The Guide Phuket - February 2020

February 2020

COVER: ENTERING THE MONTH OF LOVE From romantic restaurants and activities to do during the month of February to meeting with experts in the wedding industry, this month’s issue of The Guide Phuket is filled with all the love you need to get ready for Valentine’s Day!

CONTENT

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Weekend getaway at the Renaissance Phuket Sometimes, there is nothing better than a relaxed staycation in one of Phuket precious hidden gems. For this issue, The Guide Phuket slept over at the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa, located on the shore of Mai Khao Beach, and enjoyed a delightful stay from the minute we checked-in.

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A tale of flavors and gastronomy at Nitan We recently enjoyed a 4-course dinner at the latest ‘talk of the town’ restaurant in Cherng Talay: Nitan, a French Japanese-inspired gastronomic venue under the helm of Chef Sariwat Wanvichitkhun, who was trained at the 2-star Michelin restaurant Mezzaluna.

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Shopping in the north at Turtle Village If you find yourself in the north of the island and in need for some shopping, you should visit the iconic Turtle Village, an open-air lifestyle shopping mall that is located in Mai Khao, right at the entrance to the JW Marriott and other hotels in the area.

EDITORIAL

With New Year and the Chinese New Year out of the way, it is now time to focus on the month of love! Phuket is relatively quieter than usual, given the recent travel restrictions due to the Coronavirus, which means more space on the beach and less queue to wait at your favorite attraction! While the situation seems under control at the time of writing, make sure to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face as a precaution. - Kamin

FEBRUARY 2020

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PHUKET

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Life is a beach Every month, we cover our selection of three stunning beaches that can be visited in Phuket. With so many places to choose from, our team tries to provide a

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Bubble me up!

Sometimes, the best way to experience romance is to be confined in your very own bubble with your loved one! To this end, The Kee Sky Lounge at The Kee

good mix between the popular ones and the less

Resort & Spa Phuket has teamed up with HD Design

crowded ones, so that each and everyone can find

to offer a unique dining experience on the island.

their own happy place.

Introducing Bubble Me Up!

The evolution of data storage with computers Technology has come a long way over the last few decades; processors are getting faster, memory in your phones and computers has increased, and hard drives have become smaller and smaller over the years. In this column, we will have a look at the evolution of data storage from its creation until today.

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The Guide to Thai language New to Phuket or simply never took the time to learn

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Getting to know: Jacob and Angie Ritter Phuket’s most famous wedding celebrant Jacob and

this beautiful language? We’ve got you covered!

his lovely wife, make-up artist extraordinaire Angie,

Ourguide to the Thai language will bring you new

answered to our questions regarding the wedding

content monthly.

industry in Phuket.

WEEKEND GETAWAY AT THE RENAISSANCE PHUKET RESORT & SPA Sometimes, there is nothing better than a relaxed staycation in one of Phuket precious hidden gems. The Guide Phuket slept over at the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa and enjoyed a delightful stay from the minute we checked-in.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

job at ensuring all the little details were on point, from the turn-down service to the assortment of coconut chips we received upon arrival.

We enjoyed our dinner at the Takieng restaurant, a specialty Thai restaurant which is conveniently located right in front of the beach, and next to the large swimming pool. The food was a true delicacy, and each of the dishes served packed a punch of flavors, making clever use of the spices and ingredients sourced locally.

The Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa is

bathroom was separated by a large glass

a 180-room and villa resort located on

with retractable shades, allowing you

While we thought it would be difficult to

the gleaming sands of Mai Khao Beach,

to watch the TV while enjoying a well-

top such an amazing dinner experience,

less than 20 kilometers from Phuket

deserved bath. We found all the amenities

we were pleasantly surprised the next

International Airport.

you could expect from a high-end resort,

day when we visited the Loca Vore

and the housekeeping team did an amazing

restaurant for breakfast. We can see

From the moment we set foot in the bright, open-air lobby, we were welcomed by some of the friendliest staff we came across in a long time; they explained to us the various activities offered by the resort before escorting us to our room.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE: SHOP AT TURTLE VILLAGE

We opened the door to our Deluxe King

The exclusive shopping destination for the best shopping on Mai Khao Beach. This lifestyle

bedroom, a spacious 46 sqm. with a

shopping mall is located nearby the resort and includes outlets such as Bill Bentley Pub, the

balcony offering views on the immaculate

only English pub on Mai Khao Beach; The Coffee Club; Swensens; Supermarket Turtle Mart; Jim

garden. We truly enjoyed the choice of

Thompson; Narai Phand; Private Collection; Ferera; Paul Ropp; Anita; Eleph; Marie France Van

colors in the room, which provided us with a sense of well-being and relaxation; a perfect home away from home. The

Damme; Unique Art; Tanya Living; Basil; Phuket Happiness Trip; Cashmere Hut; Joy Isomare; Bangkok B.P. Pharmacy, while the new phase include the like of 7 Eleven, Pizza Company, Etam, OVS, Anello and Esprit.

that the management of the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa takes the motto “the breakfast is the most important meal of the day” very seriously: a large selection of bread and jams, oatmeals, cold cuts and cheese from various parts of the world, as well as some hot cuisine from Thailand and some Western classics.

By noon, it was time to say goodbye, but we left with a truly magical experience and memories that will last for a long time!

Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa can be found on 555 Moo 3, on Mai Khao Beach.

Feel free to visit their website at www. renaissancephuket.com or give them a call at +66 76 363 999 for more information about your next holidays.

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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LIFE IS A BEACH With more than 30 beaches to choose from, the island of Phuket stands for its nickname, which is the Pearl of Andaman. Whether you seek to experience the tranquillity of Mai Khao Beach or prefer to mingle among the crowd on Patong Beach, our handy guide will help you find the perfect spot to get the suntan you’ve been dreaming of.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

OUR TOP PICKS

Every month, our team selects for you the top 3 beaches you should visit while staying in Phuket.

All of them have their pros and cons, so we try to provide a good mix between the popular ones and the less crowded ones.

Kata Beach: Known as Phuket’s ‘Surfer’s Paradise’, Kata Beach is one of the most beautiful of all of Phuket’s beaches. It’s a halfmoon crescent of white sand which lines a bay that is cut deep between two green headlands. The water at Kata Beach is crystal clear and there is a small coral reef which is excellent for snorkeling. During the green season, Kata Beach is a great place to learn how to surf due to its rolling waves.

Nai Yang Beach: Nai Yang is a charming beach a few minutes south of Phuket International Airport. The northern end of the beach is part of Sirinath National Park, which protects the beach from any further developments. The atmosphere here is laid-back, and the beach is excellent for families. If you are looking to eat fresh seafood right on the beach, Nai Yang is definitely the right spot to visit in Phuket!

Surin Beach: Located between Bang Tao and Kamala Beach, Surin Beach is one of the most beautiful stretches of beach on the island. Surin Beach boasts fine white sand and emerald sea, and is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike. The beach often has rather strong winds, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing.

WHAT TO DO WHEN A JELLYFISH STINGS YOU? Let’s face it: this is certainly something you’d prefer to avoid when enjoying a day at the beach, but the Andaman Sea contains its fair share of the translucent animal. Below is a quick recap on the symptoms one can suffer from a sting and the best way to treat someone suffering from it. Remember that you should always call for a lifeguard to assist you should you be in pain after getting out of the water.

SYMPTOMS

WHAT TO DO

Severe pain on the wound, back, trunk or head;

Bring the injured person out of the sea to a safe place;

Restlessness or confusion;

Call an ambulance (Tel. 1669);

Sweating, chills, nausea or vomiting;

Have the person remain still to prevent the spread of toxin;

Palpitations, chest pain or chest tightness;

Pour vinegar continuously over the wound for at least 30

Breathing difficulty, rapid breathing or panting;

seconds (do not use fresh water).

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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A TALE OF FLAVORS AND GASTRONOMY AT NITAN RESTAURANT We recently enjoyed a 4-course dinner at the latest ‘talk of the town’ restaurant in Cherng Talay: Nitan, a French Japanese-inspired gastronomic venue under the helm of Chef Sariwat Wanvichitkhun, who was trained at the 2-star Michelin restaurant Mezzaluna.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

a whole new vision of the classic Tom Yum Goong. A fresh tiger prawn confit in aromatic oil tucked in a creamy Tom Yum sauce and a shrimp cream foam. It was such a creative dish that left us with a positive impression up until the very last bite.

The main course was the Chicken Breast, a caramelized grilled chicken packed with tenderness and cooked to perfection. The dish continued to amaze us thanks to a creamy white hollandaise sauce and the use of local ingredients normally reserved Surrounded by a lovely garden located

as the fresh crab meat pairs well together

for desserts, such as Look Choak, which

within the Baan Wana complex in Cherng

with the mango slices, pickled olives and

gives an additional punch of texture to

Talay, Nitan is a pleasure for all senses

sun-dried tomatoes.

the meal. I have to salute them for their fearlessness on experimenting with this

serving delicate cuisine inspired by the best recipes from France and Japan.

The second dish we tried was the Tiger

dish and how they presented the dish for

Prawn, a menu that provided us with

us to try.

Upon entering the establishment, we met with the Executive Chef, Mr Sariwat Wanvichitkhun, also known as Earth, who decided to open his own fine-dining restaurant after several spent with the two-star Michelin restaurant Mezzaluna.

We decided to try out their 4-course menu, though the venue also serves a la carte if you prefer to pick and choose.

The first dish was the Blue Crab. a welldesigned plate served with an apple and cucumber jelly. This mouthwatering dish will trigger your appetite to the next level After three amazing savory dishes, it was time for the desserts, where we experienced Guava, a menu inspired by fermented guava in white chocolate mousse with bread crumbs underneath, as well as the Thai Banoffee, a pandora that does not come into the shape of a square box but a coconut shell. This sweet creamy and smooth banoffee, not too sweet, with salted caramel and a pendant jelly at the bottom like a hidden gem.

Nitan’s menu changes with the season, so that every time you visit, you’ll get the chance to discover new, amazing food!

Nitan is located on 177/38 Srisoontorn road, in Cherng Talay, on the road that leads to the Heroines Monument. The restaurant is open from 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm, closed on Sundays. For information and bookings, please call +66 65 683 0432 or visit their Facebook page at https://web.facebook.com/nitanphuket.

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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A ROMANTIC

BUBBLE AT THE KEE

Sometimes, the best way to experience romance is to be confined in your very own bubble with your loved one! To this end, The Kee Sky Lounge at The Kee Resort & Spa Phuket has teamed up with HD Design to offer a unique dining experience on the island.

Introducing Bubble Me Up! In February, 29 couples will have the opportunity to book this exclusive space, located on the rooftop of the resort, which offers unobstructed views over the Andaman Sea. Seating can be arranged to accommodate up to eight people per evening.

The culinary team of The Kee Resort has come up with six romantic dinner selections, including three delightful BBQ options, a classic Surf & Turf, as well as the more traditional Thai and western servings. Each of the plates is served with impeccable presentation and using only the freshest ingredients available in Phuket.

Some of the menu items we cannot wait to try are the seared duck foie gras and shallot confit, served with crispy salad and honey vinaigrette, the Australian rack of lamb on a walnut brioche with its side of ratatouille, and the Phuket lobster ravioli served with a timeless classic mushroom beurre blanc.

Pricing starts from THB 2,300.- net per couple, including two glasses of their signature cocktails, and goes up to THB 3,500.net per couple for the more expensive options, which come with a bottle of bubbly to share with your other half. Reservations are more than recommended as seating is extremely limited, so make sure to contact them today to book a date!

What’s more? Well, friends of The Guide Phuket will enjoy a 15% discount for any bookings made before October 2020! Just send an email to marcom@thekeeresort.com and mention BB005!

WEB: www.thekeeresort.com/bubble-me-up.php

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

We offer the classic range of mass building machines alongside several weight lifting dumbells and barbells for you to use.

Keeping your heart in good shape is certainly important. You can train your cardio on our numerous treadmills and elliptcials.

The outside garden is the perfect place for a good old Cross Fit whether you plan to train on your own or with a group from the fitness.

A fitness center is a great place to make new friends who share the same goals as you do. Just ask away and our members are happy to help.

Fit Gun Gym Open daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm (closed on Sunday) Located in Kathu, Phuket, on the way to Kathu Waterfall +66 85 145 4442 inter_alex@hotmail.com www.fitgungym.com

keep pushing!

Open daily from 4:00 pm ll 11:00 pm.

Closed on Wednesday.

Phuket’s favorite Italian restaurant, serving high-quality food since 2009.

Specialized in home-made, fresh pasta, meats, and seafood, just like in Italy.

Located in Kathu, near Loch Palm Golf. www.dasandrophuket.com

HQ BEACH LOUNGE KAMALA HQ Beach Lounge is located at the northern end of Kamala Beach. It features a tranquil atmosphere, which makes it perfect to enjoy a bit to eat while watching the sunset refreshing cocktail, or rent a beach

CATCH BEACH CLUB BANG TAO

chair, cabana or a unique beach nest.

Catch Beach Club is Phuket’s most exciting and

WEB: www.hqphuket.com

fashionable beach club. The hottest spot on Bang

across the Andaman Sea. Sip on a

Tao Beach, Catch Beach Club boasts a full-on party atmosphere and offers up the region’s best DJs in addition to a well-stocked bar. Enjoy a tasty brunch package while lazing by the pool. < WEB: www.catchbeachclub.com

CAFE DEL MAR KAMALA DREAM BEACH CLUB LAYAN BEACH

Stylish and iconic, Cafe Del Mar is Phuket’s

A stylish oceanfront beach club

areas for maximum entertainment value. Spend

with a superb restaurant & lounge,

some time in the dining venue, swimming

Dream Beach Club is a unique venue

pool, on the dance floor or in the VIP seating and

that curates a tropical lifestyle

alfresco lounge by the beach. Check the beach

experience. Expect world-class DJs

club’s roster of activities, and note, there is a large

and the very best in food and drink.

parking area available on-site.

WEB: www.dreambeachclub.com

WEB: www.cafedelmarphuket.com >

answer to Ibiza. With a prime location on Kamala Beach, the beach club is divided into different

XANA BEACH CLUB BANG TAO XANA Beach Club boasts a stunning location. The venue features a 35-meter pool, state-of-the-art sound system, a variety of tropical cocktails and a delicious food menu. Enjoy the best that Phuket has to offer from day to night at XANA. The beach club features beach loungers, poolside daybeds and VIP cabanas which can accommodate up to 10 people.

WEB: www.xanabeachclub.com

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

Be ready for a gargantuan feast, as Chef Ponchan unveiled a new menu for Thong Dee - The Town Bistro.

THONG DEE THE KATHU BRASSERIE 110/25, Soi Bangthong Kathu, 83120 Phuket Open Tue-Sun 16:00 to 22:00

(12:00 to 22:00 on Sundays)

THONG DEE THE TOWN BISTRO 58 Ratsada Rd, Phuket Town, 83000 Phuket Open Tue-Sat 12:00 to 23:00 For reservation, please call +66 (0)84 309 1198

SHOPPING IN THE NORTH AT TURTLE VILLAGE If you find yourself in the north of the island and in need for some shopping, you should visit the iconic Turtle Village, an open-air lifestyle shopping mall that is located in Mai Khao, right at the entrance to the JW Marriott and other hotels in the area.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

outside of outlets including Jim Thompson, Narai Phand, Private Collection, Ferera, Paul Ropp, Anita, Eleph, Marie France van Damme, Unique Art, Tanya Living, Cashmere Hut, Anello, Esprit, and more.

Whether you are looking for a quick grab ‘n’ go bite, an afternoon tea with a piece of cake on the side or a fine dining experience, Turtle Village is the place to visit. Plenty of high-quality food outlets are here including The Coffee Club which serves drinks, food, desserts, and snacks, while Bill Bentley’s Pub offers a list of Imagine being at the pristine Mai Khao

The upmarket shopping complex can

mouth-watering food and refreshing

Beach, laying under the sun and listening

serve the whole family’s needs with all the

drinks. Pizza Company will take care of

to the waves softly reaching the sand with

products and services on offer. Chic and

your Italian cravings and you can also

a glass of Pina Colada in hand. Could that

cool items from clothes, accessories, to

cool down the tropical heat with some ice

day be any more perfect? Sure it could,

home decorations and furniture in many

cream at Swensen’s, too.

by visiting Turtle Village, an exclusive

designs and styles, can be found in and

shopping and dining destination in the heart of Mai Khao which offers plenty of eateries and shopping venues.

in the vicinity, Turtle village features two

BARGAINING IS NO SHAME; IT’S AN ART!

floors of interconnected buildings set

If there is one thing that westerners have some difficulties to understand when

around beautiful fountains with alfresco

arriving in Thailand is that (almost) everything should be bargained here; it’s a

seating in the middle. The laid-back

tradition, especially at markets that sell clothing and other souvenirs (you would

atmosphere and fine architecture of the

not try to negotiate on food). As a rule of thumb, consider what price would make

complex reflect the easy-going lifestyle of

you happy, and start the negotiations slightly below that price. A THB 300 shirt, for

islanders and are truly delightful.

example, could easily be bought for THB 200. Give it your best smile and you’re all set!

Located just steps away from the beach, or a short buggy ride from the elegant resorts

Just nearby The Coffee Club, the Phuket Happiness Trip booth is ready to welcome you and provide information and packages you may need for your dream voyage.

Several tours are available and the knowledgeable staff speaks English very well.

All in all, Turtle Village will please both travelers and residents alike, with various products and services on offer. Plus, it is a great dining destination for the area, which can be very quiet, especially during the green season.

WEB: www.facebook.com/ Turtlevillageshopandcuisine

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SHOPPERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DELIGHTS

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LIMELIGHT AVENUE PHUKET TOWN Located on Dibuk Road, this indy shopping mall recently celebrated its 4th anniversary.

The mall offers a good mix between clothing shops, restaurants, souvenir boutiques and grocery store on two separate floors while providing regular events to keep the crowd, consisting mainly of locals, entertained. It shares its parking lot with the now-famous Phuket Indy Market on Thursdays and Fridays, so make sure you go there early on those dates if you wish to get a parking spot, as the market takes over from 4:00 pm.

TURTLE VILLAGE MAI KHAO The exclusive shopping destination for the best dining and shopping on Mai Khao Beach. Cuisine choices match wonderfully with the gift, souvenir,

< WEB: www.limelightphuket.com

antique and clothing selections. Outlets include Bill Bentley Pub, the only English pub on Mai Khao

JUNGCEYLON PATONG

Beach; The Coffee Club; Swensens; Supermarket Turtle Mart; Jim Thompson; Narai Phand; Private Collection; Ferera; Paul Ropp; Anita; Eleph; Marie

Patong has its own shopping center, by the

France Van Damme; Unique Art; Tanya Living; Basil;

moniker of Jungceylon. The mall opened in

Phuket Happiness Trip; Cashmere Hut; Joy Isomare;

2006 and covers an area of 200,000 square

Bangkok B.P. Pharmacy, while the new phase include

meters. It is well-known for its full-size wooden

the like of 7 Eleven, Pizza Company, Etam, OVS, Anello and Esprit.

boat, located in the central atrium, linking the various buildings together. Plenty of places to shops, including local and international brands,

VILLA MARKET CHALONG

and a large avenue filled with restaurants and places to relax under the shades.

WEB: www.jungceylon.com >

While Villa Market is known for its imported products, which please foreigner living on the island and looking for comfort food from home, the Chalongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s venue is much larger than just a regular supermarket, and offers some restaurants, a DIY store named HomePro, a Banana IT store for all your computer needs, and several other clothing and souvenir shops. It is also home to a large market every Tuesdays, where locals love to stop by and grab some delicious food before heading home.

Beware of the limited parking spaces on that day.

PREMIUM OUTLET PHUKET TOWN

CENTRAL PHUKET, PHUKET TOWN Central Phuket is the largest shopping center of the island and goes into the top 3 largest shopping malls in Thailand, comprising of two separate buildings: the long-standing Central Festival, which opened in the 90s, and the newly built extension Central Floresta, which opened

Brand-name clothing and sports accessories at bargain prices, this is the brand promise of Premium Outlet. Apart from numerous Thai brands, other international names can be found on sale, including Lacoste, Guy Laroche, Leviâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Lee, Adidas and Nike and feature discounts of up to 70%. It is open daily

its doors in September 2018. Both buildings offer a combined area of 185,000 square meters

from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm and can be found on

and host more than 700 different shops, from luxury watches and clothes to everyday items.

Bypass Road, not far from the Toyota Dealership.

WEB: www.centralfestivalphuket.com

WEB: www.outletmallthailand.com

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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THE EVOLUTION OF DATA STORAGE WITH COMPUTERS Technology has come a long way over the last few decades; processors are getting faster, memory in your phones and computers has increased, and hard drives have become smaller and smaller over the years. In this column, we will have a look at the evolution of data storage from its creation until today.

The first commercial computer that came with a storage system was the IBM 305 RAMAC, invented in 1956. The system shipped with 50 magnetic discs, allowing to store up to five million characters. In a language that can be understood today, this represents a storage space of 5 megabytes, or MB for short; not so great considering the computer was the size of two large fridges, although it was a big improvement on the previous system, as it offered the equivalent of 64,000 punching cards.

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Getting smaller and better with time

magneto resistive heads and could store 16.8 gigabytes (GB). At the same, the

Over the years, engineers worked really

company also released the Microdrive,

hard to make storage smaller, faster, and

which could store 340 MB of data on a 2.5

more affordable. The first Apple computer,

centimeters disk platter.

released in 1984, had a 128KB memory and relied on floppy disks to execute programs.

Most progress was made at the start of the new millennium when a Japanese company

In the 90s, IBM created the Titan, which

named Hitachi created the first 500 GB

was the first-ever hard drive to use giant

disk in history. Seagate and Western Digital

THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

followed through, with the

impressed when I first saw the

releases of 3 Terabytes (TB) hard

smaller, 3.5’ version (ndlr the

drives by the end of the decade.

original floppy disks were 8’ and then 5.25’), which allowed to

From increased memory to

save up to 360 KB of data.

THREE WEBSITES TO VISIT TODAY!

speed During the ‘90s, CD-ROM While it is quite common in

became the norm for most

today’s world to find hard disks

computers and gaming systems,

with several terabytes of space

allowing a whopping 650 MB

available, companies have now

of data, though it was difficult

turned their focus to speed. The

to rewrite information on the

old HDD is now often used to

disk, making it a good medium

store documents and pictures,

to view and use data, but not to

while programs, applications,

save your daily work.

and operating systems are often

10 Minute Mail

loaded on a new format of

The DVD followed in 1995,

This very useful website allows you to create a temporary

storage; the SSD.

allowing to save more than

email address that will stay active for only ten minutes. Perfect

4 GB of data, and was used

for websites that would normally spam your inbox with daily

While it was originally created in

extensively in the movie

newsletters, but still require an email to access their content.

the 50s, the relatively high cost

industry, replacing the old VHS

and low memory available were

with products of a much better

always an issue. Today, however,

quality. We are currently looking

it is quite common to find

at the death of the DVD, with

WEB: www.10minutemail.com

Portable Apps Has it ever happened to you that you need a specific app to work on a project, but cannot install it on your computer because of administrator’s privileges? Portable Apps offers more than 400+ applications that can be used without installing them on your PC. WEB: www.portableapps.com

computers with SSD drives, or

more and more companies

even sometimes a combination

preferring digital downloads and

between SSDs and HDDs.

other options, such as the USBs and SD cards.

What about portable storage?

To give an order of magnitude, Everyone should be familiar

the largest-capacity USB, the

with portable storage; after all, it

HyperX Predator, currently

should not take too long to find

offers 1 TB of storage, not larger

a USB stick or an SD card lying

than the size of your thumb.

around in your house or office.

This represents the equivalent of 2,7 million floppy disks or 1.5

Portable storage has also

million CDs. With that in mind,

evolved drastically over the

we can’t wait to see what the

years. I remember using floppy

future has to offer.

disk at the time I was using a

Word Counter Another fancy websites that Marketing and Editorial people cannot live without, Word Counter can tell you exactly how many words, characters, sentences and paragraphs are in your text, as well as helping you make your sentences more readable.

WEB: www.wordcounter.net

Commodore 64 and was so

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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Congratulations! You’ve just been Phuketified!

Hotels & Resorts

Restaurants & Coffee Shops

Bars & Nightlife

Activities & Spa

Whether you are looking to book a hotel to plan ahead your journey, fancy a cozy restaurant to impress your loved one, or simply search for general information, news and events about Phuket, we got you covered!

WWW.PHUKETIFY.COM Do you own a business in Phuket? Contact us on our website or Facebook page to advertise your venue for free!

THE GUIDE TO THAI LANGUAGE EP5: FAMILY AND GREETINGS

Family

Family (part 2)

พ่อ แม่ พ่อแม่

Father Poh Mother Mae Parent Por Mae Grandpa (Father) - Poo Grandma (Father) Ya Grandpa (Mother) Ta Grandma (Mother) Yai Son Look Chai Daughter Look Sao Young brother Nong Chai Old brother Pee Chai Young sister Nong Sao Old sister Pee Sao

ปู่ ย่า ตา ยาย

ลูกชาย ลูกสาว น้องชาย พี่ชาย น้องสาว พี่สาว

Greetings

ลุง ป้า

สวัสดี Sawasdee How are you? - สบายดีไหม Sabai dee

Uncle Loong Aunt Pa Nephew Niece Cousins -

Hello -

Nong

Yindee Thi Dai Roujak

หลานชาย Laan Chai หลานสาว Laan Sao ลูกพี่ลูกน้อง Look Pee Look

สามี ภรรยา หลานชาย หลานสาว ญาติ ลูกเขย ลูกสะใภ้

mai?

Nice to meet you! -

Husband Samee Wife Pan Ra Ya Grandson Laan Chai Granddaughter Laan Sao Relative Yaat Son-in-law Look Khoey Daughter-in-law Look Sapai

It is hot today. -

ยินดีที่ได้รู้จกั

วันนี้อากาศร้อน

Wan Nee Aagard Ron

Where do you go? -

คุณจะไปไหน

Khun Ja Pai Nai?

Have you eaten yet? -

ยัง Kin Khao Reu Yang?

กินข้าวหรื อ

The use of Khrap and Kha in your sentences The words Khrap (

ครับ) and Kha (ค่ะ) are particles that are generally used at the end of a sentence to denote a certain level of respect

to the person you are talking to. The word Khrap is used exclusively by men while the word Kha is used by women. For example, if you are a male asking a stranger “how are you?”, you should say “Sabai Dee Mai Khrap” (

สบายดีไหมครับ). A woman asking the same

สบายดีไหมคะ). The gender of the person you are talking to is not relevant.

question, however, should say “Sabai Dee Mai Kha” (

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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GETTING TO KNOW

To celebrate the month of love, we met with Jacob and Angie Ritter, a lovely couple who has helped many couples to marry in Phuket and Thailand.

You two have been involved with hundreds of weddings in the Phuket region. Tell us about your backgrounds and

involving styling. I used to have a clothing boutique to support myself through university. After friends and co-

how got involved?

workers were pleased about my styling work for them as

Jacob (JR): After taking a gap year to travel Asia following

courses in Bangkok with top stylists and pursued my dream

university, my career started as a lecturer in the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism at Prince of Songkla University here in Phuket. I later got a role at the Katathani Collection of Resorts, training staff and handling all types of communications for the owners and management. During that time, I was asked to step-in as a wedding Master of Ceremonies. Although I continued to be involved with opening luxury resorts; I had seen firsthand about how challenging yet rewarding the wedding industry can be,

a hobby, I finally decided to take the plunge. I took many to become a professional. Well, after 300 weddings I am still learning and spending time with my teachers. New techniques and tricks are endless.

Is the wedding business challenging? For example, did you ever meet a “Bridezilla”?

JR: There can be no mistakes in weddings. Emotions are running high at a couple’s once-in-a-lifetime event. That

which sparked my interest.

is why early in my career, I never really saw myself getting

Angie (AR): I came to Phuket from Lampang when I started

Gradually I became an expert however, yet I still need

working at Koh Racha to manage a resort front office, and later to Amanpuri and finally helping with opening Rosewood Resort. All throughout my life, however I’ve had a passion for beauty, makeup, and any creative pursuits

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

so deeply involved; who wants that kind of pressure? to double and triple check that everything is ready for each event. After all, many people in the business find themselves giving up, after only a couple of years due to pressure.

AR: One of the rewards of working in this industry is that we get to work closely with associates who are great at what they do. Those who stick around tend to be excellent, or else they would not last long.

What kind of funny, surprising or exciting experiences have you witnessed at weddings?

JR: I’ve seen an elephant knock over a groom’s mum. Pouring rain on a beautiful ceremony with guests holding umbrellas, and people getting completely soaked from champagne bottles opening. I’ve seen a wedding guest accidently fall into a pool during the recessional and we’ve had an entire wedding canceled and then put-on again at the last minute, due to relationship issues. On the other hand, some really amazing vows, speeches and performances such as fire dancing, opera and choreographed first dances come to mind.

AR: One time, a wedding couple’s taxi ran out of gas when they were just 5 minutes from the venue. Their driver had to stop traffic and demand that another taxi assist them right away. One of the best aspects about my job is that I get to spend a lot of quality time with the brides on their special day.

During that time, I often try to relax them by bringing up nice topics for small talk.

What tends to be the costs for weddings that you are involved in?

JR & AR: There is a huge range. We help with small elopements and vow renewals or big three-day luxury events

speaking or writing, but a picture says a thousand words.

What would you say the future has in store for lovers in Phuket?

AR: More and more grooms are asking to have their hair and makeup done by a beautician. It is an exciting new aspect of wedding styling.

JR: It is a great idea to tie the knot in Thailand because you can come back every 5 or 10 years to renew vows and go back to the same romantic, favorite spots where you pledged your undying love. Phuket and the region has options for all budgets of weddings, from the flashiest to the bare foot, toes-in-the-sand style.

with all kinds of entertainment. Sometimes we are working in a very affordable guesthouse, other times at a luxury suite. In either case, of course we try to put forth our best efforts.

Do you have any advice for people planning a wedding?

JR: You don’t need to contact every wedding planner or celebrant when you are planning a wedding, just check their reviews! Most of the prices are similar among practitioners, so it is best to find whom you really resonate with for your Phuket Wedding or Thailand Wedding. Write your own vows, it is not always easy -- but very worthwhile!

AR: Be sure to get a hair and makeup trial done before your wedding day, if you can. At least prepare photos of inspiration for how you wish to look like. A lot of concepts can be lost in

For more information, please visit: www.thailandweddings.com.au www.celebrantphuket.com www.hairmakeupphuket.com FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON GUIDE

OUR JANUARY FAVORITE MOMENTS IN PHUKET We embraced the year 2020 with a great start at the Thailand Yacht Show 2020, the fifth edition of the marine exhibition, as well as the opportunity to meet with mixologist extraordinaire, Mr Salim Khoury, and a delightful wine-pairing dinner at the Thai Thai Restaurant of the Hilton Phuket Arcadia.

The fifth installment of the Thailand Yacht Show took place from January 9 to 12, 2020, at the Royal Phuket Marina, in Koh Kaew.

///////////////////////// On January 24, 2020, Central Phuket hosted a celebration on the first floor of Central Floresta, to welcome the year of the rat and to wish everyone a fantastic Chinese New Year.

Several Chinese pass-arounds were served, alongside a selection of wines, sparkling, and cocktails created for the occasion.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | FEBRUARY 2020

On December 18, 2019, The Nai Harn

signature cocktails, The Lady Nai

Phuket invited members of the press for

Harn, based on Chalong Bay Rum and

a cocktail masterclass with legendary

Limoncello, and the Blushing Monarch,

barman Salim Khoury, who was the

a Gin- and Campari-based cocktail, a

Head Barman at the American Bar at

drink created in honor of Princess Diana

The Savoy in London for a total of 43

and which made Salim received the UK

years.

Bartender of the Year award back in 1992.

Throughout the course, we were introduced to two of The Nai Harnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

www.thenaiharn.com

/////////////////////////

On January 17, 2020, Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa hosted a 5-course wine dinner at their Thai Thai restaurant, in partnership with Pernod Ricard.

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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