ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

There must be something in the water in the notorious “Bangkok Hilton” prison which brings out the literary side of the inmates. The latest is American Jon Cole, with his book Bangkok Hard Time (ISBN 978-981-4358-32-3, Monsoon Books, 2011), with another true story from the exercise yards of Klong Prem Central Prison (AKA the Bangkok Hilton).

Khao San Road’s bars and clubs might paint a different picture, but the most popular form of music in Thailand is actually Luk Thung, or Thai country music. You’re most likely to come across it in Bangkok during a taxi ride as many drivers -- who typically come from up-country –- keep their radio stations set to listen to a steady stream of Luk Thung and its folk music cousin, Mor Lam. Here's a guide to the history of Thai country music and where to experience it in Bangkok, proving that a night of loud, rowdy entertainment does not have to preclude new cultural experiences.

Kelly Rowland kicked off 2012 with a bang. The sexy singer commanded the stage (and a sizable check) at a private New Year’s Eve party for a Russian oil and gas magnate near Phuket, Thailand. Kelly served up her hits including “Motivation” and “Commander” for guests at the private villa.

Ah, Paris. City of Light. Land of romance. Gobbler of all the best Golden Globe nominations. Presented by overseas reporters based in Hollywood, the Globes may be a worldwide affair, but this time, they have a real French flair. The silent film "The Artist," from French filmmaker Michel Havanavicius, led with six nominations Thursday, while the field includes Woody Allen's French romance "Midnight in Paris" and Martin Scorsese's Paris adventure "Hugo."