If there were frequent-flyer points for curiosity, Dr Wit Sittivaekin and Veenarat “Puey” Laohapakakul would have lifetime platinum status. He’s a historian with an eye for civilisation’s footprints; she’s a television anchor whose career in world affairs keeps her pulse tuned to the rhythm of global change. Together, they’re a walking definition of modern global citizens, equal parts grace, intellect and good humour, carrying Thailand’s warmth wherever they wander.

To them, travel isn’t escape, it’s engagement. “Every journey is an education,” says Wit with his professorial smile. “The world has been our classroom, and The 1 to The World has become our constant companion.”

Perfect Contrasts, Perfect Journeys

It’s hard not to smile when the pair discuss their travel rituals. Wit admits he can spend half a day in a museum pondering ancient coins, while Puey would happily lose herself among mountain trails or boutique counters. “Wit could spend hours at heritage sites,” she laughs, “while I’m already planning our next nature escape and, inevitably, our next shopping stop.”

Shopping, it seems, is their common language. “Our trips always end with a little retail diplomacy,” Puey teases. “Using The 1 privileges abroad always makes our journeys even more special.”

Italy: Where Art Meets Appetite

Mention Italy, and both light up like someone uncorking a Chianti bottle. “The Dolomites for hiking, Florence and Venice for art, and Milan for shopping at Rinascente,” says Wit. “It’s everything we love about travel in one trip.”

What impressed them most, however, wasn’t just the scenery or the espresso, but the sense of belonging. “With The 1, we enjoyed the same rewards abroad as at home, discounts, points, and that feeling of being looked after. It made Milan feel like Bangkok with better shoes,” he jokes.

Japan: Refinement and Reverence

Asia holds a quieter magic for the couple, particularly Japan. “From its temples to its department stores, everything feels deliberate,” says Puey. “At Daimaru Osaka, being a The 1 member meant our shopping came with confidence discounts, points, and VIP service that made us feel genuinely valued.”

Dr Wit agrees. “Department stores tell you how a society lives. Rinascente in Milan is theatrical, KaDeWe in Berlin is understated, and Daimaru in Japan is pure precision. Each reflects a national character. The 1 lets you experience all three without feeling like a stranger.”

Shopping as Cultural Exchange

Their philosophy on shopping could fill a lecture hall. “Department stores are not just retail spaces; they’re mirrors of culture,” Wit explains. “You can read a civilisation in its shop windows.”

For Puey, the experience is sensory as much as social. “I remember Rinascente’s lighting and its gourmet floor that turned shopping into leisure. In Osaka, we showed our The 1 Exclusive status at the VIP Lounge and were greeted like old friends gifts, instant tax refunds, and even a quiet place to rest our feet. It elevated everything.”

The Privilege of Being Prepared

For seasoned travellers, convenience is its own luxury. “The first time a store abroad asked for my The 1 membership number, it felt like planting a Thai flag overseas,” Wit recalls with a laugh. “The Hotel Delivery service was a lifesaver when you’ve bought too many books or souvenirs. Having them delivered straight to your hotel means you can keep exploring hands-free.”

Puey adds that it brings a touch of practical joy to every trip. “Earning points, enjoying discounts, and receiving cashback turns shopping into a reward and travel into something even richer.”

Both agree that The 1 Exclusive and CENFINITY benefits have become indispensable. “They’re not extras; they’re essentials,” Puey insists. “It’s our passport to peace of mind.”

Dream Destinations Ahead

Asked where they’d go next, both grin like children plotting their next adventure. “For me, Italy will always call us back,” says Puey dreamily. “It’s where culture, nature, and shopping coexist beautifully and with The 1 benefits, every purchase feels like a souvenir with style.”

Wit’s wanderlust leans northward. “Germany and Switzerland are calling again. The landscapes, the architecture, and yes — the shopping at KaDeWe, Oberpollinger, and Globus. With Hotel Delivery, it’s all effortless. You shop, you stroll, and you don’t miss a thing.”

Beyond Borders: Privileges That Travel With You

Behind the poetry of their journeys is the practical engine of The 1 to The World — a program that extends Thai hospitality across continents. Members enjoy exclusive privileges at some of the world’s most prestigious department stores and luxury malls: Rinascente (Italy), KaDeWe (Germany), Globus (Switzerland), Illum (Denmark), de Bijenkorf (Netherlands), Daimaru (Japan), Lotte Duty Free and The Shilla Duty Free (Korea), and Marina Bay Sands (Singapore).

Among the perks:

• Point accumulation abroad is just like in Thailand.

• Exclusive discounts of 10–20 per cent for members.

• VIP services from fast-track tax refunds to hotel delivery and private lounges.

• CENFINITY enhancements, including private transfers and beauty treatments.

• Premium cardholder rewards with cashback and airport-lounge access for The 1 Black and Luxe members.

Full details and updates live on The 1 App, which has become as essential to frequent flyers as their passport.

The Final Stamp

For Dr Wit and Puey, travel is as much about connection as it is about discovery — a reminder that luxury lies not only in places but in experiences that make one feel at home anywhere. “The 1 to The World has taken the guesswork out of our journeys,” Wit reflects. “It’s as if a piece of Thailand travels with us wherever we go.”

And Puey, ever the poet behind the news desk, adds with a smile: “It doesn’t just make travel easier it makes it sweeter. Because when you feel valued in every language, you’ve found the real meaning of worldliness.”

By Kanda Limw

BIO:

Kanda Limw is a self-motivated administrative professional with a strong track record of supporting business operations efficiently and precisely. Highly organised and adaptable, she brings a wealth of skills to the table, from multitasking and prioritising competing demands to managing complex filing systems and ensuring smooth office workflows.

Her background spans professional secretarial work, customer relations, and project planning, where her critical thinking and proactive approach have consistently delivered results. Kanda is experienced in managing directors’ schedules, coordinating meetings, and streamlining administrative processes while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.

With progressive experience in office management, she has developed a reputation for reliability and attention to detail. Colleagues value her calm under pressure, her ability to anticipate needs, and her dedication to keeping operations on track. Kanda continues to build on her diverse skill set, driving efficiency and excellence in every task she undertakes.

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