Samui Gazette Edition 34 by Creative Techphoto Co., Ltd.

Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Vol. 2 No. 7

www.thesamuigazette.com

25 Baht

Govt execs, groups clamor for uniform, fair taxi rates By CHERDCHAI TAWEEMUANG

“All taxis should carry a clear pricing sign that all passengers and drivers can adhere to.” - Mayor Ramnate IN an increased effort to improve further taxi service on the island, the provincial government and Koh Samui municipality have joined hands with other local organizations in urging taxi meter entrepreneurs to find ways to fix complaints about the existing taxi service on Samui. Chalorsak Vanicharoen, Suratthani vice governor, recently presided over the “Taxi Meter Meeting” hosted by the Koh Samui municipality in partnership with organizations such as e Tourism Development and Support of Koh Samui, e Tourism and Sports of Suratthani Province, e Transportation of Suratthani (Samui Branch), and Tourism Authority of ailand (Suratthani). e meeting aimed to encourage and help Samui taxi meter entrepreneurs to improve their quality of service and raise their standards. ere are

about 100 taxi meter entrepreneurs on the island. Many tourists and locals have been complaining about nonstandard pricing for taxi services. Arwut Fuengpaibool, Transportation of Suratthani (Samui Branch) chief, earlier raised the issue about taxis on Koh Samui. He said there is a need to standardize the pricing of the taxis so as not to confuse tourists on the island. Ramnate Jaikwang, Koh Samui mayor, said taxi entrepreneurs should take the problem seriously and ﬁnd collective ways to improve their service and pricing standards. He recommended that all taxis carry a clear pricing sign that all passengers and drivers can adhere to. “It is important that taxi entrepreneurs come up with a price that is fair to both the drivers and the passengers,” he said.

UNWELCOME NEWS - Gloomy-faced taxi meter drivers and operators appear unenthusiastic as government officials led by Suratthani vice-governor Chalorsak Vanicharoen and Koh Samui mayor Ramnate Jaikwang urged them to standardize the taxi service on the island. e meeting was held to find ways to fix growing complaints about the existing taxi service on Samui.

Samui ‘Kids’ Weekend’ in December cancelled By PATRICK ROXAS

HELP FOR FLOOD VICTIMS - Bangkok Airways took a news anchor and TV actress on a helicopter to help flood victims in the affected areas, giving food supplies and portable toilet. “Donation Center for Flood Relief ” has been set up at Bangkok Airways’ head office on Vibhavadirangsit Road. e center is intended for donations of money, foods and other necessities for the areas that have been affected by the current flooding. For cash donation, please make payment to: Kasikorn Bank, Chatuchak Branch; Account number:061-1-07224-4; Account name: Bangkok Airways Donation for flood relief; For more information on donations, please contact 0-2265-5868-9 (Monday - Friday)

THE Rotary Club of Koh Samui (ROCKS) annual project of bringing in around 40 children from the Mercy Centre in Bangkok for a well-earned and much-appreciated short holiday on Samui has been cancelled. In a press statement, Rotary president Philip Parker said, “As I feel sure everyone is aware, the ﬂoods in Bangkok have caused catastrophic problems for thousands of families living in many of the capital’s suburbs. He said while the work of the Mercy Centre is usually concentrated on looking after the children in their care, “a great deal of

extra work has come their way in helping families and schools in and around the Klong Toey district during these diﬃcult times.” “Because it is not known how long it will be before things get back to being anywhere near normal in the capital, coupled with the fact that Fr. Joe Maier and Khun Ratana are concerned about their children’s safety. Mercy Centre people have requested and we agreed to cancel this year’s visit as they are fearful of what could be a treacherous journey south for them next month. ey ask that we again arrange

the holiday for them around the same time next year,” Parker said. e Rotary oﬃcial said ROCKS is of course complying with the request and therefore will not be making their usual appeals for help at this time. “May I say how much we always appreciate the help of all our friends both ﬁnancial and in kind when asking for assistance for the Kids’ Weekend,” he said. “We will keep you all fully informed as to when their next trip to Samui is planned,” Parker added.

ISLAND NEWS

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Illegal trawler caught in Tambon Maret By CHERDCHAI TAWEEMUANG LOCAL authorities recently captured a fishing ship and arrested its captain near the shore of Tambon Maret for illegal trawling activity. A team, headed by Poolsak Sophonpratumrak, assistant district officer of Koh Samui; Pitak Chanchareon, of the Department of Fisheries; and ammarat Chareonsuk, sheriff consultant; responded to a tip by a local fisherman about an alleged illegal trawl fishing activity near the shore and reefs in Tambon Maret. A fisherman reported that there is a fisherman catching fish near the shore using the trawls. Upon arrest fisherman allegedly confessed this was the first time he was doing trawl fishing in the area. e responding team actually found three fishing ships in the vicinity of the reefs. e three fishing ships were identified as Chokechomkwan 5, Saengsuwan, and Pitaksopa. With the help of a GPS tracking device, the team found that the Seangsuwan and Pitak-

sopa ships were in a distance of 3,000 meters from the shore so they were allowed to leave. But Chomkwan 5 was found to be in the distance on only 1,200 meters from the shoreline. us, the team arrested the captain, identified as Wanlop Inchan, 47. He was brought to the shore for questioning and upon investigation admitted to doing illegal trawl fishing. He was sent to Pol. Capt. Porramin Kongdee, inquiry official of Bophut, for prosecution. Trawl fishing (or ”trawling”) is controversial because of its environmental impacts, and many countries consider it illegal. Trawl fishing (or ”trawling”) is controversial because of its environmental impacts, and many countries consider it illegal. Bottom trawling can involve towing heavy fishing gear over the seabed, and can cause large scale destruction on the ocean bottom, including coral shattering, damage to habitats, and removal of seaweed, according to environmentalist.

ILLEGAL TRAWLERS NETTED- e captain and crew of the Chomkwan 5, an alleged illegal fishing boat, sit on the boat’s deck while awaiting their fate after they were caught by members of the Department of Fisheries and municipal officers while conducting trawling operations along the shores of Tambon Maret recently. Two other trawling ships were spotted in the area but only Chomkwan 5 were determined to be about 1,200 meters from the shoreline and the other two were a good distance away. e fishing boat’s caotain Wanlop Inchan, 47, was brought to shore for questioning and admitted to illegal trawling. e practice is considered illegal in some countries as it can cause large -scale destruction of reefs and corals.

3 ISLAND NEWS Bracing up for ﬂood Man gets out of jail, back the same day SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

IN light of the recent national crisis caused by the widespread flooding in many parts of ailand, local authorities on Koh Samui have organized a “Flood Alert Meeting” recently. Presided over by Prasert Chitmung, Koh Samui sheriff, the meeting was held at the Koh Samui District Office. Around 150 people from both the local government sector and private sector attended the meeting, which aimed to set up defensive measures to prevent the flooding problem that has afflicted many ai provinces already. e panelists discussed not only short-term preventive measures but also long-term objectives to keep Samui ready and safe from floods. e Meteorological Department of ailand has forecast that during the end of October –

November, low pressure will pass southern ailand, resulting in probable heavy rains. e meeting emphasized the need for an early warning measures from all those concerned, and for the mayor and sheriff to publish updated news every day. e government sector has decided to build Seven Defensive Points to help the people on Koh Samui in case of flooding situation. ey are at Tambon Angthong (Kanchanapisek Hall), Tambon Maenam (Phookaothong Temple), Tambon Bophut (Samthong Hotel), Tambon Maret (Sila-ngoo Temple), Tambon Namuang (Kunaram Temple), Tambon Taling-ngam (Kirimat Temple), Tambon Lipanoi (Samuttaram Temple), and e Protect and Relief Center at the district office of Koh Samui.

ONCE a criminal, always a criminal? is seems to be true for Suriya Ratna, 23, originally from Nakorn Sri ammarat, who was just out from jail but returns to it the same day after he was arrested for stealing. Suriya, also known as “Boy, was arrested by Koh Samui police with valuables and cash amounting to Bt200,000, which he allegedly stole from the house of a certain Oranee Lhaotap, 50. According to police reports, Boy confessed that he was passing by Oranee’s house and was tempted to steal after he noticed there’s nobody OUT AND IN - Suriya Ratna, 23, (seated) answers questions from police investigators after he was arrested for stealing on the day he was released from prison. home. Taling-ngam Road, at Moo 1, Boy allegedly took a gold neck- Bt200,000. Boy was arrested by a police Tambon Taling-ngam. lace weighing about 0.4887 troy e arrest was made after ounce, a stainless bracelet weighing team led by Pol. Lt. Col. Kappanart Nirattimanont, deputy suOranee ﬁled a report to the sta1.4661 troy ounce, an amulet with perintendent of Koh Samui tion about a thief stealing jewgold frame, 20 other amulets, a elry and banknotes which she watch, two gold rings, and a collec- Police and Pol. Maj. Denduang ongsrisuk, administration and has collected for more than 30 tion of banknotes amounting to years. crime control inspector, along Bt5,280 – all in all totaling

THE GAZETTE’S PAGE 3 NEEDS YOU. Because we like to keep things fresh, we invite you to send us your cool photos. Email them to editor@thesamuigazette.com or info@thesamuigazette.com.

ISLAND NEWS 4 The Estates Samui promotes 2nd phase of its luxury dev’t THE developer behind the prestigious ‘e Estates, Samui’ has started to promote the second phase of the development for sale. Minor International, which also boasts unique, high-end properties in Chiang Mai and Bangkok, is now planning to focus its marketing eﬀorts on the Samui residences as interest grows from ailand and other South East Asia nations. “e Residences at St.Regis Bangkok project has been extremely successful and this has led to an increased interest in other developments within our property portfolio,” said James Knowles, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Residential Property, Minor International PLC. “We are already witnessing greater investment from overseas buyers in Koh Samui as the location and our unique development provides great returns on investment and a supreme place to live,” he added.

To bolster sales and marketing for the Samui properties, Minor has dedicated specialist a resources on Samui to oversee the marketing and sales strategy on the island. Nestled among the lush secluded hillside of stunning Laem Yai Bay on the northwestern tip of the paradise island of Samui is a property development bringing a new meaning to luxurious living. ‘e Estates, Samui’ boasts a collection of 14 spacious villas in verdant tropical gardens of coconut groves and a sparkling, immaculate beach, adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Far removed from the country’s overpopulated locations where coastal land prices are rising and prime plots decreasing, Koh Samui is projected to become one of the world’s most exclusive tropical resort destinations, where premium projects are slated to outperform coastal properties in

the long term. Just 30 minutes from Samui Airport, a frequent and regular schedule of ﬂights serviced by international and regional airlines to major metropolitan hubs such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Hong Kong is a valueadded convenience for many travelers. Koh Samui is renowned as one of the best places in Asia to live in and retire to. Here, the exchange rate allows anyone with a decent retirement fund to enjoy high-end luxuries. Temperatures generally range from around 25 to 32 degrees Celsius year round. ailand is home to beaches with crystal water, which in Koh Samui and at e Estates Samui will be within walking distance of your property. Golf is also big in ailand, and a golf course can be found in the vicinity of e Estates Samui. is Bill Bensley-designed architectural and landscape master-

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

LUXURY DEVELOPMENT -e Estates, Samui moves into the second phase of its luxury development to grab a share of the growing interest on properties here.

piece is crafted from the finest tropical hardwoods to exacting specifications and reflects a harmonious blend of traditional Southern ai way with modern luxury and style. Each of the villas, featuring a spacious living/dining area connecting to large pool deck via sliding glass doors, is exquisitely appointed with handpicked materials, resulting in unparalleled quality and charm. Architecturally inspired by the concept of traditional southern ai style and modern convenience, the homes incorporate everything needed for that ultimate lifestyle: a sunken dining pavilion, a separate and spacious living villa, complete entertainment and home-management technology, and even a private housekeeper. All properties at e Estates Samui come fully furnished and ready to occupy. e villas are managed by dedicated staff trained which offers a world of five star services that include all day room service, bell attendant service, 24-hour security and telephone operator, cable television, and housekeeping. e privileged residents may enjoy unrestricted access to an ex-

tensive suite of amenities, including fully-equipped fitness centre, tennis courts, library and reading room, water sport activities, a world class spa and some of the best beachside dining options in ailand. Discriminating residents will also luxuriate in a world of fivestar services redundant from the adjacent Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui – renowned for delivering the highest standards of personalized service – including all-day room service, bell attendant service, 24-hour telephone operator, cable television, 24-hour security and housekeeping. e Estates Samui has received numerous prestigious awards since its launch, including “e Best Interior Design” at the ailand Property Award 2010 and “e Best Villa Development in Samui” in 2008; the Asia Pacific Residential Property Awards 2009; and, in 2010, awards in the categories of five-star Best Development ailand and Best Development Asia Pacific. e event is part of the International Property Awards, the world’s most prestigious competition dedicated to finding the best real estate professionals across the globe.

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

ISLAND NEWS

Swiss nationals organize society in Samui

By PATRICK ROXAS

SWISS nationals living on the island have banded together recently to form an association here. e organizational meeting, held at the Swiss Garden Restaurant in Bangpor last Oct. 20, was a well- attended aﬀair with no less than Switzerland’s ambassador to ailand, Ms. Christine Schraner Burgener, and municipal oﬃcials gracing the occasion. Ambassador Burgener, who spoke to the guests in three languages, said the forming of a Swiss society in Samui was a welcome development for the Swiss

Embassy as the group will make an important contribution to their eﬀorts to be a source of information for Swiss nationals who want to live in Samui. “ey can also provide their countrymen ideas on where to go and what to do when Swiss citizens visit Samui,” the ambassador said. She said the embassy is actually seeking a contact in Samui in case of emergency and actually plan to have a consul for Phuket and Samui. According to Michael, a member of the founding committee of

the group they named Swiss Society Samui, the embassy has made the necessary eﬀort to seek the ai government’s approval on the designation of a consul and the president of Switzerland has already sent a letter to the King of ailand asking His Majesty’s approval three weeks ago. He, said however, that most likely the Consul to be appointed would have to be only one person for both Phuket and Koh Samui. Embassy records show some 7,000 registered Swiss nationals in ailand but they estimate the actual ﬁgure could be 20,000.

SWISS AMBASSADOR - Switzerland’s ambassador to ailand, Christine Schraner Burgener, being interviewed by the media during her brief visit to Koh Samui.

Seminar for expats on living and working on Koh Samui held

NOW! AN ADDITIONAL STORE AT BEAUTIFUL WORLD FURNITURE STORE IN MAENAM Address: 69/35 Moo 5 Ring Road Maenam, Koh Samui Suratthani Thailand and At Nikki Beach 96/3 Moo2 Lipa Noi, Koh Samui Suratthani Thailand

THE second “ Working and Living on Koh Samui” seminar took place on the 15th October at the Samui International School of Tourism. With attendance over the set 30 places it was a full house. e seminar was a huge success with one attendee stating “Now I know by not having a work permit I could get up to 5 years imprisonment and Bt100,000 ﬁne, I will be visiting PKN to get that work permit ﬁrst thing on Monday!” e free lunch by Chef Nigel disappeared extremely fast and his new “pizza” operation saw a jump in orders following the seminar. Karen from PKN Legal & Business Consultancy told the Samui Gazette “the attendees kindly made a donation towards the Samui Prison Mother and Baby Unit and Bt4,030 was raised. ese funds will go towards purchasing much needed items such as formula, clothing and toys for the children who are not in the prison by choice, we were very happy that the free seminar, also presented by Steve from Ensure and Lorraine from World Travel Managers, was able to help the Unit.” Karen also stated that “A future seminar is planned for late January covering property ownership, which we are sure will be a popular topic” and the Gazette will let it’s readers know details as and when they receive them.

ROTARY INDUCTION - Amari Palm Reef GM Christoph Leonhard (left) gets inducted as a Rotarian.

POLICE

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Frenchman shot, suspect denies accusation By CHERDCHAI TAWEEMUANG

A FRENCHMAN who has been living on Koh Samui for a longtime, was shot recently in Maenam after a minor quarrel with another expat. A suspect was arrested who denied the accusation and police said they had to release him for insuﬃcient evidence. Yan Net David, 38, was shot in front of Le Rendezvous Restaurant at Moo 1, Tambon Maenam, allegedly by another Frenchman Michael George Charles, 51. David sustained gunshot wounds on the right elbow. Witnesses say they saw the victim having a quarrel with the “mysterious” gunman, before they heard gunshots about four or ﬁve times. en they said they saw the victim fell down and the gunman leaving on his pick-up. David allegedly pointed to the suspect, Charles, who also lives in

Buﬀalo ﬁghting expert shot dead in Maenam

WRONG ARREST? - Michael George Charles (left), a 51-year-old Frenchman, was arrested by the police recently after he was accused of shooting another French national but was later released for insuﬃcient evidence.

Maenam, saying he had a minor quarrel with him but he didn’t expect to be shot. Charles, owner of the wine shop La Pont French, was brought by the police to the station for questioning but didn’t ﬁnd any gunpowder soot on him.

Police also didn’t ﬁnd the gun used in shooting David. Charles also denied the accusation. e victim and some witnesses allegedly point to Charles but the police released him pending further investigation on the incident.

Cops ring in drug pushing family TWO brothers and a woman, described by police as among the biggest drug agents on the island, were arrested inside their house by the joint forces of TCCU R8 and Koh Samui police after a stake-out in Namuang recently. Police arrested the three suspects, and seized 31 bags of ICE drugs (35 grams), a gun and bullets, seven bankbooks, cash, cell phones, computer, among other paraphernalia. was led by Pol.Maj.Arunpong Panpop, investigation inspector (TCCU R8) Pol.Maj.Denduang ongsrisuk, administration and crimes control inspector, and Pol.Maj.ananchai Nuannirun, investigation inspector (Samui police); and police forces wearing plainclothes. Police said they closed the area by rounding the suspected house with a “fence,” trapping two men and a woman in the house. Upon investigation, the police learned that the house is owned by the brothers eerapong ongpat, 31; and Sitthipon ongpat, 28; and Chadapon Lhaonukul, wife of eerapong. Allegedly, while the police was investigating the two brothers, Chadapon tries to hide something

A BUFFALO fighting expert was shot dead by an unidentified gunman while he was leaving a wedding party in Maenam recently. e shooting occurred in front of Tim’s Beauty Salon at Moo 5, Tambon Maenam. Sompong Pengthong (aka Pan Maenam), 41, died instantly. Described by police as popular on the island not only as a buffalo fighting expert but also for his big gambling bets, Pan Maenam was shot with a .45mm gun three times. One of the bullets cut through the base of his left ear and went through the top of the head, and another on the base of the left ear through his right ear. Police found three cartridges on the site, some cash, a cell phone and his car key. According to an unidentified witness, the victim has just joined a wedding party at Ban Laem Hoy School in front of Srisuwannaram Temple before the fatal incident. When it rained, the victim and other guests started to leave the party. Pan Maenam was allegedly walking toward his car in front of the beauty salon when two men, aged 20-27, followed him. Allegedly, the gunman walked to his left side and shot him three times until he fell down. After that, the gunman ran to a motorcycle where his friend was waiting and drove away toward to Ban Maenam. Police said the victim a famous member of the buffalo fighter’s society on the island. He is allegedly famous for betting with big money and reportedly owns some people around a million baht in credit. Police is still investigating the actual circumstances that led to the fatal shooting and pursuing identity of the suspects.

Gov’t employee nabbed on ‘ice’

COLLARED - e drug pushing family surrounded by arresting policemen.

at the back of the house. e police allegedly followed her and found the 31 bags of ICE drug. ey took it for evidence and arrested her. e police also took the related paraphernalia to the Koh Samui police station for investigation. At the station, police said the suspects we’re trying to blame each other. en the two men said the ICE drugs belong to Chadapon. When Chadapon heard that, she cried and confessed that the drugs belong to the two brothers, police said. Chadapon allegedly told police she has been trying to tell

eerapong to stop for a long time, but the two brothers never listened to her. Two days ago, she alleged, her husband went to get the drugs from the Islam village, Hua anon community, Tambon Maret. She alleged further that her husband and his brother bring it for loading and packaging for selling to teenagers on Koh Samui. She said she was making the confession because her husband “stabbed her in the back ﬁrst.” e three has been charged with drug pushing and were sent to Koh Samui Police Station for prosecution.

POLICE rcently apprehended a Samui municipal employee who was out on bail for another drug case in the latest ‘ice’ drug-related arrest made on the island. Kanchit Jeantew, 30, deputy auto mechanic at the Engineering Mechanic Center of Koh Samui Municipality, was arrested in his room at Sri Samui Village, Moo 1, Tambon Angthong. Police said Kanchit was about to ride his motorcycle when they arrested him. ey allegedly

found a plastic bag of ‘ice’ drug, weighing around 1.10 grams in his left hand, although they didn’t ﬁnd any drugs inside his room. Kanchit allegedly admitted to owning the drug, saying he bought it from a certain Mr.Nont (don’t know the surname), for sending to a client. At the Samui Police Station, the police found that Kanchit has been involved with a drug case three months ago and is out on bail.

BUSTED - e arrested municipal employee, Kanchit Jeantew (middle).

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

ISLAND NEWS

“Name an elephant” campaign launched THE first elephant born on Koh Samui has created widespread cheers and joy around the island that the zoo here has launched a campaign to give the baby elephant a name. Namuang Safari Park managing director Atthaporn Ruengsri said the zoo wants to involve the public in the good news that it wants the people to join in giving a name to the first Samui-born elephant. e mother of the elephant, according to Atthaporn, is a 21-year old elephant named “Nong Oum”. She gave birth at 2:45 pm last Oct. 2 at the zoo. Namuang Safari officials say both the mother and the baby elephant are safe. e new born elephant is also a female, around two meters long and weighs around 60-70kgs. e baby elephant was said to be always beside her mother all the time. Namuang Safari Park is a conservation zoo and elephant center on the island and they havea total of 21 elephants. Nong Oum was brought to the zoo from Surin province seven years ago.

Resort grants scholarships to Angthong students

SCHOLARSHIP GRANT - Tossapol Satitwittayakul, president of Decade Funds and the hotel management teams of ana Resort and Passage Samui Hotel, Villa and Resort hands over the bank account to a student of Angthong School as part of the scholarship grant given by the hotel to the school.

Zoo oﬃcials said they didn’t know the elephant was giving birth until she became “restless and emotional.” Her mahout, Santi Keawsri, took her to a resting place where she gave birth very easily. e zoo will give the mother elephant time to take care

of her baby for around one to two months. e public is invited to give the new baby elephant a name. e campaign is open to both local residents and tourists. ey can call the zoo at 089 4704-646, or 077 404 098.

THE Passage Hotel Group recently gave 10 scholarships worth Bt2,000 each to students of the Angthong School as well as made a donation to help the school ﬁx its buildings. Somchai ongpheur, deputy director of Angthong School and the Tambon Angthong Community Board received the scholarship money and donation from Tossapol Satitwittayakul, presi-

dent of Decade Funds and the hotel management teams of ana Resort and Passage Samui Hotel, Villa and Resort. e group’s hotels deduct US$1 per night from its room prices and set it aside for this scholarship and charity program, as part of its policy to give back to the community and contribute to society on Koh Samui.

King’s death anniversary remembered PRASERT Jitmung, sheriﬀ of Koh Samui, led government oﬃcials and the people of Samui in the commemoration of King Chulalongkorn Day last Oct. 24. Around 30 people joined the ceremony to make merit and express their worship of one of ailand’s greatest kings on the occasion of his 100th death anniversary. e people laid down wreaths and sang “Long Live e King,” and made vows to become good citizens of ailand and the king.

Samui Sheriﬀ Prasert Jitmung

NATION

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Floodwaters creep slowly into capital, 5- day holiday OK’d in 21 provinces BANGKOK - e Cabinet on Oct. 26 declared ursday through Monday (Oct. 27-31) as extra holidays in 21 provinces, including Bangkok, to allow residents in areas affected by floods to handle the flood situation during the weekend high tide period as flood water from northern run. off is now flowing into northern Bangkok. e Cabinet meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra at Don Mueang Airport where the Flood Relief Operations Centre (FROC) is situated. e extra holidays are aimed at allowing residents in Bangkok and other the twentieth provinces to respond to the flood emergency during the high tide period, which could worsen flood problems in the capital. Latest reports Indicate that floodwaters now extend from Rangsit, north of Bangkok, along Phaholyothin Road to Don Mueang Royal Air Force Base and

Yingcharoen Market. e water level has reached 30cm and is overflowing on sidewalks. e left traffic lane is impassable for small vehicles. Traffic became congested Oct. 25 morning, the first workday of the week after Monday's (Oct. 24) public holiday. In the northwestern Bangkok district of Bangphlat, Charansanitwong Road from Bangphlat intersection to the Rama VII Bridge is rising after the flood barrier in Soi Charansanitwong 80 at the Chao Phraya River breached Oct. 24 and was floodwater from Nonthaburi's Bang Kruai district adjacent to Charansanitwong Road overflowed. e highest was 1.5 meters water level at the Junction of Soi Charansanitwong 84 with the main road, so that small vehicles cannot pass. Local residents were to be evacuated by military trucks. (MCOT online news)

Over 350k workers affected by floods in 15 provinces - Labor Ministry BANGKOK - e ongoing flood

capital and employ more than

crisis has impacted more than 10,

200,000 workers.

000 businesses in 15 provinces, af-

Bangkadi Industrial Park in

fecting over 350,000 workers, ac-

Pathum ani is now totally sub-

cording to the Labor Ministry.

merged as ﬂoodwaters brought

e Department of Labor Protec-

down the makeshift ﬂood preven-

tion and Welfare also reported that

tion wall, which collapsed despite

if the ﬂoods continued, 100,000

soldiers at the scene struggling to

more workers were at. risk of being

restore the embankment. In the

laid oﬀ, explaining that business

end they were defeated by a relent-

operators may be unable to reha-

less tide of powerful ﬂoodwater.

bilitate their businesses and facto-

Bangkadi Industrial Park is the

ries in time and may be unable to

seventh industrial estate in the

continue paying wages in the long

path of the torrent that has so far

run. Meanwhile, the workers, who

been ﬂooded, facing the same fate

were not fully paid, will be forced

as six other estates, ﬁve in Ayut-

to ﬁnd new jobs.

thaya -- Saha Rattana Nakhon,

Some of them may join the ranks

Bang Pa-in, Rojana, Hi-Tech and

of the unemployed. In hard-hit

Factory Land -- and Nava Nakorn

Ayutthaya, 616 businesses and

in Pathum ani, all of which were

195,406 workers were aﬀected.

forced to close due to deep ﬂood-

Currently, all ﬁve industrial estates in Ayutthaya are under water,

water. Pathum ani’s Bangkadi In-

including four industrial estates -

dustrial Park on Tiwanon Road is a

Saha Rattana Nakhon, Bang Pa-in,

250 rai (100 acre) site housing 47

Rojana, and Hi-Tech - earlier hit

factories with a total investment of

by ﬂooding. All ﬁve industrial es-

Bt20 billion and employing

tates are valued at about 200 bil-

20,000 workers. (MCOT online

lion baht in total investment

news)

BANGKOK FLOOD - Photo shows a flooded area in Bangkok as the floodwater run-off from the North began to slowly creep into the central areas of the capital as early as Oct. 25. A five-day holiday has been declared by the government to enable residents in areas affected to handle the flood situation during the high tide weekend.

Overflowing water hits ammasat University’s Rangsit campus PATHUM THANI – Floodwaters have overflowed into Pathum ani’s ammasat University, Rangsit campus, according to Dr. Kampol Ruchiwit, vice rector for administration, Rangsit Centre. Currently, the water has flooded 1,800 rai (about 711 acres) of land in the university after floodwaters overflowed sewerage drains of the nearby National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) last Oct. 21, Dr. Kampol said. However, the traffic is not disrupted; small vehicles are still able to pass through the area. Dr. Kampol presumed that the bulk of this inundation was floodwater from the nearby Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) which reversed its flow to the NSTDA. He admitted that the incident was beyond expectation and assessment, explaining that the neighboring NSTDA was located on high ground and concerned officials assessed that there would be no water flowing from the NSTDA. erefore, there were no precautionary embankments. Meanwhile, university students living in a dorm near the NSTDA were evacuated.

e vice rector said that water is still flowing into the university and is out of control, as the originating sewerage drains have not yet been located. However, officials are building a makeshift embankment between ammasat University and the NSTDA to prevent more floodwaters from flowing into the university as well as draining some water to the entrance of the university near Phaholyothin Road. Dr. Kampol said that officials are trying to ease the situation in order to not affect some areas of the temporary shelter for flood victims, affirming that a 4.2 meter- embankment at the back of the university was undamaged.

Campus evacuating flood ‘refugees’ In a related development, the school campus adjacent to Bangkok said it will evacuate about 1,000 flood victims of the approximately 3,000 persons currently sheltering there, moving them to Rajamangala National Stadium in eastern Bangkok's Bang Kapi district after the campus was hit by even deeper floodwater since Oct. 23, according to vice rector Kampol Ruchiwit.

Dr. Kampol said another 300 of flood victims wished to return home to Ayutthaya, while the rest of the victims will be staying at the university for another night. e evacuation is being assisted by Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) which is providing buses. e rector said that floodwaters are 1.5 meters deep at the university entrance where floodwater has poured into the ground floor of the gymnasium, a temporary shelter for flood victims who had earlier evacuated their homes in Ayutthaya. e deeper water has interrupted the electrical system, halting the air conditioning, resulting in inconvenient living conditions, but generators are now being used to provide basic electrical power. e rector said although Rajamangala National Stadium, a facility of the Sports Authority of ailand (SAT), is itself at risk of floods, it should be safe enough, for it is located near a huge water tunnel. If the shelter is not sufficient for flood 'refugees', they can evacuate further to Vajiravudh International Scout Camp in Chon Buri, southeast of Bangkok.

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

BUSINESS

Flood damage to reach Bt200-B, shrink GDP - WB BANGKOK - ailand’s flood’s damage is likely to cost at least Bt100 billion and perhaps even amount to more than Bt200 billion and to shrink the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) by two percent, Kirida Bhaopichitr, World Bank senior economist for ailand said recently. e WB official said ai economic growth in the fourth quarter is projected to be negative. She added, however, the World Bank must continue monitoring the situation for further assessments as the flood crisis has not ended yet. ai economic growth will be revised downward about December, from earlier projected growth of 3.7 percent. But the ai economy in 2012 is likely to expand more quickly than the World Bank’s projection at 4.2 percent indicates due to ailand’s post-flood rehabilitation projects now being considered, which will boost economic activities in the country as well as GDP growth, Ms. Kirida said. In the short term, foreign investors will not relocate their production bases elsewhere as ailand’s basic infrastructure and regulations facilitate investment. Currently ailand ranked 17th having moved upward from its 19th ranking among 183 countries in the World Bank Doing Business Report on measures of whether regulations make doing business easier or harder. For the medium- and longterm, foreign investor decisions depend on the government’s post-

flood measures and new standards to protect industrial estates from flooding in the future. e World Bank believes it is time for ailand to have and apply effective water management because from 2014-2015, China will start operations of five or six dams which will affect water conditions further downstream in the Mekong River and in ailand. e government’s plan to seek loans for the necessary rehabilitation work can be done as ailand’s public debt is still low. e Bt400 billion loan, accounting for four percent of GDP,

will not cause problems with the country’s fiscal position as rehabilitation projects will help stimulate the economy. e Bank of ailand (BoT) decision to keep the interest rate unchanged at 3.5 percent is deemed appropriate. However, post-flood inflationary pressure must be closely monitored. e bank will send specialists to jointly assess damage incurred from flooding with ailand’s Finance Ministry. It is ready to offer financial assistance to ailand for rehabilitation, the bank economist said.

Bank of ailand board chairman Jatumongkol Sonakul said the ai economy will be able to recover from flooding within one to two months and the impact is not likely to prolong to the first quarter of next year provided that repairs to damaged production machinery will take a short time to complete. Moreover, purchase orders have not been disrupted. Foreign investors are still confident in ailand and will not relocate their production bases elsewhere thanks to the country’s strong fundamentals. However, the government must have money in circulation for the private sector to use in rehabilitation and must be prepared to respond to the changing water situation in the future. Meanwhile, BoT governor Prasarn Trairatvorakul said the flood crisis is likely to send GDP in the fourth quarter into the negative and the 2011 GDP to drop more than one percent from earlier the projected growth of 4.1 percent as the production sector was initially affected with damage of about Bt100 billion with the shutdown of six industrial estates. Moreover, the country is likely to be impacted by the fragile global economy. GDP growth in 2112 will be maintained at 4.2 percent if the current flood crisis is over within the next few months. (MCOT online news)

Flood-hit car maker seeks tax exemption BANGKOK - e ailandbased subsidiary of Japan's major car maker Honda Automobile (ailand) Co., Ltd has asked the ai government to exempt tax on the import of cars and auto parts to help ease its tax burden as its factory was severely hit by the country's worst ﬂooding in decades, which submerged hundreds of its new cars and halted its production line. Pitak Pruttisarikorn, senior vice president of Honda Automobile ailand, told reporters of the request after meeting with Industry Minister Wannarat Charnnukul and discussing the Impact of the current ﬂooding. Mr. Pitak said he has asked the government to exempt tax collection on the import of car spare parts and machinery from nonASEAN countries to lessen the

flood impacts on business overall and to shore up the auto industry. e Honda executive pledged that the company will take care of the 6,000 workers in its Rojana Industrial Park Plant, as well as its approximately 100 dealers nationwide as it does not want to stop production amid fears that this could affect a series of smalland medium enterprises. Mr. Pitak said the total damage at its Rojana Factory has not yet been estimated as it is still submerged in floodwater. e Honda executive said the company currently produces 170,000 vehicles annually, but the volume of production now depends on the flood situation. e Japanese automaker executive assured the government that the company would not re-

locate its production base elsewhere after 47 years of investment in the Kingdom. "Although the ﬂooding disrupts the export of auto parts, (we) will try to ﬁnd sources from other countries to compensate for the shortage,". Mr. Pitak stated. e industry minister said he would bring up the request to discuss with the Board of Investment (BOI), the Finance Ministry and the Cabinet next week. Honda earlier said it had closed its production lines Oct. 11 after two industrial estates in ailand’s historic city of Ayutthaya, north of Bangkok, were inundated. Hundreds of new Honda cars were submerged in its factory in Rojana Industrial Park. (MCOT online news)

Cabinet OKs 2012 deficit budget of Bt400 billion BANGKOK – ailand’s Cabinet recently approved an increased deficit budget for 2012, raising the total to Bt400 billion, says Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Kittirat Na Ranong. e budget was increased from an initial Bt350 billion, resulting in the expenditure budget of Bt2.38 trillion from Bt2.3 trillion. e government will gain revenues of Bt1.98 trillion, Mr. Kittirat said. About Bt50 billion to be earmarked from the new budget deficit and about Bt80 billion spared from all ministries' investment projects would still be insufficient in itself to tackle the ongoing challenges caused by countrywide flooding, the deputy premier said. Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra assigned Mr. Kittirat and Finance Minister Teerachai Puwanartnaranubala to form a committee to study investment guidelines and budgets to propose to the Cabinet, in order to prevent future natural disasters. e Bank of ailand (BoT) also announced that 130 branches of 11 commercial banks and one finance company were temporarily closed down due to the continued flooding, compared to 129 branches on the previous day.

Fifty-seven branches were located in Ayutthaya, 37 in Phathum ani, 27 in Nakhon Sawan, four in Nonthaburi, two in Chai Nat, and one each in Uthai ani, Lopburi, and Bangkok. Siam Commercial Bank was most affected with 23 branches closed, followed by 21 Bangkok Bank branches. Meanwhile, Board of Investment (BOI) secretary-general Atchaka Sriboonruang said the agency has postponed its BOI Fair 2 011 to early next year due to the floods, which have severely affected the industrial sector. ailand which aims largest exhibition to demonstrate the achievements and potentials of the industry, earlier scheduled at Impact Muang ong ani for Nov 10-25, is now postponed to January next year. e resolution will be proposed Prime Minister Shinawatra to Yingluck, as chair of the organizing committee, for her approval. Concerned officials remain on alert to prevent and dykes are being reinforced from possible flooding at the event's pavilion, with nearly construction complete 70 percent. (MCOT online news)

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OPINION

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Editorial Monitoring the quality of seawater on Samui IN March this year, it was reported that there are major failures in water treatment processes on Koh Samui and these have left the island’s seawater quality below standard and high in fecal coliform bacteria. ere has been a clamor since for government to come up with proper treatments after tests revealed the deteriorating seawater quality at beaches here. e Public Health & Environment Division and the Pollution Control Division and Regional Environment Office 14 have reported that the sea water quality at many beaches on the island contains fecal coliform bacteria at levels far higher than the standard dictates. It said in general, increased levels of fecal coliform provide a warning of failure in water treatment, a break in the integrity of the distribution system, or possible contamination with pathogens. Large quantities of fecal coliform bacteria in water are not harmful according to some authorities, but may indicate a higher risk of pathogens being present in the water. Some waterborne pathogenic diseases that may coincide with fecal coliform contamination include ear infections, dysentery, typhoid fever, viral and bacterial gastroenteritis, and hepatitis A. e presence of fecal coliform tends to affect humans more than it does aquatic creatures, though not exclusively. e quality of sea water was measured in February, in May and in September this year and took place on several beaches such as Nathon, Maenam, Bangrak, Choeng Mon, Lamai, Chaweng and others where there are tourist attractions. e tests conducted to examine sea water quality revealed 240 MPN fecal coliform bacteria per 100ML of water in Chaweng Beach and Chaweng Noi Beach was found 30 to 1,600 MPN fecal coliform per 100 ML. ey also found 2 to 4 MPN fecal coliform in Lamai Beach, but exceeded 1,000 MPN fecal coliform in some areas. “Even though the standard determines the bacteria not to exceed 1,000 MPN per 100 ML, the seawater should not contain any kind of bacteria at all,” an officer of the Regional Environmental Office 14 was quoted saying. e measurement to handle the situation, according to the official, was preliminarily focusing on surveillance in places where there is heavy industrial activity and dense population. Recently, the same REO 14 officer said the quality of seawater on Koh Samui is still a little bit higher than standard, but it's not dangerous for travelers. e officer added they are now setting up a new division to take care of the quality of seawater on every beach and the other environmental such as Waste Water Treatment Systems, the incinerator, Water Supply System etc., but still lack the needed personnel and the budget. Let’s hope these guy get the needed support so they can keep monitoring the quality of our seawater.

Apple WITH the sad news of Steve Jobs dying at the fairly young age of 56, the whole world of Apple lovers were in mourning. Well not just Apple lovers but people who are fans of innovators of any kind. is man did so much to forward what the whole world sees now as electrical devise we honestly believe we couldn’t live without. It shows that like when the Beatles said money can’t buy you love it can’t buy your health either as reported Steve Jobs was worth an estimated 8 billion dollars. I can’t even begin to imagine how much money that is, and with it all you just can’t stop the black and boney ﬁgure of death taking you away. I was always a PC man not for any other reason than that what was I was ﬁrst shown and taught how to use. e main problem that I had with Itunes was that it never did run well on my PC and I was told that to get the best out of it was to have an Apple, but Apples were always much more expensive but thankfully they are coming down in price all the time now. e more people you spoke to

people over recent years the more people would try and convert you to the Apple way of life. But everyone seemed to know about Bill Gates and how he was the richest man on the planet and how the PC or personal computer was the choice of the many compared to the choice of the few ie Apple. Well that divide has slowly got smaller and smaller to when now the last time I looked Apple is now worth more than Microsoft. is I believe was down to the wonderful invention of ﬁrst the IPod which changed the way mostly everybody would listen to their music while on the move and even at home. I can remember when I ﬁrst ever heard about the Ipod it was when a certain David Beckham was seen wearing the now instantly recognizable white headphones. We all asked what was this new object that could play all your music but have no moving parts. No more cassette tapes getting twisted and broken (please any young-uns who do not know what a cassette is please ask you parents or maybe even your grandparents…jeez I’m getting

old!) No more CD Walkmans which if you shook them the CD would jump and skip and of course always get scratched. I was even one of the few who actually went out and bought a mini-disc a new form of music player which wasn’t as easy to scratch in fact almost impossible and you could record on it too. But again this device didn’t and couldn’t last long as the IPod got bigger and when I say that I actually mean smaller and better and they looked great and did a great job. At the same time as the IPod was taking over the world and the poor old walkman was slowly disappearing into obscurity. en along came the Iphone which after the Ipod had taken a electrical ﬁrm who will stay nameless (Sony and their walkman) to the cleaners it was now the turn of the Nokias and Motorolas to take a beating. Because with the IPhone hitting the high streets, this really was a turning point this little phone with a touch screen changed the way all future electrical goods would be like from now Turn to page 11

Samui Gazette

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SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

OPINION

THE WALKER Des Gillet Des Gillet is a British expat and a long time resident of Lamai who seems to hate riding a motorbike and loves walking around Samui. He is also a staunch advocate of no smoking on the island.

Walking for “true charity” ON Sunday the 18th December, at 7am, Geir Salamonsen and myself will be attempting another shot at the RRW (Ring Road Walk). is will be the 4th time for both of us and as in the three previous walks, we will be each hoping to beat our previous best, although I think we will both struggle to better them. Geir's time for the 53km walk was 7 hours 14 minutes and mine was 8 hours 17 minutes and this was purely walking (or marching), it's too hot to run or jog anyway! On our previous walks, some of our friends suggested that we try to raise some money for a charity but each time I wasn't absolutely certain that I would complete the challenge but now I'm beginning to get the hang of it and even though I know I'll be absolutely exhausted by the time I reach Nathon (anti-clockwise from Lamai), I know I will have to finish because I don't want to lose face. e date we have chosen is the Sunday 18th December, a week before Christmas but if the weather is bad, we'll postpone it until the weather improves. If it's drizzling a little bit, then we will go but if there is a major storm brewing, we'll postpone it. My friend, Tom Searle, the owner of Amy Village (opposite Tesco in Lamai), is visiting his father in California and is trusting me to take care of his resort again in December and as a coincidence, Geir is staying there as a guest, so we have decided that it will be a perfect start and finish point, going anti-clockwise round the island. Graham, the owner of the "One Way" pub, has kindly offered us a "dingling carrot" ( that is Geir's phrase, mind you, he is from Norway!) when we finish, so we can get back to Amy Village, have a shower and then get a taxi ( or in my case, maybe a hearse?) and go back to the One Way pub. e charity we have chosen is

e Rotary Club of Koh Samui (ROCKS) and this year's president, Philip Parker, has kindly sent me the basic details of how the club operates. Incidentally, Philip, in spite of a knee operation 2/3 years ago, has agreed to walk the ﬁnal 10 kms with one of us, it will most likely be me because I'll be really tired by then and Geir will probably still be averaging 7 kph. I won't go into too much detail but brieﬂy Rotary is the oldest and largest service organization in the world, they never give cash to anyone but they do, however, supply goods and services, either to improve conditions in the local community or to help people help themselves. ey have two bank accounts an admin account which is funded by the members and these funds actually run the club. e 2nd is a projects accounts, where any donations or net proceeds of their fund-raising events are deposited. One hundred percent of all the monies in the projects account are used for projects and cannot be transferred to the admin account. At the end of each Rotary year (30th June) the completed accounts are independently audited and anyone with good reason can see copies. at is why I call it a "True Charity". Members of ROCKS have found that 18 temple schools on Koh Samui are unfunded by local government and they are desperately in need of computers and various IT equipment, so our aim is to collect money to try to help them. In my school days, it was books we needed but now we're in the computer age. My youth was misspent unfortunately, I was more interested in football, cycling and later, girls. I, sadly, didn't realize the vital importance of a good education, so, if we can help these youngsters on Samui, in some way, it won't

be a bad thing and perhaps help some of them towards better career opportunities than just laborers or bargirls? is would appear to be my sort of charity, unlike some people who go around collecting in little charity boxes, pretending to be collecting for worthy causes, such as hospitals, schools, Samui Rescue and temples etc.? I may sound a little cynical but there is no reason why some of these people (not all) could be transferring some of the cash into their own pockets. After discussions with Philip Parker, we have decided that the only "squeaky clean" way to collect donations is via direct transfer by ATM or over the counter from any bank into the Rotary Projects account. e details are as follows: SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK, LAMAI. A/C. NO : 809-2-048020 PAYEE : "ROTARY CLUB OF KOH SAMUI PROJECTS"

If you would like to help, you could kindly advise me of the amount you intend to sponsor and upon completion take your donation to any bank and give them these details and they will forward the money on to the Rotary Club. One man who has really spurred me on is ROBERT PESTELLO, the sales director of the BEACH REPUBLIC, when he was introduced to me a couple of weeks ago, he was so enthusiastic when a friend told him about our past achievements, that he invited me to a delightful dinner at his resort. He came up with so many ideas that my mind was whirling, he talked about getting TV coverage, getting people to walk and talk with us for a short distance, in return for a contribution to our charity. He is a marketing man and I am a walker.

Letter to the Editor Send letters to editor@thesamuigazette.com or 124/524 Moo 3 Lamai Centre Unit 6 1/2, Lamai Beach Road, Koh Samui Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

Cricket for expats? I hope you don't mind this unsolicited enquiry. I am a UK lawyer and have just started working in Samui. I have a couple of questions regarding cricket on the island and wondered if you or someone you might know could help. e ﬁrst question is do you know if cricket is played on the island or is there an organisation that I can contact? If not, is there any scope for establishing a cricket league of some sort? Any feedback you can give me would be very useful. anks and kind regards, Chris Neale, ckingsleyneale@yahoo.co.uk

Rambles on . . . From Page 10

now on. It really is a groundbreaking amazing gadget. Now almost every brand of mobile phone looks more and more like the Iphone. As I write this the latest edition of the IPhone 4S is hitting the streets and the even newer one the highly awaited IPhone 5 will be coming soon. But just go back a little and as the IPhone was taking over the world Steve Jobs came out with the next Apple item that everbody would want and that was of course the IPad which is what I am writing on right now. is Ipad is already into its second version which is the one I have and Steve Apple Jobs done it again.

is has now changed how all future laptops will be like and as they are called now Slates or Tablets. Another amazing big boy toy but also the way ahead for us all. Now he has left this earth I wonder what else was in his mind and I want to see what will be the next step. Holographic screens or 3d virtual reality who knows. Well I for one must say a big thank you to Mr. Jobs and to his visionary ideas. He will be missed by millions and I bet were ever he is now he has got the most up to date Apple item, probably Ipad 10 or some new item I can only dream of. Goodbye Steve Jobs and thank you very much.

It may well be that with the

helpers, two or three people on mountain bikes, who are prepared to accompany us from Tesco Lotus, Chaweng onwards, fetching water, electrolyte, fruit, chocolate, etc., generally encouraging us on and allowing us to continue, non-stop. If anyone on the route wants to put a pre-arranged bank draft (or cash if you feel as though you can trust us) in our hands, that would be much appreciated, here is our "planned" time table:

correct funding and marketing effort this could become an annual sponsored event, similar to the recently held Samui Marathon, with Rotary projects Samui as beneficiary. I would love to see more people having a bash at this tough challenge and hopefully adding to our sponsorship efforts, come on you ladies and gentlemen, I just know that there are many of you out there who are reasonably fit, who would like to try it but are afraid of the disappointment of possibly not finishing. Don't let that fear stop you from trying. at same fear stopped me from doing it for charity in the three previous attempts but now I feel confident and Geir tells me that he's been training well in Norway. We are also looking for

7AM : AMY VILLAGE, LAMAI 8.30AM : LOTUS, CHAWENG NOON : LOTUS, NATHON 3PM : AMY VILLAGE, LAMAI Come out and support us for a good cause.

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Good English level, outgoing & positive personality. Have own transport, Good computer knowledge. Base Salary of 12,000 THB, and very exciting commission & bonus structure. Contact us: 088 530 2828 or 088 530 2929 Email CV to samui@thailandpooltables.com

IINTERNET CAFE Small investment, low risk! Fully fitted coffeeshop and internet , good location, 2 bedrooms, 1 year left on the contract, low rent, good opportunity to start your own business. 0862680548 LOOKING TO SELL YOUR BUSINESS? We place your business on a global market place via the internet. We take the photos, write the ads and market to pre-qualified clientele. See immediate results. Call 089 589 3907

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FEATURES

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 -Nov. 10, 2011

Sleep tips for children and infants SLEEP is vital for children’s overall health and development. at’s why it’s important that children develop good sleep habits, right from the start. “Parents of infants need to know how to help their baby safely fall asleep,” says Robert W. Block, MD, FAAP, of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “And older children will beneﬁt from an environment that helps them get enough sleep.” Here are some tips for safe and adequate sleep from the experts at the AAP: Safer sleep Babies up to 1 year of age should always be placed on their backs on a ﬁrm surface to sleep. is will reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS, which is the leading cause of death in the United States for babies between 1 month and 1 year old.

“Do not allow a TV in your child’s bedroom, and make sure he or she doesn’t watch or read anything upsetting or scary within two hours of bedtime. Instead, a bath, warm drink or story time will help a child unwind.“ “While we don’t know what causes SIDS, we have learned how parents can dramatically lower the risks,” says Dr. Block. Make sure the crib, bassinet or play yard meets current safety standards and hasn’t been recalled. And make sure to keep all objects -- including soft toys, blankets and crib bumpers -- out of the crib, as they can increase the risk of suﬀocation or strangulation. Consider using a sleeper instead blankets, and make sure the baby’s head remains uncovered. e crib can be in the same

room as you sleep, but do not place the baby in the same bed as you. Also, keep the baby away from smoke and smokers. Warm, Not Hot Keep the room where your baby sleeps at a comfortable temperature. In general, dress your baby in no more than one extra layer than you would wear. Your baby may be too hot if she is sweating or if her chest feels hot. You may offer a pacifier, which can help reduce the risk of SIDS. However, other products like wedges, positioners, special mattresses and specialized sleep surfaces have not been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS. If you are breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is going well before offering a pacifier, usually around 3 to 4 weeks. Children should be taken out of a crib by the time they are 35 inches tall. Establish routines If your child or teen seems to be having trouble sleeping, try altering the environment or establishing a routine. For example, see if your child sleeps better in a dark room or with a night light. Do not allow a TV in your child’s bedroom, and make sure he or she doesn’t watch or read anything upsetting or scary within two hours of bedtime. Instead, a bath, warm drink or story time will help a child unwind. For more tips to help your young one get a good night’s sleep, visit the AAP’s website for parents, www.healthychildren.org. If sleeping problems persist, consult your pediatrician. Even sleepers with the toughest problems can learn good habits. (Source: State Point Media)

Tips to save water and energy at home MORE Americans than ever before are striving to be environmentally-friendly these days. Not only does conserving water and energy help reduce our imprint on the planet, it can also ease the burden on our wallets. “Many Americans now are ﬁnding new and innovative ways to save on water and energy costs in their homes without sacriﬁcing the type of lifestyle they’re used to,” says Tom Moskitis, Executive Director of the Council for Responsible Energy. “Little changes can go a long way.” Here are some easy tips to help you save water and energy at home: • Wash full loads. When it comes to dishes and laundry, wait until you have a full load before running the appliance. And use cold water for laundry and air dry dishes when you can. • Heat with natural gas. A gas water heater can heat

water up to twice as fast as an electric one. And a natural gas water heater emits up to half the carbon emissions of an electric water heater. • Go tankless. For even more eﬃciency, install a tankless water heater, which heats water on demand. A natural gas tankless water heater, near the point of use, eliminates energy loss caused by tank heaters that have unused water cooling in the tank. is can save hundreds of gallons of water over the course of a year. Plus, such tankless heaters last almost twice as long as tank water heaters. • Take low-volume showers. Replace your high-volume shower head with an aerated shower head, which uses a mix of water and air to produce a ﬂow that feels strong but can save up to 60 percent of water compared to an average shower -- reducing both your water and

energy use. • Avoid the “Phantom Load.” Appliances such as your TV, DVD player, cell phone charger, computer and other gadgets consume energy just by being plugged in. Unplug them when not in use. If that’s too cumbersome, plug them into a powerstrip that you can turn on and off with just one flick of a switch. • Fix leaks. From dripping faucets to drafty doors and windows, leaks can be a major source of energy and water waste. Being a responsible homeowner or tenant and attending to those annoying home improvements can significantly reduce your monthly water and energy bills. For more tips on saving water and energy in your home, visit www.comfortableresponsible.org. When it comes to your money and the planet, little steps can make a big difference.

YELLOW HUT PUB FOR SALE For Sale Restaurant and Pizzeria with Wood Oven, the ONLY ONE in Lamai Beach, Koh Samui Thailand. Attractive Price, for more details, CONTACT MY E-MAIL mocellincristina@gmail.com, or Facebook. PHONE 0066(0)844557528 OR RAYMOND 0066(0)878844166 THANKYOU VENDESI RISTORANTE PIZZERIA CON FORNO A LEGNA , L'UNICO A LAMAI BEACH, KOH SAMUI THAILANDIA. PREZZO INTERESSANTE, CONTATATE LA MIA E-MAIL MOCELLINCRISTINA@GMAIL.COM, O IN FACEBOOK. TELEFONO 0066(0)844557528 OR RAYMOND 0066(0)878844166 GRAZIE. РЕСТОРАН НА ПРОДАЖУ пиццерии с духовкой, только в Самуи, СамуиТаиланд. ЦЕНА интересное, МОЙ E-MAILMOCELLINCRISTINA@GMAIL.COM ИЛИ Facebook. Телефон 0066 (0) 844 557 528 0066 или

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ISLAND NEWS Upcoming Mala events...

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 -Nov. 10, 2011

WHAT’S coming up for a healthy body, healthy mind, healthy island? No pain, no pain.... What a miracle that our bodies heal from all the bumps and collisions and abuse we heap on it. Most of the time.... But there are those days when we wake up and 'suddenly' our back has given in, or we realize that perhaps that 'pain the neck' is a manifestation of an emotional stress. More often an injury is just repeated neglect or overuse of one muscle: we all spend too much time in front of our computers for example. We are lucky on Samui to have a variety of massage centres, spas and yoga centres, as well as local therapists (both ai and foreign) who can address any variety of pain, ache or stress. Share any great tips with us so that we can pass them along to others in the community. Every body is diﬀerent, and heals according to its own rhythm, but here are some ideas on how to deal with this stuﬀ a little faster: Chiropractor on Samui Paul Wilkerson is a chiropractor on Samui. He does trigger point work before any adjustment and his technical skill and strong intuition come from 30 years of 'hands-on' experience. Paul does house calls and he also has a couple of places where he can meet and treat you around the island if working at your home is not convenient. Call 082 8058195 or paul.wilkerson@me.com Vikasa, the evolution of Yoga 11.11.11.....Grand opening on

November 11 at 11am, this new yoga studio with raw food cafe will offer daily yoga classes, various healers, nutrition counselling, detox programs, as well as regular workshops and retreats by world class yoga teachers Story presentation with Tamara Watson, sound healer, writer, poet Sunday November 6 at 3.00 pm at Art Cafe, Bophut. Tamara will share from Mystics' Story: "an illustrated storybook of some of my soul etchings recorded as I breathe my way along this spontaneous destiny, that include music of water oracle cards in cut-out format."www.thecrystalheart.com (ere will be another presentation on Koh Tao Wed., Nov. 9 at 4 pm at http://www.a-lacigale.com) Paint classes Last newsletter we mentioned Nartana's paint classes to unleash your creativity. We forgot to attach the flyer. Call 0847323162 for a booking. Samui Mala Children's day – update.... Samui Mala will hand over Bt55,000 to the ISS scholarship fund tomorrow, 21 October. is money was raised with the help of volunteers and support from the community for children whose parents could not normally afford an international school education. e fund currently supports 8 Samui children who have special academic or sporting abilities. See more about the generous donors who made this day possible. Samui Greens In Lamai, Hydro Heads is a long-established hydroponic farm where you can buy your greens

fresh from the farmer. Six varieties of lettuces include Red Oak, Green Oak, Cos, Red Batavia and Butter Heads. You can also get fresh herbs including Arugula/Roquette and Italian Basil. Eight years of Approval from Provincial Agricultural Department with Food Safety and GAP certiﬁcates. Open 7 days a week between 8am-5pm. Look out for the yellow sign opposite the one way middle road out of Lamai. Nestled between two Seven Elevens.... oh just call for directions: Farm 077 424625 or call Narumon 081 4773345 PS Avocado season between end March to August, organically grown in Lamai. Mark your diary for next year! Inspiring links Samui Mala has been inspiring others! We found this online What a wonderful world... a clip to lift your spirit and celebrate the miracle of human life on our planet. Joan Halifax is a Zen Buddhist, author, anthropologist and hospice caregiver. Here she talks about compassion. For those of you who miss the lovely Becky (yes, we do!) from June's cafe and Samui Mala, please see her new website for a retreat center in Bali. And do send us any links you like to share. See our website for some you may have missed. We are trying to build community and keep you informed, not hassle you. Any feedback is welcome. Our address: www.samuimala.org Samui Mala, Koh Samui, Suratthani, ailand 84310

BEACH CLEAN UP - Students and faculty of the Samui Centre of Learning whoop it up after conducting a beach clean up near Hin Ta Hin Yai in Lamai.

Halloween party at Zico’s ZICO’S Brazilian Grill & Bar celebrates Halloween Party on 31st October 2011. Party start at 7.00 p.m. to 11.00 p.m. with a creepy welcome cocktail, unlimited meat, ﬁsh & seafood BBQ, entertainment in-

cludes Samba Dance from Brazil and Live band. Let’s enjoy the Halloween together With fun and thrills! For reservations, please call 07723-1560 or e-mail: zicos@chr.co.th

Zico’s manager, Richard (middle) with the Samba dancers from Brazil.

CERTIFICATION - Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui general manager Dominik Stamm (left) and Chatchai Ammarin, Labor Professional Officer-Samui, Suratthani Labor, Department of Labor Protection and Welfare, proudly shows off the Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting Program in hotel industry certification for the year 2011 Centara received from the Department of Labor.

LIFE

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

High blood pressure: e silent killer Rosanne Turner relocated to Koh Samui from Africa, a year ago, and is relishing the adventure. She is a trainer at Samui TEFL, as well as being a travel writer for several international publications. Share Rosanne’s discoveries of all things Eastern, curious and extraordinary.

Dining on Samui THAI food is one of the most popular international cuisines. Any major city will have its fair share of ai restaurants. ese eateries, some of them quite excellent, generally serve toned-down versions of the ai food we know. Your average westerner not residing in ailand, cannot handle true ai food with its extreme flavors and intense burn. Visitors or new expats arriving on Samui, start out insisting that they will only eat ai food while in ailand, after all, it is their favorite back home. is is when the surprise kicks in. Firstly, the gloves come off, as restaurants serve authentic super spicy or ‘maak maak pet’ Southern ai or Isaan food. Farangs accustomed to ordering it ‘hot’ back home, now realise that the scale of heat vastly differs, and here ‘niknoi pet’ should apply. It’s rather amusing to watch a Western guy sitting in a roadside restaurant, trying to impress his new ai love, and ordering his curry extra spicy. e chef chuckles to himself, and gives him what he asks for, with a smug look on his face as the waiter delivers the fiery plate. Now the farang in question is trying so hard to impress, that he devours the entire plate, beads of sweat dripping from his brow, and countless bottles of water consumed in an attempt to put out the fire. ‘Aroi Maak Maak’, he says, with a grimace that is hard to disguise with a smile, but you can see he is suffering. e other aspect that is different from ai restaurants in ailand, and those westernised versions back home, is that here, the menu descriptions are hit and miss, either only written in ai at roadside cafes, possibly with pictures that don’t resemble the dish that arrives at all, or a rather strange English version. New farangs used to ordering their old favourites back home, with clear descriptions, decide to venture further than green curry or pad thai - after all, they now live here, and as the saying goes... when in Rome... is adventure often leads to a nasty surprise, usually involving something fermented and odd smelling. After one has been here a while, our palates change, and like any addiction, the spice is never enough and we become accustomed to the chilli. After a few months, blisters no longer appear on our lips after a good bowl of green curry, and we find ourselves adding chilli to everything. Something hard to admit to our friends back home, after adamantly insisting on only eating like a local on first arriving , is that some days, we just don’t feel like ai food. Luckily, with so many expats from all over the world opening restaurants on Samui, we have endless options of authentic cuisine, be it a good Italian pasta or pizza from Cafe Cucina or Antica Loconda, or a steak from Bamboo, e Shack or Zico’s, or some good French bread and cheese. South Africans feeling homesick can even get a ‘boerewors roll’ or ‘bunny chow’ from the Reef Restaurant in Lamai. Endless delis and the newly expanded Makro offer every western ingredient available, sometimes at a price, but nevertheless. One good western meal is all it usually takes to satisfy the palate for Turn to page 17

ARTERIES are blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Veins, on the other hand, carry the de-oxygenated blood from the rest of the body to the heart. e arteries themselves when healthy are smooth and flexible; this insures blood flow is unobstructed. is flow puts pressure on the elastic arterial wall. e measurement of this force is what is known as blood pressure. e pressure is not recoded as a single number, but as two, double figure digits. e higher number is known as the systolic pressure. is records the pressure in inches of Mercury when the heart beats and sends blood forcibly to the arterial wall. e lower number is known as the diastolic pressure. is is the pressure exerted in the space between the heartbeats. is is the resting phase and thus registers the relaxing pressure. A normal blood pressure would be 120/80. Higher readings such as 135/86 indicate a

warning that something might not be quite right and deserves further attention. A one off reading is seldom to be trusted as blood pressure can fluctuate. For a more accurate picture, readings need to be taken over a few days to show a more precise trend. If the blood pressure is drifting off to the high side, then remedial steps need to be taken. High blood pressure can damage the arterial and venous system and this puts the individual at increased risk of stroke, kidney failure, and heart disease and can sometimes predict a heart attack. e alarming fact is that high blood pressure is rarely discernible, and that’s why it is referred to as “the silent killer.” As a safety precaution it is necessary to have the numbers verified on a regular basis. You can do this by going for check-ups with your doctor or health care professional and to make matters even easier many pharmacies now offer blood pressure testing as an over the counter service. If you find that your blood pressure is on the high side, say 150/90 then you need to make some positive changes and you need to make them quickly! If you are a smoker, stop a.s.a.p.

Chemicals in tobacco, and there are over 600 of them can raise blood pressure. When you inhale cigarette smoke you adrenal glands get a huge kick. is shifts you into “flight or fight mode”. In sympathetic dominance your blood pressure automatically rises. Another factor is being overweight, as this has a tendency to increase blood pressure. If you are carrying a few extra kilos introduce a healthy eating program and start an exercise regime. Begin easily, and if you are very heavy seek advice so you don’t overdo things! In any case a regular brisk walk is probably good for everybody. Another sign is “ormentum fat”, namely a spreading waistline which often becomes an unsightly beer belly. If weight piles on easily and becomes difficult to shift there is an indication you might well have a blood sugar issue. is condition is known as metabolic syndrome and warns you that insulin is beginning to lose the ability to enter cells and scoop up glucose. Alcohol is a sugar and can often lie at the root of this condition. If you find yourself experiencing some of these symptoms coupled with irritability and mood swings, go and have you blood sugar levels checked. A fall off in the production of insulin will see blood sugar levels rising and with them an increase in blood pressure. Don’t despair all of this can be addressed by altering the diet and introducing a regular exercise e regime. Oh, and it might be a good idea to reduce alcohol consumption! Another blood pressure increaser is stress. Again the story goes back to the “flight and fight syndrome”, If we are either angry or afraid there is an adrenal response that puts out bodies in a perceived better state to deal with the increased stress, just like smoking this will result in increased blood pressure. If you find yourself getting increasingly wound up by the vagaries of life, then that is a good indication you are negatively stressed. It also warns you that the time has come to do something about the problem. ere are many people qualified to help you discover techniques to bring the stress levels down. Yoga, meditation, bio-feedback, are some answers, but so are a host of therapies designed to root out the cause and bring you back on an even keel. Health Ambit Consultancy is very happy to offer advice to achieve this end, use the website to get in touch.

HEALTH

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

THE FLYING DOCTOR Dr. Chris Hertzog Tigers in Samui IT is not an always a well known fact, but there are several tigers on Samui, but you will not ﬁnd them roaming the roads, or in the jungle! ey are to be found down near the Butterﬂy Farm, at the southernmost tip of the Island, next to an exotic resort there, together with a host of really up-market villas overlooking the sea, most with their own inviting swimming pools! Nearby, are the tigers, kept in large pens, and very well looked after. e Head keeper is extremely experienced, and only once was caught unawares during a demonstration on the Mainland, at Sri Racha, and still bears the scars to prove it. However, there is always at least one hand-reared and docile tigress there, sometimes with a young cub, and they can be stroked, cuddled, and have a photograph taken inside the cage with them. Just beware of tickling her under the chin - she doesn't like it! is raises the age-old question! Should tigers ever be domesticated, so you can stroke them? e answer is 'no', but then there is the caveat, that they

“ is raises the age-old question! Should tigers ever be domesticated, so you can stroke them? e answer is 'no', but then there is the caveat, that they NEVER are really domesticated. ey can always turn, as happened in Sri Racha, and of course, more famously, at the tiger show in Las Vegas, which was stopped immediately after the accident. ey are wild animals, and always will be. ey can never be totally relied upon, however much hand rearing has gone on.“ NEVER are really domesticated. ey can always turn, as happened in Sri Racha, and of course, more famously, at the tiger show in Las Vegas, which was stopped immediately after the accident. ey are wild animals, and always will be.

ey can never be totally relied upon, however much hand rearing has gone on. Most people in the world, do not realize, that under a bizarre law in the USA, relating to the keeping of wild animals in back yards of more than 15 acres, there are more tigers kept in backyards in Texas, than there are in the whole of the rest of the world put together! Usually they are totally safe, but sometimes once a year, there is one fatal accident, which gets reported in the press. In England, on the Isle of Wight, a small Island just oﬀ the South Coast, about the same size of Samui, there is a tiger sanctuary, housing more tigers than anywhere else in Britain. e new owner, Charlotte Corney, who has taken over after her parents retired, used to take two young tiger cubs, and swim with them in the nearby sea, astonishing many passers-by, let alone any fellow swimmers in the sea, or walking along the beach at the time! ey are kept in large, very secure cages, with lots of room, but although Charlotte does still talk to them and play with them through the security wire, she is the ﬁrst to admit that they trust her, but she would not trust them , despite almost daily contact over the last 14 years or so! I personally feel the debate is valueless. Of course tigers should be free in the wild, and the hopes are that the new Bhutan link in the tiger trail over the Himalayas, will prove to be invaluable, but the sad truth is, that tigers are losing their habitat the world over. Regrettably, they will always be worth more dead than alive, and are one of the few animals, where every single part of their body, is worth a lot of money, so they will always be exploited. However, I would rather know that these fabulous animals could still thrive, even if they are in Texas, and could never be released back into the wild. Far better a world with tigers, than without!

Is modern technology hurting your eyes? A WORLD full of personal computers, hand-held video games, smartphones and e-readers is increasing the risk of eye-related problems in many Americans. is isn’t surprising, as children and teenagers are now spending 7.5 hours a day consuming electronic media, according to a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain, is an increasingly common medical ailment and can affect learning and work productivity. It is now the number one computer-related complaint in the United States -- ahead of carpal-tunnel syndrome. “e eyes function best when looking at something about 20 feet away. Looking at something close-up, like a computer game, text message or e-reader requires more focus, and over time, can lead to blurry vision, eye strain and headaches,” explains Dr. Leanne Liddicoat, a VSP optometrist in California. And VSP Vision Care, the largest notfor-profit eyecare benefits providers in

the United States, recently reported that nearly one-third of VSP patients suffer from symptoms of computer vision syndrome. However, there are easy steps parents and children can take to prevent these symptoms: • Get the right lighting. Keep bright lighting overhead to a minimum. Position your computer screen in a way that reduces reflections and glare from windows or overhead lights. • Stay back. e closer the eyes are to an object they’re looking at, the harder they have to work. A good rule is to apply the Harmon Distance (the distance between the elbow and first knuckle) when viewing anything on screen. If you or your children are holding digital devices closer than a Harmon Distance on a consistent basis, consult your eyecare provider. • Apply the 20/20/20 rule. To avoid fatigue and digital eye strain symptoms, eye doctors recommend stopping every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Also, re-

member to blink frequently. • Monitor usage. Set time limits on the amount of “screen time” you and your children will have each day. For children over 2 years, limit screen time to less than two hours per day when possible. If older children need to use the computer and e-readers for homework, make sure they ﬁrst give their eyes a rest after school by playing outside or engaging in other non-digital activities. Children under 2 years should have no screen time. • Get checked. It's important you have the best vision possible when using digital devices. is starts with a comprehensive examination by an eye doctor, who may prescribe corrective lenses or glasses specially designed for digital screens. To ﬁnd an eyecare specialist near you, or to learn more about combating computer vision syndrome, visit www.vsp.com. As our reliance on digital devices increases, we must be mindful of our usage and take steps to relax and refresh our eyes to reduce eye strain.

17 Ways to help lower cholesterol for heart health CARDIOVASCULAR disease is

the leading killer of Americans, aﬀecting one in three people, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). And, the problem may be getting worse, as a new study from the AHA predicts that those who have heart disease are expected to increase to more than 40 percent of Americans by 2030.

“One of the major risk factors for heart disease is high cholesterol, which may be lowered by eating a heart-healthy diet and exercising.” is prediction doesn’t have to be reality. One of the major risk factors for heart disease is high cholesterol, which may be lowered by eating a heart-healthy diet and exercising. “Heart disease runs in my family so I understand first-hand the role that genetics play in cholesterol and overall health. But maintaining a heart healthy diet and choosing foods that may actively help lower cholesterol are the simplest, most effective things people can do for heart health,” says Dr. Travis Stork, ER physician and co-host of the TV show “e Doctors.” To help educate people on easy ways to reduce cholesterol, Dr. Stork has teamed up with Cheerios to share helpful tips. Food Choices Are Key Because heart health risks can be modified by diet, eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol is important. And, the soluble fiber in oats, known as beta glucan, has been shown to help lower cholesterol. Beta glucan is found in familiar foods such as Cheerios cereal and

oatmeal, and helps rid the body of some LDL or “bad” cholesterol. It acts like a sponge in the digestive tract to soak up cholesterol, helping to naturally remove it from the body. To garner benefits from beta glucan, it is recommended that you eat three grams of soluble fiber daily from whole grain oat foods, such as Cheerios which has one gram per serving. Eaten as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, this may reduce the risk of heart disease. Other foods that may actively help lower heart disease risk include certain fish, such as salmon and tuna, that are high in a “good fat.” And foods containing at least 0.65 grams per serving of plant sterol esters, eaten twice a day with meals for a daily total intake of at least 1.3 grams, also may reduce the risk of heart disease when eaten as part of a hearthealthy diet. “When doctors tell patients they have high cholesterol, they often receive information about the things they cannot or should not eat,” says Susan J. Crockett, PhD, RD, FADA and leader of the General Mills Bell Institute. “We think it’s important to empower people with the simple things they can do that may help lower their cholesterol.” With this in mind, the company is donating $200,000 to WomenHeart, the nation’s only patient centered organization dedicated to educating women about living a heart healthy life (www.womenheart.org). For more on how Cheerios may help lower cholesterol, visit Cheerios.com. A few simple lifestyle changes, such as becoming more active and making smarter food choices, may help improve your heart health. (State Point Media)

Dining on Samui... From Page 16 something other than ai, and then the taste buds start calling out again for the chillies and exotic tastes of Asia. Some of our best meals have been at simple nondescript ai restaurants or noodle bars that tourists would seldom venture in to, and at a

fraction of the price of the fancier establishments. Granted, these places have limited English, so one either needs to know the names of the ai dishes, or be prepared to take a gamble. All a part of the big adventure... so where are we going for lunch?

TRAVEL

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Koh Existence By PERCI ROXAS

Koh Tao – despite its increasing popularity as a premier dive site –has retained its alluring unspoiled beauty conducive to holidays away from the hordes. THE noonday sun was beginning to scorch when our speedboat left Koh Phangan for Koh Tao. Its harsh rays kept most of passengers in the main deck, but my kids and I preferred to stay outside wanting to enjoy the bright day, the exhilarating sea breeze, and the view of the open blue during the entire trip, which took almost an hour. is wasn’t my first time to visit Koh Tao but this was the first time I have brought my children with me. Koh Tao wasn’t the popular diving and beach island that it is today when I first visited it a few years ago. ere were already boat transfers from the nearby island Koh Samui then, but they weren’t anything like the sophisticated high-speed ferries or private luxury speedboats that one can easily rent at the Bophut Marina these days. It’s really a far cry from those days, when a boat could run out of fuel in the middle of the sea, as it happened to me once. On the way back to Samui, the boat had to stay adrift in the middle of the restless ocean for an hour or so waiting for a rescue boat to bring us fuel. Of course that incident didn’t stop me from returning to Koh Tao every now and then . And with Koh Tao becoming and more holidayfriendly than ever (with bigger, faster, safer boats now the norm to access the island), I really don’t think incidents like that can ever happen again these days. So I’m back to Koh Tao again, and this time with my children in tow. Now I’m neither a keen scuba diver nor the kind who seeks to hermit it out along some isolated beach place. But I love the sea, and I could spend a whole day by the beach with only a cold San Mig and a “whodunit” book in hand, although I still prefer to be in someone else’s company when I travel. If you ask me, travel is best shared; and especially when you’re going to a place as paradisiacal as Koh Tao. While the island is quite popular these days, thanks to the first backpackers who have “discovered” the island in the 80s, Koh Tao used to be a remote, uninhabited island with an area just about 21 sq km near the western shore of the Gulf of ailand. Named “Turtle Island” by the first settlers because of its shape (turtle-like), it was first used as a political prison in 1933, and even now when the fortunes have changed, it remains a less populated area probably because of its distance from the ai mainland. Koh Tao is about two hours and a half even if you’re coming from Koh Samui. e island gained fame as a diving site in 1990s, and since then tourism has become the main source of livelihood. Today, the entire island depends almost exclusively on tourism, as travelers –lured by the

white sand beaches, isolated snorkeling sites, and the fantastic scuba diving opportunities in the surrounding seas – continue to come in droves. Even though the island is still far less developed tourism-wise than say, Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, its transformation has been without halt. I remember a previous visit at Baan Mae Haad pier when it was not yet crowded with ferry boats, and there were yet very few constructions around. Now, the beach seems to have become smaller although that’s probably just my impression. I can still vividly remember that snorkeling area on Chaloke Baan Kao: ere were only a few huts, and a lone wooden restaurant on top of the hill, which you must climb from the shore through a series of boulders, the only resting place in the area after a long boat trip. On the way to this area then, you see nothing but lonely granite rocks and boulders, and occasional green patches of wild grasses, trees and bushes. On my most recent visit – in July this year – I hardly recognized Koh Tao. Our boat circled the entire island before landing, and I was just amazed at the obvious signs of developments. Demand has resulted in the proliferation of resorts –only 150 in 2005, said a friend of mine –

and while most of them are still bungalow-type, the trend has been moving toward high-end comforts since 2007. From the boat, these developments stare you in the face; and you see them everywhere you go: on the beaches, by the boulders, on the hills and mountaintops – just everywhere. Sairee on the west coast, the most popular place for tourists, has become more crowded than it used to be although its’ still an amazing beach. Here is a sandy white beach of 1.7km interrupted only by a few large boulders and a scattering of medium budget resorts and restaurants. In fact, going inside, a community has grown and there are nice resorts and restaurants on the foothills for those whose search of peace and tranquility also equates with enjoying some required tourist comforts. Free Wi-Fi access is now everywhere along with trendy restaurants with chic designs and modern fusion menus. Fortunately, Koh Tao is so fairly remote that the hordes of tourists descending there for a holiday are still kept at bay to some extent. Even as the island has acquired that “ultra chic scene with an independent vibe( to borrow a phrase),” which makes it very attractive to many visitors particularly those mid-20s backpackers, it has retained much of its aura

conducive to holiday of fun with place of serenity. Not surprisingly, those ho have seen the island a few years ago – like me – are bringing their families to the island today, hoping they too would experience the same pleasures they have derived from their own experiences. Koh Tao’s reputation for scuba diving and snorkeling has grown in leaps and bounds, and deservedly so, but hiking, rock climbing, bouldering, and many other activities should not be ignored as well. It is also becoming a mecca for game fishermen on a budget, and on any given day, one’s efforts might be rewarded by catching a variety of species living in the surrounding waters: marlins, sailfishes, king mackerel, cobia, barracuda, trevally, snapper, and many others. Perhaps the great thing about Koh Tao – as is with other great destinations – is that it lends itself so readily to the “ to each his own” philosophy. us, while my son thinks fishing is “kinda lame” (kids you know), he didn’t try to prevent me from enjoying it. As for me, I gave him the green light to do as he please as long as he abides by certain rules and norms of conduct: and that includes respecting the local customs and traditions, no drunk driving or diving, and no full Turn to Page 19

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

ISLAND NEWS

How to protect yourself from financial scams NO matter how much money you have, your financial accounts and investments need protection. According to the FBI, Americans currently lose approximately $40 billion annually to financial investment fraud. Most Americans rely solely on the government and their banks to enforce investor safety, but many experts caution this isn’t enough and that people need to get actively involved in protecting themselves. Even with strengthened financial protection laws in place, the ability for the government to police the scope of undue profiteering and theft is limited. “Rather than being victimized first and seeking recourse later, protect your nest egg now,” says Pat Huddleston, author “e Vigilant Investor: A Former SEC Enforcer Reveals How to Fraud-Proof Your Investments,” published by AMACOM Books. “Vigilance means acknowledging that anyone is vulnerable to being tricked, regardless of education, intelligence, and experience.” You may think you can

spot a scam a mile away, but the best ones don’t look like scams or sound completely trustworthy.

Experienced fraudsters typically provide their victims with credible looking proof of returns. Some scams will go so far as to employ fully-staﬀed

phone banks and websites. Every investor should be on the alert for red ﬂags like these, says Huddleston, who is also CEO of Investor’s Watchdog, a group that conducts fraud investigations. • Name-dropping. Scam artists often wield the power of their supposed celebrity clients to impress the gullible. • e takeaway pitch.

smiles from the itinerant food vendors that you meet along the way, the strong rich ﬂavor of food(ai, in this case, especially at the chic Darawan Restaurant), among the many simple facets of life that we often take for granted or ignore in the big cities – these are enough rewards for a tiring day. And in the evening we would just sit together in our beloved balcony (Koh Tao Resort Paradise Zone) staring at the endless kaleidoscope of the blue ocean while sipping Mai ai or having a soothing foot massage. We also had fun snorkeling together, and I never thought it could be that amazing. Koh Tao is probably home to some of the most beautiful coral species in the region, and seeing them again in the natural state, as well as the colorful ﬁsh life that thrives in the water – that’s simply astounding. And while scuba diving will remain a dream for me, it was not so for my son – who took every opportunity to learn from local dive masters at Bandiving

Resort. He must be thinking of doing the Tubbathaha Reef soon. Koh Tao, by the way, is one of the best places to get inexpensive scuba certiﬁcation, and once you are ready, to be rewarded with the pleasures of enjoying the richness and beauty of an underwater paradise, and sites like the Chumpon Pinnacle. Whale sharks, Minke whales, pilot whales, and Bruda whales have been spotted around Koh Tao during lucky months - and divers attest on how a joy they are to behold. While the peak seasons for diving tend to be around March and April and again from June to September, when visibility can reach up to 30 meters, diving is possible year-round. For those not into diving, there are other alternatives to bring out the adventurous in you, maybe even make you realize what you have in you, like they did to my daughter who ﬁrst signed up for Muay ai lesson and later joined a volunteer group at a local school.

“You may think you can spot a scam a mile away, but the best ones don’t look like scams or sound completely trustworthy. “

Koh Existence . . . From Page 18 Fortunately, my son, loves doing things with his family, so there’s really no cause to worry there. So while on Koh Tao, we enjoyed the simple pleasures together, like waking up very early before sunrise to stroll on the beach, taking some snapshots of interesting subjects, doing some exercise – many resorts have early morning activities such as kayaking, or yoga; and sharing a hearty buﬀet breakfast before exploring the island and its environs, including the nearby Koh Nangyuan (which you must include in your itinerary). Hiking is a great way to see out of the way places, and we did lots of it. We even tried getting on top of the boulders, which was thoroughly exciting. Making it on top feels like a victory; in a way, like climbing your own Mount Everest. My son and daughter also had the time of their life seeing more of the local touch on a mountain bike. e raw tropical ﬂora, the

“Available for a limited time only!” is scammer’s ploy of taking away your opportunity taps into the natural human aversion to loss. • Living extra-large. If your investment adviser spends money like a trust fund baby on a weekend shopping bender, he is spending your money, not In the five days that we have stayed on Koh Tao, my children and I have tried to enjoy the most of the active outdoors, and had we have more time, we would probably have gone into other more daring and extreme sport pursuits, like cliffhanging, or kayak races. Oh, by the way, it’s the same “different strokes for different folks” kind of thing even in the choices of accommodation. Price now varies much depending on the properties you want to stay on. But you can still get - if you’re single and alone – bamboo huts for around Bt150 to Bt200; or go into those that are priced at just Bt450-Bt600 (standard fan/ bungalows) if those priced at Bt2000 up are too much for you. While majority of hotels and resorts are on Sairee, Mae Haad and Chaloke Baan Kao beaches , you can stay in the more remote areas of Hin Wong, Lighthouse Bay or Tanote Bay (reachable by boat). ere are three sample resorts with no luxury on Au Lek for those who want to rough it up. For those into diving, you might want to settle at Haad Sai

his own. • Evading transparency. If the adviser resists your requests for transparency, take your money and run. • Vague credentials. Verify your investment salesperson’s background independently using resources like the National Student Clearinghouse. • An appeal to faith. Fraud aimed at religious groups is so virulent and effective that the only safe course is to say no even to a subtle appeal to your faith. Be especially on guard if you have elderly parents. ose aged 60 years or older are disproportionately targeted. More tips on protecting your nest egg from unscrupulous fraudsters can be found in Huddleston’s book and by visiting www.thevigilantinvestor.co m. (State Point Media) Daeng Beach, with its excellent beach diving and views. is place is a great springboard for dive trips to Shark Island too. We surveyed those areas for a possible return trip next year. It’s very easy to dismiss Koh Tao as just another small paradise island, which ailand has lots of, but the longer you stay on this island, the more you want to stay longer. ere’s a quiet dignity in the way people here conduct their lives, there’s a vibrant energy from the tropical surroundings that gets to you and makes you want to be part of it. ere’s so much to learn, to discover, to explore, and to enjoy in Koh Tao. Within its small size, within its limited capacity, and its remote location – you realize that the real joys of life, indeed, lie in their utter simplicity. Yes, we are deﬁnitely returning to Koh Tao soon. I will probably still feel like, a ﬁrst-timer then, as I am wont to feel everywhere I go, but that’s just my own way of making my travels eternally wonderful, fresh, new, and exciting.

SPORTS

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

JOHNNY GREENWOOD’S League of Gentlemen updates

Sambora Cup Semi Finals THE draw for the semi finals brought a few gasps with the two top teams of the league being drawn together. Semi final number 1 was Tams Bar vs e Bamboo Bar, semi final number 2 M&Ms Bar vs e Samui Rock Café. is being the Sambora Cup and the format of scotch doubles so it really is anybody’s game to win. is was shown as M&M captain paired his best two players T-Bone and Ting Tong Chris against Colin and Mike and e Samui Rock Café pair won the opening frame with some great shots. en this battle of the bulge (looking at the size of some of the players in these two teams) plodded along at an extremely slow pace. is was obviously down to both teams wanted to win. When Robbie of M&M fame potted the black to make it 3-3 all watching realized this was going to be a long night. Robbie was involved again to

make the score 5-3 and it looked like this could be the turning point of the match. But again the SRC came back with the partnerships of Ian and Colin and Keow and Mike both winning their frames and when Chai potted another black to bring the score level at 8 frames a piece. So now it was again anybody’s match to win. . But Captain Todd lead his team with a few good pots of his own and Classy Carl was there to push M&M over the winning line and into the first ever League of Gentlemen Cup Final. e final score M&M 11-8 e Samui Rock Café. e other semi final was touted as a should be final but that’s why the draws are made and the Bamboo Bar team which included H, Yak, Dave, Richard and Paul couldn’t stop the Tam charge which was led by the far too good looking Stell (that’s what all the girls tell me, and a few boys watch out Stell!) and were soon in a bad

Tam’s Paul is all set to ran out the table here during their recent game against Bamboo Bar. Paul’s and his team mates’ excellent performance this season has kept them on top of the league. bad way as it was 4-0 to Tam’s e league leaders Tam’s were the night but we don’t mind Bar. Tams team captain Mark soon in an almost unstoppable being beaten by the better team praised his whole team which also position of 8-1. and we wish them the best in the had playing for them Timmy and But as we have seen before final.” EBFS League of Gentlemen Tony who both were on top of teams can make comebacks and their game. try as they can the cup run would Midweek saw a postponed game played with Nangrak vs Lords. e Bamboo boys could not soon be over and the final score As usual Lords Andy played find the right gear and I don’t was Tam’s Bar 11-4 Bamboo Bar. first and won his game and when mean their long trousers and tank Bamboo’s George said “We were tops. just outplayed and outclassed on Turn to Page 24

SPORTS

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

AWESOME BARBS!

Division 2 leader putting themselves beyond reach By PATRICK ROXAS BARBS blasted Ostaria, 5-1, during their Week 10 encounter to solidify their hold on the top spot of Division 2 as the Tropical Murphy’s -sponsored Monday Pool League nears halfway in its 17th season. With the win, Barbs now has a total of 28 points, a clear 9 points ahead of second-running Tam’s2, who could only squeeze a draw in their separate match against Jordan’s. In the premier division, de-

League Table (Week 10) Division 1 POS 1 Tam’s Bar 2 Bamboo Bar 3 Spicy Bar 4 On's Livewire 5 Chillin Bar 6 Jack’s Bar 7 Premier Sports 10 8 Lord’s Bar 9 Aussieland 10 International Division 2 POS 1 Barbs 2 Tam’s 2 3 Tre-kronor 4 Jordan's 5 Cosmic 6 airish Bar 7 Samui Rock Cafe 8 Ostaria 9 e Hut 10 e Oﬃce Players Rankings: Pos 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Player Paul (Bamboo) Mark (Tam’s) Yak (Bamboo) Lex (Spicy) Timmy (Tam’s) Paul (Tam’s) Claus (On's) Pat (Bamboo) Dave (Bamboo) Dave (On's) Ake (Spicy) Chris (On's) C D (Chillin) Waan (Spicy) Carl (Aus) stell (Tam’s) T Bone (Aus) Kran (Premier) Mn (Spicy) Patpong (Chillin)

fending champion Bamboo Bar unleashed its ﬁne form in dealing a reinforced Spicy Bar its third loss, to grab second spot in the league table but is still ﬁve points behind league leader Tam’s Bar. Albin’s side has been showing tremendous skills on the pool table and has replaced George’s boys as the team to beat this season. Perennial championship contender On’s Livewire has been seriously missing the services of

some of its players who has left the island but can still be a dangerous team as they have shown in outclassing Premier Sports Bar, 5-1. Only a point separates them and third placer Spicy Bar and with a full half season to go, anything can still happen. Dark horse Chillin Bar showed a strong side in disposing a weakened Lord’s Bar, 5-1, to keep 5th place in the standings.

P 10 9 10 9 10 10 3 10 10 10

W 9 7 6 6 4 2 1 3 2 1

D 1 2 1 0 0 4 6 1 2 0

L 0 0 3 3 6 4 25 6 6 9

F 43 43 36 32 30 29 35 24 22 10

A 17 11 24 22 30 31 -10 36 38 50

+26 32 12 10 0 -2 10 -12 -16 -40

PTS 28 23 19 18 12 10

P 10 10 8 8 6 8 8 8 7 9

W 9 5 4 4 4 3 3 1 1 1

D 0 3 3 2 0 1 1 2 0 0

L 1 2 1 2 2 4 4 5 6 8

F 43 37 26 26 21 27 19 16 14 17

A 17 23 22 22 15 21 29 32 28 37

+26 14 4 4 6 6 -10 -16 -14 -20

PTS 27 18 15 14 12 10 10 5 3 3

Won 8 9 7 5 8 8 6 6 6 6 5 6 4 4 6 5 5 5 5 4

Lost 0 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 4 4 4 5 5 4

Team Bamboo Bar Tam’s Bar Bamboo Bar Spicy Bar Tam’s Bar Tam’s Bar On's Livewire Bamboo Bar Bamboo Bar On's Livewire Spicy Bar On's Livewire Chillin Bar Spicy Bar Aussieland Tam’s Bar Aussieland Premier Sports Spicy Bar Chillin Bar

Won (%) 100.00% 90.00% 87.50% 83.33% 80.00% 80.00% 75.00% 75.00% 75.00% 75.00% 71.43% 66.67% 66.67% 66.67% 60.00% 55.56% 55.56% 50.00% 50.00% 50.00%

10 8 3

(Source: Koh Samui Pool League website)

LAMAI POOL - Woody’s Rolo gets ready to pot the ball in their recent game against Blackout Bar in Lamai to add another frame for his team. Woody’s outscored Blackout 15-5.

Zane holds sway in Lamai AFTER eight weeks of matches, it’s Zane Bar at the top of Lamai Pool League. Zane Bar has garnered a total of 107 points so far by virtue of winning seven out of eight matches. e team has so far lost only one match and is 11 points up over the second running Hip Bar which has a total of 96 point

from six won and 2 lost matches. Extratime and Easy Bar share third place with 90 points each but Extratime can move ahead after playing a postponed match. Noticeable in this season was absence of the usual top and dominating teams, Eden and PJ’s, as both these teams have chosen to abstain from this season’s competitions.

Tropical Murphy’s pool tournament set Nov. 12 AN EIGHT-ball competition, offering a whopping Bt20,000 cash prize for the champion kicks oﬀ November 12 at the second ﬂoor of Tropical Murphy’s Pub in Chaweng. e one day competition has already attracted the attention of some of the best pool players on the island who wants to vie for the prize money as well as the dis-

tinction of being the best player on Samui. e event was organized by Tropical Murphy’s owner Paul Watson, who even purchased three brand new Brunswick tables for the event and his pool hall. ere is no entrance fee for those interested to join. For more details see the manager or call 077-413614.

Snooker legend Jimmy White during his recent exhibition at Tropical Murphy’s

FOOD & WINE

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Sareeraya takes romantic dining into a higher level Feel the love in the air in a perfect ambience under a star-studded moonlit sky with the sound of the ocean and the most beautiful candle light dinner. Sareeraya Villas & Suites introduces a romantic dining on another level. From the moment you are escorted to your private tent on the beach, you feel special and pampered. You will be welcomed with flower garlands, a glass of Kir Royal and treated to an exquisite five course menu, which showcase Chef ’s Tables inventive cuisine plus the freshest and most delicious seafood imaginable. Enjoy the evening with sumptuous cocktails, extensive beverages and selected fine wine list to keep you refreshed and feel worlds away from everyday life as

the night sky sparkles and waves crash onto the shore. Creating memories that last a lifetime, Sareeraya Villas & Suites is the perfect getaway for a romantic night out. For additional details and information please visit www.sareeraya.com or sent your inquiries to info@sareeraya.com. About Sareeraya Villas & Suites Sareeraya Villas & Suites is located on the quieter northern part of famous Chaweng beach in Koh Samui. e Oriental chic luxury resort features 49 exquisitely appointed suites and villas, which are overlooking the Gulf of Siam with amazing panoramic views. Sareeraya is a perfect location for a romantic getaway, destination wedding or executive meeting retreat.

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

FOOD & WINE

‘KARMA’ OF GREAT FEASTS Better days ahead at Karma Samui, which already delivers one of the best dining experiences on the island. By SUZANNE BUCHANAN SOME changes are afoot at Karma Samui: GM Chris has recently moved to Bali putting Alan back in the saddle; and Chef Coco, who has made a few great changes to the menu, will -- sadly for e RockPool Restaurant -- be making some life changes as he heads home to the Philippines after a very successful stint at this popular restaurant. But not all is lost with this restaurant with stunning view, delicious cuisine, a fabulous team of kitchen and waiting staﬀ, and truly delivers one of the best dining experiences on Koh Samui. Despite their sadness at Coco’s departure, F&B manager Gavin and his team are looking forward to welcoming a new chef who has had great success in Koh Samui at restaurants such as e Library and Prana Resort: Martin Selby. In the meantime, Coco’s new additions to the menu will probably remain for a while, such as clams and mussels served with white wine, tomato fondue, lemon juice, and olive oil – a dish tastes every bit as divine as it sounds; and bacon wrapped prawns cooked with a decadent addition of mozzarella cheese -which are a big hit; and the warm mackerel escabade served with tomato, rapeseed oil, vinegar, fennel, and shallots.

e tomato Keftedes (cherry tomatoes fritters with basil mayonnaise and mint leaves) are certainly worth an order, but if you are looking for something really special you would be hard pushed to beat the arancini croquets. is dish is a little taste of heaven. e beautifully cooked golden croquets are ﬁlled with a tantalizing combination of clams, mussels, mozzarella, and tomato fondue. Chef Coco has also created a delicious watermelon and feta salad. As odd as that might sound, the combination of thinly sliced watermelon that looks very similar to carpaccio, mild red chili, mint leaves, and feta drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt results in a refreshing salad with a very mild bite to it. e main menu also has a new guest, salsiccia ﬁnocchietto, a sumptuous dish that is an indulgence of grilled fresh pork and fennel sausages served with mouseline potatoes, caramelized onion, and red wine gravy. Other great choices include poached pomfret and prawn, a delicious dish served with new potatoes, red radish, baby spinach and Pernod sauce; and seared Moroccan ahi tuna served with olive salad, balsamic tapenade sauce,

and garlic aioli. A great time to enjoy these specialties and the hospitality of the RockPool team is during the 12 days of “Karma Christmas,” which starts on ursday, Dec. 22, with Parents’ Day Off -- when you can enjoy fine wining and dining while your children enjoy free entertainment in the kids’ crèche. e great news is that Koh Samui residents can enjoy considerable discounts this season, making the already very reasonable prices -- for an establishment of this standard -- even more affordable. As well as a “Christmas Day Feast” on Dec. 25, and a stunning Boxing Day spread, you can enjoy the “Karma Kings of Food” tasting menus with a “Foei Gras Extravaganza” on Dec. 27; pasta on Dec. 28; sushi on Dec. 29; and salmon on Dec. 30. Of course, New Year’s Eve is not to be missed at the RockPool. Booking in advance for the gala dinner and celebrations will guarantee you a place as well as a considerable discount. e theme of the evening is yet to be decided but we do know that there will be a superb international buffet, free-flowing beer and wines, fireworks and bubbles at midnight, and entertainment

by DJ Simon Solo and DJ Absolute. Even if you don’t book in advance you can simply turn up on the night as there is no limit on numbers. Gavin and his team are going to make New Year’s Day a little easier to face after the previous evenings indulgences with a “Bloody Mary Brunch.” is hangover heaven starts with a bloody mary cocktail to ease your sore head, and some de-

licious and nutritious festive fare to pick up your taste buds. Jan. 2 is “Resolution Detox Day” that will put you right for the New Year with healthy drinks, food, and a superb spa package. To book a table for dinner, or your space for Christmas Day or any of the other special events, visit www.karmasamui.com For more restaurant reviews and dining suggestions visit www.abracadabra-samui.com

ISLAND NEWS

SAMUI GAZETTE | Oct. 28 - Nov. 10, 2011

Sambora semis. . . From Page 20

TOP TEN REASONS WHY MOAMMAR GADDAFI NEVER CAME TO KOH SAMUI 10. Airfares to Koh Samui way too expensive--the reason most dictators always pick Phuket over Samui for their vacations. 9. Taxicab fares on the island also way too expensive---using taxis in Samui would have eaten up all the money he needed to pay bar ﬁnes.

happy to Fed Ex dinner to Tripoli--so never needed to ﬂy in. 4. One of his favorite henchmen once rented villa in south of island and said there was #@#$ nothing to do on South of island except get colonics at Kamalaya Spa----convinced Omar to cancel his upcoming Samui vacation and go to Marrakesh instead.

8. Always wanted to go to Full Moon Party but heard ai police would confiscate his solid gold gun 3. Built a Tesco Lotus supermarket in Tripoli so he could have cheap which he liked to impress girls access to Jacob's Creek Chardonwith. nay sold at Samui Tesco Lotus, 7. Heard about bargirls at Lamai's that "amazing" wine he loves from World Famous "Happy Bar" with Australia. Served Jacobs Creek to triple set of teeth---scared of their fellow tribesmen in his hometown hickeys and that Mrs. Gadhafi of Sirte so that they'd protect himwould find out due to distinctive --was only killed when Jacob's teeth bites---more scared of her Creek supply ran out and tribesthan Rebels who ultimately killed men abandoned him in sewer guthim. ter. 6. Heard about Samui rainy season floods and was scared of drowning. He never told anyone but he can't swim---hence he picked desert empire with no rain to be Dictator of for 42 years----stupidly passing over opportunity to purchase Koh Samui land in 1969 when real estate was cheap on island and they offered him opportunity to be Mayor of Samui. 5. Loved the Wagyu Beef at "e Shack Bar and Grill" but Larry the amiable restaurant owner always

2. Looked into plastic surgeons on Koh Samui to do his facelift---but scared when he saw how badly stretched out Samui plastic surgeon made Bruce Jenner when Jenner came to island and got face lift prior to ﬁrst episode of "Keeping Up with e Kardashians." 1. Scared of ai girls-knew they'd get all his money and his palaces as he was easily ﬂattered by girls telling him he was "good man with goodheart.”

when it came round to his second game he won that too to make the score 5-3 in Lord’s favor. Colin beat Jeremy to make the score 7-4 and all thought this game was now over. en Nang had a quiet word with her team and things changed instantly. To every one’s surprise Lord’s Bar did not win another frame all night and Nang’s screams of joy could once again be heard in Koh Tao. Final score Nangrak 13-7 Lord’s Bar. Just when you think a team has settled down and can really make a go of it they go and mess it up for themselves. e match I am talking about is Rik’s Bar vs M&Ms. Both these teams are having a really great season with win after win. If Rik’s Bar could win this game they would move into 5th place on their own and the M&M boys had to win all their remaining matches to keep up with the top two and hope for a slip up for them to take the title. Everyone knows that Todd and his team have the players to win this title but they are known to be their own worst enemy sometimes, and with Rik’s Bar having the best season for themselves on record they knew if they played to the best of their abilities they had a good chance as anyone to win this match. is was one hell of a match with both teams pulling punches and scoring great shots, and ever since this league was reduced from the ﬁrst to 15 because games were going on too long down to the

first to 13 there seems to have been some really long and close matches which has puzzled most observers of the game. Well this match up did not disappoint and when it came down to the wire again it wasn’t about the better team or the best table or even who had the most luck. It was down to sheer determination and who wanted it more and this time at 12 frames apiece it was the 6-foot plus frame of Rik and his team who stood victorious with a 13-12 home win. e Stop Bar vs. e Samui Rock Café: After e Samui Rock Café exit from the cup just last week you would expect them to be up for it and against the poor little Stop Bar who in this their first season in any pool league have still yet to win a single match and Chris didn’t want his team to be the first to fail at beating Stop Bar and even though the home team of Stop managed to get seven frames under their belt it was still a home loss and the Samui Rock Café came away with a well deserved 13-7 win. Top of the table Tam’s had a home game against fourth place Premier bar and even though Tam’s are atop the table they have lost two games and for them to win the title they need second placed Bamboo team to lose a game if they are going to win this league so it really is out of their hands. Tams team led by Timmy did what they had to do and gave the Premier Bar a premier spanking and came away with a 13-3 win.

FAMILIARIZATION TRIP - Mr. Hasan Faizur Rahman (5th from left, front row), tour supervisor from Kanoo Travel recently organized a press trip to Samui. During this trip, they stayed at Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui where they received a warm welcome from Mr. Christoph Albrecht – executive assistant manager (1st, front row).