Vol 12 issue 16 1 15 may 2013

L1 - L16

Volume 12, Issue 16

1 - 15 May 2013

bullet train TO PATTAYA ON TRACK

Pattaya Railway Station at the end of the line?

B

idding wars begin early next year in the battle for the mammoth contract to supply Thailand with four highspeed train systems, thus allowing the Bangkok-Pattaya link to be running by 2019—if not sooner.

Under current plans, the Pattaya route will be extended to Rayong in phase two some years later.

Chula Sukmanpop, transport director general, said international train suppliers would present their various technologies later this year for the government to pick just one system for all routes. Companies from China, Japan and Europe are keen to supply the trains; China is thought to be the front runner because Beijing already runs the longest bullet train route in the world – from the capital city to Guangzhou, which covers 2,298 kilometres in eight hours.

However, critics say that the bold plan to spend 983 billion baht on four highspeed trains in Thailand depends on the success of the government’s controversial plan to borrow two trillion baht. Opposition spokesmen in Parliament have vowed to oppose the bill on the grounds of indebtedness and potential corruption, preferring that the cost be borne out of normal budgetary procedures.

Continued on page 6

30 BAHT

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News Computer destroyed in warehouse fire Hi-tech equipment valued at more than 10 million baht was threatened by fire that was quickly extinguished by Banglamung fire fighters.

But not before the flames destroyed a substantial—yet undetermined—amount of computer supplies and goods.

30 drunk drivers nabbed

Thirty men and women driving while intoxicated were arrested at police checkpoints throughout the Pattaya area. Most of the arrests occurred at the Dolphin roundabout in North Pattaya where traffic is forced to slow down, thus enabling the police more easily to stop and question drivers.

Investigators interviewed the watchman, 35-year old Punet Chemkaew, who reported the blaze. He said he was taking a nap and was awakened by the smell of smoke. The fire chief said the fire was likely caused by a spark from a faulty electrical wire.

Public defrocking

Three men dressed as monks were detained on South Pattaya Road as they were receiving alms from passersby. Police suspected that they were not genuine monks because they could not identify which temple they were affiliated with, yet claimed they were collect-

ing cash to repair a temple.

One of the men, Jaroon, said that he needed to use the toilet at the nearby Chaimongkol temple, and then fled, leaving behind his robe and alms bowl. The other two men were released with a warning to refrain from begging.

Suspected necklace snatchers foiled The plague of teenagers on motorbikes snatching belongings from tourists and fleeing into the night had at least one set back when police, alerted by pedestrians on Second Road, radioed officers on North Pattaya Road to watch for three motorbikes. The cops stopped three motorbikes driven by youths who had equally young girls riding as pillion passengers. Police accused the youngsters of at-

tempting to snatch jewelry from tourists, but found no incriminating evidence. One of the suspects, 16-year-old Nhoi, said it was just a lark and they weren’t doing anything too serious. He claimed he had reached out from his motorbike to greet a friend-not to snatch anything from a stranger. Nevertheless, police confiscated three motorbikes and allowed the teenagers to go without charge.

Damaged electric wire kills boy

Rich foreigner found dead in Banglamung

A nail driven through an electric wire was likely responsible for the death of a four-year-old Cambodian boy. Police said the youngster was playing near a construction site in Soi Nern Plabwan when his friends heard a bang, then spotted Sean Shew on the ground unconscious. The boy had serious burns on his back and feet and was rushed to Banglamung hospital where he later died. Investigators said that the electric wire had been secured to a wooden pole by means of an inch-long nail driven into it.

The body of a dead foreigner believed to be Hans Kunne, about 75, was found in a wooded area in Banglamung.

The deceased had blackened eyes and several broken bones.

Scattered nearby were a bank book, car licence, life insurance

policy and other documents.

Police suspect that the farang had been murdered elsewhere and his body dumped by the roadside. Evidence suggests that Kunne was a well-to-do foreigner. His remains were sent for autopsy.

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News Hilton extends Carbon Offset Program in SE Asia Hilton Worldwide has extened its Carbon Offset Program in Southeast Asia with the inclusion of Conrad Bali and Hilton Bandung in Indonesia. They join 11 existing properties in Southeast Asia that already are offsetting carbon emissions from events and meetings.

Since its introduction last October, the Hilton program in the region has offset more than 4,500 tonnes of carbon emissions--equivalent to more than 470 economy-class flights around the world.

At no additional cost to customers, the program measures carbon generated by events and meetings and offsets these through the purchase of carbon credits. The credits are used to fund projects in Borneo and Cambodia that have strong community and environmental benefits beyond carbon. From 1 April, 2013, 13Hilton Worldwide properties in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are part of the program.

“Hilton Worldwide is committed to leading the hospitality industry in sustainable practices,” said William Costley, vice president, operations - Southeast Asia, Hilton Worldwide. “The exceptional results from

the first six months of the Hilton Worldwide Carbon Offset Program in Southeast Asia demonstrate the meaningful contribution an organisation can make to the environment and communities itoperates in.”

Hilton Worldwide is the first and only major multi-brand hospitality company to make sustainability measurement and corrective action a brand standard at each of its over 3,900 hotels globally.

The program has been well received by customers including large multinational companies that put a premium on sustainability. In the first six months of the Hilton World-

wide Carbon Offset Program in Southeast Asia, around 70 percent of events and meetings offset were from corporate customers.

“The Carbon Offset Program has definitely drawn great interest from our customers, and there is a growing trend for companies to conduct events, and other aspects of their business, in environmentally responsible ways. The program offers a competitive edge for clients that take sustainability seriously and provides them with an avenue to give back to the environment,” said Heinrich Grafe, general manager, Conrad Centennial Singapore.

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www.pattayatoday.net

News

Family shot in Pong Nongprue

A shooter in Pong, Nongprue, wounded an 11-yearold boy and two men who were rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. The incident is thought to have arisen over a land ownership dispute. Nikorn Krutkrai, the village chief, was eating at a street restaurant when an Isuzu pickup pulled up. The Thai driver, about 40, ordered two cans of beer. He paid for the beer, and then returned to his vehicle where he collected a gun and began to spray bullets across a wide area before fleeing. Nikorn was struck, as were 45-year-old Pangsi

Sansila and Nikorn’s 11-yearold son Mukpol. All three victims were struck in the legs and torsos. They are said to be recovering in hospital.

Police collected 21 bullet casings from the vicinity as well as the gun which had been thrown away. Detectives say the gunman appeared to be drunk but they have reason to believe that a dispute about buying and selling a parcel of land in Pong may have been behind the brazen violence.

The attack took place at night; witnesses were not able to note the plate number of the pickup.

Military draft begins in Pattaya area Payakom Hall, Banglamung, was the venue for 288 young men who turned up to select coloured balls in the lottery to be drafted into the armed forces. For the draft this year recruits had to be born in the year 1992 and be 160 centimeters tall; there also was a secondary draft of older men in their late twenties. Nearly 1,100 men will be required to turn up at the conscription hall—300 of whom will be drafted and receive a government allowance of 9,000 baht per month.

Various categories are exempt from the conscription process, including those who are too small, those who are too big (i.e., obese), and those who are certified cross-dressers and confirm they are cross-gender.

Cheeky robbery at 7-Eleven A foreigner entered the 7-Eleven store on Walking Street and sneaked into the store room while the clerk was busy working behind the counter.

Shortly thereafter, the farang reappeared and explained that he had been looking for a rest room when he wandered into the storeroom by mistake. He then made his exit. The clerk, 20-year-

old Marut Lapit, did not realize that he personally had been the victim of a non-violent robbery. But when his shift ended, he went to the storeroom to retrieve his belongings and discovered that 6,000 baht had been taken from his wallet. The CCTV camera captured a clear image of the thief, but police have no idea of his identity.

Girl’s bizarre death begs explanation Police are investigating the perplexing death of a fiveyear old girl who reportedly convulsed and died after a dog walked around her, or so the story goes. The girl came to Pattaya from Chonburi with her parents Adisak Srisombat and his wife Kamfang. The couple rent-

ed a room, they say, and left their daughter alone for a short time. On their return, they found the 5-year-old dead. Doctors determined that the youngster had had a seizure following a shock.

There was no evidence the dog had attacked the girl.

The inquiry continues.

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www.pattayatoday.net

News Thonglor pet clinic expands Boonchoo Tongjarernpoolporn, managing director of Thonglor Pet Hospital, presided at the opening of the clinic’s ninth branch at Ramintra, Bangkok.

New Centara 5-star hotel set to open on Phratamnak Centara Hotels & Resorts will open a five-star Grand branded hotel in Pattaya in the next quarter. Centara promises to unveil “a design that in creativity and innovation is unlike anything else in the ocean resort.”

This third Centara Grand in Pattaya is set “amongst the high-end residential addresses of Pattaya’s Phratamnak Hill, with the beach only a few steps away, the hotel is designed to complement this exclusive neighbourhood,” the announcement said. Marble and granite clad the public areas, the lobby furniture is all Fendi, and fabrics and furnishings used in the guestrooms are of the highest quality.

Centara, along with the Tulip Group who own the hotel, and designers Model 1to1 Co and Gooodlux Design Consultants have created a ground floor that is dominated by an underwater world, with a giant aquarium with diverse forms of exotic and colourful marine life.

Lighting design director Sirisak Pituck says that light, glass and water are used in conjunction with fiber optics to create a mood in which land and water fuse into one element.

“The ceiling is glass, the walls are glass, the elevators are glass, and everything flows from and with the water,” he says.

Dominique Ronge, GM, calls Phratamnak Hill “the premier address in the city. Residences here are very expensive villas and condominiums. On top of the hill at Wat Phra Yai is the biggest Buddha image in Chonburi province, visible from miles away. This is a very exclusive place.”

Only eight storeys high, the hotel blends in with the varied skyline of the hillside district. It is designed in two wings with a central courtyard. Original artworks provide vivid splashes of colour and texture along the walls, and blown

glass has been used for the lights and the sculptures.

A chic city-resort style hotel with 165 rooms and suites, the hotel will also be family-friendly.

The all-day dining restaurant, Oceana, will offer a modern setting along with an international and Thai menu, with the accent on in-season local produce and open kitchens that offer a glimpse of the action. There will be a fine dining steak house with a wide selection of wines, a bakery named Espresso will offer freshly baked breads and cakes, and on the rooftop and featuring spectacular ocean views will be an Italian restaurant and bar named Altezza.

Among the leisure facilities are a rooftop pool and a fitness centre. The resort will feature two meeting rooms and there is also a delegates’ bar that provides a perfect setting for coffee breaks.

Set directly on the beach is the hotel’s own Beach Club, a place to chill out and enjoy fresh juices, coffee, snacks and light meals, and a selection of beers, wines and cocktails. On the second and third floors of the Beach Club is Spa Cenvaree, with tranquil ocean views and a menu of individual treatments and spa journeys.

For more information and reservations, please contact tel. +662 101 1234 ext 1 or e-mail to reservations@chr.co.th

Universal Group sponsor fast networking event Around town it is hard to miss Seven Seas Condo Resort Jomtien and Savanna Sands due to the large market presence the two condominium developments have secured with the help of Compass Real Estate and marketing company Silvermover. Developer of the projects is Universal Group, an international real estate developer.

Universal Group now sponsors a quarterly networking event aimed at real estate agents and supporting companies.

The quarterly event at

EasyKart Bali Hai Pier is the Pattaya Condo Guide Real Estate Grand Prix May 18.

The public is invited to cheer on real estate racers and enjoy refreshments. Real estate agents are invited to register up to two drivers by contacting charles.evans@exactthailand.com at the Pattaya Condo & House Guide, which is organizing the event.

Only 50 driver positions are available. The flag goes down at 3 p.m. with events concluding at 8 p.m. with the 10 finalists competing for the Developers Cup.

Foreign tourist police assistants needed The Tourist Police are a special division of the Royal Thai Police.

The FTPA assist with carrying out the functions of the Tourist Police including assistance to tourists and local community members, helping to resolve misunderstandings and disputes, offering general advice to tourists and providing services for international events from time to time. We operate primarily in the Walking Street/Beach Road entertainment area, nightly from 9.00 pm to 2.30 am.

We are currently inviting qualified male and female foreigners living in Pattaya to join the group. It’s important for members to have a friendly and relaxed attitude, to enjoy helping others and to be able to spare one or more evenings a week. A probationary period, including initial training, is part of the program.

Our initial requirements are: • You live in Pattaya most of the time • You have a current and renewable one year visa • You have language skills or relevant backgroud experience • You have a verifiable clean police record in your home country and Thailand Applicants should send a short email telling us about yourself to ftpapattaya@gmail.com We will send you an application form and try to answer any questions you have. Feel free to visit us on Walking Street any night and don’t hesitate to see us if you need any assistance.

Hong Kong Police Force Notice Notice of Legal Proceedings

Notice is hereby given that a discharge application hearing will be held in the High Court on 13th May 2013 under Section 15(5)(b) of the Organized and Serious Crimes Ordinance, Cap. 455 of the Laws of Hong Kong (Ref: HCMP 2055/2009). The following person and company are named as the Respondents in the proceedings: Canadian Male CRANKSHAW Glen Douglas 1st Respondent (Holder of Canadian Passport No. BC 261221) GS Sound Management Limited

2ndRespondent

The above Respondents should contact Woman Inspector CHAN Sin-wern of Fraud Section, Commercial Crime Bureau at 13th Floor, Arsenal House West Wing, Police Headquarters, No. 1 Arsenal Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong or by telephone number (852) 2860 4850 for details of the above hearing as soon as possible.

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News POLI CE

BLOTTER

Volunteers arrested Three police volunteers based at Nongprue police station have been arrested for collecting drugs from youths stopped at motorbike checkpoints on Soi Khao Noi and then selling them on to customers.

By the way, they were Thai police volunteers, not farang, which explains why it was not headline news.

My wife was waiting A drunken Pattaya City municipal officer flew into a road rage after becoming angry with the Russian driver of a minibus which he wished to overtake. The officer in his car honked in vain for the minibus to get out of the way, even waving his gun in his annoyance. His excuse was that he was in a hurry to get to his wife after a drinking session.

Jet Ski scams abound Police and Pattaya City Hall officials are still being urged by the local community to end the Jet Ski scams which see tourists hounded for huge sums after imaginary damage to the rented craft. City Hall had promised to come up with a compulsory insurance scheme for all Jet Ski renters, but the matter is still tardily “open for discussion”.

www.pattayatoday.net

Pattaya bullet train not derailed Continued from page 1

Almost half of the government’s two trillion baht infrastructure loan plan would be spent on high-speed trains initially linking Bangkok with Phitsanulok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Hua Hin and Pattaya by the end of this decade. No final decision has been taken on which route will be the first to open. Decisions about the exact location of stations and whether the high-speed train tracks will run alongside existing rails are not yet under detailed discussion.

Many rail experts believe that the given time-scale is too tight because of the enormous bureaucracies involved in the mammoth plan.

“No bullet train in the world runs

at a profit with just fare-paying passengers. There will need to be a big switch from road to rail as regards freight, and we have no idea yet of the cost implications,” said an official of the State Railway of Thailand.

He added that high-speed trains would not be immune from flooding problems which currently cause rail closures from time to time.

Pattaya City Hall said that the proposed high-speed train would be vital for Pattaya’s next stage of development and turn it into a five-star resort destination, in effect a suburb of Bangkok with travel time of less than an hour. However, the spokesperson was unable to confirm 2018 as a like-

ly completion date. The oft-repeated suggestion to add U Tapao airport to the Pattaya section is understood to be part of phase two in the 2020s.

Given that Thailand’s economic future is closely tied to ASEAN partners and to China’s growing might, it is inevitable that newgeneration rail networks over time will link together Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and China. The Thai government’s current proposals can be seen as a first step in what could be an investment programme lasting decades. Thus, Pattaya is a very small cog in an enormous wheel which hasn’t yet started to turn.

New learning centre for the deaf

Keeping abreast A 21 year old ladyboy was arrested during the Songkran festival because he proudly displayed in public view his two implanted breasts which he said had cost the better part of half a million baht. He pleaded with police not to arrest him and even offered to cover up one boob as a compromise. But no, the law must be upheld. He was fined 200 baht at the police station and sent on his way fully-clothed. Until the next time, eh?

The tooth fairy A tourist who took a good-time young man to a short-time room in South Pattaya woke up to find that his horizontal companion had stolen 2,000 baht from his wallet as well as a wristwatch and a mobile phone.

He had some difficulty in explaining to the hotel receptionist what had happened as the boy had also stolen his false teeth. This meant that he was unable to pronounce his words clearly enough.

Politician’s drug arrest A former Chonburi elected official, deputy chief of Nong Hiang sub-district, was arrested in a sting operation with 200 yaba tablets in her possession. Nattanant Rattanaweerakan, 44, said she had agreed to work on behalf of an imprisoned drugs dealer after the electorate rejected her in the recent Chonburi elections. She added she needed the cash to pay for her mother’s medicine.

Up your skirt A Pattaya ladyboy had an unusual explanation after police found a stolen mobile phone in his underwear. He denied stealing the phone from a foreigner he met casually at Royal Garden Plaza even though the item fell out of his knickers during an intimate examination by authorized officers. He said the phone belonged to him and that he always kept it in an intimate place for security reasons. However, he would not do this in future as it took him too long to answer the phone if it rang.

Brits arrested for fraud Two British men were arrested after allegedly using fake ATM cards to loot banks in and around Pattaya. They were found by investigators to have more than 100 fake electronic cards with details taken from real cards. Will they never learn? Thai banks now have investigation departments whilst all transactions at ATMs are videoed. More than 50 farang have been arrested for similar offences in Pattaya this year so far.

Gay Romeo’s downside An educated American with a PhD who answered the door bell of his flat was faced by two burly Thais who forced their way in and stole cash and valuables worth 100,000 baht. Making a police report, the farang said he had met a 21-year-old man online through the Gay Romeo website. The new acquaintance agreed to come to the American’s flat.

However, the men who turned up were in their 50s, overweight and wearing stained clothing. Not quite what the doctor ordered.

Some 300 hearing impaired children and their parents were at the opening of an extension at the Boonchu Muangmaitong Foundation near Sattahip. Pornjit Hoonruengroom, president of the Navy Wives’ Association, hosted the event and explained that education for deaf children would be free at the centre to help youngsters take their proper place in society.

Livestock show in Pattaya The National Sports Stadium on Soi Chaiyapeuk was the venue for the Pattaya International Livestock Show last weekend. Prizes were awarded for best breeds of cows, sheep and goats. This was the ninth consecutive year for the show which is sponsored by City Hall, the Thai Brahman Cattle Breeding Association and the Tourism Authority of Thailand

Thai Air tweets for help on Pattaya Beach Officials from Thai Airways, which recently celebrated its 53rd birthday, posted messages on its Facebook and Twitter accounts urging tourists and locals to join in trash-collecting on Pattaya Beach. The event is scheduled for May 7. The airline says it expects a positive response as it has 300,000 followers on the social media sites.

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News Elderly honored in Banglamung The Banglamung Home for the Aged celebrated its annual seniors’ day by handing out certificates of merit to the area’s men and women over 60 who have contributed to charitable and other worthy causes. There were also dona-

tions from private individuals to buy wheelchairs and other needed equipment at the centre. Also on hand were free haircuts, acupuncture and foot massage as well as traditional pouring of water over the hands of the seniors.

Pork deliveryman returns mega-cash Sophon Cable Company was delighted when Tawee Panwilai (2nd left), 42, asked their assistance in finding the owner of a bag containing 90,000 baht in cash and a personal cheque for 16,000 baht. Tawee found the treasure trove as he was delivering pork products by motorbike to customers at the Nhongkate intersection. He said that at first he was not sure what to do, but his wife advised

him to advertise his find on TV. Local police were called in and they easily found the real owner, whose name and address were on the cheque.

The haul was returned to Ruengsak Deeboonchai, a rice seller, who said one of his employees lost the bag whilst on his rounds. A police spokesman said it was gratifying that honest citizens still existed and added that Tawee received a reward.

10th rugby tournament set

At a press conference at the Amari Orchid Pattaya it was announced that the next annual Pattaya rugby tournament will be renamed the Amari Orchid Kays Memorial Tournament in memory of the former Pattaya Panthers’ captain killed in the 2002 Bali bombing. The event will be at Horseshoe Point Resort which has been totally renovated for the competition. There

will be an open tournament for men and a junior division for those under 15, sponsored by Kingdom Properties. There will be 16 teams in the main tournament. The Thai Barbarians will defend their title against The Southerners, who were narrowly beaten. Former champions Thai Legends will also be back, as well as newcomers Wat Sri Racha Old Boys.

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News Chinese sign 2-billion baht investment deals with Pattaya Booze time again There’s just a chance that opening hours of pubs and clubs might, just might, be extended to four in the morning. Nationally, the police have set up a working party to examine the pros and cons, whilst insisting that boozeramas near temples and schools will not be included in any revisions.

What has prompted the latest review is the upcoming ASEAN Economic Community in late 2015 which could be good for business. Non-ASEANs are keeping their fingers crossed.

Thankfully it’s over Well, another Songkran has been and gone. There were the usual complaints about drunken idiots on and off motorbikes and clear violations of the law on the sale of alcohol and the use of over-sized water cannons.

The supposed ban on water barrels on pickup trucks was ignored as usual and the much-acclaimed army of plainclothes police looking for troublemakers was thin on the ground to say the least. All this is said every year and will be repeated in 2014. This is Thailand.

Phnom Penh closed Expats who fled to Phnom Penh to escape Songkran report that the city was a ghost town for several days from April 13. No water throwing, but most businesses closed down for the new year festivities and large chunks of the population disappeared into the provinces to stay with their families. The only places open were the hotels and some of the bars on Riverside, the main tourist strip. One Pattaya expat complains he couldn’t even find a laundry open and had to hand-wash his undies. Shame.

Unlike the British A reader asks about the difference between Thai and British criminal law.

In a nutshell Thailand has no juries and even the judge can be switched halfway through the trial. The hearings are not day-after-day until the case is completed and gaps of several months are usual. It can take 12 years for a case to wend its way through the first, the Appeal and then the Supreme Court. It’s unusual for the media to be present at trials, and cameras and TV are off-limits on the court’s premises. Criticize any judge and expect the worst. We could go on and on.

Constitutional muddle Whilst the governing Pheu Thai party is relying on its big parliamentary majority to ram through changes, including amnesty and charter amendments, the opposition Democrats are trying to block them by appealing to the Constitutional Court. The resulting muddles might have been enough to justify a military coup 20 years ago “to end corruption and disloyalty”. But not now. Thailand has learned painfully that putsches solve nothing.

Greg’s Kitchen changes Greg’s Kitchen on Drinking Street, opposite Tiffany Show on Second Road (North Pattaya), has amended opening hours once again. The popular eatery is now open seven days a week from 10 o’clock in the morning to very late. The move is very popular amongst Greg’s breakfast crowd and Sunday lunch devotees who lost out when a previous set of opening hours was brought in. Around Town’s favourite dish is the shepherd’s pie, but the choices are deliciously endless.

Good job in The Hague Most people thought initially that Thailand had a weak case in the temple and border dispute with Cambodia. However, the quartet of lawyers at The Hague did remarkably well in arguing against the Cambodian claim to own the area surrounding the temple as well as the ruins themselves. Much of the dispute concerns various maps, many very old, which Thailand says cannot be used to mark modern-day borders. A decision from the World Court is not expected for some months.

Myanmar revealed It’s a popular destination now, but you have to plan your trip. For example, don’t bring your laptop or Smartphone because connections are very slow even though the internet isn’t censored like it used to be. The best way to stay connected is to get a pre-paid SIM card whilst travelling. There are not many ATMs in the country so you need to bring brand-new US currency to exchange for Myanmar kyat. If you thought that Cambodia was choosy about accepting worn dollar bills, Myanmar is ten times worse.

French night out Le Parrot’s restaurant has to be one of the best value-for-money places in town. It’s essentially French but with international and Thai choices too. The dish of the day is always superb and the good wine selection is priced surprisingly low. It’s located on Third Road, about 300 yards south of Soi 17, on your right as you proceed towards the flyover and Jomtien.

Or phone 0808358142. They also have rooms for rent.

The editor and management of Pattaya Today don’t necessarily share the views expressed in this column

Pattaya’s civic leaders and 100 Chinese entrepreneurs and managers signed a memorandum of understanding worth 2 billion baht for the hotel and real estate industries. The Chinese are examining new bases to produce goods to overcome rising production costs at home. It’s also expected that the number of Chinese visitors to Thailand will almost double by 2014 to five million per year.

Hey,Yankee, Uncle Sam Wants You! Attention all Yanks in Pattaya. The US Embassy in Bangkok is encouraging you and your fellow citizens living in or visiting the Eastern Seaboard to get in STEP. That’s the embassy’s new Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

At the same time, Timothy C. Swanson, chief of the American Citizen Services Unit, invites you to introduce yourself to Pattaya-area wardens. Did you even know there was a warden here?

There are several in fact, including Robert K. Brooks, Darrell Brown, Gary M. Hacker, Pat Koester, James C. Phillips, Piyawan Phillips, Donald Ratcliffe, and Thomas Worthley.

These Embassy wardens are private citizens who voluntarily aid the US Embassy to communicate with and assist Americans locally.

“For instance,” Swanson explains, “if we learn that an American is hospitalized or arrested a long way from Bangkok and we are not able to visit quickly, we may ask a warden to check on the person’s welfare.

Wardens often discover problems American citizens are facing before we do.”

The unit chief also urged wardens to reach out to Americans living in the Pattaya area so that their neighbors know who they are and know how to contact them. Much of this outreach is by word of mouth, especially important for those without internet access.

In requesting that residents and visitors from America enroll in

STEP, Swanson pointed out that in emergencies, the Embassy will provide relevant information and assistance, but “enrollment is the only way to guarantee that we have current contact information for you and allow us to contact and assist you in such circumstances.”

Americans may enroll online at http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/ embassy/acsregform.htm. The site allows for entry and updates of contact information, making it easier for you to keep your information current, and provides up-to-date travel information customized to your travel agenda and itinerary. All information is safe and secure.

That said, it was also noted that the Embassy’s primary mode of communication in an emergency is through the warden system. The wardens may be contacted as follows:

Elephant killed by rival Two male elephants at a Sattahip reserve fought after one broke loose from its chain and gored the other—thought to be a romantic rival in the mating game. The tusks were severed from the dead elephant, 68, before it was buried. His attacker, 30, was sedated and re-chained. He will be sold and relocated to Surin. No humans were injured during the fracas, though many staffers fled in terror.

Robert Brooks, who lives on Thappraya Road, can be contacted at (084) 158-0785, or by email: bobby@bobbybrooks.com .

Darrell Brown’s mobile number is (082)-697-5535; his email address is runnindeep@gmail.com Gary Hacker lives in Naklua.

Mobile number: (089) 803 0388; email: sanmyn@ gmail.com.

Pat Koester, a Jomtien resident, can be called at (087) 912 6774, email: pxkoester@earthlink.net James Phillips, who lives in North Pattaya, can be reached at (080) 099 0630; email: anjinn@gmail.com Piyawan Phillips, North Pattaya, can be called at (086)155 0506; email: piyawan777@hotmail.com Donald Ratcliffe’s mobile number is (081)291 0535; his email: dratc@loxinfo.co.th Thomas Worthley, in Rayong, may be called at (081) 939-9789; email: tom_worthley@yahoo.com The Consular Services chief added, “Our wardens are strictly volunteers and do not have any specific authority, nor do they have access to information about you, unless you provide it to them.” He stressed that the Embassy and volunteer wardens maintain separate records, in compliance with the US Privacy Act. “If the wardens know you are there,” Swanson noted, “they are more likely to be able to reach you in times of need, and to help you communicate with the Embassy.”

Pattaya Today's lifestyle, travel and culture guide

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

L iv I N G

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Bangkok International Motor Show 2013 edition automotive L15

Exclusive Wine Dinners Gran Monte Thai Wine Dinner at Flare

stY L e

The Taste of Success

Mantra Restaurant

escapades L6

gourmet corner L10

Exclusive Delicato Family Vineyards Wine Dinner at Sheraton Pattaya Resort

Hosted by Nikki Visootha Lohitnavy and Ross Edward Marks Hilton Pattaya announced its latest Gran Monte Thai wine dinner promotion at Flare restaurant on May 2 from 7pm. The promotion is held in partnership with the Gran Monte winery and Central Wine Cellars. The night will feature some of Thailand’s finest wines and be complemented by traditional cuisine.

Guest hosts for the evening will be Nikki Visootha Lohitnavy, Thailand’s first female winemaker and Ross Edward Marks, vice president Central Food Retail. The dishes will highlight Flare’s new menu and feature a duo of crispy coconut and vermicelli shrimps, fresh Japanese sea scallops and crème brûlée topped with a layer of hard caramel and chilled Thai melon.

Swirl the glass, clink and toast to this fabulous wine dinner at only 2,300 baht nett per guest.

For more information or reservations call +66 (0)38 253 000 or email: saneh.prakobsub@hilton.com.

Sheraton Pattaya Resort invite you to come experience culinary cuisine and wine pairing experience at "Delicato Family Vineyards Wine Dinner", presented by Ryan Stewart, regional sales manager of Delicato Family Vineyards Wine (DFV) from California, USA, May 10 at 6:30 p.m. while enjoying the sunset and panoramic ocean view from Papaya Room and Latitude Lounge.

Enjoy a lavish five-course menu by our award-winning chefs with wine pairings from Delicato Family Vineyards Wine. Educate not only your palate but also your wine knowledge by listening to wine expert, Ryan Stewart.

The price is THB 2,200++ per guest.

As seats are limited, advance reservations must be made. Please dial 038 259 888 or via Facebook's inbox at www.facebook.com/ sheratonpattayaresort

Lungarotti Wine Dinner with Chef Alberto at Acqua Italian Restaurant Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya On Friday, May 15, Chef Alberto Bruni invites you to enjoy an Extraordinary Wine Dinner at “Acqua” Italian restaurant of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. He has put together a 5-course menu each of them paired with a different wine from the house of Lungarotti from Torgiano in the Perugia region, Italy. Priced at just THB 1,590++ per person only.

About Chef Alberto Bruni: Chef Alberto is passionate about life, about love, about motorcycles and especially about food. He tried to make people happy with his food as his

motto is ‘if you want to make it really good, do it with passion’.

Chef Alberto is an Italian national. He started his career in various kitchen positions in Europe, Australia and South-East Asia. With more than 40 years of experience in cooking, plus knowledge and skills in related area, he has always been able to upgrade standards of his menus. He will be using fresh product to create a distinctive and modern style of Italian cooking. Come and enjoy Italian cuisine with stories from Italy and let yourself be entertained by Alberto.

“Acqua” Italian restaurant is located in the Main

Lobby of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, and opens daily from 18.30-22.30 hrs.

Call now for reservation, at +66 (0) 3830 1234 ext. 4266.

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events

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

Wan Lai Day in Pattaya

eve n t s cal en d ar Hilton Pattaya Presents ‘Chill-Out To The Next Level With Region’s Premiere DJs’ At Horizon

Thousands of residents, tourists and guests from all-over the world and business establishments celebrated Songkran in Pattaya.

Hilton Pattaya presents its latest DJs event throughout May 2013 at Horizon restaurant and bar. It has enlisted an eclectic DJ line-up, playing various famous tunes from deep techno, jazz, soulful and funky house upbeat to the hottest music trend such as DJ JDJ, DJ To-Ru and DJ Kade. Guests can indulge in style with a twist or simply relax in the most chilling Infinity Bar and enjoy the gentle sea breeze and romance sunset in a comfortable and relaxed entertainment venue.

Naklua’s well known Sanctuary of Truth celebrated Songkran with the Leam Rachawet Sopon Cable TV Company celebrates Songkran community in Pattaya and the Rak Pra Tat Club of Thailand.

Staff members of the Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya Pre-opening team of Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya carried out the traditional Songkran blessing ritual pouring water on prepare to pour water on the hands of community elders and ask for top management their blessings, a tradition during the Songkran festival

Saturday 4th May 2013 The Next Level of Hip, DJ To-Ru playing Old School Hip Hop Originally from Sendai City Japan but based in Bangkok since 2009. Toru’s style is flawless and cross-genre.

Expect high-energy hip hop to break beats, house and reggae.

Join the crowd at Pattaya’s leading rooftop venue, Horizon. Special priced Ciroc Vodka throughout the night. Entry is free, dress code naturally applies.

Saturday 18th May 2013 The Next Level of Groove, DJ Kade playing Classic House Horizon, on level 34 will be the venue for the next level of groove when DJ Kade, one of Thailand’s premier DJ and voted top 10, 2012 ladies championships, arrives in town.

Join the pack for what promises to be a night of Deep Tech, Soulfulhouse, Minimal, Hip-house and Lounge. There will be special priced Möet & Chandon as well as ladies cocktails throughout the night.

Entry is free, dress code naturally applies.

Get ready to party like a rock star and experience the next level of relaxation at the open-air bar, stretching out into the never-ending skyline with the hippest beats and the coolest drinks.

For more information please contact: call +66 (0)38 253 000 E-mail: bkkhp.pattaya.horizon@hilton.com

Amari Orchid Pattaya management team all set for Songkran

Nong Nooch Garden had their annual elephant water throwing

Top of the Gulf Regatta International

Date: May 3 – 7, 2013 Venue: Ocean Marina Yacht Club Pattaya After a very successful 8th Top of the Gulf Regatta where we experienced another record entry level, we are once again looking forward to a bigger and better 2013 racing week.

A feature of the last Regatta was the explosion of the very competitive 40 footers that provided breathtaking competitive racing which we hope to emulate and build upon with even more entries in 2013.

Ocean Marina has completed the addition of 100 new berths and discussions are underway on some added dredging for next year. The good news is that projected tides for the racing weekend of 2013 are higher than last year!

Activities: The annual Top of the Gulf Regatta takes place at Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Jomtien Beach, which has grown to become the largest by boat number and become the center of boat racing in Asia. This event helps to promote the tourism of Pattaya and attracts large keelboats and multihulls, dinghies, beach catamarans and youngsters sailing the Optimists. Top of the Gulf Regatta is an international boat racing, which supported by the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand (YRAT) and awards the international standard from International Sailing Federation or ISAF. The event expects to welcome more than 600 sailors in more than 300 crafts to the water of the Gulf of Thailand.

Tourist and City Police, together with foreign and Thai police volunteers, were on duty throughout the Songkran celebrations

For more information please contact: AT Pattaya office www.topofthegulfregatta.com Tel. +66 3842 7667, +66 3842 8750

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events

ROMANTIC DINING ON THE BEACH THB 3,600 nett.

Inclusive of 5 course set dinner Table reservation 038 933 888 Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

World’s longest catwalk at Central Pattaya International Fashion at Central Festival Pattaya Beach was sponsored by the government and the private sector. The catwalk, according to the Guinness Book of Records, is 1.68 kms--longest in the world. Next year will feature a costume designer competition with industry luminaries from Europe joining their Thai counterparts.

Legends at Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort The Mechai Viravaidya Foundation will be the first charity to benefit from next month’s Legacy of Legends-Manchester United Legends—a blacktie affair and sports events tour in Bangkok and Pattaya.

Founded by long-term Thai residents Kevin Fisher and Peter Banner, Legacy of Legends is an event promoter that helps non-profit groups generate contributions.

“We have appointed Manchester United Legends as the celebrity ambassador of the organization’s first charity event as the soccer legend is wellknown for his charitable efforts worldwide,” said Fisher, CEO. He announced that the Mechai Viravaidya Foundation has been selected as the first non-profit charitable organization to benefit from this event. Foundation founder Mechai Viravaidya reflected, “There is no government in the world that can do all or provide adequately everything for its people, especially in education.

The country needs the help of others, in particular businesses, which have achieved success. Profitable companies must share some of their profit to help make society a better place. The government can encourage such endeavors by providing tax incentives for donations from the private sector to education, where they can deduct from their tax double the amount they donate."

The Legacy of Legends - Manchester United Legends Tour with Andy Cole – Lee Sharpe – Denis Irwin – Clayton Blackmore will consist of dinners in Bangkok June 6 at the Plaza Athénée Bangkok, a Royal Méridien Hotel, and in Pattaya June 8 at the Centara Grand Mirage Beach

Resort Pattaya. The charity golf tournaments are set for June 7 at the Riverside Golf Course, Bangkok, and June 10 at the Phoenix Golf & Country Club, Pattaya.

The five-course dinner (25,000 baht table of 10) features free flow wine and beer, a power talk by Manchester United Legends, a motivational speech by Mechai, and live music and entertaining. The evening ends with a celebrity charity auction.

The charity golf tournaments (20,000 baht per team of 4) feature shotgun golf in the afternoon, the opportunity to play with Manchester United Legends, and a social dinner buffet with free flow wine and beer.

For tickets and information, go to www. legacyoflegends.org, or call 0800 444 050.

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rendezvous Irish Band at Lost World

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

Dusit Thani Pattaya named second best

Andre Brulhart (centre), general manager of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, welcomes A Cairde Irish traditional band during charity show at the hotel recently. Also in photo (from left) are Iarla O’Donnell, Aidan O’Donnell, Shauna Mullin, Aine Aleeson, Kevin O’Donnell and Koranit Sakdanan, asst. fund rising manager of Father Ray Foundation.

Chatchawal Supachayanont (eighth from right), general manager, Dusit Thani Pattaya, holds trophy presented when the hotel was named second best hotel among world’s top 100 hotels in 26 destinations with the highest guest satisfaction in terms of product and services and guest loyalty. Coral Travel presented the trophy at the Starway World Best Hotels Awards in Moscow. Nearly 180,000 guest satisfaction questionnaires were distributed among hotel guests from Russia, Ukraine and other CIS countries, Poland, Turkey and The Balkans.

Green Gourmet at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa

Centara Hat Yai welcomes former Public Health Minister

The culinary team at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa now has an in-house “Chef’s Garden” providing guests with the freshest ingredients. The garden produces all organic vegetables for restaurant menus.

HOT SUMMER PROMOTION 20% off everything except set menu

PattaveePongnonthakul (right), general manager of Centara Hat Yai, welcomes WitthayaBuranasiri (left), former Minister of Public Health, as he begins his stay at the hotel.

Thonglor Pet Hospital owner visits USA

Boonchu Thongjaroenpoolporn (top row left), owner of Thonglor Pet Hospital in Bangkok and Pattaya, toured the Banfield Pet Hospital in Oregon for an up close and personal view of the modern facilities and hi-tech equipment.

Metlife Meets at Royal Cliff

MetLife (Korea) held the first of a series of three meeting at Royal Cliff Hotels Group. Over 500 participants and their families stayed at the hotels and met at various venues on the property, including PEACH (Pattaya Exhibition And Convention Hall).

UK travel execs visit Centara Grand Phratamnak

Dominique Ronge (right), general manager, Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya, seen here with UK travel agency executives Tony Carty (centre), managing director, travelbag.co.uk and Oscar Lopera (left), Asia product and purchasing manager, Stella Travel Services. The three inspect mock-up rooms and construction progress of the hotel which is scheduled for a soft opening in August.

King Power Pattaya urban bazaar

King Power’s urban bazaar drew enthusiastic crowds of shoppers to the Sukhumvit location. In addition to slashed prices on beach fashion wear, King Power featured a lucky draw with the top prize of 100,000 baht.

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rendezvous

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

Stars at Dara Resort Pattaya Thai TV stars Ploy Cherman(second from left), Pope Thanawat (left) and Jui Warattaya (centre) are welcomed to Cape Dara Resort Pattaya by Sittidej Rochanavibhata (right), general manager, and Pattamon Mekavarakul, assistant general manager( second from right). The actors stayed at the resort while filming ‘SameeTeeTra’, a new TV series which will air on TV Channel 3.

Songkran at Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa

Somsak Tanruengsri (fifth from left, second row), general manager, Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa, and hotel staff and invited guests participated in a traditional Songkran ceremony at the Orchid Garden. The resort also provided a Buddha Image in the lobby.

CU Board meets at Centara Grand Mirage Pattaya

Prof. Pirom Kamolratanakul (second from right), president of Chulalongkorn University, received a welcome bouquet from Andre Brulhart (second from left), general manager of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya on behalf of Chulalongkorn’s board of directors in the seminar of “15 Years Planning for Human Resources and Strategy Management” at the hotel’s Mirage Ballroom. Also in photo are Usa Pookpant (left), public relations manager, and WuthisakPichayagan (right), executive assistant.

Woonsen at Pullman Pattaya

The management team of Pullman Pattaya Hotel G welcomes Woonsen Virithipa Pakdeeprasong, actress, VJ and TV host, during her visit for the ‘108 Living’ TV program filming the facilities of the resort. From left: Kulakan Chamnankar, personal assistant to general manager; Sophon Vongchatchainont, general manager; Woonsen; Nannadda Supakdhanasombat, director of Marketing Communications, and Marie Gonter, events & marketing director.

Regional Sales Manager

Navy hits Pattaya Beach Sattahip Navy personnel and volunteers together with Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplume, spent a day cleaning Pattaya Beach after the chaos of Songkran. They filled huge bins with rubbish, garbage, trash, bottles, cans and plastic in their effort to spruce up Pattaya’s image.

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Happy Hour at our pool bars BUY 1 GET 1 FREE

escapades

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

The Taste of Success

SATURDAYDINNER

BBQ SEAFOOD BUFFET

THB 899 NETT

SATURDAY6:00 PM - 10:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

SUNDAY BRUNCH

THB 1,500 .- free THB 2,200 .free flow soft drinks flow drinks & wines SUNDAY 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

Greek-island inspired bar area clad in white and with its own grass area.

Elevated to the side is the hotel’s pool – complemented by romantic, white curtained day beds, allowing you to take a dip overlooking the city.

We order a cocktail and sit at the bar that straddles the pool and watch the sun’s passage across the horizon.

And with a few lazy swimmers, this is truly a tranquil way to have a drink in the sun – without the rest of Bangkok!

We then rose one more level to Axis on the 38th floor, the lower level of the two-storey bar and lounge, Axis and Spin. Axis again uses dark-colored interiors to contrast with the vast, resplendent view. Inspired by space, the main architectural feature is a grand black spiral staircase that sits center stage. We settled into the deep leather couches and marveled at the carved bar featuring each planet in the solar system, while silver-flecked black flooring finishes off its interplanetary theme.

BY Natalie Roch

The Continent Hotel Bangkok recently opened its five-star doors at one of the city’s busiest locales, Asoke Junction. Following the hotel’s launch party in February, We returned to find out more about the establishment’s food and beverage selections that have been heating up the blogosphere.

The Continent Hotel blasted onto the scene earlier this year with a star-studded launch party – hosting 450 of Bangkok’s well-heeled across four levels in the sky. But after the champagne has been popped and the red ribbon cut we wanted to find out more about the hotel and what it offers – and why it is so popular.

Opened last December, the hotel describes itself as a five-star business, leisure and lifestyle hotel. Inspired by international travel and discovery, every part of 153 guest-rooms has been chosen to reflect a beautifully- modern and almost futuristic feel. Tucked just behind the busy main street, it is like a haven in the manic capital. Arriving at the hotel you are welcomed by a huge gilded traditional Thai Yak statue. Then in the lobby – which is a distinctive blend of classic décor punctuated by bright pieces – you are again greeted by the staff clad in unique black uniforms bearing the four Continent colors: orange, blue, green and pink.

It’s this distinguished style paired with the decadent but relaxed nature

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

of the hotel that sets it apart from its large five-star counterparts. Furthermore, the hotel owners, from their extensive overseas travels, were committed to creating an exquisite visual experience for guests, down to smallest details. Accomplishing this feat meant that only the finest quality products, materials and brands went into the design.

To assess the restaurant and bar offerings of The Continent Hotel, we took an afternoon to sample each outlet and were pleasantly surprised.

The expedition began with a late, long Italian lunch at Medinii on the 35th floor. The hotel’s flagship restaurant is decorated with dark marble floors, rich woods, leather and framed by huge windows – a Continent signature to take advantage of the breathtaking view. Because of their central location and the fact that their restaurant and bars are located at the highest levels of the building, this is a spectacular view.

Medinii offers an avant-garde Italian menu – using classic Italian dishes such as risotto but adding a special

flair. You can choose to be seated in plush white chairs at white-clothed tables or relax in the corner sanctuary reserved mostly for those enjoying the drinks menu. This features swinging, soft bench seating, sand colored day seats and marble tables.

And if you have a private function, Medinii also has a completely private dining room for up to 15 people.

Again the décor is relaxed and chic with a kiss of decadence – inspired by the desert and honed by the city. The food was delicious - fresh and full of delicate flavors which certainly marks this as a highlight on the new restaurant circuit.

They also have a very good and in-depth wine list, gathering wine varietals from the finest wine-making nations.

We then moved up to level 37, where H2O bar and pool sits surveying the city. This is an open-air affair, with a

All the bars at The Continent are overseen by international mixology wizard, Albert Garcia. The Spanish and Brit mix is a fireball behind the bar who has worked all over the world – from Africa to New York.

And his travels are evident in his inventive and enchanting alcoholic creations. We sup cocktails watched over by life-size bronze leopards then take the onyx staircase to Spin to take in a striking Bangkok sunset.

The burnished orange light and silhouettes of towering Asoke neighboring structures danced around us (it may have been the heavenly drinks playing with our senses too!) as the sun crept down the sky in vibrant streaks. Italian wine in hand and the bottle encased in ice, Spin is The Continent’s literal crowning glory.

Located at the 39th floor, it is an intimate space with sizable windows that open to the sky. The style is black and minimalist, and the cozy scale of the area makes it seem like it’s your own private room in the clouds. Feeling puckish, we order handmade pizza and side dishes from Medinii to accompany our time at Spin – you can order food to all the bars. After the sky turns a lightstudded black, a DJ begins spinning to replicate the bar’s namesake. The trendy tunes paired with great wine and a fresh breeze playing across our faces – this is urban bliss.

This is undoubtedly one of Bangkok’s best roof top locations and should not be missed.

Endowed with an unbeatable address, the best thing about The Continent Hotel Bangkok could certainly be its location and luxurious contemporary rooms. But what we rate is its ability to allow people to take in the best of Bangkok, and feel worlds away even when you are right in the thick of it.

The Continent Hotel Bangkok 413 Sukhumvit Road (Near Asoke BTS and Sukhumvit MRT Interchange Stations) Tel: 02-686-7000 www.thecontinenthotel.com

Hotel Promotions Hilton Worldwide “Book More and Get More” promotion for meetings planned in Asia Pacific Hilton Pattaya is participating in Hilton Worldwide’s MICE promotion "Book More and Get More" which rewards event planners with extra value-added incentives for more rooms booked in close to 100 Hilton Worldwide hotels and resorts across Asia Pacific.

From April 1 to June 30, all bookings made for 20 room nights and above will be entitled to enjoy up to six attractive incentives ranging from welcome cocktail drinks, complimentary internet in the meeting venues to selected room upgrades.

Event planners can take advantage of the tiered booking system to gather more incentives by booking more rooms nights.

Event planners who are Hilton HHonors members will receive Double Event Planner Bonus Points for any

bookings made within this promotion. They will also be rewarded with an additional 125,000 HHonors Event Planner Points for bookings made during the Group Value Date Incentive period which is defined on respective hotel websites and at http://hhonors.hilton.com/en/hhonors/ hotels/search/groups/gvd/index.jhtml.

The "Book More and Get More" promotion is valid for stays until December 31, 2013, and is available at all Hilton Worldwide properties in Asia Pacific, across all brands including Waldorf Astoria Hotels, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton.

For more information, please visit www.

HiltonWorldwideMeetings APAC.com.

Thailand All Smiles at Holiday Inn Pattaya Holiday Inn Pattaya kicked off its Thailand getaway offer ‘Thailand All Smiles’ with 30 percent off stay. Available for booking until 31 August 2013, guests can experience their holidays in contemporary style at Holiday Inn Pattaya.

Thailand has something for everyone. Find peace and tranquility on white sandy beaches or experience its vibrant cities as you shop and dine to your heart’s content. Mingle with the locals and see the many cultural landmarks that reflect the rich history of this exotic land.

Book by 31 August 2013 and enjoy 30 percent off your room rates inclusive of breakfast, late check-out until 4pm and complimentary internet during your stay*. Priority Club members can earn points for every stay.

To make a reservation please call 038 725 555 or visit www.holidayin.com/pattaya For complete terms and conditions please visit http://ihg.co/HIThailand1

For hotel promotions please email press release at lifeandleisure@pattayatoday.net

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top tables

SATURDAY DINNER BBQ SEAFOOD BUFFET

THB 899 NETT

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

SATURDAY 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

Mick & Di

Indian

The Food Lovers

by Nature Celebrates their 9th anniversary Happy birthday, Indian by Nature!

Unbelievably, it is nine years since this most stylish restaurant opened its stately wooden doors (which previously graced a maharaja’s palace) and began serving its gourmet cuisine from the sub-continent. Set amongst the flush of celebrity restaurants on Thappraya Road, Jomtien, the culinary gravitas of Indian by Nature is the direct result of its proprietor’s passion and dedication to the delights of Indian cuisine.

Av Khanajou leads the culinary team and turns out a dizzying array of regional Indian dishes. She is an inveterate gourmand who not only creates her progressive cuisine, she also teaches and is the author of

her cookbook entitled “Confluence,” which is a must-have for all foodies with a passion for cooking. Mick and I were fortunate to be invited to the celebration of their 9th anniversary dinner and would like to share with you the wonderful pageant of dishes that we sampled that night.

Seated and sipping a chilled glass of house white wine whilst perusing the special set menu we were in high expectation of the dinner to come.

For appetisers we were served salt and pepper prawns and stuffed Tangri kebab. (The vegetarian option was chickpea and potato cake.) Huge luscious prawns were steeped in aromatic spices, anointed with a sweet and sour dressing and fried to

crisp perfection. The Tangri kebab was in fact a whole chicken leg stuffed with dried fruit and minced meats – a labour intensive dish with the most delightful spicing and flavours. Both charming, succulent openers displaying the delicate subtleties that make up the IBN food philosophy.

For our main courses, Kerala fish curry and chicken pasanda were then served. (paneer Kohlapuri being the veggie option). This famous fish curry from the south of Indian is a firm favourite of ours. Redolent with coconut and in depth spicing it gushed in the mouth (in a good way) releasing its artful and harmonious flavours. The chicken breast was a clever concoction of inventive layering with paneer and spinach, lightly spiced it was the perfect companion to the sensational yellow dhal, garlic naan and jeera pilaf.

Just to break off here to tell you about the menu at IBN. It truly impresses with its extensive and balanced range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options spanning tandoori items, assorted curries and a comprehensive selection of rice and breads to accompany your meal. There is so much on the menu it is not possible to detail it all but the traditional thalis are a big attraction and by way of a gourmet introduction to the restaurant’s unique cuisine. Thali literally means “tray” and they come packed with a selection of non-vegetarian or vegetarian dishes. For example the “meaty” version contains, a murgh chicken tikka, fried fish in gramflour batter, a lamb rogan josh (spicy lamb curry), fresh cauliflower and potato curry, tarkeywali dal, raita, naan bread and basmati rice, pickles, chutneys and a dessert. They are both priced at B.450 and represent a personal Indian buffet of diverse dishes.

Sunday Brunch (B.490+) is a new event here at IBN. Instead of getting up several times throughout your meal to go to a buffet, simply inform

the staff and they will deliver your choices to your table, direct from the kitchen. Endless varieties of starters, including samosas, paneer tikka, chilli potatoes, etc. plus kebabs, curries (malai prawn, methi murgh, chicken korma) and masses of vegetarian dishes plus rotis, tandoori and garlic naan together with a range of specialty rices. Children under 10 years pay B.300+. Definitely one for that languorous Sunday brunch, but reservations are required.

For all you gin fiends out there, do not leave IBN without requesting the gin trolley be wheeled to your table for a one-for-the-road tot of rarified handcrafted heaven. Gin stars such as Caorunn, Bulldog English, Williams Chase and The Botanist are just some of the artisan labels that are on offer to satisfy the most discerning gin aficionado.

The sweet ending to our anniversary dinner was provided by the desserts of blueberry kulfi and pandanus crème brulee. Winning recipes both – rich, creamy and delectable. A photo finish for the best, but we thought that the brulee just tipped the balance with its wonderful crisp, crunchy topping. Replete and well fed, we sat back in pleasure at the stunning meal we had just eaten and then ambled out into the night in the knowledge that we would be back soon to sample more of the neogastronomy at IBN.

Indian by nature

Located on Thappraya Road.

Open daily from 12 noon till 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. till midnight.

Tel: (038) 364656, 081 862 9452 and 089 205 3020.

CALL 038 933 888

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top tables

SUNDAY BRUNCH

THB 1,500 .- free THB 2,200 .free flow soft drinks flow drinks & wines Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

SUNDAY 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM CALL 038 933 888

F&B Promotions Mushroom

Benihana Buffet Lunch

A season of Mushroom at Radius Restaurant

It’s time for a spectacular start to your buffet lunch at Benihana, Pattaya.

Imagine the sounds of chefs cooking, guests laughing and the sizzle of succulent food on the grill. Enjoy the best of Japanese cooking while you catch the action of our chefs, they will keep you entertained until you walk out the door!

Our talented chefs will cook live in front of you at our Teppanyaki stations, as you enjoy the selection of our fabulous food. Our buffet features a great range of cuisine, such as soups, pasta, salads and much more!

Throughout May 2013, Executive Chef Yongyuth invites you to enjoy a delicious of his culinary art cooked with wild mushrooms. Savor delicious a-la-carte mushroom dishes which include Grilled lamb chops with sautéed champignon mushroom and spinach, Champignon mushroom salad Stir fried fresh champignon mushroom with prawn and garlic, Wild mushroom risotto Italian risotto cooked with wild mushroom and parmesan cheese and many more. Price starts from THB 235 per dish .Available everyday from 6:00 to 22:00 hrs.

For reservations or information, please contact 038 933888 Cape Dara Resort Pattaya 256 Dara Beach, Soi 20 Pattaya-Naklua Road Pattaya 20150 www.capedarapattaya.com or http://www.facebook.com/ CapeDaraPattaya

For more information and reservations please contact Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa 038 412 120 ext.1395.

Seven Days, Seven Themes Rediscover ‘Seven Days, Seven Themes’ Lunch Buffet Promotion at Edge Restaurant, Hilton Pattaya Monday’s “Post weekend BBQ” features freshly grilled sausages, Korean style pork cuts and chorizo burritos while Tuesday’s “Mediterranean Fare” includes Middle Eastern Dips and salads, pizza and pasta. On Wednesday, the open kitchens of Edge present “Burgers, Salads and Gourmet Sandwiches” where guests can create their perfect burger, toss a fresh salad or grab a gourmet sandwich. The tastes of Southeast Asia, India, China and Japan come together for Thursday’s “Extended Asia” followed by Friday’s “Seafood Pattaya” where the crystal waters offer up fresh local prawns, crabs and lobsters served on ice or grilled. Saturday’s “Classics & Confectionaries” presents timeless favorites such as Greek salad, oven-baked whole salmon, green curry and bouillabaisse and margherita pizza. In addition, guests will be able to indulge in traditional Thai desserts with a modern twist. Every Sunday, the chefs pull out all the stops and offer the hotel’s famous “Sunday Brunch” that brings together a wide selection from around the globe. Bookings are absolutely essential for this very popular event.

Monday to Thursday THB 420 nett Friday and Saturday THB 480 nett Sunday Brunch THB 1200 nett Wine Buffet THB 800 nett

“Seven Days, Seven Themes” is available from Mondays to Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. and from 12 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. on Sundays. To

For additional information and reservations please call +66 (0)38 253 000.

Located on level 14 of Hilton Pattaya

Fusion E-san flavours at “Oceans restaurant” Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya

The Northeastern region of Thailand known as E-san has an abundance of flavours that are usually only tasted with fish, pork or chicken.

From now until end of May 2013, Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya invites you to share an often untried experience our chefs have fused them with spicy sea scallops, as a larb of minced Japanese Kurobuta pork, a deepfried papaya salad with chicken skewer and a succulently crisp cat fish summer roll. A creative tasty style of cooking that’s not to be missed. Prices started at only Baht 250++ (subject to 10% service charge and 7% tax).

Oceans is located on the beachfront of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya. The restaurant opens daily from 11:00-18:00 hrs.

For more information and reservations please contact Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya 038-301 234 ext 4174 E-mail: prmanagercmbr@chr.co.th / prexecmbr@chr.co.th

complement Sunday’s brunch, an extensive wine buffet is also offered at an additional cost.

The Bay Restaurant Carnivale di Carpaccio Throughout the month, experience a carnival of thin and raw slices of items available on the menu including Beef Carpaciio with Porcini mushroom, shaved parmesan and truffle oil (THB 425); Carpaccio of Salmon with shaved fennel and apple slaw (THB 375); Tuna Carpaccio flavoured with olives, artichokes, pesto and quail egg (THB 375) and Beetroot Carpaccio accompanied with goat cheese and micro greens (THB 295). Until 31 May 2013

Malaysian Food A Real Southeast Asian Treat with Malaysian Food Promotion at Flavors International Restaurant Tingle your taste buds for dinner with the favors of Malaysia, prepared by our Guest Chefs Mohamed Ruzihad Muri and Zaini Bin Mohamed Noor from Renaissance Kuala Lumpur. Try a mouth-watering creations including Ikan panggang, Kerabu daging, Acer jelatah, Beef rending, Curry ayam and many more…, all prepared with the freshest of ingredients for the prices of THB. 1,390++ (Sunday - Thursday) and THB. 1,650++ (Friday - Saturday).

THB 1,690 available for

The Bay Restaurant, 2nd floor of Dusit Thani Pattaya For reservations, please call (0) 3842 5611-7 ext. 2270

For further details and reservations, please call t. 02 125 5010

Ming Xing Noodle Affairs Dusit Gourmet – Mango, Emperor of the Fruits

Zico’s Let’s celebrate 10th Anniversary of Zico’s Thailand

Enjoy the rich flavour of Mango presented to you in such mouthwatering dessert creations as Chocolate Mango Mousse, Mango Shooter Sponge Cake, Mango Pie, Mango Macaroon and Fresh Mango Tartlet. All items are priced at THB 140 net per piece. Until 31 May 2013 Dusit Gourmet is near the Main Lobby of Dusit Thani Pattaya Open daily from 7am – 10pm For more information, please call (0) 3842 5611-7 Ext. 2497

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya invites you to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of “Zico’s Thailand” with 10 days Churrascaria BBQ promotion during 10 – 19 May 2013 at Zico’s Brazilian Grill & Bar Pattaya where is a unique style with Brazilian taste.

Enjoy the daily Churrascaria buffet dinner with succulent meat, fresh seafood and a great selection at salad bar and desserts with 10% discount from promotion prices; started from THB559+ to THB1,199+ per person. The Brazilian Samba Queens perform nightly (except Monday).

In additional, 10% of 10 days revenue will be donated to Father Ray Foundation ; for the orphaned, abused and disadvantaged children.

For more information or table reservations, please contact (038) 043 516 or email : zicospattaya@chr.co.th

Noodle lovers, be prepared for the coming up of the noodle affairs at Ming Xing Restaurant, Cape Dara Resort. 24 variety noodles selections are to fill up your appetite during lunchtime. The meal start with salad appetizer, follow by an unlimited serves of noodle affairs at your choice, then wrap up a meal with a dessert. The affairs start from 1st March and last until 30th June 2013 for only THB 390 nett per person.

Ming Xing opens daily from 11:00 pm – 2:00 pm.

For private room or table reservation, please call 038 933 888

For food promotions please email press release at lifeandleisure@pattayatoday.net

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top tables

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

thefoodloverspattayatoday@msn.com

Mantra Restaurant

An evening to please the gastronauts and concerto buffs Mantra (the signature restaurant at Amari Orchid on Beach Road, Pattaya) is not only a multi-zoned cuisine restaurant, it is also a multifunctional destination. The restaurant hosts gourmet wine dinners from some of the greatest wine houses in the world, international food festivals featuring Michelin-starred chefs, and musical evenings combining audio and gastro-pleasures. Such a musical evening was the recent Bangkok Symphony Orchestra’s Quintet soiree.

It is always a pleasure to visit Mantra. From the moment you step through those lofty wooden doors and take a seat in the bar, the experience is delightful. The staff are efficient, charming and likeable; the complimentary canapés in the bar are first-rate, and the whole affair is very pleasurable. After our aperitif it was time to move into the dining room. The ambiance here is sleekly chic and the table settings

enchanting; tiny lights glittered under golden gossamer table cloths creating a sophisticated fairyland theme. As the quintet from the BSO made their way to their seats and

subtly began tuning up, we were served “the Overture” course of the evening: salmon and sea bass tartar capped with caviar and accompanied by orange segments, baby herbs with

Level 34, Hilton Pattaya

a streak of aged balsamic; gentle flavours to ease us into the dishes to come. Now the mellow sounds of the strings floated over the room presenting us with their opening number which was, to our surprise (and delight), a special arrangement of the musical theme from Fawlty Towers. Actually not an adaptation of a classical piece but in fact composed by the talented Dennis Wilson.

The 6-course gourmet menu continued with cream of split pea soup with crab claw and truffle oil. Deep earthy flavours from this opaque soup were offset by the sweetness from the crab claw. The entertainment continued with a programme of works by Beethoven and Mozart. The interlude course of a white rum and honeydew melon shot was then served to refresh and revive the palate.

The culinary climax of the evening was pan-roasted snow fish fillet accompanied by a ragout of Andaman seafood with saffron risotto. Softly succulent fish, fragrant with butter, this course was top notch with the bite of the risotto providing another textural interplay.

Jindi blue and Jindi brie cheese with an apple-apricot compote provided the pre-dessert treat with a bitter chocolate mousse vanilla bean mascarpone bestowing the final delicacy to this magical evening of genteel music and pageant of triumphant dishes.

These events are always well attended, so booking in advance is recommended. Future musical evenings will feature a 40s and 50s big-band night and a tribute night

to a special composer. Check the Mantra website for more details.

If you haven’t already visited Mantra it really is a world-class gourmet destination. Seven regional-specific kitchens offer Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Mediterranean (including pizzas), classic French, western, plus the seafood/fish tank zone. For example, the Japanese kitchen serves traditional sushi and sashimi platters from B.470, the Indian chefs produce a profusion of favourite Tandoori items, chicken, lamb or fish tikkas, plus an abundance of best-loved curries. From the western station, braised lamb shank in red wine sauce (B.890) comes highly recommended, together with the codfish saltimbocca with Atlantic cod wrapped in Parma ham. Chinese dishes include Peking duck (B.260), oodles of specialty noodles, plus their signature sweet and sour chicken or pork ribs. Classic French cuisine includes coq au vin, boeuf Bourguignon, confit de canard (duck leg cooked in its own fat), and many more mouth-watering options.

Desserts are decadent, delicious, and well worth the calories. The choices are huge and the designated zone chefs are experienced and proficient. The Sunday brunch is a wonderful gourmet affair (B.1,490+) offering an extensive range of gourmet treats.

The ambiance at Mantra is chic, trendy and seriously cool. It can be relaxed in the main dining area, private and intimate snuggled into one of the romantic coves on the upper balcony, or an evening of candlelit enjoyment on the al fresco terrace. Seclusion can be obtained in one of the private rooms in the Lost Gallery or a reservation made for the long and luxurious Sultan’s Table. Mantra hits the spot in so many ways. It is a popular, stylish venue offering a wealth of cuisines to suit all pockets, served in a beautifully elegant architectural phenomenon.

Mantra Is open daily from 6 p.m. till l a.m.

(The bar opens at 5 p.m).

Tel: (038) 429 591 www.mantra-pattaya.com.

Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Reservations recommended. Dress code applies. All credit cards accepted. Onsite parking available.

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top tables

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

Poo Pad Pong Garee Stir-Fried Crab in Curry Sauce Ingredients 1 Whole crab - ½ kg 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil 4 cloves Garlic, minced 1 small Onion, sliced 1/4 cup Fish sauce 1 tablespoons Sugar 2 tablespoons Curry powder 2 tablespoons Chilli paste

Cooking Method

2 tablespoons Coconut milk

Clean the crab by removing the shell from the body only

1 tablespoon Oriental

Disjoin the legs and crack the shell of the legs with a mallet

sesame oil

Rinse to remove small pieces of shell, drain and set aside

1/4 teaspoon White

Heat a wok or large skillet on medium-high heat

pepper

Add the oil, garlic and onion and stir-fry for 30 seconds

1 Egg

Add the cracked crab pieces and stir-fry for 2 minutes

30g Coriander, chopped

tee Chef May kolrat g Thaimon i Food ional Tha it d a r T : y Specialt Pattaya e, Hilton r la F : @ g in aree Perform ad Pong G P o o P : h d dis :

e Full nam

Feature

Season with fish sauce and sugar

50g Shallots, cut into

Add pepper, curry powder, chilli paste, coconut milk and sesame oil

1-inch lengths

Cover the skillet and continue cooking on medium-high heat until the crab is

Hilton Pattaya 333/101 Moo 9 Nong Prue Banglamung, Pattaya Chonburi, Thailand 20260, Tel: +66 (0)38 253 000 Fax: +66 (0)38 253 001. pattaya.hilton.com

cooked Add the egg and stir to combine thoroughly Place on a serving dish and garnish with the coriander and shallots

Restaurants: Downtown Akvavit

Alibaba

Benihana

Casa Pascal

Indian by Nature

Akvavit can cater to all your needs, whether it’s a party in your home, place of business and of course here at Akvavit.

Perfect if you want to celebrate a birthday, wedding etc. We can supply you with tables, chairs, cutlery and almost anything you need for a successful party. We will do our utmost to make the occasions a memorable event.

Alibaba, Pattaya’s most famous Tandoori & Curry restaurant has served the community sine 1984.The famous legend Alibaba and the 40 Thieves’ architecture provides the perfect setting for Pattaya’s most famous Indian Restaurant.

Specializing in Teppanyaki dining, this Japanese restaurant employs specially trained chefs to prepare the meals right at the guest's table.

Fresh succulent seafood, plump juicy chicken and tender filets of beef are perfectedto your delight.

The restaurant offers international, French and Italian gourmet cuisine. Besides the a la carte menu, special menus and buffets are also available.

Casa Pascal is well known for its good value for money price policy, cordial service and nice ambience.

Indian by Nature presents refined Indian food of today from diverse regions, created by a galaxy of master chefs, displayed with verve and style. The menu remains true to classic Indian recipes, but now also reflects the food trends in today's India.

Akvavit Grill & Bar Jomtien Beach Road 144/4 Moo 12 Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel. No.: 038 233 672 Website: www.akvavitjomtien.com

Alibaba 1/13-14 Pattaya Klang Rd, Pattaya, Chonburi,Thailand 20260 Tel. No.: 038 361 620 Website: www.alibabarestaurant.biz

Benihana Pattaya Royal Garden Plaza, 218-2-4 Beach Road Pattaya City, Chonburi 20150,Thailand Tel. No.: 038 412 120 ext. 1395

Casa Pascal Restaurant 485/4 Moo 10, Second Road, Pattaya, Chonburi,Thailand Tel. No.: 038 723 660 Website: www.restaurant-pattaya.com

Indian by Nature 306/64-68, Château Dale Plaza,Thappraya Road Pattaya, Chonburi 20150 Tel: 038 364 656 Website: www.indian-by-nature.com

Dicey Reilly's

Le Saigon

Mata Hari

Valentino

Balcony

Enjoy an extensive selection of draught and bottled beers or ciders, featuring Irish staples such as Guiness and Magners, European classics such as Hoegaarden and an Aussie must have like Fosters. Make good use of our imported Shuffleboard and our Pool Tables or watch all the major live sports on our big screen TV's.

Vietnamese-Eurasian Cuisine. Good Foods, Fine Wine, Spectacular View.

Le Saigon is a stylish restaurant presenting lavish cuisine in a dramatic sky high venue.

The wines are carefully selected and cocktails are creative and generous.

Mata Hari is a stylish, boutique restaurant, renowned for serving fine European and Thai cuisine and has been a firm favourite amongst the local expats for many years'.

An intimate European specialty restaurant where the ambience is casual elegance, big on quality, consistency and service.

Valentino is an oasis in the city heart, immersed in a fresh and silent garden,.

The deep knowledge of the cooking and the exclusive use of fresh products will be tasted like at home. Pizza, pasta, and bread etc..... all rigorously hand made like in the ancient rules, without using preserved products, additives and glutammate.

The Balcony is an appealing destination with its distinctive terrace, its European cookery and modern-day Thai cuisine, it has something to suit every taste and pocket.

Scrumptious cakes and pastries and the modishness of the graceful salon.

Dicey Reilly's Pub & Eatery 218 M.10 2nd Road, Pattaya, Chonburi,Thailand 20260 Tel. No.: 038 411 755 Website: www.diceypub.com

Le Saigon Bayview 413/9-10 Jomthien Complex Tappraya Rd. Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20260 Tel. No.: 038 251 669 Website: www.saigonbistropattaya.com

Mata Hari Restaurant 482/57 Moo12 Thappraya Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel. No.: 038 259 799 Website: www.mataharirestaurant.com

Valentino 192-192/1 Moo 9 Central Pattaya Road Soi 4 Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel. No.: 038 428 210, 038 427 154 Website: www.valentinopattaya.com

The Balcony Restaurant & Bakery 151/39 Moo 5 Naklua Rd. Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Tel. No.: 038 411 429

L12

fairness-fitness-finery

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

Promotions Luminous Spa The “Facial Treatment by PAYOT” is now available at Luminous Spa Indulge yourself on holidays with a premium pampering programs at our Luminous Spa. Enjoy the benefit of waking up early with 30% discount for treatments and massages during 11:00am to 2:00pm, every Sunday to Thursday.

256 Dara Beach, Soi 20 Pattaya-Naklua Road Pattaya 20150 Tel. 038 933888 www.capedarapattaya.com http://www.facebook.com/CapeDaraPattaya

Breeze Spa Massages just got even better!

Happy Days at Breeze SPA

Not Sleeping Well At Night?

Here Are 7 Tips to Help You Sleep Soundly

by Elizabeth Smith, UrbaneWomen.com

Do you find yourself tossing and turning through the night? Not being able to sleep can be very frustrating. Everything that happened during the day is racing through your mind. Every little sound keeps you awake. You lie there thinking what can you do to get some sleep?

You do not need sleeping pills to sleep soundly tonight.

The following 7 tips will help you to get that needed rest.

If you can implement one or more of the tips we share in this article, we guarantee that you will sleep soundly tonight!

1. Your Daily Routine Should Include Some Physical Activity If you wish to fall asleep faster and to enjoy a deeper sleep, you need to start a regular routine of physical activity. Better sleep is promoted by regular physical activity.

Having said that, however, you need to be aware of your timing. Exercising too close to bedtime may prevent you from falling asleep, as you may be way too energized after physical activity. This issue can be avoided if you exercise earlier during the day.

Breeze Spa gives you more, for less. It’s our treat, get 50% off any facial treatment, or a body wrap on the house when you book a 90-minute massage! The promotions is available throughout the month of May. For reservations please call 0 3841 8418 ext. 840

2. Remove Distractions There is only one thing your bed should be used for.

Okay, make it two. But for now, we are talking about sleep.

The bed is not the place to pay your bills or answer e-mails. Do not watch TV in bed, as the flickering light from the screen will only keep you awake.

Luminous Spa Summer Smoother Skin Promotion This summer just got a whole lot cooler with the incredibly skin soothing, moisturizing and smoothing natural healing power of an Aloe Vera Wrap followed by a gentle aromatherapy oil massage, to restore your mind and body inside and out.

Enjoy the sun without long lasting negative effects with the Summer Smoother Skin Promotion throughout April and May 2013 at Aisawan Spa in Pullman Pattaya Hotel G. Around the world for centuries, aloe vera has been widely used to stimulate tissue regeneration and help fade skin marks, scars and freckles. It can also be applied to skin to soothe sunburns and rashes, as well as helping to moisturize dry, flaky skin or skin suffering from chaffing due to wind and cold weather. In fact, hardly anything is more versatile, useful and restorative than the wonderful green aloe vera!

The benefits of this wondrous plant are especially useful when combined with an aromatherapy treatment that activates blood circulation, toning the body and reducing toxins.

The Summer Smoother Skin Promotion package is for 80 minutes at only Baht 1,900 net per person.

But this is not the end of the advantages of seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in Aisawan Spa this summer. For those feeling the need for one of the other treatments offered, feel free to reward yourself with 25% off on all other spa treatments and packages!

AISAWAN SPA opens daily from 9 am – 10 pm.

Advance reservation is required. Please call 0 3841 1940-8 Ext. 3501 – 3502 or email to info@pullmanpattayahotelG.com

>>>

If you are right handed, you will tend to chew your food on the right side of your mouth.

If you are left handed, you will tend to chew your food on the left side of your mouth.

3. Make A Schedule and Stick To It Remember when you were young and your mother always made you go to bed at the same time? She had the right idea. By keeping to a schedule, your body naturally sets its internal rhythm. This allows you to consistently awaken every day refreshed at the same time.

Keeping to the same schedule even on the weekends – This will keep you from feeling overly tired the next morning.

4. Make Yourself Comfortable Your room should be ideal for your sleeping needs.

Quiet, dark, and cool are often the perfect conditions.

In order to make yourself an ideal sleeping environment, you may find you need a fan, or perhaps room-darkening shades, possibly even earplugs; do whatever it takes to make you comfortable at sleep time.

5. No Napping We know that a nap is a good way to recharge, especially if you are older. However if you take a nap, you may well be making your insomnia worse.

If you suffer from insomnia, you should consider eliminating napping. If you must take a nap, do it in the early afternoon. Also, you should limit your nap to a maximum of 30 minutes.

6. Avoid Alcohol at Bedtime No doubt drinking some alcohol before bedtime will allow you to fall asleep easier, but you’ll tend to wake up in the middle of the night as the effects from the alcohol wear off.

Also, as your body digests the alcohol, it will begin to suffer from the results of withdrawal – This often will cause both nighttime awakenings and even nightmares for some people.

Hence, you should avoid drinking alcohol at (or just before) bedtime.

7. Do Not Eat Just Before Bed Time Avoid eating at least 2 hours before going to bed.

Give your body time to digest your food.

Allowing your body to digest or at least start to digest your food long before you go to bed will allow it to rest while you sleep, instead of churning away at your food.

For additional information on health, fitness, beauty, romance, hair and skin care and more, go to www.urbanewomen.com

L13

STRONGER, BRIGHTER, FITTER.

fairness-fitness-finery

eforea spa at Hilton Pattaya

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

Refreshing time!

by Thonglor Clinic

We all survived the Songkran period this year. Lots of abuses were committed by revelers. Our bodies may show some wounds following these days of water wars! Strong sun exposure with no skin protection can age the skin dramatically. No one wants to look like a parched lizard. Loss of fluids reduces skin elasticity and wrinkles appear deeper and more pronounced. Rejuvenation can be achieved with good skin cleansers and the help of mace and collagen injections. These help repair the damages inflicted by helping the detoxification processes. Other adjuncts are the amino acid glutathione, aiming specifically at liver detoxification (from too many drinks and late night binges). Glutathione gives a glowing effect to the skin as a secondary benefit. A pinker complexion results and with some vitamin C will also stabilize the melanocytes receptors in the skin. Dark skinned people will have a “pinker” appearance.

A coveted look by most Thai people.

For all the ladies that resent looking at the effects of gravity on their faces in the mirror, we can also use Botox to provide a lifting effect on all theses “turkey necks”. Used intra dermally, Botox creates a smoothing effect on the skin’s appearance and helps--used on a slightly deeper plan-- to lift the neck skin in the décolleté area.

Another little secret of Botox users is that we can improve the appearance of your smile and eliminate the sour look that sometimes appears on the corners of the mouth. Involuntarily giving

a sour look is not conducive to a serene look. By using a few units of Botox in specific areas near the mouth, the corners can be turned upwards and not only lift your smile but also lift your spirits!

The sun being at its strongest in Thailand during April and May causes us to squint a lot when we are outdoors. Crow’s feet then appear more pronounced. Who has not been caught with a tan that shows these whiter areas around the outside of the eyes once you return indoors and relax your squint? Botox is a good preventative!

Hooded eyebrows can also be lifted by placing a few units of Botox in the appropriate muscles. The effects usually take 3-5 days to show and the duration of the effect varies from individual to individual, but you should expect 4-6 months or more.

Time never stops for anyone, but we can slow down the ravaging effects of aging with some simple treatments. Many other treatments are available at our clinic, and the doctor will be able to give you a free consultation and recommend the best solutions to your problems. Our surgeon can discuss the best surgical solutions to improve your appearance and well being. You are welcome to come and discuss with our consultants with no obligation and be well informed in regards to your dermatological needs.

Thonglor Clinic is conveniently situated on Theppraya Road facing the large tower of Pattaya Park, next door to Thai Living legal offices.

please dial 038 253 000 for inquiries and reservations

When the eyes don’t quite have it If you’re not thrilled with the appearance of your eyes as you age, get in line. Bags and dark areas under the eyes are common complaints of women around the world.

Such unattractive features are a sign of aging, but also result from diet, life styles and health issues. If you are keen to correct the darkening circles or the sagging skin that looks more and more like used tea bags under your eyes, read on.

Often times, those dark circles—or semi-circles—are hereditary. That’s particularly true if you’ve had them for a long while and cannot attribute the shadows to lack of sleep or excess grog.

Asians are more prone to inheriting such a pigment problem, but everyone’s susceptible as we age. In fact, thinning of the skin around the eyes is one of the first signs of aging in our 30s and 40s. As the skin becomes somewhat translucent, subcutaneous blood vessels lend a shadowy effect under the eyes.

If you want to hide dark circles using makeup, select a concealer that matches your skin tone. Use a liquid concealer if the circles are subtle. If your shadows are more conspicuous, apply a cream or cake concealer. Beginning at the inner corner of your eye, dab on the makeup gently until you reach just beyond the outer corner.

As an option, you might consider professional treatment using intense pulse light. IPL destroys pigment cells and smoothes the skin. Or you might try a skin lightener that contains hydroquinone or kojic acid.

Got bags or puffiness under your eyes?

The usual suspects are allergies, colds and/or sinus infection—all of which can lead to water building up under the eye.

If the puffiness is a recent and temporary affliction, it may have been brought on by last night’s dinner or entertainment. That is to say, if you loaded up on a salty meal or snacks or if you spent the evening crying

over an heartrending film, you may well awaken to puffy eyes.

What To Do Do you know that you have an allergy or hay fever? If so, try one of the many medications available at pharmacies around Pattaya. Talk to the pharmacist about those that are non-sedating.

Alone or in conjunction with antihistamines, you might consider nasal irrigation. Many use a neti pot… but any similar device will work to cleanse the sinus cavity and help relieve fluid buildup caused by allergies, sinus congestion, or a cold.

Do you notice that the bag under one eye is more pronounced than the other? If so, it may be caused by how you sleep. If you sleep on your right side, for example, and have a heavier bag under your right eye, it may be caused by fluids being drawn to that area by mere gravity. Sleeping on your stomach also could produce puffy eyes—both of them—for the same reason: gravity. Try sleeping on your back for a few nights and note the difference.

Don’ts Don’t rub your eyes.

Don’t go to bed without removing makeup.

Don’t drink excessive alcohol.

Don’t eat salt and salty foods, snacks.

Don’t smoke.

Don’t go to bed without applying moisturizer under your eyes nightly.

Quick Fixes If you wake up to puffy eyes and need to look your best, an effective quick-fix is to cover your eyes with any cold item such as chilled (used) tea bags, sliced cucumbers, or cold spoons. Cooling the skin helps reduce the swelling. Similarly, hemorrhoid cream smoothed under the eyes also works.

L14

diversions music / new release

by Billboard.com

Michael Buble's 'To Be Loved': Singer's Signature Covers Save New Album From Hollowness

Canadian crooner Michael Buble projects a strange dichotomy in his eighth studio album, "To Be Loved." It combines old and new, happy and blue, romance and more romance. His evident penchant for the golden standards, which he covers with aplomb, is what saves the record from sounding too modernly hollow. It's also the reason it sounds uneven, meandering from harried contemporary pop like "Close Your Eyes" to the smooth, seductive Dean Martin tune "Nevertheless (I'm in Love With You)."

The four originals on the 14-track album were all cowritten by Buble, but apart from his joie de vivre and emotive voice, they mostly fail to capture the imagination. Not even the Bryan Adams collaboration on "After All," or Buble's deceivingly upbeat single, "It's a Beautiful Day," can save it from a big yawn chain.

Buble is at his best when reclaiming beloved classics as his own. Frank Sinatra's "Come Dance With Me" becomes playful and electric in his interpretation. Some songs, like the unexpected duet with Reese Witherspoon on "Something Stupid," are wild cards that can bring down the house.

Yet it's Buble's love for middle 20th-century music that keeps this album in the middle of the road: As an artist, Buble needs to become his own man.

1.You Make Me Feel So Young 2. It’s A Beautiful Day 3. To Love Somebody 4. Who’s Lovin You 5. Something Stupid (featuring Reese Witherspoon) 6. Come Dance With Me 7. Close Your Eyes 8. After All (featuring Bryan Adams)

9. Have I Told You Lately That I Love You (with Naturally 7) 10. To Be Loved 11.You’ve Got A Friend In Me 12. Nevertheless (feauturing The Puppini Sisters) 13. I Got It Easy 14.Young At Heart

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

upcoming movies Star Trek Into Darkness

Fast & Furious 6

The Hangover Part III

Lead Actors

Lead Actors

Lead Actors

Benedict Cumberbatch, Chris Pine, Zoe Saldana

Dwayne Johnson, Vin Diesel, Paul Walker

Director Jeffrey Jacob "J.J." Abrams Genre Action|Adventure|Sci-Fi Release Date 17 May 2013

Director Justin Lin Genre Action|Crime|Thriller Release Date 24 May 2013

When the crew of the Enterprise is called back home, they find an unstoppable force of terror from within their own organization has detonated the fleet and everything it stands for, leaving our world in a state of crisis. With a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one man weapon of mass destruction. As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew.

Since Dom (Diesel) and Brian's (Walker) Rio heist toppled a kingpin's empire and left their crew with $100 million, our heroes have scattered across the globe. But their inability to return home and living forever on the lam have left their lives incomplete. Meanwhile, Hobbs (Johnson) has been tracking an organization of lethally skilled mercenary drivers across 12 countries, whose mastermind (Evans) is aided by a ruthless secondin-command revealed to be the love Dom thought was dead, Letty (Rodriguez).The only way to stop the criminal outfit is to outmatch them at street level, so Hobbs asks Dom to assemble his elite team in London. Payment? Full pardons for all of them so they can return home and make their families whole again.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Bigger, faster and still plastic, Samsung’s latest flagship has all of the improved chops you’d expect plus a few interesting twists — like S Health, which lets the smartphone finally get into the fitness tracking game. A 13MP rear camera, 2,600mAh battery, 1.9GHz quad-core or 1.6GHz octa-core processor, and gesture and eye-tracking capabilities are more than enough to get excited about. Arriving Q2 2013.

Bradley Cooper, Heather Graham, ZachGalifianakis

Director Todd Phillips Genre Comedy Release Date 24 May 2013 In the aftermath of the death of Alan's father, the wolfpack decide to take Alan to get treated for his mental issues. But things start to go wrong on the way to the hospital as the wolfpack is assaulted and Doug is kidnapped.

Now they must find Mr. Chow again in order to surrender him to the gangster who kidnapped Doug in order to save him.

L15

automotive

Vol. 01 No. 09 | May 1-15 2013

Bangkok International

Motor Show 2013 edition Wheels and hot deals at IMPACT

Here we go checkin' out the cars and the “pretties�, the scantily clad young female presenters strutting their stuff along the new super-shiny sedans,

by John Lindgren sport coupes, Editor-in-chief: pick-up trucks and carsanook.com motorbikes.

The 34th Bangkok International Motor Show arrived as always at the end of the sizzling hot month of March.

The mega car, bike and accessories show has moved from the crowded BITEC trade exhibition hall at BagnaTrat highway to IMPACT convention center in Muang Thong Thani area about 30-45 minutes drive from Don Muang airport.

Twelve days of automotive show crammed with new models, face lifted vehicles, concept cars, luxury sedans, powerful sport cars, futuristic motorbikes and colorful auto accessories, add-ons, after market stuff. And pretties galore.

The 2013 concept vehicles, aka prototype vehicles, included the Mitsubishi Concept GR-HEV, an environmentally friendly pick-up powered by FR diesel-hybrid engine, and from Stuttgart, Mercedes-Benz brought a futuristic two-door coupe prototype. Nissan presented the California styled Nissan Ellure prototype with a 2.5 liter petrol engine and 25 kw electric motor.

Among the new models rolled out was the long-awaited Toyota VIOS. Now with sportier looks and wider dimensions. Under the hood a 109 horse power 1.5 LT motor.

FoMoCo displayed the Ford Eco Sport, a new compact SUV propelled by a 1.5 LT petrol engine.

The Japanese Honda rolled out the all-new Accord featuring Honda Earth Dream Technology, with a 2-liter 155 horsepower and a 2.4 -liter 174 horsepower. Price: 1.299 to 1.799 million baht.

The Koreans launched the all new Hyundai Veloster. A unique three door 1+2 sport sedan developed under the Fluidic Sculpture Design concept.

Two models are available for the Thai

market: Veloster and Veloster Sport Turbo producing 130 and 186 hp respectively. Price range: 1.299 to 1.739 million baht.

Another new car produced for the ASEAN market and launched at the motor show was the hatchback Nissan Pulsar, engineered to replace Nissan TIDA. The new Pulsar features 1.6 LT and 1.8 LT engines. Price range: 975,000 to 776,000 baht.

In the luxury car segment, Mercedes-Benz A-Class , the A250 AMG Sport version priced 2,490,000 million baht, and the nec plus ultra Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase, sticker price: a whopping 42.5 million baht.

The total sales: Toyota again

received the most bookings hitting 10,341 vehicles. Followed by Honda and Isuzu, the pick-up manufacturer.

Total bookings at the 2013 show 40,834 vehicles.

All in all the 34th Bangkok International Motor Show pulled in a crowd of 1.7 million visitors, domestic and international, who came to look at the 36 car brands, seven motorcycles

marques and 230 accessories companies.

A long way from the very first Bangkok International Motor Show which was a warm and humid open air event at Lumpini Park in 1979 with an attendance of 380,000 car lovers and wannabe be car owners.

Buckle Up! DON'T Drink & Drive. Bon Voyage!

For advertising please call (089) 607 9850 E-mail: lifeandleisure@pattayatoday.net SEE US ONLINE at www.pattayatoday.net/lifeandleisure

GMs Outlook: “The key to commercial success is putting yourself in your customer’s shoes which is precisely what Blue Sky Group is all about.”

- Thavatchai Sachdev

Managing Director Grande Caribbean

page P8/32 >> Volume 2

Issue 08 1-15 may 2013

It’s full steam ahead for FamilyMart What's Inside:

One of the best known retail names in Thailand is expanding massively. FamilyMart Company is ranked as the world’s second-largest convenience store franchise chain. There are now around 22,000 stores overall – some are operated directly and others by franchisees – mostly located in Thailand, Japan, Taiwan and China. But that’s only the beginning as FamilyMart plans to rebrand itself and embark on a huge marketing exercise.

Continued on page P2/26

http://pattayatoday.net/newspaper/property-business/

Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya names Pulese executive chef

Expat Money Corner

page P3/27

page P4/28

QROPS providers set sail for Gibraltar

PROPERTY

News update on Southpoint Pattaya

Classifieds

Hey, Dude, Who See us online at Stole My Gold? www.classifieds. pattayatoday.net

Atlantis Condo Resort takes shape

page P5/29

page P6/30

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P2 / 26

Volume 2 Issue 08 1-15 May 2013

Advertorial

FamilyMart team during the signing between FamilyMart Japan and Central Retail Corporation on 27th of September 2012

FamilyMart originated in Japan in 1975 under the logo Say You Superstore.

FamilyMart Company established itself in Thailand in 1992 with the first stores opening in Bangkok the following year at Phakanong and Silom.

By the end of the decade the total had reached 100 and the first upcountry FamilyMart opened in Pattaya in 2001 at Wong Amart. The area round Pattaya currently has 132

branches whilst Sri Racha district has 46.

Company CEO Nath Vongpanich said that Thailand as a whole will likely have one thousand branches by the end of this year with three thousand envisaged by 2017. He explained, “We will concentrate on targeting our key customers through advertizing, public relations, promotional events, our website

Stores worldwide

Junji Ueda, President and CEO of JFM and Tos Chirathivat, CEO of Central Retail Corporation Company Limited

and other marketing activities. Meanwhile our warm and friendly service and strong emphasis on cleanliness in the stores are part of our strategy to achieve total satisfaction by our customers.”

One of the keys to FamilyMart’s success

is the encouragement given to retailers to set up a franchise which means they then enjoy the substantial benefits of a chain-store operation including the high quality and rationalized approach upheld in all FamilyMart stores. The company’s theme of “Co-growing in mutual prosperity” is designed to bring prosperous development to local retailers throughout Thailand.

The company is also introducing more exclusive buying options including 200 Ready to Eat Menus under the brand “Quick Serve” including Frozen Bento with 50 individual choices such as grilled soy salmon with Japanese rice, pork curry, pork yakisoba and many more. Exclusive to FamilyMart, the Kitty Dessert Collection offers Thai Snack, Lollipop and Chewy Jelly. The company is also promoting good environmental practices by choosing electrical appliances which use less power and by recycling plastic bags and replacing them by fabric ones where possible.

FamilyMart is well known to Thailand’s expat and foreign tourist population, as well as to locals, partly because of its tradition of serving food and beverages on a 24-hour basis. The company intends to target foreigners in its new marketing plans as they are seen as a crucial element in the anticipated expansion.

This year 24 million overseas visitors are expected to visit Thailand which is a solid base on which to plan the future of convenience store shopping in the Land of Smiles.

Number of stores in Thailand as of April 2013 842

P3 / 27

Volume 2 Issue 08 1-15 May 2013

Business News

Royal Cliff Hotels welcomes AGTC

The second Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) opened Monday (April 29) at the Royal Cliff Hotels Group and its prominent flagship PEACH (Pattaya Exhibition And Convention Hall). The event runs through May 2. More than 150 golf tour operators are on hand selling Asia Pacific golf destinations.

Jaguar Land Rover cosponsor Pattaya Regatta

Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya names Pulese executive chef Luca Pulese has been named executive chef of Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya, according to Dominique Ronge, general manager. The Italian national started his career at Hotel Le Boulevard in Venice 20 years ago, then moved to Osteria Alle Testiere as assistant chef. In 2003, Pulese transferred to Hilton Amsterdam as assistant sous chef, then Hilton Resort and Spa in the Maldives. Following a stint at Great Wall Sheraton Hotel in Beijing, he joined Royal Orchid Sheraton and Towers Bangkok Thailand in 2008 as executive sous chef. He returned to China as executive chef at Sheraton Dameisha Resort and then at Twelve at Hengshan, Shanghai before coming to Pattaya.

Silverneedle Partners With Bangkok Airways

SilverNeedle Collection's Kiridara: Nestled into a hillside and surrounded by teak forest, this luxury boutique resort is just a short ride from Luang Prabang airport which is serviced by Bangkok Airways.

(In photo from left): Pongsapas Poomyam (2012 PKCR Optimist winner-men), Kamolchanok Klahan (2012 PKCR winner Optimist-women), William Gasson, chairman, Top of the Gulf Regatta; Nisha Westerman, Business Development manager, City Automobiles Co., Ltd, Jaguar Land Rover’s authorized distributor in Bangkok; Damrongsak Vongtim, winner of the 2006 Asian Games in the Hobie Class, Suthon Yampinit, Noppakao Poonpat (2010 World Optimist champion, fourth place in 2012) and Kamolwan Chanyim (2012 PKCR Laser winner)

Jaguar and Land Rover support the Top of the Gulf Regatta, a popular annual sailing event in Pattaya that sets sail May 3 to 7.

Expected to attract a large fleet of sailboats, as well as more than 600 sailors from more than 30 countries, the regatta incorporates the Coronation Cup and Thailand Optimist National Championships.

Danai Chandrangam, general manager of City Automobiles Co., an authorised distributor in Bangkok, said “Jaguar Land Rover is pleased to support the Top

of the Gulf Regatta 2013.” He said the competition has been a valuable proving ground for young sailing stars from around the world, in addition to regularly attracting top national, regional and championship sailors to compete in this headlining world-class sailing event.

More than 300 sailing vessels will compete in 13 classes, ranging from Optimists to dinghies, beach catamaran, windsurfs, one-design Platus, keelboats and multihulls, making the TOG Regatta one of the most diverse regattas in the region.

SilverNeedle Collection - a premium collection of Asia's Boutique Hotels - has joined forces with Bangkok Airways 'Asia's Boutique Airline' as an earning partner of their FlyerBonus Programme.

Bangkok Airways is a strategic partner for SilverNeedle Collection as their flight destination network covers Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang - destinations which are also home to award-winning boutique hotels including Riva Surya, 137 Pillars House and Kiridara, respectively.

FlyerBonus members staying at SilverNeedle Collection hotels are eligible to earn 10 FlyerBonus points per stay at qualifying rates. To celebrate this partnership launch, SilverNeedle Collection hotels are offering 20 FlyerBonus points per stay from 1 May through 31 July 2013.

Christopher Stafford, vice president of SilverNeedle Collection said, "we are delighted to welcome this exciting new partnership with Bangkok Airways. As a management company, SilverNeedle Collection is dedicated to creating authentic experiences at each destination for our guests. Bangkok Airways serves all SilverNeedle Collection destinations, thereby making this a long term partnership as we continue to grow together in the region."

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Volume 2 Issue 08 1-15 May 2013

Legal & Expat Money Magna Carta Law Office

Magna Carta Law Office in South Pattaya has been serving clients for more than ten years.

The company was named after the The Great Charter of the Liberties of England, which was the very first legal constitution in England whereby everyone was governed by one law. It aims to provide fair and equal services to their large customer base.

At Magna Carta, they distinguish themselves from other firms by being a onestop-service law firm offering clients complete and personalized legal services with the highest quality representation possible. It’s committed to providing expert legal advice and services at a reasonable cost with the end view of attaining the confidence of its clients.

Magna Carta’s management team has extensive know-how and has in depth experience in the fields of law and tax consultancy, therefore always delivering first-class service to clients.

With the wide array of services provided, Magna Carta is proud to have selected the best and most respected team members who deal in each field of expertise as this is their key in delivering exceptional solutions and services.

The team consists of six barristers, ten senior lawyers, six junior lawyers, two native Englishspeaking Thai law consultants and more than 22 professionals in criminal and civil law, accounting and business planning, real estate transactions and basically all legal issues. The self-motivation, aggressiveness and enthusiasm of its members have contributed much to what it is today and what it will be in the future.

Everyone associated with Magna Carta shares an enthusiasm and appreciation for their practice of law. Since its inception in 2003, Magna Carta has been dedicated to excellence not only in providing quality legal services, but also in developing good relationships with clients.

Call 038 373735 / 0824791204 or send an email to legal@magnacarta.co.th to set an appointment, or visit the Magna Carta Law Office Monday to Friday at 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. for a free, no obligation, initial consultation.

Service

Expat Money Corner

by Tim Whiteley

QROPS providers set sail for Gibraltar Despite being largely compliant, well regulated, and competitive, HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs) in the UK deemed it necessary to effectively delete Guernsey as a QROPS destination. At the time Guernsey was, perhaps, the premier jurisdiction. I have covered HMRC’s rationale in earlier pieces but suffice to say that, other than for schemes set up prior to their delisting, it has been all but eliminated from the picture, certainly for the time being.

In the furor that followed, providers went in search of jurisdictions that might be suitable replacements, and there has been much jockeying for position in this large and important market. Guernsey previously made payments to QROPS holders’ gross, i.e. free of tax, and for those with UK pensionable earnings, the tax level on pension income is a burning issue.

The central theme to HMRC’s edict is that QROPS income should be taxable in the jurisdiction the QROPS is held, and the tax position should be the same for residents and non-residents of said jurisdiction.

This is, in large measure, why Guernsey fell afoul of the UK government’s regulations.

Since that time, a jurisdiction has emerged that has been accepted

by HMRC, with a new scheme, not with a zero rate of tax on income, but 2.5 percent. The general thinking is that this is likely to be about as good as it’s going to get. Whilst most of us would like to see tax on pensions abolished altogether, the majority of us can live with a 2.5 percent levy. That place is Gibraltar. It too is well regulated and competitive, and it’s also worth remembering that a QROPS is simply a legal trust. The invested funds themselves will likely be placed in the hands of large institutions.

Also, there has also been some heralding of the arrival of the ‘Mini’ QROPS, with reduced costs for lesser amounts currently locked in previous schemes. There has long been a gap in the market, with only a very limited number of schemes available in the 25,000 – 75,000 GBP range, so this development is most welcome.

All in all, things are taking shape again in the QROPS arena. With such significant advantages to expatriates, it’s essential that providers continue to innovate, in tandem with government regulations, to protect the pension pots of those of us living overseas.

Thoughts for the day: Even if you are a UK non-resident for tax purposes but still have your pension fund in a SIPP, did you know that upon the death of you and your spouse, the fund will suffer a tax charge of up to 55 percent prior to the remaining amount being credited to your chosen beneficiaries? However, if you are non-resident and a QROPS holder, there will be no liability to tax for your dependants!

Although, I dislike acronyms, another tax-efficient option for non-pensionable earnings is a QNUPS (qualifying non-UK pension scheme). These schemes, like pension arrangements, have certain restrictions in terms of how much cash is available to be drawn back out, with the rest of the fund invested for growth and/or income.

Nonetheless, they have the distinct advantage of taking the amount invested entirely out of the QNUPS holders’ estate for inheritance tax purposes, whether or not you are a UK resident! Most expatriates don’t realise that being non-resident for tax purposes does not mean you are non-domiciled. Therefore, your remaining estate, barring a QROPS, could attract inheritance tax. However, any money, not connected to a pension scheme, invested in a QNUPS will be free of inheritance tax, regardless of your domicile!

MAGNA CARTA LAW OFFICE 193/126-8 South Pattaya Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 20150, Thailand Telephone: 038 373735 - 6 Fax: 038 373672

www.magnacarta.co.th

Important Note - This article contains general information only and is not intended to be taken as specific financial, investment, or tax advice. A personal analysis should always be obtained.

Tim Whiteley of IFA International has over 25 years as an IFA, advising international investors and expatriates, both onshore UK, and offshore in Asia. With offices in Bangkok, and regular client visits to Pattaya, IFA specialises in wealth protection services, offshore trusts, QROPS UK pension transfers and QNUPS, creating tailor- made investment solutions for individuals around the world.

IFA International does NOT provide discretionary portfolio management, securities advice, forex trading, or local brokerage/ insurance products. The services that IFA International Group provides are for international investors and expatriates only and are not applicable to local nationals. This is NOT a solicitation to sell or market securities. Questions to the author can be directed to: timwhiteley@ifainternationalgroup.com

P5 / 29

Volume 2 Issue 08 1-15 May 2013

Property

News update on Southpoint Pattaya Kingdom Property’s exciting new project at Pratumnak, where world-class contemporary design intersects with the most sought-after location in Pattaya, has announced significant progress in the 2 billion baht project scheduled for completion in 2015.

Frank Satar joins the team

Kingdom Property welcomes sales superstar Frank Satar as sales director. Satar has an 18-year career in residential property sales, beginning in his native Australia and for the past two years in Pattaya where he achieved record sales with both Novana Residence and Suites and Centara Avenue Residence.

His Australian sales career included stints with Ray White Real Estate and Fresh Home Loans.

Show Units Unveiled

Southpoint Pattaya is unveiling a new sales gallery and show units (one and two bedrooms) on the site early this May. Kingdom Property guarantees the specifications and materials used in the show units are exactly what will be delivered to buyers and investors. Unit sizes start with the studios at 30 sqm ranging up to one and two-bedroom apartments which range in size from 41 sqm to 97 sqm. The condominium includes a dedicated sky deck with an infinity edge lap pool and fitness centre along with a landscaped family zone featuring a children’s pool and playground. The Suites Tower has been sold in its entirety and will be developed as a hospitality project.

Atlantis Condo Resort takes shape

Construction of Atlantis Condo Resort has reached the eighth and final floor, with individual units, landscaping and facility structures taking shape, according to Pornthep Chawla, project manager of the Jomtien development. Praising the construction company, VKK, and Blue Sky’s specialist consultants, Chawla noted that only 93 units are now unsold.

He said 11 units, starting at about 2 million baht, are available in the Apollo Building overlooking

the waterfall and sailing ship; 18 units in the Jupiter Building with views of the children’s playground and the sea; 12 apartments in the Poseidon Building with pool views; 10 in the Venus Building, and 34 sea-view units in the Minerva Building starting at 2,379,000.

There are still foreign ownership units available, he added, with no price differential for Thais and foreigners.

For information go to www.atlantiscondoresort.com

Kingdom Property supports Regatta

Kingdom Property will be a sponsor for the May 3-7 Top of the Gulf Regatta which reflects Pattaya’s status as a city renowned for prestigious international events. The Top of the Gulf Regatta has become Asia’s largest multi-class regatta, now in its eighth year, and is held at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club on Jomtien beach. A record fleet is expected with over 600 sailors competing in over 300 sailing craft from more than 30 countries.

Tulip Group sign with illy Coffee

Tulip Group has signed Gruppo illy to supply coffee products in their soon-to-open Centara Grand Phratamnak Resort Pattaya. Dominique Ronge (right), general manager, and Pisutwat Donsuea (left), Food and Beverage manager of the resort seen here with Andrea Casali (centre), Key Accounts manager (Bangkok) for Gruppo illy products at Italasia Trading (Thailand) Company.

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Volume 2 Issue 08 1-15 May 2013

Property

Hey, Dude, Who Stole My Gold?

I spent several weeks in the United States last month and could not help but notice two ongoing trends that just don’t seem to be going away.

First and foremost, the tragic Boston bombing which killed and maimed innocent citizens so senselessly.

Yes, the international media makes sure

cent are the very ones (and most likely only ones) that are happy just to let the Fed continue on with business as usual?

I mean, honestly, who with half a brain would trust the Federal Reserve at this time in history…or at any time for that matter?

Speaking of trust, Germany--a country

that everyone is acutely aware of the great variety of terror in America these days… and each act of terror is so creative and different!

Whether a serious act of Islamic terrorism or ‘another’ False Flag event, it is a horrific trend in the United States that just seems to be getting worse and worse--not to mention more and more bizarre.

The other ongoing trend is the American economy that seems to just go on and on printing and printing its way to the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time.

The most current American contributions to the internet is a plethora of ‘Save Energy’ ads, ‘Go off the Grid’ ads and-my favorite--‘How To Avoid The Crash’ ads with very little doubt being shown for what America (and the world!) has in store for itself just ahead.

One such internet financial watchdog website, Money Morning ‘Your Dailey Map to Financial Freedom,’ even has a poll which asks: Should the Federal Reserve come clean? Tell us what you think... and then offers the choice of Yes, the Fed should be audited or No, we should trust them.

I just can’t help my politically-incorrect self, but can’t you just imagine that Mitt Romney’s government-dependent 47 per-

with immense gold reserves (second largest in the world!)--has kept a vast portion – some 54,000 bars worth billions of dollars – in the New York Federal Reserve Bank for more than 50 years. But that half a century of trust has been tarnished as Germany just a few months back demanded the return of their gold – a move that produced tremors throughout the global financial markets.

First, Germany requested a full audit and thorough inspection of their gold reserves. That request was denied and nothing was done. Subsequent requests have also been denied.

Wouldn’t you think that investors worldwide should be shocked with this incredible deception?

The world financial markets are witnessing a US dollar that slowly but surely will not and cannot be redeemed by the Federal Reserve Bank!

You would be surprised—no, you would be shocked--to know just how many international as well as homegrown American financial and economic pundits are playing the doomsday card these days as the American stock market is sky rocketing and the gold market is plummeting, both seemingly independent of one another and yet both are without sound economic indicators that make any sense at all.

by Clayton Wade Managing Director

Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. clayton@premierinternational.com

The markets in America are under unprecedented stress and are heading for a no man’s land of unfathomable debt.

Even China, once the biggest purchaser of US bonds in the world, is now selling off its Treasuries while buying gold like nobody’s business. In fact, it will not be long before China has officially surpassed Germany as the second-largest depositor of gold in the world.

So where does that leave us here in Thailand? Is Thailand starting to feel the repercussions of the American financial calamity?

Yes, financial experts strongly expect the Bank of Thailand to take action as the baht is experiencing unprecedented, "excessive" gain which, in turn, is having a far-reaching and negative impact on Thailand’s export sector as well as the tax revenue expectations of the Thai government.

According to MCOT Online News, the strengthening of the baht to 29.18 is acceptable but if it rises further to 2727.90, more than 12 percent of Thailand’s entrepreneurs said they will have no choice but to lay off employees and 9.8 per cent said they would have to close their businesses.

Concern over a bubble possibly developing in the provincial property market, there is also being seen a definite slow down by Thai banks in providing construction loans to property developers in the provinces (Chonburi, too!) that lack both sufficient capital and their own plots of land.

Well, Thailand as a whole may be feel-

Our very special thanks to Clayton Wade, managing director of Pattaya’s Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. for preparing this Pattaya Today column.

Clayton Wade has been running Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd., with his wife, Khun Supap, for more than 17 years. He himself has been in the real estate industry going on 27 years, having started his career in the United States where he was licensed and practiced both real estate sales and property management in Seattle, Washington.

Clayton personally was responsible

for bringing in the first 53 General Motors executives for the start-up phase of Thailand’s General Motors manufacturing facility and had a three-year exclusive with the company.

Following that experience, he placed most of the start-up executives for the Eastern Seaboard’s BMW manufacturing facility.

Clayton Wade is a Council Member with the Gerson Lehrman Group, the New York based international research and consulting firm, and has been a national panel judge with the Thailand Property Awards for many years.

The American-born entrepreneur is

ing the repercussions of the American financial calamity, but the Eastern Seaboard just might be experiencing the benefits of the world’s developing financial crisis as we are starting to see definite signs that the residential resale market is picking up with more shoppers and buyers than we have seen in years.

In fact, the resale of detached houses seems to be doing well, with many popular housing developments seeing sales taking place for resale homes that went through a price adjustment period over the past few years.

Yes, they have had to lower their prices, but they are now starting to move again with new detached housing developments also coming on line in the Eastern Pattaya, Mabprachan, Phoenix Golf Course and Silverlake areas.

It appears that more and more expats just might be deciding that the Eastern Seaboard makes sense as a great place to buy a home and live while their home countries go through less than golden times.

Yes, we are seeing more and more foreign executives and management level employees coming in short term and more and more retirees moving here for the long haul as more and more expats are discovering the incredible lifestyle available here on the Eastern Seaboard.

Well, Germany may be singing the ‘Hey, Dude, Who Stole My Gold’ blues, but Thailand is seeing nothing but silver linings as the Land of Smiles Eastern Seaboard continues reaping the benefits of a virtual expat relocation gold rush!

known throughout the Asia-Pacific region for his writing, public speaking and television presentations. His many accomplishments in promoting real estate on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard include having been a guest speaker with several of Thailand’s top political and business figures on CNBC’s Managing Asia.

Premier Homes is Pattaya’s leader in exclusive property sales and rentals, which may be seen by visiting their website at: www. premierinternational.com. Clayton Wade may be contacted at +(66) (81) 634-2915 or at: clayton@premierinternational.com

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Volume 2 Issue 08 1-15 May 2013

GMs Outlook

Every day Managing Director is a holiday Bob Sachdev at Grande Where Holidays Caribbean become Homes Of all the recent condominium projects in Pattaya, the 11.5-rai Grande Caribbean on Thappraya Road is beyond a doubt one of the best known. No matter where you go in the resort you’ll see the professional advertising on hoardings, baht buses and local TV as well as in the print media and in topclass malls and shopping centres. Still in pre-construction, Grande Caribbean has already sold an initial 72 percent of its total of 1,064 units.

Marketed as easy living in a resort atmosphere, Grande Caribbean is owned by the pioneering Blue Sky Group, which is equally famous for Atlantis Condo Resort in Jomtien, where construction is actually ahead of schedule and is already 90 percent sold. Thavatchai (Bob) Sachdev, Grande Caribbean’s managing director and a marketing graduate, says, “We now have five projects in Pattaya as well as others in Bangkok. Blue Sky has great confidence in Pattaya with its improving infrastructure, the relative proximity of Suvarnabhumi airport and a sophisticated standard of life which equals Bangkok in most

by Barry Kenyon

respects.”

Grande Caribbean overlooks Pattaya bay and is just a short walk to the beach. This family-safe environment includes a children’s play park, grottos, caves, Jacuzzis and an island lighthouse connected by wooden bridges. Featuring multi-level pools, a sandy beach and two wooden interactive pirate ships, it’s the perfect haven for the family or the independent traveller or expat who form the top-end clients in Pattaya, a city which is fast redefining itself.

Each floor consists of oneand two-bedroom apartments with balconies and fully-furnished

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Volume 2 Issue 08 1-15 May 2013

GMs Outlook

“

The key to commercial success is putting yourself in your customer’s shoes which is precisely what Blue Sky Group is all about.

”

bedrooms, living and dining areas. “Grande Caribbean takes the concept of holiday homes to the next level by offering a complete turnkey approach. We provide everything you need simply to walk in and start living. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest gardens and lagoons certainly means that every day feels like a holiday, no matter how long is your stay,” concludes Bob. Pattaya’s City Hall has stated that its aim is to make Pattaya “the Thai Riviera” by the end of this decade. “Well, Grande Caribbean certainly helps to promote this new image through its luxury and innovative design,” says Bob. “The city authorities and Mayor Itthiphol have certainly done a first-class job in transforming Pattaya as a family resort and a famed international venue for sports, music and conferences of all types.” Of course, the best may yet be to come with a hi-speed train linking Pattaya to Bangkok scheduled to be completed by 2018.

Potential buyers at the Grande Caribbean site often ask whether customers intend to live there or buy as an investment opportunity. Bob confirms that the answer is both. “Well over half the purchasers are Thais and the rest mainly Europeans from east and west. Many Thais are buying a second home in Pattaya to use for weekends and vacations. Some investors have already made money at the pre-construction stage by buying when the units were first put up for sale seven months ago.”

Location, of course, is of prime importance but so is the pricing structure. “We are always in the one- to two-million baht market,” assures Bob, “because the twomillion baht plus properties you see elsewhere are another ballgame altogether.”

He adds that the concept of a fully furnished condo resort really strikes a lot of investors as a sound investment because it’s easier for people just to decide to move in without having to worry about furniture, fittings and all the rest.

An important motivator for Thai investors was the central plains and Bangkok flooding disaster of 2011. Many Bangkokians, initially fleeing the unwelcome waters, found in Pattaya and Jomtien not only a safe haven but a rapidly-changing resort which was fast disposing of its solely nightlife image. The Bangkok floods, which were mercifully of shorter duration than many people predicted, kick-started a period of boom-buying by domestic investors which has continued to this day and is well represented in the initial Grande Caribbean success story.

Asked what is the business philosophy of Blue Sky Group, Bob says it is to give the very best value to customers and to create an experience to make them comeback again. He thinks this is the main reason why, for the past two years, the company has come up with five projects in Pattaya. “The key is to put yourself in the customers’ shoes and to find out what they want. Grande Caribbean follows that procedure very fully and is the reason why we have the location, the luxury, the resort atmosphere, the pirate theme, the contrasting colour scheme and the turnkey approach.”

10 ZZ/34

Classified

1 - 15 May 2013

Articles for Sale

(ptmas-e0009)Mobility Scooters -- Free test ride at your home! Portable mobility scooters, latest models. Full ser vice from T hailand’s mobility scooter specialist.

Call 081 875 0860 or 02 964 8405-07, www.ecobrand. net, info@ecobrand.net for prices and brochures. Contact us now for your free test ride at your home!

Boats/Yachts

Fiber Glass 6 Metre Speedboat with Mercury Force 120 HP Outboard Motor, seats 6 people, only 2 years old, complete with trailer and all papers for transfer.

Real bargain 390,000 baht.

Call 087 139 1539.

Business Opportunities

(ptmpt-bo00)For Sale or Lease. 23 Nice Two Room Apartments located in 3 buildings on a one rai land parcel in a very central location south Pattaya. Within 5 min walking distance to walking street,however still a quiet and secure area.For more info contact 081 9099098, No agents please Commercial Shop house – Foreign Name: at Jomtien Plaza Condotel, 3 Story 175 SQM turn-key opportunity, Sale Price: 6,990,000 THB (Freehold) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin bobbybrooks.com Guest House/Coffee Shop Soi Buakhao: 6 rooms Leasehold: 3+3 Rent: 30,000 Baht/Month. 19% cash return a n nu a l l y S A L E P R I C E : 2,200,000 THB please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Guest House/Pub Dongtan Beach: 4 rooms Leasehold: 3+3 Rent: 23,000 Baht/ Month. Fully occupied SALE PRICE: 1,499,000 THB please call 0823440822 (eng) 085910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Beachfront Restaurant – Na Jomtien - This has to be the best beach front business opportunity available.

A 3 storey single unit bar and restaurant right by the beautiful Na Jomtien Beach with seating for 22-24 persons, commercial kitchen, two bedroom accommodation, a roof top terrace which offers scenic views over the beach and the ground floor patio looking directly over the beach.

The business is only for sale due to the owners ill health.

For sale leasehold at only 750,000 Bt with rent 15,000 Baht per month and NO key money!! Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattaya jomtien-property.com

APARTMENT BUILDING - Easy to r un business opportunity. This new three storey 21 room apartment building in a central location, not far from Siam Country Club Road, has been built to European standards with 3 one bedroom apartments and 18 studio apartments all with spacious bathrooms and balconies, most are furnished and have AC units fitted, ideal for long stay expats and holiday lets. Included in the sales price is an adjoining plot of land approx. 450sqm that can be used to extend the building and add a communal pool or to build a private villa.

The building has its own water bore and a water filtration system is in place. Total land area 1,465 sqm. For Sale: 12.5m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com GUESTHOUSE & BAR Ideally located profitable 10 room guesthouse and bar. Located in a busy Soi in Central Jomtien and close to the beach is this 3 unit building with the ground floor running as a bar with pool table, music system and large flat screen TV. There is ample room to install a kitchen to offer breakfasts and food to the guests and customers, thus increasing the profits further.

The upper floors contain 10 renovated and fully furnished guest rooms, a store room and maids room. An established business. For Sale: Leasehold 3.3m Bt, monthly rent 30,000 Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

Education & Training

Learn Fruit and Vegetables Carving from a Professional teacher with more than 18 years experience. For inquiries contact Yui at tel no. 086 320 9569 and/or 085 238 5453 or email at yuibua@hotmail. co.th (pta-tk0008)Do you want to Study Thai Language or Thai Culture in Fun & Easy Way? Come to Thankful Knowledge Learning C e n t e r. L e a r n w i t h t h e native professional teachers.

Affordable price & friendly environment call 038 373 175 or 038 416 493. We speak Thai, English, German&Duetsch.

Apartment for Rent

(ptmaf-r0712)AROMDEE APARTMENTS, quiet, clean, well maintained, with European management. Fan/AC rooms for rent start from 3,800 baht monthly. Free Wi-Fi, CableTV, Gym, and Car park. Inside Minimart, breakfast dishes, coffee bar/bar, 24 hr laundry, and CCTV security coverage.

Within walking distance of Big C, Tesco Lotus, and BKK Bus Station North Pattaya.

Phone Thai/Eng.: 082-3043907, Phone Norwegian/ Eng.: 087-329-0300, Office/ Fax: 038-370-861 Web: www. aromdeeapartments.com Email: aromdeeapartment@ hotmail.com

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

House For Sale – Bang Sarey - Nicely designed new single storey house, Living area 132sqm, Land area 400sqm, one of two side by side, in this popular area of Bang Saray.

The properties are built to European standards offering 2 - 3 bedrooms, 2 luxury bathrooms, European kitchens with ovens, spacious living room, dining area, patio terrace, car parking and landscaped gardens. Really great value for money and less than 5 minutes to the beautiful beach, shops, restaurants, bars and 20 minutes from Jomtien. . Price: 2.95m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Charming Tropical Bangsarey Home! Selling Price 12.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/183 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2799) House For Sale – East Pattaya - Two storey semidetached houses, living area 120sqm, land area 160sqm in a very quiet secure development just a 5 minute drive from Sukhumvit Road. Very spacious, well furnished, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, living room, dining area, European kitchen with oven, car parking, clubhouse, communal pool and 24/7 security. The seller has in total six of these rental properties, some with tenants in place, that are let for between 18,000 Bt and 20,000 Bt per month on medium to long term leases bringing in a return of almost 8%. They can be purchased individually or all six houses together, only for sale because of the owners continued ill health. Prices From: 1.99m Bt each. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

House for Sale

A pr oper ty in Pattaya with the special touch of Thousand and One Nights!

3 Bedrooms; all of them include a bath and a dressing room. Spacious parlor and kitchen, beautiful swimming pool, equipment room and carport for 2 passenger cars.

The staff/guesthouse includes 3 rooms and 2 showers, as well as an outdoor kitchen.

To top off this beautiful property, there is a generously proportioned pavilion with an awesome view overlooking a pond. This Garden of Eden is available for 760,000 USD. A dream estate for people who can afford it. Contact: rw-treuhand@bluewin.ch Pool Villa For Sale – North East Pattaya - Spacious individually designed 257 sqm family single storey pool villa offering the best value for money in the city and ideally located by the Route 36. The European style property offers 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, European kitchen with oven, hob and hood, office, open plan lounge and dining area, TV room, laundry room, private pool in 1,040 sqm landscaped gardens, detached en-suite maids room, covered car parking. Price:6.9m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www. pattayajomtien-property.com Pool Villa For Sale – East Jomtien. The seller has reduced the price from 7.95m Bt for a quick ‘no hassle’ sale. Single storey 185 sqm villa in a quiet secluded small development on land plot 420 sqm, stylishly finished and furnished throughout, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, European kitchen, living room, dining area, covered terrace, sun deck, lagoon style private pool, covered parking, 24/7 security, less than a 5 minute drive to Sukhumvit Road.

Sale Price: REDUCED to 5.95m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

Solution Sudoku Issue 16

34 2 4 9 1 6 7 8 5

1 9 8 5 38 7 61 4 2

7 5 61 46 8 2 97 1 3

2 62 3 1 96 4 8 5 73

83 4 9 7 2 5 3 6 14

58 1 7 8 62 3 4 29 9

6 8 26 3 5 7 9 15 7 4

4 3 59 6 74 1 2 9 8

9 7 1 2 4 8 5 3 68

HOUSES FOR SALE

Amazing Pratamnak Luxury Estate! Selling Price 60 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 634 Sqm/330 TLW. Oriental Thai House in Jomtien Location! Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 450 Sqm/155 TLW. Beautiful Balinese Style Estate Home with large swimming pool! Selling Price 12 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 362 TLW/280 Sqm. Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View!

Selling Price 29.9 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. Great Private Estate Home! Selling Price 14.9 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 375 Sqm/500 TLW. Stunning House at Santa Maria For Sale! Selling Price 37.5 Million Baht, 4+2 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 900 Sqm/650 TLW. This is an exceptional home built with the best of materials furnished with only the best.

Great Bungalow with wonderful interior décor on Pratamnak Hill! Selling Price 11.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm/100 TLW. Charming Tropical Bangsarey Home! Selling Price 12.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/183 TLW.

HOUSES FOR RENT

Gorgeous Seaview from Bang Sarey Hills! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 470 Sqm/600 TLW. Fantastic Home in the Mabprachan Lake Area! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/3+1 Bathrooms, 360 Sqm/400 TLW. Stunning and Gorgeous Home for Rent! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 3+1 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/120 TLW. Beachfront Villa with Impressive Interior Design! Rental Price 130,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm/400 TLW. Exclusive Home in Family Friendly Village! Rental Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/400 TLW. Resort Living just 50 meters from the Beach in Jomtien! Rental Price 75,000 Baht / Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/25 TLW. Fantastic Home in Great Developement! Rental Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 440 Sqm/300 TLW. Impressive Lakeside Estate Home! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/600 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family home right on a lake next to Phoenix Golf Club and in the country just minutes from town.

CONDOS FOR SALE

Wonderfully Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm. Beautiful Apartment with Sea Views! Selling Price 12.6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 135 Sqm. Foreigner Ownership in Jomtien’s La Royale! Selling Price 11.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 148 Sqm. Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm. Great Jomtien Beach Area Apartment! Selling Price 3.5 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/2 Bathrooms, 80 Sqm. Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 13.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. Best priced Apartment in Na Jomtien’s Pine Shore Condo! Selling Price is 8 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 91 Sqm. Fabulous and Low Priced Apartment at Ocean Marina!

Selling Price 19 Million Baht, 4 Bedroom/4 Bathroom, 274 Sqm. Sea, Sunset and Island Views at Ocean Marina! Selling Price 17.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom. 177 Sqm.

CONDOS FOR RENT

Beachfront Life Style for Rent! Rental Price is 85,000 Baht/ Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 266 Sqm. Modern Designed Beachfront Apartment! Rental Price is 48,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 101 Sqm. Stunning Apartment for Rent in Northshore! Rental Price 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 64 Sqm. Fantastically Designed Apartment at Grand Condotel!

Rental Price 42,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. Stunning Apartment for Rent in Jomtien Beach Area!

Rental Price 27,500 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 102 Sqm. Modern Designed Beachfront Apartment! Rental Price 60,000 Baht/Month, 2+1 Bedroom/3 Bathroom. 214 Sqm. Beautiful Apartment with Spacious Living Area! Rental Price 55,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom.

340 Sqm.

Call Premier Homes Co., Ltd. 038-231-931 and 081-64-2915

E-mail: premier@loxinfo.co.th

www.premierinternatinal.com

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

Classified

House for Sale

House For Sale – Jomtien - Ideally located in Central Jomtien fully furnished single storey 130sm house, land 58 Tw, offering 3 bedroom, 2 luxury bathrooms, European kitchen, living room, dining area, covered parking, small patio, 24/7 security, short stroll to restaurants, shops, bars, taxis and 1km to the beach.Price: 5.4m Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Beautiful Home in Jomtien Yacht Club!! Selling Price 29 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 390 Sqm/212 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5846) Great Mabprachan Lake Family Home! Selling Price 11.9 Million Baht and Renting at 90,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 330 Sqm/350 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2694) Nice Home with Large Swimming Pool & Garden!

Selling Price 13 Million Baht and 6 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 560 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR3895) Amazing Pratamnak Luxury Estate! Selling Price 60 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 634 Sqm/330 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5946)

Oriental Thai House in Jomtien Location! Selling Price 15.9 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 450 Sqm/155 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5972) S t u n n i n g To w n h o m e on Jomtien’s Dongtan Beachfront! Selling Price 22 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/4 Bathrooms, 25 TLW/400 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR6083) Charming Detached House with swimming pool and lovely gardens in Wongamat Location! Selling Price 25 Million Baht, Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathrooms, 300 TLW/300 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR6075) Beautiful Home in Tadarawadi Village For Sale! Selling Price 42,075,000 Million Baht, 4 Bedroom /4 Bathrooms, 526 TLW/769 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR5758) Great Jomtien Park Villa with Very Nice Modern Furniture! Selling Price 34 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 238 TLW/500 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR4176) Beautiful Balinese Style Estate Home with large swimming pool! Selling Price 12 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 362 TLW/280 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate

Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR4802) Great Home in the very popular Siam Royal View!

Selling Price 29.9 Million Baht, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 1 Rai/360 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com. (PR4211) A Really Unique Estate on One Rai of Land!

Selling Price 50 Million Baht, 6 Bedrooms/7 Bathrooms, 1000 Sqm/440 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5052) Great Home in View Talay Villas! Selling Price 12.9 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 160 Sqm/72 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4854)

1 - 15 May 2013

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Great Private Estate Home!

Selling Price 14.9 Million Baht, 4+1 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 375 Sqm/500 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5365) Stunning House at Santa Maria For Sale! Selling Price 37.5 Million Baht, 4+2 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 900 Sqm/650 TLW. This is an exceptional home built with the best of materials furnished with only the best.

For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5790) Great Bungalow with wonderful interior décor on Pratamnak Hill! Selling Price 11.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 170 Sqm/100 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4365)

12 ZZ/36

Classified

1 - 15 May 2013

House for Sale

Tropical Jomtien Villa with Private Swimming Pool: Thai-Bali Style, 3 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms, 524 Sqm Sale Price: 8,495,000 THB. (Co Name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Palace EstatesModern style 6 bedrooms home, 3 bath, 3 beds upstairs and downstairs.

Living Area 280 SQM 10.9 million (Co name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbbrooks com View Talay Villas with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 1 bed 1 bath from 4.29 mil 2 bed 2 bath from 7.49 mil (co name) Freehold.

Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Palace Estates, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, private pool 300 Sqm total area. (Freehold) Sale Price: 6,900,000 THB. (Co Name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Nice House 2 Bed 2 Bath for Sale off Soi Khao Talo: 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms, 1 Living Room, Total Size 156 Sqm 1,899,000 THB. (Freehold) Thai Name Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Pob Choke Garden Hill – Just Built - New House 2 Bed 2 Bath. Located in Bangsaray just off hwy. 331. Sale Price: 1,699, 000 THB (Freehold) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com

House for Rent

(ptmhfr-1612) House Care Taker. Looking for serious p e r s o n , w h o ke e p s t h e house ready for showing, no smoking, no pets. I provide basic furniture, utilities. If house is sold, you move to the next, all 5 to 15 km around Pattaya. Rent only 5,000 baht.

085 795 5383 (ptmhfr-1512) Occasion!

Beautiful townhouse (South Pattaya), 2 minutes to city or beach, peaceful and green environment, superbly full furnished, 3 bedrooms, 2 televisions, ADSL, 4 aircondition, garage. Contact: 081 862 9710 House For Rent – Jomtien - Ideally located just 800m from Jomtien Beach in a quiet and secure development, this two storey family home offers 4 bedrooms two with balconies, 3 bathrooms, fully fitted European kitchen with oven, dish washer and washing machine, open plan living room, dining area, covered patio, covered parking, garden, electronic remote garage gate, 24/7 security. Minimum rental period of 6 months applies.

A minimum rental period of 6 months at 45,000 Bt or a 1 year lease at 40,000 Bt per month. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattaya jomtien-property.com House For Rent – East Pattaya - A two storey townhouse in a very quiet secure development just a 5 minute drive from Sukhumvit Road. Very spacious, well

furnished and offering 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, open plan lounge, dining area, European kitchen with oven, car parking, clubhouse, communal pool and 24/7 security. Outstanding value for this large family home. A minimum rental period of 6 months applies at 20,000 Bt per month or 18,000 Bt for a 1 years lease. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Pool Villa For Rent – Jomtien - Stylishly finished and furnished pool villa, living area 80sqm, land area 240sqm, ideally located just 250m from Jomtien Beach offering 1 bedroom, 1 luxurious bathroom, European kitchen, living room, private pool, sun terrace, communal pool, restaurant, 24/7 security, 150m to numerous restaurants, shops, bars in Jomtien Night Plaza on Jomtien 2nd Road and taxis. Minimum rental period of 1 month applies at 40,000 Bt. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Pool Villa For Rent – Silk Road - Stylishly finished and furnished throughout, single storey family home in one of Jomtiens most popular and exclusive developments.

The property offers 3 ensuite bedrooms, 3 luxurious bathrooms, 350sqm ,land area 520 sqm, European kitchen, living room, dining area, detached self contained guesthouse or maids room, private pool, covered patio, landscaped gardens, double covered garage, communal pool, fitness, kiddies play area, tennis court, CCTV throughout the development, key card entry, 24/7 security, just 1 minute drive to Sukhumvit and less than 5 minutes to the beach and Tesco Lotus. 70,000 Bt for 6 month, 65,000 bt for year contract. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

Fantastic Home in Great D e ve l o p e m e n t ! Re n t a l Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 440 Sqm/300 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2184) Exclusive Home in Family Friendly Village! Rental Price 110,000 Baht/Month, 4 Bedrooms/4+1 Bathrooms, 500 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR1601) Impressive Lakeside Estate Home! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 5 Bedrooms/6 Bathrooms, 650 Sqm/600 TLW. This is an absolutely fantastic family home right on a lake next to Phoenix Golf Club and in the country just minutes from town. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5679) Resort Living just 50 meters from the Beach in Jomtien!

Rental Price 75,000 Baht / Month, 4 Bedrooms/5 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/25 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2977) Gorgeous Seaview from Bang Sarey Hills! Rental Price 80,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 470 Sqm/600 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR2424)

LIFE’S A BEACH AND YOU COULD BE LIVING THIS PRIVILEGED LIFE STYLE TOMORROW Two spectacular beach side apartments have just come on the market. Situated on Na Jomtien’s sandy quiet beach they both offer a piece of paradise.

The Penthouse is a 240 sq/m, 2-storey (4th & 5th floors), 3 bedrooms, 2 shower rooms, 3 toilets with extra large balconies rear and front with full sea view. Semi furnished.

Price: 58,000 Baht/month on 1 year basis (other terms can be arranged).

Apartment 1 is 140 sq/m, 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms/showers. Semi furnished. Extra large balconies rear and front with full sea view. Price: 34,000 Baht/month on 1 year basis (other terms can be arranged).

Contact: Tony Trail – Drifters Café and Apartments Tel: 087-7432319 info@driftersbeachcafe.com www.driftersbeachcafe.com

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

House for Rent

Nice Ren tal Home in Phoenix Golf Course Area! Rental Price 95,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/600 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5230) Fantastic Home in the Mabprachan Lake Area!

Rental Price 80,000 Baht/ Month, 5 Bedrooms/3+1 Bathrooms, 360 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR0193) Stunning and Gorgeous Home for Rent! Rental Price 90,000 Baht/Month, 3+1 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 400 Sqm/120 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR3982)

B e a c h f r o n t Vi l l a w i t h Impressive Interior Design!

Rental Price 130,000 Baht/ Month, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 350 Sqm/400 TLW. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR6017) Jomtien Palace Home- 3 Bdrm 3 Baths modern 140 SQM Fully furnished with cooking supplies, towels, and linens. 35,000 per month for (1 year lease) please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Palace Estates 4 Bed 4.5 Bath with Private Swimming Pool for Rent: 95,000 THB/Month (1 Year Lease) Fully Equipped Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com View Talay Villas with Private Swimming Pool, Jomtien 2 bed 3 bath 45,000 THB/Month (1 Year Lease) Fully Equipped (Freehold) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email to admin@bobbybrooks.com

Classified

Condo for Sale

View Talay 5 D - Stylish finished and modern furnishings in this mid floor studio 48 sqm on the Pattaya side of these very popular beachfront buildings with stunning sea views over Koh Larn Island. The studio offers a truly luxurious bathroom, fitted wardrobes, a fully functional European kitchen , stylishly furnished living area, large balcony, huge communal pool, CCTV, 24/7 security, a couple of minutes stroll to the beautiful Dongtan Beach and numerous restaurants, shops, bars and taxis. For Sale 2.75m Bt in foreign name. Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com. www.pattaya- jomtienproperty.com Porchland - The owner has carried out a really top class and stylish finish on this 37 sqm mid floor unit in these new modern low rise buildings off Soi Chaiyapruk. Stylishly furnished throughout with expensive wall papers, modern fitted units, European kitchen, fully furnished living room, 1 bedroom, luxury bathroom, balcony, communal pool, key card entry, 24/7 security, a short stroll to restaurants, cafes, shops, bars, taxis and 900m to the beach. For Sale: 1.7m Bt in foreign nameTel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com. www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com Baan Suan Lalana - Very well renovated 2 bedroom unit in this highly popular tropical resort style development, stylishly furnished throughout offering 2 luxury bathrooms, living room, European kitchen,

large balcony, communal pool, gym, sauna, tennis court, mini mart, tropical gardens, excellent 24/7 security... just 800m to Jomtien Beach. A bargain buy. For Sale: REDUCED to 2.4m Bt Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com The Gallery - Very popular new modern low rise buildings ideally located in Central Jomtien, just 150m from the new Night Plaza and the beach. This high floor sea view studio, 26 sqm has been stylishly and expensively furnished throughout with fitted wardrobe and LCD TV, luxurious bathroom, European kitchen, roof top infinity edge communal pool, sundeck, fitness, key card entry, reception, 24/7 security.

For Sale : 2.1m Bt in foreign name. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Fabulous and Low Priced Apartment at Ocean Marina!

Selling Price 19 Million Baht, 4 Bedroom/4 Bathroom, 274 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5414) Wonderfull y Designed Luxury Apartment! Selling Price 10.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 134 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5559)

Beautiful Apartment with Sea Views! Selling Price 12.6 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 135 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4136) Foreigner Ownership in Jomtien’s La Royale! Selling Price 11.95 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom, 148 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4015) Great Sea Views and In Town Location! Selling Price 29.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedroom/3 Bathroom, 268 Sqm For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5786) Great Jomtien Beach Area Apartment! Selling Price 3.5 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/2 Bathrooms, 80 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5084) High Floor View Talay III Condo Apartment!! Selling Price 14.4 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 198 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5075) Nicely Decorated Apartment in Town at Northshore!

Selling Price 9 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 67 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4990)

1 - 15 May 2013

ZZ/37 13

Great Sea Views and Stunning Décor in North Pattaya! Selling Price 7.474 Million Baht, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 74 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4862) Wongamat Bay Sea View Apartment....This Month Huge Reduction! Selling Price is 13.5 Million Baht, 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, 210 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR3990) Best priced Apartment in Na Jomtien’s Pine Shore Condo!

Selling Price is 8 Million Baht, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 91 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4987) Sea, Sunset and Island Views at Ocean Marina!

Selling Price 17.5 Million Baht, 2 Bedroom/3 Bathroom.

177 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR3834) View Talay 5C-Stunning Beachfront Condo 2 Bed 2 Bath for Sale on Top Floor 98 sqm: (Foreign Name). SALE PRICE: 5,690,000 THB. , Please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Condotel – Studio 36 sqm Pattaya Sea view mid floor with Beach access ( Fo r e i g n N a m e ) . S A L E PRICE: 1,990,000 THB. Please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com

14 ZZ/38

1 - 15 May 2013

Classified Park Royal 1 Pratamnak – Brand New 7 th f loor studio fully furnished 31 sqm 1,650,000 THB (Foreign Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com

Condo for Rent

Condo for Sale

Par k Lane Resor t – Reduced 300,000 now 1.39 million++ THB. 1 bedroom 1 bath (Foreign name). Pool and lagoon view please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com S u n s e t B o u l e va r d Res idence I, Corner Unit 1 Bed room-1 Bathroom, Total Size 52 Sqm (co. name) Sale Price: 2,595,000 THB++ Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Sunset Boulevard Residence 1, (2) Studio Rooms, Total Size 36 Sqm each. Side by side 5th floor units with sea views Sale Price: 1,795,000 THB. Each++.Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com View Talay 5D – (Foreign Name) Large Ocean Side Corner Unit 1 Bed 2 Bath for Sale on High Floor in Jomtien, Total Size 144 Sqm. 10,900,000 THB. Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-9105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com

The Galler y Condo for Sale in Jomtien Beach: 1 Bedroom-1 Bathroom, Total Size 36 Sqm. SALE PRICE: 2,350,000 THB. (Foreign name) Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085-910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com Jomtien Condotel – 81 sq meter 1 Bedroom 1 bathroom 3.8 million THB (Foreign Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com LK Legend Condo - 1 Bed 1 Bath Nicest unit available in Central Pattaya. Total Size 86 Sqm. 5.900.000 THB (Foreign Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com View Talay 2B - 10th floor Jomtien Seaview 1 Bedroom 1 Bath 76 (Sqm): 2.890.000 THB. (Thai Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@ bobbybrooks.com Sombat Condo Pratamnak (Soi 5) : Studio-1 Bath, 32 Sqm. Communal Pool, Security, Covered Parking, Sale Price 849,999 THB. (Foreign Name) please call 0823440822 (eng) 0859105124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com

Park Lane Resort Jomtien 1 bedroom 1 bath 36 sqm.

12,000 per month. (1 year Lease) Fully furnished linens, cooking utensils and are City Side View Please call 0823440822 (eng) 085910-5124 (Thai) Email at admin@bobbybrooks.com The Gallery - Already these are very popular rental units ideally located in Central Jomtien, just 150m from the new Night Plaza and the beach. This mid floor unit has been stylishly and expensively furnished throughout offering 1 bedroom ,39sqm with fitted wardrobe and LCD TV, luxurious bathroom, living room with LCD TV and DVD player, European kitchen with breakfast bar, balcony, roof top infinity edge communal pool, sundeck, fitness, key card entry, reception, 24/7 security. Minimum rental period of 1 month applies, 22,000 Bt high season and 18,000 Bt per month low season. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtieerty.com

View Talay 5 C - A really stylish finish and modern furnishings in this mid floor studio 48 sqm on the Pattaya side of these very popular beachfront buildings with stunning sea views over Koh Larn Island. The studio offers a truly luxurious bathroom, fitted wardrobes, a fully functional European Kitchen with hob, hood and breakfast bar, stylishly furnished living area, large balcony, huge communal pool, CCTV, 24/7 security and a couple of minutes stroll to the beautiful Dongtan Beach and numerous restaurants, shops, bars and taxis. For Rent 25,000 Bt per month or 20,000 Bt on long term lease.

Minimum rental period of 1 month. Tel: 085 129 5657.

Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com Thip Condotel - A newly renovated and stylishly furnished 30 sqm studio with European kitchen, luxury bathroom, washing machine, balcony, communal pool, 24/7 security and a minute walk to numerous restaurants, shops, bars, Jomtien Night Plaza, taxis and 150m to the beach. Price : 12,000 Bt per month. Minimum rental period of 1 month applies.

Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@pattaya-jomtienproperty.com. www.pattayajomtien-property.com

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

View Talay Residence -Spacious high floor pool facing 55sqm, studio with new stylish furnishings throughout offering European kitchen, large luxurious bathroom, large balcony, UPVC double glazed windows, tropical lagoon communal pool, fitness, 24/7 security, 75m to the Jomtien Night Plaza, numerous restaurants, shops, taxis and 150m to the beach.

Minimum rental period of 1 month applies at 20,000 Bt high season and 17,000 Bt per month low season . Tel: 085 129 5657. Email: lam@ pattaya-jomtien-property. com. www.pattaya-jomtienproperty.com Very Impressive Sea View Apartment!! Rental Price is 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedrooms/1 Bathrooms, 64 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or

by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5045) Beachfront Living at its Best for Rent! Rental Price is 42,000-227,500 Baht/ Month, 2-5 Bedrooms/2-5 Bathrooms, 77-450 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo. co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PRC084)

Beachfront Life Style for Rent! Rental Price is 85,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 266 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR0737) North Pattaya Beachfront Apartment....Definitely a 5 Star Lifestyle! Rental Price is 100,000 Baht/Month, 3 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, 311 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website atwww.premier international.com (PR4262) Modern Designed Beachfront Apar tment!

Rental Price is 48,000 Baht/ Month, 2 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 101 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5423) Stunning Apartment for Rent in Northshore! Rental Price 40,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 64 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4570)

Land for sale 3.2 Rai 49 TLW,

Close to Jomtien 2nd Road

Call: 084 754 4214

Deadline Issue May 16 - 31 Please Forward Your Classifieds by 5:00 PM, May 8 E-mail : info@pattayatoday.net Fax : 038 - 374 535 Or drop off at our office 221/3 Moo 11 Sukhumvit Rd., Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150

Tel : 038 - 374 534

E-mail: info@pattayatoday.net | Fax: (038) 374535

Classified EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR FOR PATTAYA

Condo for Rent

F antastically Designed Apartment at Grand Condotel! Rental Price 42,000 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 95 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4187) Stunning Apartment for Rent in Jomtien Beach Area! Rental Price 27,500 Baht/Month, 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom, 102 Sqm. For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR4464) Modern Designed Beachfront Apar tment!

Rental Price 60,000 Baht/ Month, 2+1 Bedroom/3 Bathroom. 214 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premier international.com (PR5166) Beautiful Apartment with Spacious Living Area! Rental Price 55,000 Baht/Month, 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom. 340 Sqm, For appointment and private viewing, call the Premier Homes Real Estate Co., Ltd. at (038) 231-931 and 081-634-2915 or by Email: premier@loxinfo.co.th or visit our website at www.premierinternational.com (PR5491))

Land for Sale

(ptm-lfs0012)Land for sale.

3.2 Rai 49 TLW, Close to Jomtien 2nd Road. Call: 084 754 4214 Land for Sale. 1.3 Rai, 28 Twa at Bangkok, Call: 081 930 1092

Services Provided

(ptmsp-1412)Architect Engineer. Houses Condos 081 295 8038 (ptmsp-1412)Building Contractor. New work maintenance 085 083 4221 PAC Co., Ltd. Can renovate your condo at a very reasonable price with very good standard of work. Ring 087 139 1539 for estimates Eng, 087 150 4845 Thai

If You are Having a Problem with Your Computer either software orhardware,please phone 0868202577 or 081 1574561 (Thai &Eng). I will go to service at your place.

If you are Looking for a Computer Graphic Designer,Web designer or would like to make someprintedmatters inreasonable price, please phone 086 820 2577 (Thai) or 0811574561 (Thai &Eng) or e-mail: info@ ssallinone.com Repair Ser vice, Repair electrical appliances of all kinds, Monitor LCD, Services to home. Tel : 087 687 2993, 086 183 7971

Job Vacancies

Centara Hotel & Resorts.

Will be opening its fourth proper ty in Pattaya, the five-star Centara Grand Phratamnak Pattaya, located at Phratamnak Hill on the East side of the city. Now we are seeking candidated for many position; - Food & Beverage Department (Restaurant Manager, Server, Bartender, Supervisor, Chefs, Commis...) - Front Office Department (Reservation Manager, Night Manager, Front Desk Supervisor, Front Desk Clerk, Bell Man...) Housekeeping Department (Assistant Executive Housekeeper, Floor / Public Area Supervisor, Room / Public Area Attendant, Order Taker...) - Finance & Accounting Department (Financial Controller, Chief Accountant, Purchasing Manager, Cost Controller, AR/AP Supervisor, Night Auditor...) - Spa & Sports Recreation Depar tment (Spa Manager, Therapist, Spa Recptionist, Fitness Supervisor, Pool Attendant...)

- Engineering Department (Technicians). If you are an energetic, organised and resultdriven team player who is looking for challenge at the highest level of standards, send your resume or walk-in interview: Human Resources Department Pre-opening Office Phratamnak Soi 5, Nong Prue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 20150 Mb: 081861 4505, T: 038-306 337 E: hrmcgpx@chr.co.th Want English Speaking Driver for D4D Van. Good Salary. Contact: B B mobile 081 147 6767

Established manufacturer and supplier of cleaning solutions and chemicals are looking for an exclusive distributor/franchisee within Pattaya for their complete product range. A solid sales base has already been built up within area with a turnover in excess of THB 3 million. Interested parties must be motivated to grow sales.

Franchise For Sale THB 2 million

For further information contact Sven on 087 283 5349 or email sven.tbac@gmail.com Junior Graphic , Junior Accountant at True North, Production Manager at URS’s behalf. Requirements: Secondar y 6/Vocational - Salary based on ability F u l l - t i m e ; S r. A c c o u n t Representative John. - No age limit. Requirements: Bachelor Degree- Salary based on ability - Full-time- The experience will be an advantage. Call: K. Nid 082 478 6444, email: nidjarin@silvermover.com Assistant to Condominium Manager Wanted.We are looking for a female who is interested in working with property management.Job description: customer service to the condo community residents, property inspections of the common areas, building’s accounting and more.Require-

ments: Good written and spoken English, independent, well organize, good computer and accountant skills. Experience is a plus.Salary according to skills. CV with photo to allott25@hotmail.com Urgent! Experienced Waitress Wanted for International restaurant. Must speak English. Good salary + tips. Call 091 240 4331.

1 - 15 May 2013

ZZ/39 15

FOR SALE - MANUFACTURER AND SUPPLIER OF CLEANING SOLUTIONS AND CHEMICALS The company manufactures and supplies cleaning materials to the commercial market – hotels, restaurants, guesthouses and numerous other businesses under a brand name. The hard work has been done in setting up the business and establishing a good customer base. Last year the business turnover was in excess of THB 5 million.

The owner has to reluctantly sell due to personal reasons, however is willing to stay on for period of time to oversee the transfer of the business to a new owner.

Sale Price THB 7.9 million

For further information contact Sven on 087 283 5349 or email sven.tbac@gmail.com

Vehicles for Sale

(ptmvs-a1612)Honda CRV 2.0 Automatic Future Classic Blue Metallic 2001, Perfect Condition, power windows, ABS, Airbags Aloy wheels.

Radio/CD. Central Alar m System and Locking. Farang owner from new, maintained by Honda dealer, 210,000km new engine by 180,000km. All bills available 365,000 baht only. Call 089 015 4072 or 089 030 8891 Email: schovol@gmail.com

Nissan March, 1.2 E CVT 2012. Automatic, silver, electric windows, central locking, CD player, 16,000 kms, with service book and A1 insurance. As new 420,000 baht. Call 087 139 1539 Honda Jazz Top Of The Line. Silver gray, 2009 year model. Only 21,000 kms.

Expat sell for 440,000 Baht, new 700,000. Ser ved by Honda. Call 087 108 0995

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1 - 15 May 2013

www.pattayatoday.net

Tips & Advice

What Our

Readers Say

North Korea and Pattaya (Jack Griffiths writes) I’m no great fan of Kim Jongun, North Korea’s overweight dictator, but once again the hermit kingdom which he inherited from his father in 2011 has outwitted the Americans. Kim successfully made a propaganda war in which he threatened to turn South Korea into a sea of flames and promised to rain down nuclear missiles on Guam and the United States mainland.

Western newspapers and political commentators fell for the trick once again. It was direly predicted that the ruin of the South Korean continent would mean the end of the Asian economic boom and would certainly put off tourists from visiting the whole continent.

Several tourists in my hotel in Pattaya actually watched the live TV programmes through the night, when the propaganda war was at its hottest, and threatened to go back to Europe the instant that any fighting actually broke out.

Of course, it was always a sham. Kim never had the slightest intention of starting a war of any kind. He knows very well what the American response would be and that his own regime would be finished and likely burned to a cinder – to replicate his own hype.

Kim lives a life of luxury in North Korea. His wife carries a handbag worth thousands of US dollars and he has inherited from his dad one of the finest DVD collections in the world and a team of western-trained chefs who don’t overly worry about fattening ingredients. At 29 or 30 he is leader of a family dynasty and is most unlikely to be giving up all the privileges any time soon. Frankly, the North Korean dictator knows full well what a lucky young guy he really is. He has only to take a fun-fair

Your Visa

Queries Answered Mr. Chang @ VISA SERVICE IN PATTAYA E-MAIL: changvisa@gmail.com 183/27 M.10 Soi 13/2 Nongpure, Banglamung Chonburi 20150 Mobile: 66 81 7549342 Tel: 66 38 711 145

Fax: 66 38 710 163

Sponsored by

www.visacentergroup.com

www.visa2britain.com

Failing visas Q. I realize that all countries have different regulations, but what are the most common reasons why a Thai woman fails to get a visa to visit her boyfriend in Europe or Australia?

I’m really looking for bottom-line advice here.

A. There are really three bottom lines. The embassy will be looking for solid reasons why the applicant will return to Thailand after the holiday – employment and the ownership of land or other valuable assets are the most obvious proofs. The sponsoring boyfriend also needs to demonstrate he has a regular income and access to accommodation for the duration of the stay. Finally, it’s very important to demonstrate the quality of the relationship such as the regularity of the contact when they are in different countries, financial help, etc. Everything needs to be backed up by copious documentary evidence of which you can never have too much.

Pointless 90 days Q. As the holder of an annual work permit, I cannot for the life of me think of any good reason why I need to report my address every three months. Surely it would be better if long-stay foreigners were simply told to inform Immigration as and when they move addresses?

A. The point has certainly been mooted, but nothing has yet happened along the lines you suggest. There are hundreds of thousands of foreigners in Thailand reporting their 90 days – don’t forget all those Mynamar and Cambodian guest workers – and Immigration always says it needs up-to-date records as so many people move often. Giving exemption to certain categories of people would not be easy to implement. Regular reporting also assists the authorities in contacting you if they need to. Giving a false address is a criminal matter by the way!

90 days quandary Q. I am due to report my address for the 90 days business

ride or get hold of the wrong end of a pistol and he’s guaranteed to be on the TV world news within hours, or even minutes.

So what is Kim up to? Firstly he is showing North Korea’s old ally, China, what happens when Beijing joins the United Nations’ chorus of condemnations against Pyongyang. The result, says Kim, is an international crisis. It’s far better, continues Kim, to keep quiet and continue sending us fuel and foodstuffs through our common border. In any case, China will never pull the plug on North Korea and cause the hermit kingdom to collapse. That would risk millions of refugees, not to mention the possibility of South Korean and American troops stationing themselves at the Chinese border.

China will never allow its buffer-state to go under. Within days of [US Secretary of State] John Kerry’s recent visit to Beijing, the Chinese foreign office published a paper accusing the Americans of ratcheting up tensions all over the Pacific region.

Next, and equally importantly, Kim is advising rogue states in the world how to behave: get nuclear weapons and you too can outwit the Americans. The point will not be lost on Iran which, in any case, more or less openly cavorts with Pyongyang on nuclear research. No doubt too that the recent tensions on the Korean peninsula are a marketing exercise for North Korea to sell its military hardware to anyone who can afford it. Why pay for expensive adverts when the BBC, CNN and all the rest will do it for free? Incidentally, the North Korean saga also illustrates how silly Colonel Gaddafi and Saddam Hussein were to give up nuclear weapons. This is not a mistake Kim Jong-un is going to make.

on May 18. I am leaving the country for a short holiday on May 22, so my question is whether I need to report or not. I don’t want to pay a fine or have my name put on some list or other.

A. You are in the clear on this one. The regulations state that you can report your address two weeks before the due date or one week after it. Since you are leaving Thailand less than a week after your due date, you do not need to report. I assume you have a re-entry permit and that you are a one-year visa holder. Your 90 days cycle begins again when you come back into the country.

The falling pound Q. Given that the UK pound has virtually collapsed now – I remember when it was 90 baht to the pound – I wonder whether there are any plans in government circles to reduce the 800,000 baht requirement for a retirement visa. It is getting very difficult to raise the amount because of de facto devaluation.

A. You won’t be surprised to hear that there are no expected developments along the lines you suggest. Exchange rate fluctuations are a fact of life everywhere. It should be noted that more retirement visas are granted to Brits than any other nationality, although that may not be true for much longer!

Overstay question Q. Owing to hospital treatment I shall be nine days overstay when I leave Thailand. I understand that the fine will be 4,500 baht, but somebody told me I might be arrested or banned from returning to Thailand. Is that true?

A. Your fears will not be realized! Simply pay the fine and proceed. There are no other consequences. There will be a receipt in your passport but you will be welcome to return to Thailand anytime.

Not my fault Q. I suffered a near-fatal heart attack in Thailand earlier this year and will now have about seven weeks overstay problem. Since the reason was ill-health surely there is some discretion by the authorities to cancel the fine of 500 baht a day. I have all the medical receipts and reports.

A. You will have to pay, I’m afraid. Overstay is overstay no matter what the reason. The only exempt category are the people in a wooden box or in an urn, and I am glad you are not in either group.

Today's Editorial The Grim Reaper Again In spite of intense government and police propaganda before and during Songkran, the accident figures for April this year are depressingly familiar. In particular, the annual carnage on the roads during the water-throwing festival continues unabated, come what may.

Some 321 people were killed during the 2013 Songkran period compared with 320 last year. The actual number of traffic accidents was lower this year, 2,828 incidents with around 3,000 last April. This is partly explained by the fact that there were more passengers in or on many of the vehicles.

As usual, almost 40 percent of the accidents this year were caused by alcohol consumption, whilst a further 25 percent appear to have occurred because of speeding.

What we don’t know is how many of the incidents were inter-related – booze and excessive speed. The likelihood is there was a close correlation.

During Songkran, more than 200,000 drivers of cars or motorbikes were caught without a driving licence. Although some of these doubtless simply left the documentation at home, there is a strong suspicion from this data that there are large numbers of drivers in the Kingdom who never bothered to take a recent test and were uninsured.

Some commentators believe that the populist government scheme to give a cash bonus to first-time car owners actually increased the number of drivers without a licence.

A total of 232,600 motorcyclists were arrested in midApril this year for not wearing a helmet. Doubtless this is another reason for the annual carnage on the roads.

It is generally assumed that about 20 percent of all road deaths involve motorcyclists without the requisite headgear. Typically the fine is 100 baht, which is hardly a keen incentive to adhere to the law.

Following a spate of accidents involving public service vehicles this year, in which several Brits were killed in bus crashes, relatives of dead tourists have been complaining about the roadworthiness (or otherwise) of many buses and minibuses. It is suspected that servicing is perfunctory at best and, in particular, photos of crashed vehicles often reveal bald tires—no tread whatsoever.

No wonder that relatives of victims are pressuring the British Foreign Office to place stronger warnings about travel in Thailand on official websites.

Meanwhile, it is imperative that Thai traffic laws be toughened up. Fining traffic violators a few baht simply isn’t a deterrent against bad behaviorSpeed violators and drunk drivers should have their vehicles impounded as a matter of course, and prison sentences need to be served up more frequently. Motorcyclists without helmets should have to make their own way home, not simply pay an instant fine without a receipt.

The best deterrent to crime is the certainty of detection and the severity of the punishment. Absent such resolve, there will be little progress in making the Kingdom’s roads safer for all. Now, most people, Thais and farang, believe they can get away with traffic violations and escape with a negligible penalty if caught. Without rigorous law enforcement, the Songkran mayhem will continue indefinitely into the future. The Grim Reaper never gets fed up.

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Local Sports Local and International Motorsports Report Resnt Race Results Updates FORMULA-1: Bahrain Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel wins in Bahrain after a commanding performance in his Red Bull; Kimi Raikkonen takes the runners-up spot, with Romain Grosjean third.

INDYCAR: Long Beach Grand Prix 2013: Sato makes history with maiden win; Takuma Sato became the first Japanese winner in the IZOD IndyCar Series on Sunday after dominating the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. Sato, who moved over to IndyCar in 2010 after seven years in Formula 1. He also, battled Dario Franchitti neck and neck into the final lap in last year's Indy 500.But the Japanese driver was forced onto to the grass on the last turn of the last lap and slammed into the outside wall after Franchitti made contact with Sato, Franchitti went on to win the classic Indy 500 for the second time. The Tokyo native ended up finishing 17th, after the momentum from being forced too low got onto the grass losing front grip & sling shooting Sato in to the outside wall.

NASCAR: Kansas NASCAR: Matt Kenseth took his second Cup win of 2013 with victory in the STP 400 at Kansas Speedway ahead of Kasey Kahne and Jimmie Johnson.

MOTOGP: Austin, Texas: Marquez plays down debut title chances. The 20-year-old Repsol Honda rookie won at only his second attempt with a confident victory in Sunday's inaugural round at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas

2013 FI World Calendar (May-June)

05 FORMULA 1 GRAN PREMIO DE ESPAÑA 2013 (Catalunya) 06 FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2013 (Monte Carlo) 07 FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DU CANADA 2013 (Montréal) 08 2013 FORMULA 1 BRITISH GRAND PRIX (Silverstone) 2 www.formula1.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia

10 - 12 May 23 - 26 May 07 - 09 Jun 8 - 30 Jun

2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (May-June) Date Day Race Site

Location

TV Race

Start ET

5/5/13 Sun Talladega Superspeedway FOX 1:00 PM 5/11/13 Sat Darlington Raceway FOX 6:45 PM 5/18/13 Sat Charlotte Motor Speedway : All-Star SPEED 7:30 PM 5/26/13 Sun Charlotte Motor Speedway FOX 6:00 PM 6/2/13 Sun Dover International Speedway FOX 1:00 PM 6/9/13 Sun Pocono Raceway TNT 1:00 PM 6/16/13 Sun Michigan International Speedway TNT 1:00 PM 6/23/13 Sun Sonoma TNT 3:00 PM 6/29/13 Sat Kentucky Speedway TNT 7:30 PM www.nascar.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia

2013 Indy Car Schedule (May-June)

May 5 Itaipava São Paulo Indy 300 presented by Nestlé[33] São Paulo, Brazil May 26 97th Indianapolis 500-Mile Race Speedway, Indiana June 1 - June 2 Chevrolet Indy Dual in Detroit presented by Quicken Loans[34]

Detroit, Michigan June 8 Firestone 550[35] Fort Worth, Texas June 15 Milwaukee IndyFest[36] West Allis, Wisconsin June 22 Iowa Corn Indy 250[37] Newton, Iowa www.indycar.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia

2013 MotoGP Grand Prix (May-June)

05 Ma Spain 19 May France 2 June Italy 16 June Catalunya 29 June Netherlands** www.motogp.com (free live timing and scoring online) **All events will be shown on Star Sports Asia

Jerez de la Frontera Le Mans Mugello Circuit de Catalunya TT Assen

Other International Motorsports Events of Note: Top 3 F1 Drivers' Championship 2013 after round 4 of 19

1 Sebastian Vettel 2 Kimi Räikkönen 3 Lewis Hamilton

Red Bull-Renault Lotus-Renault Mercedes-Mercedes

77 67 50

Top 3 IndyCar Drivers' Championship after round 2

1 Helio Castroneves 2 Takuma Sato 3 Scott Dixon

99 93 89

Top 3 NASCAR Drivers' Championship after round 8 of 36

1 Jimmie Johnson 2 Kasey Kahne Hendrick 3 Brad Keselowski

Hendrick Motorsports Motorsports Penske Racing

311 274 273

Top 3 MotoGP Drivers’ Championship after round 2 of 19

1 Marc Marquez Repsol Honda Team = Jorge Lorenzo Factory Yamaha Racing 2 Dani Pedrosa Repsol Honda Team

**Local Thailand Motorsports Schedules 2013**

41 41 33

Beginning May 2013 it will be a busy month for Racers in Thailand and also Bira Circuit, take a short ride to Bira Pattaya Racing Circuit to see the action up close.

Thailand Super Series Schedule (TSS) 2013 May 25-26 Sepang, Malaysia July 13-14Pattaya’s Bira Circuit October 5-6 Pattaya’s Bira Circuit December 13-15 Bang Saen Street Circuit, Chonburi Nitto 3K Racing Series Schedule 2013 Pattaya’s Bira Circuit on 3-5 May Kaeng Krachan Circuit 5-7 July Pattaya’s Bira Circuit 6-8 September Bonanza Speedway 1-3 November Pattaya’s Bira Circuit 6-8 December

Pro Series Schedule 2013

June 29-30 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit July 27-28 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit September 28-29 - Kaeng Krachan Circuit October 26-27, 2013 - Kaeng Krachan Circuit

OMP Challenge Series Schedule 2013 June 16 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit November 17 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit December 22 - Pattaya’s Bira Circuit

Bobby Brooks™

Ebrahim too good at Eastern Star!

by Peter Blackburn Eastern Star – Stableford With Songkran now over but with many people still away we had our smallest field for quite some time. Only 12 signed up to take on the tough Eastern Star layout.

Assembling at The Growling Swan we welcomed back Bob Akapita from his work in Gove, Northern Territory of Australia, plus veteran Kevin Dinan from several weeks in Irel. We had just the one minivan plus cars for the 43 drive that Monday morning.

The course was quiet we were pleasantly surprised to find the current special: 900 baht including green fee caddy, plus 500 baht for optional cart. We were invited to tee off at our leisure , after a quick practice putt or two, we sent our first four ball away 25 minutes ahead of schedule at 9.35 am. The weather was hot humid with practically no breeze, so the sight of the drinks hut was always a relief to say the least.

The course was in great shape with the greens in particularly high stard. The work that has been put into the maintenance of this golf course recently is paying off big time. The day just got hotter and hotter as we struggled to post decent scores. After a couple of short drink breaks we managed to complete the full round in four hours and 25 minutes. Despite the oppressive heat we all had a great day out with terrific company on an excellent but challenging golf course. As a result of the small field, we had just the one grade with five podium places, two nearest the pins and one longest first putt on the last hole.

The winner on the day was the popular Ebrahim with 34 points in a two-way count-back with a couple of golfers on 32 points it was Mike Allidi (16 point back nine) who finished second from Peter Bye (14 point back nine) in third place. Your writer, Peter Blackburn came fourth with

31 points. Bob Akapita rounded off the podium with 29 points.

Results for Eastern Star: 1st – Ebrahim (15) - 34 points 2nd – Mike Allidi (2) – 32 points 3rd – Peter Bye (12) - 32 points 4th – Peter Blackburn (11) - 31 points 5th – Bob Akapita (14) - 29 points NTP’s 3rd – Peter Bye 17th – Mike Allidi LFP’s 18th - Ebrahim The Growling Swan NAGA Award (to the golfer with the worst score on the day--not made public) was narrowly won on a count-back by Max “Corsets” Bracegirdle who of course accepted the cap in good spirit. Yours truly took Deefa for the usual walk, collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our ever generous Growling Swan golfers. We then retired to The Growling Swan where the Aussie cold, lowpriced beers were flowing, as were the usual post mortems on the day’s golf…all with a laugh or two Growling Swan Golf, the home of friendly golf in Pattaya, welcomes golfers of any persuasion – low and high cappers alike, females, beginners.

We generally play Mondays and Thursdays, meeting at The Growling Swan (formerly The Bunker Bar) on Soi Chaiyapoon at 8 a.m., departing at 8:30. For bookings or more information please contact Peter on 0806 351 386 or email to petermalcolmblackburn@gmail.com

Stuvik set to debut in Europe Formula 3 Thailand’s prospective Formula 1 racing driver, Sandy Stuvik, made his debut last weekend in the highly-competitive world of European Formula 3. The 18-year-old driver from Phuket has signed for the Formula 3 Open series with the championship winning Italian RP Motorsport team. During the off season, Stuvik practiced with RP Motorsport at Paul Ricard, Jerez, Varano and Mugello circuits, and is taking part with several F1 and GP2 drivers in a physically demanding training camp at Italy’s Shape Driver center. In early testing the Thai driver has been able to post encouraging times for a championship challenge in his first season.

The European F3 Open counts some of the best drivers from all over the world, and with 26 F3 cars on the grid, the

Thai driver will have to perform at his best to make it onto the podium.

Stuvik says he has had “two years of tough learning and development racing formula cars in Europe and I feel I am ready now to challenge for both podiums and the championship”.

He races for the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand and is sponsored by The Pizza Company, Singha Corporation, Dacon Inspection Services and Sports Authority of Thailand.

The European Formula 3 Open championship starts at Paul Ricard Circuit in France on April 26-28. Live Timing and Live Video Streaming from the race can be found at www.f3open.net

Mrs Browne's boy triumphs

Phoenix Members G.O.L.F. Society

by Mike Gerrard

If you haven't been to Phoenix lately you may be confused when you walk out to the first tee. Overnight the whole landscape around the Mountain 9th and the practice putting green was completely changed with all the huge bushes and shrubs disappearing and new light spread around the views.

What a good idea it was.

With news that Phoenix has now been bought, we all hold our breath to see what surprises we members may be in for at the AGM. Whatever, we feel positive that it will be for the good, especially for the clubhouse and the course.

The changes in the course must have inspired Mrs Brownes boy, Patrick, who played in his golfer’s costume today and returned a massive 41 points. I played my best golf for some time and returned 39 points (thinking that would be good enough to win the day) only to be in second place. Third place went to Mister Consistency Mukesh Thakker again with a score worthy of winning, 38 points. And fourth to Adriano Reale with 36 points. This score was especially greeted with joy because under our rules no one can claim more than 28

handicap and Adriano's handicap is 34, which would have meant a returned score of 42 points. Tough at the top innit?

I think the reason the scoring was so good today was that due to the storms of late and then baking sun; the green keeper has allowed the grass to grow a little longer on the greens so as to slow them down a little.

Near pins today went to Tim Mason, Jon Haugen and Patrick Browne with one not won which was entered into the lucky draw. Those winners were Stuart Gordon, John (I- neverwin-the-lucky-draw) Bartley, Colin Gregg and Sergio Poggi.

All lucky draw prizes are donated by our hosts, The Relax Bar at Ban Am Phur, and we thank them very much.

Next week will be our end of the month Stroke Play competition for the Trattoria Italiana Restaurant voucher donated by Giorgio Baccioli.

We play every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Plus we have monthly sea fishing trips usually on a Saturday.

For further information please contact me on 087 091 7565. Happy hooking.

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Tips & Advice

QUICK TIP

For a more secure password that no one will ever guess, include a symbol or two or even a Thai letter in your secret code—like: Pa$$wor#.

Screw Loose G’day Andy. While visiting my wife’s family in Nong Khai we came across a beautiful old sideboard that my wife just had to have. So we bought and it brought it back to Jomtien whereupon I began restoring the wooden piece. The problem I am having is how to loosen and remove some of the screws that have rusted over the years. I don’t want to harm the wood, but other than digging around the screws, I don’t see how else I can get them out. Any suggestions?

Austin When craftsman make furniture, Austin, they usually don’t intend to have their wood screws removed. But there often comes a time when they must be replaced if only to create a nice clean look on the old finish. To remove wood screws and avoid damaging the wood, you can try using a screwdriver and a hairdryer. Set the hairdryer on high and aim it at the screw. After several minutes, as the wood heats up, it will expand slightly, allowing you to remove the screw with the screwdriver if you act quickly enough (while the wood is still hot). As the wood cools, it will contract, returning to normal.

Brazilian Wax As a Brazilian, I need romance in my life even when dating the ladies here in Pattaya. So to create a romantic setting for my date last weekend, I lit several candles and set them up around the room.

After an hour so, one candle tipped over, spilling wax on an expensive area rug. I have no idea how do get the wax out. Can you help?

Rorion First of all, Rorion, scrape away any excess wax. Then cover the spilled wax with a clean cloth. Now place a warm iron on top of the cloth. As the wax heats, it will adhere to the cloth instead of the carpet. Move the cloth around as it picks up the wax so that you are always using a clean section of cloth.

If a little grease stain remains on the carpet, sprinkle with baking soda, let sit overnight, and vacuum the next morning.

If colored wax leaves a stain, blot with spot remover or carpet cleaner. Tip: Next time, set your romantic scene using votive candle holders.

Removing Crayons and Kids As a big fan of yours, Andy, I recall that in your column several

years ago you provided tips for removing crayon marks from doors and walls. Thanks now to my wife’s young nieces and nephews who visited our house for Songkran (but will never be asked to return), I had an opportunity to try your suggestion to use baking soda to remove the markings, but it didn’t work on my walls. Do you have any other remedies using non-toxic cleaning solutions to get rid of the artistic memories the kids left behind?

Stanley Sure, Stanley. On painted walls or washable wallpaper, spray the area with multipurpose lubricating oil. Then gently wipe, using a paper towel or clean white cloth. If the crayon marks are stubborn, use the oil in conjunction with a little baking soda on a damp sponge and gently rub in a circular motion.

For any oil residue that might remain, wipe it down with a sponge dipped in a solution of one or two drops of mild dishwashing liquid to one cup water. Squeeze out the sponge and gently rub--again in a circular motion. Rinse the sponge, lightly moisten it with water, and go over area again. Dry with a clean cloth. As an option to all of the above, use a blow dryer.

It heats the crayon wax so that it will wipe away instantly. If any of the color remains behind (red usually is harder to remove), wet a cloth with bleach and wipe.

Ghost Whisperer Strange noises are coming out of our plumbing. My wife whispers that it’s phee (ghosts) whose spir-

Frank, Forthright & Frigid Dear Agony Ivy, Sex disgusts me I am a 39-year-old male and I want to say at the start that I am entirely normal in every way.

I have never been attracted to other men, so I know I’m not gay. I appreciate good-looking women but I have never tried to have sex because the whole thing disgusts me. We did have a little sex education at school when I was a boy but unfortunately I was at the dentist’s the afternoon it took place. I read somewhere recently that one percent of the population is asexual so I think that may include me. I am desperate for a loving relationship with a woman as long as it is celibate. Is there any advice that you can give?

Fed Up Fred Dear Fed Up Fred, I just wonder whether you are what you think you are. I am sending you under plain wrapper a short DVD entitled Sex Without Sickness which I want you to watch. It is a series of 36 slides which begin

with a picture of a fully clothed man and woman who become increasingly intimate as you watch. After number 22, the couple are naked. You can always stop the DVD if you start to feel ill. Thus you will be able to test your own sexuality in the privacy of your own room.

If you do discover that you are in fact asexual, don’t hesitate to visit the Pattaya bars and pick up women there. They will be delighted to take money from a customer who demands nothing in return. Indeed, you are very likely to receive countless invitations to marry. Best of luck.

Dear Agony Ivy, The drag waiter The other day I was at a restaurant with my wife and was shocked to see a male server wearing a female blond wig and full makeup. To make matters worse he had dirty fingernails. I don’t want you to think I’m narrow-minded but this kind of thing is just a step too far. I do realize in this day and age that people like him can have a marriage or

its live in our home. Not yet having found the cause of the noises, I’m ready to agree with her. Should I call a plumber or a monk?

Hank Plumbing can make many weird noises which can have many causes, Hank. Describing your eerie plumbing sounds would make it easier to answer your question; some are simple, others more complicated and not easy to isolate and fix. I’ll assume yours is easy. (Light some incense and pray that I’m right). If the noise is like a fog horn, a hum, moan or scream, a flutter or rattle, the problem may be a faulty toilet ballcock (fill valve)—which often causes such resonance sounds. To check, close the supply valves to all the toilets. If the noise disappears, open one valve at a time until the noise starts again. Replace the ballcock in that toilet.

If there are no shut-off valves handy, sometimes you can locate the offending ballcock by lifting up on the float ball while someone starts an offending faucet. Another common cause is a faucet washer. If the noise happens only when using a certain faucet, the faucet washer may be loose or damaged. This can create a flutter in the water stream causing the various sounds listed above. Try tightening the screw in the faucet stem. If the problem stops and later returns, mash the threads of the screw a little with pliers so they bind in the stem when reassembled. If this doesn't work, then it's time for a new stem as-

civil partnership and what people do in their own bedrooms is entirely up to them. But this was just too much in a restaurant which prides itself on serving the best steaks in town. By the way, my wife fully agrees with this letter and says she would post something on Facebook if she knew the address to send the letter. Your column needs to expose this kind of unacceptable behavior.

Angry Albert Dear Angry Albert, I do agree with you. For a waiter to have dirty fingernails is absolutely a bridge too far. This part of the body carries a lot of bacteria and you never know where his fingers have been, even though I could certainly hazard a guess. One of the advantages of airline food is that cleanliness is not an issue as you never fancy eating anything from those plastic containers anyway. By the way, I think your wife should forget about sending a letter to Facebook but should instead dispatch one to Twitter as this seems to describe the pair of you far more comprehensively.

Dear Agony Ivy, Never again I have just had the worst Songkran ever.

The water throwing is bad enough but this year the wife’s relatives turned up from Nakhon Nowhere and stayed for the better part of a

sembly. Speaking of new valve stems, be reminded that substitute faucet parts often don't work properly. Try to get replacement parts made by the manufacturer of your faucet.

Tight Fit This isn’t really a fix-it question, Andy, but you’ve got such good tips that I thought I’d ask if you have any ideas for augmenting storage space in our kitchen.

I’m having a fit trying to figure out where to put everything that I need in a small kitchen that has limited drawer and cabinet space.

Kathy Many farang are hardpressed for space in general, Kathy, given the size of apartments and condos in Pattaya.

One thing you might try is hanging a towel rack on the wall behind stove, but don’t hang towels or anything flammable.

Instead, hang cooking utensils (spatula, ladle, even pots and pans). If you’re still short on space, opt for another wall that isn’t being used. Mount a floorto-ceiling peg board, then insert pegs or hooks to accommodate pots, pans, lids, strainer, etc.

That should leave drawers and cabinets free to accommodate only dinnerware, silverware and food items.

Closing Line Women will never be equal to men until they can walk around Pattaya with a bald head and a beer gut, wearing a striped shirt and plaid shorts, and still think they are sexy.

--Handy Andy

week. They played loud music for much of the time when they were not watching Thai soap operas with all those ghosts floating around. Then there was the cooking with those dreadful smells permeating every room.

Not to mention the small children banging a drum every time I went for a lie down. They said they had had such a wonderful time that they would certainly be coming next year. Short of committing suicide, is there anything I can do to put them off?

Desperate Dan Dear Desperate Dan, It’s certainly true that Thais love making noise and that farang wish they wouldn’t. One solution might be for you to take a holiday in another country at the vulnerable time, although I agree this may be expensive as the photograph of the house which you sent me suggests you are of limited means. A bright alternative would be not to pay the electricity bill - deliberately. As you are aware, the Thai authorities are very fond of disconnecting non-payers in double quick time.

You might have to ponder the cycle of payments to ensure maximum effectiveness. But once the relatives realize there is no power supply they will quickly disperse to greener pastures. If the relatives complain, you can say with complete confidence that the electricity board is closed for the long holiday. Problem solved I think.

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Youth Focus

The importance of dramatic play

by Annemaree Grant Play is often underestimated for its unique way of positively influencing physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development. Dramatic play can be defined as a type of play where children accept and assign roles, and then act them out.

It is a time when they break through the walls of reality, pretend to be someone or something different from themselves, and dramatize situations and actions to go along with the roles they have chosen to play. And while this type of play may be viewed as frivolous

by some, it remains an integral part of the developmental learning process by allowing children to develop skills in such areas as abstract thinking, literacy, math, and social studies in a timely, natural manner.

Dramatic play permits children to fit the reality of the world into their own interests and knowledge. One of the purest forms of symbolic thought available to young children, dramatic play contributes strongly to the intellectual development of children. Symbolic play is a necessary part of a child's language development. Children especially can become consumed in their own imaginary world of play. This world of play offers children vast opportunities to learn about themselves,

others, and the environment in which they live. Benefits of play in the classroom include: Physical - increase in strength, overall fitness, motor skill development, health. Dramatic play helps children develop both gross- and fine-motor skills, and also practice their eyehand coordination and visual discrimination.

Cognitive - increase in skills such as problem solving, creative thinking, planning, organizing, language, and overall academic success. When children are involved in makebelieve play, they make use of pictures they have created in their minds to recreate past experiences, which is a form of abstract thinking. Setting a table for a meal, counting out change as a cashier, dialing a telephone, and setting the clock promote the use of math skills. By adding such things as magazines, road signs, food boxes and cans, paper and pencils to the materials included in the area, we help children develop literacy skills. When children come together in this form of play, they also learn how to share ideas, and solve problems together. Social and Emotional - enhanced development of cooperation, sharing, turn taking, less egocentrism, increase in social values and self esteem, practice of appropriate social roles.

Dramatic play promotes the development of social skills through interaction with others, peers or adults. As children climb the social skill ladder of development through play, they will move from pretending at the same time without any actual interaction, to pretending that involves several children playing different roles and relating to each other from the perspective of their assigned roles.

Language – In order to work together in a dramatic play situation, children learn to use language to explain what they are doing.

They learn to ask and answer questions and the words they use fit whatever role they are playing. Personal vocabularies grow as they begin to use new words appropriately, and the importance of reading and writing skills in everyday life becomes apparent by their use of literacy materials that fill the area.

Dramatic play promotes the use of speaking and listening skills. When children take part in this type of play, they practice words they have heard others say, and realize that they must listen to what other “players” say in order to be able to respond in an appropriate fashion. It also teaches them to choose their words wisely so that others will understand exactly what it is they are trying to communicate. Attention Span– Early ventures into the field of dramatic play may only last a few minutes, but as the children grow, develop, and experience more, they will be able to incorporate additional actions and words, which will lengthen the time they engage in such activities.

Dramatic play engages children in both life and learning. Its real value lies in the fact that it increases their understanding of the world they live in, while it works to develop personal skills that will help them meet with success throughout their lives. Drama is the portrayal of life as seen from the actor's view. In early childhood, drama needs no written lines to memorize, no structured behavior patterns to imitate, no audience to

play to. Children need only a safe, interesting environment and freedom to experiment with roles, conflict, and problem solving. When provided with such an environment, children become interested in and will attend to the task at hand and develop their concentration.

Opportunities for dramatic play that are spontaneous, child-initiated, and open-ended are important for all young children. Because individual expression is the key, children of all physical and cognitive abilities enjoy and learn from dramatic play and creative dramatics. In early childhood, the term dramatic play is most frequently used and the process is the most important part, not the production.

Dramatic play expands a child's awareness of self in relation to others and the environment.

Drama is not the production of plays usually done to please adults rather than children.

Songkran at Garden International School

by Mark Beales

Garden International School (GIS) celebrated Songkran with a flurry of activities and traditional Thai games. Foundation and Primary students played water-based games while secondary students learned about Songkran in a special assembly organized by the Thai Department. Students also demonstrated traditional Thai activities, such as Muay Thai, before pouring water over their teachers’ hands, as a mark of respect. For more information on GIS in Ban Chang visit www. gardenrayong.com

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Our Community Buddhist Ordination

by Derek Franklin

With the long summer holidays upon us, 14 boys from the Father Ray Children’s Village joined 200 local boys at a local Buddhist temple where

they were ordained monks. The boys, one as young as seven, are following a tradition that goes back many years and sees the majority of Thai boys and men becoming ordained at some point in their lives.

Their first night at the temple they slept on a mat on the floor, soft beds are against the rules. Next day they took their first step to becoming monks. Family members were invited to cut tufts of hair from the boys, which were collected in a leaf to be buried underground, before they went off to visit the monks who shaved the hair and eyebrows until they were completely bald.

After chanting prayers with the abbot they received their white novice robes. A day later the boys were presented with the traditional saffron coloured robes which they will wear for the next four weeks.

While mothers helped the boys into the white novice robes, they were not allowed to help with the saffron robes.

One of the many rules the boys must follow is that they must not touch any female, not even their mothers. Also, they may not sleep on a soft bed, may not play, and may not have money.

Their days will start very early with prayer. Following breakfast they will learn to meditate and listen to the teachings of Lord Buddha.

Lunch is always a big affair, with food donated by the local community. The boys will be allowed to eat as much as they want at lunch because once the clock strikes noon there will be no more until breakfast the next day.

Centara blood drive

Helping the children The Bangkok Hospital Pattaya hosted an education day to inform parents about hemorrhagic fever and to hand out medical supplies to several children’s charities.

Andre Brulhart (centre), general manager of Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, led staff in the blood donation campaign for the Thai Red Cross. On left is Daranat Nuchaikaew, hotel director of Human Resources, on right is Autcharaporn Namdee, training manager, and second from right is Wachari Vanda, head of Thai Red Cross Volunteers for Chonburi.

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You & Your Pets

Important things about dogs

by Thonglor Pet Truth is always more amazing. Here we’ve collected only facts about dogs for you to chew on, from their accomplishments to their remarkable abilities. The next time Scruffy tears up your favorite pair of slippers, consider what his forebears have accomplished.

- The vitals of a canine are different from those of his human counterpart. A dog’s normal temperature is between 100.2 and 102.8 degrees Fahrenheit. The dog takes between 10 and 30 breaths each minute, depending on his level of activity.

- In a dog, the nose knows more quickly than the other senses. While humans have to be content with a mere 5 million to 20 million scent-sensitive cells, most dogs boast between 120 million and 200 million of these cells. Bloodhounds have the best sniffers of all – more than 300 million scent cells line the nostrils of these dogs.

Ever wonder how dogs can tell one dog or person from another? Every odor has a distinctive “shape” that excites scent cells in a specific way. Because dogs have so many more of these cells, they can identify many different smells.

- Right behind a dog’s nose sense is his sense of hearing. Again, your dog’s hearing abilities put yours to shame. Human beings can hear sound waves of up to 20,000 cycles per second. A dog can hear up to 100,000 cycles per second. Filters within the ear enable your dog to distinguish the far-away sound of your car. This is why he pricks his ears up while the rest of your family is unaware of your imminent arrival.

- Although a dog has a vastly superior nose, he has decidedly inferior taste buds. Compared to a person, who has almost 10,000 taste buds, a dog makes do with only a few hundred. In other words, dogs cannot tell many tastes apart. The enjoyment of food comes primarily from the aroma. In addition, a dog is genetically wired to gorge, especially if there’s another dog around, because in the wild dogs never

knew when their next meal was coming.

- One taste many dogs do enjoy is that of sugar, and many dogs have a sweet tooth. This may be because sweetness signals that a plant is ripe and at its highest in nutritional value. However, this taste can get them into trouble if they eat chocolate or lap up antifreeze, which has a sweet taste. Both are poisonous to dogs – antifreeze is especially dangerous.

- Your dog’s heart is similar to your own. It is divided into four chambers: the right atrium and ventricle channel blood to the lungs to get oxygen, while the left atrium and ventricle pump the blood to the body. But unlike you, your dog has very little chance of suffering a heart attack, stroke or atherosclerosis.

- Unfortunately, dogs do suffer from other common ailments found in people, such as diabetes and cancer. One common disorder is congestive heart failure, which means the heart muscle cannot pump blood efficiently. (Heart failure is not the same as a heart attack, in which the heart muscle begins to die because of obstruction of circulation to the area.)

Congestive heart failure is in the top five illnesses for which veterinary treatment is required.

- Dogs often get conjunctivitis and their owners worry that the infection can be passed on to humans.

Relax. The bacteria that causes conjunctivitis in dogs is not the same as the one that affects humans.

- People sometimes consider their dogs almost human. That’s fine when it comes to showering affection and attention on your pet, but dangerous if

Cats for You in Pattaya

Paul and Sandra, both British expats with big hearts, moved to Pattaya several years ago and decided to devote their time to saving and rehoming sick and abandoned cats and kittens. They have more than 40 cats and kittens ready now to find loving and caring homes in return for all the affection and fun they will show in return. The animals are given to their new owners free-ofcharge. (Most are already vaccinated).

Cats for You is a great and much needed service in our area, but Paul and Sandra point out that adopting a cat or kitten is a longterm commitment with costs such as feeding and veterinary fees.

Many adopters find it’s a good idea to adopt two animals so that they can enjoy each others’ company as well as yours. Contact Paul and Sandra on 0852875004 or look at their useful website http://cats4youinpattaya.webs.com/

Gina and Her Kittens

Meet Gina and her three beauties Rinky, Dinky and Alistair who were abandoned recently and are now safely with us. Mum is booked in to be neutered next week and will be ready for a new home very soon.

BB The Rescued Puppy

BB was rescued last November from Big Buddha Hill and underwent major surgery. He is now recovered and has been neutered and vaccinated.

At 9 months old he is a lively big pup who just loves to play fetch. He loves the cats but has now grown too big and is a bit rough with them. He is currently at the Mabprachan Animal Shelter.

Bangkok Bart

Bart came to us in 2010 after the riots in Bangkok. He was kicked or injured in an accident and had a hernia. He is now fighting fit and very special to us.

We would love to see him going to a new loving home.

Felix

you try to give him human medication. Dogs should never be given over-the-counter medication unless specifically prescribed by a veterinarian. For instance, if aspirin is given incorrectly it can cause stomach bleeding in dogs.

This big black and white boy was dumped outside our house a long time ago. He is an excellent catcher of rats and snakes. Bitten twice, he has lived to tell the tale. One of his other talents is weather prediction. If he stays on the settee all day, it’s sure going to rain.

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www.pattayatoday.net

Games

CROSSWORD Across 1. WHIM 4. HAVE AMBITION 9. PIERCED WITH A STAKE 10. THING OF VALUE 11. TYPE OF BEAN 12. A LOT OF 13. SPIRIT 14. IMPATIENT DESIRE 16. SPEED 18. VEHICLE 20. BOMBASTIC TALK 21. GRAIN HUSKS 24. SUPPLY FOOD 25. GO FORWARD 26. ORATION 27. ACTOR’S PARTS

(5) (6) (7) (5) (4) (7) (3) (4) (4) (3) (7) (4) (5) (7) (6) (5)

Down 1. INSUBSTANTIAL 2. CHILLY 3. CHRISTMAS 5. RUNS & SKIPS 6. LOOK CLOSELY AT 7. RANGE 8. WIDESPREAD DISLIKE 13. PERSUASIVE SPEAKING 15. ADMINISTRATOR 17. COUNTING FRAME 18. SNAP 19. SPEAKS CONTEMPTUOUSLY 22. OF THE KIDNEYS 23. AFFIRM

(6) (5) (4) (8) (7) (6) (5) (8) (7) (6) (5) (6) (5) (4)

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Solution Issue 15

Brain Tester

s c 2 a n 3t c n o 9 e n g a g e n l s 11 i b e x 13 c f a 14 a 15c h e 17 p a u 20 r e c i t e o k h 24 p r o b e e o r 26 r e s i s t

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This week’s subject is LEISURE

1. After which activity might you suffer from the bends?

2. What colour are the houses in Monopoly?

3. What shape is a sumo wrestling ring?

4. Yoga is based on which world religion?

5. In which game do you score one for his knob?

6. The Fastnet race is part of the contest for which Cup? 7. Which game takes its name from equipment resembling a bishop’s crosier?

8. If you were a collector of Clarice Cliff what would you collect?

9. In bridge how many tricks would you take if your contact was a small slam and one down?

10. Which of the following is a minor suit – diamonds, hearts, spades?

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11. Camogie is the women’s equivalent of which sport?

12. What sort of swimming takes place to a musical accompaniment?

13. Which seven letter Quaker family made a lot of chocolate?

14. Which pizza restaurant was the first of a chain founded in London?

15. Which open air zoo is near Dunstable?

16. Which boy reporter was created by the Belgian artist Herge?

17. In athletics what is attached to a chain and thrown?

18. In which English city were Walker’s crisps first made?

19. The Round the Isle race goes round which isle?

20. Which sport has Greco-Roman and Freestyle as two styles?

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1. Deep sea diving; 2. Green; 3. Circular; 4. Hindu; 5. Cribbage; 6. Admiral’s Cup; 7. Lacrosse; 8. Pottery; 9. Eleven tricks; 10. Diamonds; 11. Hurling; 12. Synchronised swimming; 13. Cadbury; 14. Pizza Express; 15. Whipsnade; 16. Tintin; 17. Hammer; 18. Leicester; 19. Wight; 20. Wrestling.

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Pattaya Today is published & edited by Lucksika Natham for Siamese Vision Media Co., Ltd. Office : 221/3 M.11 Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150. Tel: (038) 374-534 Fax: (038) 374-535 E-mail : info@pattayatoday.net Printed at Print 87 Co., Ltd. Naklua, Pattaya City 20150