The Guide Phuket - March 2020

March 2020

COVER: EXPLORING LARD YAI MARKET Phuket’s favorite Sunday market offers everything there is to buy, from delicious street food cooked right before your eyes to the latest trends in fashion and accessories, all while enjoying the incredible Sino-Portuguese architecture of Thalang Road. (p. 14)

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Weekend getaway at the Best Western Patong Best Western Patong Beach enjoys a fantastic location a few steps away from the main shopping district and provides great value with comfortable rooms, a nice breakfast and dinner options, and a fantastic rooftop pool with stunning views over the city.

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Italian delicacies at Red Sauce’s Sunday Brunch The Guide Phuket was invited to the very first Sunday Brunch from Red Sauce restaurant, part of the stunning Rosewood Phuket, where we explored the subtle nuances of traditional Italian cuisine, from homemade pasta to saltcrusted seabass.

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Exploring Sunday’s Lard Yai market in P’Town Every Sunday, the famous Thalang Road in Phuket old town transforms into a lively market with a large selection of street food, clothing, antiques, and accessories, surrounded by the unique Sino-Portuguese architecture of the neighborhood.

EDITORIAL I must say this is the first time I see Phuket as quiet as it is these days; fears over the COVID-19 and a strong currency seem to have scared the tourists away, for the time being. That being said, this situation offers some advantages for locals and expatriates living on the island; most airlines, hotels, and shopping centers are offering generous discounts to keep the business afloat during this difficult period, an opportunity we’ll be happy to seize in the next coming weeks. - Kamin

MARCH 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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DiLite Restaurant We recently tried the buffet lunch at DiLite, a restaurant located within Thanyapura Phuket, which specializes in plant-based cuisine and avoids all

good mix between the popular ones and the less

animal-related products, including dairy and honey,

crowded ones, so that each and everyone can find

while using great choices of seasoning, such as

their own happy place.

coconut nectar and Himalayan pink salt.

Three apps to help increase productivity These days, it’s all about finding and optimizing the right apps, which may explain why app usage has grown so much in recent years. In fact, 81% of workers worldwide are using more apps now than they did five years ago, reports a recent Slack and GlobalWebIndex study.

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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: Coach Stefan Lange With more than 20 years of experience in personal

this beautiful language? We’ve got you covered! Our

training and a life-long involvement in sports, Coach

guide to the Thai language will bring you new content

Stefan Lange is the Performance Coach, Personal

monthly.

Trainer and Disabled Representative at Thanyapura.

WEEKEND GETAWAY AT THE BEST WESTERN PATONG BEACH Best Western Patong Beach enjoys a fantastic location a few steps away from the main shopping district and provides great value with comfortable rooms, a nice breakfast and dinner options, and a fantastic rooftop pool with stunning views over the city.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | MARCH 2020

and very well-trained. One of the hotel’s main focuses is security, and no one gets access to the elevator without their room key which also indicates its floor.

The modern and contemporary all-day dining restaurant “Mana” serves both Thai and international cuisine; breakfast has a variety of live stations, baked goods and pastries, cereals, all-time favorite Thai food, fresh seasonal fruits, salad and more.

It’s recommended that you sit by the pond where you can see lots of fish swimming around.

A true retreat is time well-spent during

north, you will bump into the white sandy

a weekend. If you are sick and tired of

beach in just under eight minutes.

Moreover, the rooftop pool is a “do not miss” activity while staying at Best

the daily routines or workload, why not packing your bags and get prepared to take

With a large, bright and airy lobby, every

Western Patong. The panoramic city view

a stroll around Patong, at the Best Western

guest is certain to feel very welcomed and

from the swimming pool is second to none,

Patong Beach.

relaxed. The service staff are hospitable

plus there are sun beds for those who

Best Western Patong is a smart midscale hotel with a stylish design located in the heart of Patong where you can simply access the famous night-life walking street called Bangla Road with just a three minute walk.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE: DISCOVER PATONG! Witness the wildest shows at the Tiger Entertainment Complex, eat and shop till you drop at Jun-

In addition, there are several attractions

gceylon – an international big shopping mall – and the newly-opened Central Patong, or experi-

to suit everyone, such as spa & wellness,

ence and live the local ways at Baan Zaan Fresh Market, which are all just a short walk from the

restaurants, bars and entertainment on

hotel. A trip to Bangla Road is something to experience once in a lifetime; just make sure to keep

every corner for you to enjoy and relish.

Looking for a beach retreat? Not a big deal!

your belongings close to you at all time, and try to avoid the few scams you may stumble upon along the way. Remember: if an offer seems to good to be true, it is probably because it is not.

Simply cross the street and walk right up enjoy sunbathing, with shaded loungers for those who needs a private corner with their books or gadgets.

The hotel itself is the ideal place for every type of tourist. A big group of friends and family, a couple on their honeymoon or anniversary, or even a single traveler this hotel covers it all as its concept is to provide the core needs of the 21st century traveler; comfort, convenience and connectivity – complemented by excellent service,modern amenities and value for money.

For more information about the Best Western Patong Beach, visit their website at www.bestwesternpatongbeach.com.

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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 | MARCH 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.

Patong Beach: The beating heart of Phuket’s nightlife, Patong Beach is the most famous beach on the island and the center of entertainment, restaurants, shopping and hotels. The beach itself has soft sand and warm clear water. Behind the beach you’ll find the hustle and bustle of Phuket’s tourism business, which features hotels, restaurants, bars, street bazaars and shops crammed into a colorful, lively mix that showcases a vibrant Thai tourist beach town.

Ao Sane Beach: Ao Sane Beach is a small, almost hidden bay, located north of Nai Harn Beach. To access this beach, you need to drive through the grounds of The Nai Harn Phuket beach resort.

Ao Sane is a small, rocky beach that is excellent for snorkeling.

There’s a small on-site restaurant to grab a bite to eat at when you tire from splashing in the waves.

Mai Khao Beach: Located north of Phuket International Airport, Mai Khao Beach is a lovely beach to escape the crowds. The long stretch of sand seems to go on and on, while the soft sand and clear waters are stunning. Mai Khao Beach is almost always empty, which gives the beach a very deserted feeling, even during high season when some of the island’s other beaches are crowded.

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).

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ITALIAN DELICACIES AT RED SAUCE’S SUNDAY BRUNCH The Guide Phuket was invited to the very first Sunday Brunch from Red Sauce restaurant, part of the stunning Rosewood Phuket, where we explored the subtle nuances of traditional Italian cuisine, from homemade pasta to salt-crusted seabass.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | MARCH 2020

By the entrance of the restaurant lays an impressive display of local and imported seafood, from the exquisite Fine de Claire oysters to everyone’s favorite lobster.

Several specialty dishes are prepared with confidence by the talented Chefs who run each of their stations, like the elegant Salt Crusted Seabass, cut right in front of you from the open-air kitchen.

It would not be a true Italian brunch without a selection of home-made pasta and wood-oven baked pizzas; those servings came with a variety of sauces and Rosewood Phuket has inaugurated its first

of Italy and the surrounding countries.

premium ingredients to choose from, such

brunch of the year on Sunday, February 9,

Alongside the Pecorino and Prosciutto

as the volcano-grown tomatoes from Sicily

2020, at its flagship Italian restaurant, Red

di Parma, you will find a display of Thai

used in the Pomodorino Vesuviano sauce

Sauce. The brunch, which is served on the

appetizers and salads, just to bring a hint

or the texture-perfect mozzarella melting

second Sunday of each month from 12:30

of spices and heat at the beginning of your

on the pizza dough.

pm to 3:30 pm, combines the authenticity

culinary journey.

of Italian recipes with high-quality sourced ingredients.

Red Sauce’s DNA is imbued with Italian traditions and its brunch menu follows the same culinary path; each of the ingredients is carefully selected and the dishes strictly follow the original Italian recipes, as if they were still prepared by the Nonna, or grandmother in Italian language.

For starters, a large wooden table is dedicated to antipasti, a large selection of cheeses and cold cuts from various parts A large BBQ station awaits on the side terrace, where a choice of proteins of seafood is ready to be served; rack of lamb, Australian Black Angus, lobsters… the choice is yours and all the meats were cooked to perfection.

What brings an end to the culinary indulgence is a full display of sweets and desserts, including the classic Tiramisu, home-made macarons, and the crepe Suzette, flambéed with a vintage Grand Marnier. We cannot wait to get back for some more!

The brunch at Red Sauce is available every second Sunday of each month and retails for THB 2,500 net per person, including soft drinks and one Signature Tropic Mary, and THB 3,500 net per person with the inclusion of a free-flow of beverages, including Prosecco, selected wines and beers. Please visit www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/Phuket.

MARCH 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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A VEGAN EXPERIENCE

AT DILITE We recently had the opportunity to try the vegan lunch buffet at DiLite restaurant, at Thanyapura, which specializes in plant-based cuisine and avoids all animal-related products, including dairy and honey, while using great choices of seasoning, such as coconut nectar and Himalayan pink salt.

The buffet line was full of surprises, starting with a tasty selection of flaxseed and walnut bread and buckwheat bread alongside a salad offering, including a power salad, consisting of sweet potato, quinoa, seeds and nuts with some radish and purple cabbage, and a Thai style spicy salad. This bowl reminded us of the classic Som Tum, replacing the papaya with cognac noodles mixed with stripes of carrot, tomatoes, long beans, fresh chili, and garlic. Adding to those two were the vegan sushi and salad Caprese, with slices of tomato and vegan mozzarella, topped with pesto sauce.

Another jaw-dropping menu was their cheese platter. The vegan selection of cheese consisted of Green gouda cheese, made of almond milk and cannellini beans, and a vegan Pepper Jack cheese, made with a mix of cashews and other seasoning and spices. The cheeses were served with dried, crispy fruits.

After trying out the cold side of the buffet, we discovered a warmer and orient-inspired menu with the Vietnamese style Pho, as well as Thai inspired dishes like Tofu and Mushroom in Panaeng curry that can be paired with Gaba rice and sided with roasted baby corn with chili and coriander. The baked sweet potato wedges spiced with turmeric powder, fennel seeds, and garlic were simple but very pleasing. There were also some vegan mini burgers, where the beef was replaced by highly nutritious black bean and sunflower seeds.

Finally, a nice selection of seasonal fresh fruits and healthy desserts were served to clean the palate.

WEB: www.thanyapura.com/dining/

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | MARCH 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 | MARCH 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

EXPLORING SUNDAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARD YAI MARKET IN PHUKET TOWN Every Sunday, the famous Thalang Road in Phuket old town transforms into a lively market with a large selection of street food, clothing, antiques, and accessories, surrounded by the unique Sino-Portuguese architecture of the neighborhood.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | MARCH 2020

a black soy sauce, topped with chives and crispy shallots. It is always served alongside a hot clear soup that has been simmered with pork ribs and bones for hours until the pork meat is ready to fall off the bone.

In addition, you will find several local favorites, such as grilled sour glass noodle sausage, Khao Mok Gai, deep-fried pork and chicken with sticky rice, as well as other Asian cuisines, such as dumpling and Gyoza. Western-style menus such as baked mini pizzas, BBQ pork ribs, kebabs, Lad Yai can be directly translated to “Big

and burgers are also available while the

spicy and flavorful.

seafood menus can be found at affordable

Market” in Thai southern dialect. Every Sunday, the renowned Phuket’s heritage

Mee Hoon Kradook Moo is a very simple

prices. The shellfishes are very fresh

Thalang Road, in the heart of Phuket old

dish that can be placed on the dining table

and the vendors are happy to cook your

town, transforms to become a walking

from breakfast to dinner or even between

selected ingredients to your liking, whether

street with beautiful lights in the evening

the meals. It is stir-fried vermicelli with

you prefer spicy food or not.

and the exquisite backdrops of century-old Sino-Portuguese houses.

The night market is prominent for its local street food and laid-back atmosphere, which attracts a big crowd of locals, expatriates, and travelers every week.

BARGAINING IS NO SHAME; IT’S AN ART! If there is one thing that westerners have some difficulties to understand when

You can discover Phuket signature dishes

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

along your walk through the street. Ow-

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

Tow is a savory menu that uses a soft,

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

sticky dough stir-fried with small clams,

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

egg, taro, pork crackling, spring onion, and

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

sprinkled with crispy shallots. It is mildly You will also find fashion accessories along the way, as well as house decorations and souvenirs to bring back home. We even spotted a tattoo artist working on henna projects and some vendors selling plants and flowers to decorate your home.

The night is lovely and lively at Lad Yai market with plenty of musicians along the street. In the middle, you will find a small stage with various artists performing, some as a band, some on their own. It is also common to find open-mic karaoke and a talented guitarist who plays and sings the 70s’ to 80s’ playlist. The gimmick of the night was an old lady in her 80s’, who still danced professionally with her dancing partner.

MARCH 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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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

MARCH 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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THREE APPS TO HELP INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY For many businesses in our increasingly technical world, future success will depend on how well they can take advantage of digital tools such as apps.

These days, it’s all about finding and optimizing the right apps, which may explain why app usage has grown so much in recent years. In fact, 81% of workers worldwide are using more apps now than they did five years ago, reports a recent Slack and GlobalWebIndex study.

1. Improve communication.

Many of the apps most valuable to

Workers are the heart and soul of your

In Slack, teamwork and communication

organization, and keeping them clued in

happen in channels. This new way of

to what’s going on company-wide is key

working enables teams to establish a single

to keeping them engaged, supported and

place for the sharing of messages, tools and

empowered. That’s why many organizations

files. Channel content can be organized by

are moving beyond email to an efficient

team, project or whatever else is relevant

workplace collaboration software like Slack.

to the users. Chatbooks, a company that

The digital workplace connects you to the

creates photo books, for example, uses

businesses are those that can step in to make work processes simpler, more productive and more collaborative. As you shop around for the tools that can help your business grow and function more efficiently, consider looking for the following capabilities.

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people and tools you work with every day, no matter where you are or what you do.

THE GUIDE PHUKET | MARCH 2020

Slack channels across remote

Moon’s, which integrates Trello

teams in different time zones

with Slack so shop managers

to manage marching orders,

across branches can collaborate

product quality control, and

on day-to-day issues.

speedy customer support.

THREE WEBSITES TO VISIT TODAY!

“Modern work is more 2. Create transparency.

technologically driven than ever before, resulting in a fast-

Today’s employees, particularly

paced workplace and increased

millennials, highly prioritize

pressure with heightened

trust and transparency in their

demands,” comments Jason

dealings with companies and

Mander, chief research officer

organizations. To truly feel

at GlobalWebIndex. “While

aligned and engaged, they

apps and other tech tools

must feel empowered to make

help workers become more

decisions; however, that’s hard

productive and collaborative,

to achieve when they don’t have

it’s about providing better

Continuous development is a critical skill in today’s economy,

the information and resources

versions of them, not more, and

and attending online classes does not have to be expensive. As a

they need. If you want everyone

carefully selecting consolidated

matter of fact, it is 100% free on Coursera, an online education

on your team to be able to

solutions.”

platform that offers classes from various universities.

find, access and share that crucial information, you need to

Optimizing technology can

have the right system in place.

be a boost to your business,

Using Google Drive to create a

but bombarding workers

Coursera

WEB: www.coursera.org

Mint Did you know that almost half of the population in Thailand has zero savings and lives paycheck to paycheck? Time has come for a change. With Mint, you can create your online budget for free, and easily record all your expenses into different categories.

WEB: www.mint.com

“digital home” for all important

with too much technology

documents is an easy and

(just for technology’s sake)

convenient way to ensure that

can backfire by making them

happens.

feel overwhelmed. Tools like Google Drive, Slack and Trello

3. Get organized.

can help by letting employees decide how and when they wish

It’s hard to focus when

to receive notifications and

computer desktops are packed

engage, so they face minimal

with multiple notes, files and

interruptions and are able to

calendars that get clogged up

remain productive and efficient.

easily. That’s where Trello can

Project Gutenberg If you’re an avid reader, chances are you’ve already come across

step in to help users visualize

This article was originally

and organize workloads. The

published by Brandpoint and

project management tool has

is reproduced here with full

authors or by using the search engine available on the site.

been a boon for Seattle-based

authorization.

WEB: www.gutenberg.org

Project Gutenberg, an online database of more than 60,000 e-books that are free to download. You can search for books by

ice cream company Molly

MARCH 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 EP6: BODY & BODY PARTS

The Human Body

หัว หน้า

Head Hua Face Naa Forehead Naa Pak Eye Taa Eyelash Khon Taa Eyebrow Kiew Ear - Hoo Cheek Gaem Nose Ja Mook Mouth Paak Tooth Fan Tongue Lin Chin Kaang

ตา

หู

หน้าผาก

ขนตา คิ้ว

แก้ม จมูก ปาก ฟัน ลิ้น คาง

คอ ผม ผิว

Neck Koh Hair Pom Skin Pew Shoulder Lai Back Lang Arm Kaen Elbow Sok Wrist Koh Meu Hand Meu Finger Niew Nail Lep Body Lam Tua Chest Ok

ไหล่ หลัง แขน ศอก ข้อมือ มือ นิ้ว เล็บ ล�ำตัว อก

ท้อง ขา เข่า เท้า นิ้วเท้า สมอง หัวใจ ปอด กระเพาะอาหาร Krapoh

Belly Tong Leg Ka Knee Khao Foot Tao Toe Niew Tao Brain Samong Heart Hua Jai Lung Pod Stomach Ahaan

ตับ Tab ไต Tai กล้ามเนื้อ Klam Neua

Liver Kidney Muscle -

Visiting a hospital in Thailand While we certainly hope you won’t have to visit a hospital while you are staying in Thailand, rest assured that the quality of treatments you would receive in private hospitals in Phuket and Thailand, in general, are on par with what you could be expected in the West, if not better. After all, Thailand is a big player in the medical tourism industry, and for good reasons; most doctors have international experience, translators are readily available if needed, and of course, the costs of treatments are much cheaper than what you would be asked to pay in other countries.

MARCH 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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GETTING TO KNOW You can archive when you believe – Coach Stefan Lange

With more than 20 years of experience in personal training and a life-long involvement in sports, Coach Stefan Lange is the Performance Coach, Personal Trainer and Disabled Representative at Thanyapura - Active Living. He has transformed the body and mind of several people and he recently gave us the opportunity to get to know him better

cycling, and running, and I was like, ‘What’s new? This is our daily routine.’ When the weather was good we would swim in the sea. Every morning, to go to school, we must ride the bicycle very fast when we were a little late and when we didn’t have a bicycle, we ran. He said a triathlon competition would be held nearby our hometown.

through this interview.

We didn’t have any race bikes but we were filled with

Please tell us about your background

bikes and we were the first three in the race!

I am originally from Hamburg, Germany, a city that is

I also had an opportunity to meet with Jürgen Zäck. He’s

surrounded with water. My father taught me a lot when it comes to sports, and from a very young age, I learned how to swim, sail, windsurf, and play football. My first sport was Judo, which I practiced from the age of 6 – 10, then I learned gymnastics, swimming, followed by boxing for more than eight years.

When I was 22, a friend of mine asked if I heard about a new sport that originated in the USA. He said they called it triathlon. He explained that it consisted of swimming,

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confidence. We attended the competition with trekking

a German triathlete and a hero for many Asians as he brought triathlon to Asia. He has a lot of Thai students who later run their own things in Thailand in different places.

Starting a career I first studied lifeguard and medicine, and then moved to physiotherapy. I started working in a free park with swimming pools and sports facilities and at this time, I met a diving instructor who had his own company. I worked

with him in the evening and learned diving. He sent me outside Europe for the first time to places like Maldives and Hawaii, where I ran my first half marathon back in 1989.

When I came back to Germany, I worked in one of the biggest sports centers in the world called Club Meridien. The main center is 63,000 square meters, all indoor. I started teaching gymnastics, aerobics and step aerobics. In 1990, the presenter of step aerobics was looking for a presenter in Germany and I became a top presenter for step aerobics there. One day, a man came to me and asked if I wanted to be his personal trainer. It was 1996. I was very excited that he asked me to do the job. This man shot sports programs on television. He also brought many friends from the television industry to train with me, such as Boris Becker, who was a top tennis player.

Later on, I built up my own gym and it went well so I wanted to build another one in Spain. However, when I came back from Spain, I had an accident.

A tragic accident – the beginning of a new chapter It happened during my cycling training. I was on a race bike and a car coming on the side crashed into me. I wanted to stand up but I couldn’t. I couldn’t feel my legs and after spending a long time in the business, I knew what that meant.

At the hospital, I was told that my TH12 spine bone was broken and they thought I would be paralyzed for the rest of my life.

They brought me to a special hospital and in the first week, there were more than 500 people visiting me. I was struggling with my thoughts, but then I met with a man in a wheelchair, moving the wheelchair with his chin by pressing the control bar. I saw him and I realized that I can still use my fingers and arms. This opened a completely new chapter for me. I told myself that I would try to move a little bit every day and I called it diplomacy with millimeter.

My first goal was to sit on the bed and say hello to my physiotherapist when he came to my room. I couldn’t hold my upper body and when I tried to sit, I would fall. I needed four weeks and when that physiotherapist came in, I managed to sit on the bed, lift my arm and said hello to him. He responded ‘Wow Stefan! Really good!’ and I was so proud.

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I started my own training. At that time, they had a special

In the first year there were 30-40 people attending while

wheelchair for me. I had to lay down on my belly in the

the third year, more than 150 wheelchair users joined the

wheelchair then the sports therapist gave me a little bit of

training and the race. It’s been 10 years and the race is still

training.

popular while I organize it from here [Phuket].

During the sixth week, they opened my corset and said

I couldn’t do it alone and my Spanish was not good enough.

that I could sit in a normal wheelchair but I had to be very

When you do things like this you need a friend. My best

careful with my upper body. For five weeks, I mostly spend

friend, Jose Vasquez, is the director of H10 Hotels, which is

time on the bed. Once I could sit in my wheelchair, I was

a hotel chain. I told him my idea and he was one of the first

gone with it. I quickly got out of my room, and out of the

to offer special prices of 4-star hotel rooms for wheelchair

hospital. They caught me outside at the park, near the

users. Without him, I would never be able to organize this.

hospital entrance. I watched the normal light, I saw the cars and people walking around. The nurse came after me. She

From Playa Blanca to Phuket

was very panicked and said I needed a special paper to get out.

In 2013, I received a call from my friend, who worked at a 5-star hotel in Phuket. He sent me a health result from

In my room, there were three other patients. I told them

a doctor and asked if I could help him. The result was bad

not to lay down the whole day and invited them to go out

and he could have died within three months if he didn’t do

with me and do cardio training on the wheelchair. We went

anything.

up to the helicopter parking on the top of the hospital then headed to the forest. We went down around the small lake,

It was in November when I received that call and I canceled

which was about 1.8 kilometers. Interestingly, after three

everything to come to see him. He went to pick me up at

weeks, their health results were so much better so the

the airport. I walked past him as I didn’t recognize him at

doctor allowed me to continue to train them.

all. He was about my size before, but at the airport, he was 118 kilograms. In the car, he explained how much stress

Rolling forward

he has been through and that his job gave him a lot of pressure.

After nearly three months at the hospital, they offered me a job to work in sports therapy. I worked at the hospital for

On the way to his house, I saw a sign ‘Thanyapura Sports’.

8 years as a Sports Therapist, and they offered to pay for

The next day, he showed me the gym in Bangtao where he

my education, in order to increase my knowledge on this

expected to train but when I looked around, I told him it’s

subject. I worked there from 2000 – 2008. On the side,

impossible for him to train there with loud music while he’s

I also opened a gym for people with disabilities. We had

under a lot of stress. Then I remember the sign Thanyapura

more than 400 gyms in Hamburg, but mine was the only

Sports so I asked him about it. Initially, he said it would be

one available for people with disabilities. The facilities and

too expensive but I insisted we should give it a try.

training were designed for disabled people.

We checked it out, got offered a good price and we agreed In 2008, I left the job at the hospital and went to Lanzarote,

to train here. That was my first contact with Thanyapura.

one of the Canary Islands in Spain. Lanzarote is a really

He got better eventually and the doctor told me that his

nice place for sports. Ironman in Lanzarote is one of the

health was fine and he could take care of himself so I went

hardest. It can be fresh in the morning when you jump into

back to Europe. The second time I came back to see my

the north Atlantic at 17 degrees Celsius, then at noon, the

friend, Phillip [Thanyapura President and CEO] reached out

weather can be 32 degrees Celsius. I lived there until 2013

to me and asked if I was interested to work at Thanyapura.

and during that time, I created my own race called Vuelta

I still remember the moment we talked. I said yes, it’s a very

Playa Blanca, which is specialized for wheelchair users. I

good opportunity and this is the reason why I’m here now.

also created a training center for wheelchair users in Playa Blanca.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | MARCH 2020

Your core is the key The core is always essential. It’s in between your upper and lower body so if the core doesn’t work, the upper and lower body cannot function together well. Any kind of sports and activities that you need to connect your legs and arms, you have to be stable over the middle. It’s an important part to build strength in your body.

When you train the core, it’s not only about sit-ups. There’re a lot of different options. In my class, you can see how many different offers you get to work with the core.

People who train here impress me by showing up on their training routine, not only in my class but in any training classes, which show continuity and respect. We have people from elite athletes to normal people and it’s amazing to see how they transform through our training. Now they feel good, confident, stronger, and better.

Also, here is the perfect place to train. You can do the same in Germany but what makes this place so special for the training is 12 hours between day and night. It is almost the same amount of time. In Germany, in winter, the night is so long and it decreases the motivation to train. Here, the temperature is averagely 29 degrees throughout 365 days of the year, which is good for the body and Thanyapura is the perfect place to improve your whole lifestyle, from physical training to nutrition and mind training. I’ve never seen any other places that offers so many options for vegan food. There are also doctors who can guide you about your health results, a nutritionist and therapist to support you along the way to a healthier lifestyle.

You can find more information about Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort on their website at www.thanyapura.com.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON GUIDE

OUR FEBRUARY FAVORITE MOMENTS IN PHUKET This February, we were treated with an exceptional wine tasting from Fin Wines at the Andara Wine Boutique, a sensational brunch at the stunning Red Sauce restaurant, chicken wings galore at Hooters Phuket, and some beautiful pieces of art from a talented local artist.

On February 7, 2020, Fabulous Wine organized a wine tasting at the Andara Wine Boutique with wine producer Gerhard Kracher, from Australia.

///////////////////////// On February 9, 2020, Rosewood Phuket inaugurated their first brunch of the year at their flagship Italian restaurant, Red Sauce.

The exclusive brunch is happening on the second Sunday of each month and is priced at THB 2,500 net per person or THB 3,500 including a free-flow of wines and Prosecco.

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THE GUIDE PHUKET | MARCH 2020

On February 4, 2020, Hooters Phuket

The winner of the finale will cash in THB

welcomed the second round of their

100,000 and the coveted title of fastest

national wing eating competition, with

wings eater in the country.

the Grand Finale happening on July 3, 2020, in Pattaya.

Hooters Phuket also showcased some of their new menu items and cocktails,

During the contest, participants were

including a few options where the

required to eat 20 Hooters signature

profit is donated to a cancer research

chicken wings in the shortest amount of

organization. Hooter Phuket is located

time possible.

in Patong.

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

On February 1, 2020, Wok Gallery Restaurant inaugurated their monthly exhibition titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes, I amâ&#x20AC;?, by local artist Niran Chanhom.

MARCH 2020 | THE GUIDE PHUKET

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