attendees with a mix of current chart hits and old-school favourites, before DJ Knatz took over the decks.

Prestige’s annual 300 High Flyers list aims to celebrate the cross-industry movers, shakers, and trail blazers who are shaping Thailand’s future.