Luxury Living Magazine - Issue 9 (2016)

LUXURY Living Property & Lifestyle in Asia

BEHOLD INIALA PHUKET SUPER-VILLAIN LAIRS EXPLORE KRABI SOLAR SUPERFOODS LEXUS HOVERBOARD

ART OF KATANA SIZE MATTERS: TOKYO MINI HOUSES

ISLANDS FOR SALE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA MAGICAL MISKAWAAN

LUXURY LIVING

FOR SALE

SANTI THANI VALLEY THAI TONIC

Price: THB 7,800,000 New payment concept: LEASE - PURCHASE First payment: 3,900,000 / REST UP TO 10 YEARS

LIVING AREA: 188 sqm LAND SIZE: 820 sqm 3 BEDROOMS / SWIMING POOL

Ring Road km 42.0 8/3 Moo 5, Meanam Koh Samui 84330

Tel: +66 (0) 869 869 869 sales@okproperties-samui.com Direct sale - No commission

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New modern design OXYGEN seaview condominium on Koh Samui just 500 meters away from the sea between the beaches of Chaweng and Bophut and only 15 minutes drive from the main shopping centers of the island.

FEATURES: • Just 500 meters away from the sea • Spectacular sea views • View of the Big Buddha Statue • 25 meter long swimming pool • Children’s pool • 300 sqm gym • Pilates studio • Sauna

• Hammam • SPA • Hotel Reception • 24 hour security • CCTV • WI-FI • Parking area • Fully managed

7 – 12 % RENTAL RETURN

Samui Richmond Co., Ltd. | Samui K&M Co., Ltd. Plai laem soi 6, Bo-phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320 Phone call or SMS: +66 (0)86-407-28-29 E-mail: info.oxygensamui@gmail.com Website: www.oxygen-samui.com

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09 january-march 2016

CONTENTS

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64

RENDEZVOUS

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FLOW

I Am The New Black Solar SuperFoods Abudi Alsagoff Cutting It Fine Elite Gym & Fitness

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ARTERY Lihua Art of Katana Bibo Aswan

Coverstory: Iniala Phuket Private Islands For Sale Magical Miskawaan

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PULSE

Lexus Hoverboard Bootlegger Samui Aural Pleasure

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ICON

Ultimate Supervillain Lairs Over Indulge

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HABITAT

Tokyo Mini Houses Gateway to Paradise: Krabi

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LISTED

Little Black Book

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CEO Luxury Living Antonio Doani General Manager George Willoughby

64 CONTRIBUTORS

Assistant Manager Polina Gerasimova Editorial Director Johnny McGeorge editor@luxuryliving.com

Art Director Josephine Lam Designer The Imaginician Feature Writers Stuart Langrish Jeremy Briggs Contributing Writers Ann Lim Saifuddin Ismailji Jay Emmcee Sales Director Olga Apostol

ads@luxuryliving.com

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LUXURY LIVING A d v e r t i s ing

Space

A vaila b l e

w w w . luxuryliving . c o m / M A G +66 (0) 9 900 900 18 a d s @ luxuryliving . c o m

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AZATURE : BLACK DIAMOND Nail Lacquer with 267 carat black diamond The cost of this nail polish runs to thousands of dollars, touching a whopping quarter million dollars. Why spend that much on nail paint? You may ask, but this is something that will appeal to those who are into 267 carats worth of black diamonds. All in a deluxe lacquer that is made especially by Azature. As a jewelry couturier, Azature’s portfolio has many gems but none as rich as Black Diamond. On your nails it is sure to outshine most of the jewelry that you may wear. It’s is not something that everyone, even the super rich can afford. For most people the department store version is more affordable priced at $25.

butter LONDON : UNION JACK Nail Lacquer Known for high-fashion colour and some intense pigments, butter LONDON’s high-gloss-finish, chip-resistant, DBP-free nail lacquers epitomize “wow.” And that is no different with their incredibly popular Union Jack Black nail polish. Fortified with calcium, vitamins E, A and C and Pro B5, butter like to protect nails. Plus their carcinogen-free formula contains no formaldehyde or toluene.

Bonus. This jet black nail lacquer goes on like liquid patent leather. Be warned, you may have the sudden urge to wear 6 inch stilettos and carry a riding crop.

DEBORAH LIPPMANN : FADE TO BLACK Crème Nail Lacquer Deborah Lippmann nail polish is 5-Free (DBP, Toluene, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor) and cruelty-free. Her signature glass bottle is one of the most recognizable shapes in the industry and it’s totally vanity display worthy. The curved cap was designed with professional manicurists in mind as it is shaped to rest comfortably between your fingers. The Lippmann brush is short, round and average in width with flexible bristles that easily fan out over the nail plate.

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LUXURY LIVING FLOW

dramatic nails and vampish lips are a year-round delicacy. and it’s true that black never goes out of style. no matter how timid you may be at work or home, lacquer up and line your lips in a deadly night shade and live out your deepest darkest fantasies in timeless fashion. because black...will ALWAYS be the new black.

by Ann Lim

CLINIQUE : ‘ALMOST LIPSTICK’ BLACK HONEY Lipstick While technically not black, this naughty namesake is a bonafide cult classic with legendary status. The lippie equivalent to one-size-fits-all, Clinique’s Almost Lipstick Black Honey was created as a ubiquitous shade to suit all skin tones. Impossible as that seems, Clinique nailed it - and the product has become an icon in its own right.

What’s more, the design and application have been lauded by lips across the world as one of the easiest and most efficient products to this day. Well done Clinique.

M.A.C : BLACK KNIGHT Cremesheen Lipstick Iconic and something of a collector’s item, MAC released the Black Knight matte in 2009 and the world went crazy.

Then again in 2011 Mac launched a limited Black Friday with cremesheen finish. As such this particular lippie is perfect for blending brighter shades and lowering deeper tones if you’re looking for a deep plum or unique aubergine to vamp up your lips. With the Hautecore matte making exclusive appearances for one day only, this dark soul is more a marketing gimmick than a gothic staple.

Nonetheless, MACaholics will always come back for more.

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SOLAR SUPERFOODS MAXIMISE YOUR NUTRITION AND VITALITY FROM FOODS THAT ARE FULL OF SUNLIGHT ENERGY

by IVOR FITZPATRICK

The sun is the source of all energy for life on earth. It’s radiation gives life to everything and creates the foods on the trees, bushes and ground which are concentrated sunlight. Eating foods that are grown by the sun gives our bodies solar energy.

Our body lives off this energy (electrical energy, vitamins and minerals) and gets great health benefit from eating these ‘sun charged’ foods of light and color.

Great taste should be a clue that they are very good for us mango, coconut, papaya, avocado, pineapple, cherries, figs etc. Their natural sugars providing fuel for our body which medical science affirms is what our body runs on. Fruits may be acid on the tree but when eaten they become alkaline in our body and keep our pH correct.

Nearly all fruits are morning foods and best eaten at this time.

Fruits require little digestion too. The citrus fruits wake us up and are good morning tonics. Vegetables and root foods give us good nutrition and different benefits too.

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SOLAR SCIENCE

All living organisms are calibrated to the cycle of the sun.

Food growing vegetation on our planet processes sunlight in three different phases.

When we eat our foods in harmony with these growth times we get real benefits.

meats absorb the sun’s energy through the middle of the day and are now most active at this time. When we eat these foods at lunchtime we get the most benefit of nutrition and digestion from them.

The trees absorb the first sunlight energy of the day and so eating the tree foods (papayas, bananas, apples, other fruits and nuts) in the morning harnesses their highest energy and your body will digest them better and will function more efficiently over time.

Foods that grow on or under the ground such as root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, beets etc), mushrooms, dragon fruit and pineapple fruits receive different radiation from the sun later in the day. These root foods store infrared heat radiation left behind by the sunlight and they make very good nightime foods that help us to sleep too.

Foods that grow on bushes (berries) and vines (grapes, tomatoes etc.) and a few feet above the ground (grains and some vegetables) along with

This science has been practiced for thousands of years and can be traced back to the ancient science and medicine behind Chinese acupuncture’s laws.

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BENEFITS

It is good news that this way of eating applies to all of us regardless of blood type, body type, metabolic type, or Vata, Pitta, Kapha etc.

When we eat natures foods in sync with their sun growth phases we get the benefits of better digestion which improves our health, optimises our weight and supercharges our brain power. We should experience more energy and vitality, lower stress and fewer cravings for bad foods too.

Herbs are plants that grow in

the ground too and are nature’s medicines for us. When they are combined correctly into formulas they possess additional beneficial properties. There are formulas to target each body organ system eg. liver, stomach, intestines, thyroid etc. and conditions like candida and parasites too.

A combination of natural foods like fruits and vegetables and herbs is a powerful healing program for the body and can result in significant and natural weight loss too. All round better health is the result.

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Ivor Fitzpatrick is the founder and Herbalist at the award winning herbal detox & weight loss center The Source on Koh Samui Island, Thailand which uses premium organic handmade herbal formulas created by a Master Herbalist. The herbal formulas are unique and some contain up to 100 herbs and are aged for 5 to 12 years.

There are 3 programs to choose from which do not require colonics.

Detox • Weight Loss • Ultimate Detox for 7 / 14 / 21 / 28 days.

‘Best Detox in Thailand’ - Luxury Living Awards 2015 THE SOURCE

Herbal Detox & Weight Loss Centre 179/12 Moo 4, Lamai (near Tesco Lamai) Koh Samui Island 84310, Thailand Mobile: +66 (0)89 0679 856 info@sourcesamui.com www.TheSourceSamui.com For more info about programs or a health consultation please contact The Source

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FREE AS A BIRD words by Jay Emmcee

As with any modern sport rising from the urban underground to the mainstream media, (think skateboarding, BMX et al), Parkour, freerunning and tricking alike have grown at an exponential rate, inevitably spawning high stake competitions and the promise of lucrative corporate sponsorhip deals. Borne from a basic desire for self-expression and freedom of movement in the urban environment, the parkour community have inevitably upped the ante and fine tuned the technicalities of freerunning into a truly spectacular exhibition of mental focus, creativity and human physical ability, Yet for some at the forefront of the sport, the element of competition lies not in a peer group on a purpose-built course, but in solitude, on a quest for true greatness.

And for these gifted and fearless few, the sky, as they say, is the limit.

On any normal day, high above Dubai’s ever-expanding skylscraping skyline you might catch a glimpse of 24 year old Abudi Alsagoff, scaling, dangling or quietly reflecting on having just free-climbed a 400 metre building without any safety equipment.

Crazy, yet by no means stupid, this Malaysian computer engineering graduate, entrepreneur and Red Bull sponsored athlete is in his element.

We caught up with Abudi to get the lowdown on the ins and outs of Parkour and what it takes to live as free as a bird.

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How did you start with freerunning?

I discovered Parkour in 2006 and started off training with a few of my friends in parks, playgrounds, schools, condos or shopping malls. Basically anywhere with a wall, a gap, pole or a drop can be used to train parkour. That’s the beauty of it, you’re only ever limited by your imagination. what were your first tricks? first trick was an aerial - a no-handed cartwheel. From there I became more confident to practice backflips which evolved into somersaults and beyond. The trick that took me the longest to nail is the double fulltwist. But that was a few years later by which time i’d developed a repertoire.

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Which is your favourite trick?

My favourite trick would be the butterfly twist. Essentially the aerial but with an extra spin of the body. It is a very gracious move with a lot of potential for variation and combinations.

When did you realise that you could make a career from it?

It was one gig after the other in the beginning, corporate ‘entertainment’ for events and then I started receiving a lot of offers for commercial works around 3 years after I started.

What kind of training regime do you have?

I train around 3-4 times a week and sessions generally llast between 2-4 hours. Techniques depend on where I’m training. If it’s in a gymnastics hall then I would focus a lot on my tricks, whereas on the street, prefer strength training. Push ups, pull ups and dip movements would be my best training routine for strength.along with body weighted squats or precision jumps for lower body strength.

Tell us about your company Alpha Movements Alpha Movements is a professional team of elite performers, basically my crew, who I started to organise and pimp out once we had made a name for ourselves competitively and professionally. Basically I formalised the assets to meet client demands for commercial talent. I was still a student and saw an opportunity to carve a niche doing what I loved.

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What’s the most notable structure you’ve accomplished?

I would say the Marina 101, here in Dubai.

At 426m it’s set to be the highest residential building in the world.

Craziest thing you’ve ever done?

Achieved the highest human flag in the world - at marina 101.

You recently moved to Dubai, is there a specific market for in UAE? No specific parkour market but there are some demands here for performance work and product commercials.

With all you’ve achieved, would you prefer to be recognised as competitive champion, action movie star or business entrepreneur? which appeals to you most and why?

I would like to think an action star and business entrepreneur. These two are easily relatable to what I have been doing most lately. Sharing my freerunning passion through films and growing the company go hand in hand. We have some big projects lined up for 2016.

Secret projects....

Climbing up skyscrapers seems a bit dangerous. What does it take?

You would need at least the info on the buildings you are climbing, accessibilty and logistics. You also need to be fearless, which is more to do with confidence in your physical ability through mental focus and preparation - all of which takes years of practice. It can be likened to meditation in some ways.

Mental clarity and inner peace - as it wouldn’t be nice to have a meltdown when you are already on top.

Have you been arrested for trespassing?

I was arrested in Singapore when my friends and I scaled a rooftop to enjoy the sunset. The people reported it as a potential suicide case.

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Have you ever been injured doing something that perhaps you shouldn’t?

You are more likely to get injured when doing a simpler stuff and underestimating things than if you were focused on more difficult tricks Do you see yourself doing this in 10 years?

Ha, maybe. Who knows? But in 10 years there’ll be a whole bunch of epic new towers popping up.

What is your personal philosophy on the art of movement?

It is a self-expression through the urban environment. Your body is the paintbrush and the urban landscape is the canvas with infinte possibilities.

left: Seri Saujana Bridge, Putrajaya Malaysia far left: in front of Burj Khalifa Dubai

We hear you’ve just finished shooting a movie, can you reveal the details?

It’s a film about urban exploration. I am currently recruiting more talent for Alpha Movements and will be producing more videos often in the future.

The movie is a UK production telling stories of how urban exploration is a growing trend amongst youngsters.

The crew followed me on a journey through Malaysia and Dubai climbing with Russian Oleg Cricket. This guy has absolutely no fear of heights I and was in awe of what i saw him do on top of a skyscraper. It will be aired on Red Bull TV in April 2016 if I’m not mistaken, so you can expect some pretty spectacular stuff. I can’t wait to watch it just as much as you guys! Haha... www.parkourmalaysia.com www.facebook.com/AlphaMovements

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cutting it fine

STRAIGHT RAZOR SHAVING CAN MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE A CRAFTSMAN, A DAILY EXERCISE THAT WILL SEPARATE YOU FROM THE MASSES. HOWEVER, THE PRICE FOR QUALITY IS A BIT MORE TIME AND EFFORT THAN A SIMPLE SAFETY RAZOR. BUT IF YOU WANT TO SHAVE LIKE A BOSS, IT’S WELL WORTH THE EFFORT. words by Johnny McGeorge

BAXTER OF CALIFORNIA “45”

To celebrate their 45th year of Barberism, Baxter of California teamed up with Hart Steel to create a truly baddass Limited Edition blade. Crafted in 14carat gold and featuring an inlay ’45’, this black on black steel blade looks as classy is it does dangerous. Replete with custom leather sleeve made by Horween Chromexcel Horse Work Butts from Makr, this is a steal at $345.

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DYLAN FARNHAM “Stone Age”

Holed up in the mountains of Idyllwild California lives a master knifemaker by the name of Dylan Farnham. Self taught through years of turning butterknives into throwing daggers and even crafting his own Samurai sword, this elusive virtuoso bladesman creates the most exquisite custom blades with rustic, almost prehistoric beauty. And his cut throats are no exception.

Blending functionality with a sublime artist’s hand, Dylan incorporates materials such as mammoth ivory, deer antler, elk skin, python vertebrae, buffalo tooth and more making these razors as much a showpiece as they are an indispensable tool to be passed down to future generations. As to be expected, the bespoke blades are hard to come by and Dylan has an extremely long waiting list of eager clients.

THIERS-ISSARD “Ram’s Horn Bison Hook”

Handmade in France by Thiers-Issard, this razor features their finest grind carbon steel in a 7/8”, singing hollow blade, with both sides with a polished satin finish. The one of a kind rams horn scales, (holdy bit) are solid and impeccably balanced. Not for virgin chins, this razor is suited for the experienced wet shaver. And with its credibilty, It’s also $399.

BIC Disposable!

While cut throats denote macho ruggedness and an appreciation of a traditional craft, sometimes, well, they’re a bit of a faff on. For the more Spartan ‘rough n’ ready’ types, however, nothing beats the old classic Bic disposable - the best a dad can get.

Best used without water and preferably in a hurry, the timeless Bic will forever remain a cut above, or perhaps below, the rest. $1.

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W ORT H THE WE IGHT

And for others, fitness is an integral part of both their personal and professional lives. Samui residents Nico Fara, Magnus Rydlund and Sebastian Fritzson are three of those people. Their vision and combined partnership was to create a place where they’d feel totally at home while exercising, Somewhere they could put the same amount of prosfessional energy into as they would whilst working out.

For some people, exercise is a social endeavour, keeping fit and playing sports with friends.

For others, however, fitness is a way of life. An essential quest that transcends basic wellness and into the realm of achieving personal greatness - competing against your own mind, body and soul to attain the highest levels of physicality and mental fortitude, putting your strength of will to the test.

And so Elite Gym was conceived.

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FITN E S S FIN E S S E

spinning, dance and much more for core strength, flexibility, stamina or skill training.

Elite also engages a number of personal trainers on site to help you achieve your personal goals with custom made fitness packages - and the trainers are always available to impart knowledge and wisdom to regular members with safety tips and assistance on using equipment properly and sensibly.

They envisioned a truly professional gym which would give its members a solid foundation for fitness and provide for all types of fitness fanatics.

Elite truly has something for everyone. Made up of two separate spaces in two locations, Elite comprises a Classic weights oriented gym for hardcore bodybuilders and Exclusive Gym which is more of a fitness centre for all. Each comprises numerous machines and weight sets with the Classic Gym focusing on building muscles.

Locately conveniently in the heart of Chaweng, with plans to expand all over Thailand, Elite Gym is the ultimate one stop fitness mecca for hardcore athletes or anyone looking to improve their phyical wellbeing.

And if you’re not into purely lifiting weights, the Exclusive gym contains a plethora of cardio machines plus various studio spaces for classes including yoga,

for more info visit: www.elitegymsamui.com

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POWER U P

Collaborating with Elite gym is British chef David Lloyd of Samui’s artisan eatery Rock Salt. Combining the Elite team’s nutrition knowledge with David’s talent for creative ingredients and flavours, the pairing is an instant success.

As a gym member David identified a need for healthy, clean food nearby. His concept was created to take the struggle out of eating healthy balanced food for members, integrating core nutrition to assist weight loss or muscle gaining goals.

From the Rock Salt kitchen , David crafts daily menus from local, fresh organic and free range ingredients. The protein and carb content, calorific content and weight is labeled on each product to help guests get exactly what they need.

The menu ranges from simple snacks to full meals; such as gluten, dairy and sugar free brownies, or protein enriched superfoods like hemp seed protein, chia and flax seeds, dried apricots and cranberry, organic raw cacao to name a few. The fresulting lavours are exceptional, as you would expect from a chef driven project.

An extensive selection of resh fruit and vegetable juices plus Smoothies are available for pre, during or post workout power boosts.

To top it all off, David has also initiated a home delivery service on 7 day meal menus featuring precooked balanced meals tailored to your nutritional needs.

Using a sous vide cooking technique, a favourite of top chefs all over the world, David ensures all dishes are gently cooked without moisture or nutrient loss. This results in optimal texture and is the most hygienic way to store food.

This approach also eliminates any ‘bad’ ingredients like refined sugar, Palm oil, refined salt or MSG - replaced with extra virgin coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, butter from grass fed cows, wild honey or stevia and agave when sweetness is needed.

Vegan options are also on the menu, all gluten free with well balanced flavours, seasoned with fresh citrus juices, sea salt, apple cider vinegar and organic blue agave.

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The gym now offers a full package for the healthy lifestyle which should make eating well easy and delicious. And getting fit and healthy and staying fit and healthy a realistic and achievable goal.

LUXURY LIVING

CREATING BREATHTAKING INTERIOR ARTWORKS AND COMMERCIAL PRINTS, CHINESE FASHION ILLUSTRATOR CELINE WONG AKA LIHUÀ CAPTURES MODERN FASHION PORTRAITURE WITH TRADITIONAL CHINESE INK TECHNIQUES RESULTING IN STUNNING WORKS OF SWEEPING STROKES AND FLUID CURVES THAT MAKE THE PERFECT CENTREPIECE FOR ANY CREATIVE INTERIORS. How did you develop your unique style?

I’m an illustration graduate with a real passion for fashion, but I just so happen to also have a ten-year background in fine art brushwork and traditional Chinese calligraphy - something my parents borderline forced me to do. I am Chinese afterall and it would be wrong to deviate from the typical stereotype. I’m just grateful they didn’t make me play piano or violin haha. So I naturally transferred the skills of evocative fluid brush strokes from the calligraphy to develop in a field i’ve grown to love and build a career in.

How did you make the transition from illustrator to commercial artist?

I’ve always worked as an illustrator, even during my tenure as a fine art lecturer at Malaysia’s leading art & design institution The One Academy in Kuala Lumpur. I juggled a lot with freelancing and commissioned work but academia complemented my portfolio development. The One Academy gave me the opportunity to create a brand new Fashion Illustration Module for degree students with pretty much free reign on structuring the course. Teaching illustration allowed me to master my style vicariously through my students’ learning which I embraced as a personal/professional synergy.

How would you describe your commercial portfolio?

I feel i’ve been very lucky that my style transcends fashion boundaries into commercial and residential interiors, brand visual merchandising, product packaging, wedding design, editorial work and more recently, mural works for restaurants and retail spaces. It’s great to work on large canvasses and truly express myself beyond the easel.

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What’s in store for the future?

I’m currently studying a masters in visual communication in UK to broaden my knowledge and develop my skillset. England has also opened up my market and i’ve been really busy with fashion branding and interior design clients here. I guess my work is considered exotic to the British which has given me an advantage. I’m currently working on a solo exhibition for 2016 and i’d like to target some of the larger European fashion houses. In the meantime, just keep working hard, embrace new cultures and continue developing my skills.

For a catalogue or enquiries to purchase original artworks and commercial prints contact: editor@luxuryliving.com

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INSPIRED INTERIORS Oriental Living have built a reputation as pioneers of interior design & furniture supply services on Koh Samui with more than 20 years experience under the belt. Working on high-end property developments, Oriental Living continually produce and source the finest selection of contemporary products from all over South-East Asia.

2015 has seen many exciting luxury property developments on Samui looking for individual style, unique showpieces and high-end quality products with price tag that’s hard to beat.

We are proud to present some of these properties with a full service interior solution.

On the Northern-East of the island we were given a great opportunity to collaborate with luxury projects such as “Samujana and more recently The Ridge”, two major exclusive developers incorporating contemporary designs to their innovative architecture. Working closely with The Ridge from ideation to execution, our service includes product selection, colour theme and layout design, along with providing a full furniture package for the complete development.

Building close relationships with our clients, our design team measure out specific areas for tailor-made furniture items before creating technical drawings and 3D renders to visualize the results. All tailor-made products are designed in synergy with The Ridge concept, ethos and environment by our experienced designers, ensuring we maximise practical functionality without compromising aesthetic beauty. Focusing on every detail, all of our interior elements blend perfectly.

We even take care of the smallest details, supplying cutlery sets and kitchenware, curtains, blinds plus toilet & bathroom accessories. Imparting our expertise on a full spectrum service that represents the origin of style & culture of the surroundings, Oriental Living interior solutions will turn any new property into a home. www.oriental-living.net www.theridgesamui.com

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OCEANA 

Beachside Condominiums

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From Only 2.75m Thai Baht

+66 (0)77 952 288

info@oceanares.com www.oceanares.com 39

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words by Stuart Langrish

Art Of Katana “THE SWORD IS THE SOUL. STUDY THE SOUL TO KNOW THE SWORD” ~ Toranosuke Shimada

The samurai long sword or ‘katana’ has a cultural resonance throughout Japan. It is a symbol of its history, deeply embedded in the national psyche. The katana is considered both a work of art and a weapon of death, deemed sacred as the symbol of the warrior.

17th century general Tokugawa Ieyasu said the iconic curved blade was the “soul of the samurai,” symbolizing a warrior’s devotion to his art. He ate with it, slept with it; he would never be without an edge weapon. It was something that identified him and from which he could not be separated.

The wielding of the sword was the art of the samurai. The making of a sword was an art equally as skilled and equally as precious, an art performed by the master sword makers of Japan. All samurai sought perfection with the sword, not only in the fighting techniques but in the weapons themselves. The samurai and the sword smith worked together to develop the exquisite, deadly Japanese sword. Invented a millennium ago, the katana remains a marvel of aesthetic beauty and skilful engineering.

The men whose job it was to make these swords were highly respected specialists. The tradition was often carried out by whole families, generation after generation. Because the creation of a sword also meant the creation of a living creature, the smith was held to a strict moral and spiritual code, lest his inner corruption seep into the forms of his creations. To ensure this, the swordsmith underwent ritual fasting and purification before commencing his work.

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LUXURY LIVING ARTERY Sword making reached its peak of skill by the 14th century when Japanese sword smiths were able to craft some of the finest blades the world has ever known.

The traditional katana sword was fashioned only from the purest steel known as tamahagane (jewel steel).

Over three days and three nights, smelters using ancient techniques shovel roughly 25 tons of iron-bearing river sand and charcoal into the mouth of a tatara, a rectangular clay furnace built specifically to produce a single batch of tamahagane.

Katana-makers use two types of tamahagane: high-carbon, which is very hard and allows for a razor-sharp edge, and low-carbon, which is very tough and allows for shock absorption. A sword composed simply of one kind of steel or the other would either dull too quickly or be too brittle.

The art in making a Japanese sword came in the next stage, the folding of the metal. They would hammer and fold the steel thousands of times in order to further combine the iron and carbon, and to draw out any remaining undissolved impurities, or ‘slag.’ This step is as vital as it is tedious, because if other elements besides iron and carbon remain in the resulting sword, they will weaken it.

Once completed, they had created a blade composed of numerous laminations of steel. Out of

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this process comes the lightness and strength of the blade. After the folding the lump is beaten into its final shape, with the hard steel forming the sword's outer shell and deadly blade, while the tough steel serving as the katana's core.

Everything about the sword is practical. The beauty of its shape exists because an elegant curve is stronger and with the pointed tip, katana are extremely effieicnt for slashing, slicing and piercing, an advantage over other sword designs. A groove is cut into it to lighten it without weakening it, and prevent suction gripping the sword in a wound. The smith would take the almost-finished blade and begin a long and painstaking process of polishing, scraping off the grime and the grit from the outside, and with a succession of finer and finer stones, bringing out the beauty within the metal of the Japanese sword. The swordsmith makes only the blade; the fully forged katana is then passed onto a skilled sword polisher, who may spend more than two weeks honing the sword's razor sharp edge.

01 three bladesmiths hammer in unison forging the steel

KATANA WA BUSHI NO TAMASHII A true cultural icon and symbol of a noble code, the katana has endured as one of, if not the most stylish weapon of all time. And whoever first wrote that the pen is mightier than the sword had obviously never had a run-in with a katana.

02 original photograph of traditional sword sharpener practicing his trade c.1902

03 fashioning the blade of tamahagane

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T I U R F N O I H S A F swan

y Bibo A b y h p a r g o t o h p

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26 year old fashion photographer Bibo Aswan hails from Kuala Lumpur and is known throughout Asia for his distinct style and vibrant experimental art pieces. A regular contributor to magazines such as Prestige, ELLE and Cleo, Bibo’s creative work is brimming with originality and effortless style. for print purchases or sales enquiries contact editor@luxuryliving.com

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SIZE MATTERS

IN A WORLD OF OVER CONSUMPTION WE SCALE DOWN TO THE REALM OF MICRO ARHITECTURE IN TOKYO WHERE LESS IS ALWAYS MORE... words by Stuart Langrish

In Japan, However, with Tokyo real estate costing an average of $1,000 per square foot, urban neighbourhoods remain eclectic patchworks of individually-developed houses and apartment buildings. Even in the world’s largest city, the backstreets of many retail and residential districts retain a cluttered, hodgepodge quality.

Naturally, this jumbled pattern of development has left some odd-shaped spaces between buildings – spaces that are attracting attention from people who want an affordable home in the heart of the city. Enter the Kyosho Jutaku, or micro-home: an idea first formulated by the architect Makota Masuzawa in 1952. Houses built on parcels of land that, in some cases, are as small as 250 square feet.

Mark Twain once sagely noted, “Buy land, they’re not making it any more.” In actual fact, land is not really scarce: the entire population of America could fit into Texas with more than an acre for each household. What drives prices skyward however, is a collision between rampant demand and limited supply in the great metropolises like London, Tokyo and New York. In the past ten years real prices in Hong Kong have risen by 150%. Residential property in Mayfair, in central London, can go for as much as £55,000 ($82,000) per square metre, while a square mile of Manhattan residential property costs a staggering $16.5 billion.

The solution found in many cities in the developed world has seen government agencies eagerly expropriate land for vast new building projects.

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RIVERSIDE HOUSE :

In a country already fascinated with the pop-cultural craze for miniaturization, it should come as no surprise to see that their architects taking the ‘more with less’ ethos to another level, literally.

“People tend to think of homes simply in terms of floor space. We architects think in 3-D,” said one of Japan’s leading designers, Tokyo-based architect Yasuhiro Yamashita. “Using all three dimensions, we can make a space look larger, and more functional. It becomes easier to devise ways of bringing in more light and air.”

YASUHIRO YAMASHITA

The River Side House in Horinouchi West Tokyo is a project designed by Mizuishi Architect Atelier.

The small home was constructed on a triangle site of just 29 square meters at the intersection of a small river and an adjacent road. Through its imaginative plan it includes three-stories totalling 594 square feet of claustrophobia-defying living space. The property’s ground floor acts as a snug hideaway and sleeping area, while the next is completely open-plan and allows for plenty of light to enter into the communal living space. The house has a hipped roof to maximize the total volume and a large bay window allowing for riverside views. Due to the owners’ requirement for off-street parking, the architects cantilevered the second floor to make room for the family car.

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MORIYAMA : RYUE NISHIZAWA On a double suburban lot in Tokyo, the Office of Ryue Nishizawa built a neighborhood-scaled, flexible-format minimalist steel prefab compound for Yasuo Moriyama and six rental tenants. Every room is its own building – even Moriyama’s bath is a freestanding box. Here, tradition and innovation interweave to create a new kind of community. None of the ten units is purely communal, but detached Unit C, Yasuo Moriyama’s “living room,” functions the most publicly. It houses a DVD player, a plasma screen TV, and little else, but it has a tea-room ambience.

Moriyama says, “This space gives you the freedom to do anything you like, and it makes you want to.”

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NADA HOUSE :

Nestled in a downtown residential area of Kobe in the Hyogo prefecture, is a tiny 37 square meter lot on which the design firm Fujiwaramuro Architects was tasked with building a family home. Ingeniously planned, they came up with House in Nada, 680 square feet of openplan living space that integrates sunlight throughout the home by use of a central atrium. Set over three levels, the core of the narrow house allows light from the roof’s sky-window to reach even the lowest floor and is stylishly clad with a striking wood grain exterior.

FUJIWARAMURO

As we sink further into a society defined by consumerism and possession, perhaps Kyosho Jutaku is the answer. As a strategy for sustainable growth, it forces a better use of space and belongings, thus reducing costs and keeping energy levels low. For many cities around the world, where expansion isn’t possible, densifying their cores could help provide the living solutions of the future. Small, energy-efficient single family homes will be just the thing for cities attempting to make the most out of every square inch of space, and for a growing number of Japanese micro-home owners already, less really is more.

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A BREATH OF FRESH AiR With a fresh contemporary concept, Oxygen Samui is a stunning new condominium complex overlooking Choeng Mon’s northern shore.

Balancing island life with city facilities, OXYGEN is perfectly located a mere 500 metres from crystal blue waters, nestled between Chaweng and Bophut hotspots only 15 minutes drive from the main shopping centers of the island.

With over 117 apartments to choose from, the complex encompasses both garden view and seaview units overlooking the island’s iconic Big Buddha statue and beyond.

Comprising three, 4-storey buildings, Oxygen boasts an expansive 25m long swimming pool plus a children’s pool for family fun. For wellness lovers, the complex contains an unrivalled 300 sqm fitness studio, pilates studio, sauna, Turkish steam room and spa. For convenience, there’s also a hotel reception for all your needs.

Perfect for an active lifestyle or relaxing break, the innovative concept and unique features of OXYGEN bring a breath of fresh air to island life.

LiVE Life ON A BREEZE Multiple layouts are available which can be combined for a larger area: Studio Apartment (21-44 sqm) cozy apartment with 1 bedroom, small living room, kitchenette, dining area, bathroom and balcony.

One Bedroom Apartment (31-81 sqm) Three types available, size and layout will be different for each one.

Two Bedroom Apartment (81 sqm) Large-area apartments, flexible layout options at customer’s request. for more information contact: +66 (0) 86 407 2829 info.oxygensamui@gmail.com | www.oxygen-samui.com

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GATEWAY TO PARADISE

You’ve got to be lucky to spend your holidays in a destination as diverse as Krabi.

Carbon dating stone tools, colored pictures, beads, pottery and skeletal remains found in the province’s many cliffs and caves evidence that Krabi has been home to homo-sapiens since the period 24,000 - 35,000 years B.C.

In a realm of nature, Krabi’s rich tropical forests opens the window on Thailand’s indigenous forest ecology system and some of the Earth’s most dramatic coastal scenery set apart with giant limestone needles that sink into the sea, refreshingly colored in the rich shades of emerald and aquamarine.

In modern history (1200 A.D.), then called the ‘Ban Thai Samor’, Krabi was one of twelve towns and had the monkey symbolize their standard. During the period, Krabi was a tribu-

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words by Saifuddin Ismailji

KRABI

tary to the Kingdom of Ligor, a city on the Kra Peninsula’s east coast, now called Nakhon Si Thammarat.

5-Day Suwan Macha cruise on a traditional Chinese Junk boat, take a day trip to snorkel or dive alongside rocky reefs in crystal clear warm waters offshore some of the 132 islands that unveil an incredibly rich marine life.

With all the right ingredients that inspire the tales of the Lost World - Krabi is a treasure trove; from eco adventure trip on a 4-Wheel Drive to island getaway boat tour. In between these explorations, you will find ample time to just lie back on soft, white sand beaches, sail away

Ao Nang is Krabi’s tourist hub. With a bee-line of hotels, restaurants, day spas, souvenir shops,

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dive and tour operators; here you will find a multitude choice in accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to budget guest houses. The new breed of travelers who support organizations with an agenda in environmental friendly approach, the L-Resort marks the Ao Nang strip as the only ‘Green Energy’ establishment.

High end resorts dot along the sublime beach stretches at Klong Muang beach, Tubkaek beach and Railey Beach beach, the latter renowned for rock climbing and hiking the trails along the Krabi Marine National Park.

While long-tail boats can be hired at a nominal price, the Krabi Bast Tours, Ao Nang (075637310 –1) near the L-Resort, is your one-stop address to plan and explore Krabi, highlighting island hopping on Speed boat and Jungle safari. Krabi Best Tours offers a unique unforgettable Sun downer island tours. krabibesttours@hotmail.com

Island Hopping and Snorkeling Tours The Ao Nang Princess Cruises and boat service dates back the beginning of tourism in Krabi some 15 years ago. You embark on the boat that anchors at a number of main islands including Phra Nang peninsula, Chicken Island and so on. From these larger islands, you can hire long tail or speed boats to access nearby smaller islands and lagoons features interesting coral formation in waist deep water that makes it an excellent spot to snorkel and explore underwater marine life. The popular Koh Hong, meaning Room Island - so called because the apex of this tall limestone ringed-wall is hollowed out in the center, thus the Island has been transformed into a huge lagoon with soaring hanging gardens. A stretch of clean and secluded Pelay Beach on the main Koh Hong Island is a hideaway for sunbathers.

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Phi Phi Islands Ao Nang Princess Cruise will transport you from Krabi to Phi Phi Island in time duration of about 1 ½ hours. The two ends of Phi-Phi Don and Phi-Phi Ley features incredible towering limestone karsts that give an eye-feasting scenic vista to boat loads of visitors, literally thousands in number - each day.

The main strip is drowned with a tsunami of tourists with a jumble of shops, day massage centers, restaurants, bars and supermarket.

Nature loving travelers prefer a getaway on a long tail boats and head to the quite zones of the island. In a paradise setting, the Viking Nature Resort is a friendly hideaway overlooking private beach with a rocky peninsula. Spacious independent villas on the hill and beach bungalows abound howling wilderness offers tranquility and a quality holiday time. You can hire a

kayak to a nearby islet, which has an array of marine life including reef sharks.

It’s worth exploring on a boat, the nearby Sea Gypsy village.

A small population comprises of direct descendants of the earliest settlers, believed to be of Malay origin: Orang Sireh. The indigenous residents trace their nomadic oceangoing tribe - the Moken people, locally knows as Chao Leh meaning sea gypsy.

Back to your abode, after dusk, you can all become stars. The happy-go-lucky owner and his friendly staff take over the music scene while you sing and dance through the night.

Travel F act s Getting There

Several airlines including low cost carriers fly from Bangkok to Krabi.

Accommodation AMARI VOGUE RESORT

Located on serene Tubkaek Beach, famed for spectacular sunset that bleed the sky in a riot of dark hues of yellow, orange, red, deep blue and black. The 57 room Resort inspired by Lana style architecture steeped in modern comfort delve into fine luxury and afford the visitors an opportunity to exploring this tropical paradise along the South-west coast Thailand. Dining allows you to choose delectable menu at the classic Bellini Italian Restaurant at the beachfront where you get a big surprise as the magician at the Resort will appear your table and give you the thrills of the world of magic while you masticate Chef’s recommendation like Bruschetta do pomodori; Risotto al zafferano e gamberoni and Mousse au chocolat Blanc.

At the Lotus Thai Restaurant, try all time Thai favorites: Stir fried Sea Bass with sweet chili sauce, Stir- fried chicken with cashew nuts and Crepe mango with sticky rice. Shuttle service is available from Resort to Ao Nang return. www.amari.com/vogue

BEYOND RESORT

A tropical paradise on Klong Muang Beach with superb sunset views, has on offer “Just For Two” promotional package 4 days/3 nights for THB 32,136 net ongoing until 31 March, 2016 during the high season (except from 20 December 2015 to January 11 2016 when this rate is invalid):

4WD Jungle Safari You drive about 70 kilometers from Ao Nang beach in the interiors of tropical forest. The highlight of the tour is the thermal Hot Spring with temperature ranging from 35 – 40 degrees centigrade. In an ideal setting surrounded by large trees, these hollowed out bath tubs, naturally created by the crashing running water over the rocks offers natural hydro-therapy bath with its gushing warm water that massages the body to soothe away aching muscles and helps relieve stress and tension.

Deluxe Sea View accommodation, including daily breakfast, welcome drink, tropical fruits and chilled towels upon arrival, coffee and tea making facilities, - one candlelight dinner for two, a glass of house wine for two; a two-hour spa treatment for two persons, return airport transfers, 30% discounts off spa and 20% discount off food and beverage, free WiFi and late checkout. www.katagroup.com/beyond-krabi

NAKAMANDA RESORT AND NAGA SPA

Nakamanda meaning the Sea Dragon named after rocky islands that appear galloping the Andaman Sea in the distance.

Located on Klong Muang Beach, 39 villa accommodation designed in contemporary Thai, equipped with all modern 5 star amenities. In the category of Sala Villa, Sala Villa with Outdoor Hydropool, Hydropool Villa, Jaccuzi Villa and Pool Villa; each villa furnished and smoothly finished in teak floor emanate warmth and comfort.

The Kitchen Restaurant overlooking the beach offers a palatable menu comprising of traditional Thai dishes as well as international cuisines.

The Naga Spa has a variety of Spa programs including therapy massages, body wraps and beauty treatments. Nakara signature massage (a fusion of Balinese Aroma therapy with Thai technique) apply essential oil – a good source of body nourishment. www.nakamanda.com

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Hua Hin’s newly launched furniture brand “Urban Living” hits home their bold aspirations as a lifestyle changer for the modern urbane home. Indeed their sleek designs and unique interior concepts are "anything but ordinary".

This concept reflects the brand’s core values with developers, from conception to installation blending perfectly with full scale project needs. Joachim’s partner “Matt” Kaewprasitchok comes from the renowned Raffles Design Institute of Singapore and with a combined creative business skillset, the pair have crafted a brand concept that looks set to quickly establish itself as a specialist provider of exceptional furniture solutions for high-end developments.

Conceptualised by former international financier Joachim Drewitz, the brand is a perfect fit for high-end residences with an ethos of modern minimalism, yet retaining warmth and ultimate comfort. And while each striking bespoke item stands out in its own right, the real beauty of Urban Living’s extensive collection is how beautifully it blends together.

The stunning showroom in Hua Hin is a testament to this, an impeccably presented range of carefully selected home and outdoor furniture of the highest quality that will attract the discerning eye. Further complementing the collection are a number of high-quality rugs from India, with plans to include premium bedroom furniture to the ever expanding inventory.

CRAFTED BY DESiGN

As full service specialists, Urban Living projects span major development concepts to individual requirements of retail customers, offering lifestyle solutions that are “anything but ordinary”. www.urbanliving-furniture.com facebook.com/UrbanLivingHuaHin

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E L Y T S N I E V I L

Visit our new store at : 4/114 Hua Hin 38 (next to Plearn Wan) Phetkasem Road, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 tel: +66 (0) 32 520 966 www.urbanliving-furniture.com 63

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the lap of luxury : Iniala 65

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S E C R E T G E TA W A Y

Everyone needs a secret getaway, their own personal haven to escape the realities of life and bask in the lap of luxury, Whether it’s a personal pampering spree, alone time to gather your thoughts, or perhaps, somewhere special to meet that special someone while your other half is away on business. naughty...

And if you’re accustomed to the best of the best and won’t settle for anything less, then there’s no better secret rendezvous than the exquisite Iniala Beach House in Phuket, a property so spectacular, it deserves to be your little secret. Well, yours and whoever else you choose to share it with... *wink* www.iniala.com

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Facing the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, along the golden sandy Natai Beach, the Iniala complex is the cream of the crop. Comprising three utterly desirable villas, the incredible array of design concepts will make you weak at the knees.

However, those lusting for the ultimate in intimate luxury, nothing beats the ultra-sexy, undulating curves of the astonishing pimped out penthouse. Featuring finesse as decadent as your desires on par with only your wildest fantasies; think oversized plush leather circular sofas, cushioned flooring, hanging beds, infinity pool, movie cinema, personal chef, a bottle of champagne and a jacuzzi built for two.

Or even three...

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The 250 square metre terrace is perfect for enjoying the sun undisturbed, catching a romantic sunset or dining under the stars.

What’s more, the complex has a fully equipped gym with boxing ring and each Villa has its own personal spa therapist and opulent private massage space. Your therapist will give you your massage and beauty treatments whenever you wish without reservation and without leaving the cocoon of your own villa.

So for the real players out there looking for a secret getaway, look no further than Iniala Phuket.

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FOOD LOVERS Eneko Atxa, famed for his outstanding restaurant Azurmendi in Spain (rated number 26 in the world) has created Iniala’s signature restaurant Aziamendi.

Blending his acclaimed Basque Country technique with the best of Thai and global ingredients Eneko’s culinary experience simply unmatched in Thailand.

Spanish designers ‘A-Cero’ shaped the spectacular space overlooking the Iniala garden making Aziamendi one of the most romantic and intimate dining rooms in Asia. www.aziamendi.com

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TAX BREAKS BOOST THAI PROPERTY MARKET The Thai government recently adopted several tax breaks for real estate transactions as part of a broader effort to improve macroeconomic conditions in Thailand following the military coup in May 2014.

While the tax reductions were intended primarily to increase domestic property transactions for the benefit of local developers and Thai buyers, the fee reductions apply equally to international developers and foreign investors.

The reduction in Land Department fees can be viewed within the broader context of policies adopted by the military government to improve economic conditions in Thailand. Other such policies include infrastructure development, small business loans, and community based micro-finance initiatives.

Generally, when registering the sale of a house or condominium in Thailand, the local Land Department collects taxes and fees totaling (approximately) 6.3%, including a two percent (2%) “transfer fee.” In addition, when registering a mortgage over a house or a condominium, the Land Department collects a registration fee equal to 1% of the mortgage amount.

On October 13th, the cabinet approved a resolution to boost the real estate market by reducing transfer fees and mortgage registration fees. Subsequently, on October 28th, the Ministry of Interior (which has jurisdiction over the Land Department) issued a proclamation to reduce transfer fees from 2% of the assessed property value to 0.01%. Similarly, mortgage registration fees were reduced from 1% to 0.01%.

UNDER THE MINISTRY OF INTERIOR PROCLAMATION, THE FEE REDUCTIONS APPLY TO THREE CATEGORIES OF IMMOVABLE PROPERTY: 1. Residential buildings (either with land or without land), including detached homes, townhouses, duplexes, etc…

2. Land and/or houses located in residential housing developments regulated under the “Land Allocation Act” (the legislation which regulates large residential housing developments); and 3. Condominium units in licensed condominium buildings under the Condominium Act.

In Thailand, mortgage registration is not just for banks.

Rather, any person or corporation (including foreign citizens and foreign corporations) may register mortgages over immovable property (including mortgages over land and buildings).

The fee reductions took effect on October 29th, 2015 and continue in force for a limited period of 6 months until April 28th 2016. Presumably, transfer fees will then revert back to 2%, and mortgage registration fees will revert back to 1%.

Mortgages are registered as property rights – printed on the back side of land title deeds – and cannot be cancelled or revoked without the written consent of the mortgagee. Therefore, a mortgage provides a cost-effective means to secure a property investment. In addition, a mortgage can be a valuable tool for prudent estate management, particularly for foreign citizens investing in the Thai property market.

By Daniel Chernov & Pachara Limjantra

For more information, contact: Siam ADR Limited 109/5 Moo 1 Bophut, Koh Samui T: 077 427 437 E: daniel@siamadr.com www.siamadr.com

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w w w.s i a m a dr .co m

BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM IN KOH SAMUI

International Legal Team Our legal services are targeted to support foreign investors in Thailand, including Foreign Direct Investment, Real Estate Transactions, and Civil Litigation.

Legal Services FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT / REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS DISPUTE RESOLUTION / NOTARIAL SERVICES (Notary Public)

109/5 Moo 1, Bophut Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Thailand Phone: +66 (0)77 427 437 E-mail: info@siamadr.com / Daniel@SiamADR.com

LUXURY LIVING

This

Little Isle

of

Mine words by Stuart Langrish

HAD ENOUGH OF THE HIGH LIFE AND SICK OF SOCIALISING WITH SOULLESS SOCIALITES? BE THE KING OF YOUR PERSONAL CASTLE AND GET AWAY TO YOUR OWN SECRET GETAWAY. HOW? BUY SUN, SEA, SAND AND SOLITUDE AND OWN YOUR VERY OWN PRIVATE SOUTHEAST-ASIAN ISLAND PARADISE. So, through fair means or foul, you’ve amassed unfeasible amounts of cash and are looking for a new tropical party pad to dump it in. Where do you go? While we all like to think of ourselves as social creatures, rubbing shoulders across cities the world over, there’s no denying our subconscious lemming urges to drop off the face of the earth (figuratively speaking) in a quest for personal nirvana, knee deep on our own Eden.

In fact, with an almost hardwired cranial short-cut, the utterance of two very simple words will send most normal people weak at the knees and their eyes rolling back.

And those two words? “Private. Island.”

With those words, your mind is already filling with helium possibilities, eager to set adrift on memory bliss to escape the reins of this very moment. And who can blame you? It’s a scientific fact* (unchecked*) that while, we are all nurtured carefully from birth to be

diligent, reliable types clocking in for our benevolent overlords; deep down, given the opportunity we’d be hightailing it toward white sands never to return.

All future communication made solely through Instabrag selfies atop panoramic views from our luxury hideaway. Au revoir, so long suckers, #thanksforallthefish.

So if you’ve got a few million spare and looking to bag yourself a beach or two, few palm trees and maybe the odd volcano, then look no further. What better place to start your daily fantasies than with a list of Asia’s top paradise getaways up for grabs.

Because when a patch of land in the middle of the ocean just won’t do, these island utopias offer you that dictatorial role you’ve been secretly grooming for. And as we’re saving you the time and effort to focus on what you’ll be doing there, remember to post an invite once you’ve settled in. After all, that hammockful of cash is big enough for two of us.

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FOR SALE Koh Som (near Koh Samui), Thailand Price: $3.8 million

Basking in the Gulf of Thailand, (this could apply to you too), just 2000 feet off the shores of Koh Samui Island, this slice of paradise offers incredible sunrise and sunset views. Picture postcard white sand beaches dust the south and east of Koh Som “Orange Island”. One facing the mobs on Koh Samui; the second gazes over open sea to Koh Phangan. Coconut palms confetti the threeacre property ensuring your daily dose of healthy vitamins never run short.

Suitable for an island resort or private residence, this is the tropical canvas to start from. Already on the map, courtesy of its famed neighbor, it offers privacy and seclusion just a boat ride from Tesco Lotus. Because wiping your bum with leaves gets old quick and Wilson’s company might not be enough.

Kum Yai (near Koh Lanta), Thailand Price: On application

If you’ve aspirations for the full Tom Hanks Castaway experience, then this might be the one for you. A whopping 120 acres in total, with 54 of those being untamed land that you can do whatever you want with (ahem, Supervillains?).

The island is only ten minutes from the nearest pier, which means you’re never too far away from a cheeky takeaway if fishing takes longer to master than you’d like. Currently there’s no electricity here so make sure your phone’s charged, but there is a fresh water stream that runs through the middle of the South island. Peaks and troughs and all that.

The beach here is 70 metres long, with shallow waters that are ideal for swimming and a low tide that connects a small beach to the northern side of the island. Head over for the cliffs that Krabi is well known for, the deep waters make it just the spot to park your shiny boat. Diving here is top notch, and being so close to the TalengBeng National Park, there is a host of wildlife for your inner-Mowgli.

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Dumunpalit, Palawan, Philippines Price: $3.4 million

The approximately 75-acre red marble and volcanic-rock island, surrounded by coral reefs, is in the Mindoro Strait connecting the South China Sea to the Sulu Sea, about a 40-minute flight southeast of Manila. Dumunpalit is a last frontier of the Philippines, a timeless land of awe, wonder, sea and stars.

In the Cuyonin language, it is, indeed, “the place which never changes,” but it’s also known as Turtle Island because 150-plus-foot-high volcanic towers rise on both ends, which are like fins flipping through the turquoise waters. Now who wouldn’t want to be king of Turtle Island?

West Nalaut Island, Palawan, Philippines Price: $8 million

Located in the South China Sea, West Nalaut Island is in the Palawan archipelago of 1,780 islands. It has 3km of coastline, 80 meter high cliffs and seven mixed sweet and salty water Kayangan Lakes to bath naked in. Former naval officer and conservationist, Jacques-Yves Cousteau described Palawan, as the most beautiful place he ever explored. High praise indeed from one of the world’s greatest underwater explorers.

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The island chain’s Apo Reef Natural Underwater Park is listed as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the second biggest contiguous coral reef in the world. And if you have a passion for conservation too, you should know that this is a natural breeding place for turtles and dugongs.

Once you’ve googled dugongs I’m fairly certain you’ll be on the next flight.

(the lang), and the waters surrounding the island are full of beautiful underwater creatures you can take blurry pictures of.

Rangyai Island (nr Phuket), Thailand Price: A cool $160 million

One of biggest islands currently for sale off the shores of Thailand, if not the most stunning. It takes around 15 minutes from Phuket to get here, and only half an hour extra from the airport. There’s 110 acres, with a km long stunning beach facing back towards Phuket that gets all the sun you could possibly want. Rangyai is named after a local fish

Although the island is mainly jungle, there have been some small developments here, including a handful of eco-friendly bungalows and path clearing to allow you to bicycle through the trees (not literally of course that sounds dangerous.)

There’s mobile phone signal, fresh water and a generator for electricity. So with a bit of tweaking all your facebook friends can hate you in no time.

Coral Island, Malaysia Price: From $245,000+

At the other end of the price scale, you could do a lot worse than setting up sticks on Maliangin Island (Coral Island). Located in the Coral Triangle of the western Pacific Ocean just 30 minutes off the coast of the Malaysian state of Sabah, lies Malaysian Borneo with a Galapagos-esque treasure chest of bio-diversity to run away from. How many owners have World Wildlife Fund operated reserve’s as their neighbours through the acclaimed Maliangin Sanctuary?

Options to buy range from beachfront villas, to island projects, or even 3 man submarine when boat travel seems blasé.

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Una Una Island, Indonesia Price: On application

At a monster 3000+ acres, this island has been owned by a local family for over 120 years and is remote but accessible enough to create something truly enviable. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and coral reefporn sites ideal for diving, plus rich in coconut trees with ancient woods and an active volcano, you can see out your days exploring/burying your guests, or at least until it pops its lid again. Located just 10 minutes from the nearest island of Wakai, this is the end point from Jakarta and beyond.

Apo Island, Palawan, Philippines Price: $72 million

Calling all Robinson Crusoe wannabes, this jewel of the Philippines gets its name from the Filipino word for ‘Grandchild’.

Another volcanic hotspot, it’s covered in more bushes than you can shake a stick at, and has the requisite island coconut palm trees for shade and sustenance. For the foolhardy, the shoreline has a few rocky cliff jumping spots, but is mostly covered in beautiful white sand you’d be better suited to laying still on.

About an hour and a half’s boat ride from Coron, the island has one of the world’s best known community-organized marine sanctuaries and hundreds of species of fish and coral you’ll never know the name of.

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WEIGHT LOSS WIN! WEIGHT LOSS WIN! HERBAL DETOX HERBAL DETOX Love of a but detox no colonics?

Love thethe ideaidea of a detox can’twith stomach the thought of a colonic? Rated the idea of a in2015 detox but can’t stomach thought of aand colonic?

Rated winner of the Best Detox in Thailand Award recommended as Recent one ofLove the best detoxes the world

by Vogue, ThetheSource in Lamai, Koh

by TATLER The Source Herbal Detox & Weight Loss Centre as Samui one and of offers theVOGUE, best detoxes in the world by Vogue, The Source in Lamai, Koh on a truly unique cleanse using powerful ancient herbs.

Koh Samui Island offers uniquecleanse detoxusing & weight loss program Samui offersaatruly truly unique powerful ancient herbs.using powerful ancient herbs

What is a herbal detox?

It is the cleansing and detoxifying of the whole body using premium quality organic herbal formulas. Simple and easy to do the formulas are taken What is a herbal detox? morning and night every day for one week, or longer. What makes this is a herbal herbal detox so unique is absence of any need for colonics. it is theWhat cleansing and detox? detoxifying ofthe the complete body using it isquality cleansing and formula detoxifying body usingjob of eliminating and reAthe herbal intestinal doesofathe much better premium herbal formulas (capsules, syrups premium quality herbal formulas (capsules, syrups storing and is more natural too. and tinctures). Simple and easy to do the formulas are and tinctures). and easy or to longer. do the formulas are taken morning and nightSimple daily for 7 days What How doesand it work? taken morning night daily for 7 days or longer.

What makes this herbal detox so unique is the complete The this program can be done anyplace, at complete any time, as there are no colonics needed, leaving you free to live your herbal detox so unique isorganic the absencemakes ofnormal awful and invasive colonics.

The routine.

The nutrition from the minerals provides very good energy levels during the program. The absence of awful and invasive Theherb organic formulas gently purify and ‘restore’ thecolonics. inner organs, potent herbal formulas work powerfully yet gently gently purify parasites and ‘restore’ inner organs, with no harsh reactions to both cleanse and restore the body, cleanseformulas the blood, eliminate andthe candida, cleansing the blood, eliminating parasites and candida and restoring healthy gut flora. There are also herbal forcleanse blood,healthy eliminate parasites and candida, populating your the gut mulas to with target extra flora. weight loss, thyroid, hormones, lungs, immune system, liver & gallbladder and intestinal populating healthy flora.treating the whole body all at once. system.your It is gut verywith comprehensive, What are the benefits? are the benefits?

Ranging from substantial weight loss, to brighter eyes Buy the program to do at any time or stay in a private villaWhat on the beach and do the program.

There are 3 programs Ranging from weight loss, toenergy brighter eyes Loss • Ultimate Detox. Choose forand 7. skin, 14. 21 or 28healthier, days.substantial Starting from THB 9,000 inc.

How does itDetox • Weight work? feeling sleeping better, more How does it work? and skin, feeling healthier, sleeping better, more energy Unique in that it can be done anyplace, at any time, as and relief from illness the benefits are unique to each Unique inscience thatnecessary, it can done any time, as individual andand relief from illness the benefits unique of be herbs there are noThe colonics leavesanyplace, you free at to work their needs.

Interestingly, the are weight lossto each there are no colonics necessary, leaves you free to work individual and their needs.

Interestingly, the The natural formulas proprietary, handmade bycan ourcontinue Master even after the program has finished weight and continue your normal routine.are A superior intestinal and loss and continue your normal routine.

A superior intestinal can continue even after the program has finished and overa20 yearsbetter using only our organic grown and wildformula viaHerbalist capsulesfor does much elimination generally stays off too, due to the herbs cleaning and formula via capsules does a much better elimination generally stays off too, due to the herbs cleaning and crafted herbs plus some rare herbs from around the world. job and far less invasive than the hydrocolonics usually supporting the ‘inner terrain’ of the body. Sugar, caffeine jobYou and farchoose less invasive the hydrocolonics the ‘inner terrain’ body. Sugar, required. can what tothan eat each day from the usually and junksupporting food cravings dissipate with of thethe program.

Mostcaffeine WhatYou arecan the benefits? required. choose what to eat each day from the and junk food cravings dissipate with the program. list of healthy choices (fresh juices, whole fruits, greens, lose 4kg in the first 4-6 days with another 1-3kg being Most Ranging from substantial weight lossfruits, (2-5kg in 7 days), feeling list of healthy choices (fresh juices, whole greens, lose 4kglast in the 4-6if days with another raw food, normal diet etc.).

Each eyes, day you feedskin theand body dropped in the fewfirst days completing the 141-3kg day being much better, brighter better sleeping better to more raw food, normal diet etc.).

Each day you feed the body dropped in the last few days if completing the with great energy nutrition asrelief the herb minerals doInterestingly, all the Choose a program, Detox (7 formulas), Weight 14 day and from symptoms. theprogram. weightprogram. loss with great nutrition as the herb minerals do all the a program, Detox (7 formulas), work providing high energy levels the program.

Loss or UltimateChoose Detox (both 16 formulas), each very Weight can continue even afterduring the program has finished and generally work providing high energy levels during the program.

Loss or Ultimate Detox (both 16 formulas), each very Customersstays can stay in a private villa on the beach comprehensive in targeting different organ systems off too, due to resetting the 'innertoterrain’ of the body.

Customers can stay in a private villa on the beach to comprehensive in targeting different organ do the program they canand purchase to do cravings it any place of the body including the liver, kidneys, intestines,systems Sugar,orcaffeine junk food can dissipate considerdo the program or they can purchase to do it any place of theblood, body immune includingsystem the liver, ably afterorthe program or time they choose take it hometoo. with them. hormones, andkidneys, lungs. intestines, or time they choose or take it home with them. hormones, blood, immune system and lungs.

Most people, having never taken pure and natural herbal formulas like these before, experience a real health boost when they are first taken.

Ivor Fitzpatrick, founder of The Source is a Family Herbalist and member of Ivor Fitzpatrick, founder The Source is a Family Herbalist and member BHMA (The British Herbal Medicine Association) andofESCOP (The European Scientific Cooperative on of Phytotherapy) BHMA (The British Herbal Medicine Association) and ESCOP (The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy)

The Source Herbal Detox Mobile: +66 (0)89 0679 856 179/12 Village 4, Lamai, Koh Samui Mobile: +66 (0)89 0679 179/12 Lamai, Koh Samui Source TheThe Source HerbalHerbal Detox Detox Mobile: +66 (0)89 0679 856 856 179/12 Village Village 4,4,Lamai, Koh Samui www.TheSourceSamui.com E-mail: info@sourcesamui.com 84310, Thailand (near Tesco Lamai) Email: info@thesourcesamui.com 84310, Thailand (near Tesco Lamai) www.TheSourceSamui.com www.TheSourceSamui.com E-mail: info@sourcesamui.com 84310, Thailand (near Tesco Lamai) 79

LUXURY LIVING

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MAGICAL MISK AWAAN SAY “I DO” IN STYLE AT KOH SAMUI’S MISKAWAAN LUXURY VILLAS FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY IN PARADISE

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LUXURY LIVING

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When planning a beach wedding, choosing the right location is just as important as choosing your dress. While many resorts cater for seaside specials, they often lack the privacy and exclusivity of villas. A well established hot spot, Koh Samui presents a plethora of properties offering destination wedding packages, yet for many years now, one particular abode has remained at the top of the list. Nestled on the northern shores of Maenam, one of Samui’s most idyllic white sand beaches, the stunning Miskawaan villa complex is paradise found. Comprising 11 luxury villas ranging from 4 to 7 bedrooms with every last detail considered, Miskawaan is the perfect place to host, and house your entire wedding ceremony, reception and honeymoon to boot. Each gated private villa affords sprawling common areas including living room, dining area, bar, swimming pool, garden, pavillion

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and fully equipped kitchen plus personal chef all for the exclusive use of your group. What makes Miskawaan truly stand out from its competitors is the impeccable attention to detail by their experienced and dedicated wedding team who understand that when it comes to planning your most special day, it is the little things that matter the most. As such, the flexibility of bespoke packages means you can literally have your hearts desire. From the stunning venue, friendly, professional service staff right down to the show stoppers, royal elephant ride, fire dancers or a stunning fireworks display, Miskawaan are expert at crafting seamless events to leave you with a lifetime of memories from your perfect day in paradise. www.miskawaan.com

LUXURY LIVING

LEXUS HOVERBOARD the f uture h as arrive d, fin ally... words by Jeremy Briggs

Children of the 70’s, 80’s, in fact pretty much anybody who ever saw the Back to the Future movies wanted to be Marty McFly, at least a little bit. Come on who didn’t want to play ‘Power of Love’ in front of their Dad’s school, knock out the school bully who also happened to be your annoying neighbour, or hang out with a crazy scientist known as ‘Doc’?

No? Well okay, tell me you didn’t want a hoverboard then…we ALL did, and still do.

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Well now you can have one.

“There is no such thing as impossible” as Lexus Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi points out. “Its just a matter of figuring out how.” Thankfully for us he decided to figure out how to build a hoverboard. The result is mind-blowingly cool, supremely stylish and ultimately desirable! Picture the Doc, hair on end proclaiming ‘Great Scott’, then saying it again, then pulling his hair out in dismay that he never invented it himself, because Lexus did.

LUXURY LIVING PULSE

Watching the 37 second teaser video released in August had us wondering if the wisps of smoke trailing off the board itself were just for effect, but apparently they have a scientific purpose other than making a hoverboard seem even more futuristic than it already is.

If you’re interested in the nitty gritty of how the hell this thing works then the website will give you the full details, but if you want more of an overview then here it is: The hoverboard keeps itself and its rider suspended with the use of magnets, a superconductor and some big words.

The “smoke” that pours off it is the liquid nitrogen that is necessary to keep the superconductor cool. Think maglev train, your own personal maglev train… Nice.

The good news: The future is here, and the future is very awesome.

The bad news: You probably can’t afford the future, and you would need a whole bespoke ultramagnetic hoverboard park to experience it, otherwise it’s just a board with a dry smoke machine. www.lexus-int.com/amazinginmotion/slide

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C

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CM

MY

CY

CMY

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Samui’s Best Value Residence Designed by

Multi-Award Winning Architect

GARY FELL

2 bedroom villas from 5.9m THB 3 bedroom villas from 13.9m THB

MULTI AWARD W I N N I N G

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office@aquasamuiduo.com

www.aquasamuiduo.com

LUXURY LIVING

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LUXURY LIVING

ThE arT Of

BURgernoMICs KOH SAMUI’S BOOTLEGGER HAS TAKEN SIMPLE FOOD TO THE Nth DEGREE. NOT YOUR AVERAGE BURGER JOINT, NOT YOUR AVERAGE BURGER...

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You wouldn’t instantly associate a burger joint with the upper echelons of fine fodder, but then again you probably haven’t been to Bootlegger. Yet.

Reuben on Rye

make sure you’re hungry

The latest addition to Choengmon’s burgeoning artisan food scene, Bootlegger is an effortlessly stylish bar-cum-burger joint that is instantly making waves across the island. Already dubbed as “the best burger on Samui” by most of its competitors, Bootlegger offers a small menu of exceptionally good gourmet burgers and sandwiches, with a number of sides, set in a slick yet rustic interior with chilled ambiance and very friendly vibe. So if you’re looking for a good old fashioned burger and beer with a high-end twist, then head on down.

The best part is the menu is very reasonably priced and open 7 days a week serving food from noon til 11pm. otherwise drop by for a drink with the landlord and soak up the atmosphere.

The brainchild of long term Samui layabout Jerms Biggery, Bootlegger is the epitomy of a smart casual suit tailored into a modern day Speakeasy. With the addition of Dutch masterchef Jeffrie Stend, expect fine drinks and finer food as all elements combine to make Bootlegger an instant island hit.

BOOTleGGeR MoonsHine AND MunchablEs

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LUXURY LIVING

aURAL PLEASURE simon solo

DIVERS JOANNA NEWSOM

Fans of this quirky San-Fransiscan folk harpist and indie darling should have no problem loving her fourth studio album. It has all of the trademark “Joanna” idiosyncracies that we’ve all come to expect - ethereal floating and jarring vocals, complex rhythmical melodies and whimsical lyrics that take multiple listens to decipher.

Despite not breaking any new ground since her epic “Have One On Me”, Divers does deliver a beautiful arrangement of additional musicians which help pitch this as her most dynamic sounding album. The first half in particular veers between baroque poise, jaunty blues, and rococo beauty, as if searching for answers in disparate places. Essentially, it’s an album of profound love that mysteriously contains no love songs...

Something perhaps only Joanna Newsom could achieve. Songs to play on repeat are the opener “Anectdote” and “You Will Not Take My Heart Alive”. If you’re new to Newsom’s music then I would suggest giving this a quick listen before finding and indulging heavily in her back catalogue, chronologically as Divers may prove a little disorientating to new ears. 3.5/5

THE ANNUAL 2016 MINISTRY OF SOUND I sat down to listen to this expecting something great, what I have come to realise is MOS is now just a huge money making machine churning out anything to get sales. As such I was bitterly disappointed. The once precious nightclub with global appeal, known for epic club nights has become rather dull and predicable. In years gone by when clubs released mix CD’s (yes actually mixed by DJs rather than computers) you could expect to be taken on a musical journey. They felt like a club set. If it was a double CD one would get played more than the other, and sometimes when your tastes changed the other become your go to music fix. Moments of nostalgia are provoked when you mention Sahsa and Digweeds Renaissance mix or the James Lavelle classic Fabric Live mix.

This, however, is shameless. Every big track since their last cd was released has been included. There is no flow and unfortunately, no class at all. Awful 1/5

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LIVE LOUNGE 2015 BBC RADIO 1 Pleasantly surprised listening through the tracks on this album.

Naturally I had presumed that this would be another bunch of covers. Well it is kinda, but BBC Radio One style. I should known better really. In a world full of commercial rubbish, Radio 1 have really upped their game and are back at the forefront of everything cool that is coming at of the UK. Did you see their night at the Proms?

As a budding DJ I listened to Pete Tong as a kid and still enjoy his radio show to this day nearly 20 years later.

Watching him compare an unbelievably well produced evening with that wealth of talent was quite incredible.

The names on this album leave you in no doubt that the best artists in the world want to perform for the BBC and give a well rounded variety of tunes. My personal favourites on the album are Ship To Wreck by Florence and The Machine and Disclosure’s Hotline Bling. Another covers compilation sure, but in a vastly different league from the rest. 4/5

CARRIE & LOWELL SUFJAN STEVENS Any new release by this American alt-folk multi-instrumentalist is an exciting prospect. Whether it’s the eclectic epic storytelling of Michigan or Illinois, the avant-garde musings of Enjoy Your Rabbit or the ubiquitous charm of any of his Christmas offerings. One thing for sure is you’ll be in for a treat with delicate arrangements and hauntingly beautiful lyrics that swing wildly from faith and love to death and morbid fascination.

Stripped bare in a return to the Seven Swans days (in my opinion his quiet masterpiece), Carrie & Lowell is Sufjan’s most intimate album to date, taking us on a personal journey of his own childhood, with horror stories of Carrie, his mentally unstable mother and Lowell, the Stepfather who somewhat saved the family and ultimately inspired Sufjan to create his record label.

An album far removed from the orchestras and soundscapes of the past, Carrie & Lowell is a boy, his guitar, a sincere voice and an incredble ability to weave beautiful stories. And as far as i’m concerned, with Sufjan Stevens that is more than enough to produce perfection. 5/5

simon solo

Arriving in Southeast Asia over fifteen years ago, Simon of Koh Samui Events has since held many residencies in Thailand including a 5 year stint at the Full Moon Party. You can catch Simon Solo in one of his many residencies on Koh Samui, whether busting out banging house at Bar Solo or playing poolside vocal house and soul jams at Beach Republic. www.kohsamuievents.com

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LUXURY LIVING

ULTIMATE SUPER-VILLAIN LAIRS words by Jeremy Briggs & Johnny McGeorge

Are you stuck in a rut? Bored of your job? Why not try your hand at World Domination? You could be a megalomaniac in the making!

Ruling the world seems like a cushy job with decent perks, but before you can rain down your rein of tyranny on the unsupecting masses, you will of course need to acquire an essential underground base, fortified fortress or standard hollowed-out volcano from which to hatch your evil plots.

Global conquest without a villainous lair won’t get you much kudos from the international criminal fraternity and a suitably sinister backdrop is a necessity when filming heinous demands as you hold the world to ransom.

Embracing our own delusions of grandeur, we’ve searched high and low for the most outrageously villainworthy structures out there, replete with hidden entrances, elaborate control centres, oversized meeting rooms, submarine accessibility, shark pits and for an extra couple of million, maybe even a death ray or two...

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LUXURY LIVING ICON

Refuge du Goûter :

FRANCE

Designed by Swiss architect Herve Dessimoz, this mountain climbers refuge could provide any aspiring Arch-villain with the perfect remote hideaway, boasting minimal accessiblity to keep even the hardiest of foes on their toes. If any passing secret agents were to catch up with you here, there is a convenient drop out of any of the windows down to a deadly glacier below.

The quasi-futuristic refuge can comfortably accomodate up to 100 henchmen and is entirely self-sufficient for energy and water, making it the perfect place to initiate any manner of diabolical agenda unbeknownst to the powers that be.

Perched precariously atop a rocky promontory at 3,800 metres en-route to the crest of Mont Blanc, the stainless steel clad Refuge de Goûter was designed to withstand the weather - and 70+mph winds that often whip its walls.

Sporting views to die for, this nifty little hiding hole may just take the prize for most remote pad, making it the perfect place to plot in peace. It also bears a striking resemblance to the headquarters of James Bond’s nemesis, Ernst Stavro Blofeld in the movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

Ups : Sports a View to a Thrill. Decent skiing.

Downs : Limited Parking. No local shops.

Evilability : Due to its remoteness, Refuge de Goûter has great potential for executing evil plans without undue interuption.

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LUXURY LIVING

oLASVERN NAVAL BAse : If you’ve got $17.5 million going spare and are nautically naughty, why not splash out on a Norwegian ex-Naval base? Closed in 2009 due to a lack of totalitarian tyranny in the area, Olasvern houses a spectacular 145,000 square feet of above-ground buildings and nearly 270,000 square feet of interior, carved deep into a mountain. A bonafide submarine stronghold, the hewn rock dry dock is the percfect parking space from which to hatch an aquatic attack.

In case of danger, Olasvern houses an intricate tunnel system to flummox even the most cunning would-be good guys, plus an emergency power system in case any international intelligence agencies try and get an infra-red advantage.

Currently being rented by dubious Russian companies linked to state owned Gazprom, suspected Russian military activity aboard research vessels has concerned military experts, leaving this Norse naval facility with the reputation as a somewhat shady hotspot.

Ups : Submarine hangar carved into a mountian, yes!

Downs : Possible suspicious activities already afoot.

Evilability : With unparalelled land, sea and subterranean access, Olasvern is a near-perfect evil lair, hence the Russians already moved in.

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norway

SCRABo ToWer :

norTHERN ireland

Standing alone, high above the coast of Northern Ireland’s County Down, Scrabo Tower sees all for miles around. The Black Tower of Ireland should attract aspiring arch-villains who hark back to a more simple time, when men were men, arrows were arrows and watchtowers weren’t such easy targets for air strikes.

Immortals from ‘The Highlander’ would feel at home setting up stall here and Evil Lords such as Voldemort or Sauron could rebuild their dark Empires from the traditional turrets without feeling ashamed of their devilish digs.

Even though this 125 feet tall structure sticks out like a sore thumb on the horizon, it certainly looks the part as home to a hell-raiser. Imagine the fear on your victims faces as they approach this eerie landmark, knowing the inside of that dark tower will probably be the last thing they’ll ever see!

Ups : As dark as the age it was conceived in.

Downs : Relatively defenceless against modern firepower.

Evilability : The epitome of old-skool evil, Scrabo Tower is the perfect hilltop hideaway for historical tyrants and their wicked ways. However, if you’re holed up here, just pray your opponents have left their bombs, tanks or ballistic missiles at home.

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LUXURY LIVING

PIoNEN DATA CENTRE : Deep in Stockholm’s bedrock lies a lair so impressive it should have been designed for dastardly deeds. It was, however, designed as a nuclear bunker and as such is purported to withstand a blast from a hydrogen bomb and say: “Is that all you’ve got? Give me MORE I SAY, MORE. MORE! HAHA...

MUAHAHA...MUAHAA...HaaAahaa...haha...muahha... hooooooo...” or somesuch.

In case it’s necessary to settle in for the long haul, it really does seem that Pionen could withstand the holocaust. The centre is equipped with decadent futuristic work and meeting spaces, greenhouse rooms and a huge 2,600 litre saltwater tank, so self-sufficiency is possible here for many years to come. The hideaway even simulates natural light throughout so you won’t even know you’re underground.

Currently the building houses one of Sweden’s largest Internet Service Providers, so a swift takeover bid could also provide vast amounts of electronic data ready to pilfer and blackmail the good citizens of planet Earth, twisting them around your little finger and bending the pitiful techno prisoners to your will and/or whim.

Ups : Theres only one way in - and once its locked...its locked.

Downs : Theres only one way out, so er, yeah.

Evilability : Carved into a mountain with suitably futuristic interior design, filled with data, self-sufficent and able to withstand a nuclear attack, Pionen is an Evil Mastermind’s wet dream. Previously used to store the Wikileaks servers, it seems Pionen is living up to its reputation.

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SWEDEN

DEATH STAR :

SPACE

Suspended silently somewhere in a galaxy far, far away sits a spherical space station with enough firepower to destroy a planet. Dubbed a “technological terror”, the Death Star was crafted by an evil Galactic Empire to keep the peace during a time of political unrest.

Not to be underestimated, this gargantuan mobile megastructure is so large it has often been mistaken for a small moon.

Despite being hailed as the “ultimate power in the universe”, this is the second of its kind to be built in only a matter of years as the Death Star has suffered from a slew of fundamental design flaws resulting in catastrophic ‘accidents’. Vulnerabilities pertaining to exhaust ports, remote energy shield controls and ultimately the station’s main reactor were noted. While some speculate the station was a victim of terrorist attacks, sabotage has not been ruled out.

Housing an entire fleet of ships and an army of clumsy stormtroopers, the Death Star’s defence features include turret mounted turbo lasers, powerful tractor beam and a formidable superlaser capable of destroying planets with a single blast. It is heard that the commissioning Emperor is personally overseeing the final stages of construction. Many Bothans died to bring us this information.

Ups : Spacious, slick modern interiors. Great when it works.

Downs : Easily exploitable weaknesses. Incompetent staff.

Relatively unprotected. Weapons systems not fully operational.

Evilability : Undoubtedly the baddest ball in the universe, the short lived Death Star unfortunately failed to reach its devastating potential.

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LUXURY LIVING

over INDULGE

WHEN LUXURY LIVING KNOWS NO LIMITS

FOR SALE

GULOU COURTYARD

Location:

Gulou Street, XiCheng District Beijing, China

Price:

$92,905,144 ¥600,000,000 $58,125 p/m2

Property Details:

1600 m2 living space covered courtyard 5 bedrooms dual kitchen 2 living rooms 1 sofa (comfortable) small table (maybe)

Going cheap at just under the magic hundred million dollar mark, we bring you... “Gulou Courtyard” Yes it is what it sounds like, a courtyard, in Gulou.

Located conveniently in the Class I key preservation zone of Beijing’s downtown historical and cultural heritage, this modestly priced 5-bedroom courtyard conversion comprises several buildings overlooking the classical Chinese-style paved courtyard. There is also a cinema room replete with, as Sotheby’s invitingly describe, ‘comfortable sofa’. Any other furniture you’ll have to buy yourself, allowing you to add your own personal touch to this space. And if you were budgeting for $100 million then rejoice because you’ll have a juicy $7 million left over for a few chairs, or a nice bed - as the current asking price tips the scales at just under $93 million.

Features

Authentic facade.

Fortified exterior wall would suit budding warlord or retired Gung-fu master.

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Features

Authentic-looking interior courtyard.

Traditional embellishments of indeterminable age, melding a classical “syner-chi” of modern decadence, in the literal sense.

In fact, for the mega rich, this mansion is a mega cool must…Don’t waste your money on such frivolities as an Airbus A320 neo ($96.7 million), a Cristiano Ronaldo or your own Disneyworld style theme park, plough your pocket money into this conversation starting courtyard conversion instead.

In comparison, you could have an 8 acre Long Island estate with 60,000 feet of living space, an indoor lazy river and fountains inspired by Peterhof Grand Palace in St. Petersburg, but ask yourself, will it have 5 bedrooms? Five! Plus a painting from the forbidden palace and, yes, AND both a Western and and Asian style kitchen? Possibly, but probably not.

Don’t be a fool. Snatch up this traditional Chinese courtyard property and bathe in the glory of your ornate oriental adornments forever, whilst avoiding looking at the aluminium and glass roof. This is an abode perfect for history fans or anyone looking to squander a large fortune. It won’t be out there long, so make an offer now, preferably via us. Thank you.

We await your call…

LUXURY LIVING

Amazing 3 bedroom villa 50 meters from the beach Ref. ID: PPR-47

Location:

Price:

Property details:

Features:

Bang Rak

Living space – 280 m2, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

3 Bedroom luxury sea view Chaweng villas Ref. ID: 3BOPV

Location:

Price:

Property details:

Features:

Chaweng

Living space – 160 m2, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms

19.900.000 THB Panoramic sea views, Private swimming pool, Fully-equipped modern kitchen, Floor-to-ceiling glass windows

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28.000.000 THB Private access to the beach, 150 m2 swimming pool, Jacuzzi,Gym, Private garden, Outside lounge zone

LUXURY LIVING LITTLE BLACK BOOK

Modern sea view pool villas only 1 km from the beach Ref. ID: ASRSVFS

Location:

Price:

Property details:

Features:

Chaweng Noi Living space – 280 m2, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms

16.900.000 THB Picture perfect panoramic sea views, Private swimming pool, Fully furnished western kitchen

3 Bedroom modern beach villa north coasts Ref. ID: AQM-831788

Location: Laem Noi

Property details:

3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms

Price:

45.000.000 THB

Features:

Spectacular sea views, Private beach access, Swimming pool,Private courtyard, Fully-equipped modern kitchen, Wide selection of cutting edge technology

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Aqua Samui 2 bedroom deluxe villa

LUXURY LIVING

Aqua Samui 2 Bedroom Deluxe Villa

Ref. ID: AQUA-006

REF. ID: AQUA-006 Location: Chaweng

Location:

Price:

Property details:

Features:

Chaweng

Price: (Per Night) 275 $ to 500 $

$300-$550 / night

Living space – 180 m2, 1 master room, 1 room - sofa bed, 2 bathrooms

Property Details: » Living space: 180 sq m » 1 master room » 1 room – sofa bed Features: » Designed by award-winning architect Gary Fell » Stunning panoramic sea views » Large open-form layout » Fully-equipped modern kitchen » Private infinity swimming pool » Smart home system automation » Secluded terrace

Designed by award-winning architect Gary Fell, stunning panoramic sea views, large open-form layout, private infinity swimming pool, smart home system automation, secluded terrace

RENTALS

Prestigious duplex art pool villa with seaview Location:

Price:

Property details:

Features:

Maenam

Living space 100 m2, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom

$275 - $555 /night 5* hotel facilities (breakfast, in-villa dining, housekeeping, Absolute privacy, Stunning sea view, 50m to paradise beach, close distance to a well-developed infrastructure area of Maenam

9 bedroom villa in Bang Rak | Location: Bang Rak | Price: 2,250 $ to 5,965 $ (per night) | REF. ID: E9BLB Property Details: » 9 Bedrooms » 10 Bathrooms

Features: » 24-hour personalised services » Fully equipped fitness centre » Panoramic seaviews » Private cinema » Oceanfront infinity pool » Oceanside jacuzzi and sun deck

» » » » »

65” flat screen TV Fully-equipped kitchen with breakfast bar Floating sala Poolside garden Private beach access

Telephone: +66 (0)80 8936771 | E-mail: office@luxsamui.com | Website: www.luxsamui.com

Sublime 4 bedroom Seaview luxury villa Ref. ID: VILKY

Location:

Price:

Bophut

$770 - $1300/ night

Property details: Features: 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms

Gorgeous sea vistas, Private terrace, Outdoor circular terrazzo bath, 3 private swimming pools, Dining sala, Swim up bar, Large open-air living spaces, Well-appointed high end kitchen

Property Details: » 5 Bedrooms » 6 Bathrooms

» » » » »

Features: 270-degree sea view State-of-the-art barbecue unit Infinity-edge swimming pool 60” 3D TV

» Bose V35 entertainment system » Fully-equipped kitchen with breakfast bar » 2 poolside sales

Aqua Samui 2 Bedroom Villa

REF. ID: AQUA-004 | Location: Chaweng Price: 275 $ to 400 $ (per night)

4 Bedroom ocean villa with stunning sea view Location:

Laem Set Beach

Property details:

Living space 200 m2, 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms

Property Details: » Living space: 180 sq m » 2 Bedrooms » 2 Bathrooms Features: » Designed by award-winning architect Gary Fell » Stunning panoramic sea views » Large open-form layout

Price:

$405/ night $6725/ month

Features:

Stunning sea view, Private Swimming pool, Fully furnished, Fully equipped western kitchen, Beach access

» Fully-equipped modern kitchen » Private infinity swimming pool » Smart home system automation » Secluded terrace

» Private garden » Sun terrace » 24-hour personalized guest service

Exclusive 6 bedroom seaview villa

RENTALS

5 bedroom sea view villa | Location: Bang Por | Price: 1,100 $ to 2,100 $ (per night) | REF. ID: VBV4B

REF. ID: SJV20 | Location: Choeng Mon Price: 1,800 $ to 2,600 $ (per night)

Splendid 6 bedroom villa within walking distance to Ban Tai beach Ref. ID: VPCR-6

Location: Ban Tai

Property details: 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms

Property Details: » Total area: 1,072 sqm » 6 Bedrooms » 6 Bathrooms

Telephone: +66 (0)80 8936771 | E-mail: office@luxsamui.com | Website: www.luxsamui.com

Price:

$795 - $1835/ night

Features:

2 fully fitted western kitchens, Breakfast bar, Private swimming, a huge sea-view terrace, Cozy courtyard, Gorgeous outdoor dining sala, 2 Jaccuzzi

Features: » Uninterrupted ocean vistas » One of the largest private infinity pools on Koh Samui » Exquisitely designed gardens and ponds » Large fully equipped TV room with plasma screen » 2 fully-equipped kitchens » Jacuzzi » Large private terrace » Huge sunken living room

LUXURY LIVING

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poweryachttours

THE VACATION OF YOUR DRE AMS IS HERE EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE POWER YACHT TOURS FULL TIME HOSTESS GOURMET LUNCH & REFRESHMENTS (ALCOHOLIC DRINKS INCLUDED)

travelinfo +66 (0) 7 7 952 288 |

PHONE: +66 (0) 9 18 360 360

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Introducing the final phase at Samujana, Koh Samui fully furnished by Oriental Living

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Phuket 424 Srisoonthorn Rd. Cherngtalay Tel/Fax: +66 (0) 76 325 419

Samui 9/18 Moo1 Maenam Tel/Fax: +66 (0) 77 247 675

info@oriental-living.net

www.oriental-living.net